Something Blue and Grey......one shiny, one fragrant.

Have you heard of the gemstone Labradorite? It has a background colour of smoky grey, but when the light catches it in a particular direction, it displays a beautiful peacock blue reflection. This reflection is known as labradorescence.

One of my favourite pieces made at jewellery classes. This Labradorite pendant with a solid silver setting is generous and eye catching. I love to wear it with this mixture of labradorite beads and freshwater pearls.

From my favourite piece of jewellery to my favourite herb, Lavender. 

 A natural and direct pairing as far as I am concerned.....that is if you think like me. I am thinking grey, blue .....with various ranges of blue.....what could be more fitting as a partner to Labradorite than Lavender?

This lavender, a fern-leaf lavender, is not a real lavender but an ornamental lavender, according to Margaret Roberts.

 The colours are right as far as the eye is concernred, purple-blue and grey, but the fragrance is missing from this fern-leaf lavender. According to Margaret Roberts, this Lavendula Pterostoechas is widely distributed, as far away as the Canary Islands. It was once also known as Arabian Lavender........but here in South Africa, it grows well through the winter and puts on a wonderful show of purple flowers especially when planted en masse.

My little patch of  glory in my garden......a delightful selection of lavender.

It has always been my dream to visit the Provence and lie amongst the rolling fields of lavender. Oh may my dream come true...........just to see, touch and smell this spectacle is my desire.
Rooted in ancient lore, this potent herb still casts a spell in our gardens. I am sure we all have lingering memories of burying our nose in a clump of lavender and catching a whiff of history and sweet memories .......a lavender sachet tucked amongst family heirlooms......the magic of lavender lives on in our gardens today.

I love the soft light and shadows in this image and the contrast in texture with the bark of the tree.

Lavender is native to Mediterranean regions from Tuscany to North Africa. Lavandula, as it is botanically known, belongs to the family Labiatae- aromatics with squarish stems and spiky blooms which also includes marjoram, mint, sage and thyme. Lavenders enjoy full sun and good drainage. Pruning is best done after the blooms have peaked.Trim the plant by a third and water well. 

Labradorite is derived from Labrador peninsula in Canada. 

This stone is thought to symbolise the moon and the sun and apparently has been found to be a constituent of moon rock. Labradorite is said to be helpful in the treatment of disorders of the brain, to stimulate mental acuity and to reduce anxiety and stress.

To relax, just lie in the sun next to a lavender bush and take a deep breath and inhale the calming fragrance .....let it lull you into your dreams. Wear your labradorite gemstone to keep you feeling strong and fit to handle changes in your life. I think this is a good pair to combine.

September is Arbor month, so it is not too late to plant a tree, or support a charity who will plant on your behalf. Take a trip down to your local garden centre and select something special to remember this year by. Until next time, stay strong and positive.