Understanding Platinum Jeweller

Dec 15, 2009

Platinum's characteristics make it a much sought-after material for bespoke jewellery. Its silvery-white, almost luminous surface make it an attractive choice to look at, and its smooth, silky feel and unexpected weight - platinum is half as dense again as 18 carat gold - make it a pleasure to wear. Read the rest of this entry >>

Posted under: Ethical Jewellery

Aim High with Hearts and Arrows

Dec 10, 2009

Hearts and Arrows is a particular kind of Round Brilliant cut, indicating excellent optical symmetry and an extremely regular, well-executed cut. A Hearts and Arrows cut diamond is typically more expensive, because it requires a greater degree of time and expertise.

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Posted under: Custom Engagement Rings

The Round Brilliant Cut: A Popular Classic

Dec 08, 2009

Raw, uncut diamonds bear little resemblance to the dazzling gemstones seen in engagement rings and other pieces of jewellery. An uncut stone or 'rough diamond' looks a little bit like a chunk of glass you might find on the beach, washed and ground smooth and dull by the sand.  Read the rest of this entry >>

Posted under: Conflict Free Diamonds

What Gives Diamonds Their Sparkle?

Dec 04, 2009

Conflict Free Diamonds are prized for several reasons, not the least of which being that they are extremely rare. Leaving scarcity aside for a moment, two other significant factors are that they are  very hard – making them an important component in cutting technology – and that they are intrinsically beautiful. Read the rest of this entry >>

Posted under: Ethical Diamonds

The Timeless Appeal of Art Deco

Dec 01, 2009

There's something about Art Deco jewellery that is curiously compelling for many jewellery collectors and vintage fashionistas. Although it can often at first appear dated, too simplistic or occasionally even over the top, Art Deco has a unique charm that cannot be denied. Read the rest of this entry >>

Posted under: Bespoke Jewellery

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