Under the bright craft-lamp glow, Sarah lined up her newest strands of beads, each one promising a fresh start on her next bracelet. Yet beneath her loupe's lens, the 'turquoise' looked mechanically uniform, the 'jade' weighed oddly light, and the 'amber' bore a glassy sheen. After years of preserving both fresh ingredients and fine jewelry, she knew that true quality reveals itself in the details.

Are your natural stone beads authentic or cleverly disguised imitations?

How to Identify Natural Stone Beads: Your Ultimate Guide

Accurate identification makes the difference between creating heirloom-quality jewelry and wasting money on synthetic materials. Real stones bring unique character, durability, and value to your projects that fakes simply can't match.

This guide covers proven testing methods, common counterfeits, smart shopping strategies, and creative project ideas to help you work with confidence:

• Testing methods (visual, tactile, sound, chemical)
• Common counterfeits (agate, turquoise, jade, lapis, amber)
• Insider shopping tips & sourcing advice
• Creative project ideas with genuine beads

Why Natural Stone Beads Matter

Genuine stones carry stories written in their formation over millions of years. Each bead displays unique inclusions, color variations, and surface textures that synthetic materials struggle to replicate.

Real gemstones offer superior durability and aging characteristics. They maintain their beauty over time. The weight, temperature, and tactile qualities of authentic stones create a sensory experience that plastic and glass imitations can't provide.

Key Methods to Spot Genuine Natural Stone Beads

Visual Inspection

Natural stones contain blemishes, flaws, and imperfections that make each bead unique. No two natural beads are exactly the same, so perfect uniformity signals synthetic origin.

Look for natural inclusions, slight color variations, and organic veining patterns. Real stones rarely display the flawless, consistent appearance of manufactured materials. Synthetic beads often show too-perfect color distribution and lack the subtle depth found in natural formations.

Examine the surface closely. Authentic stones will have grooves and divots you can feel with your fingernail, while synthetic materials tend to have smoother, more uniform surfaces.

Tactile & Weight Tests

Temperature provides a reliable initial test. Natural stones feel cool to the touch and take time to warm up in your hand. Glass and plastic imitations feel warm almost immediately.

Weight offers another clue. Real stones have a density that gives them substantial heft compared to their size. Plastic beads feel noticeably lighter, while glass falls somewhere between natural stone and plastic. Both amber and copal feel warm to the touch, while glass remains cool.

Sound & Scratch Tests

Tap beads together gently. Natural stones produce a clear, ringing tone, while plastic creates a dull thud, and glass makes a sharper clink.

The Mohs hardness scale helps verify authenticity through scratch testing. Each type of crystal or gemstone has a predetermined level of hardness that you can test against known materials.

Use a steel pick or a glass surface to test scratch resistance. Genuine quartz (hardness 7) should scratch glass, while softer stones like calcite (hardness 3) will scratch easily with a copper penny.

Drill Hole Examination

Inspect the edges around drill holes with a magnifying glass. Natural stones often show small chips, irregularities, and natural fracture patterns around holes. The drilling process reveals the stone's internal structure and hardness characteristics.

Synthetic materials typically show smooth, polished holes with consistent edges. The drilling creates different patterns in natural versus manufactured materials due to varying density and composition.

UV & Light Tests

Some natural stones fluoresce under ultraviolet light, but this test requires careful interpretation. Polymer impregnated jade may glow under UV light, while natural jade shows no glow.

Hold beads up to bright light to examine internal structure. Natural stones often show internal inclusions, fractures, or color zoning that synthetic materials lack. Be aware that some dyed stones can fluoresce, leading to false positives.

Chemical Testing

Use weak acids or solvents carefully to reveal dyes or fillers. Apply a small drop of acetone to an inconspicuous area - dyed stones may show color bleeding.

Always work in ventilated areas with protective gear. Test only small, hidden areas to avoid damaging valuable beads. This method works best for detecting surface treatments rather than identifying stone type.

Certification & Provenance

Request lab reports, authenticity certificates, or origin documentation from sellers. Reputable dealers provide transparent information about treatments, enhancements, and sourcing.

Research vendor reputation through reviews, industry associations, and return policies. Established dealers stake their reputation on accurate descriptions and authenticity guarantees.

Common Natural Stone Beads That Are Often Faked

Certain stones command high prices and attract imitation due to their popularity, rarity, or cultural significance. Understanding common counterfeits helps you make informed purchases.

Agate

Natural agate displays subtle color variations and organic banding patterns. Artificially dyed agate shows unnaturally bright, uniform colors that don't occur in nature.

Check for color bleeding by rubbing with acetone. Genuine agate's colors penetrate throughout the stone, while dyed versions may show surface color that wipes away.

Turquoise

Most fake turquoise is made of dyed howlite or magnesite. These materials take dye well but lack turquoise's natural hardness and density.

Examine the matrix lines carefully. On genuine turquoise, these lines are sunk into the stone itself, while fake pieces may have painted or surface-applied lines.

Real turquoise varies in color from blue to green with natural irregularities. Dyed substitutes often show more uniform coloring and lack the subtle depth of genuine material.

Jade (Nephrite & Jadeite)

Polymer-impregnated jade requires advanced testing for positive identification. Positive identification requires advanced instrumentation such as FTIR.

Glass-filled jade feels lighter and may show air bubbles under magnification. Dyed jade often displays unnatural color intensity and lacks the subtle translucency of genuine material.

Lapis Lazuli

Genuine lapis lazuli contains natural pyrite flecks and white calcite veining. If lapis lazuli is simply too uniformly blue and cheap to buy, then it's probably fake.

Dyed howlite lacks the density and hardness of real lapis. The specific gravity difference helps identify imitations - genuine lapis feels noticeably heavier than dyed substitutes. Measure specific gravity to distinguish composites like dyed howlite (SG ~2.6) from lapis (SG 2.7–2.9).

Amber

Several simple tests distinguish real amber from copal and synthetic materials. Rub amber vigorously with a soft cloth - real amber will generate static electricity.

The hot needle test provides definitive results. Stick a heated needle into a discreet place - if you smell definite pine-tree resins it means it is genuine amber.

Genuine amber will float in salt water while most fakes will sink. This density test works well for quick identification.

Insider Tips for Buying Authentic Natural Stone Beads

Source from specialty bead shops (such as The Bead Traders), reputable online retailers, and established gem fairs. These venues typically maintain quality standards and offer return policies for misrepresented items.

Ask sellers specific questions about treatment history, country of origin, and enhancement processes. Legitimate dealers provide detailed information about their products and sourcing practices.

For large orders, request a sample purchase first. Examine beads closely with magnification and compare to reference materials before committing to bulk quantities.

Verify seller credentials through industry associations, customer reviews, and business history. Established dealers value their reputation and stand behind their authenticity claims.

Creative Jewelry & Design Projects with Natural Stone Beads

Boho-Chic Stretch Bracelet

Combine amazonite's soft blue-green with hematite's metallic gray for a striking contrast. Use 8mm beads in color-blocking patterns - three amazonite, one hematite, repeat. The natural variations in each stone create an organic rhythm.

String on elastic cord for comfortable wear. The weight difference between stones adds tactile interest as the bracelet moves on your wrist.

Statement Pendant Necklace

Feature a large focal bead like 20mm labradorite surrounded by smaller complementary stones. Use 4mm moonstone spacers and sterling silver accents to create visual flow.

The labradorite's natural flash plays beautifully against the moonstone's subtle shimmer. Vary the spacing to create organic, asymmetrical balance.

Elegant Drop Earrings

Pair small gemstone beads with simple wire-wrapped findings. Use 6mm rose quartz or amethyst beads with sterling silver headpins for classic elegance.

The natural color variations in each stone ensure no two earrings are identical, adding handmade charm to the finished piece.

Home Décor Accents

Create beaded garlands using mixed natural stones for seasonal decorating. Combine warm carnelian and citrine for autumn, or cool aquamarine and moonstone for winter themes.

Fill decorative bowls with polished stone beads for textural interest. The natural weight and coolness create satisfying sensory experiences.

Care & Maintenance for Your Natural Stone Beads

Your safest bet for cleaning gemstone beads is to use a lukewarm solution with a few drops of dish detergent. Let time and gentle scrubbing do the work rather than harsh chemicals.

Use soft cloths and avoid abrasive materials that could scratch delicate surfaces. Clean by gently rubbing each bead using a soft cloth with mild soap and water.

Store beads properly to maintain their beauty. All beads should be stored away from direct sunlight - colors can fade if exposed to prolonged sunlight. This affects even natural colors in rose quartz, amethyst, and citrine.

Use separate compartments or soft pouches to prevent scratching between different hardness levels. Maintain room temperature storage and consider silica packets for moisture control.

Avoid exposure to chemicals, extreme temperatures, and prolonged sunlight. These conditions can cause color changes, structural damage, or surface deterioration in natural materials.

Conclusion

Identifying authentic natural stone beads requires combining visual inspection, tactile testing, and knowledge of common counterfeits. The investment in genuine materials pays dividends in durability, beauty, and long-term value.

Remember that each natural stone tells a unique story through its inclusions, color variations, and surface characteristics. These imperfections aren't flaws - they're proof of authenticity and natural origin.

Start your next jewelry project with confidence by applying these identification techniques. Your creations will reflect the genuine beauty and lasting quality that only authentic natural stone beads can provide.

Imagine holding a piece of Earth's molten heart in your palm—still warm, porous, and alive with energy. Lava beads carry this primal connection, bridging the gap between science and spirituality in ways that continue to fascinate both geologists and wellness enthusiasts.

This guide covers lava bead formation, cultural power, and practical uses—you'll learn how volcanic forces create these remarkable stones, why ancient traditions valued them, and how to integrate their benefits into your wellness routine.

Unlocking Lava Beads Benefits: The Science and Spirituality of Volcanic Gemstones

The Fiery Roots: Geological Origins of Lava Beads

Lava beads begin their journey in Earth's most extreme environment. When volcanic magma erupts at temperatures between 1100°F and 2400°F, it encounters air or water and cools rapidly. This sudden temperature change creates basalt—a fine-grained igneous rock that forms the foundation of our ocean floors and covers approximately 70% of Earth's surface (Fire Mountain Gems).

The rapid cooling process traps gases within the molten rock, creating the characteristic porous texture that makes lava beads so distinctive. These tiny holes, formed as gases escape during solidification, give lava beads their remarkable absorption properties. The mineral composition typically includes feldspar (about 65% of the total), pyroxene, and olivine—creating a durable yet porous structure. According to Gemlab, basalt also carries significant magnesium and iron silicate content, which contributes to its durability and heat-retention properties (Gemlab).

This unique geological formation directly contributes to lava beads' benefits in practical applications. The porous nature allows them to absorb and slowly release essential oils, while their mineral composition provides the thermal properties that make them effective for heat therapy applications.

Lava Beads Benefits in Culture: Spiritual Symbolism Across Traditions

Ancient Hawaiian culture viewed lava as the physical manifestation of Pele, the volcano goddess. Hawaiians believed lava beads carried her fiery energy, representing strength, courage, and protection. They incorporated these beads into lei and other ceremonial jewelry, creating a tangible connection between the wearer and the land's spiritual power (Primal Pendants, The Sacred Hawaiian Way).

Buddhist and Hindu traditions embraced lava beads for meditation practices. Traditional mala beads, consisting of 108 beads, serve as counting tools during prayer and meditation. Each of the 108 beads symbolizes a mantra repetition or intention, deepening focus during practice (Symbolic Secrets). Lava stone malas specifically connect to the Root Chakra—the body's center of stability and grounding. Tibetan Buddhism recognizes lava's purifying properties, using it in rituals designed to dispel negative energy (Buddha Groove).

These spiritual applications share common themes across cultures: transformation, resilience, and protection. The volcanic origin story—rock born from fire and shaped by Earth's most powerful forces—naturally symbolizes the human capacity for growth through adversity.

Lava Beads Benefits for Wellness: Therapeutic Applications

Modern wellness practices have rediscovered the practical lava beads benefits that ancient cultures intuited. The porous structure that formed during volcanic cooling now serves as a natural diffuser system for aromatherapy applications.

Essential oil absorption works through simple physics. According to Vivorific, a few drops of oil allow lava beads to diffuse aroma throughout the day. Quality lava beads can hold essential oils and provide sustained aromatherapy benefits.

Popular oil combinations include lavender for relaxation, peppermint for energy and alertness, citrus oils for mood enhancement, eucalyptus for respiratory support, and frankincense for grounding (Aromatherapy Naturals).

Grounding applications tap into lava beads' connection to Earth's core energy. Many users report improved emotional stability and reduced anxiety when wearing lava bead jewelry during stressful situations, providing a sense of stability and calm. The physical act of touching the beads provides a tactile anchor, while their symbolic connection to Earth's strength offers psychological comfort.

Heat therapy represents another practical application. Warmed lava beads retain heat effectively due to their mineral composition. Spa treatments incorporate heated lava beads in massage therapy (Beads.co), combining thermal benefits with essential oil aromatherapy for muscle tension relief and improved circulation. Joint pain relief can also be achieved through massage with lava rock on affected areas (AtPerry's Healing Crystals).

Maximizing Lava Beads Benefits: Choosing, Caring, and Using Your Beads

Authentic lava beads display specific characteristics that distinguish them from synthetic alternatives. Genuine volcanic beads range from deep black to brown, with occasional red hues depending on their mineral content. They maintain a matte texture with unique pits and patterns—no two beads look identical (All Things Jewelry; Karma & Renewal).

The surface should feel slightly rough to the touch, and authentic beads resist color fading during cleaning. High-quality lava beads maintain their structural integrity and absorption properties over time. Browse our Gemstone Beads collection for lava bead sizes ranging from 8 mm (ideal for bracelets) up to 14 mm (great for statement necklaces).

Proper care preserves the porous structure and extends bead life. Regular maintenance options include:

• Soft cloth or brush with mild soap and water for surface cleaning
• Diluted vinegar solution for deeper oil removal (Buddha & Karma)
• Sea salt soaks for purification and energetic cleansing
• Sage smudging for clearing negative energy
• Sun or moonlight exposure for recharging

Avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners that might compromise the bead's natural texture. Discover fresh lava bead designs in our New Arrivals section—free U.S. shipping on orders over $100.

Real Stories & Science: User Tales and Expert Views

User testimonials consistently report positive experiences with lava bead jewelry. One meditation practitioner noted: "I find renewed calm whenever I hold my lava stone necklace during meditation" (Alexa Martha Designs). Others describe improved stress management and enhanced focus during challenging situations, with many wearers experiencing significant impact on emotional and physical well-being (Talisa).

Product reviews for lava rock bracelets used in aromatherapy applications show average ratings of 8.5 out of 10 (The Review Index), with users praising their effectiveness for stress relief and daily wellness support. Many report that the combination of tactile grounding and aromatherapy benefits exceeds their expectations.

Scientific perspective requires balanced consideration. The therapeutic properties of lava beads largely stem from well-documented aromatherapy benefits and psychological comfort rather than mystical properties (Oil Therapy Central). The physical characteristics that make them effective—porosity for oil absorption, thermal properties for heat retention, and tactile qualities for grounding—represent geological features.

When lava beads serve as delivery systems for proven therapeutic approaches, their benefits become more scientifically grounded.

Conclusion: Your Lava Beads Journey

Start your lava bead experience today and tap into millions of years of volcanic energy. Their journey from Earth's molten core to your jewelry box carries both scientific fascination and spiritual significance.

The lava beads benefits extend beyond their volcanic origins to encompass aromatherapy, grounding practices, and stress relief applications. Their porous structure, formed by ancient volcanic processes, now serves modern wellness needs through essential oil diffusion and tactile comfort.

Consider experimenting with lava bead jewelry as part of your wellness routine. Start with a simple bracelet or mala, add your favorite essential oils, and observe how this ancient volcanic gift supports your daily well-being. Connect with Earth's fiery energy for lasting grounding and transformation—one bead at a time.

Explore our Gemstone Beads—free US shipping on orders over $100.

A jewelry designer recently shared her story: after investing $500 in what she thought were premium jasper beads, her signature necklace collection began showing white chalky patches within six months. High-quality gemstones exhibit crystal-clear appearance with vibrant colors, but her beads were clearly treated with unstable dyes. The lesson? Understanding stone bead quality separates amateur work from professional results that last decades.

For collectors and jewelry designers, knowing how to identify, source, and evaluate quality materials protects your investment and reputation. These expert tips will help you make informed decisions that transform your jewelry from craft projects into heirloom pieces.

Plus, enjoy free U.S. shipping and returns on orders over $100 at The Bead Traders, making it easier than ever to build your collection of premium stone beads.

Why Quality Stone Beads Are Worth the Investment

High-quality stone beads transform your jewelry from craft projects into heirloom pieces. The visual impact is immediate - superior beads display rich, saturated colors that catch light beautifully. Their consistent sizing creates smooth, professional lines in finished pieces.

Durability matters more than initial cost savings. Quality beads resist chipping, cracking, and color fading through daily wear. You'll spend less time replacing broken components and more time creating. Your customers notice the difference too. Professional gemstone testing shows that properly sourced stones maintain their properties over decades.

The long-term benefits extend beyond durability. Quality stone beads hold their value, making your finished pieces collectible. Customers pay premium prices for jewelry they trust will last. Your reputation grows when clients receive compliments on pieces that still look stunning years later.

Cheap alternatives often contain treatments that fail over time. Dyed stones fade. Stabilized materials crack. Synthetic substitutes lose their appeal quickly. Quality natural stone beads age gracefully, developing character that adds to their beauty.

How to Identify High-Quality Stone Beads

Visual Characteristics to Inspect

Start with color evaluation. High-quality gemstones exhibit crystal-clear appearance with vibrant colors, while inferior stones look muddy or artificially bright. Authentic beads feature uniform color throughout, as noted by BeadsAtBeads, preventing uneven hues in your final design. Natural variations in color add character, but the overall tone should remain consistent across your strand.

Examine clarity carefully. Natural inclusions differ from damage - they appear as internal patterns or mineral deposits that formed during the stone's creation. Fractures and chips indicate poor handling or inferior material. Quality beads show good translucency where appropriate for the stone type.

Surface finish reveals processing quality. Run your fingers along each bead. Quality pieces feel smooth without pits, scratches, or residue. A well-polished surface can make even a stone with inclusions stand out with remarkable brilliance.

Check drill holes for consistency. Clean, straight holes indicate careful manufacturing. Rough or chipped holes suggest rushed production that compromises the bead's integrity.

Physical Tests and Inspection Tools

The Mohs hardness test helps verify stone authenticity. The Mohs Hardness Scale offers a comparative system based on ten reference minerals, from talc to diamond. Scratch testing in inconspicuous areas can confirm if your beads match expected hardness levels for their claimed material.

Use a magnifier or jeweler's loupe for detailed inspection. Look for micro-fractures, tool marks, or inconsistencies that indicate poor quality. Professional-grade beads show clean, precise work under magnification.

Weight testing provides valuable clues. Specific gravity measurements often form part of larger gemological examination for high-value pieces. Compare your beads' weight to known standards - significantly lighter beads might be synthetic or heavily treated.

Spotting Common Treatments and Enhancements

Most stone beads receive some enhancement. Heat treatment permanently enhances color and clarity by applying heat, with different stones requiring specific temperatures. This treatment is generally acceptable and permanent.

As the International Gem Society reports, almost all turquoise beads undergo stabilization; look for resin-filled pores and verify with lab reports. Dyeing creates unnaturally vivid colors that concentrate in cracks and porous areas. Look for color pooling or uneven saturation. Stabilization fills pores with resin or polymer to strengthen the stone and improve color, particularly common in turquoise.

Bleaching removes natural color, often followed by dyeing. Bleached stones may appear chalky or have an artificial uniformity. Coating treatments add surface layers that can wear off over time.

Always ask suppliers about treatments. Reputable certification will identify whether beads are natural, treated, composite, or synthetic. Honest dealers disclose enhancements upfront.

Sourcing Quality Stone Beads

Choosing Reputable Suppliers and Gemstone Dealers

Start with certified dealers who belong to professional organizations. The American Gem Trade Association requires members to disclose all gemstone treatments and enhancements. These suppliers stake their reputation on quality and honesty.

Attend gem and mineral shows where you can examine beads in person. Trade shows attract serious dealers who understand quality standards. You can compare multiple suppliers side-by-side and build relationships with vendors.

Check credentials and certifications. Look for GIA training, gemological education, or industry affiliations. Experienced dealers can educate you about specific stones and their characteristics.

Read reviews and ask for references from other jewelry makers. Professional suppliers should provide contact information for satisfied customers who can vouch for their quality and service.

Navigating Online Marketplaces with Confidence

Our website features detailed product pages with multiple high-res images, drill-hole views, and sizing charts to help you choose stone beads with confidence. Browse our gemstone bead collection for consistent sizing and full product specs. Check our New Arrivals for the latest cuts and colors as well.

Read product descriptions carefully. Quality sellers specify stone origin, treatments, size variations, and strand lengths. Vague descriptions often hide quality issues.

Check seller ratings and feedback. Customer feedback praising "quality beads well-packaged and shipped promptly" indicates reliable suppliers. Look for comments about color accuracy and consistency.

Start with sample orders before making large purchases. This lets you evaluate quality firsthand without major investment. Establish relationships with suppliers who consistently meet your standards.

Understand return policies. Reputable sellers offer satisfaction guarantees because they're confident in their quality. Avoid suppliers with restrictive return terms.

Building Supplier Relationships and Negotiation Tips

Bulk purchases unlock better pricing, but start small to verify quality. Once you find reliable suppliers, larger orders demonstrate commitment and earn volume discounts.

Ask specific questions about lot origin and batch consistency. Quality suppliers track their inventory and can provide detailed information about each strand's characteristics.

Request price breakdowns for different quantities. Understanding cost structures helps you plan purchases and negotiate fairly.

Build trust through consistent orders and prompt payment. Reliable customers get early access to new stock and exclusive materials. Some suppliers reserve their best pieces for established clients.

Evaluating and Verifying Your Stone Bead Purchases

Leveraging Certification and Documentation

Professional certifications provide objective quality assessment. IGI provides comprehensive certification for colored gemstones, detailing quality, origin, and any treatments. These reports specify material composition, measurements, and enhancement disclosures.

The credibility of the issuing lab matters as much as the certificate itself—choose gemological labs with rigorous protocols, such as those endorsed by Sosna Gems.

Learn to read certificates properly. Look for the actual mineralogical name, not marketing terms. Treatment disclosures should be clearly stated. Measurements help verify consistency within your purchase.

For high-value purchases, consider independent verification. Local gemologists can examine your beads and provide written assessments for insurance or resale purposes.

Keep documentation organized. Certificates and purchase records help track your inventory and provide provenance for finished pieces.

DIY Quality Checks at Home

Simple tests help verify bead authenticity without expensive equipment. The hot needle test involves heating a fine sewing needle and gently piercing the material in inconspicuous places. Plastics melt or emit chemical odors.

UV light testing reveals some treatments and synthetic materials. Enhanced layers, oils used as fillers, and components often have different fluorescence properties than natural stones. However, this test isn't definitive since some natural stones also fluoresce.

You can also use a small magnet to detect metal-based fillers or foils—treated beads often show slight attraction (Chroma Gems).

Use a digital scale to check weight consistency within strands. Significant variations suggest mixed materials or quality issues. Measure bead diameters with calipers to verify sizing accuracy.

Maintaining Your Stone Beads: Cleaning and Storage Tips

Different stones require specific care approaches. Natural stone beads like turquoise or amethyst can be sensitive to chemicals and heat, requiring tailored cleaning routines for each material type.

For most stone beads, gentle cleaning works best. A dry or slightly damp microfiber cloth is usually the safest cleaning option. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or abrasive materials that can damage surfaces.

Handle beads with clean, dry hands to prevent oil transfer. Some porous stones absorb oils that can permanently alter their appearance.

Store beads properly to prevent damage. Individual pouches prevent scratching between different hardness levels. Climate-controlled environments protect against extreme temperature and humidity changes that can cause cracking.

Organize storage by material type and hardness. Knowing your stone's hardness and chemical composition is key to deciding the best cleaning methods. Softer stones need protection from harder materials that could scratch them.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Creations with Premium Stone Beads

Quality stone beads transform your jewelry from ordinary to extraordinary. Remember the three pillars: identify quality through visual inspection and testing, source from reputable suppliers with proper documentation, and evaluate purchases through certification and verification.

The investment in premium stone beads pays dividends in beauty, durability, and value. Your finished pieces will maintain their appeal for years, building your reputation as a quality craftsperson. Customers recognize and appreciate the difference quality materials make.

Start building your premium collection today. Browse our certified gemstone beads and sign up for our newsletter to receive exclusive access to new arrivals and expert tips. Your creations deserve the finest stone beads available - and so do the people who will treasure them for generations to come.