Enjoying Jewelry 3 –Rock Crystal and Other Quartz–

ジュエリーをたのしむ３-水晶とメノウ- 　"Enjoying Jewelry 3 –Rock Crystal and Other Quartz–"

　～2020.10.19 （Extension of session)　　

　　Closed： Tuesdays (In case of National Holidays, closed on the next day)

Room ："Yamanashi Jewelry Today"

Outline

Rock crystal and other quartz may appear to be entirely different types of stones, but they are both members of the quartz family.Quartz is the most frequently seen mineral on earth and is mined all over the world. “Crystal” specifically refers to clear, colorless quartz. Quartz is also known by different names such as amethyst, citrine or rose quartz depending on its color. Agate are composed of collections of fine, quartz crystals and are typically opaque with a streaked pattern, but some agate with inclusions lack these streaks. Agate is also a commonly used decorative material thanks to its vivid, almost supernatural hues.

Rock crystal and other quartz are familiar precious stones that have long been worn as jewelry. But in recent years, they are also gaining attention as materials used to create more unique jewelry, and artisans are increasingly taking on this new challenge in the pursuit of creating more appealing jewelry.

Large amounts of crystal were mined in Yamanashi in the past, and products such as netsuke(traditional charm-like miniature sculptures), protective stone amulets and other ornamental objects have been created since early times. Crystal jewelry was first produced around 1893 as crystal craftwork and at the same time precious metal processing techniques developed. Ever since,jewelry with various designs and price ranges has been produced in Yamanashi,one of Japan’s most prolific production regions for stone jewelry.

This exhibition will introduce a diverse array of rock crystal and other quartz jewelry ranging from traditionally designed pieces to jewelry featuring modern designs.