From pastel lilac to deep royal purple, February’s birthstone, the amethyst, has been an adored—and respected—gemstone for centuries. It’s found in royal scepters, crowns, and as good-luck amulets throughout history. In fact, the stone was as precious as a ruby or emerald until the 1800s, when large amethyst deposits were discovered in Brazil. Some interesting […]
The cold winds of winter are warmed up by the deep, rich red of January’s birthstone, the garnet. This stone, which has been used for millennia, was a favorite of the ancient Egyptians, who believed it was a symbol of life. In fact, pharaohs have been found buried with brilliant garnet necklaces. There are over […]
Whatever holiday you celebrate, chances are you—or someone you know—received a special piece of jewelry as a gift. A new engagement ring, or a pearl necklace, or a stunning pair of earrings. Maybe a parent o r grandparent handed down a treasured heirloom. Enjoy! And take a look at these tips on how to keep […]
Holidays are the perfect excuse to make your sparkle extra bright with your beautiful jewelry! So take out your biggest, boldest gems, necklaces, bracelets, and rings—this is the time to make a statement. Here are some ideas on how to balance your heirloom and newest jewels with style. Match your jewels to your little black […]
Holidays are primetime for popping the question with an engagement ring. Buying a diamond can be intimidating—but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re shopping together or on your own, here are some guidelines to make the engagement ring process as easy as getting down on one knee. Engagement ring checklist The Gemological Institute of […]
Holiday season can be a crazy time of shopping, crowds, and travel. It’s also prime time for buying jewelry. Here, direct from National Jeweler, are some tips for keeping your jewelry safe (and your sanity intact) when you’re buying and carrying valuables this time of year. Bag it up. When you juggle lots of small […]
Banish those winter blues with three beautiful, blue December birthstones: tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise. As the American Gem Society writes, “These gems range from the oldest on earth (zircon), to one of the first mined and used in jewelry (turquoise), to one of the most recently discovered (tanzanite).” Tanzanite To start with the newest, this […]
As we enter the holiday season, chances are you’ll be getting together with family members. This is also a time when we think about passing down pieces of heirloom jewelry, silver, or other precious items to others. The Wall Street Journal reported that “baby boomers and elder Americans say personal keepsakes, family stories and last […]
If you’re a November baby, you have a choice of warm golden-yellow November birthstones: citrine or topaz. Both will help you keep the sunlight in your heart as you move into winter. Here are some interesting facts and beliefs about your special gemstones. Topaz If you look at the list of birthstones, you might […]
If you have sterling silver flatware, serving pieces, ice buckets, or even jewelry, there’s one thing you certainly know: tarnish is your enemy. But it doesn’t have to be difficult. And the warmth and elegance that silverware brings to your table can’t be beat. Here are some simple tips: How to clean your silverware Every […]
