Officially recognised as the shortest day of the year, December 21st 2010, saw a stunning stellar display that turned the moon red-orange. Caused by an eclipse, the phenomenon was the first full lunar eclipse to coincide with the Winter Solstice in over 300 years.

To celebrate the event, which is believed to be an auspicious time for new beginnings, Lizzyanthus has launched a range of Astral Jewellery, inspired by the Sun and Moon.

Warming Silver and Amber Sun Pendant - to Warm up dark, dreary days and bring sunshine into your life.

Silver Sun and Moon Eclipse Pendant- Combining the power of the Sun and Moon, this beautiful pendant appears as the moon, a stunning moonstone, eclipsing the silver sun.

Silver Crescent Moon Pendant - A delicate 3D moon with filigree detailing that sparkles as it reflects the light.

To find out more, please visit our online catalogue, Silver Astral jewellery by Lizzyanthus.

The 2010 Winter Solstice on December 21st coincided with a spectacular full lunar eclipse for the first time since 1638. For those lucky to have seen the eclipse in all its glory, they would have seen the moon turn a lovely red-orange colour.

Although a lunar eclipse can occur as many as 3 times a year, this was the first time in over 300 years that a full Lunar Eclipse occurred on the Winter Solstice.

A total lunar eclipse occurs during the full Moon phase, when the Sun, Earth and Moon are in perfect alignment. As the Moon passes completely into the Earth’s shadow, it begins to take on a red-orange hue, which if there is little or no atmospheric dust, or cloud cover, can turn the sky red! The change in colour is caused by reduced light from the Sun, reaching the Moon’s surface.

Recognised for millennia as the shortest day of the year, the Winter Solstice, typically falls on or around the 21st December. It was traditionally celebrated as the rebirth of the sun - and return to light.

It is predicted that the next time a Full Lunar Eclipse will occur on the Winter Solstice, is in the year 2094.