Material Glossary
I have compiled all the metal finishes and inlay colors on one page to help you make the best choice for your personal style. Each option is labeled in a provided picture with a coordinating description above it.
Metal finishes
- Polished sterling silver - all pieces are filed, sanded and buffed to give it a mirrored shine. Polished is the classic finish for sterling silver.
- Brushed sterling silver - I use a steel wool rotary bit against the surface of the metal to give it a uniform matte finish. I feel the brushed finish gives silver a more contemporary edge.
- Oxidized sterling silver - I soak the piece in a mineral and then polish it in a steel shot tumbler leaving a shiny dark patina on the surface of the piece. This mineral, Liver of Sulfur, naturally accelerates the tarnishing of the sterling silver. If you wear both silver and gold jewelry but don’t like the mixed metal look; oxidized sterling silver is a good neutral to wear with both silver and gold jewelry.
Inlay Colors
- Pink Rhodonite- Pink Rhodonite is a manganese metasilicate mineral; named from the Greek word meaning “a rose”, due to it’s pink to rose red color.
- Mother-of-pearl - the iridescent inside lining of a mollusk shell.
- Black Jet Stone - gemstone, derived from fossilized wood.
- Mother-of-pearl with silver dust
- Black Jet Stone with silver dust
- Pink Rhodonite with silver dust
As I work, I collect my silver filings. I use the silver filings, or dust in the recesses of the mother-of-pearl inlay. Then, the inlay is filed, sanded and polished to the desired finish. No material is wasted.
Gemstones
Emerald
The gemstone of Spring. The green to bluish-green gemstone from the Beryl gemstone family, same as Aquamarine and Morganite.
Moh's hardness 7.5-8
Care- Emeralds are best cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft bristled brush. Never soak in water for long periods. Emeralds are known for its imperfect cleavage so it's best to avoid frequent use of ultra sonic and steam cleaners. I recommend storing your emerald jewelry separate from your other jewelry pieces as the surface could scratch from your other jewelry.
Birthstone & Anniversaries: May Birthstone and 20th & 35 wedding anniversary
Garnet
Garnets come in almost every color, from the more common dark red to rare and valuable green and much in between.
Moh’s hardness 6.5-7.5
Care- Garnets are best cleaned with warm, soapy water and soft cloth. Avoid steam cleaning.
Birthstone & Anniversaries: January Birthstone and 2nd wedding anniversary
Jet
Jet forms from fossilized wood. Since it has organic origin, it is considered a gem, just like amber or pearl. The use of jet in jewelry dates back to Neolithic times in Ancient Britain. The Ancient Romans later popularized jet not only for ornamental use but for its purported magical properties.
MOHs Hardness- 2.5-4
Care- Jet has a relatively low hardness so it’s best to store separately from other jewelry to protect from scratches. Keep away from chemicals and reduce contact with cosmetics, oils and acids as these can discolor the gemstone. Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaning. Best way to clean jet stone is with a soft cloth, mild soap and warm water.
Mother of Pearl
Mother of Pearl, or Nacre, is an organic substance secreted by a mollusk to protect the inside of their shells from parasites and other foreign irritants. This iridescence is caused by the way the light reflects off the multiple layers of nacre on the shell.
Mohs hardness 2.5-4.5
Care- Mother of Pearl has a relatively low hardness so it’s best to store separately from other jewelry to protect from scratches. Keep away from chemicals and reduce contact with cosmetics, oils and acids as these can discolor the gemstone. Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaning. Best way to clean Mother of Pearl is with a soft cloth, mild soap and warm water.
Shop our Mother of Pearl Jewelry
Pink Rhodonite
Rhodonite is a manganese metasilicate mineral; named from the Greek word meaning “a rose”, due to its pink to rose red color. Rhodonite is often associated with black manganese oxides which may occur within the formation of the gemstone creating a spider web effect of pink and black coloring.
Mohs hardness- 5.5-6.5
Care- Keep away from chemicals and reduce contact with cosmetics, oils and acids as these can discolor the gemstone. Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaning. Best way to clean Rhodonite is with a soft cloth, mild soap and warm water.
Shop our Pink Rhodonite Jewelry
Black Spinel
Spinel gemstones are often mistaken with ruby and sapphires due to the large color range and durability. In ancient Sanskrit writings, the gemstone spinel was called the “daughter of ruby.” A fine red treasure—adored, yet distinct.
Mohs hardness: 8
Care: Suitable for ultrasonic and steam cleaners. For daily cleaning, use a soft bristle brush, mild soap and room temperature water.
Moonstone
Moonstone is a translucent white stone with iridescent or multicolored flashes that are opaque to semitranslucent. Rainbow moonstone is best seen in natural light. Ancient Romans believed moonstones were solidified rays from the moon.
Mohs hardness: 6- 6.5
Care: Keep away from chemicals and reduce contact with cosmetics, oils and acids as these can affect the surface of the stone. Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaning. Best way to clean moonstone is with a soft cloth, mild soap and room temperature water.
Birthstone & Anniversaries: June Birthstone along with Pearl and Alexandrite
Morganite
Morganite is a orange- pink colored gemstone from the beryl family which includes emerald and aquamarine. Named after financier and gem enthusiast, J.P. Morgan.
Mohs hardness: 7.5- 8
Care: Morganite is hard enough to resist moderate wear. Clean Morganites with warm soapy water and a soft bristle brush. Safe to clean with ultrasonic or steam cleaners.
Rutilated Quartz
Rutilated quartz formed 400 to 500 million years ago when quartz and other minerals came together as liquids. As they cooled and hardened, these stunning combinations were created.
Mohs Hardness: 7
Care: Keep away from chemicals and reduce contact with cosmetics, oils and acids. Best way to clean Rutilated Quartz is with a soft cloth, mild soap and room temperature water.
Shop our Rutilated Quartz Jewelry
Amethyst
The gemstone of tranquility. Amethyst is a variety of quartz with a vibrant purple hue, ranging from light lavender to deep violet. Known for its calming properties, this gem has been associated with spiritual growth and healing throughout history.
Moh's hardness: 7
Care- Amethyst is best cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush. Avoid exposure to extreme temperature changes and prolonged direct sunlight, which may cause the color to fade. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners can be used, but exercise caution.
Birthstone & Anniversaries: February Birthstone and 6th & 17th wedding anniversary
Aquamarine
The gemstone of the sea. Aquamarine is a transparent blue-green gemstone from the Beryl family, reminiscent of the clear ocean waters. Its serene color has been associated with courage and protection.
Moh's hardness: 7.5-8
Care- Aquamarine can be cleaned using warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally safe for this gemstone. Avoid exposure to extreme heat or chemicals that may affect the color.
Birthstone & Anniversaries: March Birthstone and 19th wedding anniversary
Pearl
A timeless classic. Pearls are organic gemstones formed within mollusks, such as oysters and mussels, as a response to an irritant. Pearls can be found in a range of colors from white to black, with lustrous shades and overtones.
Moh's hardness: 2.5-4.5
Care- Pearls require special care, as they are easily scratched and can be damaged by chemicals. To clean, simply wipe with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaning, and store separately from other jewelry to prevent scratching.
Birthstone & Anniversaries: June Birthstone, 3rd & 30th wedding anniversary
Ruby
Ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum with a deep red hue, ranging from pinkish-red to blood-red. This vibrant gemstone has been associated with love and energy throughout history.
Moh's hardness: 9
Care- Rubies are best cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush. They are relatively durable, but it's best to avoid contact with harsh chemicals. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally safe for use on rubies.
Birthstone & Anniversaries: July Birthstone and 15th & 40th wedding anniversary
Sapphire
Sapphire is another variety of the mineral corundum and is available in an array of colors, including the iconic deep blue. This gem has long been associated with royalty, protection, and divine favor.
Moh's hardness: 9
Care- Sapphires can be cleaned using warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are typically safe for sapphires. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme temperature changes.
Birthstone & Anniversaries: September Birthstone and 5th & 45th wedding anniversary
Madeira Citrine
Madeira Citrine is a vibrant yellow to reddish-orange variety of quartz, named after the fortified Portuguese wine. This gemstone has been associated with prosperity and positive energy.
Moh's hardness: 7
Care- Madeira Citrine is best cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight for extended periods, which may cause the color to fade. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners can be used, but exercise caution.
Birthstone & Anniversaries: November Birthstone (along with Topaz) and 13th wedding anniversary
Shop our Madeira Citrine Jewelry
Blue Topaz
Blue Topaz is a transparent blue gemstone with colors ranging from pale sky blue to deep Swiss blue. It is believed to promote harmony, balance, and mental clarity.
Moh's hardness: 8
Care- Blue Topaz can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally safe for this gemstone. However, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, which may cause the color to fade.
Birthstone & Anniversaries: December Birthstone (along with Turquoise) and 4th wedding anniversary
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis Lazuli is a deep blue metamorphic rock with golden flecks of pyrite, prized for its intense color and mystical properties. It has been associated with wisdom, communication, and self-awareness.
Moh's hardness: 5-5.5
Care- Lapis Lazuli should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Keep away from harsh chemicals and excessive heat. Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaning, as this gemstone may be sensitive to these methods.
Opal
Opal is a hydrated amorphous form of silica, known for its unique play of color and vibrant flashes. This enchanting gemstone has been associated with creativity, passion, and transformation.
Moh's hardness: 5.5-6.5
Care- Opals require special care, as they are relatively delicate and sensitive to sudden temperature changes. Clean them using a soft cloth, mild soap, and room temperature water. Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaning and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
Birthstone & Anniversaries: October Birthstone and 14th & 34th wedding anniversary
Bluestone
Bluestone is a trade name for various blue gemstones such as Sodalite, Azurite, and Dumortierite. This calming gemstone is believed to promote harmony, inner peace, and mental clarity.
Moh's hardness: Varies depending on the specific mineral
Care- Clean Bluestone with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, and ultrasonic or steam cleaning, as these can damage the gemstone.
Turquoise
The gemstone of protection. Turquoise is an opaque blue-to-green mineral, often featuring unique patterns and veining. This ancient gemstone has been revered for its protective and healing properties.
Moh's hardness: 5-6
Care- Turquoise is porous and sensitive to chemicals, so clean it gently using a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaning, as well as direct contact with cosmetics, oils, and acids, which can discolor the gemstone.
Birthstone & Anniversaries: December Birthstone (along with Blue Topaz) and 11th wedding anniversary
Green Quartz
Green Quartz is a variety of quartz with a vibrant green hue, known for its soothing and balancing properties. This gemstone is believed to promote emotional healing and spiritual growth.
Moh's hardness: 7
Care- Green Quartz can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally safe for this gemstone. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme temperature changes.
Iolite
Iodilte is a transparent to translucent blue to violet gemstone, often referred to as the "water sapphire." This gemstone is believed to enhance intuition, self-discovery, and spiritual growth.
Moh's hardness: 7-7.5
Care -Iodilte can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners can be used, but exercise caution. Avoid exposure to extreme temperature changes or harsh chemicals, which may damage the gemstone.
Coral
Coral is an organic gemstone formed from the calcareous skeletons of marine organisms. It is found in various colors, with red and pink being the most highly prized. Coral has been associated with vitality, passion, and protection.
Moh's hardness: 3-4
Care- Coral is delicate and sensitive to chemicals, so it's best to clean it gently using a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaning and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, which may cause the color to fade.
Tourmaline
Tourmaline is a complex boron silicate mineral that occurs in a wide range of colors, including green, pink, blue, and black. This versatile gemstone is believed to promote balance, healing, and self-expression.
Moh's hardness: 7-7.5
Care- Tourmaline can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally safe for this gemstone. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme temperature changes.
Birthstone & Anniversaries: October Birthstone (along with Opal) and 8th wedding anniversary
Peridot
Peridot is a vibrant green gemstone from the olivine mineral family. Its bright color and uplifting energy have been associated with renewal, growth, and abundance.
Moh's hardness: 6.5-7
Care- Peridot can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners can be used, but exercise caution. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme temperature changes, which may damage the gemstone.
Birthstone & Anniversaries: August Birthstone and 16th wedding anniversary