If you’re asking, “What is the most important C?”, chances are you’re already well into the process of purchasing a diamond engagement ring. When it comes to diamond quality, the answer is simple, but not necessarily straightforward. (more…)
If you’re asking, “What is the most important C?”, chances are you’re already well into the process of purchasing a diamond engagement ring. When it comes to diamond quality, the answer is simple, but not necessarily straightforward. (more…)
The timeless charm of diamond was cherished long before it became the April birthstone. And the places where diamond comes from are as fascinating as the lore that surrounds the gem. So let’s travel the globe to visit some famous diamond localities, past and present, in search of this April birthstone. (more…)
As you’re shopping for fine jewelry, knowing how durable a particular gemstone is will help you determine how and when to wear it, and most importantly – how to care for it. In this post, we’ll go beyond the Mohs scale to demystify gemstone durability and provide tips for helping you choose a gemstone that could last a lifetime or longer. (more…)
Aquamarine, the March birthstone, is said to bring happiness to a marriage, calm waves, and keep sailors safe at sea: not surprising for a gem named after seawater. Aquamarine’s tranquil blues conjure peaceful waters and smooth sailing – unlike the often dry and desolate places where it is mined. (more…)
If you were born in February, your birthstone is amethyst – a purple gemstone that has starring roles in the jewelry and regalia of kings and queens. The February birthstone is found in the personal collections of Great Britain’s and Russia’s royal families. Britain’s Duchess of Windsor (1896-1986) commissioned a now famous amethyst necklace. Empress Catherine II (1729-1796) of Russia, also known as Catherine the Great, was particularly fond of amethyst and used the gem in buttons, earrings, necklaces and aigrettes (hair ornaments that usually held feathers, or were in the shape of a feather, and were often set with gems). Ancient cultures also loved amethyst and it has been found in 4,400-year-old jewelry. (more…)
Though the name literally translates to “Fragrant Harbor,” Hong Kong is a crowded, tropical jewel of a town, with one of the highest square foot rent costs in the world and known for being the business and fashion gateway into China.
Hong Kong’s sovereignty was transferred from the United Kingdom to China in 1997. Hong Kong has maintained its unique personality, making it an exotic locale for Westerners and Chinese alike. (more…)
If you’re lucky enough to be born in January, garnet is your birthstone. A gem found around the world, garnet comes in a painter’s palette of colors. So there’s bound to be a hue to suit your taste.
Garnets also come with a rich history. Red garnet necklaces graced the pharaohs of Ancient Egypt. Ancient Romans used carved garnets in signet rings to stamp wax seals safeguarding important documents. And the clergy and nobility of the middle ages had a particular affinity for garnet. (more…)
When we think of royalty, images of crowns, tiaras, and diadems instantly come to mind. Beautiful head ornaments intricately crafted in gold and encrusted with rare gemstones were once used as symbols of nobility, status, and the right to rule. They dazzled onlookers with their splendor, and even though royal families may have faded in political power, their relics continue to captivate. (more…)
Diamond jewelry shopping can be an exciting and fun experience. The gemstones glimmer at you from the case and it can be hard to choose just the right one. If you’re looking for a diamond, remember the importance of learning about the 4Cs of diamond quality and getting an independent diamond grading report. A GIA diamond grading report provides an objective, unbiased assessment of the diamond’s 4Cs – and can help you make the right purchase decision.
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With the variety of diamond cuts available, it can be a challenge to select just the right one. In fact, you might even want to create your own unique style by combining two or more diamond shapes or cuts together in one engagement ring or piece of jewelry for a design that stands out from the others. Perhaps diamond cutters were thinking along similar lines when they combined cutting styles to create something new and unique – calling the result a radiant cut diamond. (more…)
Since the bewitching season is upon us, it’s a perfect time to do a postmortem on poison rings – those devious jewels whose secret compartments supposedly held deadly contents. A shroud of mystery and rumor surrounds them, so their reputation is fittingly a mash-up of fact and fiction. (more…)
Step into our time machine and travel back to early 19th century Europe. Napoleon has successfully invaded Prussia, an empire that once sprawled across much of Europe. The ousted Prussian government is now trying to fund the War of Liberation, which takes place 1813-1814. An appeal is issued: donate your gold and jewelry to the treasury, which will allow the government to raise money for the fight. In return for your gift, you will receive jewelry made of iron.