Something Blue for the Bride: Earrings

Despite the evolving nature of wedding trends, most brides still follow the wedding tradition of wearing something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue.  The wedding dress easily serves as a bride’s something new, and family heirlooms such as handkerchiefs, veils, brooches and garters are classic picks for something borrowed or something old.  The item that most brides struggle with is finding their perfect ’something blue.’

Our favorite way to incorporate something blue into the bride’s wedding day ensemble is to pick a stunning piece of jewelry with a blue stone. Sapphire, blue topaz and aquamarine are lovely blue hued gemstones for a bride to choose.  Brides who prefer a quiet, understated something blue should choose small blue gemstone and diamond earrings.  By wearing delicate studs or earrings with just a small drop, the ’something blue’ is not overpowering; it’s a subtle compliment to the wedding dress.

On that note, here are some of our favorite subtle – and gorgeous – ’something blue’ earrings for the bride:

Emerald Cut Diamond and Blue Topaz Earrings

These earrings are crafted in a classic vintage design with timeless appeal. Brides striving for that vintage, romantic aesthetic would be well served by the beautiful blue topaz and diamond studs on their wedding day.  We also love that these earrings are versatile enough to be worn everyday as well.

Oval Shaped Sapphire and Diamond Flower Stud Earrings

Like the earrings above, these delicate beauties also have a vintage allure (pictured at top left).  Dainty oval sapphires are surrounded by a burst of diamonds totaling nearly a half carat in weight – simply stunning, and perfect for the bride incorporating a vintage theme into her wedding attire.

Pear Shaped Blue Topaz and Diamond Drop Earrings

For a little more flair, these pear shaped blue topaz drop earrings are an ideal pick. A small drop gives them extra oomph and the modern shape is great for brides who want small earrings that still make a statement. Best of all, they are a steal at under $200.

If we haven’t highlighted your favorite pair of gemstone earrings in this article, be sure to check out our extensive selection of gemstone jewelry. From modern cocktail rings to vintage inspired styles, Apples of Gold has pieces for the everday and the extraordinary.

Earrings for the Bride

Traditionally, the bride and groom exchange gifts for each other on their wedding day.  These gifts can range from the silly and absurd to the extravagant, depending on the couple’s personalities and financial situation. For most couples, the groom receives a gift like cufflinks or a watch and the bride receives a gift of jewelry.

Earrings in particular are a wonderful choice for a gift to the bride. There are so many options, styles and price ranges that the perfect pair can be matched to any budget and as well as personal taste. To find the perfect pair of earrings to give to your bride, always take into consideration the desired price range, her taste in jewelry, and the style of your wedding (if you are buying earrings for her to wear during the wedding).

Pretty in Pearls

Though some grooms think that high prices will prevent them from affording a beautiful pair of earrings, lovely options exist in all price ranges. Grooms on a budget should consider gifting their brides with a timeless pair of simple pearl studs. A pretty set of cultured pearl studs set in 14k gold can be found for $75. Pearls are a classic choice for wedding earrings and are so versatile that they can be worn with almost anything. They look just as nice with a pair of jeans and a t-shirt as they do with a wedding gown.

If your bride likes jewelry that makes a dramatic statement, consider choosing drop pearl and diamond earrings.  The look is classic and elegant but still packs a visual punch.

Diamonds for the Big Day

Diamond earrings are another great choice for a wedding day gift. Not only will they will last a lifetime, they will likely be passed down in your family for generations to come. Like with pearl earrings, the price range varies quite a bit, all depending on the size, color, and carat of the stone. If your price range is between $2,000 to $2,500, a one carat (total weight) diamond and white gold pair of earrings will take her breath away.

For a more economical, but equally pretty, way to give her diamonds, choose a pair of studs in an alternate gemstone that is surrounded by a halo of diamonds. Round diamond and peridot earrings will add a pop of color to her look and really compliment green eyes. Or, surprise her by getting her something blue for the big day: a striking pair of emerald cut sapphire and diamond earrings with vintage appeal.

Must-Read Tips for Buying Jewelry Online

In today’s increasingly busy world, consumers want to find exactly what they are looking for as quickly as possible. For many, online stores are the perfect shopping solution – search engines find what you’re looking for in an instant, and stores are open 24 hours a day. In mere minutes you can check out three different stores and find the perfect pair of sapphire earrings for your holiday party. But with the click of a mouse, we are also revealing our payment information to an unknown source – an act that requires a great amount of trust. How do we know who to trust in the faceless world of webpages? Simply follow our top two tips for online jewelry buying, and feel secure making your beautiful new purchase:

1. Only Buy From Reputable Online Jewelers

How does one determine if an online jewel is reputable? Look for the following:

Better Business Bureau Standing:

All established online retailers should be in good standing with the Better Business Bureau.  If the website does not disclose this, visit the Better Business Bureau website and search for the company. Many online retailers have numerous complaints filed against them, so always check before making a costly mistake.

Involvement with Trade Organizations:

Jewelers who are committed to their business are involved in their industry and usually belong to trade organizations. Preferably they are members of a well-recognized organization such as the Manufacturing and Jewelry Suppliers of America (MJSA).

Number of Years in Business:

The longer the jewelry store has been in business, the better. Unreputable business cannot survive online; they will eventually fail or be shut down. Successful online business thrive due to word of mouth, repeat customers, and great products.

2. Only Buy From Online Jewelers with Great Customer Service

Successful businesses value the customer, and quality customer service is a surefire way to guarantee a great jewelry buying experience. Make sure the online jeweler provides:

Contact Information:

There should be an email address as well as a phone number listed. Otherwise, there is no one to contact if you do not receive your purchase or if there is something wrong with it.

A 100% Jewelry Guarantee & Stellar Return Policy:

Online jewelry retailers should give customers a minimum of two weeks to return jewelry for a full refund, though thirty days is even better. Be careful of some online jewelers who only give store credit for returns, and always read the jeweler’s return policy before your purchase.

As long as you follow these simple guidelines, buying your jewelry online is a wonderful way to find the perfect piece at a great price. And remember, Apples of Gold meets and exceeds all of the criteria above to create the best possible shopping experience for their customers.