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You probably know that diamonds are one of the hardest gems, but what about other stones? A stone is a stone, right? But some are more durable than others, and might do better, for example, in a brooch versus an everyday ring. Here’s a quick tutorial. Gemstones are rated on “Mohs’ Hardness Scale,” from […]
What’s more romantic than a locket? Under its hinged cover it can contain a photo, inscription, or small keepsake that only the wearer has access to. And it keeps the secret close to the heart of the wearer. Lockets through the ages Lockets, which come in shapes including ovals, circles, and hearts, have a long […]
“When the deep purple falls…” February birthday babes, your birthstone is the centuries-old amethyst. This form of quartz can be found in shades of purple ranging from deep to light to mauve. Its name comes from “amethystos,” ancient Greek for “not drunk,” as it was historically thought to banish drunkenness. In modern times, its crystals […]
A few months ago, I was fortunate enough to be part of a small group tour behind-the-scenes of the Smithsonian jewels, officially known as the Gem and Mineral collection. Talk about a highlight of my life! As a Graduate Gemologist and appraiser, this was a dream come true. Behind the “restricted” signs Russell Feather, the […]
Recently clients have asked me about the value of their silver. But whether you’re considering jewelry, flatware, or Grandma’s prized candy dish, the kind of silver it’s made of can make a big difference in the item’s value. Which silver do you have? Sterling silver (the more expensive type) is actually an alloy. That is, […]
No matter how careful you are with your diamond jewelry, “oopsies” happen. Be sure it’s adequately insured for loss and damage. You can get insurance as a rider to your homeowners or renters insurance policy, or a policy from an insurance company that specializes in jewelry. It all starts with an appraisal To be able […]
If New Year’s ushers in your birth month, then your beautiful birthstone is the garnet. You probably think of the garnet as a deep, rich red, but the stone actually comes in a variety of colors including yellow, bright green, and even blue (the rarest). But red is the most common, even leading to its […]
New Year’s brings lots of resolutions. Forget about organizing closets and drawers. This is the time to organize your jewelry. Here are a few tips for making the process easier: Tip 1: Take an inventory Time to gather your jewelry in one place. Don’t overlook small hideaway places throughout your home, not just your jewelry […]
Whether you have a new engagement ring (congratulations!) or a beloved family heirloom, your diamonds need some special care to keep their luster. Keep it set. You probably know that diamonds are one of the hardest gems around. They can even scratch metal. That means that they can wear down a prong or setting, loosen, […]
Holidays are a popular time to pop the big question. Some proposals come with an engagement ring already picked out; for some couples, a trip to the jeweler’s is the next step. Before you go engagement ring shopping, here are a few tips: What speaks to you? This engagement ring will be a part of […]
