Proposal Ideas

If for one split second you think the 'proposal' is just a question then shame on you. Asking someone if they'll spend the rest of their life with you should be the most important question of your life. It's not a question that should be asked with the same weight as 'pizza or chicken tonight?'.
If you haven't popped the question yet then please, for the sake of future dinner party stories, spend some time and read the following. Make sure your proposal is going to hold up under the scrutiny we can guarantee it will face in the future.
Public Vs Private? This all depends on the type you BOTH are. If she's shy or somewhat introverted the billboard at Times Square may not be the best idea.
Private
On a beach
During a romantic candlit dinner outside
At the place you first met
In the the restaurant you had your first date
Public
If you're brave - then any family gathering
The scoreboard of a sporting event
Hiring a billboard

When to propose is dilemma. Whatever you do, no matter how much planning has gone into the proposal just make sure you ask BEFORE you open the bottle to celebrate.
Valentines Day (if you're into the obvious)
The anniversary of a first date or introduction
Her birthday
Ideas
The fortune cookie proposal. Place a piece of paper asking your intended "Will you marry me?" inside a fortune cookie. Take her out to dinner at your favorite Chinese restaurant. Arrange for the waiter to present the special cookie to your sweetheart after the meal. Imagine her surprise when she cracks open the cookie and reads her "fortune!"
The treasure hunt proposal. Create a map that will lead your girlfriend to the ultimate prize -- an engagement ring from you! Give the map to her with instructions to follow the clues and meet you at the final destination. Lead her on a scavenger hunt through favorite places that have been special in your relationship together -- the restaurant where you had your first date, a park where you had your first kiss, etc. At each point, plant clues that will lead her to the next destination. (You may want to inform others who work there to ensure none of your clues are lost or tampered with -- you can even involve a restaurant hostess, movie theater worker, etc., by having them personally deliver the next clue to your intended). Make sure the final spot is one that is very special to her. When she arrives, present her with the "treasure" -- your ring in the box -- and ask her to marry you.
The "hide the ring" proposal. The options for this strategy are endless; in fact, they are only limited by the extent of your own ingenuity. Some classic examples would include: hollowing out a special book of love poems and securing the ring inside for your girlfriend to find; attaching the ring around the neck of her favorite teddy bear; placing the ring inside a champagne glass and having the waiter present it to her; burying the ring inside a bouquet of roses to be delivered to your loved one, and so on.

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Insuring And Appraising An Engagement Ring

Once you've purchased your engagement ring, the next step is to make sure it's properly insured and appraised. While it's impossible to replace the ring with which you proposed, you need to be able to minimize any backlash if the ring is stolen, lost or damaged.
Engagement Ring Appraisal An unbiased and accurate appraisal of the ring's value is necessary for many reasons. Firstly, if it's valued at under $750 it may not be worth to pay for an independent appraisal. However, the most expensive the jewel is, the more vital it is that you have the ring independently appraised.
A certified inspector can appraise your ring. Make sure though the appraiser is not affiliated in any way with the jeweler who sold you the ring. Before you buy the ring, inform the jeweler that you intend to have the ring appraised by a certified inspector and if the value is not within a certain percentage of the price - then you can return the ring for its full value. Most jewelers will agree to this, bearing in mind the appraisal will almost always be below retail price -this is to be expected. Also, most jewelers will provide a window for this service. Don't expect to return the ring years later, claiming you just had it appraised and want your money back.
When you take your diamond to an independent appraiser, do not give him any background on the stone. Don't let him know where you are purchasing it, or what you paid for it. The point of getting an appraisal is to find out its true worth based on the independent inspection of the stone, setting, and other characteristics of the ring. You don't want to do or say anything that might sway the appraisal in a certain direction.
The appraisal will also help for purposes, especially if you've purchased and antique or vintage ring, bought the ring at auction, or inherited the ring.

Engagement Ring Insurance Policies The scouts told you to always be prepared. Your grandmother told you to save for a rainy day. Your mother told you to always wear clean underwear in case you were run over (though if you do get run over I'm sure the state of your underwear will be one of the last things on your mind). Anyway, no matter what the saying - it's all the same premise - prepare for the worst and expect the best. Insurance is all about preparing for the worse. If your ring gets stolen, lost or damaged you need to know that although the ring itself can't be replaced you can at least have the security of knowing you can replace it smoothly and seemlessly. There are several types of policies to choose from and they can vary depending upon the state you live in and the insurance company you use.
Replacement Policy A replacement policy guarantees a payment that will enable you to buy a similar ring with comparable stone quality, design, setting, and metal should your ring become lost, stolen, or irreparably damaged. This policy would apply to current market values - meaning that even if the ring is more expensive now than when you originally purchased it, the entire replacement cost will be covered.
Actual Cash Value Policy This policy will replace the ring at its current value minus any depreciation that might have occurred. These policies are less expensive to maintain than other policies and they are the most common choices.
Valued At Policy This is the most comprehensive coverage on the market, though it's not particularly commonplace. With a valued at policy, you will receive the actual insurance amount, even if you choose to value the ring at higher than its appraised value. This may include your sentimental value or a ?time and trouble? consideration if the ring were custom-made.
Engagement Ring Appraisals and Insurance Together While some appraisal agents also offer insurance policies, it is best to turn to an independent insurer for the same reason that you would prefer an appraiser unaffiliated with the original jeweler. This way you can be certain that there is no hidden bias designed to drive your costs higher, and you guarantee the best coverage for your ring.

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How To Buy An Engagement Ring

How do you choose the perfect engagement ring? Where do you start? How much should you spend? Should it be a surprise or should you shop together? How do you know you're getting value? So many questions surround one of the most emotion-filled purchases that you'll ever make. Get this one wrong, and it's never going to be forgotten.
However, if you're like most people looking for their first engagement ring, you probably don't know a whole lot about diamonds. And in this case, ignorance is not bliss. Before you take another step, spend time here and learn all there is to learn about diamonds and engagment rings. So, when the time comes to signing on the dotted line you'll know you're getting the perfect ring (at the perfect price).
Know the Four Cs - cut, clarity, carat and color are the main factors that determine the quality of a diamond and thus, its price. It's critical to educate yourself in each of these areas before you start shopping.
Do your homework - shop around, look at stores' Web sites, ask trusted friends and relatives where they buy their jewelry, read everything there is to read on Jewelry.com. In other words, arm yourself with as much information as possible before you're ready to make the purchase.
Know her style - pay attention when she admires someone else's engagement ring or a ring in an advertisement; ask her friends and family what she likes. Look in her jewelry box; notice the style of jewelry she already wears. Also note the kind of metal she prefers (yellow gold, white gold, platinum). Go shopping with her at the mall and browse by a few jewelry stores; you'll get to see first-hand what really catches her eye.
Find her ring size - Just imagine - you pop the question, she happily accepts, she starts to put the ring on - and it doesn't fit. What a letdown. You want that magic moment to be perfect. So either get a ring from her jewelry box and bring it with you, or make an impression of her ring in soap or clay, or trace the inside of her ring on a piece of paper, or even put her ring on your own finger as far as it will go and mark that spot with a pen. A jeweler can get an accurate measurement through any of these strategies. And of course, you can always ask one of her best friends or relatives for her ring size - just be sure you choose someone who can keep a secret.

Have a budget in mind, but be flexible - Diamonds are available in a range of prices, so you're certain to find one that suits your taste and budget. Once you understand the Four Cs, you'll be able to find a stone that represents the best value, based on the combination of color, cut, clarity and carat weight you desire. But don't automatically pass up the "perfect" ring just because it's more than you planned to spend. Remember that this is an investment that will last a lifetime - and it won't depreciate in value. Besides, most jewelers accept credit cards or offer financing that allows you to pay for the jewelry in installments. As for how much you should actually spend, consider the commonly accepted guideline of two month's salary. However, this is only a directional tool to help you establish a budget. Always consider the bride as part of this decision: if she prides herself on keeping debts low and credit cards paid off, she may not appreciate even the most beautiful ring that requires payments or loans.

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The History (As We Tell It) Of Engagement Rings

What's the story behind engagement rings? From caveman and rope to aristocracy and diamonds - it's an engaging tale.
The caveman was a rough type of guy, what with chasing after gazelle and hand-to-hand combat with grizzly bears so that he would have some meat to bring home at night and a coat for the missus. But it seems he had a sensitive side, too. He knew how to treat his woman right. Having found himself a mate, usually from the next-door cave, he bound himself to her with a cord of woven rushes to symbolize their spirits as one.
Some historians say early man tied plaited circlets around the bride's wrists and ankles to keep her spirit from running away. Now, that's something you don't see much of anymore. And if we are talking sensitive, then what about the ancient Scandinavians whose menfolk believed that a lover's knot symbolized love, faith, and friendship. So the hair of the beloved was woven into a knot and worn as a ring. Sounds so moving and spiritual, until you realize that the hair was probably hacked off with a blunt knife.
But we have come a long way in the past few thousand years. Instead of cavemen we have the rocker Tommy Lee and his ex-wife Pamela Anderson, tattooing a 'ring' on their wedding fingers. Tasteful. Generally, however, we find couples going out and choosing an engagement ring after many, many hours of deliberation. Painstakingly, modern couples check yet another brochure, magazine, jeweler and website until the lady is completely satisfied with her choice.
Which leads us to the question, just why do engagements or weddings have to be marked with the giving of a ring? Why not something a little more practical and useful, such as a box of fruit or a washing machine? As usual, the culprits are those ancient people.
While taking time off from praying to stone circles in the middle of nowhere, they decided that the third finger of the left hand, had a special vein called vena amoris, the "vein of love" that ran directly to the heart. Complete nonsense, of course, with no scientific basis whatsoever, but the tradition has stuck over the course of so many generations that it's difficult to believe it will ever be replaced.

Meanwhile, another theory says the wedding ring has been traditionally worn on the third finger of the left hand because in the 17th century the priest arrived at the fourth finger (counting the thumb) after touching the three fingers on the left hand "in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost". When Jewish couples marry, however, the groom places the ring on the index finger of the bride's right hand.
Afterwards, most women move it to the customary "ring finger" of the left hand. The reason goes back to the time of the Talmud and the differences in beliefs at that time about which finger is closer or more directly leads to the heart. In fact in Jewish law, the groom doesn't have to give a ring - that is just fitting in with the surrounding traditions - all he has to do, according to Jewish law, is give something as a symbol of having 'bought' his wife.
Anyway, back to the ancient Egyptians, around 5,000 years ago. They were happy to twist reedy plants, such as hemp, into rings because a circle with no end symbolized never-ending love. But it was the Romans who decided the ring should be made of metal. A sensible decision: ever seen what happens to a ring made of reeds after you've washed the dishes? But before the ladies out there start thanking the Romans for their revolutionary thinking, the reason for the change to metal was that the solid metal band symbolized a binding legal agreement of ownership by their husbands who regarded rings as tokens of purchase.
Although rings have become the accepted way in many parts of the world of showing the outside world that a couple is engaged or married, many other peoples have somewhat different ceremonies. For the Masai tribe of Kenya, for example, the father of the bride spits on the bride's head and breasts at the marriage ceremony as a blessing and then she leaves with her husband walking to her new home while never looking back for fear she will turn to stone. And just to keep the evil eye at bay, sometimes the women of the groom's family will even insult the bride as she walks to her new home.
Meanwhile, the Swahili tribe of Kenya bathes the bride in sandalwood oils and tattoo henna designs on her limbs. A woman elder, called a somo, gives instructions to the bride on how to please her husband and the old dear sometimes hides under the bed to be on hand in case there are problems. And if you think that is off-putting, the Samburu tribe's wedding ceremony is concluded when a bull enters a hut guarded by the bride's mother and is killed.

For the Himba people of Namibia, it is traditional to kidnap the bride before the ceremony and dress her in a leather marriage headdress. After the ceremony she is taken into the house where the family tells her what her responsibilities will be as the wife and then anoint her with butterfat from cows. Meanwhile, for the Neur people of southern Sudan the groom must pay 20-40 cattle for the lady and the marriage is completed only after the wife has borne two children. If the wife only bears one child and the husband asks for a divorce he can also ask for either the return of the cattle or the first child. Whichever he loves most.
The trend of giving a diamond engagement ring was reputed to have begun when Archduke Maximillian of Hamburg gave Mary of Burgundy a diamond betrothal ring in 1477. It wasn't though until De Beers started an advertising campaign in the early 20th century that this trend moved from the aristocracy into every man's land.

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Engagement Rings: The Latest Trends

A single diamond solitaire maybe the classic diamond engagement ring style - but today there's more than just a 'solitary' style when it comes to bridal rings. Find out the trends, the styles and the settings that are topping the engagement ring trends for modern brides worldwide.
Trends influence engagement rings designs as much as they do every other aspect of our life. Classic solitaires can be as cutting-edge as they are traditional. Celebrity rings, designer rings and advances in jewelry manufacturing mean that this most traditional of purchases need not necessarily be the most traditional of jewels. celebrity engagement rings, designer jewelry, and new, unique styles. To help guide you along, here are some of the hot engagement ring trends that have emerged so far this year:
Something new. Sleek, modern, often geometric designs have done well with brides looking to stand out from the crowd. Cutting-edge fashions include settings such as tension (the stone is only held on its edges, suspended, and appears to float) and bezel (the stone is flush with the ring's surface); newer cuts like the Zales Diamond and the Tiffany Lucida, which display more facets than traditional cuts to increase the stone's fire; and alternative shapes like the princess-cut (modified square), which offer the bride-to-be more individuality than the more traditional round, marquise, emerald, pear, or oval shapes.
Something classic. Regardless of the latest trends, timeless, classic-looking rings will never go out of style. But sometimes, a new style becomes so pervasive, that it becomes a modern classic. The strong renaissance of the three-stone diamond ring (which has roots going back to the Victorian Age) -- and its steady transition from an anniversary ring to an engagement ring show that this style, with its powerful "past, present and future" message, is here to stay.
Something blue (or another hue). Adding a splash of color to their engagement ring is another way that some of today's brides are expressing themselves. Some are selecting colored diamonds in yellow, pink, blue, green and other shades. Others are turning to alternative gems as the center stone or as an accent to the center diamond. Some of the more popular colored stone choices for engagement rings, according to the American Gem Trade Association, are sapphire, ruby, emerald, tanzanite, and garnet.

Something old. Family heirlooms handed down from mothers/grandmothers, rings from estates and auctions, and pieces from vintage jewelers have been doing particularly well. In general, antique styles and cuts -- especially when set in platinum -- have been strong sellers with today's brides. Some say this is a direct result of the tragic events of Sept. 11, which caused many to want to reconnect with their past -- a time seen as more simple and secure. An antique engagement ring also gives the wearer a chance to express her own style by wearing something that can't be found in just any jewelry store.

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Celebrities' Engagement Rings

When money's no object, fame has found you and beauty beholds you - what ring you should you be looking for? We take a look at some famous brides and the rings they blinged in.
Before she found happiness (and twins) with Marc Anthony, Jennifer Lopez found a 6-carat pink diamond from Harry Winston on her finger to celebrate her brief engagement to Ben Affleck. A step-up from her four-carat emerald-cut engagement ring she received from her 2nd hubbie, backing dancer Cris Judd. When she finally did walk down the aisle for her 3rd wedding to Anthony, the bride was adorned in true diva fashion with an array of diamonds. Even the white umbrella carried by the singer could not deflect the sun's light from dancing off the estimated $7 million worth of gems on the necklace, bracelet and earrings by Neil Lane.
Michael Douglas popped the question to Welsh beauty Catherine Zeta-Jones with a ten-carat antique marquis-cut diamond ring from Fred Leighton.
Rebecca Romijn-Stamos's vintage four-carat Boucheron ring from husband John Stamos shows that diamonds really are timeless.
It was to Fred Leighton that Percy Gibson turned when presenting one of our favorite serial brides, Joan Collins, with that all important circle. He went for a heart cut diamond in a nineteenth-century setting.
Kay Jewelers was the shop of choice for Toni Braxton's amour when he bought a four and a half carat diamond ring featuring an oval-shaped center stone with heart-shaped accents on either side.
Babs (aka Ms. Barbra Brolin nee Streisand) chose one of the most timeless rings of all - a simple one carat round diamond.
Before he was half of 'Brangelina', Brad Pitt was the hubbie of super-friend Jennifer Aniston. He spent months with Italian designer Silvia Damiani creating a $200,000 spiral ring, which was engraved with "Brad 2000" and featured 20 diamonds.
As for the ill-fated Minnelli-Gest union, the ring was a teardrop-shaped 3.5 carat diamond.
Another recent ex-couple, Guy Ritchie and Madonna celebrated happier times with a platinum Neil Lane ring featuring a decorative band and three round diamonds totaling five carats.
Jason Bateman plumped for a three-and-a-half-carat diamond in a delicate twenties setting from the jeweler for fiance Amanda Anka.
Tom Cruise chose a 5-carat diamond in an antique pave setting when he popped the question on top of the Eiffel Tower to Katie Holmes.
Tony Parker popped the question to Eva Longoria an emerald cut diamond set in whit gold. The ring was designed by renowned French jewelry designer Jean Dousset, and includes a total of 248 minute diamonds emblazoned across its shank, as well as an intimate engraving with a personal message written by Parker and in his handwriting inside the ring.
Elizabeth Taylor received a whopping 30-carat emerald cut diamond from hubbie number 3, Michael Todd.
When it comes to royalty, anything goes. Lady Diana Spencer was closer to becoming the Princess when she slipped on an 18-carat deep blue oval sapphired surrounded by by fourteen diamonds. Years later and Prince Charles presented his second wife, Camilla Parker Bowles with an emerald ring surrounded by baguettes set in platinum.
Her future mother-in-law, Queen Elizabeth received a more modest 3-carat diamond set in platinum with five smaller stones.
JFK gave his beloved a 3-carat emerald set with nearly three additional carats of diamond accents.

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Alternative Engagement Rings

If you're looking for an engagement ring that's not quite the 'norm', there are some great ring finger alternatives to choose from.
Color -- Although colored gemstone engagement rings are somewhat unusual in the United States, they are a traditional choice for the royal families of Europe. Princess Diana, Camilla Parker-Bowles and Sarah Ferguson all received colored gemstone engagement rings, for example. Sapphire is the most popular choice for a colored gemstone engagement ring, followed by ruby, emerald, tanzanite, and garnet. The main advantage of a colored gemstone engagement ring: each stone has a specific meaning, history and lore behind it, and a bride-to-be can truly express her unique personality and style by wearing it. If this sounds a bit too daring for you, consider a colored diamond. Diamonds come in many shades other than white. Indeed, the finest "fancy" colored diamonds are often more rare, expensive and sought after than their white counterparts. Some of the more common colored diamonds for engagement rings are yellow, pink, blue and green.
Birthstone Rings ?- The bride's birthstone is another great alternative for an engagement ring. The most popular choice for birthstone rings is to feature her birthstone as the center stone, but flank the gem with smaller diamonds either side. Birthstone engagement rings can potentially be far less costly than diamond rings as most birthstones are less expensive than a diamond of the similar weight and quality.
Cubic Zirconia (CZ) -- CZ is perhaps the oldest and most established diamond simulant (man-made substitutes) on the market today. Available at only a fraction of the cost of a comparable diamond, this unique stone has become a fashion staple in its own right. CZ's physical properties are so close to that of a diamond, that most people couldn't tell the difference between the two by the naked eye alone. CZ has slightly less brilliance (sparkle) than a diamond, but it has more fire (rainbow of color). With a rating of 8.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness, CZ is almost as durable as a diamond (the hardest known substance on earth, with a rating of 10). CZ is actually heavier than a diamond, giving it more heft. And since CZ is perfected in a lab, these stones have clarity and cut comparable to the finest diamonds.

Moissanite -- This unique near-colorless compound was first discovered in a meteorite 100 years ago. With natural quantities too minute for use in jewelry, today's moissanite is produced in a lab. Moissanite has many qualities that compare favorably to diamonds: it has measurably more fire, brilliance and luster; with a ranking over 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, it is second only to a diamond; its heat resistance is greater; and it is considerably cheaper. It is gaining a following with the celebrity crowd; high-profile endorsers include actresses Brooke Shields and Vivica A. Fox; supermodel Niki Taylor; and sports stars Mia Hamm, Bonnie Blair and Jackie Joyner Kersee.

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All About Bridal Jewelry

Bridal jewelry is so much more than engagement rings, wedding bands and a bridal ensemble. The tradition of bridal jewelry is a tradition that transcends time, trends and beliefs. Almost all cultures include jewelry as a symbolic part of the ceremony and isn't limited to the bride alone. For the bridal party, jewelry is just as important a feature as the bridesmaids' dresses or the groomsmen's tuxedos.
From diamond engagement rings to pearl ensembles. From cuf links for the ushers to matching pendants for the bridesmaids - the ring is only the start of the story. Finding the perfect jewelry ensemble that suits both the bride, the theme of the wedding (casual or formal) and the style of the wedding dress is a daunting task. For example, if you're wearing your hair up, then more than likely you'll look best in drop or chandelier earrings. On the other hand, if your hair is long and left down, you'll most likely go for smaller earrings like pearl or diamond studs that won't get tangled in your hair.
Is the neckline on your wedding dress high or open? If the dress has a high neckline, then a longer style necklace (or dare we say it - none at all) would be most suitable. If your dress has an open neckline, a pearl choker is classic way to go - or a simple diamond pendant. Let's not forget colors... If a wedding is color themed - sticklers to detail will want to reflect the colors in the jewelry too. Find out how to make sure your wedding ensemble and the anniversaries to follow are 'jewel perfect' with Jewelry.com's guide to wedding jewelry.

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Most Common Mistakes Men Make When Buying Jewelry As A Gift And How To Avoid Them: A Guy Tells It Like It Is

What really strikes fear into men's hearts is trying to buy a gift for a spouse or a girlfriend. What does she like? What does she need? What's her size? Will this gift really knock her out?
Left to our own devices, we men too often come home with "safe" gifts - flowers, chocolates, fashion, items for the house - that require little or no knowledge of what she really desires.
#1: Not asking for helpIt's no secret that we hate asking for directions. Most men would rather drive around in circles for hours rather than stop and ask someone how to get somewhere. It's hard to tell if this is some biological imperative imprinted into our genes, or a behavioral thing impressed upon us almost from the time of birth. Maybe a combination of both. But the fact remains that, if you're a guy, you're supposed to be in charge: a leader, a navigator, an expert at map reading, with an innate sense of direction. Woe to the traitor that breaks this code.
Well let's face it... This "predisposition" can be very dangerous when trying to buy a jewelry gift for a girlfriend, daughter or wife. It is necessary to seek help in these cases. The first thing you need to do is help yourself by doing some research... Pay attention to the jewelry she wears now. Pay attention to the clothes she wears most often, and make sure you pick jewelry that matches and complements them. Finally, go snooping in her jewelry box, and look at what's in there that she has but doesn't wear. Look for items that are missing a piece - does she have a ring and necklace in a particular gemstone, but no earrings to match?
#2: Not educating yourselfBuying a gift for a loved one can be a daunting experience. And buying jewelry as a gift is even scary at times. Jewelry is probably the most intimidating gift a man could purchase. Many of us don't know the first thing about the "4Cs," much less all the different stones and types of metal available. And we definitely cringe at the thought of facing a salesperson without being prepared.

So, before hitting the store to come home completely discouraged, do your homework in our "Education" section. Learn as much as you can about jewelry - metals, precious, semi-precious or lab-created gems, pearls, prices, retailers in your area, etc. Information on jewelry will make walking into a store a comfortable experience. And the results will be rewarding; your purchases will be intelligent and very personal. It will be easy to dazzle a loved one with your knowledge, which will again show how much thought you put into this.
#3: Not pre-shoppingIt's a known fact that men hate to shop. Take us to a car dealership, the local Sharper Image store or Circuit City, and chances are we'll cruise along like kids in a candy store. But watch a guy in a supermarket wandering up and down the aisles looking for olives, or some hapless, dazed soul trying to find his way around a mall or department store. You get the idea! The problem is that there is no substitute for pre-shopping.
Once you've figured out what "she" would like, done your homework and learned all you ever wanted to know about jewelry; it is necessary to see what's out there and who has the best selection for your needs. One big reason we built Jewelry.com is so you can browse through a wide assortment from many reputable retailers at your leisure, in the comfort of your own home (in your bathrobe, unshaven if you like!). Since you will have done your homework before pre-shopping, you'll realize that it's much easier when you know white gold from platinum and tanzanite from garnets!
#4: Not choosing the right retailerRegardless of where dad bought mom's engagement ring, a larger jeweler is often the best bet. They buy in volume, and so get better pricing. They have multiple locations, so even if you move, change jobs, etc., it's no problem. They have a solid, clear return/refund policy. They have a complete quality control policy. Finally, they are established companies that are going to be there to serve you for the long haul..

#5: Not buying jewelry because it's "too expensive"Jewelry is the gift a man can never go wrong with. After all, it's beautiful, valuable, romantic, lasting, versatile (the same piece can be appropriate for many different outfits and occasions), and the ultimate symbol of love.
One of the biggest mistakes is to think that you need to be Rockefeller to buy fine jewelry. Actually there is a wide variety of fine jewelry for $100-$200. That's not to say you shouldn't spend more for that "special something." It's just that as an educated consumer, you can decide what to get. You'll know the different karatages of gold can have as much of an impact on price as the carat weight of a gemstone. You'll know there are beautiful and very popular semi-precious stones that will please just as much as precious stones, and cost a lot less.
Flowers Aren't Forever... If you follow these simple rules, your gift-giving experience will be greatly rewarding. It is a pleasure to see a loved one's face light up when receiving that little box. It's even better to see her face light up again 10 years from now when she remembers the trouble you went to (sure, let her believe it was a hassle...) to get that special something. After all, great things come in small packages.

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Enduring Allure, A History of Jewelry

There's something about a beautiful piece of jewelry. Since the dawn of civilization jewelry has been an integral part of culture; of who we are. It says a lot about us. Tastes, styles and statements have changed, but our love for those sparkling, precious objects has never diminished. Long before clothing developed into fashion those rare jewels and precious metals were a cherished symbol of prestige and beauty. Over time, jewelry has evolved from the mystical religious symbols of pagans and objects of power and opulence of royalty to universal fashion everyone can appreciate.
EgyptThroughout the ages jewelry has made a statement about the people and the culture that produced it - from religious beliefs to statements about social standing. One of the most famous ancient treasures ever found is that of the Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamen. The Egyptian goldsmiths were highly skilled artisans who covered the mummy with a large quantity of gold and jewels. Among the ornaments found in the tomb were necklaces, amulets, pendants, bracelets, earrings, and rings of the typical style of the time. Egyptian jewelry was highly symbolic and symmetrical and had precise religious and mystical meanings. Some of the symbols used in their jewelry were the scarab (a large beetle), lotus flower, falcon, and serpent.
GreeceJewelry was an art form all its own. The ancient Greek style of jewelry more closely resembled miniature classic sculptures than objects of adornment. The human figure, both male and female, mythological figures and entire heroic scenes were popular motifs for rings, earrings, pendants and other forms of jewelry. As skill and technique improved, Greek jewelry became highly detailed and eventually became complete works of art. One example is an earring of a chariot scene complete with driver and horses.

RomePower and wealth. In ancient Rome jewelry was at first an of prestige reserved only for the highest social classes. But as trade and the wealth of the Empire increased, jewelry became available to all classes of citizens. Romans borrowed styles from earlier cultures and added their own themes. In keeping with the flamboyance of the time, jewelry became larger in size and more ostentatious. They began to use more colored stones than previous cultures, including topaz, emeralds, rubies, sapphires, and pearls.
The Middle AgesA return to simplicity. After the fall of Rome the style of jewelry began to move away from depicting mythological icons and heroic scenes and became ornaments used for decoration. The style of the time was much more simple than that of earlier cultures. Necklaces were gaining popularity and jewelry was used to decorate both hair and clothing. In addition, jewelry was often used to hold religious relics of saints.
The RenaissanceDecadence at its finest. During the Renaissance, jewelry once again became highly developed works of art. The great artistic ability of the craftsmen meant jewelry had become much more elaborate and its great value came from its magnificent workmanship rather than purely from the monetary value of gems and precious metals used. Jewelry reached a popularity never seen before that time, and both men and woman tried to outdo each other with opulent displays of gems and gold. The wealthy even decorated their hats and clothing with large, colored gems.
17th CenturyWe can sum this up in a couple of words - heavy, very heavy. The 17th century saw technical improvements in the cutting of precious stones which reinforced the popularity of gems. Beautiful floral arrangements were en vogue at this time and were carried over to the design of jewelry. Gold ornaments were often painted with enamel to create brightly colored flowers and then later with diamonds and colored gems. At this time jewelry was very large and very ornate which meant it was also very heavy to wear.

18th CenturyVast amounts of Brazilian diamonds were being imported into Europe at this time, and they enjoyed widespread popularity. Since techniques of cutting precious stones had improved dramatically, it became quite fashionable to show off the stones by trying to hide the settings as much as possible. Because of this jewelry was airier, lighter and easier to wear. People finally had the opportunity to really show off the sparkle and beauty of diamonds and other gems.
19th CenturyThe Industrial Revolution brought enormous change to the whole world - and that included jewelry. Mass production finally made jewelry available to everyone. For the first time it could be produced on a large scale at prices both the middle and lower classes could now afford. The quality of imitation stones also improved so that even the lower-class could enjoy beautiful rings, pendants and other pieces they couldn't previously afford. On the other side, firms such as Faberge and Cartier were producing high-quality jewelry for the rising bourgeois class.
20th Century and BeyondToday, jewelry comes in many different flavors. No matter who you are or what your taste or budget, there are designs that will suite your individual style. In the 20th century, fashionable clothing finally gained the esteem and prominence jewelry has always enjoyed. Now jewelry and fashion are joined hand-in-hand. You can't have one without the other. There is more room for creativity and personality than ever before. From classic looks to the explosion of cool and ultra-modern body piercing, if you want it, it's out there.

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Enhancing the Stone

With demand for top-color gemstones far exceeding nature's supply, jewelers have developed ways to enhance the appearance and durability of more common stones. Some of these treatments, or enhancements, are permanent; others are temporary. In many instances, the treatments mimic what happens to stones while being formed in the ground, and are therefore viewed as simply finishing what nature started.
Gemstone enhancement has become such a common, accepted practice that experts believe the vast majority of stones for sale in stores today are treated in some way. From a consumer's point of view, gemstone enhancements allow you to buy better-looking stones at a fraction of the cost of comparable untreated stones.
According to the Federal Trade Commission's Guides for the Jewelry Industry, jewelers must disclose to the consumer all gemstone treatments that are non-permanent or require special care. On the flip side, jewelers are not required to disclose permanent treatments that don't require special care.
Heating is one of the most common treatments used to enhance the natural beauty of colored gemstones. It is a permanent process the can dramatically improve the color and/or clarity in a number of stones, including sapphires, rubies, diamonds, aquamarine, amethyst, tanzanite, topaz, tourmaline and other stones.
Many stones also are treated with radiation, a permanent process that can enhance their color. Irradiation is commonly used on yellow beryl, smoky quartz, freshwater pearls, diamonds, and pink to red tourmaline. But perhaps the best-known irradiated stone of all is blue topaz - which is generally colorless in its untreated state.
Some stones have their surface color enhanced through the use of chemicals in conjunction with high temperatures in a process called diffusion. Rubies and sapphires often have their color improved through this treatment.
Fracture-filling is the process of filling surface cavities, fractures or other inclusions of a stone with a colorless hardening agent. The process can make such flaws less visible and make the stone more salable. This treatment is most associated with diamonds and emeralds. However, a wide range of stones are routinely injected with plastics, resins, glass, oils, waxes or other materials. Heat, ultrasonic cleaning and ultraviolet light may affect the durability of these fillings.

Laser drilling is the process of drilling holes into a stone with a laser to cut out inclusions. This permanent treatment is most commonly associated with diamonds and doesn't have to be disclosed, according to the FTC.
Oiling is one of the oldest methods of colored stone enhancement and is now used almost exclusively on emeralds. Emeralds are often oiled (and waxed) to enhance color, smooth out their finish and hide surface cracks that appear naturally in the stone. Although the oil may eventually dry out, it can last for years before needing replacement.
More porous materials like jade, pearls, amber, coral, ivory, lapis lazuli and other gems may be dyed to improve color uniformity. Pearls and ivory also may be bleached to lighten their color.
It's important to remember that most gemstone enhancements greatly improve the appearance - and hence the value - of a stone. But as always, if you have any questions about stone enhancements, consult your jeweler. Reputable jewelers fully disclose gem treatments at the point-of-sale and are more than willing to discuss them with customers.

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Gemstone Synthetics and Simulants

Gemstones in their many shades of color have fascinated mankind for thousands of years. The ancients attributed magical, mystical powers to each stone, and believed that many of them could cure specific ailments. Even today, we revere colored stones as beautiful, unique, and as a means of personal expression and individuality for their wearers.
However, precious stones of good size, color, clarity and cut are so rare that a natural, unenhanced fine-quality stone can be worth as much or more per carat than a diamond of comparable quality. Meanwhile, demand has risen for many stones to the point where nature could not possibly produce enough of them in the specifications desired.
As a way to help serve rising demand and make these stones more affordable and available, gem laboratories have produced synthetic stones and simulants that have the look of natural stones at a fraction of the cost. Keep in mind that there are synthetics and/or simulants out on the market for many colored stones, and reputable jewelers will disclose any synthetic gems or gem simulants that they are selling. To understand what you are buying, here are some key facts about these two growing categories.
SyntheticsSynthetic or "lab-created" stones are grown using the same elements as natural stones. They have the same physical, optical and chemical properties as a natural stone. Lab-created stones also have the same mineral content as naturals. The only difference is that a synthetic stone was created in a factory rather than in the ground. Lab technicians have recreated the conditions of nature and speeded them up by a few million years.
One of the advantages of synthetic stones is that it's easier to get one of large size and good color than it is to get a comparable natural stone. In fact, lab-created gems are usually of better quality than most of the natural gems you'll find in the market today. They have brighter, richer colors and often have fewer "inclusions," or internal flaws, than most natural stones. It takes an experienced gemologist to tell the difference between a high quality lab-created gem and its natural counterpart.

Synthetic gemstones produced in the United States include alexandrite, coral, diamond, emerald, garnet, lapis lazuli, quartz, ruby, sapphire, spinel and turquoise.
SimulantsSimulants are also grown in the lab. They have an appearance similar to that of a natural gemstone but have different physical, optical and chemical properties.
Gemstone simulants produced in the United States include coral, cubic zirconia, lapis lazuli, malachite and turquoise. Cubic zirconia is the most popular and well-known simulant by far. This man-made stone looks like a diamond but can cost as little as $2 per carat. Of course, it doesn't have the sparkle of a diamond and isn't nearly as hard. Jewelers can easily tell the difference between natural stones and their simulants.
In the past few years, consumer acceptance of synthetic and simulated gemstones has grown - a direct result of consumers recognizing these stones for their own merits, not just as inexpensive substitutes for natural gemstones.

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Selecting the Right Gemstone

Whether you're a newcomer to the gem world looking to add color to your wardrobe, or a veteran gemstone wearer fine-tuning your look, finding the right gemstone jewelry is a key way to express your own personal style, uplift your appearance and spirit, and convey to others what you're all about. But this doesn't have to be a grueling decision. Here are some practical tips for selecting gemstone jewelry that works best for you.
Developing Your Own StyleFirst of all, any gemstone jewelry you select must be comfortable. For instance, make sure necklaces hang at the "right" length for you and lay well around your neck. Experts offer similar advice for earrings: with dangling styles, make sure they hang at a comfortable length, fit well against the ear and don't tip forward. Likewise, bracelets and rings should fit comfortably and shouldn't slide off with a simple shake of your arm or hand.
Next, the jewelry must be appropriate for your personality and lifestyle. A glitzy necklace that would dazzle for a night out on the town probably wouldn't work for someone with a more casual outlook. Intent is important. Are you looking for a fashion accessory to match certain outfits, a particular season/event or a specific function, such as jewelry for work? Or are you looking for a piece you will wear everyday? Obviously, things like fashion, price, versatility, durability and other factors will play differing roles in your buying decision, based on your intent.
As for which color best suits you, one way to determine this is to take stock of what's already in your closet. What clothing styles, colors, materials, lengths, etc. are most prevalent? This will give you important clues about the specific gemstone jewelry that will work best for you. In addition, look at your makeup, scarves, hair accessories, and current jewelry for more cues about the jewelry colors and styles most appropriate for you.
Finally, consider your physical features: body type, face shape, finger/hand length and width, hair/eye color, complexion and other characteristics. These factors also will play a key role in determining which gemstone jewelry will look best on you.

Seeking QualityOnce you've got the style down, you want to be assured of the quality of any piece you're interested in buying. Keep in mind that quality determines the value of a stone. Like diamonds, gemstones are judged by the "Four Cs" of color, clarity, cut and carat weight, with color the most important consideration, by far. The better the color, the higher the price. Better clarity and better cut also cost more - and generally, the larger the stone, the more it will cost per carat. Even to an untrained eye, many of these kinds of differences can be seen when similar stones are examined side-by-side.
Other factors that may influence the price of a gemstone include whether it is readily available on the market or subject to supply limitations; whether it's a "hot" color or stone right now, or for various reasons may be unpopular; whether it's a single stone or part of a matched set, particularly in special shapes or cuts; and sometimes, its origin (for every stone, there is a particular location known for producing the finest quality variety of that stone - and often, you'll pay more for a stone from that prized region because of its reputation).
But quality extends beyond simply examining the stone. You need to pay special attention to the setting, as well. Make sure the metal holds the stone firmly and squarely in place. Check prongs to make sure they are tight and sturdy. Look at the finish - is the metal well-polished with no pockmarks or other imperfections? Also, turn the piece around and examine the back - a well-made piece of jewelry will have a good finish on both front and back. If the piece is gold, check for a karatage stamp, as well as a company trademark stamp. This means the company is standing behind the product and assuring you the karatage is as stated. As for bracelets or necklaces, check the clasps, as well. A quality piece of gemstone jewelry will have sturdy, quality clasps.

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Building a Basic Jewelry Wardrobe

Whether you're accessorizing for work or play, having the right jewelry can go a long way in helping you project an image of confidence and individual style. But how do you develop that style when you're building your jewelry wardrobe from scratch?
According to the experts, developing your own style means "knowing yourself": what you like and dislike. To determine this, ask yourself "What is my ideal?" and "What turns my head?" Decide if that means contemporary or classic jewelry styles; streamlined or detailed; colored stones or white diamonds.
Also, listen to style-related comments from others. What outfits or accessories do people compliment you on? This will give you important clues about the kind of jewelry that looks best on you.
Next, make sure what you've selected fits your personality and lifestyle. For instance, if you spend a lot of time doing activities outdoors, consider simple earrings that won't dangle too far and get in the way. Comfort is a must. If something is either physically or psychologically uncomfortable to wear, you'll have trouble projecting the kind of confidence and competence integral to developing a personal style.
As for the jewelry itself, stick with the basics in the beginning. The rule of thumb is to always buy the best-quality basics you can afford, so you can add matching pieces later. In gold jewelry, such basics should include a gold chain necklace, classic hoop or button earrings, and a link bracelet. Additions could include slide-on pendants or drops to create different looks with your necklace and earrings. In diamond jewelry, classic stud earrings or a solitaire pendant should be among your first purchases.
Experts advise that you begin with classic shapes that look appropriate with a variety of outfits, and then add pieces that offer versatility of wear or a fashion touch, such as different colors or finishes.

And don't overlook the importance of selecting jewelry that suits your body type. For instance, your height and bone structure play a big role in determining the kind of jewelry that looks best on you. A smaller, petite woman would be better served with necklace lengths that fall below the breast but above the waist to elongate her figure. Meanwhile, a tall, thin woman may want to select a choker that cuts the line of the neck and de-emphasizes her height. And a full-figured woman should stay away from jewelry that's too small or delicate.
Equally important to style are face shapes. The four basic are oval, round, rectangular and heart-shaped. If your face is oval, triangular-shaped earrings are especially flattering. A round shape should seek elongated, dangling styles that draw the eyes down, rather than around. For a rectangular face, try jewelry that adds width, camouflaging the length of the face. And for heart-shaped faces, look for earrings that are wider at the bottom, because style can soften a pointed chin look.
And don't forget to consider your hand type if you're purchasing rings. If you're long-fingered, wider bands will look especially good on you. If you're short-fingered, thinner bands and stone shapes such as marquise or pear that elongate the hand would be a good choice.

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Tips for Men buying Jewelry for Women

Buying jewelry as a gift for your wife, girlfriend or significant other is one of the most thoughtful, meaningful and romantic gestures you can ever make. Few items can express your lasting love and devotion like a special ring, necklace, bracelet or pair of earrings. Jewelry's magic, mystique and enduring appeal make it a natural gift for special occasions and milestone events in her life.
But if you're like most guys, you probably know as much about buying jewelry as you do about brain surgery or rocket science. The good news is that shopping for an appropriate piece of jewelry for your special someone doesn't have to be an agonizing experience. Here are some basic tips to help you make the right buying decision:
Look in her jewelry box
You can learn a lot about the kind of jewelry she likes by seeing what she already wears. You'll get clues about her individual style, her favorite gems, and what may be missing from her jewelry wardrobe. You can also gauge things like her ring size and the necklace length she prefers. For instance, if she already owns a cherished pearl necklace, she's sure to love a matching pair of pearl earrings.
Consider her lifestyle and personality
If your wife or girlfriend is a hopeless romantic, it's a good bet that she'd like a heart-shaped pendant. If she's a conservative, casual type, stick to classic, everyday gold or diamond pieces like basic hoop earrings, diamond stud earrings, or link chains. You can also get charms representing virtually every profession, hobby or activity under the sun. But in general, remember that it's safer to stay away from cutting-edge designs or glitzy pieces that would only be appropriate for a night on the town unless you're absolutely sure she'd like them.

Ask around
Her mother, sister or best friend could definitely point you in the right direction about her jewelry needs and desires. If you'd prefer a more expert opinion, find out where she shops, and talk to her jeweler about what she's bought recently and what she's been looking at. And of course, you can go directly at the source. Next time you're at the mall together, buzz by some jewelry counters and take note of what catches her eye.
Do your homework
Nothing would be more embarrassing than buying your significant other a birthstone ring with the wrong birthstone! Make sure you know all the important dates in her life! Also, you certainly wouldn't want to buy her a bracelet with a clasp that breaks the first time she wears it, or a ring that turns her finger green. Educate yourself about jewelry quality.
Last but certainly not least remember that jewelry is an emotional purchase. Maximize the impact of your gift by giving it to her in a romantic setting or in an unexpected way. The key is to be original, and you'll create a memory that she'll cherish forever.

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Gift Giving

Jewelry can be the most important gift you give a loved one. Feeling the pressure? We understand. Guys, in particular, pay attention to the following gift giving tips. We guarantee you'll impress her with your remarkable taste and insight.
Know your audience:
There's nothing like that look you get when you know you missed the mark. The slight grimace followed by the fake smile? The best way to avoid awkward gift giving is to study what your significant other likes. What does she usually wear? Has she complimented friends on their looks? You know how to make her laugh, you can surely pick up some tips on her personal style. Take notes and bring what you know on your shopping trip.
Know your budget:
There are many price points in the jewelry world - from $99 to $9999 and beyond. Don't get in over your head with a bauble that will break the bank or make her afraid to wear it. Also, bring what you learned about stone and metal quality to the store, so you won't be duped into thinking 'bigger is better'. Often, it's not.
Know her size (mainly for ring purchases):
There's nothing like wowing her with a diamond ring she'll just have to wait three weeks to wear. Guys, break out your inner sleuth for this one. Find a ring she currently wears, trace the inside and bring it to your jeweler. You can always size a ring, but delayed satisfaction doesn't always fly when it comes to jewelry.

Know the occasion:
If you're not about commitment but want to impress her with a gift of jewelry, word to the wise: stay away from the ring category. A ring, no matter what the design, is loaded with symbolism that screams "I'm in it for the long haul." A nice pair of diamond studs might be the better choice in this case.
Right Hand Rings are the perfect self-gifting occasion to celebrate a promotion, graduation, or 'just because'. It's also a great friend-to-friend or mother-to daughter gift. Think female power!
The 'go big' calendar moments are of course Valentine Day and the December holidays. If she's expecting a ring, and you're thinking peridot earrings to match her eyes?you might want to think again.

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How To Buy Jewelry

You can't wait to slip that engagement ring on her finger. You know mom will burst into tears at the sight of sapphires. Your friends will drool when you show off that right hand ring. There is no reason fine jewelry shopping should be anything but fun, informational and ultimately satisfying. But research shows consumers find buying fine jewelry one of the least enjoyable shopping experiences. The following guide will not only tell you how to buy jewelry, but will give you gift giving tips every shopper should know before heading to the jewelry counter or making an online purchase. Our goal is to transform trepidation into confidence. Jewelry jitters be gone!

Know the facts:
We've all heard it before: knowledge is power. Buying jewelry can be one of the first major purchases in your lifetime, so it's important to know the facts before you face all the glitter.

Gold has been one of mankind's most revered substances since the beginning of time. The legends and myths surrounding gold are legendary and for many ancient civilizations, only the most powerful were permitted to bathe in gold's stunning rays. The pharaohs wore multiple gold necklaces and gold bracelets. In India, royal families would layer on gold earrings, gold pendants and gold bangles and in Europe, gold rings set with diamonds and precious gems were the aristocrats' accessories of choice.
Today though, the glamour and beauty of gold, while remaining as desirable as ever, are far more democratic.
Pure gold is known as 24k gold, but most jewelry is made from either 18k gold, 14k gold or 10k gold. While yellow gold is still probably the most popular color of gold, by mixing gold with other alloys, jewelers can create stunning golden shades. White gold, pink gold, rose gold, orange gold and even green gold are just some of the many colors of gold.
Whether you're looking for an 18k gold necklace, a 14k gold ring, 10k gold earrings or simply gold jewelry set with diamonds and gems, one thing you can be sure of is that all that is gold really does glitter.

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Taking Care of Your Gold Jewelry

Whether bought for yourself or as a gift, gold expresses love, permanence, individuality and style more eloquently than words could ever do.
If treated carefully, the gold jewelry item you purchase today could last a lifetime and might even be handed down to future generations. So here are some tips that will help preserve the beauty of your gold jewelry.
First of all, gold is lasting and durable but can get scratched or dented if treated roughly. This is particularly true of items worn on the hands like rings and bracelets that are prone to a lot of knocks. So remove these pieces before any type of strenuous activity.
Second, beware of chemicals. Gold's worst enemy is chlorine. Repeated exposure can weaken gold's structure, eventually leading to breakage. So keep your gold jewelry away from chlorinated cleaning products and out of swimming pools and jacuzzis.
On a related note, acids, abrasives and other harsh chemicals found in some common household cleaning solutions can weaken your jewelry or damage its finish. So it's best to cover up rings and bracelets with rubber gloves while doing heavy-duty cleaning. Or better yet, take them off altogether.

Gold can lose its luster over time if repeatedly exposed to dust, moisture, perspiration and makeup. So make sure to clean your jewelry regularly. You can use a cleaning solution of sudsy, lukewarm water, or bring it to your local jeweler and have it professionally steam-cleaned. After cleaning and rinsing, always dry and polish jewelry with a chamois or soft cloth to avoid scratches and bring out its shine.
Proper storage is as important as cleaning. Protect your gold jewelry by storing it safely in a jewelry box or keeping it wrapped in a soft cloth when not being worn. Furthermore, keeping pieces stored separately will prevent them from getting tangled or scratching one another.
Finally, always inspect your gold jewelry for weakness or damage and bring it to a professional jeweler you trust for immediate repair. Pay particular attention to clasps (to ensure they catch easily but are still secure); prongs (to ensure they haven't cracked, bent or loosened, which could cause the stone to fall out); bracelet and neckchain links (to ensure they don't kink or bend); pin backs and earring posts (to see if they are bent or loose); and wedding bands, pendants and charms (dangling pieces and items worn every day for a long period of time) are subject to wear and can thin out and eventually break. Your jeweler will be able to handle these and many other repair jobs and ultimately restore your gold jewelry for you.

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Knowing Your Karats

Unlock the secrets behind gold jewelry karat weights. From 24-karat gold jewelry to 9-karat gold styles, find out why weighing more can sometimes be a good thing.
Jewelers throughout the ages have selected gold as their precious metal of choice because of its softness, natural beauty, resistance to erosion or tarnish, and ease of workmanship.
Gold is so soft and malleable that it can be melted and shaped to create virtually any design. But this softness also makes pure gold less than desirable for jewelry usage - which is why it is usually alloyed with other metals such as copper or silver to make it stronger and more durable.
The gold content in a particular alloy is expressed in karats (abbreviated as K or KT). Generally, the higher the percentage of gold content, the softer (and yellower) the piece. The karat weight system used for white gold is the same as that used for yellow gold (white gold is mixed with different alloys to give it a white color).
Here are some common gold karatages (karat weights) and the corresponding percentages of actual gold:

24K represents pure gold (100%) and is rarely used in jewelry.
21K is 21/24ths gold content, or 87.5% gold. Jewelry of this karatage or higher is rare in the United States, although it is far more common in parts of Europe, the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
18K is 18/24ths gold content, or 75% gold. This is a popular karatage for higher end jewelry in the United States, Europe and other regions, and its usage is expanding in North America.
14K is 14/24ths gold content, or roughly 58.5% gold. This is by far the most commonly used karatage in the United States (and perhaps the world) and provides a nice balance between gold content, hardness/durability and affordability.
10K is 10/24ths gold content, or 41.7% gold. This is an increasingly popular karatage sold by many U.S. mall jewelry chains, department stores, discount stores and other mass market venues because it offers budget-conscious consumers precious metal jewelry at more affordable prices than the standard 14K. It is also the lowest gold content that can be legally marked or sold as gold jewelry in the United States. Often used in rings because they tend to be worn every day and experience many knocks and thus require an exceptionally strong alloy.
9K is 9/24ths gold content, or 37.5% gold. This is a popular karatage sold by mass marketers in England and other regions, although it cannot be marked or sold as gold jewelry in the United States.
Sometimes, gold of a lower karat weight is plated in higher-karat gold to enhance its color. This is perfectly acceptable as long as the jeweler discloses this fact and you pay a fair price. Keep in mind that gold plating will wear off over time and your jewelry may need to be re-plated.
To determine the karat weight of a particular piece of jewelry, look for the quality mark. Generally, pieces will either bear the stamp of their karatage based on the U.S. or European system. The U.S. system uses karat designations (24K, 18K, 14K, 10K, etc.) Europe uses number designations which correspond to the percentage of gold content. For instance, 10K is marked "417" for 41.7% gold; 14K is marked "585" for 58.5% gold; 18K is marked "750" for 75% gold, etc.

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The Many Colors of Gold

Yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, green gold - learn about the color wheel of gold jewelry options for your treasure chest.
When most people think of gold, the image that comes to mind is of a metal with a soft, yellow glow. Indeed, the incomparable golden hue of this precious metal has been part of its appeal for centuries. But for the gold jewelry connoisseur, there are more shades of gold available than just yellow - and in a spectrum of different hues. The tint the gold takes on depends on the metals it is mixed, or alloyed with. Here are the main shades of gold:
Yellow gold - This is gold in its natural shade. It is by far the most common type of gold used in jewelry. Yellow gold used for jewelry is usually alloyed with copper and silver to strengthen it. The warm glow of yellow gold works with virtually any outfit, any skin or body type and any gemstone. How yellow a piece is will depend on its gold content. Generally, 14 karat gold has a brighter yellow than 10 karat gold; 18 karat gold has a deeper yellow than 14 karat gold, and so on.
White gold - White gold has become very fashionable in recent years as many consumers have opted for the cool, contemporary white look over the classic yellow look. White gold has the same properties as yellow gold, but is mixed with different alloys to give it its white color. Generally, white gold is created by using a nickel or palladium alloy, zinc and copper. Sometimes, white gold is plated with an even whiter metal, such as rhodium (a rare member of the platinum family) to enhance its appearance. A white gold setting can enhance the look of white diamonds and put a modern twist on a traditional standard.
Rose gold - By alloying just copper with yellow gold, metalsmiths can create gold with a pink, blush-like tint, which experts say lends a soft, flattering effect to the skin.
Green gold - This alloy is created by mixing silver, copper and zinc to yellow gold.

The other types of gold jewelry include gold-filled, gold-plated and vermeil. Gold-filled refers to a layer of gold mechanically bonded to a base (non-precious) metal; the gold content must be at least 1/20th of the total weight of the piece. Gold-plated merchandise has a coating of 10 karat gold or higher applied to a base metal by electrolysis. Vermeil is jewelry that is made by applying a layer of karat gold to a sterling silver base.
To keep the classic appeal of yellow gold but update it with a more modern look, many women are opting for two-tone styles that combine white and yellow gold within the same piece. These types of pieces are considered very fashionable and have become particularly popular in bridal jewelry in recent year.
For an even more original look, some women are choosing jewelry which combines three colors of gold (most often yellow, rose and green) within the same piece.

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Gold: the Metal of the Sun

Gold is one of the world's most prized possessions - from gold jewelry, gold fashion, gold investments and beyond. Learn about gold history and lore and discover why gold has beguiled mankind for thousands of years.
Gold has been one of mankind's most revered substances since the beginning of time. Throughout history, great civilizations have built up treasuries of this precious metal, reserving golden objects for their most important rituals and ascribing miraculous powers to it.
The ancient Egyptians equated gold with the sun, the giver of life, and reserved its use for pharaohs only. The Etruscans created meticulously handwrought objects using fine granules and threads of gold, a technique still practiced today. The Chinese saw gold as the yang of the sun (with silver representing the moon's ying). To this day, Chinese and Indian brides wear jewelry of no less than 24-karat gold on their wedding day to ensure a lifetime of good luck and happiness. Meanwhile, the Incas called gold the "sweat of the sun."
In some cultures, gold is even eaten to cure such ailments as arthritis, ulcers and tuberculosis.
One sign of gold's lasting value: it has been used as a currency for more than 5,000 years. It is perceived as permanent wealth as opposed to paper currency and is bought in large quantities during times of crisis.

But perhaps the most alluring use of the sun-colored metal has always been in jewelry. In fact, three-quarters of the world's gold mined each year is used to make jewelry. The metal's permanence has made it a symbol of enduring love and heritage, and pieces are passed down from generation to generation. It is the recommending jewelry gift for couples celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary.
The factors that have driven gold's everlasting, universal appeal are numerous:
Gold is extremely rare - It is estimated that all the gold ever mined would fit underneath the Eiffel Tower in Paris. It takes several tones of ore to produce just one ounce of gold.
Gold is beautiful - Jewelers throughout history have preferred gold to all other metals for its warm golden color. The metal also takes well to alloying with other metals, which has allowed metalsmiths to create a rainbow of shades for gold. For instance, mixing gold with copper creates rose gold; mixing gold with silver creates green gold; and mixing it with palladium produces white gold.
Gold is durable - The sheer amount of gold jewelry, coins and artifacts from ancient cultures on display in the world's museums is a testament to the metal's enduring beauty. It is extremely heavy, with one cubic foot weighing half a ton. Although pure gold is relatively soft, it becomes exceptionally strong when alloyed with other metals. Because of its indestructibility, gold is used by the electronics industry to create 10 billion tiny electrical contacts each year.
Gold is pure - Because of this purity, it is not affected by air, heat or moisture and is resistant to tarnish. These properties have helped make gold bullion such a valuable commodity.
Gold is extremely malleable - Gold is so easy to work with that a single ounce can be drawn out into an unbroken strand approximately 60 miles long. It can be melted or shaped to create any design.

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All About Gold

Gold has been one of mankind's most revered substances since the beginning of time. The legends and myths surrounding gold are legendary and for many ancient civilizations, only the most powerful were permitted to bathe in gold's stunning rays. The pharaohs wore multiple gold necklaces and gold bracelets. In India, royal families would layer on gold earrings, gold pendants and gold bangles and in Europe, gold rings set with diamonds and precious gems were the aristocrats' accessories of choice.
Today though, the glamour and beauty of gold, while remaining as desirable as ever, are far more democratic.
Pure gold is known as 24k gold, but most jewelry is made from either 18k gold, 14k gold or 10k gold. While yellow gold is still probably the most popular color of gold, by mixing gold with other alloys, jewelers can create stunning golden shades. White gold, pink gold, rose gold, orange gold and even green gold are just some of the many colors of gold.
Whether you're looking for an 18k gold necklace, a 14k gold ring, 10k gold earrings or simply gold jewelry set with diamonds and gems, one thing you can be sure of is that all that is gold really does glitter.

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