Saving Money on Diamonds and Jewelry Matching (Tips from the pros)

Tips from the Pros (how to become a smarter diamonds shopper)

A few simple facts will help you save money and become a smart diamond shopper!

1. Diamond grades have points at which the cost of the diamond can rise or decrease precipitously, thus you should try to find a diamond that is a lower weight group but with similar measurements to the higher group.

For example a 1.00 ct with 6.1 mm would cost more than 10% from a 0.96 ct with 6.1 mm this difference in weight won't be noticed to the naked eye. There are a few simple facts that will help you to save money when you are Looking for your diamond.

2. Fluorescence makes a difference in the appearance in only 2% of the stones but it receives a 2-5% discount in the market.

So by buying a medium fluorescence diamond you will lower the price of your purchase with a low probability to notice a genuine difference. (Very strong and strong fluorescence has a higher probability to affect the appearance of the diamond).

3. We all want a perfect diamond to our loved ones or ourselves but we cant always afford a flawless diamond, the clarity of the stone is not visible to the naked eye between IF-VS2 and even SI are not supposed to make a difference once the stone is set in a jewelry so if you have a budget that you must keep SI1 is more than enough.

4. Very important - all of the above is based on the assumption that the stone is graded according to the GIA grading.

Now how would you match the diamonds you buy with your own jewelry

Matching a diamond to your jewelry

To perfectly match your diamonds with your jewelry you must keep reading.

1. Colors-after you know your budget and preferable design you need to match the color of the diamond to the jewelry. Color in diamonds?! First of all there are natural colored diamonds and second of all the material from which the jewelry is made will help you better choose the color of your diamond.

As a thumb rule white gold setting helps the diamond to appear as a higher color than rose gold. So if buying a D color diamond doesn't suit your planned budget choose a lower color with white gold.

2. Measurements-find out what is the range of the needed measurements for your chosen jewelry before purchasing the diamond. 1.00 ct round diamond can be 6.6 mm and it can also be 5.9 mm so you need to research a bit before matching a diamond. (You can and should do it the other way around – buy the diamond according to your budget and than bring it to a local jeweler for setting or buy both from the same online vendor to ensure a perfect fit).

3. Multi diamond jewelry-if you decide to purchase a multi diamond jewelry don’t forget that the human eye determines colors through comparison so it will have a less wanted affect if your side stones will be D color and the center stone J color the other way around should create a better affect.

Tips for Starting Your Own Jewelry Business

Staring your own business can be an intimidating challenge. However, this task can be made achievable by setting up realistic goals, and following a few easy steps. If you have a passion of fashion and are an outgoing person, you can establish your own silver jewelry business. Being in the jewelry business myself, I can tell you what you will need in order to start one on your own.

For the last seven years, I have been a wholesale silver jewelry supplier. I have helped close to a thousand people start small businesses of their own by providing them with excellent quality silver jewelry at honest wholesale prices along with free advice and consultancy. My first piece of advice to people who are new into the world of business is to set attainable goals and objectives, and make a business plan. As hard as it may seem, in reality there are few barriers to entry to starting your own business with low cost service providers, marketing, communication and availability of wholesale jewelry suppliers. Given below is a list of things you can do in order to start or enhance a successful jewelry business.

i. Make a plan: It is very important to have a good plan. A formal business plan is not necessary unless you want to get a loan or an investor. Instead, the plan you make should be meticulous, especially on the financial side.
ii. Think about whether the jewelry you want to sell is right for your intended market. Diamond jewelry is probably not the right product for a flea market!
iii. You can host a home-based jewelry party yourself or have a friend host it and give her some free stuff as compensation. Ask your friend to invite her friends and relatives for the party. These people come to buy and you have no competition.
iv. Buy off EBay - many people buy things at good prices and then just re-sell them.
v. Search the web for other silver jewelry wholesalers.
vi. Put jewelry out at your own or your friend’s garage sales. It really works!
vii. Visit these sites frequently:

www.paypal.com : Online payments and merchant account

www.Godaddy.com : Domain registration and turn-key hosting solutions

www.fetpak.com : Low-cost jewelry supplies and displays (ring boxes, findings, etc.)

www.ShippingSupply.com : Low-cost shipping supplies

www.jewelrysupply.com : Jewelry supplies and displays

Wholesalegemshop.com : Supplier of wholesale silver jewelry

http://www.festivalnet.com : Wholesale Silver Jewelry Supplier List of craft shows throughout the country Great source of low cost products

Ebay.com - Wholesale Jewelry : EBay Pro-store - turn key ecommerce solution

http://www.adwords.google.com : Google Adwords Program

The above-mentioned points are helpful hints that will assist you in either starting a jewelry business or making your already existing jewelry business successful. I could have used this information when I started out. I enjoy helping people get started in their own businesses. Even though my business has grown substantially since I started out, I still feel truly grateful to every one of my customers who enable me to succeed and allow me to pursue the lifestyle I chose.

Jewelry and the Treasure of Love and Tradition

Since a long time ago people all over the world have shown an interest in jewelry. There are many reasons why people wear jewelry. It is not only that jewelry looks beautiful thanks to the shine and the glitters. There is more to jewelry than that. The important thing is that jewelry is also representative of one's wealth and power. Jewelry can be worn as rings, necklaces, bracelets, anklets, and even as earrings.

They can be a combination of different precious metals together with gems like rubies, jade, sapphires or diamonds. In a number of designs, artisans do not use precious gems, preferring to work on the body of the metal itself. Compared to older generations, who preferred gold, people nowadays have begun to go in for platinum jewelry combined with that most valuable and sought-after of gemstones -- the diamond.

But many a time, adornment is not the purpose of jewelry. Over the years, people have also been known to store jewelry like treasures because of the immense value that has been attached to it. The value of paper money may have decreased over a period of time. Yet, no such decrease has been seen in the case of the jewelry of the world. Even in times of war when paper money loses its value, jewelry can be pawned off or traded in exchange for other essential items.

The peoples of some areas wear jewelry that is linked to their superstitions.

Among the various kinds of jewelry available, the one that is most popular today is the diamond and platinum combination. You must have come across the old saying that "a diamond is a girl's best friend". This must be true in many ways, for it is now quite common to see couples nowadays make their wedding vows with gifts of diamond rings. In fact, the diamond-platinum combination is a big hit among couples.

This is because the metal and the stone complement each other very well. In fact, many view it as a perfect combination. A wedding celebrates the everlasting love that a couple has for each other just as a diamond celebrates everlastingness. Not only that, sometimes at upper class dinners, women adorn themselves with heavy diamond jewelry in the form of necklaces or earrings to complement their dinner gowns.

At the same time, one cannot deny that the platinum-diamond combination is a costly affair. Sometimes, the prices can be as high as few thousand dollars. Some pieces even fetch millions depending on the quality of the jewelry or how many carats the diamond is. These rings are available in many different designs. One of the most popular of these is the heart-shaped diamond ring.

Because of the high demand for these ornamental treasures and the high price tags attached with them, diamonds were actually obtained illegally in several African countries. These diamonds were mined by the warlords who controlled the mining area. There was often a lot of fighting between factions leading to casualties. Hence, the term - "blood diamond".

Even the most simple among us fall prey to the shine and sparkle of jewelry. It will never fall out of favor even though there may be changes in times and traditions. I am sure you will agree with me when I say that even future generations will continue to adorn themselves with the beauty of jewelry.

Keep Up with Fashion Jewelry Trends at Bargain Prices

When it comes to winter wear, there's more to fashion than sweaters, leggings, tights, handbags, and pashminas. Although many women heavily accessorize during the spring and summer months, the argument can be made that fashion jewelry is even more important during the winter. After all, in the absence of accessories, the dark colors of the fashion season can make you look and feel drab. Add some compelling bracelets, necklace sets, and earrings, however, and you'll begin to shine.

Fashion Jewelry Trends

Just as you add pieces to your wardrobe each season, you should also change out your fashion jewelry. When selecting your pieces, here are some trends to watch:

Bracelets: When it comes to bracelets, beading is key this season. Look for dangling bracelets with semi-precious stones, glass beads, acrylic beads, and even seashells. Stretch bracelets work for virtually every wrist, while the fashion forward are opting for multi-stranded beaded stretch bracelets. Black, red, and dark green dominate the scene, with crystals adding sparkle to more formal occasions.

Pendant Sets: Silver adds a wintry glint to the season's pendant sets, with animal jewelry taking the lead. African elephant pendants, horse pendants, and even frog pendants can add elegance or whimsy to your fashion statement. This year, holiday ensembles are being accented with snowflake pendant and earring sets.

Brooches: The story this season is animal jewelry. Brooches have come back with a bang, and are epitomized by teddy bears, kitties, poodles, and butterflies. Other whimsical implementations, such as angels, ladybugs, and cherries, are also setting trends.

Watches: Long gone are the days when a woman had a single watch. Today, watches are viewed first as a fashion accessory first, and second as a timepiece. Cuff watches are setting the tone, but beyond that, you're only limited by your imagination. Look for crocodile cuff watches, round or square wood cuff watches, and shell cuff watches.

Jewelry as Gifts

There's little doubt that jewelry is always appropriate as a gift. For example, teacher gifts could include a gold teacher brooch depicting a coffee mug with pencils, a school-themed slide magnetic bracelet, or a teacher's prayer stretch bracelet. Similarly, a set of two fleur-de-lis bracelets would make wonderful gifts for a mother and daughter.

For those on your gift list who are spiritual or religious, fashion jewelry can tastefully reflect their deeply held beliefs. A multi-strand necklace with a cross would be a perfect gift, as would a cross-shaped charm and earring set.

Finding Bargain Prices

As anyone who has shopped for fashion jewelry and other accessories knows, keeping up with trends can be expensive. That's why savvy shoppers go online to buy fashion jewelry. Because e-tailers don't have the same overhead expenses as brick-and-mortar retailers, they can happily pass those savings on to you.

When you shop online for jewelry, make sure to select a company that has a commitment to both setting and reflecting fashion jewelry trends. The company should also offer a distinctive collection of rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, while offering value prices.

This winter, don't settle for drab. Let your wardrobe sparkle with fabulous fashion jewelry!

Ruby Jewelry Proves To Be A ‘precious’ Find For July Babies

The ruby, which symbolizes contentment, is a precious gemstone that also serves as the birthstone for the month of July. By definition, a ruby is a precious gem that consists of corundum in color varieties varying from deep crimson to purple to pale rose. When it comes to gemstones, there are both semi-precious and precious. As one might imagine, the list of precious gemstones is a small one and consists only of ruby, sapphire, emerald and diamond. Because the ruby is one of the more rare gems in existence, it is also one of the more expensive. For this reason, many jewelry lovers turn toward the synthetic ruby in order to enjoy the look without spending a fortune.

When it comes to gemstone jewelry, clarity is important. Rubies, like all gems, tend to have inclusions. Genuine rubies are highly prized, especially when they are found to be clear and in the deeper shades of red. Synthetic rubies are one alternative that allows women to enjoy the look of a flawless ruby. Since having first been developed in 1837, the process of creating synthetic rubies has improved greatly and has allowed for a recreation that features both the physical and chemical properties of a genuine ruby.

At Almost Diamonds, a popular online retailer specializing in sterling silver jewelry, buyers are sure to find a dazzling selection of styles at prices that are sure to outshine the competition. From earrings and necklaces to bracelets and rings, Almost Diamonds has a variety of choices that feature both clear and colored cubic zirconia designs, along with genuine gemstones. Because the jewelry is available in sterling silver, which is a precious metal, you will be wearing something that can last a lifetime.

So, you weren’t born in July and you still like the look of ruby jewelry? Jewelry lovers around the world enjoy adding as much color to their collection as possible, so don’t hesitate to purchase your favorite design and wear it proudly. Ruby jewelry, either genuine or synthetic, will make a wonderful gift for yourself or someone that you love.

Speaking of love, many weddings are held in the month of February in honor of Valentine’s Day. This means that, because the traditional valentine colors are red and white, a piece of ruby jewelry would make a wonderful bridesmaid’s gift, but would also be an ideal gift for someone that you love in celebration of the February 14th holiday. Because this is also a popular day for engagements, a ruby solitaire would also make for a unique ring to present to the bride-to-be. In fact, many couples are choosing alternate gemstones in their engagement ring.

In conclusion, the ruby is a highly-respected gemstone that has earned the honor of being named as one of the few ‘precious’ gems in existence. If you happen to be born in the month of July, wear your ruby jewelry with pride in knowing that you are also ‘precious.’ Afterall, isn’t that how our jewelry is supposed to make us feel? When you wear something as spectacular as a ruby, you will shine just as brightly as your jewelry.

7 Ways To Maximize Your Jewelry Collection Without Spending A Fortune

Resize your favorite ring(s). Did you know that both sterling silver and gold rings are sizable? In most cases, either can be sized up or down by two sizes. The biggest deciding factor is the thickness of the ring and whether or not there is enough metal to make the change. In general, sterling silver is more affordable to size than gold.

Bracelets can be versatile. If you own a bracelet with a large enough clasp, you can use one of your pendants to convert it into a charm bracelet. To make it work, simply hook the clasp into the bail of your pendant. This works particularly well with coin pendants, which gives you the look of a very rich jewelry design.

Necklaces have many uses. You can take a 20" necklace, wrap it twice around your ankle and have the look of a 10" double anklet. If you wear a 9" anklet, you can do the same with an 18" necklace. If you have a longer necklace, you may be able to use it as a delicate belt to adorn your favorite little black dress.

Use your bracelet as an extender. If you have a matching necklace and bracelet set, you can add instant length to your necklace by attaching the matching bracelet to the clasp. For instance, an 18" chain can instantly become a 25" necklace if you attach a 7" bracelet. This would allow you to wear the necklace over a turtleneck sweater in the fall and winter or drape it over your favorite tank-top in the summer.

Make the most of your charms. If you have matching charms, consider adding them to your hoop earrings for an instant dangle. This is a fun look that allows you to spruce up some simple hoops without spending a fortune.

Turn your pin into a pendant. If you love the look of a pin and would enjoy having the same design in a necklace, simply slide your favorite chain underneath the closed pin-back and you have an instant pendant. Be sure to take note of the weight of the pin and consider whether or not your necklace is strong enough to support it properly.

Create your own watch. If you have a bracelet that you absolutely love, why not consider turning it into a watch? Take your bracelet to a jeweler and simply ask him/her to remove a few links and add a watch face in their place. This should be a fairly simple process for a knowledgeable jeweler, and it can save you a bundle. Watches, both silver and gold, are expensive and it can be difficult to find a design that you love. But with you acting as the designer, anything is possible.

Almost Diamonds, a popular online retailer specializing in sterling silver jewelry, has a complete line of items featuring cubic zirconia and genuine gemstones in a variety of styles to choose from. If you are looking to maximize your jewelry collection without minimizing your wallet, consider the affordable option of sterling silver. Not only is this a precious metal that’s designed to last forever, but it also is an economical way to get the look of platinum or white gold without spending a fortune.

Peridot Jewelry Remains Popular Choice For August Babies

The peridot, which symbolizes marital happiness, is a gemstone that also serves as the birthstone for the month of August. By definition, a peridot is a semi-precious gem that is available in shades of green, particularly a light green hue which is reminiscent of a spring lawn as the sun gazes down upon it. To many, the color of green has a specific meaning but for those who were born in the late summer, it’s the gemstone that honors their birth month.

When it comes to gemstone jewelry, clarity is important. Because most peridot is not known to have inclusions in the same way as some of the other gemstones, it takes on a perfect blend of color and clarity for a look that’s sure to please. Synthetic peridot is one alternative that allows women to enjoy the look of a flawless gemstone without the price tag, but the genuine gem itself is surprisingly affordable. This means that you can still obtain a genuine peridot for a terrific price, but a synthetic gem will cost you even less.

So, you weren’t born in August and you still appreciate the brilliance of a peridot? Jewelry lovers around the world thrive on adding color to their wardrobe, which is exactly what you will be doing by incorporating this cheery gemstone into your collection. Peridot jewelry, either genuine or synthetic, will make a wonderful gift for yourself or someone that you love. Speaking of those that you love, wearing the birthstone of your son or daughter is a terrific way of showing them how much you care. Perhaps you are a new mother whose child was born in August, or you are a Grandmother who is proud to wear the birthstone of her grandchild. Whatever the case, there’s always a reason to wear peridot jewelry, including nothing more than your love of it’s color.

When it comes to versatility, the jewelry of today has it all. Whether you are looking for a bold pendant to accessorize your favorite formal wear or you just want to add some sparkle to your everyday casual style, the choice is yours. At Almost Diamonds, a popular online retailer specializing in sterling silver jewelry, you can find simulated peridot in a choice of stunning designs. Among them, a dragonfly pendant with simulated peridot body, a breathtakingly beautiful pear-cut simulated peridot pendant surrounded by white cubic zirconia, a simulated peridot cross, etc. If you want to complete the look with matching earrings, Almost Diamonds offers both dangle and stud style choices.

Almost Diamonds has a complete line of items featuring cubic zirconia and genuine gemstones in a variety of styles to choose from. If you are looking to maximize your jewelry collection without minimizing your wallet, consider the affordable option of sterling silver. Not only is this a precious metal that’s designed to last forever, but it also is an economical way to get the look of platinum or white gold without spending a fortune. When matched with peridot, either genuine or simulated, sterling silver is something to behold.

Black & White CZ Jewelry Combines Classic Contrast With Modern Style

For some time now, one of the hottest trends in jewelry has been that of the black and white diamond combination. From rings to earrings and pendants to bracelets, this classic color combo has quickly become a popular fashion statement in fine jewelry. For those who know jewelry prices, choosing these designs can often mean letting go of some serious cash. However, for the woman who enjoys keeping up with current trends without spending a fortune, cubic zirconia designs may be the way to go.

So, just what makes the black and white diamond combination such a popular trend in jewelry? It’s simple. The black and white color combo has long been a classic in apparel, which makes it only natural that this trend would translate over into the world of high-end jewelry design. The beauty of diamonds, however, is the fact that they can be worn as both formal and casual accessories. You may also be glad to know that the same is true with cubic zirconia designs. Whether you are pairing your jewelry with a formal dress, a business suit or your favorite white t-shirt and jeans, you will look stunning. If you really want to shine, consider placing a simulated diamond pin into your hairstyle by attaching it to a band and situating it in such a way that it looks like a hair accessory.

One of the greatest benefits of cubic zirconia jewelry is that you can wear it every day and not have to worry about it in the same way as you would a genuine diamond accessory. For instance, if you purchase a sterling silver ring featuring black and white cubic zirconia, you are getting the look of a diamond ring without spending a large amount of money. If you were to remove this ring to wash your hands and accidentally leave it behind in a public restroom, you wouldn’t be nearly as upset as if it were a genuine diamond ring that you had just left behind. Sure, you love the ring and you will miss it. But, can you replace it easier than the same design in genuine diamonds? Probably so, and the reason is because cubic zirconia jewelry is much more affordable.

Just like genuine diamonds, cubic zirconia designs are available in both sterling silver and gold. Many who enjoy the black and white gemstone color combination prefer a white metal, such as sterling silver, because of how it appears when paired with this trendy duo. Sterling silver, itself, is a reflective metal that imitates white gold and/or platinum. When paired with black and white simulated diamonds, the look becomes the perfect marriage of ‘classic meets modern’ in this trendy design.

Almost Diamonds, a popular online retailer specializing in sterling silver jewelry, has a complete line of items featuring cubic zirconia and genuine gemstones in a variety of styles to choose from. If you are looking to maximize your jewelry collection without minimizing your wallet, consider the affordable option of sterling silver. Not only is this a precious metal that’s designed to last forever, but it also is an economical way to get the look of diamonds in platinum or white gold without spending a fortune.

Jewelry Basics: Getting The Best Fit Possible

When you shop for jewelry, it’s important to look for more than just the latest trend or the piece with the smallest price tag. While both style and price are important, it’s also essential that you choose the best fit for your body. This article is designed to show you how.

Determining Your Ring Size

If you don’t already know your ring size, don’t fret. The process is simple and, best of all, it will only take a few moments of your time. Your first step is to cut a strip of paper that’s approximately 5" in length and 1" in width. Next, take the strip of paper and wrap it around the finger that you want to size. Using a pen, mark the point on the paper where the ends meet. Next, take a ruler and measure the distance from the edge of the paper to your pen mark and compare it to the list below:

* If your finger measures 1-7/8" in circumference, you should wear a size 4
* If your finger measures 2" in circumference, you should wear a size 5
* If your finger measures 2-1/8" in circumference, you should wear a size 6
* If your finger measures 2-1/4" in circumference, you should wear a size 7
* If your finger measures 2-3/8" in circumference, you should wear a size 8
* If your finger measures 2-1/2" in circumference, you should wear a size 9

As a general rule, each 1/8" in circumference translates into one full ring size. Using this simple method, you can easily discover the size for any finger on your hand.

Choosing The Perfect Clasp

There are many different types of clasps, including lobster claw, spring ring, toggle, slide insert safety, magnetic, etc. Whether you are choosing a necklace, bracelet or even an anklet, it’s important to know which clasp will work best for you.

A spring ring clasp is the smallest of all clasps and is typically reserved for fine link chains. This type of clasp is not recommended for heavier weight jewelry, unless it is an oversized spring ring that’s capable of supporting the chain’s weight.

A lobster claw clasp is one of the more popular clasps for use on jewelry of substance. It’s fairly easy to open and is a stronger variation of the spring ring clasp. A lobster claw clasp may cost a little more than a spring ring clasp, but you will have the benefit of added peace of mind for your heavier jewelry.

A magnetic clasp is just as it sounds - a clasp that attaches with the help of a magnet. This is one of the easiest and most popular designs in jewelry today. It’s simple, effortless design is ideal for anyone whose in a hurry and doesn’t have time to fuss with a clasp, or for anyone who has trouble with traditional clasps. Even if your jewelry doesn’t already have a magnetic clasp, many manufacturers offer extenders that attach to either a spring ring or lobster claw in order to convert your otherwise traditional clasp into a magnetic clasp.

Necklace Knowhow

When shopping for a necklace, it’s important to choose the right length for your intended wear. For instance, a shorter 16" of 17" necklace is ideal for a blouse or dress with a lower neckline. This allows for your jewelry to be showcased without getting tangled up in your outfit. If you are wearing a turtleneck, an 18" to 24" necklace will be perfect for showcasing your favorite pendants without getting lost in the fold of your sweater.

If you find yourself in a situation where you simply don’t have the right length for your outfit, consider purchasing an extender to add some length to your necklace. If what you need, on the other hand, is a shorter length, it may be possible depending on your style of necklace. A rolo chain, for instance, can easily be shortened by simply fastening the clasp into one of the links to make the necklace shorter.

Almost Diamonds, a popular online retailer specializing in sterling silver jewelry, has a complete line of items featuring cubic zirconia and genuine gemstones in a variety of styles to choose from. If you are looking to maximize your jewelry collection without minimizing your wallet, consider the affordable option of sterling silver. Not only is this a precious metal that’s designed to last forever, but it also is an economical way to get the look of platinum or white gold without spending a fortune.