Thursday, January 27, 2011

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.

Monday, January 3, 2011

America In the 19th Century

AMERICA
In the
19TH CENTURY

From 1840 to 1860 was a very exciting time in which to be alive in both America and England.  The fruits of the Industrial Revolution brought about new social and economic changes at a rapid pace.

In America
       
         a.        The Railroads ~ 1840                        d.   The Sewing Machine ~ 1846
         b.        New York Tribune ~ 1841                 e.   Tiffany’s First Store ~ 1849
         c.        Goodyear Rubber ~ 1844                 

Popular Jewelry Items from 1840 to 1860

Hair Jewelry Made Into:
         
         a.       Brooches                                            d.   Bracelets
         b.       Earrings                                             e.    Lockets
         c.        Necklaces                                           f.    Watch Chains

Gutta Percha ~ One of the first natural plastics…Brooches – Crosses – Earrings – Lockets

Cameos of All Types

Jet ~ Memorial Pieces

Serpent Design Jewelry

Other:  Gold Set With: Amethyst – Bloodstone – Coral – Garnet – Moonstone - Pearl                    

Thursday, December 9, 2010

ZIRCON


ZIRCON
December’s Birthstone
Prized as a talisman since medieval times, Zircon was believed to clarify the mind, improve confidence and inspire the spirit.  Among its many attributes, Zircon was thought to bring wisdom, wealth and protection to those who wear it.  Zircon is available in several colors including yellow, orange, and green, with blue and red most sought after, and brown most available.  Brown Zircon is commonly enhanced by traditional heating methods to produce red and blue colors, while yellow is occasionally heated to improve its color.  Green Zircon is not typically enhanced.  To clean Zircon, use warm soapy water and a soft brush.  Avoid contact with chemicals.  Ask one of Stanley Jeweler’s four Gemologists for details regarding special enhancements and care.

Monday, December 6, 2010

TURQUOISE


TURQUOISE
December’s Birthstone
Discovered by ancient Egyptians, Turquoise was widely used in treasures fit for Pharaohs.  Old Europeans credited Turquoise with helping achieve a higher state of consciousness.  Tibetans revered the gemstone as a talisman of good fortune.  Native American Indians used it as a shaman’s stone.  A December birthstone, Turquoise is a light to dark blue or blue-green gemstone.  The finest color is an intense blue that is uniform throughout.  Turquoise may contain narrow veins of its host rock known as the matrix, sometimes in a web-like pattern.  Turquoise is routinely enhanced to improve color and durability.  To clean, wipe with a soft, damp cloth and dry.  Avoid rough treatment and contact with chemicals.