Gemstone Education

Alexandrite

Dates

June - Gemini and Cancer

Mohs Hardness

8.5

Anniversaries

55 years

Properties

Alexandrite is a very rare color-changing variety of the mineral chrysoberyl and is often described by gem connoisseurs as “emerald by day, ruby by night”. The gemstone’s characteristic color change phenomenon is due to the presence of trace amounts of chromium, which gives the stone a green color in daylight or fluorescent light, and a red or purplish-red color in incandescent light.

Care

To clean alexandrite jewelry at home, gently scrub it with a soft brush and warm water mixed with mild dish detergent. To remove any dirt or oils that could diminish the gemstone's shine. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, and sudden temperature changes.

Interesting facts :)

Alexandrite's color change is attributed to its distinctive crystal structure, which selectively absorbs certain wavelengths of light. This selective absorption and reflection give the stone its dual-color appearance. Many believe its color-changing properties symbolize the balance between the physical and spiritual realms.

Amethyst

Dates

February; Aquarius and Pisces

Mohs Hardness

7

Anniversaries

6 and 17 years

Properties

Amethyst is a type of quartz ranging from shades of light lavender to deep purple. Quartz, the second-most abundant mineral in the earth’s crust, comes in an array of different color variations due to the conditions and elements present during the stone’s formation. Amethyst specifically gets its regal purple color from exposure to radiation, iron impurities, and other trace elements.

Care

Amethyst can be safely cleaned with warm soapy water or using an ultrasonic cleaner. Avoid subjecting the stone to extreme heat or temperature fluctuations. While it is relatively durable and suitable for everyday wear, it can still become scratched over time.

Interesting facts :)

Amethyst has been used in jewelry since at least 2000 BCE, and it has had many supposed benefits ascribed to it throughout history. Its name comes from the ancient Greek word methustos, meaning “intoxicated,” reflecting an association with the god of wine, Dionysus, and a belief that the stone could protect the wearer from drunkenness.

Aquamarine

Dates

March - Pisces and Aries

Mohs Hardness

7.5 - 8

Anniversaries

19 years

Properties

Formed in primary and secondary pegmatite deposits, Aquamarine is a blue to green-blue variety of the gem species beryl, which also includes emerald and morganite. It is often very clear and free of inclusions. The stone’s blue color is due to the trace amounts of iron present in the crystal structure.

Care

While aquamarine is durable for regular wear, it's recommended to clean it every third or fourth time it's worn for optimal appearance. A safe at-home cleaning method involves soaking the piece in a solution of warm water mixed with mild dish detergent. Gently scrub the gemstone with a soft brush and then allow it to dry on a soft cloth.

Interesting facts :)

The name aquamarine means “water of the sea,” and accurately describes this sea-blue translucent gemstone. Not surprisingly, the stone is sacred to many of the sea deities, and sailors entrusted that it would bring safe passage across the oceans and quell fear during stormy weather.

Australian White Opal

Dates

October - Libra and Scorpio

Mohs Hardness

5 - 6.5

Anniversaries

14th

Properties

Australian white opal forms as a result of seasonal rains soaking the dry earth in regions of Australia’s outback. These rains penetrate deep into ancient underground rocks, carrying dissolved silica (a compound made of silicon and oxygen) downward. During the dry periods that follow, much of the water evaporates, leaving behind solid silica deposits in the cracks and between the layers of underground sedimentary rock. These deposits over time eventually form opal.

Care

Far softer than many other gemstones, opal should be stored carefully to avoid being scratched by other jewelry and protected from blows, as exposed areas can chip or crack. Refrain from dehydrating or subjecting it to prolonged heat. To clean, wipe opal jewelry with a soft cloth. As with all fine jewelry, opal should be removed before sleeping.

Interesting facts :)

Presently, the largest uncut black opal is known as “Halley’s Comet” and weighs 1982.5 carats, about the size of a man’s fist, and was discovered at Lightning Ridge, New South Wales, Australia in 1986.

Blue Chalcedony

Dates

N/A

Mohs Hardness

7

Anniversaries

N/A

Properties

Made up of microscopic quartz crystals, Chalcedony is a cryptocrystalline form of silica which means that its crystals cannot be seen without the use of a microscope. Blue Chalcedony forms in cavities or voids within rocks, where silica-rich water containing dissolved quartz seeps in and gradually solidifies. The stone gets its magnificent, bright color from the presence of trace amounts of iron and various blue minerals such as celadonite or other manganese-bearing compounds.

Care

As part of the quartz family, Blue Chalcedony is durable and easy to care for. For safe cleaning, wash with warm water and a mild dish soap and let dry.

Interesting facts :)

Silicified dinosaur bone is primarily chalcedony. (In geology, this is the process of fossilization in which silica rich fluids seep into materials like rock, bone, shells, wood, etc. that sit within the earth, and replace the original materials with silica.)

Blue Topaz

Dates

November - Sagittarius

Mohs Hardness

8

Anniversaries

4th and 23rd

Properties

Topaz, a silicate mineral, forms in igneous rocks (such as granite and rhyolite) or in hydrothermal veins. Its blue hue primarily results from trace amounts of iron and natural radiation exposure.

Care

With a hardness of 8, topaz is ideal for everyday wear. To clean topaz jewelry at home, soak the piece in warm water mixed with mild dish detergent. Use a soft brush to clean behind the setting where dust can accumulate, then let dry on a soft towel.

Interesting facts :)

The largest faceted blue topaz gemstone on record is known as the "El-Dorado Topaz," weighing over 31,000 carats. It is part of the National Gem Collection at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.

Chrysoprase

Dates

N/A

Mohs Hardness

6.5 - 7

Anniversaries

N/A

Properties

Chrysoprase is a variety of chalcedony that is prized for its apple-green to emerald-green hue. The stone forms naturally through the deposition and crystallization of silica-rich solutions in porous rocks. The green color comes from traces of nickel and is often described as fresh and vibrant.

Care

Chrysoprase is resilient and simple to maintain, having a hardness rating of 6.5 to 7. To clean chrysoprase jewelry safely, use a mild dish soap and warm water solution, rinse thoroughly, and allow it to dry. It's advisable to steer clear of prolonged heat or harsh chemicals.

Interesting facts :)

The term "Chrysoprase" originates from the Greek terms "chrysos," which translates to “gold”, and "prason," which means “leek” or “green vegetable”.

Citrine

Dates

November - Scorpio and Sagittarius

Mohs Hardness

7

Anniversaries

13th

Properties

Citrine is relatively rare in nature and can be found in a variety of geological settings, including volcanic rocks, hydrothermal veins, and sedimentary rocks. Traces of iron in citrine’s structure gives the stone its warm, yellow color.

Care

Similar to other quartz gems, citrine is sturdy and ideal for daily wear. To clean citrine jewelry safely, soak it in a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water, and gently scrub behind the stone where dust may gather using a soft brush.

Interesting facts :)

Citrine is named after “citron,” the French word for lemon. In the days before modern gemology, people often confused citrine with topaz due to its tawny color.

Diamond

Dates

April - Aries and Taurus

Mohs Hardness

10

Anniversaries

10th, 60th & 75th

Properties

Diamonds form under extreme temperature and pressure conditions found only about 100 miles beneath the earth's surface. The carbon atoms in diamonds are bonded uniformly in all directions, making diamonds the hardest material on earth, only scratchable by another diamond. Despite their exceptional durability, diamonds are not indestructible; they can be still damaged if subjected to a forceful impact.

Care

Every few weeks, soak your jewelry in lukewarm water with a few drops of mild soap or Ivory soap. Let it sit for a few minutes, or even overnight if needed. Then, gently scrub the stone with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinse it and pat dry with a lint-free cloth. As with all fine jewelry, diamonds should be removed before sleeping.

Interesting facts :)

Fifty lightyears from earth is the star “Lucy in the Sky”, which is a 10 billion-trillion-trillion carat diamond.

Emerald

Dates

May - Taurus and Gemini

Mohs Hardness

7.5 - 8

Anniversaries

20th & 35th

Properties

Emerald belongs to the beryl mineral species and is characterized by its green to bluish-green hue. These gems typically form in hydrothermal veins, with their vibrant green color attributed to the trace elements chromium, vanadium, and iron.

Care

The safest and most effective way to clean emerald jewelry is with a soft brush and gentle solution of dish detergent and warm water. Let the pieces air dry on a soft cloth, and store until the next wear. Emerald jewelry should never be placed in jewelry cleaning solutions, and never subjected to the force of steam or the vibration of an ultrasonic cleaner. As with all fine jewelry, emerald should be removed before sleeping.

Interesting facts :)

The first known emerald mines were in Egypt, dating from at least 330 BC into the 1700s. Cleopatra was famously known to have an affinity for emeralds, and had them set in many of her pieces.

Garnet

Dates

January - Aquarius and Capricorn

Mohs Hardness

6.5 - 7.5

Anniversaries

2nd

Properties

Garnets form in geological environments with high temperatures and pressures, often within metamorphic rocks that have undergone significant changes due to intense heat and pressure. The specific conditions and elements present during their formation greatly influence the garnet's composition, color, and crystal structure.

Care

Garnets, rated at 6.5-7.5 on the hardness scale, are typically low-maintenance. To clean garnet jewelry safely, soak it in a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water, and gently brush behind the stone where dust can accumulate.

Interesting facts :)

The ancient Romans were known to wear signet rings with carved garnets. These rings were then used to stamp hot wax which sealed and secured important documents.

Labradorite

Dates

N/A

Mohs Hardness

6 - 6.5

Anniversaries

N/A

Properties

Labradorite predominantly forms in igneous rocks through crystallization. This process typically occurs when magma cools slowly beneath the Earth's surface, enabling the development of large, well-formed crystals. Ranging from opaque to translucent, the play of colors exhibited by labradorite include a spectrum of hues ranging from blue, green, gold, red, violet and orange.

Care

Using a soft, lint-free cloth, gently wipe your Labradorite jewelry after each wear to remove oils, dirt, and debris that can accumulate and diminish its luster. Be sure to avoid exposing your jewelry to direct sunlight or extreme temperature changes and limit prolonged exposure to water.

Interesting facts :)

The name, Labradorite, is derived from Labrador, Canada where it was first identified.

Lavender Moon Quartz

Dates

N/A

Mohs Hardness

7

Anniversaries

N/A

Properties

Quartz crystals, such as Lavender Moon Quartz, develop from magma or in hydrothermal fluids that contain dissolved silica and various trace elements. As these fluids cool and solidify, they create open cavities or veins within the host rocks. This is where the silica and other elements crystallize into quartz. The specific conditions during the cooling process, including pressure, temperature, and the presence of impurities, determine not only the crystal’s color but also its clarity.

Care

Using a soft, lint-free cloth, gently wipe down your Lavender Moon Quartz jewelry. This helps remove oils, dirt, and residue that can dull its appearance over time. Avoid harsh chemicals and extreme temperature fluctuations.

Interesting facts :)

Some Lavender Moon Quartz specimens exhibit fluorescence under ultraviolet light. This phenomenon can cause the stone to emit a soft glow or change in color ranging from blue to violet, adding an extra layer of fascination to its visual characteristics.

Pearl

Dates

June - Gemini and Cancer

Mohs Hardness

2.5 - 3

Anniversaries

3rd & 13th

Properties

A pearl is a build up of “nacre” or epithelial cells around a bead nucleus (most often a small bit of organic matter or a damaged piece of shell) inside of a mollusk’s soft tissue. This nacre is what makes up the iridescent shine that pearls are so famously known for, and can come in a wide variety of shades, shapes, and sizes. Pearls occur both naturally and through cultivation on pearl farms. Naturally occurring pearls are incredibly rare as it requires a unique set of conditions to form, and the vast majority of pearls in the modern day are cultivated by these pearl farms.

Care

After each wear, gently wipe with a soft, dry, or slightly damp cloth. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners. Store pearls in a sectioned jewelry box or protective pouches to prevent them from being scratched by other hard gemstones and metals. As with all fine jewelry, pearls should be removed before sleeping.

Interesting facts :)

Pearls have a long history in adornment that spans centuries, with one of the oldest being found in the sarcophagus of a Persian princess who died in 520 B.C.E. Pearls are also sometimes referred to as “The Mother of Gems”.

Peridot

Dates

August - Leo, Virgo

Mohs Hardness

6.5 - 7

Anniversaries

15th

Properties

Peridot is predominantly found in volcanic rocks, originating from deep within the Earth’s mantle. Unique among gemstones, it is exclusively found in shades of green, with the color's intensity varying based on the amount of iron in its crystal structure.

Care

To clean Peridot jewelry at home, briefly soak the pieces in a solution of warm water and mild dish soap. Gently clean around the setting with a soft brush to restore the gem's shine. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaning methods, as these can easily damage Peridot. Additionally, protect Peridot from rapid and dramatic temperature changes to prevent damage.

Interesting facts :)

The Ancient Egyptians held Peridot in such high regard that they kept the locations of its mist-covered volcanic mines a closely guarded secret. The Romans called it "evening's emerald" because unlike the deep-green emerald, Peridot maintains its citrus tones even in candlelight.

Pink Tourmaline

Dates

October - Libra and Scorpio

Mohs Hardness

7 - 7.5

Anniversaries

8th

Properties

Considered a semi-precious gemstone, Tourmaline is a boron silicate mineral compounded with the following elements in its crystalline structure: aluminum, iron, magnesium, sodium, lithium, and/or potassium. The pink to red hues of pink tourmaline are attributed to the trace amounts of manganese present during its formation.

Care

As it is rated 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness, tourmaline is considered suitable for everyday wear. You can clean this October birthstone with warm soapy water and a soft brush. A baby toothbrush is a great at-home cleaning tool for tourmalines. The use of ultrasonic or steam cleaners are not recommended.

Interesting facts :)

Tourmaline is a group of minerals displaying one of the widest varieties of gemstone color in the mineral kingdom.

Rainbow Moonstone

Dates

June - Gemini and Cancer

Mohs Hardness

6 - 6.5

Anniversaries

N/A

Properties

A variety of feldspar, rainbow moonstone belongs to the mineral group that also includes albite and orthoclase. Known for its glowing, moon-like luster, this stone is composed of aluminum, potassium, and silicate and is formed within pegmatites.

Care

With a hardness of 6 to 6.5, rainbow moonstones should be stored in a sectioned jewelry box or protective pouch to prevent being scratched by other hard gemstones and metals. For gentle cleaning, use a soft brush to scrub behind the stone, where dust and debris can collect.

Interesting facts :)

Rainbow Moonstone exhibits a unique optical phenomenon called adularescence. This effect creates a beautiful splay of light across the surface of the stone, resembling a rainbow or moonlight shimmering on water. It's caused by light interference within the layers of the crystal structure.

Rose Quartz

Dates

Taurus

Mohs Hardness

7

Anniversaries

5th

Properties

Rose quartz is a microcrystalline form of quartz (meaning it consists of larger visible crystals) that forms within igneous rocks, pegmatites, and hydrothermal veins. Its pink to rosy-red hue is due to trace amounts of titanium, iron, or manganese within the crystal structure. The variation in color is caused by the different concentrations of these elements upon formation.

Care

Soaking your rose quartz jewelry in warm, soapy water is a reliable and safe way to clean at home. It's best to avoid cleaning with ultrasonic or steam cleaners.

Interesting facts :)

The name "Rose Quartz" comes from the Greek words "rhodon," meaning "rose," and "hyalos," meaning "glass." This name reflects the gemstone's pink color and translucent appearance. Ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians and Romans, used Rose Quartz in jewelry, carvings, and talismans. It was believed to have protective and healing properties, especially related to matters of the heart.

Ruby

Dates

July - Cancer, Leo

Mohs Hardness

9

Anniversaries

15th & 40th

Properties

Rubies form from corundum, a mineral made of aluminum oxide. Corundum also creates sapphires in various colors, often due to trace combinations of iron, titanium, and chromium. The presence of trace amounts of chromium gives rubies their red hue.

Care

With a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, rubies require minimum maintenance and can easily be cleaned at home. Soak the piece using a solution of warm water mixed with mild dish detergent. Allow it to soak briefly, gently scrub with a soft brush, and let it dry on a soft cloth. As with all fine jewelry, rubies should be removed before sleeping.

Interesting facts :)

The ancient Hindus revered Ruby as "The King of Gems" for millennia. Throughout human history, rubies have symbolized fire and blood, embodying qualities of passion, courage, love, and enduring romance.

Sapphire

Dates

September - Virgo and Libra

Mohs Hardness

9

Anniversaries

5th & 45th

Properties

Sapphire, like its sister stone ruby, belongs to the corundum family. When formed naturally, sapphire crystals exhibit a hexagonal, double-pyramid shape that resembles a barrel.

Care

Given that Sapphires have a Mohs hardness of 9, one does not need to be overly careful when cleaning them. Ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners can be used for a deeper clean, but soaking sapphire jewelry in soap and warm water should do the trick! As with all fine jewelry, sapphires should be removed before sleeping.

Interesting facts :)

Revered as the ‘Celestial Stone’, sapphires were thought to have great spiritual powers in ancient Persia. They are the second-hardest of all gemstones, second to the diamond.

Tanzanite

Dates

December - Sagittarius and Capricorn

Mohs Hardness

6-7

Anniversaries

N/A

Properties

Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite, which can form colorless, brown, pink, or green stones. However, only the deep, velvety blue to purple-blue variety can be classified as Tanzanite. Depending on the lighting conditions, tanzanite can appear blue, violet, or even reddish-purple, showcasing its pleochroic nature.

Care

Tanzanite is a somewhat delicate stone and should be treated with care. The best way to clean this December birthstone at home is with warm soapy water and a microfiber cloth or soft toothbrush. It is not recommended to use a steamer or ultrasonic cleaning methods.

Interesting facts :)

Tanzanite can only be found in a few locations in Tanzania, located in eastern Africa. Given its vibrant blue color, this gemstone was initially mistaken for blue sapphire. Tanzanite is trichroic, which means it can show three different colors simultaneously when viewed from different angles.

Turquoise

Dates

December - Sagittarius

Mohs Hardness

5 - 6

Anniversaries

11th

Properties

The formation of turquoise involves the leaching and redeposition of several types of minerals such as copper, aluminum, phosphate, iron, and silicate minerals inside iron-rich limonite or sandstone.

Care

Turquoise, a porous gemstone, can absorb anything that touches its surface. While it is safe to clean the stone with warm, soapy water, it is recommended to avoid contact with cosmetics, perfumes, skin oil, acids, and other chemicals that might damage the stone. Refrain from dehydrating it or subjecting it to prolonged heat. As with all fine jewelry, turquoise should be removed before sleeping.

Interesting facts :)

Turquoise is such a distinctive stone that experts can often identify the exact location where many types were mined. In ancient Egypt, Turquoise was referred to as “mefkat” which translates to “joy” and “delight”.