Typically when I think of crystals it calls to mind wind chimes, candles, harp music playing over ocean sounds and the suffocating musk of incense – essentially your typical new age shop. Though olfactorily-offensive, they exist as places of peace, healing and positive energy.
Such images are sharply juxtaposed with a symbol of violence and force in Debra Baxter’s 2009 sculptural piece Crystal Brass Knuckles (I am going to realign your chakras motherf*****). Cleverness and symbolism aside, it is one kick-ass piece of jewelry.

While the crystal brass knuckles may not be ideal for everyday wear, Baxter offers a selection of scaled down and perfectly wearable options in her online shop, Debra Baxter : Crystal Bomb.

[Debra Baxter : Crystal Bomb; Crystal Corsage II, $550; Crystal Corsage, $475; Nest Ring, $200]
The collection of rings, cuffs and all variety of adornments are unmatched in drama and natural splendor. Prices, however, sent my chi all out of line. They may be perfectly reasonable for the one-of-a-kind jewels, but they are not within my current budget.
Luckily, I found a few alternatives that are well within reach.
Nu Bambu

[Nu Bambu Raw Amethyst Druzy Ring, $25; Extra Large Double Finger Amethyst Ring, $30; Royal Aura Quartz Ring, $30; Gold Plated Quartz Cluster Ring, $30]
This Etsy seller based out of New York creates beautiful rings from quartz and amethyst, all priced at $30 and under. If you hurry, the entire Nu Bambu shop is 20% off for a limited time to help the artist raise money for emergency laptop repair (use code 20PERCENT).
Larkin and Larkin

[Larkin & Larkin Raw Amethyst Crystal Cluster Lilac Lightening Ring, $26; Amethyst Crystal Cluster Cocktail Ring, $32]
The huge amethyst chunk rings sold by Larkin and Larkin are an affordable alternative at $25-35 each. In addition, this Providence, RI, artist sells jewelry and accessories made from feathers, beads, and all types rock, mineral and druzy. Each piece is a unique creation from natural elements.




Holy fuck. I want that sooooo bad!!! Holly where do you find these awesome things?!?!??! You’re so great. XO!
Maybe not the most practical, but it sure is badass! I love the smaller, cheaper versions too. Hope to see you tomorrow night!
I’ve been really liking these types of rings as well, but I’ve been looking for something a bit smaller than the ones you’ve featured. Call me a baby, but I’m just not ready for a giant rock ring. I saw some a while back that were set kind of like engagement rings but were made of the same really cool natural looking rocks. If I stumble across those again, I’ll send a link your way!
Ohhh, I love the Larkin and Larkin amethyst version. Score, for bring priced well, local and my birth stone! I am a total sucker for a honking big ring like this too, always a conversation starter.
Oh hey now, that’s some aggressive jewelry! I kind of love it, but am way to clumsy to actually wear it…i’d be ripping tights, poking eyes and giving myself concussions all over the place. Damn me for not being cool enough to pull that off
xo, Ashley
These are amazing. I might have to get some of the less expensive options because I would wear this every day.
http://www.christenmitchellstyling.com