Tips & Tricks

In this Jewelry Tips & Tricks Guide, we share snippets of our experiences & knowledge on some useful topics related to jewelry.

Articles in our Jewelry Blog

Browse through articles in our Jewelry Blog for tips & tricks, furthering your education and knowledge on fine jewelry. Articles include: LOVE meets BUDGET, Bridal Map by State, Zodiac Birth Sign Gemstone Jewelry, Gemstone Guide & Visuals, Updating Grandma's Engagement Ring, and much more!

Purchasing a Ring: What to Expect

When purchasing as seismic as a ring, the customer should expect to closely analyze various facets of the production process - ones that will inevitably inform their final decision. To begin with, observe the thickness of the ring, the metal being used, and the way the side and center stones are set. It also helps to view the diamond with your naked eye - first in both natural and artificial light and then through a loop microscope. Finally, be sure to look over the certification provided with the diamond (if any), as well as its specs. Oftentimes, the certificate number is laser-inscribed on the girdle of the stone (only seen through magnifying lens); match that number with the actual certificate.

Purchasing a Ring: Don’t Forget

Of course, with all the major observations present during the buying process, there are often several small aspects sometimes forgotten along the way that potentially make or break a ring choice. For example, be sure to examine your ring when it is set and finished; check the craftsmanship of the ring when it is fully completed to make sure that it is up to high standards - to see if the center stone of the diamond is at the set level. Moreover, don’t forget to ask about the warranty provided with the ring and what it does and doesn’t cover. Finally, after you propose, have your fiance try the ring on when their hands are both hot and cold to test if the ring still fits properly.

Layering Jewelry

Experiment with wearing multi-styles, varying lengths, contrasting colors, shapes, and textures -- you may be pleasantly surprised with the appealing looks you create. We suggest creating layered sets with necklaces, pendants, chains, bracelets (traditionally thin bangles), stackable rings, anniversary bands, eternity bands, and even some earrings (why not!).

Explore Blending Metals & Colors

In the old days, wearing the same metals and the same color sets were considered fashionable, but modern trends suggest changing this habit, exploring options. So, try wearing yellow or rose gold with sterling silver, or perhaps white gold with yellow or rose gold-plated silver. Experiment beyond imposed traditional fashion limits, and avoid wearing all monochrome gold or silver jewelry, instead mix & match!

Try mixing metals & colors to suit your taste!

Pearl Restringing

Pearls must be freshly strung every 1-3 years depending upon how often they are worn. Knotting pearls is very different from other types of jewelry repair. Few jewelers have the necessary skill, supplies, or patience (note that restringing takes quite a bit of time away from other repairs) to do the job properly. Our skilled craftsmen are experts in the trade and can properly restring your pearls. Furthermore, we will turn loose Akoya, South Sea, Tahitian, and other types of pearls from our extensive selection into strands and bracelets using the clasps and components of your choice. Whether you are creating a new bracelet of hand-chosen pearls or restring grandma's heirloom strand for the next generation, we can do the job.