Birthstone Jewelry Feature: Topaz & Citrine

Janice Stiles
This month, I am featuring Topaz and Citrine, the two birthstones traditionally recognized for November! These birthstones are known for their warm, calming energies: Topaz and Citrine are the perfect answer to the mid-autumn blues! 

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Birthstone Jewelry Feature: October Pink Tourmaline & Opal

Janice Stiles
The names of this month's birthstones sound as dazzling as they look: Pink Tourmaline and Opal are beautiful choices for any October birthdays on your list! View this collection below...

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Pearl Guide, Pt. 2

Janice Stiles
Historically, pearls have been thought to promote faith, charity and integrity. Pearls have been worn for thousands of years and are one of the most sought-after gems. Pearls are the only gems that are created by a living being: freshwater and saltwater mollusks.

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Pearl Guide, Pt. 1

Janice Stiles
There are so many beautiful shiny objects called “pearls” these day, but it's easy to tell the real ones from the fake ones. To do so, gently rub the pearl against the front of your tooth; if it feels gritty, then it’s a real pearl, whether cultured or natural. If it feels smooth, then it’s not a real pearl regardless of the description. Be careful to not use the edge of your tooth, as you could scratch the pearl!

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Fine Art Behind-the-Scenes: Fold Forming

Janice Stiles
Fold forming is a metalworking technique in which metal is folded, alternately annealed and forged repeatedly, and unfolded. Following this process, each piece of metal assumes a completely different and unique three-dimensional form.

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Fine Art Behind-the-Scenes: Mined vs. Lab Created Stones

Janice Stiles
The jewelry industry is erupting with necklaces, rings, earrings, and other unique items created using a rainbow of gorgeous gemstones. Some are created with natural stones, while others use man-made alternatives—some of which are superior in brilliance and appearance. It’s important to keep in mind that high-quality, man-made stones are not intended to deceive, and just because they are lab-created, they are not necessarily low-quality.

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Birthstone Jewelry Feature: February Amethyst

Janice Stiles
Amethyst colors can range from pale lilac to a deep almost reddish purple. Amethyst is sometimes heat treated to enhance the color. It’s mined all over the world, but Brazil is best known for its amethyst mines.

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