Hallmarks and Trademarks: An Introduction

Nov 28, 2009

Examine any item of precious metal carefully, and there's a good chance you will find a series of symbols etched onto it. To the uninitiated, these marks might as well be Greek, but once you know a bit about them, they can tell you a great deal about the item you are holding. Read the rest of this entry >>

Posted under: Bespoke Jewellery

The History of Birth Stones

Nov 24, 2009

The addition of a birth stone is a great way to personalise a piece of bespoke jewellery. Birth stones are usually associated with months of the year or the signs of the zodiac - which means they are particularly appropriate for birthdays or other special anniversaries - as well as qualities of character. But where did the idea of birthstones originate, and what do they each mean? Read the rest of this entry >>

Posted under: Bespoke Jewellery

Cleaning Your Engagement Ring at Home

Nov 20, 2009

A glittering new engagement ring is more than a piece of jewellery, it represents the commitment of a couple who are looking forward to the rest of their lives together.

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Posted under: Bespoke Jewellery

A History of Engagement Rings

Nov 12, 2009

Even if a couple haven't yet tied the knot, a diamond ring on the fourth finger of a woman's left hand is a clear statement that she is off-limits to other men, pending the coming marriage. But the conventions weren't always the same; the symbolism behind the tradition of the engagement ring runs deep, and the practice has changed extensively through the centuries.

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Posted under: Bespoke Engagement Rings

How To Choose a Diamond

Nov 05, 2009

Diamonds may well be forever but what exactly should you consider when you are buying a gift intended to last a lifetime?

To the untrained eye, many diamonds of a similar shape and size will look very similar, but the potential differences in quality and value are myriad. It is therefore worth knowing at least the basics before you make what should be one of the most special purchases of your life. Read the rest of this entry >>

Posted under: Bespoke Jewellery

Fair Trade Rubies

Nov 03, 2009

We are delighted to announce that Ingle & Rhode can now offer fair trade rubies from Tanzania. These are sourced through Ruby Fair, a company established in 2008 by Pete Brown and Gary Roberts. Their stones are entirely natural, and are not heat-treated or enhanced in any way. We will be holding a selection of these rubies in stock, and will also be able to source specific stones to order for use in pieces of bespoke jewellery.

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Posted under: Ethical Jewellery