The Emmy's Sparkle With Celebrities, Style and Diamonds
It was hard to tell who was the big winner on Emmy night the celebrities or their diamonds. In celebration of the Primetime Emmy Award's 60th diamond anniversary, there was plenty of bling to mark the occasion from Heidi Klum's diamond butterfly earrings to the commissioned $10 million Hearts On Fire Diamond Chandelier. The heart-stopping, one-of-a-kind chandelier was designed by Hearts On Fire, a jeweler based in Boston. The shimmering, three-tiered fixture served as the centerpiece of the...
Gemstones: Nature's Gift of Beauty and Rarity
The naturally occurring gemstone is a crystalline form of a mineral. Desirable for their beauty, gemstones are also loved for their rarity and durability. As adornments in jewelry, gemstones can bring enjoyment for generations. While many gems have remained popular for years, some are rare collector stones that have only been discovered recently.
Emeralds
The much-loved emerald is admired for its radiant green color. The top quality emeralds are considered even more valuable than diamonds....
World's Famous Jewelry Collections Possess Stories of Conquest and Mystery
Jewelry collectors of the world know that often a piece of jewelry's value lies not only its karat worth but also its past where it came from, how it was acquired and the intrigue it has created through the years. These individual pieces, brought together, form prized collections that hold stories of conquest and mystery.
Considered to be one of the world's most valuable and largest collections, the Imperial Crown Jewels of Iran is comprised of an exhaustive number of tiaras, crowns,...
"Bead-dazzle:" Bead Making's Rich and Colorful History
Among the oldest human art forms, bead making dates back to ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt, where glass beads were fashioned from clay with a vitreous coating. In 1500 B.C., the traditional mosaic methods of bead making were developed. Glass bead making's three major eras occurred in Egypt, Rome and the Eastern Mediterranean. The most renowned glass bead making era developed in Venice the famous Murano glass beads.
One of the earliest forms of glass bead making, the wound method begins by...
Wedding Rings: A Glimpse at Cultural Traditions
The wedding ring a romantic expression and symbol of fidelity and love is an important element to today's marriage ceremony. Through the centuries, the wedding ring has symbolized many things for couples and not always the romantic notions we hold today.
The tradition of the wedding ring goes as far back as ancient Egypt, more than 4500 years ago. The Egyptians were the first to link the symbolism of a ring with the supernatural an unending circle representing eternal love. Egyptians...
World Famous Jewelers Inspire With Their Creations
More than just ornamentation for the body, jewelry has long served as a palette for artistic expression. From Bulgari to Cartier to Harry Winston, the world's famous jewelers have created pieces of bejeweled art that have captured the attention of collectors worldwide, as well as the imagination of those who appreciate fine jewelry.
Frederic Boucheron
Acquiring fame as an expert in precious stones, Frederic Boucheron opened his first jewelry salon at the Palais Royal in 1858. The masterful...
The Necklace as Jewelry Transcends Cultures and Time
A representation of feminine beauty and mystique, the necklace has been an integral part of a woman's decoration and beauty for ages. Whether a choker, rosary or chain, the necklace has achieved a timeless appeal. In many cultures, necklaces have marked cultural distinctions, based on ornamentation, length and attire. From Greek mythology to the French Revolution, the necklace has played a major role in cultures worldwide.
Since the dawn of time, necklaces have been fashioned from jewels,...
Jewelry Wardrobe: Ten Jewels Every Woman Should Own
Few purchases in life are meant to actually last a lifetime or beyond. Fine jewelry, however, is meant to be worn, enjoyed and treasured for years to come. So just how should a woman go about building the perfect jewelry wardrobe? Many turn to the The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) to guide them through the "bauble basics. After all, the organization is one of the most trusted names in diamond grading and gemstone identification. Here are some tips on how to choose pieces which are...
The World's Most Famous Diamonds
Only a percentage of all harvested diamonds are actually gemstone quality giving diamonds their rare reputation. So when a diamond is able to capture the world's attention as one of the world's famous diamonds, it must be truly exceptional. Diamonds are revered for their hardness as well as their high dispersion of light. However, some of the world's diamonds have been made famous not necessarily because of their quality but because of the story behind the diamond.
The Great Star of...
The Four C's: A Diamond Primer
To celebrate, to commemorate, to reward, to romance
there are many reasons to buy a diamond. When making an investment in jewelry, especially diamonds, it is important to employ the 4 Cs: Color, Clarity, Cut and Carat weight to ensure value and appreciation. The Gemological Institute of America established the 4 Cs of diamond value to help diamond professionals describe and classify diamonds. When taken together, the 4 Cs help in evaluating a finished diamond.
Color
Many people think of...
Determining the Value and Beauty of Gemstones
Gemstones and gems are often referred to as precious or semi-precious stones. These attractive minerals are transformed into much sought-after jewelry or other adornments through a process of cutting and polishing. Other rocks, such as lapis-lazuli and organic materials, such as amber, are not minerals. However, they are frequently used in jewelry and often considered to be a gemstone as well. Gemstones are considered valuable because of their luster or other unique physical properties, in...
Sizzlin Summer 2008 Jewelry Trends
Part of the fun of summer is wearing the season's new colors in clothing and jewelry. Summer 2008 is no exception. This season's jewelry trends perfectly complement summer's exciting hot picks in clothing wear.
Anything blue makes both a bold and cool statement this summer. Blue topaz and aquamarine are hot trends for the season, as well as beaded necklaces, turquoise bracelets, and blue sapphire rings. The versatility of blue jewelry allows it to be matched with neutrals, black, and more...
Wedding Rings: Today's Trends Tomorrow's Classics
Summer is a popular time for weddings. Sunny days, warm weather and a profusion of flowers provide the beautiful back drop for brides who take their vows in a church, at the beach, in a garden, or other unique setting. From the ambiance to the wedding wear to the reception, couples today wish to infuse their personalities into every detail of the day. As personalization of style also extends to the wedding jewelry, couples are giving more special thought to their wedding rings. Gone are the...
Extend the Life of Jewelry With Careful Cleaning
From inexpensive baubles to family heirlooms, jewelry reflects new trends and the cherished moments of a woman's life. Careless treatment of any kind of jewelry, however, shortens its life, value and beauty. Careful cleaning of jewelry extends the wear and value of a collection.
Gemstones
Gemstones are a popular choice for jewelry aficionados because of their beauty. They are also some of the most durable choices for jewelry. Still, care and maintenance are important factors to maintaining...
Wedding Ring Instructions: Choose What You Love Within Your Budget
It's impossible to predict what life will bring. When a couple chooses to spend their lives together, they want their rings to represent their lifelong commitment. As the years progress, children may be born and grow, and in the best of circumstances, the covenant, and the rings, will have both persevered the joys and challenges of life.
Wedding rings are perhaps the only piece of jewelry for which a couple will shop for and wear in a set together, so some preliminary instructions may be...
All That Glitters is Gold
Since the dawn of civilization, gold has been used by humankind for both decorative and daily use. Gold art objects and jewelry have been discovered as far back as 3,000 B.C. to be used by the Ur civilization what is now Southern Iraq. Similarly, gold objects have also been discovered in Peru by archaeologists that date back to 1200 B.C. Gold's nearly indestructible nature is virtually unaffected by the effects of elements such as oxygen and water. Although gold does wear over time, its...
The History and Significance of Birthstones
For centuries, gemstones have played a significant role in the everyday lives of people. Today, birthstones are used to represent the birth month of individuals. Some believe that birthstones hold special powers for the wearer. Others just appreciate wearing a gemstone that represents the month in which they were born.
When did these gemstones first become associated with the months of the year? Historians think that the first written record comes from the book of Exodus in the Old Testament...
A Brief History of Jewelry Boxes
For centuries, elaborate jewelry boxes have been created by skilled craftsmen. In some cases, the boxes have been crafted to be as precious as the treasures they store.
During the Industrial Revolution, the concept of mass production enabled the newly established middle class of society to purchase items such as jewelry boxes, in addition to other luxury items. As jewelry boxes were being manufactured in bulk, the cost involved to produce them, as well as the cost to the consumer, was...
Cancer Awareness Jewelry: Hope and Charm Bracelets
In recent years, the ongoing battle for a breast cancer cure has gained notoriety as more and more lives have become touched by the devastating emotional and physical trials of cancer. Yet where the malignancy of cancer lurks, supportive movements such as the recent popularization of Cancer Awareness Jewelry prevail, helping to sustain the fight against the disease and fortify the battle for a cure.
Whereas the ongoing battle for a breast cancer cure has been made famous with the pink ribbon...
The Rise and Fall and Rise of Venetian Glassmaking
Glassmaking in Murano, Italy has a long and impressive history. In fact, it is the longest lasting center for glass making in history. From the 9th century to today, Murano has continued to produce beautiful and innovative artwork through generations of success and failure. A small island northwest of the city of Venice, Murano is not much larger than a few square miles. As a major trading port, Murano reflects Asian and Muslim influences. Multihued beads were used in trading with Asian,...
British Crown Jewels Represent One of the Largest Jewelry Collections in Existence
Subject to a turbulent history and much thievery, the British Crown Jewels represent the regalia and vestments worn by the king or queen of the United Kingdom during a coronation ceremony and other state functions. In all, the collection includes crowns, orbs, swords, scepters, and other regalia. Gold and silver plate was refashioned in 1661 after parliament had ordered the original gold and precious metals to be melted down for coinage in 1649.
By British Law, the originals of the crown...
Smithsonian National Gem Collection
Some of the world's most spectacular diamonds and other gems can be admired in the National Gem Collection in the Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Collection in Washington, D.C. The collection is comprised of diamonds known to almost everyone, as well as other diamonds and precious gems possessing a priceless place in history.
While many are familiar with the Hope Diamond, they may be surprised to find out it is not a clear diamond, but instead of brilliant blue stone, surrounded by...
The World's Famous and Historic Diamonds Capture the Imagination
People have long sought after diamonds. Ever since man first discovered how to cut and polish gemstones they found or dug from the earth, diamonds have been considered highly valued. According to most historians, the first diamonds were discovered near India, which has a long and rich history with precious stones and jewelry. Here is a brief look at some of the more famous and infamousdiamonds.
Archduke Joseph Diamond
The Archduke Joseph Diamond is one of the Golconda diamonds, produced...
A Charmed History: Charm Bracelets Provide Hope and Comfort Throughout the Ages
As far back as the Neolithic era, humankind chose to carry unusual stones or a piece of wood as protection from enemies or evil spirits. During the time of the Egyptian pharaohs, the first recognizable charm bracelets and necklaces appeared. These were elaborate pieces of jewelry made of precious stones and metals. Charms were also used to identify an individual to the gods in the afterlife.
Much later during the Roman Empire, Christians identified one another with the "ichthys," or fish...
Ancient Sumeria to Pre-Columbian America: The Sparkling History of Jewelry
The history of a mineral, crystal or metal can unlock a deeper, more meaningful value to jewelry. Indeed, the anthropology, archaeology, geography, and technology of special gems and elements can provide rich stories.
Copper
Take for example copper, and its oxides, which are the most ancient minerals used. They began showing up in the ancient jewelry of Sumeria, Pre-Columbian America, and Egypt around 4,000 B.C., and also played a vital role in the wars fought in those volatile regions.
In...
Bold and Unique: Top 2008 Jewelry Trends
The top jewelry trends for 2008 call for less, but the key ingredient for fashionistas is bold and unique pieces. For those who like to draw a bit of attention, think show-stopper pieces that make a statement and are gem-intensive.
Galas and parties this season will sparkle with socialites wearing larger, signature pieces for the classic "Grace Kelly" look. Women who want to copy the same look should invest in a stunning cuff bracelet or bold ring. While past seasons have focused on the bling,...
Myths About Various Gemstones
There is a rich body of myth, legend and folklore surrounding the gemstones that are found in gold jewelry. Lets take a look at the qualities that are associated with the most popular gemstones.
Amethyst
The word amethyst is derived from the Greek word not to intoxicate and this led to the belief that drinking wine from an amethyst cup would prevent drunkenness. The gem was also thought to protect soldiers, ensure victory, aid hunters, protect against disease, control evil thoughts, and...
How to Safely Clean Your Diamond and Gold Jewelry
Diamonds and gold are precious materials and after investing so much in purchasing them, it is important to clean them in a way that will retain and enhance their original beauty. If you are not sure about how to do it, I would like to present some basic maintenance tips for diamond and gold jewelry.
Hand lotions, hair styling products and everyday oil and dirt leave a film on diamond and gold jewelry preventing them from sparkling. This material can accumulate into a thick layer of gunk on...
More Myths Connected With Popular Gemstones
People have been wearing gems and gemstones for thousands of years, and these gemstones are usually associated with many widely held beliefs and with folkloric knowledge. Lets take a look at some of the most popular gemstones and see what beliefs they are associated with.
Coral
This gem is thought to protect its wearer against magic spells and people have been wearing coral jewelry in places where the belief in magic and magic spells are widespread. Some people also believe that wearing...
What is a Diamond?
Diamonds are the glamorous stones that decorate the finest jewelry in the world, but just what exactly are diamonds? How are they formed? Where are they found? If you are curious about these questions then read on because I would like to share with you the most important facts about diamonds.
First of all, diamonds are made of carbon. Charcoal and graphite are also composed of carbon, but their chemical structure is different. In diamonds each carbon atom is bonded to four other carbon atoms...
Understanding the Different Jewelry Components
Which gold or silver jewelry settings are most durable? Which gold or silver jewelry clasps are most secure and which are the easiest to manipulate? How long is a gold choker necklace? If you can understand jewelry terms and jewelry components, it is easier to buy the right jewelry when shopping for gold or silver jewelry online and off. So here is a brief guide to some of the most important jewelry components.
Choosing Necklace Length
Most necklaces are one of several standard lengths. When...
The Hard Facts About Conflict Diamonds From Africa and India
Diamonds are small, easily transportable and command high prices. These characteristics have made diamonds a good source of funds for coup leaders in.
Africa and elsewhere. These smuggled diamonds have been labeled conflict diamonds and many consumers are wary about using a product that they think may be related to the suffering of innocent people.
However, before you skip buying diamonds it is important to understand the safe-guards that have been adopted by the UN and the actual role that...
The History Of Gold Jewelry, Part 3
During the 14th and 15th centuries jewelry became an important feature for both male and female attire.
In the first half of the 15th century jewels composed of enameled gold figures, flowers, and foliage modeled in high relief were frequently mixed with clusters of pearls to create stunning ornaments.
The influence of the Spanish court set a standard for the other princely courts of Europe during the 16th Century. At this time the art of engraving on metal was perfected. As trade and...
Buying an Engagement Ring For Your Beloved
The best way to buy an engagement ring is to let her pick it out herself! After all, your fiancι will wear this ring every day and it must feel good on her finger and it must suit her lifestyle. It may take trying on many diamond shapes and setting styles in gold or other precious metals to determine the best ring for her.
But perhaps you want to choose ring? If surprise is a factor of if you don't want your fiancι to be involved with pricing and payment then here are tips to that may help you...
Choosing a Ring Prong Setting
Gold, platinum and silver rings offer variety different settings. Before you go out and buy an engagement ring, wedding ring or other ring, take a look at this brief guide to the various ring prong settings that are currently available.
Engagement Ring Settings
The prong setting, also called a claw setting, is the most commonly used setting.
The prong setting is especially popular for solitaire engagement rings. The diamond or other gem is inserted into three or more metal prongs forming a...
The History of Gold Jewelry, Part 1
Humankind has long been fascinated by the beauty of gold and since the earliest days of civilization gold has been used to adorn us in the form of jewelry. Lets take a look at how gold jewelry has been used in the various parts of the world during the last five thousand years.
The Sumerian Civilization, located in present-day Iraq, is well known as the place where one of the first systems of writing was developed. There gold was used to make necklaces earrings, rings, bracelets and other...
The History of Gold Jewelry, Part 2
In the first article of this series we have seen how gold jewelry was developed in the ancient Sumerian civilization as well as in Egypt and Crete. The technique of making fine gold jewelry spread to Greece, to Northern Europe and to the Celtic people as well. Now lets look at the role that gold jewelry played in the pre-Roman era and during the Middle Ages and Renaissance.
In the 7th century BC the Etruscans of central Italy were also making fine gold jewelry. The Etruscans perfected the...
Gold Mining: How Do We Get Gold Out of the Ground
The precious metal of gold has fascinated humans for thousands of years. But how do we actually get it out of the ground? Lets take a look at the most common ways to mine gold.
There are two main gold mining methods, one is called placer" and the other is vein" mining. And another type of mining is when gold is collected as a by-product in the mining of other metals.
Placer Mining
Placer mining is practiced when the metal is found in unconsolidated deposits of sand and gravel from which...
Pandora - The New Trend in Jewelry
More than the name of a legendary figure with an infamous box, Pandora is also the hot new jewelry trend that's sweeping America. This unique jewelry is now available at fine gift, jewelry and department stores across North America.
According to Greek mythology, Pandora was created by the Greek god Hephaestus. She was sent to earth with a box and when she opened it, all the evils of the world escaped. The only thing that remained in the box was the virtues of hope and opportunity. Hope and...
The Hidden Meanings of European and American Charms
Starting at the inception of the 20th century and extending until the 1960s, it was a mark of the middle-class that young girls be given a charm bracelet before they reached puberty. At every holiday or anniversary, a new charm is added to the bracelet, often by the relative who had given the original bracelet.
The demand for charms is ancient; only the method of marketing them is relatively recent. Not all the charms on these bracelets were lucky emblems -- equally common were hobby-related...
How Charming -- Why Charms and Charm Bracelets?
Traditionally, there are several times in a womans life when she can receive a charm bracelet; once as a young girl and once for her marriage.
In the past, when a woman married, she was given a charm bracelet to celebrate her future. A charm bracelet with wedding bells or a marriage certificate was later filled with charms representing the honeymoon, anniversaries and the birth of her children. This bracelet was frequently referred to as a Lifetime bracelet, growing over the years to one...
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