MSJ Handbook

Everything you wanted to know about jewelry history, gemstones, and jewelry care.

Chrysoprase pendant history and characteristics

Chrysoprase: The Golden Green Gem

This rare variety of chalcedony has been beloved for centuries.

Art Nouveau era moonstone necklace

The History & Style of Art Nouveau Jewelry

Learn about the styles and artistry that defined this era.

types of chains

The Big Guide to Chain Types

Find your perfect chain with this encyclopedia.

Morganite pendant

Morganite: Pretty in Pink

Discover the history, properties, and lore of this pastel-hued gem.

Claddagh Rings: History, Meaning, and Lore

Claddagh Rings: History, Meaning, and Lore

Learn the history of this iconic Irish symbol that has endured for 400 years.

Golden Years: Etruscan Revival Jewelry

Golden Years: Etruscan Revival Jewelry

The Etruscan jewelry style and how it influenced the Victorian Era.

Art Deco Diamond Dinner Ring

The Big Guide to Art Deco Jewelry

The history, style, and influence of jewelry in the Art Deco era.

Vintage plastic and Bakelite bracelets

Plastic Fantastic: Bakelite, Celluloid, & Vintage Plastic Jewelry

Become a vintage plastic jewelry collector with this primer.

Shazar stone dendritic agate pendant

Shazar Stone: Rare Dendritic Agate

Find out the background and properties of this mysterious stone.

Cat's eye and star gemstone rings

Phenomenal Gems: Cat's Eye and Star Gemstones

The science behind the magic of gemstones with special light effects.

tanzanite pendant

Tanzanite: A Rare Beauty

Learn the history, properties, and lore of this newly discovered gem.

siam silver thai nielloware jewelry

Thai Silver & Nielloware Jewelry

Learn the history and process of this highly collectable jewelry.

anatomy of a ring terminology definition

Anatomy of a Ring

Learn important terminology about the parts of a ring and gemstones.

alexandrite history and properties

Alexandrite: The Color Changing Stone

Find out why this gem is known as "emerald by day, ruby by night".

lapis lazuli history and properties

Lapis Lazuli: Starry Skies From Ancient Lands

From Mesopotamia to Vermeer, lapis lazuli has been hugely influential.

enamel jewelry history

The History of Enamel Jewelry

Explore the many different kinds of enamel and the history of its use in jewelry.

types of diamond wedding band settings

Diamond Wedding Band Settings: Which One Is Right For You

From bar settings to pave settings, learn how to pick the perfect ring.

malachite jewelry history properties symbolism

Malachite: Eternal Paradise in Shades of Green

From its use in antiquity, to modern metaphysical practice, malachite has always been important.

1 2 3 … 5 Next