Gemstone Information

Abalone

Abalone is known for its iridescent inner shell, which displays a stunning array of colors. The name "abalone" is derived from the Spanish word "abulón," and these mollusks are found along the coasts of New Zealand, South Africa, Japan, and the western coast of North America. Historically, abalone has been used by Native American tribes for rituals and as currency, valued for its beautiful, rainbow-like colors. In jewelry, abalone symbolizes beauty, emotional balance, and tranquility, making it a popular choice for ocean-inspired designs.

Amazonite

Amazonite, named after the Amazon River, is a green to blue-green gemstone believed to calm the mind and enhance communication. Despite its name, significant deposits are not found near the Amazon River. This stone has been used since ancient times, with historical references to the warrior women of the Amazon, symbolizing courage and strength. Found in places like Russia, Madagascar, and Brazil, amazonite is often used in jewelry for its soothing energy, promoting emotional balance and courage.

Amber

Amber is fossilized tree resin, often golden to brown in color, and known for its warm, glowing appearance. The name "amber" comes from the Arabic word "anbar." It has been used for centuries as a healing stone, believed to absorb negative energy, promote vitality, and provide a sense of warmth and well-being. Ancient cultures, including the Greeks and Romans, valued amber for its protective and healing properties. It has been found in regions such as the Baltic Sea, Dominican Republic, and Myanmar.

Amethyst

Amethyst, a purple variety of quartz, derives its name from the Greek word "amethystos," meaning "not intoxicated," reflecting the ancient belief that the stone could prevent drunkenness. It has been prized for its beauty and protective qualities since ancient times, used in ancient Egypt for jewelry and amulets, and by medieval European soldiers as protection in battle. Found in countries such as Brazil, Zambia, and Uruguay, amethyst is associated with tranquility, clarity of mind, and spiritual growth.

Ametrine

Ametrine is a naturally occurring variety of quartz that combines both amethyst and citrine. The name "ametrine" is a blend of "amethyst" and "citrine." The only significant source of natural ametrine is the Anahí mine in Bolivia, discovered by the Spanish in the 1600s. Ametrine is known for its striking bi-color appearance and is believed to balance mental and spiritual states, enhance creativity, and promote mental clarity. It is thought to offer the benefits of both amethyst and citrine, bringing a harmonious blend of peace and prosperity.

Ammolite

Ammolite is a rare, iridescent gemstone derived from the fossilized shells of ammonites, ancient marine mollusks that lived millions of years ago. The name "ammolite" comes from the name of the ancient Egyptian god Ammon, who was often depicted with ram's horns, similar to the shape of ammonite fossils. Found primarily in the Bearpaw Formation in Alberta, Canada, ammolite was used by the Blackfoot tribe as a talisman for hunting and prosperity. This vibrant gemstone is thought to bring prosperity, health, and wisdom.

Apatite

Apatite, found in various colors, is a gemstone known for its ability to enhance focus and clarity of mind. The name "apatite" comes from the Greek word "apate," meaning "deceit," due to its ability to be mistaken for other minerals. Historically, apatite was not widely recognized as a distinct mineral until the 19th century. It is found in places like Brazil, Madagascar, and Mexico. Blue apatite, in particular, is believed to stimulate personal growth and creativity. It is often used in jewelry to promote motivation and energy.

Aquamarine

Aquamarine, named for its sea-blue color from the Latin words "aqua" (water) and "marina" (of the sea), is the birthstone for March and is associated with tranquility, clarity, and communication. Historically, it was believed to protect sailors and ensure safe voyages. Aquamarine was used by ancient Greeks and Romans as a talisman for protection on the sea. Found in places like Brazil, Madagascar, and Pakistan, aquamarine is thought to bring calmness, reduce stress, and enhance verbal expression.

Black Onyx

Black Onyx is a powerful protection stone that absorbs and transforms negative energy. The name "onyx" comes from the Greek word "onux," meaning "fingernail," due to its flesh-colored bands that resemble a fingernail. Historically, it was used in ancient Egypt for amulets and in Rome for carving cameos. Black Onyx is believed to aid in emotional and physical strength during times of stress, confusion, or grief. Often used in jewelry, it symbolizes resilience and grounding.

Black Star Diopside

Black Star Diopside is a unique gemstone known for its star-like phenomenon called asterism. The name "diopside" comes from the Greek words "di" (two) and "opsis" (vision), referring to the double refraction in the stone. Found primarily in India, this gemstone is believed to enhance creativity, intuition, and protection. This stone is often used in jewelry to inspire clarity and bring balance to the wearer.

Blue Lace Agate

Blue Lace Agate is a soothing stone with light blue and white bands. The name "agate" comes from the Achetes River in Sicily, where agates were found in ancient times. Known for its calming energy, promoting tranquility, and encouraging clear communication, blue lace agate has been used in various cultures for its healing properties. Often used in jewelry, it is thought to bring peace of mind and reduce stress.

Blue Obsidian

Blue Obsidian is a natural volcanic glass with a deep blue color. The name "obsidian" comes from the Latin word "obsidianus," a misspelling of "obsianus," referring to a Roman who supposedly discovered a similar stone. Known for its protective and healing properties, blue obsidian is believed to enhance psychic abilities and communication. Often used in jewelry, it symbolizes clarity and insight.

Blue Topaz

Blue Topaz, the birthstone for December, is known for its stunning blue hues. The name "topaz" comes from the Greek word "topazos," meaning "to seek," because it was difficult to find. Historically, blue topaz was believed to have calming properties and was used by ancient Egyptians as an amulet to protect against harm. Found in places like Brazil, Sri Lanka, and Nigeria, blue topaz is associated with clarity, communication, and emotional balance.

Charoite

Charoite, named after the Chara River in Russia, is a rare purple stone known for its unique swirls and patterns. Discovered in the 1940s, charoite is a relatively new gemstone to the market. It is believed to transform negative energy into healing and promote courage and inner strength. Often used in jewelry, charoite symbolizes transformation and spiritual growth.

Chrome Diopside

Chrome Diopside, known for its rich green color, is a gemstone that symbolizes growth, prosperity, and emotional balance. The name "diopside" comes from the Greek words "di" (two) and "opsis" (vision). Discovered in Siberia, Russia, in the 1980s, chrome diopside is believed to enhance creativity and bring clarity to the mind. Often used in jewelry, it is a vibrant and meaningful choice.

Citrine

Citrine, known for its bright yellow to orange hues, is the birthstone for November. The name "citrine" comes from the French word "citron," meaning "lemon." Historically, citrine has been used as a protective talisman against evil thoughts and as a gift to bring happiness. Found in countries like Brazil and Spain, citrine is associated with prosperity, abundance, and positive energy, believed to attract wealth and success.

Colombian Obsidian

Colombian Obsidian is a rare variety of obsidian found in Colombia. The name "obsidian" is derived from the Latin word "obsidianus," a misspelling of "obsianus," referring to a Roman who discovered a similar stone. Known for its deep black color and smooth texture, Colombian obsidian is believed to offer powerful protection and grounding energy. Often used in jewelry, it symbolizes strength and resilience.

Cubic Zirconia

Cubic Zirconia (CZ) is a lab-created gemstone that mimics the appearance of diamonds. The name "cubic zirconia" reflects its cubic crystalline form and composition of zirconium dioxide. Developed in the 1970s, CZ has become widely used in jewelry for its brilliance and affordability. CZ symbolizes clarity, purity, and an everlasting sparkle, making it a popular alternative to diamonds.

Dendritic Agate

Dendritic Agate is a gemstone known for its unique tree-like inclusions. The name "dendritic" comes from the Greek word "dendrites," meaning "tree-like," due to the mineral formations within the stone. Historically, dendritic agate was used as a talisman for growth and abundance. Often used in jewelry, it is believed to bring stability and perseverance, promoting a sense of grounding and peace.

Druzy

Druzy refers to the glittering effect of tiny crystals on the surface of a gemstone. The name "druzy" comes from the German word "druse," meaning a cavity in a rock lined with crystals. Known for its sparkling appearance, druzy has been used in various cultures for its believed ability to bring light and joy to the wearer. Often used in jewelry, druzy pieces symbolize inner strength and harmony.

Emerald

Emerald, the birthstone for May, is known for its lush green color. The name "emerald" comes from the Greek word "smaragdos," meaning "green gem." Historically prized by royalty, emeralds have been valued since ancient times, with significant deposits found in Egypt and South America. They symbolize rebirth, fertility, and love and are believed to enhance vision, bring good fortune, and provide wisdom and patience.

Fossil Coral

Fossil Coral is a natural stone formed from ancient coral. The name "coral" comes from the Greek word "korallion." Fossil coral has been used throughout history in jewelry and decorative objects, symbolizing longevity and earth's history. Often used in jewelry, it is believed to bring inner peace, emotional healing, and protection.

Garnet

Garnet, the birthstone for January, is known for its deep red color. The name "garnet" comes from the Latin word "granatum," meaning "pomegranate," due to its resemblance to pomegranate seeds. Historically, garnet was worn by travelers for safety and used by ancient Egyptians in amulets. Garnet symbolizes protection, prosperity, and strength and is believed to bring peace, health, and deep friendship.

Green Amethyst (Prasiolite)

Green Amethyst, also known as Prasiolite, is a green variety of quartz. The name "prasiolite" comes from the Greek words "prason" (leek) and "lithos" (stone), referring to its leek-green color. It is associated with spiritual growth, self-acceptance, and inner peace. Often used in jewelry, green amethyst is believed to enhance compassion and bring clarity to the mind.

Iolite

Iolite, known for its deep violet-blue color, derives its name from the Greek word "ios," meaning "violet." It is often called the "Viking's Compass" due to its historical use in navigation, helping Vikings find their way at sea. Found in countries like India and Madagascar, iolite is believed to enhance vision and intuition, symbolizing clarity, direction, and spiritual insight.

Kyanite

Kyanite is a blue gemstone known for its ability to align and balance energy. The name "kyanite" comes from the Greek word "kyanos," meaning "blue." Historically, it was used by ancient travelers as a protective talisman. Found in places like Brazil and Nepal, kyanite is believed to enhance communication and intuition, promoting tranquility and clear negative energy, and spiritual growth.

Labradorite

Labradorite is known for its iridescent play of colors, often referred to as labradorescence. The name "labradorite" comes from the Labrador Peninsula in Canada, where it was first discovered. Used by Inuit tribes for healing and magical properties, labradorite is believed to be a stone of transformation, enhancing intuition and psychic abilities. Labradorite is used in jewelry to symbolize protection and spiritual awakening.

Lapis

Lapis Lazuli, known for its deep blue color with golden pyrite inclusions, derives its name from the Latin word "lapis" (stone) and the Persian word "lazhuward" (blue). Historically, it was prized by ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians and Mesopotamians, for its beauty and used in jewelry and ornaments. Lapis lazuli symbolizes wisdom, truth, and spiritual enlightenment, believed to enhance intellectual abilities and self-awareness.

Larimar

Larimar is a rare blue gemstone found only in the Dominican Republic. The name "larimar" is a combination of "Larissa," the name of the discoverer's daughter, and "mar," the Spanish word for sea. Discovered in 1916 but not widely known until the 1970s, larimar symbolizes tranquility, healing, and love. Often used in jewelry, Larimar is believed to bring calmness, reduce stress, and enhance communication and emotional strength.

Malachite

Malachite, with its rich green color and banded patterns, derives its name from the Greek word "malakos," meaning "soft." Used by ancient Egyptians for amulets and eye makeup, malachite is known for its protective and transformative properties. Found in places like the Democratic Republic of Congo and Russia, it is believed to absorb negative energies, promote healing, and bring positive change. Malachite is often used in jewelry to symbolize growth and renewal.

Moldavite

Moldavite is a rare green gemstone formed from meteorite impacts about 15 million years ago. The name "moldavite" comes from the Moldau River in the Czech Republic, where it was first discovered. Known for its intense transformative and spiritual properties, moldavite has been used since prehistoric times for tools and talismans. Often used in jewelry, moldavite is thought to accelerate personal and spiritual growth and bring profound change.

Moonstone

Moonstone, known for its pearly and opalescent luster, gets its name from its resemblance to the moon's light. Used by ancient Romans and in Hindu mythology for its connection to lunar deities, moonstone symbolizes new beginnings, intuition, and feminine energy. Found in countries like India and Sri Lanka, moonstone is believed to bring emotional balance, enhance intuition, and promote calmness and inspiration.

Morganite

Morganite, a pink variety of beryl, is named after the financier and gem collector J.P. Morgan. Discovered in Madagascar in the early 20th century, morganite is known for its gentle pink hue. It symbolizes love, compassion, and emotional healing. Often used in jewelry, morganite is believed to bring a sense of peace, joy, and inner strength to its wearer.

Mystic Quartz

Mystic Quartz is a treated gemstone known for its rainbow-like play of colors. The name "mystic quartz" reflects its mysterious and magical appearance. Created by treating natural quartz with a thin layer of titanium or other metals, mystic quartz is a relatively new addition to the gemstone market. It is believed to bring balance and harmony, promoting positive energy and clarity. Often used in jewelry, mystic quartz symbolizes joy, transformation, and spiritual growth.

Ocean Jasper

Ocean Jasper is a unique and colorful gemstone known for its orb-like patterns. The name "ocean jasper" reflects its coastal origin, found only in Madagascar along the shores where it can only be mined at low tide. Discovered in 1999, ocean jasper symbolizes renewal and the interconnectedness of nature. Often used in jewelry, ocean jasper is believed to promote positivity, relaxation, and emotional healing.

Opal

Opal, the birthstone for October, is known for its unique play of colors. The name "opal" comes from the Sanskrit word "upala," meaning "precious stone," and the Greek word "opallios," meaning "to see a change in color." Ancient Romans believed opals contained the essence of all gemstones. Found in places like Australia and Ethiopia, opals symbolize creativity, love, and hope and are thought to enhance imagination and promote emotional balance.

Pearl

Pearl, the birthstone for June, is known for its natural beauty and luster. The name "pearl" comes from the Latin word "perna," meaning "leg," due to the leg-of-mutton shape of the mollusk shells that produce pearls. Historically, pearls have been prized by various cultures for thousands of years, symbolizing purity, innocence, and loyalty. Pearls are believed to bring emotional balance, enhance personal integrity, and promote faith and sincerity.

Peridot

Peridot, the birthstone for August, is known for its distinctive lime green color. The name "peridot" comes from the Arabic word "faridat," meaning "gem." Historically, it was called the "gem of the sun" and used by ancient Egyptians for protection against evil spirits. Found in places like Egypt and Pakistan, peridot symbolizes growth, prosperity, and emotional balance and is believed to protect against nightmares and bring good health and wealth.

Pietersite

Pietersite is a striking gemstone with swirling colors of gold, blue, and brown. Named after Sid Pieters, who discovered it in Namibia in 1962, pietersite is known as the "Tempest Stone" for its stormy appearance and energy. Pietersite is believed to bring clarity, dispel negative energy, and promote spiritual insight. Often used in jewelry, it symbolizes transformation and inner strength.

Pink Sapphire

Pink Sapphire is a precious gemstone known for its delicate pink hue. The name "sapphire" comes from the Greek word "sappheiros," meaning "blue stone," although sapphires can come in various colors, including pink. Historically, pink sapphires have been used to symbolize love and purity. Found in countries like Sri Lanka and Madagascar, pink sapphire is believed to bring emotional balance, strengthen relationships, and enhance inner peace.

Pyrite

Pyrite, often referred to as "Fool's Gold," is known for its metallic luster and brass-yellow color. The name "pyrite" comes from the Greek word "pyr," meaning "fire," as it can create sparks when struck against metal. Historically, pyrite was used by ancient civilizations for jewelry and amulets. It symbolizes wealth, protection, and vitality and is believed to bring good fortune, enhance intellect, and promote physical well-being.

Quartz

Quartz is a versatile and widely available gemstone known for its clarity and variety of colors. The name "quartz" comes from the German word "quarz," of Slavic origin. Quartz has been used since ancient times for its powerful healing properties, promoting energy, clarity, and balance. Found worldwide, quartz is often used in jewelry to enhance spiritual growth and harmony.

Red Coral

Red Coral is an organic gemstone formed from marine coral. The name "coral" comes from the Greek word "korallion." Historically used by ancient Egyptians and Romans for jewelry and amulets, red coral is known for its vibrant red color. It symbolizes passion, energy, and protection and is believed to bring vitality, strength, and emotional balance.

Rhodochrosite

Rhodochrosite is a pink to red gemstone known for its unique banded patterns. The name "rhodochrosite" comes from the Greek words "rhodon" (rose) and "chroma" (color). Historically used by the Incas for decorative purposes, rhodochrosite symbolizes love, compassion, and emotional healing. Found in places like Argentina and Colorado, rhodochrosite is believed to bring joy, enhance self-love, and promote inner peace.

Ruby

Ruby, the birthstone for July, is known for its vibrant red color. The name "ruby" comes from the Latin word "ruber," meaning "red." Historically, rubies were believed to possess an inner fire that could ward off evil and bring good fortune. Found in countries like Myanmar and Thailand, rubies symbolize passion, protection, and prosperity and are thought to promote vitality, love, and success.

Rutilated Quartz

Rutilated Quartz is a variety of quartz with needle-like inclusions of rutile. The name "rutile" comes from the Latin word "rutilus," meaning "red." Known for its unique appearance, rutilated quartz has been used in jewelry since ancient times. It is believed to promote clarity, strength, and spiritual growth and symbolizes transformation and insight.

Sapphire

Sapphire, the birthstone for September, is known for its deep blue color. The name "sapphire" comes from the Greek word "sappheiros," meaning "blue stone." Historically, it was believed to protect against envy and harm. Found in places like Sri Lanka and Madagascar, sapphires symbolize wisdom, loyalty, and nobility and are thought to bring mental clarity, enhance intuition, and promote spiritual enlightenment.

Shiva Shell

Shiva Shell, also known as Pacific Cat's Eye, is a natural shell with a spiral pattern. Named after the Hindu god Shiva, who represents transformation and destruction, Shiva Shells are found in the Indian Ocean. They symbolize transformation and the flow of life and are believed to bring protection, spiritual insight, and a sense of peace and balance.

Smoky Quartz

Smoky Quartz is a brown to black variety of quartz known for its grounding and protective properties. The name "smoky quartz" comes from its smoky color, which ranges from light gray to deep brown. Used by ancient Druids in Scotland for ritual purposes, smoky quartz symbolizes stability, balance, and detoxification. Found worldwide, smoky quartz is believed to absorb negative energy, promote emotional calmness, and enhance intuition.

Tanzanite

Tanzanite is a rare blue to violet gemstone found only in Tanzania. The name "tanzanite" was given by Tiffany & Co. in honor of its country of origin. Discovered in the 1960s, tanzanite symbolizes transformation and spiritual awakening. Often used in jewelry, tanzanite is believed to enhance intuition, bring emotional balance, and promote a sense of calm and clarity.

Tiger's Eye

Tiger's Eye is a golden to red-brown gemstone known for its chatoyancy, resembling a tiger's eye. The name "tiger's eye" reflects its resemblance to the eye of a tiger. Used by ancient Romans for protection in battle, tiger's eye symbolizes courage, strength, and protection. Found in places like South Africa and Australia, tiger's eye is believed to bring confidence, enhance focus, and promote mental clarity.

Tourmalinated Quartz

Tourmalinated Quartz is quartz with black tourmaline inclusions. The name "tourmaline" comes from the Sinhalese word "turmali," meaning "mixed gems." Known for its striking appearance, tourmalinated quartz has been used in jewelry since ancient times. It symbolizes protection and grounding and is believed to balance yin and yang energies, dispel negative energy, and promote emotional clarity.

Tourmaline

Tourmaline is a gemstone available in a wide range of colors, each with its own unique properties. The name "tourmaline" comes from the Sinhalese word "turmali," meaning "mixed gems." Known for its protective and healing properties, tourmaline has been used since ancient times. Found in places like Brazil and Afghanistan, tourmaline symbolizes protection, healing, and balance and is believed to enhance energy flow, promote emotional stability, and protect against negative energies.

Turquoise

Turquoise, the birthstone for December, is known for its blue-green color. The name "turquoise" comes from the French word "turquois," meaning "Turkish," as the stone was originally brought to Europe from Turkey. Historically used by Native Americans for its healing properties, turquoise symbolizes wisdom, protection, and good fortune. Found in places like the United States and Iran, turquoise is believed to enhance communication, promote spiritual attunement, and bring peace and balance.

White Topaz

White Topaz is a clear gemstone known for its brilliance and versatility. The name "topaz" comes from the Sanskrit word "tapas," meaning "fire." Known since ancient times, white topaz was used by Greeks and Romans for its supposed healing properties. Found in places like Brazil and Pakistan, white topaz symbolizes clarity, truth, and manifestation and is believed to enhance mental clarity, promote spiritual growth, and bring positive energy to the wearer.