Evoking thoughts of shimmering white sand beaches and a rolling blue sea this necklace, with it's simple elegance was both a pleasant surprise and made an impressive and memorable gift.

The fresh water pearls have a gorgeous iridescence and the creamy white is a perfect compliment to the blue quartz. What I especially liked about the quartz are the rough cut of the pieces used and the varying shapes, sizes and shades of blue.

My guess would be the quartz is either color enhanced or perhaps a synthetic compound as the only true blue quartz I know of in this color range is Dumortierite - which is quite rare and expensive. Regardless, this is by no means an issue as the look is stunning and the piece with it's gleaming sterling silver beads, soft color pearls and dramatic, eye catching blue is really lovely.

The craftsmanship is superb and quality touches abound, such as a Rhodium plating over the sterling clasp. Rhodium is an element of actual Platinum and has a jaw dropping gleam to it. What is more, rhodium resists tarnishing, pitting and discoloration and it doesn't need the ongoing cleaning Sterling silver does. I adore sterling and have collected it for decades but boy does it tarnish quickly.

Quality Touches:

* Beautiful design

* Versatile - can be worn a multitude of ways

* Top quality fresh water pearls

* Double locking clasp

* Rhodium plating

* Spectacular blue quartz

* Impeccable presentation

* True Artisan craftsmanship

Unlike the mass produced, stamped out styles of jewelry you find in the chain jewelry stores, having had time to peruse the HinsonGayle portfolio of available pieces I was immediately struck by the array of choices.

Styles range from edgy couture, classic and transitional. As the necklace was a gift for my Mother, I was touched to learn the founder had created the HinsonGayle  line in tribute to his own mom, a story which made giving the necklace just that much more special.

The necklace arrived in a snap open faux leather gatefold case, lined with white satin and two snap down satin ribbons (one on each side) which keep the necklace in perfect shape and form and prevent it from bunching. A turquoise blue sleeve with the company name embossed slips over the case - it's an upscale and beautiful presentation.

Simply a wonderful piece, packaged and presented with great care at a ridiculously affordable price -  that's certain to delight most any person who wears it.