How To Keep Your Silver Bracelet Shining Forever

One of the most important factors for popularity of silver bracelets is that they are always in fashion. Sometimes when you don’t keep your silver bracelets with due care, their color and shine may fade away with time. Silver jewelry items need certain measures of care unlike gold jewelry. Following guide will help you take care of your silver bracelets.

Do Not Use Any Chemical On Silver Bracelets

There are many chemicals available in market that may cause your silver bracelet to become dull in color. Therefore, avoid using any such chemical while wearing a silver bracelet. It is also highly recommended to avoid using products like perfumes, rubber, hair sprays, body lotions and hair color when you are wearing a silver bracelet. All these products contain chemicals that are harmful for silver jewelry items.

What To Do If Use Of Chemicals Is Unavoidable

Chemicals like bleach, alcohol, ammonia, turpentine and nail polish removers containing acetone can cause severe damage to your silver bracelets. Try your best to avoid use of any chemicals while wearing a silver bracelet. But, if it is unavoidable to use chemicals, hair products or perfumes, remove the bracelet before using them. It is a less known fact that acids in cardboard, tape and newspaper can also be harmful for silver bracelets. Also, try to keep silver bracelets away from woolen materials because the sulfur used in woolen materials in contact with your bracelets may result in the oxidation of silver.

Should You Remove Your Bracelet While Bathing

Yes, you should! Remove your bracelet while bathing if you wish to keep your bracelet looking new and shining. And since, certain chemicals in shampoo and other bathing products can also harm your silver bracelet, it is recommended to remove it before you go for a shower.

Precautions For Cleaning Silver Bracelets

Besides keeping good care of the silver bracelet, you might need to clean it in order to maintain its beauty and shine. Follow these tips to keep your bracelet clean.

• Clean it regularly: Not only clean it with a piece of cloth whenever you wear it, but also wipe off water or any other thing that comes in contact with your bracelet immediately.
• Avoid use of abrasive materials:Do not mix all your jewelry when cleaning a silver bracelet. Other jewelry items may scratch your bracelet and thus damage its beauty.
• Do not use toothbrush:Some people consider toothbrush a great cleaning instrument. But it is a bad idea to clean your silver bracelet with a toothbrush. Instead, use soft and lint-free clean cotton cloth to clean the bracelet gently.
• Do not use rubber gloves: avoid wearing rubber gloves when you are cleaning a silver bracelet. Instead, use plastic gloves because they are not harmful to your jewelry items.

How To Clean

Consider all precautions and then begin cleaning your bracelet with plastic gloves and a cotton cloth. Remove all visible dirt first and then rinse it with warm water using a mild soap. But be sure to use mild soap only. Scented or perfumed soaps may cause damage to your jewelry. After cleaning gently, pat dry your bracelet and get a shining look. You can also polish your bracelet once it is dried. Rinse it again after polishing and pat it dry. For getting your bracelet polished and jewelry repair services, you can also visit the shop from where you bought the silver bracelet.

 

 

A Guide For Buying Gemstones

For over a period of 100,000 years, people belonging to all cultures have been using and wearing jewelry in different forms according to their respective cultures. It is not a very easy thing to select the perfect jewelry for any occasion.

Different materials, designs, styles and gems provide a wide range for selection of the right jewelry according to the choice of the buyer. Many people find gemstone jewelry fascinating but very few people have knowledge about the real gemstones. This guide provides you with the basic information regarding gemstones which will help you in recognizing and buying the real gemstones.

What Are The Natural Gemstones?

The natural gemstones are mined in different parts of the world. These gemstones come from land and can also be treated with heat or enhanced for bringing out their beauty and improve their original color.

What Are The Laboratory-Made Gemstones?

These gemstones are also commonly called as manufacturer-created, laboratory-created or synthetic gemstones. These gemstones basically have the same physical, optical and chemical properties as the natural gemstones. However, these laboratory made gemstones do not possess the same value and rarity as of the natural colored gemstones. Though the laboratory made gemstones appear exactly the same to most of the people but with proper testing, professional gemologists can easily tell the difference between natural and the laboratory made gemstones.

What Are The Imitation Gemstones?

The only thing common between natural gemstones and imitation gemstones is that they both look similar in appearance. The imitation gemstones include cubic zirconia, tinted glass and other material that looks like natural gemstones when treated. It is easy for any person to distinguish between the imitation and laboratory-made gemstone by their appearance.

What You Should Look For In Gemstones?

A gemstone is basically measured by size, weight, or both, basically the gemstones are measured in carat (carat= 1/5 gram). Carat is divided into a total of 100 units which are called points.

What Is A Treated Or Enhanced Gemstone?

Gemstone enhancement or treatment refers to the procedure by which the durability or appearance, or even color of the gemstones can be improved. Many natural stones are treated in a certain manner to improve their look or appearance. The way of treatment depends on the kind of gemstone and special care is taken for enhancement of certain gemstones in order to preserve their quality. Some enhancements may affect the total value of gemstones, when measured against comparable untreated gemstones.

How Can You Evaluate A Gemstone?

You can evaluate a gemstone by asking a local jeweler or following this guide.

• Cut- Cut includes the shape and surface area of the stone. A precision-cut stone produces a well finished gem with great light reflection along with superior color and brilliancy.
• Color- Color is judged by intensity, saturation and vivacity. A bright color without cloudiness is a sign of best quality gemstones.
• Treatment- A natural gemstone is more valuable as compared to the gemstone that is treated for color enhancement. The method of treatment also affects the value of gemstones.
• Transparency- Transparency is measured by the diffusion of light throughout the gemstone. Higher transparency adds value to the gemstones.

 

Bronze ring styles, going beyond the gold and silver jewelry

The brushed appearance of bronze jewelry is a part of what make it popular. These include terrific rings that are both unique and stunning. The dated appearance of these rings makes them look like antique pieces. They hold a different look from gold and silver ring styles. Many people want custom ring designs for special occasions.

Engagement and anniversary rings fit into this category. You can find bronze rings with stunning gem stones as settings. The cut and type of stone will define the ring’s appearance. This will also play a role to the value of these rings as well. You can find bronze rings with classic designs, along with those that are more contemporary. Let’s take a look at some of the beautiful options when it comes to these rings.

Floral Designs

Bronze rings with floral designs are very popular. These are rings with sculptured shapes in the bronze itself. These styles are often seen without a central gem stone. It is also possible to find these floral pieces with outstretched designs. Small diamonds set into leaf shapes are gorgeous. There are rings shaped like flowers with different stones and settings.

Ancient Styles

These are bronze rings that appear hundreds of years old at first glance. Some of these are actually modern designs. Onyx, diamond and jade stones are often seen in these ring styles. They work well with matching jewelry pieces. Green stones are popular in bronze jewelry designs. Emeralds fit well in this category. They make quite an impression with certain ensembles.

Unique Shapes

Bronze rings can be purchased a chain jewelry stores. There are also collectors that specialize in these special rings. You will discover some unique shapes with these particular rings. Square shapes similar to cuff links are trendy ring styles. These rings often utilize etching and graphic displays. Victorian artwork styles are seen in these unique ring shapes. Etched and shaved rings made from bronze are popular purchases, as well.

Jewel Combinations

Bronze rings are especially noticeable with the right jewel setting. Bright rubies along with sparkling diamonds are terrific combinations in bronze. It is possible to find rings that take on the bronze appearance that are actually shaved gold. Ring etchings and designs make an impression with these stunning gem settings.

Plain bronze rings without settings can be purchased quite reasonable. The addition of certain gems will certainly increase the pricing. Collectors’ pieces may be expensive to purchase, as well. This is especially true for those that are made by certain designers or are older pieces. Bronze rings are remarkable and memorable in their display. This is why their unique qualities appeal to many people looking for a special ring.

Gemstone cuts and the expert jewelry design techniques

There are a number of things that factor into the appearance of a piece of jewelry. This is especially true where gem stones are considered. The cutting process also referred to as lapidary. There are specific techniques used by professional gem cutters. The style of a ring or a necklace is impacted by the shape and cut of its gem stone.

The type of gem stone is very important to this process, as well. Diamonds are the most popular stones for most jewels. There are other gems that make terrific jewelry pieces. These include these gems:

• Rubies
• Emeralds
• Sapphires
• Amethyst

Modern trends have brought unique stones into popularity. The color of these gems work to make an overall impression. The cutting process is what defines certain jewels and the appearance that they present. Here are some of the techniques that make jewelry design stunning and memorable:

Stone Appearance

The appearance of a gem stone is impacted by the cutting process. A stone is likely to look rough when it has not been excessively cut. These are stones that have been lightly handled or fractured. Some collectors prefer rough stones. This may be for the purpose of cutting for custom designs. In these cases, rings, necklaces and other pieces will result. Finer products and grit are used to polish gems. These stones tend to shine more and showcase a unique brilliance.

Cutting Options

There are specific considerations that factor into the process of gem stone cutting. The size of the original stone is one of these considerations. Sawing, grinding and sanding all play a role in the cutting process. These techniques are performed by experts in this field. Along with these techniques are activities, such as, drilling, tumbling and polishing. Special procedures are used with certain stones. Diamonds are examples of the hardest naturally occurring substances. Because of this, their abrasive features are used to cut and polish other materials.

Gem Forms

After the cutting process, gems take on specific forms. These are instrumental to the design of pieces of jewelry. Faceted stones, beads, spheres and other forms are very common. Gems are used as settings in various jewelry designs. The finished product will later become a ring setting, earring or even a broach. Gems can be carved to make individual shapes for certain settings.

Inlay Projects 

During this particular process, gem stones are cut to a specific shape. This stone is then glued into place to design a piece of jewelry. The stone must be set into a hollowed space for its shape. Metal and other stones can be used to create these hollowed areas. Black onyx and turquoise are two stones that are also used in inlay projects. They are commonly used for unique pieces.

One of the best jewelry stores in Orange County relies on expert techniques for all their custom jewelry designs, visit their website to find out more about unique gemstone and expert techniques in jewelry designs.

Gemstone Cuts – the differences in ring styles appearances

It’s no secret that the gemstone cut of a ring helps to define the entire piece. There are many different ring styles to choose from. A gem’s unique cut can be the difference between a traditional style and one that is more contemporary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2012 there were more than 32,000 jewelers in the U.S. These professionals not only assist you in finding the right pieces.

Many jewelers are experts when it comes to stone cuts and styles. It is possible to get a customized ring with a totally unique stone cut. Chain jewelry stores are some of the most popular places for finding rings. There are stores in this category that range in pricing when it comes to rings. Specialty jewelers tend to offer more original items at a higher cost. Here are some of the most popular stone cuts and their details:

Round

The round gem stone cut is one of the most popular purchased for rings. The stone selection along with the cut work to define the rings appearance. It doesn’t matter whether you choose rubies, diamonds, sapphires or emeralds. It is possible to find a unique ring with a round cut stone. There are simple round designs, as well as, those that have multiple shapes in one stone. This is a detailed cut choice.

Cushion Checkerboard

It is possible to purchase a ring with a cushion checkerboard cut from a traditional jeweler. This is not a typical cut and may require finding a specialty jeweler. The cut has a rounded edge display and an inner carving similar to a checkerboard. Generally one stone is cut in this way, but multiple stones can be inserted in custom designs.

Heart

A heart shaped stone cut is certainly eye-catching. This is not a common design and could require a custom jeweler’s assistance. Pink and red stones are some of the most popular for this particular cut. An added lining of diamonds around a central stone accents this stone cut.

Pear

Pear or tear-drop cut stones are unique. This central stone can include additional carving inside the stones display. Many people purchase earrings, necklaces and rings with this same cut. Metals of different styles work well with this cut. These combinations offer a stylish and memorable appearance for jewelry piece.

If you love jewelry and want to learn more, follow a leading Fountain Valley expert jeweler on Facebook

Custom Jewelry Designs – The popular custom bling beyond the ring.

Customized jewelry is one of the most unique ideas for gift giving. These are pieces that can’t be purchased in the average jewelry store. Chains don’t often provide customized jewelry items. This jewelry requires detailed gem cuts. They are also associated with original shapes and sizes. Specialized jewelers are those that offer these custom pieces.

Individuals in this industry have expertise when it comes to cutting stone in unique ways. They can work with different metals to create a stunning piece of jewelry. Rings are often thought of as popular purchases for jewelry. There are many other pieces that can be customized. Finding the right jewelry designer is the best way to get an original piece. Let’s take a look at the Top 4 Customized Jewelry Pieces that are purchased.

1 – Sparkling Rings

It doesn’t matter whether you’re shopping for a birthday ring or an engagement jewel. You can have a custom ring with a few simple steps. Choosing the stone is the first consideration for these jobs. Diamonds, sapphires, rubies and onyx stones are commonly selected for these unique styles. The next choice is the metal that you prefer, whether gold, silver or bronze. The style of the ring can be created or altered from an existing ring. Lotus Flower Rings are good examples of original custom rings.

2 – Shimmering Necklaces

You can create a shimmering necklace of your own design with customized jewelry. Choosing not only a stone but a particular cut is the first step. Tear-drop jewels make a wonderful centerpiece for necklaces. The next decision will be that of metal and necklace details. There are rope and chain style necklaces. Center stones can be used in one large gem or individual stones connected by design.

3 – Stunning Earrings

Earrings are available in various shapes and sizes. Customized earrings can take on appearances that are very unique. These are some of the shapes that can be used for custom pieces:

• Round
• Pear
• Princess
• Trillion
• Checkerboard

You can choose a design that is both intricate and detailed. The average time for a custom jewelry project is 10 days. This will depend upon the difficulty of the overall job.

4 – Sensational Bracelets 

Bracelets are some of the most creative pieces of jewelry. These are traditional gifts that can be designed in contemporary ways. You will play a role in the design of your customized bracelet by choosing shape, gems and metals. Small Link Charm Bracelets are delicate styles that look great without gems. A Saturn-style Bangle is a sensational piece that is especially attractive with many different gems.

 

Orange County jeweler shares the tips on the best time to get ears pierced for babies & toddlers

Prego Jewelry, an Orange County jeweler sees an increase in earrings flying off the shelf for adults and little girls alike.  Thousands of  little girls from  around the world, of various ages, will get their ears pierced this year. For some cultures, this is a traditional activity. Others simply like the appearance of pierced ears and see it as a rite of passage for girls. There are many opinions related to when ear piercings should take place. Some people opt to pierce their baby’s ears as a newborn. There are individuals that think waiting until they are toddlers is best.

One of the reasons that parents are apprehensive about piercing babies’ ears is the subject of pain. These piercing guns can look quite daunting and make parents think of pain for their babies. In most cases, however, the sound of the piercing gun is much scarier. You can decide to pierce your child’s ears as a baby or a toddler. Consulting your pediatrician beforehand is a good way to gain some comfort. Let’s take a look at some of the topics related to this issue.

Choosing an Age

The choice is yours when you decide to get your baby’s ears pierced. The American Academy of Pediatrics states that there is no risk of getting this done at any age. They do, however, recommend that parents wait until the child can care for the piercing themselves. As long as, monitoring and after care is provided babies and toddlers can get their ears pierced safely.

Selecting a Stone

There are many fantastic child earring styles to choose from. These tiny pieces of jewelry are quaint and stylish. You can opt for a gold or silver stud for your baby. Many parents like to select the birth stone of their child. This may mean diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires and other stones. Many jewelers specialize in selling infant earrings.

Providing Aftercare

Once your baby’s ears have been pierced, it is important to not remove earrings for 6 weeks. During this time period there are aftercare steps that are essential for this process. Wiping around each earring with alcohol is necessary. This should be done twice per day. It is also important to twist earring once a day.

After the 6 week time period, the ears should be fully healed. At this time, parents can choose to purchase different earrings. The initial set can be removed and changed for a different style if you would like. It is important to purchase earrings that are made from 14 karat gold or surgical steel. Those made from other materials could lead to allergic reaction.

Connect with Prego Jewelry on Facebook for more information and tips relating to jewelry we love so much.

Huntington Beach jeweler shares the 3 most popular Gemstones and why people love them.

It’s no secret that some gem stones are more popular than others. The fact that you see them more in pieces of jewelry is one hint. Publicity about these stones and their cost is a part of the culture. Engagement rings, for instance, will typically have some form of diamond as the central stone. The brilliance of the diamond along with its shape and size serve to define it. Other stones are described in similar ways.

Some of the world’s most popular gem stones are also considered to be rare. They are found in specific parts of the world and may be difficult to get. These stones are used in unique ways. They can be seen in rings, necklaces, bracelets and other pieces of jewelry. Chain jewelers may sometimes sell popular gems. There are other times when collectors are the best option for buying these stones. Let’s take a look at 3 of the Most Popular Gem Stones.  Orange County Jeweler in Fountain Valley CA Prego Jewelry always keeps a wide selection of gemstones for their clients and the viewing pleasures of all gemstone lovers.

The Moussaieff Red

This particular gemstone is stunning to look at. It is certainly one of the most sought after individual stones. The Moussaieff Red is the largest fancy red gem stone as rated by the Gemological Institute of America. The triangular cut of this stone is not the only thing that makes it special. The fact that it is 5.11 karats does.

The Heart of Eternity

This collector’s prize is displayed in a stunning blue color. It is shaped like a heart and is quite valuable. This particular stone is over 27 karats. It was cut from a larger stone that is estimated to have been over 700 karats. Although it’s blue the Heart of Eternity is actually a distinctive diamond.

The Allnatt

The Allnatt is one of the largest and rarest of diamonds. Its stunning yellow color makes it even more brilliant. Currently owned by the SIBA Corporation, according to CNBC, this amazingly gorgeous gemstone weighs over 100 karats. It displays an exceptional cushion shape.

You don’t have to be a massive collector to appreciate gem stones. It is possible to shop for popular stones on virtually any budget. The purity of the stone is generally reflected in its cost. It is possible to have jewelry with these stones custom made. These pieces can be as unique as you would like. They are wonderful gifts for special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays.

Choose Jewelry with Gemstones by Color from a Leading Huntington Beach Jeweler

A leading Huntington Beach Jeweler shares with us how to choose jewelry with gemstones rather than style.  There are many ways to choose a piece of jewelry. Some people opt to purchase jewels based upon their design. Others like to find matching collections that work well together. Another way to select the jewelry that you wear is to choose selections based upon their gem settings. This is a great way to put together your own collection or to purchase an existing one.

Some collections use the same gem arrangement in their style or display. There are other collections that offer similar designs with different gems altogether. Jewelry pieces with varying gems are available at the average jewelry store. It is also possible to purchase custom-made pieces from expert jewelry locations. You gem selection will make the difference in the appearance of the piece.

Stylish Earrings

Earrings are some of the most unique pieces of jewelry. They are available in many different shapes, sizes and designs. You can add to your collection by selecting colorful earrings decorated with fine gems. Black stones, such as, coral and onyx are beautiful with the right details. White or yellow gold are wonderful compliments to these stones and make great earrings.

Classic Necklaces

There are necklaces with thin chains and those with thicker ones. The gem settings in a necklace work to define the piece. Blue stones are wonderful choices for any necklace design. An Asian-inspired necklace with topaz or sapphire gem settings is a stunning display. These are pieces that are great for formal wear.

Contemporary Rings

There are many terrific contemporary ring designs these days. White gold and silver details are trendy combinations with the right gem selection. Orange gems like Citrine and garnet are options to add color. Amethyst offers a brilliant purple to any collection and is available in different shades. Princess-cut rings are modern displays in these designs.

Designer Broaches

A broach is truly a traditional jewelry piece. There are classic designs for these pieces, as well as, more modern styles. Many broaches incorporate a number of gems in their details. You can find a leopard broach with emeralds, rubies and sapphires in its display. This is a wonderful piece to add to any collection.

A complete jewelry collection is a rare thing to find these days. Some jewelers offer certain pieces from name brand collections. It is even rarer to find collections that offer a selection of gems. You can put together your own collection by the same brand or by using similar designs that compliment each other.

Custom Jewelry Pieces Made to Order, what are my options?

You can buy pieces of jewelry from any of the chain stores in the country. These stores are normally stocked with items that are similar to other jewelry. It is often difficult to shop at these stores for custom-made jewelry. These are specialty items that are quite unique in their appearance. It requires a lot of expertise to make a custom piece. It also requires experience in this area.

There are jewelers who offer this sort of expertise and experience. They can help you to design the piece that you want. These are jewelry pieces that are made to suit your own desire. They are fabulous gifts because they are different from other pieces. Custom-made jewelry can be given for many occasions. Anniversaries, birthdays and celebrations are wonderful occasions for given a special piece of custom jewelry. Let’s take a look at some of the Best Custom Jewelry Pieces. A favored Orange County Jewelry store, Prego Jewelry in Fountain Valley CA told us that more and more couples are leaning towards custom jewelry pieces that hold much more sentimental value.

Designer Necklaces

You can have a custom-made necklace made to suit your taste. These designer pieces can be made with a variety of gem stones. One of the unique examples here is an exotic pearl necklace. This piece has charm and rare components at the same time. The addition of a center stone in this type of designer necklace is another option for a custom design.

Rare Gem Rings

Rare gems really make any piece special. This is especially true when we are talking about rings. These gems can bring the ring to life. They are certainly eye-catching designs. A great idea for a custom-made ring in this category is a Princess-cut Pink Morganite. This can be an engagement ring that is totally unique.

Imported Stone Earrings

Imported stones are those that are not often seen in the average jewelry store. They offer a brilliance that typical stones do not. One fine example here is Russian Amber. You can design the shape of a custom piece. Natural Amber from the Baltics presented in a teardrop design is stunning. This is a terrific gift idea that is both special and original.

One of the special things about custom-made jewelry is the role that you get to play. You are able to put on your designer’s hat to make a special piece. This makes the gift even more special when you’ve added touches to the design. Custom-made jewelry can be as versatile as you want. There are traditional designs and those that are very contemporary.

With Valentine’s day only a week away, Prego Jewelry in Fountain Valley CA has launched a promotion for couples interested in purchasing a unique jewelry gift idea.  Join them on Facebook and take advantage of their $100 giveaway to use towards the purchase of your Valentine’s gift.