Turkey & gemstones

I was just graduated and with my master’s degree in law, I actually didn’t have a clue about gems (except that I think they are incredibly beautiful). My parents are originally from Turkey and I have always had a special relationship with the country. The craft of jewellery is unprecedentedly good in Turkey and I also knew that gems can be found. However, I had never heard of an active gemstone business in Turkey. My search started full of hope but at the same time I didn’t know where or how to start. After a search of a few weeks, hope was somehow lost. I got through a conversation and finally there was someone who could help me and referred me to a studio where they worked on found gems themselves. Yes, my treasure was found!

In a taxi 1.5 hours outside the city, I had really no idea where I was going and what I would find. The taxi driver asked 3 times if I was sure of the address (which of course made me doubt). Arrived at the address I looked around and I guess that there was a slight doubt on my face. The taxi driver assured me that he would be waiting outside. Let’s go!.

A lot of gemstones

I rang the doorbell and the door was opened by a friendly man around fifties. I was welcomed with open arms in a large open space with lots of stones / large boulders. After a social talk, I carefully dared to ask where the stones were that I came for. Stones of one color, where you already get an instant happy feeling through the color, shimmer and shine. The reaction was quite simple: “well here, just look around you”. I felt a bit stupid up, this was not what I was looking for. Those who know me know that I can draw conclusions really quick and did a small happy dance with the thought that the taxi was probably still outside. I kindly thanked for their time and was already standing with my bag at the door. (Fair enough, I have to learn to be a little more patient and to draw conclusions less quickly).

Surprise

The gentlemen laughed and asked if they could still have five minutes of my time. Slight doubts but I thought it was too brutal to leave. They asked me to choose a stone – they all looked alike – out of politeness I pointed to a random one.

At that moment there was a complete surprise. The moment the stone went in half, I was blinded by beauty, sparkle, color, everything I was looking for. It was so beautiful and I really had no idea that this was part of the process. Before I knew it they had cut a beautiful chalcedony for me. Full of curiosity, I asked questions all afternoon, met the team and thoroughly enjoyed amethysts, chalcedony, obsidian and quarters. It was so much fun and cozy, full of admiration I have absorbed all knowledge. The most important question for me was where do these stones come from. You can read that in this blog.

Ana Dyla ethical jewellery for the soul. The essence of Ana Dyla is shining with jewellery, letting your personality speak and daring to make a statement for a more beautiful world. Take a look at our collection! With every piece you purchase, you support us creating 100 fair trade jobs worldwide. We love to share inspiration and honest lifestyle belongings for conscious and joyful living.

See & shop here our new collection!