Call for expert help (888) 724-8222

Happy Stories From our customers

Read testimonials
  • The Best Ring for your Hand Type

    You might gaze longingly at an engagement ring in the window only to find that it’s not as picture perfect when you put it on. Just like clothing should be chosen based on your body type, rings should be purchased according to your hand type. Here are a few pointers:

    Long fingers — Marquise shapes often just make long fingers look even longer. The marquise is a stretched out oblong shape with pointed ends. Pear or oval stones may also not be very flattering on long fingers. Round rings are often the most flattering ring for this finger type.

    Marquise-shaped stone, good for short or wide fingers.

    Short fingers — Round stones can seem to shorten short fingers even further. The marquise shape can help add the illusion of length to short fingers. Pear or teardrop shapes are also usually flattering on short fingers. Big rectangular rings are probably the least flattering as they can overwhelm short fingers.

    Narrow fingers — Heart-shaped or round stones may not be the most flattering ring for a hand with narrow fingers. Thicker band styles of rings may help add horizontal lines to narrow fingers to help them look wider. Wearing rings with small stones may also help thinner fingers look wider.

    Wide fingers — Wider types of marquise styles may flatter short, wide fingers. The idea with wide fingers is not to have two much skin showing on each side of the ring or fingers may look even wider. Round stones in larger settings may look best on this finger type. Cluster-styles may be the most flattering ring on hands with wide fingers.

    Large hands — Rings with small stones may just look lost on large hands. Try larger rings that suit your personality. You may even be able to wear really bulky or chunky ring styles well.

    Heart shaped stone for narrow fingers

  • Luxury Items – In or Out?

    12992407Much has been said over the last year regarding a shift in mentality when it comes to luxury items. As the economy turned, most of us realized that cutting back was a most. The first to go? The bling that you don’t really need. But interestingly, economically challenging times can often have a reverse effect; people need those luxury items – at least occasionally – as a much-needed treat for their efforts at making it through. Also, according to Scott Galloway, media expert, we need to recognize the shift from traditional purchasing to buying online:

    “The death of luxury has been vastly overstated,” Galloway said. “There’s talk about how the next generation doesn’t like to spend money on bling—it’s total rubbish.”

    Galloway, a clinical associate professor of marketing at NYU and founder of digital marketing research firm L2, explained that luxury sales were up 10 percent last year and marketing tools transitioning online.

    “It seems like corporations are lagging the consumer in terms of marketing spent,” he said. His presentation included information gathered by L2’s Digital IQ Index of the luxury market.

    According to the report, 26 percent of media consumption is now on the Internet. “If you’re targeting tomorrow’s consumer and targeting tomorrow’s wealthy consumer, if you’re not on the Internet, you’re missing half of all media consumption.”

    Galloway said the study found that 80 percent of people under the age of 30 that make $100,000 a year are on Facebook every day and 40 percent watch TV every day. “Your influence is twice as likely to be on Facebook than on television. It’s dramatic.”

    L2’s research indicated that the watch and jewelry business had the lowest digital IQ score. Swarovski, Tiffany, Tag Heuer, Longines, and Hublot scored the highest digital IQs among watches and jewelry by utilizing e-commerce, social networking sites, and an increase in digital brand building.

    Rolex, Chopard, and Cartier were ranked the lowest in digital marketing due to lack of social media presence.

    “People aren’t spending as much time on RalphLauren.com as they are on Ralph Lauren’s Facebook page,” said Galloway.

    Source: JCK

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1H2-2LrGasw

  • Jeanne’s Mickey 2

  • Helzberg Diamond Lawsuit

    Diamonds cut with precisely aligned and optimally proportioned facets produce a fascinating pattern called Hearts & Arrows (H&A), a visual phenomenon that appears in the finest Ideal Cut diamonds when viewed through a gemscope.

    Diamonds may be forever but forever is a long time; lawsuits happen. As in this case, where the customer didn’t get exactly what she expected.

    A Helzberg Diamonds customer is accusing the jewelry chain of deception.

    Sara Khaliki of California, in a lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court in Kansas City, alleges she was deceived when she bought jewelry that was part of the Helzberg Diamond Collection.

    She said the jewelry was supposed to have used a distinctive hearts and arrows cut for the diamonds, in a pattern of eight symmetrical arrows and hearts that appears under magnification. The cut typically commands a premium price.

    The lawsuit contends that from 2005 to 2010 the collection instead used princess diamonds that used a different pattern and proportions that typically require less skill to cut and cost less. Nevertheless, the diamonds in the collection were still sold as having the hearts and arrows pattern, the lawsuit alleges.

    The change to the princess cut, according to the lawsuit, was to boost profits.

    Helzberg officials did not return calls requesting a response to the lawsuit.

    The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages and class-action status to represent what it alleges are the “thousands” of people who were victims of the deceptive practice.

    The 234-store Helzberg chain, based in North Kansas City, is owned by Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway Inc.

    Read more: http://www.kansascity.com/2011/01/04/2561541/lawsuit-accuses-helzberg-diamonds.html#ixzz1ABOvLuoy

  • Fashion Don’ts of 2010

    I often find it easier to make a fashion resolution than one I bound not to keep (dieting, exercise more, etc.)

    Let’s review some of the worst fashion choices of the last year as a reminder of what not to do!

    The retro hippie pile-on look - just say no!

    Skintight leopard...only works on rock stars. And even that's debateable.

    Don't be a high-heeled furball. And really...who wears fur anymore? It's cool to be concerned.

    The boots and socks thing...nope.

    Dresses in the daytime - and various-size and age models being shown in big magazines like Glamour! Finally.

    High-waisted jeans...egad. They've been a "no" for a long time.

    Sweats with heels and...well, you decide!

    Source: Glamour Magazine

  • RM Pave Halo Engagement Ring

  • 2011 Jewelry Trends – a Look Forward

    Did you ever make a fashion resolution for the New Year? It’s more fun than dieting or being kinder to your neighbors!

    Here’s a quick look at some of the trends for the upcoming year thanks to FashionStyleMe, to give you some ideas:

    To ensure that your look does not get stereotyped, it is important that you diversify your jewelry collection and include some in vogue pieces that can be paired with various outfits and worn on various occasions. If you like experimenting with different jewelry pieces, you will have great fun mixing and matching the jewelry trends for Fall/Winter 2011. Some of these are listed below:

    layered jewelry trend 2011

    Go bold with statement jewelry that is available in bright colors and comprises mostly of chunky pieces. The keyword while choosing these pieces is that they should stand out rather than blend with the outfit. Go for extra-large bracelets, shiny danglers for ears, flashy necklaces.

    metal jewelry trend 2011

    Metal jewelry has also made a splashy return on the fashion runways this winter. However, do not confuse this with classical pieces made of gold or silver. Instead go for jewelry pieces made of lightweight metals that are available in shiny white and yellowish hues. The structured pieces are a major hit as they look quite beautiful composition wise. However, you can also go for oversized metal jewelry available in angular and asymmetrical shapes.

    more the better jewelry trend 2011

    If you are a fan of motifs in jewelry, now is your time to show them off as strong motifs are being used by jewelry designers across the world. Do not hesitate to mix and match various elements such as animal motifs, floral motifs and religious motifs. Simply combine these pieces in such a way that they create a unique look to complement your ensemble.

    square bangles trend 2011

    The fringe is back in fashion this winter season and it is no longer restricted to adorning outfits, handbags and shoes. This style can be seen in jewelry pieces as well that are quite a craze this season, thanks to similar pieces being worn by celebrities on the red carpet. Another hot jewelry trend this season is the layered necklaces. To carry off this look you need to exercise greater caution in the selection of your outfit rather than the jewelry.

    statement jewelry trend 2011

    Do not forget to invest in a few square bangles this season. These are a must have for every fashionista. Those who are in love with chunky rings can flaunt huge Retro inspired rings that not only look great but are easy on the pocket as well.

    strong motifs jewerly trend 2011

  • Reasonably Priced Fashion Advice for New Year’s Eve

    Just when you think you got past one holiday, another is right there! When will it end? Well, soon enough. In the meantime, take a look at these great fashion suggestions at amazing prices:

    New Year’s Eve is all about going all in with silver, sequins, pretty dresses and high heels! Here are three party looks under $200 that will make your New Year’s Eve party festive and fun! Which look is the right one for you?

    For more New Year’s Eve inspiration take a look at last year’s looks (there is really no need to follow trends to look good on an occasion like this) or these holiday looks inspired by Serena van der Woodsen and Blair Waldorf!

    PRODUCT INFO

    This outfit is for the diva in you. It has the perfect amount of the silvery/icy feel that is perfect for a white winter New Year’s Eve. You are guaranteed to stand out at any party in this outfit that is probably a bit too much any other day of the year! If you’re looking for something that will set you apart from the rest of the group and something that will make you feel like a princess, this is the look for you!

    PRODUCT INFO

    This sophisticated and elegant, yet glamorous and chic outfit is perfect for any girl who loves elegant dresses! In this outfit you will wow everyone with your classy and feminine look!

    PRODUCT INFO

    The city chic look is for the rock chicks who like the effortless Kate Moss style. This look is festive, yet casual and and effortless! The sequined pink blouse makes it festive and feminine while the leather -look pants make it edgy and rock n’ roll!

    Source: Fashion Style Advice

    Here are some perfect pieces to add some extra dazzle to your outfit:

    Save 30% Now!! Round Moissanite Oval Cluster Design Earrings Oval cluster earrings with approximately 1 7/8ct t.w. (dia equiv) Charles and Colvard created round moissanite. Available in 14kt white gold only.

    Save 30% Now!! Round Moissanite Oval Cluster Design Necklace Oval cluster pendant with approximately 1 1/3ct t.w. (dia equiv) Charles and Colvard created round moissanite set on an 18" cable chain. Available in 14kt white gold only.

  • Online Holiday Shopping Continues to Increase

    No surprises this year, as the Internet becomes an increasingly popular and easy way to send gifts over the holidays. Not only because of the ease factor, but a wider selection if offered overall. Think about it: you may have a handful of stores in your viscinity in which to shop, but the Internet opens up a whole world – quite literally. Sites like Ten Thousand Villages, a fair trade retailer, offer you the  chance to purchase from merchants in small villages in Africa or Vietnam.

    SpendingPulse, a report from MasterCard, pegged the year-over-year rise at 15.4 percent. The report, released this week and covering the period from October 31 to December 24, looks at sales in the MasterCard payment network and combines those figures with survey-derived estimates of non-credit-card purchases.

    According to the report, apparel sales led the field among e-commerce categories, a sign, perhaps, that shoppers are becoming more comfortable with buying clothing sight unseen. Electronics also made a showing, and jewelry managed to log an increase as well.

    In general, the results show that the Web seems to be continuing on its way to becoming as American as apple pie–or the shopping mall. Though according to various sources online sales still make up only 10 percent of all purchases, that seems likely to change.

    “Today e-commerce accounts for a much larger share of overall retail sales compared to a few years ago,” Michael McNamara, vice president for MasterCard Advisors SpendingPulse, said in a statement. “And during this holiday season, it registered double-digit growth for six out of seven weeks.”

    The SpendingPulse report said that this year, the Monday after Thanksgiving saw $999.3 million in e-commerce receipts, a 25.3 percent increase over that same day last year. And six days in this year’s holiday shopping season saw online sales of more than $1 billion, compared with three days in 2009.

    ComScore served up its own batch of figures this week, with its report covering November 1 through December 20 and based on surveys of consumers. The analytics company reported a 12 percent increase in e-commerce spending during that time frame versus the same frame last year.

    In a statement, ComScore Chairman Gian Fulgoni said a 17 percent year-over-year rise in e-commerce receipts during the last weekend before Christmas “capped the heaviest online spending week of all time at $5.5 billion.”

    The company also singled out other significant dates:

    • Thanksgiving Day totals rose 28 percent over last year,
    • Cyber Monday (November 29) logged a 16 percent rise,
    • Free Shipping Day (December 17) saw a whopping 61 percent growth figure,
    • and Black Friday (November 26) saw a 9 percent increase year over year.

    A report last month from Coremetrics, which derives its data differently from ComScore, put the Black Friday figure at 16 percent. That report also pointed to the increasing importance of mobile devices and social-networking sites in the e-commerce cyberscape.”We’re watching online retail, and increasingly social media and mobile, become the growth engines for retailers everywhere, as consumers embrace online shopping not only for its ease and convenience, but as a primary means of researching goods and services,” John Squire, Coremetrics’ chief strategy officer, said in a statement at the time.

    Read more: http://news.cnet.com/8301-1023_3-20026608-93.html#ixzz19JzySf97

  • Tip Suggestions over the Holiday

    During a recent visit to a hair stylist, I found myself in a quandry: Am I supposed to tip Kathy a bit more during this time of the year? I did. Then I ran into my mailman later in the day. Do I give him a little something? What about the trash guys? And if so, how much? I did a little research and found this.

    • Shampoo Girl $10.00
    • Manicurist/pedicurist $15.00 and up (usually whatever the price is of a basic service like a plain manicure – in fancy salons, consider giving more)
    • Hairdresser/stylist $15.00 and up (usually whatever the price is of a basic service like a hair cut – in fancy salons, consider giving more)
    • Mail carrier $10.00 for just showing up – more if he actually does helpful stuff like pay for the missing 33 cent stamp on your credit card bill envelope
    • Doorman/concierge $50 to $100 – and could be much higher depending on the building and the clientele.
    • Household help A cleaner (whether through a service or independent) who comes weekly or biweekly should get an amount roughly equal to what he gets paid each time he works for you.
    • Nanny or babysitter Full time nannies expect a generous gift – often approaching or equal to a week’s pay. Babysitters should see anywhere between an extra $20.00 to $50.00 depending on where you live, how often she works for you and how desperate you are for her to sit on New Years Eve. Be generous with pet-sitters as well, but not to the magnitude of human sitters.
    • Newspaper delivery boy (weekly) $10.00 for just showing up – more if he actually does helpful stuff like bring the newspaper up your driveway rather than tossing it in a snowdrift.
    • Newspaper delivery boy (daily) If you haven’t tipped him or her on a monthly basis, between $25 and $50

    This may seem like a bit much (a few did to me!) but figure it this way: spread out over the year, it’s not much at all. Often we don’t realize  how much people contribute to our day-to-day existence. And while they often get paid for their services, if they do them well, it’s really nice to show them some extra acknowledgment. Besides, it just feels really good.

    Thanks for the advice, Party 411! Here’s a virtual tip for your solid tipping advice!