Necklace, 2-strand obdisian, jasper & glass squares on oxidised chain

This impressive double strand necklace is made using a combination of obsidian and banded agate from Botswana in Southern Africa. Obsidian is the result of volcanic lava coming in contact with water. If lava pours into a lake or ocean and is cooled quickly, the process produces a glassy texture in the resulting rock. Iron and magnesium give the obsidian a dark green to black colour. Obsidian has been used by ancient people as a cutting tool, for weapons, and for ceremonial purposes and is sometimes found by archaeologists in excavations. Beautiful intricately banded Agates are prized gemstones found in Botswana. The agates in this region began as volcanic flow of lava which flowed in waves, some many miles long, from long faults along the lower rock layers. Agates form slowly as one layer of molten rock is deposited upon another. In fact, banding is not unusual in Agates, but the degree of banding and the extra fine patterns make the Botswana Agates highly unique and desirable.
Length: approx 44 cm / 17 inches, lowest point 66 cm / 26 inches