Birthstones
October - Opal & Tourmaline
October is one of the lucky months that gets two birthstones—Opal and Tourmaline. Both feature prominently in the , each with vibrant color and their own story to tell.
Ray has a particularly personal connection with opals. At 16, as a fresh apprentice in Melbourne, an opal slipped from his fingers and shattered on the floor—it belonged to a customer and was worth a fortune. For decades, Ray wouldn't go near opals. Then, during a gem buying trip in Tucson, he had a revelation: "If I buy them and they break, they're mine." A new love affair was born. [Read the full story of Ray's 40-year opal journey →]
Australia produces 95% of the world's opals, making them the unofficial national gemstone of Ray's homeland. Today, opals are a huge part of our collection—from luminous Ethiopian black and white opals to tranquil Peruvian opals, each utterly unique with color that shifts as you move.
After his early encounter, Ray developed tremendous respect for opal's delicate nature. Our signature Crownwork® technique creates protective settings that showcase the stone's beauty while keeping it secure for daily wear.
Tourmaline: The Rainbow Gemstone
If opal is about fire and light, tourmaline is about color....pure, saturated, joyful color.
First discovered in Sri Lanka over 2,000 years ago, ancient legend says tourmalines traveled from the center of the Earth and passed over a rainbow on their journey to the surface.
Ray's eye always wanders to pink tourmalines, the vibrant natural color matches our joyful aesthetic and pairs beautifully our gold crownwork®. He also loves working with green tourmalines, and occasionally can't resist a rare color change tourmaline that shifts from green in daylight to pink under incandescent light.
Tourmaline is associated with gentleness, compassion, joy, and love, making it the perfect representation of our "happy jewels" philosophy. It's also the traditional 8th anniversary gift.
Whether you're an October baby or simply drawn to these vibrant gems, opal and tourmaline make extraordinary gifts. When you wear one of our opal or tourmaline pieces, you're wearing a stone hand selected for its exceptional beauty and set with four decades of master craftsmanship, jewelry designed to make every day feel a little more special.
September - Sapphires
While many envision the classic deep blue sapphire, our collection celebrates the full spectrum of this remarkable gemstone. We showcase sapphires in stunning varieties including:
Yellow sapphires that capture sunshine and optimism
Orange/Red sapphires with their warm, energetic glow
Pink sapphires offering romantic elegance
Green sapphires embodying nature's tranquility
Throughout history, the sapphire has been revered for its protective qualities. Ancient believers credited this magnificent stone with shielding against envy, harm, and negative energy. Perhaps most enchanting is this beautiful gemstones reputation as a relationship harmonizer, bringing peace and understanding between partners. Whether you believe in these mystical properties or simply appreciate their symbolic meaning, sapphires carry positive energy that resonates.
Sapphires rank 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them exceptionally durable for daily wear. However, proper care ensures your sapphire jewelry maintains its brilliance for generations:
Clean gently with lukewarm soapy water and a soft brush
Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners
Store pieces separately to prevent scratching
Schedule professional cleanings annually to maintain optimal sparkle
Fascinating Sapphire Facts
The largest sapphire ever found weighs an astounding 61,500 carats and is known as the "Queen of Asia"
Blue sapphires get their color from traces of titanium and iron within the crystal structure
Kashmir sapphires are considered the most valuable due to their unique velvety blue color caused by tiny inclusions
The famous 12-carat blue sapphire in Princess Diana's engagement ring (now worn by Catherine, Princess of Wales) sparked a global sapphire renaissance
Shop the our Sapphire Stunners
August - Peridot & Spinel
August is one of only three months of the year that has three birthstones! They are peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. For those lucky souls born in August (like Ray!), their birthstone is one of his personal favorites. The vibrant and enchanting Peridot also known as the "Evening Emerald" due to its captivating green hue. Peridot is also the most common birthstone associated with August, and is often gifted for the 16th wedding anniversary.
Peridot is the yellowish green to greenish yellow gem variety of the mineral olivine. Throughout history, peridot has often been confused with other gems such as topaz and emerald. Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection may have been comprised of peridot.
The peridot birthstone has also been used for centuries as a protective talisman, shielding the owner from evil spirits and ‘terrors of the night’.
Peridot's striking green hue makes it an excellent choice for jewelry, particularly for those who love vibrant and eye catching gems. Its affordability, coupled with its unique color, makes it a preferred alternative to more expensive green gemstones like emerald. The gemstone is often faceted, but due to its high transparency, it can also be found in cabochon cuts, revealing a smooth, polished surface that showcases the gem's natural beauty.
This is a stunning example of an 18k yellow gold Crownwork ring with prong set faceted peridot center stone with two prong set emerald baguettes and aqua enamel on inverted shank.
July: Ruby
There is something so elegant and classic about the ruby that works with any outfit for any occasion. Ruby is a red precious gemstone variety of Corundum, and it has to have iron in its structure to be considered ruby. Iron gives it its color and separates it from corundum (sapphire). Works so well in jewelry, its tough and durable, ruby measures 9 on the Mohs scale. Diamonds are the only natural gemstone harder than ruby.
Fun fact: The red fluorescence power of ruby helped build the first working laser in 1960. Rubies, both natural and synthetic are still used to make lasers, as well as watches and medical instruments. It’s the gemstone with superpowers
We also love working with rubies in their natural form. They have a gorgeous organic beauty and deeper pinky, red earth tones.
A perfect example of this is this natural ruby necklace from our collection.
June - Pearl & Moonstone
Traditionally the June birthstones are pearl and moonstone. Pearls & moonstones are wonderful to work with and have been a long time favorite of Ray's to work with throughout the collection.
Pearl has long been popular as a gemstone, despite being fundamentally different from most other crystal-based precious and semi-precious stones. Pearls are the only gemstones made by living creatures. Mollusks produce pearls by depositing layers of calcium carbonate around microscopic irritants that get lodged in their shells, usually not a grain of sand, as commonly believed. They have such unique shapes and color variations.
Click here to watch my jewel school about all things pearl. I have been a pearl wearer myself for years, everyone should own a strand or two!
Click here to shop pearls in my collection.
Moonstone, was named by the Roman natural historian Pliny, who wrote that moonstone’s shimmery appearance shifted with the phases of the moon. The finest classical moonstones, colorlessly transparent with a blue shimmer, come from Sri Lanka. Since these sources of high-quality blue moonstones have essentially been mined out, prices have risen sharply. Other mines have since been found in India, Australia, Myanmar, Madagascar, and the United States.
Moonstone traps light and scatters it inside, creating a vivid imagery of a moonlight glowing in water. The energy of moonstone is introspective and balancing. Wear it to usher in new beginnings and bring closure to each end.
Click here to view moonstones throughout my collection.
May - Emerald
May Birthstone: The Emerald
May birthdays fall right in the heart of spring, and the emerald, the official May birthstone, is the perfect gem to symbolize and celebrate this month. It is also the traditional wedding anniversary gift for both the 20th and 55th years.
Prized for its brilliant green color, the emerald symbolizes rebirth and is believed to grant the owner foresight, good fortune, and youth. The name "emerald" derives from the Greek word smaragdus, which literally means green. Emeralds are the green to greenish-blue variety of the mineral beryl, with the majority mined in Colombia and Zambia.
Famous Emeralds Throughout History
Throughout history, emeralds have captivated royalty and collectors alike. The Chalk Emerald (37 carats), the Mogul Mughal Emerald (217 carats), and Colombia's legendary Gachala Emerald (858 carats) are among the world's most famous specimens. Cleopatra was known to have a particular passion for emeralds, often wearing them as a display of power and wealth.
Emerald Care
Emeralds rank 7.5-8 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them durable but requiring proper care. Clean your emerald jewelry with mild soap and warm water using a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, harsh chemicals, and extreme temperature changes to protect these precious gems.
We love to source beautiful and unusual Emerald beads to use in necklaces and bracelets.
Diamonds: April's Timeless Birthstone
We celebrate the beauty and significance of diamonds, the cherished birthstone for April babies and the traditional gemstone for 60th and 75th anniversaries. These timeless treasures have captivated humanity for centuries and make a perfect addition to any jewelry collection.
Dating back billions of years, diamonds are renowned as one of the hardest substances on Earth, symbolizing endurance and unbreakable bonds. Beyond their physical properties, we believe diamonds provide their wearers with enhanced relationships and increased inner strength, qualities we infuse into every piece we create.
Throughout history, diamonds have held a special place in human culture:
During the Middle Ages, these precious gems were believed to possess healing powers, particularly for ailments affecting the brain and pituitary gland. Ancient healers would recommend heating the crystal and placing it near the body while sleeping to draw out harmful toxins. Many still believe diamonds can enhance balance and clarity, especially when paired with other crystals like amethyst
The most sought-after diamond carat size typically ranges between 1.0 and 1.2 carats. A single-carat diamond measures just over half a centimeter in diameter—smaller than half a penny!
While traditionally diamonds are the centerpiece of jewelry designs, our collection incorporates diamonds in innovative ways, one of our favorite ways to do this is to enhance the beauty of other colorful gemstones.
We also love using colored diamonds, black diamonds to add some dramatic sophistication and champagne diamonds for warmth and subtle luxury
Creating Diamond Love Stories
Jewelry is our love language. While we don't maintain a specific wedding collection, we cherish the opportunity to work one-on-one with clients to create unique, personal pieces they'll treasure forever. Explore some of the wedding stories we've been honored to be part of, or contact us to begin crafting your own love story.
Want to learn more about diamonds? Explore our Q&A with Ray - All about Diamonds
March - Aquamarine
As winter starts to fade away, March blooms with the promise of spring, bringing forth not only blossoming flowers but also a gemstone as mesmerizing as the tranquil sea – Aquamarine. Known for its serene blue hue reminiscent of the clear ocean waters, Aquamarine holds a special place in the hearts of those born in this transitional month.
Aquamarine derives its name from the Latin words aqua marina, meaning water of the sea, a fitting description for its soothing blue color. This gemstone belongs to the beryl family, alongside emeralds, and is cherished for its clarity and transparency.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Aquamarine carries symbolism and significance deeply rooted in various cultures. It is often associated with tranquility, courage, and clarity of mind. Its calming energy is believed to promote harmony and inner peace, making it a cherished gemstone for meditation and spiritual practices. Aquamarine is also thought to inspire truthfulness and communication, fostering open and honest dialogue in relationships.
While Aquamarine is most commonly known for its serene blue hue, it can exhibit a range of shades from pale pastels to deeper blues. Its versatility allows for a myriad of jewelry designs, from necklaces to my everyday wearable stretch bracelets.
February - Amethyst
February, a month synonymous with love, valentines, and chilly winter days, has a gemstone that perfectly captures its essence - the amethyst. With its enchanting purple hues, this birthstone is a timeless symbol of tranquility, wisdom, and sobriety.
Amethyst, a member of the quartz family, derives its name from the Greek word amethystos, meaning not intoxicated. Ancient Greeks believed that wearing amethyst could protect one from drunkenness, making it a popular choice among those who enjoyed a good feast. Today, it continues to be a favorite gem for those born in February.
One of the most striking features of amethyst is its regal purple color. Ranging from delicate lilac to deep violet, amethyst's shades are as diverse as the personalities born in the month of February. This mesmerizing color is said to represent royalty and nobility, making it an ideal choice for those who want to feel like kings and queens, even on an ordinary day. As I always say jewelry is meant to be worn!
Aside from its aesthetic appeal, amethyst is also associated with various metaphysical properties. Known as the stone of spirituality and contentment, amethyst is believed to enhance one's intuition and provide a sense of calmness. Some even claim that it helps in achieving a restful night's sleep, making it the perfect gem for those who need a little extra relaxation in their lives.
January - Garnet
Hello gemstone enthusiasts and January babies! If your birthday falls within the frosty embrace of the first month of the year, you're in for a treat—Garnet is here to steal the spotlight as the January birthstone! Garnet is also the zodiac stone for Aries, Leo and Libras. It is the traditional wedding anniversary gift for the 2nd year.
Now, before you start picturing a bunch of little red fruits hanging from a tree, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of why garnet is so special.
Shades of Love
First off, garnets are not just a one-shade wonder. While the most common hue is a deep, romantic red, these gemstones come in a kaleidoscope of colors, ranging from vibrant oranges to lush greens. It's like a love affair with the entire spectrum!
Time Travel with History
If garnets could talk, they'd have an epic tale to tell. Historically, these gemstones have been used as protective talismans by warriors and travelers. They were believed to bring good fortune and ensure a safe journey. Imagine wearing a piece of jewelry that's seen more adventures than your favorite action movie hero!
Energy Boosters
Need a little pick-me-up during the chilly winter months? Garnets are said to boost energy and revitalize the wearer. So, if you find yourself in need of an extra dose of motivation to stick to those New Year's resolutions, maybe a garnet accessory is just what the doctor ordered (or, you know, what the gemologist recommended). It's said to bring strength, good health, and even protect you from nightmares.
Affordable Elegance
One of the best things about garnets is that they manage to strike a perfect balance between affordability and elegance. So, whether you're a January baby treating yourself or someone looking for a thoughtful gift, garnet won't break the bank but will certainly steal the heart.
So, there you have it—a brief journey into the delightful world of January birthstones. Garnets, with their kaleidoscopic beauty and rich history, are here to add a touch of warmth to the frosty month. Embrace the hues, wear them proudly, and let the world know that January babies are as vibrant and unique as their birthstone! Cheers to the Garnet Galore!
December - Turquoise, Tanzanite & Zircon
December, a month brimming with holiday cheer and the promise of a new year, is adorned with not one, but three enchanting birthstones that capture the essence of winter's magic. Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon come together in a symphony of blue hues, each with its unique charm and significance.
Turquoise: Timeless Tranquility
Known for its distinctive robin's egg blue color, Turquoise has been cherished for centuries for its calming and protective properties. Believed to bring good fortune and strength, this opaque gemstone has adorned the jewelry of ancient civilizations and continues to be a popular choice today. Turquoise reflects the crisp, clear winter sky, making it a perfect birthstone for those born in December. Turquoise is also the traditional gift for the 11th wedding anniversary.
Turquoise has been mined in the Nishapur district of Iran for more than 1,000 years. The prized even-colored, intense blue turquoise from this region is dubbed robin’s egg blue, sky blue and Persian blue. Trade professionals now use these terms to describe turquoise of this color – regardless of the source.
Closer to home in Arizona AZ, the Sleeping Beauty turquoise mine is one of the most well known producers of turquoise in the world. Arizona’s Sleeping Beauty mine was a prolific producer for more than four decades. Increased government regulations and mining costs led to the mine's closure in 2012. Since then, the price for Sleeping Beauty turquoise has risen significantly and become very sought after.
Tanzanite: Radiant Elegance
A relative newcomer to the world of gemstones, Tanzanite has swiftly become a sought-after choice for December birthdays. Its deep blue-violet hues evoke the wintry twilight sky, radiating a sense of elegance and sophistication. Discovered in Tanzania in the 1960s, Tanzanite is prized for its rarity and unique color-changing ability, displaying different shades depending on the viewing angle.
Tanzanite is also known to bring composure, poise and harmony and is also the traditional gem gifted for the 24th wedding anniversary.
Zircon: Sparkling Brilliance
Zircon, available in an array of colors, is often found in stunning shades of blue, making it a fitting gemstone for the winter month. Its brilliance and fire make it a captivating choice for jewelry, symbolizing the clarity and honesty associated with those born in December. Zircon has been used as a talisman for travelers, ensuring safe journeys and promoting wisdom. Zircon is the oldest mineral on earth, the name comes from the Persian word 'zargun' which means 'gold colored', although they come in a variety of colors.
Whether you're drawn to the tranquil charm of Turquoise, the radiant elegance of Tanzanite, or the sparkling brilliance of Zircon, December birthstones offer a spectrum of choices for those celebrating birthdays during this festive month. As you explore the world of these enchanting gems, consider incorporating them into your jewelry collection or gifting them to loved ones.
November - Citrine & Topaz
November babies are fortunate to have not one, but two dazzling birthstones to choose from – citrine and topaz. These gems embody the warmth and vibrancy of the fall season, making them the perfect choice for those born in this cozy and contemplative month.
Citrine: The Golden ‘Ray’ of Sunshine.
Citrine, often referred to as the "sunshine gem," is a variety of quartz known for its sunny yellow and golden hues. Its name was derived from the French word Citron which means lemon. It’s a stone associated with positive energy, joy, and clarity. Citrine is believed to promote good fortune, prosperity, and creativity. Its vibrant color has earned it the nickname "the merchant's stone," as it is thought to attract wealth and abundance.
One of the fascinating aspects of citrine is that it doesn't accumulate negative energy, making it a gem that encourages positivity and optimism. Whether worn as jewelry or displayed in your home, citrine can help brighten your life with its cheerful energy.
The colors of the stone can range from a very pale yellow, almost green in color, to a stronger deep often smoky yellow.
Click here to shop citrine throughout my collection
As November rolls around, those celebrating their birthdays have a choice of two beautiful birthstones to choose from, each with its unique charm and symbolism. So, embrace the vibrancy of November with these stunning birthstones, and let them bring joy and positivity into your life.
Click here to peruse Topaz jewels
