With Fathers day looming this weekend, I genuinely look forward to handmade cards, bottles of cheap aftershave and more importantly the time spent with my children. A day celebrated the world over to mark the man of the house as an important addition rather than leaving the house untidy and getting in the way!

With young girls currently pulling at my shirt tails I sometimes cast my eyes forward to a day when they may be married, where I hand them over to their new found partner, to love and take care of them. I can imagine a wonderful but also sad day for most fathers.

“Having him walk you down the isle is the most rewarding role a father could ever have”
- Simply Bridal

An important role for your wedding
Our friends at www.simplybridal.com have put together a great info graphic below to remind you how you can keep your father-figure involved in your wedding day. Having him walk you down the isle is the most rewarding job a father could ever have. Give your dad an important role at your wedding to show that your affection and respect for him.

Want to shout out about your awesome dad, father in law or someone that filled that role for you? comment below. We’d love to hear from you

Article Author
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This post was created by resident writer Stephen Irvine Design and Marketing consultant for Luxury Brands and visionary in Jewellery Animation and photography
Image courtesy of Simply Bridal Check them out for a fantastic affordable range of wedding dresses. All rights reserved.

The post Honouring Fathers day appeared first on Jewellery Monthly - Jewellery news, articles, blog, education.

Absolute perfection.

Flawless nature and pure beauty. We’ve tried to find one word for all these adjectives. And we came up with DIAMONDS. These pearls are metastable allotropes of carbon with strong covalent bonding between its atoms. In order for a diamond to form in natural condition, it requires high pressure carbon-bearing materials exposure between 900 – 1 300 °C [conditions that can be found only in two places on earth: in lithosphere and at the site of a meteorite strike. As a matter a fact, diamond crystals are brought closer to earth’s surface through volcanic activity.]. Roughly speaking.

But, where do they come from?

It’s been said that diamonds have been mined [for the first time] somewhere in India along the Penner, Krishna or Godavari rivers. And more than 3 000 years have passed since then, but their true popularity has risen in the 19th century because of their usage in engraving tools that have led to economical growth in the entire world. Moreover, alongside the Orange River from South Africa, immense diamond mines were discovered in 1867 and then boom. [Practically, the earliest written proof of diamonds’ existence dates back to ca. 500 B.C.] All the financiers and business people saw a glimpse. The investments that came afterwards were huge, yet endangered and the diamonds’ price depended entirely on their scarcity.

“The soul is placed in the body like a rough diamond,
and must be polished, or the luster of it will never appear.”

DANIEL DEFOE
English trader, writer, journalist, most famous for his Robinson Crusoe novel [ca. 1660 – 24 April 1731]

The American investigative journalist [and Harvard professor] Edward Jay Epstein said in his 1982 Have You Ever Tried to Sell a Diamond? article that “the diamond invention is far more than a monopoly for fixing diamond prices; it is a mechanism for converting tiny crystals of carbon into universally recognized tokens of wealth, power, and romance”. The word “diamond” comes from “proper”, “unalterable”, “unbreakable” ancient Greek descriptions. In order to gain “the hardest material on Earth” title [actually, it’s only a myth that diamonds are 58 times stronger than anything else that exists in nature, Aggregated Diamond Nanorods (ADNRs or “hyperdiamond”), heated carbon fullerene molecules, is 11% harder than a diamond], diamonds have to check the purity, crystalline perfection and orientation attributes first. Their hardness is higher as they get near flawlessness.

 “Diamonds are intrinsically worthless,
except for the deep psychological need they fill.”

Nicky Oppenheimer
[Chairman at De Beers, one of the biggest companies of Mining and trading of diamonds, founded in 1888]

In their pure state, diamonds have no colour, but the rarest ones are blue or red as opposed to the most common yellow and brown coloured. When it comes to countries and their diamonds, Russia produces the biggest volume in the world while Botswana is first in value of diamonds. North America can produce 12% of the total diamond production [on earth] because of the Ekati Mine and others from Canada. There is no surprise that America is the largest diamond market even though the U.S. produces almost no diamonds.

Many companies now mine diamonds across the world with over 50% coming from Africa. Only 20% of rough diamonds are good enough to be polished and used for items such as rings, earings and necklaces.

There are four stages the diamond must go through before it reaches the market place.

1. Mining.
2. Rough Diamonds Reach the Market Place.
3. Manufacturing the Diamond.
4. Selling the Diamond.

Below is a video with much more information on this subject.

Article Author
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This post was created by the jewellery monthly team
Main image supplied by Lionsorbet ltd Images of Diamonds for Jewellery Marketing.

The post Where do diamonds come from? appeared first on Jewellery Monthly - Jewellery news, articles, blog, education.

The Diamond

The diamond is usually considered the pinnacle of gemstones, and is used often in engagement rings. Because of the brilliance of the stone and its ability to reflect light, the diamond represents a speck of sunlight. Taking this celestial light and placing on the hand of a loved one displays the lengths to which the giver is willing to go for the recipient.

The Sapphire Gemstone

The sapphire is commonly associated with royalty. In past times it was believed to support the earth and cause the blue hue of the sky. In times both past and present, the sapphire has been chosen by many world leaders because of its symbolic meaning.

Red Ruby Gemstone

The ruby is often considered the most powerful of gemstones. It symbolizes power and leadership, along with the potential to become a great leader. In addition, because of its red color, it is commonly used to symbolize love or passion.

Green Emerald Gemstone

Emeralds have been seen by many cultures as the embodiment of nature, life, and beauty. A quality emerald can be more expensive per carat than a diamond, but can easily crack due to a high number of inclusions found in the stone. The value, yet fragility of the stone makes it a perfect symbol of life and beauty.

The desirable Pearl

The pearl has long been associated with both luck and wisdom. Wearing pearls is said to bring luck both in love and in financial dealings. In addition, many depictions of ancient dragons, seen as the wisest of creatures, show them either wearing or surrounded by pearls. The combination of wisdom and luck makes the pearl an excellent choice for any occasion.

If the occasion for the gift is a birthday, a sapphire might be a way to convey the appreciation for the person’s birth and to remind them of their heritage. If the gift is for a graduation, a string of pearls speaks volumes as to the giver’s expectations and hopes for the recipient’s future life. And of course, one can never go wrong when giving a diamond or ruby as a Valentine’s Day, wedding, or anniversary gift to show deep and abiding love. Being careful in selecting a gemstone that matches the intended message truly displays a high level of appreciation for the person. By so doing, the gift instantly receives sentimental value to compound its monetary worth.

Article Author
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This post was created by the jewellery monthly team

The post The Sentimental Meaning of Gemstones in Jewellery appeared first on Jewellery Monthly - Jewellery news, articles, blog, education.

So you have plans to humiliate your wife to be in front of thousands of people? Maybe you have ideas to pop the question at the next big football game, live on TV, or at the annual beer festival.

The last thing your princess wants to see is you bending down on one knee with a microphone in your hand. Romance? There shall be none!

2) Propose without a ring or something stupid instead of the actual ring.

Your finances prevent the purchase of a ring but can’t wait to pop the question? What’s the rush? if you think she is the one and you want to spend the rest of your life with the woman of your dreams, then save up and wait for the perfect purchase.

Presenting her with a ring made of Lego or a plastic gemstone might work for some, but for others you may as well buy her a mini sausage roll from the local superstore and place it on her ring finger with a starry glint in your eye. The force will not be strong today.

3) Hide the engagement ring in food.

Ok I hear you…. You think its a great idea to place the diamond ring in a glass of champagne or wedge it in her mash potato. Honestly, You would be better off putting the ring over a crinkled chip and presenting it to her before you sat down for something to eat.

Imagine finding that new designer watch you always wanted, caked in your Sunday dinner gravy. Priceless.

4) In front of her family.

You did the crazy sneaky thing and got the whole family together and told them your plans to marry their daughter? Ow, look at you looking all great in front of her Mum and Dad. You pop the question while she stands there with a big red face.

Even if she said yes, its just one of those #awkward moments

5) In or on a tourist attraction.

Top of the Eiffel tower, the London Eye when it reaches the top, outside the Walt Disney castle on the next holiday trip?…. I hear your cries, but gentlemen, please refrain your fantasy ideas and think of something a little more unique.

The last thing your petal cake wants to see is the Lion king and Donald duck waltzing past while you’re down on one knee shouting at her over the sounds of fairy music “WILL YOU MARRY ME”. Even the children will laugh at you on this day.

6) Propose too early in the relationship.

Your heart pounds at the mere sight of her, you look forward to spending time with your new cup cake, you love her wit, her sarcasm and the way she makes you laugh. This is it, she is the one, she is a keeper……. Calm down there sunshine, its only been 2 weeks into the relationship.

The last thing you want is to let your feelings run away with you. Take your time and steady your stride. You are the cool cat, own that dream. Propose now and you could put her off, maybe she is not ready to peer that far into the future yet. The force is strong here but you’re not a Jedi yet.

7) Expect an immediate answer.

Once you do propose and she doesn’t give you an answer straight away, don’t worry, calm down and don’t take this as a sign of rejection. Give her time to think things over and settle her mind into what could be. Ask her once and leave it at that.

Or maybe just keep asking her all day and all night until she gives into your weeping man cries. Yeah we’ve all seen that movie Ghost…

8) Buy a cheap engagement ring and pretend its worth a fortune.

Skint? seen that engagement ring on the high street superstore that you can buy for £99. But it’s solid silver with a Cubic Zirconia stone. It looks real and I can pass it off as being all real like.

A real diamond ring comes with a certified certificate, will be beautifully boxed and comes with an insurance recommendation for a replacement cost. Don’t make a fool of yourself in the long run. Path to the dark side this is.

9) Use an old ring from an ex girlfriend.

The ex girlfriend took her ring off and threw it back at you sometime ago. You kept it and have decided to pass it on. Please, let me stop you there. Would you accept her ex husbands old wedding ring? No, I didn’t think so.

Sell it to “We buy any gold” Get her a nice new one.

10) Over the phone, email, text message, video, or social networks.

Why would you even consider any of these? A proposal should be intimate, close and personal. You are presenting one of the most beautiful feelings that you can share with someone else for the rest of your life.

If your game console or lord of the rings box set is just way more important and saying it by text seems appropriate maybe you should wait a while until you’ve grown up a bit.

11) Expect her to pop the question to you.

I know its the 21st century and things are changing fast, but lets not let the estrogen hormone override the testosterone fuelled warlords that make us man. Well not yet anyway…..

Come on guys, lets keep that tradition alive and do the worthy thing and make the woman of your dreams feel like a princess today…

Let us know your worst proposals or even best ones. How did your man make you feel special or guys how did your proposal backfire. We all love a laugh.

Article Author
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This post was created by resident writer David Irvine a web and media specialist at www.lionsorbet.com

The post 11 ways how NOT to propose – A Gentleman’s Guide appeared first on Jewellery Monthly - Jewellery news, articles, blog, education.

We love finding new and inspirational designers here at Jewellery Monthly and being big twitter users over @jewelrymonthly I was introduced to Susanna’s work by a chance RT which led me to browse her website and collections.  What captured me first was the unusual style of the designs;  rough and unpolished surfaces providing a welcome break from the smooth, unblemished finishes we have become accustomed to. Some set with Diamonds, colourful gemstones or pearls, others left to cast your eyes or fingers along their rugged, weathered surfaces. A visual treat for any jewellery fan.

Edinburgh based Jeweller, Susanna explains that

“All my pieces are handmade and one-off pieces, usually using silver and gold combinations. In one of my latest collections ARRESTING I also include bronze, copper and brass”

With no formal training, Susanna is entirely self-taught which I find even more inspirational. The quality of her work, photography and knowledge of her craft is that of a well practised artist.

” I just love what I do, making something beautiful that hopefully means a lot to the customer”

Susanna talks with passion about her collections: “For the RIVDA collection I try to use unusual stones to make the rings truly unique, the MISU collection features diamonds, pearls and precious and semi-precious stones. I love special commissions and try to source stones for customers, or use their own and rework old, unloved pieces. Apart from bold statement pieces, I also have easy to wear collections such as BLOBS and NUGGET”

Susanna’s work speaks for itself.  Her designs stand out from the crowd, offering a beautiful array of considered designs with imperfections that only add to the quality and uniqueness of her work.

Browse Susanna’s online store at:  www.susannahanl.com and buy something new today.

Article Author
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This post was created by resident writer Stephen Irvine Design and Marketing consultant and visionary in Jewellery Animation and photography

All images and media provided with thanks from Susanna Hanl who holds full copyright to their use and distribution. Images edited by Jewellery monthly.

The post Jewellery by Susanna Hanl – Individual & Unique appeared first on Jewellery Monthly - Jewellery news, articles, blog, education.

Before getting into the exciting part of kneeling down and crossing your fingers from behind hoping that your lady would say yes, choosing the perfect type of ring for your bride-to-be does matter. There are many types of engagement rings for women which can be found in the market. However, you can make it extra special by customizing it to fit specifically her. Many jewellery websites like www.77diamonds.com offer classic, hand crafted rings made by skilled jewellers. There, you can find intricate pieces made from different kinds of stones such as and metals in which you can choose for your bride to be. Some of the popular rings are listed below.

Gemstone rings

These bands are famous for several reasons. Events such as birthdays, wedding engagement, or anniversaries are the main occasions in which this ring is bought for. Gemstones like diamonds and beryl are usually used as stones in these rings/band.

Eternity rings

These rings have more than one type of diamonds that are embedded in the piece that surrounds your finger. There are different set/patterns such as bar set, pave set, bezel set, and channel set.

Solitaire rings

These rings indicate that a woman is bound to be married soon. A solitaire ring has been in style due to the western cultural influences. Its thin band is embedded with small diamonds which makes the whole ring elegant. Solitaire rings are beginning to be the most sought after rings for all engagement occasions.

Three stone rings

These rings are not only elegant but also the most recommended type to those who are looking for elegant rings with reasonable price. Its diamond cuts are varying. Some include round, princess, emerald, etc. There are some exquisite shapes available such as marquis, oval, heart, radiant, triangle and cushion for this type.

Silver rings

For those who are with limited finance, silver rings are most recommended. These rings are perfect with white and lacy dresses which women normally worn during events such as engagement parties and weddings

Tell us your favourite style

Let us know what your favourite type is.  Do you prefer diamonds, gemstones, single stones or intricate, engraved designs? Leave a comment below and share with our readers.

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This post was created by the jewellery monthly team

The post Engagement Rings That Men Should be Aware of appeared first on Jewellery Monthly - Jewellery news, articles, blog, education.