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GIA 4Cs Diamond Blog

GIA 4Cs Diamond Blog

More is More: The Artistry of Tony Duquette & Hutton Wilkinson

Tony Duquette and Hutton Wilkinson are two jewelry designers acclaimed for their original work.

More is More: Tony Duquette – Hutton Wilkinson Jewelry, the duo’s first-ever all-jewelry exhibit, debuted on Oct. 10 at GIA’s world headquarters in Carlsbad, CA. The inventive body of work, which will be on display through March 2014, embraces a wide variety of styles, periods and palettes often showcasing unusual gemstones paired with rare materials in whimsical designs. (more…)

Transylvanian Chic Jewelry

More than a century after Bram Stoker’s Dracula was published, fascination with vampires continues, as seen in film, television, fiction, fashion, and jewelry.

Stephanie Meyer’s Twilight series has not only dominated the New York Times Best Seller list and the box office, it’s also unleashed a torrent of vampire-themed shows and movies, including Vampire Diaries, True Blood, and coming in 2014, Vampire Academy. (more…)

Black Is the New Black

Black never goes out of fashion, and this season it’s taking a prominent place in fashion trends, especially in jewelry.

Black diamonds. Black pearls. Black spinel. The love of black-color gems and jewelry ranges from the most affordable to the most luxurious, and for good reason. It’s incredibly versatile. It’s the color of sophistication and elegance. It’s both edgy and timeless. (more…)

Opal: The gemstone with fire inside

The October birthstone, opal, is noted for its individuality, magic, and mystery. Its unique display of flashing rainbow colors is unlike any other gem, and has been compared to volcanoes, galaxies, and fireworks. (more…)

Silver: A metal that shows its mettle

Affordable, prestigious, and trendy, it’s no wonder that silver is enjoying a renaissance. Considered one of the three Noble Metals – gold and platinum being the other two previously covered – silver sales have been on the rise, with an average increase of 19% from 2011 to 2012 (according to the National Jeweler/Nielsen silver survey). (more…)

Image courtesy of Dr. Geoffrey Smith
Tribal Revival: Tribal Jewelry Adorns Chieftains and Celebrities Alike

How many times have you moved in your life? The average American moves 11 times, according to US census data, and this on-the-move lifestyle has fueled one of the biggest trends in jewelry right now, tribal-inspired jewelry design. (more…)

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Can You Help Me Find a Jeweler?

One frequent request GIA receives is, “Can you recommend a reputable jeweler?” The jewelry-buying landscape offers so many options: buying online, through retail chains, neighborhood jewelry stores, and even independent sellers. Establishing a relationship with a jeweler can seem daunting and confusing. GIA is here to help. While it can’t recommend specific jewelers or businesses, it does offer tools and tips to help you navigate your way through choices. (more…)

Cartier pavé round and channel set diamond earrings set in platinum. (c) GIA & Tino Hammid
Platinum: A Metal Fit for Kings

Platinum is a metal favored by jewelers for its durability, malleability and significant weight. It doesn’t tarnish and maintains its natural white color, making it an excellent option for heirloom jewelry. And because it’s long lasting, platinum creates a secure setting for diamonds and gemstones, making it a top choice for engagement and wedding rings to last a lifetime. (more…)

Jewels Fit for a King (or Queen)

The world eagerly awaits news of the arrival of the newest British Royal, due to be born any day. The royal couple’s child will officially be known as His or Her Royal Highness Prince or Princess of Cambridge, a title fitting for a child that will likely inherit the throne, and along with it, the right to wear the British Crown Jewels. GIA has highlighted a few of the spectacular jewels, which are mostly kept secured at the Tower of London.  (more…)

Edwardian Era Jewelry

With the current popularity of period pieces—fueled in part by films and shows like The Great Gatsby and Downton Abbey–there is a rising interest in vintage fashion and jewelry. The Edwardian period lasted from 1900 to 1915, when England was flush with power and wealth. For the landed gentry (land owners who could live entirely off of rental income), the Edwardian Era was a period of prosperity and privilege; however, class divisions were equally stark. (more…)

ruby necklace, earrings, and ring
Ruby: The Undisputed King of the Red Gemstones

July’s mesmerizing birthstone was called “the king of precious stones” in ancient India. It remains a fitting title today. (more…)

jennifer aniston
Vintage Diamond Cuts

As seen during the 2013 Oscars, vintage jewelry and diamonds continue to live in the spotlight, as evidenced by this 19th century oval and cushion cut diamond bracelet worn by Jennifer Aniston. But do you know the storied history behind your favorite vintage diamond cuts? (more…)