NAME

PICTURE

GEMSTONE INFO

POWERS = Birthstone (Modern, Traditional & Zodiac = Anniversary

Agate

Agate is a semipellucid crystallized quartz.   Agates are identical in chemical structure to jasper, flint, chert, bloodstone, and tiger-eye, and are most often found in association with opals.  There are numerous  types of agate within the variety.  Agate derives its name from the Greek "Agate??" - meaning  happy!

Promotes acceptance, stability, courage, good health, for a long and prosperous life.  Suppose to cure insomnia, quiets the pulse and provide , pleasant dreams. Birthstone:  Taurus (Bull): April 20-May 20 (Z) Wedding anniversary: 12th year. Moss Agate specifically for the 14th year

Alexandrite

Alexandrite is the best known variety of chrysoberyl. It is known by most people as the stone that is ‘Emerald by Day and Ruby by Night’, because of its color change attributes.  Alexandrite was discovered in 1831 in the Ural Mountains (Russia) on the Czar Alexander II’s birthday, and thusly named for him.  Today it is very difficult to find a natural Alexandrite. Because of its rarity, most Alexandrite on the market is either a synthetic or simulate. However, a Russian Lab Synthetic Alexandrite is almost impossible to tell from a real stone.

Helps the nervous system, restores self-esteem, and stimulates love and pleasures.

Birthstone: Month of JUNE  (T)

Wedding anniversary: 45th and 55th year

Amazonite

Amazonite varies in color from yellow-green to blue-green and may also exhibit fine white streaks.  Amazonite is a gemstone variety of green microcline, a feldspar mineral.  It is usually opaque and therefore is cut as a cabochon.   Although its name is derived from the Amazon River, no deposits have been found there, most are in Russia.

Is said to make the skin better. It also releases fear and anxiety.

Amber

Amber is a fossilized tree resin of the now-extinct conifer trees and ancient pine trees. It is an amorphous hydrocarbon and may contain particles of various foreign materials, trapped insects, and air bubbles. Amber is perhaps the oldest substance used for human adornment. Amber derives its name from the Arabic ‘anbar ambergris’. Don’t confuse  Amber with Copal.

Excellent for the eyes, balance, endocrine and digestive systems. Brings one good luck, humor, joy, mental stimulation and  healing energy.

Amethyst-

Amethyst, a member of the quartz family, is found in abundance in nature. In its purest form, Amethyst is colorless. The finest quality Amethyst is medium to medium dark in tone, vivid in intensity, and purple, reddish purple to bluish purple in hue. To many it is know as the Gemstone of Royalty due to its deep purple color. Amethyst derives its name from the Greek legends and The god of wine, also the Greek word ‘amethustos’, meaning intoxicating.

Suppose to magnify psychic ability, helps to strengthens immunity and relieve headaches. Is a symbol of sincerity, security and peace of mind.

Birthstone:  Month of FEBRUARY (M & T)

   Aquarius (Water Bearer): Jan. 21-Feb. 18 (Z)

Wedding anniversary: 4th and 6th year

Ametrine

Do you love both the purple of amethyst and the sunny gold of citrine? With ametrine, another member of the quartz family you can have both gem colors for the price of one!  Ametrine is especially inexpensive when you consider that it comes from only one mine in the world, the Anahi Mine in Bolivia. When a Spanish conquistador received it as a dowry on marrying a princess named Anahi from the Ayoreos tribe, Ametrine was introduced to Europe    It is not sure if this gemstone was named for the Princess or for the America’s, from where it came.

Helps to soothe fear, anxiety, trauma and depression.  Enhances ones insight and clarity.

Ammolite

Ammolite is an organic stone that is not a true fossil gem material like amber. It is from the shell of the ancient ammonite, compressed to the point that it has been recrystallized to form a new material called aragonite. Ammolite’s name is derived from the Ammonite shell.

Andalusite

Andalusite is pleochroic, i.e. it shows different colors in different directions.  In the past andalusite was sometimes called "poor man's alexandrite" because it offered a play of color at a low price, but in fact it does not actually bear much resemblance to alexandrite, because it is not a color-change stone at all, the colors are present at the same time.  However, that should not diminish its appeal, especially for those who like earth tones. Andalusite is named after Andalusia, the province of Spain where it was first discover. A variety of Andalusite known as Chiastolite displays the famous Trapiche ‘Wagon Wheel’ phenomena, like in Trapiche Emeralds, Rubys, Sapphires and Tourmalines.

Chiastolite was advertised widely as one of the new finds at Tucson GemFair 2008.

Andesine

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Andesine is only a minor constituent in most granites and syenites, but is the dominant variety of feldspar in certain igneous rocks called, appropriately andesites. Andesine is a member of the Plagioclase Feldspar Group and by definition must contain 50-70% sodium to 30-50% calcium in the sodium/calcium position of the crystal structure. Faceted Andesine can only be differentiated from faceted Labarorite by specialized testing by sophisticated gemological labs.

With recent questions now being  asked about Andesine, it is more of a What it is not, than what it is !  Some claim it is natural, some claim it is heat treated, some claim it is enhanced, and there is still confusion over where it comes from.  The only thing probably for sure is that it is a member of the Plagioclase Feldspar Group.  There is also a good chance that the yellow variety, known to come from Mexico and Canada, is probably another Feldspar variety called Bytownite. Of course one of the more known varieties of Labradorite is the “schiller” effect stone called ‘Sunstone’, where some of the best comes from Oregon.

Andradite

Andradite is a species of the Garnet Group. Andradite was named after the Brazilian mineralogist Jos Bonifcio de Andrade e Silva.  It is found in Italy, the Ural Mountains of Russia, Arizona and California.

New find in this form at Tucson GemFair 2008.

Apatite

Apatite has been infrequently used as a gemstone,  however in recent years, due to the scarcity of Paraiba Tourmaline, it has become a highly prized substitute, especially for its ‘neon’ blue and green characteristics.  Transparent stones of clean color are faceted, and chatoyant specimens, known as cat's-eye apatite, have been cabochon cut. The name "apatite" comes from the Greek word apate, which means "deceit" because it is easily confused with other minerals, especially paraiba tourmaline.

When worn is said to relieve arthritis and joint problems and reduce  high blood pressure.  Suppose to stimulate creativity and mental activity, bringing unconditional love while raising self-esteem.

Aquamarine

Aquamarine is the pale greenish blue or bluish green variety of beryl.  Beryl has long been of interest because several of its varieties are valued as gemstones. These are aquamarine, emerald and heliodor. Aquamarine is the most common variety as it occurs in pegmatite formations, in which it forms much larger and clearer crystals than emerald. Aquamarine is sometimes confusing with almost clear or light blue Topaz, which is a much cheaper gemstone. Its name is derived from the Latin 'aqua' (water) and 'mare' (sea).

Helps to heals ears, eyes, stomach, coughing, depression and grief. Reawakens love, providing courage and  strengthens the will.

Birthstone:   Month of MARCH  (M)

   Libra (Balance)  Sep 23-Oct 22 (Z)

Wedding anniversary: 16th and 19th year

Aragonite

Aragonite is a common carbonate mineral. It is unfortunately often thought of as the poor cousin to calcite. But aragonite is an interesting and attractive mineral in its own right. It forms interesting habits and can have a soft pretty color ranging from pale green, to yellows and reds.

New find in this form at Tucson GemFair 2008

Axinite

Axinite is a brown to violet-brown, or reddish-brown bladed mineral composed of calcium aluminum boro-silicate. A rare and unusual gemstone more for collectors than consumers. These stones will be small and expensive. It is named for the axe shape of the original crystal formations. Manily found in California and Baja Califirnia, with reports of finds in France.

New find in this form at Tucson GemFair 2008

Benitoite

Seldom seen as a gemstone due to extreme rarity and overall small sizes of cuttable material.  Unusual stone in that it will fluoresce bright blue to short wave ultraviolet light. Name comes from the Benitoite Mine, San Benito County, California, which is also the only known source for gemstone quality material.

Bixbite

Bixbite, also known as red beryl, red emerald, or scarlet emerald, is a red variety of beryl.  The red color is thought to be from manganese substituting for aluminum in the beryl structure.,  Bixbite is rare and has only been reported from a handful of locations with the greatest concentration of gem-grade material from the Violet Claim in the Wah Wah mountains of mid-western Utah. It was named after the Utah mineral collector Maynard Bixby.

Bloodstone

Bloodstone is a green stone with red spots. It also occurs in shades of dark green with red, brown and multicolored spots. The iron minerals cause the deep red and brown colors. Polished sections therefore show red spots (jasper) on a dark-green background, and from the resemblance of these to drops of blood it derives its name.

In the Middle Ages, bloodstone was attributed special powers as the spots were thought to be the blood of Jesus Christ.

Birthstone:   Month of MARCH (T)

   Pisces (Fish): Feb. 19-March 20 (Z)

Carnelian

Carnelian is a red or reddish-brown variant of chalcedony.  It has been known throughout history as Sadoine, Mecca Stone and Pigeon’s Blood Agate. The name Carnelian, which is derived from Carne, Latin for ‘flesh’, may be related to its color, which is similar the color of flesh. It is translucent.

Used as a sleep aid because of its ability to calm and ease anxiety

Birthday:   Leo (Lion): July. 23-Aug. 22.(Z)

Chalcedony

Chalcedony, in the quartz family, can be virtually any color of the rainbow. It is commonly pale blue, yellow, brown or gray. A white, buff, or light tan species of chalcedony also occurs. Chalcedony, agates, jaspers, bloodstones, carnelian, onyx, and chrysoprase all make up the chalcedony gemstone family. Chalcedony has a waxy luster, and may be semitransparent or translucent.  The term chalcedony is derived from the name of the ancient Greek town of Chalkedon, where the stones were first found in ancient times.

Harmonizes the mind, body and spirit. Alleviates anger while  increasing physical energy. Said to enhances mental ability.

Chrysoberyl

Chrysoberyl is a hard, transparent, yellow-green gem with similar properties to alexandrite.  It is a sister stone to the emerald, but is an oxide rather than a silicate. It is normally facet cut, but can also be cut so that its chatoyancy, cats eye, proprities stand out.  The yellow-green variety of Chrysoberyl is commonly modified by flux processing to cause the color change properities like an  alexandrite.

It helps the nervous system, restores ones self-esteem and stimulates love and pleasure.

Chrysoprase

Chrysoprase or chrysophrase is a variety of chalcedony that contains small quantities of nickel. Its color is normally apple-green, but varies to deep green. Due to its comparative scarcity and pleasing green color, chrysoprase is one of the most prized varieties of quartz. The word chrysoprase comes from the Greek chrysos meaning 'gold' and prason, meaning 'leek'.

Protects one from negative energy.  Will help one focus to see problems clearly while enhancing self-esteem and equilibrium.

Citrine

Citrine, also called citrine quartz or citrine topaz, is an amber-colored gemstone.  It is a form of quartz with ferric iron impurities, and is rarely found naturally. Natural citrine is rare compared to amethyst or smoky quartz , both of which are often heated to turn their natural color into that of citrine.  Normally the only naturally found citrine will be in combination with Amethyst from the Anahi Mine in Bolivia, where it is actually mined as Ametrine. The name citrine is derived from the French word citron, meaning  lemon.

Used to help treat depression, self-destructive feelings and diabetes. Promotes lightheartedness, joy, happiness while calming and soothing, to promote enhanced creativity.

Birthstone: Month of NOVEMBER  (M & T)

Wedding anniversary: 17th year

Copal

Copal is a type of resin produced by plant or tree secretions particularly identified with the forms of aromatic tree resins used by the cultures of pre-Columbian times as a ceremonially burned incense, Copal is still used by a number of indigenous peoples of Mexico and Central America as an incense, used during the "sweat lodge" ceremony.  It is sometimes likened to, or substituted for, amber and put into jewelry.  The word copal is derived from the Nahuatl language word copalli, meaning "incense".

Coral

Coral is the skeletal material of calcium carbonate, built up by small animals that live in colonies in the sea. Red, pink, and white coral is mostly calcium carbonate. Black and golden coral is conchiolin, black being the rarest and most sought after. Coral is usually branch like and occurs in a variety of colors, of which the most sought after are rose red to red. Coral is normally considered a colored gemstone.  Coral is especially fragile. Protect coral from scratches and sharp blows. Coral is thought by the ancients to be a stone. It is assumed that the word coral was ultimately derived from the Greek word korallion.

Relates to ones circulation, blood and heart.  Works against depression and lethargy. Helps to ease conflict and & fear, while providing wisdom and protecting children.

Wedding anniversary: 35th year

Cubic Zirconia

Cubic zirconia (or CZ) is a mineral that is very extremely rare in nature but is widely synthesized for use as a diamond simulant.  The synthesized material is hard, optically flawless and usually colorless, but may be made in a variety of different colors. It should not be confused with the natural stone zircon.  Because of its low cost, durability, and close visual likeness to diamond, synthetic cubic zirconia has remained the most gemologically and economically important diamond simulant since 1976. Its main competition as a synthetic gemstone is the more recently cultivated material, synthetic moissanite.  As its name implies, cubic zirconia is crystallographically isometric.

Danburite

Danburite is one of the few gemstones with a hardness of 10 on the Mohs Scale, but still not near that of a diamond due to the proportionality of the scale. People who admire clear quartz will like the different look of danburite. Danburite's original locality is now buried under the city of Danbury, Connecticut, from which it got its name.

Stimulates the intellect, memory, brain and  psychic ability.   A spiritual stone – openness, joy, happiness and laughter.

Diamond

Diamonds are usually colorless. However, brown, yellow, green, blue, purple, pink, red, gray and black variations are also found depending on the impurities present. Diamonds are composed of pure carbon. The hardness, brilliance, and sparkle of diamonds make them unsurpassed as gems. Diamonds originally came from deposits in India in ancient times, and Indian Diamonds are still among the most sought after even today.  Diamond derives its name from the Greek word adamas, which means "invincible".

The master healing stone – strengthens ones memory and supplements energy.   It is a symbol of faith, purity, life, joy and innocence

Birthstone:   Month of APRIL (M & T)

Wedding anniversary: 30th and 60th year

Diaspore

Diaspore is a pastel honey yellow to pinkish lilac colored ‘COLOR CHANGE’ gemstone from Mugla, Turkey.  Overall this material is extremely clean with most of teh stones running high to top facet grade. The crystals in this material are generally elongated and not ideally shaped for high yield. Diaspore has been coming from Turkey since the early 1940’s, however in the past year the mine was bought and the named changed and Trademarked as Zultinate.

Found at Tucson GemFair 2008 under new Tradename of Zultinate

Diopside-Chrome

Chrome diopside certainly won't win any contests for the most beautiful name. To most people, it sounds more like a car polish than a gemstone. But don't be misled by that! Chrome diopside has a beautiful rich green colour and an amazingly low price. In fact it is the most affordable gemstone in a pure rich green. The drawback to Chrome diopside is that it is mostly available in small sizes. Since it is a single source from Siberia, it can only be mined about 3 months out of the year. It draws its name from the Greek dis - "two kinds" and opsis - "opinion."

Is suppose to assist those people who have experienced trauma in their life.

Emerald

Emeralds occur in a variety of green colors. The magnificent green color that gives extraordinary value to this gem is due to small amounts of chromium and vanadium.  Emeralds are a member of the beryl family known for its flaws. Emeralds are cut in a variety of different shapes, ranging from the traditional rectangular step-cut, known as the "emerald cut," to rounds, ovals, squares and cabochons. The most famous and expensive Emeralds come from Columbia. The name emerald comes indirectly from the Greek smaragdos.

Promotes physical and emotional healing. Helps fights mental illness and  neurological disorders. Opens up the heart to love while bringing peace, wisdom and foresight into the future.

Birthstone:  Month of MAY (M & T)

   Gemini (Twins): May 21-June 21 (Z)

Wedding anniversary: 20th, 35th and 55th year

Emerald-Trapiche

Trapiche emeralds are in a class by themselves. Found only in Colombia at Coscuez, La Peña and the celebrated Muzo mining district, these are perhaps the rarest of "pattern" gems, and certainly the most unusual amongst the big three (emerald, ruby, and sapphire). Their six spoke-like carbon "rays" emanating from a hexagonal center with the areas in between filled with lively emerald green makes this a gem you'll never forget once you see one. These rays appear much like asterism, but, unlike asterism, they are not caused by light reflection from tiny parallel inclusions, but by black carbon impurities that happen to form in the same pattern.  The name comes from the Spanish who when mining the gem called it trapiche from the word for gear wheel.

Fluorite

Fluorite is a mineral with a veritable bouquet of brilliant colors. Fluorite is well known and prized for its glassy luster and rich variety of colors. Its only rivaled for the amount of color range is by quartz. Fluorite is frequently fluorescent and, like its normal light colors, its fluorescent colors are extremely variable.   Fluorite is the most popular mineral for mineral collectors in the world, second only to quartz.  The origin of the word fluorite comes from the use of fluorite as a flux in steel and aluminum processing.

Said to heal bone and tooth enamel.  Absorbs ones negative energy while balancing emotions.   Helps one in decision making.

Garnet

The versatile garnet comes in a virtual rainbow of colors, including pink, red, purple, orange, yellow, violet, green, colorless, occasionally black, brown and many shades of red and green. The most common color of garnets is reddish brown. Pyrope or Bohemian Garnet is a deep red, and the most common of the garnet species. Russian Demantoid and African Tsavorite are vibrant and expensive green varities.  Garnets were so called by the ancient Greeks since color reminded them of the pomegranate seed or granatum. Color Change Garnets are unique and different.

Relieves rheumatism and arthritis pain while combating depression and lethargy. Helps to stimulates business success, while it  balances energy.  Said to stimulate ones sexual drive.

Birthstone:  Month of JANUARY (M & T)

   Capricornus (Goat): Dec. 22 - Jan. 20 (Z).

Garnet-Almandine

Almandine, also known incorrectly as almandite, is the second most common of the garnet varieties. It is part of the Isomorohous Replacement series of garnets, containing iron instead of magnesium. It is frequently used as a faceted gemstone in jewelry along with its close cousin, the Pyrope Garnet.

Garnet-Demantoid

Demantoid is the name given to the rich green variety of andradite garnet. The identifying feature of the Russian Demantoid Garnet is its “horsetail inclusion.” The gem was first discovered in Russia and the name is derived from its diamond-like adamantine luster.

Garnet-Hessonite

Hessonite is the variety name for a fine orange, cinnamon brown, or pinkish variety of grossularite.  It is part of the Isomorohous Replacement series of garnets, containing iron instead of magnesium. There is a variety of Hessonite garnets referred to as Imperial, because of their darker orange coloring. Found originally in the Hesson region of Prussia, thus the name.

Garnet-Mandarin

Mandarin are a highly sought after Imperial Orange variety of Spessarite garnets that are a natural and untreated variety coming from South Africa.

Garnet-Pryope

Pyrope or Bohemian Garnet is a deep red, and the most common of the garnet species.      It is part of the Isomorohous Replacement series of garnets, containing aluminum and silicon. Pyrope garnets can be found all over the world, with the first being identified in the Bohemia region of Germany, hence the original name of Bohemian, but since has been found all over the world, especially in the United States.

Garnet-Rhodolite

One of the world's most ancient gems, garnet has been treasured for thousands of years.  Use of garnets as gems is traced to the Nile Delta in 3100 B.C.  It is part of the Isomorohous Replacement series of garnets, containing iron instead of magnesium.

Garnet-Spessartite

Spessartine occurs occaisionally in granitic pegmaties and in skarns, also found in sedimentary deposits.   It is part of the Isomorohous Replacement series of garnets, containing maganeise, aluminum and silicon.  Named after its occurrence in the Spessart district, Bavaria, Germany.

Garnet-Tsavorite

Tsavorite is the trade name for fine dark green grossularite variety of garnet.  It is part of the Isomorohous Replacement series of garnets, containing chromium instead of iron. Originally found in Russia and liked by the Tzar’s, thus the particular name for this variety.

Goldstone - Sitara

Goldstone is a type of glass made with copper or copper salts in the presence of a reducing flame.The most common form of goldstone gives the illusion of being reddish-brown, although in fact that color comes from the copper crystals and the glass itself is colorless. Some goldstone variants have an intensely-colored glass matrix- usually blue or violet, more rarely green-- and a more silvery appearance to the suspended crystals. Curiously, goldstone is one of the few cases where a synthetic simulant provided the eponym for the similar natural stone. The original Italian name for goldstone is "avventurina" or some similar word or phrase indicating its accidental discovery.  Do not confuse crystalized adventurine, also from the same Italian word, with manmade goldstone.

Heliodor or Golden Beryl

Golden beryl is one of the many hues of the "gemstone" mineral beryl. It can range in colors from pale yellow to a brilliant gold. Unlike emerald, golden beryl has very few flaws.   The term "golden beryl" is sometimes synonymous with helidor, but in the strict sense, golden beryl refers to pure yellow or golden yellow shades, while Heliodor refers to the greenish-yellow shades. Helidor can be radioactive due to coloring element of uranium. Named after the Greek words for sun ‘helios’ and gift ‘doron’ because of its color..

Hematite

Hematites occur in opaque red or red-brown, until polished and then it becomes a silvery, shiny opaque stone that almost looks like metal. Hematite is heavy and relatively hard oxide mineral, that constitutes the most important iron ore because of its high iron content (70 percent) and its abundance. The magnetic variety is known as Hematine. Hematite derives its name from the Greek word ‘haem’ (blood ) in allusion to its red color.

Suppose to fights hysteria. It strengthens the body while improves immunity and intuition.

Howlite

Howlite, which is named for its discoverer Henry How (a Nova Scotia geologist), is one of those minerals that is more famous for imitating another mineral. In this case the other mineral is Turquoise, a phosphate gemstone. Although Howlite is always white or gray, it can accept dyes fairly easily and can be dyed a turquoise blue. The look of Turquoise is so good that dishonest dealers have been unfortunately successful at this hoax. In more honest circumstances, dyed Howlite is an affordable substitute for turquoise carvings, beads, polished stones and cabochons.   It accepts a nice polish and its porcelaneous luster is attractive and enhances even undyed beads and carvings. Also be aware, many try and sell the undyed Howlite as White Turquoise. Ivoryite/Magnesite is what the native American Indians from the southwest call White Buffalo Turquoise, but again it is not Turquoise.  Cut and Tumbled Howlite, when dyed, has been sold as many different gemstone, so BUYER BEWARE. Most Howlite comes from California, but is now found in China also.

Howlite is a super-calming stone and many people use it to relieve stress of all kinds. It makes an excellent antidote to insomnia due to an overactive mind.

NOTE: pictures to the left show Blue and Green dyed Howlite which is passed off as Turquoise.

New information on Howlite from Tucson GemFair 2008.

Ice-Mandarin

Man-made simulant, highly polished and in whatever color range or hue that might be wanted. Name derived from its “Ice Cube” appreance.

Ice-Paraiba

Man-made simulant, highly polished and in whatever color range or hue that might be wanted. Name derived from its “Ice Cube” appreance.

Idocrase

Idocrase forms as a result of contact metamorphism on impure limestones and is usually found with other exotic minerals.  It is a somewhat rare and beautiful mineral that can rival many other minerals for interest among mineral collectors.  Idocrase, also known as Vesuvianite, is a fascinating mineral found originally on the volcano, Mt Vesuvius, hence one of the names. Idocrase, is from the greek and means mixed form, an allusion to its crystals showing a mixture of other mineral forms.

Iolite

The transparent variety of iolite, it is often used as a gemstone. Gem quality iolite varies in color from sapphire blue to blue violet to yellowish gray to light blue as the light angle changes. Iolite was known as the Vikings' compass because of its ability to help determine the direction of the sun on overcast days. When the legendary Viking mariners sailed the ocean, they used thin pieces of Iolite as the world's first polarizing filter. Looking through an iolite lens they could determine the exact position of the sun and navigate safely. The name "iolite" comes from the Greek word for violet. Another old name is dichroite, a Greek word meaning "two-colored rock", a reference to cordierite's strong pleochroism. Iolite should not be confused with Tanzanite, for which it is many times called and sold in that manner.

Known to strengthens physical body, stimulates memory.  Brings unconditional love and connection.

Ivoryite

Ivoryite is a great substitute for ivory. It is a sedimentary precipitate of magnesium, calcium and silica. It is around   5 on the Moh's scale, which makes it slightly harder than ivory.  Ivoryite can be worked with metal tools, but cuts effortlessly with diamond tools. It polishes well with diamond, tin oxide, cerium oxide or white rouge. It is an excellent material for inlay, cabochons and small carvings.  Some varieties of Magnesite are also called Ivoryite or White Buffalo Turquoise by native southwestern US Indians. Although found with Turquoise deposits in the SW United States, it is not White Turquoise.

New find in this form at Tucson GemFair 2008.

Jade

Jade is used as an ornamental stone. The term jade is applied to two different rocks that are made up of different silicate minerals. Nephrite, or common Jade consists of  calcium and magnesium aggregates which also make up one form of asbestos. The rock called Jadeitite consists almost entirely of sodium and aluminium-rich pyroxene. The English word 'jade' is derived from the Spanish term piedra de ijada.

Strengthens the Immune system, heart and kidneys. It dispels negativity, attracts love and brings money into your life.

Jadeite

Jade is used as an ornamental stone. The term jade is applied to two different rocks that are made up of different silicate minerals. Nephrite, or common Jade, consists of the calcium and magnesium aggregates of which also make up one form of asbestos. The rock called Jadeitite consists almost entirely of sodium and aluminium-rich pyroxene. The English word 'jade' is derived from the Spanish term piedra de ijada.

Jasper

Jasper exhibits various colors, but chiefly brick red to brownish red. It owes its color to admix with hematite, but when it occurs mixed with clay, the color is a yellowish white or gray, or with goethite, a brown or yellow. Often jasper is multi-colored. Jasper is opaque, fine-grained or dense variety of the silica mineral chert. Its hardness and other physical properties are those of quartz. The name jasper is from the Greek iaspis.

Touted as a digestive aid. It drives away evil spirit, eases emotional stress while enhances creativity and spirituality.

Kunzite

This gemstone is the youngest member of the spodumen family, to which the green or yellowish-green hiddenite, discovered about a quarter of a century earlier, also belongs. This gemstone with its fine, delicate pink is not only an ideal precious stone for lovers; it is also popular as a healing stone. Discovered in 1902 in the Pala District of San Diego County in California.  Named after gemstone specialist George Frederick Kunz

It calms the nerves, muscles, anger and fear.  It also brings, self-esteem, good fortune, creative potential and promotes spirituality.

Kyanite

Kyanite is an attractive mineral that has a near sapphire like blue color  Kyanite has a unique characteristic in that it has a wide variation in hardness, in the same crystal, thus making it hard to mount and wear as jewelry. It must be handled with care.. Kyanite derives its name from the Greek word kyanos, meaning blue.

A stress buster. Will clear the mind while bringing tranquility and understanding.

Kryptonite

No known picture

Kryptonite is what used to be known as a fictional substance from the Superman mythos, originating in the Superman radio show series.  However, in 2003, a actual mineral deposit relating chemically to the formula of the fictitious green rock from Krypton, and carrying the number 126 in the Table of Elements appeared in a white powdery substance in Siberia.  Known as Unbihexium in the Russia language, also called Jadarite from a 2006 finding, also in Russia.

Mentioned at Tucson GemFair 2008 but no samples available.

Labradorite

Labradorite is truely a fascinatingly beautiful mineral. Its a mineral whose charm is not fully noticed and may be overlooked if not viewed from the proper position. Generally a dull, dark looking mineral with no special virtue until the colorful shiller is observed glowing on the surface. Labradorite can produce a colorful play of light across cleavage planes and in sliced sections called labradorescence. The usually intense colors range from the typical blues and violets through greens, yellows and oranges. Some rare specimens display all these colors simultaneously. It is a member of the plagioclase series of minerals, with the clear faceted varieties being sometimes called sunstone. Oregon Sunstone is the most known variety and is identified by its “schiller” effect. Do not confuse with the manmade stone called “Goldstone” or “Sitara”.  The yellow variety is commonly known as Bytownite.

Labradorite is a power stone, allowing you to see through illusions and determine the actual form of your dreams and goals. It is excellent for strengthening intuitions.

Lapis Lazuli

Lapis lazuli is a semiprecious stone valued for its deep blue color. The source of the pigment ultramarine, Lapis lazuli is not a mineral but a rock colored by lazurite. In addition to the sodalite minerals in lapis lazuli, small amounts of white calcite and of pyrite crystals are usually present. The name lapis comes from word pencil in Spanish.

Cure melancholy while  increasing mental clarity and virility while easing depression.  It enhance creative self-expression.

Birthstone:   Month of DECEMBER (T)

Wedding anniversary:   7th and 9th year

Larimar

Reflecting the azure blue waters of the Caribbean, Larimar is a recently discovered rare gemstone found in only one minesite on our Planet. Often mistaken for translucent Turquoise or fine blue Jade, Larimar beautifully mirrors the waters surrounding its island origin. Larimar's crystal vibrations and unique blend of colors have drawn many people to it. Scientifically, Larimar or Blue Pectolite is totally unique in it's mineral and chemical make-up.  Copper, similar to what is in Turquoise, is the cause of the color. That is the only connection of Larimar to the ancient stone known as Turquoise. Sole sourced from the Island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean. Miguel Méndez and Peace Corps volunteer Norman Rilling discovered the stone in 1974. Miguel promptly took his young daughter’s name Larissa and the Spanish word for the sea “mar” and called the new find Larimar,

Eases headaches and depression, strengthens ones skeleton and posture. Provides calmness, serenity and purity.

Magnesite

Magnesite does not ordinarily form good crystals, but can make up a substantial portion of some rock types. It forms commonly from the alteration of magnesium-rich rocks during low grade metamorphism while they are in contact with carbonate-rich solutions. Some forms are also called Ivoryite and some southwestern US Indian Tribes refer to it as White Buffalo Turquoise, but it is not Turquoise, although sometimes found in Turquoise deposits.

New Find in this form at Tucson GemFair 2008.

Malachite

Malachite is an opaque, banded stone, the colors in the bands range from a very light green to almost deep green. Because of its distinctive bright green color and its presence in the weathered zone of nearly all copper deposits, malachite serves as a prospecting guide for that metal.  Malachite derives its name from Greek word ‘malakos’ - soft, since it can be carved.

Aids in the regeneration of cells. It creates calm and peace while giving one the knowledge and patience to dissolves fear.

Wedding anniversary: 13th year

Marcasite

The two minerals, marcasite and pyrite, are often confused due to their similar characteristics. Marcasite is a polymorph of pyrite which means that it has the same chemistry as pyrite but a different structure and, therefore, different symmetry and crystal shapes. The marcasite/pyrite polymorh pair is probably the most famous polymorph pair next to the diamond/graphite pair. Adding to the confusion between marcasite and pyrite is the use of the word marcasite as a jewelry trade name. The term is applied to small polished and faceted stones that are inlayed in sterling silver. But even though they are called marcasite, they are actually pyrite. Marcasite’s name is derived from the Arabic word for pyrite.

Maw Sit Sit

Maw Sit Sit is a rock, composed from at least six different minerals as main constituents. They can vary greatly in their relative amounts and therefore the rock may vary strongly in its visual aspect as well as in its specific gravity value.  Maw-Sit-Sit is the name of the area in Burma where this mineral is found. Asking a gemologist about Maw Sit Sit is one of the most reveling tests of a persons true gem knowledge.

Moissanite

Moissanite, grown in laboratories, is now being cut as gemstones and is used as diamond simulants.  Moissanite brings to the jeweler's table a similar index of refraction and better than twice the fire of diamond, but is only slightly less expensive due to the difficulty in growing the crystals.  Moissanite is also a natural mineral that was first discovered in fragments of a meteorite in Diablo Canyon in Arizona.   It was named in honor of its discoverer, Nobel Prize winner, Dr. Ferdinand Henri Moissan.

Moldavite

Moldavite is an olive-green or dull greenish vitreous substance formed by a meteorite impact or breakup. It is one kind of a tektite. The total amount of Moldavite scattered around the world is estimated at 275 tons. There are now only four moldavite mines that are in full operation, all in the Czech Republic.  Boldly attributing the material to a cosmic origin, Dr. F. E. Suess regarded moldavite as a special type of meteorite material for which he proposed the class name of tektite. The actual stone  was named by A. Dufrnoy, Moldauthein, a small town in Bohemia, where it was first found.

Due to its cosmic origin, is suppose to gives insight while  easing ones emotional change and transitions.

Moonstone

Moonstones come in a variety of colors, ranging from colorless to white, gray, brown, yellow, orange, green, or pink. Clarity ranges from transparent to translucent. Rainbow Moonstone  is a soft milky stone, the most valuable variety of feldspar with an rainbow sheen. Moonstone shows a silvery or bluish iridescence, that is caused by the intergrowth of two different types of feldspar with different refractive indexes.  .Moonstone is named for its resemblance to the color in the moon.

Helps to aligns the vertebrae. It also soothes and balances ones emotions.  It provides arouses tender passion.

Birthstone: Month of JUNE (M)

Wedding anniversary: 13th year

Morganite

Alongside emerald and aquamarine, morganite is certainly the best known gemstone from the colourful group of the beryls. Women the world over love morganite for its fine pink tones which radiate charm, esprit and tenderness. Morganite is generally considered to be about as common as the beryls, aquamarine and heliodor. The only beryl which is considered to be rare, other than emerald, is the Red Beryl or also called Red Emerald, now known as bixbite. In honor of the banker and mineral collector John Pierpont Morgan, it was given the name under which it is known today: morganite.

Is suppose to help ease mental illness, increase memory while fighting hysteria and pain.   The nurturing and caring stone.

Mother of Pearl (Shell)

Mother of pearl is the common name for iridescent nacre, a blend of minerals that are secreted by oysters and other mollusks and deposited inside their shells, coating and protecting their bodies from parasites and foreign objects. Jewelry made from mother of pearl is in the group called organic jewelry.  Mother of Pearl gets its name from the fact that the pearl grows in the shell of the mollusk, thus in the mother.

Round

This shape has set the standard for all other diamond shapes, and accounts for more than 75% of diamonds sold today. Its 58-facet cut is calibrated through a precise formula to achieve the maximum in fire and brilliance.

Princess

This is a square or rectangular cut with numerous sparkling facets. It is a relatively new cut and often finds its way into solitaire engagement rings. Flattering to a hand with long fingers, it is often embellished with triangular stones at its sides.

Emerald

This is a rectangular shape with cut corners. It is known as a step cut because its concentric broad, flat planes resemble stair steps.

Oval

This is an even, perfectly symmetrical design popular among women with small hands or short fingers. Its elongated shape gives a flattering illusion of length to the hand.

Pear

This hybrid cut, combining the best of the oval and the marquise, is shaped most like a sparkling teardrop. It also belongs to that category of diamond whose design most complements a hand with small or average-length fingers. It is particularly beautiful for pendants or earrings.

Cushion

The cushion-cut is a deep cut with large facets, an open bottom, and rounded corners. The depth of this cut encourages the eye to travel around the inside the stone. The facets create a high degree of returning light, making the cushion-cut one of the most brilliant and sparkling diamond cuts.

Marquise

An elongated shape with pointed ends inspired by the fetching smile of the Marquise de Pompadour and commissioned by the Sun King, France's Louis XIV, who wanted a diamond to match it. It is gorgeous when used as a solitaire or when enhanced by smaller diamonds.

Heart

This ultimate symbol of romance is essentially a pear-shaped diamond with a cleft at the top. The skill of the cutter determines the beauty of the cut. Look for a stone with an even shape and a well-defined outline.

Trillion

This is a spectacular wedge of brittle fire. First developed in Amsterdam, the exact design can vary depending on a particular diamond's natural characteristics and the cutter's personal preferences. It is definitely for the adventurous.

Radiant

This square or rectangular cut combines the elegance of the emerald shape diamond with the brilliance of the round, and its facets maximize the effect of its color refraction.

Cabochon

This is a modification to the gemstone face that creates a highly polished, convex-cut, unfaceted gem that is smooth to the touch.

Portuguese

The classic Portuguese (Vargas) cut has 161 facets on it. Because of the depth that is needed to cut that many tiers and facets the stone/design must be deep and thus caret weight is increased for the same diameter as a standard 58 facet design.