Jewelry Material: Gemstone

Optical properties refer to the way gemstones interact with light. Color, interference and inclusions are all examples of optical properties. The first optical property is also the most obvious--color.

The rainbow in an opal, the jardin of an emerald, the shimmering asterisk in a star sapphire—learn why gemologists call these "phenomena" or "inclusions" instead of "flaws."

In the warm hues of a sunbaked summer sunset, this Outback-inspired necklace blends bold style with understated colors for a laid-back elegance.

Luxurious coils of wire frame iridescent paua shell beads in this gorgeous necklace, strung on dyed leather cord.

Embrace simple elegance with the shimmer of silver and the earthy beauty of natural malachite in this refined and classy necklace.

Read on to discover the differences between natural hematite and man-made Hemalyke™ beads and components.

Black onyx beads gently undulate around the perimeter of this graceful copper-wire bracelet, creating a subtly sophisticated style.

Crafted for crisp cool days or the gentle arrival of spring, this bracelet radiates the blue of the sky and captures the warmth of sunlight's kiss.

Take a deep dive into the marvelous cabochon and its sister the cameo. Learn about how they're created and dozens of ways a designer can use them.

When jewelry makers encounter information about gemstones, they frequently discover where a stone is mined, what it's made of and the phrase "metaphysical properties." What is that information and how can a jewelry maker use it in designs?

Dive deeper than mere space-age aesthetics and get hands-on with raw materials. In this article, discover the materials sourced from or inspired by outer space.

The gently swirling spirals gracing this necklace and earring set provide a harmonious counterpoint to the sturdy allure of the jade stone from which they were made.

These classy bracelets are perfect for stacking. With stones of faceted garnet and tourmaline as well as silver-plated findings, they bring luxury to a simple design.

The ruggedness of brass-plated horseshoe nails is lifted to new heights by the addition of turquoise and gold beads, producing truly distinctive earrings.

Explore the wealth of hues in rainbow fluorite with this necklace and earring set. The serene blue and purple tones in the stones are lit by shimmering accents of seed beads.

Opt for a natural look with rhodonite chips. The structured design of the necklace complements the freeform beads perfectly, uniting their unique shapes in perfect harmony.

Craft the enchanting illusion of weightlessness with this exquisite necklace, adorned with captivating baubles delicately suspended from almost invisible wire.

Craft this intricate sterling silver bracelet with an array of delicate jump rings. Enhance its feminine allure by incorporating rosy-hued natural imperial jasper stones that gracefully dangle from the chain.

Bring earthy elegance to your jewelry with natural banded amethyst and riverstone beads. The simple design of the earrings highlights the complexity of the stone, creating a perfect balance between edginess and sophistication.

Elegant earrings featuring cubic zirconia butterflies and amethyst stones present a regal combination of purple and gold, embodying a luxurious aesthetic. The floral ear wires add a springtime theme, making them a perfect accessory to celebrate the season's renewal and natural beauty.

These amethyst earrings embody freeform chic with a modern twist. The cascading chains create a dynamic effect, adding movement and sophistication to any look.

Gracefully highlight your look with this stunning necklace, which features a single lapis bead elegantly suspended on a gold-filled paperclip chain.

These captivating earrings feature flower amethyst encased in silver-toned copper wire, presenting a striking purple gradient, and make a bold yet sophisticated statement.

Flower amethyst's swirling patterns set on copper Lillypilly sheets give these earrings Painted Desert vibes. Their geometric shapes add a modern, stylish flair.