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."

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.

GOLD OVER STERLING: Sometimes referred to as "vermeil," this metal is gold-plated sterling silver. It is one of the most desirable gold-plated metals and can come in 14kt-24kt yellow, white, or rose.

REVOLVER: A safety that conceals the point of a pin and keeps it in place with a revolving lever mechanism.

SYNTHETIC SAPPHIRE: A gemstone that is created in a laboratory to mimic the actual properties of a natural sapphire. Commonly known as "created sapphire," it features the same deep color and transparent sparkle, but is significantly more affordable than a sapphire found in nature.

SYNTHETIC GARNET: A gemstone that is created in a laboratory to mimic the actual properties of a natural garnet. Commonly known as "created garnet," it offers an affordable alternative, providing the same sultry burgundy color and romantic glow.

SYNTHETIC AMETHYST: A gemstone that is created in a laboratory to mimic the actual properties of a natural amethyst. Commonly known as "created amethyst," it comes in the same transparent purple, pink, or green hues, but costs much less.