Double-Strand Necklace with Carnelian-Orange Agate Pendant

• Double-strand construction
• Mixed bead textures
• Brass cube spacers
• Rough-cut tourmaline accents
• Polished agate pendant
• 2 in extender chain

Natural tourmaline and agate vary in color, banding and inclusions from piece to piece — differences that reflect their natural origin rather than a flaw.

The necklace builds its presence through contrast rather than a single focal stone. High-shine faceted glass sits next to matte rough-cut tourmaline and a smooth polished pendant, and the interplay of those three textures is what carries the design.

Agate, a banded form of chalcedony, is cut and polished to bring out the swirling patterns unique to each piece. Here it is shaped into a rounded, amber-to-orange drop that anchors the two strands. The tourmaline beads flanking it are left in a rougher, faceted-nugget cut that shows the mineral's natural crystal faces rather than a fully polished finish.

Brass cube spacers run through the beaded rows, tying the darker glass and stone to the metal at the clasp. Each necklace is hand-strung bead by bead in the United States, with the tourmaline nuggets and agate pendant selected one at a time to anchor the design.

• Technique: Hand-strung beadwork

Wipe clean with a soft dry cloth and avoid water, perfume and other chemicals. Store flat to protect the bead finish and keep the pendant aligned.