These .925 Sterling Silver earrings feature two 9mm x 7mm Black Opal doublet gemstones with green and teal colors. The gems dangle from a Celtic knot design attached to a heart styled post.

Opal is a soft stone, approximately the same hardness as glass, and should be treated carefully. A slice of the natural opal crystal has been mounted on an ironstone backing to form a “doublet” (two layers). This protective backing also strengthens the fragile opal. Opals should not be subjected to extended periods of immersion in water, nor should they be exposed to strong solvents.

Artifacts with opals have been found as far back as 4000 B.C. and the lore surrounding these stones is rich. Opals have been credited with magical qualities that include aiding the wearer to see limitless possibilities and providing clarity by amplifying and mirroring feelings, buried emotions and desires. They are also believed to lessen inhibitions and promote spontaneity.

Opals are also a popular birthstone for October. At the beginning of the 1800s the opal was rapidly becoming the most popular gemstone on the marked. To combat its popularity, it is believed that the diamond industry started the popular myth that it is bad luck for someone not born in October to wear an opal.

This .925 Sterling Silver necklace features a natural Emerald gemstone weighing approximately 1.60 carets and measuring 9x7mm. This Emerald originates from Brazil and has not received color treatments. It is completely natural and has inclusions. Two diamond cut, 2mm, natural Peridot gemstones from China adorn the bail and setting.

Peridot is the gemstone variety of olivine – a family of minerals that includes forsterite and fayalite. Popular names for gems in this family are chrysolite, evening emerald, and peridot. While small crystals are common, large, good quality crystals are very rare.

It is normal for genuine Emeralds to be flawed with inclusions and cracks while man-made Emeralds are clear and flawless. Emeralds have been prized through the ages with the earliest known mine to have existed over 5,500 years ago in Egypt. Most of the gems from these mines were similar to the gemstone in this pendant in color and clarity. The beautiful green of these gems were popular enough that Romans developed a skillful glass-making technique to create imitations. Evidence exists that green glass imitations continued to be used centuries later. It wasn’t until the 1500s, when today’s dark, clear emerald was discovered by conquistadors in the Americas, that Europeans began placing such high value on Emeralds. Today, these dark, clear gems are second only to diamonds in value and price.

Emeralds have been known as the “stone of successful love” and are believed to bring domestic bliss and loyalty. Emeralds will keep a partnership in balance. Some believe wearing Emeralds will enhance unity, unconditional love, a strong partnership and promote friendship between partners. Some believe that Peridot alleviates jealousy, resentment, spite, anger and, therefore, reduces stress and assists with the wearer forgiving themselves.

This .925 Sterling Silver necklace features a rare, trillion cut, Chrome Sphene weighing approximately 2.38 carets and measuring 8.2mm x 9.4mm. This Sphene originates from Brazil, is completely natural, and is included – which only enhances the uniqueness of this gem.

The name Sphene (pronounced sfeen) originates from the Greek word sphen for wedge – which describes the elongated, trigonal shape of Sphene crystals. It has also been called Titanite due to its titanium content.  Recognized for its radiance and color, Sphene is actually rated higher than diamonds in fire. However, due to their faceting brittleness and softness, they are rarely found as gemstones. Their hardness is rated similar to Opals and they should only be cleaned with warm soapy water.

Until a very few years ago Sphene was virtually unknown. Its unusual ability to take a beam of light and break it into all of the spectral colors and then to change these colors depending on the angle of view is making it grow in popularity in today’s market.

Some believe Sphene is a stone of consolation and solace. It is said to dispel disenchantment and bring forth comfort and encouragement.

A natural, 6mm, diamond-cut green Tourmaline sits above an ornately engraved .925 Sterling Silver ring setting. This gemstone originates from Africa and weights approximately .87 carets.

Tourmalines are known for their display of a wide range of colors. An ancient Egyptian legend tells a story of this gemstone’s long journey from the Earth’s heart up towards the sun. It says that the Tourmaline traveled along a rainbow and collected all the colors. This is why it is sometimes called the “Rainbow gemstone.”

Tourmaline is found around the world and comes in more colors than any other gemstone. It is a very “clean” gem with few internal flaws or inclusions and it has a hardness value of 7 – similar to amethysts and emeralds – which makes it a very durable gemstone. It was first recognized in the early 1700s as a distinct gem. Later in that century, tourmaline was discovered to have very unusual properties when heated or compressed. It would become electrically charged. The Dutch called this gemstone aschentrekker, or “ash puller” because they could rub a crystal and then used the electrically charge stone to pull ash from their meerschaum pipes.

Some claim that Tourmalines enhance understanding, increase self confidence and magnify the wearer’s psychic energies. It is also said that they neutralize negative energies including fear and grief. Green tourmalines are said to promote openness and patience.

This .925 Sterling Silver necklace features a 10x5mm, marquise Labradorite and 2mm round blue-green fancy Sapphire gemstone. The Sapphire is from Africa and has been heat treated to enhance its color. The Labradorite weighs approximately 1.25cts and is completely natural.

Labradorite is truly a fascinatingly beautiful mineral. It is usually a dull, dark looking mineral with no special characteristics until it is turned just right to show a beautiful glow floating on the surface. This colorful play of light is called labradorescence or schiller effect. These usually intense colors range from the typical blues and violets through greens, yellows and oranges. Labradorite, as well as Moonstone, Sunstone and other gems that exhibit labradorescence, is members of the Feldspar mineral group.

Sapphires belong to the corundum group which is set apart from other gemstones by their hardness. They are second in hardness to diamonds (the hardest mineral on Earth). While sapphires are most commonly thought of as blue, they also are found naturally in many “fancy colors” such as yellow, purple, pink, green or white.

In ancient times, Labradorite was considered a general "good luck" stone. It is also said to unleash the power of imagination and to help remove limitations. Some say it magnifies a person's strengths, originality, and relationship with others and it opens energy flow to centers most in need. Others believe it helps to remind us that even in the darkest of times, all colors and lights are still nurtured within us. Sapphires are associated with the attraction of divine favor to their owners and are mentioned in many religious histories around the world. They have long been recognized as a stone of prophecy and wisdom and even called the philosopher's stone. Wearing a sapphire can contribute to your mental clarity, your perception and your wisdom.

Twenty-two natural marquise shaped Mother of Pearl beads, measuring approximately 20x10mm dangle from the bottom of curved, 41x25mm earrings. Zinc alloy with an antique brass finish.

Mother-of-pearl is one of the “organic gems” – meaning it is created by the biological processes of living animals. Pearls, coral and ivory are other popular organic gems. All organic gems are soft and porous and should not be exposed to cosmetics, perfumes and chemicals.

The smooth calcium carbonate lining (in the form of aragonite) that creates the iridescent luster found in some shells is called “nacre” or “mother-of-pearl.” Nacre is also the substance found in pearls. Most Mother-of-Pearl originates from the inner layer of nacre applied by a mollusk to it’s shell. Pearls, on the other hand, are formed when the mollusk applies nacre to a grain of sand or other irritant that lodges between the shell and the animal. Different mollusks apply different colors to their shells to provide a wide range of vibrant and neutral colors.

Mother-of-pearl is said to attract prosperity. Some believe it signifies faith and innocence and that it enhances personal integrity. Others say it protects the wearer from negative influence and that it helps with clarity in decision-making. It contains the energies of the sea.

Six spiral-carved 12x8mm Carnelian beads are featured on these antique gold earrings. Antique gold components are made of brass with an oxidized antique gold finish.

Carnelian, or cornelian, is a translucent orange or red member of the chalcedony mineral family. Most of the carnelian sold on today's market is an enhanced form of chalcedony that has been heat-treated to enhance color or stained and heat-treated. Natural carnelian usually exhibits a cloudy translucence while agates and other chalcedony sold under this name exhibit streaks. Sard, a brownish red to brown chalcedony with no strict separation, is also sold under the same name.

A popular gemstone throughout history, it was called Sardion until Medieval times. It is referenced in the Bible and listed as one of the gemstones set in the breastplate of the high priest. Both Romans and Greeks used carnelian for carvings, intaglios, and signet rings. Napoleon returned from Egypt with a huge octagonal carnelian. It has also been popular for beads and cameos.

Some believe wearing carnelian will restore vitality and motivation as well as stimulate creativity. Others believe carnelian can help with overcoming abuse of any kind. It also helps with trusting yourself and your perceptions.

Two 7mm round Moonstone cabachons are the focal point of these silver earrings. The gem setting, ear posts, and connector are .925 Sterling Silver and teardrop dangles are silver-plated brass.

Moonstone, a variety of Orthoclase within the Feldspar family, is usually white but also comes in yellow, orange, brown, blue or green. It ranges from near transparent to milky opaque and exhibits a cats-eye or adularescence effect. Moonstones are usually cut tall in order to provide a thicker gem and intensify these effects.

Moonstone has been known by many names, such as adularia, a name from Mount Adula which is one of the highest peaks in the Alps where it was once found. The Greeks called it Aphroseline, signifying the splendor of the moon. The Romans called it Lunaris. Pope Leo X was said to have a Moonstone that changed with the phases of the moon. Hindu legends say Moonstone is actually moonbeams that, upon reaching earth, turned to solid stone.

Moonstone lore says that it will calm emotions and fears, bring lovers together and help them see their future together without the emotional worries of fear and pain. It also says that moonstones were born from actual moonbeams and they were considered to be sacred. Many believe they bring good fortune to those who find it.

This solid silver ring features a deep, golden yellow 10x8mm natural Beryl gemstone. The gem is set in a low-profile, V-shank .925 Sterling Silver setting.

In its pure state, Beryl is colorless with very little luster.  However, when mixed with other minerals it develops a wide range of popular colors. For example, the presence of chromium and vanadium create the rich color of the Emerald, a species of Beryl. Other popular Beryl species are Aquamarine, Heliodor, Goshenite, and Morganite. The natural yellow species of Beryl does not have a special name and is often referred to as simply “golden beryl” or “precious beryl”.   Similar to Garnet, it has a hardness of 7 which makes it very durable for jewelry.

In the Bible, the Hebrews used Beryl as two of the 12 stones in the high priest’s breastplate. It is also listed as the eighth stone in the foundation stones for the Holy City.

In all folklore, golden Beryl is a seer’s stone as it promotes purity of spirit. It helps one to succeed as it enables independence and initiative. It is said to help manifest potential into reality.  This gem has also been used to create crystal balls for gazing. It is also believed to awaken love in those who have become jaded during marriage.

A .42 carat, 6x4mm, pear cut Peridot gemstone is the focal point of this .925 Sterling Silver necklace. The gem is suspended below a dainty, six-petal flower accent.

Peridot is gemstone variety of olivine – a family of minerals that includes forsterite and fayalite. Popular names for gems in this family are chrysolite, evening emerald, and peridot. While small crystals are common, large, good quality crystals are very rare.

Peridot, most likely named from the Arabic word faridat meaning “gem,” has been a popular gem throughout history. It has been found as carved talisman from ancient Egypt, decorations on church plates from the Middle Ages and was rumored to decorate King Solomon's breastplate. One deposit on the Zabargad Island in the Red Sea was mined for over 3,500 years and then lost for many centuries. There are also myths that associate this stone with Atlantis.

Some believe Peridot alleviates jealousy, resentment, spite, anger and, therefore, reduces stress and assists the wearer with forgiving themselves. It sooths while it enhances confidence and assertion without aggression.

This solid .925 Sterling Silver offset design ring features a 7.4mm x 7.4mm x 5.2mm round, diamond cut yellowish-green Grossular Garnet weighing approximately 2.38 carats. This gemstone originates from Africa and has not been treated. It is completely natural. Several natural inclusions add to its sparkle.

While many think of Garnets as a red stone, it is actually an entire family of gems that range in color from yellow to green to red. There are more than 10 different gemstones with a similar chemical structure in the garnet family, however, only six of them are commonly found as gemstones. Grossular Garnets, named for the crystal’s resemblance to gooseberries, range in color from green to yellow and in transparency from clear to semi-opaque. Tsavorite is a named, green variety of Grossular Garnet.

Garnets have been found in jewelry made by ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans. The red garnet was once known as the warrior's stone and soldiers carried garnets to ward off death and injury. It has been found in shields, buckles and other items worn by ancient soldiers including the Crusaders.

Some attribute healing, strength and protection to the garnet. Wearing Grossular Garnet is believed to enhance relaxation and provide an easy-going nature. It also inspires service and cooperation. Garnets have also been exchanged as gifts between friends to demonstrate their affection for each other and to ensure that they would meet again.

This solid .925 Sterling Silver leaf design ring features a 9x7mm, Portuguese cut Oregon Sunstone weighing 1.77 carats. This gem has a high luster and a hint of pale, straw yellow color.

There are two primary types of Sunstone – a glittery opaque form mined in Oregon and a crystal form. The lesser known occurs in a transparent material that is rare and considered a "collector’s stone". Sunstone, also known as Oligoclase, is a member of the Feldspar family which includes Labradorite, Moonstone as well as granite. Over half of the Earth's crust is composed of minerals from the Feldspar group – however, only a few qualify as gemstones.

Sunstone has a rich history and relics have been found in Viking burials and in Native American Medicine Circles. All forms of Sunstone were considered rare prior to the early 1800s when deposits were found in Siberia brought this gem sporadically to the markets. After mines were discovered in the early 1900 in Oregon, this gem rapidly gained popularity – and affordability – and also became the Oregon State Gem. Sunstone from areas such as Norway, India and Russia obtain their schiller (metallic sparkle) from hematite or goethite, the shiller in Oregon gems comes from copper. Sunstone comes in many colors including gray, pale yellow, green or brown with the most popular being red to orange.

Some believe Sunstone will restore joy to ones life – especially if life has lost its sweetness. It allows the real self to happily shine through. Sunstone gently removes another’s hooks from your sole and gently breaks draining ties.

This .925 Sterling Silver swirl ring features a 9mm x 7mm Black Opal doublet with strong green and teal colors. It also has a flash of deep purple.

Opal is a soft stone, approximately the same hardness as glass, and should be treated carefully. A slice of the natural opal crystal has been mounted on an ironstone backing to form a “doublet” (two layers). This protective backing also strengthens the fragile opal. Opals should not be subjected to extended periods of immersion in water, nor should they be exposed to strong solvents.

Artifacts with opals have been found as far back as 4000 B.C. and the lore surrounding these stones is rich. Opals have been credited with magical qualities that include aiding the wearer to see limitless possibilities and providing clarity by amplifying and mirroring feelings, buried emotions and desires. They are also believed to lessen inhibitions and promote spontaneity.

Opals are also a popular birthstone for October. At the beginning of the 1800s the opal was rapidly becoming the most popular gemstone on the marked. To combat its popularity, it is believed that the diamond industry started the popular myth that it is bad luck for someone not born in October to wear an opal.

Four 18mm Tiger Eye briolette drops and two 8x4mm Tiger Eye tube beads adorn these swinging filigree earrings.  Made of brass with an oxidized antique gold finish.  The briolette drops are dark on the flat side and have more chatoyance on the edges.  The swing provided by this setting allows these gemstones to flash the tiger eye gold hues as they move.

Tiger Eye, named for it’s resemblance to the colors found in a Tiger’s eye, is a type of quartz where oriented fibers of crocidolite were replaced by Mother Nature with silica. This combination creates chatoyancy (a vertical reflection) and is usually banded with shades of gold to brown to black. Other gemstones (such as Hawk’s Eye, Tiger Iron, Falcon’s Eye, etc.), were created by the same process but with different minerals.

Tigereye was worn by Roman solders for protection in battle and was believed to be “all seeing”. The Egyptians used tigereye stones to make amulets. They believed that it transmitted the power of Ra, their sun god. 

Many cultures believe that Tigereye should be worn for protection against the Evil Eye. It has also been associated with wealth. One myth says that burning a candle circled by Tigereye will attract wealth. Some have associated clairvoyance and personal insight with Tigereye. It is believed to protect the wearer’s health, money and guard against evil spirits.