Happy Stories From our customers

Learning about gems is a science in its own right. But that doesn’t mean you have to go back to school to learn.

Education at Joseph Schubach Jewelers is quick, easy and best of all…free! 

So let’s talk luster. The terminology surrounding luster is a bit more complicated than the terminology surrounding brilliance (the amount of light reflected out of the crown of the gem to the eye). Brilliance is rather easy to describe: more or less. Luster language gets a little more dense.

But first, what is luster? Luster is the manner by which light interacts with the surface of a gem. The word holds its origins in Latin. Lux (meaning “light”) and generally implies radiance, gloss or brilliance.

A glass-like luster (called vitreous) is most frequently found in transparent faceted gems such as sapphire, emerald, ruby and tourmaline. Other “lustrous” names? Silky (such as tiger’s eye), resinous (think amber) and greasy (yep…that would be jadeite, unfortunately).

That was pretty painless, right? Better yet, just call us for more information on luster. We love talking shop!

(Okay, these necklaces are a bit more suited for summer fashion but that doesn’t mean you can’t make your necklace in winter and prepare!)

What we like about knot necklaces? The casual, textured look it provides. Unlike metal necklaces, rope knot necklaces capitalize on material, making it more of a simple extension of your outfit, like a collar.

According to the EPA, 80% of what people throw away during the time between Thanksgiving and New Years can actually be recycled.

If you’re anything like us, you have a ton of it around you at this very moment. And its not just gifts unfortunately. It’s packaging.

Before you go and toss that wrapping paper out (chances are, you can’t), take a listen to this helpful video:

The sources of inspiration for jewelry design are endless. Why? Because design itself never stops. Look around you. Your room or office is packed with design and not just those of an interior decorator.

The smallest or most mundane item possesses its own particular design, from the lowly paperclip to a simple ballpoint pen.

Take the following examples. Designer Holly Paxton fashioned a throwaway tag that can also be worn as a brooch.

Now take a look at this below. A corner of candy bar packaging is the inspiration. Who would have thought this little corner of wrapper? [Same designer: Holly Paxton]

The takeaway: the sky’s the limit. Creativity knows no bounds. The simplest object around you possesses its own angles, lines, colors and unique design. Let’s celebrate the simple!

Source: Highsnobiety

Hi Joe,

I don’t think I ever got the chance to thank you for the rings. Of course she loved them. Thanks also for your amazing service.
I attach a picture taken on our wedding day, last October.

Merry Christmas!
M

We can only hope you’ve received a ton of jewelry this holiday and have a slew of jewelry boxes to reuse or upcycle.

But what exactly can be done with your average cardboard jewelry box? What other uses does it contain within?

Here’s a few possibilities for your used jewelry box:

Change keeper. If you still use change in your life (think laundromat or toll booth), a pretty look box holding your change is both practical and pretty.

Board game pieces. Many board game pieces are hopelessly strewn about, especially over the holidays. Keep game pieces in one piece and not underfoot.

Barbie doll suitcases! 

Special treasure boxes. Use for an important lock of hair, a secret note or a first tooth. Write a note to self on the inside of the box.

Reuse for other jewelry. Of course, the obvious answer right? But not just jewelry. Think of other small items, like collectible stamps or pretty buttons that might find a happy home in a previously used jewelry box.

What about you? What ways have you reused or upcycled jewelry boxes?