Here are examples (home digital camera) of the stones that I use: 

Natural Stones:  Agate (earth tones), Carnelian (varigated orange/yellow), Coral (red), Green Turquoise,Onyx (black), Lapis (deep blue), and Turquoise.  I choose natural stone beads based on their clarity and color.  I like to use medium to large stones on my larger pieces and I'll incorporate smaller stone beads for continuity.  None of my pieces are alike.....they are all unique.....one of a kind.

Swarovski Pearls:  White, Almond, Peach, Pink, Lavender, Blue, and Pink.