Gemstone Info

The Mohs Hardness Scale: Soft to Hard
When it comes to jewelry, the Mohs Hardness Scale is the "gold standard" for determining how a piece will hold up over time.

The Mohs scale (created by Friedrich Mohs in 1812) measures a mineral's resistance to scratching.

It is a relative scale from 1 to 10. 1 being the softest, and 10 being the hardest. If a stone can scratch another, it is higher on the scale.

Soft (1 – 3):
These minerals (like Talc at 1 or Pearl/Shell at 2.5 – 4.5) are easily scratched, sometimes by even by a fingernail or a copper penny. They require extreme care.

Medium (4 – 6):
These stones (like Fluorite at 4 or Turquoise/Opal at 5 – 6) can be scratched by a steel knife or a masonry nail. They are fine for jewelry but prone to losing their polish or getting nicked over time.

Hard (7):
Quartz varieties (Amethyst, Citrine, Rose Quartz) sits at a 7. This is the "threshold" for durability because household dust often contains tiny particles of quartz. Any stone softer than a 7 will eventually be dulled by the microscopic scratches from everyday dust.

Very Hard (8 – 9):
These are the "Big Three" and their cousins (Topaz, Spinel, Sapphire, Ruby). They are very difficult to scratch and maintain their luster for decades.

Hardest (10):
Diamond (and Moissanite at 9.25) are the kings of the scale. Only a diamond can scratch another diamond.

Birthstone Month: September (Alternative) or May (Alternative)

Associated Meanings: Agate is traditionally known as a stone of harmony and balance, helping to stabilize the aura and soothe inner tension. It is often worn to enhance mental function, concentration, and a sense of emotional security.

Mohs Hardness: 6.5 – 7

Physical Traits: Agate is a variety of Chalcedony, which is a microcrystalline form of Quartz (Silicon Dioxide, SiO2​). It is characterized by its waxy luster and unique concentric banding or moss-like inclusions created by rhythmic crystallization during formation.

Origins: Brazil, Uruguay, India, Mexico, United States (notably the Lake Superior region and Oregon)

Birthstone Month: June

Associated Meanings: Often called "Emerald by day, Ruby by night," it symbolizes the balance between the physical and spiritual worlds. It is thought to bring intense good fortune, strengthen intuition in critical situations, and help the wearer embrace life's changes with grace and internal strength.

Mohs Hardness: 8.5

Physical Traits: Famous for its dramatic color change - green in daylight and purplish-red under incandescent light.

Origins: Russia, Brazil, Sri Lanka, East Africa

More Info: This gemstone is exremely rare, lab grown Alexandrite is typically what is available commercially. Authentic lab grown Alexandrite is comprised of Chrysoberyl (not imitation Corundum) which is chemically and structurally identical to the gemstone found in nature.

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: The "Stone of Courage and Truth." It is used to help one move beyond the fear of judgment and to help manifest dreams by aligning words with true intentions. It is also believed to provide a powerful filter against electromagnetic pollution and environmental stress.

Mohs Hardness: 6 – 6.5

Physical Traits: Opaque potassium feldspar with a turquoise-green color and white streaks

Origins: Brazil, Russia, Madagascar, USA

Birthstone Month: February

Associated Meanings: A stone of spiritual protection and purification. It is believed to quiet the mind, aid in meditation, and help the wearer move toward a higher state of consciousness. Historically, it was worn to prevent overindulgence and to keep the mind sharp and focused.

Mohs Hardness: 7

Physical Traits: Transparent quartz ranging from pale lilac to deep royal purple.

Origins: Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, South Korea

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: A stone of manifestation, motivation, stimulate creativity, intellect, focus, ambition, acceptance and clarity.

Mohs Hardness: 5

Physical Traits: Typically neon blue or forest green; can be transparent to translucent to many pale colors in between.

Origins: Brazil, Madagascar, Mexico, Myanmar

Birthstone Month: March

Associated Meanings: Named for the Latin "water of the sea," it symbolizes tranquility, serenity, and clarity. It was traditionally used to protect sailors at sea and is believed to help the wearer release old emotional baggage while calming the nerves during turbulent times.

Mohs Hardness: 7.5 – 8

Physical Traits: Transparent beryl gemstone in shades of pale pastel blue to greenish-blue.

Origins: Brazil (primarily), Nigeria, Madagascar

Birthstone Month: December

Associated Meanings: Known as a stone of clarity and communication. It is believed to help the wearer channel their inner wisdom and express complex ideas with ease. It is often associated with the throat chakra, promoting honesty, integrity, and emotional self-control.

Mohs Hardness: 8

Physical Traits: Hard silicate mineral; usually treated to achieve shades like Sky, Swiss, or London Blue.

Origins: Brazil, Russia, Nigeria

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: A stabilizing stone that restores vitality and motivation. It is believed to stimulate creativity, bestow courage, and promote positive life choices. In ancient times, it was used to help timid speakers become eloquent, bold, and socially confident.

Mohs Hardness: 6.5 – 7

Physical Traits: Brownish-red to orange variety of chalcedony with a waxy appearance.

Origins: India, Brazil, Uruguay, Egypt

Birthstone Month: May (Alternative)

Associated Meanings: Traditionally, it is known as "The Speaker's Stone" and has been associated with enhancing communication and oratory skills. It is believed to promote "group stability" and collective goodwill. It absorbs negative energy and brings the mind, body, and spirit into alignment, fostering maternal instincts, benevolence, and generous thoughts.

Mohs Hardness: 6.5 – 7

Physical Traits: Translucent quartz with a waxy luster; usually milky blue, lavender, or grey.

Origins: Found globally, Brazil, Turkey, USA

Birthstone Month: November

Associated Meanings: Often called the "Merchant's Stone," it is associated with abundance, wealth, and success. It is one of the few stones that does not hold negative energy, but rather transmutes it, promoting a sunny, optimistic disposition and personal power.

Mohs Hardness: 7

Physical Traits: Transparent quartz ranging from pale yellow to deep brownish-orange.

Origins: Brazil, Spain, Madagascar

Birthstone Month: April (Alternative)

Associated Meanings: Known as the "Master Healer," it is said to amplify energy and thought, as well as the effects of other crystals. It is used to clear the mind of distractions, find one's specific purpose, and enhance the clarity of one's aura.

Mohs Hardness: 7

Physical Traits: Colorless, glass-like crystal; the most iconic form of quartz.

Origins: Found globally, Brazil, Arkansas

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: A gift from the stars and the sea, it is believed to be a grounding stone that helps the wearer connect with the ancient wisdom of the Earth. It is thought to promote longevity, inner peace, and a sense of safety during major life transitions.

Mohs Hardness: 6.5 – 7

Physical Traits: Prehistoric coral replaced by agate, showing flower-like patterns.

Origins: Indonesia, Florida (USA), Morocco

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: Symbolizes the beauty of human craftsmanship and the play of light. It is believed to bring a sense of joy and artistic inspiration to the wearer, serving as a reminder that we have the power to create beauty and light in our own environments.

Mohs Hardness: 5 – 6

Physical Traits: Man-made high-quality glass; known for brilliant sparkle and color.

Origins: Czech Republic

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: Known as the "Stone of Plenitude," it brings abundance and fullness to all areas of life. It is particularly associated with the natural world and is believed to enhance the yield of crops or the health of one's environment while encouraging a slow, steady growth.

Mohs Hardness: 6.5 – 7

Physical Traits: Translucent chalcedony with tree-like inclusions of manganese or iron.

Origins: India, Brazil, USA

Birthstone Month: April

Associated Meanings: Known as the "Stone of Invincibility," the diamond is the ultimate symbol of eternal love, commitment, and faithfulness. Its name comes from the Greek adamas, meaning "unbreakable." It is believed to amplify the wearer's energy—whether positive or negative—and is used to bring clarity of mind, enlightenment, and a sense of fearlessness. Historically, it was worn by kings and warriors to provide strength and protection in battle.

Mohs Hardness: 10

Physical Traits: A transparent crystal made of pure carbon; famous for its unparalleled brilliance, "fire" (dispersion of light), and the highest hardness of any natural mineral.

Origins: Mined primarily in Russia, Botswana, Canada, Angola, South Africa

More Info: Lab grown Diamonds are also available commercially - especially due to ethical, environmental and sustainability concerns. Authentic lab grown Diamond is comprised of a single element - pure carbon, which is chemically and structurally identical to the gemstone found in nature.

Birthstone Month: May

Associated Meanings: A symbol of rebirth and eternal youth, it is believed to grant the wearer fortune and foresight. As a stone of inspiration and infinite patience, it embodies unity and compassion, acting as a powerful magnet for unconditional love and friendship.

Mohs Hardness: 7.5 – 8

Physical Traits: Rich green beryl with unique internal inclusions called a "jardin" a French word meaning "garden." It refers specifically to the unique, complex network of internal inclusions found within a natural Emerald.

Origins: Colombia, Zambia, Brazil

Other Info: Emeralds may also be lab grown to achieve a higher clarity of stone - this is typically what is available commercially. Authentic lab grown Emerald is comprised of Beryllium Aluminum Silicate, which is chemically and structurally identical to the gemstone found in nature.

Birthstone Month: October

Associated Meanings: Often called a "spiritual stone" because of its high vibration. It is believed to intensify one's emotional state, facilitating the rapid release of old wounds and allowing the wearer to see their hidden potential through sudden flashes of insight and fire.

Mohs Hardness: 5.5 – 6.5

Physical Traits: Hydrophane opal displaying vivid, neon-like flashes of color.

Origins: Wollo (Welo) Province, Shewa (Mezezo) (Shoa) Province, Ethiopia

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: Often called the stone of "joy and high spirits." Its circular patterns remind us that life is cyclical and everything happens in its own time. It is believed to help release suppressed emotions and find the "blooming" potential in difficult situations.

Mohs Hardness: 6.5 – 7

Physical Traits: Jasper with orbicular (eye-like) patterns resembling colorful flowers.

Origins: Coast of Madagascar

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: Known as the "Genius Stone," it is believed to clear mental fog and organize chaotic thoughts. It is used to enhance concentration, aid in complex decision-making, and protect the wearer from external mental manipulation or "psychic noise."

Mohs Hardness: 4

Physical Traits: Soft mineral with "rainbow" bands of purple, green, and clear colors.

Origins: China, Mexico, South Africa.

Birthstone Month: January

Associated Meanings: A stone of physical strength, devotion, and security. It is believed to ignite passion, boost energy levels, and provide a protective shield during travel. Ancient lore suggests it protects the wearer from nightmares and lights up the path ahead.

Mohs Hardness: 6.5 – 7.5

Physical Traits: Most common in deep red, but occurs in almost every color.

Origins: Africa, India, Sri Lanka, USA

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: Combining the power of the golden colors of copper and quartz, it is believed to stimulate the solar plexus and throat. It promotes a sense of wealth and optimism, helping the wearer speak their truth with authority while attracting professional and personal prosperity.

Mohs Hardness: 7

Physical Traits: Clear quartz bonded with metals to create a metallic golden-blue sheen.

Origins: Man-made enhancement on natural quartz.

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: The ultimate "Grounding Stone." It is believed to keep the wearer "down to earth" during chaotic times. It is used to balance the meridians of the body, improve focus, and create a protective barrier against negative environmental energy.

Mohs Hardness: 5.5 – 6.5

Physical Traits: Heavy, metallic-grey or black mineral; shiny when polished.

Origins: Brazil, China, Canada, USA

Birthstone Month: April (Alternative)

Associated Meanings: Known as "Attunement Stones," they are believed to help the wearer align with their environment or with others. They are used to clear energy blockages and are said to be powerful aids in lucid dreaming and spiritual vision.

Mohs Hardness: 7.5

Physical Traits: Exceptionally clear, naturally double-terminated quartz crystals.

Origins: Herkimer County, New York, USA

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: An extremely calming stone used to relieve insomnia and calm an overactive mind. It is believed to teach patience and help eliminate rage or stress. It is often carried to encourage a state of "gentle stillness" and mindful communication.

Mohs Hardness: 3.5

Physical Traits: White, porous mineral with grey or black spiderweb veining.

Origins: Canada, California, USA

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: A symbol of purity, serenity, and luck. Much prized in many cultures, it is believed to protect the wearer from harm and to bring harmony to the home. It is thought to attract lasting friendship while promoting self-sufficiency and emotional release.

Mohs Hardness: 6 – 7

Physical Traits: Tough, lustrous stone; found as Nephrite or Jadeite in various greens.

Origins: Myanmar, Guatemala, China, BC Canada, Siberia, Russia, New Zealand, USA, Taiwan, Australia, Pakistan, Zimbabwe, Indonesia, Poland

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: One of the few stones that never needs cleansing because it does not hold negative energy. It is believed to bridge gaps in communication, help the wearer speak their truth without fear, and promote logical, linear thinking.

Mohs Hardness: 4.5 – 7

Physical Traits: Bladed crystal structure, usually in striking indigo or cornflower blue.

Origins: Brazil, Nepal, Switzerland

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: Known as the "Stone of Magic," it is a powerful companion through change, imparting strength and perseverance. It is believed to banish fears and insecurities while strengthening faith in the self and trust in the timing of the universe.

Mohs Hardness: 6 – 6.5

Physical Traits: Greyish-green stone displaying metallic iridescence (labradorescence) of varying colors shimmering from blue, pink, purple, white and black.

Origins: Canada, Madagascar, Finland, Norway, Russia, Australia, Mexico, USA, Ukraine

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: Often called the "Stone of Ambition," it is believed to help the wearer stay focused on their long-term goals. The "stars" within symbolize the light of hope that can be found in the darkness, encouraging confidence and a positive outlook.

Mohs Hardness: 5.5 – 6

Physical Traits: Deep navy glass infused with copper flecks that sparkle like stars.

Origins: Man-made laboratory creation

Birthstone Month: April (Alternative)

Associated Meanings: A stone of resilience and brilliant light. It is believed to help the wearer find their inner strength and to shine brightly even in difficult circumstances. It symbolizes a love that is unbreakable, resilient, and full of eternal fire.

Mohs Hardness: 9.25

Physical Traits: Near-colorless gemstone with more "fire" and brilliance than a diamond.

Origins: Naturally from meteorites; commercially lab-grown

Birthstone Month: June

Associated Meanings: A stone for "new beginnings," it is strongly connected to the moon and to intuition. It is believed to soothe emotional instability and stress, providing a deep calmness and enhancing feminine energy, nurturing, and receptive qualities.

Mohs Hardness: 6 – 6.5

Physical Traits: Translucent feldspar with a blue or white, sometimes rainbow glow (adularescence)

Origins: Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, Myanmar (Burma), Brazil, Tanzania, United States (notably Virginia, New Mexico, North Carolina)

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: A protection stone that brings the gentle healing power of the sea. It is believed to relieve stress and is highly soothing to the emotions. It is often given to children as a token of "motherly" protection, warmth, and security.

Mohs Hardness: 2.5 – 4.5

Physical Traits: Iridescent inner lining of mollusk shells; milky white.

Origins: Oceans worldwide

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: A very powerful and creative stone. It is believed to ground the soul and spiritual forces into the physical plane. It works as a shield against negativity, providing a "psychic vacuum" that clears the wearer's aura of emotional debris.

Mohs Hardness: 5 – 5.5

Physical Traits: Smooth, black volcanic glass formed by cooling lava.

Origins: Mexico, Iceland, Western USA, Ethiopia, Japan, Italy, Turkey, Greece

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: A stone of fluidity and release. Like the tides, it is believed to help the wearer "go with the flow" and let go of stagnant emotions or habits. It is used to bring a sense of natural rhythm and peace to a chaotic lifestyle.

Mohs Hardness: 6.5 – 7

Physical Traits: Colorful chalcedony with patterns reminiscent of waves or bubbles.

Origins: Madagascar, USA (Oregon, Pacific Northwest area)

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: A "Stone of Strength," it is believed to provide support in difficult or confusing circumstances. It promotes vigor, steadfastness, and stamina, helping the wearer to be the master of their own destiny and to make wise decisions.

Mohs Hardness: 6.5 – 7

Physical Traits: Opaque chalcedony; usually seen as solid black in jewelry.

Origins: Brazil, Uruguay, India, Madagascar, Pakistan, Yemen, Indonesia, Argentina, USA (West & Southwest areas), China, Russia

Birthstone Month: June

Associated Meanings: Known as "tears from heaven," pearls symbolize purity, innocence, and faith. They are believed to enhance personal integrity and help clear the mind so that it can be a clean channel for spiritual wisdom and calm, centered energy.

Mohs Hardness: 2.5 – 4.5

Physical Traits: Lustrous organic gems formed inside oysters or mussels.

Origins:
Freshwater - China
Saltwater - Japan (Akoya) | French Polynesia (Tahitian) | Australia, Indonesia, Philippines (South Sea) | Fiji & The Cook Islands

Birthstone Month: August

Associated Meanings: Known as the "gem of the sun," it is believed to protect against nightmares and to bring the wearer delight and good cheer. It is a stone of transformation, helping to release old patterns and move toward a brighter, more prosperous future.

Mohs Hardness: 6.5 – 7

Physical Traits: Vibrant, lime-green gemstone. Some green shades range from yellowish, brown to olive in color depending on the region.

Origins: Arizona (USA), Myanmar, Zabargad Island (Egypt), Pakistan, Pallasite Meteorites, Jilin Province (China), Myanmar (Burma), Vietnam

Birthstone Month: June (Alternative)

Associated Meanings: This stone is a powerhouse for confidence and emotional harmony. It is believed to help the wearer balance bold courage with a gentle heart, stimulating the solar plexus and heart chakras to encourage self-love and resilience.

Mohs Hardness: 6.5 - 7

Physical Traits: Created from silicon dioxide (part of the quartz family) It is known for its chatoyancy - lustrous bands of light that dance across the surface when moved. Its vibrant pink (color enhanced) ranges from a soft dusty rose to a deep, fuchsia-pink, often streaked with dark chocolate or golden-brown ribbons.

Origins: Brazil, Afghanistan, South Africa, Namibia, Western Australia, India, Burma, China, Thailand, United States (primarily California)

Birthstone Month: October (Alternative)

Associated Meanings: A primary stone of the heart chakra, it is believed to help the wearer find the courage to love again. It is used to turn negative thoughts into positive ones and to help the wearer feel safe and secure in their own vulnerability.

Mohs Hardness: 7 – 7.5

Physical Traits: Boron silicate mineral ranging from soft pink to deep fuchsia.

Origins: Brazil, Afghanistan, Africa

Birthstone Month: October (Alternative)

Associated Meanings: Believed to inspire creativity and provide a sense of emotional balance by harmonizing all the chakras. It is often worn as a symbol of hope, compassion, and protection against negative energy.

Mohs Hardness: 7 – 7.5

Physical Traits: A complex borosilicate mineral. Famous for its "pleochroism," appearing in different colors or shades when viewed from different angles. It can range from transparent to translucent, displaying a continuous gradient of pinks, greens, yellows, and blues.

Its varied colors come from trace amounts of different metal ions trapped within the crystal structure:

• Iron and Titanium: Produce deep blues and greens.

• Manganese: Creates reds, pinks, and sometimes yellows.

• Magnesium: Results in yellow to brown tones.

• Lithium: Often found in the colorful Elbaite species.

Origins: Brazil, Nigeria, Madagascar, United States (notably Maine and California)

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: Symbolizes "Selfless Love and Compassion." It is believed to be a powerful tool for healing deep emotional wounds or childhood trauma. It encourages the wearer to embrace their own inner beauty and to act with kindness toward themselves.

Mohs Hardness: 3.5 – 4

Physical Traits: Pink to raspberry-red mineral with white zig-zag bands.

Origins: Argentina, South Africa, Colorado (USA)

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: The "Stone of Universal Love." It restores trust and harmony in relationships and encourages unconditional love. It is believed to purify and open the heart at all levels to promote deep inner healing and feelings of peace.

Mohs Hardness: 7

Physical Traits: Translucent to opaque quartz with a soft, pale pink hue.

Origins: Brazil, Madagascar, USA

Birthstone Month: July

Associated Meanings: A stone of nobility, passion, and vitality. It is believed to bring the wearer intense life-force and protection. Historically, it was worn to ensure success in battle and to ensure the wearer stayed "fired up" and motivated about their goals.

Mohs Hardness: 9

Physical Traits: Red variety of corundum; prized for its deep red color.

Origins: Myanmar, Mozambique, Thailand

More Info: Lab grown Ruby is typically what is also available commercially to obtain a clean appearance and vibrant color. Authentic lab grown Ruby is comprised of corundum, with trace amounts of chromium - which turns the colorless corundum into a vibrant red ruby. This is chemically and structurally identical to the gemstone found in nature.

Birthstone Month: September

Associated Meanings: A stone of wisdom, royalty, and prophecy. It is believed to bring mental focus and order, helping the wearer to see through illusions. It is also a stone of fidelity and commitment, making it a timeless choice for symbols of love.

Mohs Hardness: 9

Physical Traits: Precious corundum known for extreme hardness; famous in deep blue.

Origins: Kashmir, Madagascar, Sri Lanka

More Info: Lab grown Sapphire is typically what is also available commercially to obtain a clean appearance and various colors. Authentic lab grown Sapphire is comprised of corundum, (aluminum oxide) with trace amounts of iron and titanium - which turns the colorless corundum into a vibrant blue (or other colors) based on the trace elements used. This is chemically and structurally identical to the gemstone found in nature.

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: One of the most efficient grounding and anchoring stones. It is believed to be an excellent remedy for stress, helping the wearer to endure difficult times with resolve. It "smokes" away negative energy and promotes practical thinking.

Mohs Hardness: 7

Physical Traits: Brownish-grey, translucent variety of quartz.

Origins: Brazil, Madagascar, USA

Birthstone Month: August (Alternative)

Associated Meanings: A stone of "rejuvenation" and renewed energy. It is believed to help the wearer feel refreshed when they are physically or mentally exhausted. It is a stone of hope that encourages perseverance through challenges and finding new paths to success.

Mohs Hardness: 8

Physical Traits: Transparent gemstone found in vibrant reds, pinks, and blues.

Origins: Tajikistan, Myanmar, Sri Lanka

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: A marriage of "Sea and Sky." It is believed to bring the wearer the vitality of the ocean and the expansive wisdom of the sky. It is a stone of strength, resilience, and endurance, symbolizing the ability to thrive in ever-changing environments.

Mohs Hardness: 3.5 – 7

Physical Traits: Composite stone of turquoise and orange/red spiny oyster shell.

Origins: Artisan-made (Sea of Cortez shells)

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: Believed to carry the attributes of universal love and personal purpose. It is used to help the wearer live joyfully and intentionally in the present moment, noticing the beauty in small details and finding the "sweetness" in everyday life.

Mohs Hardness: 7

Physical Traits: Clear quartz with red speckles of hematite or lepidocrocite.

Origins: Russia, Kazakhstan, Brazil

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: An "Abundance Stone" that encourages independence and vitality. It is believed to act as a natural antidepressant, lifting dark moods and providing the wearer with the inner "light" needed to take on leadership roles with confidence and joy.

Mohs Hardness: 6 – 6.5

Physical Traits: Feldspar with metallic glitter (aventurescence).

Origins: Oregon (USA), Norway, India

Birthstone Month: June (Alternative)

Associated Meanings: This is the ultimate stone of courage, focus, and protection. Historically carried by Roman soldiers for bravery in battle, it is now used to help the wearer stay grounded, clear-headed, and motivated during big life transitions.

Mohs Hardness: 6.5 - 7

Physical Traits: Created from silicon dioxide (part of the quartz family) It is known for its chatoyancy - a silky, lustrous effect where bands of golden-yellow and deep chocolate-brown seem to glide across the stone as you turn it in the light. Its surface has a rich, fibrous texture that looks like polished wood or liquid gold.

Origins: Brazil, Afghanistan, South Africa, Namibia, Western Australia, India, Burma, China, Thailand, United States (primarily California)

Birthstone Month: December

Associated Meanings: One of the oldest stones in history, it is a stone of protection and healing. It is believed to provide solace for the spirit and well-being for the body. It is often used as a symbol of eternal friendship and to bring peace to the wearer's life.

Mohs Hardness: 5 – 6

Physical Traits: Opaque, blue-to-green mineral often featuring a matrix.

Origins: Southwestern USA, Egypt, Iran, China, Mexico, Tibet, Virginia (Extremely rare crystalline variety - USA)

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: A stone of vision and emotional balance. It is believed to balance emotions with spirituality and provide grounding after meditation. It helps the wearer "live in the now" and move past deep-seated emotional blockages from the past.

Mohs Hardness: 6 – 7

Physical Traits: Mottled pink-and-green altered granite.

Origins: North Carolina (USA), South Africa, Brazil

Birthstone Month: N/A

Associated Meanings: Known as the "Stone of Awareness." It is believed to help the wearer become more conscious of their thoughts and deeds. It is used to help manifest desires into reality by focusing the mind like a laser beam on a specific goal.

Mohs Hardness: 8

Physical Traits: Colorless, transparent topaz; a diamond alternative.

Origins: Brazil, Russia, Nigeria