Essential Resources

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.

Gluing a Half-Drilled Gemstone or Pearl onto a Peg Earstud

Create classic post earring designs with only a peg earstud and a half-drilled bead or pearl. Simple how-to walks designers through each step.

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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.

How to Use Freeform Mountings

With these simple instructions, you can master the art of freeform mountings and create stunning necklaces and earrings that are sure to impress. Learn how to securely set gems and craft beautiful jewelry pieces with ease!

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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?

How to Create a Dragonscale Chainmaille Weave

Let your imagination run wild by learning the dragonscale chainmaille weave technique. Create dynamic designs by advancing your chainmaille skills.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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!

How to Dye Pearls

Learn how to easily dye pearls to match any outfit or occasion, a process which has been a closely guarded trade secret.

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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.

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.

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!

Aragonite

The ancient fossilizing qualities of aragonite are especially interesting. The perceived metaphysical properties are no less interesting, fostering truth, understanding and nurturing.

Sunstone

Discover the rich history, powerful sunstone meaning and healing sunstone properties of this radiant gemstone—plus, learn how to make a simple necklace with sunstone.

Jasper, Red

Learn about red jasper, from its physical properties to its place in legend and history.

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.

Ruby Gemstone

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.

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!

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.

Peridot

Explore the rich history, metaphysical meanings, peridot properties and design inspiration behind this vibrant green gemstone.

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.

Moonstone, Rainbow

Unearth the beauty of rainbow moonstone and learn its history, geological properties, design uses and proper care in this Gem Note.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

How to Use Cord Caps

Learn how to create a professional finish to designs using multiple cords with this step-by-step tutorial for using cord caps.

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Using a Stop Bead

Follow along with instructions for how to use a stop bead to keep beads on the thread when starting any off-loom stitch. The stop bead is temporary and easy to remove.

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Ring Mount Instructions

Learn how to glue a cabochon into a closed-back ring setting with this tutorial. Clear images demonstrate each step in this how-to.

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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, 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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

Discover Natural Materials for Jewelry Designs

Learn all about bone, horn, wood, nut and shell materials and how they can be incorporated into jewelry for natural designs.

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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.

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.

Aventurine

Though there isn't a "D" in the name, aventurine gemstones makes wearers think "adventure." Think optimism. Think bountiful. Think jewelry-making opportunity!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Autumn Hickoryite

According to metaphysical beliefs, autumn hickoryite stimulates imaginative thinking and a desire for adventure. Perhaps a desire for jewelry-making adventures?

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Bronzite

While bronzite may appear mundane when not polished, bronzite is a truly beautiful gemstone that can display chatoyancy and contain bright golden flecks.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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