Gem of the Season:

If you are having a hard time deciding on a gift, perhaps a gem of the season would be perfect. It is a wonderful way to give a gift "just because" as well as a fun way to celebrate a particular time of year. Traditionally, the year is broken up into four seasons. Each season has associated gemstones.

• Spring is known as the time of growth and renewed hope. Everything is new, fresh and green. Thus, the spring gemstone Emerald seems especially appropriate.

  Other Spring stones: Amethyst, Green Diamond, Spinel, Pink Topaz, Peridot

• Summer is a time of bounty, love and relaxation, it's vacation time. The rich glow of the summer gemstone Ruby shines through for this season.

  Other Summer stones: Zircon, Garnet, Alexandrite, Spinel, Pink Topaz, Fire Opal

• Fall is the time of harvest, the rewards of hard work, and blue autumn skies. The reward of the fall gemstone Sapphire works well for this season.

  Other Fall stones: Topaz, Garnet, Tourmaline.

• Winter is a time of bright light against the snow and ice, with still krisp nights. The sparkle of the winter gemstone Diamond reminds us of these quite winter days.

  Other Winter stones: Quartz, White Sapphire, Turquoise, Moonstone, Pearl.