Whether you’ve got a Rolex or Apple Watch, proper care will help their bands last longer and protect your investment. Think about it—you wear your watch almost every day, whether you’re working, exercising, traveling, or playing. But when was the last time you cleaned the band from the dirt, oils, sweat, and soap that have […]
Emeralds, May’s Birthstone, Bring Love and Hope
“That must be the City of Emeralds!” said Dorothy to her companions. The emerald is a symbol of rebirth and nature—perfect for its role as May’s birthstone. This lush, deep green gem represents good fortune, youth, balance, and growth. Along with rubies, sapphires, and diamonds, the emerald is one of the four recognized precious stones. […]
Oscar Diamonds: Who Rocked Their Red Carpet Bling Best?
Even stars need a little extra shine and dazzle when it comes to the Oscars. And this year had some amazing examples of how Oscar diamonds—in stunning rings, earrings, and necklaces—can enhance designer outfits on the red carpet. After all, we say, “go big or go for a big award!” Here are some of the […]
Diamonds: April’s Birthstone and A Girl’s Best Friend
“A diamond allows the soul’s light to shine out.” Ahh, the diamond. The queen of the gem kingdom. The hardest natural substance on earth. And definitely a girl’s best friend. These gems were formed before dinosaurs roamed the earth: the youngest are about 900 million years old, and the oldest are 3.2 billion years old—but […]
Behind the Scenes at Your Jewelry Appraisal: 5 Things to Know
Some of you have asked about what really goes on in a jewelry appraisal so here are 5 things that you can expect. And even though I keep referring to “jewelry,” your appraisal can include watches, silverware and silver pieces, and other heirlooms. It’s recommended that jewelry appraisals are updated every 3-5 years. Why? Well, […]
From Mermaids’ Jewelry Boxes to Yours: Aquamarine, March’s Birthstone
As the first of the spring birthstones, aquamarine (whose name means “waters of the sea”) possesses the healing qualities of the ocean, especially tranquility, serenity, and harmony. It’s known for its distinctive blue-green color as well as its clarity. Shades range from deep teal to a pale, crystal blue. Throughout history, it’s been associated with legends […]
The Romance of Jewelry: Saying “I love you” with gems and gold
Many of life’s romantic memories are tied to jewelry—the first “serious” relationship gift, engagement ring, wedding band, new baby gift. Even the body part the jewelry adorns is significant—the ring finger supposedly goes straight to the heart, while a pendant lies next to the heart. Here are some popular motifs that show the romance of […]
Shine Bright Like An Amethyst, February’s Birthstone
“If you want to make a statement, wear purple.” —Baron Davis Did you know that amethysts were once more valuable than sapphires? This lilac to deep purple variety of quartz were exceeding rare until the 19th century, and were worn by royalty around the world. When large deposits were found in Brazil, the stones became […]
Every Woman Needs a Tiara: From the royal collection
Always walk around like you have on an invisible tiara. —Paris Hilton Let’s be honest…you want one. Most women do. And anyone who’s been to a wedding can attest to the popularity of tiaras—making the bride a princess for the day. Tiaras symbolize social status and power. Rulers have worn them all through history, from […]
January’s birthstone, the Garnet: Dragons’ eyes, protection, and beauty
Here’s a stone with a pre-historic past—garnets have been found dating from the Bronze Age! And in the Middle Ages, people believed dragons’ eyes were made of them. The gems’ vibrant red color has been believed to cure blood disorders, enhance love and empower the life force. These stones tend to give a Victorian feel […]