Mother’s Day pays tribute to all that moms do, whether for yourself or your own kids. Your plans to celebrate may include a nice brunch or dinner and a special present to show your appreciation. As you shop for a Mother’s Day gift, consider a piece of jewelry that shows you’re thinking of her and also reflects her unique style. Consider one of the following ideas. Customized Jewelry If she’s particularly proud of her status as a mother or grandmother, jewelry can be customized to spell out “Mom” or “Grandma”. You can also have her initials or name engraved on a piece of jewelry. Personalized ..read more

Minerals have been classified since ancient times. In the 1800s, terms like “precious” and “semi-precious” were introduced to distinguish between gemstones. While today’s understanding of gemstones is more detailed, these traditional terms still affect the pricing of jewelry. Learn about the differences between these broad groups of gemstones. What Are Precious Gemstones? “Precious” describes a select group of gemstones that are rarer in nature and have a vibrant yet still translucent appearance. These include diamonds, rubies, emeralds and sapphires. On occasion, jade, opals and pearls are i ..read more

Clarity, one of the “4 Cs” of diamonds, influences how light passes through the stone and works with cut to enhance its luminescence or “fire” effect. As lab-grown diamonds increase in popularity, particularly for consumers looking to make more conscientious, sustainable choices, clarity gives these stones an edge over their earth-mined counterparts. Here’s what to consider. Natural vs. Lab-Grown Diamonds Despite lab-grown diamonds being labeled as synthetic stones, they possess the same chemical, physical and optical attributes as their natural equivalent.  These similarities extend to ..read more

Many people love silver jewelry for its cool, low-key luster and ability to complement nearly any outfit. Yet earrings, bracelets, pendant necklaces and rings start to tarnish with time, developing a dull, dark finish that mars the original appearance. As silver jewelry continues to grow in popularity, learn the steps you can take to prevent your pieces from tarnishing. Why Silver Jewelry Tarnishes Silver jewelry typically starts with sterling silver, an alloy incorporating other metals. Tarnishing occurs when silver gets exposed to the oxygen or sulfur particles naturally present in the air ..read more

For the past few decades, the diamond has defined bridal jewelry, particularly for engagement rings. Although shapes, arrangements and metals change, many people believe you can’t commemorate an engagement without this stone. However, an increasing number of couples look for alternatives to stand out with something different or add more color. Consider the following options for your own engagement ring. Moissanite Moissanite’s profile continues to grow as a diamond alternative. The stone delivers similar hardness and properties, while costing far less due to lack of demand. As such, it’s often ..read more

The luxury watch market has catered to male consumers for decades, starting with the larger watch face and strap, extending to marketing efforts centered around racing and other sports. By contrast, the women’s watch market treats these timepieces as fashion statements. In addition to a thinner band and smaller watch face, jewels and pastel hues often visually distinguish a women’s watch. In more recent years, brands have started introducing their classic racing and diving-themed watches in smaller sizes and without distinctive gender markers to appeal to male consumers wanting a more vintage ..read more

Diamond necklaces are a glamorous investment purchase, delivering classic style you can always turn to. Whether you’re shopping for yourself, a spouse or loved one, get started with the following tips to purchase a diamond necklace. Know the 4Cs As a general overview of the 4Cs of diamonds: Color and clarity tend to take precedence with necklaces, as both affect the appearance on a broader scale and are influenced by inclusions. In the case of color, these inclusions can result in a naturally pink, blue or other fancy stone. Inclusions may also affect how well light passes through the stone a ..read more

Over the past few years, stacked or standalone bangles have been a popular bracelet design but that now appears to be changing. The statement bracelet is making a comeback, starting with cuff trends spotted on the runway.  Statement bracelets cast a wider profile with enough body and substance to draw attention on their own. This could be through size or ornamental aspects, from gemstones to other details. Whether you have a few statement bracelets to revive or are looking to try out this jewelry trend, here’s how you can get started. Think About Sleeves What’s the point of wearing an int ..read more

Composite diamonds are small stones placed together to create a larger-looking diamond ring. diamonds that have been carefully placed together to create a larger-looking diamond ring that heightens its glamour and sparkle. If you’re shopping for an engagement ring and come across a composite diamond, here’s what you should know. How Composite Diamonds Work A composite diamond can be derived from a natural or lab-created source. Its defining aspect is the arrangement with other stones. A group of smaller diamonds or imitation stone like cubic zirconia, moissanite or glass are attached and set i ..read more

Too much of a good thing is one sentiment that applies to long necklaces. In relation to your body shape and clothes, they can potentially appear oversized, childish or unflattering. Yet longer necklaces can be essential for layering – a trend that’s come back in style over the past few years. To hit the right notes, consider the following factors. Necklace Length For most women, a long necklace is roughly 30 inches, although this length can extend up to 36 inches – known as opera length – based on height and body proportions. Unsure what fits or looks good on you? Ideally, a long necklace wor ..read more