Although the nettle is most often associated with its prickly exterior and tendency to sting when touched, it is actually symbolic of protection. The nettle has been used in a myriad of old wives tales as a form of protection from everything from ghosts to any form of danger. It was once believed that a fresh pot of nettles placed under a person's sick bed would ensure their swift recovery. Medicinally, nettles are used to strengthen and support the entire body and have been administered in the form of tea for hundreds of years. The nettle is an admirable plant for its fierce protectiveness and while the stinging exterior may put some off, the true strengthening and protective nature of the plant will steal the hearts of all that can see beyond its initial appearance. The nettle necklace is made with green chalcedony and two shades of green garnet with 14k gold-filled wire and clasp. Green Chalcedony is thought to dispel confusion and negativity. It is also thought to repair damage to vital organs. Uvarite and zavorite, while both forms of green garnet, are very different in intensity of color. Uvarite is a pale but still brilliant green that is thought to aid in healing and to be extremely resistant to negativity thus maintaining the positive outlook of the wearer even in the face of hostility. The dark green garnet, zavorite, is a magical stone thought to be the stone of the little people (fairies and elves). The nettle necklace was made for the person who enjoys being admired from afar yet is very selective about those who are allowed to know them on a more personal level. The bright greens of the garnets and the form of the nettle leaves ensure that others will notice, and possibly want to touch, but may want to think twice before doing so.

The Box

The box is a bright green tribute to the beauty of the color of wild leafed plants. It is adorned with several shades of green chalcedony, green garnets, and a single pearl and rainbow flower since nettles are a flowering plant. The inside of the box is lined with bright green raw silk and Japanese hand made paper. The nettle box is a small piece of art that can best be enjoyed sitting on a kitchen nook table where it can be seen each morning while drinking tea.