Silver Jewelry Information

2009-06-20T11:58:00.000-07:00

Sadly, we are saying farewell to the Hot Diamonds line. The powers that be at their new US distributorship will not support an internet only company and we choose not to join the ranks of brick and mortar stores who have been struggling to stay alive! Jewelry Crossings was the first internet company to carry Hot Diamonds six years ago and we had a great ride watching the brand take off.

Our liquidation sale of our vast inventory of Hot Diamonds has been going extremely well. Loyal customers have been sending us the nicest notes. What a reward to hear from satisfied, return customers who tell us they will continue to shop with us for other brands because of our excellent service. Talk about making my day!

We are so fortunate to have Lori Bonn, Sara Blaine and Baroni Designs aboard--not to mention our popular JC Collection of sterling silver basics made for us in Thailand. We still seem to be the ONLY internet site carrying sterling silver baht chains. This is what we hear from all our baht chain customers. They tell us that only Jewelry Crossings carries them!

We are negotiating to carry yet another sterling silver brand. Watch our Newsletter for a launch soon.

New 2009 Baroni Designs Collections

2009-04-20T11:16:00.000-07:00

I'm very excited about the latest Baroni Designs collections we have added at Jewelry Crossings. The team at Baroni shares their artistic aims with these words: "We continue to design jewelry with our heroes in mind; the moms, the yogis, the marathoners, the teachers, the artists, the surfers, the writers, the gardeners--celebrating the playful, the strong, and the beautiful people who wear our jewelry and shine--from the inside out."

The new 65-piece Santosha Collection is such an example. The lotus is the sacred symbol subtly gracing many of the new pieces in the new Santosha line. This exquisite flower rises from its murky waters to reach toward the light from above, symbolizing the wearer's true inner beauty and personal potential. The Santosha Collection is offered in 24k gold plate over sterling silver as well as matte sterling silver. Each piece is not only beautiful on its own, but also serves as a personal inspiration towards that which we seek: the strength and grounding of the oak tree, the transformation of the dragonfly, the joy and freedom of the dove, the universal peace sign. A truly meaningful collection, each piece reflects the radiance of the wearer, and serves as a graceful reminder of her best intentions.

Terra Firma is an exclusive collection of upscale gallery pieces designed to stop the eye and start conversation. Exquisitely handcrafted, substantial and weighty, these textured organic shapes feel as sensuous as they look. Matte and polished silver ovals are combined in an array of sizes and styles to form a full organic link necklace and a beautiful cuff bracelet. A study in contrasts--strong yet feminine, solid yet airy, striking yet simple. This is the belle of the ball--truly special pieces that are timeless in style, sophistication and beauty.

Other new Baroni Collections soon to be found at Jewelry Crossings are Meadow Walk and Fairy Tales.

Lori Bonn Design Walks The Walk With Style

2008-10-17T12:40:00.000-07:00

Oct 13, 2008

Author: Jenn Breckenridge

Greenloop

Lori Bonn Design has been crafting stunning jewelry with gorgeous semi-precious stones and silver for over seventeen years. Many typical questions came up for designer Lori Bonn Gallagher over the years-where to source materials, what merchants to sell through, how to run a successful operation while creating pieces her clients could fall in love with. In 2005, some much deeper questions about her business came to mind. Where do these stones really come from? What's happening to the people who mine them? Is consumption on this level acceptable? This was a turning point for Lori Bonn Design and the beginning of Clear Conscience Jewelry.

Bill Gallagher, partner and operations guru at LBD, explained in a recent interview, "Clear Conscience Jewelry is our project to create a new standard for environmentally and socially responsible jewelry. It's jewelry that you can wear with a clear conscience and then feel as good as you look. The three elements of Clear Conscience Jewelry are ethical manufacturing, recycled metals, and responsibly produced gemstones."

Every collection Lori Bonn Design produces is made with at least 50% recycled metals. They've dropped any manufacturing facilities that they could not prove were providing fair wages and have safe working conditions free of abuse and discrimination. Bill and Lori have become an integral part of the Madison Dialogue, a coalition of jewelry manufacturers, retailers, conservation groups, and mining associations that have joined together to establish standards and best practices for fair trade and ethical jewelry. With their new Chrysalis Collection, LBD is combining recycled metals with traceable stones while doing everything in their power to make sure the land where their raw materials come from are restored fully after being mined. All these efforts combined make the Chrysalis Collection Lori Bonn's most socially and ecologically responsible line yet.

Living in California and manufacturing in places from Java to Jaipur makes truly ethical production a hard won challenge for Lori, but well worth it. "Knowledge is power. Right now, most of the gemstones on the market today pass through many unnamed hands before they reach the jewelry store and it is virtually impossible to know what happened along the way…Personally, I want to feel good about the planet I leave to my two children and the legacy of the business I build and I think most people feel similarly."

So Lori Bonn makes every effort to understand the effects of every aspect of how their exotic collections come to market. In their Indonesian operations, Lori Bonn Design has even started pushing for women to have prenatal benefits and to be introduced into management positions. They have also been working hard on initiating a post-consumer silver recycling program there. It is obvious that these people are walking the walk, regardless of how daunting the path to conscious jewelry making may be.

Through their Clear Conscience Jewelry project, Lori Bonn aims to create greater consumer interest in ethical jewelry. "I think it is becoming obvious that we can't continue to consume more, more, more, even if it is 'green.' It is an insatiable appetite that hurts the planet and leaves us ultimately unfulfilled. I think that in the future, what will matter more is the process and story behind the product." If Lori Bonn Design is any example, the story behind the precious metal and stone we adorn ourselves with is well worth a listen.

To view the Clear Conscience Jewelry Chrysalis collection available at Jewelry Crossings, please click here: http://www.jewelrycrossings.com/store/lori_bonn_chrysalis.php

Lori Bonn Clear Conscience Chrysalis

2008-09-26T15:15:00.000-07:00

Chrysalis. Even the biggest changes start with one small step.

They say a butterfly flapping its wings in Brazil can cause a tornado in Texas. We can’t predict the weather, but we do believe our small actions could make a big, industry-wide difference. That’s why Jewelry Crossings is proud to carry the Lori Bonn Chrysalis line – a handmade, limited-edition collection that combines verified socially and environmentally responsible gemstones with partially recycled metals and ethical manufacturing practices.

Working individually and as part of an industry wide movement, Lori Bonn Design is taking active measures to make its jewelry as socially and environmentally responsible as possible.

Lori Bonn Design’s Clear Conscience Jewelry project is being developed in partnership with the Madison Dialogue, an industry group comprised of mining, manufacturing, design and retail companies that are working to set the standard for ethical jewelry. Representatives from Lori Bonn Design sit on the committees responsible for drafting these standards.

Lori Bonn Design’s ultimate goal is to create exquisite, signature pieces that tread lightly on the planet while respecting every person along the supply chain – jewelry you can wear with a clear conscience. By carrying this new line at Jewelry Crossings, we hope to contribute to this important effort.

Ethical Manufacturing

Lori Bonn’s Clear Conscience jewelry is manufactured in a healthy environment free of abuse and discrimination. Employees receive a living wage and benefits such as health care, life insurance, paid time off and pension contributions, as well as prenatal care and maternity leave. Managers – at least half of whom are women – are promoted from within. And our production methods preserve ancient craft traditions that are integral to local cultures.

Ethical Metals

At least 50% post-industrial recycled silver is used in this line and Lori Bonn Design is actively working to develop a local source for 100% recycled silver.

Ethical Stones

Though it is challenging to trace the origin of any stone, all gems in the Chrysalis collection have been closely tracked, documented and handled in a verifiably ethical and socially responsible manner from the mine to the marketplace. The strict standards adhered to during all stages of processing include safeguarding and protecting the environment during mining and cutting, as well as maintaining fair labor practices and high health and safety standards at all times.

The Fair Trade Goal

As independent verification of responsible production methods, Certified Fair Trade standards have the greatest potential to improve mining and manufacturing conditions. No Certified Fair Trade standards currently exist for the jewelry industry, but Lori Bonn Design is partnering with its colleagues to establish one for gold and diamonds.

To view Lori Bonn’s Clear Conscience jewelry, Chrysalis, available from Jewelry Crossings, please click here.

Lori Bonn Birthstone Collection

2008-09-19T13:07:00.000-07:00

A birthday is a very special occasion. Whether it is a piece of strawberry birthday cake or a beautifully wrapped present with ribbons and bows, there are time-honored traditions designed to help celebrate “the day.” Lori Bonn has introduced a collection of birthstone jewelry using a colored palate of cubic zirconia to replicate the gemstones as a tribute to the birth months of our loved ones. Choose from square cut pendants and matching earrings, detachable heart shaped charms and stackable brilliant rings to represent a unique collaboration of the birth months of friends and family. The rich colors and intricate designs of these pieces are sure to become a fun new way for you and your family to celebrate birthdays.

The cubic zirconia simulated gemstones for each month in the Lori Bonn birthstone collection are as follows:

January – “Garnet”
February – “Amethyst”
March – “Aqua Marine”
April – “Diamond”
May – “Emerald”
June – “Alexandrite”
July – “Ruby”
August – “Peridot”
September – “Sapphire”
October – “Pink Tourmaline”
November – “Citrine”
December – “Sky Blue Topez”

There are endless possibilities for ways to combine pieces from the Lori Bonn birthstone collection. For example, a grandmother would be able to create a custom charm bracelet complete with the birthstone charms of each of her grandchildren. A new bride can stack her own birthstone ring with her husband’s. A new mother can start a necklace with the birthstone pendant of her baby and then add to it in the future. These pieces are affordable and personalized and make great gifts for the holidays.

To view the complete Lori Bonn birthstone collection, please visit http://www.jewelrycrossings.com/.

Introducing Sol from Lori Bonn!

2008-08-14T12:03:00.000-07:00

Lori Bonn has captured the essence of summer in her newest collection, Sol. By combining brushed gold quartz with white, whisky and champagne quartz, this newest line from Lori Bonn radiates with beauty and elegance to complement any style. As in her other collections, each piece of Lori Bonn jewelry is carefully crafted from genuine precious metals and semiprecious gemstones. You are sure to fall in love with all the pieces in this collection from the chic cocktail rings to the charming drop pendants.
Keeping with the tradition of all Lori Bonn jewelry, the Sol collection is only available for a limited time. Once the items from the Sol collection are sold out, the designs become retired, making Lori Bonn jewelry imminently collectible and all the more special in its exclusivity. Be sure to get your favorites from this brand new timeless collection before they are gone. Visit www.JewelryCrossings.com to see the full collection.

Eco-Chic: Lori Bonn Jewlery (& Sneak Peak!)

2008-07-24T13:51:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, July 23, 2008 Look What I Found!
Article from Grechen's Closet
http://www.grechenscloset.com/?entry=entry080723-122328

During Eco-Month here at Grechen's Closet, I received A LOT of e-mails from designers letting me know about their eco-friendly lines (keep them coming guys!!). One of my very favorites was from Lori Bonn Jewelry. Honestly at first glance, many of the current pieces didn't appeal to me, they are a little too John Hardy/David Yurman-esque for my taste, but still absolutely gorgeous and exquisitely made. But I loved Lori's "Clear Conscience" initiative and ethical standard. AND, now that I've seen a sneak-peak of the new Chrysalis collection, I'm sold on the jewelry too.

Basically, Lori Bonn's Clear Conscience jewelry combines verified gemstones, partially recycled sterling silver and ethical manufacturing practices. "Lori’s ultimate goal is to create exquisite, signature pieces that tread lightly on the planet while respecting every person along the supply chain – jewelry you can wear with a clear conscience." And since there are no Fair Trade standards for gold and diamonds at the moment, Lori's working with her colleagues to establish one, but in the meantime, she makes every effort to source her gemstones from the most ethical suppliers she can find.

Again, like I said before, I was sold on the eco-initiatives, but what about the jewelry? I have had a chance to look at the new Chrysalis Collection (launching soon on the website) and truly love almost every piece. They are more simple, natural, organic, and understated than many of her other collections. And I'm not the only one to take notice...pieces from the collection are showing up everywhere: TV segments with Lucky Magazine, In Store Magazine and Ritz Carlton's in-room luxury magazine. So, without further ado, some of my favorites from the collection:

To see more Lori Bonn jewelry please visit: http://www.jewelrycrossings.com/

To view the complete article in its original context please click here.

Chained to Fashion: Classic Link Jewelry Enjoys Renewed Popularity

2008-07-21T12:33:00.000-07:00

By LaMONT JONES
BLOCK NEWS ALLIANCE

Baroni Gold Linked Circle Necklace

The chain-style link has been popular on handbag straps for several seasons, and now it’s one of the hottest trends in women’s jewelry. Link jewelry has never been out of style. But this spring and summer have seen its strong resurgence, possibly because of the renewed popularity of valuable yellow gold and the continuing strong influence of fashion from the ’80s.

The yellow gold link is, well, the gold standard. But there are all sorts of chic link necklaces, bracelets, and earrings in sterling silver, mixed metals, and resin.“It’s just a flattering look for everyone,” said Helena Krodel, spokesman for the Jewelry Information Center, a trend-tracking trade group based in New York. “And it’s just so classic. It goes with everything. And it’s not seasonal — it looks great with a sundress and it looks great with a wool sweater.”

Hot Diamonds Silver & Diamond Ripple Bracelet

Links on jewelry in stores now are perfectly round and oblong, smooth and wavy, crystal-adorned and plain. Mesh link bibs, link chokers, long belly-grazing link necklaces, and multiple-strand styles offer something for virtually every personality.

Beyond its practicality and versatility, a piece of gold link jewelry just might be a good financial investment in these turbulent economic times.“People are buying classics now because of the price of gold,” said Ms. Krodel. “And also, given the market, they want to invest in something that has intrinsic value and that they’re going to get multiple uses out of, season to season.”

To see more of this season's hottest link jewelry in several different styles, please visit: http://www.jewelrycrossings.com/

Click here to view the complete article in its original context.

Jewelry Trend: Colorful Gemstones

2008-06-27T14:18:00.000-07:00

By Maggie MacLean
June 05, 2008
Summer 2008 Jewelry

The Jewelry Weblog

Classic designs in gemstone jewelry will be the hot trend for summer 2008. The bright colors in fashions also translate to colorful jewelry. A large gemstone ring in a bright candy color, whether real or costume, is an evening-out staple. Or, a more intricate design might be exactly what you need to give your flirty dress a down-to-earth feel.

And the hottest color in summer jewelry will be blue. With its stylish staying power, blue tones will always be a perfect fit! Blue gemstones like sapphire, tanzanite, aquamarine and blue sapphire will be very popular. Blue jade, moonstone, lapis lazuli, and blue opals will also be seen in a variety of jewelry designs. Handmade lampwork beads in blue and blue cubic zirconia are also excellent choices. With a full range of shades of blue, you can match the best one for your style.

Blue will be followed in popularity by purple and green. And the gemstones that will be most popular are amethyst, peridot, green garnet, and emerald.

And if you're looking to complement your gemstone pendant or earrings with other gems for added color, you can choose from citrine, yellow topaz, amber, and colored diamonds. All of these gorgeous colors will coordinate beautifully with summer clothing.

If you want less expensive jewelry, look for sterling silver - an alluring substitute for white gold. The cool hue of sterling silver combined with the warmth of colorful gems creates an enchanting look.
To see any of the jewelry pictured in this blog entry and other sterling silver and gemstone designs please visit http://www.jewelrycrossings.com/.

To view the full article in its original context please click here.

Coming Soon: Chinese Zodiac Jewelry From Sara Blaine

2008-06-20T14:28:00.000-07:00

Sara Blaine has done it again and this time she has created a charming new collection surrounding the classic Chinese Zodiac characters. Each piece is skillfully crafted from sterling silver with tremendous attention to detail. Each item in the collection features the Chinese animal sign of any given year. The pendants and bracelets showcase a cultured white pearl on the reverse side. The bracelets incorporate a toggle with cultured white pearls on each end. The rings have the Chinese symbols engraved on one side and the animal name written in English on the other.

The Chinese Zodiac collection from Sara Blaine celebrates the unique characteristics attributed to each individual born within a specific year under a certain animal sign. For example, legend has it that those born in the year of the rabbit are affectionate, talented, obliging, always pleasant, valuing security and tranquility. While those born in the year of the ox are natural born leaders who succeed when given the chance and will also make outstanding parents.

According to Chinese legend, the twelve animals in the Chinese Zodiac quarreled as to who was to be the first in the cycle of years. The gods were asked to decide and they held a contest. In this contest, whoever reached the opposite bank of the river would be first, and the rest of the animals would receive their years according to their finish.

All the twelve animals gathered at the river bank and jumped in. Legend has it that the rat had jumped upon the back of the ox. As the ox was about to jump ashore, the rat jumped off the ox's back and won the race. The pig ended up last. That is why the rat is the first year of the animal cycle, the ox is second and the pig is last.

The Chinese Zodiacs in the Sara Blaine collection will be available on Jewelry Crossings in early July. If you are interested in reserving your Chinese Zodiac jewelry or in getting more information about this brand new collection, please email us at info@jewelrycrossings.com. Thank you.

Baroni Designs Jewelry

2008-05-22T12:51:00.000-07:00

By Maggie MacLean
May 12, 2008
The Jewelry Weblog

Sarah Baroni has been creating her collection of handcrafted sterling silver jewelry in Arcata, California, since 1991. She is inspired by the natural beauty of her home town on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, as well as the North Coast of California where she now lives. It is the organic artistry that resonates in the jewelry Sarah designs - striking pieces that are refined, unique, and timeless. Her designs are classic and elegant, and know no season. They gracefully accentuate the individuality of the wearer.

Sterling Silver Lavender Resin Rectangle Ring

The Baroni Collection offers an inviting variety of sterling silver jewelry for women, men, and children. They also create specialty corporate items for companies such as Coca-Cola and Mercedes.

Sterling Silver & Ocean Resin Pendant
Freeform Open Circle on Snake Chain Necklace

How was Baroni Designs born?

Sarah Baroni and Cathy Witkos were living in San Francisco. They both had backgrounds in jewelry, and were both always looking for nice sterling silver pieces at reasonable prices. Ultimately they began to make their own jewelry, and that slowly evolved into Baroni Designs. The designs reflect an appreciation for understated but beautiful jewelry. It has moved rapidly into new areas (such as yoga jewelry), and maintains a diverse customer base. The company is now in its 16th year of business.

Matte & Polished Sterling Silver Double Disc Earring

Artist Statement

As we begin our 17th year for Baroni Designs, our hearts are filled with gratitude for so many things. We enjoy a safe, harmonious (most of the time) workplace with an amazing group of people who truly care about what they do, and a loyal, fun and very diverse group of customers that help make our jobs worthwhile and enjoyable. After many years of building the business, we have reached a point where we are able to give back to the community. Each year we design and sell a breast cancer collection. The 2007 collection exceeded sales from the previous year by over 200%. We were thrilled to donate a portion of those proceeds to the Humboldt Community Breast Health Project, a wonderful cause on behalf of all of our staff and customers. In addition to the breast cancer collection, which we will again update in fall of 2008. Throughout the year, we will be choosing charities that benefit women, children, and the environment. A portion of all sales will benefit these charities. As the charities are chosen our web page will be updated. And now we invite you to peruse the all new 2008 Baroni catalog. We are thrilled to offer a full array of looks this season. It is our favorite season yet, with new looks and lower prices on many of the styles. Again, whether you have long been acquainted with Baroni Designs or are new to us, we welcome you, and thank you.

Sarah Baroni & Cathy Witkos

To view the complete collection of Baroni Jewelry please visit: http://www.jewelrycrossings.com/store/baroni_designs_home.php

To view the full article, please click here: http://www.jewelry-weblog.com/50226711/baroni_designs_jewelry.php

Today's Leading Designers and Their Premium Line

2008-05-16T13:27:00.000-07:00

By Sarah Baltic

Sophisticated consumers are purchasing high quality jewelry like no generation has done before it. A strong middle class combined with a vibrant economy has pushed up demand as shoppers seek the right piece to add to their private collections. Trendsetting design is very important for contemporary fashion conscious consumers and leading jewelry designers have responded in kind to meet that demand. Let’s take a look at some of the hot trends in designer jewelry and whose collections are receiving plenty of attention.

The annual Emmy awards are now being upstaged by what the actors and actresses are wearing, not what they are winning. Sure, winning an Emmy is fabulous, but a big part of the show focuses on clothing and jewelry, as celebrities compete in what many are calling a blingfest. Yes, “rocks” like J. Lo’s six-carat pink diamond – reportedly worth about $1.2 million – are all the rage and every celebrity event seems to focus more and more on the bling and less on the awards.

Most shoppers aren’t likely to pay anywhere near what Ben Affleck paid for J. Lo’s ring, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t interested in buying jewelry that is of a high quality and unique. Capitalizing on this trend, the Sarah Blaine Fusion collection offers style and substance, but without the steep price. For example, what sets the Sarah Blaine collection apart from the rest is Ms. Blaine’s unique way of combining a variety of colored gemstones and layering them on a silver ring. Or, taking semi-precious faceted beads and combining them with pearls to make a beautiful bracelet or an elegant necklace. Modern style for modern women; that is the characteristic of the Sara Blaine collection.

Textured Sterling Silver Pendant and Chain with Blue Topaz, Garnet and Peridot from Sara Blaine

Geena Davis may no longer be playing the president of the United States, but at 6’1” she is an imposing figure who commands a lot of attention at every event she attends. At a recent gala, Davis was the talk of the town when she arrived sporting a lariat style diamond necklace set in a rose gold hue. The necklace and matching earrings, which were presumably borrowed, were valued at a cool $16 million. Take that, J. Lo!

Though well beyond the reach of most people, the lariat necklace worn by Davis underscores one thing: women really like to have something beautiful hanging from their necks. To that end, designer Leon Popov offers an exquisite selection of butterfly rings, pins, necklaces and pendants that any fashion conscious woman would adore. The Popov collection is renowned for its surprising beauty, in a style some actresses would certainly embrace, but without the steep price most consumers wouldn’t be able to afford.

Your personal tastes in designer jewelry may not rival that of Charlize Theron, Julia Roberts, or Angelina Jolie, but that doesn’t mean that high quality designer jewelry has to carry a heavy price tag either. You can make a statement without busting your budget and find that special diamond ring, Leon Popov butterfly pendant, pearl necklace, or 18-karat gold bracelet that fits your personality at a price you can afford. Yes, you can own some of the bling without the matching steep prices.

Please click here to see the complete Sara Blaine Fusion collection.

Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

Bracelets in Precious Metals by Maggie MacLean

2008-04-25T11:15:00.000-07:00

April 25, 2008
An Article from Jewelry Weblog

Precious metal jewelry is a favorite adornment as well as a treasured possession. Since the time men unearthed the secret to metal craft, precious metal jewelry has been made and worn by men and women of all ages. Irrespective of time and space, the craze for gold, silver, and recently platinum jewelry has been on the rise. Although the patterns and the processes keep changing, the appeal of precious metal jewelry is everlasting.

Eight metals are considered precious: gold, silver, and the six members of the platinum family - platinum, palladium, rhodium, ruthenium, iridium, and osmium.

Precious metals have been a part of human civilization for thousands of years. Often believed to have mystical powers, precious metals have long been appreciated for their value and their beauty. Over time, precious metals came to symbolize wealth, power, and strength.

Precious metal bracelets are the perfect accessory to the backdrop for richly-patterned fabrics, like those we see in fashions for spring and summer 2008.

GOLD
Throughout history, gold has been the foundation of many monetary systems and remains important to our economy today. Gold is also a popular metal of jewelry designers because of its versatility. It can be molded, shaped and carved into intricate jewelry designs. Its warm color is very appealing, and it doesn't rust, tarnish or corrode. The major source of the world's gold is South Africa.

SILVER
The standard for sterling silver has remained unchanged since 1300, when Edward I of England established an early trade practice for silversmiths, decreeing that sterling must consist of 92.5 percent pure silver alloyed with 7.5 percent copper. The term sterling refers to the composition of the metal.

To view more silver bracelets, please click here: http://www.jewelrycrossings.com/store/silver-bracelets.php

To view the full article, please click this link: http://www.jewelry-weblog.com/50226711/bracelets_in_precious_metals.php

Something New: Wedding-Jewelry Trends

2008-04-11T13:59:00.000-07:00

An article from the Wedding Channel

When most people think of wedding jewelry, visions of sparkling rings tend to dance through their heads. But while rings are certainly the most important aspect of wedding-day jewelry, a bride must also give consideration to the other pieces she'll be wearing. From gorgeous bands to beautiful bracelets, we've got the skinny on all the current jewelry trends.

Rings

What's old is new in engagement rings right now. Cushion- and Asscher-cut diamonds - all the rage in the 1920s - are currently gracing the hands of today's bride. The squarish, diamonds were created to reflect candlelight and draw the eye into the stone. Stunning alternatives to brilliant-cut gems, both cuts complement the pavé-set bands that are the hottest trend in settings. Featuring tapered holes that hold round gemstones to create a "paved" look, a pavé setting can also be designed to show off diamonds from three sides. Color decorates the season with two-toned bands dominating Novell Design Studio's bridal-jewelry line, and pink and yellow diamonds on display everywhere from your neighborhood jeweler to Harry Winston.

Bracelets

Thick cuffs of silver and gold sprinkled with gemstones are currently flashing on the runways of fashion. Tiny rhinestones or beads add an air of daintiness to chunky designs of semi-precious stones. The look is wide and antique, with brides walking down the aisle with family heirlooms on their wrists for an old-fashioned, sentimental air.

Earrings and Necklaces

The look in wedding jewelry now is bold, and the hottest trend in the spotlight is the chandelier earring. The dangling pieces of jewelry boast diamonds, pearls, or even glass beads, evoking a glamorous, Art-Deco look. Long, thin, shoulder-skimming lines are also showing up on brides, a sleek counterpart to the bold chandelier. Dramatic necklaces utilize the bigger-is-better theme as well, dripping gemstones and setting off demure necklines. Dramatic cascading pendants show-off two, three, or more linked-stones, and even classic chokers are emboldened with up to six strands of pearls.

The classic stand-bys of delicate pendants, classic diamond studs, and bare wrists are always in style, so don't despair if the bold look in wedding jewelry isn't your taste. But for the up-to-the-minute bride who wants to reflect the latest look, big is definitely beautiful.

For more ideas, browse jewelry specifically designed for weddings here: http://www.jewelrycrossings.com/wedding-bridal-jewelry.php

To view the Wedding Channel article, please click here: http://www.weddingchannel.com/fashion/buildArticle.action?assetUID=3017#

Just what is 'Cubic Zirconia' Anyway?

2008-03-25T15:10:00.000-07:00

Cubic Zirconia....Are They For 'Real'? - an Article by C.M. Bains

Cubic zirconia, rhinestone, crystal, imitation diamond...people often use these terms interchangeably, but do they really know what each item is? Used to refer to the clear, sparkly, faceted gems often used in the crafting of sterling silver rings, earrings, necklaces, and pendants, each of these terms actually refers to a distinct and unique product. Although each of these gems look somewhat alike to the untrained eye, cubic zirconia and the others are all made of different substances, and have very specific qualities.

Cubic Zirconia, which are widely used today by makers of sterling silver jewelry, are in fact an imitation, or synthetic version, of themselves. Unknown to many is the fact that cubic zirconia are actually genuine gemstones in their own right. A 'gem', as defined by Websters Dictionary, is a 'cut, polished, faceted stone...notable for its beauty, perfection, or rarity'. A natural cubic zirconia, formed under extreme heat and pressure, over a long time, from the mineral zirconium dioxide, is all that! However, as with crystalline carbon (aka diamonds), this natural process yields up very few genuine cubic zirconia of any size.

Originally noticed in 1892 in Russia, the very simple cubic zirconia was deemed irrelevant and unstable for use in either the scientific realm or for the jewelry trade, and was thus ignored. This same basic stone was then created, in a stabilized form, by German scientists in 1930. Interestingly, in 1937 naturally occuring stable cubic zirconia were 'discovered' again, although these stones were tiny and virtually disregarded. Then, in France in 1960 research into manufacturing cubic zirconia began in earnest. The process of synthesizing zirconium dioxide to create the cubic zirconia we see in sterling silver rings and earrings today was finally perfected by Russian scientists in the early 1970's. This Russian stone was briefly named a 'fianit', but regardless of its name or lack therof, by 1980 the commercial production of manufactured cubic zirconia had reached 50 million carats! Of course, all these scientists were not working to find an affordable gem for the jewelry trade, they were seeking a reliable source of diamond-like stones for use in the laser and optical applications currently being filled by genuine diamonds.

Happily for sterling silver jewelry lovers everywhere, this perfected method of creating Cubic Zirconia does mean that jewelry designers have an almost unlimited supply of gemstones, ranging in sizes of .5mm or less to 12mm or more. The manufactured gems most often seen in sterling silver rings, earrings, and necklaces today differ only very slightly from their natural state. The main difference with stones available to the jewelry trade today is that a metal oxide stabilizer has often been added to the zirconuim dioxide during the sythesizing process. The amount of metal oxide included differs from manufacturer to manufacturer, dependant on proprietary 'recipes'. The addition of metal oxide allows producers to customize the stone by controlling the quality and 'cut-ability'. A good quality stone, well cut, in a sterling silver setting, will create an item of jewelry that will rival almost any fine gemstone for beauty and desirability.

In the jewelry world, cubic zirconia are one of the most significant imitation stones available. This status may be due to the versatility of the stone, which can be created in various colors by the addition of mineral powders during synthesis. It could also be due to the fact that cubic zirconia offer a gem that is very like a diamond by all measurable means (except price!), and therefore offers limitless possibilities for jewelry makers and those whe like to wear jewelry, as cubic zirconia are the gem most often used by designers of sterling silver jewelry. When compared to crystalline carbon--( not as catchy a name as 'diamond', but let's be scientific here)-- cubic zirconia stand up fairly well. Check it out....

Crystalline carbon: 10 Moh's rating; .044 dispersion rating; 2.417 refraction index

Cubic Zirconia: 8.5-9 Moh's rating*; .056-.060 dispersion rating*; 2.176 refraction index*

* these figures vary slightly due to the 'recipe' used by the manufacturer.

As you can see, not much variation between commonly measured values for each stone. But what do the numbers mean, you ask? Moh's rating is a hardness scale, with 10 being the highest value, all other metals and gems are measured in Moh's figures. The dispersion rating indicates the ability of a gem to throw back light from itself, in this case showing that cubic zirconia have more sparkle that diamonds. The refraction index measures how well a gem can 'break' light that passes through it into the various colors that make up light, and diamonds are slightly better at this. Also measured in the world of gems is the 'specific gravity', or weight, in carats. Cubic zirconia are 1.75 times heavier than diamonds, and are also virtually colorless, unless colored on purpose, whereas only very few natural diamonds are colorless.

Among the many available diamond look-alikes, cubic zirconia stand above the rest for quality and durability. The process of manufacturing synthetic versions of this gemstone has been perfected over time to create a stone that is sought after in the jewelry trade, most particularly by those who make sterling silver rings, earrings, necklaces or pendants. Cubic zirconia are a perfect medium in that they measure up very closely to the 'queen' of gems, the diamond, and can also be colored to make high quality simulations of colored gems such as sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. The affordable price of manufactured cubic zirconia makes this beautiful stone accessible to everyone as well, suggesting that it will probably continue to enjoy popularity as a gem of choice for jewelry designers and consumers for years to come!

Take a look at Cubic Zirconia Jewelry

What’s hot and what’s not in jewelry for 2008

2008-03-24T13:22:00.000-07:00

An article from let's talk Fashion

What’s hot and what’s not in jewelry for 2008 :
So 2008 is here. A new year with new hopes, new beginnings, and of course, new trends. Although, fashions change at the blink of an eye but every year brings with it a trend that influences the fashion moods for the entire year. Read on if you are not only conscious but also subconscious about fashion and there is no chance that you want to be left behind walking the ramp after the red carpet is rolled off. Let’s talk about the upcoming trends in the jewelry industry.
Jewelry Trends for 2008:
So as they say it, old is gold. Classic designs in gemstone jewelry will be the hot trend for spring and summer of 2008. And the hot favorite color will be blue. Blue gemstones like sapphire, tanzanite, aquamarine and blue sapphire will be very popular for jewelry. And followed by blue, purple and green will be in demand. And the gemstones that will be popular are amethyst, peridot, green garnet and of course, the gem of gems – emerald. Gemstones like blue jade, moonstones, sapphires, lapis lazuli, blue opals etc. will also be in vogue. If you talk of gemstones, bead strands and bead necklaces will the charm of the season. And if you are looking at complementing your gemstone pendant or gemstone earrings with other gems for added color, you can choose from citrine, yellow topaz, amber, and color diamonds.

If you want something less expensive, look for sterling silver jewelry. Sterling silver is an alluring substitute to white gold. The cool hues of sterling silver when combined with the warmth of colorful gems, an enchanting look is created. You can combine the icy brilliance of white sapphire or white topaz for a diamond like feel. You can create the rich and elegant look of diamonds for a fraction of the amount spend.
Come fall, black will return with its mystery and magic. Black onyx, black diamonds, and classic black pearls will be the look of the season. As for the designs, necklaces, bracelets and earrings in layers will dominate the ramp. And the common trend of the season, the antique look will be the poplar trend. Pear shaped gemstones in all sizes and colors will be in craze.
Brides Jewelry: Traditional heart pendant with the platinum and diamond heart necklaces will be in vogue. Despite the fact that metal colors are always a popular fashion for brides, cool tones of platinum would also make a charming appearance.

History of Sterling Silver Charms

2008-03-21T14:19:00.000-07:00

History of Sterling Silver Jewelry Charms - by: Martin Smith

Charms are also known as amulets and pendants. They are as popular today as they have been throughout recorded history. Ancient Egyptians wore bracelets with charms or amulets. They were used to protect against bad luck and evil forces. They began with religious symbols and became a p art of everyday dressing.

Charms/jewelry were made of almost any material of value to people in their time. Many were made of precious metal. Others were made with gemstones inlaid in them or mounted with precious metals in the form of necklaces, crowns, staffs, and bracelets. Queen Victoria gets the credit for popularizing jewelry charms throughout Europe by wearing lockets or charms on her royal bracelets

America became enchanted with Charms around the time frame of World War II. Soldiers returning from duty station brought with them various types of charms or pendants. Today popular charms are made from Gold and Sterling silver. Other materials are still used in the making of charms.

Sterling Silver Charms today represent as many things as there are interests and personalities. Some charms or pendants represent the religious leanings of the wearer. They also represent the interest of the wearer such a musical instrument for a music lover, a pair of sneakers for a jogger, or ballet slippers for a ballerina. Imagination is the only limit for what a charm can represent. Silver charms are also used to commemorate life events such as births, weddings, anniversaries, birthdays or graduations.

Silver is a soft metal and its usage has been favored for centuries. It is used to make charms often related to religious worship. Silver has been a symbol of comfortable living. Sterling silver is much stronger than pure silver which is harder to work with when making pendants or charms. Sterling silver is approximately ninety percent silver. The last ten percent or so can be any one of the following: copper, zinc, or nickel and is more durable than pure silver but it still retains its inherent beauty.

Charms, whether made of sterling silver or some other materials, are often used to represent the person who wears or carries the charm. As has been mentioned however, they often represent the interests and personality of the wearer. During war particular items are given to the soldiers who are going off to fight. When a young teen-aged couple ’goes steady’ the young man generally gives the girl his ring or something of particular value to him. The girls might also do the same.

Charms have also been said to represent the particular spirituality of the wearer. Many people wear plain simple crosses while still others will wear the cross with the corpus - the body of Christ on it. Others wear saint’s medals. Lockets are worn with images of loved ones inside. Once used to ward against evil spirits, for good luck, and for protection in times of trouble charms have come to be an adornment for the wearer. Charm bracelets are gifts that keep on giving. A charm is often given for birthdays, graduations, a dance recital, or sports victory. They make wonderful gifts for young girls that will grow with them. There are charm necklaces as well.

Please visit http://www.jewelrycrossings.com/store/silver-charms.php for some excellent examples of modern sterling silver charms.

Whimsical Jewelry Tops Trends at JA NY

2008-03-12T18:53:00.000-07:00

Butterfly themes, as seen in this pendant by Rhonda Faber Green, were a top trend at the recent JA New York Winter Show.

By Mary Wisniewski
Published Courtesy of NJN

New York—Spring was in the air at the JA New York Winter Show, with whimsical designs topping the trends, along with nature-inspired pieces and romantic themes.

From leaf motifs to subtle butterflies and bold serpents, designs capturing flora and fauna popped up at a plethora of designers' booths. Flower-themed jewelry bloomed throughout the show too.

Romantic flourishes such as bows, hearts, stars and wings were also in full force. A standout pair of hoops was shown at Julez Bryant's booth, with a moon on one earring and a shooting star on the other.

Many designers chose to use dream catchers in their patterns too, with John Christopher and J. Han leading the way.

"Dreamcatcher" pendant by John Christopher.

Gold designs showed a lot of openwork to accommodate a lower price point, while oxidized silver, a more affordable metal, proved its move into the mainstream.

Other top trends included swirly circle earrings, cocktail rings, big hoops, gemstone clusters and bold, eccentric necklaces.

The JA New York Winter Show was held from March 9-11 at the Jacob K. Javits Center in New York City.

Some Interesting Facts About Silver

2008-03-12T13:25:00.000-07:00

SILVER FACTS

Silvers chemical symbol from the periodic table is Ag. Its Atomic number is 47, its atomic weight is 107.8682(2) and its melting point is 961.78 °C (1763.2 °F).

Man learned to separate silver from lead as early as 3,000 B.C. Silver has been mined and prized for its beauty and durability for at least 6,000 years.

Silver has superior bactericidal qualities. Small concentrations of silver or silver salts kill bacteria by chemically affecting the cell membranes, causing them to break down. Bacteria do not develop resistance to silver, as they do to many antibiotics.

Silver is the best conductor of heat of all elements. Its uses in solar panels and automobile rear window defoggers take advantage of this quality.

Silver is the best conductor of electricity of all elements. In fact, silver defines conductivity - all other metals are compared against it. On a scale of 0 to 100, silver ranks 100, with copper at 97 and gold at 76. Silver is commonly used in electrical circuits and contacts. Silver is also utilized in batteries where dependability is mandatory and weight restrictions apply, such as those for portable surgical tools, hearing aids, pacemakers and space travel.

Silver has the highest degree of optical reflectivity of all elements. A silver mirror can reflect about 95% of the visible light spectrum. (most mirrors are silver). Besides vanity uses, mirrors are important components in telescopes, microscopes and solar panels.

Silver is more ductile than any element except gold. One ounce of silver can be drawn into 8,000 feet of thin wire.

Silver is more malleability than any element except gold. One grain of silver can be made into a sheet one hundred and fifty times thinner than a piece of paper.

More than 2/3 of the silver produced worldwide is a by product of lead, copper and zinc mining.

The major producers of silver include the United States, Mexico, Canada, Peru, Russia and Australia.

About 1/3 of the silver produced worldwide is used in photography.

Silver iodide is often used in cloud seeding. A pound of silver iodide is enough to seed many cubic miles of clouds.

United States coinage minted prior to 1965 contained 90% silver. A bag holding $1,000 face value of pre-1965 dimes, quarters and half-dollars contains approximately 715 ounces of silver.

United States Kennedy half-dollars minted from 1965 to 1969 contained 40% silver. A bag holding $1,000 face value of these Kennedy half-dollars contains approximately 295 ounces of silver.

Source: silveruserassociation.org

Wholesale Sterling Silver Jewelry Guide: Determine Prices By Quality

2008-03-11T11:04:00.000-07:00

Wholesale Sterling Silver Jewelry Guide: Determine Prices By Quality
By Greg Peterson

It takes many years of experience in trading sterling silver jewelry to tell whether a piece of jewelry is of high quality or not. Especially when you are buying wholesale silver jewelry, a minor difference in the quality might affect your business reputation in the long run. This article summarizes the basic metrics for anyone who is beginning to trade silver jewelry to gauge the quality of silver jewelry.

Finishing
Most of the sterling silver jewelry has some sort of plating because silver itself turns yellow over time. There are several ways of finishing a piece of silver jewelry and they will affect the cost of the jewelry substantially.

1. High polished sterling silver jewelry has no plating on the jewelry at all and is particularly popular with engravable items or for people who are allergic to certain metals such as nickel. The jewelry is polished by machine without additional raw material cost.

2. Some silver jewelry has a black antique look to cater to certain consumers. These items are processed by putting the jewelry into chemical solution to oxide the silver before polishing and the pricing is similar to that of high polished ones.

3. Another common way of finishing sterling silver jewelry is nickel plating. Although nickel plating is illegal in some countries, most of the Italian silver jewelry sold in the market today is plated with nickel. However, since nickel is not considered as precious metal, the price is usually not affected by the cost of plating.

4. The most expensive way of finishing sterling silver jewelry is using Rhodium. Rhodium is a precious metal that is even more expensive than silver. Therefore, silver jewelry with Rhodium plating is usually at least five cent more expensive per gram. Since Rhodium has the property of being highly tarnish resistant and very expensive at the same time, some manufacturers would coat the sterling silver jewelry with a thin layer of copper before plating the Rhodium to reduce the cost. It might be a good idea to ask the vendors if the Rhodium is plated directly or not because some people have skin type that would turn the copper underneath green.

Stone cutting
Sterling silver jewelry usually has natural or synthetic stones set on it. The cutting of the stones, even with the same size, might affect the cost. For instance, the synthetic diamond cubic zirconia stones would cost more if they are in princess cut as suppose to round brilliant cut. Furthermore, emerald cut and baguette cut stones are even more expensive than princess cut ones.

Stone setting
1. The way that stones are set on a piece of jewelry also affects the cost. Many pendant and bracelet styles employ an economical setting method called wax setting. The stones are not really set one by one on the jewelry. Rather, they are fixed on the mold before the jewelry is cast out from the melted silver and come out of the mold together with the silver. This lowers the cost of the silver jewelry significantly. However, the quality of the setting is not consistent and the heat of the silver in liquid form might affect the quality of the stones.

2. Besides wax setting, there are several hand-setting methods that are widely adopted. The most common one is prong setting, where the stones are held in place by three to eight prongs, depending on the style. More advanced settings include channel setting, bezel setting, pave setting and invisible setting. Understanding the labor costs involved in different kinds of settings is one of the keys to getting merchandize with the best prices.

Stamping and Casting
Another categorization for sterling silver jewelry is the way they manufacture the metal part. To save cost, some jewelry is made by stamping and cutting the needed shapes out from a large sheet of silver and than bend it into the desired shapes. On the other hand, a more traditional way of producing sterling silver jewelry is to cast the metal out of a mold, which is more labor intensive and hence more costly due to the polishing and filing required afterwards. The way the jewelry is made affects the durability a great deal and hence the success of your business.

Greg Peterson got his MBA from MIT business school and is now working as marketing manager for jewelry businesses featuring wholesale silver hip hop jewelry.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Greg_Peterson

How to Care for Rhodium Plated Jewelry

2008-03-10T13:26:00.000-07:00

How to Care for Rhodium Plated Jewelry
An article by Candace W. from associatedcontent.com

My engagement ring and wedding band are two toned with white and yellow gold which I love. The white gold has a rhodium plated finish to give it a brilliant shine. Rhodium, a member of the platinum family, is a precious metal. Because it is silvery white and highly reflective it is often used to plate jewelry.

Jewelers often use rhodium plating as a finish on silver, white gold and platinum jewelry. It gives the jewelry a brighter finish. It’s hypoallergenic so it won't turn your skin green. If you have yellow gold jewelry you can also have it rhodium plated for a new look. If you change your mind it can be removed.

I found out early wearing my engagement ring that rhodium plating has a tendency to wear over time. Fortunately for those of us that have rhodium plated jewelry we can have it replated. If the rhodium plating finish wears and how fast is wears depends on the type of metal that is plated and how well and how thick the plating was applied. It also depends on how much the jewelry is worn and how you care for it.

Here is a guideline for taking care of your rhodium plated jewelry:

Keep your jewelry clean with a mixture of mild detergent and a little water. Rinse it well and dry. You can also clean it with a polishing cloth.

Do not clean your rhodium plated jewelry in chemical cleaners such as jewelry dips. Some sonic jewelry cleaners also use chemicals. It can wear the rhodium plating off more quickly. I made this mistake and have since stopped using my sonic jewelry cleaner to clean my bridal set. Instead I steam clean my rings. Another option is to use a sonic jewelry cleaner with water.

Avoid rubbing your jewelry against surfaces. If you're going to be doing a lot of work with your hands, you'll want to remove your rings during that time. This goes for when you're doing tasks such as heavy cleaning and yard work.

If you wear your rhodium plated jewelry for significant periods of time, it is bound to wear eventually. To restore its bright white and gleaming appearance you can have it replated. If you want to have a piece of jewelry replated, take it to a reputable jeweler. It costs about $25 depending on the jeweler. Some jewelry stores offer warranties with their rhodium plated merchandise that include rhodium replating. This is well worth it if you wear your jewelry every day or often. Particularly rings.

Now that you know the steps for caring for your rhodium plated jewelry you can maintain its brilliant shine.

Argentium Silver

2008-03-06T16:08:00.000-08:00

Argentium Silver Jewelry
Filed in archive jewelry techniques by Maggie MacLean on March 06, 2008

Argentium® Sterling Silver
By definition, sterling silver has 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other materials. Pure silver (fine silver) is rather soft, so adding another metal helps make sterling silver sturdier so it holds up to regular wear. Silver is typically alloyed with copper, which makes a durable and attractive blend, but it tarnishes easily.

Argentium has the same 92.5% silver, but it also has a little bit of a metal called Germanium, which makes it far more tarnish resistant than .925 sterling silver.

Working with Argentium
Argentium is more ductile (able to stretch) and malleable (able to bend without breaking) than Sterling Silver. Before using Argentium wire, you can heat it slightly to engage the tarnish resistance, and this may harden it a little as well, and make it a little easier to work with.

The Tarnish
Sterling silver tarnishes due to the presence of sulfur, which reacts with the copper. Sulfur can come from perfume, deodorant, skin, and the atmosphere. Some people tend to tarnish silver quite rapidly.

So why doesn't Argentium tarnish like sterling silver? The difference is that small amount of Germanium. It forms a thin layer of Germanium Oxide on the surface of the metal, which is almost transparent. This layer keeps the sulfur from reaching the copper, so it can't react and cause tarnish.

While this barrier layer will build up over time at room temperature, heating it will help build the protective layer faster. This is also why it's not necessary to protect Argentium from oxygen when soldering or fusing.

When Argentium does tarnish, it takes on a very soft yellow color, where .925 sterling silver forms a dark black patina. Under normal circumstances, washing with dish washing liquid and a soft brush is all that is required to keep Argentium sterling silver jewelry bright and shiny.

Just last year, beads, chains, and clasps in Argentium became available. I think it's worth the small extra expense for its strength, beauty, and its tarnish-resistant finish.

SOURCE
About Argentium Silver

Men's Silver Jewelry

2008-02-28T12:10:00.000-08:00

An Article by Jason Gluckman from EzineArticles.com

Silver jewelry is one of the hippest trends in fashion jewelry today. Although silver jewelry is often associated with women, nowadays, it has become a popular fashion statement even for men.

Why men's silver jewelry is popular

The popularity of men's silver jewelry continues to grow because of several reasons. One is the price. Men's silver jewelry is less expensive compared to gold or platinum. For young men who do not have a lot of money to spend, silver jewelry offers them a wide range of choices without sacrificing style.

Aside from price, trend is another reason. A lot of celebrities, fashion models, and other personalities that appear in magazines and television show wear different silver jewelry such as silver bracelets, bold silver rings, and silver necklaces. Young men, in particular, like to follow trends so when they see these personalities wearing silver jewelry, they are also enticed to buy some.

And the last reason for buying jewelry is the variety of options that are available when shopping. Whether it is a man's wedding ring, bracelet, or necklace, everything comes in a silver version.

Men's silver jewelry online

Unlike women, men are not patient when it comes to shopping for silver jewelry. That is why men's silver jewelry can be purchased online. Online shopping offers a lot of advantages to men who cannot find the time to go shopping for silver jewelry in jewelry boutiques or the local department store.

Online companies even offer men's discount silver jewelry, largely because they have lower overhead costs, which they can pass on as savings to consumers. This makes shopping online more convenient. Of course, online stores' boast 24-hour customer access and easy online ordering systems.

Men's silver jewelry may not be as valuable as their gold and platinum counterparts. But these are even more fashionable especially because they complement so many skin tones and fabric colors.

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Six common questions about sterling silver jewelry

2008-02-19T12:25:00.000-08:00

An informative article by Greg Peterson 5/29/06.

Sterling silver jewelry has been a popular commodity for thousands of years. One of the obvious reasons is the affordability over other precious metals gold and platinum. The large variety of sterling silver jewelry requires certain knowledge in order to choose the right piece and also keep it in good condition as long as possible. The followings are the most common questions concerning sterling silver jewelry.

How do I clean sterling silver jewelry?
It depends. Usually, it is sufficient to use a jewelry cloth (with two layers of cloths in different colors) that you can get from a jewelry accessory store. Don't use any hard object to clean sterling silver jewelry; even paper towel could scratch the surface. You should rub any dirt off using a jewelry cloth, not fingernails. Silver-dip is another commonly used sterling silver jewelry cleaner, which can also be obtained from jewelry store. The entire silver jewelry is immerged in the solution for half a minute to a minute and then rinsed with water. Make sure the silver jewelry is not plated with any other metal before using the silver-dip or the plating will be damaged.

Where do I store sterling silver jewelry?
It is very important to store sterling silver jewelry properly when it is not used. The ideal place to store sterling silver jewelry is cool and away from sunlight. Heat and light will turn a silver jewelry yellow and cause it to tarnish quickly. Even indoor light source like florescent lights or light bulbs turn the color of silver jewelry over time. If you expect not to wear a certain piece for a long time, put it in a air-tight bag and store it in a drawer.

What types of silver jewelry plating are there?
Unlike gold and platinum, however, pure silver is rather unstable and oxides rather quickly. Therefore, silver jewelry is usually plated with another metal to protect it from tarnishing. There are two kinds of plating for silver jewelry: nickel and rhodium plating. Nickel plating has a more whitish look and rhodium plating has a darker look. Rhodium is used to plate white gold and platinum jewelry and is much more expensive than nickel, and it give better protection to the silver underneath. On the other hand, some silver jewelry is not plated. For instance, high polished sterling silver jewelry does not have any plating and the surface is polished by machine to render shininess. Also, "oxidized silver" jewelry is oxidized on purpose to give a dark antique look and is not plated with any other metals.

How do I know the purity of my silver jewelry?
The purity of sterling silver refers to 92.5% of silver in the alloy. In order to confirm the purity, the metal itself has to be sent to a laboratory to be tested. However, most of the sterling silver jewelry produced nowadays has a "925" stamp to indicate the authenticity of the jewelry. Although there are cases where stamps are forged and the metal is either not silver or the purity is not as stated, they are very rare.

How about engraving and resizing?
Engraving and resizing of sterling silver rings is rather simple due to the ductility and relatively low melting point. However, make sure your jeweler understands the process of refinishing the ring and that they possess the necessary equipment to do so. Not all jewelers have the equipment to recoat the rhodium plating after cutting and welding the ring. Also, rings set with stones are sometimes not resizable because resizing might cause the stones to pop out. Such settings include channel and invisible settings.

Can I wear sterling silver jewelry if I am allergic to nickel?
Yes, just make sure the jewelry is pure sterling silver, not plated with nickel. Even Rhodium plated sterling silver jewelry sometimes contains a nickel layer between the silver and the rhodium to act as an adhesive. Hence, buy only high polished sterling silver jewelry if you are allergic to nickel.

Designer Lori Bonn; Clearly Good Conscience.

2008-02-15T11:40:00.000-08:00

Lori Bonn not only has fabulous designs with unique colors, she is working towards a socially and environmentally responsible industry. Take a look at the Clear Clear Conscience Jewelry Press Release.

From:
Clear Conscience Jewelry
December 13, 2006

Socially Responsible Bangle, Baubles & Beads!

Oakland, CA . . . Lori Bonn Designs announced the launch of a long term industry project called Clear Conscience © jewelry and accessories that will provide the consumer a choice to purchase products that are environmentally neutral and socially positive. In developing this initiative, it is Lori Bonn Gallagher and her husband Bill’s hope that their program will lead to a standard in the industry for Clear Conscience © jewelry and accessories.

To assist in their project, Lori and Bill are seeking advice, support and participation of suppliers, other designers, retailers, educational institutions and consumers. Once adopted, anyone purchasing a Clear Conscience © product will know that the item was produced in a responsible manner without harm to the environment or the people in the communities from which it came.

Lori Bonn Designs recognizes that while there are jewelry and accessory products that are made and come from responsible sources, not all are produced in this manner. The concern of the Gallagher’s is that there are many communities around the world that have been harmed by the environmental impact of material production and have had negative social impact from unsafe and unfair labor practices.

Without a standard, the average consumer has little way of knowing the impact of their purchases. Misdirected consumer backlash due to lack of knowledge or misinformation could even harm communities that can least afford it. Clear Conscience © accessories creates the possibility that an informed consumer and a cohesive, aligned industry will have a positive impact on the communities which we trade and give consumers a “clear conscience” when purchasing their baubles, bangles and beads!

Get a peek at the upcoming Lori Bonn spring line, Frida, at jewelrycrossings.com