September 18, 2023
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Tiny Oak Jewelry acquires gemstones from a variety of sources. We strive to choose ethical, reputable dealers. Here you’ll find information about the gemstones we use, their physical properties, metaphysical beliefs about the stones and a little history and lore.
Agates come in a remarkable array of colors and patterns. You may have seen it cut into slices for wind chimes or mobiles. Agate is a common rock formation, consisting of chalcedony and quartz as its primary components.
The ornamental use of agate dates back to Ancient Greece in assorted jewelry and in the seal stones of Greek warriors. Agate has been linked to positive thinking, clarity of ideas and concentration.
The characteristic band patterns—which begin at the center of the rock and move outwards like the rings on a tree—are visually dynamic.
True blue, baby I love you! Amazonite is a gemstone best known for its lovely shades of rich light blue, thought it may also appear as a very pale blue, gray or even tan. It is found in various countries including the USA. Amazonite is a variety of feldspar.
Metaphysically, amazonite is known as the “hope” stone. It is associated with the throat and heart. This makes it a perfect choice for necklaces.
Amazonite can form the largest known crystals of any mineral, and has been confused with turquoise and jade.
A rich violet-purple form of quartz, amethyst is found in many locations throughout the world, including the USA and Canada. An abundant supply is found in Brazil, where it occurs in large geodes. It is often used in jewelry and is the traditional birthstone for February.
Amethyst was believed to prevent intoxication. Metaphysically, amethyst is associated with serenity, understanding, trust and grace. It is believed to be a protective stone that can alleviate all manner of ails, including stress and anxiety.
In the Old World, amethyst was considered one of the Cardinal gems, in that it was one of the five gemstones considered precious above all others.
The name for apatite comes from the Greek word apatao, which means to deceive. Found in many colors, apatite bears a resemblance to several other minerals and may be mistaken for them.
Metaphysically, apatite is a stone of insight, creativity, focus and clarity. It provides a path to unconditional love, both of one’s self and of others.
Apatite is the most common phosphate mineral, and provides the main source of phosphorus for plants. The bones and teeth of most animals, including humans, are composed of the same material as apatite. It was also found in moon rocks brought to earth by Apollo astronauts.
The name Aquamarine comes from aqua (the Latin word for water), and marine, deriving from marina (Latin for “of the sea”). Its clear blue color lives up to its name. Aquamarine is a variety of beryl and is found throughout the world.
Aquamarine is the traditional birthstone for March. Associated with tranquility, serenity, clarity, and harmony, aquamarine is said to posess all the healing qualities of the seas. It is also associated with trust and letting go.
Ancient Romans believed aquamarine could protect people travelling across the sea. They also used aquamarine to prevent illnesses.
The most common color of aventurine is green, but it may also be orange, brown, yellow, blue, or grey. Aventurine is a form of quartz. The majority of green and blue-green aventurine originates in India where it is employed by prolific artisans. Creamy white, gray and orange material is found in Chile, Spain and Russia.
Aventurine is said to have numerous health benefits, including the lowering of cholesterol. It is believed to provide strength, confidence, courage, and happiness.
The name aventurine derives from the Italian “a ventura” meaning “by chance.” This is alludes to the discovery of aventurine glass or goldstone in the 18th century. According to legend, this kind of glass was made accidentally at Murano by a workman, who let some copper filings fall into the molten “metal,” resulting in a product called avventurino. From the Murano glass the name passed to the mineral, which displayed a similar appearance.
Carnelian is a brownish red form of chalcedony. The color can vary greatly, ranging from pale orange to an intense, almost black coloration. The red variety of chalcedony has been used as beads since the Early Neolithic in Bulgaria. Carnelian was used widely during Roman times to make engraved gems for signet or seal rings for imprinting a seal with wax.
Carnelian is associated with the lower chakras, and is said to provide grounding, a zest for life, and to help improve confidence and creativity. Carnelian stones are believed to balance body energy levels and increase coordination during physical exercise.
Ancient Warriors wore Carnelian around their neck for courage and physical power to conquer their enemies.
Citrine is a yellow to reddish-yellow or brown variety of quartz. It is visually similar to yellow topaz, though they differ in hardness. Relatively rare in nature, most citrine comes from Brazil.
Citrine is associated with prosperity, and has been call the “merchant’s stone” or “money stone.” It is also said to bring positive energy and to symbolize happiness and joy. Its sunny yellow color will certainly lift your mood.
The name “citrine” derives from the Latin word citrina, which means “yellow.” It was first appreciated as a gemstone in Greece between 300 and 150 BC.
Citrine and amethyst may be found together in the same stone, called ametrine.
Dalmatian jasper is a festively patterned stone from Mexico. Its black and brown speckled pattern resembles the coat of the beloved firehouse dog. Not a true jasper, dalmatian jasper, also called dalmatian stone, is a type of quartz. It’s great for tumbling and polishes beautifully.
Dalmatian jasper is associated with playfulness and joy. It is said to aid in clear thinking, and believed to have a calming influence on animals and children.
Dalmatian jasper was used in ancient civilizations to make strong, sharp weapons. It was also worn as a protective amulet.
Emerald may be best known as a deep, vivid green faceted jewel. It is a type of beryl, found all over the world including locations in the United States such as Connecticut, Montana, Nevada, North Carolina, and South Carolina. In 1997, emeralds were discovered in the Yukon Territory of Canada.
Emerald is regarded as the traditional birthstone for May as well as the traditional gemstone for the astrological sign of Cancer. It is considered a symbol of truth and love, and is associated with the goddess Venus.
Emerald was revered by the Incas, and believed by the Egyptians to be a source of eternal life. It takes its name from the Sanskrit word “Marakata” which means the green of growing things.
Fluorite is the mineral form of calcium fluoride. It creates fascinating, cube-shaped crystals that are naturally clear, but appear in virtually every color of the rainbow due to impurities. This makes it a desirable stone for jewelry making and lapidary.
In spiritual terms, fluorite is known for providing mental clarity. It helps clear negative energy, cleansing and stabilizing the aura.
Fluorite was named for the Latin word fluere, which means “to flow”. Ground fluorite was used as a flux for glassmaking and the processing of iron ore into iron. In the mid-19th century, this unique stone lent its name to the phenomenon of fluorescence.
There are many varieties of garnet, in every color, with reddish shades most common. Garnets are silicate minerals that have been used since the Bronze age, both as ornamental gemstones and as abrasives. They are found througout the world, with each type occurring in different locations.
Garnet is the traditional birthstone for January. It is associated with self-confidence, passion, and sexual energy. It is thought to be one of the oldest gems used for spiritual protection throughout the ages.
Dark red garnets may appear almost black. The name “garnet” comes from the Latin word granatus, which means “pomegranate.” If you’ve ever enjoyed this fruit, you can see its resemblance to small garnet stones.
Goldstone is a man-made “gemstone” created from copper and glass. It was first documented in 17th century Venice, but examples exist from 12th to 13th century Persia. It is also refered to as aventurine glass.
Called the “stone of ambition,” goldstone is said to build energy, courage and a positive attitude. It’s considered very lucky for people who are open minded and willing to take risks.
Though not a natural gemstone, goldstone has an organic, shimmering beauty that makes it perfect for jewelry.
Howlite is a beautiful, under-appreciated gemstone that’s wonderful for making beads of every shape. It readily accepts dyes, and is often used to simulate turquoise. Natural howlite is white in color with a rich matrix of veins. It is a recently discovered gemstone relative to others, first found in Nova Scotia in 1868.
Howlite has been associated with stillness, tenderness and open-mindedness. It may also symbolize simplicity, cleanliness and brightness.
Named for geologist Henry How, howlite was discovered when miners complained about its presence, as it was harder and more difficult to mine than the gypsum they desired.
Jade has been used ornamentally since ancient times. It was considered to be the “imperial gem” and was used to create utilitarian and ceremonial objects, from indoor decorative items to jade burial suits. Jade is typically green, but may also be yellow or white.
Jade is considered to be a gemstone of serenity, purity, and wisdom obtained in tranquility. It is believed to help the kidneys, bladder and spleen. It is believed to be a stone of good luck and pleasure, and to bring wealth and fortune.
Jade is the name applied to two different silicate minerals—nephrite, and jadeite. The name “yellow jade” is typically given to serpentine, which is a different mineral with a similar appearance.
Jasper appears in an almost endless variety of colors and patterns. The name means “spotted or speckled stone.” It is an aggregate of quartz and/or chalcedony and other minerals. The common red color is due to iron, while other inclusions create unique appearances among the many varieties. Epecially popular are the orbicular jaspers, which include fanciful orbs and spheres. So-called “Ocean Jasper,” (which is actually a trade name) is among these.
Jasper is known as a nurturing stone that provides stimulation, stamina and endurance. It is helpful in times of stress, and brings tranquility and wholeness. It is believed to be a protective stone that absorbs negative energy, drives away evil spirits, and protects against snake and spider bites!
A gemstone that shimmers with color, labradorite is a form of feldspar. As the name suggests, it was first identified in Labrador, Canada, and is also found in Poland, Norway, Finland and other countries worldwide, including the United States.
Labradorite’s pearly sheen and rainbow colors make it a favorite for jewelry. Stones vary in their irridescent effect (or schiller) Those displaying a high degree of this effect are known as spectrolite.
According to legend, an Inuit warrior saw that the Aurora Borealis had become trapped in a stone. He struck the stone with his spear to set the light free.
Labradorite is associated with art and magic, and is known as “the stone of mysticism.”
Lapis lazuli is a stunning blue stone that has been prized since antiquity for its intense color. Artifacts made of lapis lazuli have been dated as far back as 7570 BC. By the end of the Middle Ages, the stone had made its way to Europe, where it was ground into powder and made into ultramarine, the finest and most expensive of all blue pigments.
Metaphysically, lapis is said to assist in speaking one’s truth and expressing emotions. It inspires confidence and boosts the immune system. The Sumerians believed that the spirit of their gods lived within the stone, while the ancient Egyptians saw it as a symbol of the night sky. Since the earliest of times, lapis lazuli has been associated with strength and courage, royalty and wisdom, intellect and truth.
Lava rock is just what it sounds like – rock formed by the cooling lava from an erupting volcano. Lava rock beads are often used in jewelry to carry essential oils, surrounding the wearer with fragrance.
Given its origins, it’s not suprising that lava rock is considered to have powerful spiritual effects. It is a grounding stone that provides strength and courage. Its energy is primal and assertive, and reminds us of the destructive—yet creative—nature of its birth.
Lava rock beads are often waxed to darken their appearance and provide an attractive sheen. Lighter beads may be dyed in fanciful colors.
Magnesite is a gemstone that, when cut and polished into beads, features a dark thread of veins across its surface, giving it texture and interest. It is often dyed blue to act as a less-expensive alternative to turquoise, which it resembles.
In spiritual circles, magnesite’s white color leads to its association with peace, relaxation, and the strenghtening of bones and teeth.
Magnesite is a carbonate mineral, which means it captures CO2 when it forms. Scientists are experimenting with methods of artificially creating magnesite to capture CO2 in our atmosphere in an attempt to reduce the effects of global warming.
Malachite is a richly colored and patterned green stone that has been described by poets as spring grass swaying in the wind. Its appearance is unmistakable, and it has been used in jewelry and art since ancient times. Vivid green malachite kohl is believed to have been Cleopatra’s favorite cosmetic, and she was buried with a large vase of it for use in the afterlife.
Malachite has been called the “essence of joy” and the “stone of transformation.” It is said to heal emotional pain and bring harmony into one’s life.
The term marble comprises a variety of stones with varied and colorful patterns, making it a favorite decorative material. It is used widely in architecture including countertops in modern homes. As the favorite medium for Greek and Roman sculptors and architects, marble has become a cultural symbol of tradition and refined taste.
Marble lends itself beautifully to jewelry, and a variety of marbles can be found crafted into beads or polished specimens of suitable sizes for jewelry.
Spiritually, marble is believed to provide clarity, self-control and stability. It is also a symbol of purity and immortality.
Mookaite is an Australian stone, often referred to as Mook jasper, which comes from Mooka Creek in Western Australia. Mooka is an Aboriginal word meaning running water. The stone’s colors range from a deep yellow gold to a rich, purplish red, with many colors in between. Mookaite is made up predominantly of the microscopic remains of minute aquatic organisms called radiolaria; the scientific name for mookaite is windalia radiolarite.
Mookaite is believed to have anti-aging properties, and the ability to clear negative patterns. It is considered a protective stone that can help alert you to danger. Mookaite was used by Australian aboriginals to aid the general health of the whole body.
Moonstone is a gemstone in the feldspar group that displays a pearly and opalescent sheen. An alternative name is hecatolite.
Moonstone has been used in jewelry for millennia, including ancient civilizations. The Romans admired moonstone, as they believed it was derived from solidified rays of the Moon. Both the Romans and Greeks associated moonstone with their lunar deities. In more recent history, moonstone became popular during the Art Nouveau period and was used extensively by French goldsmith René Lalique.
Metaphysically, moonstone is naturally tied to themes of femininity including fertility, balance, softness and intuition.
Mother of pearl is the name given to the nacre that coats a pearl. It’s a mix of minerals secreted by oysters and other mollusks. Pearls are formed when this nacre is layered around a foreign particle, either naturally occurring or introduced (as in the case of cultured pearls). The coating of mother of pearl inside a mollusk’s shell can be used to create jewelry. It’s an abundant substance, so it’s much less expensive than actual pearls, while providing a luxurious shimmer that is reminiscent of the sea.
Mother of pearl is associated with the Moon and is believed to have a calming effect. It is a protecting, healing and soothing stone.
Who doesn’t love pearls? With their natural luster and rarity, they have enchanted gem lovers for millenia. Natural, or “wild” pearls are extremely rare. Nowadays, most pearls in the trade are cultured in pearl farms. They are created by the same natural process as wild pearls, and retain the same beauty, though the quality and color vary depending on any number of factors.
Pearls are associated with simplicity and sophistication. In metaphysical thinking, they are the ultimate symbol for wisdom and are valued for their calming effect, as well as the bringing of integrity, loyalty, purity and protection. Classically beautifully, they can also bring a touch of whimsy when dyed in fanciful colors.
Peridot, the birthstone for August, has been beloved since ancient times for its apple green color. Sometimes called chrysolite, it is a variety of olivine and is a silicate mineral, like quartz. Gem-quality peridot is rare on earth’s surface as it tends toward weathering during its movement from deep within the mantle.
Peridot is associated with harmony, good health, restful sleep and peacefulness. It is known as a stone of compassion that can calm anger and bring renewal.
Ancient records document the mining of peridot as early as 1500 BC. It is believed to have been much beloved by the Egyptians, who jeaously guarded the locations of their mines.
Quartz, composed of silica, is the second most abundant mineral in the Earth’s crust, second to feldspar. There are many varieties of quartz, several of which are classified as gemstones. These include amethyst, citrine, rose quartz, and clear quartz.
Clear quartz crystals are especially valued for their metaphysical properties. Clear quartz is considered to be a master healer with high vibrations. It can clear body, mind and spirit, and amplifies the energy of other stones.
Quartz often contains inclusions of other minerals. Examples include rutilated quartz, with inclusions in shades of gold and green, and tourmalinated quartz, which contains tourmaline. These inclusions provide clear quartz with a remarkable range of appearances.
Quartzite is a hard, metamorphic rock that was once pure quatz sandstone. It is typically white to gray, but may appear in shades of pink and red, as well as yellow, green, blue and orange. Quartzite may also be dyed.
Quartzite is said to help adjust balance and moderate emotional ups and downs. It stabilizes positive changes and helps increase concentration.
Whereas the clear quartz used in jewelry is usually quite clear, quartzite tends to be opaque.
Rhodocrosite is typically a rose-red colored gemstone, but it also occurs in shades of pink to pale brown. It was first found in the silver mines of Romania, and is now mined in Argentina, where it is the national gemstone. It’s also the state gemstone of Colorado.
According to historians, the first mention of rhodochrosite appeared in 1873, when writers named the Argentinian specimens “Inca Rose.”
Rhodocrosite has been nicknamed the “stone of the compassionate heart.” Like many pink stones, it’s associated with love and healing of the emotions.
Rhodonite is a unique and festively colored stone, combining pink and black with shades of tan and white to create gems with endless variety. Its name comes from the Greek word meaning “rosy,” and its pink tones range from pale rose to deep red.
It’s not surprising that rhodonite is associated with the heart. It is known as a stone of compassion and kindness and is believed to have many heart-healing properties.
Rhodonite is delicate, and its clear versions are rare and difficult to facet. It’s more commonly found in jewelry and carvings in its opaque version, often shot through with inclusions of black manganese oxide. It should not be confused with rhodochrosite, which is more delicate still and features swirled patterns of white.
Beloved for its soft pink color, rose quartz is a common and beautiful stone found throughout the world. It ranges from a rich, translucent pink to a very light, almost white. It is a durable gemstone frequently enjoyed as tumbled stones, cut and shaped stones and in jewelry.
Rose quartz is considered the stone of universal love. It is often found cut and polished in a heart shape. Rose quartz is said to bring trust and harmony to relationships and to pave the way for unconditional love.
Rose quartz jewelry was crafted by the Assyrians around 800-600 BC, and the gem was used by the Romans as a seal to signify ownership.
Serpentine is a mottled stone that comes in shades of green and yellow in attractive patterns. Its appearance varies, leading to comparisons with stones as different as turquoise and jade. In fact, it’s often marketed as “yellow turquoise,” “new jade,” and various other names.
Metaphysically, serpentine is believed to help establish control over one’s life. It is believed to be a fine stone for providing clarity of thought and facilitating meditation. It encourages one to move into new realms and social circles, and encourages spiritual exploration.
Actual a subgroup of stones, serpentine has been used in jewelry, art and architecture since antiquity. However, their use has largely been limted to indoor settings as serpentines do not weather well.
Shiva eye is made from the shell of the Turban Snail, found in the shallow waters of Thailand and Indonesia. The gem is made from the snail’s protective “trap door,” which is naturally shed near the end of the snail’s natural life. Shiva eye, sometimes called Pacific cat’s eye or Shiva shell, displays a unique spiral pattern on one side and a luscious blend of muted colors on the other.
Shiva eye is said to symbolize creation, destruction, spiritual knowledge, and transformation. Like other “eye” gemstones, it provide protection against the evil eye. Named after the Hindu god, Shiva, the shell represents the third eye that is prominent in many depictions of the god.
Shiva eye has the nickname “Mermaid’s Money”!
Sodalite is an indigo blue colored gem that became important as an ornamental stone in 1891, when large quantities of fine material were discovered in Ontario, Canada. In addition to blue, it comes in gray, yellow, green or pink and may be mottled with white veins or patches.
Sodalite is believed to bring order and calmness to the mind, encouraging rational thought and objectivity. It is associated with the throat and third eye chakras. It reflects the energy of the sky with its rich blue color and is said to contain all the beauty of the heavens.
Sodalite is similar in color to lapis lazuli, thought it rarely contains pyrite. Its color is described as royal blue, whereas lapis lazuli is more ultramarine.
Tiger eye or tiger’s eye is a member of the quartz group of stones. It exhibits shimmering bands of golden to red-brown colors, and is mined primarily in South Africa and Western Australia, though it can be found throughout the world. Tiger’s eye has long been carried as a protective stone, and in some parts of the world, it is believed to ward off the evil eye. It is associated with self-confidence and inner strength.
Tiger iron is a rock composed primarily of tiger’s eye, red jasper and black hematite. Its color and luster make it popular for jewelry making.
One of the most beloved gemstones, turquoise has been prized as a for its use in jewelry and other ornamentations for thousands of years. Its unique hue makes it immensely desirable, and has led to an influx of synthetic and imitation stones. Genuine turquoise will not scratch easily, will not react with acids and has a waxy luster. All but the highest grade of turquoise must be stabilized with epoxy in order to be shaped into jewelry.
Turquoise has been associated with luck, peace and protection. It is a traditional birthstone for the month of December.
Turquoise was among the first gems to be mined. It has been in use since at least 3000 BCE, when it was beloved by the Egyptians. Deposits in California and New Mexico were mined by pre-Columbian Native Americans.
Unakite is a type of granite containing green epidote, pink feldspar and quartz, among other minerals. It was first found in the United States in the Unaka mountain range of Tenessee and North Carolina, and can be found throughout the world. Unakite polishes well and is used in jewelry and carvings.
Metaphysically, unakite is said to be a stone of vision, balance and grounding. It is associated with the third eye and heart chakras.
Unakite has been used as an architectural stone, making an appearance in floor tiles, windowsills, and other ornamental elements. Its most notable use may be at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C., where it is used floor tile and as trimming on the front steps.
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