The value of a diamond is determined by its cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. While these factors are certainly taken into consideration when determining the quality of a colored gemstone, there is no officially accepted grading system for colored gems. So how can you be sure that the gemstone you’re considering to purchase is...
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Its luster and rarity are what attract so many people to this valuable fine metal, but where exactly does gold come from? Well, believe it or not gold has an extraterrestrial origin. The precious metal commonly used in fine jewelry is formed by cataclysmic stellar explosions called supernovae. A supernova occurs at the end of...
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The vibrant red color and brilliance of rubies are what attract so many people to this precious gemstone. There’s definitely no shortage of interesting facts and folklore surrounding July’s birthstone so we narrowed it down and created our list of the 15 most fascinating facts about rubies. The name ruby comes from the Latin word...
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Their sparkle and overall allure are what attract so many people to this gorgeous gemstone. Even though other precious gemstones such as sapphires and emeralds are becoming more prevalent in engagement rings, diamonds still remain to be the gemstone of choice when it comes to finding the perfect ring to propose with. Anyone can appreciate...
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Trying to search for the perfect engagement ring can be a daunting task, especially if you have no idea what type of engagement ring she wants. You’ll have numerous choices to make when it comes to selecting the perfect engagement ring, so we suggest getting some idea of the type of engagement ring she hopes to...
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Not only are pearls the official birthstone for June, but they are also the recognized celebratory gemstone for the 3rd and 30th anniversaries. Pearls are the only gems in the world that are extracted from living animals. Most often, a pearl is formed when a mollusk secretes a protective substance called nacre around a small bit of organic...
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When you look closely at a piece of gold jewelry, you’ll most likely see a stamp that reads 14K or 18K on it. So what exactly does that mean? Well K stands for karat (not to be confused with a carat, which is the unit of weight used for precious gemstones). A karat, on the other...
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You’ve recently purchased or inherited a lovely piece of jewelry and are unsure whether or not to have it appraised. We recommend our clients have any jewelry piece over $1,000 appraised. If you purchased the piece at a jewelry store, you should always ask for a courtesy appraisal that details all of the important characteristics. If...
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Emeralds are not only the designated birthstone for May, but also the recognized gemstone for the 20th and 35th wedding anniversaries. Like aquamarine, emeralds are a member of the beryl group of minerals and are the most valuable gemstone in this family. The green color found in these gemstones comes from small amounts of chromium or vanadium. Emeralds are thought to improve...
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Engagement ring styles continuously go in and out of style. What’s popular one year might disappear the next. Here are 8 engagement ring trends that we’ve noticed are becoming increasingly popular. Floral accents combine the traditional gift of romance with the ultimate symbol of love while offering charm and elegance to the ring. Elaborate side views create a...
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