When choosing fine jewelry, especially engagement rings or wedding bands, the metal is just as important as the gemstone. Gold and platinum are the two most popular precious metals, each with distinct characteristics. Understanding the differences can help you choose the one that best suits your lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, and budget. Durability and Wear Platinum is denser and more durable than gold, making it ideal for everyday wear. It's naturally white and doesn’t need to be alloyed to maintain its color, unlike white gold, which is mixed with other metals and usually rhodium-plated to achieve a similar hue. Over time, white gold may require re-plating to maintain its brightness, while platinum develops a patina that many find elegant and timeless (Gemological Institute of America, GIA.edu). Gold, on the other hand, is softer—especially in higher purities like 18k or 22k—and more prone to scratching. However, it’s still a strong, workable metal, and the variety of gold colors (yellow, white, and rose) offers greater aesthetic flexibility (American Gem Society, americangemsociety.org). Price and Value Platinum is generally more expensive than gold. This is due to its rarity and density—platinum is about 60% heavier than gold, so the same ring in platinum will weigh (and cost) more (GIA). Additionally, platinum is mined less frequently, which adds to its cost. Gold, especially 14k or 18k, offers a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing elegance or prestige. It’s a practical choice if you're looking for beauty, tradition, and versatility at a slightly lower price point. Maintenance and Lifestyle For those with active lifestyles or those who work with their hands, platinum's strength and resistance to wear may be a better long-term investment. While sounding contradictory, platinum is quite malleable, so lifting heavy objects while wearing platinum is not advisable lest it will misshapen. However, some may prefer the lighter weight of gold for comfort. Platinum is often recommended for those with metal sensitivities due to its purity (usually 95% pure). Essentially, the purer a metal is, the more hypoallergenic it should be. Because gold is very soft at 20-24 karat, expect rings to require extra attention throughout its life if you choose this more hypoallergenic option. Most jewelers would say platinum is the better choice. The Bottom Line Choose platinum if you want a low-maintenance, highly durable, naturally white metal that stands the test of time. Opt for gold if you value traditional beauty, color variety, and affordability. Whether you're choosing a lifelong symbol of love or treating yourself to something special, understanding these differences will help you make a confident, informed choice. Sources: • Gemological Institute of America (GIA): www.gia.edu • American Gem Society (AGS): www.americangemsociety.org

Anniversaries are cherished milestones that celebrate the enduring journey of love and commitment between partners. Selecting the perfect jewelry gift can beautifully commemorate the significance of each year spent together. This guide explores meaningful jewelry options for key milestone anniversaries, blending traditional symbols with contemporary elegance. 1st Anniversary: Gold The first year of marriage lays the foundation for a lifelong partnership. Gold, symbolizing purity and prosperity, is the traditional choice for this milestone. Consider gifting a delicate gold necklace or a pair of classic gold earrings to commemorate this special occasion. 5th Anniversary: Sapphire Reaching five years together signifies strength and wisdom. Sapphires, known for their deep blue hue, represent loyalty and trust—qualities that have deepened over this period. A sapphire pendant or a ring can serve as a beautiful reminder of your shared journey. 10th Anniversary: Diamond A decade of togetherness is a testament to enduring love. Diamonds, with their unparalleled brilliance and resilience, symbolize this lasting bond. Consider a diamond bracelet or an upgraded engagement ring to celebrate this significant milestone. 15th Anniversary: Ruby Fifteen years together embodies passion and devotion. Rubies, with their vibrant red color, epitomize the deep love shared over the years. A ruby necklace or earrings can add a touch of elegance and meaning to this celebration. 20th Anniversary: Emerald Two decades together highlight growth and harmony. Emeralds, symbolizing renewal and vitality, reflect the evolving nature of your relationship. An emerald ring or pendant can beautifully mark this occasion. 25th Anniversary: Silver Jubilee Celebrating a quarter-century together is a remarkable achievement. Silver, representing clarity and strength, is traditionally associated with the 25th anniversary. A sterling silver bracelet or cufflinks can serve as a timeless token of your enduring partnership. 30th Anniversary: Pearl Thirty years of marriage reflect wisdom and beauty cultivated over time. Pearls, formed through years of refinement, symbolize this journey. A classic pearl necklace or a pair of pearl earrings can elegantly commemorate this milestone. 40th Anniversary: Ruby Revisiting the ruby at forty years underscores the ongoing passion and love that have sustained your marriage. A ruby brooch or cufflinks can be a meaningful gift, celebrating the depth of your connection. 50th Anniversary: Golden Jubilee Half a century together is a monumental milestone. Gold, denoting prosperity and strength, is the quintessential symbol for the 50th anniversary. A gold watch or a pair of gold earrings can honor this incredible journey. Personalizing Your Gift While traditional gemstones and metals provide a meaningful framework, personalizing your gift adds a unique touch. Consider incorporating birthstones, engraving significant dates or messages, or selecting designs that resonate with shared memories. For instance, Olufson Designs offers custom jewelry options that can be tailored to reflect your unique story. In conclusion, selecting anniversary jewelry that aligns with traditional symbols while incorporating personal touches can create a heartfelt tribute to your shared journey. Whether adhering to classic choices or exploring contemporary designs, the thoughtfulness behind the gift will undoubtedly make your celebration memorable. Sources https://www.withclarity.com/blogs/jewelry/the-ultimate-jewelry-gift-guide-for-birthdays-anniversaries?srsltid=AfmBOorpXyiycYQ_1uxFIxp2pm2eziWa5YZudkT4qr89I1gb0R-57Kr5&utm https://www.brides.com/upgrading-engagement-wedding-rings-anniversary-8743637?utm https://www.gemsociety.org/article/anniversary-jewelry-gift-guide/?utm https://faithfulplatform.com/blog/ultimate-anniversary-gift-guide-for-fine-jewelry?utm https://blog.brilliance.com/diamonds/best-anniversary-jewelry-gift-ideas-for-every-milestone?utm https://www.inspereza.com/blogs/inspiration/the-ultimate-guide-to-anniversary-jewelry-gifts?srsltid=AfmBOoousdXp2N1D8c-_lwt1XiwGpSaeA-z28YVAHxdx_g-guaSJhbgR&utm

Mixing metals in jewelry is a stylish way to create a unique and versatile look. After about 25 years of white gold being very popular, we are in the process of transitioning to yellow gold as a preference. Generation Zs are getting married and their preference is primarily yellow. If you are the type to run with fashion, you will want to start transitioning now and slowly build your jewelry wardrobe. Transitioning from white to yellow means mixing your metals as you build your wardrobe. Whether you're layering necklaces, stacking rings, or combining bracelets, blending different metal tones can elevate your style. However, it requires a strategic approach to avoid a mismatched or chaotic appearance. Here are some essential do’s and don’ts when mixing gold, silver, and other metals in jewelry. Do: Choose a Dominant Metal Start by selecting a primary metal that will anchor your look. This should make up most of your jewelry to create a cohesive foundation. For example, if yellow gold is your base metal, you can accent it with white gold or silver pieces to add contrast without overwhelming the look. Do: Limit the Number of Metals While mixing metals adds visual interest, too many different tones can make your jewelry feel disorganized. Stick to two or three metals at most to maintain a balanced and intentional style. A classic combination is gold and silver, but adding a touch of rose gold can bring warmth and variety. Do: Consider Undertones and Skin Tone Metals have warm or cool undertones that can affect how they complement your skin tone. Yellow and rose gold have warm hues, making them ideal for warmer skin tones, while silver, platinum, and white gold have cool undertones that suit cooler complexions. Mixing warm and cool metals can be done stylishly but be mindful of how they interact with your skin tone. Do: Balance Metal Placement To ensure a harmonious look, distribute different metal tones evenly throughout your jewelry. For example, some people are lucky enough to have a two tone watch they wear every day. Having this staple is the easiest way to tie your look together. Avoid wearing all gold on one hand and all silver on the other, as this can create an unbalanced appearance. Don’t: Ignore Finishes and Textures Mixing polished, matte, hammered, or brushed finishes adds depth and interest to your jewelry. If you're wearing a high-shine silver bracelet, pair it with a brushed gold ring to create contrast. A variety of textures can make mixed-metal jewelry feel intentional rather than random. Don’t: Be Afraid to Experiment Traditional jewelry rules suggest sticking to one metal, but modern styling embraces versatility. Try layering necklaces in different metal tones or stacking rings with alternating gold and silver bands. Just ensure that the pieces share a common design element, such as similar shapes or stone settings, to maintain a cohesive feel. Don’t: Overlook Personal Style Ultimately, your jewelry should reflect your personal taste. While guidelines help create a polished look, feel free to mix metals in a way that suits your style and comfort level. Whether you prefer a delicate mix or bold contrast, confidence is key to pulling off a mixed-metal look. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can master the art of mixing metals in jewelry, creating stylish and elegant combinations that enhance your overall look. Sources https://www.jewelersmutual.com/the-jewelry-box/mixing-metal-jewelry https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-mix-metal-jewelry https://www.thecut.com/article/how-to-mix-metal-jewelry-according-to-pros.

As we step into 2025, the world of fine jewelry is embracing a harmonious blend of timeless elegance and contemporary innovation. This year's trends reflect a desire for personal expression, sustainability, and a nod to both nature and technology. Here's an in-depth look at the top fine jewelry trends for 2025: 1. Bold Gold Statements Gold jewelry is making a powerful comeback with bold, voluminous designs. Think wide cuffs, chunky rings, and substantial hoop earrings that exude confidence and luxury. High-karat gold pieces with matte or textured finishes add depth and modernity to these statement accessories. These pieces are versatile, effortlessly transitioning from casual daywear to elegant evening attire. 2. Re-imagined Pearls Pearls are shedding their traditional image and are being reinterpreted in contemporary designs. Modern baroque pearls, with their unique and irregular shapes, are particularly popular, offering a fresh and edgy twist to classic pearl jewelry. Designers are incorporating pearls into asymmetrical earrings, layered necklaces, and mixed-material pieces, making them a must-have for the modern jewelry enthusiast. 3. Personalized and Zodiac Jewelry Jewelry that tells a personal story continues to captivate wearers. Initials, birthstones, and zodiac symbols are being artfully integrated into fine jewelry pieces, allowing individuals to express their identity and personal milestones. These personalized elements add a sentimental value, making each piece unique to the wearer. 4. Celestial Motifs Drawing inspiration from the cosmos, celestial-themed jewelry featuring stars, moons, and planetary symbols is on the rise. These designs evoke a sense of wonder and mystique, often embellished with diamonds and gemstones to add a sparkling allure. Celestial jewelry pieces serve as a reminder of the universe's beauty and our place within it. 5. Botanical Inspirations Nature continues to influence jewelry design, with botanical motifs gaining prominence. Intricate designs featuring leaves, flowers, and vines are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, often adorned with colorful gemstones to mimic the vibrancy of nature. These pieces celebrate the organic beauty of the natural world, bringing a touch of the outdoors into fine jewelry collections. 6. Colorful Gemstones Vibrant gemstones are taking center stage, adding a pop of color to fine jewelry. Sapphires, emeralds, rubies, opal and lesser-known stones like tourmaline and spinel are being used to create eye-catching pieces. These colorful gems are often set in minimalist designs, allowing the stones' natural beauty to shine and making them versatile additions to any jewelry collection. 7. Chain Links and Layering Chain link jewelry is evolving with innovative designs and layering techniques. From delicate, elongated links, like the paperclip chain, to bold, over sized chains, these pieces add texture and dimension to any ensemble. Layering multiple chain necklaces or bracelets of varying lengths and styles creates a personalized and dynamic look, allowing for versatility and creativity in styling. 8. Bezel Settings Bezel-set jewelry, where gemstones are encircled by a metal rim, is gaining popularity for its sleek and modern aesthetic. This setting not only offers a contemporary look but also provides enhanced protection for the gemstone, making it ideal for daily wear. Bezel settings are being used in rings, necklaces, and earrings, often showcasing solitaire diamonds or vibrant gemstones. 9. Vintage Revival Vintage-inspired jewelry is experiencing resurgence with designs that pay homage to past eras while incorporating modern elements. Art Deco motifs, intricate filigree work, and antique finishes are being reimagined in contemporary pieces. This trend allows for a nostalgic yet fresh approach to fine jewelry, appealing to those who appreciate the charm of bygone times. In conclusion, 2025's fine jewelry trends offer a diverse array of styles that cater to various tastes and values. Whether you're drawn to bold statements, personalized pieces, or sustainable choices, this year's trends provide ample opportunities to express individuality and sophistication through jewelry. Here at Olufson Designs, we have something to fit every one of these trends and in a variety of price points. Sources https://www.brilliantearth.com/jewelry/buying-guide/trends/?utm_source=chatgpt.com https://www.gabrielny.com/blog/jewelry-trends-2025/?srsltid=AfmBOorUC1KrK0-md68l6doHSyHNYXKl55ZxM0OMbgP6yywRsymbay8z&utm_source=chatgpt.com https://www.veranda.com/luxury-lifestyle/luxury-fashion-jewelry/a63247691/spring-jewelry-trends-2025/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Jewelry has long been intertwined with cultural folklore and holiday traditions across various societies. During the holiday season, certain jewelry pieces not only serve as adornments but also carry deep symbolic meanings rooted in folklore. Protective Amulets in Various Cultures The concept of the evil eye is prevalent in many cultures, leading to the creation of protective amulets. In regions like the Caribbean, items such as blue beads or specific jewelry pieces are worn to ward off maljo, or the evil eye, especially during significant occasions like holidays when gatherings are common. Eastern European Traditions In Eastern European folklore, particularly in Ukraine, the legend of the Christmas Spider explains the origin of tinsel on Christmas trees. The tale speaks of a poor widow whose Christmas tree was decorated by spiders' webs, which turned to silver and gold in the morning sunlight. This story has inspired the tradition of spider-shaped ornaments and tinsel, symbolizing good fortune and the magic of the holiday season. Irish Folklore and Holiday Jewelry In Irish culture, symbols like the shamrock and the Claddagh hold significant meaning. The shamrock, for instance, is associated with St. Patrick, who, according to legend, used its three leaves to explain the Holy Trinity. This symbol is prevalent in Irish jewelry, especially during St. Patrick's Day, serving as a token of heritage and faith. Similarly, the Claddagh ring, featuring hands, a heart, and a crown, represents friendship, love, and loyalty. Exchanging such rings during the holidays is a tradition that reflects deep-rooted Irish values and stories. Modern Interpretations Contemporary jewelry designers often draw inspiration from these folkloric symbols, creating pieces that honor traditional stories while appealing to modern aesthetics. For instance, during the holiday season, there's a resurgence of interest in heirloom-inspired jewelry, such as vintage designs and repurposed items, reflecting a desire to connect with the past. Selecting Jewelry with Folkloric Significance When choosing jewelry as a holiday gift, considering the folklore and history associated with specific gemstones can add a layer of meaning and personalization. For instance, gifting a turquoise piece might convey wishes for protection and good fortune, while a garnet item could symbolize a desire for the recipient's happiness and health. Understanding these associations allows for more thoughtful and meaningful gift-giving during the holiday season. Incorporating the rich tapestry of gemstone folklore into holiday jewelry selections not only enhances the beauty of the gift but also imbues it with stories and meanings that can be cherished for generations. Come in and find a special gemstone to set or item that will surely bring a smile to your loved one. Sources Better Homes & Gardens The Irish Jewelry Company Wikipedia Wikipedia

The holiday season is a perfect time to surprise a loved one with a beautiful piece of jewelry or as a personal treat to fill the soul. To make sure you're getting something timeless, valuable, and easy to care for, it’s essential to ask the right questions. Here’s a guide to help you have a meaningful conversation with your jeweler. 1. What is your training? When purchasing fine jewelry, trust in the expertise of your jeweler is essential. Ask about their background, certifications, and professional training. Jewelers who have certifications from respected organizations, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Society (AGS), have received rigorous training in gemstones, metals, and jewelry craftsmanship. Such qualifications assure you that your jeweler can offer informed guidance on your purchase and help with any specific concerns. 2. What current styles are stealing the spotlight? Fashion trends can play a big role in jewelry design, and it's fun to learn what's popular at the moment. Statement pieces, vintage-inspired designs, and minimalist settings are all making waves this season. Whether you're looking for something classic or trendy, asking about current styles can help you find a piece that feels both fresh and timeless. 3. What about the metal? Metals vary in appearance, durability, and maintenance. For example, gold is available in various karats, with 18k and 24k being softer but more valuable due to higher gold content, while 14k is durable and ideal for daily wear. Platinum is prized for its strength and hypoallergenic properties, though it may be more expensive. Sterling silver is another popular choice, though it is soft and it may tarnish over time, requiring regular polishing. Understanding the metal composition and maintenance can help you make a practical and lasting choice. 4. What questions should I ask about diamonds? Diamonds are often the centerpiece of fine jewelry, so understanding their quality is essential. Familiarize yourself with the "Four Cs"—cut, color, clarity, and carat weight—and ask for a diamond's report, which provides an unbiased assessment of these characteristics. This information is especially important for understanding the diamond’s value and uniqueness. 5. What level of care does the piece require? Fine jewelry, especially if worn regularly, needs proper care to retain its beauty. Ask your jeweler about the specific care requirements for your piece. Certain gemstones, like pearls or opals, require gentle handling and special storage, while others, like diamonds or sapphires, are more resilient. Many jewelers also offer cleaning or maintenance services that can help preserve the jewelry’s shine and quality over time. 6. What if the jewelry needs to be repaired? Knowing the jeweler’s repair services is vital, as even the finest jewelry can need adjustments, repairs, and routine maintenance over time. Ask if they offer in-house repairs and what those services might entail, whether resizing, polishing, or repairing clasps and prongs. Jewelry needs to be inspected on a regular basis to catch problems before they get bigger, so ask how often inspections should occur for that specific style. Some gem setting styles need less work throughout the years than others. 7. What questions should I be asking? A knowledgeable jeweler will often have additional recommendations to help guide you. Inquiring if there are any other questions you should consider can open the door to valuable insights, such as potential upgrades, matching pieces, trends in jewelry that may resonate with you, or choosing a different gem to fit into a budget. By asking these essential questions, you can approach your jewelry purchase with confidence, ensuring that your chosen piece will bring joy for many years to come.

Repurposing old jewelry is not just a trend; it's a meaningful way to breathe new life into cherished pieces that may have lost their shine or relevance. Whether you have a broken necklace, a lone earring, or a vintage brooch collecting dust, repurposing them into new jewelry can be a rewarding and creative process. Here's a guide on how to transform your old jewelry into stunning, modern pieces that you’ll be proud to wear. 1. Assess Your Jewelry Collection The first step in re purposing old jewelry is to assess what you have. Lay out all the pieces you’re considering and categorize them by type (necklaces, earrings, rings, etc.). Consider the following: Sentimental Value: Some pieces may hold sentimental value. Decide if you want to retain the original form or re purpose it in a way that still honors the memory. Condition: Check for any damage, tarnishing, or wear. Some pieces may need a professional cleaning or minor repairs before they can be repurposed. Materials: Identify the materials in your jewelry—gold, silver, gemstones, pearls, etc. This will help you decide how to best re purpose each item. 2. Get Inspired Once you have an idea of what you’re working with, start looking for inspiration. Pinterest, Instagram, and jewelry blogs are great places to find ideas. Here are a few ways you can re purpose old jewelry: Convert a necklace into a bracelet: Shorten a necklace to make a trendy bracelet or anklet. Add charms or beads from other pieces to create a unique design. Turn a brooch into a pendant: A vintage brooch can be transformed into a stunning pendant by attaching it to a chain or ribbon. Earrings into rings: A single earring can be turned into a statement ring by attaching it to a ring base. Gemstones and beads: Harvest gemstones or beads from multiple pieces to create a brand-new necklace or bracelet. A gorgeous trend right now is taking all your small diamonds and/or gemstones and flush set them into a wider ring or bracelet or setting them into a disc pendant. The placement is from densely packed at an edge to lightly packed as they get further away (photos are compliments of the American Gem Society). Sometimes the depth of the gem will determine if it can be used because you wouldn’t want the pointy gem bottom to poke your skin. 3. Plan Your Design Before your jewelry is disassembled, sketch out your design ideas or have us do it for you. This doesn’t have to be a professional drawing—a simple sketch will do. Consider the following: Symmetry and Balance: Ensure your new piece is well-balanced and symmetrical (unless you’re going for an asymmetrical design). Color Scheme: Plan the colors carefully to ensure they complement each other. Functionality: Make sure the new piece will be comfortable to wear and durable. 4. Redesign Process We will first inventory everything you leave with us. Next step is to remove the appropriate gems and remove any portion of the piece that will not be a part of the finished product. Then the goldsmith will work their magic and fulfill your wishes according to the design plan. 5. Add Personal Touches One of the joys of re purposing jewelry is that you can add personal touches that make the piece truly unique. Consider engraving a special date or initials, or incorporating a new element like a charm that represents something meaningful to you. 6. Care for Your New Jewelry Once your new jewelry is complete, it’s important to care for it properly to ensure it lasts for years to come. Store your pieces individually to avoid damage. Have them professionally cleaned and checked regularly. Avoid exposing them to harsh chemicals. Conclusion Re purposing old jewelry is a great way to create personalized, meaningful pieces that tell a story. While your restyling possibilities are endless, you are breathing new life into old treasures and can create jewelry that is both stylish and sentimental. Come in and visit with one of our designers to create something newly memorable. Sources Jewelers of America. "How to Re purpose Jewelry into New Designs." Accessed August 2024. The Spruce Crafts. "DIY Jewelry Projects for Repurposing Old Pieces." Accessed August 2024. Gem Society. "Repurposing Jewelry: How to Turn Old Pieces into New Treasures." Accessed August 2024.

The month of August brings with it the bright green glow of peridot, the official birthstone for those born in this summer month. Known for its distinctive green hue, peridot is one of the few gemstones that occur in only one color, although the intensity and tint of the green depend on the amount of iron contained in the crystal structure. This captivating gemstone has a rich history, fascinating geology, and an abundance of symbolic meanings that make it a cherished stone for many. A Brief History of Peridot Peridot has been adored for thousands of years, with its use dating back to ancient Egypt around 1500 BC. It was known as the “gem of the sun” and was believed to protect against nightmares and bring the wearer confidence, health, and positive energy. The ancient Egyptians sourced their peridot from the volcanic island of Zabargad in the Red Sea. This island remained a significant source of peridot until the early 20th century. During the Middle Ages, peridot was highly valued by European royals and clergy and was often used to decorate church altars and clerical robes. The stone's popularity continued through the Victorian era, where it was frequently used in jewelry. The Science Behind Peridot Peridot is a gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, a silicate mineral rich in magnesium and iron. It forms deep within the Earth’s mantle and is brought to the surface by volcanic activity. This geological process means that peridot is often found in areas with significant volcanic history, such as Hawaii, Arizona, and parts of China and Myanmar. The gem’s signature green color is due to the presence of iron within its structure, and it ranges from a yellowish-green to a more intense olive or brownish-green. Unlike many other gemstones, peridot's color is innate, not caused by impurities, which means it doesn't change color under different lighting conditions. Unique Inclusions: The Lily Pad One of the most fascinating aspects of peridot is its unique inclusions, commonly referred to as "lily pad inclusions." These inclusions are typically small, circular shapes resembling lily pads floating on water, and they are caused by minute cracks, or other minerals, such as chromite, within the gemstone. While some might view inclusions as imperfections, lily pad inclusions add character to the peridot and can enhance its allure by adding depth and a unique texture to the gem. These inclusions are often considered identifying marks that authenticate natural peridot stones. (See photo below) Symbolism and Meaning The vibrant green of peridot symbolizes growth, renewal, and new beginnings, making it a fitting stone for August, a month associated with the harvest. It is also associated with the sun, and is thought to drive away the darkness and bring warmth and light. In terms of emotional healing, peridot is said to promote abundance, prosperity, and happiness. It’s believed to alleviate jealousy, resentment, and stress, replacing negative energies with positivity and clarity. Caring for Peridot Jewelry Peridot, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, is softer than many other gemstones, so it requires careful handling. To keep peridot jewelry looking its best, clean it gently with mild soap and warm water, and avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals. It’s best to store peridot pieces separately from other harder gemstones to prevent scratching. Where to Find Peridot Today, major sources of peridot include the United States, particularly Arizona, China, Myanmar, and Pakistan. The Peridot Mesa in Arizona's San Carlos Reservation is one of the most prolific sources of gem-quality peridot in the world. The finest peridot stones often come from Pakistan’s mountainous Kashmir region, where exciting, large crystals are found. Peridot is not just a beautiful gemstone but a symbol of warmth, peace, and growth. Whether set in jewelry or admired for its natural beauty, this August birthstone continues to captivate and inspire those who encounter it. Come see our selection of peridot jewelry or customize something unique from one of our loose gemstones. Resources Gemological Institute of America (GIA): https://www.gia.edu/peridot Offers a detailed overview of peridot’s properties, origins, and value American Gem Society (AGS): https://www.americangemsociety.org/page/peridot Provides insights into the history and symbolism of peridot

Precious metals like sterling silver, gold, and platinum are cherished for their beauty, durability, and value. However, exposure to various chemicals can significantly impact their appearance and longevity. Understanding these effects is crucial for both jewelers and wearers to maintain the integrity and shine of their jewelry. Sterling Silver Sterling silver, composed of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals (usually copper), is particularly susceptible to chemical reactions. The most common issue with sterling silver is tarnishing, a process where the metal surface darkens due to exposure to sulfur-containing compounds in the air. Everyday substances such as perfumes, lotions, and even sweat can accelerate tarnishing. Chlorine, found in swimming pools and household cleaners, is especially harmful to sterling silver. It can cause the metal to corrode and weaken, leading to discoloration and potential structural damage. Similarly, acidic foods (like citrus fruits) and certain cleaning agents can cause pitting and surface damage to sterling silver jewelry. Gold Gold is prized for its resistance to tarnish and corrosion, but it's not entirely immune to chemical effects. Pure gold (24 karat) is relatively inert and doesn’t react easily with most chemicals. However, gold jewelry is often alloyed with other metals to increase its strength and durability, and these alloys can react with certain chemicals. For example, chlorine can weaken gold jewelry by attacking the alloyed metals, causing the piece to become brittle and prone to breaking. Similarly, harsh cleaning agents, such as those containing ammonia, can dull the surface of gold jewelry and strip away protective coatings. Gold’s softness also makes it susceptible to scratching when exposed to abrasive chemicals. It's essential to avoid contact with household cleaners, cosmetics, and chemicals like bleach to maintain the metal's luster and structural integrity. Platinum Platinum is highly resistant to tarnish and corrosion, making it an ideal metal for fine jewelry. Its dense, durable nature means it doesn't easily react with most chemicals. However, platinum is not completely impervious to damage. Chlorine, in particular, can affect platinum, albeit less severely than sterling silver or gold. Repeated exposure to chlorine can cause platinum to develop a dull appearance over time. Additionally, while platinum is more scratch-resistant than gold, abrasive chemicals can still cause minor surface scratches and dullness. To maintain platinum's brilliance, it's best to avoid contact with harsh chemicals and to clean it using gentle, non-abrasive methods. Using a mild soap solution and a soft brush can effectively clean platinum jewelry without causing damage. Conclusion While sterling silver, gold, and platinum are all durable and beautiful metals, their longevity and appearance can be compromised by exposure to certain chemicals. Understanding how these metals react to everyday substances and taking preventive measures can help keep jewelry looking its best. Avoiding chlorine, harsh cleaning agents, and other corrosive substances is key to preserving the integrity and shine of precious metal jewelry. References 1. American Gem Society. (n.d.). Care & Cleaning Tips. Retrieved from American Gem Society. 2. GIA. (n.d.). Jewelry Care and Cleaning Tips. Retrieved from GIA. 3. Jewelers of America. (n.d.). Jewelry Care & Cleaning Guidelines. Retrieved from Jewelers of America.