You’ve seen them before (well, at least in photos) but…

How much do you know about gold bars?

Well just because we’re experts in custom design doesn’t mean we know either. So after a little research, we’ve discovered:

• A gold bar (also called gold bullion or a gold ingot) is a quantity of refined metallic gold of any shape that is made by a bar producer meeting standard conditions of manufacture, labeling and record keeping.
• Gold bars are categorized as either cast or minted (see image below), with both differing in their appearance and price. Cast bars are created in a similar method to that of ingots whereas molten gold is poured into a bar-shaped mold and left to solidify.
• When molten gold is poured into bar shapes, it often results in malformed bars with uneven surfaces which, even though imperfect, make each bar unique and easier to identify.
• To prevent bars from being stolen or counterfeited, manufacturers have developed methods to verify genuine bars, such as branding bars with registered serial numbers or providing a certificate of authenticity. 

If you want to learn more about gold bars, you could buy one. A 400 ounce gold bar costs more than $500,000…maybe looking at pictures is better ; )

A minted bar (left) and a cast bar (right)

We’ve shared several videos over the years on the topic of necklace layering (or stacking) but many have commented that when they do it themselves, it can look “too much” or “clumsy.”

This video shares advice for those who are looking for subtler layering techniques so you don’t feel like Mr. T ; )

On the heels of finishing yet another stainless steel custom jewelry ring design, we must say: we’re impressed with the dazzling end result. The metal is white in appearance which adds a level of urban appeal and vividness.

Stainless steel in custom design offers several other benefits:

Affordability. This modest metal is more affordable than gold or silver yet ultra durable.

Easy maintenance. Stainless steel is a hardy metal and doesn’t require careful attention, like gold or silver. It also outperforms gold or silver when it comes to durability. It’s a powerful alloy that can withstand serious wear and tear. This ultimately means a bigger return of investment.

Allergy-free. More people are becoming aware of metal allergies. Luckily stainless steel is hypoallergenic and extremely safe to wear.

According to WGSN (Worth Global Style Network), this modest metal is gaining popularity through “industrial beauty” and “post-nature” designs.

Jen, I received my ring and it is beyond expectation. Thank you for all your help. It was a pleasure to work with you on my project.

Sincerest gratitude,

Laura

What is the Gold Market?

The Gold Market refers to the buying and and selling of gold worldwide. Gold has been used as a trading commodity for over a thousand years. Even today, its essential value makes it a smart choice for moving wealth internationally and investing long term.

How is the Gold Marketing Currently Doing?

Currently, the gold market is expressing minor gains. U.S. gold jewelry sales rose only 1% in the first quarter of 2019, possible due to the prolonged government shutdown.

A recent report states that “the prolonged government shutdown hit demand in January, as demonstrated by a drop in gold jewelry imports that month.”

This was the ninth quarter in a row that U.S. gold jewelry sales have expressed year-on-year growth, although the 1% amount is less than the 4% recorded in the final quarter of last year.

According to JCK:

“The higher-end jewelry segment remains robust,” the report said. “And independent retailers in more affluent and/or Hispanic-dominated areas reported a strong quarter.”

But the numbers weren’t as good from mass-market retailers, which are “less resilient,” according to the WGC report.

The United States is the world’s third-largest gold jewelry market.