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."

BRUSHED: A low-luster finish with a very fine texture that looks as if it were applied with a wire brush.

ONYX: A favorite of the ancient Greeks and Romans, this gemstone adds a sophisticated shine to rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings. A dyed form of chalcedony, onyx is most popularly found in black although it can be green, white or red, as well.

SQUARE: A symmetrical shape with four equal sides.

CABOCHON: A style of cutting gemstones to achieve a smooth, domed surface with an absence of facets.