Monday, September 30, 2013

October Birthstones-Opal and Pink Tourmaline

  • October Birthstones-Opal and Pink Tourmaline
                Pink Tourmaline
     

           Pink Tourmaline balances the feminine and masculine aspects within woman, empowering her to reach her full potential.
Tourmalines come in just about every color in the rainbow. Some of the colors have unique jewelry related names.
Pink to Red tourmaline is known as rubellite, and the color is probably from manganese. It is one of the most valuable of the tourmalines when the colors are dark and rich. Large flawless stones are rare
                   Its name comes from the Sinhalese word "turmali" meaning mixed. Bright rainbow collections of gemstone varieties were called "turmali" parcels. Due to the tendency to confuse Tourmalines with other Gems. Tourmaline lives up to its name. Perhaps this is why this gemstone is said to encourage artistic intuition. It has many faces and expresses every mood.
Pink Tourmaline helps a woman understand and come to peace with her feminine and masculine selves as it fosters the inner harmony and strength she needs to develop her true feminine power
                  Opal
                Opal comes in a variety of colors.  Common Opal, Precious White Opal, Blue Opal, Black Opal, Fire Opal and Pink Opal.  Common Opal does not have the “fire” of color that we see in the other Opals, but  it is emotionally supportive and nurturing. Precious White Opal is the one most commonly found in jewelry.  Robert Simmons says White Precious Opal carries the “seed of the Holy Fire“, with intense spiritual energy, amplifying emotions good or bad. When it amplifies negative emotions, we can learn the cost of negative emotions and release them.
               Here at NY Diamond Boutique we have a wide selection of  Pink Tourmaline and Opal Stones , in various styles of jewelry such as bracelets, rings, bangles, and pendants.

Friday, September 27, 2013

Opal History

Opal History:


Opal, the most beautiful and magical of all the gemstones, has been treasured from the beginning of civilization to the present day, and will be forever into the future. The word comes from various roots: Sanskrit 'Upala' (precious stone), Greek 'Opallios' (to observe color change) and Latin 'Opalus' (seeing jewel).

The Australian Aborigines have understood the opal's unique energy and beauty since the Dreaming times. They bestowed the name of 'Rainbow Serpent' upon this remarkable gem and described its creation: "The Creator took the colors of the rainbow, and put them into stone to make opal". Another story tells of the Creator traveling via a rainbow road to spread a message of peace on earth. With each step, the stones underfoot turned into tiny, tangible rainbows – opals.

There are other myths about the ancient gods involving opals. Zeus, the Greek king of the gods, was so happy when he defeated the Titans that he wept tears that turned into opals upon hitting the ground. The Indian Goddess of the Rainbow was reportedly so beautiful that many male gods sought her favor. Eventually, as a desperate act of escape from their advances, she turned herself into the rainbow-colored opal.

Traditions of other cultures display similar reverence. The Arabs believed that opals fell from heaven in flashes of lightning, that is how they received their fiery color. The ancient Greeks thought that opal conferred the gifts of foresight and prophecy. They would assist the wearer to lessen their inhibitions and reveal true feelings. Ancient Romans ranked opals above all other gemstones and paid high prices for the luxurious and fortune-bringing stones.

Archaeological evidence reveals that opal was mined in Virgin Valley, North America, over 10,000 years ago and used in artifacts in Kenya 6 thousand years ago. The ancient Greek Theophrastus (372-287 B.C.E.), who prepared the oldest extant book on precious stones, quoted his friend Onomacritus: "the delicacy of the opal remind me of a loving and beautiful child".

In the Roman world, when Mark Antony (83-30 B.C.E.) wished to present an opal ring to Cleopatra, the senator Nonius fled rather than give it up to him. And Pliny (23-79 C.E.), the famous author and natural philosopher, described his opal purchase: "having a refulgent fire of the carbuncle (ruby or garnet), the glorious purple of amethyst, the sea green of emerald, and all those colors glittering together mixed in an incredible way." During the same time, the Aztecs were mining opal in South and Central America.

Throughout the Middle Ages (5th - 14th centuries) opal was know as 'ophthalmios' (eye stone) due to a widespread belief that it was beneficial to the eyes. Blond women also wore opal necklaces around this time to protect their hair from losing its color. A Holy Roman Emperor included opals in his crown and Shakespeare (1564-1616) mentioned the opal as "a miracle" and the "Queen of Gems". Queen Victoria (1837-1901) wore opals throughout her life and delighted in presenting them to her friends and to other Royal Family members.
Opal was discovered in Australia at Lightning Ridge in the late 1880s and the first shaft was dug in 1901 or 1902. Today it is the national stone of the country and Australia supplies 95% of the world market.


The Healing Properties of Gemstones

NY Diamond Boutique

71-46 Austin Street- Forest Hills, NY 718-544-0222

nydiamondboutique.com


The Healing Properties of Gemstones

Gemstones are not only attractive, but according to lore helpful in the treatment in a wide variety of medical conditions. Among the many popular forms of gemstone jewelry, let's look at several types of gemstones that are commonly integrated into jewelry and what their healing properties they are thought to have:
Amethyst is a purple-colored, semi-precious stone that is known as a spiritual stone and used for general healing and meditation. It's said that sleeping with a piece of amethyst beneath one's pillow promotes intuitive dreams and inspired thought.
Diamond is considered a master healer. An extremely powerful stone, it is said to remove blockages and all emotional negativity.
Emerald is a bright green precious stone said to improve intellect and memory. In addition, it's been reported to have wide ranging positive properties including relieving insomnia and acts as emotional stabilizer to assist in the release of emotionally based trauma.
Ruby is a deep red transparent gemstone and thought to increase levels of energy and divine creativity. In addition, it alleviates worries, lifts spirits, as well as improves one's confidence, intuition, spiritual wisdom, energy and courage.
Sapphire is often seen to have a calming effect on those prone to nervousness. Considered a stone of friendship and love, it attracts good influences. Sapphire has also been reported to give the wearer devotion, faith, imagination and peace of mind.
Gemstones are available in a wide range of varieties and are incorporated into many forms of jewelry including gemstone earrings, necklaces and rings. An attractive alternative to more traditional forms of jewelry, gemstones are not only attractive but also have a story behind them.

Thursday, September 26, 2013

The Secrets of the Peridot

NY Diamond Boutique

71-46 Austin Street- Forest Hills, NY 718-544-0222

nydiamondboutique.com

The Secrets of the Peridot

The beautiful green stone, Peridot, the birthstone for August,  is said to have special qualities that no other gemstone has.   Many believe this stone, more so than any other, will grant the wearer everlasting life. Why ?

When Egyptian pharaohs were mummified, their hearts were removed and replaced with a Peridot to guide them into the everlasting afterlife.

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

The Healing Affects of Gemstone Jewelry

NY Diamond Boutique

71-46 Austin Street- Forest Hills, NY 718-544-0222

nydiamondboutique.com

 

 

 

The Healing Affects of Gemstone Jewelry

While gemstone jewelry is frequently thought of as simply an attractive adornment, gemstones are also thought to possess special meaning and healing effects. Used in a form of therapy, gemstone energy medicine uses the unique properties inherent in each type of gemstone to help focus the body's own healing powers. It's been reported that emotional maladies, mental complaints, and chronic illnesses of all kinds have responded to gemstone energy medicine in unprecedented ways. While many may doubt the legitimacy of using gemstone jewelry as a treatment of established maladies, it can't be argued that a substantial number of people have found this treatment helpful.
Although gemstone jewelry has been worn throughout history for its therapeutic properties, the healing effects have met with varying degrees of success due to a lack of understanding of how they work. Authorities on the subject state that to obtain the greatest benefit a gemstone must be of high quality and the proper shape. Like any other form of medicine, the greater the quality the better result, so flawless gemstones are needed to achieve the maximum benefit. Furthermore, the belief that these gems radiate healing powers makes a spherical gemstone ideal. Finally, most experts state that gemstone necklaces place the stone in a location that will benefit the entire body. Whether you consider the use of gemstones and gemstone jewelry a legitimate treatment or not, many swear by the positive affects they've experienced through its use.

 

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

THE HISTORY OF GEMSTONE JEWELRY

NY Diamond Boutique

71-46 Austin Street- Forest Hills, NY 718-544-0222

nydiamondboutique.com

 THE HISTORY OF GEMSTONE JEWELRY 

  The creation of gemstone jewelry dates back thousands of years to ancient stories found in the Bible and elsewhere. Most scholars agree that the stories and myths behind this form of jewelry can be traced to the story of the "Breastplate of Aaron," which was a ceremonial and spiritual garment that was inlaid with twelve natural gemstones. It's believed that each of these gemstones represented the twelve tribes of Israel from the Old Testament and are associated with the Twelve Apostles.In modern times, the belief that the twelve gemstones present on the Breastplate of Aaron was extended to include additional meaning. 

The practice of assigning meaning to stones was probably associated to astrological practices and the custom of wearing gemstones as in birthstone jewelry was first seen in 15th century Poland. In the early 1900s the connection of specific stones to birth months was formalized in the United States; although criticized by gemstone purists as a commercially motivated effort, people from across the world now embrace the concept of birthstones and the ability to place deeper meaning in the gemstone jewelry that they wear.

As you search for gemstone jewelry, the folklore and myths associated with each gemstone offer greater interest and enjoyment. While it may require some homework, identifying the characteristics and meaning of each gemstone will give your jewelry more meaning. Some sample meanings include prosperity, luck, serenity and more. In addition, gemstones are considered by many to possess a variety of healing qualities and personality traits. Regardless of your beliefs, gemstones and the jewelry in which they are featured have a long and interesting history.

 

Monday, September 23, 2013

THE 4 SECRETS OF GEMSTONE QUALITY

NY Diamond Boutique

71-46 Austin Street- Forest Hills, NY 718-544-0222

nydiamondboutique.com

THE 4 SECRETS OF GEMSTONE QUALITY

Identifying the quality level of the stones used within gemstone jewelry is important and will ensure that any gemstone rings, necklaces or other pieces you purchase will retain their value. Since gemstones have no grading system, their evaluation can be more complicated than diamonds. However like diamonds, starting with the Four Cs can be helpful:

  • Color – The color of gemstones used for jewelry is important. Generally clear, medium-tone, intense and saturated primary colors are the most preferred. Avoid stones with color that is too dark or color that is muddled. The brighter and more vivid the color, the better.
  • Clarity – After color, gemstone clarity is the next most important factor in valuation. Clear, transparent gemstones with no visible flaws are the most valued. With no standardized grading system, clarity can be difficult to judge, but if flaws aren't visible in the face up position, then they rarely matter. Some gemstone varieties, like emerald and red tourmaline, are rarely seen without inclusions, so gemstone jewelry that uses high quality stones from these varieties will be more expensive.
  • Carat - Gemstones are sold by weight, not by size and prices are calculated per carat. It's important to recognize that some gems are denser than others, so similarly sized stones of different varieties may differ greatly in cost. In addition, larger stones of some varieties can be quite rare and much more expensive like ruby, emerald, sapphire and tourmaline.
  • Cut – Although not the most important factor in evaluating the quality of gemstones, cut is very important in how the stone is used in gemstone jewelry. A good cut is something that may not cost more but can add or subtract a lot of beauty. A well-cut faceted gemstone reflects light back evenly across its surface area when held face up. The best way to judge cut is to look at similar gemstones next to each other.

 

Friday, September 20, 2013

What's The Difference Between Precious Or Semi-Precious Gems ?


NY Diamond Boutique

71-46 Austin Street- Forest Hills, NY 718-544-0222

nydiamondboutique.com


What's The Difference Between Precious Or Semi-Precious Gems ?

Precious vs. Semi-Precious Gemstones

The distinction between precious and semi-precious gemstones is often misunderstood, but fairly easy to understand. Stemming from the ancient Greeks, the traditional distinction between precious and semi-precious gemstones boils down to rarity; diamond, ruby, sapphire and emerald are considered precious, while all other gemstones are considered semi-precious. Generally, this system is often considered overly simplistic, unscientific and only reflects the rarity of the respective stones in ancient times. As a result, use of the terms 'precious' and 'semi-precious' in a commercial context can be considered misleading, however when buying gemstone jewelry it's important to acknowledge that this will largely affect the price of any purchase.

Thursday, September 19, 2013

Why Does Gold Come In Different Colors ?

NY Diamond Boutique

71-46 Austin Street- Forest Hills, NY 718-544-0222

nydiamondboutique.com

WHY DOES GOLD COME IN DIFFERENT COLORS ?

Of course the natural color of gold is a bright golden color.
However, white and rose gold have become more and more popular in recent years. 

Although not naturally produced in other colors, white and rose gold is produced with the addition of various other metals added as alloys.
White Gold-Nickel  or palladium is added to produce white gold.

Rose Gold-Copper is added to produce rose gold. 
 


Wednesday, September 18, 2013

What Do The Numbers Mean On Gold ?

NY Diamond Boutique

71-46 Austin Street- Forest Hills, NY 718-544-0222

nydiamondboutique.com

What Do The Numbers Mean On Gold ?

Pure gold is 24 K or .999

917 is 22 K Gold

750 is 18 K Gold

585 is 14 K Gold

417 is 10 K Gold

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

4 Ways Jewelry Should Be Sold

NY Diamond Boutique

71-46 Austin Street- Forest Hills, NY 718-544-0222

nydiamondboutique.com

4 WAYS JEWELRY SHOULD BE SOLD.

 

When purchasing fine jewelry, the following four areas should be discussed by the sales person.

1. The beauty of the jewelry.

2. Statements indicating the value of the item based on gem and product knowledge.

3. Features/Advantages/Benefits-"Diamonds are  the hardest known substance. They can never be scratched so you can wear them every day and pass them on to the next generation.

4. Why you, the customer came in. The sales person should make it seem even more important to you.   

Friday, September 13, 2013

The 4 Secrets of Jewelry Store Greetings

NY Diamond Boutique

71-46 Austin Street- Forest Hills, NY 718-544-0222

nydiamondboutique.com

The 4 Secrets of Jewelry Store Greetings

When buying fine jewelry it's not only what you buy, but who you're buying from!  Next time you shop for jewelry, check to see if these points are being covered by your sales person  as soon as you enter the store

1. Were you greeted within the first 5 to 10 seconds with a genuine smile ?

2. Was the greeting sufficient by making you feel comfortable with a sense that  the sales person really wanted to wait on you ?

3. Was the greeting creative ?

4. Was there positive eye contact and body language ?


Wednesday, September 11, 2013

10 Diamond Buying Secrets

NY Diamond Boutique

71-46 Austin Street- Forest Hills, NY 718-544-0222

nydiamondboutique.com

 10 DIAMOND 

BUYING

SECRETS

When you go shopping for a diamond, it's not only what you buy, but how the diamond is presented even before you spend your money. Here are some helpful tips on what to look for during your next diamond shopping presentation.

1. The sales person should warmly introduce themselves, try to learn your name and use it in conversation with you.

2. The sales person needs to be a good listener. The essence of being a good seller is being a good listener.

3. Diamonds should never be shown on the glass top of a jewelry showcase, rather on a black jewelry pad or cloth. This helps you to stay more focused on what you may want to buy.

4. Diamond (and all jewelry for that matter), should be presented to you, not discussed through the glass of the display case.

5. The diamonds you're being shown should be bright and clean, without finger marks, polishing cloth strings or price tags that look worn.

6. You should be shown diamonds approximately within the price range you've described, not the most expensive item in the showcase.

7. The sales person's conversation should be focused on the romance of the occasion and the beauty of the diamond jewelry.

8. Aside from the price remember; you're buying diamonds for their beauty. Don't be confused by technical information.

9. Diamond jewelry should be worn when being presented.

10. A close-up mirror should be provided so you may see what the jewelry will look like when being worn.       

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tuesday, September 10, 2013

6 Reasons Diamonds Are A Bargain !

NY Diamond Boutique

71-46 Austin Street- Forest Hills- 718-544-0222

nydiamondboutique.com

 6 REASONS DIAMONDS ARE A BARGAIN !

Of course, it comes as no surprise that diamonds are the most prized of all gems when it comes to jewelry.  But why ?  And why have they become the ageless symbol of marriage in wedding and engagement rings ? Here are 6 reasons diamonds are really under priced when you stop to think about it.

1. RARITY-Of all diamonds mined only 20% of them are of gem quality with the other 80% used for industrial purposes, drills, etc. Only 1 out of a million diamonds mined will be a single 1ct. diamond; that's 1,000 piles of 1,000 diamonds.   Additionally, gem quality diamonds are found in very few places such as Africa, Australia, Russia and Canada.

2. MINING COST-Approximately 250 tons of earth must be excavated to reveal 1ct. of diamonds. This makes diamonds the most sought after substance on Earth with the least return !

3. CUT-The skill required to cut a diamond requires a 10 year apprenticeship. About 90% of a diamond is cut for it's size, sacrificing brilliance and beauty.

4. ENDURANCE-A diamond never wears out, never changes and its' beauty is unaffected by age.

5. ANTIQUITY VALUE-Although a diamond is 3 to 4 billion years old, yet it always looks new.

6. INVESTMENT VALUE-Since 1940, on average diamonds have doubled in value each year. Diamonds are an investment in life and in someone you love. Diamonds in wedding and engagement rings mean someone loves you and you're  taken.

The next time you shop for diamonds, keep in mind they're not just a good investment...., but a priceless one !!!!!

 

Monday, September 9, 2013

How To Afford Fine Jewelry For The Holidays Or Anytime

71-46 Austin Street- Forest Hills- 718-544-0222

nydiamondboutique.com

THE BEST WAY TO PLAN AHEAD 

TO BUY JEWELRY FOR THE HOLIDAYS !

(or ANYTIME)

So you may be thinking about getting a really amazing gift

this year for someone special but ....

are concerned about the cost.

NY DIAMOND BOUTIQUE has the perfect answer to this problem !

A NO FEE/FREE LAYAWAY PROGRAM !!!

HERE'S HOW IT WORKS ! 

  1. Visit NY DIAMOND BOUTIQUE and choose from literally thousands of beautiful, one of a kind fine jewelry and watch selections in gold, platinum, silver with diamonds, gemstones or custom made pieces.

    2. Place a deposit to hold the special "when you mention this blog" reduced price of up to 50% Off !

    3. Make your payments weekly, every other week or monthly.

    4. Take the time you need until the Holidays to finish your payments. 

    5. Get ready to give an awesome gift to someone special and receive thanks and gratitude like never before !!!!!!

 

Thursday, September 5, 2013

September Birthstone's " Sapphire Sale " at NY Diamond Boutique




Birthstones are a fun way to celebrate your birth month. Each month has its very own gemstone. Wearing your birthstone is considered very lucky and is thought to provide the wearer with good fortune.
Giving personalized birthstone jewelry is a special way to celebrate someone's birthday. There are many items these days with birthstones such as rings, necklaces, bracelets, etc.

September Sapphire
                  The striking deep blue of a quality sapphire is reminiscent of a cloudless night sky.  Ancient civilizations believed that the world was set upon an enormous sapphire, which painted the sky blue with its reflection.  This legend, as well as the belief that the ten commandments were inscribed upon tablets made of sapphire, gives September’s birthstone a royal place among gemstones.
                  Named after the Greek word "sapphirus", meaning blue, Sapphires have long been a favorite among priests and kings, who considered them symbolic of wisdom and purity. These gemstones are prominent among the British Crown Jewels, and Prince Charles chose this as the engagement stone for his fiancĂ©e, Princess Diana.
                  In ancient times, Sapphires were thought to be protective against envy, and even against poisoning.  A common belief was that a venomous snake placed in a Sapphire vessel would rapidly die!  Ground to a powder, the blue stone was believed to cure colic, rheumatism and mental illness, and to strengthen eyesight.
                 The Sapphire is second only to the Diamond in hardness, making it a durable gemstone for setting into jewelry.  A gift of Sapphire represents sincerity and faithfulness. As nourishing to the soul as gazing up at the sky on a summer day, this brilliant blue gemstone is truly a heavenly choice!
              Here at NY Diamond Boutique we have a wide selection of  Sapphire Stones , in various styles of jewelry such as bracelets, rings, bangles, and pendants.


FIND OUR BEAUTIFUL SELECTION OF SAPPHIRES AT http://nydiamondboutique.com/gifts/btsss.html