When: Thursday, April 26, 2012 4 – 7 PM
Where: Diamonds Forever in Point Loma

Enjoy eats, drinks, and prizes while selling us your unwanted jewelry and perusing our collection of estate jewelry to benefit the young victims of human trafficking and slavery.

Here’s how you can help:

• Sell us your gold, platinum, or diamond jewelry for top dollar
• Purchase your favorite new piece of fashion jewelry
• Donate directly to the charity

Feel free to drop by Diamonds Forever anytime the day of the event to participate.

10% of all proceeds will go directly to the BSCC to build a local shelter for these children. BSCC has worked tirelessly in San Diego to preserve the dignity and well being of exploited children. Please help us help them.  www.bsccoalition.org

Diamonds Forever
3689 Midway Dr. Suite A, Point Loma, San Diego, CA 92110(619) 223-2151
www.DiamondsForeverSanDiego.com

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: airboy123

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

How do you find a personal jeweler? How will I know I’m getting the best for my dollar? How much research is required from me the consumer to locate a jeweler that meets my needs? These are some of the questions you will want answered before making a committed purchase.

Let’s investigate these questions. Know the piece you want to purchase. Is it an engagement ring or wedding band you’re seeking? Are you looking for diamonds or a ruby?

Once you establish the answer to this question you are ready for the next step.

Finding a personal jeweler requires a little research on your behalf. Search the internet or advertisements in magazines. The yellow pages will certainly offer you a list of personal jewelers in your area. Talk to family or friends for recommendations. You will want to find a jeweler who is a qualified Gemologist. Also check there reputation. You can do this through the Better Business Beau. If your selected jeweler has had any complaints or lots of complaints, STAY AWAY! This is very important in your quest for a personal jeweler.
Take your time when looking and finding a jeweler. This is a life time investment whether it’s for yourself or a loved one.

You will find that personal jewelers all have different original pieces. Study these pieces to ensure the jeweler can create what you are seeking. If you are creative you may bring a desired design. For an example don’t go to a vintage style jeweler if your looking for a modern looking piece. Not only does that not make sense, it will lead to disappointment.

I can’t stress how important it is when choosing a personal jeweler you inquire about their gemology credentials. If they employ a Gemologist, ask of their educational background. A qualified Gemologist will have a University Degree or College Diploma especially when it concerns diamonds. You don’t want to buy a diamond engagement ring only to find out later you purchased a Cubic Zirconium’s.
When dealing with a personal jeweler have them appraise and certify your diamond or gem. Get it in a formal appraisal. Not hand written.

Remember commercial based jewelers can offer a lower retail price on their product because they buy at a mass wholesale cost. A production line if you will. Their sale prices are usually low enough to entice consumers to start there first. What you will find is you’re getting the same ring or necklace as someone you meet at a party, or the office. There’s nothing original about the jewels found in these types of stores. I am not suggesting the quality will be bad, just not original.

Open your mind to the real you, and indulge in the many positives of dealing with a personal jeweler. Be the original you are and start a relationship with a gemologist who designs for you. Building trust with a personal jeweler leads to worry free investments. After all you’re worth every copper penny!

This ring shall be Vintage.

Oh yes, something romantic about this story already. And there should be!

Vintage wedding rings are back! Hmm did they ever really leave?

photo credit: garann

Today’s Vintage wedding rings have allowed couples to pursue their taste in an almost traditional sense.

Most popular of the vintage styles are the Art Deco, Edwardian and Victorian.

Art Deco – The era of change 1920′s-30′s
Edwardian – 1901 -1910
Victorian -1835 -1900

A vintage wedding ring whether bought from a recent collection or past collection allows you something old and something new at the same time. Being this is a tradition in North American weddings you can enjoy the old and new in one purchase. If you like classic or elegant designs you will adore vintage wedding rings.

There are many collections on the market surrounding vintage rings. Do you want to purchase authentic vintage or the newest vintage found at franchised jewelers? The choice is yours. Today’s vintage wedding bands have the designs of old with the metals of the present. Currently Tungsten Carbide and Titanium are the newest in the market. The cost factor when dealing with these newcomers is a fraction of the price. If your preference is silver, platinum or gold that’s OK too! Gold is rising after all!

Vintage wedding rings come in many designs. Engraved patterns, braided, twined, beveled are some of the styles all beautifully crafted and noticeable to the eye. Diamonds and gemstones are an added bliss. If you and your loved one see the past as being romantic, there is no other style for you. Some couples have the entire Vintage theme for their ceremony. Beautiful dresses to beaded veils. Add the satisfaction of vintage wedding rings and your ready to hop into the carriage of eternity.

Seek out independent jewelers who specialize in vintage design Most of these retailers will be able to answer your questions. If you want to buy Vintage wedding bands from a franchised retailer you will find a large selection as well. Depends if you want custom or production as to what store you will find yourself exploring. I can not express enough when buying any type of rings, “GET AN APPRAISAL”. You want to know the true value of your vintage piece. Insure your precious gems. Find an appraiser outside of the store you are buying from. Be wise! This appraisal must be done by a qualified Gemologist specializing in antique and vintage gems.

The past brings with it, the memories of time. Don’t you think your future memories deserve the best that time has to offer? Have some fun and explore celebrating your special day with something old and something new. Vintage wedding rings will give you both.

Now where do we get something borrowed!

photo credit: alantankenghoe

Gold actually dates back to the Egyptians. Nubians from Ethiopia would trade gold with Egyptians. They also mined for it themselves. In fact if you were a Pharaoh upon your death, you would be buried with many riches of gold. Often the Kings would have a gold mask placed upon their face before entering their final resting place. As gold retains its value many of these ancient tombs were robbed of this precious metal.

In 323 B.C the Greeks mined for gold from the Pillars of Hercules or Gibraltar right to the Middle East including Egypt. The Romans during its empire extensively mined for gold. They also advanced the science of mining. Roman’s invented the gold bearing ores that separated the gold from the rock and the first “long toms”. Mining in the water was just one way the Romans obtained gold; they also mined underground inventing the water wheel. In 6oo B.C. the first Roman coin was made. The only other gold coin dated before this was in China in 560 B.C.

Even the Old Testament talks about gold and it’s precious worth. Naturally once gold evolved into a coin, money was invented which allowed World economies to prosper and expand.

In more modern times there was the California Gold Rush. From 1848 to 1855 gold was mined from Sutter’s Mill located in Coloma, California. People from Oregon, Hawaii, Peru and Chile were some of the first people to mine in this area. By 1852 up to 200,000 people had fled to this area in search of gold. These were days when people still bartered. Gold that was panned or mined could be used for food or services. Both coins and nuggets had value.

Today gold is still mined and is sought after in several different areas of Africa. Gold continues to be of great value and is sought after by many throughout the world. Gold = Profit!

So what is this precious metal we call Gold anyways?

It is a chemical element; Au is its symbol for “aurum”. It has an atomic number being 79. Gold is a dense shiny metal that is soft and considered to be the most malleable and ductile of all metals. It has a bright yellow color and is known to be very attractive to men and women across the globe. It is corrosion resistance and is a great thermal and electrical conductor. Because gold is not strong like copper or iron, it is mostly used for jewelers, decoration, award medals, and investment power. It is a metal that retains its value. Gold equals money, period!

Next time you are in the market place buying a gold bracelet, earrings or ring ask the jeweler about the history of the gold you are purchasing. You might be surprised at where it actually came from and how it was mined. Gold will continue to breed history and high profits as it is the most sought after metal of the past, present and future.

With gold you are making an investment not just a purchase.

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!

Egyptians and many other cultures believed a circle represented the symbol of eternity.
The circle had no beginning and no end. The shape resembles that of the sun and moon. The space in the middle was the door or gateway to the unknown future. No wonder they thought magic was tied to it. Creates a sense of romance too!

photo credit: Silentmind8

It is easy to understand how the wedding ring is associated with the love, and that our emotions are the circle that’s captured by eternity. Today some believe wedding rings are blessed by the church and protect us from the evil that could hinder the commitment of love. Either way the wedding ring symbolizes the binding of two people with the intent of forever.

Like the past, today’s man, can still be found proposing marriage to the woman he loves. On one knee of course!

Wedding rings are symbols, only be given if two people are prepared to unselfishly love their partner within a sacred belief. The belief: it is for eternity.

Although weddings are hugely glamorized by industry, what seals the deal is no other than the wedding ring, itself.

It is the symbol of a life time commitment.

When purchasing wedding rings you will want to discuss each others desired choice. Some couples prefer the rational matching bands. This is a very vintage tradition. When you look at cultures from around the world, tradition can mean different things when it comes to style. Egyptians and Romans believed that the fourth finger on the left hand was connected to the heart through a main artery. Today the North American tradition still follows the ways of the past. Women from this culture wear their wedding ring on the left hand, fourth finger. Women of India wear their wedding ring on a toe. The big toe traditionally. In Ireland it’s the Irish Claddagh representing love loyalty and friendship. Hawaii the custom is to engrave your mates name onto the wedding band. No matter what the culture the meaning remains the same. Two become one forever!

It is easy to understand why wedding bands are considered the symbol of eternity. With so much history backing this belief there must be some truth in the magic that love can bring. The wedding band still represents the joining of a husband and a wife. Becoming one! Couples today can find a symbol that best suits their taste now more then ever. The selection is expanding everyday. Tungsten Carbide is the newest metal entering the marketplace. Tungsten is an affordable alternative for many couples. Tungsten is known for being durable, tarnish free and affordable. With a shine that last a lifetime.

Maybe it’s a plain gold band you prefer, or a fancy engraved original band. This is your special gift to each other, a bond that will take you both throughout your life. So enjoy this time together, create memories that will keep you smiling for the years to come. Choosing your wedding bands is a personal decision that only you as a couple can make. So make the right decision! Find the band that most symbolizes your love.

When purchasing your special wedding bands find a qualified Gemologist to assist you in your final decision. You want to make sure you are getting 18k gold and not 18k gold plated. Find this type of specialist outside of the jeweler you are buying from. That way you can trust you are getting an honest appraisal. He or she will have not interest in the sale of the ring, just the value. It’s your time, your money and your final decision. So make it count and purchase correctly. It’s ok to protect your interest.

If you are buying from a second hand shop you may find a great deal, but is it an honest deal? Again, have a Gemologist over see your purchase. In the long run this will save you the possible disappointment when you about to insure your special rings. Because gold is so high on today’s market it is highly recommended that you know the value of this metal. Educate yourself, ask questions and watch the stock market concerning gold. You will feel confident in your choice, and worry less in concerns too being ripped off. This is a symbol that will last for decades and having knowledge is always valuable. So take pride in learning about the most precious gift you will ever give.

If you are soon to be on this journey, make sure you remember the meaning behind your purchase. Pick your wedding rings wisely and with great thought. After all, these symbols are a reflection of your love to one another. They will represent an everlasting bond between you. So if your mate wants a platinum band and you want a vintage 18k estate band with an intricate hand engraved design, GO FOR IT! The selection is simply amazing.

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.

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!

Consider making your next jewelry purchase from an independent jeweler verses a franchise. Why? You ask!
There is a whole list of reasons as to why you may want to consider this option.

Original Design: With an independent jeweler you will be able to have a one of a kind piece. Something that know one else will ever have. Unlike franchises who spend big money on advertising and less on there product line. An independent will also be willing to take more time with you in your choice of gem or diamond.

photo credit: mel_rowling

Cost Factor: Independent jewelers have less overhead then a big franchise allowing them to have better prices. You can also bargain with them because they have no quota to meet. Unlike franchised outlets.

Quality: You can count on better quality in both the making of a piece, and the gem itself. Independents purchase there gems and diamonds differently then franchises. Usually they are Gemologist themselves or have one on their team. This ensures all diamonds and gems are of quality. For them it’s not about the quantity it’s about the quality.

Rapport: When dealing with an independent you will build a rapport. You will not just be a face, you will have a name. Because jewelry is such a personal item shouldn’t you want to know whom you’re buying from? Not to mention the trust you can build with a qualified Gemologist. Large franchises are only interested in selling you that ring you can get for 75% off not who you are and what you really want.

Supporting Local Jeweler’s: To me this is a big one! I would rather see the small independent jeweler succeed. One who is willing to offer better quality, original designs and the time it takes to have a satisfied customer. Unlike large franchises who simply fill out an order sheet. It say’s a lot about a community when they support a local business.

Some people claim that larger franchises offer a better guarantee on there product. This is not true. If anything an independent jeweler must have a written certification because it is an original piece.

Don’t let that 75% off being offered at the franchise outlets fool you. What they are not telling you is the diamond or gem maybe of lower quality. With an independent jeweler you can trust you are getting a quality gem and if you’re lucky the gemologist may even be able to let you know where your diamond or gem originated from. How neat is that? A franchise would not be able to provide you with such specifics.

So next time your in the market for a beautiful piece of jewelry, engagement ring or even a pair of mans cufflinks, check with your independent jeweler first. Then compare it to your larger franchises. I can almost guarantee you will be satisfied with what an independent jeweler has to offer. Happy shopping!