by designerjules | Jun 6, 2017 | Education, Gems and Stones
Pearl jewelry is a unique treasure to be passed from generation to generation, but some special handling may be required to keep your pearls looking their best. Here are a few key tips:
- Put your pearl jewelry on last thing and make your pearls the first thing you take off. Don’t get hairspray, perfume, lotion or any sticky stuff on your pearl jewelry. Pearls are made pretty by their luster, so don’t let their glow be dimmed. Your skin, however, is the best treatment for keeping pearls looking young, so wear your pearls often.
- Gently, very gently, wipe your pearls with warm water after you wear them. Don’t let them sit in water or put them into any chemical cleaners. A soft cloth with warm water is all your pearl jewelry should ever need. If you need clean metal in which pearls are set, use soft polishing cloths and avoid touching the pearls themselves.
- Pearl necklaces are strung with silk thread which can stretch over time. Store your pearls laying flat, not hanging. Don’t tug on them and be careful when wiping them clean not to put excess pressure on the knots. If you do notice space between knots, its time to get them restrung. A reputable jeweler or gemologist (like me!) will be able to help you.
Pearls are one of the most amazing gemstones the earth offers us. Jewelry made from pearls has been prized since ancient times. Take care to keep your pearls looking their best for years to come!
by Elizabeth | May 15, 2017 | Events
My nephew was born last week. He’s the first grandchild in the family, and the first boy! I don’t have kids of my own so I can’t imagine the feeling of meeting your child for the first time, but the second I saw him I knew I’d love him forever. All I can think about is how I can’t wait to make him smile and be happy.
This is why I love working with jewelry. Jewelry celebrates special occasions, special bonds and gifts that mean something and last a lifetime.
Every time I get to be a part of someone’s engagement or find a piece of jewelry a new home, I feel a connection to that person’s story and I imagine the life that piece will have. When clients bring in jewelry from their family I am privileged to learn parts of their stories and we celebrate them together. Whether you spend five dollars or five thousand, remember the special people in your life and mark those milestones with something that lasts a lifetime and beyond.
I can’t wait to someday show my nephew pieces that belonged to my grandmother and tell him a little about her. I’m so grateful that we have that jewelry to celebrate her. Every time someone asks about a piece of her jewelry I am wearing I have the pleasure of introducing her to them.
That’s a bond that is the most precious thing of all.
by Elizabeth | May 2, 2017 | Education, Gems and Stones
Emeralds are the perfect gem for spring: they symbolize growth and new beginnings!
Did You Know?
- Emerald were first mined in Egypt in 1500 BC and became highly prized in Egyptian culture. They are rumored to have been Cleopatra’s favorite gemstone.
- Colombia produces more than 50% of the world’s emerald supply. Emeralds are also found in Africa.
- Top quality emeralds are so rare that they can be worth more than diamonds. Emeralds are judged by their origin, their color and their clarity.
- Just because they’re old doesn’t mean they’re natural: Synthetic (lab created) emeralds were first made in 1935 and have flooded the market since.
Be careful when buying emerald jewelry and make sure you know if you are buying natural or synthetic stones. The price and value differ significantly. You can protect yourself by having a gemologist review any item prior to purchasing it.
For the month of May 2017 I am offering 15% off all purchases of emerald jewelry!
Contact me to schedule a private showing and check out what we have online.
