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.

ROSE GOLD: Gold is a precious metal which is naturally quite soft. To give it a rose color and increase its strength, gold is alloyed with other metals, such as copper and silver. The purity of the metal is indicated by a unit called a "karat," with 24kt having the highest percentage of natural gold.

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."

POST/CLUTCH: An earring with a post insert and a slide-on clutch backing to hold it in place.

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.

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

SIMULATED SAPPHIRE: A simulated sapphire is an artificial stone made to imitate real sapphires. Sometimes known as "faux sapphire," it does not actually hold any of the physical properties of sapphire, as it could be made from acrylic, plastic, glass or CZ. Simulated sapphire is very affordable and can create the same regal look for less.

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