An Introduction to Gemstones
By: Mary W. Bailey

Gemstones have been the most coveted of items throughout history, with gold following a close second, for their beauty, mystery and supposed magical powers. Wars have been fought and paid for by using them as currency, they have purchased countries and individuals have fallen victim to their lure and the need to possess them. Gemstones have been used to express undying love and devotion and many royal brides throughout history have worn them in celebration of wedding nuptials, binding two royal houses together to strengthen themselves.

Even today, we still see the influence of their power when we consider cartels and diamonds from South Africa, or emeralds from South America and Tanzanite from the warring zones of Africa. Gems hold their own power and man never refuses the temptation to step in and take advantage of them. Nor it seems, do gem stones loose their value despite the economy and many people consider gem stones a good investment against a recession or hard times. People will flock to museums to gaze in wonder and envy at the jewelry on display worn by long dead rulers or famous celebrities, pointing and sighing at unbelievable gemstones sitting behind glass cases for them to admire. We all know of Elizabeth Taylor's love of diamonds and gemstones, don't we?

So, what does that mean to you, the wire artist? It means you suddenly have the colors of the rainbow to use and blend with your wire artistry. It also means that you should expand your knowledge base a bit and try to learn all you can about the different gemstones and become familiar with them, their lore, their scientific facts, and most of all their affordability based on the grading system for gem stones, and whether they are considered “precious” or “semi-precious” materials as well as what options are available for you to be able to add them to your working inventory. No, you are not going to get a headache from all of this, you are probably pretty much familiar with the stones you are using now and can recognize them at first glance. But as time goes on you will find yourself wondering about what you are working with and having a good reference book in your library on stones can be a bonus to you. Any information you can casually pass on to your customer shows that you are knowledgeable, to a certain degree, about the materials you are working with.

You have to take into consideration what your budget can afford when shopping for stones, weighing all factors into account. You know that the customer who can afford a 10-carat, genuine stone is rare but a customer who can afford the same stone done in a synthetic is possible because it is affordable to them. This brings up the question, “what is a synthetic stone?” We will cover this question further down in this article and hopefully shed some light on the different explanations of manmade stones to you.

Most common stones are considered “semi-precious” in the present market. The following list contains stones available as either beads or cut cabochons, in some cases as faceted cabochons or faceted beads, or as cabbing stone rough or cut slabs for those who do their own lapidary work: This list is by no means a complete reference; it is merely a short list of common recognizable stones.

Add synthetic gemstones in monthly birthstone colors and you suddenly have a wide palette of color and color variations to work with. And, because these are considered “semi-precious” you suddenly have a large range of affordable stones to work with in a variety of sizes. Your bread and butter items, that help you make expenses, come from creating earrings and small matching pendants by using these semi-precious materials and afford you the opportunity to add to your inventory the higher end stones as time goes by. Flat back cabochons wrap quickly as opposed to doing a faceted stone, meaning you have the opportunity to create matching sets and increase your inventory base.

Learning the value of gemstones comes from experience as well as by doing your research. Most of your learning will come from flipping through catalogs, searching the internet and by attending gem and mineral shows and seeing first hand the variety offered by various vendors as well as the difference in quality each offers. If you get the opportunity and there is a local rock club in your town—CHECK IT OUT! Rock clubs offer so much to anyone wanting to learn more about minerals and gemstones.

While walking a show, you will see a variety of gemstones and you will also see a variety of prices. Why? Many things factor in to offset the price of gemstones. Color, clarity and the faceted cut to a stone can make a big difference. If you see one vendor offering a stone at a lower price than another, rest assured there is a definite reason why, and more often than not it is the quality of the stone being sold.

Don't be afraid to ask why his merchandise is cheaper that his competitor. Hopefully, he will be honest with you and pass on valuable information you can use. A gemstone that has defects, such as cloudiness, inclusions, bad faceting, etc., can cause the pricing to vary from table to table. You need to look out for quality and learn how it affects anything you had plans on creating. When there is a choice, opt for quality over quantity.

Full Gemstone Glossary

Click on a letter below to easily find your gemstone:
A | B |C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

Abalone

• Abalone cabochons come from the colorful iridescent inner layer shell of the abalone sea snail
• Abalone is a source of mother-of-pearl
• The Paua-shell is part of the abalone family, but has deeper colors of blue, green, and purple.
• The Abalone pearl is considered to be one of the most beautiful, unusual, and rare pearls of the world and can range from $200 to $2000 per carat.
• Metaphysical/Medical Properties: The mother-of-pearl is used for treatment of high blood pressure, dizziness, and heart palpitations.

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Agate

• September Birthstone
• Gemstone used for 12th & 14th wedding anniversaries
• Agate is found all over the world including: Africa, Asia, Brazil, Egypt, Germany, India, Italy, Mexico, Nepal, and the USA
• Agate is a chalcedony quartz that is formed in a variety of colored and textured layers
• An agate is formed by filling a cavity in a host rock; most of the world's agates developed in ancient volcanic lava.
• Agates are found in all colors, though green and blue are quite rare
• Hardness: 6.5 to 7
• Transparency: Varies from extremely translucent to opaque
• Metaphysical/ Medical properties: Improving memory & concentration, courage, honesty, and stamina. It is also said to help discern truth, prevent insomnia, and is a strong emotional healer.

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Alexandrite

• Discovered in the year of 1830 in Russia
• June or Gemini Birthstone
• 45th & 55th Wedding Anniversary Gemstone
• Alexandrite can be found in Russia, Brazil, India, Burma, Madagascar, and Zimbabwe
• Rare variety of chrysoberyl
• Hardness: 8.5
• It is extremely difficult to obtain a natural alexandrite; most on the market are synthetic
• Natural alexandrite range in color from brown to bluish green in daylight, to pink, purple, red or a brown-red under incandescent light.
• Synthetic alexandrite are blue under fluorescent light and strongly red under incandescent light
• Some Metaphysical/ Medical properties include beliefs that the gemstone carries a regenerative power. This mineral helps improve self-esteem, and can aide in creating a more balanced emotional state. It has been used in the treatment of disorders of the spleen, testicles, and pancreas.

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Amazonite

• Amazonite is a gem variety of microcline feldspar
• Amazonite can be found in Brazil, Zimbabwe, Russia, Australia, Namibia, and the USA.
• The color is usually light green to blue-green
• Transparency: opaque to translucent
• Hardness: 6 to 6.5. Because Amazonite is slightly soft, and can be scratched easily by other stones, it is wise to store Amazonite separate from other gems.
• Some Metaphysical/ Medical properties include beliefs that it improves one's married life, calms nerves, and enriches creativity.

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Amber

Watch a Free Amber Video Here!

• Organic Gemstone
• Fossil Tree Resin; Tree resin becomes amber over the course of millions of years, under certain conditions of pressure and temperature.
• Color: Golden to yellow brown
• Hardness: 2.5 to 3
• Transparency: Transparent to translucent.
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: Amber emits bright soothing energy which helps calm the nerves. It is also known as a cleanser, as it purifies one's body, mind, and spirit. Amber has also been used to treat the throat, kidneys, and bladder.

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Amethyst

• February Birthstone
• 4th, 6th, and 17th Wedding Anniversary Gemstone
• Violet variety of quartz
• Color: Deep purple to pale lavender
• Hardness: 7
• Transparency: Transparent
• Most amethysts on the market have been heat-treated to create a deeper purple color
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: Balances the energies of the intellectual, emotional, and physical bodies. It is known to provide strength, stability, and peace. The Amethyst can be used in treating hearing disorders, nervous system disorders, the stomach, heart, and the digestive tract.

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Ametrine

• A mixture of citrine and amethyst
• Purple/lavender and yellow/orange
• Occurs both in crystalline and massive form
• Found in Bolivia, Brazil, and India
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: Stimulates the intellect. Aides in quickening oxygenation of the body. It is also used to stabilize the RNA/DNA structuring within the body.

Aragonite

• Aragonite is a crystal morph of Calcium Carbonate
• Hardness: 3.5 to 4
• Color: White or colorless or with subdued shades of red, yellow, orange, brown, green, or blue
• Can be commonly found in Spain, Mexico, Morocco, New Mexico, and Arizona.
• Aragonite is sometimes deposited from hot springs and can be found occasionally in association with beds of gypsum and some iron oxide deposits
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: Provides for ease and is useful during periods of stress and anger. Can be used to combat chills and Vitamin A & D deficiencies.

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Aquamarine

• March & Scorpio Birthstone
• 19th Wedding Anniversary Gemstone
• Variety of Beryl
• Color: Light Blue to Dark Blue, Blue-Green; A dark blue most desired
• Transparency: Transparent to Opaque
• Hardness: 7.5 to 8
• Can be found in Brazil, Kenya, Nigeria, Madagascar, Zambia, Tanzania, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Russia
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: The Aquamarine is a stone of courage and promotes the innate ability to always be prepared. It stimulates, activates, and cleanses the throat chakra. It has been used in the treatment of swollen glands, and for improving vision.

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Aventurine

• Variety of Quartz or Feldspar Mineral that is flecked with particles of hematite and mica that cause a shiny iridescence
• Color: Green, orange, brown, yellow, blue, or gray
• Transparency: Translucent to opaque
• Hardness: 6.5
• Is found in India, Chile, Spain, Russia, Brazil, Austria, and Tanzania
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: Enhances creativity, reinforces decisiveness, and strengthens leadership. It is known for the treatment of the heart, lungs, and adrenal glands.

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Black Onyx

See Onyx

Black Obsidian
See Obsidian

Blue Topaz
See Topaz

Blue Zircon
See Zircon

Brecciated Jasper
see Jasper

Brown Tiger Eye
See Tiger Eye

Bloodstone

• 45th and 55th Wedding Anniversary Gemstone
• Variety of chalcedony quartz
• Green jasper dotted with bright red spots of iron oxide
• Bloodstone is found India, Australia, and the United States
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: Bloodstone is stone of courage. It provides one with the centering and grounding energy of the heart. It has been utilized in the treatment of the kidneys, bladder, intestines, spleen, and liver

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Carnelian

• Leo and Virgo Birthstone
• Form of Chalcedony
• Color: red, orange, red-brown
• Hardness: 7
• It was used as sacred stone for Egyptians and Tibetans
• Transparency: Translucent
• Can be found in Australia, Brazil, Madagascar, Russia, South Africa, and the USA
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: Protects against anger, fear, and envy. Can be used to treat neuralgia, gall stones, kidney stones, pollen allergies, and colds.

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Cat's Eye

• 45th anniversary Gemstone
• Usually a variety of quartz or chrysoberyl
• The look of the stone actually reflects a cat's pupils, hence the name of the mineral
• Displays a thin band of reflected light on its surface when cut as a cabochon
• The optical effect, known as chatoyancy, is caused by the reflection of light from thin, closely spaced filaments in parallel arrangement within the mineral.
• Most cat's eye on the market is synthetic
• Color range is endless
• Hardness: Approximately 7
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: Increases luck, stimulates intuition, and enhances awareness. Can be used to treat eye disorders and headaches.

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Charoite

• Discovered in Russia in 1978.
• Color: White, lavender, lilac, violet and purple with swirling patterns of black, white, and grey, and orange
• Can only be found in Russia
• Hardness: 5-6; requires constant care and precautions
• Transparency: Translucent
• Because it is somewhat of a new stone, there is no synthetic stone available as of yet
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: Enhances self-esteem, is a deliverer of good, and improves the ability to love. Charoite can be used to treat disorders of the eyes and heart.

Cherry quartz
See Quartz

Chrysocolla

• Copper bearing mineral
• Color: Blue to Green, Brown to Black
• Often confused with turquoise
• Hardness: 2 to 4
• Transparency: Translucent to opaque
• Can be found in Arizona, Utah, New Mexico and Pennsylvania, Israel, Zaire, and England
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: Provides strength and harmony, and can work to eliminate negativity and stress. Chrysocolla can help revitalize the pancreas, balance the blood sugar, and helps to ease cramp pain.

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Chrysoprase

• The most valuable chalcedony
• Color: pale green, yellowish green, apple green, deep green
• Color of chrysoprase is due to the presence of nickel
• Hardness: 6 to 7
• Transparency: Translucent to opaque
• The highest quality chrysoprase is a rich apple green color (without flaws)
• Can be found in Queensland, Western Australia, and Poland.
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: Grace, compassion, and clemency. It is said to help heal a broken heart, help encourage fidelity in business and personal matters, and help prevent depression. Chrysoprase can be used in treatment of the reproductive organs.

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Citrine

• November Birthstone
• Brown Variety of Quartz
• Hardness: 7
• Can be found in Brazil, Russia, in Dauphine, France, and Madagascar.
• Color: Yellow, yellow-brown, orange, dark orange-brown, reddish-brown
• Most citrines on the market are heat-treated
• Transparency: Transparent to translucent
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: Stimulates mental focus and endurance. It is said to rid sadness and to improve relationships, education, and business.

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Coral

• Organic Gemstone
• Corals grow on the sea bottom
• Color: black, pink, red, white, and blue
• Transparency: semi-translucent to opaque
• Hardness: 3.5 to 4
• The hard skeleton of red coral branches is physically lusterless, but can be polished to a glassy shine
• Pure red coral is becoming extremely rare due to the high demand used in jewelry making
• Can be found in Algeria, Tunisia, Spain, Italy, France, Corsica, Sardinia, Sicily and India
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: Quiets the emotions, develops imagination, intuition, and visualization. Coral can be used to strengthen one's bones and circulatory system.

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Diamond

• The diamond is known as the “king of gems”
• April Birthstone & 75th Anniversary Gemstone
• Color: Colorless, yellow, and brown. Can also be found in green, blue, red, black, or orange.
• Transparency: Transparent to opaque
• Hardness: 10; no other mineral is harder than the diamond
• Can be found in South Africa, Namibia, Brazil, Botswana, the United States, Canada, Australia, Congo, Venezuela, China, Russia, Guinea, Namibia, and Angola.
• Metaphysical/Medical Properties: Is considered a stone of innocence and promotes purity. The diamond is also known to enhance trust and loyalty in relationships. It can be used to treat poor eyesight.

Emerald

• May Birthstone and 35th Anniversary Gemstone
• Variety of the Beryl Species
• Color: Varieties of green
• Hardness 7.5 to 8
• Transparency: Transparent to opaque
• The shades of green are caused by the presence of chromium and vanadium in the mineral
• Can be found in Colombia, Brazil, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Russia, Afghanistan, the United States, Tanzania, Zambia, Pakistan, Nigeria, Mozambique, Namibia, Madagascar, Malawi, Australia, Austria, Ghana, Norway, and India.
• Metaphysical/ medical properties: Includes promoting calmness, optimism, and recognition into ones daily activities. The emerald has been used to treat the lungs, heart, and spine.

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Fluorite

• Also called Fluorspar
• Transparency: Transparent, Translucent
• Hardness: 4
• Color: Colorless, all colors
• Can be found in Bavaria, Argentina, Burma, England, France, Namibia, Austria, Switzerland, and Illinois
• Metaphysical/Medical Properties: It is said that fluorite increases concentration and promotes health, intellect, and emotional well-being. Fluorite can be used to treat bone structure and prevent RNA/DNA damage.

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Garnet

• January Birthstone
• 2nd and 6th Wedding Anniversary Gemstone
• Colors: Red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, brown, black, pink and colorless
• The most rare garnet is the Blue Garnet; it was discovered in 1990 in Madagascar
• Color-changing Garnets are sometimes mistaken for Alexandrite
• Hardness: 6.5 to 7.5
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: The garnet is known as both the stone of health and commitment. It is also known to treat the lungs, heart, and spine

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Gaspeite

• Discovered in 1966 in Canada
• Gaspeite is a rare nickel carbonate mineral
• Hardness: 4.5 to 5
• Color: Pale Green to Apple Green
• Transparency: Transparent to Translucent
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: It is said to reduce stress, and invite friendship. Gaspeite is used to treat the lungs, gallbladder, and heart problems.

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Goldstone

• Man made glass with specks of copper
• Colors: Typically brown, reddish-brown. Other colors include, but not limited to blue, red, green, and black.
• Hardness:4.5
• Made in the United States, India, and Russia.
• Metaphysical/Medical Properties: It is known to reduce tension and stabilize emotion. It is also gives off good energy.

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Green Aventurine
See Aventurine

Green Onyx
See Onyx

Hematite

• Some call it the black diamond
• Hardness: 5.5 to 6.5
• Color: Grey to black, brown to red, and red with a metallic luster
• Transparency: Sub-translucent to opaque
• Hematite becomes magnetic when heated
• Can be found in numerous locations; some include Minas Gerais (Brazil), Cerro Bolivar (Venezuela), Labrador, Quebec, and the Lake Superior district (USA).
• Metaphysical/Medical Properties: Hematite is known as a stone for the mind. It helps in clearing the mind, memory improvement, study, and thought. Hematite can be used to treat insomnia, leg cramps, and nervous disorders. It is also used to help align the spine.

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Hessonite

• Hessonite belongs to the Garnet group, and is sub-categorized into a grossularite
• Color: Brown-Red
• Hardness: 6.5 to 7.5
• Transparency: Transparent to Opaque
• Can be found in Sri Lanka, India, Brazil, Canada, Madagascar, the United States, and Tanzania
• Metaphysical/Medical Properties: Hessonite is known to give confidence to one faced with a new challenge and gives one the courage to endure. It has been used to improve relaxation and cleanse the blood.

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Howlite

• Discovered in 1868 and is named after the man who discovered it-- Henry How
• Color: White or Grey (can take colored dye easily)
• Transparency: Translucent
• Hardness: 2.5 to 3.5
• Can be found in California, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, and New Brunswick
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: Howlite can dismiss selfishness and unkind criticalness as well as soften rudeness. It is known to eliminate stress, bad temper, and pain. Howlite can be used for treating teeth disorders.

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Iolite

• Also known as Dichroite and Cordierite
• Color: Most commonly blue, but can be violet, brown, or green
• Hardness: 7 to 7.5
• Transparency: Transparent, translucent
• Can be found in the Finland, Germany, the United States, Myanmar, Brazil, Sri Lanka, India and Madagascar
• Metaphysical/Medical properties: It is said that Iolite helps to rid disharmony in order to more fully enjoy and appreciate what life has to offer. Iolite has been used to treat the liver and to rid the body of harmful toxins.

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Jade

• 3rd Wedding Anniversary Gemstone
• Two minerals, jadeite and nephrite are acknowledged as jade.
• Jade has been used for over 7,000 years and has an extensive amount of historical, religious, economical, cultural, and mythical significance.
• It wasn't until the 19th century that jadeite and nephrite were distinguished and set apart as two different minerals of jade.
• Official Gemstone of British Colombia and the state of Alaska and Wyoming.
• Jadeite is more rare and precious than the nephrite.
• Nephrite can be found in China, New Zealand, Russia, Guatemala, the Swiss Alps, and Canada. Jadeite can be found China, Russia and Guatemala, and Myanmar.
• Color: Multi-shades of green, white, grey, black, yellow, violet, and orange
• In Europe and USA, emerald green, spinach green, and apple green are regarded as a more valuable color. In Asia, pure white or a fine yellow with a delicate pink undertone is considered more precious.
• Hardness: Jadeite- 6 to 7 and Nephrite- 5.5 to 6
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: Jade is recognized as a “dream stone” and as a “stone of fidelity”. Symbol of the good, precious, and beautiful. Jade aides in centering ones potential and faithfulness to ones purpose. If placed under pillow at night, jade is thought to liberate concealed emotions through ones dream. If used as an elixir, jade is very beneficial in promoting healthy hair and skin.

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Jasper

• Meaning a “spotted or speckled stone", Jasper is a form of chalcedony quartz
• October birthstone
• Hardness: 6.5 to 7
• Transparency: translucent to opaque
• Can be found in India, Russia, Pakistan, France, Germany, and the United States.
• There are many varieties of jasper of which include, but are not limited to Agate, Leopardskin, Dalmation, Picture, Bloodstone, Poppy, Flower, Picasso, Red, and Zebra Stone.
• Color: Red, brown, pink, yellow, green, grey/white and shades of blue and purple.
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: Jasper is known as the “supreme nurturer”. It wards off negativity, and accepts responsibility in protecting. Jasper can be used to treat disorders of the kidneys, bladder, spleen, and stomach.

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Labradorite

• Discovered in 1770.
• Variety of feldspar
• Color: white, yellow, and grey, and black with a display of iridescent colors; also colorless
• Transparency: Transparent to translucent
• Hardness: 6 to 6.5
• Can be found in Canada, Norway, Australia, Madagascar, Mexico, Russia, and the USA
• Metaphysical/ Medical properties: Labradorite is useful in acquiring strength and perseverance as well as improving patience. It is used as a stress reducer, digestion antidote, and treatment for brain disorders.

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Lapis Lazuli

• Color: Lazur blue, violet, greenish-blue
• Hardness: 5 to 6
• Transparency: Opaque
• Considered to be a rock, not a mineral
• Sulfur is the contributor of the color
• Sensitive to acids & alkalis, strong pressure, and high temperatures; should not be worn during household cleaning.
• Can be found in Afghanistan, Russia, Chile, Myanmar, Canada, Pakistan, Colorado, and California.
• Imitation lapis has a similar composition to natural lapis, but is somewhat softer.
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: This rock is said to increase awareness and intellectual competence. It also helpful for daily organization. Lapis has been used to treat illnesses of the throat, and immune system.

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Lava

• Organic Gemstone
• Color: Black, Dark Gray
• Transparency: Opaque
• Volcanic molten rock
• Is being used more frequently in the jewelry market
• Metaphysical/ Medical properties: Lava is said to promote power and courage, especially in times of weakness.

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Mahagony Obsidian
See Obsidian

Malachite

• Color: Light- to black-green, banded
• Hardness: 3.5 to 4
• Transparency: Translucent, opaque
• Large pieces of a single color are rare
• Sensitive to heat, acids, ammonia, and hot water
• Can be found in Zaire, Russia, Australia, Chile, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Arizona
• It was used as a powder for eye shadow by the ancient Romans, Greeks, and Egyptians
• Can be scratched easily; surface can be hardened with artificial resin
• Metaphysical/Medical Properties: Malachite is considered a “stone of transformation”, and helps one to change certain situations. It also enhances loyalty in friendship and love, and responsibility in business interactions. Malachite can be used to protect against radiation, and is used to treat swollen joints, tumors, broken bones, and arthritis.

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Moonstone

• 13th Wedding Anniversary Gemstone
• A variety of Feldspar
• Has a beautiful silvery sheen, likening unto the moon
• Color: Colorless, yellow, pale sheen
• Hardness: 6 to 6.5
• Can be found in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Brazil, India, Madagascar, and the USA
• In India, the Moonstone is regarded as sacred and magical
• Metaphysical/Medical Properties: Moonstone is a stone for wishing, feeling, protection, and cleansing. The moonstone is a deliverer of insight, perception, discernment, confidence, awareness, and calmness. It has been used to rid toxins in the body, and treat digestive system disorders.

Mother of Pearl
See Abalone

Obsidian

• Obsidian is a naturally occurring lustrous volcanic glass
• Considered a rock, not a mineral
• Hardness: 5 to 5.5
• Transparency: Transparent to opaque
• Color: Black, gray, brown, blue, red
• Can be found in Ecuador, Indonesia, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Mexico, and the USA
• The Snowflake Obsidian can be found in Mexico and the United States & has gray/white speckles
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: Obsidian is known as a grounding stone and protective stone. It guards off negativity and can protect form emotional or physical harm. The snowflake obsidian is furthermore considered a stone of purity and is useful in treatment of vein disorders and promotes healthy skin.

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Onyx

• Variety of Chalcedony
• Is a layer stone with the mixture of a black base and a white top layer
• Other varieties of onyx include Sard onyx (brown base) and cornelian onyx (red base)
• Black Onyx is different! Black Onyx does not have a mixture of layered colors. It is a term used to describe a one-colored chalcedony and is always dyed.
• If onyx is not the natural colors listed above, it is usually dyed; i.e. green onyx, black onyx
• Hardness: 7
• Can be found in Brazil, India, California, and Uruguay
• Metaphysical/Medical Properties: Onyx is believed to bear an evil omen and is not considered a good-omen stone. However, Native Americans and Persians believe that onyx will actually protect them from evil and if placed on the stomach of a woman in labor, it will reduce labor pain and will give occasion to an early-on delivery.

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Opal

• Australia's national gemstone
• The opal is divided into three subcategories: precious, fire, and common
• Precious Opals are known for their play-of-color and is full of colorful character. The White opal, Black Opal, Opal Matrix, Boulder Opal, Harlequin Opal, Jelly Opal, and Crystal Opal fall into this category.
• The Fire Opal usually does not show any play-of-color. They can be found in Mexico, Brazil, Guatemala, Australia, and the USA
• The Common Opal, also known as Potch, shows no play of color and is usually opaque. The Agate, Angel skin, Hyalite, Hydrophane, Porcelain, Moss, Girasol, Prase, and Wax opals fall into this category.
• Hardness:7
• Color: All colors
• Transparency: Transparent, opaque
• Metaphysical/Medical properties: Can be used to improve the memory and ensure faithfulness in love, business, and friendship. Opals are beneficial for use in recovery of Parkinson's disease and for the treatment of eye disorders.

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Opalite

• Man-made, synthetic glass stone
• White in color; when held under light, hues of pink, purple, green, yellow, and blue appear
• Resembles the white opal
• There is much confusion in the market over the “opalite”. Do not mistake the opalite for a natural gem

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Paint Brush Jasper
See Jasper

Paua Shell
See Abalone

Pearl

Read our "For the Love of Pearls" Article Here!

• Both the natural pearl or cultured pearl are Birthstones for the month of June
• Natural pearls take up to seven years to form, cultured pearls take up to four years to form
• Organic Gemstone
• Color: White, pink, silver, cream, golden- colored, green, blue, black
• Transparency: Translucent to Opaque
• Hardness: 2.5 to 4.5; although soft, pearls are extremely compact
• Pearls are products of oysters, mussels, and seldom other shellfish.
• Pearls form when an irritant (e.g. grain of sand) enters the shell
• The size can vary between a pin head and a pigeon's egg
• Imitation pearls can be made of glass, plastic, or mother-of-pearl
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: The pearl represents purity, sincerity, faith, charity, innocence, and helps improve integrity. It can be used to treat digestive disorders and to reduce labor pain

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Peridot

• August Birthstone
• Also called Chrysolite, Olivine
• Hardness: 6.5 to 7
• Transparency: Transparent
• Color: Yellow-green, Olive-green, brown
• The rich green color is dependent on the iron content
• Can be found in Zebirget Island, Burma, Australia, Brazil, China, Kenya, Pakistan, South Africa, Mexico, Sri Lanka, Arizona, Norway, and Tanzania.
• Imitation peridot is typically made of corundum and spinel syntheses
• Metaphysical/Medical Properties: Thought to promote friendship and free the mind of jealousy. Peridot can be used to treat the heart, lungs, and spleen.

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Picasso Jasper
See Jasper

Picture Stone Jasper
See Jasper

Purple Fluorite
See Fluorite

Quartz

• Is Sub-categorized into two different areas: Macrocrystalline quartz and Cryptocrystalline quartz.
• The Macrocrystalline quartz can be seen by the naked eye. Amethyst, aventurine, rock crystal, blue quartz, citrine, hawk's-eye, prasiolite, quartz cat's-eye, smoky quartz, rose quartz, and tiger's-eye fall into this category.
• Cryptocystalline quartz, or chalcedony, contains crystals that can be seen with a microscope. Agate, petrified wood, chrysoprase, bloodstone, jasper, carnelian, moss agate, and sard fall into this category
• Many confuse Cherry Quartz as naturally occurring, however it is not quartz at all; it is glass. The faceted and polished glass contains red and pink inclusions to make it appear as a quartz variety.
• Hardness: 7
• Transparency: Transparent to Opaque
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: Quartz is considered a protection stone and power stone. Quartz can be used to increase energy and thought. Quartz has many healing properties, some of which include using for treatment of skin disorders, the digestive system, and kidney and bladder infections.

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Red Jasper
See Jasper

Red Tiger Eye
See Tiger Eye

Rhodochrosite

• Also known as raspberryspa and manganesepar
• Appeared on the market around 1940
• Color: Red to white, banded; a medium to deep rose is the most sought after color
• Hardness: 4
• Transparency: Transparent to opaque
• Can be found in the United States, Argentina, Chile, Mexico, Peru, and South Africa
• Metaphysical/Medical properties: Known as a stone of love. The rhodochrosite is said to help balance both the mental and emotional qualities, stimulate the mind, and enhance relaxation. It can be used to promote healthy skin and to treat thyroid disorders.

Rhodonite

• Color: Various colors of red with black inclusions
• Hardness: 5.5 to 6
• Transparency: Transparent to opaque; Transparent varieties are rare
• Can be found in New Jersey, Tanzania, Sweden, South Africa, Russia, Mexico, Canada, Madagascar, Japan, Finland, and Australia.
• Metaphysical/Medical Properties: Rhodonite is said to help gain sound assurance and to help achieve one's greatest potential. It also chases away anxiety, helps heart disorders and emphysema.

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Rose Quartz
See Quartz

Ruby

• Variety of the Corundum Species
• Formed in metamorphic and igneous rocks
• Color: Varieties of red
• Hardness: 9
• Transparency: Transparent to opaque
• The most sought after color of the ruby is pure red with a touch of blood, a.k.a. “pigeon's blood”
• Can be found in Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam, Tanzania, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Madagascar, Montana, and South Carolina
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: The Ruby is thought to improve concentration, stimulate energy, and promote peace. It is also thought to create stability in ones financial situation. The ruby has been used as a counter-balance to stimulants, and for the treatment of fevers.

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Rutilated Quartz
See Quartz

Sapphire

• The Blue Sapphire is the September birthstone and 10th Anniversary Gemstone
• The Yellow Sapphire is the 7th Anniversary Gemstone
• Corundum variety
• Color: Variety of blue, colorless, pink, purple, black, green, yellow, and orange
• Transparency: Transparent to opaque
• Hardness: 9
• Can be found in Australia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar.
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: Sapphire is considered a jewel of chastity and is perceived by some as holy. It brings prosperity and joy, while freeing aggravation. The sapphire has been used to treat blood cellular disorders.

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Snowflake Obsidian
see Obsidian

Sodalite

• the name signifies the stone's sodium content
• Color: White, blue, grey
• Hardness: 5.5 to 6
• Transparency: Transparent to opaque
• Used as a substitute for the more expensive lapis, although it does not have the gold flecks that the lapis contains.
• Can be found in Canada, Greenland, Russia, India, Brazil, Namibia, and the U.S.A.
• Metaphysical/Medical Properties: The sodalite is thought to help shed confusion and stimulate one's intellect. It has been used to treat disorders of the digestive system and calcium deficiencies.

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Sugilite

• Discovered by the Japanese petrologist, Ken-ichi Sugi, and named after him
• First appeared on the market in the late 1970s
• Color: Violet w/ white streaks
• Transparency: Transparent to translucent
• Hardness: 6 to 6.5
• Can be primarily found in South Africa
• Note: Flower Sugilite is not a variety of sugilite. It is a variety of lepidolite, and is a natural purple stone.
• Metaphysical/Medical properties: Sugilite is said to assist in the forgiveness process, rid hostility, jealousy, envy, and prejudice. It has also been used for the treatment of headaches.

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Sunstone

• Also known as Aventurine Feldspar
• Color: Orange, red-brown, green, or bi-color with hematite or goethite sparkling inclusions
• Hardness: 6 to 6.5
• Transparency: Translucent, opaque
• Can be found in India, Canada, Madagascar, Russia, the United States, and Norway
• Metaphysical/Medical properties: The sunstone is said to rid fear and stress. It has been used to cure sore throats, stomach tension, and ulcers.

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Tanzanite

• Named after Tanzania (the region is the only source)
• Color: Colorless, blue, purple
• Hardness: 6.5 to 7
• Transparency: Transparent
• Metaphysical/Medical Properties: The tanzanite offers protection and wellbeing to its owner. It is also said that tanzanite is a good remedy for the treatment of skin and eye disorders.

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Tiger Eye

• Variety of the Chalcedony Quartz
• Color: Gold-yellow, Gold-Brown, with chatoyant stripes
• Hardness: 6.5 to 7
• Transparency: Opaque
• Can be found in South Africa, Australia, Burma, Namibia, the United States, and India
• Metaphysical/Medical properties: The Tiger Eye is known to help one become more grounded and sensible, rid fear, and increase wealth. It has been used to treat the throat and reproductive system disorders.

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Topaz

• November Birthstone
• Color: Yellow, orange, colorless, red-brown, variety of blue, pink-red, red, purple, light green
• Hardness: 8
• Transparency: Transparent, translucent
• Can be found in Brazil, England, Scotland, the United States, Sri Lanka ,Afghanistan, Australia, Zimbabwe, Russia, Burma, China, Japan, Pakistan, Nigeria, Namibia, Mexico, and Madagascar
• Metaphysical/ Medical Properties: Topaz is known to be a symbol of love. It is said that the topaz furthers creativity, develops awareness, and yields wealth. The topaz has been used to treat pneumonia, liver and gall bladder disorders, and headaches.

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Tourmaline

• Color: Multicolored, colorless, pink, red, yellow, brown, black, blue, purple, and green
• Hardness: 7 to 7.5
• Transparency: Transparent to Opaque
• Can be found in the United States, Russia, Tanzania, Mexico, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, South Africa, Pakistan, Madagascar, Nigeria, Australia, Brazil, and East Africa
• There is a large range of varieties of tourmaline including the Achroite, Dravite, Indicolite, Rubellite, Uvite, Tsilaisite, Schorl, Liddicoatite, Elbaite, Sibertite, and Verdelite
• Metaphysical/ Medical properties: Tourmaline is known to rid fear and increase motivation. Some healing properties include treatment for arthritis, lung, spleen, and kidney disorders, and to repair the reproductive system.

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Turquoise

Read an Exclusive Article All About Turquoise Here!

• First mined over 6,000 years ago
• Turquoise means “Turkish Stone”
• Color: Sky-blue, blue-green, apple-green mixed with brown, gray, or black streaks
• Hardness: 5 to 6
• Transparency: Translucent, opaque
• Is sensitive to light, perspiration, household detergents, and oils; should be removed before bathing or washing hands
• Can be found in Iran, Afghanistan, Brazil, Argentina, Australia, Tanzania, Mexico, China, Israel, Tanzania, and the United States.
• Metaphysical/Medical Properties: Turquoise is considered as a lucky stone. It is known to bring happiness, protection, wisdom, kindness, and trust. It is a master healer, and can be used for physical, emotional, and mental disorders.

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Unakite

• Unakite is an altered igneous rock, mainly composed of three minerals: pink feldspar, green epidote, and quartz
• Metaphysical/Medical properties: Unakite is said to enhance self-awareness and perception and rid negative judgment. It is also used to promote healthy pregnancies, and develop weight gain.

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Zebra Jasper

See Jasper

Zircon

• Color: Colorless, golden brown, yellow, orange, red, violet, blue, green
• Hardness: 6.5 to 7.5
• Transparency: Transparent to translucent
• Can be found in Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, France, Myanmar, Tanzania, and Thailand
• Colorless zircons have frequently been mistaken as diamonds
• Zircon should not be confused with Cubic Zirconia. Zircon is zirconium silicate and Cubic Zirconia is a form of zirconium dioxide.
• Metaphysical/Medical properties: The zircon is known as a stone of virtue. It has been said that this stone helps to protect against nightmares, eases pain in childbirth, and improves endurance.

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