Here is an interesting stitch that I found while I was working on a project for the shop, Triple Rice.  There seems to be several variations for the Rice Stitch.  I liked this one because there are many thread choice possibilities.   I used Neon Rays, in a contrasting color, as the base for the 6 by 6 cross stitch.   Using an over-dyed Gloriana thread  for the accent stitches really gave me the look that I wanted for my project.   Playing around with the threads will give you different finished looks.  Give it a try!