Experimenting with different types and sizes of materials has been interesting, although a little hard on the pocketbook!  Who knew there were so many types of "rocks" in the world.  And different grades and cuts, and "is that a good price?".  I'm even picking up put some mineralogy!  And ask me about the life cycle of the pearl producing mussel! 

I amazed myself and my friends when we attended a gem faire recently.  We played "name that gemstone" and I was surprised at what I knew!  Learning about the materials that I use, as well as their metaphysical properties has been one of the most interesting parts of this whole process!