review of the month - benjy minu

"This Minimalist Necklace is a sweet and delicate accessory, designed to make you feel special.

The 19" silver plated chain comes down softly, just under the collarbone. The 1cm rough gemstone adds a touch of wild beauty, shining with shyness at the touch of the sunlight."

Recently I've been getting more and more interested in the idea of small earth gems and stones like the one featured in this necklace, due to the fact that they're derived by good ol' Mother Nature herself and are rumoured as having certain 'healing' properties. Of course, this is often portrayed as a controversial subject amongst believers and non-believers alike, and I have to admit that I will have to undergo further research before I fully commit to this idea. However, when I was browsing Etsy and came across this cute little simplistic necklace, I though that its dainty and aesthetic appeal was rather enticing. A few emails later and this little beauty had arrived at my front door.

The necklace had arrived in perfect condition, and had been sent out a lot quicker than I initially thought it would. Of course, the senders are also situated in England, meaning that shipping times and costs were kept down to the minimum.

When I had the small Etsy package in my hands, I was eager to open it and try on the jewellery inside. I found it wrapped neatly upon a business card and tied with emerald green wool. Also inside was a small card from the senders, stapled closed with a paper doily, explaining a little bit about the necklace which I found to be quite a nice personal touch.

"Ben loves Carmina and sometimes buys jewelry for her. Carmina loves both Ben and Jewelry... but now Ben buys materials, not jewelry.

My name is Carmina Andra.

I am from Romania, but I am currently living in Birmingham, England, with my dear husband Ben and our dog Ava.

I am a second year student at Birmingham City University where I enjoy studying English & Creative Writing.

I started to wear jewelry only after I met Ben. I come from a baptist background and my parents wouldn't allow me to wear anything like that.

I remember the day Ben took me to his parents' house for the first time; he was so happy that he could finally show his girlfriend the collection of earrings he bought over the years for his girl-to-be. I felt so ashamed because I wasn't wearing earrings, I didn't even had my ears pierced! Of course, he didn't even notice before, so it was an enbarrassing moment for both of us.

It's been almost three years since then, and now we have our own jewelry shop. How exciting! 

I've always been crafty, but I have discovered my passion for jewelry making only recently, while scrolling down on Pinterest. 'But I can do this myself!' was my reaction every time I saw a wrap bracelet or some really cool feathers earrings. 

I am helplessly in love with the bohemian style and you will notice that in our shop Boho Style prevails. I am creating my own designs inspired mostly by boho & hippie style and I hope that in time, my shop will offer a wider range of jewelry for different tastes. 

This shop wouldn't exist without my dear husband, without his support and encouragements... and funds. 

Thank you all for being part of our creative life!"

I unwrapped the necklace from the business card, which, I admit, was a tad difficult due to the staples holding it tight. Seconds later, it was unclipped and resting maybe four inches beneath my collar bone. I noticed that when held at certain angles the stone reflects bright shades of blue and green, with small spots glinting out from within. It was held in place by clip-like supports upon a thin rod so that it could move about which I thought was a good idea - any charms or beads on other necklaces that I own tend to slip towards the back clasp.

This little necklace was handmade with silver plated connectors, a silver plated chain and a labradorite gemstone.

I wanted to find out more about the gemstone used in this necklace, and so I began to do some research. The first result stated that:

"In the past this lovely stone was known as a stone for magic, because it was clear that those who used it had access to a range of abilities that seemed almost magical. Perhaps this is partly because Labradorite Crystal brings you the gift of serendipity and synchronicity. These two things combined can make amazing things happen in your life. Those little coincidences... where you are in the right place at just the right time... just seem to occur more often once you begin to use this stone. It has a number of interesting metaphysical properties, including its action to protect your aura, and to clear negativity from it... and it seals it to prevent any energy leaks. If you have been doing too much and need a recharge... it will give energy to you. Within the throat chakra it stimulates stronger psychic communication abilities ... which you may utilize in a range of different ways."

I haven't felt any drastic changes so far, but nevertheless if it is assumed that this stone can enhance any potential magical abilities then I'm all for it!

"Thank you for visiting BengjyMinuShop, where all items are created with love and care!

We are a family, trying to discover ourselves through our passions. The jewelry we create is a result of our love for wilderness, for adventure, and freedom of spirit. The inspiration comes from the nature, from our wanderings through an unknown city, always surprised, always amazed. 

Our belief is that happiness is a journey, so we are making sure that every piece of jewelry works as a step forward in our adventure of bringing smiles on unknown faces ,from places we know we may never reach, but our creations will.

Thank you for being a part of our great adventure!"

~ Don't forget to check out their Facebook page, Pinterest and, naturally, their shop!