Customisation Options for Personalising Your Signet Ring

Customizing a signet ring turns it into more than just jewelry; it becomes a meaningful piece of self-expression. Engraving initials, family crests, or unique designs adds a personal touch, making the ring an extension of one's heritage or story. The choice of metal, from rose gold to platinum, and finishes like matte or brushed, further enhances the individuality of the piece.

For a modern twist, adding colored gemstones or diamonds can elevate the ring's visual appeal and carry symbolic significance. Inside band inscriptions offer a private, meaningful message, making the purchase of a personalised signet ring not just a jewelry decision, but a lasting legacy and personal commitment.

Understanding the Heritage and Resurgence of Signet Rings

Signet rings, dating back to ancient civilizations, have become popular fashion accessories due to their significance and appreciation for artisanal craftsmanship. These rings have become a statement of individuality, a nod to historical traditions, and a statement of individuality. They are sought after by collectors and fashion enthusiasts for their aesthetic and historical value, serving as personal talismans or markers of significant life milestones.

Their versatility, with customisable features that allow for a contemporary twist, has contributed to their popularity in recent years. As fashion evolves, the signet ring remains a timeless staple, reflecting the rich history and craftsmanship of these ancient pieces. The combination of old and new makes signet rings adaptable to modern styles while still bearing the weight of their heritage.

The Significance of Material and Craftsmanship in Signet Rings

A signet ring's material is crucial for its durability and symbolism. Classic gold is known for its warmth and longevity, while silver offers a cooler tone associated with modernity and strength. Contemporary materials like titanium or stainless steel appeal to minimalists. Craftsmanship is another key factor in the quality of a signet ring.

A well-crafted ring with refined edges, detailed engraving, and a comfortable fit is unique. Master jewelers ensure each piece carries the integrity of its lineage. The precision of engravings and polish of the surface give a signet ring its distinctive character. The robust nature of signet rings makes them heirlooms, ensuring they can withstand time and be cherished for generations.

Design Aspects to Consider When Selecting a Signet Ring

A signet ring's design is crucial, with classic shapes like oval and cushion being popular, while geometric shapes like rectangles and squares offer a modern twist. The ring's face can be plain or embossed with a monogram or other personalised elements. The engraving is the heart of a signet ring, making it uniquely yours.

The ring's size and surface area also play a role, with larger faces allowing for intricate engravings and smaller ones for a more understated look. Proportion is key, and profile and shank details also influence the overall design aesthetic. Some wearers prefer bold, hefty profiles, while others prefer a slimmer, more subdued shank for everyday wear.

Tips for Caring and Maintaining Your Signet Ring Investment

A signet ring is a valuable investment that requires proper care and maintenance to maintain its beauty and integrity. Regular cleaning with appropriate solutions can prevent skin oil buildup and tarnish the surface. It is advised to remove the ring during manual tasks and strenuous activities to protect it from scratches.

When not in use, store it in a fabric-lined box or soft pouch. Avoid harsh chemicals like chlorine or household cleaners, as they can damage the metal. Gentle handling during wear and storage minimizes the risk of dents and deformation. For daily wear, periodic professional inspections are recommended to check for wear and tear, secure stones, and provide professional cleaning, ensuring the ring's longevity.

Overall, the journey to choosing and caring for the perfect signet ring is one of extensive consideration and personal reflection. By understanding its rich history, recognizing the importance of craftsmanship, pondering design elements, exploring customisation options, and adopting proper maintenance practices, you can ensure your signet ring remains a cherished emblem of personal legacy and timeless style.

The Ancient Origins of Engagement Rings

The custom of exchanging rings as symbols of love and commitment can be traced back as far as ancient Egypt. Archaeologists have found evidence of rings made from materials such as hemp, reeds, or bone. These early rings were simple and relatively inexpensive, and they were worn on the fourth finger of the left hand, where the Egyptians believed a "love vein" (vena amoris) connected directly to the heart.

Later, the Greeks and Romans adopted this practice and began using more durable materials like metal for their rings. In Roman times, the betrothal ring, known as the "anulus pronubus," became an essential part of marriage contracts. The simple bands featured intricate engravings of symbolic nature or daily depictions. They were worn by both men and women, indicating an agreement of marriage where the couples would share ownership of goods and properties.

With the rise of Christianity, the church tried to separate itself from the pagan tradition. The betrothal rituals evolved into distinct religious ceremonies during the medieval period. Still, the giving of the ring persisted as a prominent feature of these rites. Rings made from materials like gold and silver became more popular, demonstrating the couple's status and wealth through their adornments. View more engagement rings by exploring the diverse range of materials and styles available now.

Emergence of the Diamond Ring

The lavish rings of medieval times paved the way for the emergence of the diamond ring, an enduring symbol of wealth, luxury, and unmatched durability. In 1477, Archduke Maximilian of Austria gifted a diamond ring to Mary of Burgundy upon their engagement, setting a new standard for engagement rings. After this widely publicized event, diamond rings became increasingly popular among European nobility and aristocracy.

With the discovery of new diamond mines in South Africa during the 19th century, diamonds became more accessible to the general population. The De Beers mining company capitalized on this newfound availability, launching an aggressive advertising campaign promoting diamond rings as the ultimate symbol of love. Their marketing campaign, centered around the now-iconic slogan "A Diamond is Forever," helped ingrain the notion of diamond engagement rings into popular culture.

Throughout the 20th century and up to the present, the diamond engagement ring has become the standard for marriage proposals. From celebrities to everyday people, the diamond ring has witnessed countless styles, cuts, and designs, making each ring a unique symbol of the love story it represents.

Customization and Personalization

In recent years, there has been a significant shift towards customization and personalization in engagement rings. Couples no longer subscribe to a one-size-fits-all approach; instead, they seek to create a ring that truly reflects their individual personalities and the unique nature of their relationship.

Custom engagement rings allow couples to work directly with designers or jewelers to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. They may incorporate elements of their love story, initials, favorite colors, or personal designs into their ring, making it a piece that holds deep sentimental value.

Technology has also been a significant driver in the customization of engagement rings. Advances in 3D printing, computer-aided design (CAD), and other technologies have made it possible to craft intricate and unique designs that might have seemed impossible just a few years ago. As technology continues to advance, we can only expect customized engagement rings to become even more detailed and distinctive in the years to come.

Altogether, the captivating history of engagement rings is a testament to their significance in human culture and relationships over the centuries. From their ancient origins to their modern renditions, engagement rings continue to evolve, reflecting the ever-changing styles, values, and preferences of the couples who wear them.

Stud Earrings

Stud earrings are the most basic and versatile type of earring. They consist of a single gemstone, pearl, or metal design that sits directly on the earlobe. The simplicity of stud earrings makes them extremely wearable, allowing them to be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. At the workplace or during casual outings, small studs with diamonds or pearls are a classic, understated choice. Larger, more colorful stones or unique metal shapes can create a bold statement, perfect for special events or evenings out.

One of the most important aspects of stud earrings is the type of backing used. Earring backings not only secure the earring in place but can also impact comfort and wearability. Traditional friction backs are the most common, while screw-backs offer added security, ensuring that your precious earrings stay in place. For those with sensitive ears or allergies, hypoallergenic materials such as lightweight titanium or specialized earring backings are available.

Drop and Dangle Earrings

Drop earrings, as the name implies, hang down below the earlobe and incorporate more movement and visual interest than stud earrings. They typically consist of a simple design that hangs from a chain, wire, or hook. Dangle earrings are a more dramatic variation, often featuring multiple strands or tiers suspended from the ear, creating a more significant visual impact. These types of earrings are popular for more formal events or when dressing up a casual outfit.

The shape and design of the earring can have a significant impact on the overall look. Selecting an earring that works well with the wearer's face shape can be highly flattering. For example, long drop earrings can elongate a round face, while wider dangle earrings can balance a more angular or square face.

Hoop Earrings

Hoop earrings are characterized by their circular or semi-circular shape, which loops through the piercing and connects at the end. They can range in size from small and delicate to large and bold, with various materials and embellishments to suit any style or occasion. Hoops are extremely versatile and can be worn with anything from a casual daytime outfit to an elegant evening ensemble.

When selecting hoop earrings, size is one of the most important factors to consider. Smaller hoops are an understated, everyday option that can be worn with virtually any outfit. Larger, more oversized hoops create a bolder look that suits more adventurous fashion moments or occasions where a statement is desired.

Additionally, hoop earrings can feature a variety of added embellishments, such as diamonds, unique gemstones, or metalwork designs. These additions can elevate the earring and make it more tailored to the wearer's personal style, enabling hoop earrings to be a versatile and personalized accessory.

Chandelier Earrings

Chandelier earrings are the epitome of glamour and sophistication, featuring an intricate, multi-tiered design that cascades down from the earlobe. Reminiscent of a chandelier's structure, these earrings can be heavily embellished with crystals, gemstones, and other decorative elements that catch the light and draw attention. Due to their opulent nature, chandelier earrings are best suited for formal occasions such as weddings, galas, or red-carpet events.

Coordinating chandelier earrings with other accessories and outfit elements can create a harmonious, polished look. Given their ornate nature, it's often best to minimize other jewelry, such as necklaces and bracelets, allowing the earrings to be the standout accessory.

Overall, understanding the different types of earrings and their appropriate usage can make a significant impact on your overall appearance and style. Whether you're dressing up for a special night out or simply adding a touch of elegance to your everyday wear, the right earring can make all the difference.

What is Tiger’s Eye?

Tiger's Eye is a combination of solid blacks and golden yellow to deep reds stone that is part of the quartz group. It is known to provide great protection due to its powerful, dynamic energy. Tiger's Eye attracts harmony in life. A lot of people wanted to find genuine happiness in life. If a person is unhappy, it means that the person is surrounded with negative energy. Tiger's eye can attract positive people that can help turn a person's life positively. Not many may know this, but Tiger's Eye also attracts money. The stone's energy can help a person cope up with financial breakdown and financial stress. It is a stone that can be a help to achieve financial stability in life.

Tiger’s Eye in Fashion

In fashion, colors are very important. With that being said, Tiger's Eye is one of the most used color scheme in the fashion world. The combination of black and golden yellow exudes classy yet bold look and is often paired with the classic cat's eye make up. Many models and/or fashion icons use Tiger's Eye as a necklace. They love making it as their stand out piece for their outfit by wearing big cuts of the Tiger's Eye stone.

Recently, Tiger's Eye has been taking over instagram and Pinterest as a lot of people are staring to achieve a Tiger'a Eye nails. Many are aiming to get the classic black and yellow Tiger's eye. Different types of shades and finishes are becoming a hit ranging from glossy to glittery and even pigmented ones. What caught the attention of people aside from its classic style, it is a very doable DIY technique. Plus, it is about time that people should start appreciating metallic look more.

How to Wear Tiger’s Eye

Tips on how to wear Tiger's Eye is depending on one's personal style. The most usual way to wear a Tiger's Eye is by wearing it as a bracelet. We can often see men wear this on their wrist as a beaded black and golden yellow bracelet.

Meanwhile, ladies can wear it as a ring. Whether it is a big cut or a dainty cut type of ring, the vibrant colors of Tiger's Eye will definitely make a statement. Another way to wear it is through a pendant. By wearing it as a pendant, you can be playful with it by wearing big chunky cuts of Tiger's Eye stone that will surely get everyone's attention. Or you can wear it as a simple necklace, nothing grand or extravagant, just classy. You can personalize what gemstone cut you think that would be best suitable for you and even pick out types of chain that would go best with your chosen gemstone cut.

Cleaning Your Tigers Eye Jewelry

You want to be careful with tigers eye when cleaning it and many abrasive cleaners can damage or remove the luster from your tigers eye.  We are a little biased but our jewelry cleaner solution and jewelry care kit are completely safe on your tigers eye rings, earrings bracelets and more.  Give us a try and you won't be disappointed at the clean you get.  

With what may appear to be an endless variety of choices, jewelry shopping can become a daunting shopping experience for some. If you’re the type of girl who knows her rocks and studs, you’ve got it easy,  but if you’re one of those shoppers looking for beauty tips and are clueless about jewelry, do not stress. Whether you’re in need of the perfect accessory, a one of a kind gift for a loved one, or just simply on the lookout for a fine piece of jewelry that will suit your style, taste, and budget; we’ve got you covered. Here’s our beginner's guide to types of jewelry

Rings

Diamond rings may be considered as the top jewelry choice among women because of its luster and shine. Before investing in a diamond ring, one must start with taking into considerations the two most noticeable characteristic of a diamond to the human eye, the sparkle and color of the diamond. Simply put, the better the cut, the more the diamond will sparkle. If the diamond appears dull or muted, it is likely to not have been cut to ideal proportions. In a diamond, color displays as a pale yellow color. For someone looking for the best value, we suggest diamonds with no visible color by the naked eye. Other popular rings include mood rings, thumb rings, ring stacks, knuckle rings. 

Earrings

The right type of women earrings can instantly enhance any look from casual to formal wear. The most popular ones include classic hoop earring, drop earrings and the classic precious gem stud earrings. Classic hoop earrings and drop earrings are often used if you want your earrings to stand out. These are especially great to wear with tube tops or shoulder baring outfits. Simple, classic stud earrings, on the other hand, are very versatile and can be worn with almost any look. In addition, pearl earrings are also among the most popular gems used in jewelry.

Bracelets

Wearing the right kind of bracelet can give off a polished and elegant touch to any look. Bracelets can also reflect your personal style, whether you prefer, the subtler, simpler ones or the shinier ones. It is also considered as one of the most popular jewelry presents for any given special event. When purchasing bracelets, there are quite a few things to consider. For anyone who loves sparkle and shine, diamonds and other gemstone bracelets are the most popular. Having them on your wrist can instantly give off a simple but unforgettable statement. For this type, focus more on the quality of the stone rather than the bracelet size. The simpler, the better. For those who would want to go for a subtler tone, pearl bracelets would be the choice jewelry for you. Chain bracelets, on the other hand, can complement any outfit with its elegant simplicity. There are various chain styles available including  rope chains, box chains, bead chains and mesh chains. Lastly, if you want a statement piece bracelet in terms of style and size, bangles are your best friend.

Necklaces

The jewelry type that is sure to make a statement, big or small. Necklaces are a simple way to show off some fanciness and can be worn everyday. Necklaces can add glamour as well as keep things cute. Choose from statement pieces, pendant necklaces, chokers, bib necklaces, silver or gold. Necklaces are easy way to accessorize and a quick way to add chic to any outfit. 

 Whether you want to go for subtle elegance or stand out style, choosing the right type of jewelry for your look can definitely enhance your outfit. We invite you to check out our collection and treat yourself to something that will add that extra flair to your look

The Jewelry Collection That’s Collecting Dust

If you’re an enthusiastic jewelry collector or something of a hoarder, chances are your jewelry box is a lot fuller than your wallet. Don’t worry. You’re not alone - this is a common symptom of jewelry lovers who let their passions escape them. Your best solution: retrace your steps, reorganize, remove, and refresh your collection.

Let’s talk.

There are two main reasons collectors like us hang on to our jewelry for too long.

First, we get attached to our favorite pieces. The longer we own them, the more sentimental they become. Maybe it was a gift from a friend or a unique piece we picked up from a one-time antique sale. Parting with the old stuff is never easy, even when it’s the jewelry you haven’t touched in ages.

Second, we are under the impression that the older a piece of jewelry gets, the more it will be worth in the future.

This brings us to the light at the end of the tunnel; maybe the future is now and it’s time to consider selling your jewelry.

The Decision To De-Clutter

I know what you’re thinking. We’ve all seen various signs proclaiming, “SELL YOUR GOLD” and “CASH FOR GOLD,” not to mention the sketchy infomercials and gimmicky billboards. Worry not. Selling your jewelry or diamonds is not illegal, sketchy, or dangerous, as long as you do it through a reliable and professional service.

If you’re looking to upgrade your jewelry collection and make some pocket cash along the way, then we’re here to help.

When it comes to selling your jewelry, it’s out with the old and in with the new. Keep your precious treasure box in motion and jump onto this hot new trend.

The Journey of Selling Your Jewelry

Now, let’s talk about the journey. Your first step is to roll up your sleeves and start sorting through your gold, silver, and pearls. Prioritize what’s important and what’s taking up space. No one is asking you to sell grandma’s heirloom pearl necklace.

We aren’t that heartless.

Just ask yourself: 

Do I really need this?

Do I have too many of the same piece? (A symptom that plagues even pro collectors.)

Is this out of style?

Would I rather have this old fashioned piece of jewelry or some extra cash?

At this point in your journey, you should have two piles. The keeping pile and the selling pile. Congratulations! You’re on your way to trading in your old yellow gold for some nice green cash. Now, THAT’s what’s trending!

Getting The Right Numbers

Let’s get real. It is important to realize that your jewelry may not be worth as much to a buyer as it is to you. It is highly unlikely to sell a piece of jewelry for the full amount you bought it for.

However, it is important to know the value of the pieces you do choose to sell so you can get the most for it.

You can easily acquire this information by Googling the designer of a given piece, and comparing prices of similar items. There are various resources out there to help you become knowledgeable in the world of jewelry. For example, the Gemological Institute of America’s website is a great source for learning about all things gem-related. There are even sites that will appraise your jewelry online, using pictures to supply you with a rough estimate for the piece. If you’re looking to sell a diamond, PriceScope is a great site that allows you to compare prices of similar 4C’s (cut, carat, color, clarity). If you’re en route to sell gold, goldprice.org can keep you updated with the current market value. Don’t be afraid to become an expert. 

Walk into your appraisal appointment with the most knowledge possible. A professional and reliable appraiser will be honest with you about the value of your piece, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. A working knowledge of current jewelry market prices will help you avoid getting scammed, and aid you in your journey.

After all, this jewelry is yours and you deserve to get the best deal possible.

Accredited jewelry buyers like Luriya.com schedule appraisals for free.

Simply call or click, and come in at your own convenience.

After examining your jewelry, the appraiser is likely to make you an offer right away.

Upon telling you the value of your jewelry, you may be offered cash on the spot. At this point, you have two options.

The first is to take the cash and run.

The second is to shop around for second opinions, or take some time to think it over.

Being offered a wad of cash on the spot can be intimidating and nerve-wracking, but if you’re doing business with a reliable buyer, you have nothing to fear.

There’s no pressure and no strings attached.

Sealing the Deal

Now that you have some extra cash, you can hit the boutiques and make it speak. Selling your jewelry is a great way to keep your collection updated and your pockets full. Part of staying in style is knowing what to keep and what to trade in. Don’t be afraid to trade in the old for the gold.

Fearlessly schedule your free appraisal today.

Author’s Bio:

Emily Zimmer is a contributor/marketer for Havilah - the blog at Luriya.com. Emily is a creative writer with a passion for adventure and meaningful human interaction. She enjoys Irish folk tales and long hikes.

Sterling silver is one of the most popular metals used for jewelry. It’s value, style, and durability makes it a “go-to” for many fashionistas. Sterling Silver is created when copper is added to silver resulting in a much more durable and stronger metal than silver on its own. Although much stronger and durable than pure silver, sterling silver is much more prone to tarnishing. When moisture comes in contact with sterling silver, it causes the silver to appear dirty, discolored, and tarnished. There are a variety of silver cleaning methods to prevent this. We are here to help give your silver jewelry a fresh new look with our 3 different sterling silver cleaning methods.

POLISHING CLOTHS

The best way to prevent tarnishing is to keep your sterling silver dry. Avoid wearing it in the shower or swimming pool. Cleaning it with a small or large polishing cloth before storing it away into a dry location can prevent an item from tarnishing right away. This is because a polishing cloth removes oxidation from silver keeping it clean and moisture free. A good rule of thumb is "last on, first off" - It should be the last piece to put on and the first thing to remove and wipe when you store away and organize your jewelry. 

CLEANING SOLUTIONS

Jewelry cleaning solutions are a convenient, ready to use, silver cleaning method that helps remove oils, dirt, sweat, cosmetics from sterling silver jewelry. Silver cleaners are formulated to be non-abrasive and offer the appropriate ratio of solution to clean your silver without damaging them with harsh chemicals, scrubbing, or brushing.

WIPES

Silver cleaning pre-moistened wipes are a convenient silver cleaning method that offers a quick alternative to cleaning your silver jewelry. Silver wipes are pretreated with a gentle and effective formula to clean and restore luster and shine. A 2-in-1! Combining cloth and cleaning solution for an easy, convenient, and beneficial silver cleaning method all in one. 

Keep in mind, It is much easier to prevent sterling silver from tarnishing than it is to have it removed once it occurs. Sterling Silver requires non-abrasive routine cleaning and maintenance because it tends to tarnish so easily. Our 3 different sterling silver cleaning methods offer safe, fast, and effective ways to keep your sterling silver jewelry brilliant and beautiful. Our favorite is Simple Shine Silver Cleaning Kit for Jewelry, which includes a silver solution and polishing cloth altogether.

We like to think that the jewelry we purchase are a good buy. Quality is an important factor for us jewelry shoppers, but how could we make sure we are getting quality when buying diamonds? First introduced in the mid-20th century, “the 4 C’s” is universally acknowledged as the main way to determine the quality of a diamond. Our quick breakdown on how to buy diamonds using the 4 c’s is here to help you get the best bang for your buck. 

Carat 

When choosing your diamond, It is important to consider the carat. While most people think carat refers to size or how large the diamond is, it actually measures the diamond’s weight. You can make an easy mental note for this first "C",  the bigger the carat = the better. Diamonds that weigh 24 carats and above are considered top-class diamonds. Another note to keep in mind is that two diamonds can have the same carat weight but differ in value because of the remaining "C's". 

Color 

A grading scale is used to determine a diamond’s value based on its color. The diamond color scale ranges alphabetically from D to Z. Diamond colors can also range from white to even black diamonds. Colored diamonds are eye-catching, but white or “colorless” diamonds generally have a higher value compared to others. These higher quality grades are the D-grades, which are considered colorless and the purest diamonds. Diamonds sold in local jewelry stores are typically “almost colorless” with a grade between G and J. Anything with a grade after J is considered a “colored” diamond as the diamond’s color can be detected by the naked eye.

Clarity 

Clarity is the third “C” to keep in keep in mind when shopping for a diamond. Diamonds aren’t perfect. Just like any precious gem, diamonds also have flaws and no matter how bright and shiny it may look, the blemishes still remain. These imperfections, more commonly known as a diamond’s clarity, are often graded to determine if the rock is top quality. A diamond’s grading scale is a bit tough to remember but a rule of thumb is to choose grades between VVSI-SI1. These grades have no visible inclusions to the naked eye. A flawless diamonds are awarded an FL grade and would be the most expensive.

Cut 

The forth “C”, a diamond’s cut, determines its beauty and style. There are different types of diamond cuts which includes: princess cuts, cushion cuts, oval cuts, square cuts and even heart-shaped cuts. The most classic styles include princess, emerald and square cuts. A diamond’s cut plays an important role in its beauty because light bounces and reflects from the diamond and gives it that shine that most purchasers are looking for. If a diamond is not cut proportionally, the diamond may appear dull and cheap. Based on our experience, the most brilliant cut is a round cut as light can bounce from all angles, when cut appropriately. However, we encourage to shop for your preferred style as each cut has its own allure. 

Knowledge on the 4 C’s of diamonds can provide you a quick, easy to remember, guide to finding that fine piece of gem you are looking for. At the end of the day, it all boils down to your style and preference. Treat it as if you’re looking for your new best friend, for as they say, diamonds are a girl’s best friend. 

Accessorizing is a fun way to add some flair to your style. While wearing jewelry is a lot of fun, storing it is another story. One should always make sure to store our beloved accessories in a proper location to maintain its beauty and quality. Organizing your accessories is also an effective way to easily find your jewelry. While putting away jewelry may sound a little bit boring, it shouldn't be. Organizing your accessories can be just as fun as wearing them! From hanging displays to all-out dresser type organizers, there is something here for every jewelry lover. Here are 5 crafty jewelry storage ideas to organize your jewelry: 

1. Wooden Utensil Organizers

Simple, all you need is a wooden utensil organizer and a few hooks to come up with this creative jewelry holder. While there are plastic cutlery holders available, the wooden ones are sturdier and can display fancier. All you need to do is attach one of the hooks to one of the larger sections for your necklaces. You can use the other smaller sections for your earrings, rings, and pendants. Say goodbye to tangled necklaces and misplaced smaller accessories with this easy DIY jewelry organizer.

2. Cork Boards

Cork boards are more often used for memos, reminders, or photos, but it can also be transformed into your jewelry lifesaver. Unleash your inner creative genius by transforming a rather dull cork board into a fun jewelry organizer. With just a few push pins and decorating paper, this is an easy way to store your statement, chain, or tassel necklaces in a nice and neat place. You could also add more fun elements in it with stickers and ribbons.

3. Lace Strips

Who knew that a strip of lace could help you keep your hoop, stud, and cuff earrings in place?  You can give off a vintage vibe to your organizer by staining your white lace with used teabags for a rustic feel. Just attach a loop at the top end or attach it to an unused frame and hang it on a wall or your closet and you have a beautiful earrings organizer!

4. Re-purpose Recyclables

If you think your empty shoe boxes and paper towel rolls have no use, think again! Wrap these with craft papers and you have an instant watch and bracelet organizer! Let your creativity soar and add your style and personality in each box design.

5. Garden Rakes

Your old gardening tool, a jewelry holder? Yes!  All you need is the end part of an old garden rake, some twine and ribbons and you have your new jewelry hanger. You could keep it in its original color or you may paint it with the color of your choice. We bet this could also be a new conversation starter among your girl friends.

Regardless of how you store your jewelry you want to make sure you are protecting them from long term tarnish.  The Simple Shine Tarnish Bags and Tabs are a great way to do this. There are endless ways to be creative, frugal, and fun when putting away your jewelry. Our 5 picks are sure to be an fun and easy way to sort your prized possessions. We invite you to share with us your crafty jewelry storage ideas to organize your jewelry!

Owning a big chunk of rock gives a certain sense of pride to some. The higher the price, the more precious and more valuable it becomes. Women strive to own at least one of the most precious and highly valued gems of the world, diamonds. There are those pieces that really stand out from the rest because of its rarity and unique diamond features. Here is a list of the 5 most expensive diamond jewelry in the world that were actually worn by women. Feast your eyes and dream.

5. Chopard Blue Diamond Ring

Valued as one of the rarest and one of the most beautiful diamond jewelry in the world, Chopard’s Blue Diamond Ring is a highly prestige piece because of its exclusivity. Its most astonishing feature is its oval-shaped blue diamond that weighs 9 carats. It is set in 18-carat white gold and surrounded by triangular clear diamonds. Its cost? $16.26 million.

4. Heart of the Ocean

Probably the most recognizable in the list, the Heart of the Ocean was made even more famous in the movie Titanic. The iconic necklace was crafted by the world famous jeweler Harry Winston. The blue diamond itself weighs 15 carats and prices at $20 million. With its value and cinematic fame, even its knock-offs won’t sell cheap at $3.5 million.

3. The Perfect Pink

This 14.23 carat rare pink diamond is, by far, one of the most magnificent diamonds in the world because of its high-grade color, cut, and clarity. What makes it even more special is that it belongs to the 10% of pink diamonds who weigh over .20 carats. Throughout history, there were only a total of 18 known diamonds who were valued at 10 carats or more. Set beside it are two colorless white diamonds weighing 1.73 and 1.67 carats along with a white gold ring of 18 carats. Priced at $23.2 million, to call it "perfect" definitely suits this piece.

2. The Graff Pink Diamond

Considered as one of the most expensive jewelry in the world priced at $1.85 million per carat, private collector Laurence Graff bought the prestigious ring from "Heart of the Ocean" Jeweler, Harry Winston, for a price of $46.2 million. This 24.78 carat rare type II color diamond is considered as one of the most precious diamonds ever discovered. Cut with delicately rounded corners, this rectangular cut gem is set between two shield-shaped diamonds, all mounted on a premiere platinum ring.

1. L’Incomparable Diamond Necklace

True to its name, the L’Incomparable Diamond Necklace is known as the most valuable necklace in the world. Designer Mouawad Jewelry took over four years just to craft this $55 million necklace. This yellow diamond  weighs 407.48 carats and comes with 91 diamonds of different cuts, which includes 229.52 carat white diamonds. It is set in an 18 carat rose gold chain.

These are among the most coveted jewelry pieces all over the world. Now, who wouldn’t want one of these hanging on your neck of worn on their finger? While we save up for one of these stunning pieces, opt in for one of our more affordable quality jewelry first!

Help preserve your jewelry's natural luster and prevent your precious stones and minerals from scratching, warping, discoloring, or breaking with these quick and easy to remember tips.  This great infographic is courtesy of one of our favorite jewelry designers Chan Luu.  

Turquoise  

Turquoise is a beautiful and natural stone that is not difficult to clean with some key reminders. Keep in mind, turquoise absorbs liquids very easily, so it is very important to not soak the stone in water as this can reduce the hardness of the stone. Turquoise is also very sensitive to heat and chemicals so we strongly discourage cleaning turquoise stones in ultrasonic cleaners using a jewelry cleaning concentrate or adding detergents, cleansers, or solutions.  Hint:  Check out our Jewelry Cleaning Line Simple Shine. Our advice is to take a moist soft cloth and dab the stone gently and let air dry.

Labradorite

Labradorite is a relatively soft stone that can be scratched easily if handled too harshly. Toothbrushes, ultrasonic cleaners, and steamers are not recommended when cleaning labradorite stones because of how easily the stone can get damaged. To clean labradorite, we recommend a simple method using mild dish soap, warm water, and a microfiber cloth. Dampen the cloth with soap and warm water and gently wipe the surface of the stone. You may rinse stone with water. Make certain that all soap has rinsed off to avoid soapy residue being left over. Let air dry. Additionally, we suggest regular cleaning to maintain the stone’s beauty as well as protecting the stone from any moisture when storing away.  

Pearls 

Pearls are special stones that are very sensitive to acids and too much humidity. Bleaches, powdered cleansers, and liquid household cleaners are strongly discouraged. Pearls are also vulnerable to scratches. Toothbrushes and coming into contact with other gemstones can damage the surface of the pearl. Our rule of thumb is to clean pearls with only water, a soft cloth, and non-detergent soap. Dampen the soft cloth with water and soap and gently wipe down pearls. Make certain to look into the drilled holes in the pearls as dirt may collect most in these areas. Dry and polish using a soft dry cloth. To help preserve your pearl’s luster, we also recommend not wearing pearls when showering, applying perfume, hair sprays, or makeup. Furthermore, we suggest wiping down pearls with a soft cloth before storing away to eliminate any residue from sweat.

Horn/Bone 

Horn/Bone jewelry is very durable and require minimal care to preserve them. A simple mental note for this jewelry trend - Avoid contact with water. We do not recommend dipping or soaking bone/horn jewelry in water. Additionally, avoid contact with water when wearing them, showering, or swimming. Horn/Bone jewelry does not handle moisture and humidity well as this can cause the jewelry to crack or warp. To clean horn/bone jewelry we recommend using a soft dry cloth to remove any dirt on the surface of the bone. Afterwards, apply coconut or jojoba oil to keep horn/hone from cracking. When storing away, store bone/horn jewelry in dry area and away from other jewelry to avoid scratching against other surfaces.

Death imposes a grim reality on those left behind. Shock. Confusion. Sadness. Anger. Exhaustion. Emotions dealt with while grieving the loss of a sibling, parent, child, spouse, relative, friend, or even pet - can be intense and often overwhelming. Bereavement is experienced following the death of a loved one, and literally means "to be deprived by death."

Heart In Diamond is a startup company that is revolutionizing the way family members deal with bereavement, commemorating the loss of a loved one by transforming hair or ashes into diamonds. The results? Stunning. Gorgeous diamonds available in a variety of cuts and colors that can be mounted on one of their brilliant settings or just the diamond itself delivered.

Finding Comfort Amidst the Sting of Death

Whether death comes unexpectedly in the night or was a slowly encroaching nightmare endured by the individual and family for years, nothing in this world can quite prepare someone for the sting imposed by the loss of a loved one.

Heart In Diamond’s unique services provide a powerful way to create a lasting bond between the deceased and the living.

The American Psychological Association (APA) suggests choosing ways that allow you to remember and celebrate the life of a loved one in order to honor them, and move through the feelings of grief and loss. They state, “What you choose is up to you, as long as it allows you to honor that unique relationship in a way that feels right to you.”

Turning the ashes or hair of a loved one into a diamond is a unique way to celebrate their life and honor their memory forever. Indeed, on the Heart In Diamond website, you will discover dozens of heartfelt testimonials that describe how having the diamond created helped people during their bereavement, such as this one from Korey in the United States:

 

“I wanted my son in the absolute best hands, with a company who truly cared about what they were doing; Heart In Diamond fit my needs perfectly. From the moment I first made contact with them, I was made to feel special, loved, and valued. What should have been the most difficult part of my life was made so much easier by Heart In Diamond, and their dedication to their clients and the memorial of their loved ones.”

 

How Does Heart In Diamond Turn Ashes or Hair into Diamonds?

Those grieving can send in the hair and/or ashes of a loved one, family member, relative, or your dog and have these remains used to create stunning diamonds available in a variety of cuts, colors, and shapes. There is also the option to mix these remains with hair from those still living, combining their bodies together eternally. The cremated ashes and/or hair is then compressed and heated to extreme temperatures to extract the carbon, and to then turn them into high-quality diamonds.

In addition to the gorgeous, natural diamonds created by this startup-company, they also provide more than five hundred quality settings to choose from, resulting in a stunning piece of jewelry that houses the memory of the deceased and that can be worn and cherished.

It may come as a surprise to learn that the process of creating a beautiful diamond from a loved one’s ashes or hair can be done in five simple steps. If someone is interested in buying a diamond keepsake from Heart In Diamond, this is the process they follow:

1. Those wishing to remember their loved one choose a diamond
2. They pick a setting from more than 500 options
3. Hair, ashes, or both are sent to the lab from their loved one, family member, pet, relative, or friend
4. Heart In Diamond’s lab then turns the remains into a diamond
5. Their personalized keepsake is sent to them so that they can honor the bond with their loved one forever

Diamonds and Settings as Unique as the Loved One Commemorated

Every single person or pet that has ever walked this earth is unique. It only makes sense that a diamond or piece of jewelry created to celebrate their memory should be personalized to capture their unique spirit once they’re gone.

For this reason, cremation diamonds are available in brilliant cut and princess cut, and come in a variety of colors, including:

• White
• Blue
• Yellow-Green
• Orange-Yellow
• Deep Red

Cremation diamonds can be set in different pieces of jewelry including rings, pendants, and earrings. White or yellow gold in 14 or 18kt, or even platinum can be used for the setting, along with numerous selections for style, including:

• Contemporary
• Cathedral
• Halo
• Shoulder set
• Classic solitaire
• Vintage

 “Whilst our story isn’t yet sad as we still have Daisy, the fact that she has kept me company through some very dark, scary times I find some comfort that when the time does come I’ll still have part of her with me. I’ll be forever grateful that your company made this affordable for people like me, I am telling all my Dog walking friends how amazing this experience has been!”

Common praise about this startup company includes the fact that they go out of their way to customize the piece of jewelry specific to the customer’s requests. If one cannot find exactly what they want on the site, the representatives of the company will go the extra mile to send more examples or even have a unique piece made upon request. 

Each natural lab diamond created needs to pass an extremely strict quality-control process to ensure brilliant results every time. Creating the diamonds using this process means that Heart In Diamond can identify any diamond that was created in their lab, and ensures that each one is unique. The company also offers an Authenticity Check to customers if they want to ensure it was created by Heart in Diamond, and is backed by the guarantee.

Heirloom jewelry is more than just a jewelry piece, it is a special piece that has many stories to tell. Heirloom jewelry is defined as jewelry that is passed down through family members for several generations. Due to wear and age, the beauty of a heirloom jewelry can have a tendency to deteriorate. It is important to know what can damage your jewelry and how to preserve it. 

Here are our quick tips to keep in mind to ensure your jewelry will last and maintain its beauty for more generations to come.

Moisture

Moisture can cause rust and contribute to loss in cluster of some jewelry types like rhinestones jewelry. Take your heirloom jewelry off before swimming. Sea water, chlorine, or sweat can affect loosen or discolor metals like gold and platinum. Sunscreen, bug spray, or lotions can also make heirloom jewelry dull. 

Chemicals

Certain strong chemicals can damage certain metals or stones. Before you clean jewelry on your own, make sure you know what type of materials the jewelry consists of. Veer away from anything that contains ammonia, alcohol or acids as it can damage your jewelry. Our personal favorite jewelry cleaner is Simple Shine.

Scratches

Remove your heirloom jewelry when doing household chores. Cleaning, gardening or other day to day activities can scratch, chip, or damage your jewelry. Also, keep your jewelry stored separately as metals and stones can scratch each other.

Storage

Store your heirloom jewelry in pouches made of soft clothes, zip locks bags, or box with compartments/dividers. Curio cabinet is good for storing larger number of jewelry. Heirloom jewelry should also be stored in clean, and dry places; away from sunlight. Note, oak storage boxes can develop moisture with humidity and start the corrosion process for metals. 

Heirloom jewelry is one of the most special jewelry pieces one can possess. There is physical and emotional beauty connected to family heirloom jewelry. If you already possess heirloom jewelry, cherish, care for it, and be sure to pass it on. If you want to create your own heirloom jewelry, check out our personalized jewelry; perfect for all families. 

Have you ever thought of getting an insurance for your precious jewelry? Jewelry, at times, come with a hefty price tag and that is why we take extra care of them. But no matter how cautious you are when you use your jewelry, the possibility of it being stolen, lost, or damaged is always there. Jewelry insurance is essential and comes in handy for these type of situations. If something were to happen to your jewelry, you can rest easy knowing it can be fixed or replaced.  Here’s our quick tips about jewelry insurance.

All Types Of Jewelry Can Be Insured 

From your precious wedding ring to the gorgeous watch that your mother gave you as a birthday gift - any and all types of jewelry pieces can be insured. Insurance companies can offer coverage for items such as rings, watches, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, pendants, charms, and even smart jewelry. 

You Have To Get A Jewelry Insurance Quote

Similar to all other types of insurance, you will have to obtain an insurance quote. An appraisal of the jewelry piece will be completed to ensure that the insurance quote is appropriate. The appraisal lists a detailed description of the item and provides an opinion of value based on the jewelry's characteristics. Keep in mind, you will want to go to a professional and reputable jeweler for an appraisal to get the best evaluation of your jewelry piece.You can search for more than one insurance quote at a time.

Read And Understand The Coverage

Fully understanding what is written in your insurance will save your from any hassle when it’s time to use the insurance. Some insurance may not include full replacements or they may require a deductible prior to any repairs or replacement. The more you know about what the insurance offers, the easier it will be when it's time to file a claim. 

Lost, Stolen, Damaged

Protect your jewelry from loss, theft, or damage with comprehensive insurance. Comprehensive insurance is the best insurance to have as it covers the most severe situations like when you leave your jewelry out somewhere, it gets stolen, or if your jewelry cracks. Jewelry insurance companies will replace the same jewelry piece or with a comparable piece, should the exact jewelry piece not be available anymore. 

Often times, jewelry comes with a warranty when purchased. A warranty differs from insurance as it only provides limited coverage with an expiration date. Also, warranties are unlikely to replace the jewelry piece in event of theft. Having insurance lets you wear your jewelry worry free. 

Little black dresses, crisp white button downs, black pumps; we are all aware of closet staples, but what about jewelry? When it comes to jewelry, we tend to just go ahead and buy jewelry that is trending or in season. Every girl should have a collection of must-haves accessories for any day. Here is our top 5 staple jewelry items every girl should have. 

Pearl Necklace

A pearl necklace is a classic and will never go out of style. Every stylish woman in history, including style icon Audrey Hepburn and royalty Duchess of Cambridge, Katherine, are in love with this classic jewelry piece. We can’t blame them, a pearl necklace is a versatile piece that will look great from your casual outfits to dressier ones!

Pearl Earrings 

A pair of pearl earrings instantly adds elegance and sophistication to any look. Whether you are heading out for late lunch with your girlfriend or going on a hot date night with your beau, this staple jewelry item is something that you can wear at any time.

Diamond Stud Earrings 

Another classic! Diamond stud earrings are must-haves for every girl. Regardless of what your personal style is, this is a staple jewelry item that will go with every outfits and can be used in any occasion. It’ll go great with your casual white tee-and-jeans outfit as well as with your little black dress!

Diamond Bands 

Just like the diamond stud earrings, the diamond bands are a must have for every stylish jewelry lover. It is simple yet stunning at the same time. You can stack it or wear it alone - it’s all up to you!

Diamond Necklace

Diamond necklaces are a no-brainer. Every girl must have a diamond necklace that she can wear every time she wants to feel extra special. There is something about a diamond necklace that makes a girl sparkle. Wear a diamond necklace with your casual tops, with your cocktail dresses, or with your long gowns!

Get creative and mix and match jewelry pieces with these or keep it simple by showing off these as a focal piece with your favorite outfit. No matter your style or occasion, you can never go wrong with these 5 staple jewelry items!

The holidays are fast approaching. The season of giving brings excitement for those with a holiday wish-list. Too shy to ask upfront for that extravagant jewelry piece you’ve been eyeing? Here are 5 ways to drop hints for the jewelry you want for the holidays:

1. Make an Online Wish List 

For people who keep an online journal, dropping hints for the jewelry that they want for the holidays is easy. Let your love ones know specifics of the product or brand of your interest through a blog post, an online journal, or online wish list. From the latest Iphone 7 to that diamond ring from Jareds, you can post all about it there.  

2. Tweet About It 

If you spend a lot of time on Twitter, why not use it to your advantage to drop hints to your loved ones about the jewelry you want for the holidays. Retweet the jewelry piece to let your followers know exactly which brand, material, and color you want. 

3. Share a Post on Facebook

Facebook is another way to let your loved ones know the gift that you want to receive. Indirectly tell them what jewelry you want for the holidays by sharing a photo of it or an article with the item you want in it. Most people don't go a day without checking their Facebook, it’ll be easier for them to know what you want through Facebook!

4. Upload a Photo on Instagram

Instagram is another great social media application that you can use to faintly drop hints to the people who want to get you something for the holidays. Instagram is the best way to let your followers (especially your family and friends) know what you really want to receive this holiday season. Go ahead and upload that photo of the jewelry you want for the holidays. #hashtag it! 

5. Spill the Beans 

 If you speak to your family and friends often and you are comfortable and confident mentioning the gift during conversations, go for it. Casually dropping it in conservation in a subtly way like " I hope Santa gives me a silver bracelet for Christmas this year" is a polite way to hint for that gift you really want. 

The holidays are just around the corner. Now, don't forget to say your "thank you's" and show your gratitude when you do receive that special gift you've asked for. Looking to add to your wish list? We invite you to check out our selection of jewelry, perfect for holiday gift giving. 

Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years; the Holiday parties are just around the corner. You are probably thinking of the outfits that you’ll be wearing for those events. The little black dress, the black pumps, the blazer; these outfit are never complete without the perfect jewelry. Here are our holiday party jewelry tips that will help you spice up any outfit this holiday season.

Have a Set of Classic Jewelry

Having a fail-proof set of classic jewelry will help you save time especially during last minute holiday party invites. A simple gold necklace, bracelet, earrings, and ring will always come in handy. It is classy without being over the top. Consider getting another set of jewelry but in silver as well so you have another option aside from the gold one. A gold or silver necklace will look great with off-shoulder little black dress.

Have At Least 2 Statement Pieces 

For parties that require you to dress up a bit more formal, a statement jewelry piece can turn your outfit from bland to stunning. An important reminder, when wearing a statement piece, just pick one. Choose one statement piece and let it stand out. Pair your LBD with a statement necklace. Put your hair up and wear a statement earring! Also, since it is holiday season, choose something extra sparkly for a statement piece!

Master The Art of Mix and Match

If you can master the art of mixing and matching your jewelry then you will surely dress to impress. Wear a silver necklace and pair it with a silver bracelet. Layer 2 simple gold link necklaces! The possibilities of mixing and matching are endless!

Keep It Simple

Stick to what you know best. A little black dress paired with a classy pearl necklace will never go out of style. A pair of pearl earrings is classy yet stylish jewelry that one can pair with anything in the closet. Going to a formal party? A pair of diamond earrings will always complement an evening gown. Sometimes, less is more.

Halloween is one of the most fun celebrations of the year. Last year we took a look at what we thought were funny Halloween jewelry pieces and we looked at how to bling your pumpkin with jewelry.   But this year we are going to look at the costumes and consider the best Halloween costumes to show off your jewelry.  People look forward to the day when they can dress up and be whoever they want to be. Both kids and adults take time to think of who they want to be for one night. While kids look forward to going around the neighborhood and trick or treat, adults are pumped to dress up for that fun Halloween Party! For all the jewelry lovers out there, Halloween is one of the best time to show off your jewelry! Go big or go home!

Here are some of the best Halloween costume to show off your jewelry this upcoming Halloween 2016.

Cleopatra 

Cleopatra is one of the best Halloween costume to show off your jewelry. Be the Queen of Egypt and show off all your gold jewelry pieces. Gold Necklaces, bracelets, and rings will complement this costume perfectly. 

Marilyn Monroe 

What is Halloween without a Marilyn Monroe? Grab a stunning white dress, watch a "Marilyn Monroe Makeup Tutorial" video on Youtube and show off your most stunning diamond earrings. Mix and match with some sophisticated silver jewelry also. 

Audrey Hepburn 

Keep it classy. Show off your most classy jewelry and be Audrey Hepburn for a night. Wear your best pearl earrings and necklaces, grab that little black dress, and you're ready for that Halloween party! 

Princess Jasmine 

Disney inspired! Wear your most fabulous gold earrings and neck pieces. Perfect costume for a gold statement necklace. Shining, shimmering, splendid as the princess of Agrabah. 

Fortune Teller 

A no-brainer! Fortune tellers are known to wear a lot of fancy jewelry like gems and stones. Stack your rings or bracelets and complement them with big necklace and hoop earrings. An easy and gorgeous costume. Do not forget your magic crystal ball.

1920's Flapper 

Spice it up by dressing up as a 1920’s flapper this coming Halloween 2016! All you need is a black dress, feathered headband and vintage pearls. Oh, and don’t forget the feathered boa. 

Pirate 

Now, if you don't want to get all dolled-up this Halloween but still want to show off your jewelry, consider a pirate costume. Wear your hook earrings, single bangles, and use more jewelry as part of your props!

With all these costume ideas, you are definitely Halloween party ready! Choosing the perfect costume isn’t difficult. Need some jewelry to go along with your costume? We invite you to take a peek of our latest arrivals! 

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, a must-have for jewelry lovers, but did you know not all diamonds are mined?  There are man-made diamonds, also referred to as "lab-grown diamonds" or "synthetic diamonds", that are not traditionally-mined. Believe it or not, they still convey the same beauty and characteristics as a mined diamond.

Over 50 Years

Man-made diamonds are defined by The World Jewelry Confederation as a “ man-made reproduction of a diamond that has essentially the same chemical composition, crystal structure and physical properties as its natural counterpart.” If we trace back in history, synthetic diamonds began back in 1950s, where it was developed using “diamond press” solely for industrial purposes. The synthetic diamond industry has been around for over 50 years now.

There are two techniques used to produce synthetic diamonds: Chemical Vapour Deposition and High Pressure High Temperature. The former is used to create diamonds specifically for industrial purposes while the latter is used to produce synthetic diamonds that are distributed commercially.

What's The Difference?

A natural mineral-diamond is created by nature; for many years. Man-made diamonds, on the other hand, are grown in a man-made diamond mine, specifically a laboratory with a highly-controlled environment. These two have similar optical and physical properties. Man-made diamonds look very much like the mined diamonds minus the hefty price tag.

The significant difference of man-made diamonds from mined diamonds is that its shape, size, and cut can be manipulated. Some companies can produce lab-created diamonds that can be specifically made for you. If you have a specific shape, color, size, or cut in mind, It can be customized to your liking. 

All About Preference. 

Although synthetic diamonds have been around for a long time now, there are still many issues surrounding man-made diamonds. The most controversial one is mixing synthetic diamonds to natural stones. This issue alarms jewelers as it affects the quality of real diamonds. There can be an unreasonable pricing of natural stones that are mixed with synthetic diamonds. Jewelry lovers who are willing to pay any price wouldn’t want something that isn’t the "real" thing. 

Diamonds are considered a valuable thing to many. People associate diamonds to special occasions like engagements and weddings. Men are said to be willing to spend for the real-deal. On the other hand, there are people who are on a budget and consider man-made diamonds as an alternative. It’s really all about preference. Nonetheless, Diamonds are a girl’s best friend and whether you are ready to invest in a real one or are looking into the man-made diamond alternative, you will still look as your best. 

Your most beloved ring does not fit anymore! No need to worry; resizing your ring is possible.There are several reasons to resize a ring. One may want to resize their rings so that they can wear it on another finger or there may be a need to resize a ring due to weight gain or loss. Ring sizing is actually one of the most common jewelry repair. However, it is also important to know what could go wrong with ring sizing to prevent from potentially damaging one of your precious jewelry pieces.

Resizing To a Smaller Size

This process is simple, compared to when a ring is resized to a larger size. A portion of the band is cut, ring is then soldered back together, and finally cleaned and polished. However, when the shank of the ring is too thin or thick, it makes the resizing process more difficult for the jeweler. The area where the ring was cut and soldered also becomes weaker and can potentially break in the future. 

Resizing To a Larger Size

There are two ways to resize your ring to a larger size. Depending on how much you want it to be resized, a ring can be stretched or reworked. Stretching is a method used if you need to resize your ring not more than half size larger. For ring sizing larger than that, a total rework on the ring would be necessary. Keep in mind, complication can occur when the ring has a more intricate design (has stones and diamonds), resizing it to a larger size may be a problem as it can alter the beauty of the ring or damage the stones/diamonds.

Unable to Resize

Unfortunately, there are certain rings that cannot resized or reworked. Eternity rings, for example, cannot be resized due to diamonds or stones going all the way around the band. Any heat or cutting can damage damage or distort the beauty of the ring. Metals like titanium or stainless steel rings cannot be resized due to the material properties.

When shopping for an expensive ring, it is important to seek the advice of a jeweler to ensure the metal type and design would allow for the ring to be resized in the future. Most fashion jewelry rings have some leeway and of course we accept returns for our fashion jewelry if its too small or big.  In general, make sure that the ring fits comfortably and as well as possible to avoid a potential hassle having to resize the ring in the future.

Friendship bracelets are very personal. A gift especially made for a friend could be one of the best gifts they’ll receive. Friendship bracelets are accessories made with love. The time, thought, and effort to make the bracelet for someone close to your heart is incomparable to any material thing in the world. These bracelets represent your friendship, make it extra special with these quick tips. 

Choose Your Favorite Colors

Personalize your bracelets with each other's favorite colors. Add accent colors that are bright and colorful that complements and represents you and your best friend. 

Include It With Another Gift

Use a friendship bracelet as part of another gift. A thoughtful way of making that gift extra special. Tie it around your best friend’s favorite bottle of wine, use it as a part of the gift tag, or put it on top of the package as an accent. The possibilities here at endless. 

Flashback To Summer Camp

Get together and create a masterpiece together with the traditional, "do it yourself", friendship bracelets. Braid embroidery thread together and create your own unique pattern designed by you and your best friend. A fashion trend that's here to stay, perfect for kids and grown-ups. 

Suprise, Suprise!

There is no better time to give a friendship bracelet than anytime. Give the gift of a friendship bracelet to a brother, sister, mom, dad, or best friend when they least expect it. A sure way to show your appreciate the friendship. Perfect for any time of the year.

Friendship bracelet are not your ordinary accessory. These bracelet even though simple, can symbolize a lot. A few years back, friendship bracelets were just made of simple, colorful strings worn by young girls. Today, friendship bracelets are more than just strings. It has grown into a versatile accessory, made with love, for all-ages.

Charm bracelets can be more than just jewelry. Charm bracelets can be a collection of memories that tell many great stories. One can pick out individual charms to bring good luck, celebrate a memory, or pay homage to a loved one. Pandora bracelets became remarkably popular for their charms, allowing an individual to build their own charm bracelets.

Keep in mind, there are no do’s and don’ts to building a charm bracelet. Mix and match any combinations of charms. However, the #1 rule to charm bracelets; they should express YOU. Need some help to start off?

Life Milestones

Life is challenging and surprising at the same time. Your life milestones will contribute to who you are as a person. Consider a study book charm to celebrate graduating from school. How about a Sydney Opera House charm for your first visit to your dream destination in Australia? Or keep it simple with a clover charm to bring you some good luck at your new job.

Special Occasions

Celebrating an upcoming birthday? Treat yourself with a charm you’ve been wanting to get as a birthday present. Spoil yourself to that limited edition Christmas charm to add to your charm bracelet for the holidays. Show off your love for your spouse with an anniversary charm. These occasions are special for a reason. They are meant to be remembered forever. Why not celebrate it with a new meaningful charm?

Motivation

We all have our bad days. Sometimes, we need something that will remind us of our dreams and goals. Let your charm bracelet be your inspiration. Rule the world with our “I Will Survive” bracelets or ward evil away with our evil eye bracelet to remind you everything will be alright.

The #1 Rule

Choose a charm that symbolizes who you are and the things that you are passionate about. An artist’s palette pendant charm for the Leonardo da Vinci’s of the world, a music trinity pendant charm for the musicians at heart, or maybe a camera charm for the aspiring photographers. Building your charm bracelet is an exciting experience. Instead of buying all the charms that you like in just one go, do it one-by-one. Make it special and tell your story with your charm bracelet.

Gold is the most useful mineral out of all minerals. Today, the primary use of gold is in jewelry. Gold can be drawn into wire, melted, and simply cast into intricate jewelry molds.Throughout history, society has used gold in jewelry to symbolize accomplishments, beauty, and wealth. But not all gold is in jewelry.

A Brief History Lesson

Let’s travel back in time! Back to the 1900’s when the United States implemented the Gold Standard Act. Gold, at this time, could be used as physical currency. The U.S government had assigned gold to a specific dollar amount and established gold as the standard for exchange for paper money. The U.S held a $35.00 per ounce price until 1971, when President Richard Nixon and his administration suspended gold as a form of currency and abandoned the Gold Standards Act. 

infographic courtesy of Karus Chains

Popular As Currency As Well As Jewelry

For thousands of generations, gold has successfully preserved wealth. In today’s modern world, gold may not be used in your everyday transactions like it did in the 1900’s, but it still remains a popular form of currency. Why so popular? The simple answer is gold maintains its value unlike paper currency or coins. With inflation, the cost of living increases, prices rise, and paper money loses its purchasing power. Because gold maintains its value, it is often a popular “safe haven” for investors when there’s economic uncertainty. In the United States, central banks and other several other organizations hold approximately one-fifth of the world's supply of above ground gold. So where is the most gold? The U.S.A! 

Bitcoin as Good as Gold?

If you’re unfamiliar with what bitcoins are; bitcoins are a form of digital currency. They are not printed. Instead, they are created, held, and traded electronically via the internet. Along with not being able to print, bitcoins are not regulated by the government or central banks; so there are no taxes, tracking, or transactions costs. Completely anonymous and private. Many would argue bitcoin is a better system over the conventional way of storing gold, however, gold holds history and physicality. Bitcoins solely relies on the internet to function and many people still prefer tangible assets. Today, the biggest advantage gold has over bitcoins is it’s history. For thousands of years, gold has been the most trusted and accepted form of money. At one point, used as physical currency. Bitcoin is probably just a fad for now but it doesn't offer the security of gold.

Always a Demand For It

Gold has a long history when it comes to jewelry, often associated to wealth and culture. Gold in jewelry can be dated back to thousands of years ago, when kings and queens were ornamented in gold jewelry pieces. India accounts for one of the highest demands for gold jewelry during their wedding season, traditionally the month of October. In the U.S, 75% of brides receive engagement rings made from gold and diamonds. Check out our 10 facts about gold jewelry. Gold is the "wear forever" jewelry metal because of its resistance to rust and luxurious appearance. Perhaps you may not see gold in jewelry as the hottest trend this season, there will always be a demand for it; in and out of the fashion world.  

Now, where can you find our gold? We invite you to check out our selection of Gorjana jewelry or Amber Sceats Jewelry.   

Boost your style, complete your look, or add to your accessories collection. Find the best styles with these top 10 jewelry trends of 2016 to try now!

Infographic courtesy of Sparkling Jewellery London

Coin Necklaces

A must-have jewelry trend of 2016! A simple accessory to draw some attention. Coins can be silver, bronze, or gold. Wear a single coin medallion necklace for a simplistic look or wear with as many coins as you would like for a more creative, glitzy presence. No matter your attire, coin necklaces are a top fashion add-on to wear anywhere.

Ear Cuffs

Fake multiple piercings with this ‘all ears’ jewelry trend. Great for women who are looking for a substitute to standard earrings.  Ear cuffs stand out and express a unique twist to the traditional ear piercing. A favored fashion fad for those who love the appearance but don’t like the pain.

Statement Necklaces

Define your personal style with a unique, bold, and interesting statement necklace jewelry piece. Complement your most flattering dress with a bib, pendant, or choker necklace. You can also add that extra chic when wearing black or white. A go-to fashion trend of 2016.

Whimsical Designs

Whimsical designs on jewelry add cuteness and a fun look. Popular designs feature adorable animals, flowers, and word jewels.  Check out our own collection for whimsical designs for you or a friend.

Stacking Rings

Mix and match jewelry stacking rings. A trend with no rules. Select thick to thin rings and stack em’ up. Play with texture or shapes with your stacking to keep from being too plain.

Motifs

Perfect for Spring, motif jewelry are ideal for extra feminine styles. Decorative jewelry with flowers, rainbows, bows, half moons and charms show a soft, petite, but trendy look. A soft touch with not too much bling.   

Slogan

Rising trends of 2016 has also made slogan jewelry more popular. Slogan jewelry has become more attractive with brands like Chanel. With bracelets, necklaces with slogans like “BFF, WTF, LOL, and Kiss”. A popular trend to show off your one of kind design.

Rose Gold

Rose gold has been bouncing in and out of fashion industry but 2016 is the time for rose gold jewelry. A warmer alternative to gold or silver conveying an attractive and luxurious feature. Its beautiful “pink” shade suits any skin tone. A popular color selection for engagement rings.

Diamond

A trend that does not go away. Diamond’s are a girl’s best friend.  Diamond earrings, necklaces, rings, or bracelets add the perfect touch of sophistication, class, and elegance. Year after year, diamonds have shown to be the hottest trend.

Pearls

A classic for jewelry trends. Pearls offer beauty and elegance no matter the current trend. Match with metals and stones for a classy, expensive look. Perfect for either the minimalist or fashionista.

Every day, we spend time selecting a chic outfit. We style our hair and apply makeup. We take good care of our skin. We beautify ourselves to look our best. But even with all that, we may still need a little bit of a style boost to complete our look. A simple trick to complete your look is to accessorize with jewelry – a lot of it. Mix and matching jewelry is a popular jewelry trend and a simple way to walk out the door looking your best.

So, how does one mix and match their jewelry? Here's our quick tips:

PICK A FOCAL PIECE

One important lesson about mixing and matching jewelry is to find a centerpiece and accessorize from it. A centerpiece is usually the one piece of jewelry that stands out the most. The “eye-catcher.” It can be a chunky necklace, a large ring, or a shiny watch. Whatever it is, your other jewelry pieces should complement that focal jewelry piece. Say you are wearing a large, chunky opal necklace for an anniversary dinner, one can match it with a pair of diamond-studded earrings. A large gold watch can be worn with thin bracelets and rings that have a similar or complimentary tone.

LAYER IT

Layer your jewelry based on size and thickness. Necklaces can be layered by wearing long jewelry pieces with shorter ones. On the other hand, bracelets can be layered by wearing thin, simple looking bracelets together with thicker, chunkier bracelets. Make sure it doesn't look too overwhelming. Never pile too much jewelry.

STACK ‘EM UP

One of the latest styles when it comes to wearing rings is stacking. The best thing about this stacking trend is that there are no rules. It doesn't matter how many rings you wear. Pick out from any of those cute, affordable pieces from your favorite shops and stack em’ up. Sounds pretty simple and awesome, right?

BE COLORFUL

Mixing and matching jewelry can sometimes become dull and boring, especially if you wear pieces of the same color. Break the monotony by wearing pieces that have a colorful accent. Never be afraid to blend in a colorful piece in the sea of gold or silver necklaces. It’ll enhance and make your pieces look exciting and fashionable.

BE DIVERSE

Habitually, one would think to wear jewelry of the same kind. So if you chose a gold bracelet as your focal piece, the rest should also be in gold. But, present times calls for change. Now, it is actually encouraged to mix jewelry of different metals and stones. This makes the look more unique and trendy.

Mixing and matching jewelry can be intimidating at first but play around with it. The simple key to remember is to not over-do it. Aside from that, the combinations can be endless. A quite simple recipe to arrive at your next party looking beautiful and stylish.

We all dream of working in an office where Casual Friday isn’t just limited to the end of the workweek. As much as you love how professional and sleek you look in your fitted pantsuit, heels and a low chignon, you probably enjoy the freedom of dressing down. Finding the right balance and jewelry is crucial as Forbes reminds us. Don't take casual Friday too casually.

But at the end of the day, we want business attire that brings us a sense of confidence in the workplace. This confidence is why the fashion industry consistently advocates for female empowerment, in and out of the office. Several well-known brands, such as the plus-size women’s retailer Woman Within, have joined the Dress for Success global campaign to help ladies seek their full potential.While your LBD provides extra sex appeal when you need a bit of an ego boost, there’s nothing quite like commanding the attention of the boardroom as you’re wearing a blazer, pencil skirt and pumps.

But no outfit is ever complete without the accessories, and jewelry can change the entire vibe of your ensemble. To keep your pieces appropriate for your 9 to 5, here are a few things to consider:

1) Think of your jewelry as finishing touches, and not embellishments

Some people will advise that you only wear one piece per outfit to play it safe, but you can still look like an executive with multiple necklaces, earrings, or bracelets. Something to keep in mind is the design; you want to attract, not distract. Little Pink Book suggests simple jewelry rather than bold pieces to pair together.

2) If you want to go bold, opt for a single statement accessory

It’s better to not have enough, than too much. If you are wearing a big-stoned ring, maybe hold off on the watch and bracelet. Let the statement ring shine on its own. If you really want to wear several eye catching pieces, limit it to two and space out the placement. Some people can pull off the big necklace and bold ring combination.

3) Don’t be too flashy with your wealth

Your jewelry may signify your financial possibilities, however it shouldn’t be used to show prestige over coworkers. Know the right balance of sophistication and statement is crucial to making the right impression. You want to be noticed but not in the wrong way.

So the next time you get dressed for the office, think about the statement that you want to make. Shoot for an appropriate balance to feel beautiful and confident without being flashy and over the top.

Ladies And Gentlemen....The Greatest Show on Earth!

The Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus has been a well-known circus in America for 200 years, promoted as the “Greatest Show On Earth”. Just last week, the circus announced the end of their popular performing elephant show. May 1st, 2016 was marked down as the last show for eleven touring elephants. Elephant acts have been a main attraction for the Ringling circus and have often been featured on its ads, souvenirs, and posters. 

After holding its tradition for 145 years, the incredible jeweled elephant act has come to an end as the eleven performing elephants are set to retire. Fled Entertainment, which owns the circus, originally announced in 2015 that it would retire all eleven touring elephants and have them transported to their conservation center by 2018.  However, officials sped up the process realizing that the new structures to house the retiring elephants could be completed sooner than they anticipated.

We Bid Farewell To Elephant Jeweled Costumes

After performing their final show in Rhode Island and Pennsylvania, all eleven elephants were transported south to Florida to join the rest of the Ringling Bros heard of 29 elephants.  Relocating them to the Feld Family’s Ringling Bros Center for Elephant Conservation located in rural Polk County, FL between Tampa and Orlando. Its facility is a 200-acres conservation center dedicated to caring for these endangered animals and is also the home to the largest Asian elephant herd in the Western Hemisphere. 

Going to the Greatest Show on Earth was a treat for me when I was a little girl.  I can remember the acrobats, clowns, dancers and large animals performing incredible, mesmerizing shows and stunts. Of course, the jeweled elephants are easy for me to remember because of their unique balancing acts and shiny elephant jewelry decorations. The elephants were often adorned with huge sparkling head and back saddle cloths in bright, shiny, colors. I will never forget the elephant jewelry piece on their head, which read “Greatest Show On Earth”. Their costumes often reminded me of India’s Japiur elephant traditions, where elephants were adorned with beautiful rugs, clothes, and large elephant jewelry.

What's Next For These Gentle Giants?  

It is bittersweet to think the elephant acts will no longer be a part of this circus many are so fond of. The bad news, we’ll miss them, the good news is the elephants will join an ongoing research program at the conservation center that is currently researching why elephants rarely develop cancer. Interesting to see how this research develops.

All in all, we, elephant lovers, say farewell to these iconic performers as their final curtain has fallen and all Ringling’s 40 circus elephants can be officially declared….retired. 

Looking for some of your own elephant jewelry or a gift for an elephant-loving friend? Consider the cuff bracelet from Joyiia in gold or silver or the gold good luck elephant necklace from Dogeared. Looking for something less dainty?  Our ROPES bracelets from Maine are a must see.  All three simplistic in style yet adorned beautifully for you to showcase this stunning animal while complementing your wardrobe. 

Everyone has invested or plans to invest in a beautiful piece of fine jewelry. It can be a diamond ring or a sapphire necklace. Whatever it is, it's bound to be beautiful. So, it's only logical that people should take extra care of their pieces. But, how do you exactly do that? How does one take care of their fine jewelry? Let's go through some simple tips.

Store Them In a Sturdy Box with a Soft Interior

The most important thing to keep your jewelry safe is to place them in a strong container or jewelry box.  This protects your jewelry from accidental damage from day to day storage. Make sure that the insides of the container have a very soft, gentle lining. This prevents scratching and further damage. You choose one with a velvet inner lining to make it look more elegant. If you choose to use a jewelry box without a liner, wrap each piece of jewelry in tissue paper

Clean Them After Use

No, don't wash them with any old cleaner.  Abrasive cleaners can damage your jewelry. You may want to read our detailed post with 6 jewelry cleaning tips that jewelers don't want you to know.

Store Necklace on a Hook

Necklaces are just like headphones. They get tangled up for no reason at all. You can prevent this by placing your necklaces on a hook to keep them from getting tangled with each other. If your necklace is made of precious stone, separate them from others...  Don't hang your pearls though as they may stretch.  They should be stored laying down.

Separate Diamonds and Other Precious Stones from Each Other

Diamonds are known to be the hardest mineral on the planet. It has a score of 10 in the Moh Hardness Scale, which means it's very tough. It can cut through glass and other diamonds, which is why you need to separate them from each other and from other jewelry.you ruby ring might not damage your diamond earring, but your diamond earring can damage your ruby ring. Same is true with other precious stones. Minerals can damage each other and other minerals below their hardness scale. So, keep them separated. It's for their own good.

Be Careful With Pearls

Pearls are nature's wonderful gifts. They are probably the only stone in the planet that shines without any need for polishing or additional treatment. But, since it's a product of nature, it tends to be a bit fragile. Avoid throwing it casually on the table after use because it can cause damage to the delicate surface of the pearl. Also, avoid letting perfumes and make-up touch the pearl. Wear your pearls after doing your makeup to avoid damage.

Take Extra Care of Your Silver

Silvers are particularly sensitive when it comes to temperature and humidity. It can easily get tarnished if not taken cared of. Make sure to cover them properly with a piece of cotton cloth or a polishing cloth. Never use tissue paper. It can cause scratches.  You should take a look at our silver cleaning options here.

Keep Them Safe!

Keep your jewelry safe, especially if you have quite a collection. Place them in a safe or keep them well-hidden. Better yet, avoid wearing too much jewelry when going out.

These are just some of the tips you can do to keep your fine jewelry in mint condition. Sure, it's a lot of work, but in the end, it's all worth it to look beautiful.

Diamonds are more popularly known as a “girl’s best friend”. They are extremely elegant and last forever. That’s why many women have made it their dream to acquire one if not more to make part of their timeless jewelry collection. The word “diamond” came from a Greek word that means “indestructible” and it is the hardest substance known to man. Diamonds are typically priced per carat.

Most buyers consider several things when purchasing a diamond, such as the carat, clarity and color. One important thing to consider when buying a diamond is the cut. A diamond’s cut pertains to its symmetry and proportion. A diamond’s beauty depends on the cut. Many people use this as their main criteria when purchasing a diamond. If you are planning to purchase a diamond ring for your engagement or diamond studded earrings for your wedding anniversary, here are the most popular cuts available in the market.

The round cut diamond is the most popular cut since 1919. Roughly 75% of all diamonds sold are of this variety. Round diamonds usually costs 25-35% more than other cuts because of two reasons; One, the demand is very high and two, the yield is very low. This means that a lot of the stone has to be removed to make this shape.  Due to its proportion and symmetry, they utilize the reflection of light equally, thus giving out its maximum brightness.

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The princess cut diamond was first created in 1980 and is the most popular fancy cut available. It is usually used for engagement rings and works with any style of rings, making it a popular choice. It’s a bit less expensive than round diamonds because a princess cut diamond can be made with a half of a whole diamond.

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Cushion cut diamonds are a square cut with rounded corners. It has been around for 200 years and is popular for people who prefer the classic look. Refinements in the cutting process have recently made this cut more popular.

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Emerald cut diamonds are most probably the most unique cut available. Only 3% of diamonds in the world are emerald cut. They have a very vintage and distinct look. It has a very subtle sparkle and it has a tendency to look larger due to the nature of its cut. This is known as the hall of mirrors effect. The cut creates flashes of light that contrasts the dark planes of the cut. Emerald cut diamonds costs 15-25% less than round cut diamonds.

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The Asscher cut diamond is very similar to the emerald cut. It was created back in 1902 by the Asscher Brothers, hence the name. Asscher cut diamonds were very popular back in the 1920’s, that’s why they are mostly seen in antique shops. Recently, they have made modifications with the Asscher cut that gave it more brilliance, making this cut more popular.

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Radiant cut diamonds were more popular back in the 1980’s. It is a bridge between the princess cut and the cushion cut. It is a square cut diamond with brilliant-cut surface pattern, which makes it really beautiful. It has a very modern look, combining the brilliance of round diamonds and the elegance of emerald cut diamonds, making really popular nowadays.

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Oval diamonds were first created back in the 1960’s. It is a brilliant cut diamond, like round diamonds, but it gives the illusion of a larger size. It has the same brilliance with the round diamond, making this popular with those who want a more unique look. The shape also gives the wearer the illusion of more slender fingers.

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Marquise diamonds are very distinct due its football-shaped appearance. It was created for King Louis XIV, who wanted a stone carved into the shape of what he described as “the perfect mouth”. It has a elongated shape, maximizing the entire surface of the diamond and tends to give off the illusion of greater size.

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The pear diamond is a combination of the round and marquise cut diamond. It has a conical point on one end and gives the wearer the illusion of elongated fingers. It typically possesses a very good symmetry, but most can only appreciate its beauty in larger sizes.

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Heart cut diamonds are obviously made to represent love. It's a modified brilliant-cut diamond and is popular for pendants and rings. To fully appreciate the design, the diamond should be more than .50 carats.

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So, those are the most popular diamond cuts. When choosing a diamond, make sure to know what you really like. Do you prefer the vintage look? Or the more brilliant type? But, above all the criteria stated, what’s really important when buying a diamond is the memory. Despite the particular diamond cut you choose, they are forever so make sure you love it. 

Tired of dreaming of diamonds and the different diamond cuts?  Want something a little more reasonable?  Shop your fashion jewelry now.