Gemstone Meanings

Gemstone Meanings and Properties

Have you ever wondered the meaning of your favorite gemstone? How about amethyst's metaphysical properties? Are there any green gems besides emerald or peridot? We have answers to all these questions, along with notes about the proper care and cleaning of hundreds of gemstones. Find out the meanings, properties and powers of everything from Amethyst to Zoisite. And don't forget to get inspired by gorgeous design ideas, too!

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Agate, Blue
Agate, Blue
Like many other variations of agate, the color in blue agate is most often achieved through dyeing, although some blue agate, such as "Holley blue agate" occur naturally.
Agate, Blue Lace
Agate, Blue Lace
Agate gemstones were originally used as amulets of healing. With its soft blue color, it's no surprise blue lace agate is said to be a soothing stone, too.
Agate, Botswana
Agate, Botswana
The most royal of agates, Botswana agate is famed for its extra-fine banding of white, black, shades of grey and occasional touches of pink or salmon hues.
Agate, Crazy Lace
Agate, Crazy Lace
A relatively young stone found exclusively in Northern Mexico, crazy lacy agate is known not only for its stunning banded patterns, but its powerful healing energies.
Agate, Fossil
Agate, Fossil
Agate gemstones, especially fossil agate with its visible ties to the past in the form of fossilized life inside, have a deep connection to the Earth.
Agate, Green
Agate, Green
According to modern healers who use gemstones, green agate increases compassion, generosity and mental as well as emotional flexibility.
Agate, Moss
Agate, Moss
It's no surprise that moss agate's plant-like filaments affect the perceived metaphysical properties of the stone. Moss agate is said to encourage tranquility and emotional balance.
Agate, Tree
Agate, Tree
Just as dappled forests may bring calmness, it's said tree agate can bring a sense of peace and inner tranquility to those who wear jewelry featuring the gemstone.
Agate, White
Agate, White
White agate is believed to be a stone of balance and release. According to metaphysical beliefs, this agate gemstone helps harmonize feminine and masculine sides.
Amazonite
Amazonite
Amazonite has been a stone treasured since the time of the ancient Egyptians. There are even stories of ancient Amazonian women warriors using amazonite to adorn their shields.
Amber
Amber
The popularity of richly colored amber has been growing even as it becomes harder and harder to find. After all, 50-million-year-old fossilized tree sap doesn't exist in infinite supplies.
Amethyst
Amethyst
Despite being a common gemstone, amethyst is one of the most popular. This birthstone has an interesting Greek myth involving a nymph named Amethystos and the god Dionysus.
Amethyst, Moss
Amethyst, Moss
Discover the intriguing exclusivity of moss amethyst. A transparent to translucent purple gemstone with rutile like inclusions.
Ametrine
Ametrine
Ametrine is actually a combination of amethyst and citrine, which can occur completely naturally. It stands to reason ametrine is said to be a stone of balance and connection.
Ammonite
Ammonite
Ammonites are eoliths of now-extinct marine molluscs called ammonoids. It's no surprise that ammonites, with their spiral shape, are symbols of change and positive motion.
Amphibolite
Amphibolite
Amphibolite--sometimes also referred to as hornblende--is said to help balance the dual natures of individuals who wear jewelry featuring this metamorphic stone.
Andalusite
Andalusite
According to metaphysical beliefs, andalusite is the seeing stone that promotes the desire for self-realization, helping one to rebalance and re-align.
Andesine
Andesine
A fairly new gemstone, andesine is believed to have been discovered in 2003. You may be surprised to learn much of what was originally sold as andesine was actually enhanced labradorite
Angelite
Angelite
With "angel" in its name, it's no surprise soft-blue angelite gemstones have perceived metaphysical abilities related to improving spirituality and bringing about a peaceful energy.
Apatite
Apatite
Apatite was named from the Greek word apate, meaning "to deceive" because people were confusing it with more expensive gemstones. But it's not the gemstone's fault!
Aquamarine
Aquamarine
Aquamarine, whose name originates from the Italian word for seawater, embodies the splendor of the sea and was even thought to help protect those at sea.
Aragonite
Aragonite
The ancient fossilizing qualities of aragonite are especially interesting. The perceived metaphysical properties are no less interesting, fostering truth, understanding and nurturing.
Autumn Hickoryite
Autumn Hickoryite
According to metaphysical beliefs, autumn hickoryite stimulates imaginative thinking and a desire for adventure. Perhaps a desire for jewelry-making adventures?
Aventurine
Aventurine
Though there isn't a "D" in the name, aventurine gemstones makes wearers think "adventure." Think optimism. Think bountiful. Think jewelry-making opportunity!
Azurite-Malachite
Azurite-Malachite
Azurite-malachite is a blend of two distinct and popular gems: azurite and malachite. United as azurite-malachite, the gemstone is said to calm anxiety in wearers.
Beryl
Beryl
Beryl isn't so much a gemstone as it is a family of gemstones. While specific beryl varieties have their own properties, precious beryl tends to be affiliated by its color.
Black Silk Stone
Black Silk Stone
Black silk stone is an onyx marble with a beautiful, silky-smooth surface and satin finish. According to metaphysical beliefs, black silk stone is a nurturing gemstone.
Blackstone
Blackstone
Blackstone is a trade name for a variety of abundant black stones. According to metaphysical beliefs, many black stones are said to intensify the spiritual values of other gemstones.
Bloodstone
Bloodstone
With an incredibly storied past, bloodstone was called "the Stone of Babylon," then later "the stone of martyrs," thought to have drops of Jesus' blood and believed to make rain.
Bronzite
Bronzite
While bronzite may appear mundane when not polished, bronzite is a truly beautiful gemstone that can display chatoyancy and contain bright golden flecks.
Calcite
Calcite
Calcite is an effective abrasive cleaning agent and in the metaphysical world is believed to be a spiritual cleanser, helping change perspective and renew commitment to positive change.
Carnelian
Carnelian
Carnelian was the stone of courage to the Romans, for the Egyptians it assisted the dead in their afterlife journey and in the Middle Ages was used to release energy of other stones.
Chalcedony
Chalcedony
Chalcedony is believed to be the stone of communication and makes a beautiful addition to jewelry designs. Learn more about this stone's meaning and properties in this informative Gem Note.
Charoite
Charoite
Sources may disagree whether Charoite was named for the Chara River or the Russian word "chary" (meaning "charms" or "magic"), but we can agree it has a beautiful, striking appearance.
Chrysanthemum Stone
Chrysanthemum Stone
Chrysanthemum stone blends the beauty of both earth and moon. It contains the rich dark brown color of soil and the golden glow of moonlight.
Chrysocolla
Chrysocolla
Chrysocolla is the gentlest of stones. Its main metaphysical role is to soothe and calm. Its color alone is relaxing with a deep blue-green that might remind you of a distant mountaintop.
Chrysoprase
Chrysoprase
Chrysoprase is a birthstone for May, which has traditionally symbolized happiness, enterprise and prudence. It is a powerful gemstone that brings good fortune and prosperity.
Cinnabar
Cinnabar
Cinnabar is an ore and a crystal, a variant of quicksilver--what medieval alchemists called the element mercury. Cinnabar is considered a powerful stone both physically and metaphysically.
Citrine
Citrine
From the earliest of times, citrine was called the "sun stone" and the gemstone was thought capable of holding sunlight.
Coral
Coral
Coral is a highly prized substance believed to be endowed with mysterious sacred properties. Coral has been called the "garden of the sea" because it was once believed to be a plant.
Corundum
Corundum
Corundum has been historically known as the gemstones ruby (red corundum) and sapphire (other colors). Corundum is very hard, tough and stable, making it ideal for a variety of uses.
Crazy Horse™ Stone (Calcite)
Crazy Horse™ Stone (Calcite)
Crazy Horse™ stone is the trade name for a calcite showcasing a distinct appearance of brown, grey, tan with some mauve and pink color combinations.
Cuprite
Cuprite
If Cuprite had a theme song, it would be "I Will Survive" by Gloria Gaynor since this intriguing green and deep-red gemstone is the stone of survival due to its metaphysical abilities.
Diamond
Diamond
Diamonds may be everything from a girl's best friend or coal that stuck to its job--either way it's a gemstone with a mystique all its own, a symbol of stability and dependability in an ever-changing world..
Diopside, Chrome
Diopside, Chrome
With a green brilliance rivaling that of emerald, chrome diopside does not receive enhancements to increase color or clarity, making it a naturally lovely stone option for jewelry.
Dumortierite
Dumortierite
Because of the perceived similarities between dumortierite and sodalite or lapis lazuli, it is often used as a cost-saving substitute for lapis, which can cost two to three times as much.
Emerald
Emerald
A mesmerizing green stone, emerald has collected numerous legends about its magnificence and power over the millennia, including stories from Biblical times and the ancient Egyptians.
Feldspar
Feldspar
Feldspar comprises almost 60% of the Earth's crust, which makes feldspar the most common mineral. While it may be abundant, feldspar's metaphysical abilities are anything but ordinary.
Fluorite
Fluorite
Looking for the perfect gemstone to help you concentrate? Fluorite, the stone of discernment and aptitude, may be just what your next handmade jewelry design needs.
Fossil Coral
Fossil Coral
Fossil coral is a natural gemstone created when prehistoric coral is gradually "agatized." It stands to reason, according to metaphysical beliefs, fossil coral can help bring about change.
Garnet
Garnet
Garnet gemstones were used for an amazing amount of purposes: gifts of passion, protection of travelers, proclamation of royalty and, of course, stunning gemstone creation.
Garnet, Hessonite
Garnet, Hessonite
While garnet is mostly known as a rich, red stone, garnet is actually a larger group of minerals. Hessonite garnet is a specific grossularite form known for warm, yellow to reddish tones.
Garnet, Tsavorite
Garnet, Tsavorite
Explore the captivating journey of tsavorite—from its geological origins and rich metaphysical symbolism to its exquisite use in modern jewelry design.
Gaspeite
Gaspeite
Discovered in 1977, gaspeite is an intriguing rare mineral that is found in only a few places. Make sure one of those places is in your handmade jewelry designs!
Goldstone
Goldstone
Though not a stone--or gold!--goldstone is still a beautiful "gemstone" material. Its creation is shrouded in urban legend, including the result of alchemy or on accident by Italian monks.
Goshenite
Goshenite
The colorless variety of beryl, goshenite is a beautiful, highly transparent gemstone that has been referred to as the "Mother of Crystals." A perfect gemstone for Mother's Day jewelry!
Grandidierite
Grandidierite
A rare gemstone not typically found in jewelry design, discover the unique possibilities of your creations with grandidierite.
Hemalyke™
Hemalyke™
This very shiny, metallic grey man-made material is exactly what its name says it is: Hemalyke™, a "look alike" for natural hematite, but without the cost.
Hemimorphite
Hemimorphite
Hemimorphite gets its name from the Greek words hemi ("half") and morph ("shape") because each end has a different shape--a quite unusual behavior in crystal formation.
Howlite
Howlite
Cauliflower isn't typically associated with gems, but howlite grows in cauliflower-like masses. The stone is incredibly versatile--often used as an inexpensive alternative to turquoise.
Hypersthene
Hypersthene
The name "hypersthene" comes from the Greek word for "over strength," no doubt in reference to its hardness, but could also be related to the stone's protective metaphysical qualities.
Iolite
Iolite
Iolite is known as the water sapphire, Viking's compass and stone of clear vision. An intruing stone with a unique history, iolite is pleochroic--another fun reason to include it in jewelry.
Jade, Black
Jade, Black
Black "jade" is actually grey serpentine that has been dyed to imitate black jadeite's beauty, without its cost.
Jade, Jadeite
Jade, Jadeite
Originally used thousands of years ago for ax heads, tools and ritual artifacts, it didn't take long before ancient civilizations noticed jadeite not only for its durability, but its beauty, too.
Jade, Malaysia
Jade, Malaysia
This gemstone may resemble jade in some aspects, but Malaysia "jade" is a trade name used for translucent quartz that has been expertly dyed and available in a myriad of colors.
Jade, Mountain
Jade, Mountain
Called mountain ''jade,'' this stone is actually high-grade dolomite marble from Asia. For jewelry, this material is frequently dyed rich, vivid colors, but its white form is also beautiful.
Jade, Nephrite
Jade, Nephrite
As the West views diamond, the East views jade. Jade became the preferred material for objects d'art in China, with the value of certain varieties exceeding their weight in silver and gold.
Jade, New
Jade, New
New "jade" is not actually jade, but is said to have the same spiritual values as green jade: easing feelings of depression, emotional cleansing and ideal for meditation.
Jasper, Autumn
Jasper, Autumn
Autumn jasper is the variety known for its mottled warm brick red and avocado green appearance: imagine pumpkins, red maple leaves and a long leisurely walk through the country.
Jasper, Brecciated
Jasper, Brecciated
Jasper was popular in the ancient world for its medicinal and spiritual values, and has been used for centuries by cultures around the world for its unique properties.
Jasper, Dalmatian
Jasper, Dalmatian
Dalmatian jasper, better known as Dalmatian stone, is an opaque, white spotted gemstone with brown and black will make people turn around and look back at jewelry featuring it.
Jasper, Fancy
Jasper, Fancy
Jasper is an opaque chalcedony that comes in a wide variety of colors. Fancy jasper is known for its scrumptious color palette of mauves, lilacs, creams and greens all mixed together.
Jasper, Flower
Jasper, Flower
When you see someone wearing flower jasper, it's like unexpectedly seeing a bouquet of warm, sunny colors. Flower jasper is thought to lift spirits and bring joy; perfect for jewelry!
Jasper, Leopardskin
Jasper, Leopardskin
Tawny, supple, sinuous, graceful--all words associated with the leopard and with the way your customers can feel when they wear your jewelry that features leopardskin jasper.
Jasper, Moukaite
Jasper, Moukaite
A popular gemstone choice for men's jewelry, moukaite jasper colors cover a wide range of warm earthtones that can include brick red, cream, brown, gold and mauve.
Jasper, Peridot
Jasper, Peridot
Peridot jasper is like rich cream with a hint of cool mint blended into it. These creamy, gleaming beads combine the best of both worlds: peridot's delicate beauty with jasper's low cost.
Jasper, Picasso
Jasper, Picasso
Part of jewelry designers' fascination with Picasso jasper is the artistic tension: the boldness of black, the passive quietness of grey and the exciting energy of red all swept together.
Jasper, Picture
Jasper, Picture
Picture jasper is most reminiscent of the dusty Old West's vast sandy expanse with golden brown and red stone "mountains" rising like ancient castles from it. Perfect for men's jewelry!
Jasper, Rainbow
Jasper, Rainbow
When life has you down, design with rainbow jasper. Rainbow jasper is called a "sustaining stone" in metaphysical beliefs and thought to be helpful in times of emotional fatigue or stress.
Jasper, Red
Jasper, Red
Learn about red jasper, from its physical properties to its place in legend and history.
Jasper, Red Creek
Jasper, Red Creek
Miners were looking for turquoise when they found red creek jasper. The lovely red, green, yellow, blue-gray and black stone offers the perfect autumn/fall color combination for jewelry.
Jasper, Silver Leaf
Jasper, Silver Leaf
Natural sophistication. That's what Mother Nature got when she combined grey, black and white in a beautifully swirling pattern to create the distinctive silver leaf jasper.
Jasper, Tigerskin
Jasper, Tigerskin
Tigerskin "jasper" is a perfect choice for earthy jewelry styles. Its contrasting swirls and stripes of tan, yellow and yellowish brown create a tawny stone that's so rich looking its decadent.
Jasper, White
Jasper, White
White jasper has a bright, clean opaque white appearance. According to metaphysical properties, white jasper lifts spirits and brings joy, nurturing our inner desire for calmness.
Jasper, Zebra
Jasper, Zebra
It's time to get designing! Zebra jasper motivates us to move out of apathy into action. It helps us avoid over-thinking and encourages us to just enjoy the experience of living.
Jet
Jet
Jet is an ideal addition to feminine, masculine and unisex jewelry. Black has been fashion's staple color for a reason. It's smart, sophisticated and goes with literally everything.
Kunzite
Kunzite
The soft pink and purple hues of kunzite are well-suited for feminine jewelry designs and special occasion jewelry such as for Valentine's Day or Mother's Day.
Kyanite
Kyanite
Kyanite gets its name from the Greek term for blue, which it certainly is! Kyanite is one of the most attractive blue minerals, exhibiting intense blue or multiple shades in a single crystal.
Labradorite
Labradorite
Unearth the beauty and legend of labradorite. Discover the history of this stone, where it's commonly found, metaphysical properties and ideas for incorporating it into jewelry.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is one of the oldest opaque gemstones in history--more than 6,500 years old! Valued since antiquity, lapis lazuli is a highly sought-after stone in jewelry designs.
Larimar
Larimar
Learn about the discovery and properties of the incomparable, rare gemstone, Larimar.
Lava
Lava
The raw power of a volcano capsulated in the palm of your hand. Lava rocks have numerous uses, loved in both jewelry-making and by metaphysical believers.
Lepidolite
Lepidolite
With its variety of pinkish rose to purple hues along with other shades, lepidolite offers incredible tonal flexibility in jewelry designs, pairing well with other gemstones and metal tones.
Magnesite, White
Magnesite, White
The most commonly occurring color of magnesite is white, with an appearance similar to unglazed porcelain. The stone is often dyed and used as an economical substitute for turquoise.
Magnetite
Magnetite
Magnetite (not to be confused with magnesite) is a rock mineral believed to alleviate negative emotions such as fear, anger and grief while promoting positive qualities in the wearer.
Malachite
Malachite
The swirling patterns of malachite have unmistakable, striking light and dark green marbling. The startling beauty of this stone has come to represent sensuality and beauty.
Malachite, Red
Malachite, Red
While malachite gemstones are renowned for their rich green color, red "malachite" is just as loved for its warm terra cotta color and metaphysical associations of energy and courage.
Marble
Marble
Marble is viewed as a stone of potential. Marble has been used in architecture, decorative carvings and, of course, jewelry for centuries for its fantastic cutting and shaping properties.
Marcasite
Marcasite
Explore the captivating history of marcasite and delve into its physical properties. Discover how it is used to craft jewelry with a subtle, timeless elegance.
Mica
Mica
In jewelry-making, mica is most commonly found in a powder form used to create colorful, pearly and beautifully shiny accents on polymer clay, resins or other surfaces.
Moldavite
Moldavite
Moldavite is said to bring good luck, according to Czech legend. It was also believed to help bring harmony in marriage and so was a common betrothal gift.
Moonstone, Multicolored
Moonstone, Multicolored
Named for its sheen, moonstone is the most well-known feldspar. This moonstone is a mix of warm oranges, neutral whites and cool greys--making it an ideal gemstone for all seasons.
Moonstone, Pink Flake
Moonstone, Pink Flake
Pink flake moonstone is a beautiful stone in feminine jewelry designs, but the overall color isn't so pink (especially the redder specimens) it can't also be used in masculine designs.
Moonstone, Rainbow
Moonstone, Rainbow
Unearth the beauty of rainbow moonstone and learn its history, geological properties, design uses and proper care in this Gem Note.
Moonstone, Silver
Moonstone, Silver
Nothing says subtle sophistication like grey or silver. Silver moonstone is a tantalizing silvery-grey translucent stone with a sheen that enhances just such a sense of sophistication.
Moonstone, White
Moonstone, White
Beneath the soft shimmering surface of moonstone gemstones surges a deeper, lovelier beauty: a white "moon"-like sheen that rolls over the stone as it is rotated or catches the light.
Morganite
Morganite
With its soft pinkish hue, morganite is often associated with innocence, sweetness, romance and love, making it a perfect gemstone for special occasion jewelry like Valentine's Day.
Mother-of-Pearl, Natural
Mother-of-Pearl, Natural
Natural mother-of-pearl shell for jewelry refers to the nacre itself, which coats the inside layer of the mollusk shell that forms pearls--hence, it's the mother of the pearl.
Mother-of-Pearl, White
Mother-of-Pearl, White
Especially popular in Victorian-inspired jewelry designs, mother-of-pearl shell is often seen as cameos, but it isn't just for feminine jewelry, as it is a favorite for cuff links and tie tacks.
Obsidian, Black
Obsidian, Black
Discover the history and properties of black obsidian, from ancient tools to modern jewelry. Learn how this volcanic glass has shaped cultures and design
Obsidian, Golden Sheen
Obsidian, Golden Sheen
Black and gold are a timeless pairing--and golden sheen obsidian proves their elegance. Additionally, the reflective nature of obsidian makes it a favorite for self-reflective meditation.
Obsidian, Mahogany
Obsidian, Mahogany
Obsidian's naturally dark, glossy color makes it fashionable for men and women's jewelry. It can be easily incorporated into vintage, gothic, Celtic and other designs from classic to modern.
Obsidian, Rainbow
Obsidian, Rainbow
Rainbow obsidian is a subtle gemstone, only showing its colors in bright light. Learn more about the history and properties of this volcanic glass.
Obsidian, Snowflake
Obsidian, Snowflake
Snowflake obsidian is striking in its appearance and is also a durable gemstone--making the spotted obsidian popular for use as a "worry stone" as well as a beautiful addition to jewelry.
Onyx, Black
Onyx, Black
How onyx got its name involves an intriguing myth including Cupid and Venus. Black onyx is a neutral gemstone, making ideal to combine with different colored stones and all metal tones.
Onyx, Striped
Onyx, Striped
Combine the richness of cream and a whisper of green, then swirl golden tan and brown tones in--you'll have the delectable look of striped onyx. A stunning stone for autumn jewelry!
Opal
Opal
Opal is the birthstone of October, the 14th marriage anniversary and is a stunning visually "fiery" stone that gets its name from the Sanskrit word upala.
Opal, Dendritic
Opal, Dendritic
Dendritic opal has the luminous allure of common opal with the tree-like inclusions of moss agate and is believed to promote spiritual growth.
Opal, Ethiopian
Opal, Ethiopian
Ethiopian opal has a milky white to light amber base coloring and displays the play of color that makes opals both famous and highly desired for jewelry.
Opal, Peruvian
Opal, Peruvian
Peruvian opals were originally thought to be a gift from the Incan goddess Pachamama. Peruvian opal doesn't have the fiery play of light, but it does possess a beautiful iridescent quality.
Pearl, Cultured Freshwater
Pearl, Cultured Freshwater
Ancient myths tell of pearls formed when oysters opened their shells, rose to the water's surface, then were seeded by the morning sunlight and drops of dew.
Peridot
Peridot
Peridot, the evening emerald, is unique for a number of reasons. It has a unique green hue, it has been mined for almost 4000 years, and can be found inside meteorites to name a few reasons!
Petrified Wood
Petrified Wood
Petrified wood is known as a stone of transformation and is thought to provide a window to the past. Find out even more about this stone and its meaning in jewelry in this informative Gem Note.
Pietersite
Pietersite
How pietersite forms is an interesting process involving one mineral changing into another. Learn how this happens, why pietersite is called the tempest stone and more intriguing facts.
Pinolith
Pinolith
How much do you know about pinolith? That it's a very rare semiprecious stone? That it's believed to be a gemstone of optimism and balance? Or how it's fantastic for jewelry-making?
Pipestone (Catlinite)
Pipestone (Catlinite)
Pipestone has a robust brick red color and can contain quartz or mica for a bit of sheen and shimmer, making this gemstone a favorite for both women's and men's jewelry designs.
Prehnite
Prehnite
The gemstone with a dozen names, prehnite has been given numerous other names over the years. Whatever you call it though, the soft, soothing green gemstone is a delight for jewelry.
Pyrite
Pyrite
Due to pyrite's color, luster and high specific gravity, it has been mistaken for gold, hence the nickname: fool's gold. But don't be fooled into thinking pyrite isn't perfect for jewelry!
Quartz, Cat's Eye
Quartz, Cat's Eye
Cat's eye quartz is thought to bring good fortune--sounds like a great reason to use it in jewelry! There are more reasons cat's eye quartz is ideal for jewelry, too, especially men's designs.
Quartz, Green
Quartz, Green
Green quartz, a rare stone in nature, has often been mistakenly referred to as "green amethyst." Learn all about this soothing green stone from its geological properties to proper care and even metaphysical properties such as how it is thought to awaken love, empathy and compassion.
Quartz, Lemon
Quartz, Lemon
Did you know lemon quartz is created by heating amethyst, yellow quartz and iron together at extremely high temperatures? What else will you learn about this brilliant, yellow gemstone?
Quartz, Rose
Quartz, Rose
Rose quartz came to be known as the stone of love and reconciliation from the Greek myth about Aphrodite and Adonis. See why else this gemstone is ideal for Valentine's Day jewelry.
Quartz, Smoky
Quartz, Smoky
Smoky quartz is said to be a protection stone and prized by those who use gems for metaphysical purposes for its ability to ward off stress and encourage resolution to difficult situations.
Quartz, Snow
Quartz, Snow
Snow quartz looks pure and fresh as newly fallen snow. Snow quartz is associated with innocence, which is why wearing it is said to help give a child-like perspective free of cynicism.
Quartz, Solar
Quartz, Solar
Solar quartz is a rare formation of white crystalline quartz with some druzy inclusions and beautiful natural orbicular patterns that may have green or brown moss-like inclusions.
Quartz, Tourmalinated
Quartz, Tourmalinated
You know quartz is a gemstone, but what does tourmalinated mean? It's what gives this gemstone its distinct and sophisticated color scheme that's loved in women's and men's jewelry designs.
Quartz, Yellow "Jade"
Quartz, Yellow "Jade"
Yellow "jade" is not a true jade or jadeite stone. Instead, it is a trade name for a cloudy quartz with a pale to mid-dark yellow coloration--sometimes all in the same piece--and it is beautiful!
Quartz Crystal
Quartz Crystal
Once thought to be eternal ice sent by the gods and fossilized ice, quartz crystal is actually a mineral that is prized for the belief in its magical, mystical and metaphysical healing powers.
Rainbow Calsilica
Rainbow Calsilica
Rainbow calsilica is a man-made material created for the gemstone market from carbonate rock, which means this intriguing material still possesses perceived metaphysical properties.
Rhodochrosite
Rhodochrosite
While some may think pink gems are for women's jewelry, the warm red undertones of rhodochrosite will change your mind. And the metaphysical properties can help with that change!
Rhodonite
Rhodonite
Just because rhodonite is a pink stone, doesn't mean it's off limits for men's jewelry. The warm hue still has a masculine appearance, especially with its black dendritic inclusions.
Rhyolite
Rhyolite
Rhyolite gets its name from the Greek words for "stream" and "stone," which may seem like counterintuitive concepts, but how this gemstone forms actually makes sense with its name.
Riverstone
Riverstone
Riverstone is light tan to light brown and is a favorite neutral in jewelry. The stone takes pigment well and is often dyed. Luckily, the dyed stone still retains perceived metaphysical properties.
Ruby
Ruby
One of the four precious stones, ruby has been treasured for centuries. Those born in July are lucky to have ruby as their birthstone and ruby is also the 40th wedding anniversary stone.
Sapphire
Sapphire
It's amazing how many cultures throughout history valued sapphire, but it stands to reason since this precious gem is absolutely stunning with its rich hues--which include more than blue.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx
Used as a stone of strength and protection since ancient times, sardonyx is associated with courage, happiness and clear communication. It's a favorite for men's and autumnal jewelry, too.
Selenite
Selenite
Selenite gemstones are the perfect addition to any jewelry palette. Need an angelic-looking stone for bridal jewelry? Evening wear jewelry? Maybe Christmas? Selenite does it all!
Septarian
Septarian
Each septarian specimen is unique with an ancient quality that makes them a joy to use in jewelry. They look fantastic and have a plethora of beneficial metaphysical abilities, too.
Seraphinite
Seraphinite
Seraphinite is a soft gemstone, which can make designers nervous to use it, but the beauty of this greenish stone named after angels can't be emphasized enough for use in jewelry.
Serpentine
Serpentine
According to metaphysical beliefs, serpentine provides clear thought to better facilitate meditation, but that isn't the only reason you should consider designing with this gemstone.
Shungite
Shungite
What do Russia and Nobel Prizes have to do with Shungite? There's a very interesting and varied history with this folklore favorite.
Slate
Slate
Slate is believed to preserve you from weakness. Made from pressed mudstone, this stone is black due to plants or plankton, and may contain fossils.
Soapstone
Soapstone
Soapstone is incredibly soft, which makes it a perfect stone for carving. Natural soapstone tends to have light shades of gray, green or brown, making it ideal for autumn-themed jewelry.
Sodalite
Sodalite
Sodalite is sometimes considered a guardian for heroes and heroines with the ability to unite logic with intuition and the drive for truth with the rise of idealism. Plus it's gorgeous!
Spinel
Spinel
Did you know there are ruby-like spinels in the English Crown Jewels? How about that spinel can be red, pink, blue, purple and even black?
Stichtite
Stichtite
There aren't many purple gemstones, making purplish pink to purpose-red stichtite a delight to use in jewelry. Plus, it has metaphysical properties your customers may be looking for.
Sugilite
Sugilite
Sugilite offers lots of designing possibilities whether it's beads, cabochons, inlays and more. Like amethyst, sugilite's variety of purples makes it go well with just about everything.
Sunstone
Sunstone
With "sun" in the name, it's no surprise that sunstone is associated with the radiance of the sun. This brilliant stone has a number of metaphysical properties.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite
Rarer than diamonds and almost as famous, tanzanite has skyrocketed in popularity. You'll want to learn about the gem and start designing now as deposits could run dry!
Tektite
Tektite
Looking to design with a gemstone that's out of this world? Tektite is a form of natural glass that forms not from the heat of volcanoes, but from atmospheric friction on meteorites.
Thulite
Thulite
Thulite, the stone of the mythical north, is a recent discovery in terms of gemstones. Find out how this stone influences the metaphysical world, how to care for it, and more.
Tigereye
Tigereye
The eye of the tiger gleams in iridescent splendor within Tigereye. The metaphysical properties of tigereye are exactly as you'd expect, including protection and clear-eyed understanding.
Tiger Iron
Tiger Iron
Tiger iron is actually three gemstones in one. With the associations of the three component stones, tiger iron is ideal for men's designs, without reducing popularity in women's jewelry.
Topaz, Blue
Topaz, Blue
Blue topaz is the color of water, making it a wonderful substitute for more expensive aquamarine. No wonder this popular gemstone has been used for centuries in jewelry!
Topaz, White
Topaz, White
Sparkling white topaz is used equally well as a centerpiece or accent in jewelry designs. Read on to learn more about this beautiful and adaptable gemstone.
Tourmaline
Tourmaline
Tourmaline holds a special place in the hearts of jewelry designers and gem enthusiasts for its incredible amount of colors. No wonder it was thought tourmaline traveled along a rainbow.
Trolleite
Trolleite
Delve into the rich history, metaphysical properties, and captivating lore of trolleite gemstones, and discover inspiring design suggestions to integrate this beautiful stone into your jewelry creations.
Turquoise
Turquoise
Turquoise has been a treasured gemstone around the world, captivating imaginations for millennia. The beauty and history of this December birthstone is hard to match.
Unakite
Unakite
Unakite is a great stone for men's and unisex jewelry styles. It's a colorful choice that works with a range of metals and other materials due to its mix of cool and warm hues.
Variscite
Variscite
While variscite is mostly a collector's gem due to its rarity, the mineral is fabulous in jewelry with its vivid green color and intriuing array of associated metaphysical properties.
Verdite
Verdite
Verdite, sometimes mistaken for jade, can resemble an abstract canvas with varying earthy color patterns, making the gemstone a beautiful and unique addition to jewelry.
Vesuvianite
Vesuvianite
Vesuvianite jewelry has been used as a gift to newlyweds due to its connotations as a cooperative stone that facilitates awareness of one's heart and an ability to express love.
Zircon
Zircon
The brilliant colors and fire of zircon make it a luscious choice for jewelry. Metaphysical practitioners believe that is useful as a sleep aid. Learn more about this radiant gemstone in this article.
Zirconia, Cubic
Zirconia, Cubic
Cubic zirconia (referred to as CZ) is a lab-grown gemstone, but don't let that taint your feelings on this gorgeous diamond simulant that actually is said to still possess metaphysical traits.
Zoisite
Zoisite
A perfect gemstone for artists, writers and jewelry designers, zoisite is said to have creative energy. Ruby in zoisite varieties especially are said to help artists and their art become one.