Swiss Watches - Then & Now

Swiss Watches

Then & Now

The Swiss watch and clock industry appeared in Geneva in the middle of the 16^th century.  In 1541, reforms implemented by Jean Calvin and banning the wear of jewels, forced the goldsmiths and other jewelers to turn into a new, independent craft: watch making.  By the end of the century, Genevan watches were already reputable for their high quality, and watchmakers created in 1601 the Watchmakers’ Guild of Geneva, the first to be established anywhere.

The end of World War I corresponds to the introduction of the wristwatch which soon became very popular.  Its traditional round shape was generally adopted in 1960.  In 1926, the first self-winding wristwatch was produced in Grenchen, the first electrical watches being introduced later in 1952.  In 1967, the Centre Electronique Horloger (CEH) in Neuchatel developed the world’s first quartz wristwatch, the famous Beta 21.

The mass production of watches began at the turn of the 20^th century, thanks to the researches and new technologies introduced by reputable watchmakers.  The increase of the productivity, the interchangeability of parts and the standardization progressively led the Swiss watch industry to its world supremacy.

Since more than four centuries now, tradition, craftsmanship, high technologies and permanent innovation have allowed Swiss watch making industry to keep its leadership in the world watch market.  The Swiss watch making industry has always been in a position to answer the many technological, economical and structural challenges it was confronted with.  Its exceptional dynamism and creative power have made it a state-of-the-art industry, and the many inventions or world records in its possession are so many evidences; the first wristwatch, the first quartz watch, the first water resistant wristwatch, the thinnest wristwatch in the world, the smallest or the most expensive watch in the world, etc.

Swiss Made Defined by Law

Swiss Watch: A watch is considered Swiss, according to the Swiss law if…

·         Its movement is Swiss.

·         Its movement is cased up in Switzerland.

·         The manufacturer carries out the final inspection in Switzerland.

Swiss Watch Movement: A watch movement is considered Swiss if…

·         The movement has been assembled in Switzerland.

·         The movement has been inspected by the manufacturer in Switzerland.

·         The components of Swiss manufacture account for at least 50% of the total value, without taking into account the cost of assembly.

Note: Information gathered from the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry FH 1997-2011

Re-visit our Blog again soon for more helpful consumer information.

Stanley Jewelers-Gemologist

3422 JFK Blvd.

No. Little Rock, AR

501-753-1081

The Illusion Diamond is here at Stanley's this week only

Come visit this 8.66ct beauty!

It was found last month at Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro, AR

Diamond - April's Birthstone

DIAMOND

April’s Birthstone

and

The 10^th and 60^th Wedding Anniversary

Derived for the Latin “diamas” meaning “the unconquerable”, Diamond has maintained its position throughout history as a perfect icon for love and marriage.  Although colorless is the most common, Diamond actually comes in a variety of colorful hues including yellow, pink, blue, green, brown, and black.

April’s birthstone, Diamond is the favored gift for the 10^th and 60^th wedding anniversaries.  Symbolizing lasting glove and friendship, Diamond was believed to inspire loyalty, rouse romance and encourage a joyful life.  The gem of character and spirit, Diamond radiates the dazzling personality of those who wear it.

Fancy yellow and pink Diamonds have become popular choices for bridal rings, commanding high prices for vivid hues in fine quality.  Naturally occurring fancy colored Diamonds are typically more rare than colorless varieties, with red being the most uncommon, and therefore most expensive followed by blue and then green.  Value is not only based on availability, but also intensity of color, clarity (the lack of inclusions) and size.

Some Diamonds are heated and/or irradiated to induce fancy colors.  Others may undergo high-pressure, high-temperature enhancement to improve color and brilliance.  To clean Diamond, use warm soapy water, rinse well and pat dry to avoid residue.  Mild solvents, ammonia-based cleaning agents and mechanical cleaners are generally safe.  Ask one of Stanley Jeweler’s four Gemologists for details regarding special enhancements and care.

“Your Bling Is Our Thing”

Check our Blog weekly for other educational articles of interest.

AQUAMARINE

March’s Birthstone

and

The 18^th Wedding Anniversary

Derived from the Latin word “aqua marina”, meaning seawater, Aquamarine is known as the gem of the sea.  It was believed to keep sailors safe and guard against storms, as well as bring hope, health, harmony and happiness.

March’s birthstone, Aquamarine is also the recognized gift for the 18^th wedding anniversary, believed to reawaken love, kindle friendships and elevate the spirit.  Aquamarine glints the fresh, young-at-heart qualities of those who wear it.

Sister to Emerald and a member of the beryl family, Aquamarine is known for its range of serene, oceanic shades from pastel to medium light blue-green or light green to a deep blue.  Even Aquamarine’s blues have a green tinge.  The color of Aquamarine can be quite intense in larger sizes, while it is often less vivid in smaller ones.  Differences in shade and depth of color have an effect on its value.  A gemstone that is a deep blue and void of internal birthmarks is considered most valuable.

Aquamarine is routinely heated to remove yellow components.  Use warm soapy water and a soft brush to clean Aquamarine.  Mechanical cleaners are generally safe.  Avoid contact with harsh chemicals.  Ask one of Stanley Jeweler’s four Gemologists for details regarding special enhancements and care.

“Your Bling Is Our Thing”

Check our Blog weekly for other educational articles of interest.

DIAMOND April’s Birthstone and The 10th and 60th Wedding Anniversary Derived for the Latin “diamas” meaning “the unconquerable”, Diamond has maintained its position throughout history as a perfect icon for love and marriage. Although colorless is the most common, Diamond actually comes in a variety of colorful hues including yellow, pink, blue, green, brown, and black. April’s birthstone, Diamond is the favored gift for the 10th and 60th wedding anniversaries. Symbolizing lasting glove and friendship, Diamond was believed to inspire loyalty, rouse romance and encourage a joyful life. The gem of character and spirit, Diamond radiates the dazzling personality of those who wear it. Fancy yellow and pink Diamonds have become popular choices for bridal rings, commanding high prices for vivid hues in fine quality. Naturally occurring fancy colored Diamonds are typically more rare than colorless varieties, with red being the most uncommon, and therefore most expensive followed by blue and then green. Value is not only based on availability, but also intensity of color, clarity (the lack of inclusions) and size. Some Diamonds are heated and/or irradiated to induce fancy colors. Others may undergo high-pressure, high-temperature enhancement to improve color and brilliance. To clean Diamond, use warm soapy water, rinse well and pat dry to avoid residue. Mild solvents, ammonia-based cleaning agents and mechanical cleaners are generally safe. Ask one of Stanley Jeweler’s four Gemologists for details regarding special enhancements and care.DIAMOND April’s Birthstone and The 10th and 60th Wedding Anniversary Derived for the Latin “diamas” meaning “the unconquerable”, Diamond has maintained its position throughout history as a perfect icon for love and marriage. Although colorless is the most common, Diamond actually comes in a variety of colorful hues including yellow, pink, blue, green, brown, and black. April’s birthstone, Diamond is the favored gift for the 10th and 60th wedding anniversaries. Symbolizing lasting glove and friendship, Diamond was believed to inspire loyalty, rouse romance and encourage a joyful life. The gem of character and spirit, Diamond radiates the dazzling personality of those who wear it. Fancy yellow and pink Diamonds have become popular choices for bridal rings, commanding high prices for vivid hues in fine quality. Naturally occurring fancy colored Diamonds are typically more rare than colorless varieties, with red being the most uncommon, and therefore most expensive followed by blue and then green. Value is not only based on availability, but also intensity of color, clarity (the lack of inclusions) and size. Some Diamonds are heated and/or irradiated to induce fancy colors. Others may undergo high-pressure, high-temperature enhancement to improve color and brilliance. To clean Diamond, use warm soapy water, rinse well and pat dry to avoid residue. Mild solvents, ammonia-based cleaning agents and mechanical cleaners are generally safe. Ask one of Stanley Jeweler’s four Gemologists for details regarding special enhancements and c

Aquamarine for March Birthdays

AQUAMARINE

March’s Birthstone

and

The 18^th Wedding Anniversary

Derived from the Latin word “aqua marina”, meaning seawater, Aquamarine is known as the gem of the sea.  It was believed to keep sailors safe and guard against storms, as well as bring hope, health, harmony and happiness.

March’s birthstone, Aquamarine is also the recognized gift for the 18^th wedding anniversary, believed to reawaken love, kindle friendships and elevate the spirit.  Aquamarine glints the fresh, young-at-heart qualities of those who wear it.

Sister to Emerald and a member of the beryl family, Aquamarine is known for its range of serene, oceanic shades from pastel to medium light blue-green or light green to a deep blue.  Even Aquamarine’s blues have a green tinge.  The color of Aquamarine can be quite intense in larger sizes, while it is often less vivid in smaller ones.  Differences in shade and depth of color have an effect on its value.  A gemstone that is a deep blue and void of internal birthmarks is considered most valuable.

Aquamarine is routinely heated to remove yellow components.  Use warm soapy water and a soft brush to clean Aquamarine.  Mechanical cleaners are generally safe.  Avoid contact with harsh chemicals.  Ask one of Stanley Jeweler’s four Gemologists for details regarding special enhancements and care.

The Color Story For

2011

According to Leatrice Eiseman, who’s the Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute, “Honeysuckle” has been named the official “2011 Color of the Year.”  Honeysuckle is a reddish-pink but closer to red and more on the warmer side.  It is perfect for all ages, both genders, and is flattering to all complexions.  In gems, intense “Honeysuckle-like” pinks include: pink tourmaline, red spinel, rhodolite garnet, and fancy pink sapphire.  The more pastel pinks topping the list are: kunzite, morganite, rose quartz, and natural pink diamonds.

Pantone chose “Turquoise” as its “2010 Color of the Year.”  Just because Honeysuckle is in doesn’t mean turquoise is out.  This is such a classic color that it’s never really out.  We suggest layering in some fuchsia gemstone pieces with your turquoise ones.  Fuchsia is a combination of red and blue, so it’s really complementary to the blue of turquoise.

This year, many of the blues are important, and in gemstone jewelry, you should experiment with one or two that you haven’t tried in the past.  These gems are labradorite, moonstone, and blue tourmaline.  These have been strong these past two years and showing no signs of slowing down.  You’ll also see some the more classic blues such as blue sapphire, blue topaz, and aquamarine.  Aquamarine looks great when layered with a new piece of jewelry with a Honeysuckle-color gem.

You should combine this year’s Honeysuckle color with a kaleidoscope of gems, such as rutilated quartz with its yellowish-brown or gold-colored needles, to zircon, smoky quartz, brown agate, tiger’s-eye, moss agate, and honey-brown chrysoberyl.  Don’t forget those beautiful cocoa-colored pearls or the varied hues of natural rough diamonds as well as champagnes and cognacs.

The bottom line is to have fun with your colored gemstone jewelry this year.  Mix and match gemstones by stacking rings and bracelets and layering different necklace lengths.

Check our Blog each week for other short articles of interest.

Shopping for Diamonds

Shopping for Diamonds

The Internet

vs

Stanley Jewelers

#1  A diamond is more than letters and numbers.  It is a work of nature.  If we gave you all the dimensions of a woman could you tell us if she is beautiful?  NO! You need to see her.  A diamond is the same.

#2  Stanley’s will let you examine the diamond BEFORE you buy it.  This is a good way to compare your diamond to other diamonds.  We will provide you a selection to choose from.  No diamond dealer in the world buys a diamond without seeing it!  Why should you?

#3  You can’t ask the internet site where the inclusion is.  How bright is the diamond?  What is the quality of the rough?  Is it hazy?  All these things translate to value and aren’t easily discernable to the untrained eye.  How then could you know if you’re getting a true value?

#4  If  it seems too good to be true, it usually is!  No one is giving anything away.  There is usually a reason something is below market value.  Many diamonds are just listed and do not even really exist.

#5  A diamond is forever.  Who are you going to go to if there is a problem?  The internet site will not provide maintenance, experience, or service.  When you buy from Stanley Jewelers you are purchasing our time and expertise.  We will give you an appraisal.  We will also give you a mounting and keep your jewelry clean and in good condition for as long as you won the piece.

#6  Unfortunately, sellers of diamonds are not always looked upon as beacons of honesty.  There have been stories of fake certificates and real certificates sold with diamonds that did not match them.  Stanley Jewelers is a 75 year old reputable jeweler that you can trust.