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."

SNAP-BAR: An earring with a hinged post insert that "snaps" into a clamp to hold it in place.

PERIDOT: the birthstone of the month of August, peridot is only found in one color: green. Historians are now convinced that some, if not all, of the emeralds that Cleopatra was famous for wearing were not actually emeralds but deep green peridot stones from Egypt.

OVAL: An elliptical shape that resembles an egg.

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.

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.