Astrein's Jewelers Blog

Anatomy of a Diamond

2012-08-29T06:59:00.003-07:00

Moving on to the second of the big C's: Clarity. No argument here, we all want a crystal clear, sparkling diamond. They don't call it 'ice' for nothing. Do they still call it that? Regardless, clarity is probably the most well known and most obvious of the four C's. Here's a little bit more about it.

Diamonds are found in nature, so its no wonder they may have natural blemishes and inclusions. Some of those, however, aren't even visible to the naked eye. Blemishes are surface flaws such as scratches, while inclusions are entities such as air bubbles and other minerals trapped within the diamond. Diamonds, like people, are unique. And therefore have individual qualities. Make sure you ask your jeweler to point out any flaws in your diamond before purchasing. They may not be noticeable at all.

And in case you were wondering, The Krupp Diamond (pictured above) also known as the Elizabeth Taylor Diamond, is 33.19 carat Asscher cut diamond, gifted to her by then-husband, Richard Burton, in 1968. It sold at auction last year for $8,818,500 and is said to be internally flawless.

Snapshots at Astrein's

2012-08-28T06:18:00.000-07:00

The Fabulous Finds Sale is still going on! Get a beautiful piece right now at 1/2 off.

This gorgeous art deco inspired 14k rose and white gold necklace is made up of 139 diamonds at 1.85 carats. It retails for $4035 and is on sale for $2018. We think you'd find an excuse to wear it daily.

The same goes for this black and white diamond and 14k white gold pendant. 118 black and white diamonds and 1.30 carats. Retail $1885 on sale for $942

If dainty jewelry is more your thing (or you can't realistically go to work dripping in diamonds) scoop up the sweet and petite 14kt yellow gold flower earrings with a tiny diamond bud center! Retail price $379, Astrein's 1/2 off price $189!

*All sale prices shown before sales tax

Anatomy of a Diamond

2012-08-14T15:24:00.003-07:00

Planning to invest? Get more bang for your buck by reading up on the 4C's of diamonds.

Ever wonder what makes a good diamond? We've all heard about carats, but there is a lot more to a diamond's value than its size. The 4C's of diamonds: Cut, Clarity, Carat, and Color, all make up the identity, and the total value of each stone. Have you ever seen a large diamond that appears a foggy, grey, or even spotted up close? It could be that gem is in serious need of a good cleaning, or because some people will give a little in the color or clarity area in order to afford a larger diamond - while others, prefer a smaller size, but a flawless stone.

To start off, here's a closer look at the first big C: Cut.

Here is another side-by-side comparison of an ideal cut diamond vs. one cut too deep or too shallow.

Read a little about diamond quality and familiarize yourself with the terms. You don't need to be an expert; a good jeweler will point out diamond differences and flaws to you in person. But a little light reading beforehand will get you way ahead of the game.

Astrein's Fabulous Finds!

2012-08-04T09:20:00.000-07:00

The holidays may still be a few months off but you won't need an excuse to shop this sale!

It's Astrein's Fabulous Finds sale: We have a HUGE selection of gorgeous pieces at 50% off! Check out just a few of the pieces here. We have an incredible selection of fine jewelry: beautiful gold and diamond pieces, beautiful bracelets, and delicate drop earrings.

Treat yourself now, and get gorgeous - without the guilt!

The Best in Birmingham!

2012-06-28T14:31:00.001-07:00

Birmingham Patch is a website devoted to, you guessed it, all things Birmingham. Community news, events, and happenings can all be found in one place. The Patch is taking votes for the Best Jewelry Store in Birmingham. Now through July 9 you can place your vote (for us, please!) by leaving a it in the comments section.

Check out Birmingham Patch, and all its local knowledge and don't forget to vote for us here!

The Ruth Ellis Center

2012-06-20T08:29:00.003-07:00

Gary & Jody attended a fundraiser for the Ruth Ellis Center in Highland Park. The event took place at the David Whitney Building downtown (isn't it gorgeous?). Chefs from around the city served an amazing dinner with wine matching while funds were raised for this much-needed organization.

The Ruth Ellis Center provides long and short-term safe space and support services for runaway, homeless, and at-risk LGBTQ youth in Detroit and surrounding southeastern Michigan.

Laura Hughes (center) is the executive director of the Ruth Ellis Center.

According to the Ruth Ellis Center website, up to an estimated 800 homeless LGBT youth are on the streets every day, in Detroit alone. Visit the website to read more about this incredible organization and find out how you can get involved. Also, visit their Facebook page.

A little thank you

2012-06-18T06:06:00.003-07:00

GIVEAWAY TIME

As promised, here is the gorgeous bracelet we're giving away this month! It's a sterling silver cuff with an intricate pattern, and as you know, diamonds throughout. Maybe you've seen it on the site? Year round gorgeousness that will look good with everything. Wear it alone or stack it with other wrist bits and pieces. And for the gentlemen: what special someone wouldn't love being gifted this?

All you have to do is:

Like us on Facebook

-- You'll gain access to an exclusive coupon code just for liking us. Go to the "Your Gift" tab under our cover photo.

Join our mailing list (we promise, no spam!)

-- You'll know of sales events and exclusive deals before everyone else. In addition, you'll receive a $25 gift card to Astrein's towards a purchase of $250, just for signing up.

Leave a comment

-- Leave a comment under this post and let us know what you think of the giveaway!

(If you've already liked us or joined our mailing list, just skip that step!)

That's it! One winner will be chosen at random and announced on Sunday, July 1st!

*no purchase necessary*

FREE STUFF!!

2012-06-13T06:27:00.000-07:00

Who says you don't get somethin' for nothin'?

Join our mailing list and get a free $25 gift card just for signing up. No, you read that right. In addition to getting said $25 off, you'll be amongst the first to know about exclusive deals, and store sales events!

And don't forget to "Like" us on Facebook for access to coupon codes, industry news, community happenings, and fun giveaways.

Not your grandmother's pearls

2012-05-19T13:35:00.000-07:00

Warm weather means espadrilles, cute shorts, and (these days) cropped tops. It also means in with the fun, lightweight summertime jewelry!

This month's A-list Must Have of the Month is the adorable Pearls by the Yard necklace. A sterling silver cable link chain with 27 tiny white pearls. 16″-18″ length.

Pearls are no longer for tea time and bouffants - grandma's favorite accessory has gotten a major update! Wear a single strand for a delicate, ladylike look, a 'la Angelina Jolie, or layer tens of strands for a night out - think, "What Would Madonna Do?"

Long or short, delicate or chunky, and running the gamut of colors, pearls are back in a big way. And no matter how they're worn, they ooze elegance, romance, and an all-around, pulled togetherness. Let's face it; some days we need all the help we can get. Channel your inner Audrey Hepburn, slip on a strand, and feel just a little bit classier. And with the Pearls by the Yard A-list price of $49, you don't have to have to break the bank to do so.

Necklaces not your thing? Check out the gorgeous pearl earrings and bracelets in stock.

And the winner is...

2012-05-10T09:09:00.000-07:00

As you know, we're been one of the proud members of the Birmingham Jewelers Association and have been participating in the Annual High School Jewelry Competition that began in April. The awards ceremony was held on Monday at the Birmingham Community House. You voted for your favorite pieces and the results are in!

Congratulations, Ellie!

Ellie won first place for her gorgeous piece entitled, "Upside Down Becomes Right Side Up"

Here are some photos from the night's events

Some of our fellow Jewelers of Birmingham members

Some of the talented high school students

Photos courtesy of the Jewelers of Birmingham

Congratulations to all the students - We look forward to this competition every year, and the entries were truly inspiring.

2012-04-23T08:06:00.000-07:00

The High School Jewelry Competition entries are now on display!

Stop by the Jewelers of Birmingham stores to see the local high school student jewelry pieces now on display! As we mentioned, we are a member of the Jewelers of Birmingham and have been participating in this event since 2006. It is a great way to showcase local student talent and support area high schools.

Local high school juniors and seniors submit their original jewelry pieces for a chance to win $500, $250, and $100 prizes. Pieces are displayed in Birmingham jewelry stores from April 18 - May 2, with the awards ceremony on May 7 at the Birmingham Community House.

Come by and see some of the amazing pieces designed and created by talented local students, support the arts, and vote for your favorite!

Here are the 4 pieces on display at Astrein's

Amazing, right?

"Ring" by Alex Eaton

"Carribean Conch" by Tara Van Cleave

Honorable Mention "Flower Bouquet" by Mollie Hansen

"Necklace" by Stefan Withrow

The 2012 Michigan Humane Society Bow Wow Brunch

2012-04-15T09:10:00.003-07:00

Tickets to the 23rd Annual Michigan Humane Society Bow Wow Brunch are on sale!

Hurry and reserve your tickets to this amazing event. Proceeds from the sale will go towards the continuation of providing services to animals in need: finding homes, veterinary care, community outreach, and sterilization services. The Michigan Humane Society's (MHS) goal is to eradicate animal homelessness, and with help, we believe we will get there.

The Bow Wow Brunch is on Sunday, April 29th and begins at 11:30 a.m. at the Dearborn Inn, with a champagne reception. Other events include a gourmet brunch, silent auction, and live auction. And of course the event wouldn't be complete without our furry friends; there will also be a chance to get to know some of MHS's adoptable animals. We donated a sterling silver cuff bracelet so participate in the auctions for your chance to own a beautiful piece and contribute to the cause.

Tickets to the Bow Wow Brunch begin at $200 and seating is limited. To reserve your tickets, call 1-866-MHUMANE

Or you can purchase them online here

Here are a few photos from last year's event from the MHS website

Read more about the Bow Wow Brunch and the Michigan Humane Society here.

Come Out and Support Local Student Art

2012-04-09T08:07:00.002-07:00

It's time for the Annual High School Jewelry Competition!

We're a member of the Jewelers of Birmingham organization and we've participated in this student competition since 2006. Local high school juniors and seniors submit their original jewelry pieces for a chance to win $500, $250, and $100 prizes. Pieces are displayed in Birmingham jewelry stores from April 18 - May 2, with the awards ceremony on May 7 at the Birmingham Community House. Best part? You get to vote for your favorite design! We're betting each piece is nothing short of amazing, but you can vote for your personal fave anyway.

Come by and see some of the amazing pieces designed and created by talented local students, support the arts, and vote for your favorite!

The Astreins and the President

2012-03-13T11:25:00.002-07:00

Did you know, back in November, Former President, Bill Clinton was in Detroit to deliver the keynote speech at a Beaumont Hospitals Annual Society Dinner? If not, you aren't alone; it was a private event.

But, guess who did score an invite?

Amazing!

Debbie and Richard were at the big event and met Bill. The event marked a 7-year long campaign that resulted in over $170 million dollars in contributions for the hospital system. Richard and Gary have long been involved in fundraising for Beaumont; one of these fundraisers in particular: Stars and Guitars which benefits pediatric oncology research with Dr. Charles Main. Richard was even named the 2011 Business Person of the Year by the Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber (BBC) for his dedication to the community.

You can read all about Bill's big night in the D

And you can learn about annual giving and donate directly to Beaumont

'Tis the Season to be Generous!

2011-11-18T13:58:00.001-08:00

With the holiday season upon us, it marks the perfect time to give our thanks and spread a little joy to others who may be less fortunate. Making a charitable donation not only gives you that instant warm, fuzzy feeling, but it also more importantly, changes someone’s life forever.

For the past 37 years, Astrein’s Jewelers has been making a difference in the lives of children and adults by generously donating to numerous charities and foundations in the Metro Detroit area.

Some of their most recent charitable gifts include:

Men’s Bulova Watch, donated to the National Kidney Foundation (www.kidney.org)

Sterling Silver Bracelet, donated to Leader Dogs for the Blind (www.leaderdog.org)

White Gold Key Pendant and Diamond Bangle, both among the several items donated to the Stars Guitars Event(www.starsguitars.org)

For this holiday season, consider making a donation to your favorite charity and helping someone else’s Thanksgiving and Christmas be a little more merry and bright. In addition to giving the perfect necklace or watch to that someone special, make a contribution to a charity in his or her name; it could be the start of a new Christmas tradition. Remember, you have to give a little to get a little!

For more information or to learn how to donate to the mentioned charities, visit the websites listed above. Also read below for other charities to make contributions to this holiday season.

*Kids Kicking Cancer (www.powerpeacepurpose.com)

*Michigan Aids Coalition (www.michiganaidscoalition.org)

*Toys for Tots (www.toysfortots.org)

*Make-A-Wish Foundation of Michigan (www.wishmich.org)

*The Heat and Warmth Fund (www.thawfund.org)

Astrein's at the Smart Jewelry Show in Chicago

2011-04-06T19:31:00.000-07:00

You might have noticed co-owner Gary Astrein wasn't working his usual Saturday shift at the store this past weekend. That's because he was busy scouting for new jewelry at the Smart Jewelry Show in Chicago! Every few months, Gary travels the country to attend jewelry shows looking for the most unique and creative designs in the industry that he thinks will be perfect for our Astrein's customers. If the Chicago show is any indication, there's lots of beautiful jewels to look forward to in 2011!

Sizing up rings at the Simon G booth

He made sure to stop by the booths of some designers he's known for many years, like Simon G. But he also sought out young up-and-coming jewelry makers as well as international brands that he just recently discovered like Breuning, a German brand.

Will you see this Breuning necklace in our store this Summer?

Be on the lookout for many new pieces to come this Spring and Summer! We can't wait for you to see everything Gary brought back to Birmingham!

Gary with his wife Jody, who's trying on a pair of diamond drop earrings.

Astrein's Jewelers Voted Best of Detroit!

2011-03-27T18:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Spring Everyone!

We want to give a BIG thank you to all of our wonderful customers for voting Astrein's the Best Jewelry Store in Metro Detroit for the sixth time! Throughout the years, we've been fully dedicated to providing you high quality jewelry along with the best service and the most knowledgeable staff. We appreciate your continued loyalty and support for our local family-owned business.

Here's the great write-up that was featured in Real Detroit newspaper:

Best Jewelry Store – Astrein's

"Astrein's has been a Birmingham staple revered for their excellent customer service and sparkly goods. Owned for 30 years by Richard and Gary Astrein, the store offers both classic and contemporary goods. Diamonds, gemstones and other precious and exceptional treasures are waiting for you. Astrein's also encourages patrons to revive older jewelry that could use a little reinterpretation and new twist. Bring them something you're no longer loving and they will transform it into your favorite jewelry piece."

via http://www.realdetroitweekly.com/detroit/best-of-detroit-2011-shopping/Content?oid=1456098

The New Unique "Black Diamond" Is The New Rage

2010-10-27T15:25:00.000-07:00

If you have not seen a Black Diamond.

You've got to stop by and see for yourself what the appeal is.

Sometimes known as the black beauty of diamonds, the craze just seems to be exploding.

A diamond itself makes a statement and when it's a "black diamond" the effect is stunning.

Black Diamonds are used in necklace's, bracelets or even as an engagement ring.

With Halloween upon us - come see for yourself the allure of the "Black Diamond"

Under $300 Must Have of the Month: Flower & Leather Bracelet

2010-09-12T14:13:00.000-07:00

It should come as no surprise that the first Astrein's "Under $300 Must Have of the Month" is our Flower & Leather Bracelet. With white round brilliant cut diamonds set in sterling silver, this piece makes a statement on your wrist. We're loving the combination of the "tough girl" leather bands with the delicate details of the flower. Whether you dress it up or keep it casual with jeans and a t-shirt, we think this bracelet will complement any look!

Right now the Flower & Leather Bracelet is featured in the Astrein's A-List Collection, and it's on SALE!

We hope you enjoy our blog! Check back here to learn about new products, events, features, discounts, and more! Be sure to also visit our brand new website at Astreins.com.