Five Ways to Rock a Star of David

There’s been an increase in antisemitic incidents worldwide since October 7, and in parallel, there’s been an uptick in Google searches for Star of David necklaces. Jewish people all over the world are choosing to wear Judaica jewelry and apparel to represent Jewish pride, support for Israel, and solidarity. The IG account @whyiwearmystar shares stories of Jews around the world and their connections to the Star of David.

I’ve been heartened by orders for mazi + zo’s Star of David jewelry and customers messaging me asking for other modern ways to wear a Star of David.

Here’s what I’m loving (BONUS: they’re all small businesses):

  1. Obvi, starting with ours: mazi + zo’s delicate Star David necklace and dainty Star of David stud earrings are how minimalist Jews shine. Each piece is handmade in NYC with solid 14k gold or .925 sterling silver, my business is 100% Jewish-owned (me!), and our amazing workshop is also Jewish-owned. Prices range from $72-$232 and we’re donating 30% of sales from our Star of David jewelry to Hillel International’s mission to protect and support Jewish college students. As a thank you, when you buy a Star of David, we’ll automatically take 15% off the rest of your order. New jewelry + mitzvah + discount = winning!

  2. I love this Star of David sweatshirt with a glittery gold star on the front from Circle by Lori. Sandy white pieces are everywhere right now and the low contrast with the gold glitter keeps it modern. I can see building a whole monochromatic look around this. I’m also digging the navy blue and black options where the star really pops!

  3. OMG this tie. It comes in other colors, but the Star Of David II Dark Camo Camouflage Neck Tie by Leonbience is perfect. The Magen David is subtle, but totally there. Am kind of thinking I need to start wearing ties (did you catch Garcelle on RHOBC at her movie premiere party?? Such a great look.)

  4. Our friends at Schmattees’ Not Going Anywhere Long Sleeve T-Shirt sends a more in-your-face message for those days when you want to put it out there a little harder. I have their Dayenu tee and get smiles and compliments whenever I wear it. They’re also really really nice over there and they sell on Zazzle, too, if Amazon isn’t your thing.

  5. Rounding things out: a very cool Star of David hat by GomoniloveeByRose. The black on black version is so chic and you can personalize it with a name on the back. Hmm, is this another place to put dayenu??

    About The Author

    Lizzy Klein lives in NYC and is the founder of mazi + zo, a company that makes jewelry that ups your personal style with original, high-quality, easy-to-wear, easy-to-layer designs. Shop mazi + zo and find your next favorite jewelry!

 

How to Shop for Jewellery from the Comfort of Your Home

In today’s fast-paced world, convenience is key, and that extends to the way we shop for jewellery. Gone are the days when you had to visit multiple stores to find the perfect piece of jewellery. 

Thanks to the internet, you can now shop for jewellery from your home. Whether you’re looking for a unique gift or treating yourself, here’s a guide on how to shop for jewellery online.

Determine Your Budget

Before you start shopping, it’s essential to set a budget. Jewellery comes in a wide range of price points, so knowing your budget will help narrow your options. Be realistic about what you can afford, and remember that quality should be a priority over quantity.

Research and Educate Yourself

Jewellery shopping can be overwhelming, especially if you need to familiarise yourself with the various metals, gemstones, and styles available. Take some time to educate yourself about the different types of jewellery, such as necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings, as well as the materials used, like gold, silver, platinum, and gemstones. Understanding the basics will help you make informed choices.

Choose Reputable Online Retailers

Not all online jewellery stores are created equal, so it’s essential to do your research and choose reputable retailers. Look for stores with positive reviews, secure payment options, and clear return policies. Reading customer feedback and checking for certifications or memberships with industry organisations can also give you confidence in your choice.

Check Sizing and Measurements

One of the challenges of shopping for jewellery online is determining the correct size. For rings and bracelets, you can use a sizing chart or a piece of string to measure your finger or wrist and compare it to the size guide provided by the retailer. Pay close attention to measurements when selecting necklaces and earrings to ensure they match your preferences.

Read Product Descriptions and Reviews

When shopping online, product descriptions and customer reviews are your best friends. Carefully read the descriptions to understand the materials used, the quality of gemstones, and any special features or certifications. Customer reviews can provide valuable insights into the product’s quality and shopping experience.

Look for Detailed Photos

High-quality, detailed photos of the jewellery are crucial when shopping online. Look for images that show the jewellery from multiple angles and in different lighting conditions. This will give you a better idea of what the piece looks like in person. Be wary of retailers that only provide stock photos or low-resolution images.

Ask Questions and Seek Assistance

Feel free to contact the online retailer’s customer service with any questions or concerns. Reputable stores will have knowledgeable staff who can provide guidance and address your queries. Whether you’re curious about a specific gemstone’s quality or need help with sizing, assistance should be readily available.

Check for Certification and Authentication

If buying high-value jewellery or gemstones, inquire about certifications or appraisals. Certain gems, such as diamonds, may come with certificates that provide information about their quality and authenticity. This added assurance can be essential for more significant purchases.

Review the Return and Warranty Policies

Before making a final decision, carefully review the retailer’s return and warranty policies. Ensure that you understand the conditions for returning or exchanging the jewellery, as well as any warranty coverage offered. This information will be valuable in case you’re not entirely satisfied with your purchase.

Secure Payment Options

Always use secure payment options when shopping for jewellery online. Look for websites that offer trusted payment gateways, such as PayPal or credit card processors. Avoid sharing sensitive financial information through unsecured channels.

Consider Customization

Many online jewellery stores offer customisation options, allowing you to create a unique piece tailored to your preferences. Whether you want to personalise a necklace with a specific gemstone or engrave a special message on a ring, customisation can add a personal touch to your jewellery shopping experience.

Check Shipping and Insurance

Find out about the retailer’s shipping options and fees. Some stores offer free shipping or expedited options for an additional cost. Additionally, consider purchasing insurance for valuable jewellery items during shipping to protect against loss or damage.

Read and Keep Documentation

Once you’ve made your purchase, carefully review all the documentation that comes with your jewellery, including receipts, certificates, and warranties. Keep these documents in a safe place for future reference or potential resale.

Take Your Time

Shopping for jewellery online offers convenience, but it’s essential to take your time and make well-informed decisions. Take your time with purchases, and if something feels wrong, trust your instincts and continue your search.

Leave Reviews and Share Your Experience

After your jewellery arrives and you’re satisfied with your purchase, consider leaving a review or sharing your experience with the online retailer. Your feedback can help others make informed choices when shopping for jewellery online.

 

In conclusion, shopping for jewellery online is a convenient and enjoyable experience. By setting a budget, educating yourself, choosing reputable retailers, and following the tips above, you can confidently find the perfect jewellery that suits your style and preferences without leaving your home. Happy shopping!

 

How to Take Your Love to New Heights With Custom Engagement Jewelry

Love is a powerful force that binds two souls together, and what better way to celebrate it than with a custom engagement ring? While traditional engagement rings are undeniably beautiful, they may not always capture the essence of your love story.

Custom jewelry provides an enchanting opportunity to infuse your relationship’s individuality with intricate designs and personalized touches. Dazzling custom engagement rings aren’t new among celebs either.

Vogue notes that Hailey Beiber, Jennifer Lopez, and Kourtney Kardashian are some of the celebs who have been seen flaunting exquisite custom engagement rings. This has further popularized the trend of custom engagement rings among their fans and the public in general.

In this article, we will dive into the world of custom engagement jewelry, exploring its unparalleled personalization.

Personalization Beyond Comparison

Custom engagement jewelry offers an unparalleled level of personalization. Traditional engagement rings, while beautiful, may not always align with your partner’s unique tastes. With a custom ring, you have the freedom to choose every detail, from the type of metal to the cut, color, and gemstone size.

According to Brides, round brilliant diamonds are the most common type of diamond used in engagement rings. Round brilliant-cut diamonds are most popular because of their outstanding light performance and adaptable shape.

However, personalization is at the heart of choosing the perfect engagement ring. While the round brilliant cut is a classic choice, there are numerous other diamond shapes to consider, each with its own unique character.

This level of customization ensures that the ring becomes a true reflection of your partner’s individuality. This makes it a piece of jewelry they’ll cherish for a lifetime. Your jeweler will work closely with you to turn your vision into reality, resulting in a ring that’s as unique as your love.

The Story Behind the Sparkle

Every love story is unique, and your engagement ring should be no different. Custom engagement jewelry allows you to incorporate elements that are deeply meaningful to both of you.

Gitnux notes that 53% of couples choose to create their own engagement rings.

This figure demonstrates how crucial customization is when choosing an engagement ring. It demonstrates that rather than settling for a generic design, couples are increasingly searching for a ring that is unique to their relationship.

Whether it’s a special engraving or a gemstone from a meaningful location, a custom ring becomes a beautiful, wearable reminder of your journey together. This personalized touch infuses your engagement ring with sentiment and significance, creating a connection between the ring and your love story.

A Creative Expression of Love

Custom engagement jewelry is a canvas for your creativity. You can work with a skilled jeweler to design a ring that is not just a symbol of love but a work of art.

Whether you have a specific vision in mind or need inspiration, the collaboration with a professional jeweler allows you to explore various design elements. This ensures that the final piece captures the essence of your unique love story.

This creative process is an enriching experience that deepens your connection as a couple and results in a ring that is truly exceptional.

Ensuring a Perfect Fit

One often overlooked aspect of custom engagement jewelry is the ability to create a ring that fits perfectly. Your partner will wear this ring every day, so ensuring a comfortable and secure fit is crucial.

With custom rings, you can select the ideal ring size and shape, as well as make adjustments to accommodate your partner’s lifestyle and preferences. This attention to detail ensures that the ring not only looks stunning but feels comfortable and secure.

Budget-Friendly Beauty

Contrary to popular belief, custom engagement jewelry can be budget-friendly. Many people assume that custom means costly, but in reality, it often offers better value for money compared to high-end designer rings. According to Leibish, custom jewelers can work with a wide range of budgets. They can help you select materials and design elements that align with your financial parameters.

If you’re not sure where to get started, it’s a good idea to look for a custom engagement rings buyer guide online. This means you can have a beautifully customized ring without breaking the bank. This ensures that your love story is celebrated in a way that’s both unique and affordable.

Quality That Lasts a Lifetime

Custom engagement jewelry is synonymous with quality. Each piece is meticulously crafted with attention to detail, ensuring that it withstands the test of time. Skilled jewelers use the finest materials and craftsmanship, resulting in a ring of exceptional quality. This means your custom ring is not just a symbol of your love but an heirloom that can be passed down through generations.

A Ring That Represents Forever

Your engagement ring is not just a piece of jewelry, it’s a representation of your commitment and love. It sets the stage for a lifetime of shared moments and cherished memories. Custom engagement jewelry is designed with this in mind, serving as a powerful symbol of your love story’s beginning.

With a custom ring, you’re not just giving your partner a beautiful piece of jewelry. You’re giving them a tangible expression of your promise of forever, a reminder of the enduring nature of your love. Custom engagement jewelry truly elevates your love to new heights, celebrating the uniqueness of your bond and the promise of a lifetime together.

Final Thoughts

Custom engagement jewelry offers a profound opportunity to celebrate love in a deeply personal and creative way. It allows couples to craft a symbol of their unique love story, infused with personalized details and sentimental touches.

This artful expression of love, beyond traditional norms, ensures a perfect fit, longevity, and budget-friendliness. Contrary to misconceptions, it can be both exceptional and affordable.

Ultimately, custom engagement jewelry represents a promise of forever, elevating love to new heights by embracing the uniqueness of each relationship. It’s a tangible testament to the enduring nature of love and a powerful symbol of a lifetime filled with shared moments and cherished memories.

10 Sentimental Types of Keepsake Jewelry You Will Treasure 

Keepsake jewelry is designed to hold sentimental value and help preserve cherished memories. This type of jewelry is often passed down between generations as heirlooms or given as meaningful gifts. Choosing a piece of keepsake jewelry requires considering personal connections to the past, present, or future. When selecting keepsake jewelry, quality craftsmanship is key for enduring value. Reputable jewelers employ expert techniques with precious metals and stones to create stunning yet durable adornments. The right keepsake jewelry becomes part of a lasting legacy, reminding you of unforgettable moments and special relationships. Handmade Fine Jewelry Store will help you build the legacy of the piece and make it timeless, whatever the type of jewelry you wish to hand down, 

Birthstone Jewelry

Birthstone jewelry makes a thoughtful gift to celebrate someone’s birth month with a colorful gem. This tradition dates back thousands of years, each month corresponding to a unique crystal. Modern birthstones also carry spiritual meaning and healing properties. Popular birthstone jewelry includes necklaces, rings, and bracelets featuring a dazzling focal stone—an emerald pendant for those born in May or a sapphire ring to commemorate September.

Certain stones, like diamonds, work for any month. Engraving birth stats or initials adds sentimental value. Customizing birthstone jewelry with additional gems reflecting family members’ birth months creates a personalized keepsake. Add pearl accents alongside the mother’s ruby for a child’s June birthday. 

Memorial Jewelry

Memorial jewelry offers a beautiful way to carry remembrances of loved ones close to your heart. This cathartic jewelry often incorporates engraved names, dates, messages, or images to honor someone who passed. Find a Pendants, lockets, bracelets, and rings work well for memorial jewelry. For example, a loved one’s fingerprint is etched onto a silver pendant or a tiny photo tucked inside a gold locket. Add birthstones, ashes, or Angel wings to symbolize their spirit. Personal inscriptions like “Forever in my heart” make memorial jewelry more meaningful. Grasping this special jewelry piece can provide comfort and connection whenever you miss someone.

Family Heirloom Jewelry

Family heirloom jewelry reflects generations of memories within dazzling designs passed down through the years. Vintage rings, necklaces, and brooches carry deep significance and fine craftsmanship. Treasuring these precious antiques as they are honors their history. However, redesigning heirloom jewelry into modern styles also breathes new life. Transform Grandma’s Art diamond bracelet into a pendant, or reset the stones into wedding bands. To preserve family heirlooms, proper care, and maintenance are essential. Follow jeweler cleaning, storage, and repair recommendations to retain sentimental value. Share these meaningful pieces with future generations to continue making memories.

Wedding and Engagement Rings

Few material things embody the powerful emotions of lifelong commitment, like wedding and engagement rings. These symbols of unity and devotion become instant family heirlooms passed down through generations. Beyond the traditional single-diamond solitaire, modern couples get creative with personalized ring designs. Mix metals, shapes, and colored gems for a ring as unique as your bond. Engrave your wedding date, song lyrics, or a private message inside the band. Redesigning rings from the past also brings sentimental significance to your union. Propose with a vintage ring from your partner’s family, or reset stones from both sides into bridal sets. Your rings preserve and honor your shared history.

Baby Keepsake Jewelry

Welcoming a new baby is one of life’s most meaningful milestones. What better way to celebrate than with customized keepsake jewelry? Capture little hands and feet with bracelets or pendants bearing the baby’s first prints. A birthstone encircled with tiny engraved footprints makes a heartwarming design.

Some companies can crystallize breast milk into pendants and create breast milk rings for parents wanting an even more personal memento. A portion of the mother’s milk is preserved through an intricate process as a wearable reminder of bonding. Whether choosing a classic locket with baby photos or a unique molded keepsake, these special jewelry pieces commemorate the joy of a growing family.

Photo Jewelry

Photo jewelry presents a nostalgic way to showcase treasured snapshots in wearable form. Tiny portraits sealed under glass domes, etched onto metal plates, or digitally integrated into jewelry capture meaning in material objects. For sentimental gift ideas, shop jewelry incorporating vintage photos of grandparents, parents on their wedding day, or other black-and-white family moments. 

Customize pieces with colorful photos of your favorite vacation spot or scenic landscape for a modern twist. Photo jewelry artists can even transform portraits of beloved pets into engraved pendants and bracelets.

Handwritten Jewelry

Jewelry engraved with a loved one’s handwriting provides an intimately sentimental keepsake. A few lines in their unique script are immortalized in precious metals and stones. Handwritten jewelry may feature a holographic image of a short handwritten note, name signature, or poem. For a substantial piece like a cuff bracelet, you can include a lengthier personal passage for the engraving. What makes handwritten jewelry especially touching are the subtleties of the hand script. The slight slant of the cursive lettering or the pressure variations reflect the writer’s one-of-a-kind style. Keep these personal characteristics forever memorialized close to your heart.

Pet Keepsake Jewelry

For pet owners, furry friends become part of the family. Pet keepsake jewelry offers beautiful ways to honor beloved companion animals. Custom pieces with engraved names, paw prints, and images provide comforting remembrances. Jewelry keepsakes for pets range from simple charms with your dog or cat’s name to ornate pendants featuring portraits of animals. Some companies can even extract your pet’s DNA from shed hair to crystallize it into stunning accessories for a unique souvenir. Display your pet’s paw print preserved in metal charms and beads. Combining your dog’s paw print with their name makes a meaningful bracelet to treasure. Keep the memory of your furry companion alive by touching keepsake jewelry.

Travel Keepsake Jewelry

For globetrotters and jet setters, travel jewelry captures the essence of exciting adventures in handcrafted accents. Etched maps, compass charms, passport stamps, and flag pendants transform explorations into wearable art. A delicate gold necklace with map coordinates of a landmark location makes a thoughtful gift for wanderlusts. Frequent flyers might opt for passport stamp charms or airline tag pendants to showcase their exotic expeditions. Let your journeys continue inspiring you by transforming photos from remarkable vistas into one-of-a-kind travel jewelry. 

Personalized Charms

Mixing and layering personalized charms allows you to curate a bracelet, necklace, or anklet as unique as you. For the sports enthusiast, customize with charms of team logos, balls, tennis rackets, or skates. Hobby charms like palettes, sewing machines, and chess pieces symbolize personal pastimes. Floral designs, butterflies, hearts, and abstract shapes add whimsy and character. Meaningful charms become keepsakes commemorating major milestones like graduations, weddings, and births. You can continually add new charms to evolve your jewelry with the chapters of life. The sentiments woven into these pieces make them true treasures.

Conclusion

Keepsake jewelry holds deep emotional resonance in precious metals and stones. Birthstones, memorials, heirlooms, charms, and more allow you to celebrate milestones, honor loved ones, and remember adventures through jewelry. When selecting your keepsakes, choose pieces reflecting what matters most. These sentimental adornments become part of your family’s legacy, carrying memories forward for generations.

Gold ball earrings with studs: how to choose?

 

The list of earring styles isn’t short, but there are always models that come to your mind first. These winners are always personalized, but fashion trends influence them a lot. Without a doubt, stud earrings are filigree designs that are included in such ratings. This represents how people strive for elegant yet simple decisions without going overboard for prompt images. If you appreciate a bit of uniqueness in your style, considering gold ball earrings studs might easily feel like winning a jackpot. Stay tuned to get access to the most luxurious deals within the FJewellery catalog. Onwards!

Sizing Ball Earrings for Beginners

Knowing the distance between your piercing and the border of your earlobe is an excellent idea. Users can use this metric as a guide while examining the sizes and heights of jewelry.

You won’t need any complex mechanisms and instruments — a straight ruler will do. Just grab it comfortably and gauge the size of your lobes and record the measurement in centimeters or millimeters. Please check what option is preferred on the website for the target model to get a more precise understanding of the prospective fit.

Ball earrings range a lot, from tiny to large gold ball stud earrings with screw backs for her. For instance, one of the most popular studs on the site is around one centimeter. You are welcome to pair 8mm ball earrings with other solid studs as well. However, you can go further and experiment. There are valuable models that will just create a small elegant accent on the ear and those flat images that will conveniently cover the earlobe.

With half-ball earrings for women or alternative designs, you will need to consider how plain they are in terms of their fitting. Although standard stud earrings with ball ornaments include just one voluminous ball as a central element of the compositions, distinctive variations can easily take place. Check the palette of gold colors and gemstone styles within this assortment to select the most durable and mesmerizing jewelry of your dreams. With rhodium and other coatings, you can make a simple gold ball stud a hit version for everyday wear.

Stud Earrings vs. Closures

Of course, there are important construction elements to consider if you don’t want to waste your time and cash. Your choice might be random. But the more special requirements you might have, the more disappointed you would be because of your negligence and lack of attention to detail. Here are some worthy solutions to discover:

  • Screw, friction, and lock backs are what experienced customers expect to get from a durable and secure pair of earrings.

  • If you would like to combine security and ease of use, push backs will serve you well.

  • Knowing more will never be an extra effort. For instance, La Pousette closures are surely worth your attention for their convenient and solid locking mechanism.

How to Wear Small and Large Round Ball Earrings

Choosing perfect matches for children and women isn’t like playing roulette. On the contrary, your actual odds to succeed are way higher than just 50/50. For those customers who can’t wait to see the brilliance of ball earring studs, there is another option to get the most out of this offer. Your jewelry collection doesn’t have to boast hundreds and thousands of models. Still, it is essential to understand how versatile the combinations you can create are.

Professional suggestions usually contain bestsellers and something you can find on other sites immediately. This list is slightly different since it isn’t biased by stereotypes and lets you think out of the box:

  • Silver ID bangles — this type of jewelry doesn’t come at a considerable price, which is one of the benefits of sticking to it. Moreover, it is as simple as ABC to imagine dozens of outfit styles where silver ID bangles are perfect and attractive accents.

  • Horseshoe pendants — modern rankings of fashionable designs commonly include chunky and dainty solutions. On the contrary, making classic layouts look harmonious when paired together with other pieces of jewelry is still a way out for non-experienced amateurs. As practice shows, simple pictures like horseshoe necklaces never fail you. Their affordable cost is a pleasant bonus for your patience during online shopping.

  • Onyx signet ring — don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to possess a stylish gemstone and a unique style of the band at the same time. Despite the fact that it is advertised as a male accessory, there is no need to worry when choosing it for ladies. Thanks to its shine, it is a marvelous layout to wear for her, along with formal and casual attires.

Where to Buy Gold Stud Ball Earrings on Sale

What are the basic rules of online shopping for stud ball earrings? You definitely should research a bit about how distinct such designs can be and then match them to specific parameters, including metal purity, carat cost, coating durability, and more. If you need help with making your first consideration in the market, FJewellery will help you navigate its assortment of precious goodies. Surf through the site and consult with the team of specialists to get the most soulmate jewelry partner you have ever dreamt of.

4 Key Pieces of Men’s Jewelry You Need In Your Wardobe

If you’re looking to up your game when it comes to men’s jewelry, you’re in the right place! We’re introducing 4 key pieces of men’s jewelry you need in your wardrobe and the different ways that you can style it, so you can take any outfit to the next level. So, let’s get into it and find out what you need to add to your collection to elevate your men’s fashion sense!

 

A Chain

First up on our list of men’s jewelry essentials is a chain! When you put on a chain, you can instantly elevate your outfit no matter what you’re wearing. It’s super diverse, cool and it looks great, so this is definitely something you should add to your collection.

Start by choosing if you want a platinum or gold chain (invest in the real deal rather than gold or silver plated and it will last you a lifetime!). Then, decide on the style you’d like, whether that’s a very simple thin chain which is great if you aren’t used to wearing much jewelry, or if you want to go for something bolder and chunkier.

The beauty of a chain is that it literally goes with anything, whether you’re wearing a unisex luxury tracksuit or a suit. If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to jewelry, then investing in a chain is the best choice.

 

A Good Quality Watch

Men’s jewelry doesn’t get much more timeless than a good quality watch. It can be difficult to choose your dream watch as there are so many different styles out there, but if you go to a watch specialist, they will be happy to help. Do some research in advance to see the kind of styles you like, but go in with an open mind, as you might end up falling in love with something completely different. For example, take a look at whether you prefer metal straps or leather straps, a chunkier style, or a sleeker style.

Try to think about the color palette of your wardrobe and go with what you wear most. If you wear mostly nude tones, a brown leather watch might be best. Or, if you wear a lot of monochrome tones, a metal watch with a black face might be better suited. Take your time and invest in a watch you really love, and you will be able to wear and appreciate it for years.

Statement Rings

If you want some jewelry for your hands, then you really can’t beat statement rings. For something a bit different and edgy, statement rings are a must, whether you choose one statement ring or you wear multiple across your hands. You can mix and match all kinds of styles, from signet rings to more simple bands.

The most important thing here is to wear a combination that you really love and wear it with confidence. You can carry anything off then! If you’re unsure where to start, wear a couple of thinner rings across your hands, and then once you’re used to it and know that you like wearing rings, add to your collection.

The only finger to avoid is the ring finger on your left-hand side, as this is usually reserved for marriage! Aside from this, go wild when it comes to styling your statement rings.

Cufflinks

Last but not least we have a pair of cufflinks. Cufflinks are worn to hold the cuffs of dress shirts together. Many shirts now have buttons to secure the cuffs, but when you’re going to a special occasion like a wedding or anniversary meal cufflinks help to elevate any outfit. Again, this is something worth investing in, as when you buy a classic pair of timeless cufflinks, they will last you a lifetime!

 

Final Thoughts

Accessories are key to completing your wardrobe, and with these 4 pieces of jewelry in your collection, you will never fail to find the perfect finishing touch!

 

About The Author

Daisy Moss is a freelance writer specializing in vintage jewelry. When she isn’t writing you will probably find her looking for her next investment in Hatton Garden.

7 Reasons to Buy a Lab Grown Diamond in 2021

The demand for lab-produced diamonds is on the rise. During the COVID-19 pandemic, sales of naturally mined diamonds declined; it’s quite the opposite for artificial diamonds. Despite pandemic lockdowns and financial difficulties, the sale of these lab grown gems saw a steady increase in 2021.

If you intend to buy an engagement ring or diamond jewelry for you or your loved one, don’t turn your back on lab-created diamonds. There’s more to these manufactured carbon-based gemstones than meets the eye. Here are seven reasons to buy lab grown diamonds in 2021:

1. They’re the Real Thing

A lot of individuals have the impression that diamonds created in laboratories are fake or not diamonds. This belief may not be accurate because when you compare the lab-grown and the mined ones, you’ll see that they’re physically, chemically, and visually the same. Intense heat and immense crushing pressure create both the mined and manufactured diamonds.

The only difference is that it took billions of years to create the natural ones found in Earth’s crust, while diamonds from a lab may take less than 30 days to develop. When you’re picking an engagement ring, it doesn’t matter if it’s mined or not. The important thing is you choose the design that best fits the personality of your loved one.

 

2. They’re More Accessible

Without a doubt, mined diamonds are rare. For decades, mining companies were unable to discover new diamond mining sites. Fortunately, lab grown diamonds aren’t as rare. Although lab-produced diamonds are accessible, it doesn’t mean they’re not in great demand.

Since diamond is the hardest known mineral, many industries use them. Only a small percentage of diamonds in the world end up in the jewelry sector. Now that a growing number of big-time jewelry retailers are using synthetic diamonds instead of the mined ones, even the lab-manufactured ones are a scarce resource. If you buy a one-carat diamond created in a lab, consider it valuable because it’s still highly sought after and not that common.

3. They’re Certified Conflict-Free

Generation Z and millennials are buying lab grown diamonds instead of their naturally mined counterparts because the lab-created stones are conflict-free. Many news reports, movies, and articles have exposed the horrors of African diamond mining and trade, and many ethically conscious individuals shun away from blood diamonds.

While not all mined uncut diamonds come from conflict zones in Africa, there’s no way of knowing if the natural diamond you saw in the jewelry store is child-labor-free. However, with lab-created stones, you’ll know that adults make them in a modern facility.

4. They’re Available in Different Colors and Sizes

Huge and beautifully colored diamonds were once just reserved for royalty and the very rich because they’re extremely rare. These days, more manufacturers are creating big and colorful lab-created diamonds, offering a stunning array of options for those seeking exquisite lab created diamonds. Owning a 15-carat pink diamond is no longer just a dream, but also a possibility for many.

 

5. They’re One of a Kind

If there’s one thing that discourages people from buying lab-manufactured diamonds, it’s the impression that they come from an assembly line. Although these gems are grown in laboratories, it doesn’t mean they come out the same. There are still factors that make each lab-made stone unique. You can still find some minor inclusions and even fluorescence in some diamonds produced in a laboratory setting.

 

6. They Can Be Appraised

One of the arguments by lab grown diamond naysayers is that these things aren’t valuable because no grading labs are willing to evaluate them. This argument is no longer valid, as many appraisers and grading companies have seen the value of these gemstones rise even if they’re not extracted from mines.

Many appraisers and grading companies are open to evaluating and assessing the value of these laboratory grown diamonds based on current market prices. These companies will indicate that a stone is laboratory-created in their appraisal, but they’ll grade your gemstone based on the four Cs of diamond: carat, clarity, color, and cut.

 

7. They’re Affordable

The number one reason why you should consider buying a laboratory-manufactured diamond is the price. Yes, it’s so much more affordable than naturally occurring gemstones. You can even expect to save around 40% on the cost of your engagement ring if you choose manufactured diamonds.

The Bottom Line

Buying a piece of diamond jewelry is often driven by emotion and desire. If you see a diamond brooch, ring, or any jewelry that you want, don’t feel bad if the stones didn’t come from diamond mines. If you open your mind and see the many reasons why you should consider buying lab-grown diamonds in 2021, you’ll just be amazed.

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How to Connect with Your New Sorority Sisters

 

Congratulations, MC 21! You made a great choice to join a sorority and wherever you landed, your sisters will become a huge part of your college experience and friends for life! But arriving on campus (maybe for the first time,) starting a new semester of classes (maybe for the first time,) and being surrounded by a crowd of new potential forever friends can feel like a LOT. Don’t worry if it feels a bit overwhelming right now and you don’t feel as happy inside as TikTok tells you to be, we’ve all been there. Your new sisters can be a terrific support system. 

 

Get to Know Your Class

No one knows how you’re feeling like the rest of your New Member class (aka “pledge class” or whatever it’s called at your campus!) Chances are, all of you are new to campus, all of you need to learn your way around (literally and figuratively!) and some of you have never shared a room before. The upside of these challenges is that research shows that sharing new experiences contributes to building lasting relationships. So buddy up with a new sister or two to find the fastest route to the dining hall (or your local Target,) learn how to do laundry, and figure out which sisters share your majors so you have study buddies.

 

Get to Know Your Fam

Your big is the best. She probably spoke for you during new member selection and is invested in your sorority experience. She will show you the ropes, answer any embarrassing newbie questions, and likely shower you with treats and prezzies. Your grandbig, too! Different chapters have different big/little traditions, and it’s really nice to give a gift to your big to thank her for ushering you through the new member education period. Even sweeter is to get something you can both wear to remind you of your connection. As the founder of mazi + zo, I’m partial to our minimalist licensed sorority jewelry ;), and there are lots of ways to say “thank you” on any budget.

 

Get to Know Your Chapter Advisors

Don’t underestimate the value of your Alumni Advisory Council. While this group is primarily focused on advising the chapter’s exec board, they’re also a resource you can tap. I’m on the AAC for a sorority chapter at Columbia University and I can tell you that my fellow council members and I appreciate when new members reach out for our more-experienced perspective (and find it flattering!) I’ve talked to new members and sisters about things like how to evaluate potential internships, running for chapter office, and navigating tricky interpersonal dynamics. One note here: your AAC members are busy accomplished women, so be respectful of their time and make sure to thank them!

About the Author

Lizzy Klein lives in NYC and is the founder of mazi + zo, a company that makes jewelry that ups your personal style with original high quality easy-to-wear, easy-to-layer designs. Find your favorite style for gifts and for you at Shop mazi + zo!

 

Engagement and Wedding Customs in 2021

Engagement and wedding customs have undergone a substantial shift in recent decades. Where previously, tradition ruled, many couples choose to follow more modern customs and standards.

Whether you’re planning your wedding in 2021 or wondering what to expect at the next wedding you attend, keeping up with current customs is essential. This guide will break down some of the breaks from tradition that modern weddings have taken.

The Rings

Traditionally, engagement rings are chosen by the groom and presented to the bride during the proposal. However, many couples are now opting out of this standard.

For one, many brides want to choose their own rings. This makes sense, as these are pieces of jewelry they’ll be wearing for many years to come. Post-proposal, the couple will often choose their wedding rings together. In the past, the bride-to-be would usually opt for a wedding band that matched her engagement ring perfectly, but today’s unique trends have pushed more mix and match rings into the limelight.

Additionally, some couples are going the more non-traditional engagement ring route of solely using wedding or eternity bands, excluding engagement rings entirely. Diamond eternity band options can be found on ItsHot’s website. They provide a wide selection of eternity rings at reasonable prices.

As for payment, the tradition states that grooms should purchase the engagement ring for their bride. However, many couples are choosing a more equitable route, with both partners splitting the cost of all three rings.

The Ceremony

Over the past few decades, there have been fewer and fewer wedding ceremonies held in churches in the U.S. Some research suggests that this trend is due to the simple fact that Millennials, the youngest of which will be 25 this year, are less religious than the previous generation.

Alongside venue changes, the traditional wedding script is being updated to reflect a more neutral tone. Whereas the traditional script makes several religious remarks and includes language that many deem demeaning to women, the newer script omits these passages or has edited them. Some couples may edit the script together to create one that best reflects their values as a couple.

Additionally, many same-sex couples modify the traditional wedding ceremony to be more inclusive and less-gender oriented. For example, both brides and grooms may have their chance to walk down the aisle.

Still more changes, some couples have opted to skip the “giving away” of the bride. While many still view the traditional as sweet, others deem it sexist and omit it from the ceremony.

 

The Reception

According to wedding tradition, the bride’s family is generally responsible for covering the bulk of wedding costs, including the reception.

That said, the trend toward smaller, more intimate weddings translates to smaller receptions. In some cases, those families with substantial land may host the reception in their backyard as a more budget-friendly affair.

Otherwise, there has been an increase in receptions being held in more cost-efficient locations, such as rented out restaurants, bars, and more.

Interestingly, the pandemic forced a lot of couples to get creative with outdoor locations. Parks, gardens, rooftops, beaches, and more are expected to be popular reception locations in the year ahead.

Though wedding customs have certainly changed in recent years, it’s important that you don’t get too caught up in the trends. Rather, the focus should be on planning a wedding that suits your partner and yourself. Find a way to celebrate your love and union in a way that means something to the both of you!

Beginners Guide to Gemstones Meanings and Powers

 

For centuries, gemstones have been idolized in society because of their unparalleled beauty, how rare they are their fascinating connection to spirituality and powers. Something that all gemstones have in common are endurance and stability, which has contributed greatly to how highly they are valued.

 

Here we will look into the meanings and powers of some of the most expensive, rare and precious gemstones in the world. All of these gemstones are precious.  And the uniqueness of these beautiful stones make them highly desired all across the world.

 

Diamonds

Traditionally, diamonds represent faithfulness, love and innocence, with these qualities making them the most popular choice for engagement rings all over the world. This primary symbolization of love also comes with powers surrounding strength and invincibility.

 

The eternal love that is associated with diamonds is a result of what the stone represents, as well as its extremely durable nature. Diamonds are the hardest mineral on earth, receiving a maximum score of 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness. As well as their clarity and beauty, this durability makes them ideal for everyday wear on engagement rings.

 

The cost of diamonds can vary massively as a result of the colour, cut and clarity. For example, a 1 carat diamond could cost between $2,000 and $12,000 depending on these factors.

 

Emeralds

Across the centuries, emeralds have been recognized for their striking green color, as well as the fact that they symbolize truth and love. It is said that emeralds are the gemstone of the Greek goddess Venus, which makes emerald rings a very popular choice as a gift for lovers. Additionally, emeralds encourage peace, balance and growth.

 

Emerald’s are extremely rare and often command a higher price than diamonds. Emeralds only score a 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, which often makes them more expensive to have set due to the increased risk of breakage, splitting or chipping.

 

Sapphires

Sapphires are deep blue color and have positive associations with wisdom, protection and good fortune. This gemstone has also consistently been associated with royalty, with Kings and Queens across the centuries treasuring these stones. More recently, Princess Diana was known for her love of sapphires. Her iconic and beautiful sapphire engagement ring which is now proudly owned by Kate Middleton.

Similarly to emeralds, the rarity of sapphires contributes massively to their value. You might be looking at over $11,000 for a one carat sapphire, depending on the quality. The Blue Belle of Asia is the most expensive sapphire in the world. Costing a staggering $17.5 million for the 392 carat beauty.

 

Ruby

The stunning deep red color of the ruby makes it one of the most desired gemstones in the world. Over time, the ruby has become known to represent passion and nobility, as well as loyalty. The captivating color, gorgeous shine and score of 9 on the Mohs scale all combine to make this gemstone highly treasured in all countries across the world.

 

One of the most valuable rubies in the world is the Jubilee Ruby. Which was recently sold at auction in the US for $14.2 million.

 

Final Thoughts

Gemstones have been appreciated for centuries and their value is only likely to increase in years to come. The consistency in the exclusivity and expense of gemstones make them a very popular route of investment for many people.

 

For those of you considering treating yourself or a loved one to a gorgeous gemstone, make sure you visit a certified jeweller to ensure that you are paying a fair price and getting an authentic gemstone.

 

About The Author

Daisy Moss is a freelance writer specializing in vintage jewelry. When she isn’t writing you will probably find her looking for her next investment in Hatton Garden.

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