Did you know marcasite jewelry boasts a rich history? Over the years, marcasite has graced numerous jewelry pieces, standing out as a remarkable gem. Let’s explore the journey of marcasite through different eras.
Keyword(s): marcasite jewelry
Seeking jewelry that’s understated compared to diamonds and easier on the wallet? Perhaps you’re after something subtle, with a shimmering charm noticed only by the attentive eye.
If so, marcasite is the gem for you. Its subtlety is coupled with an almost Halloween-like elegance. Marcasite pairs excellently with glistening sterling silver and offers a striking contrast to more vibrant stones.
You’ve probably encountered marcasite pieces before. Many refer to it as “costume jewelry.” However, when crafted cheaply or with inauthentic gems, it can appear overly brassy.
High-quality marcasite jewelry, on the other hand, is heirloom-worthy. Discover more about this distinctive semi-precious gem below.
What is Marcasite?
Marcasite is a semi-precious stone known for its unique, stained glass-like gleam. Its metallic green-yellow hue with brassy tones enables it to reflect light similarly to other stones.
Related to the gem pyrite, often termed “fool’s gold,” marcasite should not be underestimated in value. Jewelers have cherished it since ancient Greek times.
Marcasite is paler than fool’s gold and sometimes called “white iron pyrite.” Rarer than pyrite, it’s more frequently used in today’s jewelry.
From a geological perspective, marcasite is orthorhombic (featuring three axes at right angles), pyramid-shaped in structure, and commonly found in crystal form. It grows in large masses, lacks a refractive index, and falls between 6 and 6.5 in hardness.
This opaque stone glimmers under the right light. Formed in low temperatures, it appears in caves and low-temperature veins in clays, shale, and coal.
While mainly found in Europe, Mexico, and Peru, there are also some mining operations in the US.
Due to its low cleavage, working with marcasite can be challenging as it doesn’t break evenly.
The name “marcasite” derives from the Arabic (Moorish) word for pyrite, “marqash?t?”
Ancient History of Marcasite
Our earliest knowledge of marcasite jewelry traces back to ancient Greece. Historians have unearthed marcasite pieces from this era.
Meanwhile, the Incas of South America employed marcasite for general decoration, cutting it into large chunks and polishing it to adorn rooms.
During the Middle Ages, plagued by various illnesses, both marcasite and pyrite were used in medicinal practices.
Believing it could heal eye diseases, medieval doctors would apply the stone due to its low sulfide content. As marcasite deteriorated, it was thought to treat toothaches, with pieces sometimes jammed into cavities.
Medicine in those times was far from ideal!
Marcasite as a Metaphysical Element
For those who believe in the energies and healing properties of gems, keep reading.
Marcasite is a meditative stone said to aid in introspection, helping users connect to the spiritual world through higher chakras.
It’s also believed to inspire creativity in the arts and drive away negative energy, facilitating the release of grudges and unpleasant feelings.
In modern holistic practice, practitioners claim it combats brain fatigue. If you believe in metaphysical energies, consider wearing marcasite while studying.
The Popularity of Marcasite Jewelry
Marcasite regained popularity during the Georgian period in the 1700s when advanced techniques made intricate steel crafting possible.
Due to its affordability and greater availability compared to diamonds, people opted for marcasite instead of more costly gems. The wealthy classes used it to accentuate more precious stones.
The Victorian era marked another significant period for marcasite’s popularity. Its low cost and wide availability made it a favorite choice.
Much of the vintage-inspired marcasite jewelry we see today draws on this era.
In the 19th century, following Prince Albert’s death in 1861, Queen Victoria deemed diamonds inappropriate for mourning.
Instead, she opted for the subtler gleam of marcasite.
This royal endorsement significantly boosted marcasite’s popularity.
The Art Deco period, characterized by structured and geometric designs, also saw marcasite as an ideal choice. Its darker tones provided a striking contrast to brighter stones.
Despite its semi-precious status and broad availability, authentic marcasite is often imitated using polished and cut steel pieces.
To ensure you’re buying genuine marcasite, inspect the backside of the piece for a “925” stamp, indicating a silver base.
Older marcasite pieces feature settings similar to those of diamonds, while newer or cheaper pieces may use glue. Use a magnifying glass or jeweler’s loop to verify the presence of metal settings.
Maintaining Marcasite
Although marcasite is relatively soft, especially compared to diamonds or silver, it can degrade over time when exposed to oxygen.
Museums house historical pieces in low temperatures but cannot preserve them indefinitely.
Eventually, marcasite may crumble or fall out of its setting.
However, with proper care, you can enjoy a piece for at least a hundred years, so don’t let this deter you.
When wearing vintage marcasite, check that all stones are secure before and after wearing. If you find any loose stones, consult a jeweler.
Avoid exposing marcasite to water, especially in chemically treated environments like hot tubs or pools.
Given its delicacy, handle with gentle cleaning methods.
Cleaning Marcasite
Though we believe all jewelry should be professionally cleaned, we understand that this isn’t always feasible.
If professional cleaning is out of reach, some gentle DIY methods can help.
Use a damp, very soft cloth to wipe down your marcasite piece, avoiding any snagging.
Avoid harsh cleaners or machines, as these can reduce the stone’s lifespan.
Focus on cleaning the silver settings around the marcasite, with occasional gentle buffing of the gem itself.
Marcasite in Jewelry Design
Most marcasite pieces feature additional stones, except for smaller items like bracelets or brooches. This is because marcasite’s affordability and small size suit pave-like designs.
Jewelers often use it to add brilliance to designs without a significant cost increase.
Marcasite is typically set in sterling silver, polished steel, or gold. Gold-marcasite combinations are rarer, as both soft metals make these pieces particularly fragile.
Wearing Marcasite Jewelry
When wearing marcasite, pair it with deep or dark colors like ocean blues and emerald greens to highlight its subtle hues.
Looking for examples or suggestions of marcasite jewelry? Check out some of our favorite and available pieces below.
Favorite and Available Marcasite Pieces
At Roma Jewelry, we strive to craft pieces that highlight the natural beauty of stones. We avoid making semi-lustrous stones work harder than they should.
Here are some descriptions of our hand-designed marcasite pieces currently available.
Our two best-selling marcasite pieces are perfect for adorning your neck.
First, we offer a vintage-inspired pendant made of sterling silver with onyx details. The black onyx accentuates the depth of the Marcasite stones beautifully.
This intricate pendant features a diamond shape with an oval onyx centerpiece. Surrounding the black stone is another sterling silver oval, bordered by a row of Marcasite stones between its inner and outer edges.
Radiating from the oval center, this piece blossoms in a floral-like design, boasting four large points that each feature three marcasite embellishments. Intricate sterling silver designs with additional stones fill the spaces between these points.
This elegant pendant pairs best with a simple neckline and stud earrings, ensuring it remains the understated star of your ensemble.
Sterling Silver & Marcasite with Amethyst Statement Necklace
Drawing inspiration from the Marcasite era of royalty, this collarbone-hugging piece will make you feel regal. Measuring 17 inches with a secure locking latch clasp, this necklace will certainly impress your friends.
The intricate sterling silver designs resemble delicate ivy leaves, featuring a graduated leaf pattern that balances delicacy and brilliance, suitable for any venue.
Interspersed among the ivy leaves, purple amethysts add a contrasting pop against the darker Marcasite stones.
The intricate design includes small gaps between the ivy leaves, allowing the skin to peek through and creating a stunning negative space effect.
Complete this royal look with matching earrings.
If the statement necklace feels too bold, try our Sterling and Marcasite 17″ Necklace with Pear Amethyst. This piece offers the same beautiful color combination in a more modest design.
For fans of elegant wristwear, we have several stunning options to consider.
Sterling & Marcasite Bracelet with Mother of Pearl Flowerlets
Inspired by Art Deco designs, this tennis-style bracelet beautifully balances dark and light contrasts.
The pearl’s luminescence highlights the depth of the marcasite stones. The mini flowerlet shapes in the bracelet resemble glamorous ladybugs, though rest assured, it doesn’t look like you have bugs on your wrist.
This bracelet offers intricate elegance, even featuring gem touches on the vintage-style clasp.
Complete the look with a simple pearl necklace or pearl studs to attract admirers.
Sterling & Marcasite Stacked Links Bracelets
For those who prefer abstract or Celtic-inspired designs, this geometric piece is a stellar choice.
The bracelet’s stacked chain of diamond-shaped sterling silver links, inset with marcasite, creates an almost chevron-like pattern.
This bracelet is more gender-neutral, allowing for an elegant man to don its chunky yet delicate design.
Earrings
Who doesn’t love a bit of dangle? Marcasite earrings can add just the right amount of shine to your look without overwhelming anyone. If you’re into florals but prefer a non-traditional, non-pink style, consider our next option.
Sterling & Marcasite Rose Earrings
These dark rose-shaped earrings offer a blend of rock-chic and boho glam. The delicate rose design contrasts strikingly with dark silver and marcasite.
Imagine the Queen of Hearts painting her roses a deep, shimmery silver instead of red. These earrings make a statement without being too heavy, perfect if you prefer lighter ear adornments.
Pair them with a matching rose pendant to complete your look!
Buying Marcasite Jewelry
When purchasing Marcasite jewelry, or any type of bling, it’s crucial to trust your jeweler. Some companies might exploit fake stones, but rest assured, we are not one of them.
To avoid being deceived by fakes, do your research, just like you did by reading this article.
Marcasite jewelry can add an edgy yet elegant touch to your collection, allowing you to channel the grandeur of royalty and Greek wisdom with these beautiful contrasting pieces.
We have even more selections on our site, beyond what’s listed here, including other types of stones. Check out our selection!
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