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  • The Cushion Cut – a Brief History

    Ah, the cushion cut diamond. A longstanding favorite among our clients (as well as us–we love the cut!). But how did the cushion cut come to be? What gives it such a captivating appeal? Let’s take a look at how this stunning cut came to be.

    First, what is the cushion cut exactly?

    Well its shape is somewhere between the rectangle and the oval shape. And while it may seem like a modern cut, it actually has quite the history. Cushion cuts were very popular from a good portion of the 19th century until the early 20th century.

    The core of the cushion cut is the “old mine cut” (a square cut with round corners), generally with a high crown, a small table and large facets. This “old mine cut” usually possesses 33 crown facets and 25 pavilion facets.

    So what is the modern cushion cut then?

    Consider it a cross between the old mine cut and a modern oval cut. But instead of the old mine cut’s  58 facets, the modern cushion cut possesses 64 facets. The cushion cut also has an open culet (which is the bottom of the gem) and more of a rectangular to square shape, with rounded corners and a facet plan that provides the gemstone’s depth.

    The cushion cut should not be confused with today’s brilliant cuts, intended to maximize the light returned to the human eye. While the cushion cut is not quite as brilliant or fiery as other modern cuts, it contains within it a classic, romantic look that maximizes a gem’s luster.

    How about some examples? 

     

  • E.M. Cushion Shape Tanzanite Three Stone Ring


  • F.Z. Rope/Twist Split Shank Oval Engagement Ring


  • You were so incredible, patient, kind and knowledgeable.

    Margie,

    Thank you SO MUCH again for all of your help. I can only hope I wasn’t a huge pain to work with. You were so incredible, patient, kind and knowledgeable. I have already sung your praises to so many. Everyone else I know said purchasing and finding a ring was such a stressful process but we feel so blessed that you made it so easy. I can only hope you forward this along to those who may be above you because I would love nothing more than to let them know what an asset you are to your company.

    I know when it comes time for our wedding bands, we will be making another call to you guys.

    Thank you again for everything! I can’t wait to send you guys the photos of when I finally get to wear it!

    P.H.

  • How to Keep your Jewelry Safe in Hotels

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    Barely a day goes where we don’t hear news about jewelry thefts of some sorts. Whether its a high-powered celebrity or a local break-in, no one is immune to prying hands.

    Luckily, there are steps you can take when you travel to make sure your valuable jewelry is safe, leaving you to truly relax and enjoy your vacation.

    First and foremost, take advantage of your hotel’s safe deposit box. This is where precious gemstones and jewelry belong when you’re not wearing it. Get into the routine of familiarizing yourself with the process so it becomes habitual and easy to integrate into your vacation schedule. Again, if you’re not wearing it, your valuables belong in a safe deposit box. 

    When it comes to visitors, be selective. Most of us meet new people in public while on vacation. And that’s a great thing. But be aware: people who steal come in all shapes and sizes. As a matter of fact, thieves can be quite shrewd, charming and outwardly trustworthy. Get in the habit of meeting new friends out in public and not inviting them into your sanctuary: your hotel room.

    A vacation is always a good idea. And bringing your amazing jewelry with you to show off to the world is part of the fun. It takes very little to accustom yourself to habits that will ensure the safety of your valuables. Some simple safeguards go a long way!

     

  • Welcome, the Lobe Cuff

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    Anita Ko’s ‘Floating Diamond’ lobe cuff in 18-karat rose gold with white diamonds.

     

    When you think about it, its amazing that we humanoids have figured out so many ways to adorn the ears. And we show no sign of stopping with the latest of ear decor hitting the mainstream. Spotlight on: the lobe cuff.

    The lobe cuff is a fun, new earring style that’s basically a hybrid between a hoop earring and an ear cuff. A lobe cuff can be worn in the first or second piercing, fits snugly against the lobe and gives the appearance of wrapping into the ear. It can also be referred to as the “ear hook” (though we much prefer lobe cuff!).

    Says jewelry designer Ara Vartanian (who creates lobe cuffs with larger stones):

    “Customers love this style because the design is aesthetically different, and it helps balance the weight of the earrings with such a large stone.”

    We think this jewelry trend may stick around for a while because the look itself has a classic, comfortable appeal.

    If you’re interested in co-designing your own type of lobe cuff, reach out to us and let’s talk beauty!

    [Source: The Observer]

  • D.R. Three Stone Ring with Round and Pear Diamonds



  • Jewelry Style Make-up, Vanessa Hudgens Style

    Adornment can be anything you want it to be. When it comes to make-up, jewelry can be indicated with the use of the right placement of color and design.

    Nobody does this better than fashion guru/celebrity Vanessa Hudgens, who wows the crowds at Coachella each year by donning her particular brand of distinctive desert fashion.

    In this video, make-up expert Angel Marie demonstrates how you too can have that Hudgens-style bling feel via the right make-up art.