Some crystals feel calm and reflective. Carnelian is not one of them. With its fiery shades of orange, red-orange, and amber, Carnelian has long been associated with confidence, motivation, and self-expression. It's the stone people often reach for when they're ready to stop overthinking, start doing, or take that first step toward a goal they've been putting off. And they're not alone. Carnelian's fame isn't new. For millennia, people have been attracted to Carnelian. Ancien

What do Herkimer Diamonds, Lake Superior Agates, Oregon Sunstone, and Bisbee Turquoise have in common? They're among the most iconic rocks, minerals, gemstones, and fossils found in the United States. In celebration of America's 250th birthday, we're taking a coast-to-coast look at ten legendary specimens that have inspired collectors, rockhounds, and gemstone enthusiasts for generations.

Crystal, rock, mineral, gemstone ... aren't they all the same thing? Not exactly. Learn the differences between these commonly used terms, why they often get mixed up, and how one specimen can sometimes fit into more than one category. This beginner-friendly guide breaks it all down without requiring a geology degree.

If sunshine could be tucked into a pocket, it might look a lot like Sunstone. With its warm colors, coppery shimmer, and flashes of light, this fascinating feldspar has become a favorite among collectors and crystal lovers alike. Discover the geology, symbolism, and summer appeal of June's featured crystal.

Flower Agate may look soft and simple at first, but a closer look reveals delicate, bloom-like patterns formed naturally over time. Often associated with gentle growth and steady change, it’s a stone that reflects progress as it quietly unfolds.

Chrysanthemum Stone is one of those rare natural formations that looks almost impossible at first glance—a flower frozen in stone. Formed over millions of years, its striking pattern develops from minerals growing outward within a darker matrix. What starts as a rough, unassuming rock is carefully cut and refined to reveal the bloom hidden inside. The result is a piece that stands apart, drawing attention in a way few stones can.

Lemurian Quartz stands out for its straight, ladder-like lines and slightly uneven shape, but those features are only part of the story. This month’s Stone of the Month explores where the name came from, how these crystals form, and why collectors often see them as something a little different from ordinary quartz. Whether you notice the geology, the history, or just the character, Lemurians tend to leave an impression.

We get asked a lot what we actually do on our rockhounding trips, and the answer is usually, “a lot more than it looks like.” Before a single rock makes it back to the shop, there’s planning, packing, driving, hiking, dust, wrong turns, and sometimes wondering if the whole thing was a good idea. This post is about everything that happens before the fun part even starts.

Go behind the scenes with jujujems to learn how we choose crystals and minerals at gem shows and while sourcing. From quality checks and pricing decisions to ethical questions and long-term fit, discover the thoughtful process behind every stone that makes it into our shop.

Nothing prepares you for Tucson. Forty-plus gem shows, miles of walking, glittering displays, and rapid-fire math in kilograms. We arrived ready — backpack, list, mints — and quickly realized Tucson had other plans. From sensory overload to serious sourcing, we navigated warehouses, tents, and desert dust with intention. Here’s what we learned, who we met, and what made the cut for jujujems.

Rose Quartz is one of those stones almost everyone recognizes. Soft, familiar, and easy to live with, it often becomes the first crystal people own — and one they return to again and again. This February Stone of the Month explores why Rose Quartz feels so approachable, meaningful, and perfectly suited for Valentine’s Day and beyond.

At White Sands, the sand isn’t what you expect. Made of gypsum — pre-selenite — it feels soft, cool, and silky, slipping through your fingers like powdered snow ✨ Just steps away, that same mineral turns sharp and crunchy in the park’s famous “popcorn field.” Same mineral, wildly different textures — and a reminder that nature loves a good transformation.

There’s something magical about standing at the edge of a great lake. The wind in your hair, waves lapping against the shore, and sunlight glinting off the water — it’s enough to make you pause, breathe, and just be. ... Lake Superior Agates are famous for their rich red, orange, and golden banding, colors created by iron deposits in volcanic rock more than a billion years old. These stones are Minnesota’s official state gemstone, but they can also be found along ...

Amethyst remains a staple in collections ... But what makes this crystal so popular? Let’s take a look at its history, formation, and uses.

This Valentine’s Day let’s ditch the predictable gifts of chocolates and flowers!

Crystals combine natural beauty and positive energy, elevating decor while fostering focus, harmony, and wellness in any space.

Think size matters? Discover why tiny crystals can be just as powerful as big ones and how to find stunning gems online.

Start your crystal collection with our ultimate guide! Discover top tips, essential crystals, and expert advice for beginners.

Congo or Brazilian Citrine - what's the difference?