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 […]
Tag Archives | appraisal
7 Tips for buying quality jewelry online
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 […]
Shimmering Sapphire, September’s Stone of Royalty and Wisdom
The sapphire, September’s birthstone, has been the sign of royalty and prophecy over the centuries. Learn more about this beautiful gemstone.
Be a Pin-Up: 10 tips for refreshing your look with brooches
A stunning brooch can turn a ho-hum outfit to WOW! Here are 10 tips for getting the most out of your fabulous pins.
Spinel, August’s birthstone—is it the “next big gemstone?”
The spinel, August’s birthstone, may be on the cusp of high popularity. It’s still affordable, but has a brilliant red color that can rival a ruby.
Ka-ching! What affects the value of jewelry?
Learn the factors that can make your jewelry worth more, including quality, style, and origin.
The Ruby, July’s Birthstone, Blazes with Fire
The ruby, July’s birthstone, blazes with fire. These gems can be more expensive than diamonds. See how to buy ruby jewelry and their lore.
Celebrate Moonstone Magic with June’s Shimmery Birthstone
The moonstone, June’s birthstone, is a shimmery gemstone that creates beautiful jewelry.
Jade, the Gem that Sparks Clarity of Mind and Purity of Spirit
While we associate jade with China, it’s steadily gained in popularity around the world for its beauty and the artistry of its carvers. What people call “jade” is actually two types of mineral: Nephrite gets its color from magnesium for muted colors ranging from light to dark green, yellow, brown, black, gray, and white. A […]
Diamonds—April’s Sparkling Birthstones—are Forever
Big girls need big diamonds.” —Elizabeth Taylor If you have an April birthday, you hit the birthstone jackpot. Diamonds are scarce, strong, and the stuff of dreams, full of fire and promise. Here are some things to know about this ultimate sparkler. The first known diamonds were found in India in the 4th century B.C. […]