“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 […]
Tag Archives | appraising gemstones
Sparkle with Joy: How to wear jewelry with your LBD (little black dress)
Make the most of your “little black dress” with jewelry in your collection.
Blue Skies and a Holiday Surprise—Celebrating December’s birthstones
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 […]
October’s birthstone, the Opal: Lightning in a Gemstone
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, […]
“Fall” In Love With These Autumn Gemstones: Earth-Tone Jewelry
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 […]
September’s Sapphire Birthstone is a Sparkling Royal Gem
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 […]
10 Hot Facts About Cool Gems (How many do you know?)
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 […]
Ravishing Ruby, July’s Birthstone of Passion
The intense red of the ruby, July’s birthstone, evokes strong emotions: passion, love, and fury. In fact, early civilizations equated its color with blood. In medieval times, they were believed to bring health, wisdom, wealth and success in love—and also thought to provide protection (cue the ruby red slippers!). Fun facts about the King of […]
Hot Jewelry Trends for Summer
After almost 18 months of seeing the top half of people on Zoom, we’re back—and these jewelry trends are hot, hot, hot! Evening strolls, restaurants, cookouts, and loads of weddings are luring us out of our homes. Here’s what the well-jeweled will be wearing as we make our way back into society. Bring on the […]
Meet Alexandrite, one of June’s Birthstones—Emerald by Day/Ruby by Night
There’s a June birthday gem in town that you probably haven’t heard of. We’ve already discussed pearls and moonstones, so let’s examine alexandrite, the most expensive of the three. The most amazing thing about alexandrite: It changes color in different types of lighting. In daylight or fluorescent light it appears green; in incandescent light (lightbulb), […]