Happy Stories From our customers

The Wittelsbach diamond, a 35.56-carat fancy deep grayish-blue diamond with a long history, was among the gems slated for auction at Christie’s “Jewels: The London Sale” last month. What was the asking price? Read on:

Officially known as “Der Blaue Wittelsbacher,” the diamond is one of the few that can claim 17th-century heritage.

In 1664, King Philip IV of Spain (1605-1665) selected the diamond as part of the dowry of his daughter, Infanta Margarita Teresa (1651-1673), upon her engagement to Leopold I of Austria (1640-1705), who later became Holy Roman Emperor.

The diamond subsequently became part of the Austrian and then the Bavarian crown jewels.

The diamond has been part of a private collection since 1964, and its appearance at the upcoming Christie’s auction marks its first offering to the international market in nearly 80 years.

“It is a great honor and a lifetime dream to handle a museum-quality stone such as the Wittelsbach,” said Francois Curiel, chairman of Christie’s Europe and international head of jewelry. “The appearance of a large blue diamond, among the rarest of colors, with a history that can be traced back to the 17th century and 300 years of royal connections will surely be a thrilling occasion for all collectors of exceedingly rare jewels and works of art.”

So what did the historic diamond go for? How about a record-setting $24.3 million! Recession? What recession?

“In the midst of these challenging times, we were thrilled to achieve an historic price for an historic diamond,” said Francois Curiel, chairman of Christie’s Europe and auctioneer for Wednesday’s sale.

The previous sales record was a mere $16.5 million for a 100-carat diamond in 1995.

Source: National Jeweler

Jewelry Insider

The debate continues: when a consumer is informed about the very real ecological and political dangers associated with mined diamonds, will he or she purchase a diamond or choose a diamond alternative?

This recent study shows that slowly but surely, people’s minds are changing:

Paso Robles, Calif.–A new consumer survey conducted by MVI Marketing’s Jewelry Consumer Opinion Council (JCOC) showed that a small but significant percentage of respondents have decided to snub mined diamonds, and an even greater percentage are planning to seek out “created diamond” alternatives.

According to a release from the JCOC, the council conducted a study called “Consumer Perceptions of Created Diamond Alternatives,” which was completed by 1,478 JCOC panel members between the dates of Dec. 26 and Dec. 31, 2009.

The study exposed survey-takers to some brief introductory information about the concerns surrounding diamonds and why those concerns have prompted some consumers to choose created diamond alternatives, including lab-grown diamonds and diamond simulants, instead.

“Mined diamonds are mined from deep in the earth,” a concept introduction provided to survey-takers said. “This has some environmentalists concerned about the destructive nature of mining and the chemicals used. Others are concerned about profits from illicit diamond mining being used to fund the purchase of arms in war-torn countries and contributing towards human suffering. Because of these issues, many people have opted for created diamond alternatives available in fine jewelry instead of mined diamonds.”

The JCOC release said that after learning about issues related to mined diamonds, a majority of respondents have taken actions that indicate they may be buying fewer mined diamonds in the future.

According to the study, 11 percent of those who participated said they have decided not to purchase or request jewelry crafted of mined diamonds.

Eight percent said they won’t give mined diamonds as a gift and 18 percent reported that they have made family or friends aware of the issues.

A total of 16 percent of survey-takers said they seek created diamond alternatives when looking for jewelry.

“Clearly consumers are becoming more aware of the challenges faced in the mining of diamonds,” MVI Chief Executive Officer Mart Hurwitz said in the release. “It is only natural for the consumer to consider man-made alternatives if their concerns about those challenges grow.”

Source: National Jeweler

Moissanite, in our opinion, is a phenomenal product – highly comparable to diamonds – and exceeding in some characteristics. We sell moissanite because we recognize this societal shift and the importance in finding a diamond alternative for people concerned with global issues.

Style 645MR

Classic Tiffany Style Round Moissanite Solitaire

Round Tiffany style solitaire engagement ring with Charles and Colvard created moissanite.

Ran across this great video of Jill and Kevin’s wedding. Looks like they had a lot of fun dancing down the isle! Check it out.

And, they have been gracious enough to use the publicity they’ve generated with this video to support the Sheila Wellstone Institute to help stop domestic violence. Check out their website.

It can often be intimidating when entering a jewelry store. There’s a common language you need to understand to make the most of your purchase. Here at Joseph  Schubach Jewelers, we’re able to personally advise you if you visit our showroom in Scottsdale, Arizona or give you advice on the phone or via email.

Here’s a few definitions you might want to familiarize yourself with:

Cut

This refers to the actual cut of a gemstone, which includes both its basic shape (teardrop, pear, etc.) and the actual style and quality of the work itself. Because cut can have such a dramatic effect on a stone’s clarity and color exhibition, it can also affect its price.

The most common cutting techniques are tumbling, drilling, lapping, grinding, sawing, sanding and polishing.

Tumbling

By placing a gemstone in a rotating tumbler filled with water and chemical or natural stone abrasives, this technique polishes the stone to define its shape. Modern techniques also include contemporary vibrating machines.

Drilling

Drilling allows the cutter to drill a hole through or into a stone, and the tools are either actual rotating drills or high-tech ultrasonic.

Lapping

The lap is a lapidary’s, or stone cutter’s, most essential tool. The lap is a flat disk that creates flat surfaces on a stone by either vibrating or rotating very quickly.

Grinding

Using diamond and silicon carbide grinding wheels, gemstones are ground into a form and particular shape.

Sawing

Using a steel or copper blade enhanced with a diamond grit edge, sawing allows the cutter to make hard cuts. Oil or water is used in this technique to prevent the stone and the blade from overheating.

Sanding

Like grinding, but with finer abrasive substances, sanding is often a finer follow-up that allows the gem worker to remove cosmetic scratches and polish the stone’s surface.

Clarity

The clarity of a stone refers to its translucency and subsequent absence of flaws. Flaws like blemishes, which appear on the surface, and inclusions, which are internal feathers or fissures, can affect the stone’s clarity and subsequently its value.

When a jeweler refers to a stone’s clarity, he or she is referring to the abundance or lack of flaws within the stone.

Carat

Carat is a term that simply refers to a stone’s weight. Except for pearls and corals, all gems are weighed in carats. It’s important to remember that carat is a measurement of weight and not size. A one-carat ruby is going to be differently sized than a one-carat diamond.

Source: JewelryFashionDesign.com

As moissanite climbs the ranks in popularity with those interested in a quality product with an eco-friendly slant, we wonder whether its just an indicator of a troubled economy or a sign that shoppers are developing different preferences at this point in our history.

Here’s an excerpt from JCK Online with CEO Randy McCullough of Charles & Colvard:

There has been a lot of confusion over whether moissanite should be marketed as a diamond substitute or its own product. Where do you stand on that?

Nothing is a substitute for a diamond. I don’t care what anybody says. There is no person in the world that wouldn’t rather own a diamond. If that changes, something is wrong with the world. But not everyone can afford a diamond.

So moissanite is a great alternative. Everyone wants the experience of wearing two carats on their ears. With moissanite, they can do that. It’s an affordable luxury experience.

Here are a few of our top moissanite sellers:

Rose Gold Diamond and Pink Moissanite Ring

Stunning, delicate 14kt rose gold engagement ring set with a 1.0ct (dia equiv) Charles and Colvard created round moissanite color enhanced to spring pink surrounded by 1/3ct t.w. white diamonds. Matching earrings also available.

Style 7064M

Antique Style Filigree Moissanite Bracelet

Antique style filigree bracelet with Charles and Colvard created moissanite. 3/16″ wide and the standard 7″ long.

Available Total Weight: 3.60ct t.w.

(above) Cultured Diamond Pendant

Yes, it’s a long way off. But it’s alright to take a little peak! As our economy slowly, slowly picks back up, we see hints of that same optimism in the fashion trends for this Spring.

American designers showing their Spring 2010 collections at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in New York this fall have responded to the shift in the economy by using bold colors in comforting, familiar silhouettes, or creating eye-catching one-of-a-kind pieces that are completely irresistible.

Key design directions include the layering of sheer fabrics, more distinct color blocking, cut outs and splicing of angular panels, asymmetrical lines, acid wash, and mixing textures and patterns in a fresh patchwork. Dresses, tops and jackets pay homage to the back, promoting a “look as good going as coming” attitude—with some designers spinning two diverse looks front and back.

“But the fashion constant has been and always will be color,” hails Nina Garcia, fashion director Marie Claire and Lifetime’s “Project Runway” judge. “There’s nothing like a vibrant hue of royal purple or golden yellow to make us feel optimistic and hopeful for the future.”

Color is one of the most essential elements each season as it triggers the emotional ‘buy me’ reaction. But now more than ever, women are vigilant in their spending. “Instead of reinventing their wardrobe each season, consumers want pieces to complement what they own,” tells Leatrice Eiseman, executive director Pantone Color Institute. “Pairing a bold color with a basic piece or freshening up a look with bright accents addresses the needs for practicality and fun.”

Source: AGTA

Luckily, we’re right on track, when it comes to color and affordability. Our Gemesis cultured diamond pieces are eye-catching and warming to any wardrobe. Wear a little positivity today….you deserve it!

Example of a Semi-Custom Ring

This is a great example of how you can take a standard, stock item and customize it to make an affordable, completely unique, one of a kind item just for you.

Our client came to us with a design idea they found. The original design had an antique style with a pink center stone, pave set side diamonds and rose gold accents. It is made from a white metal, probably platinum. Our customer wanted a ring created that incorporated these main elements – and fit into his budget.

Now we’re not certain what the inspirational ring cost but by looking at the size of the baguette side diamonds alone, we figure it must be well into the tens of thousands of dollars. It’s a beautiful piece but more than likely a little out of range for most people.

This is where our semi-custom jewelry design fits in. We were able to take a standard, stock item and customize it to give the look and feel of our customer’s original idea and fit it into his budget.

For this piece we started with a 14kt white gold casting. We set moissanite stones down the sides of the shank and small diamonds on the halo surrounding the center stone. The white gold prongs were replaced with rose gold prongs. We then opened up the side gallery slightly and added rose gold filigree scrolls for a subtle two tone accent.  To finish the piece, we set a cushion cut lab grown pink sapphire as the main, center stone.

As for the final verdict from the customer?

“Hi Joe, thanks very much for the fantastic job on Cher’s ring.  She absolutely loves it!!!!”

Music to our ears!

Customer Design Idea
Create a ring with an antique style, pave set side diamonds, a pink center stone and rose gold accents.

Inspiration for the Original Design Idea

The Stock Ring We Started With

Semi Finished Casting

The Finished Piece

The Finished Design

The fashion you wear should ultimately flatter and enhance your existing skin, hair and eye color. Most of us can quickly name the colors that we definitely can’t wear. When it comes to jewelry, the same applies.

According to one fashion expert:

Those of you with light-colored eyes will look best in earrings augmented by cool-toned gemstones with a blue or green hue, such as Blue Topaz, Opal, Turquoise, Ocean Sky, Jade, Green Quartz, Aventurine or Peridot.

Those of you with dark eyes will look best in earrings augmented by warm-toned gemstones with a reddish or golden hue, such as the Carnelian, Citrine, Champagne, or even the purplish Amethyst.

Below, a human eye color chart…amazing that there is so much variation!

We’re often asked how our business is faring in a trying economy. And there’s no easy answer to that question. Overall, we’ve maintained because we have a loyal customer base who’ve come to depend on our stellar service and high-tiered craftsmanship.We realize the importance of fostering our relationships with our customers…and after three generations, we think our formula works.

Looking at the jewelry market overall, you’ll find some mixed news, such as this Wall Street Journal piece:

Consumer electronics products were strong sellers in December, rising 7.3%, SpendingPulse said. Luxury merchandise, excluding jewelry, grew 5.5%, turning positive after a 7.3% decline in November, and jewelry sales rose 6.9%, their fourth consecutive monthly gain, SpendingPulse said.Still, high-end items are not capturing the most consumer dollars. Discount mass merchants like Costco Wholesale Corp. (COST) and BJ’s Wholesale Club Inc. (BJ) are again expected to show the most comparable-store growth for December, at 3.9%, while teen and children’s apparel retailers are pegged for the biggest decline, at 4.3%, Thomson Reuters said.

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. (WMT) is part of the mass merchant group, but will not be reporting same-store sales after halting the practice last year. Jefferies Group feels the nation’s biggest retailer had strong December results. Wal-Mart delivered a “clear holiday sales message, combined with more aggressive pricing and easier comparisons” that produced a low-single-digit percentage gain, putting Jefferies’ quarter-to-date estimate toward the upper end of Wal-Mart’s forecast for a 1% gain to a 1% drop.

So we’re seeing a little hope on the horizon, economically speaking. People are beginning to buy again, slowly but surely. At Joseph Schubach Jewelers, we realize budgets are tight and can find you a piece tailor-made to fit your checkbook. You name the price, we name the piece – it’s that simple.

Check out these earrings below. These are a phenomenal deal and a store favorite:

Save 60% Now! Martini Style Moissanite Earrings

Martini style three prong earrings with Charles and Colvard created round moissanite.

SAVE 60% while supplies last.

2.50ct t.w. (dia equiv) Reg. $1649 Now $659.60

Use Coupon Code “Discount60” at checkout.

Come on, wake up that groggy brain of yours! It’s Monday. Time to expand your mind, increase your knowledge and get some work done.

Jewelry has a vast and amazing history across the world, signifying so much more than adornment.Here’s some bite-sized pieces of jewelry info so you’re a little more “in the know”:

The word Jewelry is derived from the Latin word jocale, meaning “plaything,” and the word jewel, which was anglicised in the 13th century from the Old French word jouel. The word “jewelry” (spelled Jewellery in European English) is used to describe any piece of precious material (gemstones, noble metals, etc.) used to adorn one’s self.

Jewelry in its most basic form has been used since the dawn of of man’s use of tools and clothing. Researchers believed that the ability to use symbolism did not develop until humans had migrated to Europe 35,000 to 40,000 years ago. Recently discovered mollusk shells that had been perforated to be made into beads are now thought to be some of the oldest known man-made Jewelry.

Used as a symbol of wealth and/or status as well as to protect against harm, ward of evil, and heal ailments, jewelry was used to adorn nearly every part of the body and has been made out of almost every material known to mankind.

Source: The History of Jewelry