It was while I was living in Madrid that I designed the Madrid cross. I loved to go to a small pastelería and eat chocolate palmeras and one day there was a green and white flag hanging out over the street by the pastelería with a cruciform pattern on it. When I came back home later that day I added to my sketch book and then rather forgot about it, only coming back to it some weeks later. With fresh eyes and a clear mind, the little sketch became the pendant that has been given by godparents and grandparents, worn by girl friends and sisters, and even by brides on their wedding day. Simply adorned with pearls or set with four birthstones in the centre, it is always the most lovely of gifts - to give, and to receive.

Originating from the Latin name "granatus", meaning seed-like, rounded garnet crystals bring to mind perfectly polished pomegranate seeds. The scientist in Cassandra has always been fascinated by this isomorphous series, giving rise to gems ranging from colourless through to all colours of the rainbow. These gleaming gemstones have a high refractive index, perpetually emitting light. Some will even change colour, appearing bluish-green in daylight and purplish-red in incandescent light. No wonder they are said to have guided travellers throughout history, with their light warding off all darkness and fears. With these strong associations to illumination, it's not surprising garnets have also been so popular with kings and queens, vikings, and knights. Imbued with eternal happiness, health, and wealth, the traditionally resplendent red colour of garnets enriches wearers with faith, stability, and courage. An appropriate birthstone for January, which marks the beginning of the year.