May Birthstone: Emerald Rings
Posted: May 5, 2009
May Birthstone: Emerald Rings
Like most gemstones, the name for this month’s birthstone is derived from its physical attributes, in this case the gem’s color. The name Emerald came from the Latin term “smaragdus” which directly translates to “green gem”. It belongs... Read More →
The Origin of the Ring
Posted: April 22, 2009
The Origin of the Ring
Many stories, legends, and myths speak of the existence of the ring in ancient societies, which date back to as far as the Babylonians. Yet, there is no conclusive and direct information on how ancient peoples first started to wear rings and why. The... Read More →
Why A Diamond is Forever
Posted: April 3, 2009
Why A Diamond is Forever
In 1947, a marketing staff for DeBeers coined the phrase "A Diamond is Forever" and it went on to become the best advertising slogan of the 20th century. The message it conveyed could not have been as effective if it referred to something less deserving... Read More →
Origin of the Pearl
Posted: March 18, 2009
Origin of the Pearl
"This pearl has become my soul. . . . If I give it up, I shall lose my soul." And such was the pronouncement inspired by the Pearl, in John Steinbeck's 1947 novel of the same title. No other kind of gem or jewelry in history has inspired unfailing... Read More →
March Birthstone: Aquamarine, “Sea Water”
Posted: February 27, 2009
March Birthstone: Aquamarine, “Sea Water”
The Aquamarine is one of the most treasured stones today for its hardness and resistance to elements. It is also considered the 'poor man's diamond'--while it is a hard mineral, it is abundantly mined since the 19th century in Brazil & Africa, ... Read More →
Valentine’s Day: The Roman Festival of Lupercalia?
Posted: February 11, 2009
Valentine’s Day: The Roman Festival of Lupercalia?
No matter what critics say about the rampant commercialism of the occasion, Valentine's sales from greeting cards, flowers, jewelry, and chocolates go up every year. In 2004 alone, about one billion cards are sent all over the world; a third of the... Read More →
February Birthstone: The Gift of Amethyst
Posted: February 2, 2009
February Birthstone: The Gift of Amethyst
Next to the holiday season, February may be the second most exciting month in the calendar because of the worldwide celebration of Valentine's Day. Couples especially look forward to celebrate the day with romantic dinner dates and meaningful gifts.... Read More →
The Celtic Secret
Posted: January 19, 2009
The Celtic Secret
It seems improbable to believe that this timeless, enduring, popular jewelry design called Celtic originated from the people the ancient Greeks then referred to as the 'barbarians'. Of course, the Greeks eventually gave them a proper name and came up... Read More →
The Garnet Attraction: January Birthstone
Posted: January 3, 2009
The Garnet Attraction: January Birthstone
As one of few ancient gemstones existing today, Garnets have found their exclusive place under the sun. Its earliest use as adornment could be traced back to around 3,000 B.C., as evidenced by remnants of garnet jewelry found in the Nile Delta. Ancient... Read More →
Celebrate with Three Stone Rings
Posted: December 15, 2008
Celebrate with Three Stone Rings
Since the first diamond engagement ring in the 15th century, the single-diamond stone design had dominated the history of engagements. For centuries, it had enjoyed undivided attention and admiration from every couple who was lucky enough to afford it. Five... Read More →
