Here’s a helpful educational video to help you decide between buying a natural diamond or a diamond alternatives (in this case, cubic zirconia, Chatham white sapphire, synthetic moissanite and natural diamond).
Whether you’re looking for an eco-friendly option or a budget-friendly option, this video helps guide the way. Or call us and we’ll offer some friendly tips.
Undoubtedly you’ve heard the expression “jet black” but did you know where it comes from? It’s based on a gem called Jet. Except that jet isn’t a gem but fossilized wood compressed over millions of years.
The finest quality Jet comes from England, near the north-east coast of Yorkshire. It’s smooth and lightweight as well as comfortable to wear. And get this: it can be polished to such an extent that it can even be used as a mirror.
Queen Victoria loved her Jet jewelry and wore it as a remembrance of her beloved husband Albert who died in 1861. (She loved it so much that the only jewelry allowed to be worn in court during the period was Jet. That’s some serious Jet love.)
Here are some fine examples of this not-quite-a-gemstone:
If you’ve ever been to France, undoubtedly you noticed the element of style. It’s everywhere. The interesting part? It all seems so simple and uncomplicated, as if it was breezily thrown together in 10 minutes or less. And that’s for good reason: it probably was!
Here’s a quick review of Parisian styles and what makes their simple lines and colors a cut above the rest:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpF43f7dKFc
Weddings can be one of the most stressful events in our lives. And for good reason: not only are we making a lifetime (we hope) commitment but the cost of a wedding can be exorbitant.
At our studio, we often see two different “camps” of couples: the ones who have a budget and firmly stick to it and the others who take more liberties. And we get it! It’s easy to be tempted by that piece that catches your eye, even if the pricetag is a little more.
And while it’s all right to occasionally exceed your engagement and wedding budget, we have consistently made this observation: those who stick within their budget tend to be more happy and relaxed when they purchase. They know what they can afford and appreciate the discipline of not overspending.
So before considering your purchase, sit down with your spouse-to-be (or a financially savvy friend, if you’re keeping the engagement a surprise) and give the numbers a good, hard look. What can you reasonably afford? What is your hard-and-fast cut-off number? Then begin your search with that number firmly embedded in your mind.
The great asset of working with our store? We understand and honor budgets. We don’t try to push or upsell. As a matter of fact, we’ll often remind you when you’ve gone too far (that’s what friends are for, right?).
Consider your wedding budget like a good friend that will help you keep the financial stress at bay…yet still provides you with eternal beauty and support!
There are no hard and fast rules to jewelry wearing. But some general rules apply. We like the simplicity of this bit of advice, which is about balancing your overall look with just the right pieces so as not to overwhelm. (Plus it’s easy to remember!)
Yes we know, tourmaline is also one of October’s birthstones, but we wanted to give opals their due time in the spotlight. Why? Because they’re so darn transfixing, possessing an ever-changing rainbow-like quality that captures the eye and imagination.
The Romans believed the opal was the most precious and powerful of all gems. It’s associated with hope and good luck. Other cultures believe the gem possesses supernatural powers, perfect for this magical time of year.
Ilana Ariel’s white sapphire and opal stud earrings in 14-karat yellow gold.
Stuller’s 14-karat white opal and diamond necklace ($720)
This is the “Lindsay Allison” necklace from Dana Rebecca Designs, featuring opals and diamonds set in 14-karat rose gold ($1,155).
Logan Hollowell’s white opal “Waterdrop” earrings with diamond pave accents in 14-karat yellow gold ($1,800)
For your arm party:
Always use gold and silver.
Always use turquoise.
Find a good balance between statement earrings and “littles.”
And more quick and easy layering tips.
Take a watch.
Videos like this give you a glimpse in the process of uncovering a gem. Watch this jeweler encourage a fine black opal out of a difficult piece of Lightning Ridge rough opal, with some pretty cool cutting techniques. If your into lapidary, then its a must watch.
Let us never underestimate the importance of jewelry that’s easy to put on and remove. How many pieces of jewelry sit in your jewelry box, rarely used because you know what a hassle it is to wear? This YouTube video addresses a definite troublemaker: the toggle bracelet.
Fun and surprisingly helpful video (for dudes, of course). Pass this along to your dude friends who go into head-scratching mode when talking about engagement rings.
