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."

TEXTURED: A unique and varying finish with a tactile surface applied through various techniques, both by hand and with machinery.

CABLE: One of the most popular and classic of chain styles, created from interlocking oval links unvarying in size.

SPRINGRING CLASP: Invented in the early 1900s this diminutive device is highly effective. It's a hollow circular metal fastener with a spring opening. This keeps the clasp closed.

SIMULATED LAPIS: Simulated lapis is an artificial stone made to imitate real lapis. Sometimes known as "faux lapis," it does not actually hold any of the physical properties of lapis, as it could be made from acrylic, plastic, or resin. Simulated lapis is very affordable and comes in a midnight blue speckled with golden flecks.

OVAL: An elliptical shape that resembles an egg.

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