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."

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

CUBIC ZIRCONIA: once called the poor cousin to the diamond, CZs have since become a fashion statement in their own right. Perfect for travel and a little extra bling, CZ Jewelry is one of man's flawless creations.

PEAR: Similar to the outline of a pear fruit, this is a round shape that comes to a point on one side.

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

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

TAPERED BAGUETTE: A modification to the baguette shape, where an elongated rectangle gemstone narrows on one side.