Michael Barlow
Michael Barlow hand crafts
all exhibited pieces from jade which is mined from a deposit located on
land owned by Michael and his mother near Tamworth in New South Wales.
This area associated with
the Great Serpentine Belt has yielded small quantities of jade since
1960. Located in steep rugged and almost inaccessible country, the jade
is found in a narrow seam and is removed as individual boulders, which
vary greatly in - size (5-500kg) -colour (white-green), -translucency
(opaque- clear) -fracture, -inclusions, -polish and therefore grading
and selection.
Nephrite jade has a rich
world history. Man has sought and appreciated jade for its toughness and
durability in tools, weapons and its eternal beauty when created into
ornaments and jewellery.
The mineral formula is Na2
Ca4 (Mg Fe)10(OH02Si 16044) and is a composite of calcium, magnesium,
and iron silicate. It has a hardness of 6-6.5 on the Moh's scale and has
interlocking fibrous grains and is extremely tough. Not easy to craft,
it requires specialised diamond tools and some years of association to
develop a "feel" for jade.
Michael makes a range of
boxes and spheres as well as bangles and earrings and will accept
commissions for special requests for his work. Brilliant Facets staff
will gladly discuss your individual requirements and arrange an
appointment with Michael if possible.
