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Hi, I’m artist Patrick Barnes. Welcome to my website showcasing my fine jewelry. Please look around, I’m sure you’ll enjoy what you find here. New information is added every day!

The History of Men’s Rings

By Patrick | March 12, 2021
The history of Men's Rings by Southwest Originals 505-363-7150

Before the modern age of technology, and digital identification, agreements or correspondences were established by seal-rings. Rings have been used to symbolize wedding vows, wealth, and authority throughout recorded history. In ancient times, seal-rings were used as personal identification or official signatures by pressing the ring into ink or wax, creating a one-of-a-kind stamp. However, […]

The Ultimate List of Natural White Gemstone Mined Diamond Alternatives

By Patrick | March 11, 2021
The Ultimate List of Natural White Gemstone Mined Diamond Alternatives

Natural gemstone alternatives to diamonds are found with a variety of options regarding physical characteristics, durability and cost. As far as finding something lasting, such as for an engagement ring, choices are limited. The following are some gemstones available for consideration. White Sapphire Sapphires are often thought to be blue, however that is not the […]

The Best Mined Diamond Alternative Options For Jewelry Gemstones

By Patrick | March 11, 2021
The Best Mined Diamond Alternative Options For Jewelry Gemstones by Southwest Originals 505-363-7150

What are the Best Diamond Alternatives Gemstones for Jewelry? If you’re looking for an alternative to mined diamonds, there are plenty of options (natural or lab made) to choose from. The more familiar you become, the simpler it is to make your selection. Asking the experts is the quickest way to learn! Using a custom […]

The Facts and Figures About the Fabulous Precious Gemstone, Sugilite

By Patrick | February 10, 2021
The Facts and Figures About the Fabulous Precious Gemstone, Sugilite

Sugilite is a moderately scarce, mainly translucent, pinkish purple mineral type named cyclosilicate. It is also cited as lavulite, luvulite, and royal azel by mineral and gem collectors. Its compound chemical formula is KNa 2 (Fe, Mn, Al) 2 Li 3 Si 12 O 30.  Sugilite solidifies into a honeycomb like structure of crystal prisms. […]

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