Monday, August 31, 2009

Pink Diamond: Rare And Valuable

pink diamonds

The pink diamond is the world's most rare and valuable diamond. The Argyle mine is the world's foremost source of unrivalled intense pink diamonds, producing 95% of the world's supply. However, an extremely small proportion of Argyle Diamonds production is Pink color, in fact less than one tenth of 1% is classified Pink.

The legend of Argyle pink diamond has grown over the past ten years. At the 1989 Christie's auction in New York a 3.14 carat Argyle pink sold for $1,510,000. Privately, Argyle has sold pink diamonds for up to $1 million a carat.

For years the white diamond was considered the world's most beautiful diamond, until the discovery of the Argyle mine heralded the arrival of the Argyle pink diamond. The pink diamonds of India, Brazil and Africa were characteristically light in color and paled even further when placed beside the intensely pink Argyle diamonds. The natural color diamonds have in fact been around as long as the classical whites but in much smaller quantities and never in great demand.

The Argyle pink diamond comes in shades ranging from delicate pastel rose to robust raspberry and full-blooded purple-reds. The prices per carat are determined by the intensity of color. Argyle selects only its most vibrant pink diamonds for polishing at its head office in Perth. There, the stones are polished in a wide range of cuts, such as round brilliant, marquise, oval and pear, to enhance their natural beauty. Polished pink diamonds are available in the same size ranges as traditional commercial sizes.

Once a year, Argyle Diamonds issues a special release of outstanding pink diamonds that are sold by special bids in the international and invitation-only, Pink Diamond Tender.

Source: Pomeroi.co.uk

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Top Tips For Buying Valentine's Jewellery

Top tips for buying valentine's jewellery
  • Try to play fairly safe and buy something that fits the research.
  • Valentine's day is not the time to try and change her style, it is a celebration of what you love about her already.
  • Always choose quality over size and quantity.
  • If possible buy real not imitation stones.
  • Similarly precious metals such as silver or gold are always preferable to cheaper alternatives (called base metals), like copper. Not least because base metals may turn her green!
  • Jewellery designed using the traditional symbols of love, such as hearts, flowers, padlocks and keys are definitely desired by some, but must not be considered to be essential.
  • Perhaps go for something that matches another item in her collection. For example if she has a amethyst pendant that she wears often, try to find earrings or a bracelet to match.
  • Choose something that is an appropriate cost for the length of the relationship.
  • Valentine's does not have to be about spending lots of money, it is first and foremost about thoughtful and considered gifts.
  • Consider how much more it says about you if you choose something that she really loves rather than something that just cost a lot.
  • Many women prefer something that they can wear the majority of the time, a constant reminder of your relationship rather than something ostentatious.
  • If you have any concerns, phone or email us! We will be happy to talk you through your choice.
Source: Articlesbase.com

Sunday, August 16, 2009

Buying Jewellery For Valentine: Do Good Research For That

Jewellery is a really great Valentine's gift. It will last far longer than flowers or chocolates and allows you to demonstrate how well you know your partner. Choosing the right item can be a daunting prospect so this guide is here to help you find that perfect gift for your valentine.

Do your homework

Look at what your wife or girlfriend already wears. But do not forget that women wear different jewellery for different occasions.

Note what colour and type of metal she prefers, silver, gold or white gold and consider what type of jewellery she wears: Does she have her ears pierced? Are her earrings studs or drops? Does she wear bracelets or pendants? If you are not 100% certain what to buy her then it is safer to stick with jewellery that is at least similar to something that she already wears.

Also consider the length of chain that she wears. If a measurement is not possible note where the pendant lies around her neck as good jewellers can provide whatever length of chain you want.
Look at the shape of the pendants she wears are they round? Tear drops? Squares?

It may help to think about what colour clothes she likes to wear, it's all about coordination!

If she often wears red; look at garnet or ruby. Blue; topaz or sapphire. Green; peridot or emerald. Yellow; citrine. Purple; amethyst. If you are unsure about colours then perhaps stick to jewellery that does not have a stone or go with diamonds or clear cubic zirconia which go with just about everything.

Alternatively find out her birthstone. Buying something in her birthstone is an easy way to personalise a present and really shows that you have given it some thought.

How to Research

You can find this information through simple observation. Listen to her she may be giving you subtle hints. Perhaps have a look in her jewellery box if appropriate. If possible ask her girlfriends or her family for their advice, they are likely to know her preferences.

In the end always go with your own decision; take advice from lots of sources but remember you should love the jewellery you buy her as much as you hope that she will.

Source: Articlesbase.com

Monday, August 10, 2009

This Season's Jewellery Trends Have Something To Say


Accessories are a key look this season, as well as a great way to update any wardrobe. And a number of both fresh - and timeless - jewellery trends are emerging on the market to help you do just that. A few of the hottest trends this season include right hand rings, cocktail rings, charm bracelets, vintage style jewellery, circle jewellery and layered jewellery.

However, aside from retaining an unfailing fashion-ability, jewellery is about stating who you are - just look to the defining jewellery trends of iconic and alluring stars like Marilyn Monroe and Ava Gardner. That said, even today, there's no better place to uncover the latest jewellery trends than on your favourite celebrities. Jennifer Lopez and Drew Barrymore, for instance, love the layered jewellery look, while the likes of Jennifer Anniston, Cameron Diaz, Kiera Knightly and Paris Hilton have all been seen sporting circular jewellery - or more specifically, the 'circle necklace'. Moreover, jewellery trends tend to outlive fashion trends - so your jewellery will dazzle season after season.

The right-hand ring jewellery trend, for example - a trend by which women buy diamond rings for their right hand - represents women's independence and empowerment. The trend has been big in the US for some time, but is making its way over to the UK this season. Another variation of this is the cocktail ring. Every fashion-conscious woman is wearing one: they're big, bold and colourful, and are generally worn on the right hand. And while cocktail rings can be crafted out of diamonds, they're most often big gem stones or prominent statement pieces.

Bracelets form another large category in this season's top jewellery trends. Wooden bracelets, for example, are making a big comeback; however, other bracelet trends seem to hold an incessant gaze in the jewellery market. One trend that's always in style, the charm bracelet is a simple yet fun way to accessorize. You can buy them already assembled, or you can purchase a linked chain, collect your charms, and make your own, distinctive charm bracelet.

Certain styles of jewellery - such as vintage - are also expected to maintain their appeal this year. Classic vintage jewellery always holds some part of the jewellery market limelight; it captures the spirit of the 1950s, featuring modern interpretations of vintage classics which will, in time, become classics themselves. Stylish and timeless, heirloom vintage pieces will never go out of fashion.

Circular jewellery is another prominent component of this season's defining trends. The circle, perhaps the simplest of all shapes, is an endless symbol of love and life; circular jewellery is therefore a perfect way to celebrate a big step or a turning point in your life. Another major trend in the US, the circular design is particularly popular in the form of the 'circle necklace' - a necklace with a circle pendant, often decorated with diamonds.

And finally, layered jewellery is stong this season! Layering is about wearing many of the same type of pieces at the same time - a particularly strong trend with yellow gold jewellery. And if this approach to jewellery seems a little heavy-handed to you, rest assured that layering needn't look heavy or overdone - just as long as the right pieces are layered together. So don't buy one necklace, bangle or bracelet this season - buy five!

You'll find a number of jewellery specialists who prioritise and recommend the latest and most classic jewellery trends - so you can take your pick and accessorize - whether it's to update your wardrobe or simply complement your distinctive style.
Source: Ezinearticles.com

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Silver and Semi-Precious Gemstone Jewellery - The Ultimate Care Guide

silver jewellery and gemstones
Keep silver jewellery out of the air and light when stored to prevent tarnishing. A protective jewellery pouch, a lined box or just wrapping in tissue or soft cloth are all suitable.

Each piece of jewellery should be stored in a separate compartment to prevent scratching as a result of pieces knocking together. Gem-set jewellery will undoubtedly contain gemstones which are harder than silver and will therefore scratch the surface of the silver if allowed to jangle together. This holds true for gold as well.

General Care in Wear

Treat your jewellery with loving care and respect and it will stay young looking – like most women.

Washing Up, Spring Cleaning or DIY?

Remove your jewellery when carrying out cleaning or other chores. Cleaning fluids can damage both the metal and the gemstones. A miss-hit with the hammer could end a beautiful relationship with not just your engagement ring.

Going out?

Remember to put your jewellery on after applying make-up and the hairspray and avoid contact with perfume.

Going swimming?

Remove all jewellery before entering a chlorinated pool. If you’re contemplating a sauna, remove all jewellery as it will burn you when it heats up. Many gemstones are damaged by prolonged exposure to heat.

Going on holiday?

Most of us come off the beach on the first day with the 3 s’s all achieved - rings caked in sand, sea-salt and suntan lotion.
Nude sunbathing, as far as silver and gold jewellery is concerned, is a must!
Remember also that sand will scratch the surface of precious metals.

Tour de France or Running the Marathon?

Sweat will not enhance your jewellery and no-one will be looking at it anyway.

What is Silver?

Sterling silver is 92.5% silver and is sometimes referred to as “pure silver”. The remaining 7.5% is usually copper but can be other metal and is used to give this precious metal strength and durability. Silver which is 99.9% silver is too soft to be practical for most day to day uses.

Generally, the higher the silver content the brighter or whiter the metal but beware of antiquing effects that can make a piece of sterling silver jewellery or decorative silverware look dark.

Sterling silver will tarnish over time but with care and regular cleaning can be restored to its “good as new” sparkling condition.

How Do I Clean Silver?

Natural body oils, soap and regular daily dust can build up on your jewellery.

A mild soap in water is usually enough to clean it. If gem-set, use a soft toothbrush to gently clean the surfaces of the gemstones. Remember the backs!

Gently pat the jewellery dry. Do not use tissue or anything other than a jewellery cleaning cloth to polish your jewellery as unseen tiny hard fibres will scratch the surface.

If more serious cleaning is required, then use a good jeweller’s rouge or jewellery cleaning dip. However, if your silver is gem-set see below for advice on specific gemstones to be sure what is safe to use. Some cleaners which are ideal for sterling silver may be too harsh for the set gemstone.

Ultrasonic cleaners are not recommended. They can damage pearls and gem-set jewellery.

How Durable is My Gemstone Jewellery?

First of all a note about the hardness and therefore relative durability of gemstones.

To measure hardness, the jewellery industry uses the Mohs scale. This gem-trade standard, conceived by Friedrich Mohs in 1812, measures the ability of a gem or mineral to resist abrasion damage. Diamond at 10 is the hardest whereas talc at 1 is the softest. Popular gemstones like amethyst and citrine register 7 whereas rubies and sapphires register 9.

Most substances your jewellery is likely to come into contact with will be around 7 on Mohs scale so any gemstone with a hardness higher than 7 is unlikely to scratch.

Precious metals (silver, gold and platinum) are quite low on the Mohs scale – less than 4.5 – and will scratch.

How Do I Clean Semi-Precious Gemstones?

Turquoise

Mohs scale 5-6
Turquoise is chalky in texture and is to be treated as fragile.
Always store carefully in a separate compartment to avoid scratching and chipping.

It will scratch easily and chip if subjected to rough treatment. It does not like to be immersed in water and does not respond well to chemical contact. Either can cause it to change colour – usually turning more green.

To clean, use a damp cloth to wipe the surface.
Never use jewellery dip.
Never use an ultrasonic cleaner.

Lapis Lazuli

Mohs scale 5-6
Lapis lazuli is a soft stone and like turquoise will chip easily.
Always store carefully in a separate compartment.

To clean, use a damp cloth to wipe the surface. Do not immerse in water as this can remove the protective coating.

Avoid contact with all chemicals.
Never use jewellery dip.
Never use an ultrasonic cleaner.

Coral

Mohs scale 3.5 - 4
Coral is a soft organic gemstone and porous.
Always store carefully in a separate compartment as it will easily scratch or chip.

Avoid large variations in temperature and prolonged exposure to sunlight.

To clean, use a damp cloth to wipe the surface.
Never use jewellery dip.
Never use an ultrasonic cleaner.

Pearl

Mohs scale 2.5 - 4.5
Pearls are less durable than most gems. They are sensitive to acids, dryness, and humidity.

Avoid contact with any chemicals such as hairspray and perfume and wipe them clean with a soft cloth after wearing as natural body oils can discolour them.

Store them carefully, preferably in a pearl necklace box, a chamois bag or in tissue. Don’t throw them in a box with other jewellery as harder gemstones will scratch a pearl’s surface.

Cultured pearls can be washed carefully in mild soapy water.
Do not soak.
Do not dry in heat. Wipe dry with a soft cloth.

If worn often, restring every 2 years.

Larimar

Mohs scale 5 - 7
Store larimar carefully, preferably in a separate jewellery compartment, a chamois bag or in tissue.
Avoid contact with any chemicals such as hairspray and perfume and wipe clean with a soft cloth after wearing as natural body oils can dull the surface.
Avoid prolonged exposure to bright sunshine as this may cause colour fading.

Clean in mildly soapy water with a tiny drop of ammonia and use a soft brush. Rinse well and dry with a soft jewellery cloth.
Any cleaning preparation recommended for pearls is suitable for larimar.

Moonstone and Labradorite

Mohs scale 6
Moonstone gemstones are stored in oil before use in jewellery. This prevents the stone drying out and cracking.

It can be easily scratched and should be stored in a separate compartment

To clean, use a damp cloth to wipe the surface.
Never use jewellery dip.
Never use an ultrasonic cleaner.

Chalcedony and Onyx

Mohs scale 7
Avoid harsh chemicals.
Always store carefully in a separate jewellery compartment to avoid scratching and chipping.

Clean in mildly soapy water with a soft brush. Rinse well.

Rose Quartz

Mohs scale 7
Always store carefully in a separate jewellery compartment as despite its Mohs’ rating, rose quartz can chip and scratch easily.
Avoid prolonged exposure to bright sunshine as this may cause colour fading.

Clean in mildly soapy water with a soft brush. Rinse well.
Do not soak.
Do not steam clean

Topaz

Mohs scale 8
A durable gemstone unlikely to scratch or chip easily. However, always store in a separate jewellery compartment as it may scratch a softer gemstone or precious metal.
Avoid harsh chemicals and exposure to heat.

Clean in mildly soapy water with a soft brush. Rinse well.
Do not soak.
Do not steam clean
Never use an ultrasonic cleaner.

Amethyst, Citrine, Ametrine and Smokey Quartz

Mohs scale 7
Avoid harsh chemicals and long exposure to heat.
Always store carefully in a separate jewellery compartment to avoid scratching and chipping.

Clean in mildly soapy water with a soft brush. Rinse well.
Do not soak.
Do not steam clean
Should survive an ultrasonic cleaning.

Garnet

Mohs scale 6.5 – 7.5
Always store carefully in a separate jewellery compartment as garnet is brittle and despite its Mohs’ rating, can chip and scratch easily.
Avoid harsh chemicals.

Clean in mildly soapy water with a soft brush. Rinse well.
Do not soak.
Do not steam clean
All garnets except andradite (demantoid) should survive an ultrasonic cleaning.

Peridot

Mohs scale 6.5 – 7
Avoid harsh chemicals.
Avoid rapid changes in temperature and exposure to heat.
Always store carefully in a separate jewellery compartment to avoid scratching and chipping.

Clean in mildly soapy water with a soft brush. Rinse well.
Do not soak.
Do not steam clean
Never use an ultrasonic cleaner.


Source: Ezinearticles.com

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Diamond Jewellery – Pride Of Every Woman

Diamond Jewellery includes a range of articles – Bracelets, Earrings, Engagement Rings, Necklaces, Pendants, Wedding Bands and jewellery for the youngsters. Youngsters are not far behind when it comes to owning diamond jewellery. An all new range of readily available diamonds, studded in white gold, such as pendants, eternity rings and bracelets are available at a variety of stores and online to cater to their needs.

There are various combinations of diamond jewellery to create a new woman in you. This woman is more confident because she feels more beautiful and cared for. A kiss on hand has to be earmarked with love and diamonds for your lady love. An engagement ring is the right way to express your love for your beloved. Actually, what are these stones – Diamonds? They are the epitome of love and affection you feel towards your love.

In today’s times, diamonds are classified as the style-statement. In fact diamonds are gaining popularity amongst middle aged upper middle class women who want to possess Diamond sets with pendants and earrings. Sangini, Orra, Tanishq, Kanak, Tribhovandas Bhimji Zaveri are some of the leading diamond players in the market. These are some of the best designers and sell authentic jewellery only.

When it’s authentic then it comes with a trademark of authenticity and thus is placed at higher selling-price. The objective of this trademark is that whenever you want to sell it or exchange the piece then they can be sold anywhere, that too at the price prevailing at that time. A diamond-studded watch is also a mark of jewellery statement. Exclusive diamond watches, with diamond studded in pure gold or white-gold gives an ultimate pleasure to the owner.

Now days, diamonds are combined with sapphires, rubies, emeralds and many such precious stones in different combinations. They enhance the owner’s attire as matching designer jewellery. Log on to jewellery.homeshop18.com in case you want to own one or more of this authentic diamond jewellery pieces. They are designed in style, keeping in mind the designer jewellery concept. At homeshop18 you can satisfy your thirst of diamonds at a very reasonable price.

Source: Articlesbase.com

Monday, July 20, 2009

Silver Jewelry Is An Ultimate Choice For Women

The concept of Silver Jewelry is getting popular these days. Most women wear gold or silver Jewelry. As gold Jewelry proves to be costly and not within the financial budget of some women, so silver Jewelry is preferred by all the segments of women in society.

Women wear necklaces, bracelets and earrings. Women make an idea to choose a Jewelry set and pick a combination she would like to wear on the basis of their likes. The choice of color often comes in the Jewelry. If a woman has a favorite color then she would prefer that color as the color of her choice. Jewelry for the evening can be bolder and glitzier than Jewelry worn during the day. The color choice of Jewelry also depends on the choice of women’s clothes. Generally women prefer the Jewelry matching with their clothes. So it’s a nice idea to present them with the Jewelry matching with their clothes color.

The style of Silver Jewelry in necklaces could be chunky ones, fine ones, ornate or simple. In earrings it could be in the form of dangly ones, or smaller stud ones. In bracelets or bangles it could be narrow or wider ones. A lot of women have certain styles that they like so they choose the style according to their requirements. The style will vary depending on whether the piece is meant for day or evening wear.

Many women have allergies to nickel. Some pieces of Jewelry contain a small amount of nickel. This generally causes no problems for the majority of people however some people can be very sensitive to it. So it should be seen that what kind of metals different women wears.

Types of Jewelry can be in the form of beaded Jewelry, Silver Jewelry, Imitation Jewelry, semi precious Jewelry, key chains, So it depends on women what type of Jewelry she prefers or wears. So silver Jewelry enhances the looks of women with the choice of their color, style, occasions and changing fashions.

Source: Ezinearticles.com