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Agate is a vibrantly colorful, often banded variety of Chalcedony Quartz. It was discovered sometime between 400 and 300 BC by a Greek Philosopher named Theophrastus. It often occurs in volcanic rocks and ancient lava flows. A petrified wood variant of Agate is found in abundance in Arizona. Fire Agate (Orange) represents the Sacral Chakra it is positioned at the center of the abdomen which rules the reproductive system. Agate balances the yin-yang energy bringing a sense of courage. It cleanses and stabilizes your aura balancing the physical, emotional, and intellectual bodies with the spiritual. Agate is a birthstone for May/Gemini. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 6.5-7

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Amazonite is sometimes confused with Chrysoprase, Serpentine, Jade or Turquoise. This stone is sensitive to pressure and has an irregular color distribution. Its bold color is due to the presence of lead. Amazonite (Blue/Green) represents the Throat and Heart Chakras, however it is soothing for all the Chakras. Amazonite soothes the nervous system, while giving strength to the heart and body, balancing the mental and Auric Body. Amazonite resonates with the Astrological Sign: Virgo. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 6-6.5

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Amber is the fossilized, hardened resin of a pine tree. It is mostly found in the Baltic. It has been used since prehistoric times for jewelry, religious objects, accessories, amulets and mascots. Mohs' Hardness Scale:2-2.5

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Amethyst is the February/Aquarius birthstone. It is known for spiritual upliftment and helpful in communicating effectively. In ancient times, amethyst was thought to have numerous mystical and protective powers. It is the most highly valued of the quartz varieties and is typically found in a lilac to deep purple coloring. These beautiful nuggets are a great enhancement to any design.Amethyst (Violet/Purple) represents the Crown Chakra which is positioned at the top of the head, aiding in spiritual upliftment. Amethyst helps clear the aura, while balancing the physical, intellectual, and emotional bodies. Amethyst is the February/Aquarius birthstone. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 7

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Ametrine is a mixture of both Amethyst and Citrine. Deposits are found in Brazil an Bolivia. This gorgeous stone combines two colors that you don't see together too often. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 7

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Andalusite is named after Andalusia in Spain. It's luster is vitreous or mat. It often carries brown, pink and green tones. It has distinctive pleochroism which allows you to see multiple colors in the same stone. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 7.5

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The word Apatite in Greek means "cheat". It was originally named this way because this stone can so easily be confused with amblygonite, andalusite, brazilianite, precious beryl, sphene, topaz and tourmaline. As this is a fairly soft stone, it can be difficult to facet. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 5

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Aquamarine is named for it's seawater color. Dark blue is the most desired color. This popular stone needs to be handled with care; it can be brittle or sensitive to pressure. However, the beauty of this stone makes the time spent maintaining it seem unimportant. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 7.5-8

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Artistic Stone is from Madagascar. Madagascar, the South African Island that is slightly twice as big as Arizona, offers quite a few natural resources; graphite, chromite, coal, bauxite, salt, quartz, tar sands, semiprecious stones, mica, fish, hydropower. Artistic Stone is new to the market and absolutely gorgeous. It carries patterns of lions, tigers and zebras...OH MY!

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Aventurine is said to be a good luck stone, especially in financial matters. It is supposed to stimulate creativity, intelligence and perception, while giving the wearer a sense of mental and emotional well-being. It was discovered by chance around 1700.

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Only available at Soft Flex Company. These gorgeous gemstones are carefully inset with Diamonds, Rubies, Sapphires, Topaz, Amethyst, or Citrine, in a 18 Karat Gold setting. These gems are one of a kind and sure to turn heads.

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Beryl has vitreous luster that will sometimes cause a "cat's eye" effect. There are many different types of Beryl. For instance, aquamarine, emeralds and morganite are all considered a part of the Beryl family as they are all composed of Beryllium Aluminum Silicate. Mohs' Hardness Scale:7.5-8

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Bronzite is from Montana, USA. It is rich in iron with a metallic luster.

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Calcite, in it's true form, is colorless. However, it is dyed or heat treated to become many different colors. It is the principle component of limestones and marbles. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 3

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Carnelian is an orange variety of Chalcedony. It is assumed to have received the name Carnelian from the kornel cherry, due to the similar color. Carnelian was once thought to still the blood and calm the temper.Carnelian (Orange) represents the Sacral Chakra it is positioned at the center of the abdomen which rules the reproductive system. Carnelian can help you deal with depression and sorrow in times of need. Carnelian is a birthstone for July and August. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 7

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Chalcedony is thought to have been named after an ancient town. In ancient times it was used for cameos. This chalcedony is all natural and has not been dyed or heat treated.

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The ancient Greeks referred to artificial preparations used in a flux in soldering of gold as "chryso kolla", meaning "gold glue". This somehow became the name of this blue-green stone, Chyrsocolla. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 2-4

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Chrysoprase is considered the most valuable stone in the chalcedony group. It has been used for interior decoration in the Wenceslaus Chapel in Prague and in Sanssouci Castle New Berlin. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 6.5-7

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Natural Citrine is rare and is mostly pale yellow. The name is derived from the word, "citrus". Citrineis a macrocrystalline variety of the mineral Quartz. The color is due to small amounts of iron impurities. Stable in light and not very sensitive to chemicals, this stone requires no special care and can be used for any jewelry application. Virtually all Citrinecomes from Brazil.Citrine(Yellow) represents the Solar Plexus Chakra which is positioned above the abdomen but under the rib cage. Citrine is uplifting it helps raise self-esteem. Citrine is one of the birthstones for November. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 7

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Coral is made up of the skeletal remains of marine animals called coral polyps. These itty bitty creatures live in colonies that form branching structures as they grow which eventually create coral reefs and atolls.Momo Coral (Orange/Salmon) represents the Sacral Chakra it is positioned at the center of the abdomen which rules the reproductive system. Coral consists almost entirely of calcium thus promotes healthy bone growth, and formation often used in treating osteoporosis. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 3

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Diamonds are an elegant jack of all trades. They functioned as cutting and engraving tools for early man. They serve contemporary scientists with their ability to slow light. They have been cherished in religious icons and their wide spectrum of colors has been used for adornment for thousands of years.Black Diamond (Black) is helpful in grounding ones energy. Diamond dispels negativity, while purifying the body bringing serenity to the mind, body and spirit. Diamond is the Birthstone for April. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 10

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Emeralds are the most precious stone in the beryl group. However, they are rarely flawless.Emerald is said to give confidence, peace and harmony and to enhance one's creativity and mental capacities. It is also said to instill and nurture mutual love and loyalty in marriage, and to ensure honesty and success in business dealings and other relationships.Emerald is also said to help strengthen and heal the heart and kidneys, and to help remedy circulatory and neurological disorders and eye irritations, and to help eliminate free radicals from the body. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 7.5-8

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Fluorite has a long standing history. Though it is relatively soft, it was used by ancient Egyptians in statues and to carve scarabs. The Chinese have used it in carvings for over 300 years. And, Fluorite was powdered in water to relieve the symptoms of kidney disease.Fluorite is said to enhance intuition, creativity, concentration and one's sense of order. It is also said to promote healing, and to facilitate healing work being done with other minerals, and to give protection against many types of diseases. It is also said to help release negative thoughts, and to give protection against them. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 4

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The Garnet is one of the earliest stones to attract human attention and has been found all over Europe, Asia, and the Americas in graves and shrines. Garnets have a rich history, full of interesting trivia. In the Middle ages, they were prescribed to cure any illness that was associated with redness (since the stone is typically a deep purple red) ... Such as, blood disorders, anger, fever, etc.Tourmalinated Green Garnet (Green) represents the Heart Chakra which is positioned at the center of the chest. Garnet helps to develop love and compassion, it brings a protective and calming energy, balancing emotional disharmony. Black Tourmaline repels and protects you against negativity. Garnet is the January/Aquarius Birthstone. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 6.5-7.5

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Goldstone is man made. Some speculate it was discovered by accident when alchemists were trying to create man made gold. Goldstone is created of brown glass with copper oxide added. It is heated to a high temperature and when it cools the oxide changes into beautiful crystals that sparkle through the brown glass. It is said to reduce tension and stomach problems. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 5.5

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Gaspeite is a rare Nickel Carbonate mineral. It's apple green color is a great complement for stones such as Turquoise, Onyx or Coral. Gaspeite takes it's name from the locality where it was first discovered - Gaspé Peninsula, Quebec, Canada.Gaspeite (Green) represents the Heart Chakra which is positioned at the center of the chest. Gaspeite can help reduce stress, and bring spirituality into everyday life .Mohs' Hardness Scale: 4.5-5.

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Hemimorphite is also called Calamine. This stone can be transparent to opaque. The color ranges from blue, or green, to colorless with a hue of color, it may often be blue-white banded. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 5

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Howlite is easily dyed as it is very porous, light and soft. It is found in large quantities in the USA/California. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 3-3.5

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Hypersthene is optically stunning. It shimmers and shines a beautiful black silver color that is sure to catch your eye. This stone is found in India, Norway, Greenland, Germany and the USA. It is a collector?s stone and can tend to be brittle. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 5-6

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Iolite has also been called water sapphire because it can be very similar to blue sapphire when cut. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 7-7.5

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New Jade is an opaque green speckled stone. It is an affordable alternative to original jade. Jade is supposed to protect and be lucky when worn as jewelry. Place a bit under your pillow at night for restorative dreams. Jade is tough due to it's tight growth of interlocking grains.New Jade (Green) represents the Heart Chakra which is positioned at the center of the chest, which governs the sense of touch. Jade repels negativity, bringing both harmony and serenity. It is useful in building self-confidence. Jade is considered sacred to many cultures. Jade is a birthstone for March. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 6.5-7

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The name Jasper means "spotted stone". Jasper is multi-colored and fun to work with because each bead is like a snowflake, unique. It is supposed to calm a troubled mind and help with digestive problems. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 6.5-7

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Jet has a luminous, waxy luster. It is a coal that can be polished that has been used over time for mourning jewelry, rosaries, ornamental objects and cameos. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 2.5-4

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Kunzite is named for a U.S. Minerologist, G.F. Kunz. It is a gem variety of Spodumene that is available in an array of pastel colors: lilac, soft pink and yellow. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 6.5-7

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Kyanite means "blue" in Greek. This stone is gem quality and is by far one of our favorites. Mohs' Hardness Scale: Along Axes 4-4.5/Across 6-7

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Labradorite is named after the Peninsula of Labrador in Canada where it was first found. This stone will make any design stand out with it's shimmer and shine. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 6-6.5

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Lapis is an intense blue stone, peppered with flecks of golden pyrite. It has been treasured throughout history and has been unearthed in ancient Egyptian tombs. Decorate your next design with the prize of poets and kings.Mohs' Hardness Scale: 5-5.5

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Larimar is a rare stone found only in the Dominican Republic. It has the watery sheen of the sea. Discovered in the early part of last century, the stone did not really find its welcome until rediscovery in the seventies. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 4.5-5

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Rocks are seperated into 3 groups: igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary. Igneous rocks are often associated with the molten core of the Earth. They gradually seeps upward and either cool deep within the crust as an intrusive rock or spew in a molten form, causing a volcano or lava flow. Some wonderful Lava Rock Beads have recently hit the market. They are light in weight and an unusual, interesting addition to the beading world.

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Maw-Sit-Sit is a fun way to add glimmer to a green design. It gets its wonderful luster from its rich chromimum content. Add a deep Jade blush to your next necklace. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 6-7

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Moonstone receives it's name from the moon. It has a glow about it that is unlike any other stone. Moon worshippers through the ages have used this design in their jewelry. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 6-6.5

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This stone is named after the American banker and collector J.P. Morgan. It is in the Beryl family along with Emeralds and Aquamarine.

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Moukaite comes from Australia. It is sometimes called the "Outback Jasper". It typically has bands of all sorts of colors from pinks to yellows to deep reds. This stone is unique and a lot of fun to design interesting jewelry.Moukaite Jasper (Pink/Yellow/Red) represents the Heart, Solar Plexus, and Root Chakras. Jasper protects you against negativity and is also an excellent grounding stone spiritually and emotionally. Jasper is the birthstone for March. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 6.5-7

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Obsidian is a natural glass. It is formed from volcanic lava that has cooled too quickly. It has been used since prehistoric times to make tools, weapons, masks, mirrors and jewelry. These beautiful nuggets are a great enhancement to any design.Obsidian (Black) works with the Root Chakra which is positioned at the base of the spine, helping in grounding ones energy. Obsidian aides in clearing subconscious blocks bringing an experience of understanding. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 5

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Onyx, as a name, has it's origin in Greek meaning "fingernail". This is probably because of it's weak transparency. This stone is usually banded whites, blacks and grays. Most onyx is dyed a solid color. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 7

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The word Opal is derived from an Indian word meaning "stone". There are 3 subgroups with properties that vary considerably. Peruvian Opal is a gorgeous mixture of milky whites, greens and browns. The variations of color from shades of white to dark gray make African Opals distinctively stand out. Mexican Fire Opals are a nice mixture of oranges and reds. Pink Opals are one of the hottest stones on the market today! Mohs' Hardness Scale: 5.5-6.5

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Pearls are organic gem stones. They are formed when a foreign body, grain of sand or parasite, becomes trapped inside of the shell of a mollusk. Mother of Pearl is the hard, pearly layer on the inside of pearl oysters and seashells. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 2.5-4.5

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The name Peridot is thought to have been derived from the word "faridot", gem in Arabic. It was the most popular during the Baroque Period. The largest Peridot weighs 319 cts. And, is now located at the Smithsonian in Washington D.C. Our Peridots are not quite that large, but they are high quality and absolutely a gorgeous addition to any beader`s collection.Peridot (Green) represents the Heart Chakra which is positioned at the center of the chest. Peridot aides in physical renewal and is a good anti-toxin gem. Peridot is the birthstone for August. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 6.5

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Pietersite is named for the man that discovered it. It is mined in Africa and China. It has a wonderful, earthy canvas and can be used in a diverse collection of designs. Its color is equally masculine and feminine and can be used for jewelry for either gender. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 6.5-7

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Prehnite is named after the Dutch Colonel von Prehn who first introduced this stone to Europe. Some prehnite is fibrous enough to show a cat's eye effect. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 6

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Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals and comes in many variations. It is named for the Slavic word that means "hard". This stone is said to balance creativity and mental processes. These beautiful nuggets are a great enhancement to any design.Clear Quartz (Clear/White) represents Purity. Quartz works well with the Heart Chakra, Third Eye Chakra, and Crown Chakra. It helps purify us physically, emotionally, and spiritually aligning energy and bringing you into a state of harmony. Clear Quartz is an excellent stone for all. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 7

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Rhodocrosite in Greek means "rose colored". It has only been on the market since the 1940's.Rhodocrosite (Pink) represents the Spiritual Heart Chakra which is positioned at the center of the chest, connecting us in love to all others. Rhodocrosite helps build courage, passion and willpower bringing balance to your physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual bodies. Rhodocrosite resonates with Scorpio and Leo. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 4

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The name Rhodonite comes from the word rhodos, which translates to "rose" in Greek. This beautiful stone has a distinct pink or rose red color with black veins running through it. Mohs' Hardness Scale:5.5-6.5

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Rubies are the hardest stone after diamonds. They are named because of their red coloring. The designations "Burma ruby" or "Siam ruby" refer more to quality then they do origin. The distribution of color is often uneven, in stripes or spots. Inclusions are common but not indicative of a lower quality, but show the difference between a natural and a synthetic stone. Moh's Hardness Scale: 9

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The name Sapphire in Greek means-blue. At first only the blue variety was recognized as sapphire. Now, various colors are qualified by descriptions. I.E. Green Sapphire or Yellow Sapphire. The hardness is the same as that of a Ruby.Blue Sapphire (Blue) represents the Throat Chakra which is positioned at the base of the throat it controls the throat, neck, arms and the hands. Sapphire helps us rid ourselves of unwanted thoughts, bringing us calming and soothing energies. Sapphire is a birthstone for April/Taurus. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 9

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The name Seraphinite is derived from the Latin word "seraphin" which refers to the first order of angels. Silvery Mica runs throughout this stone, creating patterns that look like feathery angel wings. Much like Charoite, Seraphinite has a fantastic sheen from the Mica inclusions. This beautiful stone is mainly found in eastern Siberia, Russia.

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hese Oyster Shell Beads are all natural. They are so stunning and so beautiful all on their own that you won?t have to do anything but restring them on wire and add a clasp. Each strand is drop dead gorgeous. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 2-3 for Shell Pearls, Shells (Abalone, MOP, Oyster, Conch, …) - Mohs' Hardness Scale: 3-4 for Corals, Fossil Coral

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Sugilite or Luvulite was discovered in the forties. It has a nice array of pink and purple tones with splashes of white and black highlights. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 6-6.5

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Sunstone is also known by the name Aventurine Feldspar. This name is derived from the Italian ?a ventura? which is a type of glass that was discovered by chance around 1700. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 6-6.5

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Honey Glass is an inexpensive option to working with gemstones. Similar to the very popular Cherry Quartz (which is pink glass) but only honey colored. This Honey Glass Flower will make a perfect centerpiece in your next necklace.

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The name Tanzanite is after the East African state of Tanzania where the stone is currently mined. This stone is gorgeous, rare and was described by Henry Platt, a former vice-president of Tiffany, as the most exciting gemstone find of the 20th Century. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 6.5-7

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Tektites are an otherwordly addition to any bead collection. The intense heat and pressure required to create these gems suggest the process occured outside of our tiny blue planet. Another theory is that they were created by a meteorite impact.

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The name Topaz is thought to have been derived from an island in the Red Sea, formerly known as Topazos. This stone comes in a variety of colors. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 8

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Tourmaline is a fun gemstone that comes in a wide spectrum of colors, ranging from black to bubble gum pink and minty green. Tourmaline will give any design an electric blast of color.Tourmaline (Multi Color) can represent all the Chakras. In its many colors it offers a strong protective influence, enhancing self-confidence, sensitivity and comprehension by dispelling fear and negativity. It is a great balancing gemstone for our physical, emotional, and spiritual bodies. Tourmaline (Pink) is the birthstone for October. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 7-7.5

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Turquoise is the December/Sagittarius birthstone. Both turquoise and turkey (that great holiday bird) are derived from the country that first introduced both to Europe, Turkey! However, Turquoise is found all over the world. It has been important to Native American heritage. Their intricate, hand made jewelry has extraordinary craftsmanship that often incorporates Turquoise. It can be found in varying colors of blue and green.Turquoise (Blue-Green) represents the Throat and Heart Chakras. Turquoise is a master healing gemstone it heals and cleanses all Chakras enhancing creative expression, peace of mind, emotional balance, communication, friendship and loyalty. It is considered a sacred stone by many cultures.Turquoise (Blue) represents the Throat Chakra which is positioned at the base of the throat it controls the throat, neck, arms and the hands.Turquoise (Green) represents the Heart Chakra which is positioned at the center of the chest, which governs the sense of touch. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 5-6

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Unakite is an opaque granitic rock that is fairly new to the market. It was first discovered in North Carolina and is Virginia's state stone. It is a great semiprecious stone for any design that will be enhanced by splashy green and pink tones.

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Zircon may be the oldest mineral on Earth. It is found in abundance in the Earth's crust. The quality of Zircon allows it for use as a diamond substitute. Zircons color spectrum ranges from earthy tones to sky blue radiance.Zircon (Blue) represents the Throat Chakra which is positioned at the base of the throat. Zircon helps calm the emotions providing protection against insomnia and depression. Zircon is the birthstone for December. Mohs' Hardness Scale: 6.5-7.5

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