Gemstone Jewelry Blog

 Intense. Brilliant. Dazzling. How else could one describe the deep green color of May’s traditional birthstone, the emerald?

Emeralds are among the world’s oldest gemstones and have been discovered in many countries from as early as 1500 B.C. In the 1600s, the Emperor Jehangir of Persia owned a cup made from pure emerald which is now on display in New York City’s Museum of Natural History. In fact, Emeralds are featured in museum exhibits around the world and are also part of the Iranian National Treasury. Emeralds are also included among Queen Elizabeth II’s personal collection and that of actress Elizabeth Taylor.

Emerald is actually a colorless mineral known as beryl and the intense color is derived from iron and chromium impurities. While natural emeralds come in many colors, green is the most commonly prized. Inclusions, or flaws are not unusual and in fact contribute to the character and fire of this gemstone. Fine emeralds are quite rare and are mined around the world in Brazil, Russia and India, while the most famous mines are located in Colombia and Zimbabwe.

Emerald’s natural flaws make the stones relatively fragile. Jewelry cutters developed a special cut specifically named for this gemstone because it helped to enhance its sparkle and brilliance and lessened the possibility of damage to the stone.

Cut Emeralds of today are routinely treated with special oils to enhance their beauty and require special care to maintain their sparkle and luster. Emerald jewelry should not be exposed to solvents or detergents as these can remove the oil, and therefore lessen the beauty and fire of the stone.

This fiery gemstone has a long and colorful history around the world and it is still highly valued in present day. The larger the stone, the more sparkle and brilliance is on display which makes May’s birthstone, the emerald, more highly prized than diamonds by many with a taste for fine jewelry. Green Tourmaline, Tsavorite Garnet, and Carnelian along with Bright Green Gemstones are considered the Alternative birthstones by Gem Dealers, Jewelry Designers, and Jewelry Manufacturers. If you are interested in custom jewelry set with Emeralds or Tourmaline, please Contact Me to request an estimate.

Amethyst is considered one of the most beautiful varieties of quartz, if not the most beautiful. Known as the spirituality gemstone, amethyst expresses the connection between the divine and spiritual side, stimulating clairvoyance. It has a very strong protective role. Amethyst is found mainly in Brazil.

This gemstone is considered a symbol of success, because it stimulates and amplifies intellectual abilities, intuition, self confidence, concentration and spiritual capacities. At the same time, it reduces anger, impatience, nightmares, stress, nervousness, depression, improving communication between people.

 

Known as a gemstone of power, amethyst has a calming effect on the nervous system, fighting against insomnia. Anybody can place an amethyst crystal under the pillow to have pleasant dreams.

Amethyst fights against addictions (tobacco, alcohol, food), insomnia (it is a cure used for snoring), headaches, allergies, acne, migraines and back pain. Some people claim that this gemstone has beneficial effects on stomach, central nervous system, digestive and endocrine system, eyes and hair. It balances blood sugar and regenerates the entire body.

Crystals of amethyst purify and transform lower energies into higher energies, having a relaxing effect. They are recommended for meditation.

 

Greeks believe that this gemstone brings love and happiness, while medieval soldiers wore amethyst amulets in battles. If your problems in love are deep, then you need this healing crystal, which will purify your inner energies, balancing your life. Amethyst is known for its power to support major changes in life, whether it's about an intentional change or a painful experience like a breakup or a divorce. It will bring you inner peace and the power to forget and to forgive.

Also, amethyst is used by people who have passed through experiences that have made them feel victimized by a strong and impulsive personality. By wearing such a natural crystal, you will attract positive energies that will help you to receive and offer love. Meditate on your own desires and decide to accept love in your life, supported by the energetic power of crystals.

Amethyst is a perfect gemstone for those born in the  month of February.   Shop these handcrafted jewelry designs by jewelry designer John S. Brana featuring February's birthstone Amethyst.

There are actually two January birthstones; Garnet and Rose Quartz. However, most people only recognize Garnet on a wide scale. The word Garnet is derived from Latin which means grain or seed; "granatus", and it was therefore called thanks to the striking deep red of the gem being so incredibly close to that found in the seeds of pomegranates. However, with a Mohs scale hardness of 6. 5 to 7. 5; biting down a Garnet can not be quite the same sensation as you get from the fruit's seed!

But, many are stunned that Garnet can additionally be found in colors other than red; and some exquisite gems are available in greens, oranges, pinks and violets. These changes in color are caused by the mineral content contained in the gem; these are rarer still than the already obscure red Garnet.

 

There are a myriad of legends, myths and folklore that surround the Garnet; crossing scores of cultures and eras. In Biblical myth for instance, it is suggested that Noah hung a Garnet on his Ark, so as he may illuminate his journey during the storms.

Probably due to this, and alternate stories in lore, the gift of a Garnet is usually given to hurry home safely a loved one, who is undertaking a journey. Because of its deep red color, it's also highly symbolic of love and desire; and is usually given to January born loved ones by their partner.

Records show that it's been mined for at least 2500 years, though not invariably for its delicate nature; often being employed as a tool such due to its hardness. Whilst traces of this mining were found in Sri Lanka, the Garnet is found in several places across the world including; Africa, India and the United States of America.

The other of the January Birth Stones is the beautiful Rose Quartz that, because the name suggests, ranges from a fragile pale pink, to sorts which deepen up to the hue of a red rose. The colors of the gem are caused by trace amounts of titanium and iron, and in some specimens manganese.

 

Usually, the value of Rose Quartz is thought by many to make inadequate gems, and certainly can be cloudy. However there are exceptional items found and they're typically carved into wonderful hearts; making for a fantastic gift for loved ones.

Despite not being widely fashionable, it is reputed to be one of the most powerful semi precious stones in the world. It is said to hold many healing powers, with the power to help bring calm, and balance emotions at times of stress, anxiety and even guilt. Whilst Rose Quartz is found across the planet, from Asia to Europe and on to Northern America; it's principally mined in Brazil these days. Brazil has also long been the producer of the finest examples, and, in the proper setting, will create a wonderful various when looking for January birthstones.

 

Known as the "success stone," pale yellow Citrine, the gemstone for November, suffers from a case of mistaken identity that sometimes keeps gem lovers away from its beauty and benefits.

In nature the color of Citrine, a quartz crystal, ranges from pale yellow to brown. When cut into a gemstone, Citrine is virtually impossible to tell visually from the more valuable Yellow Topaz. This has led unscrupulous dealers to substitute Citrine for Yellow Topaz, much to the chagrin of bilked customers when they discover the truth, usually at resale.

 

Most commercial-grade Citrine is actually amethyst or smoky quartz that has been heated to active the ferric impurities that give its yellow color. Citrines produced in this way tend to have more of a reddish or orange cast than natural Citrines, which are usually pale yellow. Brazil produces most of the world's gem-grade citrine. Citrine is one of three traditional birthstones for the month of November. 

Over the centuries, Citrine acquired a reputation as a "success stone" that promotes prosperity and abundance. It's sometimes nicknamed "merchant's stone" because superstitious merchants of times past put Citrine in their cashboxes to bring in money. However, Citrine supposedly also brings about success in unexpected ways. In addition to manifesting abundance, Citrine also promotes generosity, leading those who benefit from its powers to share their wealth with others.

 

Citrine also is thought to enhance mental clarity, confidence and will power. For these reasons, practitioners of New Age healing arts often recommend Citrine crystals for people who suffer from low self-esteem or even depression. Citrine is though to deflect and dissipate all kinds of negative energies, generating stability in thought and emotion. It's also believed to reduce self-doubt and self-destructive tendencies, instead fostering happiness and good cheer in those who wear it.

Healers also prescribe Citrines to benefit the digestive system, the endocrine system and the immune system. It's believed to play a role in eliminating toxins from the body and in overcoming various addictions.

Whether chosen merely for its beauty or for its alleged psychic and physical benefits, sunny Citrine bring a gleam of good cheer to its wearers.

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Few things are more alluring than a lack of complexity. A simple strand with a small jewel speaks volumes. When it comes to jewelry, a strand of silver or gold adorned with a diminutive gem is enough for most events. But, there are times when you don't feel the need to be elegant, or want to show off something that conveys your mood, your style, and your personality. Whether you are going out for a night on the town, out on a date, or even at work, something that is more exceptional and more "you" is suitable. Beaded gemstone jewelry is some of the most exclusive type of jewelry available, and virtually infinite in styles and character.

 

Beaded gemstone jewelry is usually a amalgamation of semi-precious gemstones and silver or gold. Just because the gemstones are semi-precious does not suggest that they aren't important by the owner. This organization of stones is not based on how stylish or costly the gems are, but more exactly how rare they are on the face of the earth.The rarer gemstones - diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires - are considered to be precious stones because of their rarity.

 

Semi-precious stones include those which are usually found in lower-priced jewelry, such as serpentine, peridot, and amazonite. Although these stones are often less expensive, that does not suggest that they're in any way inferior in quality to traditional precious stones. As a matter of fact, many quality jewelers will combine precious and semi-precious stones in one piece.

The stones found in beaded gemstone jewelry can be found in a variety different forms. Even though a good number of pieces will be small in size, they may or may not be polished or consistent in size. With semi-precious stones, the rarity of their color, clarity, or other qualities may add to their value - and jewelry designers often do not want to buff out those qualities.

 

Gems used in beaded jewelry may or may not be polished and refined. Modern styles in amethyst jewelry, for instance, favor less uniform stones. In numerous cases, the more extraordinary the stones are, the more expensive the piece of jewelry. Alternatively, pieces that include absolutely uniform beads of semi-precious stones can be quite costly and cherished by the wearer.

Beaded gemstone jewelry is a superb addition to any attire. It is often the jewelry of preference for daywear, but when worn with the right outfit, it can show off any outfit. The styles and designs are so diverse, that this variety of jewelry is fitting for practically any occasion.

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Happy birthday October! Your birthstone could not represent you better, as its hues are as varied as the changing leaves and compliment all the dimensions of you. So put forth that color you bring to the lives around you with this multi-faceted African Opal bracelet and necklace.

Here, John S. Brana has hand selected African Opals in hues of deep olive greens and dusty browns. Accented by lava rocks, fresh water pearls, 14K gold plated vermeil beads and clear quartz gemstones, this lusciously green autumn bracelet will draw admirers to your already magnetic charm!

John S. Brana showcases his signature tri-color style in this African Opal necklace. From the day glow amber and citrine semi-precious gemstones to the turquoise hues of Amazonite, fresh water pearls and Citrine that are ready for night, the African Opal ties it all together creating a statement necklace perfect for your special occasions.

It can be as blue as the sky, a slightly greenish blue, or a highly saturated "electric" blue. Whatever its shade, Blue Topaz has a place in beautiful jewelry and intriguing legends.

 

Like most topazes, which are quartz crystals, Blue Topaz starts out as a nearly clear or lightly shade crystal. The gem is then irradiated to bring out its blue color and heated to make the change permanent. The color depends on which type of radiation is used.

 

Bombarding topazes with neutrons in a nuclear accelerator changes the color to the deep green-blue or gray-blue known as London Blue Topaz. Irradiating topazes with electrons in a linear accelerator will produce Sky Blue Topaz. To create the highly saturated colors known as Swiss Blue or Electric Blue, topazes are bathed with a combination of both types of radiation. The gems must "rest" for at least a year if treated with neutrons before their radiation levels cool enough to allow them to be worn by people.

Most blue topaz has a modest value, so there's little incentive for gemologists to create synthetic versions of the gem. Instead, they use various vapor or diffusion coatings (mainly titanium) to create the "mystic" Blue Topaz, a version that sparkles with red, sea green and teal colors. Unfortunately, this treatment isn't permanent, and the coating is extremely fragile, so the stones must be handled very gently.

 

Despite its unusual production methods, Blue Topaz serves as a wonderful gemstone because it has a high refractive index and polishes up beautifully. With a score of 8 on Moh's Scale of gemstone hardness, Blue Topaz finds its way into many attractive pieces of jewelry.

In mystical and New Age healing beliefs, Blue Topaz carries the same healing properties as all forms of topaz: regulates heart action, promotes glandular health, stops bleeding and reduces fever and inflammations such as arthritis. However, the color of Blue Topaz has gained repute as a stone particularly help for meditation, discernment and forgiveness. Its calm blue quality is said to help its wearers release their anger, especially from old hurts, fostering forgiveness and reconciliation that leads to a calmer, fuller life.

August's birthstone, Peridot, is a light green gem with a mystical history.

Pronounced "pear-a-doe, " Peridot belongs to a mineral group known as Olivines. The yellowish green kind is called Chrysolite, a gem mentioned in the Bible as one of the decorations on the high priest's breastplate. The olive-green version is called Olivine.  Sometimes called "the poor man's emerald, " the name Peridot comes from a Greek word "faridat, " which means "gem." It is also often referred to as "poor man's emerald".  The traditional lime-green color associated with the Peridot makes it a popular gemstone for jewelry. How deep its green color will be, depends on how much iron is in the crystal structure. Whatever its shade, through the ages its color was thought to reflect many spiritual aspects of life.

The first documented source of Peridot was 4,000 years ago on an island off Egypt now called Zabargard. Early Crusaders called the isle on St. John's Island, and brought its green gems with them back to Europe. The ancients thought of Peridot as a springtime stone and considered it one of Mother Nature's gifts. However, if someone dreamed about Peridot, the dream was said to be a sign of coming danger.  Christians also considered Peridot sacred. Today, Catholic bishops traditionally wear rings decorated with Peridot and amethyst, symbolizing the purity and morality of their church office.

As the stone assigned to those born in August, Peridot is said to impart love, faithfulness, truth and loyalty to its wearers. It's also thought to enhance prosperity, growth, and openness.  Many New Age healers believe that Peridot is one of the few stones to which no negative energy will cling. It's said to improve mental clarity and to have a beneficial effect on the gall bladder and the liver, as well as the lungs, lymph system, breasts and sinuses.  Today Peridot has moved far beyond the Egyptian isle where it was first discovered. The lovely green gem is mined in Arizona and Hawaii, Myanmar, Australia, Norway, South Africa and Brazil, making Peridot a citizen of the world.

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When it comes to elegance, nothing really beats a statement piece of jewelry. Multi-strand gemstone necklaces add not only color, but dimension to any ensemble and express your mood, your style, and your personality. 

 

Virtually endless in styles and character, beaded gemstone jewelry offers some of the most unique designs and styles of jewelry available.  Beaded gemstone jewelry is traditionally made using semi-precious, rather than precious, stones.

Everyone knows a precious stone when they see one. The diamond, a “girl’s best friend”, a ruby, a sapphire, and an emerald. These stones are loosely recognized as a step above semi-precious stones. Semi-precious stones include those which are commonly found in more economically priced jewelry, such as turquoise, amethyst, and garnet. Although these stones are often less expensive, that doesn’t mean that they are in any way inferior in quality to traditional precious stones. In fact, many quality jewelers will combine precious and semi-precious stones in one piece.

 

The gemstones found in beaded jewelry can be found in many different forms. Although most pieces will be small in size, they may or may not be polished or uniform in size. With semi-precious stones, the rarity of their color, clarity, or other qualities may add to their value – and jewelers often do not want to polish out those characteristics.

 

This type of jewelry can be a unique addition to any wardrobe, both for a man and a woman. Many women choose necklaces and bracelets made from beaded turquoise or rose quartz, and beaded earrings made from amethyst or garnets are also popular. For men, darker and more masculine stones such as lapis, amethyst, or pyrite are often found. This type of jewelry is not limited to formal functions – beaded gemstone jewelry can be appropriate for just about any occasion.  

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When you think of handmade gemstone jewelry, you may think of your weird aunt, still living in the 1960’s and her macramé beaded "creations."  Or, you may think of the junky trinkets sold at your local art and crafts fairs. But not to fear, there is another type of handmade jewelry that is neither tacky, “retro”, nor prone to falling to pieces after a few times of wear.

 

Modern, high-end jewelers create handmade gemstone jewelry that will stand the test of time and hold up against any piece you could find in any store. “Handmade” does not mean “homemade” – it means that it was crafted by a professional, a craftsman, and someone who cares about and takes pride in the work they do. There is nothing quirky or tasteless about it.

If you have seen the handmade creations of modern jewelers, you will see nothing like what you imagined. Handmade jewelry can be exquisite, intricate, and timeless. Take a look at women walking down any red carpet event and you will see them adorned with many different types of handmade pieces. Jewelry that appears to come from the larger jewelers may well be handmade creations, custom-made for just such occasions. In fact, in many cases, you can’t tell a quality piece of handmade jewelry from those of famous well-know jewelry designers.

 

When evaluating handmade gemstone jewelry, the first thing you must insist on is quality materials. Only the highest quality metals and gemstones should be used, and all settings and clasps must be the best available. Any reputable jeweler will allow you to see how and where he works, the materials he uses, and often the sources he utilizes to get his materials. A jeweler of character and distinction will want to design a piece of jewelry that you are proud of and one that will attract the attention you deserve.

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What can one say about a beaded jewelry designer?   When it comes to an artist indulging in their most creative endeavors (to create one-of-a-kind pieces), a beaded jewelry designer has a wide variety of options.  Beads can be made from a wide variety of substances, from plastic to glass to crystal to gemstone. 

 

Throughout time, beads have been made from bone, horn, ivory, metal, as well as shells. Frankly, anything that can be pierced to fit a string through, and is small enough to be worn, has been used as a bead.  Indeed beaded jewelry may have been the first jewelry. A pair of beads made from Nassarius sea snail shells, approximately 100,000 years old, are thought to be the earliest known examples of jewelry. These beads have been found throughout Israel and Algeria, in Northern Africa.

Some of the most popular types of beaded designs are as follows:

Chevron Beads are glass beads that were first made by glassmakers in Italy in the early 15th century and are commonly referred to as Venetian or Murano glass. They were, and stil are composed of many layers of colored glass over a star-shaped core.

Dichroic Glass Beads are really cool. The metal used to coat these beads, "dichroic" was developed by NASA for the space program. A thin film of metal is fused to the surface of the glass, which gives the surface a metallic sheen that changes between two colors depending on what angle it is viewed from. Dichroic glass beads are commonly used in high-end designs, as they are rather expensive.

Lucite Beads are used to typically describe any plastic bead, although technically it is only one from of plastic...acrylic resin.  Nevertheless, beads made from acrylic resin are plentiful, inexpensive, and come in all colors and shapes.

 

Gemstone Beads are the most sought after and expensive type of bead in the beaded jewelry designer's palate.  Value depends on many factors, but usually is determined by clarity, cut, carat size, and color.

In the end, it's the talent and technique of the beaded jewelry designer that determines how these various beads work with each other in truly making wearable art jewelry.

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Oscar de la Renta and Loulou de la Falaise: A Dazzling Collaboration in Jewelry

In a magnificent fusion of creative minds, the legendary Oscar de la Renta has joined forces with the renowned Loulou de la Falaise, a close family friend and celebrated collaborator of the iconic Yves Saint Laurent. This fall, fashion enthusiasts will be captivated by their exclusive jewelry collection, available only at Oscar de la Renta boutiques. Prepare to be enchanted by a captivating blend of bohemian allure and artisan craftsmanship, as these two visionaries showcase their shared love for exotic and far-flung inspirations.

A Tapestry of Opulence: The Collection Unveiled

The collection is a veritable feast for the eyes, featuring a mesmerizing array of necklaces, pendants, earrings, and bracelets. Each piece exudes a distinctive charm, characterized by a chunky, crafty bohemian look that is the epitome of elegance. Prepare to be dazzled by the kaleidoscope of colors, sizes, and textures, as smoky quartz, citrine, and pearl intertwine with precious stones sourced from a revered Indian jeweler, including rubies, diamonds, and sapphires. These showstoppers are meticulously designed to embody the luxurious gypsy spirit, ensuring that every wearer feels like a true fashion maven.

Exquisite Artistry for Every Budget

While the price tags of these extraordinary pieces may range from just under $5000 to upwards of $40,000, fear not, for the allure of this collection is not confined to the realm of the elite. Inspired jewelry designers have embraced similar themes, offering statement pieces that are equally bold and infinitely more affordable. Take, for instance, the masterpieces crafted by John S. Brana – Distinctive Jewelry. Their multi-strand beaded necklace, featuring eight distinct stones including the rare and precious lemon amber, quartz, amethyst, and pearl, is a testament to their commitment to opulence, priced at a mere $1,030. For those seeking a cooler, more understated elegance, Brana's fine silver hammered hexagonal link necklace, adorned with a delightful contrast of off-shaped and spherical faceted aquamarine stones, is a steal at $800. And for the true bohemian spirit, nothing quite captures the essence like a pair of oversized earrings. Brana offers a stunning creation in the form of massive four-inch teardrops, adorned with multi-gauge onyx beads delicately wrapped with 14K gold-filled wire, priced at a modest $245.

A Growing Trend: The Rise of Chunky Jewelry

Rest assured, this captivating jewelry trend is not merely a passing fad but a flourishing movement worthy of your investment. Chunky jewelry and bold cuffs dominated the runways of major fashion houses during the Fall 2008 season. Renowned designers such as Louis Vuitton, Lanvin, John Galliano, and Yves Saint Laurent embraced this trend, setting the stage for a revolution in style. Even Oscar de la Renta's own Resort 2009 Collection was a testament to the allure of chunky jewelry, with its giant floral broaches, disc earrings, and vibrant beaded necklaces. So, seize the opportunity to elevate your jewelry collection this season with a daring exploration of color, texture, and style, regardless of your budget. Embrace the spirit of the luxurious gypsy and let your accessories become a testament to your unique fashion sensibilities.

Conclusion: A Tapestry of Beauty Awaits

In this extraordinary collaboration between Oscar de la Renta and Loulou de la Falaise, a tapestry of beauty unfolds before our eyes. Their exclusive jewelry collection is a celebration of artistry, craftsmanship, and the shared love for exotic inspirations. From the grandeur of precious stones to the allure of chunky bohemian designs, these pieces are destined to captivate the hearts of fashion enthusiasts worldwide. So, immerse yourself in the world of opulence and elegance, and let your jewelry tell a story of unparalleled beauty and style.

FAQ's

Q: Where can I purchase the Oscar de la Renta x Loulou de la Falaise jewelry collection? A: The exclusive jewelry collection can be purchased at Oscar de la Renta boutiques.

Q: What is the price range of the Oscar de la Renta x Loulou de la Falaise jewelry collection? A: The price range of the collection varies, with pieces starting from just under $5000 and going up to over $40,000.

Q: Are there more affordable alternatives available that capture the same bohemian style? A: Yes, jewelry designers like John S. Brana offer more affordable alternatives that embrace the bohemian aesthetic while being budget-friendly.

Q: Can you provide an example of an affordable alternative from John S. Brana's collection? A: One example is the multi-strand beaded necklace featuring lemon amber, quartz, amethyst, and pearl, priced at $1,030.

Q: Is the chunky jewelry trend a lasting one? A: Yes, the chunky jewelry trend has been embraced by major fashion houses and continues to be a popular choice, making it a worthwhile investment.