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How to Identify Genuine Georgian Jewelry, part 1

How to Clean Antique Jewelry — The Important Do’s & Don’ts

Where to Sell Your Unwanted Jewelry

Ten Reasons — What Makes Customers Buy Jewelry from Specific Designers

Endless talk of all things sparkly.

Obsessions

Hot Gemstone: Turquoise

Turquoise makes a bold statement when set in yellow gold--the crisp blue stands out with the buttery yellow of the gold.  This gemstone, often used as December's birthstone, should not always be associated with Southwestern Jewelry (sterling silver only).  I think people should add more turquoise and yellow gold jewelry into their wardrobe, and I've noticed that designers are creating more and more pieces with this in mind.  Check out what I'm talking about below! These earrings use the turquoise and yellow gold combination, while adding the white mother-of-pearl. The heart motif makes them fun and flirty, and they dangle 1.25 inches. They are from Heavenly Treasures, and sell for $198. I've seen many of these necklaces with the same style, however this one is unique because the turquoise stone is carved. These necklaces are often called "chicklet" style necklaces. The flower carving makes is stand out above the rest. The necklace can be ordered in sterling silver ($65), 14k Goldfill ($85) or 14k solid yellow gold ($135). I like when that choice is available. From Lunessa! Here is a vintage ring that uses the turquoise and yellow gold combination. This ring hails from England and dates back to 1903. This type of style is called a bypass ring. The diamonds are rose-cut and the ring is a size 4 1/2. From The Three Graces which has some beautiful antique and vintage jewelry. The price on this piece is $495. Read More

Obsessions

Wooden Jewelry:Wood You?

There are more and more ways for people to become eco-friendly these days, even when it comes to your jewelry.  Instead of opting for gold or platinum, did you ever think of trying wood?  Once carved, it is smooth and durable, as well as easy to take care of.  With all the different varieties of wood, each piece can be unique and have a certain look.  Some woods have deep spiritual meanings that date back thousands of years ago, when some cultures thought trees to be sacred.  Take a look at some of the interesting wood jewelry, and you may want to try it out for yourself! This wooden ring combines Bog Wood and Turquoise, specially made to fit your ring size. It is from a website that specializes in eco-conscious wood jewelry, where their slogan is "Let the tree hug you" for all those tree-huggers out there. The ring sells for $275 at Simply Wood Rings. You can also give your engagement ring some Earth-friendliness. Simply Wood Rings also makes custom orders, this one featuring a salvaged engagement ring setting and diamond, secured in a Walnut ring. For more information on custom orders, go to their website. These zebra wood earrings are earthy and elegant at the same time. Designer Kara Ross uses 18k gold and diamonds in these earrings. They look like something found in an upscale zoo gift shop. For store locations, check out the Kara Ross New York website. 18 Jewels is a trendy jewelry hub that features numerous beaded, stackable bracelets like these. The two here feature wooden beads, and white gold with diamond charms. There are more to choose from on the website, but I like the peace sign bracelet ($600) and the pave diamond ball ($1150). Read More

Obsessions

Obsession: Leather Bracelets

After coming across these bracelets in hopes of finding something "unordinary" in the stackable bracelet trend, I've realized these leather goodies are on a whole new level. I especially love how the designers have paired the earthy material of leather with something bold, like a pearl or something sparkly, like diamonds. These would go great with any other bracelets, whether you own gold bangles or a tennis bracelet. The leather on these bracelets has proved that leather can be considered "fine jewelry" and look high-end. I love them! These leather bracelets have a diamond encrusted button which encloses each one. You have your choice of black or brown leather, and you also can choose yellow, rose or white gold. Each are $500 and can be found at JL Rocks! Easily purchased online! This stack of seven bracelets is actually one bracelet! From the Misani Collection which originates in Milan, Italy. The company specializes in combining leather, gold and diamonds. It can be purchased at Pageo Jewelers--North America's exclusive representative of this company. Bold and beautiful! Leather combined with black or white South Sea Pearls creates these great bracelets from Cathy B. Jewelry. I am excited for their website to be revamped soon, allowing customers to order directly and have access to prices and better descriptions. Keep an eye out for that, as well as sneak a peek at their flip flops. They are extremely cool. Read More

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Obsessions

Spotted: Dangle Rings

I've always had this tiny, gold, etched band ring with a single, circular charm dangling from it which portrays the Virgin Mary.  I love this ring and I was recently admiring the simplicity of it.  It is also one of the most complimented-on rings that I own.  That dangle definitely sets it a part!  I've found some dangle rings that are just as beautiful and will guarantee compliments.  Enjoy! This dangle ring showcases a pretty color-combination of aquamarine, peridot and apatite. Set in 18k gold and designed by Becky Kelso. This is a fun and vibrant ring! From Ylang|23, for $540. This ring is also from Ylang|23 and is a great buy at $202.50! That is half off! It looks similiar to the dangle ring I have. A good amount of gold with two charms dangling from m2 Design collection by Mary Margrill. A unique dangle ring that combines two trends in one! A stack of rings, plus the cross dangle! Believe it or not, there are seven stack rings here, all done in 18k yellow gold. This one is designed by Beth Orduna, priced at $1320 from Ylang|23. I can't stop wanting to buy this ring. I think the concept is so neat, and I'm so intrigued by the pieces of jewelry that BYLU creates. That little piece of quartz? Found in Central Park--each is unique and hand cut. Price ranges from $250-280 depending on ring size and can be found in the Compass Rose Collection on BYLU's site. Wow is the first word that comes to mind when I see this ring! It is made using 18kt gold and denim silk that is hand woven together. Made in Italy by Carolina Bucci and found on Astley Clarke, an online boutique which houses designer jewelry from around the world. Price is about $1122. Read More

Obsessions

Diamond found in Africa may be one of the World’s Largest!

Well I have two interesting stories today--one about a diamond that has recently been discovered in Africa and another about how you can possibly find a diamond hidden in your Secret deodorant! So recently, September 8th actually, the mining company called Gem Diamonds based in London, made a discovery of a 478 carat rough diamond!  That may be one of the top 20 largest diamonds ever discovered.  Since the gem has not been cut and polished yet, they are still unsure of what they could potentially have.  A spokesman has said that it could possibly be at least 150 carats when all is said and done.  To compare that to other famous diamonds, I've added these pictures.  The diamond remains unnamed.  I'm excited to hear what happens with that.  You can read more about famous diamonds at this interesting website devoted to world-famous diamonds: http://famousdiamonds.tripod.com/famousdiamonds.html Koh-i-Noor diamond, 105 carats   76 carats, found in the same mineMy other story is pretty exciting...how would you like it if you were getting ready early in the morning, and while you put on your deodorant, you felt something funny?  Only to discover it was a diamond gamepiece, which means you are the winner of a 1 carat diamond from Secret's Diamond Giveaway Sweepstakes!  That could be the case...from now until June of next year, Secret is promoting their new deodorant called flawless by giving away a flawless diamond worth $15,000!  To be eligible, just buy the deodorant that has the special label featuring the prize giveaway and see if yours has a diamond gamepiece hidden inside.  You can also enter your email address by following this link, and receive a game code in your email.  Other prizes will be given away, like Visa gift cards, movie tickets, and restaurant gift cards.  You can check back to the site to see who wins! Read More

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How to Identify Genuine Georgian Jewelry, part 1

How to Identify Genuine Georgian Jewelry, part 1

Education & Advice
How to Clean Antique Jewelry — The Important Do’s & Don’ts

How to Clean Antique Jewelry — The Important Do’s & Don’ts

Education & Advice
Where to Sell Your Unwanted Jewelry

Where to Sell Your Unwanted Jewelry

Education & Advice

Obsessions

Trend: Stackable Stack Rings

What type of ring are people craving for this season? It has to be none other than the Stackable Rings that have been ever so popular these days. Designers have embraced this trend and have been creating the most delicate and elegant pieces ever. A great aspect about these rings is that you can stack a bunch together or just wear one. Another perk is that they are more affordable than large, ornate cocktail rings. I like win-win situations! Check out my favorites below! This ring can be ordered in your choice of the teal tourmaline or green tourmaline. The ring is done in 14k yellow gold that was carved to look like tree bark! They have such an earthy feel, for a price of $345. They are featured on Lunessa, a site featuring a wide variety of designer jewelry. Designer Jennifer Meyer created these tiny little gems. You can have it your way when it comes to these--you choose the gold color (white or yellow) and which gem you want (diamond, turquoise, emerald, ruby or sapphire). Mix them up or match them up, whichever you prefer! They are only $125 each and can be found on Roseark. I especially like that you can order them in a size 3 :) When I look at these stack rings, I immediately think that an architect designed these. Dana*David designs jewelry keeping her interests in mind, one of them being architecture! I like the one that is a square, and the diamond is off center, placed up in the corner. On her site, you can click on stores, and from there choose your state to find the nearest retailer. Read More