STERLING SILVER: Also known as "Standard Silver," sterling silver is silver alloyed with other metals to increase the hardness and durability. Generally, sterling is 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals. Some sterling silver jewelry is plated with 14kt-18kt gold and referred to as "vermeil," or "gold over sterling."

HINGED POST: An earring with a straight post insert and a hinged backing to hold it in place.

DIOPSIDE: Though quite rare, diopside is one of the most affordable green gemstones. This gorgeous newcomer, mined mainly in Siberia, lights up jewelry designs with vibrant shades of green and makes an ideal choice for pendants, rings and earrings. The most popular variety is chrome diopside which features a medium-dark vivid green hue.

BAGUETTE: An elongated rectangle step-cut. Typically used for smaller diamonds, but can be found in other gemstone as well.

TOPAZ: Available in a stunning selection of shades, the topaz's sky blue hue is one of the most popular colors for jewelry designs. Once thought to offer protection, today topaz is favored for its durability and affordability. Yellow topaz is the birthstone for November while blue topaz is for December.

IOLITE: Ranging in shades from light blue to violet blue to deep rich blue, the iolite mesmerizes with its ability to change colors when viewed from different angles. Long ago, Vikings relied on this unique gemstone to help guide them at sea.

AMETHYST: A natural variety of quartz, amethyst ranges in color from deep purple to pale lavender, and even to warm greens. Amethyst has been used during meditation to provide a sense of spiritual balance. Amethyst is the birthstone of February.

RHODOLITE: Rhodolite charms in a range of feminine shades — from rose to raspberry to purplish-red. Lighter than a ruby, rhodolite garnets offer a lovely, romantic look. Rhodolite can be a delightful twist on the traditional January birthstone.

CITRINE: A member of the quartz family, citrine symbolizes cheerfulness and prosperity. Its name is derived from the French word citron meaning lemon. This sunny stone comes in colors from lemon yellow to amber brown, with its coloring agent attributed to iron. Citrine is the birthstone for November.