Posted on June 21st, 2010 by Hand Trades
If you or a loved one was born in June now is the time to buy an Alexandrite. The prices have never been lower. Discovered in 1830 in Russia and named after Czar Alexander II, who was then Crown Prince of Russia, Alexandrite appears to change color under different forms of light. It can look [...]
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Posted on June 7th, 2010 by Hand Trades
This guide to gems and semi-precious stones will aid you in selecting jewelry with authentic stones. Gems and semi-precious stones are essential elements of rings, earrings, pedants, pins and cuff-links. The gem or semi-precious stone is often the focal point of the jewelry; the silver or gold serve as a structure to present the stone. [...]
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Posted on February 12th, 2010 by Hand Trades
1. Try to use American companies. Most cases of fraud or counterfeit items being sold are filed against foreign companies. There is also a language barrier that can cause problems when trying to resolve any issues thay may arise. 2. Know what you are buying. Try to do some research on the gemstone species you [...]
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Posted on September 18th, 2009 by Hand Trades
Moonstone is typically a potassium aluminium silicate, with the chemical formula KAlSi3O8. The most common moonstone is of the mineral adularia. The plagioclase feldspar oligoclase also produces moonstone specimens. Its name is derived from a visual effect, or sheen, caused by light reflecting internally in the moonstone from layer inclusion of different feldspars. Moonstone is [...]
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Posted on September 11th, 2009 by Hand Trades
Royal blue lapis lazuli characteristically has either whitish or yellowish matrix or feathering. When it is flecked with white, it is perfectly complemented by silver and turquoise for a southwestern look. If it has brassy specks, it is regal with gold. Lapis also has darker regions that can be accented when strung with black onyx [...]
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