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February is the month of love. So why is the amethyst the stone of faithful love? St. Valentine himself supposedly wore an amethyst ring carved with the image of Cupid. Amethyst ranges in color from lilac to deep purple. At one point in history it was worth as much as a diamond, prized for being […]
Winter skies may be gray, but January’s birthstone, the garnet, lends a sparkle that brightens the day. While they’re commonly red—ranging from rust to deep violet-red—garnets are actually found in a range of colors, including clear, pink, green (“tsavorite”), orange, yellow, brown, and black. Interesting facts Its name comes from Latin “granantum,” or seed—it resembles […]
Here’s a New Year’s resolution that you can keep: Get your jewelry collection in shape! No need to go to a gym; these tips can help your “sparklies” get in top form. 1. Review your collection You may think you know every piece of jewelry you have, but how about those pieces tucked away in […]
2020 has been quite the year! While we may not have parties and events to show off our beautiful sparklies, this is a great time to review our jewelry tips on how to care for, buy, and sell gemstones and other valuables. This year’s biggest jewelry tips The dangers of chlorine: We posted the warning […]
If you like blue gemstones, you’re covered by December’s tantalizing trio. From the oldest to the most recently discovered, presenting (blue) Zircon, turquoise, and tanzanite. Here’s an overview of each (with thanks to the GIA and American Gem Society). Zircon Don’t mix this up with the man-made “cubic zirconia.” Zircons are natural crystals—and they were […]
With all the at-home time, who’s not buying online? Well, jewelry’s no exception. Here are some tips if you want to buy beautiful baubles from your cellphone, iPad, or laptop. Know your site: There are reliable sites and then there’s “Joe’s House o’ Jewels.” Some, like chains and totally online sites like Blue Nile and […]
Just as leaves turn gold in November, this warm tone is reflected in November’s birthstones—citrine and yellow topaz. Originally confused with one another, they were believed to soothe tempers and calm the wearer. I’ve previously written about topaz, so here’s some background on beautiful citrine. The quartz connection Citrine is actually a form of quartz […]
It’s that time of year—while big weddings may be on hold, engagements are a go. And that means a decision on an engagement ring—often a couple’s first, large investment. Before you start shopping, here’s some useful background info on what your jeweler will ask you. What cut/shape do you want? Here are the 6 most […]
Forget the 4th of July—in the world of gemstones, the opal brings fireworks to your jewelry. It’s the stone known for its “play of color,” the unique ability to flash all colors of the rainbow. Centuries ago it was believed that opals held the virtues and powers of all colored gems. What gives opals their […]
Do you have an old ring that…well, looks old? An heirloom pendant that’s just not your style? A mismatched earring? Instead of leaving it in the back of a drawer, create something new and exciting that you can’t wait to show off—redesign it, also known as “repurposing.” You can turn a ring into a pendant, […]
