Picking the Perfect Gemstone: Gemstone Meanings & Names
Posts tagged stones
Big, Flashy & Flirty Rings are in!
Jul 19th
I have to say, when I first saw cocktail rings when I was at the mall, I thought that they looked stupid. I absolutely hated the fact that they were so big! Personally, whenever I think about big, gaudy rings, shows like Jerseylicious come to my mind. Do you all watch that show?
Olivia and Tracy are two of the main girls and they wear some of the craziest cocktail rings, but it works. Cocktail rings are very in right now and if you are a girl looking to spice up your look, why not take a look at some of the options out there?
The cool thing about cocktail rings and big rings in general is that there are so many different ones out there. Whether you are looking for an animal ring, a flower ring or even just a gemstone to pull together your look, there is a cocktail ring out there for you!
Personally, I like the ones that wrap around your finger or have one giant gemstone in the middle with rhinestones all around the sides. The bigger the better ladies, I promise you won’t regret it!
Amythyst Rings and Their Interesting History
Jan 19th
Traditionally a favorite gemstone of monarchs, the amethyst is a semi-precious, somewhat transparent purple stone and is the most precious of all quartz gems. It is rich in history as well as folklore, and the many legends and myths that surround it demonstrate the appeal amethysts have the world over. This is true no less in modern times as amethyst rings are frequently featured in retail jeweler’s windows.
History
Amethysts are considered semiprecious stones, but at various periods throughout history, they were viewed as quite rare. Purple-colored jewels were worn by royalty for centuries, and at various points in time, genuine amethysts were ascribed a value equal with that of diamonds. This changed when gemologists discovered large quantities of amethysts on the South American coast as well as other locations. When amethysts became more abundant, they were naturally regarded as less rare, and as such, less expensive.
Cultural and Religious Significance of Amethyst Rings
During the pyramid era, amethyst rings were worn frequently by the Egyptian pharaohs. Numerous mummies uncovered during archeological expeditions were found wearing amethyst rings and other forms of amethyst jewelry. Egyptian soldiers carried amethyst stones into war as this was thought to help them maintain courage in battle.
In ancient Greece and Rome signet rings were cut from amethyst as a status symbol, and the stone has profound religious significance for a variety of cultures.
The color of the amethyst stone is regarded as sacred by Buddhists. The Bible speaks of amethyst in the book of Genesis, as well as in the book of the Apocalypse. A Cardinal’s ring features an amethyst stone, as this is the color Catholics regard as the symbol of Christ’s sorrow.
In birth-month symbolism, the month of November is symbolized by a deep purple shade. Similarly, a paler shade of the hue is associated with May. The amethyst gem itself is the birthstone of February, which makes an amethyst ring a popular gift for those born in this month.
Amethysts have been used since ancient times by the Chinese in their practice of Feng Shui. Amethyst bracelets or rings are often worn as a method of deflecting unhealthy emotions while at the same time stimulating the intellect.
Throughout the Renaissance, amethyst rings were a feature of magic, and many people, rich or poor alike, engraved the gem with the image of a bear and wore the amethyst ring at all times. This was thought to dispel harm. Long considered by kings and queens to be a symbol of royalty, amethyst gems were featured in the crowns of famous monarchs such as Queen Catherine of Russia, and Catherine of Aragon, daughter of the infamous Ferdinand and Isabella, and queen of England during the reign of Henry VIII.
Amethyst Mines
Amythysts are still mined in present times in various cities in Central, and South America. Amethyst mines in North America include Texas, Arizona, and Nova Scotia. The largest amethyst mine on the North American continent is Thunder Bay, Ontario.
Features of Amethyst Rings
The highest grade amethyst is referred to by gemologists as a “deep Russian.” This type of amethyst is extraordinarily rare, and its price is considerably higher. It gets its name from the long exhausted amethyst mines in Siberia, from which some of the darkest and rarest amethyst stones were found.
The value of an amethyst ring is almost exclusively dependent on its color. As a rule, the darker the amethyst, the more valuable it is. When conventionally cut, an amethyst ring should demonstrate flashes of red. This is the symbol of a good-quality stone.
Most amethyst rings are set in silver, platinum, or white gold, as these precious metals have a cool tone which matches that of the amethyst. The exception to this is the rare deep Russian. Some jewelry designers feel these gems work just as well in a gold setting, even though this a combination of both warm and cool tones.
Green Amethyst Rings
Since the amethysts gemstone has become a synonym for the color purple, many people are unaware that a green variation of the amethyst stone exists. Green amethysts are also called praseolites, and as they are rarer than the traditional purple amethysts they hold their value extremely well.
This kind of amethyst ring can be found in a light cool shade of green, or a slightly darker golden green. The settings can be the aforementioned silver-toned precious metals, as well as yellow gold, which is a very popular setting for green amethysts.
Green amethysts rings are traditionally set with diamonds, which makes not only a beautiful, but a valuable piece of jewelry. The green amethyst makes an attractive option for someone buying a February birthstone ring, as unlike the other months, one has a choice between two colors.
Amethysts with their long and interesting history have an appeal and mystique all their own. This will most likely continue throughout centuries to come as future generations discover the beauty and allure of this unique gemstone.
Custom Jewelry
Jan 11th
Customized jewelry may be designed and ordered through a variety of fine jewelry companies. Not everyone possesses the same tastes. A custom engagement ring or other piece of jewelry may be designed to meet a persons unique personality or style. Custom orders require a longer time to create. Fine jewelers may create a special order within three to six weeks. Custom engagement rings may take longer.
Custom orders will typically require a design and a deposit before most jewelers will create the design. Many jewelry artisans can hand craft intricate settings with engravings from high quality metals. Many of these custom designs may become heirlooms that increase in value as they are passed from generation to generation. The quality of the custom jewelry will depend upon the jeweler chosen to create the masterpiece. Some artisans are more skilled than others. The more attention paid to the smallest details, the higher in value the hand crafted item will become.
Metals and Stones
Before designing custom jewelry, clients should be aware of the metals qualities. Some precious metals may be too soft for certain types of creations and other precious metals may be too hard for other creations. Select the metals and stones that will create a quality piece of jewelry, while maintaining the value of the creation for years to come. The designer will be challenged with maintaining the artist’s integrity while selecting materials that will withstand the test of time.
Stone selection will be left to the designers discretion. If a diamond is chosen for an engagement ring, pendant or other creation, designers should consider selecting a quality diamond according to the four Cs: Cut, Clarity, Color and Carat. This will ensure that the recipient will receive a quality gem in their custom jewelry design. A high quality gem will also retain the value of the custom jewelry design over time.
Gemvara Customized Jewelry
Gemvara is a premium jewelry provider that will create custom jewelry for individuals. Purchasers of Gemvara custom designs will submit a deposit to speak with a jewelry expert regarding their custom creation. These individuals will offer suggestions regarding the custom design based on their expertise in the jewelry business. A three dimensional mold will be created in wax to mold the setting. Once the design is finalized, the jeweler will begin to hand craft the jewelry requested by the customer.
Some individuals may use pre-existing designs as inspiration for their unique creations. Our skilled artisans will hand select quality, conflict free gems for the custom design. Artisans will pay attention to minute details to create the customized jewelry desired by the customer. Each piece is designed to meet the highest quality craftsmanship in the industry. If the customer is not completely satisfied, Gemvara will offer the customer a 30 day money back guarantee. These unique creations have been featured on celebrities in Lucky magazine. Custom designs based upon popular styles will raise your jewelry designs to an elite ranking. Gemvaras skilled artisans are capable of numerous creations that clients will appreciate and enjoy for many years.
Emerald Rings
Jan 3rd
Throughout the ages, gems have been considered signs of wealth, status, virtue, and notoriety. This is especially true with emeralds, whose value can be twice or even three times a diamond of the same carat size. Many ancient religions prized emeralds. Aristotle wrote that emeralds were so valuable that they would aide in a persons life, helping them to prosper in everything from business to battle. To the Chinese, wearing an emerald was thought to bring a person good luck. Many cultures, from the Ancient Egyptians to the countries in Europe during the middle Ages believed that emeralds could influence all aspects of fertility, from keeping a lady chaste to conceiving a child quickly. The ancient Indian nations believed the emeralds were connected with the earth and its beauty.
The name emerald came from the Ancient Persian language. The Persian word was translated into Latin, which was smaragdus, then finally into English. Other ancient civilizations had different names for it because many of them believed that their Goddesses lived within the stone.
Several ancient civilizations, like the Greek, Roman, Incan, and Indian cultures all viewed emeralds as having great healing powers. These cultures believed that emeralds could cure everything from epilepsy to bad luck. They also believed that the emeralds would ensure that their businesses would prosper and their lives would be blessed. Because of these strong beliefs, many people in these cultures would buy emeralds and wear them all the time. They mostly wore them in necklaces or rings. If they could not afford a necklace or ring, they would simply carry them in a shoe, hat, or pocket.
It was discovered that the emerald was sold in Babylonian markets in the year 4000 BC. Since then, people have been buying and selling them with other gems, but the emerald was always the highest priced one. Due to its popularity, many ancient rulers, like Cleopatra of Egypt, had emerald mines which produced many of the ancient worlds emeralds and other gems. Some of these gems have been recovered and placed into museums because of their beauty.
Many people of fame have had emeralds placed into special objects that they can either wear or carry on their person. There were many Russian Kings and Queens who adorned their crowns with emeralds, while the ex-Empress of Iran had her tiara filled with them. Shah Jahan, the builder of the great Taj Mahal, had emeralds created into talismans which had inscriptions of texts which were special to him created for him and his family. Alexander the Great wore an emerald in his girdle that he believed aided him in battle. Charlemagne was an emerald collector. When Henry the Second was crowned King of Ireland, an emerald ring was bestowed upon him for wisdom and luck. Queen Elizabeth the Seconds emerald collection was enormous and had a diadem with emeralds placed into it. Marlene Dietrich often chose to wear her personal jewelry which was created from emeralds and were worn in her films.
Green Tourmaline
Dec 26th
Tourmaline is a gemstone which gets its name from the Sinhalese words “tura mali”, meaning “stone of mixed colors.” It is found in a wide variety of colors, from clear to black, and almost every hue in between. Green tourmaline may range from a dark forest green to a bright lime green.
Tourmaline is found throughout the world, including the United States. It was, in fact, the first gemstone mined by non-indigenous people in the United States, in the state of Maine. In California, where it has been mined since the 1870s, green tourmaline stones of 30 to 40 carats have been unearthed. Worldwide, green tourmaline is also concentrated in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Brazil, and several African countries.
Green is sometimes regarded as a classic color for tourmaline, the one many gemstone merchants think of first when asked. There is quite a broad spectrum, even among the green stones, and the darkest greens can only be discerned when held up close to light. Bluish-green and bottle-green stones are highly sought after, being rare but more expensive; others are bi-colored with brown, pink, or yellow nuances. The “watermelon” tourmaline features a pinkish center surrounded by light green. Also found, primarily in Tanzania, is “chrome” tourmaline, a green variety colored by chrome and vanadium. It is very similar in appearance to a fine emerald, which is much more valuable.
Cutting a green tourmaline can be very challenging, since the color in most crystals varies with the direction of growth. Light and dark stones must each be cut at different angles to produce the best color depth. The finished cut may be too dark or too light if the stone is not aligned properly; this requires special attention by the cutter in deciding a parallel or perpendicular cutting angle. Crystals large enough to cut precious gemstones from are very uncommon, however, as tourmaline is mostly found as small, dark crystals. Stones of good transparency and color, especially without visible inclusions, are rarely unearthed.
The meaning of green tourmaline varies from person to person. It is commonly worn by both men and women, and is often said to have metaphysical properties, such as balancing the mind, clearing blockages, and promoting creativity. All tourmaline is potentially pyroelectric, developing opposite charges on each end of the crystal when heated. For healing purposes, it is commonly cut into small rod-shaped pieces up to 2 inches long, or cut into small chunks, to be carried by the person. Some people associate green tourmaline with astrological signs, such as Capricorn or Sagittarius, or believe it to attract success and money.
In jewelry, green tourmaline is frequently seen in Irish claddagh rings, a tradition dating back more than 300 years. As a much cheaper alternative to emeralds, it is also seen in necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. It is sometimes heat-treated to enhance its color, turning a light green stone into a darker one, for example. Gemstones labeled as “unheated” or “untreated” should therefore be sought by those desiring pure green tourmaline.
Vintage Inspired Engagement Rings
Dec 18th
Vintage inspired engagement rings are a growing trend for engagements between two individuals pledging their love for one another. Many designers are recreating heirlooms to give brides their desired vintage look for their nuptials. The replications are almost indistinguishable from the original designs. Purchasers of these types of rings often comment that vintage inspired engagement rings signify and evoke feelings of romance. Whether inspired by the Victorian, Edwardian or Art Deco eras, these designs are considered timeless and classic.
Original vintage engagement rings are extremely expensive. Vintage inspired engagement rings are available at a fraction of the cost. The materials used to construct vintage rings are made of the finest precious metals. In most instances, platinum is the metal of choice for vintage engagement rings. Many of the designs are handcrafted by skilled artisans and historical experts in the field. The vintage inspired engagement rings are handcrafted with quality materials to withstand the test of time. Vintage inspired engagement rings may be purchased for investment purposes. Original vintage engagement rings may possess more value in the short term than vintage inspired engagement rings.
Several designers specialize in the production of vintage inspired engagement rings. Designers, such as Gemvara, produce elegant, yet contemporary vintage-inspired couture designs.
Gemvara Vintage Inspired Engagement Rings
Gemvara is a premium designer of exquisite vintage inspired engagement rings. This American owned jewelry designer is known in the fashion industry, film industry and other circles for its unique vintage inspired collection. The diamonds are of premium cuts, clarity, color and carat size. The platinum bands are exceptionally hand crafted to yield the creation of the brides dream. Gemvara rings purchased from an authorized dealer will be accompanied by a GIA (Gemological Institute of America) certification to verify the authenticity of the diamond and the band.
Many Gemvara vintage inspired engagement rings possess pave diamonds on the band, around the stone or in other locations to create a true vintage look. The stones may consist of a round cut, emerald cut, marquise cut, princess cut, Asscher cut, pear shaped or other types of diamonds. The ring setting may accommodate a solitaire diamond or three stones. These styles are indicative of original vintage rings.
The Four Cs
Though the diamond is vintage inspired, purchasers of vintage inspired engagement rings should not forget to purchase a high quality diamond. The fours Cs: Cut, Clarity, Color and Carat should be considered while selecting the diamond for your vintage inspired wedding ring.
Cut
An excellent cut will produce the fire and brilliance desired by the recipient of the engagement ring. These two characteristics describe the light that is returned to the viewers eye from the diamond. Skilled artisans are capable of cutting a diamond to reveal its most exceptional qualities. Only 5% of the diamonds sold possess an excellent or Ideal Cut.
Clarity
Clarity describes the inclusions in the diamond. A diamond that possesses inclusions that are visible to the naked eye or with a magnifying glass is more likely to appear cloudy and exhibit less brilliance over time. Purchasers who considered the diamond as an investment may want to purchase a diamond that is Very Slightly Included (VSI) or Very Very Slightly Included (VVSI).
Color
A Near Colorless diamond is also considered a rarity in nature and should be considered for your vintage inspired engagement ring. This will increase the value for investment purposes. The color will make a difference in the appearance of the diamond in lighting.
Carat
Carat describes the weight of the diamond. The higher the carat weight, them more the value of the diamond increases.
Black Diamond Rings
Dec 10th
Black diamond rings are certainly not customary or widely used, and many people may never never seen or heard of them. Their rarity and obscurity adds to their value, and can cause some people to put a high value on them. Other diamonds may be more popular, but there is something special and unique about black diamond rings that continues to spark the interest of many people.
Though black diamond rings certainly don’t look “normal” by any stretch of the imagination, they have a unique and beautiful look all their own. Black diamond rings are extremely rare, and difficult to come by. This makes some people want them even more, and can make finding one that much more difficult. Though black diamonds look different, they are equally as strong as diamonds of other colors. These diamonds are mostly mined in South America, and there is an especially high industry for them in the country of Brazil. Those looking to purchase black diamond rings should be prepared to pay a fairly steep price for such a rare and beautiful piece of jewelery.
Black diamond rings have a wide range of meaning and symbolism in different cultures throughout history. For example, Indians viewed black diamond rings as a bad sign, and thought that the black diamond looked like the eyes of wild and dangerous animals. They put such a negative feeling toward black diamonds that they decided they were a death omen, and meant sure death. On the other hand, the people of Italy thought the black diamonds were good omens, and even used them in the context of love and marriage. It was popular Italian custom to have married couples that were amidst deep disputes or considering splitting up or getting a divorce to place their skin against the stone as a method of absolving their marital problems. It was believed that their disagreements and differences would go into the stone, leaving only happiness and joy behind. This way, the couples could remain together in love and warmth.
Though black diamonds have often been seen as a stone aimed more for men, this does not mean that women cannot wear the stone. Black diamond rings and engagement rings have been created for women, as well, and as more people learn about them and grow interested in their unique look, there has been a larger market made for these unique stones. Many jewelery companies now feature special lines just for black diamond rings and other black diamond jewelry. For those looking for something different in their engagement or wedding jewelery, black diamond rings can provide just the answer, though, as mentioned, they will certainly come with a steeper price, due to their rarity. However, a black diamond ring is certainly a step away from the expected clear or yellow diamonds that are much more common. A black diamond ring will be sure to get its wearer much more attention, as people are sure to recognize the uniqueness of this beautiful and rare gem.
About Sapphires
Dec 2nd
The Sapphire gem is a variety of the mineral Corundum. Sapphires are mined all over the world, with Sri Lanka being the country that produces the most. Other sapphire mining countries include Myanmar, Madagascar, Australia, and India. Blue is the most common color of the sapphire, however these gems are found in hues of yellow, pink, orange, purple, and green as well.
A true natural sapphire is an authentic crystal created in the ground and not by human hands. Truly natural sapphires are untreated, or changed very little from their original state, and are usually faceted to enhance their natural beauty. The most common and abundant type of sapphire on the jewelry market is the treated sapphire. These stones are put through a heating process in order to improve color and clarity. Treating sapphires is a complicated and sophisticated process which is performed by specialists. Additives such as glass and coloring agents are added during the treating process, and although this may achieve the desired look of the gem, it does change the original appearance and affects value.
Rings are the most popular type of sapphire jewelry purchased. Sapphire rings vary greatly in size, shape, color, and cost. The cost of a genuine sapphire rings depends on several factors: carat weight of the gem, type of metal chosen for the ring, and the setting style chosen for the ring.
Metals
Many options of precious metals are available for displaying a sapphire stone in a ring. Prices vary depending on the quality and strength of the metal.
14-karat and 18-karat goldthis is a popular choice for sapphire rings because of its relatively low cost. 14k gold is 58.3% pure gold and 18k gold is 75% pure gold.
White goldthis gold is an alloy that is usually plated in rhodium. White gold provides the look of Platinum, but at a cheaper price.
Platinumthis is the hardest metal available on the jewelry market. Platinum is three times the cost of gold. It is extremely durable and will last a lifetime.
Palladiumthis metal features the silver-white sheen of platinum, yet it costs less.
Rose gold and green goldThese gold choices are less common than regular gold. Rose is sometimes called pink gold because of its pinkish hue. Green gold has a green-yellow color which gives it a uniqueness from plain gold.
Settings
The setting on a sapphire ring needs to be chosen carefully according to the size and cut of the stone. A quality setting will be the precise height, completely straight and centered, and very secure. This requires the skills of an excellent ring setter with superior craftsmanship. The main types of settings are:
Pronga traditional and classic setting that is commonly used. Small pieces of metal rise up to cradle the stone at several points to secure it. A Double Prong or a fancier Claw Prong may be preferred for a larger stone .
BezelThe entire perimeter of the stone is surrounded by the metal. This is a very safe and secure setting and offers complete showcasing of the stone.
Pave and Micropavesmall, closely set diamonds surround the sapphire. This is a beautiful setting, yet is more costly and labor intensive. It requires a highly skilled specialist.