by Nalink Naik

Emerald is a gem with many excellent features and has very unique and special characteristics. Knowledge about this very special gemstone will not only make sure you get value for your money but also gives you the conviction required to make the right choice.

A most stunning and versatile range of jewelry made out of both precious, as well as semiprecious stones is available today. Jewelry, both modern and traditional, and sometimes a combination of both, is well within the range of most everyone.

Emerald, the gemstone with the rich green color, has always been much coveted and very popular, in the form of jewelry, from ancient times to today’s modern world. Necklaces, crafted out of emeralds, are no exception to the rule. These not only look stunning but also add class to the wearer. The rare natural beauty of the emerald, lends itself to be crafted into a stunning collection of necklaces. A wide variety of designs, that are not only intricate and tasteful but also appealing to both young and old.

Emerald is a gem with many excellent features and has very unique and special characteristics. Knowledge about this very special gemstone will not only make sure you get value for your money but also gives you the conviction required to make the right choice. Like all other precious gemstones, the color, clarity, cut and carat decide the worth of the emerald. A fair knowledge of each of these characteristics will go a long way in ensuring the authenticity and quality of the jewel.

Color: The most important and a very unique characteristic of this stone is the rich green color it has, because of which, it is popularly known as the gemstone of spring. Emerald belongs to the family of Beryl’s and owes its brilliant green color to the presence of chromium and vanadium. This rich green color is what determines the value of the gem. The more saturated and rich the color, the more value it has. In fact, the emerald with a darker hue and more inclusions is without any doubt more precious than an emerald with less inclusions and a lighter shade of green.

Clarity: Emerald, with a hardness rating of 7.5 to 8, has the most inclusions and fissures as compared to other gems. These inclusions and cracks are clearly visible when the emerald is viewed through a microscope. These fissures in the emerald are known as the gardening effect and another unique feature of this stone. In fact, these inclusions are what help identify a genuine natural emerald from a fake one. The richness of the color in the emerald makes up for these flaws. Even though the emerald has many inclusions, it is a hard and durable gemstone. This gem is treated with oil and resin to minimize the flaws and to strengthen it.

Cut: Due to the many inclusions and the brittle nature of the gem, the process of cutting, polishing and setting is very problematic indeed. In order to overcome this problem, a special cut was developed called the emerald cut. This cut is mostly square and rectangular in nature and the beveled edges in this cut not only enhance the beauty of the emerald but also protect the gem. This does not mean that the emerald is cut only in this shape. Emeralds are cut into many other beautiful and classical shapes. The round diamond cut, oval and trillion cut and the princess and marquise cut are most popular. The rounded pearl cut is also becoming very popular now.

Carat: The carat or the measure of the size of the gem is what adds to the value of any gem. This is so with the emerald too.

With all these very unique characteristics the emerald is much coveted and very, very popular in the form of various jewelry items. Necklaces crafted out of emeralds have been much in demand from times immemorial. Even today emerald necklaces in an array of exquisite styles and settings are available to the consumer. Styles and settings ranging from the classic to the contemporary, crafted most intricately and tastefully, to suit any occasion, any age group, are all available. Designs both ethnic and modern and sometimes a combination of both, the range in emerald necklaces is unlimited. The ethnic designs, influenced by the rich heritage of the bygone eras, are much in demand especially for formal occasions. For those partial to modern and more elegant designs, a truly beautiful and sophisticated array of designs in emerald necklaces are available. From chokers to long necklaces or even simple strands of emerald s cut in pearl shapes, there are designs to suit any age group, any occasion and to compliment any ensemble you may wear.

As far as designs go, they may be floral or pertain to nature or plain geometrical. Weather a choker or a long necklace, the choice is absolutely individualistic. Whatever the pattern, whatever the length, emerald necklaces look most breathtaking when set in a metal that compliments the green color of the gem. White gold or platinum enhances the rich green color of the emerald most. Emeralds look good all on their own, but in combination with diamonds the effect is truly stunning. Emerald necklaces, offset with precious stones like rubies, sapphires and diamonds, are in a class of their own. Traditionally, the whole set, i.e. the necklace with matching earrings, bracelet and ring was usually bought and worn as a whole. Today the modern designs are such, that a single piece of jewelry is stunning enough to make a style statement of your own.

Whatever the style or design, the clasp of the necklace is very important. A clasp with a good design and quality not only adds to the beauty of the necklace, but also ensures the safety of the jewel. Care of emerald necklaces is very important. As emeralds have a lot of inclusions and are treated with oil or resin in order to strengthen the gem, never clean the emerald necklace with ultrasonic jewelry cleaner or with harsh detergents. This may dissolve the resin or oil and weaken the stone. Even though the emerald has many cracks and fissures, it is a hard gem and does not scratch easily.

All in all, emerald necklaces not only look very chic, but also very beautiful to behold, especially when set in the right metal, with the right cut and an appropriate design. Emerald necklaces make wonderful gifts especially for anniversaries, as this gemstone symbolizes enduring and eternal love. Emerald necklaces are beautiful and stunning and this is a piece of jewelry anybody would be proud to own.

by Seema Susheel

An elegant pearl necklace is a great gift idea for special days like marriages, anniversaries, birthdays, valentines, mother’s day etc. You are buying a pearl necklace for your loved one then you need to gear yourself with some valuable information so as to make a comfortable buy.

Choosing the design style of the pearl necklace
To make a purchase your first step is to choose a design that will suite the lady the best. A pearl necklace, which will match her lifestyle and personality. A pearl necklace is usually pearls strung together to form very pretty ensembles. These pearls are usually strung in 18K white gold or yellow gold. There are many styles available to choose from. For example there is the choker- A style where in the pearl necklace; usually a group of 3 to 4 strands are worn close to the neck. The other styles are basically the difference in the length of the pearl strand. There are many lengths of necklace in fashion, and you could choose a length which would suite your lady’s liking and dressing sense. The pearl necklace is strung in many fashions. The center pearl being bigger and the remaining tapering down the size, is a style in fashion too. The pearl could be bigger or smaller depending on the design, if you prefer big sized pearls then one strand pearl necklace would look beautiful. You are going for a medium sized pearl then a 3 strand necklace would be noticeable and grand. You can even match an interesting pendant to go with the pearl necklace. A long single strand of pearl necklace also makes a bold fashion statement, this also can be shortened in three lengths and worn to suite every different occasion and every different outfit.

Choosing the pearl
There are many kinds of pearls to choose from, there’s the natural saltwater variety, fresh water, cultured Japanese pearls, black Tahitian pearls and many more. Due to the popularity of the pearl jewelry, the pearls are cultured and produced in many countries and are available in many price ranges suiting to every individual. The usual color of a pearl is white or cream but is also available in pink, grey, lavender and black. The shape of a pearl is a perfect sphere but its also available in certain irregular shapes, like the shape of a rice grain, is a well used variety. When buying a pearl you should always look for shape, size, color and surface quality. The fineness of the texture should be soft and silky to touch, and then the pearl is of a high quality. You should also take care that the pearl you buy is authentic and not a fake.

Where to make your valuable buy
There are many options catering today’s buyer. You can shop online with many websites entirely dedicated to pearl jewelry. You can choose from the wide range of designs, get information and support for all your queries and order your purchase online. You have to just sit back and relax while the pearl necklace is delivered home. The jewelry piece comes with a guarantee and you could also find a good price. You can also shop at many superstores, malls and jewelry stores exclusively selling pearl jewelry. If you can’t find a piece which you want to buy then you can always choose just the pearl, and order to make the necklace to the length you want. Here you should take care that all the pearls are of the same size. You could know the price you will be paying for each pearl and make a purchase that gives you peace of mind that you bought a beautiful piece for a reasonable amount. Take care that the jewelry shop deals with genuine pearls. There are gemstones rating authorities that certify the genuineness of the gem in this case pearl, here you can check on the authenticity of the pearls you are buying and be sure that you get value for your money. As there could be rotten apples in a basket of fresh good looking apples similarly there are lot of fakes running in the market, plastic beads painted to perfection can fool a layman that it’s the natural pearl. To get your purchase checked for genuineness will give you peace of mind for lifetime.

To own a pearl necklace is a proud moment!!!
Pearl has been long associated with romance and feminity. Pearl is considered to be associated with passion, youth, fashion and style. The demand for pearls is never ending, hence to own a pearl necklace is an achievement and an heirloom for generations. Pearl is pure and is formed inside an oyster. The mystery of its formation makes it unique and sought after. The pearl is used in its natural form it doesn’t need any enhancements like cutting and polishing. Thanks to the research and development, pearls are cultivated artificially and now are available in abundance; hence every person can afford pearls. The more a pearl is rare like the natural saltwater pearl or an oval shaped pearl the more is the price. For example a natural Tahitian black pearl necklace would be much more costly then a real diamond necklace. The more it’s rare the costlier it is.

by Sanjana Sethiya

Opal just a gem is so beautiful, if it is converted into some exclusive jewelry’s then no looking back for both the buyer’s and seller. Necklace, earrings, nose rings, lockets made of opal are very beautiful and look very stunning. Many go flattered when they visualize Opal necklace.

Opals were first found on earth when dinosaurs roamed the earth. It is as old as the olden civilization. Due to its shine and artistic colors it was used by kings, astrologers and rich personality. Opal was much used by astrologer in order to forecast the future events. It is also termed as an ancient stone. Opal as a gem did not got its importance earlier but pleased to the eyes of the seeker due to its rainbow color. In olden era, Opal had no value. It was treated as a common stone with flashing color. As time passed, Opal importance, value, and moreover demand has raised up to a very huge height.

For being the only gemstone which has unique ability to reflect and refract the white color or sunlight into all the beautiful colors of rainbow. Opal is a beautiful multi-colored gemstone, which is a bit costlier. Opal is related to crystal cousin’s quartz and agate. Opal is one among the few gemstones, which are formed on sedimentary rocks where water is one of the main elements of it.

Opal stands for the month of October. Those who are born in this month should wear Opal to achieve success in their respective career/field. One who wore lockets, necklace studded with Opal increases the memory of the wearer and earrings studded with Opal enhances of the beauty of the wearer. So one who wants the combination of both beauties with brains can be achieved by wearing/possessing Opal jewelry. It is always misunderstood gem. Most jeweler’s carry on their business of diamond and gold. And many are not aware of the existence of other gems that are also beneficiary for human kind in various forms. One among them is Opal.

One question may strike in buyer’s mind. How can we know about a good gem? Whom can we trust? How much does it cost? And the answer is very simple, knowledge. If one want to buy any gem or precious stone, they should first have knowledge about the gem and knowledge of how this beautiful gem translates into market value, which will allow you to buy Opal with confidence. There is a small quotation, “trust thy knowledge, not others”, this will help the buyer’s to purchase authentic and good Opal stone.

Opal just a gem is so beautiful, if it is converted into some exclusive jewelry’s then no looking back for both the buyer’s and seller. Necklace, earrings, noserings, lockets made of opal are very beautiful and look very stunning. Many go flattered when they visualize Opal necklace. Now-a-days Opal necklace are worn by various people on various occasions. Opal likes to breathe in the fresh air, therefore it can be worn on any part of the body. It even likes contact with the skin. Therefore they can be worn on neck, ears, fingers.

Opal stone are not found in large and are found only in few places in the world. Australia is the main supplier of Black Opal, which is the famous Opal in the world.

Buyers should keep in mind the following factors while purchasing opal necklace/jewelry’s.
1. While purchasing Opal necklace, valuation and identification of Opal should be undertaken. There are various factors’ which will help the buyer to buy the real and good Opal jewelries. They are as under. A) size and shapes of Opal
B) Color and patterns
C) Clarity/brightness
D) Valuing Opal
E) Types of Opal

2. Opal evaluation plays an important role while purchasing it.
3. Opal should be tested in sunlight, if direct contact falls on Opal it produces rainbow color, which is enough to certify/clarify, the doubts regarding Opal.
4. Different types of Opal are found. Buyer should have a keen knowledge regarding this factor.

There fore, these factors help the buyer to identify the good Opal.

While cleaning Opal jewelry’s/necklace, buyer should keep in mind that it should be cleaned only on plain water and no chemical, machines or any other mode to be used to clean them. Opal should not be ever cleaned by glycerin, because Opal contain moister in it, glycerin removes the moisture content in order to avoid this one should be aware of it. Therefore, buying Opal necklace is easy but taking care of it is very easy but one should know about it.