Gemstone Glossary

Welcome to the Aura Charms Gemstone Glossary. Here you’ll find short notes on the stones we use—origins, look, and the cultural symbolism many people associate with them. This guide is meant to help you explore, learn, and choose pieces that feel personal and meaningful.

Amber

Baltic Amber

Look: Warm golden hues through honey and cognac; natural inclusions that catch the light.

Tradition: Treasured for thousands of years and often associated with warmth, comfort, and a touch of sunlight in everyday life.

Caribbean Amber

Look: Clearer, vivid tones ranging from light lemon yellow to deep cherry cognac; naturally expressive inclusions.

Tradition: Admired as a symbol of brightness and joy, with a lively glow that feels fresh and modern.

Jade

Canadian Jade (Nephrite)

Look: Deep medium to dark greens, some with creamy swirls; smooth, cool surface.

Tradition: Commonly linked with balance, protection, and lasting friendship; valued for its durability and calm presence.

Chinese & Burmese Nephrite Jade

Look: Shades of green from light to dark; polished and refined.

Tradition: Long celebrated across cultures as a symbol of luck, longevity, and family connection.

Quartz Family

Rose Quartz

Look: Soft pink with a gentle, milky glow.

Tradition: Often associated with kindness, compassion, and heartfelt connections.

Golden Rutilated Quartz

Look: Clear quartz with golden needle-like rutile made from titanium dioxide; graphic and luminous.

Tradition: Linked with inspiration and clarity—those golden threads feel like sparks of light.

Amethyst

Look: Lavender to deep purple; clear to softly included.

Tradition: Historically connected with calm, clarity, and a sense of depth.

Tourmalinated Quartz

Look: Clear quartz streaked with black tourmaline; bold contrast.

Tradition: Frequently seen as a symbol of balance—light and shadow in one stone.

Aventurine

Look: Fresh green with a subtle shimmer (aventurescence).

Tradition: Associated with opportunity, optimism, and new beginnings.

Carnelian

Look: Red-orange to warm rust tones; vivid and smooth.

Tradition: Long linked with vitality, courage, and creative momentum.

Feldspars & Micas

Labradorite

Look: A shifting play of color (labradorescence) in blues with hints of green or gold.

Tradition: Often chosen as a reminder of transformation, imagination, and wonder.

Lepidolite

Look: Lilac to lavender, with a soft mica sheen.

Tradition: Commonly associated with gentle change and a sense of ease during transitions.

Other Notable Gems

Lapis Lazuli

Look: Deep blue with golden pyrite flecks; bold and elegant.

Tradition: Historically tied to wisdom, truth, and the night sky.

Charoite

Look: Swirling purple and lilac patterns; distinctive and rare in appearance.

Tradition: Appreciated as a symbol of endurance and personal growth.

Care Notes

Most gemstones prefer a soft cloth, gentle handling, and storage away from harsher materials. Avoid prolonged exposure to chemicals, perfumes, UV light (daylight from a window) and water—especially for soft stones like amber and delicate surfaces like pearls.

Meaning notes are cultural and symbolic. They are not medical advice or guarantees.

Have a question about a specific stone or piece? Reach us at admin@auracharms.com or (507) 861-9064.