Happy Stories From our customers

Humans. We’re weird animals. We’re the only living creature that feels the need to adorn our bodies. And it’s been going on for some time. How long? Oh just 75,000 years – give or take a centuries.

Jewelry was not only used for adornment but protection. Certain stones and natural objects were endowed with magical powers that could heal the sick or protect the hunter or keep the sky from falling (really bad thunderstorms concerned our ancient relatives!)

The next time you choose a piece of jewelry, think in terms of its power and what you want your new heirloom to represent. Perhaps it signifies ever-lasting love. Or good luck. Or protection. Or wholeness.

Whatever you decide, remember, jewelry is a powerful form of adornment. Buy or better yet, design a piece, with that in mind! Whether its moissanite or natural diamonds or Gemesis or sapphires or rubies – all gems and metals possess a certain energy, shaped by your desires and wishes.

The oldest jewelry recorded in history is made of tiny Mollusk Nassarius kraussianus. Scientist discovered that primitive humans used this tiny mollusk as beads to decorate themselves.

Sizing your ring finger correctly is key to a happy relationship between you and your new work of art. A ring that doesn’t fit correctly is more likely to fall off or simply be a constant nuisance. Take the time to do it correctly with the tips below:

• Find a piece of string or strip of paper no wider than 3/4 inch. Wrap it around the base of the appropriate ring finger. Use a pen to mark the point on the string/paper where it overlaps, forming a complete circle. With a ruler with millimeters (mm), measure the length from the starting end of the string/paper to the pen mark. This is your ring size in millimeters. Now use the chart below to determine your ring size.

Some more tips?

• • Don’t measure cold fingers, as this is when fingers are their smallest.

• • For the most accurate reading, measure the finger at the end of the day when the finger is the largest.

• • If you’re buying the ring as a surprise, ask your partner’s mother or a friend if they know the finger size.

• • Borrow one of your partners rings and slide it down a tapered candle. Then measure according to the chart above.

And here’s a ring that fits any woman’s heart:

Style 9193MR

Round Moissanite Ring With Two Side Baguettes

This delicately styled, hand made classic has a round Charles and Colvard created moissanite and a .21ct baguette moissanite on each side.

Available Moissanite Total Weight: 1.42ct-2.42ct

Call for Platinum Pricing

Moissanite or Gemesis can take the place of diamonds. Even Cubic Zirconia will do. When you create your own vintage piece of wedding jewelry, you don’t need to stick to tradition that much! It’s a new day and age. Eco-conscious people in the know understand that they can get their million dollar look for a fraction of the cost. At Joseph Schubach Jewelers, we can create an heirloom from the materials (and price) you choose.

And let’s not forget actual vintage pieces. Your grandmother’s wedding ring saves you and your spouse much needed moola while adding history to your nuptials.

Here are some genuine vintage engagement rings:

Most of us don’t think in terms of jewelry “fitting” our body type. Sure, we think that way when it comes to choosing bathing suits or pants…but earrings? Well, sure! Earrings that don’t match our face size can overpower or underwhelm.

Here are a few hints so you can choose a pair that suits you and that beautiful visage of yours!

Best Earrings for the Round Face Shape

Oval, square and long dangling earrings are the best match for the classic round face shape, since these draw attention to the cheekbones and jawline and can balance out a wider forehead. Round face shapes should avoid hoops of all sizes, since these can make the face look heavier and less sculpted.

Earrings for the Heart-Shaped Face

Tear drop earrings that fall just a couple of inches below the ear lobe and medium sized hoops are the best match for heart-shaped faces. Earrings in bold designs and bright colors will draw attention to the cheekbones, and work well with this face shape and an updo hairstyle. Avoid wearing studs or miniature hoops, since these can create a rounder or ‘chubbier’ appearance around the cheeks and jawline.

Best Earrings for the Long-Shaped Face

Chandelier earrings and small drop earrings are the best picks for those with long faces, since these will draw attention to the cheekbones and can help fill out the face. Avoid long and skinny earrings that fall at the jawline, since these will further elongate the face.

Earrings for the Oval-Shaped Face

Long, oversized dangling earrings are the best match for the oval face shape, but this ‘ideal’ face shape can get away with almost any type of earring design. Spiraled earrings, medium sized hoops and teardrop earrings are a good match by day, and the longer lengths work well with an updo for a glamorous touch.

Best Earrings for the Square-Shaped Face

Long tear drop earrings and oversized round hoops are the best match for square shaped face, especially if they fall right near the jawline. Square shaped faces need to be balanced with round, oversized earrings, so you can get away with large hoops or chandelier earrings by day or night.

Earrings for the Diamond Face Shape

The diamond face shape is already fairly balanced, so you’ll want to wear earrings that are simple and classic in design. Small drop earrings that fall right near the chin line are ideal for evening outfits, and small studs or hoops that fall right under the ear lobe are the best match for the day.

In our personal opinion, solitaires work for just about any face size. If you want to be sure a “right for all occasions and outfits” earrings, take a look at these. Whether its natural diamond, moissanite of Gemesis, solitaires shine brilliantly any time, any face size.

Style 1177MS-2.10ct

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)

Oprah Winfrey – one of the most influential women in the entertainment history…and beyond! Her fashion choices matter. Every day, the average woman “checks in” with her look to see what Oprah’s wearing…and how they can wear it more affordably!

At Joseph Schubach Jewelers, we’re happy to take a celebrity look and make it distinctly your own. If there’s a pair of earrings on Oprah (or a necklace on Madonna or a ring on Beyonce) that you long for, but is out of your budget, we can make a piece tailor made for you…and your wallet!

Here’s a look at some of Oprah’s earrings, for ideas:

Joseph Schubach Jewelers can create pieces made in your mind’s eye: from a stunning moissanite solitaire necklace to a heirloom-inspired engagement ring. We’re in step with any current jewelry trends as well, such as the very “in” charm bracelets.

Charms are all the rage this season, popularized by pop star Gwen Stefani. Though of course, they’ve been in vogue for quite some time.

According to one Victorian website:

Queen Victoria may also get the lion’s share of credit for popularizing the charm bracelet and charm necklace, as we know it. She had a series of charms designed and produced to give as gifts to her extended family and circle of friends every New Year.

In 1861, Prince Albert died, and again Queen Victoria influenced the direction of jewelry design and production. She went into permanent mourning- only wearing black clothing and black jewelry for the rest of her life.

For several years all of England followed her example. Jet, a fossilized driftwood, suddenly became the material of choice for jewelry.  And what a stroke of luck that was for the good people of Whitby, on the coast of Yorkshire. They were sitting on the finest Jet deposits of the world. Carved Jet chains, Jet Crosses, Jet pins and earrings – indeed every style heretofore offered in colorful gems, glass and metal, were now produced in Jet.

Victorian double strand of jet beads and an ivory cherub brooch worn by Her Royal Highness. The Princess Louise, Marchioness of Lorne. She was the 4th of Queen Victoria’s daughters.

It’s arrived in its typical splendor and fashion. Summer. Time to show a little more skin and dress with a little more pizazz and color. Put your beige and navy blues aside and let some brighter hues shine through.

The “bigger is better” trend still continues when it comes to jewelry. It’s time to find a piece that really shows off. Subtly is for another day! This summer, find a piece that showcases all that Mother Nature has to offer: bright, blooming jewelry that practically grows on you!

According to one expert:

Charms, Charms, Charms

As sleeve lengths become shorter and necks become more exposed, expect to see necks and wrists dripping with colorful charms. Taking a lead from such celebrities as Gwen Stefani, charms are a way to express your individuality and your personal interests. Whether you wear a bracelet or necklace with a few carefully selected charms or chains overloaded with them, they’re sure to make a statement this year.

Silver

With the economy in the doldrums, a flash of silver adds a touch of brightness. Gold may be out of most people’s price range, but silver is still an affordable option. You can also expect to see silver mixed with other metals including brass, copper, and gold-filled for a fun and affordable jewelry alternative. Oxidized silver will give a slightly vintage look will be seen. The good news? Silver is timeless and never really goes out of style.

A Natural Touch

Although bright colors will dominate, stylish trendsetters still want their jewelry to have a natural, organic touch. Think natural beads and gemstones such as turquoise, jade, and coral for a splash of color straight from Mother Nature. A newer natural material that will be showcased in necklace and bracelet creations is bamboo which is the new “wood” for spring. Don’t forget about the standard semiprecious stones such as onyx. If it’s natural, it’s in for spring and summer 2009.

Botanicals

This is another play on nature. You can expect to see nature blooming on the wrists, ears, and necks of fashion forward women this spring and summer. Leaf and floral themed pendants and charm will bring fashion closer to nature while adding an elegant touch to spring fashions.

Drama

Jewelry for summer 2009 is anything but demure. If you can’t afford to make a statement with a new designer outfit, you can at least layer on the necklaces and bracelets for high impact. Expect to see multiple eclectic necklaces and bracelets worn on wrists and necks, creating visual drama. What better way to express yourself?

Focus on the Wrists

If you want to make a strong fashion statement this season, rediscover your wrists. From jewelery cuffs to bold bangles, wrists and arms will be in the spotlight. “Arm candy” is an inexpensive way to update your spring and summer wardrobe for 2009. Think statement making!

With so much jewelry excitement, you can quickly update your wardrobe without spending a fortune this year and still step out in style.

Here’s a Joseph Schubach Jeweler piece de resistance from our Joe Jeweler line that simply screams summer:

Style 7380GM

Yellow Gemesis Sun Pendant

“Sun” pendant with a 1/3ct Gemesis cultured diamond with fancy yellow or orange color, and .14ct t.w. natural round pave’ set diamonds. The pendant sits on a 16″ black rubber cord with a 14kt gold clasp. Approximately 5/8″ tall.

Available Metal: 14kt White Gold, Yellow Gold And Platinum
Available Stone Size: 1/3ct

Oh, the big rock! Many of us think a big, stunning diamond is the only way to go. But is it right for you? Let’s address the “bigger is better” myth for a second:

1. Consider your personality. Are you an extroverted type? Do you really like the “wow” factor? Then maybe a big diamond (or moissanite or Gemesis) is perfect for you, so you can dazzle with the best of them.

2. Consider your style. Are you an understated dresser? Or do your fashion choices scream, “Look at me!” A ring will be something you’ll be wearing for a long, long time. While a big ring looks great while showing it off to friends, it may not be appropriate for the long haul.

3. Quality counts for me than size. There are many large stones out there that have no life to them. Or they may be poorly cut. Or have visible inclusions. A subtle, smaller gem may speak more loudly than a big, ol rock.

4. Setting counts more. You can often have a big diamond feel on an appropriate setting. Diamond shapes such as marquise, pear shapes and oval can exude a larger feel, especially when set properly.

5. Diamond Alternatives. If you simply must have that big experience (but don’t have such a big budget to match it), you’ve never been luckier than now. There are fantastic alternative such as moissanite and Gemesis that are affordable and “wow”able!

All of these factors – and more – come into play when purchasing a piece of jewelry. Big gems may impress…but they may not be right for you. Or perhaps you can have a big rock experience based on a smart cut and setting choice. Bottom line: wowing people is great but a ring needs to match you and your soul. Then it’s a big ring, no matter what!

Here’s a ring of ours, where the simplicity and clean cut speak volumes:

Style 9915-7.5mm

Round Solitaire Engagement Ring With Pave Diamonds

Four prong solitaire engagement ring with 1/10ct t.w. pave’ diamonds. Fits an 7.5mm round center stone. (setting only, does not include center stone)

While statement pieces have been all the rage this last year, it’s important to realize when you’ve overdone it! Many of these statement pieces, for instance, are meant to to standalone – meaning that piece and that piece only! Not only do you muddy the look of your central piece when you add too many extras, you also resemble a 3-ring circus desperately in need of a ring leader!

Here are some sage words of wisdom from Heather Edden, a specialist in the field:

Jewelry is one of the more commonly thought of accessories but there are simple rules that should be remembered with jewelry. There are classic pieces which everyone should have gold hoops and pearls. Pearls are especially important because they can go with most anything. A nice string of pearls can be used to make casual outfits look classier. Also remember when accessorizing with jewelry do not drown yourself in it. If you wear a thick/large necklace avoid wearing large hanging earrings, settle for simple studs instead. Like wise if you do decide to wear large earrings wear a thin chain or avoid a necklace all together and show off your natural neckline. The same can be said for wearing bracelets, though bangles are fun too many of them just becomes distracting. Remember pearls and diamonds go great with black, think Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Also pay attention to accents and buttons in your clothing. If the outfit you are wearing has gold buttons or accents try to wear gold jewelry with the same finish.

Here is a classic of ours that goes with just about anything:

Freshwater Pearls – 8.5mm – 11.5mm

Freshwater pearls, 17″ with 14kt yellow gold clasp

8.5mm-9.5mm: Now $299
9.5mm-10.5mm: Now $399
10.5mm-11.5mm: Now $499

Here’s a great story about Mr. and Mrs. Marzec who live in St Petersburg. Mrs. Marzec, who is 88 years old, was a seamstress for the famed New York City designer Adolfo and worked on such famous items of clothing as the red dress and hat that Nancy Reagan wore to her husband’s first innauguration. This wonderful story showcases how Mrs. Marzec’s ring was lost and later returned to her and what her wedding band means to her. It’s a great read.