Rainbow Amethyst Cleopatra Necklace

Rainbow amethyst is chevron amethyst: alternating bands of purple and white quartz, the color from iron impurities, the banding from growth interruptions in the crystal structure. The "rainbow" designation refers to the optical behavior under light, where the banding refracts differently depending on angle. Sourced primarily from Brazil and India.

Here it anchors a two-strand collar. Upper strand: rainbow amethyst rectangles connected by yellow-gold seed bead loops, with pink iridescent rounds at each cabochon junction and autumn burnt orange chevron beads at the intersections. Lower strand: lilac seed beads in a continuous loop, with opaque plum teardrops hanging from the base. A gold bugle Y-drop at center carries a single amethyst rectangle pendant.

The palette is the argument for fall. Burnt orange against purple is not a subtle choice. It is the color relationship that makes the piece readable across a room, and then more interesting up close.

Wear it with a winter-white turtleneck or a faded denim shirt. For dinners in a low-lit room, or any night you want the necklace to do the work.

Construction:

• Rainbow amethyst rectangle cabochons (upper strand)
• Yellow/gold seed bead connector loops
• Pink iridescent round accents at cabochon junctions
• Autumn burnt orange chevron accent beads at loop intersections
• Lilac seed beads (lower looped strand)
• Opaque plum teardrop drops along base
• Gold bugle bead Y-drop stem at center
• Single amethyst rectangle pendant focal drop
• Bugle bead chain
• Lobster claw closure