Shimmer and Sparkle for the Christmas 2012 Festive Season

Christmas is the perfect time to shine, and jewellery is one of the best ways of jazzing up an every-day-of-the-year-outfit and making it something truly magical for the festive season. 

If you want to be bang on trend this Christmas, a trip to your local jewellery shop should be your first port of call: your local independent jeweller will be the person in the know when it comes to Christmas looks for the 2012 festive season.

Big and Bold is Best

One of the most important things to consider when visiting your local jewellery shop for this year’s yuletide jewellery is that there is no place for the shrinking violet: and who wants to be a wallflower at Christmas parties anyway?  Big and bold is certainly beautiful this year, and works really well with the plain sixties-style shift dresses that are in fashion this season. 

If you’re wearing a dress with decorative cuffs, balance it with a long necklace with a large pendant on the end, and, vice versa, if your dress has a decorative collar, why not ask your local jeweller about their range of bold, chunky metal cuffs?  Alternatively, you could accessorise purely with a fabulous pair of statement earrings.  Don’t overdo it; wear what you feel comfortable in and what doesn’t overpower your outfit.

Passion for Colour

The traditional little black dress is being accessorised with colour this season.  Gemstones are in, so ask your local independent jeweller about jewel-coloured rings and pendants in bright pinks, purples and blues.  Many pieces will use gold this season, rather than the silver which has been popular in recent years, giving a warm feel to Christmas 2012 jewellery.  Similarly, if wearing coloured jewellery to accessorise the aforementioned dress with decorative cuff or collar, there are a great range of both pearl and boldly coloured stones available to match the colours found on this season’s dresses.

Sparkle the Night Away

A diamond is a girl’s best friend, and therefore sparkle is good at any time of year, but never is this truer than at Christmas.  If you’re not brave enough to wear this season’s sequin encrusted dresses, why not add a touch of magic to your Christmas outfit with stunning drop diamond earrings or a bold choker style diamond necklace?  Your local jeweller will even be able to custom make a piece for you, should you not find exactly what you’re after in your local jewellery shop.

Sentimental Value

Costume jewellery will incorporate lots of little symbolic motifs this season and will often take on a vintage twist.  Check your local jewellery shop for pieces using keys, cameos and lockets, as well as brooches covered in sparkle, as these will also be on trend.   Remember that if you have a vintage piece of your own which perhaps needs smartening up or fixing, your local independent jeweller will be able to restore this piece to its former glory to enable it to sparkle once more this Christmas.



New Kit Heath Pieces, in Time for Christmas 2012!

The brilliant range of Kit Heath jewellery, available at your local jewellery shop, has expanded – just in time for Christmas 2012!  With everything from sharp geometric shapes inspired by nature, through to the new Culture collection, there’s plenty of choice if you’re looking to give the gift of Kit Heath this Christmas.

Shapes of Nature

Kit Heath jewellery has always been known to have been inspired by nature, and the new sharp lines of the new collection are no exception.  Almost geometric in style, the new pieces still take their lead from shapes occurring in the wild.  Take the Fauna necklace and drop earrings set, for example.  The pendant has strong, vivid lines but takes its cue from shapes found in the wilderness, making the pieces truly unusual and, therefore, different to pieces found in high street chain jewellers – just ask your local independent jeweller for their advice on inspiring natural pieces within the Kit Heath collection. 

Lockets to Fall in Love With

If you’re a lover of lockets, or know someone that is, ask your local jeweller about the new Kit Heath ranges available featuring beautiful lockets.  From the fabulous Mermaid’s Purse range, available in a variety of colours from classic black to pillar box red, through to the more angular Prism Locket, there is sure to be something stocked by your local jeweller within the Kit Heath range which will tickle your fancy.

Reach for the Stars

Star motifs feature heavily within the new Kit Heath ranges.  These are great for adding a touch of Christmas sparkle to any outfit for the festive season.  If you’re after a more casual look, ask your local independent jeweller about either the Starfish Bead Bracelet, or the Starfish Crystal Ball Bracelet, as these beaded and leather bracelets have more of an every-day feel about them.  Alternatively, for a dressier look, check your local jewellery shop for the stunning Kit Heath Starfish cocktail rings – these statement pieces really will add a touch of glamour to any outfit.

Culture Bracelets

If you’re still looking for a Christmas gift for younger family members, ask your local jeweller about Kit Heath’s new range of ‘Culture’ bracelets.  Both the Identity and Respect ranges will be perfect for younger wrists; just like traditional friendship bracelets, available in a range of funky colours, but with the twist of being sealed with a sterling silver toggle – certainly something to make them feel more than a little grown up and a top fashionista to boot.

Going for Gold: How to Make Gold jewellery Work for You

In recent years, silver and white gold have been the metal colours of choice for most women.  Silver coloured jewellery is versatile and easy to wear with most colours and skin tones, after all.  However, yellow gold has been making a comeback in the last few months, especially as it’s a lovely, rich tone to warm the winter months. 

If you’re a veteran silver wearer, it can be a little daunting to make the switch to gold, but fear not: your local independent jeweller will be on hand to help pick gold pieces to suit your look.

Fun Gold Statement Pieces

A great way to start your gold collection is to embrace the current trend for long, gold-hued necklaces with fun, statement pendants on the end.  For example, there are many pieces around with motifs including birds and fob-watches.  Alternatively, how about a chunky gold cuff or choker to brighten up a plain outfit?  These pieces may seem scary but actually the fun in them means that they can be worn without the seriousness which gold often evokes and are therefore a great way of introducing gold to your wardrobe. 

Pop into your local jewellery shop to see for yourself the extensive range of frivolous gold jewellery pieces available.

Pairing Gold and Silver Together

Wearing gold and silver jewellery together can be seen as a brave move.  However, if you’re more used to wearing silver jewellery than gold, wearing them together can be a great introduction to gold.  Layering is key: wear gold and silver chain necklaces and bracelets together, more than one of each of course, and maybe top it all off with a large gold cocktail ring.  Your local jeweller will be able to advise on which pieces work well together.  Wearing gold and silver together also means that you can wear your favourite existing silver pieces with brand new gold pieces – the perfect excuse to buy more jewellery!

Graduate Towards the Serious

Once you’ve got the feel for wearing gold jewellery, you may want to consider yellow gold for the more serious pieces in your collection: special occasion rings, watches, necklaces and bracelets to mark special birthdays etc.  If you have a love of vintage, then gold is likely to be the colour of choice for any investment pieces you may buy.

Warm skin tones in particular tend to favour gold jewellery, so if you are warm skinned don’t rule it out for any special pieces you may be looking to acquire.  Your local independent jeweller will, of course, have a great range of yellow gold pieces for special occasions, so if you’ve decided you’re going for gold, why not pop along to your local jewellery shop to buy a prized piece of gold today?

Twenties Trend: Jewellery Inspired by a Roaring Decade

You may have noticed recently that there has been a distinct nod to all things 1920s: from the recent John Lewis advert featuring a girl dressed to the nines in Charleston attire, through to shops full of exquisitely beaded and fringed flapper dresses. 

In 2012, trends have once again turned to the ‘roaring twenties’ for inspiration, a decade which did wonders for the realms of fashion, and jewellery was no exception.  Here’s how to add a twenties twist to your wardrobe with jewellery from your local independent jeweller:

Beaded Beauty

Beads were big business in the 1920s, and have been going strong in recent years too.  Long strings of beads were particularly popular, and are an easy way to jazz up a plain outfit.  Ask your local jeweller about strings of long pearls – in every colour imaginable – or for a more cost effective option, check your local jewellery shop for long necklaces made from coloured crystal and glass beads.

Decadent Designs

As well as long strings of beads, intricate chocker style necklaces were also the rage, as were dangly, decadent earrings.  Both of these options are great for party looks; your local jeweller will even be able to custom make a design to your exact specifications.  Bold colours were particularly popular, so ask your local independent jeweller about the use of stones such as black oynx or green sapphires to achieve the look.

Antique Brooches

Delicate brooch designs in sparkly crystal and diamond were extremely popular during the 1920s, many of which were inspired by nature, such as motifs featuring leaves and petals.  If you’re lucky enough to have an heirloom brooch, perhaps even a brooch from the 1920s itself, you could always ask your local independent jeweller to restore it to its former glory: your brooch will receive specialist love and attention from an expert at your local jewellery shop to bring it back to its roaring self.

And don’t forget the all-important 1920s’ Finishing Touch: Beautiful Headwear

Think 1920s and you think about the beautiful headpieces that the chic Charleston girls wore. This look can easily be achieved by wearing one of the aforementioned brooches in your hair. However, if you really want to push the boat out with 2012 twenties’ trends, ask your local independent jeweller to custom make a 1920s style headpiece for you: by adding this great finishing touch to any party outfit, you’ll be ready to throw a Charleston move or two on the dance floor before you know it!

Things to look for When Buying Silver Jewellery

Silver jewellery has always been a popular choice, but if you’re looking to invest in a piece, do you know what you should be watching out for?  There are certain things you should always bear in mind when buying silver jewellery.  Your local jewellery shop will stock a good range of silver jewellery; here are some things to consider before making your choice:

Are there different qualities of silver?

Yes, there certainly are different qualities of silver, and you should know what you’re buying before you commit.  Sterling silver is the most common type of silver used in jewellery, and this refers to the fact that the alloy is 92.5% silver by weight and 7.5% by weight of other metals – hence the sterling silver hallmark of ‘925’. 

When it comes to silver jewellery, sterling silver is what you are most likely to find in your local jewellery shop.  Fine silver is purer – 99.9% silver - but is usually too soft to be used in jewellery, as is Mexican Silver, which is 95% silver and 5% other metals; much of today’s modern Mexican jewellery industry uses sterling silver instead.  Furthermore, silver plated jewellery isn’t really silver jewellery at all, but is jewellery made from a base metal which is then plated in silver.  Plated silver is usually used for costume jewellery. 

What hallmarks should I be looking for on Sterling Silver jewellery?

All British sterling silver jewellery should bear the British Hallmark which certifies that the piece has been independently tested by a British Assay Office and therefore conforms to one of the legal standards of purity for 925 sterling silver.  If you’re at all in doubt, ask your local independent jeweller for confirmation that the piece you are buying is sterling silver; your local jeweller will be able to point out to you the hallmark on a piece.

Is the piece well made?

It may sound like common sense when buying any type of jewellery, but you should always check the quality of the workmanship when buying silver jewellery.  For example, are the clasps well made and do they close properly? 

If the piece is a silver chain, are all of the links kink-free?  And when wearing the piece, is the metal smooth and free from sharp edges and roughness?  Don’t be afraid to ask your local independent jeweller for advice on silver jewellery; your local jeweller will be able to run you through all of these points when selecting a piece to ensure your silver jewellery is not only well made, but also of a good quality. 

Men, listen up: 3 great tips for buying jewellery for the woman in your life!

Christmas is nearly here, and if the woman you love has requested a special piece of jewellery as her gift, you might be filled with a certain sense of dread.  Just how do you pick a piece of jewellery which will suit your special lady’s taste?  Well, men, fear not this Christmas: your local independent jeweller is on hand to help you choose that very special piece. 

Here are some top tips for buying a great piece of jewellery this Christmas:

When will she wear it, and what’s her style?

A good place to start when thinking about buying a special piece of jewellery is when will the recipient wear it?  Your local jeweller will ask you whether you want to buy a casual piece, or a party piece, or even a statement piece.  Think about the types of jewellery she currently wears: does she tend to wear understated studs and pendants?  Or does she choose oversized pieces to jazz up outfits?  If you choose something from your local jewellery shop which is along the same lines as the pieces that your special lady currently owns, you’ll be on the right tracks in terms of taste.

What’s her favourite colour?

This may seem like a simple question, but if you decide to buy a piece with coloured stones, you should make sure that it coordinates with your loved one’s current wardrobe.  If you’re not sure on which colours will work best, speak to your local independent jeweller about purchasing a neutral piece of jewellery, for example, using clear or light coloured stones such as diamonds or pearls, as these will coordinate with lots of outfits.  Similarly, try to make a note of whether your wife or girlfriend tends to wear gold or silver jewellery, as, often, a lady that wears silver jewellery will not tend to wear yellow gold, and vice versa.

Can you create a match made in heaven?

If you really want to touch the heart of your loved one this Christmas, how about creating a bespoke piece of jewellery which matches a favourite piece she already has?  For example, if she is the proud owner of an antique brooch, how about asking your local jeweller to create a matching pair of earrings?  Or perhaps your local independent jeweller could create a bespoke eternity ring to match the wedding or engagement ring you gave her on those most special of occasions you shared in the past?  There really is something magical and heart-warming about a gift which has had so much thought put into it. 

And remember, your local jewellery shop should be your first stop this Christmas: with their bespoke service and plenty of choice, your local jeweller will help you to pick the perfect gift for your loved one this Christmas!

Cubic Zirconia: why it’s an excellent alternative to diamonds

The synthetic gemstone cubic zirconia is fast becoming one of the most popular alternatives to diamonds, and with good reason: they offer many of the traits of diamond, yet are often just a tenth of the price of the real thing! 

You will find a great range of cubic zirconia jewellery at your local jewellery shop, so if you’re after sparkles on a budget, pop along to your local independent jeweller for a dazzling choice!

How similar are diamonds and cubic zirconia?

Cubic zirconia, or CZ as it’s often known for short, has an interesting history, having been originally developed by the Russians for their space programme – it was used as an alternative to diamonds in the optics of their lasers, as the synthetic gemstone has a refractive index, hardness and dispersion which is extremely similar to diamond.  If you visit your local jeweller and compare a piece of diamond jewellery and a piece of CZ jewellery, you will struggle to tell the difference!

So just how easy is it to spot the difference between diamonds and CZ?

It’s not just the untrained eye which would struggle to spot the difference between the two types of stone; even trained gemmologists would find it difficult!  Of course, your local independent jeweller is likely to own a microscope or loupe to be able to aid them in telling the difference between the two stones, but for anyone using just the naked eye, it would be a 50/50 guess as to which stone is which.  One of the only ways to identify CZ is to look closely at the facet shapes of the stone, which cause a slight difference in the way in which they disperse light.  Would you be able to tell the difference?!

What colours of CZ are available, and how can it be used in jewellery?

Cubic Zirconia can be used in all types of jewellery, from necklaces, rings and earrings, to brooches and bracelets.  Just like diamond, it’s extremely hard wearing; indeed, diamond sits at the top of the Moh’s hardness scale, rated as 10, and CZ ranges from 8.5 to 9.0 on the scale, making it suitable for every type of jewellery. 

What’s more, whereas diamonds often have a slight brown or yellow tinge to them, CZ is normally made to be completely colourless, giving it an excellent, clear sparkle.  It can also be manufactured in a range of other colours, just like naturally occurring coloured diamonds, to make a variety of beautiful pieces.  And at a tenth of the price of diamond, what are you waiting for?!  Ask your local independent jeweller about their range of cubic zirconia jewellery today!

Make a statement on the catwalk of life: jewellery trends from London Fashion Week 2012

At this year’s London Fashion Week, jewellery was more prominent than ever, and that jewellery was all about making a statement.  It’s only right, therefore, that you’re kept ahead of the trends and on top of what is happening in the world of fashion jewellery, so that you can make a statement of your own.  What better way to do that?  Visit your local independent jeweller, of course!  Here are just a few of the trends seen on the catwalk at this year’s London Fashion Week:

Layering

One of the biggest trends seen on the runway at this year’s London Fashion Week was that of layering jewellery.  Creating a statement look by layering one necklace over another, or even multiple necklaces, was seen in many collections.  If you want to add to, rather than overpower, an outfit, visit your local jewellery shop and check out their collection of fine chains, which are perfect for layering.  Alternatively, if you like chunky jewellery, ask your local jeweller about teaming up strings of oversized beads or even large metallic collar-style necklaces.

Statement pendants

Following on from layering, another of this September’s catwalk trends for necklaces was the statement pendant.  Choose a design with large, geometric shapes and sharp angles; if you can’t find what you’re looking for, your local independent jeweller will be able to custom-make a piece to exactly suit your needs.  Why not include a statement stone or gem too, to give the piece extra wow-factor?

Rock chic

Looks inspired by the rock world make their appearance on the catwalk this September.  From knuckle joint rings, to outfits adorned with rock-motif brooches, rock chic was everywhere.  If you’re tempted by such a specialist look, then why not have a piece custom made?  Your local independent jeweller will be able to make any piece of jewellery using any motif or design your rocking heart desires!

Oversized cuffs and rings

Bracelets and rings went super-sized on this year’s catwalk to make a statement of their own.  For wrist wear, cuffs were extremely popular, and when it came to rings, it seemed to be a case of “the bigger the better”.  Your local jeweller will be able to recreate such a look with oversized gold, silver and even copper coloured hammered metal cuffs, and will stock a range of oversized cocktail rings, ready for you to take away in order to make your own catwalk appearance!

White Gold or Platinum: which metal is better for rings?

White gold or platinum?  Which is better when it comes to buying a ring?  If you’re in the market for a new ring, you may have asked yourself this question; if you’ve asked this question aloud, you may have been given mixed advice.  There is a difference between the two metals, and therefore it’s important that you make the right choice.  Here’s some advice on the subject from a local independent jeweller:

Which metal is harder wearing?

By the very nature of where they are worn, rings are subject to a lot of wear and tear.  It’s certainly true that platinum is a heavier metal than gold, and if you visit your local jewellery shop and ask to look at two rings of a similar size, one made of platinum and the other made of white gold, you will definitely be able to feel the difference in their weight, as the platinum ring will be much heavier. 

However, this doesn’t mean that platinum won’t scratch, and you do still need to take care of your ring, particularly if you’re employed in a hands-on occupation.  Having said that, it is still the more durable of the two metals, and as platinum is less malleable and less likely to break, platinum prongs are perfect for holding stones in place in a ring, including diamonds.

What is the colour difference?

Both white gold and platinum have a very shiny, white metal look to them.  The difference between the two metals is that white gold is coated in rhodium to give it its white appearance, whereas platinum is white in appearance from the outset.  The rhodium coating on a white gold ring does need to be replaced fairly regularly, but it is a simple procedure of re-dipping, which your local jeweller will easily be able to carry out for you.

I have a sensitivity to some metals.  Which of the two metals would be better for my skin?

Your local jeweller will advise that some people experience a sensitivity to white gold, and therefore platinum might be a better alternative for a ring.  Most white gold alloys use a nickel mix, and this is often the metal which causes the problem; platinum doesn’t tend to irritate the skin in such a way.

Give me the damage: what is the difference in price?

Although there are some advantages to platinum, it is harder to work with (as it’s less malleable) and is a purer metal.  This does, therefore, mean that it can cost anywhere between 2.5 to 5 times more than white gold.  Your local jeweller will be able to advise on the price difference, but if cost is important, it might be best to choose a white gold ring – and remember, gold evokes images of richness and luxury, so it shouldn’t be seen as platinum’s cheaper cousin! 

Whichever metal you choose, your local independent jeweller will always be able to advise which type of ring will be best suited to you – from colour and durability, through to price – so don’t be afraid to pop along to your local jewellery shop for advice.

The Importance of Correctly Insuring your Jewellery

Everyone knows the risks of not correctly insuring their homes, and alongside their homes, their home’s contents too.  Most of us probably assume that our contents insurance will cover all of our possessions – but does it? 

Typically, a standard home insurance policy will include coverage for personal valuables, such as our jewellery, but will it cover the entire cost of replacing your jewellery if something happens to it?  Even if you have specific jewellery insurance, do you have adequate cover? Here are some points to consider when it comes to insuring jewellery, and how your local jeweller could help you insure your precious pieces:

Price-hikes in precious metals and stones

If you’ve had a gold or silver piece of jewellery for several years, you might be surprised to hear that it’s now worth a lot more than when you originally bought it or were given it.  For example, gold prices have risen by approximately 500% in the last 10 years, so a gold piece of jewellery that may have only been worth a few hundred pounds when you got it may now be worth a thousand pounds, or even more.  Similarly, some colours and clarities of diamonds have gone up in price, and silver prices have also risen considerably.  If you’re in any doubt as to how much a prized piece of jewellery is now worth, it’s important to take it to your local independent jeweller for an appraisal.

Never deliberately under insure your jewellery: it doesn’t pay!

It has been known that people have deliberately under insured their jewellery in order to keep their insurance premiums low.  Take note: this approach never pays!  For one thing, if the insurer pays out, you will only get vouchers or a replacement to the value of the original valuation, so if the worth of your piece has gone up in the meantime, you will still have to shell out to replace your jewellery.  What’s more, if the insurer suspects that you’ve deliberately under insured your jewellery, they can refuse to pay out at all!  So if you’re worried about under insured jewellery, now’s the time to ask your local jewellery shop to value your pieces and inform your insurers accordingly.

Frequency of appraisals

If you’re at all unsure about how often you should have your jewellery valued in light of the price hikes of precious metals and stones, speak to your insurance company: they should be able to advise on how regularly you should have your jewellery appraised, allowing you to visit your local independent jeweller as required and ensuring that your precious jewellery is fully insured.

Why Everyone’s crazy for Tanzanite

You may have heard many a person recently talking about the precious stone Tanzanite.  There certainly seems to be a buzz about this beautiful stone, and the jewellery that can be created from it, but for what reason?  If you’re intrigued by tanzanite, ask your local independent jeweller about jewellery which uses it, and read on for more information:

Why is it so special?

One of the reasons that everyone is so crazy for this beautiful blue stone is its uniqueness, together with its relatively recent discovery.  It only occurs in one place in the whole world, in an area of only four square kilometres: in the East African country it’s named after, Tanzania.  Tanzanite was only discovered in 1967, making it a new precious stone.  What’s more, it’s extremely rare; as it’s only found in one place in the world, it’s estimated that there’s only another 30 years’ supply left, making each piece of tanzanite jewellery extremely coveted and valuable.  Nonetheless, your local independent jeweller will be able to source tanzanite jewellery for you, enabling you to share in this little piece of exclusivity.

How did it become famous?

The legendary New York jewellers Tiffany and Co have always been at the forefront of new jewellery trends, and their involvement in launching tanzanite to the world was no exception.   Just two years after its discovery, Tiffany presented the gemstone to the general public, and they were met with a great response.  Today, jewellers throughout the world are using the precious stone, and your local jewellery shop will be no exception.

What is it made from?

Tanzanite is actually a blue variety of the gemstone zoiste.  Research into its geology has shown this stone to be totally unique, and the chance of it occurring outside of its current production area is extremely rare.  It’s not a particularly hard stone, consisting of calcium and aluminium silicate, and therefore should be looked after and worn carefully; for example, tanzanite should never be placed in an ultrasonic bath for cleaning.  If you’re unsure of how to care for your tanzanite, ask your local jeweller for advice, as they will be able to undertake a specialist clean of your tanzanite jewellery for you.

What shades of tanzanite can I expect to find?

Tanzanite’s brilliant blue is one of its biggest selling points.  The deep shades which the stone comes in run from ultramarine to light violet.  The most popular colour is a vibrant blue surrounded by a delicate purple hint; this works particularly well if the stone is over 10 carats in size. The stones often have a polychromatic quality to them too, and may appear either blue, purple or even a brownish-yellow depending on what way you look at them. 

With all these shades available, they truly do make fascinating pieces of jewellery; ask your local independent jeweller to help you own a piece of this extremely beautiful, extremely rare stone today.

Amber, Citrine and Tiger’s Eye: get ready for the new season with Autumnal Gemstones

As the summer comes to a close and the days draw in, instead of feeling blue, our thoughts should turn to the wonderful opportunity autumn presents us with: colour!  Traditionally inspired by the changing colours of the leaves in the trees, autumn collections often feature, browns, burnt oranges and other earthy tones.

Don’t let your jewellery be left behind; this season, why not add Autumnal gemstone jewellery from your local independent jeweller to your collection? Here are some gemstone ideas to inspire you:

Browns:

If you are commissioning a bespoke piece of jewellery from your local jeweller, you can’t go wrong with brown-hued gemstones for autumn.  This is a great colour to team with yellow gold, and works really well as a large pendent on a chunky gold chain.  Ask your local independent jeweller about brown jewellery using gemstones such as tiger’s eye and amber, both of which come in deep, rich shades of brown.

Oranges:

There’s so much choice available when it comes to orange gemstones, and orange also works well with the warmth of yellow gold as well as contrasting beautifully with the coolness of silver or white gold.  What’s more, orange gemstones look great nestled in amongst clear precious stones – speak to your local jeweller about creating a bespoke ring with an orange gemstone in the centre, and diamonds surrounding it, for example.  Your local jewellery shop will be able to help you with orange gemstones including orange sapphire and smoky quartz, both of which look elegant alongside clear stones.

Greens:

Green is maybe not a traditional colour of autumn, but its earthy tones certainly complement an autumn wardrobe.  To take the autumnal trend to another level, you could ask your local independent jeweller to create a pair of leaf-shaped earrings and a matching pendant from green agate, or maybe even a stunning leaf-shaped brooch.  If you’re tastes are slightly more on the sparkly side, how about some jewellery featuring emeralds or peridot?

Yellows:

Finally, if you fancy something a little bit different, or a colour which will contrast as well as harmonise with other autumnal stones, why not add a little bit of yellow?  Ask your local independent jeweller for the best combination of stones, as they will be able to advise which gems and colours work best together, but certainly think about including citrine or champagne topaz stones – these will give just the right hint of contrast to set your autumn gemstone jewellery off perfectly.

Watch Advice – Repair or Replace?

There comes a time in every watch’s life when we have to decide: should we repair it or just go ahead and replace it?  There’s often an argument that you should do whatever is the least expensive, but sometimes our heart speaks to us over our heads; what if the watch is a family heirloom, for example?  Or was a gift from someone? 

What if, you simply just like the watch you have and don’t want to change it?  Read on for some advice from a local independent jeweller as to whether you should repair or replace your watch:

External watch problems

External problems are normally the easiest to diagnose as they are obvious to the untrained eye. These problems include broken straps and cracked faces and can often easily be fixed by a local jewellery shop. 

For example, your local jeweller will stock a large range of straps to suit your taste: from leather to gold and silver, and bracelet style to metal links.  Similarly, sections of the strap, such as individual links or the clasp, can easily be repaired or replaced to make the watch as good as new.  The lugs (the metal attachments connecting the bracelet to the face) can also be rebuilt or replaced, as can worn buttons and stems on the side of the face.  If you’ve cracked the glass of your watch, fear not: your local independent jeweller should easily be able to replace the watch casing for you, and waterproof watches can even be resealed to make them water resistant again; you’ll even get a certificate to prove its water resistance depth.

Internal watch problems

A trained local independent jeweller will often be able to diagnose internal watch problems, too.  Normally, they can strip the watch down by removing the movement, taking off the hands and dial and turning the power off (either by removing the battery in a quartz watch or letting the mainspring down in a mechanical watch).  Then, your local jeweller can examine each part for wear, and can often clean them or replace them with new parts, before reassembling the watch and testing it to make sure it’s working.

Watch batteries

As obvious as it may sound, sometimes all it takes is replacing the battery.  Your local jewellery shop will happily help with this, and will stock a variety of watch battery types, taking the utmost care and attention when replacing it.  Your watch will be as good as new in no time!

The Charm is in the Charm Bracelet

Charm bracelets are extremely popular and fashionable right now and make excellent gifts.  But there’s a lot of choice out there, so it’s important to know you’re making the right decision.  Your local independent jeweller is a great place to start when it comes to charm bracelet advice – and they’ll also have a variety of different styles in stock to help you get it right, too!

Hanging charms

Charm bracelets have moved on a lot from the days when you needed to take each individual charm to your local jewellery shop to be fixed onto the bracelet.  What’s more, once the old fashioned hanging charms had been fixed onto the bracelet by a local jeweller, they stayed there, too. 

Nowadays, charms have little clasps attached which means that they can either be fastened to bracelets which have large links, or to ‘sweetie’ style bracelets, and can be moved about as you add to your collection or simply fancy a change.  Your local jeweller will stock both types, so you can compare the two and see which you prefer.  And if you have any of the old-style charms which need to be fixed to a bracelet, your local independent jeweller will still be able to help with this too – just pop along to your local jewellery shop, and they’ll attach them for you!

Bead charms

Bead charms are exactly as they sound – large metal, precious-stone or glass beads which can be threaded onto silver, gold or leather ‘snake’ style bracelets.  They still feature a variety of designs – from animals to plants, buildings to vehicles and even coloured beads – but each charm has a hole through the middle to allow it to be strung onto a bracelet bead-style. The Kit Heath charm bracelet range is a popular choice, stocked by your local independent jeweller.  Kit’s sterling silver range features elongated beads inspired by the seaside and nature – you might find some looking like the jaunty deckchairs you often get at British seaside resorts, pretty pebbles and shells, or even a Union Jack!

Ready-made charm bracelets

If you want to get your collection off to a good start, or want to give a gift which features more than one charm, your local jewellery shop will offer ready-made collections. 

Most makes of charm bracelet will offer bracelets with two or three complementing charms included; these often have a theme, so if you’re buying a birthday or anniversary gift, for example, you may be able to buy a charm bracelet which is relevant to the occasion.  Similarly, if you want a memento of a special holiday, you should be able to find you a set of charms to reflect the holiday destination; just ask your local independent jeweller, and they’ll be able to help you find what you’re looking for!

Gift Ideas for your Office Colleagues

Anyone who’s ever worked in a team will know the scenario: someone in the office has an occasion coming up, be it a wedding, a new baby, however many years of service to the company, or they may be leaving the firm; everyone’s chipped in to the collection, and now the question arises, “What do we get them?!”. Well, have you ever thought about popping along to your local jewellery shop for inspiration? You’ll be surprised at how many office occasions your local jeweller can cater for!

Long-standing service gifts

Many companies show their appreciation for long standing service by giving the employee a gift.  If you’ve been tasked with the challenge of finding such a present for someone in the office, don’t rule out your local jeweller.  Your local jewellery shop will stock giftware as well as jewellery; how about a collectable porcelain figurine, for example?  There is also the option of both men’s and women’s watches, with many different styles to choose from.

Maternity leave gifts

It’s often the case that an office whip round will create more funds than is needed for a simple baby outfit, and if you’re looking for something a bit more substantial as a new baby gift, why not think about buying a piece of children’s jewellery? Your local jewellery shop will offer items such as baby bracelets.  Alternatively, if you’d like to buy the mum-to-be a gift for herself, photo frames from your local jeweller make a lovely gift, particularly as they can pop a photo of their bundle of joy inside when he or she arrives.

Wedding gifts

If one of the team is getting married, and you want to buy the happy couple something stylish for their home, remember that clocks, figurines and photo frames will be available from your local independent jeweller – you’ll be able to find something to suit every newlywed’s taste!

Leaving gifts

If someone’s leaving your company, a great gift is an item to keep to remember you all by.  Jewellery is a great option as a keepsake gift: if the person in question has a charm bracelet, for example, why not check out the range of charms at your local jewellery shop, possibly even choosing a charm relevant to your industry?  Alternatively, if you’ve all contributed to the collection and have a sizable sum, think about buying a beautiful pearl or diamond necklace for a female colleague, or cufflinks if it’s one of the gents in your office that’s leaving.  These gifts are something that they wouldn’t necessarily buy for themselves, but will remind them fondly of the company each time they wear them – and they’re all available from your local independent jeweller.

Pearls of Wisdom: How to Choose a Set of Pearls to Suit You

Pearls have seen a revival in popularity in recent years, and with the many different types of pearls available meaning that they can be worn with any outfit, it’s easy to see why. But if you’re going to invest in a set of pearls, you need to make sure you’re choosing wisely. And where’s the best place to turn for such advice? Your local independent jeweller of course!

Where do pearls come from? 

Pearls are hard objects which are produced within the shell of a living mollusc.  A pearl is formed from calcium carbonate, just like the mollusc’s shell, which has been deposited in concentric layers. 

The most valuable pearls occur naturally in the wild, but these are extremely rare.  Similarly, perfectly spherical pearls are also particularly valuable.  Therefore, cultured or farmed pearls from pearl oysters usually make up the majority of those which will be sold in your local jewellery shop.  As the names suggest, freshwater and saltwater pearls come from different sources from around the world – your local jeweller will explain the differences in pearls coming from each of the sources.

What shapes of pearl are available?

As already mentioned, the most valuable type of pearl is that which is perfectly spherical.  However, these are very rare.  The term ‘off-round’ is therefore used to describe pearls which appear to be quite round to the eye but have a slightly oval or flattened shape.  These can still be used to create beautiful jewellery, and your local independent jeweller will be able to advise on how to use these pearls, with the usual uses being either a necklace or earrings. 

Your local jeweller may also stock pearls which are oval in shape (or rice pearls, as they’re also known), used to create very delicate looking jewellery, baroque pearls (often the valuable natural pearls which are off-round or irregular shaped, perhaps with a ‘tail’ on one side), or even jewellery made from Keishi Pearls, which are accidents of nature created when the mollusc rejects the nucleus of the pearl and grows a free-form shape, resulting in very unusual and interesting jewellery.

What colours do pearls come in?

One of the great things about pearls is the fact that they come in a variety of colours.  As well as the well known white or ivory coloured pearls, ask your local independent jeweller about the other colours available. Natural freshwater pearls only occur in three colours: pink, white and lavender, but can be dyed to give them a darker shade.  Saltwater pearls come in varying shades from silver, gray, yellow, golden and even a dark grey verging on black, depending on where they come from.

I have an old set of pearls.  Will my local jeweller be able to restring them?

Yes, if you have an old set of pearls, take them along to your local jewellery shop where your local jeweller will be able to advise on restringing them and often be able to do the job for you on site. This is a great way of reviving an heirloom or vintage piece of jewellery. As pearls are so fashionable at the moment, it’s well worth investing in getting such beautiful items looking their best!

A Cuff Above: The Beauty of Bespoke Cufflinks

When it comes to accessories for the young fashionable gent, cufflinks are seeing a resurgence in popularity.  Not only do they bring a certain je ne sais quoi to a smart work or occasion wear outfit, but they can also be an expression of the wearer’s individual personality. 

Similarly, if you’re buying a gift for the man in your life, what better way is there to give them something really personal and which will be kept for a lifetime than to buy them a bespoke set of cufflinks from your local independent jeweller?  Your local jewellery shop will be able to advise further on cufflinks, but here’s why we can’t get enough of them:

Origins of cufflinks

The ruffle-cuffed shirts of the 16^th century are where cufflinks can be traced back to as these were finished with small openings on either side of the wristband which were tied together with ‘cuff strings’.  Then, during the reign of Louis XIV, shirt sleeves started to be fastened with boutons de manchette, or ‘sleeve buttons’ which consisted of coloured glass buttons jointed together by a short chain. 

By 1715, this had given way to paste-glass buttons consisting of two decoratively painted or jewelled studs connected by gold links, thus giving birth to the modern format of the cufflink. Your local jeweller will be able to recreate such a traditional cufflink if required, or, if you’re after a more modern look, why not look below for inspiration?

Unusual cufflink ideas

Your local jewellery shop will stock a variety of cufflinks, of course.  But if you’re after some inspiration, how about trying some of these ideas on for size?  How about having a map of somewhere meaningful shrunk to fit a small cufflink frame?  Or have cufflinks made from tiny watch faces?  Cufflinks can also be made from Scrabble tiles, Lego bricks and even Rubix Cubes, so if you want something to remind you of childhood days gone by, these are a good choice. 

Lucky dice could be given to the man that likes to take a gamble, whereas silver cufflinks imprinted with a baby’s fingerprint make a lovely gift for a new father. A local jeweller will be able to help you to find something which exactly matches the personality involved!

Bespoke cufflinks

Remember that your local independent jeweller will be able to create some bespoke cufflinks just for you or your recipient.  These could be anything that takes your fancy, from links shaped like musical notes through to cufflinks designed to look like egg timers or even spirit levels!  Similarly, if you’ve got some antique cufflinks which have been passed down to you, why not ask your local independent jeweller to give them a spruce up or a fix?  This will give them a new lease of life, allowing you to wear a sentimental piece of jewellery again.  The only limit is your imagination when it comes to cufflinks, just ask your local jeweller!