Since ancient times, gemstones have been prized for their colors and for their perceived healing abilities. The first humans who discovered colorful gemstones in the gravels of a riverbed or embedded in an otherwise ordinary rock must have been struck with awe and wonder. It is not surprising that gemstones were seen as magical protection, a source of various kinds of healing, and an earthly treasure from the gods. Today, gemstones can be used to make stunning beaded jewelry and are available in an amazing range of colors, shapes and sizes. Gemstones are adaptable for any style of jewelry-making project, whether you prefer large, chunky and organic looking nuggets or the delicate, carefully faceted briolettes. By adding a few or many semiprecious gemstones to our own beaded jewelry designs, we can shape the look and feel of a beaded necklace or bracelet.