Purple lepidolite bracelet, PVD gold-plated stainless steel, 15.5+3.5 cm

A soft, uncommon purple: that's what lepidolite brings. Here it is paired, in an irregular shape, with PVD gold-plated stainless steel.

The bracelet measures 15.5 cm, with a 3.5 cm extension and a spring ring clasp to adjust it. Wear it with gray or cream tones to bring out its purple.

Lepidolite is a mica, a mineral that forms in thin stacked sheets, like the pages of a book. First called lilalite for its color, it was given its current name at the end of the 18th century, from the Greek lepidos, "scale", in reference to the flakes that sparkle in the light. It owes its lilac, purple or pinkish-mauve hues to traces of manganese. It is found in pegmatites, coarse-crystal rocks resulting from slowly cooled magma, notably in Brazil, Russia, the United States, Canada and Madagascar. Sought after by industry for the metals it contains, it is also appreciated in jewelry for its soft color and slightly pearly appearance. A soft stone, it needs a little care.

The stone in your jewelry comes from Brazil.

In lithotherapy, lepidolite is seen as a stone of calm and transition, sometimes nicknamed the "stone of peace". It is credited with a gentle energy that may help release tension, welcome change with more serenity and restore emotional balance. It may also accompany moments of introspection and meditation. Tradition associates it with the Crown Chakra, the Third Eye and the Heart Chakra, as well as with the sign of Libra. These beliefs are specific to lithotherapy and are not backed by scientific proof: they are in no way a substitute for medical advice. Lepidolite is chosen first and foremost for its lilac color, gentle on the eye.

The steel of your jewelry can handle water: shower, rain or swimming. After the sea or the pool, simply rinse it in clean water and dry it, as repeated exposure to salt and chlorine can dull its shine over time. Clean it in lukewarm, soapy water with a soft cloth, and avoid abrasive products and rubbing against hard surfaces.

Lepidolite is a soft stone: it scratches easily, and its thin layers can flake under a knock. Even if the steel of your jewelry can handle water, the stone itself is a layered mica that is sensitive to moisture: take off your jewelry for the shower, swimming, sports, manual work and housework, and store it on its own in its pouch. Also avoid chemicals and heat. To clean it, simply wipe the stone with a soft, dry or barely damp cloth, without rubbing hard. Do not use ultrasonic or steam cleaners. In lithotherapy, water-free methods are preferred for it: incense or sage smoke, or a few hours' rest in moonlight, on a quartz cluster.

Each piece of jewelry comes with its certificate of authenticity. Stainless steel does not darken and can handle contact with water, but the stone in your jewelry is delicate: take it off before showering, bathing or swimming. Your jewelry complies with the European REACH regulations on nickel, lead and cadmium. Its golden color is obtained by PVD (physical vapor deposition), a coating applied under vacuum to the stainless steel. As steel is not a precious metal, it does not bear a fineness hallmark.

For you if you like soft purples and rarely seen stones, or for someone close to you who is curious about new stones. PVD gold-plated stainless steel is hypoallergenic and complies with REACH regulations: it suits most sensitive skin.