The Hidden Truth About a Diamonds' Sparkle

Diamonds - you know them when you see them. There's just something about the way they sparkle that catches your eye. Of all the minerals in the world, diamonds have a special place in our hearts. And for good reason! They're incredibly unique.

Let's dive into what makes diamonds so special.

Hardness

One of the biggest things that sets diamonds apart is their hardness. I mean, these stones are incredibly hard. Harder than literally anything else found in nature!

On something called the Mohs scale, diamonds score a perfect 10 out of 10 rating for hardness. That's as high as it goes, folks. To give you an idea, sapphires and rubies - which are very hard in their own right - score a 9.

Diamonds are about 4 times as hard as those stones! The only thing that can actually scratch a diamond is another diamond. Anything else just bounces right off.

Why so hard? It comes down to the way a diamond's carbon atoms are bonded together. They link up in a very tight, rigid crystal-like structure that makes diamonds super resistant to any kind of scratching or cutting.

Their hardness also makes them incredibly durable. You can knock a diamond around and it'll keep on sparkling, untarnished. Now that's impressive!

Heat Conduction

Diamonds aren't just the hardest stones, they're also the best conductors of heat found in nature. We're talking three times better at conducting heat than copper. Yeah, you read that right - three times better than copper!

This means diamonds transfer heat very rapidly from their surface into the stone and vice versa. One minute they can be cool to the touch, the next hot.

Plus, diamonds have the highest melting point of any natural material - we're talking a whopping 7362°F. That's an insane temperature. Just imagine, you'd have to put a diamond in an industrial furnace to get it that hot.

The bottom line is diamonds can take the heat. Their tough atomic structure resists melting even at temperatures that would turn most materials into a puddle.

Optical Properties

Now let's talk about why we love diamonds so much - their gorgeous, sparkly look! Diamonds have a high refractive index, meaning they really bend and disperse light as it passes through them.

This causes a dazzling display of flashes and sparkles - what jewelers call "fire." And diamonds have more fire than any other natural stone. Their refractive ability is truly unparalleled.

Diamonds also have very low dispersion. This makes the white light passing through spread evenly across the color spectrum. So you see all the fiery colors of the rainbow flashing out, while the overall diamond still looks crystal clear and colorless. Such a cool effect!

When diamonds are expertly cut, you get an almost magical quality of light transmission. Raw, uncut diamonds look a bit hazy and dull on the inside. But skilled diamond cutters can unlock all that inner radiance and make it glow.

Rarity

One last thing that makes diamonds special - they're incredibly rare! The conditions needed to form diamonds - we're talking tremendous heat, pressure, and lots of time - only exist in a few places on Earth.

Their rarity, plus decades of marketing by companies like DeBeers, have cemented diamonds as the ultimate symbol of love and commitment. But even without the marketing hype, diamonds would still captivate us with their one-of-a-kind brilliance and fire. They're just that dazzling!

The Ultimate Guide to Diamond Cuts

Diamonds are amazing, but their cut is what makes them interesting. A diamond's cut determines how light dances and skips across its surface, mesmerizing us with flashes of fire.

Want to explore some cutting-edge diamond cuts? Keep reading!

Round Brilliant Cut

Alright, let's start with the classics. Round brilliant cuts have existed since the 1700s and remain today's most sought-after diamond shape. Why? Because they know how to showcase a diamond's sparkling potential!

The round brilliant is all about proportions. Its 58 facets (or faces) are placed at just the right angles to maximize light return through the top of the stone. People covet diamonds because of their prized fire and brilliance. A classic round brilliant will dazzle from any angle.

About 75% of diamond sales are round brilliant cuts, so you know this is a tried-and-true shape. It's what your mind conjures when you imagine a glimmering diamond engagement ring or necklace—simply timeless.

One downside of round brilliants is that they require more raw material to cut than other shapes. So, you'll pay about 25-30% more than a princess cut. But many feel it's worth the splurge for that unmatched sparkle.

The bottom line is that you can always go right with the brilliance of a round diamond. It's the standard bearer for a reason!

Princess Cut

If you love the sparkle of a round cut but want something a little more edgy, say hello to the princess cut. Second only to the round brilliant in popularity, princess cuts are square or rectangular gems with sharp corners and clean lines.

Unlike a round, the princess cut's extra facets provide flashes of light down the edges. So, you get tons of fire and brilliance in a contemporary square shape - a pretty neat trick!

Princess cuts retain about 80% of a rough diamond's carat weight compared to only 50% for a round. So, you'll save roughly 20% with a princess cut of the same carat size. Have you added savings AND visual appeal? Yes, please!

With its sharp edges that shimmer as you move, the Princess Cut pops in solitaire engagement rings and modern jewelry designs. If you love a square silhouette, embrace your inner princess!

Cushion Cut

Sometimes called pillow cuts, cushion cuts have rounded corners that give them a pillow-like shape. Their softer outline exudes vintage charm and romance.

Cushion cuts balance a round brilliant sparkle and an emerald cut's understated glamour. The significant, gently shaped facets amplify light return, while the curved edges have an antique vibe. You get the best of both worlds!

In recent years, cushion cuts have surpassed even princess cuts in popularity. Their versatility works with both modern and traditional settings. If you want something with timeless appeal, cushions are your best friend!

Along with their visual appeal, cushion cuts retain about 70% of a rough diamond's weight, so they are mid-range in terms of price—much more affordable than a round brilliant of the same size!

Emerald Cut

The emerald cut has long parallel facets that create light reflections, described as a "hall of mirrors" effect. Chic and understated, it channels serious Art Deco vibes.

Here's the thing about emerald cuts - only about 3% of diamonds are cut this way. That's because the emerald shape retains the least amount of rough diamond. We're talking only 50%!

The emerald cut beautifully showcases a diamond's clarity on the plus side since flaws are more visible. 

Asscher Cut

The Asscher cut, which appeared in 1902, was the precursor to the emerald cut. It boasts the same straight facets and hall of mirror effect but is square rather than rectangular.

The Asscher cut fell out of fashion for decades. It is largely forgotten. But recently, it's made a significant comeback with some updates to increase its brilliance. The modern Asscher cut has more facets on the bottom to reflect extra light up through the top. Gorgeous! 

Like emerald cuts, Asscher cuts retain only about 50% of the rough diamond, so they come at a bit of a premium. However, their rarity and vintage-chic style have helped Asscher cuts gain popularity again in modern times. 

You'll often see Asscher cuts shining brightly in solitaire engagement rings. Their antique vibe pairs beautifully with contemporary band designs—so elegant!

Oval Cut

Oval-cut diamonds have an elliptical shape that visually elongates the stone. They provide a nice balance between the brilliance of a round and the uniqueness of a marquise or pear shape. 

The oval cut's softly rounded sides give it a classically elegant appeal that fits both traditional and modern styles. Because ovals retain about 70% of the rough diamond's carat weight, they come at a lower price point than brilliant cuts—a win-win!

Oval diamonds also photograph exceptionally well from the top view, making them popular for Instagram-worthy rings meant to be shown off online. An oval can appear larger face-up than other shapes of equal carat weight. Talk about getting the most bang for your buck!

Marquise-Cut

The marquise cut is an elliptical shape with gently pointed ends, like a delicate boat hull. Its elongated outline can make fingers look longer and slimmer.

Sometimes, marquise diamonds are called "navettes," French for "little ships." Their dramatic silhouette naturally draws the eye to the stone, mesmerizing it. 

Because of their elongated shape, marquise diamonds appear to showcase carat weight beautifully. But they retain only about 45% of the rough diamond. So they're generally more affordable than other cuts.

In settings, marquise diamonds are often embellished with side stones to highlight their shape. They work best in pendants, earrings, and rings meant to elongate the finger. Play up their unique look by pairing marquise cuts with round or pear-shaped sidekicks!

Pear Cut

The pear shape of the pear cut, which fuses round and marquise cuts, has a brilliant lower half with a delicate, tapering point at the top. It's estimated that pear cuts retain about 70% of a rough diamond's original carat weight.

The pear cut has an inherently feminine, elegant look. When worn pointing up, it can elongate fingers in a flattering style. Flipped with the point facing down, pears take on a more traditional vibe. 

Pear cuts shine when accented by round or marquise side stones that complement its shape. They also make eye-catching solitaire pendants thanks to their graceful teardrop silhouette.

Heart Cut

Heart-shaped diamonds are expressly cut to resemble the universal symbol of love. What better way to celebrate romance than with a heart-cut stone?

Heart cuts retain only about 50% of the original rough diamond's carat weight, but their sentimental symbolism makes them more than worthwhile. They are modified brilliant cuts, maximizing light return through precise symmetrical faceting. 

Whether given as a romantic gift or worn as an enduring token of love, heart-cut diamonds are perfect for expressing emotion. Highly sought after for engagement rings, pendants, and earrings, these stones are meant to be treasured forever.

Radiant Cut

The radiant cut combines the scintillating sparkle of a round brilliant with the sleek lines of an emerald cut. It has trimmed corners and a brilliant-style facet pattern to pump up light reflection.

Radiant cuts retain about 70% of the rough diamond's original carat weight. They deliver exceptional fire and brilliance at an attractive price compared to other cuts. 

When choosing a radiant cut, look for length-to-width ratios between 1.0 and 1.5 for the most appealing outline. Radiant diamonds with a square shape look sophisticated in solitaire engagement ring settings.

The Cool Facts and Figures of the Precious Gemstone Sapphire

The luminous blue sapphire emerges as September's birthstone when summer fades into fall. This precious gem has captivated humanity for centuries with its sparkling mystique. But what exactly makes sapphires so unique? 

What's in a Name?

The word "sapphire" traces back to the Latin term for blue - "sapphirus." Fittingly, blue is the most coveted sapphire hue. But sapphires span the rainbow, naturally occurring in vibrant yellow, purple, orange, and green.

Red sapphires are dubbed "rubies." Pinkish sapphires fall into a gray area. Gemologists may classify them as either ruby or sapphire.

Hardest of the Hard

On the Mohs hardness scale, diamonds rate a 10, and sapphires score a 9. That makes sapphires the 3rd hardest mineral in the world, just behind diamonds and moissanite.

This incredible durability gives sapphire jewelry unparalleled resilience. Sapphire rings can withstand everyday wear for decades.

Crystal Chemistry

Sapphires contain aluminum oxide and traces of titanium, iron, chromium, magnesium, or vanadium. This unique chemical composition is responsible for sapphire's brilliant colors and super strength.

Interestingly, sapphires form the same mineral as rubies - corundum. Ruby is just corundum's red variety.

Mined and Created

Most jewelry-grade sapphires are mined from underground deposits, then cut and polished to enhance their beauty. Notable sapphire sources include Australia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania.

But you can also "grow" sapphires! Flame fusion and hydrothermal processes create lab-grown stones identical to natural ones. Synthetics lower costs and increase supply.

The Blue Giant

The Blue Giant of the Orient is the world's largest blue sapphire, at 2,395 carats. Discovered in Sri Lanka in 1907, it weighs an incredible 478 grams!

The rare 15-carat Black Star of Queensland exhibits an effect called asterism. A six-pointed star appears to float across the surface.

Sapphires of History

For centuries, sapphires symbolized power, protection, and prophecy:

• Ancient Persians believed the sky was a giant blue sapphire.

• Medieval clergy wore sapphires as talismans of heavenly favor.

• European royals favored sapphires in ornate brooches and rings.

• Buddhists thought sapphires brought inner peace and focus.

Princess Di's iconic engagement ring featured a stunning 12-carat Ceylon sapphire.

Cut, Carat, Color, Clarity

Use the 4Cs to evaluate sapphires, just like diamonds:

·         Cut: Well-cut stones reflect more light. Common stone cuts include oval, round, and cushion.

·         Carat: Sapphires range from under 1 carat to over 1,000! Large, flawless stones are the most prized.

·         Color: Blue is the most desirable, but fancy colors like pink and yellow have devotees.

·         Clarity: Inclusions affect clarity. Lower clarity may not diminish beauty.

Jubilee Gem

Sapphires mark significant wedding milestones. A sapphire jubilee occurs after 65 years of marriage.

Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip celebrated their blue sapphire jubilee in 2017 after six decades of marriage.

Sapphire Care

Sapphires rank high on the durability scale. But take basic precautions to keep them sparkling:

• Avoid harsh blows that may chip stones.

• Clean in warm water with a mild soap and a soft brush.

• Store sapphires separately to prevent scratches.

• Avoid exposure to heat and chemicals like chlorine.

The Art of Granulation— The Different Methods Used to Fuse Gold Granules to Gold

Granulation jewelry is just gorgeous. Tiny gold spheres fused onto gold surfaces create incredible mosaic patterns. Archeologists have found Sumerian jewelry featuring primitive granulation as far back as 2800 BC.

But have you ever wondered how jewelers make granulation pieces? Attaching hundreds of delicate beads per inch seems difficult and time-consuming!

Hard Facts on Soft Metals

Now you may be wondering...if gold and electrum (the gold + silver blend) are soft, malleable metals, how did ancient smiths get those little round gold bits to stick on firmly and stay put? The secret to making the round gold balls adhere lies in applying high heat and some good old chemistry.

In short, jewelers carefully cut sheet gold into perfectly shaped granule beads using specialized tools. Then, the magic happens when heat and chemical reactions form potent bonds between the granules and base.

Hard Soldering by Hand

Okay, first, look at the most labor-intensive way to attach granules - hard soldering.

The hard soldering method involves a jeweler physically positioning each granule where they want it using tweezers or a tiny paintbrush. Just a little pressure pushes the bead into the metal below, ensuring it stays put.

Then, using a soldering tip, they heat the exact spot where the granule meets the base to fuse them. Multiply this by potentially thousands of granules, and you're talking about crazy amounts of work!

No wonder few choose to granulate this way.

Puddling Problems

An upgrade over hard soldering is using a paste flux mixture. The jeweler dabs flux on the base metal and sprinkles over gold beads. Heating the piece melts the solder in the paste to attach the granules.

But this leaves ugly, gloppy solder residue blobbed around each bead. Jewelers then must tediously file and polish the solder away to clean up the piece. It's not fun.

Finessing the Fuse

Experts think the gifted Etruscans used a much more elegant method called fusion bonding. What's notable here is the base metal and granules contain the same gold alloy.

The jeweler lightly brushes a diluted flux onto the base to temporarily hold the granules where they want them. Then, the whole piece goes into a furnace without oxygen. When the temperature hits the alloy's melting point, the base and granules magically fuse right where they touch.

And because the lack of oxygen prevents oxidization, the flux burns off without a trace. This method leaves an immaculate connection with no messy solder or puddles!

Colloidal "Glue"

Other historians think the Etruscans perfected colloidal soldering instead. This method calls for painting a mixture of plant gum and copper salts onto the base gold as glue. The gum temporarily affixes the granules in place.

Firing up the furnace burns away the organic gum and releases the copper into the junctures between granules and base. When the temperature hits 890°C, the copper enables incredibly durable bonds to form.

The advantage here is it takes less heat, so the delicate beads don't risk melting before the bond sets. Either way, Etruscan jewelers had mad skills!

Origin and Properties of Precious Opals

Opals have amazed us for ages with their magical play of color. 

But what are these rainbow gems made of, and where do they come from? Let's see the science behind precious opals.

 What Are Opals?

Chemically speaking, opals are a hydrated, amorphous form of silica - aka silicon dioxide or SiO2. Amorphous means opals lack a defined crystalline structure. Irregularly arranged silica molecules in opals make up this stunning crystal.  

This random molecular layout gives opals their soft, waxy texture. It also makes them a mineraloid rather than a traditional mineral. Minerals have orderly crystalline patterns, while mineraloids like opals have no distinct crystal shape. 

Opals contain variable amounts of water, from 3% to 21% by weight. The water slides into gaps and openings in the loose silica structure. And as we'll see, this trapped water is vital to opal's magical properties. 

Where Do Opals Come From?

Unlike minerals that crystallize within rigid conditions, opals form freely. They originate relatively close to the earth's surface in rock fractures and cavities.

 As silica-rich groundwater flows through these cracks and voids, bits of silica gradually accumulate. The silica precipitates out of solution and deposits along the rock walls in scattered, haphazard orientations. 

Over hundreds and thousands of years, steady silica buildup leads to opal formation. Commonly, cavities within sedimentary rocks like sandstone or basalt line with opal deposits. They grow in the path of slowly seeping, mineral-rich waters.

 Precious vs. Common Opal

There are two varieties of opal: precious and common. The critical difference lies in the play of color.

 Precious opal demonstrates a play of color - flashes of spectral color - when turned in light. This rainbow sparkle arises from the internal structure.

 Common opal lacks a play of color and appears milky or turbid. While lovely, common opal doesn't command the value of precious play-of-color opal.

 Why Does Precious Opal Sparkle?

What gives Precious Opal its spellbinding play of color? It comes down to the uniform silica spheres within the loose opal structure.

 These tiny silica particles stack in an orderly grid-like pattern, like a crystal lattice. But unlike a continuous crystal, the spheres have gaps between their stacked layers.

 The water-filled spaces act as transmission channels when light hits this layered silica grid. Some wavelengths move through unimpeded, while other colors diffract and separate into the spectrum.

 As light fluctuates through this silica network, it disperses into shimmering flashes of changing color. Different silica layers and paths split the light when turning an opal to generate a dynamic rainbow display.

 The precise size and uniformity of the stacked silica spheres determine the quality of play of color. Expert cutters orient opals to maximize the diffracted spectrum display.

 The Rarest and Most Common Opals

Opals come in all colors of the rainbow, but some varieties are way more prized than others:

• Black opals - These crazy rare beauties show off shimmering colors against a dark body. They come from Lightning Ridge in New South Wales, Australia.

• White or Light opals - In this type of opal, the Play-of-color flashes against a white background. These glimmers originate from Coober Pedy in South Australia.

• Boulder opals - Formed inside ironstone boulders, these opals have vivid color but thin layers. This opal is found in Queensland, Australia.

• Crystal or Water opals - This opal is Translucent with a bluish body from Mexico and the US. 

More common opals include milky darker European stones and white clay opals from Peru. They're abundant but lack the most desired play-of-color.

 What Makes Them Shiny?

The incredible luminous quality comes from light bouncing off the internal silica layers. The beams reflect and scatter, creating a gentle, milky iridescence.

 This opalescence adds to the delicate, mystical vibe of the gem.

 When worn as jewelry, it casts a flattering, warm glow on the skin. The color flashes combine to make it no wonder that opals have been treasured for ages. Their visual magic is unmatched in the gem world. 

The Opal's Symbolic Meaning

With their rainbow shine, opals have carried symbolic meaning in cultures across the world:

• Hope - Their rare beauty makes them a symbol of hope.

• Purity - The prismatic flashes evoke innocence and purity.

• Love - Exchanging opal jewelry can signal a deep emotional connection.

• Creativity - The random colors inspire artists and dreamers.

 According to Arabic folk tales, opals formed from lightning strikes sparking colorful streaks into desert sands. It must be scientifically accurate but beautifully captures opals' fiery, fleeting allure. 

Like lightning, opals shine momentarily, then disappear into the imagination. 

Their ephemeral rainbows continue to captivate centuries on. No gem has quite the same magical charm.

Origin and Properties of Diamonds

Diamonds have captivated humanity for centuries. But what exactly are diamonds, and what gives them their allure?  

Let's dig into the science, origins, and unique traits that make diamonds so prized! 

What are Diamonds?

Diamonds might look exotic, but guess what? They're just a form of carbon, like graphite or soot. The critical difference lies in the arrangement of the carbon atoms of a diamond. 

In diamonds, carbon atoms link together in a rigid crystal pattern called a cubic structure. Each carbon is tightly bonded to four other carbons, forming strong molecular tetrahedrons. This uniform alignment is incredibly sturdy, making diamonds the hardest natural material on the planet. 

 Meanwhile, graphite carbon crystals have looser bonds, allowing layers to slide apart. That makes graphite soft and flaky. Diamonds don't have that! Their locked crystal construction gives them unmatched strength. 

Diamonds do not form on Earth's surface. Here, graphite is a stable carbon structure on the Earth's surface. But deep underground - we're talking over 90 miles down - extreme heat and pressure are enough to rearrange carbon into diamonds forcibly. Isn't nature something?

 Where Do Diamonds Hail From?

Most diamonds originate way down inside the Earth's mantle, about 90-155 miles underground. As you can imagine, conditions are intense down there - we're talking pressures over 50,000 times that of sea level! 

In those hellish environs, hot carbon-rich fluids seep into existing minerals and replace them with concentrated carbon crystals, aka diamonds. The process takes billions of years, with most diamonds being 1-3 billion years old. Those are some vintage bling! 

Eventually, violent volcanic eruptions blast the diamond-embedded rock upwards in kimberlite pipe formations. These ancient pipe deposits are where ambitious diamond miners dig to harvest their bounty today. Talk about glamorous origins! 

Why Are Diamonds So Shiny?

Beyond the romance behind them, diamonds possess innate qualities that make them sparkle and captivate:

•  Hardness - Diamonds rate a perfect 10 on the Mohs hardness scale. Their tightly locked structure makes them incredibly scratch and heat resistant. Diamonds can cut other gems, and only diamonds can cut the

• Dispersion - Diamonds have strong dispersion properties, meaning they refract light powerfully into the colors of the rainbow. This dispersed sparkle effect gives diamonds their flashes of brilliance.

• Clarity - With few impurities in their crystalline makeup, diamonds have unparalleled optical clarity and transparency. Light travels freely through with minimal distortion.

• Luster - Light bounces off a diamond's highly reflective facets, creating exceptional brilliance and fire. Diamonds achieve a glossy, luminous luster unmatched by other materials. 

Diamonds continue to mesmerize thanks to their visual magnificence, physical durability, and mystique-laden origins.  

They decorate us in luxury and celebrate our most precious moments. Diamonds' crystalline strength protects their value and sentimental meaning over lifetimes. 

 As strong as the bonds between their carbon atoms, diamonds remain forever icons of beauty and endurance of love.

High Karat Gold Facts You've Always Wanted to Know

Gold - it's shiny, it's fancy, it's downright iconic.

But not all gold is made the same. As any jewelry lover knows, 10-karat gold is different from 18-karat gold. And 24 karats?

If you don't get how gold quality works with all these karats and numbers, don't worry. We'll break down the history, science, and magic behind high-karat gold.

The History of Pure Gold

Humans have been interested in gold for thousands of years. The earliest known gold jewelry dates to around 4000 BCE in ancient Mesopotamia, the "cradle of civilization." Gold quickly became prized worldwide for its beautiful warm yellow color, shine, flexibility, and refusal to tarnish or corrode.

Ancient cultures loved working with pure gold because it's soft and malleable but durable enough for jewelry and fancy objects. Kings and pharaohs wanted that good stuff to show off their status. Even average folks treasured gold jewelry as lasting adornments.

Gold's allure seemingly lasts forever, so we still geek out over it today.

The Basic Guide to Gold

To understand why high-karat gold is so incredibly unique and special, you've got to know how the karat system works. It's straightforward once you get the basics.

What's a Karat anyway?

First, confuse carats and karats. Carat (with a C) refers to the weight of gemstones like diamonds. Karat (with a K) measures gold purity. Easy enough to remember: carats are for gems, and karats are for gold.

Breaking Down the Karat Scale

In the world of gold, each karat represents 1/24 of total purity. So, 24-karat gold is 100% pure—the real deal. 18 karat gold is 18 parts gold and 6 parts alloy metals like silver or copper. Lower karat gold has more alloy mixed in. This aspect helps make the gold more durable for jewelry.

Why Different Karats Exist

Pure 24-karat gold is softer and more malleable than mixed gold. It is perfect for creating delicate designs. But it also makes it less sturdy for settings and structural pieces. Gold that is Lower karat is harder and is far more durable, but in the process, it loses some of that beautiful pure gold color.

Jewelers choose different karats depending on their techniques and the desired color tone and durability.   

 24k gold's softness requires unique methods. Customer preferences for gold's shine and hue also impact the karat level.

The Difference of Each Karat

The purity and other metals mixed into gold impact its color, shine, durability, and value.

That's where the karat system comes in. Let's break down what all those karats mean so you can understand why high-karat gold like 24k is so coveted.

24 Karat Gold 

24-karat gold is as good as it gets when talking about precious metals. This gold is 100% pure gold, no filler. It's 24 parts gold and 0 parts other metals. That's what gives 24k gold its iconic rich, bright yellow tone. No alloy metals mean maximum color saturation and luster.

Purity also makes 24k the most expensive and desired type of gold for fine jewelry. Its undisputed status at the top of the karat hierarchy has linked it to luxury for centuries—24k gold telegraphs exclusivity.

Pure 24k gold is relatively soft due to its lack of alloy blending. But that makes it wonderfully malleable for delicate jewelry work. In the hands of a skilled artisan, 24k transforms beautifully. And it has outstanding durability over time since it doesn't tarnish or oxidize—24k gold = jewelry heirloom quality.

22 Karat Gold 

The next step down is 22-karat gold. This gold comprises 22 parts mixed with only two parts of copper or silver to add durability. That tiny bit of other metals hardly affects the rich color of the gold. So 22k retains almost the same beautiful hue as 24k with a shade less warmth. It's a minuscule difference to the eye.

22k gold commands higher prices, approaching pure 24k thanks to its outstanding gold content and color vibrancy. For discerning buyers wanting to avoid spring for 24k, 22k gold provides a comparable visual pop and refined look. It's a common choice for upscale jewelry.

18 Karat Gold 

Now we're at 18 karats. The gold content has dropped to 18 parts, blended with six parts alloy metals. At 75% gold, 18k is the midpoint on the fineness scale. The higher alloy amount cuts into the pure golden tone more noticeably. 18k gold won't have the intense yellow color of 24k and 22k.

What is the benefit of more mixed metals? The benefits of 18k gold include hardness and durability, which makes 18k gold ideal for rings and other jewelry that take regular wear. It provides high gold content at a more economical cost compared to 22-24k, too. 18k hits the sweet spot between hardness, beauty, and price.

14 Karat Gold 

Next down is the popular 14-karat gold. At 14 parts gold to 10 parts copper/silver/etc, 14k gold is roughly 58% gold. 14k gold infuses the gold alloy with increased sturdiness, perfect for long-lasting jewelry.

But the nearly 40% alloy blend also means 14k gold shows a pronounced shift into more subdued, cooler gold tones. While 14k retains a lovely golden glow, it won't have the lux vibrancy of 18k+ gold. However, some prefer this gentler gold look.

For those desiring authentic gold jewelry without the higher price tags, 14k is an accessible option. It delivers decent durability, quality, and gold content without breaking the bank. That blend makes 14k the everyday gold standard.

Lower Karats 

Venturing below 14k, you'll find 12k, 10k and 9k gold.

The ratio now skews more heavily toward alloys. These mixtures contain at least 50% base metals or more. That saves costs but significantly dampens the actual gold color. Lower karat gold takes on more of a faint yellowish appearance versus rich golden hues.

Though these blends (often 50% silver) offer affordability, they lack the radiance of fine gold. Lower karat gold looks more like costume jewelry. But for something fun and inexpensive, it fits the bill.

A higher karat means more pure gold goodness. Medium karats gold, like 14k and 18k balance beauty and durability, too.

24K Gold Myths - Busted!

24-karat gold has a bad reputation in the West nowadays. But let's blow up some of the main misconceptions so you can appreciate the beauty and value of this high-karat gold.

Myth: 24k Gold is Too Soft

One of the biggest 24k gold myths is that it's too soft or malleable for jewelry. Many people believe its purity makes it weak or easily damaged. While 24k is more flexible than lower-karat gold, calling it fragile is false!

With proper jewelry techniques, jewelers worldwide use 24k gold to make enduring adornments.

Designs might use thicker gold in structural areas or specialized craftsmanship in detailed sections. And 24k's flexibility allows stunning artistry impossible with rigid alloys, from filigree to granulation.

In capable hands, 24k gold makes jewelry as lasting as lower karats. Its softness requires awareness and skill - not limitations. When jewelers understand 24k qualities, they tap into its artistic potential for breathtaking results.

Myth: 24k Gold is Too Yellow

Another misguided notion is that 24k gold is somehow "too yellow" in color. But how can pure, saturated gold ever be too much? The desirability of 24k gold throughout history directly links to its color intensity!

The muted gold tones of lower karats come from dulling alloys mixed in. 24k's striking yellow derives from its gold purity. That crisp, rich yellow is part of what makes high-karat gold so coveted and luxurious. There is unmatched radiance in its unadulterated golden tones.

Sure, the color appeal is subjective. Its purity yields beauty beyond gold imitations.

Myth: 24k Gold is Too Expensive 

It's true that 24k gold costs more than lower karats.

When you buy pure gold at market prices, it comes at a premium. But it is inappropriate when compared to gold diluted with cheaper alloy metals!

You pay for true quality with 24k. Every ounce is precious gold, not bulked up with copper or silver fillers.

And high karat gold jewelry features masterful artistry beyond chain store goods. This elevated craftsmanship and exclusivity comes at a cost.

When you understand what the price tags represent, 24k is not unreasonable.

Savvy buyers value pure materials and elite finishing in their luxury purchases. Outlandish markups exist only for designer brands. For the quality, 24k gold delivers meaningful value. The extra expense goes directly into product integrity and uniqueness.

Are you interested in Exploring 24k Gold Jewelry?

Come check out our selection of high-karat gold jewelry! Find unique pieces to start your collection. We feature stunning designs by Luna Felix Goldsmith, highlighting the artistic possibilities of working with unalloyed 24k gold.

Get it before someone else does!

Granulation Technique Glossary

Granulation is a decorative technique used by metalsmiths to create intricate patterns and textures on jewelry and other metal objects. Here is a glossary of essential terms related to granulation:

Granulation: A technique used in metalwork to create intricate patterns and textures by fusing small spheres (granules) of metal onto a surface without the use of solder, typically employed in goldsmithing to achieve detailed decorative effects.

Granule: A tiny sphere of metal, usually gold, used in the granulation process to form decorative patterns on jewelry or metal objects.

Fusing: The process of joining metal pieces together by melting them slightly at their contact points without the use of solder. In granulation, it involves heating the metal object with granules placed on its surface until the granules adhere to the surface.

Fine Gold: Pure gold (24 karat) used in granulation because of its high malleability and lower melting point compared to alloys. Fine gold is preferred for the creation of granules due to its ability to fuse more easily.

Base Plate: The metal surface onto which granules are fused to create a design. The base plate serves as the canvas for granulation work.

Flux: A chemical cleaning agent, flowing agent, or purifying agent applied to the joining surfaces in the granulation process. Flux helps to prevent oxidation and facilitates the fusing of granules to the base plate.

Agate Burnisher: A polished stone tool used to smooth and polish the surface of a metal object. In granulation, it can be used after fusing to enhance the shine and finish of the granulated design.

Controlled Atmosphere: The specific environment required during the heating process to successfully fuse granules without oxidizing the metal. This often involves using a protective gas or a reduction atmosphere in the kiln.

Direct Fusing: A method of granulation where granules are directly fused to the base plate without the use of an intermediate layer or adhesive.

Interstitial Alloying: A technique used in granulation to lower the melting point of the surface layer of granules or the base plate, allowing for easier fusing. This is achieved by introducing a small amount of a lower-melting-point metal to the interface.

Repujado: A complementary technique often used alongside granulation in traditional metalwork, involving the embossing or engraving of metal to create raised designs that can be enhanced with granulation. 

This glossary provides a foundation for understanding the complex and delicate process of granulation, offering insights into the techniques and materials involved in creating exquisite metalwork designs. For those interested in the art of goldsmithing, these terms elucidate the meticulous craftsmanship behind granulation, showcasing the blend of ancient tradition and precision required to master this art form.

Crafting Elegance - The Time-Honored Tradition of Granulation in Jewelry

Granulation jewelry is both incredibly artistic and stunningly beautiful.  

Those tiny little gold balls fused into precise designs blow your mind whenever you see them. The fact that artisans made such detailed jewelry thousands of years ago using the granulation technique is wild.  

Granulation has been around since about 2000 BCE. The ancient art of granulation is part of diverse cultures, including the Etruscans, Egyptians, Greeks, Indonesians, and many more.  

Even today, this ancient technique still captivates modern jewelers who want to connect to the past and showcase vast amounts of skill and artistry. 

So what exactly is granulation, and how do jewelers make these little gold ball masterpieces? Let's break it down. 

The Technique of Granulation

The process starts with the gold itself. Jewelers melt down small pieces of gold into liquid hotness. Then they let little droplets of the melted gold fall onto a cold surface, which makes the droplets turn into perfect tiny spheres.  

We're talking granules smaller than a pin's head here—usually less than 1mm wide. These become the granules for decoration. Using tools or adhesives, the jeweler meticulously arranges the granules onto the desired pattern on the jewelry surface.  

This moment is where jeweler artisans can showcase their creativity!  

The designs can be geometric patterns, figural scenes, patterns from nature—you name it. They use an adhesive made from natural glues and gums to temporarily keep the granules in place, like an ancient sticky tack. 

Here's the tricky part.  

The jeweler must fuse the granules to the metal below without melting the actual granules. This step takes some exact temperature control. In ancient times, they used charcoal fires and blowpipes to heat the metal just enough to melt the surfaces. 

 Nowadays, we have torches and kilns, but it's still super challenging. The jeweler must walk that fine line between melting the granules away and not heating them enough to bond. It's this fusion magic that gives granulated jewelry its unique 3D texture. 

Granulation Historical and Cultural Significance

In many ancient cultures across the Mediterranean and Asia, the creation of granulation jewelry was considered an elite art form reserved for the most revered and sacred objects. The intricate designs and precise craftsmanship required to fuse the tiny gold granules meant that granulated jewelry was associated with luxury, exclusivity, and critical societal meanings. 

Royal courts and high priests adorned themselves with granulated jewelry, believing it symbolized power, status, and divine protection. Kings and queens were buried in tombs with copious amounts of lavishly granulated jewelry to symbolize their sovereignty and wealth. 

Priests and priestesses decorated religious idols and temple offerings with granulation designs, believing this jewelry imbued the gods' protection. Even warriors believed donning granulated jewelry would shield them in battle. 

Skilled and respected beyond compare, only the most talented artisans of their time could master the intricate granulation techniques of the ancient world. Artisans made the creations for noble and holy purposes, not every day wear. 

The time and effort required to carefully place each tiny granule and fuse it perfectly in patterns spanning jewelry surfaces meant only experts could succeed. Apprentices trained for years under master jewelers to gain the steady hands, patience, and artistic vision necessary for granulation. 

So, culturally, granulation occupied a lofty place in ancient civilizations. It demonstrated devotion through sacred offerings, status through noble adornments, and bold craftsmanship capabilities through the sheer complexity of the designs. 

Granulation Modern Applications and Challenges

These days, granulation is still a niche craft used by specialty jewelers. 

The most fabulous pieces blend ancient methods with modern jewelry designs that connect the past and present. Of course, because granulation takes crazy amounts of time and skill, these pieces come with a hefty price tag. 

The hardest part is ensuring the knowledge gets passed on since only some artisans specialize in granulation. Organizations and artisans today are working to train new generations in the technique, so it gets noticed in time. That would be a true tragedy—losing such an intricate craft with so much history behind it. 

But for now, granulation persists as a bridge to our artistic ancestors. It represents the drive to create, push the limits of craftsmanship, and make something that will last lifetimes. Granulation is something with meaning and beauty woven into every microscopic speck of gold. That urge speaks to our humanity across centuries. 

 And for that, granulation will always have a place in hearts, culture, and jewelry boxes.

From Concept to Creation - Understanding the Timeline for Custom Jewelry by Luna Felix Goldsmith

When thinking about ordering a personalized piece of jewelry, one of the first things people question is how long it would take. Here's a broad rundown of how long making customized jewelry may take and a discussion of the many variables that impact the time frame.

 What's the turnaround time for completing custom jewelry by Luna Felix Goldsmith?

Luna Felix Goldsmith is well known for having mastered the complex and age-old trade of granulation, which entails employing small gold grains to create motifs in relief. This deft technique makes exquisite and outstanding jewelry creations.  Since each bespoke jewelry item is unique, it is hard to provide an exact timing! Depending on changes, the design process may take one to four weeks, and producing a bespoke jewelry item can take two to six weeks, depending on the design's complexity and any challenges in finding suitable stones.

Client Consultation

The first step is the consultation, where you meet with Luna. During this meeting we discuss the process and get a feel for the client’s personality and overall desires for the piece. A budget for the project is discussed. The design process then starts.

 We will begin working to bring the design to life after the necessary stones have been located.

 To include some of the client's personality and ideas in the work, we talk with them about the sentiments they may hope to convey via the piece.

Materials Needed

●        The materials used to make the personalized jewelry piece will also impact how long it takes to make. We may need to purchase the necessary gold if it is relatively easy. Some of our clients bring us antique gold jewelry that they want to be recycled. In this instance, we start by examining the metal's purity. If it is still usable, we melt it and use it again for the new personalized item, purchasing additional if necessary. Sapphires, emeralds, and diamonds are essential components for some custom jewelry creations.

 The Design of Jewelry

It is crucial to remember that the details required for the piece—both in the design and the handcrafting process[—will impact the timetable. These aspects will take longer if the design requires detailed work or complex settings.

Ready to Make Your Custom Jewelry Dream Come True?

Schedule a meeting with Luna Felix today by calling 505-989-7679. We look forward to speaking with you and making your custom jewelry dream a reality

Essential Answers to Common Queries About Gold Jewelry

Gold jewelry has been a mainstay in civilizations worldwide for thousands of years, signifying wealth and power. It has continued to be popular as a timeless style in jewelry creation throughout time. However, despite its long history, individuals still have some frequent queries about selecting gold. Read on to find more information as we address some of the most common queries about gold jewelry! 

What is the Color of the mineral Gold?

Brilliant yellow is the natural color of gold. The yellowness of the gold jewelry increases with its purity. The art of granulation requires 22K yellow gold. 

Contact an Expert Goldsmith

Now, you have a clear overall understanding of what gold is all about. You may purchase gold or stunning custom gold jewelry as the mood strikes. If you have any other questions, please get in touch with the experts at Luna Felix Goldsmith. Reach the gallery at 505-989-7679.[1] 

Cleaning Your Gold Jewelry the Right Way

If you want your gold jewelry to keep its shine, you must clean it very carefully. Natural wear and tear may cause these priceless items to lose their brilliance. This helpful guide may teach you everything you need to know to clean your gold jewelry properly. Gather the required supplies and use a soft bristle brush, intending each step to bring back the timeless beauty of your treasured items. By carefully adhering to these measures, you may maintain your gold jewelry gleaming with the same timeless beauty that initially attracted you to it. Do you own jewelry that needs a good cleaning? To keep it durable, follow the instructions below.

Obtain the Necessary Cleaning Materials

To begin cleaning gold jewelry, assemble all necessary supplies. All you'll need is a reliable cleaning team, a lint-free cloth, mild dish soap, warm water, and a soft brush, such as an old toothbrush. A dish for the cleaning solution is the only item missing from the set. If you need to start looking for anything during cleaning, not having these things accessible in one location might lead to distraction.

Examine Your Gold Jewelry

• Carefully examine your gold jewelry before beginning any cleaning.

• When handling any delicate settings or loose stones, use extreme caution.

• When cleaning your item, exercise caution to avoid scratching or damaging any diamonds or delicate components.

• Hiring a professional jewelry cleaning is the best course of action for such things.

Create a Gentle Cleaning Agent

Create a light cleaning solution to repair your gold jewelry. You may make a gentle but helpful concoction in a bowl by combining mild dish soap with warm water. This gentle solution acts as a catalyst to break down the accumulated oil and filth as you soak. This step is the beginning of the skill of cleaning and preserving your gold objects so they may gleam once more without sacrificing their inherent beauty.

Thoroughly clean and brush

Gently brush your gold jewelry to remove any dirt after dipping it in the mild cleaning solution. Use an old toothbrush or a soft brush to scrub the areas gently. Dirt may lurk in cracks and beneath gems, so use caution. Do not use excessive pressure or a gentle touch to scrape the metal. Thanks to this careful cleaning technique that removes all traces of dirt and grime, your gold jewelry will keep its luster and brilliance.

Rinse with warm, flowing water.

Rinse your gold jewelry under warm running water to remove any soap residue after you've washed it. After cleaning, pat your things dry with a lint-free towel. Avoiding using paper towels or tissues on fragile metal would be beneficial as their fibers have the potential to cause scratches. Before storing your jewelry, make sure it is 100 percent dry.

Final Words

Each step in this comprehensive cleaning process is crucial to restore your gold jewelry's long-lasting shine. You can keep your priceless items shining and well-protected for years by employing gentle methods and a mild cleaning solution. The best course of action is to get your handmade gold jewelry cleaned by a professional if it is fragile.

A Simple Guide to Choosing the Perfect Engagement Ring

Finding the ideal engagement ring will be made easier if you are aware of a few important factors surrounding this significant purchase. Since an engagement ring is a once-in-a-lifetime purchase, you should be well-informed so that you can make an informed choice.

From this article, we will walk you through the process of choosing an engagement ring. Not much is needed to get started. Before you go ring shopping, you just need to know the wearer's ring size, your favorite setting style, and the four Cs of diamonds.

Find Out What Size Ring You Need

To prevent it from falling off while worn, the ring should go on smoothly yet have some resistance when a proposal takes place. When the proposal is unexpected, it can be more difficult to choose the appropriate ring size than when the pair is shopping together.

·         If you use a ring size chart, selecting the appropriate ring size is simple. To get the right ring size, just measure your finger or the finger of your prospective spouse, then compare the measurements to the chart .

·         Ring Sizing Best Practices – To make certain that you find your exact ring size, have a jeweler measure your ring size and then save the measurement some place safe.

Finding your ring size is one thing, but if you want to make the purchase a surprise, it's quite another! The following advice can help you ascertain your prospective spouse's ring size without letting them know about your plans:

Ask your partner's friends and relatives for assistance.

You could be fortunate enough that someone who is close to your spouse and is familiar with them already knows the answer if you ask them. If not, request that they gently include the topic in the discussion.

Select the Style of Your Ring Setting

Selecting the setting for your ring is a terrific place to start. The setting of a ring defines how the center diamond is positioned and adds character to the piece. There are many possibilities for your environment, which can range from classic to alternative to represent your own taste. 

TIP: Choose a diamond and have it put in a straightforward solitaire setting if you don't know what kind of ring your fiancé or you both want, and you want to make the proposal a surprise. Diamond forms are held in several ways by solitaires, which fit any budget. Following the proposal, you can go shopping together to choose a piece of art that narrates the tale of your love.

Ring Setting Style by Custom Jewelry Designer Luna Felix

Working with Luna Felix for custom jewelry design, particularly for a ring setting, involves a personalized and artistic process. Luna Felix is a master jeweler specializing in gold, who is dedicated to the art of custom jewelry making. She focuses on creating designs that elevate personal style and resonate with the individuality of each client.

Choose The Precious Metal for Your Ring

You can choose a range of metal kinds and colors for your scene. The metal of a ring can improve the appearance of the stones it is supporting in addition to adding to the design's uniqueness. The most common choices for engagement rings are shown below: 

●        Platinum: The strongest jewelry metal is platinum, which is also 30 times rarer than gold and costs more. It is allergy-free and between 90 and 95 percent pure.

●        18k Gold: Among the world's most valuable metals is gold. 18k gold is a preferable choice for engagement rings since pure 24k gold is too delicate to wear daily. This metal's color is determined by other alloys, with the remaining 25% being gold. This valuable metal, which is naturally golden and rich in color, is less expensive than platinum but also softer.

●        14k Gold: 58.3% pure gold and 41.7% pure other alloys make up this wearing gold, which is also the most durable but has a more moderate color and cost.

●        22k Gold: 91.67% pure gold and 8.33% pure other alloys. Characterized by its rich, warm hue, it exudes a classic golden luster that is both eye-catching and elegant. This level of purity makes 22k gold softer and more malleable than lower karat gold, lending itself well to intricate jewelry designs that require detailed craftsmanship. However, its softness also means it is more susceptible to scratches and wear, making it ideal for special occasion wear rather than everyday use. With its deep yellow color and impressive purity, 22k gold remains a popular choice for high-quality jewelry, symbolizing both opulence and cultural heritage in many parts of the world.

Different alloy combinations result in distinct hues of gold. Rose, white, and yellow gold are the most common hues used in engagement and wedding bands.

Find the Ideal Diamond

When looking for an engagement ring, the Four Cs—cut, color, clarity, and carat weight—are quite important. Knowing the meaning of each "C" can assist you in deciding what qualities are most significant to you in a diamond. Some buyers place a high priority on color, selecting almost colorless diamonds, and are unconcerned with getting a lesser stone to fit their budget. Some customers could find a certain diamond cut appealing and not care if there are a lot of imperfections. What qualities are significant to you and your spouse is ultimately up to you both. Here is a quick tutorial to help you comprehend each of the "Cs."

Cut

We often mistake a diamond's cut for its form, such as round, oval, heart-shaped, etc. The diamond cut, however, is much more than that. The diamond's capacity to reflect natural light is determined by this artificial element. The ultimate diamond form, size, and finish all directly affect how much shine and brilliance it has.

Color

The best white diamonds have a color grade of "D," which denotes the amount of visible body color in the diamond. Most diamonds have some yellow or brown body color, if not more. The rarest grades are the colorless ones, except for a few natural exotic colors.

Clarity

A diamond's clarity tells you how clean it is from minute internal impurities and visible flaws. Gems with few or no flaws get the highest grading. An experienced diamond grader uses a 10-power magnification to assess a diamond's clarity grade.

Carat

The conventional unit of weight for diamonds and most other jewels is the metric carat, which is equivalent to 0.20 grammes. There are 100 "points" in one carat. 50 points on a diamond equals 0.50 carats (ct).

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, "A Simple Guide to Choosing the Perfect Engagement Ring" offers a thorough and accessible roadmap for selecting an engagement ring that embodies both love and personal taste. This guide demystifies the process by highlighting key considerations like ring size, setting style, and the intricacies of diamond selection. Understanding the subtle art of measuring ring size, especially for surprise proposals, and the importance of choosing a setting that reflects individual style are essential first steps. The article also underscores the significance of selecting the right precious metal, which not only contributes to the ring's aesthetic but also its durability. Moreover, the in-depth exploration of the Four Cs—cut, color, clarity, and carat—empowers readers to make an informed decision that balances personal preferences with budget considerations. Armed with this knowledge, anyone can confidently navigate the journey of selecting an engagement ring that symbolizes their unique bond and commitment.