Abalone shells are from large marine gastropod mollusks. They can range from smaller shells to large shells with an average size of 8 inches. The inner layer of the shell is composed of a material known as nacre, which gives it a shiny and iridescent appearance. The soothing nature of this colorful shell is believed to aid in communication, cooperation, commitment, and insight. Abalone symbolizes perseverance in times of emotional strife.

Agate is a rock formation composed mostly of quartz and chalcedony amongst other components, creating a rock with colorful layers. They are formed in metamorphic rocks as well as within volcanic rock, sometimes creating beautiful stripes and patterns. Agates come in a variety of colors and can be solid or patterned. Agate is known as a stone of strength, said to enhance intellect and foster creativity. It is believed to bring good luck.

Amazonite is a green mineral in the Microcline Feldspar group and was named after the Amazon region because of its color, even though Amazonite has never been found there. Amazonite stones that are the most saturated with color are found in Russia. For a long time it was a mystery as to how Amazonite got its color and many believed it was from rusted copper compounds within the stone. There have now been numerous studies suggesting that there are other minerals giving it it’s greenish-blueish color. Amazonite is said to be the stone of truth, honor, communication, integrity, hope and trust. It is also believed to enhance creativity and intellect.

Amber is tree resin that has been fossilized into a honey-yellow colored solid gemstone. Because it is a natural occurrence coming from tree resin, it can occasionally harbor bark from the tree or other things likes leaves within the gemstone, called inclusions. Its name is derived from the Middle French word ambre and the Middle Latin word ambar. A common misconception is that amber is fossilized tree sap, not resin. Trees produce this resin to help heal themselves. An ancient petrified tree resin, Amber’s close connection with nature is thought to promote vitality, health and well-being. It is prized for its energy and healing properties.

Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz and is one of the world’s most popular gemstones. Funnily enough, this gemstone got its name from Koine Greek word amethystos, which means ‘not intoxicated’ for it’s believed ability to protect its wearer from getting too drunk. It gets its violet color from impurities of iron called irradiation and occasionally from impurities in other transition metals along with the presence of trace elements. Amethyst is thought to be the stone of protection; believed to bring calm, balance, patience and peace to the wearer.

Ammonites are fossils of once living creatures that lived some 66 to 400 million years ago and disappeared with the extinction of the dinosaurs. Ammonites were closely related to octopuses and squid, except they lived in a shell. Their shells were made of aragonite, a shiny iridescent material, the same material pearls are made of. Fossilized ammonites were formed when the remains of the ammonite were buried by sediment millions of years ago. Over time, the chambers of the buried shell filled with rich mineral deposits, and after being exposed to high temperatures and pressures over millions of years the chemical composition changed and the ammonite became fossilized. Ammonites are the perfect example of geology and gemology coming together, which is why ammonites are one of our favorites. Ammonite is associated with change, resiliency, and overcoming obstacles. The spiral shape represents the journey of life, death, and rebirth.

Apatite is composed of phosphate minerals hydroxyapatite, fluorapatite, and chlorapatite grouped together into the crystal. Because it can occur in various colors and shapes, this stone is often mistaken for other stones. For this reason, its name is derived from apatein, the Greek word meaning ‘to be misleading’. It is found in metamorphic, sedimentary, igneous, and volcanic rocks. Apatite is said to stimulate ideas as well as help to increase intellect, focus and imagination. This stone is thought to help build confidence and aid in communication.

Aquamarine is named after the latin word aqua marina, meaning ‘sea water’ for its ocean-like appearance. It is a blue or cyan variety of a mineral composed of beryllium, aluminum, and cyclosilicate called beryl. Aquamarine is found in Brazil in a variety of shades of blue, from pale blue to dark blue with shades of bluish-green. Aquamarine, once believed to be the treasure of mermaids, brought luck to sailors. Used for fearlessness and protection, it is considered a stone of eternal youth and happiness.

Aventurine is a green form of quartz. Green Aventurine owes its characteristic shimmer (or aventurescence as we call it in the gem world) to plate-like, or flaky mica inclusions. Fuchsite inclusions give it its signature green color. Although they are primarily green, they can be found in a variety of other colors including blue, yellow, orange, grey, and brown. The majority of green and bluish-green stones are found in India, while other colors of this stone can be found in Spain, Chile, Brazil, and Russia. Aventurine is said to benefit many areas of the mind including creativity, imagination, intellect and mental clarity. It is believed to give a sense of balance and enhance happiness.

Black Tourmaline is formed in pegmatites which are voids beneath the earth’s surface filled with hot, mineral rich liquid. These pegmatites can be found in granite and coarse rocks layered with different minerals named schist rocks. The tourmaline crystals form when this hot liquid cools and the minerals crystalize. Rough tourmaline is easily identified by its unique crystal habit which is usually a column made up of parallel, elongated crystals. Black Tourmaline is believed to be a purifying stone that deflects and transforms negative energy and thus is very protective. It is also believed to bring emotional stability.

Blue Lace Agate is a variegated (meaning it has a variety of colors in the form of streaks), soft blue type of Chalcedony, a microcrystalline quartz mineral, banded together to create layers of blue hues, whites, and browns. These layers are created in line within the host rock, typically in igneous rocks as nodules or geodes. Blue Lace Agate is said to help calm one’s nerves and promote courage, articulation and composure. It is believed to be particularly useful in the expression of thoughts and feelings.

Bumblebee Jasper is composed of volcanic matter found at Mount Papandayan in Indonesia. Its name comes from its close resemblance to a bumblebee, both having orange, yellow, brown, and black stripes. These colors are the result of fibrous calcite grown in layers. Bumblebee Jasper is said to be a stone of ingenuity, bringing inspiration, confidence and intensity to one’s creative process.

Traditionally thought to be a stone of inspiration, Carnelian is believed to stimulate inquisitiveness, awaken one’s talents, and increase the drive for achievement. It has also been said to enhance the self-esteem, courage, and resolve of the wearer.

Chalcedony is a large group of gemstones made up of cryptocrystalline silica and quartz. It is most commonly found in shades of gray and brown. The chalcedony used in jewelry is available in a wide variety of colors. Carnelian, Onyx, Chrysocolla and Chrysoprase are just a few stones that fall into this category. Chalcedony is believed to promote peace and to balance the mind, body and spirit. It is also known as the “Speaker’s Stone,” improving verbal dexterity.

Chrysocolla is a stone composed of hydrated copper that has oxidized to a light green or blue, found in deposits. It forms in icicle-like shapes called stalactites. In ancient Greece, Chrysocolla was used to weld gold, giving it its name which is a combination of the Greek words chrysos and kolla meaning ‘gold’ and ‘glue’. Associated with communication, Chrysocolla is believed to encourage self-expression and empowerment. Thought to encourage balance, it is said to both stimulate the mind while calming emotions.

Chrysoprase is an olive green-to-deep green version of the cryptocrystalline form of silica, called chalcedony, containing trace amounts of nickel. Cryptocrystalline is a term for a gemstone composed of microscopic crystals that can only be seen under magnification. This stone gets its name from the Greek words chrysos and prasinon meaning ‘gold’ and ‘green’. Chrysoprase, a stone of growth, love, hope and forgiveness, is believed to encourage both acceptance and positivity.

Citrine’s name is derived from the word citrus for its resemblance to lemons and oranges. It comes in a variety of yellow hues, as well as orangish and brownish shades. Natural formations of this gemstone are rare as most of Citrine today is created by heat treating purple Amethyst or Smoky Quartz. Citrine is known as the stone of success and prosperity. It is believed to increase motivation and to encourage creativity and self-expression.

Cowrie is the shell of a group of marine gastropod mollusks, commonly known as sea snails. Its shell has a strong polished shiny top with a solid surface underneath. The top, round side of the shell is called the dorsal face and the bottom, flat side is called the ventral face. In many parts of the world, Cowrie was used as a form of currency. Legend in Africa says that those who love Cowrie are descendants from the spirit of earth and wealth of the ocean. Traditionally, the cowrie shell has been revered worldwide as a spiritual symbol. Cowries have been used for thousands of years for healing, protection and even as currency.

Dalmatian Jasper got its name for its close resemblance to the Dalmatian dog breed because of its white opaque coloring with black and brown spots. Even though Jasper is in the name, this stone is actually a variety of minerals combined with microcrystalline quartz. Dalmatian Jasper is believed to be a stone of positivity and playfulness. It is said to help the wearer release negativity and to focus on the simple joy of being.

Dendritic Opal is a form of hydrated silica mineral that has been stained with marks composed of manganese, iron, or other metal oxides in the form of dendrites, which are crystalline inclusions that take the shape of tree branches. This form of opal comes in a range of colors from opaque white, pink, blue, green, or yellow all with black dendrites. Unlike the more commonly known Opal, Dendritic Opal does not display any play of color, it exhibits its uniqueness through its patterned inclusions. Dendritic opal is said to promote spiritual growth, helping organize one’s psyche in order to be more open and accepting. It is a healing stone, thought to aid in developing healthy relationships.

Druzy Quartz is a sugar-like cluster of crystallized tiny quartz crystals on the exterior of a quartz based mineral. These quartz crystals are often found in the hollow cavities of agate geodes in sedimentary and indigenous rocks. Water passes through the hollow cavities, pulling rich minerals from the rock. Once the water has evaporated the remaining minerals crystallize to form Druzy. Druzy is believed to strengthen the spirit and amplify the body’s natural healing properties. It is believed to relieve anxiety and promote positivity in everyday life.

Emerald is the most popular gemstone of the beryl variety, alongside Aquamarine and Morganite. It is a green stone that gets its coloring from chromium and/or vanadium components. It is made from the four elements; oxygen, aluminum, silicon, and beryllium, found in hydrothermal vents. These hydrothermal vents are underground streams (veins) of hot water and when the water begins to cool to just the right temperature, Emeralds are formed. Thought to bring good fortune and positive energy to its wearer, emerald stones are known to help strengthen friendships, attract love and encourage success.

Fluorite can be found in virtually any color. This is due to impurities within the stone and an absence of gaps in the color centers, allowing the stone to display banded colors. Because of this, Fluorite is known as the most colorful mineral in the world. It is most commonly found in purple, yellow, green, and blue, or can be colorless. Other variations are pink, white, brown, red, and black. It is also fluorescent under UV light. Fluorite is thought to increase mental clarity and to heighten intellect, improving focus and concentration. A calming stone, it is believed to bring stability and harmony to the wearer.

Pearls are formed when something as little as a grain of sand finds its way into the shell of an oyster, clam, or mussel. The marine animal produces a substance called nacre that is meant to protect it from the foreign object by coating it. Many layers of nacre are formed one over another until the pearl is created. Naturally formed by mollusks, pearls represent love and beauty from within. They are thought to bring calm, enhance wisdom and aid with self-acceptance.

Garnets are their own variety of stone. While red Garnets are the most popular, these gemstones come in all hues including purples, blues, oranges, greens and can even have a color changing phenomenon. All Garnets have the same crystal structure, varying in chemical composition. Of the twenty Garnet species, only five are used as commercial gemstones. Garnet is a stone of regeneration, said to boost energy and revitalize the wearer. It is believed to be a protective stone, especially from evil, travel and nightmares.

A combination of multiple stones together is thought to bring all of the powers of each stone to the wearer. Each of these genuine stones are believed to benefit different aspects of your spirit and life, including self-growth, relationships, health and happiness.

Geodes begin as bubbles in volcanic rock or sedimentary rock. Over millions of years the outer shell of the spherical shape hardens, and water containing silica forms on the inner walls of the hollow cavity within the Geode. From the outside, Geodes look like common rocks, but when they are opened they reveal a cavity lined with beautiful crystals, making these stones truly magical. Geodes are associated with the connection of the outer exterior and the inner being. They are thought to help with heartache and with the flow of positive energy, encouraging the wearer to let go of any unfulfilling thoughts and to follow their intuition.

Herkimer “Diamonds” are double-terminated quartz crystals that are found in and around Herkimer County and the Mohawk River Valley in New York state. Herkimer Quartz are a true stand-out amongst their quartz relatives. These magical little crystals are often called “diamonds” due to both their clarity and natural faceting. Their double termination points and up to 18 facets grants them more ability to shine, refract and reflect light. The distinct black, gray, and red dappling is a result of liquid, solid and gas inclusions. Known as “Herkimer Diamonds,” these are said to be the most powerful of all quartz crystals. Naturally occurring with two points, they are believed to both transmit and receive spiritual energy.

Howlite is a white stone that most often has gray, black, or brown veins running throughout it. It has the ability to absorb dyes through its pores which is commonly used to make an imitation of other stones. Associated with self-awareness and creativity, howlite is said to improve one’s emotional well-being by calming and freeing the mind. A naturally white stone with marbling, it is commonly dyed to enhance its color.

Iolite is a transparent blue gemstone commonly referred to as ‘water sapphire’. When turned, it shows three different colors depending on the direction of the crystal and the angel in which it’s being held. This quality, called Pleochroic, allows the stone to display the colors blue, violet, light yellow, and even colorless on each side. Historically, this stone has been called ‘the Vikings compass’ because it was used for its believed ability to steer their wooden ships during sea expeditions. Thought to be a meditation stone, Iolite is believed to calm emotions, strengthen intuition and help build self-confidence.

Fossilized Coral is created from prehistoric coral that has gradually been changed to Agate, creating agatized coral. Many years ago, this coral was a living marine animal but over time its skeleton was fossilized and preserved making it much harder than precious coral. Coming from the sea, Coral is known to relax and quiet emotions, bringing inner peace. It is known for helping one to be more balanced and in harmony with nature.

Kunzite is a pink-to-violet gemstone and is the most well known of the mineral spodumene. It gets its color from manganese. It is named after the famous gemologist, George Frederick Kunz who was the first to discover that this stone is its own variety of the mineral spodumene. While the most important Kunzite deposits are found in Brazil— San Diego, California is also an important source for this stone. Kunzite is thought to be a stone of connection, strengthening communication between the heart and the mind. It is believed to attract joy and unconditional love for oneself, others, and for life. It is also believed to encourage the wearer to break down unnecessary emotional walls and to be welcoming to pure love and happiness.

Kyanite is a rare gemstone that is often formed in bladed, long thin crystals. It is named after the Greek word cyanos, meaning ‘deep blue’ for its most common coloring. It can also be found in blue-green, green, gray, white, yellow, pink, and a light black. These stones often have a variety of these colors in the form of crystal streaks. Kyanite is associated with new beginnings and is thought to inspire strength, courage and transformation. It is known for its ability to transfer energy and to attract loyalty.

Labradorescence, also known as the schiller effect (from the German noun to sparkle or twinkle), is the phenomenon that creates the spectacular displays of color. Labradorescence is not a reflection on the surface of the stone, but a reflection of light hitting crystals with twinning surfaces inside the stones. Twinning surfaces within stones are errors in crystal growth. Light reflecting off of the different twinning surfaces give us the magical, dynamic rainbow color waves we love so much. Labradorite is said to be a stone of transformation and magic. It is said to clear, balance and protect the aura, as well as being an excellent stone for general protection.

Lapis Lazuli is a blue semi precious stone containing lazurite, pyrite, and calcite. It has been an extremely popular and sought-after gemstone for thousands of years. In Europe during medieval times, Lapis Lazuli was ground into a powder creating a deep blue color pigment called ultramarine. Ultramarine became the most valuable blue color pigment of the time and was often used by the revolutionary painters of the Renaissance and Baroque periods. These artists include da Vinci, Michelangelo, Vermeer, Rembrandt, Botticelli and so many more. Lapis Lazuli is a stone believed to reveal inner truth and encourage self-awareness. It is said to help release anger, allowing one to be more honest and able to speak one’s mind.

Larimar is a rare Caribbean blue colored stone of the mineral pectolite variety that can only be found in the Dominican Republic. It can also be found in hues of greenish-blue along with specks of white and gray. It gets its color from copper inclusions during the stones formation. It is believed that Larimar’s connection to water and the sea aids in the stone’s ability to soothe emotions and to assist with communication, love and respect.

Onyx is of the chalcedony variety with inter-growths of quartz and morganite. It often forms as stalactites and stalagmites, which are icicle-like shapes tapering down from the ceiling and rising from the floor of the interior of a cave. It comes in shades of red, brown, and orange; often with white banded inclusions of chalcedony. When faced with challenges, onyx is believed to inspire personal power, focus and strength. It is said to encourage self-confidence and discipline.

Malachite is a green copper carbonate hydroxide mineral with banded white and lighter shades of green. It is formed in bubble-like formations, called botryoidal structures as well as formations shaped like cones, called stalactites. Malachite was used as a mineral pigment in green paint from before the Middle Ages up until the early 1800s. It is used for a variety of artistic purposes, including vases and structures. Malachite, known as a stone of growth and positivity, is said to help dispel negative thought patterns. It is said to be beneficial for new relationships and forging new paths.

Meteorites are rock fragments from outer space that have penetrated the Earth’s atmosphere and impacted its surface. They are pieces of asteroids, comets, or meteoroids that made their way through the solar system all the way to the Earth’s crust. Scientists believe Meteorites found here came from an asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. Often referred to as “shooting stars,” meteorites are billion-year old fragments of asteroids which have fallen to earth. Some ancient cultures believed meteorites to be “heavenly gifts,” or good omens.

Moonstone is the most valuable variety of the feldspar group. Although the body color varies, most Moonstones have adularescence— a phenomenon unique to Moonstone where the stone projects a floating bluish glow when under a light source. This is caused by light refracting off of different layers within the stone. Some also show chatoyancy, also known as opalescence or the “cat’s eye” effect, where a band of light extends along the stone’s surface. Moonstone is believed to calm and to provide relief from emotional stress. It is also believed to provide protection and is associated with love.

A calming and soothing stone, Coffee Moonstone is believed to heighten one's sense of self-worth and value. It is said to have a loving energy and is thought to bring out the best in people..

Moss Agate is a clear or milky-white to gray colored form of chalcedony with green colored minerals within the stone that form into branches or moss-like impurities. It is formed from silicon dioxide found as fractured or weathered volcanic rock. Although agate is in the name, it is not a true form of agate because of its lack of banding. Moss Agate is known as a stone of abundance and growth, and is regarded as a stabilizing and strengthening influence.

Mother of Pearl is a common term for nacre, the multi-colored iridescent inner layer of oysters and mollusks’ shells created from organic to inorganic composite. This biomineral is also what makes up the outer layering of pearls. Even though it is more common than pearls, it is only found in a portion of mollusks shells. Mother of Pearl is said to harness the healing power of the sea. It is believed to relieve stress, heighten intuition, and offer clarity to help balance emotions.

Pyrite, also known as ‘fool’s gold’ is a metallic mineral composed of iron sulfide. Even though gold is more dense, Pyrite is harder. It is able to scratch copper and produce sparks when pressed against metal with intense force. For this reason, its name is derived from the Greek word per meaning ‘fire’. A stone of intellect, Pyrite is said to enhance intelligence, mental stability, logic, analysis, creativity, memory and psychic development. It is believed to bring good luck and fortune.

Ocean Jasper is a multicolored stone commonly formed in orbicular (spherical) structures and it can only be found in Madagascar. It is a fine grained, opaque member of the chalcedony variety with orb inclusions. It is often formed with banded colors and patterns made up of mineral oxides and organic matter within the stone. A stone of steady strength, Ocean Jasper draws its soothing power from the element of water. It is a nurturing, protective stone which encourages patience and helps release negative feelings of anger and resentment.

Opal is generally a semitransparent gemstone with cascading displays of spectral colors including green, blue, red, pink, violet, orange, and yellow. Depending on its formation, the background color can be any color from the spectrum, white, or black. It is a form of hydrated silica, formed from a silicon dioxide and water solution. The play on color comes from light refracting off of gaps between the silica spheres causing the light to separate into the different colors of the spectrum. Believed to inspire optimism and enthusiasm, opal is said to amplify positive traits, fostering one’s full potential. It is said to help maintain emotional balance, stimulate intuition and enhance insight.

Peridot is the gem form of olivine, a group of minerals that form green igneous rocks. Although olivine is common, gem quality Peridot is quite rare. It gets its color from iron and has discoid cleavage which is referred to as “lily pad” shaped inclusions. Peridot is thought to help eliminate negativity, enhance confidence and encourage positive change. It has been used to overcome challenges that hinder one from reaching full potential.

Prasiolite is a member of the quartz family, commonly referred to as Green Amethyst. It is formed when natural Amethyst is exposed to extremely high temperatures, often from lava flowing over rocks containing Amethyst. Named for its color, Prasiolite means ‘scallion green colored stone’ and was derived from the Greek words prason meaning ‘leek’ and lithos meaning ‘stone’. Prasiolite is thought of as a transformational stone for it’s ability to absorb negative energy and release it as positive energy. It is believed to help stimulate an open mind while encouraging the acceptance of love and helping release unwanted negative emotions.

Quartz is a crystalline mineral formed when magma flows over and cools in igneous rocks; or it can also be formed in geothermal waters. Clear Quartz, or ‘Rock Crystal Quartz is often found with multiple facets and inter-growths with adjacent quartz crystals, giving it an ice-like appearance. For this reason, it was once believed to be permanently frozen ice. It comes in a variety of colors, and some display a spectrum of color due to light bouncing and refracting off of its different internal layers. Quartz can be used to purify and clarify the spiritual, mental and physical planes, clearing away negative energy and increasing inspiration and creativity.

Thought to be a powerful stone for emotional healing, Pink Peruvian Opal is believed to encourage balance and harmony within one’s self. It is thought to promote resolution of past wounds through forgiveness, compassion and peace.