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."

QUARTZ: From the icy shimmer of rock crystal quartz to the delicate pink of rose quartz to the moody hues of smoky quartz, this gemstone offers something for everyone. Quartz, found in endless colors and varieties, is a popular choice for bracelets, necklaces, rings and earrings.

CRYSTAL: Though traditionally the term "crystal" was given to glass with a 24% lead content, today it is used in a more general sense to describe transparent and highly refractive glass formed with silica, oxide, or other additives. Crystal is used in serveware, barware, home accents, and jewelry.

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.

BYZANTINE: A decorative chain that creates a woven texture. The pattern used is intricate and complex, arranging round links from different angles.

LADDER: An old-fashioned clasp used for watches. With one end-piece resembling a two-spoke ladder, the foldover side can be hooked into one of two slots to adjust size.