Gemstone guide

AGATE is a translucent variety of quartz. Agate is the oldest stone in recorded history. The agate is considered a protection stone, believed to attract strength and offer protection from bad dreams, stress and the draining of energy. In ancient times it was said to quench thirst and protect against fever.

AQUAMARINE comes in a light greenish-blue variety of beryl. Aquamarine is the birthstone for may and the zodiac stone for cancer. Aquamarine is said to have the cooling properties of sea water and is used by crystal healers to treat sunburn, grief, depression and disappointment. This stone is said to re-awaken love to those who have been married a long time.

AMETHYST comprises the purple and violet varieties of the large family of quartz minerals. Amethyst is the birthstone for February and the zodiac stone for Pisces. In ancient Greece it was believed that wearing amethyst would prevent you from suffering the adverse affects of excessive alcohol consumption.

CITRINE is a member of the large quartz family. Citrine ranges in colour from a pale yellow to brown, taking its colour from the small amounts of iron in the crystal. Citrine is the birthstone for November. In ancient times they believed citrine protected against the venom of evil words and thoughts.

CORAL is among the most ancient of gem materials, used for adornment since prehistoric times. Coral is one of the seven treasures in Buddhist scriptures and Tibetan lamas use coral rosaries. Coral was long thought to be a powerful talisman that could stop bleeding, protect from evil spirits, and ward off hurricanes.

DIAMONDS are reputed to endow the wearer with purity, love and joy. Traditionally the emblem of fearlessness, it is also the symbol of love. Diamonds are the birthstone for April. The ancient Greeks believed that diamonds were splinters of stars fallen to the earth. Diamonds were first mined in India over 2800 years ago.

LAPIS LAZULI has been known since ancient times and owes its name to the persian word 'lazhward' meaning blue. The ideal colour for lapis lazuli is a dark blue of extraordinary depth and intensity. Owing to the inclusion of iron pyrites within the stone, most specimens display bright, brassy specks which are valued as a sign that the stone is genuine.

MOONSTONE is the gem variety of feldspar and is characterised by the sheen effect it exhibits. Moonstone is a stone that promotes inner growth and strength and is often considered to be a woman's stone. Moonstone has been worn as an amulet to bring good emotions to the wearer, while protecting those of a sensitive nature. Moonstone is also considered a good luck stone.

ONYX is a chalcedony quartz that has a fine texture and black colour. Onyx was used in Egypt as early as the second dynasty to make bowls and other pottery items. Onyx is mined in Brazil, India, California and Uruguay. Onyx jewellery is often give to mark the 7th wedding anniversary. 

PEARL – the pearl is one of the oldest known gems. A unique phenomenon in nature, pearls have an alluring shape and instrinsic beauty. Pearl is the birthstone for June. Pearl jewellery is often given to celebrate a 3rd wedding anniversary. The pearl has become the symbol of purity and innocence. 

SMOKY QUARTZ – smoky quartz is a brown variety of quartz that often forms in strong points and clusters. It induces deep relaxation and love. This stone relieves fear, enhances security and safety, and brings emotional calm. Smoky quartz is beneficial to those who find the need to move forward within themselves. 

BLUE TOPAZ – from the beautiful transparent blue of topaz, we can imagine why the ancient people believed that this gemstone could improve eyesight and mental clarity. Blue topaz is also said to attract love and wealth and helps calm and reduce stress. 

WHITE TOPAZ - often mistaken for diamonds, white topaz stones are said to enhance one’s spiritual path, bringing clarity of purpose and vision, as well as imparting a purifying energy. 

TURQUOISE – turquoise has been an important gemstone for many cultures. It is believed to protect the wearer from negative energy, creating peace. Wearing turquoise is also believed to help with enhancing friendships and portraying status.