These faceted stones inspired me to create a new type of work: Pirate Jewelry. Or perhaps its Royal, or Viking... The stones are large enough to draw attention and deserve an elaborate mount.  I chose checkerboard Black Spinel and stairstep Black Onyx stones which are opaque and architectural, very shiny - but not too pretty. Every piece is carefully finished with attention to hammer marks, burnished edges and contrasts between matte surfaces, highly polished accents and blackened silver to emphasize the sculptural qualities.