Tsavorite is a type of garnet which is green or emerald colored. Although it forms with calcium aluminum silicate, its intense green coloration is usually the result of chromium or vanadium. And though it is often confused with emeralds, it was discovered more recently in 1967 and isn’t as well known.

The Zuni Amerindians are situated to the south of a Navajo Reservation in New Mexico. The group has become renowned for their fabulous jewelry, which has been around since 1880. This pendant by noted jeweler Raymond Gasper is a wonderful example of top-notch Zuni design. Find out more about the Raymond Gasper Zuni Sterling Carved Buffalo Turquoise multi-stone pendant in this post.

Sugilite has been classified as a gemstone, one that is rare and famous for its pink or purple coloration. Premium specimens are coveted by gem collectors as well as lapidarists.

Rhinestone, especially the vintage variety, has a fun and sparkling motif. It is a considered a classic but it takes a bit of knowledge to recognize the pieces which are truly valuable.

Tourmaline is distinct for having the biggest color range of any gemstone. They come in yellow, blue, green, and pink, and as a consequence are often mistaken for other gems such as emeralds or sapphires. However, tourmaline consists of silicate boron minerals that owe their color variety to elements such as copper, manganese, titanium and iron.

Bakelite has the distinction of being the very first synthetic plastic invented by humans and its properties make it useful for many applications, such as producing jewelry, appliances and many other things.