Fine Jewelry: Common Types, Their Designs And Functions

The visual appeal of fine jewelry has never ceased to arrest our interest. In fact, jewelry pieces have been objects that denote social status especially during ancient times. These pieces have played significant roles in shaping some of the most important traditions we know of. From necklaces and earrings, to rings and bracelets, these articles have long provided humans with personal satisfaction that no other objects could provide.

There are many kinds of fine jewelry pieces available. Some are utilized as personal ornamentation, while others stand as symbolic tokens given during special occasions. There are also articles of jewelry that are simple in design and inexpensive, while there are also pieces that are expensive due to the materials used to construct them. Below are some of the most common articles of jewelry available in the market as well as their qualities and purposes. Rings are perhaps the most common articles of jewelry that almost all of us are familiar with. They usually come in differing varieties, the most common of which are in plain cylindrical bands adorned with gemstones like diamond heart or round cuts, spiral or serpentine coils, signet rings, and open on one side. Rings are used for differing purposes but usually they serve as symbolic tokens given during special events like betrothals and weddings, or just to highlight one's fingers. In the case of signet rings, these bands are employed to tote the emblems of fraternal orders or the insignias of certain organizations.

Another popular type of jewelry is the necklace which is worn around the neck. Basically, there are four general forms of necklaces: close fitting collar band with stones or beads, chain necklace with a single pendant, row of beads that are usually graduated in size held by a wire or chain, and several chains or strings of differing lengths worn on top of each other. Necklaces can be created from various materials but works well with metals, gemstones or the combination of two, and they are usually partnered with pendants made from gemstones with the diamond heart being one of the most sought after pendant design. In order to highlight necklaces, they are worn with tops or dresses that have low necklines, as this clothing finish diverts the attention of people towards the neck where the said jewelry is hanged.

Meanwhile, earrings are jewelry pieces used for the ears that are either set on against the earlobes or are left dangling like pendants. One of the favorite forms of earrings set on the ear lobes are large pearls, while most popular hanging earrings are the ones called chandelier earrings. Traditionally, it is a requisite to have the ears pierced when wearing earrings as this practice was once considered a barbaric act. Today, earrings can be worn by means of clipping them to the ear, though the method of ear piercing is still practiced.

Another form of fine jewelry usually designated on the arm is the bracelet. This large ring-like piece may come as closed band, spiral coil, open on one side, closed with clasp or flexible rings formed as links. Aside from the ring, necklace, earrings and bracelets other form of jewelry pieces include pins, cuff links, anklets, chains, brooches, and collar buttons. Overall, jewelry pieces comes in differing quality, sizes, design, price as well as functions; it is up to the owner where and when he or she intend to use these precious materials to gain satisfaction.

Fine jewelry like necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings are commonly used as personal adornments. However, they can also be used to signify societal status, as a form of currency, symbolism as well as artistic display. They can be made from precious metals set with gemstones just like a diamond heart setting and may come in varying finishes depending on the wearers preference.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Differences Between Wedding Ring And Engagement Ring

Bands have been well acknowledged in betrothals and marriages since ancient times. As a matter of fact, it would be hard to imagine having an engagement and wedding without referring to bands. Due to their long history, the use and functions of wedding ring and engagement ring are often intermingled with each other. However, it should be understood that while both these jewelry pieces are worn by women, they greatly differ from each other in many aspects.

In order to identify the differences of wedding ring and engagement ring, let's take a closer look at their individual functions. Basically, an engagement ring is purchased or given by the man to the woman as an indication of their engaged status. On the other hand, wedding bands are jewelry pieces exchanged by the couple during their wedding ceremony to seal their marriage vows, and serves as indication that the wearers are bound by marriage. Right after the wedding and for the years that would follow their marriage, the wedding and engagement bands are worn by the wife, while the man only wears the wedding ring since men does not necessarily need to wear an engagement ring.

Between the wedding and engagement hoops, most couples invest more on their engagement bands. In fact, an engagement ring is more attention-grabbing than a wedding ring because it is somehow a silent announcement of the soon-to-be married status of couples. Traditionally, betrothal bands have prominent center stones, most of which are made from fine diamond jewelry. Today though, it is no longer a requisite to have diamond engagement ring as other precious stones can also be used as central accents such as ruby, sapphire, and opal to name a few.

Meanwhile, wedding ring is far from the grandiosity that engagement ring usually exemplify as it is often plain in finish and does not have any accents, or sometimes it is designed after the engagement ring but is a simpler version of the first. However, couples could also use fine diamond jewelry for their wedding bands if they wish, though this isn't a usual practice as the plain appearance of the wedding ring is said to be resonant of the sanctity of marriage. Both the wedding and engagement bands are traditionally worn on the left finger between the index and pinkie fingers as it is believed that the said finger contain the vena amori or the vein directly connected to the heart. Though there are some cultures that place their wedding and engagement bands on the ring finger on the right hand.

Commonly, wedding and engagement bands are separately purchased. They may also come as a set, which is why a wedding ring can also be as elaborate as the engagement ring. However, if you are to purchase each piece separately, remember that you are going to wear them everyday, so when you select the shape of the stone always consider your lifestyle. A diamond may be hard in nature, but it can chip off or break overtime especially if it has pointed edges; in this case it would be more preferable to choose a round brilliant cut as it could last longer.

Overall, no other jewelry best represents engagement and marriage than the wedding ring and the engagement ring. They indeed have distinct qualities that sets them apart from each other. Regardless of their many differences though, it is undeniable that both of them are built upon the concept of representing undying love, as seen from the round finish of the bands and their material makeup. They also serve as material seals that reinforces the symbolic meaning and sentimentality of devotion.

Wedding ring and engagement ring are important fixtures in the relationship of couples. An engagement ring is an indication of the engaged status of couple. It is usually more expensive than the wedding ring as it is commonly made from fine diamond jewelry with round brilliant cut and side gemstones. Wedding bands on the other hand are exchanged by couples during the wedding ceremony to seal their marital vows and are simple in design and finish.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Fine Jewelry: The Perfect Gift For Any Occasion

Fine jewelry signifies items that are utilized as personal adornments like earrings, bracelets, necklaces and brooches. Oftentimes, jewelry pieces are made from differing materials ranging from metals and gemstones, to seashells and synthetic materials. Since the prehistoric era, jewelry has never ceased to capture the attention of humans, and this continues to date. In fact, we use different kinds of jewelry pieces for our daily activities.

For the most part, fine jewelry pieces have long been used for the purpose of adornment; however, aside from the said function they also serve as the perfect tokens for a whole range of occasions. This is due to their sensitivity to fashion which simply implies that they are timeless and they have the capability to bridge the gap between differing societal aspects. One perfect example of this is in the form of engagement and wedding rings which have long been used as tokens to represent two important life occasions""engagement and wedding. Jewelry pieces are also strong manifestations of group membership and acceptance; worldwide, many organizations utilize rings or pins as symbolic representation of entry and acceptance to the organization, brotherhood or camaraderie.

These days there's a whole range of fine jewelry pieces available for both men and women. For women jewelry choices can be in the form of necklaces, earrings, brooches, bracelets as well as rings. For men usual jewelry pieces includes cuff links, tie accessories, watches, customized rings and necklaces as well as money clips. Overtime, the prices and finishes of jewelry pieces have changed profoundly in order to cater to differing situations, cultures and occasions.

If you wish to give something meaningful to someone, you may want to purchase jewelry pieces with gemstones. Loose diamonds remain as the most common adornment use to create jewelry because of their availability, price and their flexibility to complement any design and occasions. If you are to offer a gift to your loved one, what better way to express it than to give her ring that have loose sparklers set on it during your proposal. This is an excellent way to tell her how much you love her as the ring itself is already representative of your undying and unending love, while the diamonds would represent your indestructible love towards her.

Earrings, bracelets and necklaces ornamented with loose diamonds are also excellent gift choices because you could never go wrong when it comes to design or finish. These pieces works well for female siblings, friends or relatives during their birthdays or for any special event for that matter. Setting aside their availability, the use of these pieces are not only restricted during special occasions, instead they can also be worn on a daily basis. Loose sparklers could definitely give your jewelry a boost in the aesthetic perspective and make such piece timeless in appeal.

If you're a woman and would like to give something different to your father on father's day or maybe your husband during your anniversary, a simple cuff link is the most appropriate choice for you. There are no limits as to what you can do when it comes to the motifs or themes of cuff links, as they are truly representative of male character. For example, a round cut matt silver cuff link with loose sparklers can be given to a man who is secretive or authoritative. Overall, jewelry regardless of size, prize and design is the perfect gift idea because it is fashion forward, timeless, encompass your emotions in small but meaningful package, and more importantly they symbolize the personality of the person who's going to wear it.

Fine jewelry pieces have long been used as tokens due to their timeless appeal and rich symbolic value. In fact they are considered as the perfect gift ideas for all occasions. To further improve the appeal of these items however, gemstones like loose diamonds in differing cut are incorporated. Round cut loose sparklers for instance is widely used are adornments for three stoned engagement or wedding rings.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Diamonds: What To Look For In Diamonds

While there are plenty of ways to express and show our sincere and purest form of love to our special someone, giving her a ring can definitely mean something more special. In deciding on the ring that we want to surprise our loved one with, we need to make it as extraordinary and unforgettable as possible.There could never be a greater gift to give to your special someone or your loved one than a diamond ring. Diamonds are eternal pieces of gem making them a perfect symbol of never-ending and enduring love.

Diamonds are the best choices when it comes to choosing the ring for your marriage proposal. These compelling pieces of jewelry can definitely make your loved one thrilled and even more surprised.Furthermore, these exclusive gemstones can survive the wear and tear of even the most extreme conditions making it an ideal sign of your eternal love.Even after a long period, these rings is guaranteed to remain as exquisite and as glamorous as it was when you first bought it.

However, the idea of popping out a ring and asking for the hand of our special someone might get us too thrilled in buying a ring straight away. Still, we have to be mindful of several important factors before we jump into our nearest jewelry store.These precious gemstones are no cheap commodities. That is why in picking the ring, we have to remember a number of factors to make sure that we will get the best ring for her. Also, since these rings are no cheap pieces of jewelry, we have to make sure that we will be able to get the most out of the money we would invest for these exclusive pieces of jewelry.

Diamonds are evaluated and graded based on their cut, carat weight, color, and clarity or what is commonly known as four C's.This grading system was first launched by the Gemological Institute of America otherwise known as GIA in 1931 and is now widely utilized and accepted as the standard grading system for these gemstones.

In deciding on the perfect ring, the first thing that we should look at is the cut.This criterion refers to the shape of the stone and how well it was cut.Normally, the overall cutting craftsmanship and shape are being evaluated by the GIA whether a diamond stone is off-round or perfectly round and if the cuts are good enough.

Next factor to consider is the carat weight.The carat term for weight measurement of these gemstones traces its origins from a dry fruit that contains seeds that are called carob, whose seeds' actual weight is used to measure the weight of common gemstones.The present standard used internationally has a 5-carat diamond stone equivalent to a gram.

Color is also a significant feature of these precious gemstones that you should take note of.Among the most sought-after colors of these precious gemstones are those which show apparent tint or yellow, which are also the more affordable varieties.Usually, the rarer the color of the diamond, the higher is its price tag. Among the rare and less affordable colors of these precious stones include pink, blue, or green.

The last characteristic you should check is the stone's clarity. Clarity is used by many jewelers as a gauge to which the stone's impurities are measured.Clarity is used as a measurement for either the lack or the presence of imperfections of the diamond stone whether it is internal or external.Rare varieties of these gemstones are not characterized by these impurities and those which are very rare are usually flawless.

In choosing a diamond ring we want to buy, we have to be mindful of several factors to make sure that we will get the best ring for our special someone. Diamonds are classified and graded according to their cut, carat weight, color, and clarity or what is commonly known as four C's. In choosing the rings we want to buy we have to consider these four factors to make sure that we will get our money's worth.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Diamond engagement ring and a love that lasts forever

For most couples, exchanging marriage vows is the ultimate expression of true love they wish to reach in their relationship. A couple decides to take the next step after one of them proposes, usually asking the "Will you" question with a ring.The symbolic token before marriage can be a promise ring, a simple engagement ring or the traditional diamond engagement ring. And wearing an engagement ring is an exciting reminder for the couple that they will soon wed and build a family together.

Shopping for an engagement ring for your special someone can be confusing and time-consuming. Of course, it is always easier if the couples shop together, but that is not always the case. Excluding the cost, there are a lot to consider about the ring itself, like the style and gemstone, when you go ring shopping.Each ring has an embedded gemstone which can have a different cut, color and weight. One of the popular designs is the trinity ring, a three-stone diamond engagement ring said to symbolize the couple's past, present and future.

Unlike women, men usually has a wedding band that was also his engagement band. For the women, the engagement ring and the wedding band is different and separate, but in some cases wielded together after the wedding so the two rings will form as one ring. Looking at it, we are talking three rings, at the very least, for the couple. You might want to consider asking for jewelry wedding bands that come in a matching set for the mens wedding band, the ladies engagement ring and the ladies wedding ring.

During weddings, the couple makes a vow to be with each other until death to they part - a love to last forever. Marriage rings symbolize strong relationships like a strength of a diamond, the toughest and hardest mineral known to man.Diamond is ranked as having the highest grade of hardness in the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, a method used in materials science to comparing hardness of stones. On the practical side, diamonds are very resistant to scratches which would make it perfect for wedding rings that are used everyday.

Before buying a diamond engagement ring, set a budget range and do ample research. Diamond rings are more expensive than others because its gemstone is a high-priced, precious commodity. And although an average ring costs $3,500 to $4,000, there are cheaper diamond rings out there with simpler cut, size and design.The trick is to look around until you find the ring you feel your girlfriend will like and, at the same time, falling within your budget limit. Because in the end, no matter how big or small the diamond is, its what the ring represents that matters for a real loving couple.

When planning a wedding and getting ready for marriage, the last thing you want is to get into a huge debt. There are online shops and jewelry stores to guide you in picking the best ring at a price you can afford.Also, consider buying jewelry wedding bands in a set since these usually come in cheaper. Most importantly, enjoy shopping!It can be a tedious task but thinking about what it is for should make it an exciting moment for you, especially since you know it'll last a lifetime.

Popping that question and presenting a diamond engagement ring is a big moment for any couple. After all, a diamond ring represents a long lasting love and eternity which is what marriage is all about. But contrary to this traditional belief, marriage rings need not have diamonds in them. For those with budgetary concerns, there are wedding rings made of other beautiful stones and affordable set of jewelry wedding bands as an option. The important thing is the celebration of true love between the couple, and not the material symbol of it.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Getting The Best Inexpensive Diamonds

The diamond is considered as one of the most sought after gemstones in history. As a matter of fact, the diamond has been used as a symbol of many wonderful concepts like power, love, invincibility, refinement and more. Due to the many beautiful things associated with such gem together with the pressing issues surrounding its mining process, owning a flawless sparkler can truly sweep away a person's lifetime savings. If you are looking for means to buy cheap diamond, there are certain ways that you can do to get one.

As a good start, try going online and look for online jewelry shops that sell inexpensive jewelry pieces. Purchasing diamonds online is a good option because compared to local jewelry stores that incur additional costs on their products as a form of coverage for their overhead expenses, online jewelry stores offer competitive pricing without extra charges often induced by overhead expenses, except of course for the shipping and handling fees as well as taxes. It also preferable to participate in online diamond auctions that are frequently facilitated by jewelers. Of course, purchasing online will help you save not only your money but your time and energy.

If you don't have issues with purchasing pre-owned items, then you can personally purchase your diamond at stores that offer discounted or inexpensive jewelry pieces. Pawnshops and thrift shops are stores that often sell pre-owned jewelry pieces. However, this option would be more preferable for those people who are knowledgeable enough about diamonds, and are not in a hurry to buy. Similarly, if you really wanted to utilize this option, prepare yourself for series of disappointments because it is more likely to happen that you'd be leaving shops without diamonds at hand, but if you're lucky enough you might end up with a good diamond deal.

Another reliable approach you can do to secure a cheap diamond is to purchase loose diamond. Basically, a loose diamond is a real type of diamond that hasn't been used for jewelry production process. It would be more practical to buy loose diamond than to purchase a diamond set on jewelry because you are not required to pay for the metal used for the jewelry, the services, warranty as well as the gift casing often included in ready-to-wear diamond jewelry pieces. With loose diamonds, you have the option to customize your jewelry according to your own preference.

Downgrading is also a good way to get cheap diamond. By downgrading on some of the areas or the 4Cs of your diamond, you can make a huge difference in terms of cost. If you're worried about the quality of your sparkler, you don't have to because downgrading does not incur discernible reduction on the quality of the diamond. Downgrading can be as simple as purchasing an eye-clear clarity grade diamond or buying a sparkler that has a carat grade lower than exact half numbers or full numbers.

Lastly, if you're budget won't permit you to buy either flawless or downgraded diamonds, clarity enhanced diamonds are good alternatives. All diamonds, except for rare and flawless ones, contain flaws known as inclusion or imperfection. Inclusion determines the clarity grade of a diamond. So, when you speak of clarity enhanced sparklers they have imperfections that were corrected by irradiation, filling imperfections, laser drilling and so on, but such quality enhancements are not discernible for the untrained eyes; thereby making this option a good one for people with tight budgets.

If you know how to buy cheap diamond you can totally save a good sum of money that you can use for other purposes. Inexpensive jewelry pieces such as clarity enhanced diamonds are becoming popular nowadays. This is because they are more economical and at the same time there are absolutely no visual differences between non-enhanced and enhanced diamonds. If you are on a tight budget going for treated diamonds is a good means to properly use your money.

-Lorraine Jacobs

Finding The Right Engagement Ring

Buying a diamond can be considered as one of the most important purchases that a person can make in this lifetime. If you're a man, perhaps you are buying this precious stone to hand it to your bride-to-be as a proof of your genuine and eternal love. If you're a woman, buying such precious gem for your man symbolizes the same thing. Only such gemstone is capable of saying it all: that the concept of your love for that individual is clear, perfect, brilliant and truly indestructible.

Absolutely, a diamond is the manifestation of many splendor things; romance, highest material expression of love, elegance, wealth and refinement. With all these and more, the sparkler is contemplated as the most precious gemstone available to man. Some treat it as a commodity; others present it as a symbolic gift. The latter can be seen in the form of a betrothal ring.

For most people, the engagement ring is the first and of course, the most important sparkler that they will buy. Hence, it cannot be denied that choosing the right one for the occasion is a very big responsibility. With this in mind, it is imperative to secure a ring that your woman or man truly deserves. The simple guidelines provided below can be helpful in one way or another for you to purchase the right betrothal band.

To begin with, consider your budget outlay. Buying a betrothal band can sweep of your entire budget especially if you are choosing the ones that have sparklers on it. Always put in mind that, a simple engagement ring can already cost you a fortune. Therefore, if you like to purchase a premium betrothal band, set aside a large sum of money.

Once you have the budget for your diamond encrusted betrothal band, try reviewing the four C's associated with such gemstone: cut, clarity, carat and color. Each of these elements affects the price of your ring. Aside from the four C's also make sure that you are aware of the setting or design for your ring; there are many designs to choose from that can suit any preference. If you are after high quality sparkler band with intricate design, choose a jewelry store that will give you a run for your money.

Once you already know what you are looking for, the next thing you have to do is to determine where you will buy your ring. Before you visit all the jewelers within your area, try doing your own research. It is best to settle for those sellers who have their sparklers graded by GIA (Gemological Institute of America) and those who advertise their gemologist credentials. In doing so, you are guaranteed to get the best betrothal band for your loved one.

Giving diamond encrusted jewelry is one of the most common means to express undying and indestructible love. This is especially true when it comes to choosing an engagement ring that has a sparkler mounted on it. Today, couples see the value of a sparkler betrothal ring not because it's expensive but because it is a clear indication of pure love. Many jewelers are now offering sparkler betrothal ring in their stores because of the acknowledgment given to such gemstone.