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Gemstone Beads Index
Click a gemstone name or picture below to shop in our online store, or return to the Menu. Stones are alphabetized by family. For example, to find information on Red Creek Jasper look under "J" for "Jasper". Not all gemstones listed below are current stock. Some might be unavailable, or only available at our traveling Bead Shows. "Also known as" (aka) listings are often misnomers; we list other names we've seen, right or wrong! To the best of our knowledge, our gemstones are natural and untreated unless otherwise noted. We use the term "dyed" to describe stones to which color has been added through some process. The coloring process does not necessarily involve a colorant like those used for cloth.

- C -
	Calcite aka Calcspar, Cave Onyx, Flowstone, Iceland Spar, Lime Spar, Mexican Jade, Mexican Onyx, Nailhead Spar, Pineapple Jasper Calcite is the one of the most common minerals on earth, constituting about 4% of the Earth's crust by weight. The name calcite comes from a Greek word chalx, meaning "lime." This name is taken from the stone's chemical component, calcium carbonate, which sometimes is mistakenly known as lime. It is usually a clear or whitish stone, but calcite also occurs in a seemingly unlimited variety of shapes and colors. Calcite is often fluorescent, and a small amount of manganese is enough to make it glow red under UV light. Another interesting feature of the stone is its strong double refraction — a phenomenon that occurs when a light ray enters the crystal and splits up into two separate rays, making anything observed through the crystal appear as double. Transparent dolomite is indistinguishable from calcite unless complicated optical tests are performed. It can also be distinguished by the fact that dolomite only effervesces with warm hydrochloric acid, and calcite with cold, but accurate results of this test are hard to get. Ultrasonic cleaning is risky for this relatively soft gemstone, and steaming is a big no-no; cool soapy water is the safest cleanser for calcite, but avoid water with a low-pH acidic nature. Almost all of the "alabaster" artifacts of ancient Egypt are actually made of calcite. The gemstone was used as an inlay on the throne in the tomb of King Tutankhamen, which dates to around 1340 B.C. Mystics today consider calcite to be an energy amplifier. It is said to give a polarizing prismatic energy, which produces a spectrum of energy to clear and to activate all of the chakras. It also is supposed to be a balancing agent for the assimilation of calcium in the body, thus helping with osteoporosis or problems with calcification of organs. Mexico and the U.S.A. are the major sources of calcite, but it is found in smaller quantities around the world.
		Calcite (-156) This colorless, white or gray variety is considered the standard type of calcite.
		Blue Calcite The color of blue calcite is commonly attributed to the presence of gold. The stone is sometimes mistakenly or fraudulently sold as solid celestite. Metaphysically, it is purported to support clarity, clear thinking and communication, and the initiation of spiritual growth. It also is thought to help people speak their minds, adapt to changes in life and express their feelings and emotions.
		Cobalto Calcite aka Cobaltion, Cobaltoan, Pink Calcite, Sphaerocobaltite The hue of this stone can range from a very pale pink to an intense watermelon pink, and can also be found in black and brown. This stone is found in the Congo. The pink in cobalto calcite is said to symbolize love and caring. It can be good for broken hearts and self discovery, and can also help aid a peaceful sleep.
		Mangano Calcite aka Pink Calcite This form of calcite is pink with thin white stripes. It forms in jagged crystals but when polished the stone can appear to be very soft. It is said to help initiate forgiveness, prevent nightmares and condone self-trust, which creates inner stability. It is also said to energize and heal the body.
		Yellow Calcite aka Amber Calcite, Gold Calcite, Honey Calcite This calcite owes its warm color to the presence of iron. It is considered an energizing stone that fosters grounding with courage and confidence. It is also believed to ease depression and facilitate mental clarity.
	Carnelian (-006) aka Cornelian, Mecca Stone, Natural Agate, Pigeon Blood Agate, Sardoine Carnelian is an A-grade agate. What a lot of people call "true carnelian" is the fiery red/orange color, and in theory, carnelian is naturally that color. However, most of that fiery red/orange "true" carnelian is heat-treated in secret before it reaches the gemstone-cutting factory. This apparently has been a secret for thousands of years; each part of the world thought everyone else's carnelian was naturally red, but they were heating theirs, too. When held against the light, the color-treated carnelian shows its color in stripes, while natural carnelian shows a cloudy distribution of color. The name carnelian is said to be derived from the Latin word carnis ("flesh") due to its color. Ancient Egyptian tombs are full of carnelian jewelry, as the Egyptians believed the gemstone had great power in the afterlife. According to their beliefs, carnelian amulets could help ensure the Ka's (soul's) passage into the next world. Elsewhere in the Middle East, carnelian represents the Hebrew tribe of Reuben and the apostle Philip. In Hebrew literature, carnelian appears as a gemstone in Aaron's breastplate. Some Muslims call it "the Mecca stone." Islamic doctrine holds that engraving the name of Allah on carnelian stones boosts courage. Ancient Greeks and Romans called it sardius and used the gemstone for signet rings, cameos and intaglios, while Tibetans created amulets of silver with generous applications of carnelian. Hindu astrology names carnelian as the secondary stone of Scorpios. Red carnelian has been used for centuries to stop the flow of blood, and many believe the gemstone will stop nosebleeds. It is said to help heal physical wounds and blood disorders. Ayurveda holds that carnelian is excellent for the first chakra, and the gemstone is thought to bring passion to the wearer. It is recommended for infertility or impotency, and because of its ability to balance, carnelian is good for family areas of the home (especially a bedroom where more than one child sleeps). Deposits of this gemstone are found in Brazil, India, Australia, Russia, Madagascar, South Africa, Uruguay and the U.S.A.
	Chalcedony Chalcedony is a catch-all term for cryptocrystalline quartzes (quartz with microscopically small crystals). The chalcedony family as a whole includes agate, jasper, carnelian, chrysoprase, onyx, bloodstone, aventurine, flint, chert and sard. As a marketing term in the gemstone industry, however, "chalcedony" refers more specifically to semitransparent or translucent chalcedony with a solid color (commonly pale bluish-gray) and nearly waxlike luster. The color can also be white, blue, purple, pink, yellow, orange or red (but not orange-red, as that stone is known as carnelian). Blue and purple are the most popular hues. Some are unsure how to pronounce "chalcedony" — the most common form is kal-SEH-doh-nee; also accepted are chal-SEH-doh-nee, KAL-seh-DOH-nee and CHAL-seh-DOH-nee. TThe name probably comes from Chalcedon or (Calchedon), an ancient port city on the Sea of Marmara in modern-day Turkey. Good blue and purple chalcedony are still being mined in Turkey and several locations in Africa, including hard-to-get Namibian material. Indonesia is producing purple chalcedony along with other colors, including yellow to deep orange. The U.S.A. also boasts active blue and purple chalcedony mines. Chalcedonies can be either transparent or translucent, solid or patterned. The most common forms are agate and jasper. Agate is usually translucent and has clearly defined bands and markings, while jasper is generally opaque, more irregular and less defined. Chalcedony forms in rounded crusts, rinds or stalactites in volcanic and sedimentary rocks. The stone is extremely porous, so it takes dye easily and is frequently enhanced. Chalcedony has a slightly lower density and hardness than other quartz. Protect it from scratches, sharp blows, harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures. Another unique characteristic: chalcedony can be a pseudomorph, the atom-by-atom replacement of one mineral for another without changing the original mineral's external appearance. Petrified palm wood is a well-known example. In the Petrified Forest National Monument of Arizona, the remains of an entire ancient forest was transformed into chalcedony. Dinosaur bone is another chalcedony pseudomorph. The process is nature's preservation of an organic substance in its original appearance. Chalcedony has made other great marks on history. Because of its abundance, durability and beauty, chalcedony was one of the first raw materials used by humankind. Its earliest recorded uses were as projectile points, knives, tools and containers. Seals were made from chalcedony in Mesopotamia as early as the 7th century B.C., and the Romans also adopted the practice. The stone was used in Renaissance magic for health and safety, and has been worn as carved cameos and gems for many centuries, especially popular in the Victorian era. In ancient times, it was used as a talisman against idiocy and depression. Today it is still believed to banish depression and mental illness, as well as fear, hysteria and touchiness. Chalcedony is also thought to reduce fever, aid eyesight, stimulate creativity and stimulate calm and peace. The stone is found in Brazil, Germany, Russia, the U.S.A., Canada, Africa, Turkey and Indonesia.
		Blue Chalcedony This popular stone ranges from medium blue to pale blue-gray. Blue chalcedony was the initiation stone for Egyptian high priests and is the state gemstone of Nebraska.
		Green Chalcedony The color of this chalcedony is achieved via enhancement.
		Pink Chalcedony Similar to rose quartz, but composed of smaller crystals, this chalcedony is equally ravishing.
		Purple Chalcedony Second to blue in popularity, this chalcedony shade is coveted for its soft-hued beauty.
	Charoite (-119) Charoite is a mineral in the monoclinic crystal system, appearing as an opaque gemstone with a wild, swirling pattern of interlocking crystals. The colors in each piece of charoite range from bright lavender, violet and lilac to dark purple, with white, gray and black veining. It is an unusual mineral of rare occurrence, found in the mountainous region near the Chara River in Russia, for which it might have been named (it also could have been named for the impression that it gives, as the Russian word chary means "charms" or "magic"). This part of Russia, known for its forbidding climate and terrain, is where many political prisoners have been sent into exile. The Russians first discovered charoite in 1947, but it was not known in the West until 1978. Warm soapy water is the safest cleanser for this gemstone. The purported healing power of charoite is that by putting it under your pillow, it will release the fears that surface in your dreams. Yoga enthusiasts claim that working with charoite fosters a synthesis between the heart and crown chakra, helps you walk your spiritual path with awareness and manifests your soul's wisdom and light in daily life.
		Chinese Charoite aka Flower Sugilite, Lapidalite, Purple Bamboo Agate, Purple Quartzite Chinese charoite is the descriptive name for this purple stone from China. Online research tells us its composition is most likely fluorite in quartz or agate. However, as with many imported stones, descriptive names often stick in the marketplace before the true mineralogy is sorted out. True charoite is only found in Russia, and does not exhibit the cleavage patterns found in this gemstone. Chinese charoite typically contains patches of white and yellow in addition to purple and lavender.
	Chrysocolla aka Bisbeeite, Chrysocole, Crysocolla, Chrysocolle, Chrysocollite, Chrysokolla, Crisocola, Crisocolla, Gem Silica Chrysocolla is most commonly found in an attractive blue-green color with brown, rust or black inclusions, but, if you are lucky, you may find a stone that also contains gold flecks. Chrysocolla is a minor ore of copper, as it forms in the oxidation zones of copper-rich areas. The name is of Greek origin, chrysos meaning "gold" and kolla meaning "glue," in reference to similar-looking material that was used to solder gold. It is a very fragile mineral and cannot be used for jewelry unless it is agatized in chalcedony. When found in a brilliant blue state it can be mistaken for turquoise; typically, the brighter the blue or green color, the higher the price. Much of the chrysocolla on the market is mined in Africa, and is sometimes billed as African chrysocolla. Chrysocolla is said to be good for creativity, female energy and communication, as well as relieving ulcers and arthritis. It is also associated with tranquility, peace, intuition, patience and unconditional love.
	Chrysoprase aka Australian Jade, Chinese Chrysoprase One of the most valuable chalcedony (quartz) gemstones, chrysoprase is prized for its rarity and opalescent apple-green color. Its name comes from Greek words chryso for golden and prason for leek. It is a lighter-colored form of prase. Chrysoprase occurs as nodules or fillings of clefts in serpentine rocks and in weathered materials of nickel ore deposits. Unlike most other green gemstones, which owe their color to chromium or vanadium, chrysoprase's color is derived from staining by nickel oxide. It is likely that some of the material sold as "Chinese chrysoprase" is actually a variety of serpentine. Chrysoprase is quite often opaque, but the more translucent the gemstone, the better the quality. The highest-quality material is a rich apple-green of even color, without flaws, fractures, inclusions, cavities or other imperfections. Much of the chrysoprase used for beads has a brownish matrix. Chrysoprase is easily worked and takes a fine polish. The stone's cheerful hue can fade in sunlight and when heated. Fading occurs when dehydration robs stones of their coloring agent, and as stones dry out, they lose translucency and luster. To restore these attributes, leave stones in wet cotton or take a bath while wearing your chrysoprase jewelry. Before large quantities of the stone were discovered in Australia, dealers compensated for the gem's scarcity by staining colorless quartz green, using either nickel salts or chromium salts. Despite the abundance of chrysoprase today, dyed stones remain an annoyance; buyers should guard against them as natural chrysoprase becomes more popular and expensive. According to Robert Webster's Gems, chromium salts are most commonly used in simulated greens. They can be detected with a Chelsea filter (stained stones show a "brownish-red residual color") or a spectroscope (look for "three vague lines in the red part of the spectrum"). This gemstone has been mentioned as early in history as 23 A.D., but was not mined commercially until about 1740. Chrysoprase was used by the Greeks, Romans and Egyptians in jewelry and other ornamental objects. Prussian king Frederick the Great adorned his palace with objects and furniture made fully or partly of chrysoprase. His favorite ring was set with a large chrysoprase surrounded by 15 brilliant stones (presumably diamonds). Reportedly, Frederick never took this ring off. He also carried a walking stick with a knob of chrysoprase. The stone has also been renowned as having unusual powers. In the Middle Ages, it was believed that if you put a piece of chrysoprase in your mouth, you would become invisible, and Romanian folklore claims chrysoprase enabled its owner to understand the language of lizards. Metaphysical characteristics attributed to the gemstone today include soothing heartache and loneliness, and promoting emotional balance. It also is said to relieve gout, eye problems and mental illness. Major sources of chrysoprase include Australia, Tanzania, Brazil, Russia (the Urals) and the U.S.A. (California).
		Australian Chrysoprase This high-quality stone has a deeper tone and more saturated color than standard chrysoprase, and is found exclusively in Australia. At its best, it is considered a look-alike for jadeite jade. It runs a pleasant color gamut from sweet apple green to medium jadeite green. In fact, Australian chrysoprase is often encouraged as an affordable alternative to jadeite. A small proportion of stone is semitransparent to transparent. Australian chrysoprase is said to be responsible for the revival of interest in the gem over the past few years. The finest and most abundant deposits are found in the Queensland region. Queensland material is more resistant to this gem's one drawback — fading in sunlight and heat — because it is more water-retentive. Most Australian chrysoprase is sent to Asia, where it is extremely popular for its resemblance to jadeite. At the 1991 International Gemological Symposium, Brisbane gemologist Grahame Brown estimated that Queensland currently supplied 85% of the world's chrysoprase. He told attendees that Australia could support current demand for 20-40 years.
		Chrysoprase(-159) This is the most common form of chrysoprase. Its green color has been compared to Prell? shampoo, though Brazilian stones tend to be a murky olive green, and Tanzanian stones a lighter yellow green. Standard chrysoprase is more likely to have a matrix than the coveted Australian type.
		Lemon Chrysoprase (-130) aka Citron, Lemon Magnesite The name "lemon chrysoprase" is a little misleading, but it's the common name for this light-yellow magnesite with brown to light-tan veining. The distinction between chrysoprase and lemon chrysoprase might simply be the amount of the underlying mineral (quartz vs. magnesite). For a while, our lemon chrysoprase was nicer than most on the market, but now the greenest, best-quality variety is nearly impossible to find.
	Citrine (-054) aka Brazilian Topaz, Citrine Topaz, Colorado Topaz, False Topaz, Gold Topaz, Jeweler's Topaz, Madeira Topaz, Occidental Topaz, Saxon Topaz The name citrine comes from the French citron, or "lemon," for its color. The stone is a particular type of quartz. Much of the citrine on the market today is actually heat-treated amethyst (a different type of quartz), and ours might be (we've been unable to confirm our vendor's assertion that we are receiving all-natural citrine). All it takes is a kiln that can reach and hold a specific temperature for long enough, and a purple amethyst will turn to citrine. Natural citrine is not common and occurs in lighter hues than the heat-treated material. Also, heat-treated forms can often be distinguished from natural citrine by their red tint (a quality of all heat-treated gemstones). Unfortunately, some unscrupulous dealers have created false names for citrine so unaware buyers think they are buying more valuable topaz. Citrine does closely resemble topaz, but is it more durable, slightly softer and has less brilliance. It should be known that most "topaz" labeled with a prefix name (such as gold topaz and others listed above under "aka") is actually the heat-treated form of citrine, though our own crystal blue topaz is just that — crystal! The only known exceptions (those that are truly topaz) are imperial topaz, oriental topaz and precious topaz. Some of these beads are cut in India, so irregularities in shape, size and other qualities should be expected. Citrine is easily scratched. Also, it permanently changes color if left in the sunlight for several hours, hence citrine beads should be kept away from prolonged exposure to strong light or heat. With these precautions, citrine jewelry will last for many generations. In ancient times, citrine was carried as a protection against snake venom and evil thoughts, but it didn't see substantial use as a gemstone in jewelry until the Romantic Period (1837-1860). Citrine is valued for the treatment of depression and is said to eliminate self-destructive tendencies. It also is purported to stimulate memory, aid digestion, remove toxins from the body and fight diabetes. Citrine symbolizes light-heartedness, joy, happiness, wisdom and peace, and is said to enhance creativity and motivate writers. Our citrine mainly comes from India, but Brazil is also a major source of the world's citrine. See also lab-grown citrine, which has the same chemical, physical and optical characteristics as its natural counterpart.
	Coral Coral is a calcium carbonate built up by the skeletal material of small animals that live in colonies in the sea. It comes in a wide range of colors, with black, red and pink considered the most valuable. It appears dull and matte when unfinished, but gains a beautiful gloss after polishing. It often grows in branches that look like underwater trees, and most is found in the Mediterranean Sea and in the Pacific Ocean off Japan and Taiwan. The origin of the word "coral" has been a source of disagreement for linguists. Some believe it comes from the Greek word koraillon, which refers to coral's hard skeleton. Others point to the term kura-halos, or "mermaid," because coral's curving branches often resemble people. Another possible source is the Hebrew word goral, the name for the stones used to cast an oracle; coral was in fact used for casting oracles long ago in Palestine, Asia Minor and the Mediterranean. Coral is often imitated by plastic, glass, porcelain and stained bone, but natural coral has a distinctive wood-grain texture that can help identify it as the real thing. We carry several subspecies of coral. Sponge coral, when polished smooth, has visible pores like a sponge. Bamboo coral grows in segmented branches that resemble bamboo stalks, with beige/brown sections partially covering the black underlayer. Coral is much softer than other gem materials, and as a result it should be stored carefully to avoid scratches. Cosmetics, hot water and bright sunlight are damaging to it. Coral is also fragile and porous, so it should be protected from sharp blows and kept away from chemicals. To clean, wipe it gently with a moist soft cloth. Some of the more vibrantly dyed colors might bleed; test for colorfastness before wearing. If needed, wash the beads in warm soapy water and blot dry with paper towels. Repeat until no dye transfers to the paper towels. Many people think coral, like ivory, must be protected and/or is an endangered species. However, the few threatened coral reefs are monitored by international law. Furthermore, research shows that at current harvesting levels, even the Great Barrier Reef's coral is sustainable; in other words, it replenishes itself at a rate equal to or greater than it is collected. While some types of coral grow extremely slowly (at a rate of only about three centimeters every 20 years!), other branching varieties are estimated to grow up to 10 centimeters each year. Live coral for aquariums currently is more profitable to harvest than dead coral for jewelry. Coral is among the most ancient of gem materials, used for adornment since prehistoric times. Coral inlays and ornaments have been found in Celtic tombs from the Iron Age (500 B.C.-400 A.D.). In ancient China, red coral was a symbol of wealth, favor and high social status. In the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), emperors wore accessories made of red coral, such as belts and necklaces, when meeting ministers. Queens also wore necklaces made of red coral in important activities such as birthday celebrations. Coral is one of the seven treasures in Buddhist scriptures, and Tibetan lamas use coral rosaries. To Buddhists, coral is a treasure that can protect you from evil spirits. Today, coral, with its reputed ability to calm and improve life, is considered the best accessory for modern people living in the fast lane. Coral is said to protect children and it is given as a gift to children in many countries. It also is used in difficulties of the lungs and digestion, and many relate it to blood circulation. Coral is said to help restore harmony in the event of emotional conflict and work against nutritional deficiencies, depression and lethargy. In addition, mystics claim it cures madness and gives wisdom but loses its power when broken. See also agatized fossil coral.
		Apple Coral (-139) Apple coral is stabilized red sponge coral. It is naturally a dark brick red, but red dye is sometimes added to the stabilizing resin. This coral might lighten with exposure to heat or extended direct sunlight. While our beads are real coral, apple coral is often simulated with a colored limestone product.
		Black Coral A lacquer coating has been added to this black beauty for stability and protection. We're not sure what type of coral this variety is, but we're researching it. One thing we do know is that under the lacquer, the coral's surface is porous.
		Blue Sponge Coral We are told this variety is unenhanced and achieves its blue color naturally.
		Gold Coral Our gold coral is actually black coral that has been treated (though not bleached) to become gold and then coated. The coating is necessary to cover the rough surface exposed by the treatment.
		Green Coral Our green coral is also black coral that has been treated (though not bleached) to become green and then coated. The coating is necessary to cover the rough surface exposed by the treatment.
		Natural Bamboo Coral These beads are cut from the beige sections of a bamboo coral growth. Its soft beige hue is natural and unenhanced.
		Peach Bamboo Coral This pleasant peachy color is most likely achieved with an oil dye.
		Pink Bamboo Coral This gemstone is a bamboo coral from the South Pacific. It gets its hue from a colorfast oil dye. The very pale pink is called "angel skin."
		Red Bamboo Coral This brilliant-red bamboo coral hails from the South Pacific and makes an ideal complement to turquoise. Most of the smaller sizes (#20-500 through #20-512) sport a smooth, regular finish and have been colored with a nice oil dye. The larger, more-irregular shapes (#20-520 and higher) have a turquoise-like black matrix and are water dyed, which is less stable (and less expensive!) than oil dye. Some users have experienced problems with bleeding while others have not, which suggests that there are several processes or dyes being used with varying degrees of stability. Rinsing beads in warm soapy water will remove any excess dye.
		Tiger Bamboo Coral(-078) aka Tiger Coral This type of bamboo coral is often known as tiger coral because of its exotic stripes. It has natural beige and black sections, reminiscent of the sections in bamboo plants. The beads are strategically cut from the coral so that both colors are visible on each piece.
		White Bamboo Coral White coral is likely bleached to achieve maximum whiteness. However, corals in the American Samoa reefs are experiencing natural whitening due to increased water temperatures, the stress of which causes some species of coral to turn white.
	Cubic Zirconia aka CZ, cubic zirconium, Diamonique (brand name), Fianit, synthetic diamonds Available in a wide variety of beautiful colors, cubic zirconias are synthetic (manmade) gemstones. Like diamonds, cubic zirconias have a very high refractive index and are visually stunning. Unlike diamonds, CZs are relatively affordable. They are also very durable and can withstand high temperatures. Cubic zirconias can be fired in kilns with metal clay, a process that would ruin most other gemstones, because they have a very high melting point. The greatest challenge for scientists wishing to create CZs was making a crucible that could withstand the temperatures needed to melt and hold zirconium feed powder. In the 1970s, scientists in the U.S.S.R. designed a "skull crucible" that allowed commercial production to take off. The gemological properties of CZs vary by manufacturer due to variances in the type and amount of stablizer used to make isometric (cubic) crystals. Different oxides are added to create colored cubic zirconias. After controlled annealing to ensure the flawless crystals are stable, the CZs are cut into faceted gemstones. Cubic zirconias are now the most common diamond substitute, and the highest quality CZs can often fool even trained eyes. Bead quality CZs are not likely to be mistaken for diamonds, but they are beautiful all the same. You can safely clean your cubic zirconias with any jewelry cleaner or detergent. Be sure to rinse well to avoid leaving a residue that would dull the gem's shine.
Why can't I click on some stone names? Some stones are not currently part of our regular stock, meaning we don't sell them in our wholesale catalog or online. However, these may still be available on our traveling Bead Show, which stops at more than 50 U.S. cities each year.