Digging These Rocks

Excavated pyrite from Elba, Italy

Break out your old rock collection. Take apart that crystal radio. (Remember those?!) Pyrite is back and in full effect!

The mineral nicknamed fool's gold has been showing up in various pieces of jewelry all over the place lately. Its greenish-golden hue and interesting geometric crystal formations make it a complex yet glamorous addition to anyone's jewelry box.

I first spotted the latest use for this organic wonder in a Lela Rose necklace from her Fall 2010 collection. Her new medium proved an appropriate addition to her line, inspired by a recent trip to the Galapagos Islands. Lela explained to Style.com that she wanted to explore more textures already found in nature. Remind us to thank Mother Nature...

Lela Rose Pyrite Necklace from Neiman Marcus

Lela Rose isn't the only designer digging the complex mineral. (No pun intended.) Check out some other pyrite pieces below!

Luv Aj Fool's Gold Choker from Shopbop

Lady Grey Geode Ring

Lady Grey Geode Earring

Danni Jo Rocco Pyrite Necklace

Break out from bling and into this subdued new gem. You'll be sure to have something different and always interesting...