The Debut Amelia Scott Collection

The inaugural Amelia Scott collection is a celebration of vintage aesthetics, bold colour, and eye-catching sparkle. The range showcases an attractive colour palette of greens, pinks, purples, yellows, and oranges.

With pricing beginning at £69 for jewellery and extending up to £159 for more complex, ornate pieces, the collection offers affordability alongside luxury. Most of the pieces are crafted from 925 recycled sterling silver and adorned with colourful cubic zirconia.

Alongside the jewellery, the brand will also introduce a series of statement scrunchies which can be combined with the jewellery for a coordinated look. The scrunchies are designed in London, handmade in the UK, presented in a bespoke branded box and available from just £20.

The brand emphasises the versatility and collectability of the collection, with a guide provided to help customers coordinate their pieces.

The Designer Behind the Brand

Hebden previously held the position of Head of Creative for a well-known jewellery and watch brand. Her designs were included in the collections of notable department stores, such as Selfridges and Harvey Nichols. In 2020, she was recognised with a Retail Jewellers 30 Under 30 Rising Star Award and has received multiple Watch Pro Awards over her career.

With a decade of experience in the industry, Hebden has now turned her focus to creating a brand that is reflective of her personal style, emphasising colour and originality.

A Brand Built on Colour and Individuality

Reflecting on her motivation for launching the brand, Hebden shared, “I started to find my most ‘colourful self’ during and after lockdown – wearing colour really does improve my mood and I wanted to share the joy of colours with others.”

Amelia Scott’s mission is to encourage customers to celebrate their uniqueness and embrace colour. The official launch of the brand is scheduled for the end of June 2023.

According to the National Association of Jewellers, the stats are encouraging for both apprentices and for businesses thinking about offering an apprenticeship.

Of the apprentices that finished an apprenticeship, 90% went on to secure a job or went on to further learning. 88% were in sustained employment and 2% went on to continue their education.

Out of the employers surveyed, 83% would recommend apprenticeships to other businesses.

If you’re a business that wants to offer an apprenticeship, click here to learn more about what’s involved and the support available to you.

What’s involved in a jewellery apprenticeship?

There are many different apprenticeships available, from the equivalent of GCSE to the equivalent of a Master’s degree. Most take 13- 36 months to complete. The type of apprenticeship and level of education achieved will affect the length of your training.

You can start an apprenticeship at any level. Depending on what level you start at, you might need prior experience e.g. GSCE English or Maths.

As part of the apprenticeship, 20% of your time (one day a week if you are doing a full-time apprenticeship) will be taken up with apprenticeship-related study or training. This can be done at a college, university, training provider or can be provided by the business. This involves things like mentoring by your manager, work-based projects, industry webinars, research and assignments

This study will prepare you for the End Point Assessment (EPA), which you must do in order to complete the apprenticeship. This can involve things like a workplace observation, an online test and producing a portfolio of work.

You can read more about apprenticeships on the government’s apprentice website.

‘Jewellery, Silversmith and Allied Trades Professional’

The official name of the jewellery apprenticeship scheme in the UK, as defined by the Institute for Apprenticeships & Technical Education is ‘Jewellery, Silversmith and Allied Trades Professional’.

This reflects the range of functions and skills that make up the jewellery manufacturing in the UK, including:

• Lapidary – selecting, cutting and polishing precious and semi-precious stones
• Casting – forming moulds and working with molten precious metals to form shapes
• Stone setting – selecting and fixing stones into a form and ensuring they are secure
• Mounting – creating parts of jewellery to which precious stones are fitted
• Engraving – using tools to create patterns, including text, images and intricate patterns
• Enamelling – working with enamel to create coloured patterns, images and finishes
• Polishing and finishing – applying different processes and materials to produce a polish and shine to an item or highlight a special finish
• CAD/CAM – working with designers to produce model forms for manufacturing

What would you actually be doing as an apprentice?

The core focus of a jewellery apprenticeship is to give you experience of using hand and powered tools and equipment effectively and safely, helping you understand how to work with designs and specifications and giving you experience of how to work with different materials.

Typical day-to-day duties may include:

• Obtain and understand the requirements of a design
• Working with CAD designs
• Operation of equipment to produce items using CAM machinery
• The cutting of metals to given shapes and designs
• Working with hand tools and machinery to derive a range of different finishes and patterns
• Production of items in wax for casting
• Casting items in precious metals
• Working with enamels to achieve required finishes
• Selecting and setting precious stones
• Polishing and finishing items
• Examine finished jewellery and/or silverware products for quality;
• Repair and/or rework jewellery and/or silverware items

Who is eligible?

To be eligible for an apprenticeship, you must be 16 or over and not already be in full- time education. However apprenticeships aren’t just for school leavers or people starting their career, you might be looking to change careers or upskilling in your current job.

How much does an apprentice earn?

For the first year of your apprenticeship, you’ll be paid the apprentice minimum wage. Once you’ve completed your first year, your pay goes up to the minimum wage for your age group:

You’ll also get holiday pay, bank holidays and sick leave. You can find more information about apprenticeship pay and rewards here.

How do you find an apprenticeship?

There are lots of organisations that offer apprenticeships.

• British Academy of Jewellery offers apprenticeships in London or Birmingham
• The Goldsmiths Company offers 3-5 year apprenticeships within the workshop of a goldsmithing business
• The Government’s official apprenticeship website offers a list of currently available apprenticeships
• Indeed lists currently available jewellery apprenticeship opportunities

What If I want to offer an apprenticeship?

If you’re a business that wants to offer an apprenticeship, there are a few things you’ll need to know.

Requirements

Your apprentice must be over 16 years old, they must be paid the minimum wage and at least 20% of their time with you will be devoted to training or study, however this can be related to your business.

Government funding for jewellery apprenticeships

There is government funding available to help with the cost of training an apprentice.

For example, you may be able to get £1,000 to support your apprentice in the workplace this can be put towards training or for other costs.

Your apprentice will just need to be either:

• 16 to 18 years old
• 19 to 25 years old with an education, health and care plan
• 19 to 25 years old and they used to be in care

You can view all the options for apprenticeship funding here.

If you want to hire an apprentice, but don’t know where to start, here is a good guide on how to write a job ad.

Once you’ve found the apprentice you want to hire, an apprentice agreement must be set up.

If you don’t want to train the apprentice yourself, there are training agencies that can undertake it for you.

For more information on all aspects of apprenticeship, whether you’re looking to become one or hire one, visit apprenticeships.gov.uk.

• Length and width of finger.
• Hand type and shape.
• Skin hue and tone.

With these factors taken into consideration, it could give you a better idea of what ring and diamond shape will suit the person in mind.

How to use:

• If you click on the big circle to the left, it will open a sidebar menu. Here you can change skin tone and diamond measurement.
• Click on the diamond shape to the right of the diamond app to select the different type of diamond. Once selected it will change the diamond shape on the hand.
• You can easily change the diamond size by selecting the diamond with your cursor or finger if your using a handheld device. This will change the diamond on the hand.
• You can zoom in and out of the hand by using the + and – signs on the bottom left of the app.

How diamond carat weight relates to size

Diamonds are measured in Carats which is actually a unit of its mass rather than it’s physical size.

This does mean though the larger the diamond the larger the carat weight.

If you are keen to have a larger looking diamond for your spend then the Round Brilliant cut will look larger at 1ct than a comparative Princess Cut stone due to its shape.

Founded in 1972 by Keith and Jenny Bollard, the couple originally moved from the North of England to pursue a shared career ambition. 

Jenny Bollard: “My husband has always worked in jewellery, managing shops for various wholesalers, independents, and H. Samuel in its early stages. He always loved the emotive side of the industry, creating something which people can treasure for many years – and he recognised that personalisation was key to making a product truly special.  

“Keith’s devotion to the industry was contagious and before I knew it, I was fully immersed myself. I had also seen first-hand the value of bespoke retail experiences, having worked as a freelancer in various customer service roles in the past. With Keith’s years of experience and our combined interests, we decided to launch our own independent jewellery business within a bustling Hampshire market town. We wanted somewhere with a strong community, where we knew we could build a positive reputation and create customers for life.”  

Over the years, Charles Nobel has expanded its customer base beyond Hampshire – with clients now travelling from as far as Cheshire to visit the shop. Jenny puts much of the success of their company down their highly personalised service, as well as building a reputation within the local community:

“Word of mouth has been a powerful tool for us, with many of our customers recommending our services to their friends and family.” 

Keith and Jenny’s son Piers is now Director of the business and is set to carry Charles Nobel forwards, while preserving its rich heritage and values: “Mass produced jewellery simply doesn’t have the same impact as something which has been carefully crafted with bespoke needs in mind. I never tire of seeing how much people appreciate our work on an emotional level. It is heart-warming to know that over five decades, we have given so many people a product they will cherish for a lifetime“.

Looking to the future, Charles Nobel is focusing on enhancing its range of diamond jewellery – an area in which the business has built a strong reputation over the past 50 years.  

Piers continued: “We want to focus on our best performing areas to secure the future of the business. We have chosen to refine our offering and focus on what we do best – and what we know our customers want. I’m proud of the business my parents have developed and its positive impact on the local community. I’m looking forward to building and growing the success of Charles Nobel over the coming years, while staying true to our values and continuing to provide bespoke services known and loved by our customers.” 

Shopping for jewellery may not appear arduous with myriad stores in Melbourne, instead, you might just feel spoilt for choice. But wait, if you thought that just heading to a jewellery store can get you that perfect piece of necklace or ring you have been waiting to adorn this wedding season, there could be more than just walking into a store and picking what catches your attention.

While you may easily find a store to cater to your taste and preference, there are a few basic things that you may need to consider before buying jewellery. At some of the top jewellery stores Melbourne, you can shop for your favourite ornament without worrying about the quality and make of the product. Here are some factors you must consider before buying any precious jewellery.

The source

It may not naturally occur to you but knowing the source of your precious ornaments is indispensable.

The first step would be to identify your need. There are different kinds of jewellery available in the market. From silver, white gold, yellow gold, semi-precious and precious stone-studded pieces, diamonds to platinum and a variety of other metals and more, the choice is
endless.

Once you are sure of the ornament variety you want, you can easily shortlist a few stores that can provide you with the kind of jewellery you are looking for.

The regulations for each metal or stone are different. Hence, they may come with specific certifications to verify its quality. For instance, if you plan to purchase a diamond necklace, you would have to look for certain features such as its size, carat, cut, clarity, colour etc.

When buying other gemstones like emerald or ruby, you might find that the requirement and its features vary thus demanding other kinds of validations. Also, pure white gold or platinum ornaments will emphasize their weight and carat more than anything else. Find out more on
how to assess the quality of gemstones at https://www.wikihow.com/Assess-the-Quality-of- Gemstone-Jewelry.

If you are buying from shops in Melbourne, your diamond bijouterie should be certified by the following bodies such as DCLA, GSL, HRD, GIA, AGS or any other authorized bodies.  Note that any certificate from your retailer endorsing the quality of the diamond you purchase won’t be accepted universally. This means neither would you be able to know if the piece is real or fake. Moreover, it won’t bring you any resale value.

Some retailers may issue their in-house credentials and grading reports; be wary of those as these independent documents are likely to be biased and may not be regarded as authentic elsewhere.

The designer

All the stunning intricate work that you see on your jewellery has been designed by someone or an agency. While some retailers may have their in-house designers, others maybe just selling a brand.

It is always better to source a local maker who brands and sells self-crafted jewellery. This will enable you to order for customized pieces and also view the product at various stages of its making.

Top stores with local craftsmen will be able to make changes then and there. Most experienced jewellers are open to ideas shared by their customers and can tailor-make every piece on demand. Most reputable jewellers will have all their products hallmarked as necessary offering unique designs from their exclusive range.

Customer services

Your fine jewellery may need some maintenance. For instance, polishing and planting are a couple of services that your jewellery might need at once at least once a year. Buying from a jeweller with prompt customer service that’s reachable anytime is worth the investment. Is your jeweller approachable? Are the staff amicable? Now, why do we need to know that? Let’s say you want to gift your beloved a special ring as a gift for her birthday. What would you do if the size doesn’t fit? A jeweller that values their customer would readily help you out.

Even if they can’t arrange for the same design immediately on the required size, they will ask you for some time so that they can get it crafted. Alternatively, their staff would not hesitate to show you around to pick and choose from another premium design.

You can trust the top jewellers in your city to provide you with accurate information on market rates, trending designs and guide you appropriately with any advice you seek. You can expect your expert jeweller to share extra tips on choosing the right piece of ornament for specific occasions. If it is your engagement, rings that are created with fine settings make a good choice. That’s because of the features of such pieces that attribute to its density and firm wearing quality.

Warranty

While you purchase at your choicest jewellery stores in town, you must ensure if they offer you a warranty on their knick-knacks. It is possible that small stones and even diamonds become loose with everyday wear and fall off. Although rare, what if you experience such a thing? Would your retailer replace it?

Click here for tips on buying a diamond ring.

You can enquire for such queries at the sales service desk. Reliable jewellers don’t shy away from offering complimentary services. Be it resizing of your ring, annual checking, cleaning or polishing, with reputable jewellers you won’t have to run around for such services.

Experience

Just like any other trade, experience counts. Jewellers who’ve been in the business for years are likely to have more knowledge about the market, the competition, customer preferences, etc. Moreover, they wouldn’t compromise on the quality at any cost.

Most licensed jewellers are equipped with specific apparatus that can measure the weight, detect the clarity etc. of the jewellery they sell. Trustworthy retailers will insist you to check the specifications of your ornament pieces before your pay for them.

Finding a state-of-the-art jewellery store may not be a challenge in Melbourne, but if you are scouting for a wide variety to select from, you can opt for a store that features a rich catalogue comprising traditional and modern jewellery designs.

For more articles on Jewellery and Diamonds visit: https://www.jewellerymonthly.com/category/jewellery-diamonds-and-gemstones/

Father-daughter combination Jon and Annabelle have been working together for the last 3 years. Jon has been in the trade for over 30 years, importing jewellery from all over the world. He started working with Israeli designers, maintaining a close relationship and an extensive range ever since. Annabelle joined the business after a number of years working in retail management for companies such as Uniqlo and Ted Baker. This is the first time LBJ’s customers will be able to view the whole collection without the pleasure of a visit to the shop. LBJ Jewellery supply many independent shops in the UK including galleries, traditional jewellery shops and gift shops. 

“We realise how important this is for our business moving forward, and believe it is going to be a complement to the way we already work. We want to support our customers as much as possible during this difficult time, and as such all of the content from the website – from imagery to descriptions – is available to share.” Annabelle

The website was brought to life by a local agency called Lionsorbet, who specialises in jewellery websites. The beautiful collection images were shot by photographer, Jade Alana. 

LBJ is offering all customers 10% off their first purchase until the 31st December 2020. No minimum order. Use code LBJLIVE

For more Jewellery News visit: https://www.jewellerymonthly.com/category/retail-jewellery-news/

With the amount of planning that goes into the actual proposal, you wouldn’t want to end up with a dissatisfied partner when it comes to your engagement ring choice; especially if you are buying a ring online. For those who have to do their engagement ring shopping online, there are a few do’s and don’ts. Stick around for a complete guide on how you should and shouldn’t shop for an engagement ring on the internet. 

Why Should I Buy A Ring Online? 

There are many reasons why you should consider online shopping to actual in-shop shopping. Here is our list of reasons: 

• It will be much cheaper. National jewellery chain stores add massive markups on their diamonds and wedding bands. You can get the same kind of designs for almost 50% cheaper when you buy from a website
• Your choice variation is much bigger. Especially if you live in a small town or remote location, shopping through a website will give you much more choices
• The online process won’t make you feel pressured into buying something. You can take your time in choosing and researching what you truly want. Compared to hard sales customer service staff at a jewellery chain
• Shipping and the precious diamonds are insured by the vendor. Giving you peace of mind when waiting on the other side for your special package to arrive

The Do’s when buying a diamond ring online

In order for you to choose the right jewellery piece for your beloved, follow these absolute do’s:

Find a Trusted Vendor

When looking for the best place to buy an engagement ring on the internet, it’s important that you consider the supplier’s reputation and credibility. If there’s no track record of the online supplier to be found, chances are they aren’t credible. 

Trusted online suppliers will know that their reputation is at stake when they deliver bad service or products. Therefore, they put a lot of effort into client satisfaction and customer care. 

Credible online suppliers will have loads of online reviews from previous clients singing them praises. Nowadays, people don’t shy away from leaving good or bad online reviews. If there is one 5-star review amongst a sea of bad ones, then you should probably reconsider your choice. 

Insurance

For deliveries that are either shipped across borders or states, you should definitely receive some sort of insurance. Reputable online jewellers use trusted shipping companies to transport their precious stones and jewellery In the unfortunate event that your package gets lost or stolen, you shouldn’t be liable for any loss. 

Make sure that the company has excellent insurance that covers any loss or theft. The seller should provide you with a tracking number and an insurance policy upon payment. Receiving the package should require the show of identification and a signature. 

There are many online diamond and jewellery stores that have reported that they’ve never lost a valuable piece in the mail – stick with those companies.

See the Paperwork First

Online scammers are pros at faking photos of exquisite stones. Before purchasing the stone, you should request a gemologist’s certificate. You can double-check the certification which will ensure the stone’s origin and value. 

Furthermore, once you received the stone (and still have some trust issues), you can take it to an unaffiliated jeweller for an appraisal.

Return Policy

When buying online, you can never be too sure about the fit and style. Sure, reputable websites will feature splitting images and photos of their products, but you never know whether it’s the right one until you actually hold it in your hands. 

Make sure that the store has a no-questions-asked return policy. When you aren’t happy with the product or size, you shouldn’t be charged for return shipping. Exchanging the ring shouldn’t be an issue either. 

Following the above do’s will also ensure that you don’t fall in an online scamming trap.

The ‘Don’ts’ when buying an engagement ring online

Avoid losing money, being scammed, and disappointed by following these don’ts:

Don’t Be Rushed

When you are making an expensive purchase online, you shouldn’t rush yourself. Take your time in considering different vendors, different ring types, and different styles. Taking your time will give you the opportunity to do some background research on the vendors. As well as ensure that the ring option is best suited for your future fiancé. 

Remember that you are buying a ring for them and the diamond cut, color, and setting should suit their personal style. Read this article to learn more about choosing the perfect diamond for your future fiancé. 

Don’t Spend Too Little

This might seem like a strange thing not to do since it’s evident you want to save a few bucks with every purchase. Sure, online rings are more affordable than the ones you’ll be buying at a chain store. But spending an amount on a ring that is classified as ‘too good to be true’ – probably is. 

Have a decent budget in mind and find a reputable vendor that will be able to give you a product that fits within the budget. When you pay a ridiculously low amount for a diamond that’s listed on other sites for 4 times as much, chances are the stone is a fake.

Don’t Miss the Red Flags

Be wary of online scammers by watching out for red flags. The following situations should raise caution:

• The vendor phones from continuous different numbers, at any time of the day
• The vendor is pushy when it comes to making a sale and receiving payment
• The vendor doesn’t have an active online presence
• The vendor doesn’t have any good reviews and you’ve ever seen the words ‘scammer’ written down next to their name

As long as you practice caution, you’ll be guaranteed a gorgeous engagement ring that is delivered through the mail. 

View more articles online at https://www.jewellerymonthly.com/category/weddings-and-bridal/

The upcoming Gelior platform is built on this idea: to provide a common ground for all industry players and allow them to transact and fulfill orders online.

As bigger sales platforms (Amazon, eBay, etc.) already offer the possibility for jewelers to sell online, you might ask: how is the Gelior Marketplace any different?

Gelior is different, because it focuses not only on Business to Customer (B2C) transactions, but offers a space for Business to Business (B2B) transactions as well. As a manufacturer, you can find retailers to work with, while as a retailer you can find diamond dealers, wholesalers or manufacturers – from all over the world.

Are you an independent designer who is looking for a manufacturer to create what you have dreamed up? You will find the most reputable manufacturers to choose from on the Gelior platform.

Are you looking to reach multiple online sales platforms without having to manage each one separately? It’s enough to upload your styles to Gelior and the rest will be automated – no multiple data entry is necessary.

Reputation, trust and ethical sourcing

Our goal is to provide maximum transparency to our members so everyone can do business in an equitable way. Our platform filters out unethical players and ensures independent quality control on how smart contracts between parties are fulfilled.

Gelior ensures reliable tracking of goods from source to destination and creates a trusted environment via feedback loops. Basically, it is a self-policing environment where good behavior is rewarded and bad behavior is punished.

Multi-channel sales connection

Discover new sales opportunities and maximize your revenue stream – all with minimum effort. Gelior includes a multichannel listing management, allowing you to easily replicate listings on e-commerce channels like Amazon, eBay, Etsy, Shopify and more. The first tool of this kind for the jewelry industry.

Furthermore, Gelior enables the quick and efficient setup of web shops, and allows you to link to production ERPs or inventory systems via the Gelior API. By automating the dataflow between transacting parties along the entire length of the supply chain, it contributes to transparency and ease of use.

Connection to suppliers and service providers

Jewelry equipment suppliers, casting & 3D printing companies are equally important players of this industry. Their presence on the platform allows you to find tools and equipment quickly, and to place with a click of a button. Or you can find local or global service providers with whom you can work on single jobs or build a long term partnership.

Gelior Online Conference on November 5 th, 2020

As we had to give up our plan of introducing Gelior to the public on tradeshows this year, we decided to hold an online event to present our platform to jewelers across the world. We invite you to join us on November 5th, 2020, between 2 pm – 3:30 pm (EST) for an online introduction to the Gelior Marketplace. A maximum of 100 participants will be able to join the presentation. At the end everybody will receive a chance to try out the platform with a free plan.

Main topics and the registration form are available here.

Quality Over Quantity

There are many brands of watches out there, and a large majority of them rely on mass-produced, factory-assembled models. However, Rolex prides themselves on symbolising the best of the best in Swiss watchmaking. Rolex watches are given the finest of human attention, supplemented by some of the most sophisticated watchmaking tools in the world, in order to bring the most desirable luxury timepieces to the market. This attention to their craft has ensured that they have kept their reputation and desirability for over a century, putting them at the very forefront of their craft.

By symbolising the very best of Swiss watchmaking with their attention to detail, they have managed to remain popular over a century after the company was first started. You can check out some of their best watches on Chronext, a company that provides a platform to showcase the very best of Swiss watchmaking and Rolex timepieces in particular, with a wide gamut of models for all tastes and budgets.

Marketing in Spades

Whilst Rolex largely operates under the principle of ‘you already know who we are’, they also operate a very clever marketing operation. If you switch on any day-time sporting event, whether it’s golf, Formula One, or tennis, chances are that you will see the ubiquitous golden crown plastered all over the place. This ultimately leads you to connect these very prestigious sporting events to Rolex, and therefore to associate the brand with prestige on a deeper unconscious level. This subtle yet very effective marketing strategy allows Rolex to effortlessly market their brand on a global scale, ensuring demand is always high.

Style

Whilst certain other watch brands only fit certain occasions – for example, formal outings – Rolex timepieces tend to look good with most outfits. Versatility is the operative word for Rolex, and this shows in their designs and their everlasting popularity. Going from the beach to a fancy dinner all in the same watch is entirely doable and very much fashionable (although there is nothing wrong with having a few at your disposal, either). This versatility has set Rolex apart from other brands and has ensured their long-lasting demand – who wouldn’t want a watch to rule them all?

This also adds value to their watches and shows Rolex timepieces as not only fashion accessories but also investments – they’re so popular and in such high demand that their value goes up year after year. For example, a Rolex Daytona was once originally bought for £75,000 and sold a year later for close to £250,000, – over three times the original value.

In conclusion, the enduring demand for Rolex watches has persisted over the years for a multitude of reasons, including their emphasis of quality over quantity, their clever marketing tactics, as well as being aesthetically pleasing and retaining (and even gaining) monetary value over the years.

Read more about watches: https://www.jewellerymonthly.com/category/watches-wristwear/

Why Buy Second Hand Jewellery

One of the biggest benefits of buying pre-owned jewellery is sustainability. The process of mining gemstones, diamonds, and other metals could drain natural resources, such as water and fuel. By buying pre-owned jewellery, the demand to produce new ones will be lesser, which is good for the environment.

In addition, most of the jewellery items that are being sold in the second-hand market are of excellent quality. These items were built to last yet they are not as expensive as the brand new items. They also have unique designs and are beautifully crafted.

Check for Authenticity

There are many fake jewellery items out there and they look exactly like the real ones. So, when it comes to buying second-hand jewellery for selling, make sure you check the authenticity. There are many ways to do this. First, check the stamps for hallmarks. These are unique stamps that the jewellery maker would etch into the item to guarantee its authenticity. Another way is to try the magnet test. Remember that real gold and silver is not magnetic. So, if the jewellery sticks to a magnet that means it’s fake. Some of the most expensive jewellery items come with a certificate of origin to prove their authenticity. So, ask for this certificate as proof that what you’re buying is real.

Perfect Wedding Gifts

Jewellery items are great wedding gifts. When you buy these second-hand items, especially vintage pieces, you’re preserving a moment in history. Many vintage jewellery items that are being sold in the second-hand market were crafted using techniques that may no longer be in use today. These jewellery items are steeped in history and tell a story of their own, which adds up to their charm.

Where to Sell

After buying pre-owned jewellery items, the next thing to do is to look for a place to sell your items. The best way to sell pre-owned luxury jewellery items these days is online. There are plenty of online selling platforms where you can sell pre-owned items including jewellery. Choose the platform that offers jewellery appraisals or valuations. They will evaluate the items that you will sell to arrive with a suitable market price or value.

It’s also a good idea to choose a platform that has already built a market audience. Partner with websites, social media, and influencers to help expand your customer reach. Take advantage of the marketing tools that some of the social media sites would offer in order to reach out to your target audience.

Read more at: https://www.jewellerymonthly.com/category/fashion-jewellery/

As high-quality jewellery can last a lifetime, here’s how we ensure that London DE’s bespoke service doesn’t disappoint.

1. Begin Online

Fundamental to the success of a bespoke creation is the relationship between client and consultant, with clear communication and trust at its core. As 80% of jewellery purchases begin online, London DE offers a hybrid service which combines the ease of online shopping with personable interaction. Begin your journey on our website where you can find a selection of bespoke ideas to inspire your creation.

You can also browse through the variety of loose gems and diamonds, available in a selection of colours, which you can choose to be set within your ring. If you can’t find what you’re looking for then you can easily request the cut and carat of the stone you desire and we will source it for you directly from our suppliers.

2. In-Store Consultation

Once you have checked out your basket on Londonde.com, we will invite you into our Hatton Garden-based store for a face-to-face consultation. Our friendly and highly trained consultants will discuss your design with you. Using their expertise, they will help guide your vision in order to make it the best it can possibly be. No idea is too small or too large for us to handle; whether you have just a starting concept or a detailed vision, we can work with you to achieve it. Even after your creation is finished, we will continue to provide an excellent level of aftercare.

Whilst we encourage you to visit the store in person, we understand that this might not be possible for everyone which is why our consultations are individually tailored to fit each client. By utilising a range of communication technology, we can still successfully connect with you. You will even be able to visualise your engagement ring in 3D as we will send you CAD (Computer-Aided Design) models to ensure everything is perfect before we proceed.

3. Selecting the Right Gems

Perhaps even more important than an engagement ring’s design is the jewel chosen to take centre stage. A gemstone with a scintillating sparkle can be a real talking point but a poor-quality jewel will have a negative impact on the ring’s overall appearance. As winners of UK Enterprise Awards’ “Best Diamonds & Emeralds Supplier 2018”, you won’t have to worry about the quality of London DE’s gems.

All our stones have been certified by at least one of the world’s leading gemological laboratories. This includes The GIA (Gemmological Institute of America), SSEF (Swiss Foundation for Gemstone Research) and CDTEC who are at the forefront in the assessment, tradition and authenticity of Colombian gems. These bodies guarantee that the quality and provenance of our gemstones achieve the highest specifications.

With the popularity of coloured stones growing in the last few years, and expected to increase tenfold within the next decade, London DE encourages you to look beyond the white diamond and go for colour instead. Along with specialising in emeralds, we have access to one of the world’s largest inventories of certified diamonds and naturally coloured stones. With over 400,000 to choose from, we will always be able to find what you are looking for.

4. The Two T’s

Each engagement ring holds its own story but that shouldn’t just be limited to the design. With a supply chain founded on transparency and traceability, London DE allows you to trace the story of your gemstone right back to its mining origins.

Our jewellers are experts in the ethical sourcing of gemstones and pride themselves in their understanding of the production process; from the mines all the way to the consumer. We believe that a hands-on approach is best in order to ensure we provide the finest quality gems. We frequently fly out to Colombia, and other leading gemstone regions, to see first-hand the mining and distribution process. From this, we are able to personally check the quality of gemstones and ensure we are buying from ethical distributors, as locally as possible. Our approach contributes to the development of the blockchain which strengthens the traceability and transparency of diamonds through a reduction of how many hands the stones are passed through.

With direct access to distributors, we are able to keep costs down. This guarantees that it is the quality of the gemstone that exceeds the price, rather than another way around. We are so confident that we provide value for money that our diamonds come with a 30-day guarantee; if you can beat our price within a month of your purchase, we will refund the difference.

5. Quality Craftsmanship

Once everything has been chosen and you’re happy with the design then it will go to the final and most exciting stage; the creation process. You can be rest assured that your vision is in the hands of master craftsmen as London DE personally selects only the best workshops in Hatton Garden to make your creation. Each piece is expertly finished by hand providing it with individuality.  Indicative of our authenticity, we have been granted the “Created in the UK” accreditation by The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ). The scheme was specifically designed to provide customers with “absolute confidence” in the provenance of their handmade jewellery. This mark can be stamped next to our ‘LDE’ hallmark, recognised by The Goldsmiths’​ Company London Assay Office.

London DE also has a choice of ready-to-wear jewels that have been created through the same high-quality process as with our bespoke pieces. For more information or to arrange a free consultation, visit www.londonde.com or contact us directly on +44 (0) 2078 594 754 / support@londonde.com.

Read on at: https://www.jewellerymonthly.com/category/jewellery-diamonds-and-gemstones/

A person may have numerous valid reasons for wanting to sell their diamond engagement ring. It may include wanting to upgrade the original engagement ring, a change in their circumstances, or because they need the money.

Regardless of the reason for wanting to sell a diamond ring, you will want to ensure you are getting your money’s worth!

For this to happen, you have to fully understand the various intricacies involved in the buying and selling of diamonds.

How to sell a diamond Ring

1. Start by Establishing What You Have

Realise that just because your fiancé said the diamond ring was precious doesn’t mean it is. This, in itself, doesn’t mean it’s a diamond. Therefore, before you rush off to the market, start by obtaining an accurate picture of its authenticity and quality. Approaching a qualified appraiser, preferably one who doesn’t deal in the buying and selling of diamonds will make for good value determination. 

Such an appraiser will offer an unbiased opinion related to the stone’s condition and characteristics. Some may even go as far as highlighting the stone’s attributes (both positive and negative) which are likely to impact its overall value. If you don’t want to spend money on a professional assessment, a pawnbroker or pro diamond buyer can also offer a legit assessment.

2. Have Realistic Price Expectations

The surest way to get disappointed is for you to set unrealistic expectations as far as pricing is concerned. You can use two approaches when attempting to establish a good selling price:

• If you intend to get a professional appraisal, make sure to inquire about how much your diamond engagement ring is worth not just as a replacement value, but also as a ‘resale value’, which is likely to be lower. Professional appraisers often keep abreast of what’s happening in the market. They will, therefore, provide you with an accurate estimate of what to expect. 
• You could also do all the legwork on your own. Go online and compare the prices from completed jewellery sales, especially for rings with matching characteristics. Doing the same for comparable diamond engagement rings in online and eCommerce stores will also help. Make sure to factor in a discount, as the ring is pre-worn.

3. Research Your Selling Options

Diamond engagement rings are typically confronted with two options: sell it to the public or the jewellery industry. Understand that the process of selecting a buyer shouldn’t be conditioned on the amounts, but rather on how fast the transaction can be completed. It’s also influenced by whether you have the stomach to market and negotiate with potential buyers. 

Selling to someone in the jewellery industry is advantageous in terms of time. Any engagement ring holder interested in selling quickly and with little marketing fuss should approach pawnbrokers, diamond dealers, or jewelers. Remember the most essential thing is for you to select someone trustworthy. 

4. Prepare Yourself for the Sale

Emotional preparedness is the hardest aspect of selling an engagement ring. Diamonds are given out as symbols of love or passion. This makes them the hardest jewellery items to sell or part with. However, you will need to keep your emotions in check, and away from the selling process. In your eyes, its sentimental value may be high, but it won’t have the same effect in the buyer’s mind. 

While parting with an engagement ring may prove emotional, you have to realize the need to move on. If you are ready to sell it, then understand that a diamond engagement ring is nothing but a material item. What matters is your peace and state of mind!

For almost 3 years now, Katerina Leroy has been one of Thomas Jirgens’ testimonial, presenting her fans with breathtaking pieces of jewelry”, reflecting her passion for jewelry. The focus is on jewelry that symbolizes life itself, including the beauty that arises from imperfection – translated into precisely handcrafted designs.

For her next special event, Katerina’s choose fell on the earrings “Burning Cashmere” made from diamonds, moonstone, rose gold and gold-bronze, in combination with and “Diamond Moonlight” Bracelet made from moonstone and diamonds in gold-bronze.

In Eastern cultures, “lighted” gems, such as moonstone, indicated good luck. The ever-changing, white reflections on its surface, which gemologists call adularescence, seemed to suggest a powerful, good spirit dwelled within. As the name suggests, moonstone is closely associated with the Moon. Therefore, some consider it an alternative birthstone for those born on Monday, the “Moon’s day.” Due to this lunar association as well as its aforementioned purported calming influence, this gem is considered an excellent aid for those with trouble sleeping.

Magicians would plan to use the stone according to the phases of the Moon. For spells of increase, they used it as the Moon waxed. For spells of decrease, they waited until it waned. If planted in a garden under the full moon, some believed moonstone would increase the garden’s yield and fertility. “Wearing exclusive jewelry gives you a special feeling, it glitters, shines and blades with their energy. Energy is everywhere and stones are the perfect conduit. In fact, the vibrations of stones or crystals are known to change depending on the energy surrounding them, so every stone has a unique and different effect on each individual. These creations are designed to pass on the special power of jewelry and inspire women to create personal looks full of vitality”, says Katerina about jewelry pieces from Thomas Jirgens.

Large, high-quality tear-shaped form of moonstone and magical detail like a diamond in the middle of the stones lend pure elegance to the Juwelenschmiede collection and give even simple outfits the final touch. Whereby elegance today no longer necessarily has to be the classic costume but is rather a question of personality. Strength, passion, creativity and self- confident styling characterize Katerina Leroy and underline the equally multi-faceted pieces of jewelry from the Thomas Jirgens collections.

Credits:

Model: Katerina Leroy @katerina_leroy
Photo: Kosta Potežica @kostapotezica
Make-up and Hair: Anna Velychko @anna_artist_
Stylist: Anna Borisovna @annaaborisovna
Jewelry: @thomasjirgensjuwelenschmiede

Read more at https://www.jewellerymonthly.com/category/fashion-jewellery/ 

At the tender age of 20, Ariel Desiree McRae met her boyfriend online. After speaking together over the phone for hours every day, he drove for over an hour to take her on their first date. Ariel describes their love story; “we ate wings, had a burping contest, and drove around listening to music and singing”. They fell in love on their first date.

Ariel and her boyfriend had never had much. “We scrape and scrape to pay bills and put food in our bellies, but after almost 2 years of dating, we decided that we couldn’t wait anymore, so we didn’t,” McRae wrote in a public Facebook post.

All they wanted was to get married. Ariel didn’t care about a wedding ring with diamonds, or any ring, for that matter. “I just wanted to marry my best friend,” she said. She didn’t need a ring at all, but her fiancée wanted her to have a ring; “He scraped up just enough money to buy me two matching rings from Pandora” she says.

But when Ariel and her husband went into the popular jewellery store chain Pandora to buy the rings, they had a heart-shattering experience.

While they were trying the rings, another salesperson approached them and commented how “pathetic” it was that some men purchase their jewellery as engagement rings.

Ariel described how she watched her new husband’s face fall. Already insecure about not being able to afford one of the pear-shaped engagement rings that covered Ariel’s Pinterest page, her partner was shattered. In the store, he kept asking Ariel if she was okay, desperate to please his soon-to-be wife. Ariel said; “he was so upset at the idea of not making me happy enough and of me not wanting to marry him because my rings didn’t cost enough money or weren’t flashy enough”. He felt like a failure.

Instead of getting angry, Ariel said to the salesperson; “it isn’t the ring that matters, it is the love that goes into buying one that is.” They bought the rings and left the shop.

Her husband was so afraid of her not wanting him because he couldn’t afford a ring that cost thousands of dollars. Ariel was heartbroken that society had put these pressures on her partner.

Ariel and her partner decided that they couldn’t wait any longer, so they eloped and got married with the $130 Pandora wedding ring set. Ariel said; “I’ve never been this happy in my life and I couldn’t imagine spending it with anyone else, ever”.

She took to social media to tell her love story, and express her sadness that society makes people feel that “the only way a man can truly love a woman is if he buys her $3,000+ jewellery and makes a public decree of his affection”. She asks; “why do material possessions equate to love?”

It’s great if you’re lucky enough to afford a beautiful engagement ring and a wedding ring, but not all of us are that fortunate. What’s important is that you find your own unique ways to show your love, in your own special way.

True love knows no bounds and doesn’t require expensive jewellery. It’s often easy to lose sight of this fact, but marriage should be about the love between two people, not the jewellery you have.

Whether you have a temporary engagement ring, shopping on a budget, or buying a ring from Pandora, Ariel’s love story just goes to show that love is love no matter what kind of ring you have.

A Jeweller in Melbourne, Kalfin Jewellery, can help those impacted by COVID-19 or simply cannot afford an engagement ring, with a temporary promise ring in the meantime. We recommend reaching out to Kalfin Jewellery and asking them how they could help and assist you during these times to make one of these love stories come true for you. 

Read more articles on Engagement and Marriage at https://www.jewellerymonthly.com/category/weddings-and-bridal/

Understanding the different eras of vintage jewellery

The price and value of a ring changes with the era of its creation. Most of the vintage rings differ with the craftsmanship that went into building the ring. Usually, the longer that a ring has been in existence, the higher the price. Here are the jewellery eras:

•  Victorian: 1837 to 1901
• Art Nouveau: 1890 to 1910
• Edwardian: 1901 to 1920
• Art Deco: 1920 to 1930
• Mid Century: 1940 to 1960

Be sure to ask the year that a ring was manufactured. Be wary of dealers that cannot provide proof for the date of manufacture that they set on the ring.

Art Deco was the largest engagement session in history. Therefore, a good number of rings were created at this time. However, if you are looking for delicate designs with floral inclinations, Art Nouveau rings are the way to go. However, if you want solid platinum-diamond combination rings, look for rings created in the Edwardian period. These periods are not cast in stone. You will find styles and designs transcending for more than one period.

Benefits of choosing a vintage engagement ring

Unique and Luxurious

Most likely, the craft used in designing the ring is different from what is available today. Therefore, you are likely to come across a more unique and rare ring. Most of the rings come with extra and unexpected details that make them worthy gifts for a loved one.

Eco-friendly

When you are buying a pre-owned ring, you are taking care of the environment rather than contributing to the depletion of available minerals.

Value for Money

You can come across a really valuable ring at a reasonable price. This is because many pieces sell below the market value of new jewellery. Your loved one can sell it later for an equally good price when you get married.

Even if you get value for money, a vintage engagement ring is quite an investment. Therefore, you would want to ensure that you buy the best that you can at the set budget. Here are some budgeting and ring selection tips.

Set a Budget

If you are not sure how much you should be spending, you will likely be enticed into buying a ring that is way more expensive than you intended. It is important that you set a budget and stick to it so that you are able to weed out rings that are too low in value or too highly-priced. Do some online window-shopping and check out various offers from multiple shops. This will give you a rough estimate of what you could spend. Do not settle on an exact price. Instead, determine how much higher you can go if you get a good piece.

Ask the Finer Details

Attention is in the details, so do not just pick a vintage ring just because it looks exciting. Determine its qualities such as the cut of the stone, size and shapes. For example, if you are looking at a diamond ring, consider the carat weight, clarity and colour of the stone. These aspects are key to the pricing of a stone. A reputable dealer can give you a grading report or an appraisal for the ring. You can use the report to compare with other rings that are available in the market with similar characteristics.

Thing to consider when selecting a vintage ring

What is the Material Used to Make the Band?

A gemstone engagement ring can have a wide choice of band materials. The most popular among them are silver, gold and platinum. Among the three, platinum has been the choice material for aesthetics and practical reasons.

First, platinum is less likely to be bent and, therefore, survives for longer in good condition. Second, Platinum produces patina with time, which prevents further deterioration of the material with regular use.

You may also come across rings with bands made of white gold. This material is usually made from a mix of nickel, silver and gold and is also durable.

However, some people get skin irritation when they wear such rings for extended periods. Find a way to determine if your partner is likely to have a problem with the material or just stick to platinum.

Look At The Ring Colours

Diamonds are the most popular and desired precious stones used in making engagement rings. However, they only came into fashion in the early 1930’s.

Before then, various precious stones were used on engagement rings. Therefore, you are most likely to find a diamond ring with the inclusion of other stones such as rubies, sapphire and emeralds. These stones provide an awesome contrast to the clarity of the diamond ring.

Be open-minded. It does not have to be a pure diamond for the ring to look great. Coloured gems add some beautiful twist to the ring and make it unique.

Make it Personal

Unlike other rings that are worn as a symbol of prestige, wealth and status, engagement rings are a personal gift to someone that you love.

Therefore, do not be too focused on the characteristics such as the carats and an expensive cut. Rather, determine the taste of the partner so that you deliver a real surprise to them. They are more likely to like a vintage engagement ring that is personal, unique and backed by a loving soul than so many carats.

Consider if You Need to Resize Your Ring

People were generally smaller 100 years ago than they are today. It is possible to size some of the rings, either up or down, to some extent. However, there are cases where this is not practical or possible. Talk to your dealer about that possibility and the cost estimate. A few would do it free. However, if the dealer advises against resizing the ring, you better not do it. It is likely that the delicate nature of the ring may lead to lost stones or some irreversible damage. You do not want to spend a premium only for the ring to fall apart after a short time.

If you are thinking about an engagement ring for your partner, consider vintage rings. There are various styles and cuts that you are less likely to find with new rings. However, ensure that you check all the factors that are discussed above when making a purchase. You may also prefer to use professional dealers so that they help you find the best ring.

Read more tips on buying the perfect jewellery https://www.jewellerymonthly.com/category/jewellery-diamonds-and-gemstones/

Take a look at your finances

One of the most important details to assess for planning your future wedding is your finances. For starters, you should first sit down with your partner and set a budget on how much you are willing to spend for your wedding ceremony. Though it is a joyous moment and a day to remember, do not forget that life goes on after the wedding – you don’t need to spend too much! There may be many aspects of your wedding day that you will need to budget for such as your venue, wedding rings, wedding dress, and food. One expensive factor could be when you are choosing your wedding photographer so it’s important to think about how much you want to spend on photos.

Choose a theme and your wedding decor

The next step should be choosing and booking a wedding venue for your special day.

Do you want a traditional church wedding? Or do you want a beautiful beach ceremony?

After you have picked the ideal venue, choose a theme and decor that matches it! Vintage chic, rustic, beach, or a winter wonderland, are just some popular themes you could use.

Once you have chosen a theme you can then select decor to match such as your wedding invitations, table decorations, your bouquet, and bridesmaid dresses. If you are not great when it comes to decorating, you can consult a wedding planner to get practical and enticing décor tips based on your wedding venue.

Pick your wedding attire and choose a dress code for your guests

One of the most magical parts of planning a wedding is picking out your wedding dress/suit. It is your big day after all, so why not pull out all the stops? When choosing a dress, suit, or your preferred attire, consider your personal tastes, the theme of the wedding, budget and venue of the wedding.

For example, if you are having your wedding in the middle of summer, it’s probably not best to have a heavy long gown for your wedding day.

On a hot day, grooms can also ditch the suit jacket and could style up their smart shirt and waistcoat for a summer day. It is also important to decide what dress code you want your guests to follow. Do you have a colour scheme you want them to match? Is it a smart-casual wedding?

Think about what really matters to you

Organising a wedding is a unique journey that unfolds a tapestry of personal values, desires, and dreams. It’s a grand celebration, not just of love and commitment, but also of what truly matters to you as a couple. Whether you’re passionate about creating an ‘ethical wedding‘ with a focus on sustainability and fair trade, or you’re leaning towards a literary-themed event that reflects your shared love for books, the key is to let your personal ethos guide your choices.

Perhaps you cherish your cultural heritage and want to infuse your wedding with traditional rituals and customs. Or, you might be food enthusiasts, eager to plan a gourmet dining experience for your guests. Maybe you’re nature lovers who wish to exchange vows under the canopy of your favorite forest, or perhaps you’re committed to supporting local businesses and wish to source everything from your decor to your wedding attire from within your community.

Whatever elements you care about the most, let them take center stage in your celebration. Remember, there’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ blueprint for a wedding. Your special day should be a unique reflection of your relationship and shared interests. As long as your wedding day feels genuinely yours, it will be perfect.

Don’t forget the important finishing touches

To complete your wedding attire ensemble, do not forget to choose some jewellery and beautiful accessories for your special day. The ideal jewellery should accentuate and compliment your attire. For the bride, you can’t go wrong with some silver or gold jewellery that matches your wedding band and engagement ring. For grooms, a luxurious watch would be an ideal addition to any attire you are adorning.

Treat your guests to thoughtful wedding favours

Planning a wedding is a time-consuming venture that requires a lot of effort. At some point, you will need help from the bridesmaids, groomsmen, and other guests. For their effort and to show appreciation for their support during the wedding process, it is only right that you give a gift of thanks to everyone. Sweet treats like macarons, sweets, and cupcakes, are great to pair with your place settings for your guests. Make sure to personalise each one so that you make your guests feel special and part of your important day.

For more wedding ring inspired articles, view our wedding and bridal section here: https://www.jewellerymonthly.com/category/weddings-and-bridal/

During diamond production, the consistency of the rock can be measured by 4C variables: cut, clarity, color, and carat. The features of these precious stones are really important to learn before you purchase them. Why? Because it’s these features which make the rock dazzle, shine and look impressive. It’s not just a matter of cost, or size.

For this reason, it is really valuable for couples to learn a little about diamonds before they make this lifelong purchase. And the place to start is with the 4Cs. If you have embarked on that journey, you could get diamond color scale explained along with clarity, cut and carat on Pricescope – an independent diamond and jewelry forum, a great resource for an unbiased diamond jewelry information.

History of Diamond Cuts

The world first provided a standardized criterion for the measurement of the content of the diamonds after diamonds were adopted in the mid-20th century. The 4Cs has been an important method used to consider why one diamond should be preferred over another. It explains the differences of diamonds in a simple to understand way for those who, like most of us, only buy diamonds rarely.

This measurement criterion was very important as the price variations between two such precious stones with the naked eye were incredibly difficult to determine.

The problem which often emerges in people’s minds is: which of the 4Cs is the main factor in determining diamond quality? Experts think “cut’s” stands out of 4Cs because a diamond’s beauty and brilliance depend greatly on how it is cut.

This is important for couples because, at the end of the day, this ring is about symbolism and looks. In 20 years, you want to still look at your ring and be reminded of the flutter of excitement from the early years. Chances are that by then your incomes will be higher, and if you bought the ring then you could afford much more.

This means getting the diamond that looks best for the money; the one that dazzles most and will do so forever.

What is the difference between the shape and cut of a diamond?

The word “cut” also refers to diamond form (for example, “brilliant ring cutting” or “princess cutting”. However, the shape means the diamond form, while cutting means how light reflects the proportions of the diamond.

The shapes also have their own distinctive beauty, which determines the dazzling quality of the diamond. This is a matter of personal style; choosing the stone which suits you, your relationship and personality.

How critical is the cutting of diamonds?

If we think of diamonds, we admire their beauty, sparkle, and shimmer, which are all the products of a strong cut. For a perfect diamond, there needs to be a balance of elegance and worth. The first step towards acquiring such a diamond is getting a fair cut price.

A smooth and beautiful-cut diamond effectively focuses white and vivid light into the eye and creates the sparkle. A diamond that’s poorly cut is dull and bland, missing the most attractive properties of the stone. You may prefer a wide appealing, full-color diamond, but it would still remain a plain, mediocre stone without a good cut. The cut towers over the other 4Cs because it can carve a flawless jewel from raw diamond stone.

Diamond Cut grades

For you going out to choose a diamond engagement ring, you need to know that not all diamond cuts are created equally.

Diamonds are graded according to the diamond cut chart as there are many testing labs around the world. It is necessary to note, though, that each laboratory employs its own set of grades, and that a study from a single laboratory may display findings different from one provided by a separate laboratory, even though they apply to the same diamond cut chart.

AGS and GIA are two of the most prestigious laboratories in the industry, all of them with grading systems for diamond certification that rate diamonds with their transparency, shape, color, and carat. Although there are other laboratories out there like AGSL, IGI, EGL, and HRD labs that give definitive cut grades for round diamonds, it is recommended that you purchase a diamond with a real AGS or GIA mark. Not only does an AGS and GIA Ideal Cut shine more, but it may also look more exquisite and polished!

In amongst the excitement of your engagement ring shopping, do make sure you ask to see the AGS or GIA certificate for the individual diamond. If there isn’t one, choose a different retailer or diamond.

Conclusion

By now, you understand that the cut of the diamond is incredibly important. Once you launch your diamond hunt for that ring that will symbolize your romance, a quality cut should be the first thing you look for before the other Cs.

It’s crucial for delivering the dazzle and light play that adds to the excitement of this time, and will last for years to come.

• The diamond Cut impacts the following properties, which consequently
  influences the quality of a diamond
• The dimensions like the depth, angles, width among others
• The symmetry of the facets and the various proportions that affect how it reflects light
• Fire
• Brilliance
• The sparkling and flashing effect of the diamond; Scintillation

Remember that a well-cut diamond has more longevity and shine than one with a weaker level of cut. When you compare a small, well-cut diamond beside another with a slightly larger one, the smaller lesser-cut diamond may look more substantial in the naked eye.

So, or the best bang for your buck, and the most romantic ring, pay attention to the diamond’s cut.

Featured image courtesy of Dimitris Christou from Pixabay

Browse more Jewellery Education Articles at https://www.jewellerymonthly.com/category/jewellery_education/

Instagram has become a very popular search tool for millennial consumers looking for jewellery – particularly engagement rings – as a result of influencer and celebrity involvement in jewellery retailers’ and designers’ social media campaigns.

The Power of Celebrity

Instagram posts featuring attractive celebrities and influencers with perfectly painted fingernails, showing off their engagement rings whilst living their dream lives, can impact greatly on consumer choices. Influencers can dictate trends, and Royal Family engagement rings are a perfect example of this. For example, when Prince Harry and Meghan Markle announced their engagement in 2017, the demand for three stone engagement rings, with large central diamonds, increased significantly.

Alyssa Smith is a British businesswoman who started a small jewellery business in 2010, with a start-up fund of just £500. Now, Alyssa sells iconic silver jewellery to customers all over the world. Her customers include a host of celebrities, including Jamelia, Theo Paphitis, Sheridan Smith and Beverley Knight. She credits the power of social media marketing – particularly Instagram – for her astounding success:

“It was through social media that we first managed to connect with several well-known celebrities to endorse our brand,” explains Alyssa. “Social media is an absolutely huge part of our brand. This is how we interact with our customers on a daily basis.”

The Power of Storytelling

Millennials increasingly expect their shopping experiences to extend beyond the products themselves. The most successful social media marketing strategies tend to leverage the power of storytelling, often by inviting followers to experience an influencer’s lifestyle, and encouraging them to see themselves in the brand they are promoting. Storytelling can also be used to communicate a retailer’s story directly to potential and existing consumers.

Another advantage of partnering with an influencer is that they are able to communicate with potential buyers in real-time. Consumers who are highly engaged with the story and the brand are more likely to purchase on the spot.

The Power of Partnerships

To develop an organic and successful partnership with an Instagram influencer, jewellery retailers should target a personality whose lifestyle (and the aspirational lifestyle of their followers) mirrors their own target demographic.

Bear in mind that the size of your business will dictate which influencers might be willing to partner with your brand. Influencers with huge followings will only be interested in partnering with huge brands, so if you are a small business, you will need to scale your ambitions accordingly.

Of course, it is necessary to carry out some extensive research before approaching potential influencers. There are several influencer marketing platforms that can help with this. Once you have a shortlist of potential influencers, you will also need to craft a persuasive pitch before approaching them.

The Power of Information

As well as inspiring followers through influencers, Instagram is proving to be a very powerful platform for educating and informing prospective customers. For example, shoppers on Instagram are becoming increasingly aware of the financial and ethical reasons for considering lab-grown diamonds over mined diamonds, thus increasing sales of engagement rings featuring lab-grown diamonds.

The more educated consumer is also more likely to turn to custom design and high-end brands.

Summing Up:

• Ensure that your social media campaigns are set up to inspire, inform, and engage;
• Invest in some stunning photography of your jewellery;
• Partner with a suitable influencer to enhance your brand through their lifestyle;
• Tell the story of your business and your brand;
• Educate your followers about the latest news and trends in the jewellery industry.

Following these steps should supercharge your online sales, so give your marketing strategy a revamp, and get ready to launch that successful new Instagram campaign!

Read more articles on Jewellery Education at https://www.jewellerymonthly.com/category/jewellery_education/

But which country loves which brand? And yes, there are actually countries in which Cartier is not in the first place! In some Eastern European countries, Graff jewellery is at the top of the list. Austrian jewellery buyers love Tiffany & Co. and in Italy hearts beat faster for Bulgari. But of course, in most European countries, Cartier is by far the most popular brand.

There are also differences in how much money each country spends on jewelry: Switzerland lays out the most money on jewellery with an average order of £4,680. In 2nd and 3rd place are the United States and the United Kingdom. With the Germans, the purse strings are a little tighter.

How about a comparison of the two top brands Cartier and Tiffany? The duel between the two giants demonstrates: 37 % of all brand loving customers are interested in Cartier, only 13% in Tiffany – making Cartier twice as popular as Tiffany. In addition, customers spend about 4 times more money on a piece of jewellery from the French jeweller than on one from the New York brand. Cartier is simply the measure of all things! The three most popular collections of the winning brand are Cartier Love, Trinity and Panthère – who would have thought otherwise?

Last but not least: Which pieces of jewelry are most popular? With 44% rings are most frequently bought in the luxury jewellery segment, necklaces follow in second place and bracelets come third.

Who is FineJewels24?
As an international high-end marketplace with more than 600 dealers, FineJewels24 offers a wide selection of fine jewelry – whether designer collections or one-of-a-kind pieces from an exclusive jeweler. The marketplace is a project of Chrono24, the leading online marketplace for luxury watches.

For more Jewellery News check out https://www.jewellerymonthly.com/category/retail-jewellery-news/

Infinity shape rings

Infinity is a mathematical sign that represents endlessness. It is made up of the shape of two eights bound together to show that there is no end. It is similar to a DNA strand in biology. The silver infinity ring is one of the most popular infinity shaped rings. It is a beautiful ring that would be a lovely and wonderful gift that one can offer a loved one.

Round shape ring

Rings are worn around fingers. They are sized to fit around a person’s specific finger shape. A round ring can have round accessories. This could be a precious stone or jewels such as gold or diamonds cut in a round shape and added on to the ring. The ring affixed with round stones or jewels is beautiful and appealing to look at. It is considered the best shape that one can wear.

Heart-shaped rings

This is another popular ring shape. Mostly, rings are a sign of love and commitment. A heart shape is popularly known as a sign of love. The heart shape could also hold any type of precious stone.

Pillow shape ring

A pillow shaped ring is a ring that holds a precious stone known as the cushion stone. It is a square with round corners that resemble a cushion and hence the name. This is a popular shape with many people due to its implied significance of being a square in a circle that represents individuality and uniqueness of a person.

Oval shape ring

The oval shape is a natural shape and as such will be a popular shape on rings too. A cut stone in the oval molding makes the ring stand out regardless of the price of the type of stone.

Teardrop shape rings

On your finger, the teardrop-shaped molding will definitely stand out. Its rounded edges that meet a central point lead the ring to look larger and more glamorous. Any stone or decoration on the molding accentuates the ring and makes it a beautiful and glamorous piece of jewelry adorned on the hand.

Why do people wear rings?

As a sign

Most times, rings are worn as a sign of something. Wedding and engagement rings are a symbol of marital status. Purity rings are a symbol of one's beliefs and preferences to abstain from sexual activity unless they are married. Other rings are a sign of belonging to specific groups.

Sentimental value

Rings are also offered to people as gifts. As a result, there are many people who wear rings because they were given as a gift by someone who is valuable in their lives. Friendship and promise rings are some of the rings worn for sentimental value.

Beauty

It is not uncommon to find someone who wears rings on all their fingers. Sometimes, some fingers have more than one ring. In this case, the rings do not have any large significance. They are only worn for beauty and to express the individuality of the wearer.

Symbol of wealth

Rings are also worn to show financial strength. For example, two people may have similar engagement rings in terms of shape. However, these rings have different precious stones such as diamonds, gemstones or specific engraving or markings on the metal. One ring that is set with precious gemstone can considerably more expensive than one with crystals or zirconias. The wearer or buyer of the ring has a better financial position than the other person.

Conclusion

Diamond and gemstone rings are available in a variety of different shapes with many characteristics that define their beauty and attraction. The shape that you buy depends on your personal preference, with many of the reasons stated above playing a helping hand.

View more of our articles covering Jewellery and Diamonds at https://www.jewellerymonthly.com/category/jewellery-diamonds-and-gemstones/