Jewelry Education and Advice

Sometimes its tough rationalizing buying a new piece of jewelry when you have so many pieces that you don’t wear. Well, there’s a way to allay that buyer’s guilt and do something smart for the planet. And remember, we’re happy to buy your old jewelry and make it into something new and magnificent.

One gold ring creates at least 20 tons of mine waste, so in an effort to decrease this harmful cycle, here are some unique ways to repurpose and reuse those favorite items instead of buying new.

• Hand down expensive and sentimental jewelry to your children or grandchildren. At least the items will get some wear and maybe even become a family heirloom.




• Take your old gold to a jeweler to be melted down and turned into something new. What type of ring, necklace or bracelet have you always wanted? Design a customized gift for yourself or a loved one.




• Donate jewelry to your favorite organization so it can sell it at one of its auctions. This will not only make you feel good since you will be helping to raise money for a charity, but can also get a tax receipt.




• Sell your gold and silver jewelry pieces to a reputable dealer. You get some cash and prolong the lives of the pieces.




• Add small pieces of bracelets and charms to decorate picture frames, lampshades, storage boxes, fan blades, chairs, etc.




• Place vintage clip-on earrings on shoes, shirts or pants to add some glamour.




• Create multi-strand bracelets with old gold or silver necklaces, or attach the chains to belts or shirts for a punk-rock look.




• Give old necklaces a new feel and fresh look with different charms.




• Slip unused rings onto a large safety pin and design your own brooch.




• Pin various pieces of jewelry onto a coat, scarf, gloves or hat for some flair.




• Glue random pieces of jewelry on to a corkboard, kitchen message board, school notebook, vases, flower pots, etc. You can never have too much bling!

Source: 1-800-RECYCLING

While you won’t see any body piercing done at our showroom in Scottsdale, AZ, we’re aware that body jewelry is part of our fashion culture. So here’s a few pointers from experts:

DON’T get any piercing done with a ear-piercing gun or cheap ear studs.

DO verify the piercer uses one-use-only hollow needles, sterilized forceps, latex gloves, and other procedures to prevent infection or disease transmission.

DON’T get a piercing at a convention of any sort. It’s the worst possible situation for the piercer, you, and your piercing.

DO select a time when you are healthy, well-rested, and mentally ready for the piercing. If you aren’t sure, you aren’t ready. Eat a balanced meal 2-4 hours before the piercing. (If you can’t get a meal, tell the piercer so you can be given a soda or juice to boost your blood sugar before the piercing.)

DON’T accept “temporary” or “starter” jewelry. A professional piercer will be honest; if what you need isn’t in stock, he/she will say so. You’ll be happier waiting for the right jewelry than if you “make do.”

DO ask to have each step explained to you. (Before the piercing, if you’d rather not know exactly what’s happening when.)

DON’T fail to tell the piercer if you have any medical conditions, medications, or other health concerns which may affect the piercing procedure or healing. They may make a difference in placement, timing, or aftercare. If you don’t trust the piercer enough to tell him/her the truth, you haven’t found the right piercer. (A professional will keep the information confidential.)

DO obtain and read complete, written aftercare instructions. Ask questions about caring for your specific piercing, if general instructions are given.

DON’T accept the myth that “all piercings get infected.” Piercings shouldn’t get infected. And won’t, if the piercing was done correctly and you take proper care of it.

DO follow the aftercare instructions. If you are instructed to clean the piercing twice a day for six months, do it. Even if the piercing appears fully healed and in good condition. (Navel and nipple piercings, especially, are notorious for “flaring up” if you stop early.)

DON’T remove or replace jewelry earlier than specified. If you must remove it temporarily, use nylon monofilament in the same size as the jewelry gauge to keep the piercing open; replace the original jewelry as soon as possible.

DO call or visit the piercer if you have any questions or concerns about your piercing. If you aren’t comfortable with the quality of the piercer, consider visiting another studio for a “second opinion.”

DON’T hesitate to seek medical help if:

1. The jewelry is pulled out (splitting the skin).

2. The piercing gets seriously infected and doesn’t clear up within a few days of proper care.

3. A nostril or septum piercing becomes infected. (It’s true nose infections can be very serious or even fatal.)

DO replace original jewelry (if desired after fully healed) with body jewelry of equal quality (surgical grade stainless steel, 14K or higher yellow gold, or niobium/titanium). If you absolutely have to wear non-body jewelry, wear it through an “ear thimble” (a.k.a “eyelet”). These are specially made tubes of surgical stainless steel or niobium which will protect your body from the “whatever” you want to wear. Thimbles are available in 12g. and larger (the piercing must be one gauge larger to accommodate the flared ends of the thimble).

And finally,

DO be proud of your body piercing. It’s as special as you are!

Source: Expert Body Piercing

 

As we officially usher in our annual DIY (Dream it Yourself) Custom Design Jewelry contest, the question pops up: Why custom design a piece when I could simply buy one?

Here are 5 reasons, created from our team at Joseph Schubach Jewelers in Scottsdale, Arizona:

1. Uniqueness – Easily the top reason! You’ll have a piece that’s like no other. In a world of increasing “sameness”, a custom design piece of jewelry says distinctinctly and only you!

2. Creativity – When you create a piece of jewelry, you have the opportunity to use your imagination. The piece you create is borne out your creative wellspring. Everytime you look at it, you’ll proudly know the mastermind behind it!

3. Cost – Let’s get practical for a moment, shall we? You not only custom designing your engagment ring or wedding band, you custom design the price, by choosing the metal and the gem.

4. Heirloomability – Okay, we made that word up. But a true heirloom represents the owner and the generation. When you pass it down, you’ll know the piece represents you and your family.

5. Emotional connectivity – We have so many couples come in to our showroom who tell us exactly why they want a particular design; how each facet represents an element of their relationship. A custom design ring represents the emotion surrounding the piece. You can’t buy that from Tiffany’s!

So if you’re ready to custom design your wedding ring or engagement ring or a necklace or a pair of one-of-a-kind earrings, reach out to us! We’re more than just custom design jewelers, we’re dream makers.

We’re holding our annual custom design jewelry contest. Stop by. See our magic. Vote!

We recently received a question about the difference between white gold and titanium. Since we’re here to educate you so you make the smartest online jewelry decisions possible, here you go:

White Gold

White gold is an alloy of gold and some white metals such as silver and palladium. White gold can be 18kt, 14kt, 9kt or any karat.

Traditionally nickel was used in white gold, however, nickel is no longer used in most white gold made today as nickel can cause reactions with some people. We do not use nickel in our white gold

When white gold rings are new they are coated with another white metal called Rhodium. Rhodium is a metal very similar to platinum and Rhodium shares many of the properties of platinum including its white color.

The rhodium plating is used to make the white gold look more white. The natural color of white gold is actually a light grey color. The Rhodium is very white and very hard, but it does wear away eventually. To keep a white gold ring looking its best it should be re-rhodium plated approximately each 12 to 18 months. Most local jewelers are able to rhodium plate jewelry for a cost effective price.

Titanium

Titanium is a white metal, but unlike gold it is used in jewelry in almost its pure form (approximately 99% pure). Titanium is extremely long wearing. Its natural color is a gray color.

Titanium is very lightweight, so a titanium ring will feel much lighter than an 18kt gold ring and much lighter than a platinum ring.

Titanium is also 100% hypoallergenic.

Titanium also has a unique property which allows the titanium to be colored to bright colors such as blue, purple and black.

Unlike other metals (such as gold, platinum and silver) titanium is a difficult metal to work with from a jewelry perspective. Titanium is a very hard metal which wears down jewelry making tools very quickly. Titanium also cannot be soldered (joined by heat).

Soldering is used in the manufacture of the majority of traditional jewelry items. Because titanium cannot be soldered, the method of making some jewelry items is restricted when using titanium.For example titanium cannot be used to make a prong setting for an engagement ring. That is why you will see that many titanium rings have parallel bands rather than tapering bands and why you will not see titanium rings with prong settings.

(To cater for our customers wanting a titanium engagement ring, we can add a gold bezel setting to a titanium band.)

For the metal itself titanium is generally less expensive than 9kt white gold. However, because titanium is difficult to make jewelry with the labor costs of titanium can make the price of a titanium jewelry a little higher. Though white gold will still normally command a higher price than titanium.

Source: Gilletts Jewelry

Many think of costume jewelry as something rather…gauche. But the truth of the matter is that costume jewelry is a perfectly legitimate way to “extra” adorn. I mean, who can afford a real diamond choker or a cocktail ring with a real sapphire? But you may be able to afford a moissanite choker. Or one like this:

A fake diamond choker

A fun, but fake, cocktail ring

Fun, flirty and fake earrings

Besides, costume jewelry has been around a long, long time. Here’s the history:

Costume jewelry came into being in the 1930s as a cheap, disposable accessory meant to be worn with a specific outfit, but not meant to be handed down through generations. It was intended to be fashionable for a short period of time, outdate itself, and then be repurchased to fit with a new outfit or new fashion style.

Cheap jewelry also existed prior to the 1930s. Paste or glass jewelry dated as far back as the 1700s. The rich had their fine jewelry duplicated for a variety of reasons, using paste or glass stones.

By the mid 1800s, with the growth of the middle class, there were now different levels of jewelry being manufactured using fine, semi-precious and base materials. Fine jewelry of gold, diamonds, fine gems such as emeralds and saphires continued to be made.

Jewelry from rolled gold, which is a thin layer of gold attached to a base metal, entered the market for the middle class. This jewelry was often set with semi-precious gems such as amethyst, coral or pearls, and was much more affordable.

And then there was jewelry that most anyone could afford, consisting of glass stones and base metals made to look like gold. All three types were intended to be passed down to future generations.

Source: Home Jewelry Business Success Tips

If you want a piece of jewelry that’s outrageous and fun, but can only afford so much, contact us! We can make your custom design jewelry dream come true. Or stop by our showroom in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Jewelry has had a long history – like the “beginning of time” kind of history. Prehistoric times, they wore rocks. Today, we too wear rocks – just a little more expensive this go round. Below are some fun facts about jewelry that will remind you of its vast and varied history. Thanks Handcrafted-Jewelry.net!

In the early days of cinema, many movie stars wore their own jewels in their movies. Some of the stars sporting their very own rocks “onstage” were Merle Oberon, Marlene Dietrich, and Gloria Swanson.

Marlene Dietrich once accidentally baked her own 37.4 carat emerald ring inside a cake, where it was discovered during dessert!

Queen Elizabeth II keeps her jewelry collection below Buckingham Palace in a special room roughly the size of an ice rink…curling, anyone?

Elizabeth Taylor’s jewelry collection boasts “La Peregrina,” a stupendous, 203.84 grain, pear-shaped pearl discovered in the early 16th century by a slave on the shores of Panama. The slave won his freedom with his find, which was then given to Mary Tudor by her husband, the Spanish king Philip II. It became part of the Spanish treasury, was painted by Velasquez and inspired the composer Ravel. The pearl eventually made its way to France, where it was sold to save its newest owner, the son of the French emperor Napoleon III, from financial disaster. It finally ended up at Sotheby’s, where Ms. Taylor obtained it in 1969 and had it made into a necklace by Cartier. As a side note, the pearl was lost several years ago in Ms. Taylor’s Las Vegas hotel room, resulting in a frantic search until it was discovered in the mouth of her dog.

Legend has it Cleopatra once dissolved a pearl at the time worth five million sesterces (about $12,500) in soup and drank it, just to win a bet with Marc Antony.

Moses ordered the breast plate of the High Priest to be made with twelve gems, representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Among the gems used are believed to be amethyst, carnelian, ruby, jade, sapphire, opal, citrine, emerald, and garnet.

The most expensive piece of jewelry ever designed specifically for a movie was the necklace worn by Nicole Kidman in the musical Moulin Rouge. The $1 million creation was designed by Stefano Canturi of platinum and 1,308 diamonds with a combined total of 134 carats.

Under the terms of a lawsuit settlement with Damiani International Jewelers, Brad Pitt will design jewelry wife Jennifer Aniston will model in ads for Damiani, in exchange for the jewelry maker’s promise to stop selling copies of the pair’s wedding rings (for around $1,000 a ring).

The tradition of borrowing jewelry to wear to the Academy Awards ceremony was started in 1944, by Jennifer Jones, who wore Harry Winston’s jewelry for the occasion. The arrangement works out very well for Harry Winston, I’m sure, as the jeweler is still one of the biggest names on Oscar night!

The Cinderella story came to life in 1997, when a platinum slipper was created for an exhibition in the UK, and the woman whose foot exactly fit the slipper was awarded a prize – though it should be noted she won neither the slipper nor the keys to a kingdom…

The gold mask placed over the mummy of Egyptian King Tutankhamun was still perfectly untarnished when it was found by Howard Carter in 1922 – more than 3000 years after it was first placed over the young king.

Tradition holds that if you wear a sapphire on Fridays, you’ll be lucky in love.

The tradition of giving diamond engagement rings originated in 15th century Venice, where it was felt that since diamonds are the most enduring substance in nature, an engagement made with them would lead to a marriage which lasted forever.

The word jewelry comes from the ancient French, “joaillerie”, meaning joy and gladness.

The very first Fabergé egg was created of platinum in 1884, as a gift from Tsar Alexander III to his wife Marie. It began an annual Easter tradition which lasted until the Russian revolution ended the tsar’s reign, and the tsarina’s fabulous collection of eggs was broken up and sold.

The original rhinestones were quartz pebbles taken from the Rhine river, in Germany. The pretty stones sparkled in shades of pink and blue. What we now know as rhinestones evolved from cheap imitations created for tourists once the natural stones had all been taken.

Engagement rings were declared a necessary statement of intent by Pope Nicholas I in 860 AD.

(above) One of the earliest shots of our store

Why buy jewelry online? Finding an online jewelry company you can trust seems like no easy feat.

I spoke with a friend of a friend a few days ago who didn’t know I was in the jewelry business. We began talking about shopping online. She said enthusiastically that she buys tons of items online…except for jewelry. When I asked her why, she said, “I just wouldn’t take that chance.”

I tried to explain to her that she could be taking advantage of the best prices out there – wholesale prices instead of retail. But she needed some more convincing.

We realize there’s some natural and healthy skepticism when it comes to buying jewelry online and trust. And we don’t blame them!

But we have plenty of proof of our trustworthiness:

• One hundred years in business. That’s right – you read correctly. I’m a third generation jeweler, deeply instilled with the same ethics of my father and grandfather: provide our customers with the utmost respect and offer the best value possible.

 

• Guaranteed Quality and Workmanship: We use the highest level of skill when creating each piece of jewelry we sell, regardless of its size or price. If you ever have concerns about the quality of your jewelry, rest assured that we will be there to help.

 

• Guaranteed Accurate Grading: We promise your diamond, moissanite or other gemstone will meet the size and grading standards listed on our website and in your invoice. If your gemstone doesn’t meet the standards you expected, call us and we’ll make it right.

 

• Guaranteed Customer Service: Our commitment to your absolute satisfaction doesn’t end after the sale. If you should ever need service or assistance with your jewelry, please call us. Whether it’s been weeks or years, we’ll be there to help.

 

• 30 Day Return Policy: If you are unsatisfied with your purchase for any reason, you can return it, no questions asked – and with no restocking fee.

 

• We are a BBB-accredited business.

 

We’re more than an online business. We’re a long-standing jewelry institution with a showroom in Scottsdale, Arizona. We have an intimate staff, hand-chosen by me – the best of the best. So if you’re like my friend and feeling a bit hesitant about purchasing your jewelry online, give us a call directly. Talk to a real, live human being – maybe even me. We can put your fears to rest and get you some of the best jewelry prices available.

I'm Joseph Schubach, a third generation jeweler...and a real, live person.

Moissanite is our number one diamond alternative here at Joseph Schubach Jewelers. And for good reason: We’re seasoned jewelers who understand the difference between a viable and remarkable diamond alternative and one that is simply beneath our standards.

We also understand the global community in which we live: moissanite provides a diamond alternative that is ecologically wise, all the while maintaining its strength and brilliance.

Moissanite stories

Recently we were approached by DiamondRing.com, who asked us for our best moissanite stories. Where to begin? There are hundreds to tell: couples who saved money on their wedding costs while never compromising taste or a dream piece of jewelry created by our custom jewelery designers that just wouldn’t have been possible with naturally mined diamonds.

So what’s your story? We figure it this way: the more positive moissanite stories that are shared, the more people can realize their jewelry dream affordably, without sacrificing quality and contributing to a healthier environment.

Drop by DiamondRing.com if you have a story to tell.

Many people are on tight budgets these days. Yet they still want a few luxury items to make them feel good.

If you’re just starting to build your jewelry collection, then this list will help guide you. Start with one piece at a time. Make sure the piece you pick out is truly one that resonates with you.

And remember, it doesn’t have to be high-end pieces (cocktail rings, for instance, are quite affordable).  There are many great diamond alternatives out there that are meant to last a long time. Moissanite in place of natural diamonds, for instance, are becoming quite popular among the eco-conscious sort, who want the dazzle but don’t want the damage. (Mined natural diamonds are ecologically harmful in numerous ways).

So here’s your “go to” list:

The Five Staples of Women’s Jewelry

• Pearl Earrings – One of these jewelry staples is a pair of pearl earrings. If only one set of pearls is desired, stick to the classic white pearl, about ¼ or ½ inch in diameter. Pearl studs are a classic, timeless addition (and necessary addition) to a woman’s jewelry box. Pearls can be worn with a casual outfit, professional attire, or an evening gown – even to a cocktail party or black tie event. The perfect pair of pearl studs will never go out of style and can complement or enhance any style. Pearls range in price and one can easily find a pair fit to any budget! Pink and silver pearls are also gorgeous additions to any jewelry case.




• Diamond Studs – Another set of earrings that is an absolute must are a pair of diamond studs. Diamond studs will last a lifetime and will complement a range of looks from casual to extremely elegant. When purchasing a pair of diamond studs invest in a good quality pair and pay attention to the 4 Cs: Cut, Clarity, Carat, and Color. A nice pair of diamond earrings will not break the bank, but they are something you will have forever.




• Cocktail Ring – A great way to add excitement and glamour to an outfit is with a cocktail ring, which is why it is one of the five jewelry staples. A large, fun, glitzy cocktail ring can adorn any finger – it looks best on the ring or pointer finger – and is a great attention getter. Cocktail rings are sold at numerous retailers, and they can be bought very inexpensive at stores including H&M and XI Forever for under $10. Make sure at least one cocktail ring is in the jewelry box, but at prices under $10, purchase a few in different stones and designs.




• Wristwatch – A timeless – no pun intended – jewelry piece is a watch, another item on the list of must-haves. A classic style to own would be one in silver or gold (depending on what matches most with the other jewelry in the jewelry box) or one with a leather strap. A boyfriend style, one with a bigger face, is a great addition to any wardrobe, and most consumers find a watch a necessity, especially in the workplace. Michael Kors makes amazing watches at prices around or under $250 in all colors and materials. For a leather brand, try a classic watch by Timex.




• Conversation Piece – The last jewelry must have is a piece of costume jewelry, mainly a necklace. A fun, colorful necklace can add a pop of color or a bit of pizzazz to an otherwise simple outfit. A costume necklace can also completely change the appearance of the neckline and give a whole new look to an outfit. Costume items can also be purchased at many different retailers, so purchase a few and add new looks to that wardrobe without spending a fortune.

Read more at Suite101: Jewelry Box Must-Haves http://www.suite101.com/content/jewelry-box-must-haves-a303091#ixzz1E7ywEfCd\

Cushion Cut Moissanite Stud Earrings

Antique cushion cut stud earrings, four prong wire basket settings with friction backs

and Charles and Colvard created moissanite. 2.10ct t.w. (dia equiv, 6mm stones)