Agate, Amazonite, Amber, Amethyst, Ametrine, Ammonite, Apatite, Aquamarine, Aventurine, Carnelian, Chalcedony, Charoite, Chinese Writing Stone, Chrysacolla, Chrysoprase, Cinnabar, Citrine, Coral, Diamonds, Druzy, Emerald, Fluorite, Garnets, Gaspeite, Hematite, Hemimorphite, Iolite, Jade, Jasper, Kyanite, Laboradite, Lapis Lazuli, Larimar, Malachite, Moldavite, Moonstone, Mother of Peal, Ocean Jasper, Onyx, Opal, Orthoceras, Peanut Wood, Pearl, Peridot, Prasiolite, Prehnite, Quartz, Rodochrosite, Ruby, Ruby Zoiscite, Sapphire, Smoky Quartz, Sodalite, Sugilite, Tiger's Eye, Topaz, Tourmalines, Turquoise, Variscite

Silver Facts

Birth Stones

Agate is a hard stone, usually within the range of 7-9 on the Mohs scale. Agates are found in all colors of the rainbow, although green and blue are quite rare. Agate is a variety of chalcedony formed from layers of quartz which usually show varicolored bands. It usually occurs as rounded nodules or veins. Often tiny quartz crystals form within the stone and add to the beauty and uniqueness of individual stones. These crystals are called drusy (sometimes misspelled as druzy). Lapidaries often cut just the drusy from an agate and jewelers use these drusy cabochons as the main stone or as an accent stone in their jewelry designs. Some named varieties are: moss agate, eye agate; and plume agate, which looks like it's filled with beautiful feather plumes. Agate is a relatively inexpensive stone except for some varieties with unusual banded or scenic markings. In recent years, Montana agate has gained wide acceptance in jewelry and well cut stones with nicely defined patterns often exceed the price of some of the more well known gemstones. Plume agate is another that often brings high dollar. Agate is found all over the world including: the Africa, Asia, Brazil, Egypt, Germany, India, Italy, Mexico, Nepal, and the USA.

Amazonite is a gemstone variety of green microcline, a feldspar mineral. It is named after the Amazon River in Brazil. Surprisingly, no deposits of it have been found there. The name may refer to the variable green shades of the rainforest along the big river that are reflected in the gemstone.  A Brazilian legend tells that the Amazons, the legendary female warriors, gave green stones to the men who visited them.  Amazonite, is usually cut en cabochon, with a rounded and convex polished surface. In fact a fine quality amazonite can be mistaken for precious jade. Like jade, Amazonite is often carved as well. Amazonite does not undergo any kind of treatment. Its relative softness of 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale makes Amazonite vulnerable to pressure and scratches and requires some care. Amazonite, though not common, is still very affordable. Amazonite is said to calm one's emotions and soothe nerves, and to enhance creativity and the ability to express oneself. Perhaps the strongest recommendation of its metaphysical powers is that Amazonite is said to make your married life happier. The safest approach is to wear the gemstone in skin contact to the troubled part of the body. Amazonite is said to calm one's emotions and soothe nerves, and to enhance creativity and the ability to express oneself. The deeper the color of the amazonite, the more intense the effect is said to be.

Amber deposits have been found that range between 360 and one million years old and belong between the Carboniferous and Pleistocene geological periods. As sticky resin oozed from ancient pine trees, small insects, plant material, feathers and other small objects in the path of the flow became entrapped. Over time, the resin was encased in dirt and debris and through a process of heat and pressure it fossilized to become amber. Amber increases in value with the rarity and perfection of the entrapped object. Complete insect specimens are rare though and command top price. Copal, is also a tree resin but it hasn't fully fossilized to amber. It is usually only thousands of years old, instead of millions of years. There is strong debate about some deposits of African amber as to whether it is copal or true amber. Amber can range in color from dark brown to a light almost clear lemon yellow. Most amber that has been used in jewelry is from the region of the Baltic Sea or the Dominican Republic. Amber is very soft, between 2 1/2-3 on the Mohs scale.

Amethyst - It is derived from the Greek word "not to intoxicate", which led to the belief that drinking wine from an amethyst cup would prevent drunkenness. Amethyst was thought to protect soldiers, ensure victory, aid hunters, protect against disease, control evil thoughts, and quicken one’s intelligence. It is said to be a surface cure for headaches and toothaches, and is used to increase spirituality.

Ametrine– a natural blend of Amethyst and Citrine is a stunning combination that flatters all skin tones and complements wardrobes of all seasons. The color purple represents spirituality, passion, mysticism and faith. Yellow signifies mental and spiritual enlightenment, vitality, and hope. Together this blended stone presents the wearer with a gem that is symbolic of spirituality, steadfast loyalty, and a zest for life.

Ammonites are the ancient equivalent to the modern-day chambered Nautilus. These sea faring squids built a chambered shell in which they would pump air into the empty chambers and float at different levels of the ocean in search of food. This unique ability to float at different depths of the ocean is what inspired Jules Vern (the famous science fiction writer) to call the first submarine the Nautilus. Ammonites lived approximately 400 million years ago.

Apatite originates from the Greek word for "cheat". That unfair title was allegedly earned from apatite's possible confusion with other stones. It is a stone seldom found in jewelry stores and virtually unknown to the general public, is beloved by collectors for its many different colors and forms. The range of colors includes colorless, pink, yellow, green, blue and violet.

The gemstone Aquamarine is the modern March birthstone. Aquamarine is a member of the beryl family and ranges in color from an almost colorless pale blue to blue-green or teal. The most prized color is a deep-blue aqua color. It is 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale of hardness and gets its name from Latin words meaning water and sea. The most valuable aquamarines come from Brazil, but it is also mined in Kenya and Nigeria, Madagascar, Zambia, Tanzania, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Russia. Since early times, aquamarine has been believed to endow the wearer with foresight, courage, and happiness. It is said to increase intelligence and make one youthful. As a healing stone, it is said to be effective as a treatment for anxiety and in the Middle Ages it was thought that aquamarine would reduce the effect of poisons. A legend says that sailors wore aquamarine gemstones to keep them safe and prevent seasickness. It also signifies the making of new friends.

Carnelian – In the eighth century, the Muslim leader Ja’afar ibn Muhammad proclaimed that wearing Carnelian would guarantee the granting of all desires. This belief made the stone a popular talisman among the Muslims. In the 1700’s, carnelian was known to bring luck, protection, and comfort. In the 1800’s, carnelian was said to help those who needed courage to speak. This gemstone is used for clear thinking and to balance creativity and mental processing.

Chalcedony is derived from the name of the ancient Greek seaport Chalkedon in Asia Minor.  In the 3^rd or 4^th century A.D., Greek seafarers wore chalcedony to avoid drowning. Chalcedony, which is found worldwide, is the name for a group of stones made of a microcrystalline or cryptocrystalline variety of quartz, which means the quartz crystals are too small to be seen without high magnification. In jewelry usage, the name Chalcedony is usually applied only to the light blue translucent and waxy form. Other stones in this group are know as agate, jasper, petrified wood, bloodstone, petrified dinosaur bone, fire agate, tiger's eye, chrysocolla, chrysoprase, onyx, sardonyx, and carnelian. Chalcedony is found in almost every color including: white, gray, black, brown, brownish red, orange, yellow, light to dark green, blue, lavender or, in the case of agates and jaspers, combinations of those colors. Native American Indians believed chalcedony was a sacred stone and used in the spiritual ceremonies of the tribe. It is thought to increase vitality, stamina, and endurance and to promote emotional balance and charity while relieving melancholy, fever, gallstones, and eye problems.  It was once believed that someone seeing nocturnal phantoms took in disease though their eyes, but the "alkaline" content of chalcedony could remove it.

Charoite name is derived from the Charo River which is near where it was found in Russia in 1978 in the Murun mountains in Yakutia. This the only known location for this rare mineral. The colors range from bright lavender, violet and lilac to dark purple with swirling patterns of black Augite, transparent crystals of microcline feldspar, and/or orange Tinaksite. Charoite is so unusual looking with its chatoyancy and strange looking spirally strands of fibrous material that it is often mistaken for a synthetic. It is used extensively in jewelry and as an ornamental stone carved into boxes, bookends and vases. It ranges from 5 - 6 on the Mohs scale.  Charoite is said to enhance self-esteem, accelerate spiritual growth, and improve the ability to love.

Chinese Writing Stone was probably name because of the crystalline structure resembling the Chinese characters of the written language.  It is a limestone matrix with andalusite crystals. It is also called Porphory.  This stone comes from the Yangtze River Valley of the Hunan Province of China. Colors range from a very dark gray or almost black to creamy white, both of which have a slight greenish cast. A dramatic looking stone, it is a 5-6 on the Mohs scale. It is an excellent stone for dreaming, assisting one into a dream state and it is a stone of re-affirmation, re-alignment and re-commitment. It helps one to adjust to change, accept responsibility and stimulate originality

Cinnabar is a red crystalline form of mercuric sulphide. In its natural state, it is a red crystalline solid. Sometimes, its red color is so bright that it is not found in any mineral, plant and animal on earth. It occurs in brilliant red or in red or brown amorphous masses. The Chinese and the Arabian alchemists used to extract mercury from it. Today, it is the only source of mercury and is found in rare localities. Since of its red color, it was also used as a dye. The word 'Cinnabar' has been taken from the Persian for 'dragon's blood.' Cinnabar is believed to be protecting people from evil and to bring good luck and fortune. Psychologically, it represents the hardened habits and terrestrial marriages of the soul and spirit. Cinnabar is also a stone of repute in giving wearer long life. The hardness of cinnabar is 2 to 2.5 and is usually used for making beautiful jewelry. It is found in the regions of Spain, Serbia, China, and California and Arkansas in the US.

Citrine – the name is derived from the French word citron, meaning "lemon" and the color is associated with lightheartedness and cheerfulness. It also helps one connect with the spirit. Citrine is often given as a symbol for hope, youth, health, and fidelity.

Coral – Is thought to protect against magic spells, to cure madness and to give wisdom. In many cultures, coral is given to children as a gift for their protection.

Diamonds are very rare gemstones. Many of them are clear, but they may have colors. There are natural and synthetic diamonds. Diamond is the hardest natural material known, where hardness is defined as resistance to scratching and is graded between 1 (softest) and 10 (hardest) using the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. Diamond has a hardness of 10 (hardest) on this scale. Diamonds are actually made of pure carbon. In fact, the only thing hard enough to cut a diamond is another diamond. Diamonds are made deep in the earth, where there is an intense amount of pressure and heat that makes the diamond form. The name diamond is derived from the ancient Greek, "unalterable" and "unbreakable, however, diamonds are thought to have been first recognized and mined in India for at least 3,000 years. The popularity of diamonds has risen since the 19th century because of increased supply, improved cutting and polishing techniques, growth in the world economy, and innovative and successful advertising campaigns.

The hardness of diamonds contributes to its suitability as a gemstone. Because it can only be scratched by other diamonds, it maintains its polish extremely well. Unlike many other gems, it is well-suited to daily wear because of its resistance to scratching—perhaps contributing to its popularity as the preferred gem in engagement or wedding rings, which are often worn every day. The mined rough diamonds are converted into gems through a multi-step process called "cutting". Diamonds are extremely hard, but also brittle and can be split up by a single blow. Therefore, the diamond cutting is traditionally considered as a delicate procedure requiring skills, scientific knowledge, tools and experience. Its final goal is to produce a facetted jewel where the specific angles between the facets would optimize the diamond luster, which is the dispersion of white light, whereas the number and area of facets would determine the weight of the final product. The weight reduction upon cutting is significant and can be of the order of 50%. Several possible shapes are considered, but the final decision is often determined not only by scientific, but also practical considerations. For example the diamond might be intended for display or for wear, in a ring or a necklace, singled or surrounded by other gems of certain color and shape.

Because of its unique brilliance and superior hardness, diamond has come to symbolize eternal love. The tradition began in the 15th century, when Archduke Maximilian of Austria sealed his engagement to Mary of Burgundy with a diamond ring. Diamonds symbolize brilliance, constancy, excellence, innocence, invulnerable faith, joy, life, love and purity.

Druzy Quartz (also spelled as Drusy or Druse) is a thin layer of quartz crystals covering the surface of a host stone. One good example of Druzy is the crystals filled inside the cavity of a geode. It is well known that amethyst or citrine get the source of their color from this quartz crystal but usually Druzy Quartz takes the host stone's color which is seen through it as in chrysocolla or uvarovite garnet. The term "Druzy" refers to the tiny crystal which is formed within another stone in a large number. When the ground water that carries dissolved silica is forced to get filled into a porous area of rock, rapid cooling occurs and it causes the formation of minute crystals. Druzy Quarts is said to aid in balancing and increasing energy. Since ages it has been used to diagnose disease and is believed to enhance natural extrasensory perception abilities. Druzy Titanium or Druzy plated with Titanium is a regular Druzy. The colors of Druzy Titanium are very hot and intensely bright. It shifts from a bright hot purple to that of a neon deep blue with some shade of red. The colors of Druzy Titanium differ with the change in the viewing angles.

 Emerald is the only stone, besides Topaz, that is listed as in all of the ancient birthstone tables.  Emerald is the name given the green variety of beryl and ranges between 7.5 and 8 on the Mohs scale. The name Emerald is derived from the French "esmeraude” and the Greek root "smaragdos” which means 'green gemstone'. Top quality emeralds are a deep grass green with a slightly bluish cast, but many lesser quality stones are lighter shades of green and can have a more yellowish tone. Emeralds are found in many countries, but Columbia and Brazil are the major producers and Columbia is recognized as the source for the finest stones. They are also found in Pakistan, Russia, Australia, South Africa, India, Norway, and the United States. Because emeralds usually contain many cracks, fissures, and inclusions, the majority of these stones are "oiled". This means that they are immersed in oil which reduces the visibility of the inclusions, and also improves the clarity. Oiling is almost universal and because it is so common today, it is not considered necessary to disclose this fact Emeralds are brittle stones and care should be taken when wearing or cleaning them. They should never be immersed in an ultrasonic or subjected to steam cleaning. Emeralds were used as amulets to ward off epilepsy in children and thought to cure diseases of the eye. Folklore suggests that these stones will improve memory, intelligence, and enhance clairvoyance thus helping to predict future events. They are also worn to enhance love and contentment. Cleopatra prized emeralds above all other gems.

Fluorite, with a hardness rating of 4 on Mohs scale, is a soft stone that should only be used for pendants, brooches or earrings. The origin of the word fluorite comes from the Latin verb to flow. Ancient Romans believed that drinking alcoholic beverages from vessels carved of fluorite prevented drunkenness.

Most specimens of fluorite have a single color, but a significant percentage of fluorites have multiple colors and the colors are arranged in bands or zones. "Blue John" is a fluorite variety banded with colors and white, found only in Derbyshire, England. Fluorite is frequently fluorescent under ultraviolet light (UV) and, like its normal light colors, its fluorescent colors are extremely variable. Typically it fluoresces blue but other fluorescent colors include yellow, green, red, white and purple. Some specimens have the added effect of simultaneously having a different color under long wave UV light from its color under short-wave UV light. Another characteristic of fluorite is its thermo luminescence. Thermo luminescence is the ability to glow when heated. A variety of fluorite known as "chlorophane" (which means to show green) can demonstrate this property very well and will even thermoluminesce while the specimen is held in a person's hand activated by the person's own body heat (of course in a dark room, as it is not bright enough to be seen in daylight). The thermo luminescence is green to blue-green and can be produced on the coils of a heater or electric stove top. Once seen, the glow will fade away and can no longer be seen in the same specimen again.
The origin of the word fluorite comes from the Latin verb to flow and reflects today's use of fluorite as a flux in steel and aluminum processing. It was originally referred to as fluorspar by miners and is still called that today. Fluorite is also used as a source of fluorine for fluorinated water. Many people believe it has a calming effect on the body. During the eighteenth century it was ground into powder and mixed with water to treat kidney disease.

 Garnet occurs in every color except blue and most varieties are named for their color. Rhodolite is a purplish red, hessonite is the name for an orange, cinnamon, or pinkish variety. Tsavorite is the name given to dark green grossularite. Uvarovite and demantoid are also green varieties. Pyrope garnets are purplish red, orangy red, crimson, or dark red. Spessartite garnets range from yellow and orange through red to reddish brown to dark black/brown. Garnets range from a 7.0 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness and are found in the U.S. (Arizona), South Africa, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Myanmar (Burma), Scotland, Switzerland and Tanzania . Garnet's powers include healing, strength, and protection and it is often worn to relieve inflammations of the skin. It is also believed to regulate the heart and blood flow and aid in curing depression. In earlier times, garnets were exchanged as gifts between friends to demonstrate their affection for each other and to insure that they meet again. North American Indians used red garnets at bullets, believing they would seek blood and inflict a deadlier wound. Christians believed garnets symbolized Christ’s sacrifice; Islamics believed it illuminated the fourth heaven. Garnets were thought to stop bleeding, cure inflammatory diseases, and smooth discord.

Gaspeite is a relatively rare mineral, found only in a few localities. Its light green, almost apple green color is quite unique and some varieties are almost a neon green. It may contain brownish patches which may give it a distinctive character. Gaspeite is found around nickel sulfide deposits and is named for the locality of Gaspe Peninsula, Quebec, Canada where it was originally found. Sources are Canada and Western Australia. Hardness is 4.5 - 5 on the Mohs scale.

Hematite is a very common mineral consisting of iron oxide. Its color ranges from steel gray to almost black (specular hematite), brown to reddish brown, or red. The variety known as rainbow hematite exhibits colors similar to oil patches on water.  Hematite is harder than pure iron, but it is much more brittle. The name hematite is derived from the Greek word haimatites for blood.  It is mined in Australia, Brazil (rainbow variety), England, Mexico, the United States and Canada.  It is the state mineral of Alabama, USA where approximately 375 million tons were mined between l840 and 1975. Hematite (iron ore) is a very common mineral on Earth and it also occurs everywhere on the planet Mars where it is responsible for the planet's distinctive red color. It was first identified on Mars by the Thermal Emission Spectrometer (TES), aboard Mars Global Surveyor.  An important pigment known as "red ochre" it was used in cave paintings and paint pigment.

Hemimorphite forms in oxidized zinc deposits and always occurs in clusters of radiating, acicular crystals. Originally, it was named Calamine, but since calamine is used for some other mineral, the word hemimorphite is widely in use. 'Hemi' means half and 'morph' means shape. Hemimorphite is in the form of bladed crystal. The crystals are generally elongated and flat. When heated, the stone readily becomes frosted. When hot, the coating is yellow but after cooling it turns white. It even fluoresces a bright orange in long-wave ultraviolet and white in short-wave ultraviolet. It is a wide believe of Hemimorphite being a help for one to attain a positive self-image including self-esteem and self-respect. It also assists in the personal growth of a person on all levels. The stone brings joy and creativity. For healing, it is an excellent stone. It relieves pain, cures ulcers, blood diseases and cellular disease or disorder. Sometimes it is also used as protection stone from malice and poisoning.

Iolite– from the Greek word meaning violet. Iolite is known as the gemstone of clear vision. It was believed to have the power to guide lost sailors to the brilliance of the sun in order to find their way home.

Jade is the term applied to forms of jadeite and nephrite. These minerals are similar in appearance and a distinction between the two often was not made. But, because of its more intense color and translucency, jadeite now brings higher prices and is thought to be the true jade.  The most valuable form of jade is known as imperial jade and comes from Myanmar, it is an emerald green color. Jades also appear in mottled green and white, and the rarer colors of yellow, pink, purple, and black. The range of greens are light to dark, creamy, grayish, and also white. A leek green variety called "Russian Jade" is found near Lake Baikal in Russia. Jade is also found in Mexico, and Central and South America. Because of its smooth even texture, jade has long been a preferred material for carving and is usually cut into cabochons for jewelry. The color of the stone is the most important factor but translucency and texture are important criteria determining price. Jade is a 6 1/2-7 on the Mohs scale of hardness.

Jasper is an opaque and fine grained variety of Chalcedony. It is found in all colors including: red, brown, pink, yellow, green, grey/white and shades of blue and purple. It often contains organic material and mineral oxides which give it interesting patterns, bands and colors. Many of these patterns resemble landscapes with mountains and valleys, thus the name "picture" is part of the name of many well know jaspers. Jasper was a favorite gem in ancient times and is referenced in Greek, Hebrew, Assyrian and Latin literature. Found worldwide, a wide variety of named jaspers is found in the western areas of the Unites States; California, Oregon, Idaho, Utah, Wyoming and Washington. Picture jasper is a petrified or silicated mud that dripped into gas pockets in molten lava. It became superheated and then solidified forming the unusual banded patterns which are typical of this stone. A 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, Jasper is the state rock of Massachusetts, USA.

Kyanite is named after the Greek word for "blue". Its color indeed can make it a lovely gem with a near sapphire-like blue. Usually its color is blue but also can be colorless, white, gray, green or yellow. Color is often not consistent throughout the crystal, often showing white streaks in a medium blue. Luster is vitreous to almost pearly. Its variable hardness is a significant characteristic that has to be taken in consideration by the gem-cutter. Hardness is 4- 4.5 (Mohs scale) when scratched parallel to the long axis of the crystal and 6-7 when cut perpendicular to or across the long axis. It's a nice gemstone for earrings or pendants. Kyanite is believed to aid self-expression, communication and supernatural abilities. In ancient times it was believed that a kyanite suspended from a human hair could fallow the Earth's magnetic force like a compass needle. In those times travelers took kyanite along with them, when they entered unknown territories.

Laboradite - The most valued type of labradorite, Spectrolite, comes from Finland. The name is derived from Labrador which is the main and original source of the Canadian variety of this feldspar stone. Labradorite is also found in India, Madagascar, Newfoundland, and Russia A type of translucent feldspar which displays strong iridescence when viewed from different angles, Finnish spectrolite exhibits vivid colors of bright aqua, golden yellow, peacock blue, reddish orange, greens and red.  It is a 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale. It is said to brings forth each person's strengths, originality, aids sleep, relate to others.

Lapis Lazuli is considered a rock, not a mineral. It combines various minerals, mostly lazurite, but also contains calcite (white), sodalite (blue) and pyrite (fools' gold, a metallic yellow) and to be considered a mineral it would have only one component.  Top quality lapis lazuli comes from Afghanistan where is has been mined for more than 6000 years, but is also found in Siberia, Chile, the U.S., Pakistan, and Canada. A strong blue, sometimes with a hint of violet, lapis lazuli's value decreases with the presence of white patches (calcite), while small veins of pyrite are often prized.  The Egyptians used Lapis for seals, ground it for an eyelid cosmetic and often carved it into vases and figurines.  A soft stone, 5 -5.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness, lapis lazuli is one of the most valuable semi opaque stones.

Larimar– Originally discovered in 1916 by a Spanish priest. It has an extraordinary blue appearance and is found in only one square mile of the earth in the Dominican Republic. It is also called pectolite, and ranges from 5-7 on the Mohs scale. One the rock is extracted from the mine it is sent to be graded – usually only about 8% is suitable for jewelry use. Due to the rarity of the stone, better quality Larimar is scarce which is why shapes are often freeform, utilizing as much of the natural stone as possible. Metaphysically, Larimar is often associated with Atlantis. The vibrational frequency of Larimar is one of the highest of any gemstone leading the stone to be associated with increasing the wearer’s skills of speech and communication. It is also said to have the ability to draw one soul mate to the wearer.

Malachite is a popular stone which has light and dark green banded areas. Many beautiful specimens of malachite contain special combinations with other minerals, such as azurite, cuprite, or chrysocolla. Malachite can be found in Zaire, USSR, Germany, France, Chile, Australia, Arizona and New Mexico/USA. It ranges between 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Its powers are said to include: protection, power, peace, love, and success in business. It is worn to detect impending danger, and is assumed to break into pieces when danger is near. It is the guardian stone of travelers and promotes inner peace and hope and provides protection and security.

Moldavite is a member of the tektite family. The most popular theory is that about 20 million years ago a meteorite shower fell in the Moldau Valley of Czechoslovakia and the result of this shower was moldavite, a rare crystal of a bottle-green, translucent hue. Moldavite has been prized by numerous cultures for more than 25,000 years. Moldavite is legendary for improving career and relationship matters. Wear the ancient secret used for millennia to decrease anxiety, increase confidence, improve relationships, and alleviate health issues. Moldavite can give instant relief for panic and anxiety. It is believed to be one of the 12 power stones of the Universe.

Moonstone – According to Hindu legend, moonstone is formed by moonbeams. It was once believed if you held one in your mouth during a full moon, you could see your future. In India, moonstone is known as a sacred stone and is believed to bring good fortune. It is a highly prized gift for lovers as it arouses tender passion.

Mother-of-Pearl is similar to pearls in chemical composition, but unlike a pearl, which is the result of nacre secretions emitted to protect the mollusk from a foreign irritant entering the shell, mother-of-pearl comes from the actual shell of the animal. This natural secretion of calcium carbonate and aragonite causes the two main visual aspects that define mother-of-pearl: pearly luster and iridescence. Although far more abundant, and therefore, far less valuable than pearls, mother-of-pearl has been a major component in jewelry and decorative arts for thousands of years. From ancient Egypt and Persia, to ancient China, mother-of-pearl has been a prized semi-precious gemstone throughout human history. As part of the shell building process, the mollusk will deposit layers of calcium carbonate held together by an organic horn-like compound called conchiolin. This combination of calcium carbonate and conchiolin is called nacre or mother-of-pearl.

Ocean Jasper is a silicon dioxide mineral that occurs in highly silicified rhyolite. This means that it is in the Quartz family and just like all other Jaspers it has a hardness of 6.5 to 7. Ocean Jasper is sometimes called Orbicular Jasper, a broad term given to several Jaspers displaying perfect circles throughout the piece. The peculiar orbs or "bull's eye" patterns are caused when Quartz and feldspar crystallize in radial aggregates of needle shaped crystals. A few of these other Orbicular Jaspers are Poppy Jasper and Leopard Skin Jasper. Many of these other orbicular jaspers are found in various locations throughout the world; however none are as rare as Ocean Jasper!

It is said to promote enjoyment of life, release of negativity and stress, relaxation, positive self expression, and physical and emotional healing. Ocean Jasper radiates positive energy and helps one to feel, speak and act more positively. Spiritually, it is said to help release 'stuck' or limiting patterns that may cause physical imbalance or disease. Physically it is said to help with regeneration of tissues in the body, healing of organs, balancing the glandular system, stabilizing the thyroid and assisting the endocrine system.

 

 

 Onyx is a chalcedony quartz that is mined in Brazil, India, California and Uruguay. It has a fine texture and black color; however some onyx also displays white bands or ribbons against a black or brown background and this variety is known as sardonyx. The name comes from the Greek word onyx which means nail of a finger or claw. Legend says that one day while Venus was sleeping Eros/Cupid cut her fingernails and left the clippings scattered on the ground. Because no part of a heavenly body can die, the gods turned them into stone which later became known as onyx. Originally, almost all colors of chalcedony from white to dark brown and black were called onyx. Today when we think of onyx we often preface the word with black to distinguish it from other varieties of onyx that come in white, reddish brown, brown and banded. A 6.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness., onyx is a very good stone for use in carving. Onyx is thought to increase regeneration, happiness, intuition, instincts and also thought to decrease sexual desire and helps to change bad habits.

Opal – In ancient times, opal was recognized as a symbol, of faithfulness and confidence. It was said to have magical powers because of it play of colors. It was known to strengthen eyesight, protect against contagious diseases, ease sadness, and turn pale in the presence of poison. Opal symbolizes magic, love, hope, happiness, and truth. Opals are gems of great antiquity, and comes in two general categories: common opal, also known as "potch," and "precious opal." The name "opal" (opale French, opalo Spanish or Italian) is derived from the Sanskrit word "upala" the Greek word "opallios," and the Latin word "opalus;" all meaning "precious stone." While common opal has no "play of color" it is sometimes polished into gemstones, when it has an attractive body color or interesting inclusions. It is the play-of-color found in precious opal that makes it such a revered gemstone. Opal is found in a wide range in colors that include white, light blue, green, grey, brown, red, yellow, violet and black. No other gemstone can produce such a wide range of iridescent colors in a single stone. Opal is a very fragile and brittle material when compared to other gemstones, and can easily chip, crack or fracture when exposed to shock. Being a hydrated stone of variable composition, opal can have a high water content, and this can lead to breakage from sudden changes in temperature (thermal shock). Long term storage of opal is more secure if the gems are kept in a sealed bag with a damp piece of cotton to prevent dehydration. Even with precautions, some precious opal is not stable and will crack and "craze" in time.

General opal classifications are: "Boulder Opal" which is opal on a dark ironstone matrix, "Crystal Opal" which is transparent to semi-transparent black, semi-black or white opal which has a play of color; "Fire Opal" or which is translucent to transparent, with yellow, orange, or red body color; "Contra Luz Opal" which is a precious opal where that only displays a play of color when held up to the light ;"Matrix Opal" or "Mass Opal" which has thin seams of precious opal in an ironstone matrix.

Boulder opal is a nodule or concentration that was deposited as a thin layer in the matrix of ironstone, basalt, sandstone, etc. and is more stable than thicker examples of opal. These concentrations can occur as round or elongated ellipsoids, or as horizontal bands. Bolder opal from Queensland, Australia — one of the only known sources for true boulder opals — has gained in popularity and price because of its availability, display of colors and superior stability. Mexico has a special place in the opal world. It produces both precious opal and common opal that is called "fire opal" because of its yellow to orange to red body color. Some specimens of fire opal can be faceted because of their high clarity, but most fire opal is somewhat cloudy. This cloudiness in precious opal, which comes from internal structures such as the balls that defract the light, is called opalescence.

Peruvian opal is relatively rare and is only found in the Andes mountains near San Patricio, Peru. It is a very translucent stone with color similar to the Caribbean Sea. Depending on how the stone is cut it can be clear, scenic (showing varying degrees of color) or dendritic which has black fern like inclusions. Peruvian opal ranges between 5.5 and 6.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness.

Orthoceras are from the Devonian Period of the Paleozoic Era and are more than 400 million years old and are the earliest recognizable animals Orthoceras fossils really inspire the imagination. They were fearsome hunters. Their head grew tentacles and they had a sharp beak in the center of their mouth. The crystallized chambers make a bright contrast to the dark black or brown matrix that surrounds the fossil. Craftsmen polish this matrix to bring out the details of the fossils. Smaller specimens are sometimes crafted into pendants. They are ancestors to the modern day squid. Even though they were among the earliest forms of life, this class of nautiloid is still considered one of the most intelligent forms of ocean life. The Orthoceras ranged in size from a few inches in length to over six feet! They could swim as well as crawl on the ocean floor. By filling the chambers in their shells with air they could float through the seas propelling themselves by squirting jets of water. As they died their shells accumulated upon the ocean floor, and then were covered by sediments they transformed into stone over the ages. Having a long straight shell their fossils have an iridescent gemlike quality when polished.

"Peanut wood" is a petrified wood, generally of a black color with numerous borings, which were made by a marine wood-boring bivalve, Teredo. This petrified wood was called peanut wood by the first people who found it, because they obviously thought that the light colored areas resembled peanuts. These light colored areas are what used to be boreholes in the original wood. Before the wood was petrified, it was washed into the ocean as driftwood. It was then attacked by small marine shellfish called "Teredo" ...another name for these little clams is "shipworm". They bore a small tunnel into the wood and eventually the entire piece can be riddled with boreholes. When the wood became waterlogged, it then sank to the bottom of the ocean and settled into the mud. The boreholes then filled with the light colored sediment and then began to petrify. It is found along the edges of the Kennedy Ranges about 100 miles inland from the coastal town of Carnarvon, Western Australia. The age is Cretaceous which makes it around 70 million years old.

Pearl is the official birthstone for the month of June. An organic gem, pearls are formed inside mollusks such as oysters and mussels. They are formed when an irritant such as a tiny stone or bit of sand gets inside the mollusk's shell. A lustrous substance, called nacre, is secreted around the object to protect the soft internal surface of the mollusk. As layer upon layer of nacre coats the irritant, a pearl is formed. Light that is reflected from these overlapping layers produces a characteristic iridescent luster. This process of building a solid pearl can take up to seven or eight years. The most valuable pearls are perfectly symmetrical, relatively large and naturally produced. They have a shimmering iridescence which is called orient luster. The principal oyster beds lay in the Persian Gulf, along the coasts of India and Sri Lanka, and in the Red Sea. Chinese pearls come mainly from freshwater rivers and ponds, whereas Japanese pearls are found near the coast in salt water.

There are many types of pearls:

natural pearls (made without human interference),

cultured pearls (made when a foreign substance is intentionally inserted into a living oyster. This method was first used in 1893),

baroque pearls (pearls that have irregular shapes),

Biwa pearls (an irregular shaped pearl which forms in the freshwater of Lake Biwa, Japan),

blister pearls (pearls which grow attached to the inside of the shell),

black pearls (gray to black pearls),

freshwater pearls (pearls which form in fresh water mollusks and resemble puffed rice),

Mabe pearls (cultivated blister pearls ),

seed pearls (small, tiny pearls used in Victorian jewelry and sewn on clothing).

Pearls vary in color from white to those with a hint of color, often pink, to brown or black. Each coloration will depend on the type of mollusk and the water where the mollusk lived. Because the nacre is organic, pearls are very sensitive to extreme heat, acids, dryness, and humidity. Care should be taken when storing them. Pearls are quite "soft" and range between 2.5 and 4.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. They should be protected from extreme wear. Natural pearls have been harvested from the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Manaar (Indian Ocean), and the Red Sea for thousands of years. The coasts of Polynesia and Australia produce mainly cultured pearls. Both freshwater and saltwater pearls are cultivated in Japan and China. Freshwater pearls occur in the rivers of Scotland, Ireland, France, Austria, Germany, and the USA (Mississippi)

Cultured or freshwater pearls are considered to offer the power of love, money, protection, and luck. Pearls are thought to give wisdom through experience, to quicken the laws of karma and to cement engagements and love relationships. They are thought to keep children safe. Early Chinese myths told of pearls falling from the sky when dragons fought. Ancient legend says that pearls were thought to be the tears of the gods and the Greeks believed that wearing pearls would promote marital bliss and prevent newlywed women from crying.  The pearl is considered to be an emblem of modesty, chastity, and purity; and they symbolize love, success and happiness.

 Peridot is the gem variety of olivine and ranges between 6.5 and 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Gem quality peridot comes from Arizona, Burma, Norway, islands in the Red Sea, Hawaii and is sometimes found in meteorites. It's been mined as a gemstone for thousands of years, and is mentioned in the Bible under the name of Chrysolite. Legend says that peridot was one of the favorite gemstones of Cleopatra and that some of the "emeralds" worn by her were actually peridot. It is thought to bring the wearer good luck, peace, and success,. Its powers include health, protection, and sleep. The advantages of peridot are to attract love and calm anger while also soothing nerves and dispelling negative emotions.

Prasiolite is a gem with which one can really be confused. It is traded with variety of names and sometimes mistaken with expensive gems like Green Beryl, Peridot and Tourmaline. The green variety is also named as Vermarine, Lime Citrine or Green Amethyst. Inexpensive, but a true collector's gemstone. The name, prasiolite has been derived from the Greek words "Prason" and "Lithos," which mean 'leek,' due to color similarities with vegetables, and 'stone' simultaneously. It is believed that prasiolite facilitates the gap between the physical and spiritual aspects of life. It attracts prosperity through strengthening the mind, emotions and will. The color of prasiolite varies from pale yellow green to that with the deeper shades of green. This stone is ideal for everyday wear and it is perfect for a wide variety of applications. It is mined in Brazil and Arizona (USA). The hardness of prasiolite is 7 on Mohs scale.

Prehnite is a relatively rare Calcium mineral that was named after Dutch Colonel Hendrik von Prehn when it was discovered in 1788. Prehnite is known in China as Putao Yu, or "Grape Jade" due to its nodular crystal habit which can appear like a bunch of pale-green grapes. Prehnite exhibits a distinct pearlescent (mother-of-pearl) effect. Although prehnite is a relatively common mineral, especially in basalts, the gem variety of prehnite is considered rare. With a hardness of 6 to 6.5, prehnite is not a soft gem. It is also a tough stone that is suitable for high quality jewellery. One unique characteristic of prehnite is its ability to "glow" in sunlight. The radial fibrous structure of the gem is also an advantage in that, if cut correctly, it can exhibit a cat¹s eye, or "moonstone"effect.

Quartz is the most common mineral on Earth. It is found in nearly every geological environment and is a component of almost every rock type. It makes up about 12% of the earth's crust, occurring in a wide variety of igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks. It is also the most varied in terms of variety and color. Quartz is a 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Rutilated quartz is found in Australia, Brazil, Kazakhstan, Madagascar, Norway, Pakistan and the United States. Rutile is a major ore of titanium, which is a metal used for high tech alloys. It often forms needle-like crystal inclusions inside quartz. This form of quartz is known as rutilated quartz and it looks like small bars of imbedded gold. Rutile is a 6 on the Mohs scale. Because of the difference in hardness between the two materials and because of the way rutile forms inside, this can be a difficult stone to attain a smooth surface without pits. Rutilated quartz has been referred to as Cupid's darts, Venus hair stone and Fleches d'amour. The name quartz comes from the Saxon word querklufterz which meant cross vein ore. The name rutile comes from the Latin word rutilus meaning red. It is said to brings forth each person's strengths, originality, aids sleep, relate to others. Rutile is said to intensify the metaphysical properties of its host crystal and to enhance one's understanding of difficult situations. It is also said to enhance creativity and to relieve depression and loneliness. Rutilated quartz is said to slow down the aging process and is said to be a strong healer.

Ruby Zoiscite is an ornamental material consisting of crystalline aggregates of green zoisite with non transparent ruby inclusions it is found in Tanzania and the general appearance is unmistakable. There isn't another stone like it in the mineral world. The green zoisite is relatively soft, between 5.5 - 6.5 while the ruby inclusions are usually quite hard, 9 on the Mohs scale. This can make the stone difficult to cut because of the differences in hardness and usually diamond tools will be used. Zoisite has been known for nearly two centuries as an ornamental stone. The medium grade red ruby material is usually spread irregularly throughout the green zoisite. It is one of the most colorful of ornamental stones.though green and blue are quite rare. Agate is a variety of chalcedony formed from layers of quartz which usually show varicolored bands. It usually occurs as rounded nodules or veins. Often tiny quartz crystals form within the stone and add to the beauty and uniqueness of individual stones. These crystals are called drusy (sometimes misspelled as druzy). Lapidaries often cut just the drusy from an agate and jewelers use these drusy cabochons as the main stone or as an accent stone in their jewelry designs. Some named varieties are: moss agate, eye agate; and plume agate, which looks like it's filled with beautiful feather plumes. Agate is a relatively inexpensive stone except for some varieties with unusual banded or scenic markings. In recent years, Montana agate has gained wide acceptance in jewelry and well cut stones with nicely defined patterns often exceed the price of some of the more well known gemstones. Plume agate is another that often brings high dollar. Agate is found all over the world including: the Africa, Asia, Brazil, Egypt, Germany, India, Italy, Mexico, Nepal, and the USA.

The name "sapphire" was originally derived from Greek "sappheiros," as well as the Sanskrit Kuruvinda "sanipruja" meaning "hard stone," and the Hebrew word "sappir" meaning "gem." The biblical "Acts of the Apostles" referred to Sapphira, a woman who was executed for lying to the Holy Ghost.

Smoky Quartz - First of all, while it is commonly called topaz, this brown gemstone is actually quartz. Before its chemical make-up was known, people believed this sultry stone was a member of the topaz family and, as a result, the name still lingers even though we now know differently. Though the names are interchangeable and refer to the same gemstone, the correct name is smoky quartz. The reason the name smoky topaz is still used is because it is the name people are familiar with and it makes it easier to find what they are looking for. The jeweler can then explain the difference. Topaz is made of fluorine aluminum silicate whereas smoky topaz quartz, like all the members of the quartz family, is a silicon dioxide. It is possible that aluminum particles contaminating the mineral are what give the stone its smoky brown color. Another possibility is that radiation from the earth pulls the color out. Sometimes clear quartz is enhanced through irradiation to achieve shades of brown. A smoky topaz can come in shades ranging from pale tan to a dark chocolate. Like amethyst and citrine, smoky topaz quartz is a macrocystalline quartz. This means that the crystals forming the gemstone can be seen without magnification. Another interesting characteristic is that it is sometimes found in combination with citrine creating a bi-colored stone.

Smoky topaz quartz was found long ago in the mountains of Scotland. In fact, it is the official gem of Scotland. As a tribute to this sultry brown gemstone, smoky quartz serves as the tip of the national scepter. Since the beginning of time, people and cultures have attached mystical characteristics to gemstones. Smoky topaz quartz is no different. For one thing, it is believed that wearing the gemstone draws out negativity from the wearer as the gemstone absorbs it. This is why it is also believed to relieve depression and improve mood. Dreams may become reality when wearing a smokey quartz bracelet or other piece. As for health, the workings of the bodys lower organs- digestive and reproductive- are supposed to be improved. A common use for a smoky topaz is as a meditation facilitator. It supposedly raises awareness, clears the mind and enhances reaction time. Overall, it is supposed to help the wearer tune in and come to resolution. Another mystical use for smooth round spheres of smoky topaz quartz is as a scrying stone. It is believed that, in the 16th century, Elizabeth I relied on them to tell the future. Taking advantage of its mystical ability to see the future, smooth crystal balls are also made from this mysterious gemstone.

Sodalite is a scarce mineral that can be rock forming and is named in reference to its sodium content. It is used for carvings and some jewelry pieces where its light to dark pure blue color is well known in the semi-precious stone trade.

Sugilite, a fairly recent discovery (1944) is found in Japan, Canada and India. The most important occurrence was found in 1975 in the Kalahari Desert, Northern South Africa.  Sugilite is named for the Japanese geologist who discovered the first specimens, Ken-ichi Sugi. It is opaque with a waxy luster and ranges from a pale grayish lavender to a deep dark purple. Sugilite is also known under the trade names of "Royal Lavulite" and "Royal Azel" Sugilite often contains black matrix, reddish brown or yellowish blotches and ranges between 6 - 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Bright purple stones with little matrixing or blotches are the most valued. Gem grade sugilite is beautifully translucent and because it is quite rare it brings a high price.

Tiger’s Eye – (tigers eye, tiger eye, tiger iron) is a member of the quartz group of chalcedonies. It is one of the chatoyant gemstones. Chatoyancy exhibits a changeable silky luster as light is reflected within the thin parallel fibrous bands. This effect is due to the fibrous structure of the material. Tiger iron is composed of tiger's eye, red jasper and black hematite. The rippled wavy bands of color often resemble a scenic view. Tiger's eye is mined in Western Australia, South Africa, USA, Canada, India, Namibia, and Burma.  Many legends about quartz say that wearing tiger's eye (which is a form of quartz) is beneficial for health and spiritual well being. Legend also says it is a psychic protector, great for business, and an aid to achieving clarity.

Topaz – In the 15th century, topaz was used to detect poisons, calm anger, and break spells. Christians believed topaz stood for uprightness, and to Hindus, topaz worn above the heart prevented thirst and assured long life, beauty, and intelligence. The Greeks felt topaz gave them strength and used it as an amulet against harm.

A new high tech enhancement process applied to colorless stones such as topaz and quartz has created a new variety we call "Mystic Topaz." Mystic Topaz displays a stunning rainbow effect that makes it all at once unique, fashionable and different. The color, brilliance and clarity of the final product depend on the quality, cut and polish of the original gemstone. That's why we use only first quality topaz for our mystic topaz. Mystic topaz displays all the colors of the rainbow in one stone. The shades of color are displayed in kaleidoscopic designs. Transparent, eye clean topaz of the finest quality is our only choice for the raw stone is used for Mystic Topaz. Colorless topaz, our raw basic material, is always untreated. In order to convert eye clean colorless topaz of fine quality into Mystic topaz, a high tech process known as thin film deposition is used. The cut and polished topaz is coated with an extremely thin titanic film. Very little heat is involved in the process that produces the optical effects. The treatment is durable, hard, and only a few microns in thickness. With care, the enhancement will last the life of the jewelry setting.

The Egyptians believed that topaz was colored with the golden glow of the mighty Sun God Ra. This made topaz a very powerful amulet that protected the faithful against harm. The Romans associated topaz with Jupiter, their God of the Sun. In ancient times it was believed that topaz helps to improve eyesight. The Greeks trusted topaz's supernatural power to increase strength and make its wearer invisible in times of emergency. Topaz was also said to change color in the presence of poisoned food or drink. Its mystical curative powers changed with the phases of the moon. It was said to cure insomnia, asthma, and hemorrhages.

 Tourmalines – Tourmaline derives from the Singhalese term "turamali", which translates as "stone of mixed colors." The very name refers to the unique spectrum of colors displayed by this gemstone, which is second to none in the realm of precious stones. One of the most versatile of gemstones, tourmaline is available in every color, from colorless to black. It can show every tone from pastel to dark, and can appear in various colors in the same stone. The many different colors of tourmaline mean that this stone can easily be mistaken for just about any other gemstone. Many stones in the Russian Crown Jewels from the 17th century once thought to be rubies are actually tourmalines. Another unique characteristic of tourmaline is that it can be electrically charged by heating and cooling, or applying pressure by rubbing the stone. Tourmaline is of high clarity, has very few inclusions and is quite durable (rating of 7-7.5 on the Mohs hardness scale), all of which make tourmaline a very attractive buy. Large sizes are affordable as well. They are believed to protect the wearer against bad decisions, many dangers, and misfortunes. It is also known to attract friends and lovers. Pink tourmaline promotes female balance and protection, as green tourmaline promotes the same among men.

Turquoise – It has been associated with horses for centuries by protecting any rider who wears the stone from injury if they were to fall off. In the 17th century, turquoise was only considered effective is received as a gift. Native Americans in the Southwest saw the stone to be sacred, and Tibetans today consider the stone for good fortune, health, and as a protector against the evil eye.

 Variscite is a relatively rare phosphate mineral that is sometimes confused with chrysocolla or the greener forms of turquoise. Colors are light bluish green, medium and dark greens. It has a waxy luster and takes a fine polish. Variscite is found in the United States (Utah, Nevada), Australia (Queensland), Germany and Brazil. It is also known as Utahlite, Barrandite, Bolivarite and Lucinite. A search on the web shows a wide range in hardness for this stone spanning 3.5 to 5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. It is said to help with remembrance of past lives, balance the central nervous system and ease depression, fear, worry, anxiety and impatience and is a good meditation stone. It is also beleived to help with virtue, self-reliance, moral courage and success.  

What makes a Precious Metal

Like gemstones, one of the characteristics of a precious metal is its rarity. It could not be "precious" if it were common! Two other characteristics are also important. Foremost is durability - it must not easily corrode away, nor can it be brittle. And that is related to the third characteristic, ductility. This means that the metal must be malleable, that it can be bent, hammered, or otherwise shaped. Gold is the most malleable of metals (it can be hammered into incredibly thin foils or drawn into extremely fine wires), it does not corrode or dissolve except under the most extreme conditions. It is so durable that nearly all of the gold ever mined is still in circulation or storage.

Silver Facts:

Most silver is a product of lead mining. The main silver mining areas of the world are South America, the USA, Australia, and the former USSR. The greatest single producer of silver is probably Mexico, where silver has been mined for almost 500 years. As early as 700 B.C. Mesopotamian merchants used silver as a form of exchange. The ancient Greeks minted the drachma, which contained 1/8th ounce of silver. And let's not forget the English shilling "sterling", originally denoting a specific weight of silver, and now has come to mean excellence. Silver has always been surrounded by mystery. The Incas of Peru called it "the tears of the moon" because they were awed by silver's strangle gleam, and the Chinese believed that a silver locket hung around a child's neck would ward off evil spirits.

Birth Stones - Certain gems have traditionally been associated with different months of the year.
They are: January - Garnet, February - amethyst, March - aquamarine, April - diamond, May - emerald, June - pearl, July - ruby, August - peridot, September - sapphire, October - opal, November - topaz, December - turquoise.