I use many gemstones in my designs, even some I had never heard of before I started jewellery making!   Many believe that semi precious stones have special properties, and this page is intended to give some basic information about each - it's not complete, but I will keep adding to it!  

Agate is one of the birthstones for Gemini, and is one of the earliest stones to be used by the ancient beadmaker.  It comes in many forms and colours, and thought to be a stone of longevity, protection, truth and courage.

Amazonite is a beautiful bluey green, and is thought to calm the body and mind.  Also thought to ease tooth decay, but I don't think I'd like to put it to the test!  A birthstone for Virgo.

Amethyst is a popular and pretty stone, and a birthstone for Aquarius, Pisces and Sagittarius.  It seems to be pretty multi functional too, and it is claimed to be useful for love, happiness and health, and to give a good nights sleep!

Aquamarine used to be carried by sailors to give protection against drowning, and it is thought that the wearer can become more psychic and spiritually aware.  A birthstone for Aquarius, Pisces and Taurus.

Carnelian is a stone I use in both the Ancient and the modern ranges, as it has been used for thousands of years in bead making.   Apparantly it will protect you from from falling walls, but please don't take my word for it!  Thought to be good for courage, self confidence and dispelling negative emotions.  A birthstone for Leo and Virgo.

Citrine - is a birthstone for Libra and Scorpio, and is a clear golden stone.  Smoky Quartz is a colour variation of this, and is a warm rich brown.  Thought to bring harmony, creativity and improved eyesight.  

Flourite - I mainly use Rainbow Flourite, and this comes in a variety of purple and green shades.  A birthstone for Pisces and Capricorn, Flourite is believed to lift depression and improve concentration.

Garnet - is another stone that has been in use for thousands of years, and is still popular now.  A birthstone for Capricorn and Aries, Garnet is sought after as a stone of love, and to give endurance and strength. 

Jade - comes in many colour variations, and has many properties.  These include being beneficial in the treatment of the kidneys and heart, and in attracting wealth and good luck in business.  A birthstone for Taurus.

Labradorite - this is one of the stones I had never heard of, but I love it!  Symbolising the moon, this is often known as 'the temple of the stars', and is thought to atune the wearer to lifes rhythms.  Aside from all that, it is a truly beautiful stone with blue flashes.  Lucky Scorpios can claim this as their birthstone!

Peridot - is a lovely fresh green stone, believed to calm and support the wearer.  Good for physical wellbeing and improving eyesight.  A birthstone for Leo and Libra.

Rose Quartz - unsurprisingly is pink, and at one time that would have put me off it right away!  However, this is a lovely fresh light pink, and goes well with other gemstones, and I have learnt to love it.  All good things are associated with this stone - love and friendship, peace and happiness.  A birthstone for Virgo.  

Turquoise - I ride horses, so apparantly this is the right stone for me, as it will protect me from falling off!  I'll let you know...............   Long prized by many civilisations, turquoise is reputed to increase beauty, attract new friends, and help with eye problems and headaches.  A birthstone for Sagittarius.