Sterling Silver Lapis Lazuli and Malachite Double "Wolf Tooth" Pendant

Royal blue lapis lazuli comes from the silicate mineral lazurite. Polished stones often show gorgeous veins of white calcite and flecks of golden pyrite. Used by ancient civilizations from China to Sumeria, lapis lazuli inlay adorned the mask of ancient Egypt's King Tutankhamun. Lapis lazuli is somewhat rare and much of the deepest blue stone is mined in Afghanistan. Denim lapis has a lighter blue color and Aztec lapis features dramatic veining of black and brown minerals.

Malachite is a shining copper ore with swirling islands of rich green color. Used since ancient Egyptian times as pigment for cosmetics, dyes and paints, malachite's primary use today is still ornamental. Popularized in modern times in 19th century Europe, it was worn as protection against the "evil eye." Much of today's fine malachite is mined in the Congo.