We are very proud of our new video, “We’re an AGS Jeweler!”
It’s one thing for us to tell you to shop with an American Gem Society (AGS) jeweler, it’s another thing to actually see why shopping with a trusted, AGS jeweler is so important.
To view our short “We’re an AGS Jeweler” video, click the image below.
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By Robin Skibicki
There are several varieties of gemstones that display optical phenomena, which describes the many ways light interacts with the structural features or inclusions (internal characteristics) in the gemstone. Often these gemstones will be fashioned in a particular way that best displays these effects.
The science of optical phenomena can be fascinating, although the mystery and allure of these effects are what initially attract us! In this article, we’ll discuss six of the most familiar (and magical) displays of optical phenomena in gemstones.
Adularescence
Adularescence is the phenomena typically seen in moonstone, which is a member of the feldspar family. It produces a billowy soft blue to milky white light that appears to move across the gemstone. This occurs when light hits the alternating layers of albite and orthoclase, which are two differing forms of feldspar within the gem.
The layers of feldspar interfere with the light rays causing them to scatter and the eye to observe adularescence. The effect is best seen when the gemstone is cut en cabochon [en CAB-ah-shawn]—that is, with a polished, domed top and a flat or slightly rounded base.
Asterism
Asterism, or stars, relates to the four- or six-rayed star pattern of light produced by the fibrous inclusions, elongated needles, or growth tubes in a gemstone. This singular, celestial-like phenomenon is best seen in a gemstone cut en cabochon.
Chatoyancy
Chatoyancy [sha-TOY-an-cee] is also known as “cat’s eye.” Fine needle-like or fibrous inclusions within the gemstone are what causes this effect. Again, stones fashioned as cabochons display this effect the best.
Color Change
A small number of gemstones display the color change optical phenomena. Depending on the lighting environment, the color change appearance can vary due to the shifting wavelengths. The technical term for this is photochromism or photochroism; “color-change” is a lot easier to say!
The best-known color changing gemstone is alexandrite. When viewed in sunlight, it appears greenish. When placed under incandescent light, it appears reddish. Other varieties of color-changing gemstones include sapphire, garnet, spinel, diaspore, and tourmaline.
Labradorescence
Labradorscence [lab-ra-dor-es-cence] is an optical characteristic often seen in labradorite. The effect is a spectacular play-of-color that is metallic or iridescent, displaying blue, green, red, orange, and yellow. This is an interference effect within the gemstone caused by internal structures that selectively reflect only certain colors.
Play-of-Color
Play-of-color is created by a combination of diffraction and interference and is the result of the microstructure of opal: the chameleon of a thousand colors!
Opals are made up of many layers of small, stacked spheres of silica. These spheres diffract light, splitting it into a spectrum of colors. The layers of these spheres create interference allowing certain colors to dominate, depending on the angle the opal is viewed.
Are you ready to see some of these displays in person? Visit a credentialed AGS jeweler near you and ask to see some gemstones that exhibit optical phenomena!
By Uneek Fine Jewelry
Stackable rings are a trend that has definitely been re-emerging in the last year and we are loving it! Whether you’re having a dinner date, a night out with the girls, or a business meeting, there is a stackable ring style that is appropriate for you. Here are our tips on stacking rings like a pro for any event:
Keep It Simple
An important key to remember is to be simple. Using small bands to accent instead of chunky pieces. These simple touches will not only stand out but also create symmetry to your look. To ensure the complete chic stack, be sure they keep it symmetrical and not to clutter all your rings on one finger…share the love!
Mix & Match
You’ve always heard not to wear gold and silver jewelry but we are here to tell you that…they are all wrong! Mixing metals can create a cohesive glow that also looks great with your summer tan or favorite fall-colored clothing. More importantly, who doesn’t love a fashionista who is willing to take some risks from time to time?
Playing With Shapes
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different designs and shapes. Bold diamond bands paired with fun geometric designs complete a playful, yet sophisticated look. For the ethereal look, pair diamond bands with our dainty laurel bands [pictured below].
Stay True to You
Some of us are a little more conservative while some of us like to explore styles and fashions more often. No matter the case, it is important to stay true to your personality. Maybe one to two rings are all you need but perhaps another day you’re feeling that bohemian vibe where you want to pile on every finger. Don’t worry, the rings are here to support whichever look you’re feeling.
Are you ready to rock your own stacking style? Contact a certified AGS jeweler near you.
Established in 1996, Uneek Fine Jewelry has emerged as an unparalleled standard in fine diamond jewelry. The reasons will be evident once you see and experience the extraordinary detail, intricate workmanship and breathtaking designs in their extensive bridal, color and fashion collections.
It’s been a year since spinel was added to August’s birthstone line up. Those celebrating a birthday during the eighth calendar month now have three gemstone choices: peridot, sardonyx, and spinel.
Blue spinel by Gem 2000.
For those who are still unfamiliar with spinel, it is often assumed to be other gemstones, like ruby or sapphire. Cobalt blue, like the one above, is one of the most desired colors. But it can be found in a variety of colors, such as the much coveted red, as well as black, violet blue, greenish blue, grayish, pale pink, mauve, yellow or brown. Spinel can also be found in various cuts, like octagons, trillions, squares, rounds and fancy shapes, like ovals, pears, and cushions.
No matter what the shape, spinel is spectacular! Take a look at these designs by our AGS members. Click on the images for a closer view.
Peridot by Gem 2000.
The verdant peridot is the gemstone most commonly associated with August. Peridot’s recognizable green hue could sometimes vary from yellowish-green to olive to brownish green, contingent on how much iron is present. Yet the finest peridot is a brilliant green without any hints of brown or yellow.
Our AGS members will help you find the perfect peridot for you! Click on the images for a closer view.
Since as far back as Roman times, sardonyx has been highly valued as a stone representing strength, courage, happiness, and clear communication.
The unique reddish, zebra-striped banding of sardonyx stands out beautifully when the stone is smoothed, so it is often cut in cabochon and worn as beads or featured in an eye-catching pendant or ring.
Sardonyx makes a great gift for those born in August who want something a little different than the traditional birthstone. Readily available and relatively inexpensive, sardonyx makes an affordable addition to anyone’s collection.
If you’d like to add spinel, peridot, or sardonyx to your jewelry wardrobe, contact a credentialed AGS jeweler near you!
When it comes to receiving a ring—whether you are newly engaged, celebrating a birthday, toasting an anniversary, or treasuring an heirloom—you’re probably not thinking about insurance.
When you procure something so precious, for peace of mind, you should consider protecting it. An important step to insuring your ring is to have it appraised.
In the following article, Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company covers the most common misconceptions of ring appraisal, tips for getting a good appraisal, and why they are so important. Click here to read more.
By Donna Jolly, RJ
Ask someone which movies stand out as films with memorable jewelry, and chances are, there are a few titles that are likely to be mentioned: “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” “Gentlemen Prefer Blonds,” “Titanic” (the most recent version) or “Pretty Woman.”
While we love those movies and have featured the jewelry from some of them in our own content, we’d like to offer up three alternatives with great jewelry in movies that are either classic or are on their way to classic status.
Remember this brooch? Frankly, my dear, you should. It is from the final, unforgettable scene where Rhett calls it quits with Scarlett. Even in moments of distress (especially in those moments), Scarlett O’Hara is in full no-surrender mode with this look-at-me brooch. The brooch has been replicated over the decades for Gone with the Wind diehards. This iconic piece actually comes from costume designer Walter Plunkett’s mother’s personal collection. Art imitates life—and in this case, literally borrowed from life.
Gone with the Wind is one of the most classic movies of all time, and knowing that something personal and beloved from Plunkett’s own life is actually a piece of the movie is even more special.
The earring in the movie was a creation of Dien van Strallen, the film’s costume designer. There is something about a big dollop of a pearl, though, that is as timeless as it is beautiful. Also, we love Vermeer and his moody strokes of color and shadow.
The great artist and his painting, Girl with a Pearl Earring, inspired this beautiful movie. There is a mystery surrounding the model in the painting. In the movie, she is fictionally portrayed as the family’s maid’s assistant (played wonderfully by Scarlett Johansson).
Several authors, however, have suggested she might be Vermeer’s eldest daughter, Maria. It’s a notion that is not popular with Vermeer scholars. Whoever she was, between the actual painting and the movie, we love a mystery, we love a good story, and we do love some large pearls.
Adapted by David Mamet from his 1984 Pulitzer and Tony-award winning play, this 1992 movie takes a real behind-the-scenes view of high-pressure sales. It also shows off the character’s (Blake) watch of choice.
Possibly the most famous moment in the movie is when Blake utters every salesperson’s mantra: Always Be Closing. Played by Alec Baldwin, Blake wore the ultimate status symbol for your wrist, an 18k Day-Date Rolex.
Tell us your favorite jewelry in a movie, and we’ll try to feature it in an upcoming blog.
To the American Gem Society, all of our readers are stars! Find your star-worthy jewelry at ags.org/findajeweler.
By Robin Skibicki
The popularity of silver jewelry never seems to ebb, as designers are finding new and artistic ways to style the affordable and malleable metal. Whether silver is mixed with other metals or set with diamonds and gemstones, it’s a go-to look that complements a wide range of colors and styles.
For centuries, silver has been prized for its incredible luster and workability. In this industry, we naturally think of it as a versatile metal used to design beautiful jewelry. But it’s also applied towards technology and industry, used in the home, and often considered for investment purposes.
Pure silver is highly tarnish-resistant but is too soft to use for jewelry design. Other metals like copper, nickel, or zinc, are added to harden silver. For example, sterling silver is 92.5% silver and 7.5% another metal. Silver products sometimes may be marked “925” which means that 925 parts per thousand are pure silver.
Some jewelry may be described as silverplate: a layer of silver is bonded to a base metal. According to the law, quality-marked silver also must bear the name or a U.S. registered trademark of the company or person that will stand behind the mark.
If you’re looking for an inexpensive metal for your fine jewelry, silver is a good choice. Since silver is soft and scratches easily, it’s best used for jewelry that is not worn daily.
The versatile beauty of silver is showcased in these designs by our credentialed AGS members.
Michael Schofield & Co.
A twin fish motif artfully decorates a sterling silver cuff.
Breuning
Petals of silver and silver coated with yellow gold feature a sapphire center.
MK Diamonds & Jewelry
Sterling silver earrings featuring pear-cut blue topaz and blue sapphires set in black rhodium sterling silver.
Parlé
Sterling silver Australian boulder opal and sapphire pendant.
Ed Levin Jewelry
Sterling silver Secret Heart Bracelet “swings open” to reveal a secret heart.
If you’re in the market for silver jewelry—perhaps you like one of the designs pictured above—or have some silver jewelry that needs some TLC, visit a credentialed AGS jeweler near you.
