Beauty Gemstones,Jewelry & Diamond

Cremation Jewelry

2009-02-18T13:19:00.002+07:00

For a long time, however, the traditional method of accomplishing this necessary task is the traditional casket burial in a cemetery. For many people this is just an honored tradition, but many people now are making plans that include cremation memorials, and becoming very creative with the way they depart this world. A cremation memorial can be a creative and loving way to celebrate the life of a departed friend or loved one, and there are as many options involved as you can create in your imagination

Cremation jewelry is a very popular choice among those who have chosen cremation as the means for final disposition of their loved one. Cremation jewelry usually includes both cremation necklaces and cremation bracelets. Both are made in a way that includes a small compartment, which can hold a tiny portion of the cremated ashes of a loved one.

Today you will find that there are many types of cremation jewelry and pendants to choose from and they range from religious symbols, such as a cross or Star of David, to animal figurines or even a simple, cylindrical shaped pendant. You can also choose from a variety of different metal compositions such as gold, silver, pewter and brass.

Types of Cremation Jewelry

An urn necklace can be worn just like a regular jewelry. All keepsake necklace designs have elegant and sophisticated touches that are a must for all jewelries. There are a wide number of remembrance jewelry designs available today. Urn jewelry comes in all forms, shapes and sizes. They are usually made of sterling silver, pewter, 14k gold, brass, cobalt or glass. Some higher end pieces of keepsake necklaces can be studded with gemstones such as onyx, ruby amethyst, or even diamonds.

Most remembrance jewelry makers offer the option of personalizing your keepsake necklace with the name of your loved one who passed away, their life dates and short messages you want engraved. You can even have your loved one's image engraved on the necklace. Personalized urn jewelry is surely an effective way to remind you to never forget.

Today this type of jewelry is becoming more popular as they not only combine the elegance of jewelry but the ability of holding part of a loved one close to you.

If you would like to know more about cremation jewelry then all you need do is search on the internet and you will soon see what is available to you. What a great way of remembering that one special person in your heart for the rest of your life.

Tips For Buying Engagement Diamonds Rings

2009-01-15T13:59:00.011+07:00

Executive summary from Article By Frank Luca & James Jae Kook

Because engagement Diamonds rings consist of many features, the final cost of the rings usually goes higher for a buyer who is not well versed in the cost-effective ways of the shopping. There are expenses to be made on diamonds, metal band, settings and engravings and many more. The next, but main part of buying the ring is to make an extensive search for the ring of her choice. in searching such a jewelry piece, you should not loose focus on the price range you have already fixed according to the budget.

Usually, online retail jewelers are the source of low cost diamonds products. Compare them to find out which one is offering you the ring of your choice at lower prices. But know the diamond's return policy so that you can return the ring on time if you receive a damaged ring or it is not up to your requirements of the design.

Another way to lower the costs is to make the engagement diamonds rings on your own. The advantage of designing of the ring is that you have the option of selecting a loose diamond with invisible flaws at low prices or a diamond with side blemishes at further lowered prices and you can cover the blemishes by metal on the ring.

Ask the jeweler to cut the diamond in such a way that the costs are within your budget. A rectangle or square shape of the diamond is less expensive as compared to heart and pear.

Ask the jeweler about various settings as well. If you follow these basics of shopping for engagement rings, you are most likely to own an affordable and yet a glittering piece of jewelry.
The author has helped the jewelry customers immensely in enabling them to make informed purchasing of engagement rings, wedding rings, diamonds, gemstones and other items.
For details please visit Glimmerrocks.com

As the proposal is so unique, the ring should be unique too. A bespoke engagement ring tells the young man's intended he cared enough to give her a piece of jewelry that was completely original and designed to his specifications.

Choosing the Ring

The first step to designing a bespoke engagement ring is to determine what type of precious metal is to be used. The choices include platinum, gold, white gold as traditional choices and silver in rare circumstances. If your bride to be wears silver than consider platinum or white cold. Keep in mind that platinum will probably cost a bit more than gold so keep your budget in mind when designing the ring.

Choosing the Stone

The traditional engagement ring usually consists of a single diamond ranging from ½ carat up to 2 carats. When designing your bride's ring keep an open mind. As a matter of fact colored gemstones are becoming more and more popular for engagement rings. Try and choose a stone that suits the personality of your intended. A more traditional girl will prefer a diamond. When designing a bespoke engagement ring for your fiancée, keep in mind her personality and likes and dislikes. Remember to keep your budget in mind at all times and adjust your choices accordingly.

Inspirational Jewelry

2009-01-13T13:29:00.018+07:00

Executive summary from Article by SUZANNE MACGUIRE & WAIN ROY

Welcome to the wonderful world of inspirational jewelry.
Inspirational jewelry enjoys a unique duality in its appeal to our aesthetic senses.
Inspirational jewelry happens to be a nice and convenient way of capturing your favorite inspirational quotes that would help you wear your belief forever.
Inspirational jewelry forms a popular part of bohemian culture where you wear your own belief and display it boldly in accessories.
Apart from embossing your favorite inspirational quote, you may also suspend pendants of your favorite symbols or totem which may very well act as your lucky charm. Instances of rich flora and fauna are also nicely portrayed in bracelets and bangles.
Inspirational jewelry comes with motivational words, phrases and lines etched on it that continue to inspire every time the eye meets them.
Most inspirational jewelries are nicely designed by professional designers and are customized to suit individual tastes. Popular inspirational jewelries include exotic rings, chakra necklaces and also mood rings.
Metallic Celtic rings are also quite popular in the genre of inspirational jewelries and are popularly worn by believers of Wicca and pagan philosophy.
The discussion about inspirational jewelries would remain incomplete without the mention of crystals. Crystal jewelry stuffs are believed to possess metaphysical properties and are a powerful tool that influence human mind. Well known varieties of crystals include Amethyst, Quartz, Hematite, Jade, Jasper, Obsidian and Fluorite. These individual types of crystals play different roles in manipulating physical as well as mental wellbeing of individuals.

From time immemorial, jewelries have always adorned the beauty of a woman. Traditional jewelry accentuates the sophistication of its possessor.
. Traditional ones highlight physical attributes and the trendy inspirational jewelries reflect the philosophy of one's mind.
Inspirational engraved jewelry gives you the unique opportunity to 'wear' poetry around your neck, on your ears and around your fingers
It can turn one's favorite lines of poetry into exquisite pieces of jewelry.
Inspirational jewelry makes a wonderful for about any reason and any season. If you are looking for a slightly unusual gift, something that will set your gift aside from the rest and will make a great impression with the recipient, try gifting a piece of hand engraved inspirational jewelry.
Just gift a beautiful piece of inspirational jewelry and watch their faces light up.
Inspirational jewelry has countless admirers the world over. Some of the well-known names today are great enthusiasts of inspirational jewelry, including Jessica Lange, Susan Sarandon, Mick Jagger, Johnny Depp, Meg Ryan, Seal, Sheryl Crow and Debra Missing.
The Internet is a great place to start getting familiar with this unique brand of jewelry.
One of the best places to find a most dazzling array of inspirational jewelry is Jeanine Payer's online jewelry store.
. One of the best places to find a most dazzling array of inspirational jewelry is Jeanine Payer's online jewelry store. Feast your eyes on a most exquisite array of bracelets , rings, earrings and necklaces – each meticulously crafted from precious metals with words of gold etched on them for eternal inspiration and motivation. Jeanine Payer is a San Francisco-based jewelry designer of significant repute and her name has become associated with some of the finest creations in inspirational jewelry.
Inspirational jewelry happens to be a nice and convenient way of capturing your favorite inspirational quotes that would help you wear your belief forever.
Inspirational jewelry forms a popular part of bohemian culture where you wear your own belief and display it boldly in accessories.
Instances of rich flora and fauna are also nicely portrayed in bracelets and bangles
Inspirational jewelries not only reinforce personal beliefs of the wearer but can be a very special gift to a recipient.
Most inspirational jewelries are nicely designed by professional designers and are customized to suit individual tastes. Popular inspirational jewelries include exotic rings, chakra necklaces and also mood rings.
Metallic Celtic rings are also quite popular in the genre of inspirational jewelries and are popularly worn by believers of Wicca and pagan philosophy.
The discussion about inspirational jewelries would remain incomplete without the mention of crystals. Crystal jewelry stuffs are believed to possess metaphysical properties and are a powerful tool that influence human mind. Well known varieties of crystals include Amethyst, Quartz, Hematite, Jade, Jasper, Obsidian and Fluorite. These individual types of crystals play different roles in manipulating physical as well as mental wellbeing of individuals.
From time immemorial, jewelries have always adorned the beauty of a woman. Traditional jewelry accentuates the sophistication of its possessor. Contemporary jewelries on the other hand bring forth the beauty of your thoughts. Traditional ones highlight physical attributes and the trendy inspirational jewelries reflect the philosophy of one's mind.
Check out my other guide engagement diamonds or Cremation Jewelry

The Stories Meanings and Origins of Gemstone

2009-01-06T16:27:00.010+07:00

Ever wondered what your birthstone means? Since the beginning of early times, many people had assumed that different gemstones have their own meanings and properties of healing. Whether what they said is accurate or not, it was believed that every gemstone held its own energy and through the chakra system is able to motivate the human body.

Gemstone meanings

Gems have always been the storehouses of power, and can only be imparted in your body through physical contact. Royal families especially the crowned kings and queens wore several pieces of gemstones to obtain their influences on the people. They had believed that as rulers, they can be guided by cosmic energies by connecting them with special forces.

Priests too had the same concept with the monarchs. They wore rings with gemstones as they had conceptualized on the idea that the power exhibited by the gemstones could be beneficial for them.

The power of the gemstones
Vijaya Kumar, a professor of computer and electrical engineering, wrote an overview on the power of gems:

1. All gemstones generate magnetic powers and many are considered beneficial to man.

2. A man's whole being is strongly influenced by the gemstones frequencies and vibration.

3. These stones are used for transforming and healing the mind, body and soul.

4. They trigger our abilities, soothe, and comfort us though the chastity of their rays.

5. Most precious stones have their own way of treating unbalanced emotions.

6. Gemstones which are always in contact with a person transmit their healing properties to him or her.

Birthstone meanings and origins

Years ago, some people had believed that certain gemstones generate more vibration power at a certain time of the year. That is why the month the stones power is stronger determines our birthstones. Also, other people have said that the original link between the gemstones and the twelve months of the year developed from the twelve stones which are pointed out in the Bible while others believe that they symbolize the twelve stones. For this reason, several gemstones are associated with each month.

In our time, the powers of gemstones are appreciated in the industrial uses of crystals in lasers, watches and computers.
The Gem Stone Mining and Making Process

So you're wondering how exactly your jewelry came to be. Well, that's a normal question any jewelry enthusiast would ask. You do question how these gems are placed into metal. You also question where exactly these gems came from.

There are gem stone mines everywhere around the world. The most popular are in Brazil, Canada, Mexico, Uruguay and Africa. There are also mines in Europe and the United States, depending on what kind of gem stone you are looking for.

Amethyst
Amethyst is the most valuable kind of quartz. It is found everywhere around the world. For this very reason, it is one of the most affordable. The quality of amethyst is quite unique, depending on where it was obtained. Amethyst that are found in the United States are larger compared to those found in Africa. However, the latter has higher saturation when it comes to their colors.

Amethysts with the highest saturation are those found in Australia. There are also amethyst found in Brazil are usually large and have hues and cuts.

Emerald
Emeralds are mostly found in Mexico. Two main sources are the mines in Guerrero and Vera Cruz. Emeralds found there have the tendency to have lighter shades and are clearer than those found in other countries. The stones have lighter hues and the crystals are phantomed with a transparent interior and a saturated exterior.

Emeralds that are found in Guerrero are saturated dark green. They have a visible termination of their interior color saturation and exterior transparency. The highly saturated emeralds are the most elegant.

Sapphire
The most notable source of Sapphires are those found in Brazil from Minas Gerais, Bahia, Maraba and Rio Grande do Sul. Among those containing the best sapphires are the large pockets that are formed by the volcanic material.

The sapphires that are produced here vary in their color saturation which ranging from pale up to medium blue. Those that are navy blue are the sapphires that have the highest saturation.

Diamond
Africa is known to be a producer of diamonds, thus the inspiration of the recently released blood diamond. There are diamond deposits in Zambia and Namibia. The diamonds found in Africa can be as large as an egg and are outstandingly clear.

Jade
The United States has various gems. In Maine, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Montana and Colorado, the most popular stone is the Jade. The color depends from the medium saturation. It may be smoky or translucent, depending on where it was obtained.

Jade from Maine and North Carolina are usually dark while those found in Montana or Colorado have a green tint.

Now, the next question, how are the jewelry is made. Diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, amethysts, and jade are only a handful of precious gemstones out there. Some of them are very valuable because of their rare appearance.

How are these gemstones formed? Well, they are formed underneath the Earth. The process involves vary in each gem stone. The stones react with the minerals, specifically water. This is how they are dissolved. When the solution evaporates and cools down, these minerals are formed.

The water then mixes with the silica-rich rocks like sandstone. This produces the gemstones like amethyst, opals, agates, sapphires, jade and topaz to name a few. When the copper-rich rocks mix with the water, it bears the minerals like turquoise, malachite and azurite.

Emeralds and tourmalines are formed from rain water or the water that is from cooling bodies like magma that is mixed with the minerals and crystallized in cavities or open cracks. These spaces are filled with minerals which create the hydrothermal deposits needed in the formation of these gem stones.

There are also gemstones that are formed directly from the mantle. They consist up to 70% of Earths total mass. They are usually made up of magnesium, silicon, iron, oxygen, silicate and aluminum compounds. The upper layer of the Earths mantle has a volume of the olivine which is quite common in the whole procedure.

Whenever you hear the word metamorphic it means the change of form of these rocks. Metamorphic gems are garnet, emerald, ruby, aquamarine, sapphire, onyx and zircon. They are formed over a long period of time because they wait for the rocks to be altered with such pressure and intense heat in order to interact with the other solutions.
In addition, these gemstones have been used to promote physical healing in the human body by helping a person to balance his human emotions
Check out my other guide on
old fashioned cut becomes classic or Inspirational Jewelry

How to Rarity is determine and the price value by the gem's color ?

2008-12-29T08:49:00.012+07:00

How to Determine the Price Value of Color in Gemstones

Gemstones may come in a rainbow of colors, but the jewelry industry uses a universally defined system to grade it. Color accompanies clarity, cut, and carat weight to make up the 4C's and can greatly affect the aesthetic value of gemstones. Use the following tips to accurately evaluate the color of gemstones by yourself.

Evaluating Color of Gemstones by Using the GIA or Munsell Color Grading System
It utilizes a plastic set made up of 324 color pieces to serve as standard references. If a certain color is found missing from the system, interpolation can be performed to come up with more than 760 additional shades.

The GIA or Munsell system is made ideal for judging the color of gemstones because they are built with 3D plastic pieces that resemble faceted gemstones.

Elements of Color
The color of gemstones should be judged according to the three main elements:

Hue This is the first impression we obtain from viewing colors. It is what makes rubies red, sapphires blue, emeralds green, and amethysts purple. Hues have a natural order and they are red, yellow, green, blue, and lastly purple. Chroma or Saturation This element refers to the vividness, purity, strength, or intensity of a given color. Gemstones with low chroma are referred to as weak while those with high levels of saturation are called vivid or strong. Saturation of colored gemstones may be classified as the following in ascending order: grayish or brownish, slightly brownish or grayish, very slightly grayish or brownish, moderately strong, strong, and lastly vivid.

Value or Tone This is what makes you think of red as light or dark red. Gray as well as black and white are referred to as neutral or achromatic colors because they don't possess any hue. Colors with hues are referred to as achromatic colors. GIA uses a numerical system, with its written definitions, to evaluate neutral and achromatic colors alike. For transparent colored gemstones, however, only grades or tones two to eight are considered.

0 colorless or white
1 extremely light
2 very light
3 dark
4 very dark

Treatments Used for Changing Colors of Gemstones
When shopping for colored gemstones, another question you should definitely ask and one you couldn't evaluate without a definite honest answer is if the color is natural or applied. There are several commonly used and accepted color treatments that are applied to gemstones in order to change their appearance like heat treatment, irradiation, dyeing, and straining.

Heat Treatment This is the most commonly utilized and one of the oldest treatments for modifying the color of gemstones today. This treatment may use temperature ranging from 100 degrees Celsius to more than 2000 degrees Celsius and improves color distribution as well as reducing visibility of flaws.

Irradiation Low or high electromagnetic waves or energy particles are used to change the color of a given gemstone. With irradiation, certain gemstones have their colors enhanced. Bleached, off-color pearls will obtain a darker tint. Brown or light yellow diamonds can become colored. Colorless quartz may turn into smoky quartz. Colorless as well as pale pink and dark blue beryl may become yellow or maxixe-type respectively. Time, light, and heat may, however, cause the color for treated beryl jewelry to fade.

Dyeing and Straining This is the major term used to refer to various techniques utilizing a foreign and differently colored substance to modify the color of a given gemstone. Rarity is determined by the gem's color

If there is one appealing aspect of gemstones that up to this moment continuously lures women to be inclined toward it, that would be its bedazzling sparkle and exquisite colors. Among all gemstones the precious stones are the most dazzling of them all which includes sapphires, emeralds and rubies.

The aforementioned gemstones are popular due to their striking colors such as blue, red and green. While sapphires among the three other gemstones have other variety in terms of its color, which includes yellow, green and pink.

Nonetheless, all gemstones have their own respective appealing color which adds to its daintiness. Gems also have other color variations like red, green and blue.

Your desire matters

An exceptional advantage that is offered by gemstones to its clients is that they have all the freedom to select the color which they prefer. In line to that, most of the gems that are intense and richest in terms of its color merit higher market value as compared to others. For instance the emerald is known for its various shades of green, however the most famous color is the bluish green which also happens to be the most expensive kind.
Related post understanding clarity and transparency

The "Term" Gemstone Genuine & How to spot an authentic jewelry store

2008-12-18T09:17:00.014+07:00

Is Your Gemstone Genuine?

Jewelry is big business and the real value of any jewelry is dependent on the gemstone that is part of it. What are the qualities or characteristics to check or watch for to be sure that the gemstone is genuine?

It takes training and the right equipment to determine if a gemstone is genuine. The term "genuine " means that the gemstone doesn't only look as expected, it should also meet the physical and chemical characteristics unique to that gemstone. Before going any further, are treated gemstones still genuine? Some gemstones are treated to enhance their appearance and decorative value.

Yes, there are professionals to perform the tests that determine if a gemstone is genuine or not but it is a valuable asset to any gemstone buyer to know the attributes to be tested.

1.0 Chemical composition and atomic structure
The stone's hardness, and light reflection is dependent on the atomic structure. Gemstones usually have crystalline structures.

2.0 Hardness and durability
Testing Laboratories

American Gemological Society (AGS)
American Gem Trade Laboratory of the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA). AGTA the largest trade organization of gemstone traders
American Gemological Laboratories (AGL)
European Gemological Laboratory

Advancements in science have produced synthetic "gemstones" which cost just a fraction of the genuine gemstones.

How to spot an authentic jewelry store

There are so many jewelry stores and almost every store has the same pieces of jewelry. It's almost impossible for an amateur buyer to determine if the store sells authentic jewelry or not. Some stores trick their buyers into buying fake jewelry, so here are some helpful tips in spotting an authentic jewelry store.

Watch for the papers

Authentic jewelry comes with a price for a reason. So if you were to buy a real diamond ring, don't buy it without the essential papers. These authentic pieces of jewelry come with a product registration card and signed certificate of authenticity. If the store fails to give you these papers, they might be selling fake or imitation jewelry.

Beware of online stores or eBay

Not all pieces of jewelry fetch a high price. So if a store is selling a 1-carat diamond for a low price, be suspicious.

Finding authentic jewelry stores may be a big challenge for an amateur, so asking around or consulting a professional jewelry maker will help a lot. Don't be lured by words or sweet-nothings, but certainly watch out for these tips in finding an authentic jewelry store.

Knowing the Different Cuts for Gemstones

2008-12-16T20:09:00.009+07:00

When grading and appraising gemstones, cut may not be as influential as the other C's like color, clarity, and carat weight, but it is definitely an influencing factor when it comes to the gemstones overall beauty. To properly evaluate the cut of a given gemstone, you must not only study its face-up view or the surface or top view but study it from all other angles as well. An excellent cut can reduce loss on carat weight but enhance its looks to breathtaking proportions at the same time.

Common Cuts Used on Gemstones

Brilliant Cuts A brilliant-cut gemstone usually has three flat polished surfaces per facet. They are positioned in such a way to radiate the best light from the gemstone. Gemstone cutters also make sure that the angles will enhance the brilliance of the gemstone. Brilliant cuts are mostly used for diamonds and transparent gemstones.

Some facets will have one or more shapes like stars, hearts, kites, and lozenges. Variations of the brilliant cut include the naivet‚ or boat-shaped marquise, per-shaped pendeloque, and oval shape. Oval shapes are suitable for gemstones with lower carat weight because they can make them appear bigger.

The most popular variation of all is the full-cut round brilliant. It has fifty-eight facets, presently the greatest count for brilliant cut gemstones. The single brilliant cut, on the other hand, has seventeen to eighteen facets. For gemstones used in earrings and pendants, the briolette variation is mostly used to provide it with circular cross-section teardrop shapes. Brilliant cuts with triangular dimensions are called trilliants while square brilliant cuts are also known as princess cuts.

Step Cuts Another popular cut for a gemstone is the step or trap cut. Step cuts are best used for colored gemstones because they possess four-sided table facets and girdles as well as parallel quadrilateral facets. The term step cut was used because this gemstone cut bears similarities with a staircase. Step cuts have fewer facets than brilliant cuts.

One well-known variation of a step cut is the baguette. It is rectangular in shape but with square corners. Emerald cuts are also quite popular. Its name was derived from its consistent use with emeralds. Emerald cuts remove the corners and form an octagonal shape. Clipping off the corners protect delicate gemstones like emeralds and facilitate setting of gemstones at the same time. Other popular variations for step cuts are window, table, radiant, and oval.

The best advantage of step cuts is its ability to enhance a gemstones color, making the color richer and appearing to have originated straight form the belly of the gemstone.

Mixed Cuts Mixed cuts for gemstones are mostly combinations of brilliant and step cuts. The crown or top portion of a gemstone will resemble a brilliant cut while the pavilion or bottom portion of a gemstone will receive a step cut. At times, the two cuts will appear side by side. Mixed cuts are also characterized by their rounded outlines. Many transparent gemstones like rubies and sapphires are often cut this way. Gemstones with mixed cuts are also commonly set in prongs.

Variations for mixed cuts include but are not limited to cushion, zircut, pear or teardrop, and oval.

Cabochon Cuts A gemstone with a cabochon cut will appear rounded on top and flat on the bottom. At times, gemstones will only appear in this cut. Height of a gemstones dome with a cabochon cut varies. The name is derived from the French term used for bald heads. Cabochon cuts are simplest to make, and that's why you'll often see them used on affordable gemstones and those that will not benefit from faceting.

Fancy Cuts Any other cut besides those mentioned above is usually referred to as fancy. A checkerboard cut, for instance, will have a combination of a large table facet on top and a mixed cut. A rose cut will have a round girdle outline, flat base, dome-shaped crown, and facets of a brilliant cut.

When judging the cut of a gemstone, start by evaluating it face up. See if the gemstone shows uniform color distribution and radiates light in the best possible way. Gemstones cut with large windows are unappealing. Lastly, recheck all other angles and determine if the cut took both carat weight and looks into consideration.
Check out my other guide on stories meanings and origins

Quick Guide to Popular and Precious Gemstones

2008-11-20T21:10:00.009+07:00

Alexandrite - this is a beautiful gemstone named after a Russian czar. The gemstone is a basic crysoberyl type, and is best noted for it's color changing properties depending on the shade of light it is exposed to. Alexandrite shifts between greenish to blue, to purple and even crimson hues. It is this very color-changing property that makes it one of the most valuable gemstones around.

Amber - formed from fossilized tree sap, amber is best known for it's soft yellow golden hue, which is distinctly different from other yellow-colored gem stones because it diffuses light into a much softer shade of gold than other yellow gemstones, which tend to intensify and sparkle instead. The fact that it is fossilized liquid makes finding unflawed pieces with no bubbles or cracks in the gemstone much rarer and more valuable.

Amethyst - the most famous type of purple gemstone, amethyst's color is a very light shade of purple that captures light inside the gem's facets. The color of amethyst is often semi-transparent as opposed to other purple gemstones which are darker and more opaque. It is this crystalline clarity and beauty which makes amethysts sought after by certain collectors.

Chalcedony - also known as agate, chalcedony is a form of quartz crystal which is composed of several different strains of quartz fused together in parallel layers. This tends to make the gems multi-colored, and the effect is like looking at a rainbow if the different layers of quartz are of varied colors and types. Quartz mines which hold different deposits of quartz types are ideal places to dig for this, and it is the rarest form of quartz gemstone around.

Diamond - composed mostly of superheated and compressed carbon, diamond is the hardest known substance in nature, and it's basic color once polished and cut is completely transparent. Diamonds are perhaps the most famous and valuable of the different types of gemstones because of its pure clarity and the enduring quality of the gemstones. Much romanticism surrounds diamonds because of these features and they are most sought after for wedding rings as a symbol of love's eternity.

Emerald - this is the most well known type of green colored gem stone. They are beryllium-based in chemical composition, sharing this element with several equally well known gemstones like rubies and sapphires. An emerald's shade of green is unique and quite a few ancient civilizations regard this as a holy or mythic stone. More often than not, emerald gemstones are cut into simple square or circular shapes, with few variations.

Garnet - this is a stone whose basic color is red. The most famous red gemstone remains the ruby, yet the garnet's distinguishing factor is that it's shade of red actually approaches crimson. For this reason, some people refer to it as a "bloodstone". A very rare type of garnet however is the "fire garnet", whose color is a brighter orange instead of a deep crimson. This is more expensive than regular garnets.

Jadeite - this is a form of jade that is rarer than the more common form, nephrite. While both are green colored, jadeite is semi transparent, making it more closely resemble "regular" gemstones than it's cousin nephrite. The purity of jadeite is higher than nephrite, and it's crystal density is higher, but it tends to naturally form in smaller pieces as a result and is much harder to work with than nephrite, which can be carved like stone.

Lapis Lazuli - this is a relatively soft type of gemstone which can be carved into a variety of shapes. What makes this particular gemstone unique is that it's color is a deep night-sky blue, but the gemstones are always flecked with small fool's-gold (pyrite) traces which gives the gem the appearance of a night sky dotted with golden stars.

Moonstone - this gemstone's fame comes mostly from it's mysticism and it's decidedly "feminine" gearing. As gemstones go, it's actual worth isn't very high, but it remains popular nonetheless. Moonstones are opaque, white-silver stones that under moonlight appear exactly the same shade as the moon in the sky. Naturally, this feature is what gave rise to it's historic popularity.

Nephrite - when people refer to jade, they often mean nephrite. This material is a bright opaque green, and it's physical quality compared to another form of jade, jadeite, is softer and more malleable. Large pieces of nephrite are easier to find than jadeite, and aside from jewelry this gemstone occurs naturally in pieces large enough to carve into small figurines and statues. Smaller pieces are carved into entire pieces of jewelry like bracelets and brooches.

Opal - these are completely opaque quartz crystals which, like chalcedony, displays a multitude of colors at the same time. The biggest difference between the two is that chalcedony's color patterns are often set parallel to each other, and chalcedony stones themselves are semi transparent. Opals are completely opaque, and the splash of colors are random and haphazard throughout the surface of the gem.

Pearl - these are organic gems which naturally occur in oysters. They are often rendered in an opaque whitish sheen that refracts light, making small rainbows play across the surface of a well-cut and polished pearl. Tons of myths surround pearls, and being reaped from the sea they figure prominently in almost every sea-faring culture's stories. Especially pirates. I don't know why, but pirates ALWAYS hoard them in stories. Go figure...

Peridot - this gemstone is perhaps best known for only one thing: simplicity. Unlike other gemstones, which can come in quite a variety of colors, peridots are uniformly a green-gold shade. Period. They are silicate-based gemstones, and traces of iron in the gems give it a gold hue. There are NO variations of opacity, color traces, or shade variations in peridots no matter what part of the world they come from.

Ruby - along with the emerald and sapphire, this red stone is one of the oldest and most famous types of gemstone for collectors. It's shade of red is actually rather bright and the stone itself is semi transparent instead of opaque. It is a type of gemstone called corundum, and is second only to the diamond in toughness among the world's gemstones. Next to diamond, it is also perhaps the most expensive type of gemstone around.

Sapphire - like the ruby, this is a corundum type of gem, making it much harder and more enduring than other types of gems. Traditionally sapphires are best known for being a vivid crystalline blue in color, though what few people know is that sapphires can come in a variety of colors including green, yellow, and orange. The real definition behind this is that corundums will almost always be RUBIES if they're red, and sapphires if they're any other color. Strange logic there, but that's how it's defined by a lot of gem collectors.

Turquoise - this stone can easily be likened to nephrite for two things: one, it's considerably softer than other gemstones, making it easier to work with, and two, it is opaque. Turquoise come in shades of sky blue with just a hint of green, and while it technically a stone the colors actually come from metals in the mineral - namely copper and iron traces. These metallic traces are the main reason for the stone's opacity and malleability.

Topaz - this gemstone is an aluminum silicate based gemstone and is primarily a rich yellow gold in color. The stone is semi transparent and is one of the harder and more enduring gemstones around. If the ruby "defines" red, the sapphire "defines" blue, and the emerald "defines" green for other gemstones, the topaz is the gemstone that sets the standards followed by other yellow colored gemstones.
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on old fashioned cut becomes classic or Inspirational Jewelry

Some Tips In Digging In For Fine Gemstone Jewelries

2008-10-20T12:57:00.004+07:00

Fine gemstone jewelry always is a wonderful possession, just to look at it sparkle or dazzle on your skin. The beauty of designs can be so breathtaking; you could just stare at it for hours. However, are you sure that what you're buying is a real fine gemstone jewelry, even if it sparkles and shines? Did you really make a smart buy on your jewelry?

An amateur buyer wouldn't notice the quality of the gemstone jewelry he/she bought. Oftentimes, we are dazzled by the appearance rather than the details of its make or design. Our money should ultimately go to the finest gemstone jewelry for it to will dazzle and sparkle after decades. Here are some tips on digging for fine gemstone jewelry.

Don't buy just anywhere, buy from the BEST.

As I've said, we shouldn't be taken in just by appearance. We should rather look into the intricacy of its make. To be able to spot this, you should buy from a recommended dealer or a reputable store. Asking around of friends and colleagues will help you buy fine gemstone jewelry.

The sign of a good jeweler is someone who can guide you into picking the best gemstone. The jeweler should be a trained professional knowledgeable about the quality of what they are selling. Also ask if the jeweler provides other services that will be necessary for the future.

Big no-no to discounts

Its been proven that people shop in stores where there are discounts, but never be lured by jewelry stores posing discounts. A 50% discount or more on valuable gemstone jewelry is just so unbelievable it couldn't be true. Stores use the discount strategy to get buyers to flock into their store. This means that most of them just put up the discount sign without anything actually being discounted. A good way to avoid being trapped in these discount stores is to canvass for prices in other stores to compare and contrast the price range.

Look for the papers and the marks

When buying, ask for the signed certificate of authenticity or the quality mark or the karat mark. These quality marks show on gold and sterling silver jewelry. If the quality mark is there, it means that the federal law requires a U.S. trademark on it. When the jeweler can't provide you the quality mark or the signed certificate of authenticity, don't buy anything there.

Fine gemstone jewelry can be fully enjoyed if it's genuine and in top-notch quality. The sparkles will surely last for a long time and could be further enjoyed by the next generation.
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Old Fashioned Cut Becomes a Classic

2008-09-27T15:47:00.008+07:00

There are a lot of gemstones that are cut in a certain way to create briolette jewelry. Briolette refers to the shape of stones that are cut into a pear shape. A briolette looks like an oval stone at the bottom that gradually narrows to taper sharply at the top, giving it the shape of a tear drop.

Briolette stones
Briolette jewelry can be made from a variety of stones, whether they are precious or semi-precious stones like diamond, amethyst, citrine, garnet, tourmaline, sapphire, ruby, emerald, you name it. Jewelers who use the briolette cut often inspect the gem carefully to make sure that it is the best cut for that particular stone.

Why briolette?
The briolette cut often brings out the brilliance of a stone and makes it sparkle but in a more refined way. Briolette jewelry emerged around the 17th century when jewelers wanted their gemstones to attract an admirer and not blind him.

Jewelers were also able to maximize the original size of the rough stone, keeping as much of the stone as possible. This is why you can often find briolettes that are elongated or even globular. The early days sure did allow cutters to do as they wished with the rough stone they had in their hands.

Although briolette jewelry lost its charm when round brilliant cuts emerged, they are currently enjoying a resurgence in popularity. These days, briolette cut stones can be found on earrings, necklaces, rings, bracelets, even tiaras.

Buying briolette jewelry
Regardless of whether you're buying a diamond or a peridot, there are certain things you should look for in briolette jewelry. Look for a rounder shape at the bottom of the 'pear'. This is the mark of quality. It's nearly impossible to count the facets, so you'll have to look for more precise faceting.

As for the setting, check the positions of the drill holes, especially in pendants and earrings. The hole should be in the center and the wall holding the stone in place should be stable. An off-center hole might loosen the stone over time.

And of course, consider the color class and the carat. Most briolette jewelry are priced depending on these two factors.

Who wears briolette jewelry?
The soft triangular shape of briolette jewelry makes it a favorite among women with small, pointed chins or those with oval or inverted triangle faces. Briolette earrings and pendants can sometimes emphasize a squarer jaw, so some women with this face shape opt for other cuts or at least prefer to wear smaller-cut briolettes. It's a very trendy yet elegant shape and as long as the size and design are carefully chosen, almost anyone can wear it.
Check out my other guide on Inspirational Jewelry or engagement diamonds

Understanding How Gemstones are Weighed and Measured

2008-09-18T23:13:00.008+07:00

Although bigger seems better and more expensive, it's not always so in the world of jewelry. In fact, size isn't even synonymous with carat weight and you need to keep that in mind when shopping for gemstones.

Carat Weight versus Size

Diamonds and colored gemstones alike are evaluated and appraised according to the 4C’s which are made up by cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. Carat weight is very much different from size and definitely more important than the latter. Also, take note that carat is different from karat, which is the measurement unit used for gold. Carat weight uses the abbreviation ct and ct TW for carat total weight.

In the past, carob seeds were traditionally used to measure a gemstones weight because of its uniform shape and size. In 1913, however, the jewelry industry managed to set universal standards for measurement and the carat weight system was born.

Now, one carat is always equivalent to one-fifth or twenty percent of one gram. One carat is made up of one hundred points. As a gemstones weight goes up, so does its value or price per carat.

The way carat weight is discussed is occasionally a cause for confusion. Remember that a gemstone with .005 ct may be called a half point gemstone. A .25 ct gemstone could be called a quarter carat while a .50 carat gemstone may be referred to as a half carat or fifty points.

Gemstones are often listed according to their size because it is more uniform than carat weight. Two different gemstones may have the same size but different carat weights and consequently, different prices as well.

Factors Affecting Gemstone Carat Weight

Gemstone Material A 1 carat ruby is smaller than a 1 carat emerald. This is mainly due to the gemstones specific gravity. A gemstones denseness level can make it carry greater weight even though it has a smaller size than other gemstones with the same carat weight. While carat weight is very much important for traditional and much-prized gemstones, it tends to lose its significance when it comes to common gemstones with high supplies like blue topaz, citrine, and amethyst. Amethyst, in fact, used to be classified as one of the precious stones but its price went down when loads of shipment arrived from Brazil in the 19th century.

Gem Shape or Cut The shape and cut can occasionally affect the carat weight. While most jewelry designers cut gemstones with size and carat weight in mind, others place more importance on its aesthetic value and may therefore reduce carat weight and size in favor of improved looks. The same can be said for shape as well.

Table Diameter The table diameter is often considered important only for measuring or evaluating the brilliance of a given gemstone, but what few people realize is that it can affect the gemstones carat weight as well.

Similar to gem cut and shape, if the table diameter is shaped in such a way to maximize its window-like characteristics, carat weight might be consequently sacrificed.

Today, studies show that a lot of gemstones sold on the market are cut to take commercial concerns into consideration. Many of these gemstones report loss in weight of just 10% or lower. Some are even cut to the extent of making them appear bigger as well.

Girdle Thickness The girdle is the dividing line between a gemstones pavilion and crown or its bottom and top facets. Ideally speaking, girdles must be extremely thin and preferably visible only to the naked eye like a light line. Thick girdles not only reduce brilliance and light yield but negatively affect the gemstones color as well. Girdles are often referred to as edges and they are graded as any of the following: very thin, thin, medium, thick, thick, and very thick. Thin girdles look better, but they're lighter in weight and easier to chip.

Crown Height The crown of a gemstone refers to its upper area and positioned on top of the girdle. Acceptable crown height for gemstones is between 11.0 to 16.2% of the girdle diameter. Greater crown height often means greater carat weight.

Pavilion Bulge The pavilion is the bottom portion of a faceted gemstone. Greater bulge usually means heavier carat weight.

Culet Size This is the facet at a gemstones tip. Like the girdle, culets are better invisible to the naked eye. It may be sharp or pointed.
Check out the other guide on Buying Rough gemstone or Stories meanings and origins or a guide to buying jewelry

Understanding the Clarity and Transparency of Gemstones Crystal Clear

2008-09-14T03:56:00.000+07:00

Clarity, together with cut, color, and carat weight, is one of the four important C's used for evaluating and appraising gemstones. Clarity determines the level of flawlessness of a given gemstone. With great clarity comes great transparency as well. Transparency determines the ability of light to pass through a gemstone and inclusions, which are a no-no in judging quality, can also hinder transparency. Use the following tips to help you evaluate the clarity and transparency of gemstones.

How to Evaluate Clarity in a Gemstone

Clarity assesses and grades the external and internal characteristics of a given gemstone. Inclusions such as feathers and crystals are examples of internal flaws. They originate from within but may extend to the surface. Blemishes such as scratches and nicks are examples of external flaws.

Blemishes are generally quite small and only appear on the surface of gemstones. Feathers are cracks or fissures within a gemstone. Crystals are minerals trapped inside gemstones. Inclusions carry greater weight in diamonds than other colored gemstones. While they are expected to occur in certain gemstones like red tourmaline and emerald, inclusions hardly occur in gemstones like aquamarine and citrine.

At times, inclusions and blemishes occur due to the cutting technique utilized. Also, inclusions, at times, increase the value of a gemstone. This is true in the cases of eye in cats eye and stars in rubies and sapphires.

Upon assessing the number, color, nature, location, and size of these flaws, an authorized individual will then grade the clarity of the gemstone in a scale of 0 to 10.

Unlike cut, clarity definitely affects the prices of gemstones.

Types of Gemstones according to Clarity

Type 1 These gemstones are free from inclusions most of the time. They include but aren't limited to yellow beryl, blue topaz, and amethyst. Their grades range from VVS to I.

Type 2 These gemstones generally possess inclusions. They include but aren't limited to sapphires, rubies, and alexandrite. Their grades range from VVS to I as well.

Type 3 These gemstones are rarely without inclusions. They include but aren't limited to red tourmaline and emeralds. Their grades range from VVS to I1.

Factors Affecting Inclusions in Gemstones

Size Minute and minor inclusions are small in size and hardly visible. Obvious inclusions are easily observable. Prominent includes are hard to miss at all.

Contrast Also known as color or relief, contrast refers to the difference between a gem and included crystal. Inclusions, based on their contrast levels, may be barely noticeable or a distraction.

Number Inclusions may appear individually or in clusters and clouds. Keep in mind however that the degree of distraction carries more weight than the number of inclusions present.

Location Inclusions located at the center of a gemstone or under the table are less desirable than those occurring near the girdle.

Grading System for Gemstone Clarity

VVS 1 and 2 Eye-Clean and Extra Fine Something more than 10x magnification eyepiece is necessary just to make the inclusions in a gemstone visible.

VS 1 and 2 Slightly Included and Fine Quality Tiny pin-prick inclusions are visible under careful scrutiny but their presence doesn't affect the overall appearance of the gemstone.

S1 Moderately Included and Good Quality Although the inclusions of this ilk are easier to see, they still don't detract too much from the overall appearance of the gemstone.

S2 Moderately Included and Good to Medium-High Quality When held closer than arms length, the gemstone will show inclusions that are easily visible.

Included 1, 2, and 3; Heavily to Severely Included and Low to Medium Quality – Inclusions here are either highly visible or worse, they virtually draw attention to themselves.

Levels of Transparency in a Gemstone
Transparent gemstones are those which you can see right through them. Their internal features are clear and defined. Semi-transparent gemstones on the other hand may appear a bit hazy and blurry. Not all of its internal features may appear distinct.

The internal characteristics of translucent gemstones are vague and not that easy to see. Semi-translucent or semi-opaque gemstones, on the other hand, simply provide even greater challenge for the individual to see through it.

Lastly, opaque gemstones don't show its internal characteristics at all.

When evaluating the transparency and clarity of a gemstone, make sure to clean it first as dirt and oil can reduce transparency. Use a microscope if possible. Lastly, loose gemstones are easier to evaluate because settings can conceal inclusions located at the gemstones pavilion.

Tips When Aiming to Buy Rough Diamonds

2008-09-08T04:10:00.006+07:00

Diamonds are women's best friends. The most important jewelry and accessories almost always have diamonds as gemstones. Diamonds are known as the hardest substance on the planet. They can't always be cut and broken down easily. Diamonds are used to cut other diamonds.

Aside from that property, diamonds are considered as among the most important elegant substances on earth. The substance isn't an element because it isn't pure, but it is known to be a product of the pressure applied to carbon. Diamonds aren't easily found in mines and it is very rare that explorers and miners are fortunate enough to find diamond mines.

Rough diamonds are diamonds in their unaltered state. Rough diamonds are literally rough because they aren't yet cut and smoothed for jewelry purposes. Jewelers and designers strive to secure and acquire diamonds in their rough state. That is because they will cut the substance according to their design plan. They then shape the rough diamond according to the design and fit the stone to the jewelry they choose.

Jewelers aren't the only people who regular buy rough diamonds. You could also strive to attempt to acquire such items. If you are aiming to customize your diamond jewelry according to your designs and preferred shapes, then, it is high time you buy rough diamonds. Here are some practical tips that will help you when buying rough diamonds on the market.

- Make sure to do transactions with accredited and popular sellers. Rough diamonds are still expensive even if they aren't yet cut and shaped. Thus, expect to shoulder a significant investment on the purchase transaction. You should stay away from suspicious and unreliable sources because you might end up buying fake diamonds.

- Secure experts' advice. If you can take an expert with you while doing the transaction, the better. Experts can easily tell whether the product is genuine or whether the price tag is practical and appropriate.

- Make the legal and necessary actions to ensure that your rough diamond won't be replaced or altered when you bring it to a jeweler for customization.

Rough diamonds aren't yet shaped and smoothed but they have the potential to be pricey. Rough diamonds are good buys because they are cheaper and are more practical. You can do whatever you like with these diamonds.
Check out my other guide on guide to buying jewelry or old fashion cut

Buying Wholesale Jewelry

2008-08-25T12:28:00.003+07:00

Thanks to today's technology, you can easily buy diamond bracelets and wristwatches online. $Even those that are priced $50,000 to $200,000. Because of online jewelry auction sites such as eBay, this is possible.

Pros and Cons of Online Wholesale Jewelry Purchasing

If you think about it, this way of purchasing jewelry is actually a good bargain. You will get a nice deal on that opal ring or the pearl necklace you have been eyeing. There are tons of Web sites out there that specialize in jewelry, which make shopping very fast and easy for you. You don't have to worry about those pushy and rude salespeople. To add icing on the cake, you can buy wholesale through online shopping. The price is so affordable and you can have that jewelry in your fingertips.

But there's a catch. When you're buying your jewelry over the web, you can't touch nor see first-hand what you are purchasing. This is very important because a picture you see on the site isn't enough to determine the value of the jewelry. You have to see it right in front of you in order to see if there are cracks, chips or scratches.

When buying jewelry in person, you can do the checking by using loupes or a magnifying glass. Online shopping for jewelry may be easy and you can do it wholesale but the disadvantage is that you aren't really sure whether the item you're buying is scratch, crack and chip free.

That's just not the problem

Jewelry experts also claim that other problems include misrepresentation of quality. Some unethical jewelers say that the item is of better quality than they really are. The buyer must also concern themselves with slightly inflated weights (those small differences in weight that can slightly change the stones value) and fraudulent repairs and appraisals. The buyer must also check the documentation from the Gemological Institute of America or GIA reports before actually buying the jewelry.

To respond to this problem, eBay has come up with guidelines when it comes to selling jewelry online. However, consumers should still have common sense on how they can protect themselves from these fraudulent practices.

How do you buy jewelry online and at wholesale prices safely?

1. Customers must be informed of what exactly they are buying? There are various sites that don't provide the buyers the complete and accurate information they need when buying jewelry wholesale. Also, most jewelers aren't experts or gemologists (those who specialize or have been trained in identifying and rating the condition and quality of gemstones) so they may not be able to properly describe the stones.

2. The customer must try shopping at retail jewelers and visit gemologist organization sites in order to be well-informed about jewelry, stones and how to know the authentic from the fake purchases. It also helps to check out the FTC guidelines which can be found on this site:

http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/guides/jewel-gd.pdf.

3. When shopping on eBay, the customer must read the terms and conditions. He should also check the fine print. The sellers that are of power Seller status should still be criticized like the rest of the sellers.

4. Before bidding on an online item, the customer must find out as much as he or she can about the item that they are bidding for. Also, the Federal Trade Commission suggests that the procedures regarding complaints should be practiced; even when the transaction is done online.

Sure-fire way for the customer to avoid fraud

In order to avoid online fraud, the customer must see whether the seller is willing to take the necessary steps of appraisal before actually receiving the money as payment for the purchased jewelry. Therefore, the payment can be held in tow through a third party for a minimal fee which the jeweler is paid as long as these conditions are met.

It also helps to have a gemologist around, better yet a gemologist who is also an appraiser because they will be able to confirm the quality, condition and identity of the stones that are being bought, plus the true value.

Buying jewelry as a wholesale and online may sound pleasing but it takes as much work as buying it first-hand from a store.

Check out my other guide how to spot authentic jewelry-store

Buying Rough Gemstones

2008-08-06T07:58:00.002+07:00

Rough gemstones are gemstones in their natural cut and phases. Rough gemstones aren't yet cut and designed for jewelry and other accessories. They are literally rough. The overall appearance is unadulterated and isn't yet cut and smoothed for jewelry and design purposes.

Rough gemstones basically look like they are freshly extracted from mine deposits. As a matter of fact, they are freshly sculpted from mines. Thus, the texture is rough and the overall appearance is still unaltered. If you are wanting to buy rough gemstones, you can easily do so.

There are special wholesalers who sell them. You'd also be surprised that such items aren't as pricey as the designed and smoothed gemstones, although the quality and composition are the same.

Jewelers and stone designers are the usual clients and buyers of rough gemstones. They then cut and shape them based on how they will be used and integrated into jewelry. You could opt to buy rough gemstones, turn them over to a jeweler or designer and have your jewelry or accessory customized.

Here are some tips that will help you make a good purchase transaction for rough gemstones.

- Buy only from regulated and accredited sellers of rough gemstones. This will help ensure that your purchase is legal and the items you buy are genuine. Authorities also advise buying from such sellers.

- Look for bargains when buying. You can always bargain for lower prices when buying rough gemstones. If you can make the purchase at lower rates, the better. You can't lose trying.

- Try searching for online sellers of rough stones. There are numerous rough gemstones sellers across the Internet so you can't miss the best deals and discounted prices. Be observant and explorative when looking for online rough gemstones.

- Prepare a significant amount of money for the transaction. Buying rough gemstones can be an important and pertinent deal so expect that prices will be high.

Many experts recommend buying rough gemstones. It is far more advisable to have your jewelry and accessories custom made. So when you want to customize your items, you have the power to choose the gemstones you like. By buying rough gemstones, you will be able to secure and come up with good and more elegantly looking jewelry.
Check out my other guide on Charming Beauty
or a guide to buying jewelry

A Guide to Buying Jewelry

2008-08-03T13:26:00.004+07:00

Even the most affordable pieces of jewelry are still costlier than most of the everyday things we purchase. Furthermore, its easy for people with untrained eyes to be fooled into paying a lot for fake jewelry. Use the tips below to ensure you're making the smart and the right investment when buying jewelry pieces.
How to Buy Gold Jewelry
Gold is one of the most commonly used materials for jewelry. And as gold jewelry doesn't discolor like silver does, they are ideal for people with allergy concerns. Because of its malleability, gold is mixed with other metals to improve its durability and structure. That's why even 24K gold isn't really made purely of gold.
Gold jewelry is measured by its karat or the amount of gold it contains. 24K gold is the highest karat amount you can look for. The next would be 18K, 14K, 12K, and 10K. Any gold jewelry with a rating lower than 10K is no longer considered gold jewelry. In Europe, the karat rating is shown in percentage. 18K would be .750 because it contains 75% gold. 14K would be .583, 12K would be .500.
How to Buy Jewelry Made of Silver, Platinum, and Other Metals
Other metals beside gold are also used to make jewelry. Platinum is one good example and today's market prices it even more expensively than gold. Platinum jewelry is also rated according to its platinum content.
92.5% is the highest rating provided for silver or sterling silver jewelry pieces; it signifies the amount of silver used in the jewelries. Other metals commonly used for jewelry are pewter and vermeil.
How to Buy Gemstone Jewelry
There are two primary types of gemstones: natural and artificial. Natural gemstones are more expensive. Artificial, company-created, or synthetic gemstones are made in the laboratory.
The size and weight are important when buying gemstones. A 1-carat gemstone will weigh 50 points or 1/5th of a gram. At times, gemstones are subjected to certain treatments to change or improve their durability or appearance. The laws require jewelry makers to label their items clearly if they had been treated in any way. In most cases, treated jewelry pieces are less costly than untreated ones.
Commonly used treatments today include bleaching, dyeing, diffusion, fracture filling, impregnating, irradiation, and heating. Bleaching is used to whiten pearls, jades, and other similar stones. Dyeing, diffusion, heating, and irradiation mostly have to do with improving the color of gemstones. Impregnating and fracture filling, on the other hand, make flaws of gemstones less visible.
Gemstones are also appraised according to the same 4C’s used for appraising diamonds, and they are cut, color, clarity, and, which has been previously discussed, carat weight.
Darker gemstones aren't always better. Sapphire that's too dark could have its bluish shade ending up appearing black, and this is considered undesirable by many. Its best to view the color of gemstones at all light levels to judge it more accurately. Ultimately, look for vividness and brightness in colored gemstones.
Clarity refers to the absence of flaws in a gemstone. Imperfections, or inclusions as they're called, are sometimes used to as birthmarks because they indicate the gemstones origins. Other times, they actually increase the value of the gemstone, such as it is in the case of stars in star rubies and sapphires.
Cut doesn't necessarily make a gemstone more expensive, but it could enhance or detract from its appearance.
Gemstones can be classified into several categories. Traditional gemstones are made up of emerald, blue sapphire, and ruby. They were originally called precious gemstones and with the rest merely delegated to semi-precious category. Most of the time, rubies and emeralds are more expensive than sapphires because of their rarity.
New classics refer to currently fashionable gemstones, those on the rise in the industry like aquamarine and tourmaline. Connoisseur gemstones refer to those that are hard to find like alexandrite, a rare pinkish stone, sapphires that have other colors than blue, and black opal.
Collectors gems are rare but affordable and of great beauty like morganite and zircon. Lastly, affordable gemstones are those with high quantity in the market, affordably priced, but with excellent overall value such as amethyst and blue topaz.
How to Buy Pearl Jewelry
Pearls may be natural, cultured (naturally grown but with human intervention), or synthetic. Artificial or synthetic pearls are man-made and produced using plastic, glass, or other similar materials. Pearls are judged according to the skin, luster, shape, and size. Skin refers to the absence of blemishes, luster is an exclusive quality of pearls, referring to its surface glow, and shape places preferences for the most perfect spheres for pearls.
Jewelry make charming beauty or engagement diamonds

Understanding Basic Jewelry Terms, Processes, and Techniques

2008-08-03T13:17:00.003+07:00

It is easy to feel intimidated and out-of-place when you're visiting a high-class jewelry shop for the first time. To avoid making unwanted and uniformed purchases, improve your knowledge about jewelry starting with the tips below. If you speak the same language people in the jewelry industry speak then you'll surely go home with the jewelry piece you want, need, and definitely can afford.
The Meaning of Gemstone
A gemstone may be a rock, mineral, or even a petrified material that's cut and polished to be used for making jewelry pieces. It may be even harvested like pearls or organic like amber, just as long as it has aesthetic appeal. In the old days, precious gemstones only referred to the Big Three: emeralds, sapphires, and rubies. Everything else was labeled as semi-precious gemstones.
Categories today, however, have been thankfully changed and widened to avoid further confusion.
The Ins and Outs of Lapidary
Lapidary refers to the process of cutting and polishing gemstones. Rough materials are left uncut and unpolished. Cobbed materials are referred to as fractured. Materials like silicon carbide and diamond, due to their hardness, are used for cutting gemstones in a progressive abrasion process. Compounds like aluminum and chromium oxide are, on the other hand, used for polishing gemstones.
Common cutting techniques include tumbling, drilling, polishing, lapping, sanding, grinding, and sawing. Cut gemstones are then polished into several forms such as sculptures, intaglios, cameos, mosaics, intarsias, inlays, spheres, beads, cabochons, and faceted stones.
Sawing The main tool used in sawing is a copper or steel blade with diamond grit on the edges. Water or oil is used to eliminate cutting debris and prevent the blade and stone from overheating.
Grinding Diamond-impregnated grinding wheels made of silicon carbide are used to grind gemstones and shape them into a pre-form. Liquid substance is also used to prevent both the stone and tool from overheating.
Sanding This process is similar to grinding but utilizes finer abrasives instead. It is often performed as a follow-up after grinding for removing scratches caused by the previous cutting technique. For round gemstones, a belt sander may be used in accompaniment to ensure smoother and rounder curves.
Lapping A lap, which is a flat disk that's either vibrating or rotating, is used to create flat surfaces rather than round ones. The process however is similar to sanding and grinding.
Drilling This technique is used if the lapidarist wishes to create a hole through or in a gemstone. Drilling tools may be rotating or ultrasonic.
Tumbling A gemstone that's placed in a rotating barrel filled with water and abrasives is tumbled for polishing. These gemstones are usually roughly shaped and the polishing process is gradual and performed with interval washings. Sometimes, vibratory machines are used in lieu of rotating barrels. This time, the barrels vibrate rather than rotate. Tumbling techniques are also used to polish metal jewelry pieces.
Cabochons Cabbing or cabochon cutting is achieved by gluing or dopping the gemstone into a metal or wooden dopstick or simply holding it in place. The cabbing machine then twirls and creates a round smooth surface top and a flat or slightly rounded bottom for the gemstone. This is usually an alternative to faceting for gemstones that possess too many inclusions.
Faceted Stones Gemstones that have faceted forms reflect brilliant color and clarity from all sides and at all light levels. This technique is most suitable for transparent stones. Today, new techniques like grooves and concave facets are used to create new looks for faceted gemstones.
The Importance of Cut and Polish in Gemstones
Cut is one of the all-important 4C's and which is used not only to appraise diamonds but gemstones in general as well. Gemstones are often cut with regard to their size alone. But beautifully cut gemstones take their color into consideration as well.
If you are shopping for faceted gemstones, one way of determining the excellence of its cut is to check if its able to reflect light on a consistent level throughout its surface. Look for symmetrical rather than asymmetrical cuts as well. Lastly, be reminded that cut is different from shape.
Polish is simply like adding the final touches to a gemstone. A well-polished gemstone is one with evenly smooth gloss and with no visible scratches on its surface.
Check out my other guide

old fashion cut or buying rough gemstone

A Charming Beauty

2008-07-31T13:19:00.002+07:00

Among the many beautiful stones, emeralds are but one of the most attractive gemstones. It possesses the most intense green color you will ever see. For centuries only the wealthy had this priceless gift. The rare pure green emerald is more valuable than most of the diamonds. But there are some varieties of emerald which can have yellowish or bluish colors.

The name emerald is from the Greek word smaragdos, the name been given among the number of unique stones. In the Zodiac signs, this is the birthstone that has been assigned to Taurus. It is even used as the anniversary gemstone for marriage, because it symbolizes kindness, faith and purity.

Emeralds are known to have a healing ability. Although it isn't directly a replacement for the traditional medical treatment, emerald was used for emotional and physical healing. The refreshing green color quality of emerald can cure eye problems; it is even a good amulet for eye troubles.

Moreover, when emeralds are worn around the neck and fingers of children it can prevent them from having convulsions. Emeralds help patients with ailments of the spine, and it helps fight neurological and mental disorders. It can even be an antidote for most poisons and eases wounds associated with poisons.

Emeralds are believed to have some mystical powers. Some people say that it can drive away evil spirits. Having an emerald with you can make you a man of wisdom, for it is said to bring wisdom to those who have or wear it. The ancients believed that it was a good amulet for those who wanted to have good fortune.

Lastly, emeralds are popularly known to be a symbol of faith and love. It can even discover false friends, because it actually changes color in their presence. As for love, when the emerald fades, that means that love weakens so better check the color.

To achieve a lasting beautiful emerald gemstone, care and treatment is needed. To clean the stone, use a soft, dry cloth to wipe it. Use oil when treating it, never use ultrasonic cleaner, because it can remove the oil that is being used during treatments. Lastly, never soak it in hot water, the color of the stone easily changes when it is strongly heated.

When buying your precious emerald, consult a professional retail jeweler to make sure that you will get the real one. A professional knows about details of the emerald, it is very confusing sometimes to compare a true emerald from a synthetic one.