Fashion Costume Jewellery

Archive for the ‘Gemstone jewellery’ Category

Diamond is the traditional birthstone of April.

Diamonds have been around for some time and have been prized for centuries, but the first thing most people think about when talking about diamonds is the price – a good diamond has a price tag which can be prohibitive for many. Cost aside, there are not many people who would not wear a diamond and be very pleased with their ownership.

In the past, only white diamonds were used for jewellery; now, because of the scarcity and cost of mining these gems, the coloured stones are also being used and becoming sought after, with many diamond companies creating fantastic marketing campaigns around the colours. Coloured diamonds in the past had been considered inferior to the white – though from my perspective, I cannot understand why as the coloured stones offer character and refinement!

The most famous of the diamonds is probably the Hope Diamond. Found in the 1890s in South Africa and the largest of the found diamonds. It is currently owned by the Smithsonian Institute in the US, having been gifted to them by the famous jeweller Harry Winston. The diamond is said to have a long history of misfortune, but I suspect that this is simply due to its fabulous nature and the envy it engages!

Another famous South African diamond is the Jongers Diamond. Although not as large as the Hope, the Jongers has an unusual story associated with it. Harry Winston managed to purchase this fabulous stone and was concerned about transporting it back to the US. Rather than send it via courier or carry it himself, he placed it in an envelope and posted it (yes, though the normal mail serevice!) at a cost of 62 cents. It arrived intact.

When looking for a diamond, there are a number of factors to consider. The first of course, must be the amount of money you are prepared to spend on the jewellery – this will limit yur choice of gems. Next, decide on a colour, the most popular colours are white (traditional), pink (from the Argyle Diamond Mine in Western Australia), champagne or even blue diamonds.

There are any number of different cuts that the diamond can have, this is the way the diamond cutters slice through the diamond and create the pattern within the stone.

The other issue to consider is the clarity of the diamond – its sparkle! How cleanly the diamond reflects the light and how bright it shines is one big factor in its price and in its desireability.

Diamonds are traditionally considered to be gifts for special occasions, not the least of which are engagement rings once thought to be the female domain, but now used for enagement and wedding rings for both men and ladies. Diamonds are sometimes said to enhance love, spirituality and prosperity.

For those without the budget for diamonds, good cubic zirconia are often used as a replacement and can look great!

Gemstones have long been classified with fine jewellery – think Elizabeth Taylor, Indian Rubies and Brazilian Emeralds! Fashion Costume Jewellery comes of age when fine gemstones are set in an affordable jewellery piece and the aura of the gemstone is available to all.

Freshwater pearl and aventurine necklace

I love the feel of freshwater pearls and the resonance of gemstones – so why not combine them? Check out this stunning necklet – made from freshwater pearls and aventurine. The amazing green of the aventuriine contrasts wonderfully with the vanilla pearls. This piece will make you feel like a movie star - and isn’t that what it is all about? Fasion Costume Jewellery should have (I believe) clean lines, fresh colours and style.

When dressing for the occasion – matching earrings are a must – so here they are – dressy, classy and decidedly with a feeling of wealth and the good life!

Amethyst pendant

For those with a hankering to the unique, consider a handmade silver pendant (or 12K Gold filled) that is one of a kind. Pieces such as those pictured here are the ultimate in personalised jewellery, artisan made, one of a kind, incredibly well priced fashion costume jewellery. This first piece is a wonderful amethyst, mined in Western Australia, its deep purple hues reflect beautifully with the sterling silver.

Back of Amethyst pendant

Look carefully at this piece (front and back views are shown) the artisan uses only a pair of pliers and his hands to create these pieces from gemstones and sterling silver wire or 12K gold filled wire. So where does he start and finish?

Opal and Black Onyx Cameo Pendant

Or check out this amazing hand carved cameo opal on a black onyx base again finished in sterling silver wire. Beautiful!

These gemstone jewellery pieces are unique and will occasion many compliments (and starting at about $50 they are a bargain too!).

Different gemstones “speak” to different people; their touch and feel resonates in such wondrous jewellery – who would not want to wear it?

For more unique gemstone pendant necklaces please visit Rayclif.com.