Jewelry Product Guide
Gemstone Enhancement and Care Information
Since ancient times magical powers have been associated with gemstones. Many people believed they possessed special powers to heal, tell the future and even insure the love of another. The following is a list of our most popular gemstones with a brief description, care guide and a bit of folklore about the gem.
| Agate |
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One of the first known gems in history, Agates are commonly used for the art of hardstone carving. Angular and curved stripes or bands of color make agates distinctive in the gem world. Often this stone is dyed for specific colors. |
| Lore | Agates have long been believed to cure insomnia and unpleasant dreams. Ancient lore says agates encourage honest and improve memory and concentration. |
| Enhancements | Agates are commonly treated with heat or dyed to improve color. |
| Care & Cleaning | This stone should be cleaned only with warm soapy water. Avoid chemicals, heat and strong light to maintain the color of agates. |
| Amethyst |
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Amethyst is the traditional birthstone for February. It is a variety of quartz with purple coloration and comes in a range of shades, including deep purple, lilac, and mauve. The stone can also have bluish or reddish purple tinge when viewed from different angles.. |
| Lore | This stone was traditionally worn to guard against drunkenness and to instill a sober and serious mind. Greeks were known to drink wine from goblets carved from amethyst believing that it would prevent them from becoming drunk. It was also thought to bring the wearer happiness, beauty, good fortune, and love. |
| Enhancements | Most amethysts are treated with heat to permanently improve their color or to remove a "smoky" look. |
| Care & Cleaning | A fairly durable gem, you can clean this stone with a soft brush and warm soapy water, a jewelry cleaning solution, and/or a jewelry cleaning machine. |
| Aquamarine |
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Aquamarine is the traditional birthstone for March and is found in a range of blue and blue-green shades from pale to dark. When viewed from different angles, it can appear almost colorless. |
| Lore | This gem was thought to bring its wearers knowledge, foresight and inspiration. Rumored to prevent aging, aquamarines have been used to cure everything from hiccups to laziness. |
| Enhancements | Most aquamarines are heat-treated to intensify their blue hue. |
| Care & Cleaning | A fairly durable stone, aquamarine can be cleaned with a soft brush and warm soapy water, a jewelry cleaning solution, and/or a jewelry cleaning machine. Keep it away from harsh chemicals. |
| Black Onyx |
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Onyx is a variety of the chalcedony stone. Although it occurs naturally in black, it is generally dyed black to improve its color. It is also found in many other colors as well as white and brown. |
| Lore | The stone is believed to cool the yearnings and desires of love and increase happiness and intuition. |
| Enhancements | Onyx stones are always permanently dyed black. |
| Care & Cleaning | These stones are durable and can be cleaned with a soft brush and warm soapy water, a jewelry cleaning solution, and/or a jewelry cleaning machine. |
| Blue Topaz |
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Blue topaz is one of December's traditional birthstones, as is blue zircon. Topaz comes in many different colors including light blue, pink, yellow, red, and green. The most popular color is an enhanced blue. |
| Lore | This gorgeous gemstone was said to act as a protector and make the wearer invisible in emergencies, cure insanity and give the wearer fidelity and strength. |
| Enhancements | Nearly all blue topaz is treated with heat and is safely irradiated to permanently enrich its color. |
| Care & Cleaning | These stones are hard but not tough. Stones that are irradiated longer to achieve a darker blue color can become more brittle. Use caution against sharp blows when wearing these gems. You can safely clean this stone with a soft brush and warm soapy water or a jewelry cleaning solution. |
| Cat's
Eye |
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The grey to greenish-yellow quartz cat's eye has the same properties as the tiger's eye. Its main distinguishing characteristic is the chatoyancy, an optical phenomenon that creates a single glowing band of light across the surface of the gem. The word is coined from a French phrase that means "cat's eye." |
| Lore | This stone is said to bring good fortune and good luck. Many claim it brings serenity and happiness, along with optimism and generosity. Cat’s eye can enhance creativity and kindness. Like the Tiger Eye, it is also a stone of protection. |
| Enhancements | These stones may be heated, dyed or bleached to enhance their color. |
| Care & Cleaning | A fairly durable gem, cats eye can be cleaned with a soft brush and warm soapy water, a jewelry cleaning solution and/or a jewelry cleaning machine. |
| Citrine |
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Citrine is the birthstone most often associated with birthdays in November. It comes in a range of colors from light yellow to dark amber tones. Yellow topaz is sometimes used and can be easily confused with the less expensive citrine. |
| Lore | In ancient times, citrine was thought of as a gift of the sun and believed to be a powerful antidote to a viper's venom. Citrines were believed to symbolize happiness as well as aid in digestion and remove toxins from the body. |
| Enhancements | Virtually all citrines are treated with heat to change their color permanently. |
| Care & Cleaning | A durable gemstone which can be cleaned with a soft brush and warm soapy water, a jewelry cleaning solution, and/or a jewelry cleaning machine. |
| Cubic Zirconia |
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Cubic Zirconia is a synthetic gemstone used to imitate diamonds. In 1976, the manufacturing process was perfected to create inexpensive quantities. Cubic zirconia as been the most popular imitation diamond that can be produced in a variety of colors. Cubic zirconias are typically flawless, as they're engineered in the lab rather than formed by nature. |
| History | Cubic Zirconia was discovered in its natural state in 1937 by two German mineralogists. It wasn't until the mid 1970's that Soviet scientists learned how to grow the crystals in the laboratory. |
| Enhancements | These stones may be heated, dyed or bleached to enhance their color. |
| Care & Cleaning | These stones need regular cleaning to maintain their sparkle. These stones are very durable and can be cleaned with warm soapy water, a jewelry cleaning solution and/or cleaning machine. |
| Diamond |
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While diamonds come in the many colors of the rainbow, even black, the colorless diamond is the traditional birthstone for April. White topaz and cubic zirconia are often used as the modern, less expensive birthstone. The diamond is the most brilliant of all the gemstones and the most desired, and has been a symbol of love since ancient Greek times. Made of pure carbon, diamonds are the hardest substance in the world and one of the earth's most common and oldest elements. |
| Lore | In ancient times, it was thought that diamonds were pieces of stars that had fallen to Earth and that anyone who wore them would possess superior strength and power. Diamonds were also thought to keep the flame of everlasting love. Many Egyptians thought the third finger of the left hand contained a vein that ran directly to one's heart, thus beginning the tradition of the wedding ring placed on this finger. Today, as in ancient times, the diamond symbolizes love and betrothal. |
| Enhancements | Fingerhut does not use any enhanced, laser-drilled, or fracture-filled diamonds in our jewelry selection. |
| Care & Cleaning | Even though diamonds are the hardest substance on earth, they can still be damaged if hit hard. Use a soft brush and warm water with a mild, sudsy ammonia solution to clean your diamond. A jewelry-cleaning machine with a special jewelry-cleaning solution may also be used. |
| Emerald |
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Emerald is the traditional birthstone for May. Emeralds come in shades of bright lime green to dark grass green but they are rarely flawless. This requires special care on the part of the owner. |
| Lore | Emeralds are known as the "queen of gems" and have been treasured since ancient times. According to legend, wearing an emerald soothes the eyes, cures a low I.Q., and even helps with infertility. Emeralds have long been regarded for their ability to protect the wearer from the perils of long journeys and to reveal true love. In some families, emerald jewelry is given to a mother following the birth of a son. |
| Enhancements | Most emeralds are enhanced with colorless oil. Occasionally, wax or resin may be used to improve the color. |
| Care & Cleaning | Emerald is a hard gem that resists surface wear, but it can easily chip if dropped or struck. Because of their delicate nature, emeralds require special care. Never expose them to harsh chemicals, jewelry cleaners, or heat. Never wear an emerald while bathing or showering. Gentle scrubbing with warm soapy water is the safest way to clean an emerald. Never use a jewelry cleaning machine or jewelry cleaner to clean your emerald. |
| Garnet |
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The dark and vibrant red Garnet is the traditional birthstone for January. Shades vary from a brown red to a raspberry red as seen in the rhodolite or almandine garnet. The most popular color is a beautiful, dark red. |
| Lore | At one time, garnets were believed to have great healing power, especially the red varieties. It was believed that the wearer of garnets was kept in good health and protected while traveling. Garnets are worn to signify truth and faith and are symbolic of love and devotion. |
| Enhancements | These stones are rarely ever treated. |
| Care & Cleaning | A fairly durable gem, garnets can be cleaned with a soft brush and warm soapy water, a jewelry cleaning solution, and/or a jewelry cleaning machine. |
| Jade |
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Jade comes in a variety of colors, including shades of green, purple, lavender, red, and rose. Jade has a long history in China, where it is still revered and holds cultural significance. |
| Lore | In some cultures, jade has been used as a cure for kidney ailments. The royal stone of ancient China, this opaque gem was said to represent love and virtue and bring good luck. Early texts reveal that the symbol for the king was a string of jade beads. To this day, jade beads still signify high rank and authority. |
| Enhancements | Jade is usually dyed, heated, or impregnated with wax to improve color and appearance. |
| Care & Cleaning | These stones are durable and can be cleaned with a soft brush and warm soapy water, a jewelry cleaning solution, and/or a jewelry cleaning machine. |
| Marcasite |
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A shiny metallic stone, Marcasite is actually iron pyrite. Because of its reflective properties, this stone is typically faceted and used as an accent stone. Commonly found in silver jewelry, marcasite was popular during the Victorian age. |
| Lore | Marcasite is believed to increase physical stamina and stimulate your intellect. It is also said marcasite removes negative energy and can be possible shield stones. |
| Care & Cleaning | Often secured in settings with jeweler's cement, marcasite requires special cleaning. Wipe gently with a damp clean cloth, and do not soak in water or expose to chemicals. |
| Moissanite |
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Moissanite is a lab-created gemstone developed by Charles & Colvard. This stunning, nearly colorless gem has more brilliance and fire than diamonds and cubic zirconias, and will never fade, cloud, or change color. All moissanite comes with a certificate of authenticity and a limited lifetime warranty. |
| Enhancements | Each moissanite jewel is grown in a laboratory from a moissanite seed crystal. The only jewel harder than moissanite is a diamond. Each jewel is hand cut to specifications designed to maximize its beauty and appearance. No two are identical. |
| Care & Cleaning | Because moissanite closely resembles the diamond in appearance and structural properties, the same care information applies. Use a soft brush and warm water with a mild, sudsy ammonia solution. A jewelry-cleaning machine with a special jewelry-cleaning solution may also be used. |
| Mystic Topaz/Mystic Fire |
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Mystic topaz/mystic fire is not a naturally occurring stone. It is a clear, colorless topaz or quartz that has been treated with a thin coating of titanium, a process that produces a kaleidoscope of color, primarily blues, greens, reds, and yellows. |
| Enhancements | Mystic topaz comes in 30 varieties. Depending on the thickness of the coating that is applied and the enhancement process used, a broad range of colors can be produced, including those seen in our Rainbow Mist, Ecstasy Topaz, and Neptune Topaz gemstones. |
| Care & Cleaning | Although fairly durable, the coating on the stone can be scratched or damaged easily. As such, mystic topaz/fire should be given the same care as pearls and opals. A soft brush and warm soapy water may be used. DO NOT use a jewelry cleaner or cleaning machine. |
| Opal |
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Pink is traditionally the color that symbolizes birthdays in the month of October. Pink tourmaline is generally used, but opals are also a popular choice. The opal's special characteristica continually changing play of colorsis referred to as "fire," making it a favorite for many. |
| Lore | In ancient times, opal was considered one of the luckiest of gems, one that brought good fortune to its wearer. It was thought to increase the power of the mind and symbolize hope, innocence and purity. |
| Enhancements | Most opals are treated with a wax, oil or plastics to improve the play of color and to disguise or prevent cracking. |
| Care & Cleaning | Because opals are soft stones with high water content, they need special care. To protect opal jewelry from drying and cracking, occasionally wipe the surface with a light coating of oil, such as baby oil or olive oil, then remove any excess. Never soak an opal in liquid for any length of time because the liquid will seep into the stone and seriously reduce or destroy the play of color. Do not wear opal jewelry during any activity that might expose the stones to a sharp blow or rough treatment, such as housework, vigorous sports, or yard work. Warm water and mild soap is a safe way to clean an opal. See Jewelry Care for additional information. |
| Pearl |
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Traditionally, alexandrite, a purplish-gray stone, is the birthstone for June, but the pearl has become a popular alternative. Also called jewels of the sea, pearls are found in the calm waters surrounding Japan and China. Almost all pearls sold today are cultured pearlsthe pearls that are created when pearl farmers implant a tiny bead in an oyster's tissue. |
| Lore | Once thought to be the tears of gods, pearls were also believed to possess life-restoring powers, facilitate health, and symbolize purity, modesty, and virtue. |
| Enhancements | Pearls are commonly dyed or bleached to enhance their color. |
| Care & Cleaning | Do not wear pearls while applying cosmetics, hair sprays or perfume. Do not use ultrasonic or chemical cleaners. Wipe with a damp cloth or use mild soap but do not soak. Soaking in water may loosen glue commonly used to secure pearls to settings. |
| Peridot |
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Peridot is the traditional birthstone for the month of August. The presence of iron in the stone gives it the distinctive bottle green or olive color. |
| Lore | Mystics have claimed that this lustrous green stone drives away evil spirits and has special healing properties. Many people used these stones in religious jewelry for that purpose. This soft green gem was also worn as a source for happiness, warmth and friendship. |
| Enhancements | Peridot is not normally enhanced. |
| Care & Cleaning | Use a soft brush with warm soapy water. DO NOT use an ultrasonic cleaner. |
| Ruby |
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Ruby is the traditional birthstone for July. From shades of pinkish red to purplish red, rubies are one of the most valuable gemstones in the world. Ruby is one of the hardest and most durable gems. |
| Lore | A prized possession of kings and queens throughout the ages, the ruby has been known for centuries as a symbol of love and immortality. It was also believed to have great powers and to control one's passions and thoughts. The ruby is also used in some families to celebrate the birth of a daughter. |
| Enhancements | Nearly all rubies are enhanced using heat, to permanently improve their color. Surface breaks and fractures are commonly filled with a glass-like by-product. |
| Care & Cleaning | Rubies are a durable gemstone and you can clean this stone with a soft brush and warm soapy water, a jewelry cleaning solution, and/or a jewelry cleaning machine. |
| Sapphire |
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Blue Sapphire is the traditional birthstone for the month of September. Although the sapphire comes in many colors, the most popular and valuable is the clear deep blue. Sapphires are the second-hardest substance (next to diamonds) which makes them perfect for any type of jewelry. |
| Lore | Ancient priests and sorcerers honored the blue sapphire above all other gems because they believed it enabled them to foretell the future. The sapphire was once worn by the world's most famous emperors and kings to protect themselves from harm and envy and to instill wisdom. |
| Enhancements | Virtually all sapphires are treated with heat to improve their appearance. |
| Care & Cleaning | Sapphires are durable gemstones and can be cleaned with a soft brush and warm soapy water, a jewelry-cleaning solution, and/or a jewelry-cleaning machine. |
| Smoky Quartz |
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The brown quartz is better known as the smoky quartz. Its sophisticated look makes a powerful statement, and is suitable for all kinds of jewelry. The smoky quartz ranges in color from light to dark brown, with some stones almost black. |
| Lore | Thought to be a gentle grounding stone, smoky quartz are believed to bring harmony and peace. Thought to have the ability to cast away strong-headed behavior and transform, smoky quartz are believed to turn negative energy into a calm well being. |
| Enhancements | Smoky quartz are often heat treated or irradiated. |
| Care & Cleaning | To protect the color of the stone, exposure to heat should be avoided. This stone should be cleaned with mild soap and water, or in an ultrasonic. |
| Star Sapphire |
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The colors of star sapphires vary widely, including dark tones of black and brown, green, and the traditional sapphire blue. Star sapphires are characterized by a six-rayed star, caused by needle-like inclusions that reflect and scatter light. |
| Lore | Some traditions say that the star sapphire is a "stone of destiny" that acts as a guiding light and protects against evil. The three intersecting lines represent faith, hope and destiny. |
| Enhancements | These stones may be heated, dyed or oiled to enhance their color. |
| Care & Cleaning | Star sapphires can be cleaned with a jewelry-cleaning solution or a soft brush and warm soapy water. Avoid jewelry-cleaning machines. |
| Tanzanite |
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Tanzanite is only mined in Tanzania and has been gaining popularity in recent years. This exotic stone is a purplish blue with flashes of violet. |
| Enhancements | Tanzanite is almost always heated to improve its color. |
| Care & Cleaning | Tanzanite is a soft gem that requires special care. These gemstones can fracture easily due to a sudden blow or extreme changes in temperature. The safest way to clean this stone is with a soft brush and warm soapy water. |
| Tiger Eye |
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Though it can be found in varying colors in warm earth tones, the most common tiger's eye is brown and gold. Its main distinguishing characteristic is the wavy eye-like effect called chatoyancy, an optical phenomenon that creates a single glowing band of light across the surface of the gem. The word comes from a French phrase that means "cat's eye." |
| Lore | Because it was thought that the tiger's eye stone could see all due to its appearance, Roman soldiers wore them for protection in battle. Tiger's eye is said to help focus the mind and to bring about clear thinking and insight. It is believed that tiger's eye offers protection during travel. |
| Enhancements | These stones may be heated, dyed or bleached to enhance their color. |
| Care & Cleaning | A durable gem, tiger's eye can be cleaned with a soft brush and warm soapy water, a jewelry-cleaning solution, and/or a jewelry-cleaning machine. |
| Topaz |
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Blue topaz stones are an acceptable birthstone for December. Topaz are available in blue, but also come in a range of colors including: yellow, brown, green, pink, and sometimes no color at all. Topaz stones can also be specially treated to create the ever-popular mystic topaz. |
| Lore | Topaz are believed to relieve sadness, anger and night time fears. It has also been said, topaz stones protect the wearer from poisons and sudden death. |
| Enhancements | Topaz stones are commonly heat treated or irradiated to produce intense colors. |
| Tourmaline |
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Pink Tourmalines are an acceptable birthstone for October. Tourmalines range in color from red to green and blue to yellow, along with black. They can also be made up of two or more colors within one stone. |
| Lore | This unusual stone has been thought to possess "magical" powers of love and friendship. It is believed that tourmalines will give you a true and long-lasting bond. |
| Enhancements | Some tourmaline stones may be heat treated or irradiated. |
| Care & Cleaning | A durable stone, it is best to clean tourmalines with warm soapy water. |
| Turquoise |
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Turquoise was one of the first gemstones to be mined by early Egyptians. These stones can vary in color from solid light sky blue to shades of mottled green. Commonly made into beads or carvings, turquoise is found in silver jewelry today. |
| Lore | Turquoise was once thought to have the powers to warn the wearer of danger or illness by changing its color. |
| Enhancements | It is common practice to enhance turquoise with plastic or wax impregnation and dyes. This also serves to seal the stone, deepen its color, and improve its durability. |
| Care & Cleaning | Use a soft brush and warm soapy water. DO NOT use a jewelry cleaning machine. |
| Zircon |
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Zircons are a natural gemstone and should not be confused with the manmade Cubic Zirconia. Typically colorless and used to imitate diamonds, zircons can be found in blue, yellow, orange, red, brown and green. Currently blue zircons have become more popular than the white or clear zircon. |
| Lore | Zircons are thought to provide wisdom, wealth and honor. It is believed that the loss of luster on a zircon is a warning of possible danger. |
| Care & Cleaning | Zircons are somewhat soft, so scratches and sharp blows should be avoided. Zircons are best cleaned in mild soap and water. Do not expose zircons to hot water or household chemicals. |

































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