Words from the SoapBox

Turquoise is possibly the most valuable, non-transparent mineral used in jewelry. It has been mined since at least 6000 BC by Egyptians. Like other opaque such as coral, turquoise is commonly sold by the size in millimeters rather than by weight.

Turquoise is usually found sandstone layers and can be seen as splotches or as a network of brown or black veins running through the sandstone. There are many small-scale mining operations that are worked by hand. Only one mine in Apache Canyon California operates at a commercial capacity today. (more…)

Watching a powerful, wild stallion galloping free as the breeze is an inspiring sight. So also is a powerful river a thing of beauty. But just as a wild stallion is of limited service to man, so too is an untamed river. (more…)

Sapphires have captivated people for thousands of years. They seem so encapsulate wisdom somehow, or perhaps our own potential. Somewhere in a pile of dirty gravel, there is a shining gem just waiting to be uncovered. Sapphires come in a wide variety of colors, including blue, pink, orange, brown, clear, yellow and purple. Why no red sapphires? Well, they are called rubies. (more…)

Marilyn Monroe had six toes. Connie stiler also has six toes … Which fact do you find more interesting? My guess is it is Marilyn, and that is mostly because she was packaged (and still is) as a model of stunning beauty, desire and perfection. Yet, the truth is that Marilyn was not perfect by the very standards of the business that convinced everyone that she was the woman men wanted or that women had to look like to BE wanted. Still, most believed it then, and continue to believe this fantasy today. (more…)