Gemstones are minerals prized for their beauty, relative scarcity and durability. Out of the approximately 3,000 minerals available, only about 300 are valuable enough to be cut into gems. Gemstones may last forever, but the world of gemstones is always changing. New sources are discovered, new cutting methods perfected, new fashion colors introduced, and new ways of using gemstones are constantly being developed.
Most gemstones are hard minerals formed by nature, deep in the earth, without assistance from man. Gemstones range in color from crystal clear to deepest black and every color of the rainbow in between. Some are opaque, like jade or onyx, meaning no light passes through them. Others, like diamonds and sapphires, are crystalline and reflect light in sparkling brilliance.
People in all parts of the world either wear or carry gemstones as an ornament or as a talisman. Certain gemstones are thought to have certain metaphysical abilities, like healing, health or inspiration. Gemstones may also be birthstones, and are believed to reflect traits of persons born in designated months. Whether gemstones have supernatural traits is up to the wearer.
There are three different types of gemstones: natural, lab-created and simulated.
GENUINE
Mined from nature. No assistance from man was given to create these stones – they occur naturally. These gemstones will either be unmarked or noted as “genuine” stones.
LAB-CREATED
Identical in chemical, crystal, optical and physical properties to a natural stone, but lab-grown. Only a trained gemologist can tell the difference.
SIMLUATED
Simulated gemstones are man-made and don’t occur in nature, often made from glass, resin or crystal. When you shop, they’ll always be labeled as “simulated.”
BIRTHSTONE JEWELRY
Each month has its own unique birthstone, making birthstone jewelry a meaningful gift. These gemstones can hold personal, astrological or mythical significance. Most gemstones, including birthstones, are believed to carry unique healing properties.
JANUARY
GARNET
Garnet represents friendship, loyalty and devotion. It typically has a brownish-red color.
Our fine jewelry is made with real metals, like gold and sterling silver. Learn about all the different kinds of metals we use—and don’t be afraid to mix and match.