Posted by Elizabeth Hart on Wed, May 16, 2012 @ 12:14 PM
By Elizabeth Hart
Emerald - Rich Color, Rich History
The emerald is a symbol of love, happiness, and good fortune and it's widespread use has been traced back to Antiquity. Ancient Romans dedicated the emerald, symbolizing the reproductive forces of nature, to the goddess of love, Venus. Royalty in Babylon and Egypt wore emeralds in elaborate wear. Tools dating back to 1300 B.C. during the rule of Rameses II have been found decorated with the stone. In the Middle Ages it was believed that emeralds held the power to foretell the future.
Several famous historical artifacts were made of emeralds, including the Crown of the Andes worn by Atahualpa - last Inca king of Peru. The crown is set with 450 emeralds, with a total carat weight of 1523 - weighing 10 ounces!
The magnificent green color of emeralds is said to rest and relieve the eye. The shade of green is derived from the presence of chromium and/or vanadium that replaces a portion of aluminum in the mineral structure. The stone can, however, lose its color when heated strongly, whether by natural or artificial processes.
Colombia produces the largest and highest quality natural emeralds. Other emerald mining countries are Russia (Ural Mountains), Zambia, Brazil, Pakistan, Norway, Austria, India, Madagascar, and Australia.
Emeralds can also be found in the United States, especially North Carolina, by the novice and expert alike. In fact, America's 20 largest emeralds came from North Carolina mines. If you're in search of your own emerald, look into Crabtree Emerald Mine in Little Switzerland, NC. This would make a fun family summer vacation - who doesn't like digging for treasure!
On the Mohs Scale of Harness the emerald rates at 7.5-8, making it highly scratch-resistant and well suited for daily wear.
Browse our collection of elegant emerald jewelry!
Posted by Elizabeth Hart on Sat, Feb 04, 2012 @ 11:19 AM
February Birthstone: Amethyst
By: Elizabeth Hart
Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz. Once considered more valuable than diamonds, the availability of amethyst keeps this gemstone affordable. Amethysts are known and prized for their deep, rich purple coloring and are often compared to more expensive purple colored gems.
The amethyst is found world-wide with each locale producing unique characterizations such as color, shape of crystal, inclusions, associations and character of formation. Well known amethyst producing districts include:
• Guerrero, Mexico is known for producing deep, rich purple prismatic amethysts that radiate outward from a common attachment. These are some of the most valuable amethysts in the world!
• Thunder Bay, Canada amethysts contain a distinct red hematite inclusion just below the surface of the crystals. Here amethyst also appears as druzy crust lining fissures of metamorphic rocks. Amethysts with these characteristics are also found throughoutNorth America.
• Africa generates amethyst crystals that are known for their size rather than beauty. However, internal color and clarity produce fine gemstone slices and carvings that are admired world-wide.
• Ural Mountains, Russia produces very dark and clear amethyst gemstones that are cut for expensive jewelry pieces.
Deposits of this gemstone are also found inBrazil,Australia,India,Madagascar,Namibia, andSri Lanka.
The terms Siberian, Uruguayan or Bahain are generally used to represent high medium and low grade respectively, regardless of the actual source of the amethyst. Amethysts are usually cut as brilliant rounds to maximize the color distribution. However, other cuts can be used when an amethyst has evenly distributed color.
Amethyst is associated with spirituality, wisdom, sobriety, and security. The name “amethyst” comes from the Greek word "amethystos" or “sober.” In ancient Greecethe amethyst was associated with the wine god, Dionysus, and was adorned on the wine goblets to ward off intoxication.
The gift of Amethyst is symbolic of protection and the power to overcome difficulty and is said to strengthen the bond in a love relationship – making it an ideal Valentine’s gift!
Posted by Elizabeth Hart on Tue, Dec 06, 2011 @ 04:04 PM
By Elizabeth Hart
December's birthstone is the blue topaz, and it has an interesting history. The name "topaz" comes from the sanscrit term "tapas" or fire. Ancient civilizations believed that topaz had cooling properties - for a boiling pot of water, or a hot temper! Blue topaz was also believed to treat physical ailments: insanity, asthma, weak vision and insomnia.
Pure topaz is colorless, but when heated (whether naturally or by man) magnificent blue hues develop. The three shades of blue topaz are sky, swiss and London blue. London blue is the deepest color and is often used as a less expensive substitute for sapphire.
The gift of topaz symbolizes love and fidelity.
Browse our Blue Topaz Collection!
Interested in this ring? Blue Topaz Ring (Item#8070)
Posted by Elizabeth Hart on Tue, Nov 01, 2011 @ 02:25 PM
By Elizabeth Hart
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Pearls are typically perceived as perfectly round. However, baroque pearls are those of irregular shape. Each baroque pearl is unique, and no two will ever be identical.
Renaissance jewelers were the first to see these "mishappen" pearls as exquisite works of natural art. But, baroque pearls have hit the spotlight once again in the early 21st century, being embraced by many of Hollywood's finest.
This Baroque Pearl Pendant is a truely special piece.
Visit Our Baroque Pearl Collection!
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Posted by Elizabeth Hart on Tue, Jul 19, 2011 @ 11:15 AM
By Scott Hart
From our 'Vintage Collection'
Made in France, this stunning piece is hallmark Chanel. Comprised of gold overlay,the medallion featuring the CC logo measures 1 1/4" H x 1/14" W. Including the medallion, it has a length of 11 1/4". It has been well cared for and in wonderful condition.
Take a closer look at the Vintage Chanel Pendant Necklace:
Posted by Allen Wyatt on Wed, Mar 02, 2011 @ 05:10 PM
This Opal with Tanzanite and diamond accents is set in 14k yellow gold. I do not believe in my 40+ years in the jewelry business I have ever seen this combination of gem stones set together on a piece of Vintage Jewelry or modern. Very beautiful. Offered at 590.00
To Purchase this Opal & Tanzanite Pendant
Posted by Allen Wyatt on Wed, Mar 02, 2011 @ 05:07 PM
by Scott Hart
Vintage Jewelry: Diamond Engagment Ring and Wedding Band
A classic diamond ring and band. -Knew when I saw them, they were a very good value. Beautiful matched, round brillant cut, diamonds mounted in 14k yellow and white gold. Stop by, call or drop us an eMail for details....offered at $790.00
Posted by Allen Wyatt on Wed, Mar 02, 2011 @ 05:06 PM
by Scott Hart
This Palm Tree is one of our Classic pieces. I wonder why? Estate Jewelry. Pav'e Diamonds set in 14 K white gold....offered with white gold chain at $345.00
Posted by Allen Wyatt on Wed, Mar 02, 2011 @ 05:05 PM
by Scot Hart
Beautiful Vintage Jewelry 14 K Gold and "Diamond Heart." I always enjoy finding pieces like this at estate sales feeling that another like it will never be available.
Posted by Allen Wyatt on Wed, Mar 02, 2011 @ 05:01 PM
by Scott Hart
Clusters of round brilliant cut diamonds set in 18k white gold.
Talk about classic and beautiful .A recent purchase, enjoy!
---offered at 800.00