18KT: Karat (abbreviated kt or K) is a unit that indicates the purity of gold in the metal. 18kt is 75% gold. In Europe, 18K yellow gold is most favored and used in jewelry.

ROSE GOLD: Gold is a precious metal which is naturally quite soft. To give it a rose color and increase its strength, gold is alloyed with other metals, such as copper and silver. The purity of the metal is indicated by a unit called a "karat," with 24kt having the highest percentage of natural gold.

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."

CABLE: One of the most popular and classic of chain styles, created from interlocking oval links unvarying in size.

SPRINGRING CLASP: Invented in the early 1900s this diminutive device is highly effective. It's a hollow circular metal fastener with a spring opening. This keeps the clasp closed.

MORGANITE: Named after the great American tycoon and gem collector J. P. Morgan, morganite's soft pink to peach shades add blushing beauty to jewelry designs. This rare gemstone is surprisingly affordable and brings an undeniable charm to rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings.

BRILLIANT: A gemstone cut to enhance brilliance without sacrificing much carat weight. Typically has 58 facets.

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.

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.