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The Strength & Beauty of Tungsten Jewelry in San Diego, CA

Saturday, October 8th, 2011

When shopping for Tungsten Jewelry in San Diego it is important to consider all this information.

Explore the collection of Tungsten wedding rings and more. Earrings, pendants, necklace chains, bracelets all wonderfully designed. All affordable!

With rising gold prices, and platinum searing up in cost, Tungsten Carbide is becoming the most affordable way of buying a special wedding band. Tungsten wedding rings are an unusual lustrous gray metal that is proven to be strong and durable. For active couples, this is an excellent option. With distinctive style and affordability Tungsten Carbide is becoming a popular choice. A great complement to symbolize your relationship.

Buy Tungsten Jewelry in San Diego

photo credit: airboy123Let me introduce you to the strength and beauty of this new found metal. Tungsten Carbide rings are considered an extremely resilient metal type. It is hard to tarnish. These rings are designed and engineered to last a lifetime. Even thirty, forty to fifty years down the road, you will notice your Tungsten ring is just as lustrous as when you bought it.

Why? The strength of Tungsten Carbide is known to be four times stronger or harder then Titanium and twice as hard as steel. It has been long been used in industrial applications. Gold, Platinum and Titanium easily wear down and become dull in appearance as the years pass. Tungsten rings and accessories will never lose its appearance and is almost impossible to scratch. Tungsten Carbide is four times harder than Titanium, five times harder then steel and ten times harder than 18K gold or sterling silver. On the Moh’s scale a system used to measure the scratch resistance of minerals Tungsten Carbide measures between 8 and 9. Diamonds are the highest being at 10. Because of these wonderful qualities Tungsten is making a large entrance into the world of jewelers around the world.

Because of its strength, tarnishing and scratching are area’s you will never have to worry about. This is a bonus if you marry a man who is hard on his hands. Not only will his ring withstand the punishment of everyday work, but the weight of his ring will always remind him of who’s waiting at home. An added bonus!

Tungsten Jewelry is known for its shine and lustrous feel. It can withstand hot temperatures so when doing dishes or other duties that hot water is being used your ring will simply be bright and beautiful afterward s. The quality is unmatched!

You can find many styles in this brand or type of metal. If it’s a man’s wedding ring you are searching for it is not limited to what you will find. Some of the more popular Tungsten wedding bands are: Venus, Bomani Fiber, Icarus, Hammer Finish, Riverstone Inlay, Black Beveled, Classical and Corsal. These are just suggestions as there are many other styles.

Couples are enjoying the constant shine and durability of Tungsten rings. Not to mention the money they are saving, and that’s a beautiful thing too!

So whatever the celebration, marriage, anniversary or your child’s graduation Tungsten Carbide may be the right choice for you. But don’t just take my word for it, go and research this product yourself. Feel the smoothness, enjoy the brightness and see it for yourself.

If variety is the spice to life, then Tungsten Carbide with its beauty and strength may be the newest of spice you will want to add to your collection!

Tungsten Jewelry in San Diego

Categories : Men's Jewelry, Metals

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Exactly what is a Gemologist?

Friday, October 7th, 2011

When buying a Diamond ring have you ever wondered, who decides its value?

Who grade’s the gem?

The answer: A qualified Gemologist

A Gemologist is a person that is qualified and certified in the area of identifying and grading the quality of diamonds, and gemstones. They also evaluate and valuate their worth in the market place. A University Degree or College Diploma in the study area of Gemology is required to be qualified. Further education must also be obtained if an individual decides diamonds are their best friend.

photo credit: ibsut

Gemologist can be found working in mines, auction houses, appraisal of jeweler and gems, or a designing jeweler themselves. They are detailed oriented individuals, with a Geo science knowledge base. Natural and artificial gemstones are their specialty.

When looking to purchase high quality gold and diamonds, make sure the jeweler is or has a qualified Gemologist on board. Check their qualifications!

Do not get a Gemologist confused with Geologist’s. People often do! The difference is a Geologist studies rocks, minerals and structures of certain areas. Where as a gemologist studies gem stones.

These trained professionals evaluate or identify all gem and gemstones for such things as color, hardness, luster, cleavage and twinning. Their investigation will reveal or valuate there worth in the world market.

Gemologist can determine natural gems from lab or synthetic gems. Ruby, amethyst, turquoise, and la pis lazuli to name a few are natural gems. However artificial or lab gems have the same characteristics as a genuine gem. Confused yet? Here’s an example of what no girl wants to find out about her engagement ring: cubic zirconium is a synthetic diamond stimulant composed of zirconium oxide. In other words a fake diamond!

So men beware when buying that special ring. Have a qualified gemologist’s appraise your precious gift before giving.

You may have recently inherited some precious Jewels. If so, make sure you locate a qualified Gemologist to help you establish the value. You may be pleasantly surprised, especially with vintage gems.

As the jeweler industry grows so is the need to know the exact grade and value of these natural gifts. Today the industry is so big that synthetic gems are on the rise due to do the decrease of natural stones. Labs that produce synthetic gems also employ Gemologist.

Consider a Gemologist someone that may turn into a life time ad-visor. A friend in gems!

Find a gemologist who is not linked to the interest of a company’s profit margin. But a keen set of morals concerning your purchase. Build trust and commitment with a gemologist. Feel safe having a professional valuates your beautiful gems, gold and vintage pieces from grandma.

You should also consider the real truth when buying any type of gems. Give yourself a break when buying an expensive diamond and get the facts. There are plenty of scams when it comes to gemstones. Educate yourself to the many types of diamonds there actually are. If you do a little research you will understand how important your gemologist’s is. You may be surprised at how interesting your gemologist may be. They will provide you with the details you need to make a proper choice in purchasing that special gift.

Research the top institutions that educate Gemologist. Assure yourself by knowing the facts concerning this type of professional. The more you understand about the profession the less chance you have of making an expensive mistake. Don’t be fooled, be smart and ask for credentials always. A respected Gemologist will have no problem showing you their achievements. Because it is a life learning career choice don’t be shocked at the actual amount of education this individual may have. Listen intently when a gemologist is describing their experience; enjoy hearing about there three years in Africa mining gold or diamonds. And remember; don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions.

It’s a smart person who seeks the help of others, so be smart!

Allow yourself the opportunity and freedom to enjoy your family jewels. Buy that diamond engagement ring with confidence. Know that you are getting the best that your money can buy. It’s fine to purchase costume jewelry with out a thought, but not when it comes to the real deal. You want the top opinion when it comes to gold, diamonds and other beautiful choices that are available in today’s market place.

You might be pleasantly refreshed with having a professional involved in assisting with your next diamond purchase. Protect your gems with a professional opinion. Never take the jewelers word unless they are a qualified gemologist. And even then get a second opinion. A jeweler has an interest in selling their product. A hired appraiser only wants you to have the best. Finding a qualified Gemologist allows you a worry free solution to buying, selling or trading any and all gems and jewelry.

So what exactly is a gemologist? That’s right, the person you will be talking too when buying your next piece of jewelry!

Categories : Gemstones

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Choosing a Vintage Gem Appraiser in San Diego, CA

Friday, October 7th, 2011

The money you’re investing in vintage needs to be protected. So make sure you get what you paid for!

Sounds scary don’t it? Well it can be if you’re not educated in the Gemology field. And like most people in the public, your most likely not. It isn’t that you can’t be, your just presently not. That’s about to change!

When choosing a Gemologist to appraise your vintage jeweler you will want information concerning their education level. Don’t settle for the young gemologist freshly out of school. Look for a professional who has been in the field for several years. A gemologist who works with a vintage jeweler may also specialize in antiques. This is a very important step when evaluating and valuating your vintage gems. By taking your time and some research, you will find the right appraiser.

photo credit: garann

What are these qualifications?

You want to find a Gemologist that has a University Degree or College Diploma. If they are not graduated from one of the following institutions, move on.

Gemological Association of Great Britain
Gemological Institute of America
Canadian Gemological Association,
Ecole de Gemmologie de Montreal
ISG
DCA
AIGS
AGS

These institutions are the best in the world. Anybody who claims to be a gemologist after only completing one or two courses from any of these facilities is lying. Yes, you can get a certificate to complete a course but it’s a degree or diploma that you want to see. A well educated Gemologist will have further training as well, lots of certificates to amuse you with.

Where do I find a qualified Gemologist?

Here’s the quest, first look at the independent jewelers in your area. Often a professional Gemologist will have obtained a trade in jeweler design. Some gemologist will opt to open their own store. So if there’s an independent jeweler in your area, and they have been in business ten to twenty years, chances are there’s a professional Gemologist inside. The reason I mention the independent’s in your area, the price of gems especially diamonds will rise and fall frequently. To keep replacement value up to date, and for insurance purposes you may have a few appraisals in a five year span. So why not build a rapport with the local professional, that way you always have fast service and comfort in the trust that will build.

If there is not this type of suggestion in your area you can find labs that have qualified appraisers. This method is not as personal but will be aqua rate in your appraisal. You will also have the added cost for shipping.

If you talk to the franchised jeweler in your community they will be able to assist you. Just don’t use their appraiser if buying from them. Get an independent!

Because vintage pieces can be as young as twenty year’s old or as ancient as centuries gone by, talk to the antique specialist in your area. You may find he or she has a background in gemology.

The internet is also a great way to finding that hidden jewel concerning a Gemologist. Many well qualified professionals specializing in vintage gems can be found online. Again there is a shipping cost, but there is also reassurance.

So be patient, research and ask questions. By doing so you will not only be satisfied with your choice, you will be able to relax and enjoy that precious vintage piece for eternity.

Categories : Appraisals

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Importance of Diamond Appraisal in San Diego, CA

Friday, October 7th, 2011

When buying a diamond you want to make sure you get what you pay for? So wouldn’t it be wise to educate yourself to the importance of Diamond Appraisal and the qualifications of a professional Gemologist. Of course it would!

I have one word for you: Research, research, research!

Don’t get fooled by someone who claims to be a Gemologist because they have been certified in one or two courses. A fully qualified Gemologist will have been educated at one of the following institutions:

Gemological Association of Great Britain
Gemological Institute of America
Canadian Gemological Association,
Ecole de Gemmologie de Montreal
ISG
DCA
AIGS
AGS

These are the top institutions in the world. If you’re Gemologist does not have a Degree or Diploma from one of these facilities move on. A professional Gemologist will not only have a degree or diploma they will possess further certificates in specializing in diamonds. You can find qualified Gemologist working in these areas: Independent Jewelers, Import/Export Diamond Grader, Franchise Jewelers, or an Independent Appraiser. Even check you’re local University you may find a Professor of Gemology. Try to find someone who has been in the field for a number of years.

What is an Appraisal?

When a Gemologist is appraising your diamond they will be looking at specifics contained within the diamond. These are known as the four C’s.

- CARAT: the size of the stone in terms of weight and mass.

- CLARITY: the diamond’s degree of “flawlessness.” Loose diamonds have tiny imperfections, not usually visible to the unaided eye. Flawless diamonds are graded FL. Visible imperfections or inclusions are rated “I”. Slight inclusions are rated “S”.

- COLOR: Diamonds although referred to as “colorless” actually come in many colors. White to a dark brown.
Colors are rated from 1(pure white) to 7(brown) these colors become when a chemical has a reaction with other elements. It is not uncommon for a diamond to be irradiated to increase its color.

- CUT: This is difficult to evaluate. Professional cutters now use lasers and computers to help in a design. With hundreds of diamond cuts available to the consumer. A gem grade has 57 facets.

In today’s market place the value of diamonds can go up and down. Make sure you keep an updated appraisal for your diamonds replacement factor. Always get an appraisal from an independent gemologist not from the retail outlet you are buying from. Most wholesalers will be willing to have your diamonds appraised at a lab.

After your appraisal has been completed you will receive an Appraisal Report. Do not except a hand written report, this report must be printed. In the report you should find the following:

- Date and location as to where it was prepared. Your name and any other user’s of this report
- Purpose and function of the diamond appraisal
- Signed statement whereas the appraiser had no financial interest in your diamond
- Precise description of your diamond, exact measurements, type of jewelry item, age, presents condition
- Photos, including lab pictures revealing the diamonds details
- Valuation statement, explaining the diamonds value, how it was estimated and the replacement cost.

Once this has been established you have completed the appraisal. A certificate of authenticity can now be issued to you. As you have read there is a lot to learn when buying a diamond? I figure if you’re going to spend hard earned cash on a diamond you best know the importance of the appraisal. After all, you wouldn’t buy a car or house without an appraisal! So don’t even consider purchasing a diamond with out one! Protect your purchase, know its worth!

Categories : Appraisals

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Peridot Engagement Rings in San Diego

Wednesday, September 28th, 2011

While you may immediately think that diamond engagement rings are the only way to go you may be surprised at all of the other options out there for you! In fact, rings with colored center gemstones are becoming increasingly more popular. However, if you are looking for an unexpected engagement ring choice you may not want to go with a standard sapphire or ruby.

photo credit: jaja_1985

To truly give a ring that is one of a kind to your one of a kind girl you should look at peridot engagement rings. Peridot engagement rings are stunning because of the vibrant and unique color of the peridot stone. A peridot is almost lime green in its coloring, but not it a garish sort of way. Rather it appears fresh and eye catching just as a slice of lime would in a cool glass of water.

Peridot stones look quite beautiful against a silver toned metal making it a very modern choice in today’s jewelry market. In addition to the obvious beauty of peridot engagement rings there is also the financial freedom that it will give you. The reality is that engagement rings are very expensive, and while your love is priceless unfortunately your bank account does have limits

Peridot engagement rings give you the opportunity to give your special lady a gorgeous ring at a reasonable price. So before you settle for a boring bit of bling spend some time investigating the beautiful peridot engagement rings on the market.

Categories : Engagement Rings In San Diego, Gemstones

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Enhance Your Love with Amethyst Engagement Rings in San Diego

Wednesday, September 28th, 2011

To some a traditional diamond engagement ring is too cliche, too cold, too expected. If that sounds like you and your fiance to be then you might want to look into engagement rings in San Diego.

photo credit: LadyDayDream

Amethysts are gorgeous violet stones that any lady would be thrilled to wear. However, the real beauty of amethyst engagement rings is that the stone itself means so much. An amethyst is most traditionally known as a gemstone that is connected with spirituality and with being content. Additionally, amethysts have been used as a stone to promote love.

Those are obvious things that you would want in any marriage. However, that is not where the symbolism of an amethyst ends. Amethysts are believed to help turn negative energy into positive energy while also bringing peace happiness, and an amiable disposition to the person wearing it.

Amethyst engagement rings can be found in a variety of different settings. The variety of cuts that an amethyst can be done in makes it an ideal choice for even the most particular bride to be. Amethyst engagement rings can also be found with delicate side stones to give it a bit more glitz and glamor if that is what you are looking for. Additionally, amethyst looks beautiful against yellow gold, white gold, platinum, even rose gold!

This gives you a tremendous amount of variety so that you can find the picture perfect engagement ring for the girl of your dreams.

Categories : Engagement Rings In San Diego, Gemstones

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Ideas For Engagement Rings In San Diego

Wednesday, September 21st, 2011

While giving engagement rings has become a worldwide tradition, where did it start? The first well-documented use of engagement rings was when Austria’s Archduke Maximilian gave one to Mary of Burgundy. While engagement rings themselves have become traditional, you might be interested in giving one of the non traditional engagement rings available. Here are some types of engagement rings in San Diego that you could consider:

1. Birthstones

photo credit: gemteck1

This is one one of the most “personal” choices, since it celebrates the Zodiac of the wearer. Here are the birthstones that you can choose from:

Agate
Amethyst
Beryl
Bloodstone
Carnelian
Emerald
Garnet
Onyx
Periodot
Ruby
Sapphire
Topaz

As an added benefit, such birthstones can be significantly less expensive than traditional diamond rings.

2. Colored Gemstones

Each color available can have a cornucopia of different meanings that are particularly special to the wearer of the engagement ring.

3. Cubric Zirconia

If you want to choose among non traditional engagement rings that have the “bling” as diamonds-without the same price tag, then this is an excellent choice. Although Cubric Zirconia is human-made , it often has nearly the same brilliance as diamonds do. In fact, the majority of people can’t tell the difference between Cubric Zirconia and diamond rings, by using their eyes alone to compare them. If you want a brilliant ring that doesn’t have an eye-popping price tag, then consider Cubric Zirconia.

4. Diamond Slice

As their name suggests, these engagement rings only include a diamond slice in them. However, such rings can still be both brilliant and attractive.

5. Stackable Ring

These rings typically are sold in a set. The main benefit of such non traditional engagement rings is that they can be worn alone or in groups. While the cost of stackable rings, the investment is worthwhile if you want your rings to have two, three, four, or five times the impact of one engagement ring.

Categories : Engagement Rings In San Diego, Gemstones

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How to Buy a Marquise Engagement Ring In San Diego

Wednesday, September 21st, 2011

If you’re in the market for an engagement ring in San Diego, then you could consider a marquise engagement ring. Such diamonds are named after a French noblewoman who’s usually married to a marquis. A marquise diamond has a special cut. It resembles a diamond with a round cut, although it’s technically oval in shape. Here are some important issues to consider when choosing the right engagement ring with a marquise diamond:

photo credit: cliff1066™

1. Bow-Tie Effect

This phenomenon is found in certain shapes of diamonds, including marquise diamonds. When selecting an engagement ring, look for diamonds in which the Bow-Tie Effect isn’t overly prominent. This effect occurs when pavilion facet angles have greater lengths than widths.

2. Brilliance

A quality marquise engagement ring in San Diego will have a high brilliance. The most important factor that determines a diamond’s brilliance is how well it reflects light. As a light source contacts the diamond, some of the light reflects off its surface. Refraction involves light bouncing off the internal walls of the diamond. Meanwhile, Dispersion involves the exit of light from the diamond. This is the diamond’s “fire.”

3. Proportion

There’s no “right” or “wrong” length-to-width ratio when choosing an engagement ring with marquise diamond(s). However, according to experts, a ratio of 1.75 to 2.15 is ideal for a marquise cut. Ultimately, the length-to-width proportion that you choose is a matter of personal preference.

4. Symmetry

This is one of the most important issues to consider when choosing a marquise engagement ring in San Diego. The two end points of a diamond should be aligned. Also, the left and right sides of the diamond should virtually mirror each other. It’s advisable to get some expert advice about the symmetry of diamond(s) on an engagement ring of the marquise variety, before choosing the ring.

5. Prongs

Marquise diamonds should be set with prongs that are V-shaped. This helps to prevent chipping of the diamond.

Categories : Diamond Cut, Diamonds In San Diego

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Insuring an Engagement Ring In San Diego

Wednesday, September 21st, 2011

Nothing is more frightening than losing your most prized possessions in a burglary, fire, or during a vacation. This is especially a scary experience if you recently purchased an engagement ring or recently received an engagement ring. While the experience in itself is upsetting and unfortunate, it does not have to occur. Engagement ring insurance is the best option for protecting your most recent addition to your prized possessions.

photo credit: The Pageman

Engagement ring insurance should not be an optional action. Insuring an engagement ring should be made mandatory as the financial loss could be catastrophic in the event of a tragic event. Insuring an engagement ring in San Diego protects against potential loses in the event that the ring is lost, stolen, or damaged.

Whether your engagement ring costs $400 or $40,000, suffering the loss of such a possession is not easy to swallow especially when such a loss is completely preventable. Insurance for an engagement ring is extremely easy to obtain and is similar in affordability as homeowners and renters insurance.

Insuring an engagement ring is as simple as adding its value to your existing homeowners or renters insurance. Homeowners insurance and renters insurance contain portions of the policy in which there is a certain amount of money is allocated towards personal items.

Within those personal items, an engagement ring can also be included. In order to complete the process you will need to obtain an appraisal of the ring. Even if the engagement ring only costs $400, it can still be included. You will also needs receipts proving purchase of the ring as well.

If you do not have renters insurance or homeowners insurance, you can opt for a separate policy through a jeweler or jewelry company. Some jewelry companies have insurance policies for individual pieces. If you are unsure where to obtain this type of insurance, inquire from your jeweler or ask a reputable jewelry store in your area. They can either provide a policy or guide you in the right direction to a reputable insurance company that offers policies for individual pieces.

Categories : Appraisals

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Blue Topaz Engagement Rings In San Diego, CA

Wednesday, September 21st, 2011

Blue topaz engagement rings in San Diego are demure, unconventional yet classy. Many are attracted to the striking color while others are interested in the affordability. In either event, blue topaz engagement rings are a pliable option when opting for a less traditional engagement ring.

photo credit: paparutzi

Pure topaz is a colorless gemstone. Although pure topaz is clear, impurities cause variations in color including yellow, blue, and even brown. Blue topaz, the most striking of all the topaz colors, is frequently used as the main attraction for engagement rings.

Blue topaz gives the look of a colored diamond without the hefty price tag. In fact, blue topaz engagement rings, even those with diamond accents, cost between $500 and $1000. Of course, there are more expensive and less expensive options however, the average cost is extremely economical. The cost makes this type of engagement ring extremely affordable without compromising the wow factor.

Just like diamond engagement rings, blue topaz engagement rings are able to be cut in the same way. However, like that of diamonds, the more traditional and regal cuts are that of emerald, asscher, princess, and round prevail over other cuts.

Most blue topaz engagement rings in San Diego don’t completely neglect diamonds in their design. The addition of diamonds to blue topaz engagement rings adds a little bit of sparkle and character to an already stunning ring. There are many variations of diamond and blue topaz engagement rings, however, for the most part, diamonds are set to encase or surround the actual blue topaz gemstone. Other versions of blue topaz and diamond engagement rings include diamonds accents throughout the ring’s band. In both scenarios, the addition of diamonds enhances the striking color and quirky appeal.

Some may be put off a bit by the blue color. Please be aware that blue topaz comes in an array of shades with the lightest color being sky blue topaz and the darkest color being London blue topaz. Moreover, within these extremes are variations of the color within sky blue and London blue, thus allowing even greater variety in between.

Categories : Engagement Rings In San Diego, Gemstones

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