Because of the name, you might assume that semi-precious stones are of less value than precious stones. But that’s not always the case. Some kinds of semiprecious stones such as opal and jade can sell for higher prices than certain precious stones. Take the Aurora Australis Opal which sold for $1 million dollars in 2004, a price which equated to over $5500 per carat (!).

Gemstones were first placed into categories of “precious stones” and “semiprecious stones” in the mid-1800s. These terms quickly picked up speed and to this day, are commonly used among jewelers and jewelry lovers alike.

Though many people in the jewelry industry feel these terms are limiting, creating an unfair “class” system. Most would naturally assume a precious stone is more valuable than a mere “semi” precious stone. Wouldn’t you?

But these categories will continue to exist so we must adapt.

There are four types of precious stones: diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds. Some consider opal, jade or pearls to be in this category as well, but there’s not worldwide acceptance.

Semiprecious stones include gemstones created from: agate, amber, amethyst, aquamarine, aventurine, chalcedony, chrysocolla, chrysoprase, citrine, garnet, hematite, jade, jasper, jet, kunzite, lapis lazuli, malachite, moonstone, obsidian, onyx, peridot, rhodonite, sunstone, tiger’s eye, tanzanite, topaz, turquoise, tourmaline and even more.

Each semiprecious stone holds its own beauty and desirability.

In short: all stones are precious!

If you’re interested in a custom design piece using a semi-precious or precious stone, contact us and we’ll create a piece that goes beyond your dreams.

We’ve seen many “oh my” moments when our custom design jewelry is unveiled to our clients. But we often miss the “big picture”, like when a client comes up with the idea behind it, reviews the 3D model and suggests changes to make it perfectly unique.

One of our team members and ace production manager, Jen Wood, created this piece for herself. She calls it Golden Girl. This allowed us to  peek behind the curtain and understand each and every phase of the custom design process intimately.

We co-created the custom design, made the 3D print (she wore the print for about two weeks) and fell in love with our Radiance stone. Our entire team had a fantastic time making this. It was really nice to see the stages of excitement firsthand.

Jen created this ring as a self-purchase; a celebration of her accomplishment. She’s a single, hard-working mom and this ring represented a celebration of her accomplishments.

We’re happy to see this trend more and more–women in particular realizing that rings don’t simply represent marriage but a vow to self–a celebration of self ring. If the ring could speak, it would say:

You matter.

I celebrate you.

You’re worth it.

And Jen, you certainly do matter. And we celebrate you too!

If you’re looking for a custom design ring that beautifully represents you, reach out to us. We’re expert at making jewelry dreams come true.

Many of us struggle to remember changing our earrings for the first time. Yet most remember having our ears pierced for the first time, right? Oh yes, at a dismal mall in New Jersey, circa 1980, at the Piercing Pagoda. My mom didn’t know (she believed only a grown woman should have pierced ears. Old school like that). It was a joyous pain, frankly. Like a fashion rite of passage. I hid my aching ears for the next several weeks.

What Activities Dull a Diamond?

A ring is designed to sparkle and look as beautiful as that he held your trembling hands and you said, “I do.” But unfortunately, a ring can lose that initial dazzle over time and wear.

But that’s okay. A ring, like any other investment, needs to be maintained.

Why has my ring lost its sparkle?

A ring can accumulate a build-up of lotion, make-up, hair products and other oily substances that slowly mask the brilliance of your gem. Let’s not forget hair spray, which can also slowly erode gold and dull the surface of diamonds and other gemstones.

Household products can also wreak havoc on jewelry. If those chemicals are strong enough to clean your kitchen floor, imagine what it does to a softer metal like gold?

Most know to remove your ring before you do the dishes, but many women will “sneak” a dish here or there. Don’t. Dishwashing liquid is another powerful detergent that clouds sparkle.

Certain activities can put your ring in jeopardy, like cooking (think oil and flour) and gardening (dirt, sprays, etc.)

To protect your ring, you need to create new habits and stick with them 100%. Remove your jewelry before certain activities; soon, it will be rote. Treat your ring as special as you treat your love: with utmost care!

Keep your ring looking like this

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