This necklace is a celebration and artistic study of the incredible geology of the Canyon. Sterling Silver with inlaid stones representing some of the main layers in the Canyon, turquoise inlay represents the gorgeous Colorado river. Thick sterling silver box chain measures 20" and the pendant is 3" long.
As you descend a mile into the depths of the Grand Canyon, one of the most interesting things is the different geology in each new cliff band you encounter. Starting at the top with Kaibab, Toroweap, and Coconino Sandstone (signified by the tan jasper in this piece), then through the Red sandstone of Hermit and Supai Group (red jasper), below the sandstone are soaring cliffs of limestone (fossilized coral). Next up is another layer of Sandstone and Shale (tan/green jasper), and then below that are formations dating from 1.66 to 1.84 billion years old, Vishnu Schist, Zoroaster Granite, and Brahma and Rama Schist (Tiger Iron).
The Grand Canyon has been continuously inhabited and revered by Indigenous peoples and their ancestors. The Grand Canyonlands are integral to more than 11 different groups of Native peoples cultures, yet these peoples have been pushed off this land and excluded from its management. Today we must take conscious care to preserve this site threatened by dams, trams, and uranium mining. A portion of the proceeds from this collection will be donated to the Grand Canyon Trust, an organization that advocates for Native Rights, the protection of the Grand Canyon, and the entire Colorado Plateau.
