Happy Stories From our customers

We’ve covered smart jewelry for years here at Joseph Schubach Jewelers. And while we’re amazed by their ever-increasing life-tracking abilities, we’re not often as impressed by their aesthetic appeal. Often bulky or just plain awkward looking, smart jewelry can be the nerd of fashion.

But this comprehensive and well-written article by Ars Technica details the progress smart jewelry has made, not only in relation to its technological capabilities but (for us, as importantly) its appearance. Finally, these pieces are getting smaller, more subtle and (yes, its true!) well designed.

Below, an example:

Bellabeat’s Leaf activity tracker will likely appeal to nature-lovers at first glance. The device’s design mimics a minimalist plant with a metal leaf-shaped case surrounding the activity tracking module.

Undoubtedly you’ve heard the expression “a diamond in the rough” but do you know what it truly means?

From a gemological standpoint, a diamond found in nature isn’t particular dazzling. As a matter of fact, it looks like an opaque rock more or less. But after a cutting and polishing process, it becomes something extraordinary.

How does it apply to we humanoids? Well, just like diamonds, someone might appear quite ordinary at first glance. Nothing quite stands out about them. But either over time or with closer examination, something more powerful and beautiful arises.

How are you a diamond in the rough? What qualities of yours remain hidden to the world? Conversely, do you often overlook the hidden qualities of others, not seeing their beauty and power because of preconceived ideas and limited views?

Today, remember that we’re all diamonds the rough to some extent. Dare to shine in spite of personal limitations and insecurities…and dare to see the beauty in others as well!

We talk a lot here about the powerful element of sparkle when it comes to gems. It’s that visual dazzling effect that flies off off a diamond (for instance) when light hits it. But did you know that you can sparkle without the enhancement of jewelry? That’s right: eyes sparkle…but how?

According to body language expert Jack G. Brown:

The primary reason why the eyes “twinkle” is that when there is a momentary partial closure of the lids – this squeezes the tear film (the very thin layer of a highly specialized fluid on the surface of our eyes) into a smaller space – thus this swallow layer of fluid gets “deeper” for a few seconds. This extra “depth” reflects light more effectively – so the eyes appear to twinkle.

And just like gems, the light source is key:

To give the greatest twinkle, light must be positioned behind the viewer (e.g. you). The source of the light may certainly influence the twinkle as well. If it is too bright – as very often is the case – it will cause the pupils to contract – thus detracting from the “twinkle”.  A candle’s light source has the advantage of being dim (so as to engender larger pupils) and dynamic. This constantly changing flicker adds considerably to the twinkle-effect. And you wondered why candles were romantic?!

The takeaway? If you want your eyes to sparkle, be authentic when you laugh and smile…and do so in a dimly lit restaurant!

Men, listen up: buying jewelry for the woman in your life does not need to fill you with crippling anxiety. All it takes is some basic observational skills and a little time. Speaking of which: if you’re short on the latter, watch this quick how-to video which covers any of the basics that we’ve suggested over the years to the clients that have passed through our doors.

Margie!!!!
You are as brilliant as the scintillating diamonds you work with. What a talent you have!
Thank you for this other option. You are really sincere about helping ladies have their dream ring!!!!
K.K.

We all know dressing well sends a powerful message to the world. It’s our shell, our exterior–the first aspect of our personality that everyone sees, before they get to know us on a deeper level. From the clothing you put on to the jewelry you wear, every element sends micro-messages to those around you.

Did you know you can also dress with a particular goal in mind? That’s right. When you think carefully about who you’d like to influence, you can craft an outfit accordingly. How? By reflecting on what your “audience” deems important.

[Note: your “audience” can be anyone, from a potential employer to the man/woman of your dreams.]

Ask yourself these simple questions: who are you talking to and what would make them trust you? Really put yourself in their shoes for a moment then dress accordingly.

Of course, you don’t always want to dress with the “other” in mind but its something to consider when you really want to send a powerful message for certain occasions. T

The beauty of this philosophy? Expense isn’t a factor. Often a simple outfit with understated jewelry can come across as powerfully as anything you’d buy at a spendy boutique.

Many of our clients go through a crash course in understanding jewelry terminology when they’re choosing an engagement or wedding ring. That’s why we write blog posts like this one: a little learnin’ goes a long way!

Today’s lesson? What’s a channel set ring and is it the right choice for your ring?

Rings that are channel set contain what is called “accent gemstones.” These are small gemstones (often diamonds but not always) that are incorporated into the design of the ring and add additional sparkle to the overall look.

“Channel” is used to describe this type of ring because these gemstone accents are placed in channels or rows, formed by two strips of metal. This is done by creating grooves in the metals so the gemstones are held firmly in place.

So who likes a channel set ring?

Someone who likes a real sparkle effect to their ring. And that’s not everyone. Some really like the simplicity and power of the center stone taking the stage and don’t want anything that deviates from it. Others think those accent stones add more to the overall look. Ultimately, its a matter of taste.

Many are concerned that channel set stones will eventually loosen and fall out. That’s where a reputable custom design jeweler comes into play (hint, hint). Channel set stones do need to be set with particular care, so they’re securely in place for the life of the ring ideally.