They typically include hedge funds, private equity, venture capital, real estate, and real assets, although this investment category is fluid, and new products are constantly being developed. Alternative investments use techniques and instruments that are unavailable in traditional investment approaches.
Pearls are a popular gemstone, especially in jewelry-making. Gemstones. Turquoise, a popular gemstone, is used to make jewelry. Diamonds. Promise rings often feature gems such as amethyst. Quartz is a common type of gemstone. Diamonds are traditionally given as an engagement ring during a marriage proposal.
A wide variety of gemstones are found throughout the United States. U.S. Gemstones: A diversity of gemstones are produced from mines throughout the United States. Top row: malachite and azurite cabochon (Arizona), a rough ruby (North Carolina), a faceted orange sunstone (Oregon), a teardrop variscite cabochon (Utah).