Dazzling, sleek, and as green as its name suggests—serpentine is a family of more than 20 translucent to opaque minerals. Their shiny surface and calming color make it a sought-after gem for decorative items, architectural elements, cultural artifacts, and jewelry. While not as well-known to average users, expert craftsmen, mineralogists,...

Did you know snowflake obsidian is not actually a gemstone? Yes, you read that right! It is a glass that forms when specific types of lava cool too quickly. There are several varieties of obsidians, but obviously, there’s one that stands out. Snowflake obsidian is the most captivating variant of...

Did you know rhodochrosite has been crowned the national gemstone of Argentina? Yes, you read that right! The US state of Colorado has also named it their state mineral. With its rosy hues, rhodochrosite is truly a gem adored by many. The gem can be a faint blush-pink, a vibrant...