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 […]
Make the most of your “little black dress” with jewelry in your collection.
The air outside may be crisp, but December’s birthstones— turquoise, zircon, and Tanzanite—bring the blue sky to your holiday outfits. As the GIA writes, each “has its own unique take on the color blue.” We’ve discussed Tanzanite previously so let’s focus on the first two. Turquoise: Native American holy stone This semi-translucent stone ranges from […]
Jewelry lovers have a great choice for November birthstones—two beautiful golden, autumn-hued gems: citrine and topaz. Don’t worry…if golden-orange isn’t your thing, topaz also comes in a rainbow of colors. We’ll highlight “need-to-know” facts about each, but they have a few things in common: according to the GIA, both are affordable and in strong supply; […]
Ever wonder what those curvy-tined forks are in the old silver service you inherited? Or the oddly shaped spoon? Utensils were pretty specific in the old days…here are just a few silver serving pieces that you shouldn’t live without 😉. (With thanks to Veranda.com and Replacements.com.) Unusual serving pieces Jelly server: This spoon can either […]
One of the most beautiful and varied gemstones around, the opal—October’s birthstone—has been revered from early days. Bedouins believed they contained lightning and fell from the sky during thunderstorms. Ancient Greeks thought they brought the gift of prophesy and protection. October’s birthstone is a gem like no other. Interesting facts about opals Unlike other gemstones, […]
Just as you change wardrobes each season, how about changing your jewelry too? Get back to nature this fall with earth-tone jewelry: gold, yellow, burnt orange, and deep bronze and red. Here are some perfect gemstones that reflect fall’s vibrant colors. Gold/orange Citrine: This quartz-based gem comes in transparent delicate yellow to orange to an […]
What color is a sapphire birthstone? Blue, of course, you say. But it actually comes in a variety of shades, called “fancy sapphires”: yellow, violet, green, orange, pink, and purple. Plus, it’s one of the “big 3” colored gemstones, along with the emerald and ruby. But the sapphire has been prized throughout the centuries. According […]
With summer’s heat, here are some fun facts about jewelry to take your mind off the weather. Amaze your friends with your knowledge—and if you know more than 7, you’re a jewelry genius! Ancient Egyptians believed that gold was “the flesh of the gods” (since it was so soft) and held mystical powers. The first […]
If you’re looking for a birthstone with origins in outer-space and the depths of the earth, then the peridot is for you. It’s also the perfect summer stone, reflecting the bright, lush green of summer grass, plants, and trees. Origins From earth: The peridot is one of two minerals (along with the diamond) that doesn’t […]
