Since we are celebrating the birthstone of May, the emerald, it seems fitting to share information on the Crown of the Andes that includes nearly 450 emeralds, including one known as the “Atahualpa Emerald” which is twenty-four-carats. The Crown is one of the most important examples of colonial Spanish American gold work, crafted in the […]
The May birthstone, also the gem for the 20th and 35th wedding anniversaries, is a beautiful, rich green and symbolizes rebirth, renewal, loyalty and peace. The emerald was adored by the ancient Egyptians who mined them as early as 330 BC. Queen Cleopatra had a passion for emerald and claimed ownership of all emerald mines […]
In addition to considering color, clarity and carat weight, you will need to determine the type of cut that suits you best. Cut is often thought of as shape, but a diamond’s cut is about how well a diamond’s facets interact with light. We’ve reviewed cut (see our blog from December 14, 2021 for more […]
Purchasing a diamond or considering selling one is a big and seemingly overwhelming process. There are two parts to determining the value of your diamond – an appraisal and a certification. A diamond appraisal determines its current monetary worth. The appraiser will examine both the appearance and the quality of the diamond. Current market value […]
Beautiful, durable, the April birthstone and the 60th and 75th anniversary gift, diamonds are the most sought after of all the gems. It all began in India where diamonds were gathered from rivers and streams. They were traded as early as the 4th century BC and coveted by royalty and the wealthy. India’s diamond supply […]
With so few family businesses lasting through three generations, Bridgewater Jewelers, in its fifth generation, is an amazing exception. Started in 1883 by James Goslin Bridgewater, Bridgewater Jewelers has withstood the test of time to become the oldest family owned and operated jewelry store in the nation. Focused on the needs of their customers, superior […]
Despite the prolific use of the terms antique and vintage, in the jewelry trade, they do have specific meanings. This is good news for those interested in truly antique or vintage pieces as it eliminates confusion around modern reproductions of jewelry from specific eras. Often reproductions are poor quality and fail to employ the techniques […]
One of the most Instragrammed sites in the world, Big Ben is the clock tower that was built as part of the Houses of Parliament in 1844 after a fire destroyed much of the Palace of Westminster in 1834. Big Ben first rang on May 31, 1859 and is famous for its accuracy and its […]
Discovered in the mid 16th century, La Peregrina Pearl is one of the most symmetrical natural pearls ever discovered. It was discovered in Panama and turned over to Don Pedro de Temez, the administrator of the Panama colony. Temez carried the pearl back to his Spanish homeland where he gifted it to the future king, […]
The March birthstone, aquamarine, symbolizes the purity of spirit and soul and helps to protect one’s well-being. The name aquamarine is derived from the Latin for water of the sea and it color ranges from light blue to dark blue and even blue-green. Ancient Roman fishermen used it as protection and safe travel by boat […]
