As of the close of the last business day (April 6, 2012), gold closed at $1,634.10 per ounce and platinum closed at $1,602 per ounce. A year ago, the same date, gold closed at $1,461.50 per ounce and platinum closed at $1,808 per ounce. The gap between the metals was narrow enough back then for us to take notice, but gold remained in its placed as 2nd place to platinum (as it has historically, since platinum is rarer than gold). The gap has now closed (as it has a few times in the past), as gold prices have increased beyond what many of us in the jewelry industry are comfortable with.

Does this mean that platinum jewelry will now be cheaper than gold jewelry? Hardly. See: Why is Platinum More Expensive Than Gold Jewelry to find out why platinum persists as the more expensive metal as far as “finished jewelry” is concerned.

How Does This Effect Jewelry Prices?

As a retail jeweler, Apples of Gold, unlike investors and gold-hounds, wants all precious metals prices to come down. Why? Wouldn’t that help our inventory to become more valuable? Hardly, since most online jewelers stock very little to no inventory. As precious metals prices increase, costs also increase from suppliers and manufacturers, and thus the retail price of jewelry also goes up. This has little advantage for online jewelry retailers, like Apples of Gold, since increased prices means a harder sale.

That is why Apples of Gold has remained true to its value-based jewelry pricing methodology. Our intended mission as a jewelry company, has been and and continues to be to offer quality jewelry at affordable prices. We started Apples of Gold with the intention of charging about 40% below standard retail, once we evaluated how much margin we need to make to be profitable as a company, while providing the best possible value to our customers.

Where is gold and platinum prices headed? No one knows (and we hope you don’t believe all those radio & tv ads about how high the price of gold is bound to go!) All we can guesstimate is that as the U.S. and world economy improve, precious commodities such as gold and platinum should decrease in price. Not only are precious metals investments a type of hedge funds to protect an investor’s portfolio from downswings in the stock market, but as the price of gold and other precious metals stop looking as attractive to investors as they do now, gold funds start to become less popular in the minds of not only professional investors and day traders, but also in the minds of the average mom and pop investors, and metals prices start to stabilize and come down again to a more reasonable rate.

With the gap closing between platinum and gold jewelry, Apples of Gold remains steadfast in our stated mission to provide value. We hope you will think so too. Compare us to both offline and online jewelers and you will see that the difference in our jewelry is not the quality, but the price.

Related Post: Understanding the Price of Platinum Jewelry

Related Categories: Platinum Wedding Bands, Design Platinum Wedding Bands, Gold Wedding Bands

When we long for life without difficulties, remind us that oaks grow strong in contrary winds and diamonds are made under pressure.

Is there any stone more captivating than the diamond? This stone encompasses the highest wonders of creation: beauty, strength, resilience, purity, and a whole lot of sparkle. Read on to learn more about April’s marvelous birthstone.

A Symbol Of Innocence…Though diamonds are revered among minerals for their superior strength and durability, they also are associated with innocence. The diamond’s super-hard structure makes it virtually incorruptible. Its dual strength and purity make it the perfect adornment for the woman of faith.

More Than Wedding Jewelry…In the United States, the diamond is typically associated with the engagement ring. It symbolizes the commitment of matrimony. But the diamond is also a key player in the most stunning jewelry in the world. It’s unique structure paired with skilled cutting techniques allow it to refract light in a way that is truly mesmerizing. The April girl is lucky to have the diamond as her signature gem!

Religious Significance. The use of diamonds in jewelry and engagement rings is relatively recent compared to its use in religious rituals and customs.  In India, diamonds have been regarded as religious icons for over 3,000 years. In the Bible the diamond represented one of the Twelve Tribes of Israel, and according to the book of Exodus, was used to adorn the garments of the priests serving in the temple. In the book of Jeremiah the diamond was used as a tool and as an instrument of judgment: “The sin of Judah is written down with an iron stylus; With a diamond point it is engraved upon the tablet of their heart And on the horns of their altars…”

The World of Colored Diamonds. And remember, not all diamonds are white! While diamond hues are often paler than a colored gemstone, their rarity gives them a sought-after status among jewelry buyers. At Apples of Gold we are proud to offer both blue diamond rings and black diamond rings of the highest quality. These pieces are perfect for the woman who loves the quality of a diamond as well as the unique appeal and boldness of a colored gemstone.

Delightful Diamonds For An April Birthday…

Diamond Cross Pendant, 14K White Gold. This unique cross pendant with its gentle, rounded shape is made of 14K white gold. Both attractive and affordable, the pendant makes not only a perfect birthday gift, but also a precious commemoration of a baptism, confirmation, or graduation. The center diamond adds sparkle, shine, and a note of femininity.

1.00 Carat Princess Cut Diamond Stud Earrings in 14K White Gold. Luxurious and dazzling, the princess cut diamond earrings give center stage to two ½ carat diamonds. These diamonds have a G-H color grading and SI1-SI2 clarity. Shown here in white gold, the earrings are fully customizable—choose your perfect size and metal (14K yellow gold, 18K gold, or platinum).

0.62 Carat Blue and White Diamond Flower Ring. Ideal for a woman of any age, the Blue and White Diamond Flower Ring is both elegant and whimsical. Set in 10K white gold, the ring holds twenty-six white diamonds that encircle the finger and outline the four blue diamond petals of the center flower.

Browse more diamond jewelry!

The Stone.

The Shade. Beryl gets its name from the Greek word beryllos, which means “precious blue-green color-of-sea-water stone”. Aqua marina specifies the aquamarine variety of beryl and means “water of the sea”. Could there be a more fitting description for the stone that naturally conjures up images of exotic seas? This ocean-blue stone is as radiant as pure sparkling water and the color seems to match winningly with nearly any shade of skin, eyes, or hair. The pale, icy hue that characterizes this stone comes from deposits of iron.

The Significance. While the aquamarine stone is not specifically mentioned by name in the Biblical text, beryl is. This special stone represented one of the twelve tribes of Israel and was mandated to adorn the priestly garments in the book of Exodus. In the book of Daniel, the beryl stone describes the body of the man that Daniel sees in a vision. In the Song of Songs it is said of the Beloved: “His hands are rods of gold set with beryl.” In the book of Revelation, the beryl stone is prophesied to decorate the walls of the New Jerusalem.

The Selection. At Apples of Gold, aquamarine is a house favorite. Committed to bringing you the finest this natural beauty has to offer, our selection includes rings, pendants, and earrings set in 0.925 sterling silver, 14k white gold, 14k yellow gold, and even platinum. For a special March birthday or for a woman whose own natural beauty would only be enhanced by this delicate gem, take a look at a few of our favorite aquamarine offerings.

Our Picks For That Special March Birthday…

Aquamarine Stud Earrings, Platinum Setting. For pure aquamarine with a touch of luxury, these stud earrings, set in platinum, are a must-have. Fully customizable, you choose the size of your stones—from 4mm to 7mm. These stunning aquamarine studs are also available in 14k yellow and white gold.

Aquamarine Gemstone Solitaire Ring in 14K White Gold. A perfect compliment to our aquamarine studs is this dazzling gemstone solitaire ring. The stone carries an AAA rating and is also customizable to fit your size preference (stones range in size from 4mm to 7mm, or 0.40-1.50 carats). This ring is a delightful birthday gift for a special March lady of any age.

Aquamarine and Tanzanite Diamond Pendant, 10K White Gold. For the true lover of blue stones, this pendant delivers two rich blue gems. The one carat aquamarine stone is topped with a 3mm round tanzanite—it’s dark, purplish blue contrasting the aquamarine’s cool, water tone. The pendant is set in durable 10k white gold.

Browse more aquamarine jewelry.

The Gem.

The amethyst obtains its color from the presence of iron in its natural environment—this element is responsible for giving the stone its purplish hue. But depth of color comes from radiation—either by natural radioactive heating forces within the earth, or by heat treatment (irradiation) by a jewelry specialist.

Amethysts are not highly rare, but deep purple, gem-quality stones are. Brazil boasts a treasure trove of amethysts, but South Korea, Russia, India, Zambia, and Austria are also major producers.

Amethyst In History And Lore. The name amethyst comes from the Greek word amythtos, which means “not intoxicated.” Ancient societies such as the Greeks and Romans believed that amethyst protected one against drunkenness, thus it was common in jewelry and the making of drinking vessels. Some also sprinkled ground amethyst into vessels holding wine to protect the drinkers from the effects of overindulgence. Amethyst was also thought to guard a person from seduction and even to save crops from the attack of pests. 

During medieval times, soldiers donned amethyst stones to protect them as they went into battle. The gem was also favored by priests and clergy as it was known to symbolize piety.

Biblical Significance. In addition to the amethyst’s legendary protective properties, the stone was given great significance in the Biblical text. Beginning in the book of Exodus the amethyst was used to adorn the garments of priests serving in the temple. Amethyst represented one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Later in the book of Revelation, the amethyst is mentioned as one of the stones that will adorn the walls of the New Jerusalem.

As special and significant as it is stunning, the amethyst stone is a perfect gift for a February birthday!

Our Favorite February Birthstone Gifts

Amethyst and Black Diamond Royal Pendant in .925 Sterling Silver. (Above Left) Strong colors incorporated into a feminine design make this pendant both bold and captivating yet gentle and delicate. The center oval-cut amethyst stone of this beautiful piece weighs nearly four carats and measures 10mm. The surrounding 22 black diamonds, set in sterling silver, total 0.22 carats and give the pendant its unique floral look. The pendant comes with an 18’’ rope chain in gold-plated .925 sterling silver.

Double Pear Shape Drop Earrings with Amethyst. (Above right) These funky earrings feature a 5.5mm amethyst incorporated into a sterling silver wire teardrop design. Perfect for any age, these earrings are both fashionable and affordable—a perfect way to remember and celebrate a February birthday. 

Rustic Amethyst Ring in Sterling Silver. (Left) This ring is a perfect match to the earrings above—both feature a rustic, patina-finished sterling silver with loops and coil shapes. The ring also stands alone as an attractive everyday piece. Trendy and fun, this ring is perfect for a younger wearer. Its amethyst stone measures 11mm x 9mm.

Browse more Apples of Gold Amethyst Jewelry

Garnet takes its name from the Latin word, granum, meaning ‘grain’ or ‘grainy one’. This is an allusion to its internal composition, which resembles little bundles of grain. While red is the color traditionally associated with the garnet, this stone has a few more hues up its sleeve. The garnet family includes ten different gemstones, which is to say, these ten gemstones all share the same chemical composition. The color spectrum includes several shades of red as well as other earthy colors such as green, orange, and yellow.

While the color of many stones is enhanced and deepened by heat treatment and irradiation, garnets have shown themselves intolerant to heat methods. Found primarily in Africa, garnets of varying colors have also been mined in Russia, India, Czech Republic, and Latin America. Garnet is the state mineral of Connecticut and the state gemstone of New York and Idaho.

While there is no direct Biblical reference to the garnet, legend holds that Noah used a lantern of garnet to guide him through the storm. Garnets were also widely used in Greek and Roman times both for jewelry and as a stone of protection, or talisman. Sailors carried the stone to illuminate the night and to guard from them from danger.

Favorite January Birthstone Gifts:

Victorian Emerald-Cut Garnet Ring in 14K White Gold (Shown above left) This Victorian-style flora ring features an emerald-cut ruby measuring 10mmx8mm. This vintage ring is a special and stylish gift for a special and stylish woman. Shown here is 14K white gold, this ring is also available in sterling silver.

Garnet Stud Earrings, 14K White Gold (Shown above right) Simple, yet elegant, the garnet is center stage in these stunning earrings. Each stone is set in a basket setting to offset the stone in all its crimson glory and provide just a hint of metallic sparkle around the edges. These solitaire stud earrings also give you the opportunity to customize the look of your jewelry. Select the size of your stones: 6mm, 7mm, or 8mm, as well as the precious metal used in the earring posts and setting: 14K white gold, 14K yellow gold, or platinum.

Filigree Garnet Earrings In Sterling Silver (Shown above left) A total of twelve garnet stones are incorporated into these antique-styled sterling silver filigree earrings. This garnet gift that is attractive and affordable—perfect for a younger woman who loves jewelry with boldness and flair.

Browse More Garnet Jewelry From Apples of Gold!

The blue topaz is a member of the topaz family—a stone that is naturally colorless. But depending on the conditions of the environment in which it is found, topaz can take on multi-colored properties. From yellow to green to pink, topaz covers the colors of the rainbow. But it is the sapphire-blue variety that adorns the month of December.

Red Hot Heat Turns To Icy Blue

If topaz is naturally colorless, how does it get its deep blue color? Heat will turn the naturally colorless topaz a shade of blue. Intense heat in the natural environment or by the agency of a jeweler through irradiation results in the remarkable shade. This gemstone is usually seen in three distinct tones: the icy, sky-blue shade, a Swiss blue, and the darker, deeper London blue topaz.

This cool, icy stone is a perfect representation of its wintry month. But the shade is also calming and relaxing—a perfect set of characteristics in a month known to be one of the busiest of the year.

Biblical Significance

While the blue variety is not specifically referenced, the topaz makes an appearance in several places throughout the Bible. In the book of Exodus, topaz is one of the stones used to adorn the garments of the temple priests. In the book of Revelation, topaz brings sparkle to the wall of the New Jerusalem. Known for over 4,000 years, this stone bears a deep and meaningful historical significance, as well as a future, eternal one.

Interesting Facts About The Blue Topaz

In addition to being one of the official birthstones for the month of December, the blue topaz is also the state stone of Texas. Legend claims that this gem can turn men handsome, make women happy, calm a heated argument, cool boiling water, and protect against accidental death. But even if you don’t believe all that, you cannot argue that this is a stunning and attractive stone, certain to beautify and delight its wearer.

Our Favorite Blue Topaz Gifts For December Birthdays

Blue Topaz and Diamond Swirl Earrings In 14K White Gold. A very special December birthday calls for a very special gift. These earrings, composed of 1.77 carats blue topaz are attractively accented with diamonds, creating a piece that is a timeless treasure. The pear-shaped stones elongate the face and bring out the eyes of the wearer—especially is those eyes are blue!

Handmade Textured Round Blue Topaz Sterling Silver Ring. For the true blue topaz lover, consider this 11mm round stone. The shape of the sterling silver ring is unique, feminine, and a perfect compliment to the dramatic, icy stone. Also available with an oval-shaped or rectangle topaz stone.

Sterling Silver and 14K Gold Blue Topaz Cuff Bracelet. For the woman who likes to make a bold, stylish statement with her jewelry, this cuff bracelet is a perfect pick. Crafted of 0.925 sterling silver, the five strands bear blue topaz accents of various shapes and sizes. Classy and elegant, this piece is as stunning with that little black dress as it is comfortable with jeans and a blazer.

Take a look at more blue topaz jewelry!

Ranging in color from lemony yellow to burnt amber, the citrine is a splash of sunshine just as the days are getting shorter and the weather is starting to get chilly. Citrine is one of the few stones that bear a yellow hue. While you may encounter a yellow-toned diamond, they are highly rare and thus unaffordable to most. Citrine, on the other hand, is delightfully affordable and a perfect gift for that special November birthday.

Check out some of our favorite citrine gift ideas–

Sterling Silver and Citrine Cuff Bracelet. (Shown above left) This sterling silver cuff bracelet holds a citrine stone of more than 11 carats. The bold, chunky look of he yellow stone pairs perfectly with the intricate leaf and diamond pattern that covers the antiqued silver cuff. A strip of diamond accents set in 14k white gold flank each side of the stone to give it that little extra touch of sparkle and shine. The sterling silver and citrine cuff bracelet measures 29mm at its widest point. This piece is sure to brighten up those dreary winter days!

Victorian Floral Oval Citrine Ring in 14K White Gold. (Shown above right) In an antique, Victorian setting of 14k white gold sits this dramatic citrine stone, measuring 10mm in length. This ring is truly unique—featuring the citrine stone so rarely seen in jewelry. Shown here in 14k white gold, the piece is also available in yellow gold or platinum. Its golden, sunshine-like color lifts the spirits and reminds you of the spring and summer days that will soon come again.

Sterling Silver Hammered Circle and Citrine Earrings. (Shown left) Also crafted of sterling silver, these funky citrine earrings are an affordable gift for the November birthday and the perfect addition to any wardrobe. Each earring features a string of citrine ‘briolettes’ or charms suspended from the lower hoop of the earring. The sterling silver has a matte, hammered finish, giving off a subtle, bronzed hue. Each earring is 2.5’’ long, not including the ear wire.

View More Citrine Rings Here.

October 31, 1517 is the day Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the doors of the church at Wittenberg. While he did not realize the force of his action at the time, Luther’s bold move on that day gave rise to the Reformation. The last day of October is now recognized as Reformation Day.

The Holy Warrior Cross (shown left), also known as the Maltese Cross, is a symbol of humility and justice in the face of persecution against one’s faith. It makes a perfect remembrance of this event in history or a gift of encouragement for a Christian undergoing persecution or derision for his or her faith at work, in school, or on the mission field. The cross is crafted of 14k gold—both yellow and white gold available. It can also be purchased with an 18’’ or 20’’ box chain.

Opal is a highly unique gemstone. Unlike most gemstones, it is not actually a mineral, but rather a quartz-like material. It seems that no two are alike and the colors that an opal diffracts can vary along the entire spectrum of the rainbow, depending upon the environmental factors and conditions under which the opal was formed. This mystery and unpredictability is part of opal’s charm.

Opal’s characteristic dancing color is better explained by the scientists, but suffice it to say, the chemical makeup of the opal is what is causing it to refract light in this interesting way. Australia produces over 95% of the world’s opals.

Not to be outdone, pink tourmaline is also a fun gem, especially for feminine women who love the vibrant color. As these tourmaline stones are forming over time in granite, they are exposed to a natural radiation process that changes the composition of the Manganese in the stone. The result is a strong, natural pink color. Tourmaline is a Singhalese word meaning “stone with mixed colors.” The colors included within the tourmaline family are as extensive and varied as those you’ll see within the opal family.

Opal And Pink Tourmaline Make Great October Birthday Gifts:

The Sterling Silver and Tourmaline Ring (above left) is a funky piece that incorporates both pink and green tourmaline. Its oxidized finish gives it a rugged appearance. It’s a great way to show off that pink tourmaline in a less formal piece of jewelry. Great with jeans and casual wear, this is a ring you can wear everyday!

The Marquis Pink Tourmaline and Diamond Pendant in 14K White Gold (above right) is luxurious and feminine—a very special gift for a very special woman. The center pink tourmaline, marquis cut, measures 1.10 carats and is surrounded by a string of diamonds that encircle the stone and cover the bale as well. The twenty-seven diamonds measure 0.20 carats and are color graded G, or near colorless. The pendant comes with a matching 14K white gold Singapore chain.

The Opal and Diamond Heart Pendant in 14K White Gold (left) wraps a 0.48 carat white opal in a swirling heart of 14K gold, and accents it with three sparkly diamonds. The luster of the gold and the shine of the diamond accentuate the swirling colors characteristic of this gemstone.

Biblical Significance Of Sapphire.

Like many of the gems in the birthstone family, sapphire was well known in Biblical times. Sapphire represented one of the twelve tribes of Israel and in the book of Exodus, sapphire adorns the breastplates of the priests serving in the temple. Like the other gems it also appears in Revelation, as one of the stones covering the walls of the New Jerusalem.

But sapphire gets a few special mentions throughout the Bible as well. In Exodus 24:10, sapphire is the very stone that God stands upon when he communes with Moses, Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and the seventy elders. As it says, “and they saw the God of Israel. There was under his feet as it were a pavement of sapphire stone, like the very heaven for clearness.” Job mentions sapphire, noting that even a stone of such worth cannot be used to compare to the value of wisdom. Ezekiel’s visions featured an expanse of sapphire spread out over the heads of cherubim. Throughout the Biblical text, sapphire is used as a symbol of great value and beauty.

Interesting fact: the sapphires we’ve featured here exhibit the traditional, deep-blue shade most people associate with the sapphire, but actually, stones of the corundrum family come in every color. The red variety, which has been colored by chrome, is distinguished as the ruby.

According to the International Colored Gemstone Association, “A blue sapphire fits in best with a well balanced lifestyle in which reliability and temperament run together and there is always a readiness to encounter things new – as with the woman who wears it.” What do you think? Are you and sapphire a match?

Our Most Special Sapphire Jewelry For That September Birthday:

3.15 Carat Sapphire and Diamond Pendant in .925 Sterling Silver. 63 sapphires and 20 diamonds come together to create a shocking and sparkling blue pendant you can’t live without. Set in sterling silver, this antique-styled pendant is certain to delight and charm you for years to come. Comes with 18” sterling silver chain.

Sapphire Gemstone Solitaire Ring in 14K White Gold. Let that sassy sapphire speak for itself! In this stunning solitaire ring, the sapphire is featured in all of its sky-blue splendor. This ring also allows you to customize—select white or yellow gold for your setting, and then choose your stone size (0.4-1.20 carats). Not enough blue for you? Pair with a set of Solitaire Sapphire Stud Earrings.

2.31 Carat Emerald-Cut Sapphire and Diamond Earrings in 14K White Gold. A favorite among sapphire lovers, these emerald cut earrings highlight the depth and intensity of the blue sapphire. Accented by two round diamonds, they encompass elegance and class.