Opal is an uncommon gemstone with an uncommon beauty and fragility, leading it to be recreated in the lab as a stronger composite that withstands more stress.
The Unlocked Mysteries of Jade:
Delve into the rich history and cultural significance of jade, highlighting its revered status in Chinese culture, its exceptional toughness, and its various forms, including jadeite and nephrite, as well as its widespread use in jewelry and carvings, with an emphasis on the importance of color, translucency, and texture in determining jade quality.
Knapping:
Learn all about knapping, an ancient technique for creating gemstone tools or personal adornment. You'll be amazed how much effort goes into these creations!
Single-Strand Necklace, Bracelet and Earring Set
Adorn yourself in the captivating hues of crazy lace agate in this three-piece set. Featuring stunning blue beads accented with the warmth of copper.
Single-Strand Necklace and Earrings Set
Enhance your look with our exquisite necklace and earring set, showcasing beautiful lapis lazuli teardrops and intricate sterling silver accents, for a truly captivating ensemble.
Single-Strand Necklace and Earrings Set
Bezel setting connectors have made creating gemstone cabochon jewelry a breeze. Create a sophisticated Western-inspired style with this turquoise set.
Ask the Experts Stone Q&A
Q: I am wondering how to drill small holes in certain pieces to accommodate certain designs. How would I drill holes in sterling silver or brass components? Also, how would I drill an extra hole in a pendant made of howlite? HELP!
Bracelet and Earring Set
Elevate your style with our exquisite earrings and bracelet featuring stunning lilac stone and yellow calcite beads, accented with silver-plated brass for a touch of elegance.
Single-Strand Necklace and Earrings Set
Transform your outfit with this captivating necklace and earring set, adorned with amethyst beads elegantly hung from sterling silver rabbit ear bails.
Ask the Experts Heated vs. Dyed Colored Stones Q&A
Q: What is the difference between "heated" and "dyed" colored stones?
Ask the Experts Drilling Q&A
Q: I recently came upon and purchased several pieces of natural quartz in various sizes. Mostly spear or column shaped. I know most times these are wire wrapped for wearing, but I was wondering about drilling a hole to string them that way. Would that be possible? If so what kind of drill bit should I use? Should I do anything to prepare the quartz before that? Thanks.
Ask the Experts Value of Dyed Q&A
Q: Are dyed, heated or stabilized gemstones less valuable than the natural ones? And what is the difference between them?
Ask the Experts Cleaning Beads Q&A
Q: When I buy beads in bulk, they often have a white powdery substance in the bead hole. I am using a small file or a fine drill bit to clean out some of them, but there must be an easier way to do this.
Ask the Experts Rotary Grinding Tool Q&A
Q: What do I use to drill a hole in a cabochon? I can't find anything to go through.
Ask the Experts Cleaning Q&A
Q: I bought some lovely white agate nugget beads. However, many of them look like their edges are dirty. Can you tell me the best way to clean these beads?
Ask the Experts Cabochons Q&A
Q: Several cabochon gemstones and paua shells do not exactly fit the settings I purchased for their size. How do I shave down the edges to make them fit?
Single-Strand Necklace, Bracelet and Earring Set
Stay fashion-fresh with amazonite! This necklace, earring and bracelet set is designed around the contrast between the warm golden tones of the findings and the cool minty blue-green of the gemstone.
Ask the Experts Cleaning and Polishing Gemstones Q&A
Q: Is there a simple way that I can increase the polished look of the commercial grade stone beads like the sodalite?
Ask the Experts Gemstone Drilling Q&A
Q: How do I drill a hole in a gemstone already polished.
Earrings
These heishi drop earrings are sure to add a touch of boho style to any fashion.
Single-Strand Necklace
Designer Marlene Rydzewski, creates a sophisticated necklace and earring set using sapphire beads, cultured freshwater pearls and sterling silver wire.
Single-Strand Necklace
Clusters of sparkling red rubies and lustrous freshwater pearls hang daintily from gold-filled chain on this elegant necklace
Triple-Strand Necklace
This multi-strand necklace by Matthew MacMinn can be made in silver and Crystal Passions® peridot green, or opt for the colors you or your customers like most.
Earrings
The gemstones in these delicate earrings infuse this design with the essence of early morning rain. Follow our free tutorial to make your own pair.