Emerald Cut Engagement Rings

October 4, 2009

The cupid’s arrow has pierced your heart and you have met the girl of your dreams. You can wait to tell her about how you feel but you don’t know how to pop the question. You are not sure if she feels the same way about it or not. Well, there is only one way to find out. If your girl is a stylish, sophisticated, elegant and resembles Audrey Hepburn then you need to pop the question with one of that equally elegant emerald cut engagement rings. These emerald cut diamond engagement rings need people with slim, long fingers and a classic taste. The emerald cut was designed for the elite crowd with an open cut, corners that are slightly cropped and the light flashing off the faces on a rectangular diamond. An emerald cut engagement ring speaks of quiet sophistication and elegance which stands a class apart.

Originally used for emeralds due to their hard and brittle nature, the emerald cut was designed to take care of the inclusions or the natural flaws in the emeralds which could cause these priceless stones to break quickly. Hence this cut gave the emerald cropped corners with a rectangular shape. This prevented this stone from breaking. As time passed by, jewelers realized that this cut could suit diamonds as well and as a result emerald cut engagement rings were born. This cut is quite different from asscher and the princess cut and has a unique look.

Emerald cut diamond engagement rings look good only if the diamond is of a good quality. This is because the emerald cut does not give as many facets to the diamond as the other cuts due to its simple step design which has longer and larger facets. Hence, this cut only suits high quality diamonds else the emerald cut engagement rings will look ordinary and dull and even low in quality. Another important aspect of ordering one of these emerald cut diamond engagement rings is that you need to make sure that you have the right length to width proportion for an even appearance. This emerald cut diamond engagement rings should be avoided by women with short and stubby fingers since it will make their fingers look even fatter. However, if some one really likes this style, then the ring can be modified by adding more baguettes and stones which helps to remove the focus from the fingers.

Another great benefit of buying one of these emerald cut diamond engagement rings is that you can get a cheaper ring with a bigger diamond. Emerald cut diamonds look bigger and have an understated elegance about them. They are classy and when the light strikes at particular angles, these rings give off vivid flashes of light which are quite beautiful.

Emerald cut engagement rings look great on women with small and delicate hands. They can also look good on bigger hands if the diamond is accented by some other gemstones or diamonds. You can use a big emerald cut diamond in the middle, surrounded by smaller diamonds for a perfect emerald cut engagement ring.

Are You in the Market for Gold Pocket Watches?

October 4, 2009

Many of us think of gold pocket watches with fondness. Perhaps our grandfathers had them in their pockets and let us investigate them when we were children. Or, maybe a favorite great-grandmother had one tucked away that was on a brooch, and she let us take it out and play with it every now and then.

Whatever your memories of gold pocket watches, perhaps you’re in the market for one because of this special quality they have. And if so, rest assured that your desires are not unique. Gold pocket watches are available in a variety of styles and price ranges — and all you need to do is man your mouse (so to speak) and have a look at several websites and auction sites like eBay to find yours.

Choosing the type of gold pocket watch you want

The Internet is a great place to find the perfect gold pocket watch for you, because it literally opens up the world to you and let you find exactly what you want with relative ease. Among the best places to look for gold pocket watches are auction sites like eBay, since many sellers have had these things tucked away in attics and are now looking to get rid of them for a few dollars — with you as the beneficiary.

And if you are a woman (or you’re looking for a gift for a woman), don’t think you can’t buy a gold pocket watch for yourself, either. Gold pocket watches come in so many styles, shapes and finishes that you can find a perfect gold pocket watch no matter who you’re buying it for.

Pricing your gold pocket watch

Gold pocket watches come in a number of finishes and styles, and price ranges will reflect this. Even auction sites like eBay will have you paying several thousand dollars, for example, if you’re buying an antique gold pocket watch with a brushed pure gold finish. However, more “modern” gold pocket watches may also fill the bill just fine, with a gold toned, inexpensive finish that looks like the real thing but will cost you a fraction of the price you’d normally pay. Therefore, expect to pay anywhere from under $100 to over a thousand (sometimes several thousand) dollars, depending on the type of watch you want.

Check the company’s or seller’s reputation

Before you buy from anywhere, check out the company or seller that you’re going to buy from. If you’re buying from an auction site like eBay, the seller’s profile and feedback ratings should appear on the product page, usually on the right-hand side. Look for someone who’s been reliable and has gotten very good feedback ratings.

If you’re buying from another online seller, check out the company’s reputation by going to your favorite search engine and typing in the company’s name and key words “review” and/or “complaint.” This will bring up any complaints customers have about this particular company, so that you know not to buy from it if it does indeed have a less than stellar reputation. And don’t settle for less — the Internet has made competition fierce, too, so you shouldn’t have to work very hard to find a good, quality company to buy from.

Another way you can check out a particular company’s reputation is to go to the Better Business Bureau’s website at BBB.org. Again, if there are any companies with complaints as to customer service and/or product quality, stay away from them and find someone else.

If you’re buying from an auction site, be aware that you may have to place a bid and then wait to see if you’ve “won” that auction. Some sellers will also let you pay a bit more and “buy immediately,” which is a way to circumvent the bidding process if you don’t really want to do it.

Pricing gold pocket watches through comparison-shopping

When you’ve narrowed down choices between several sellers or companies, and all of them are good, then it’s time to check price for similar products so that you make sure to get the best deal possible. When you determine price, make sure you also factor in extra costs like tax and shipping, so that the price comparison you do is really fair. Then, all that remains to be done is to choose the lowest-priced place with the watch you want, click and buy, and you’re done.

It’s not difficult to buy gold pocket watches either on auction sites like eBay or from other online sellers, once you know how to do it. You can have a beautiful modern or antique pocket watch in your possession in no time at all.

Expensive Watches

June 1, 2009

Collecting exclusive edition watches or expensive watches could be the most expensive but most rewarding hobby. These timeless pieces are a testament to the brilliance of the craftsmanship and innovations made by watchmakers through the decades. Aside from new car models and fashion, the unwrapping and unraveling of exceptionally great pieces of watches is definitely one of the most awaited seasons each year, with the most expensive pieces as well as their owners making headlines in magazines and newspapers.

How expensive can a high-quality watch get?

Watch designs vary from simple to extravagant. Depending on the craftsmanship, design and embellishment of a timepiece, a watch can cost as much as $20 million Chopard watch. While not everyone can afford such watch, it brings a kind of satisfaction and a feeling of pride in acquiring quite an elusive status symbol. Swiss watches such as those featured under Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin, Girrard-Perregaux usually come with a 6-figure price tag. Of course, there are the relatively less expensive 4-figure price tagged pieces to which many watchmakers concentrate most of their advertising and development research efforts. While ‘six-figured pieces’ usually end up under lock and key, the “4-figured pieces” are usually crafted for everyday use making them wearable or fashionable.

What makes a watch expensive?

The how, the what and the who of a particular watch make it expensive. The years spent on design enhancement, feature innovations and craftsmanship of a timepiece adds up to its quality and accuracy. Its material, as in platinum or gold, and embellishments, as in diamonds and pearls, also cost extra thousands or millions of dollars to its price. Another factor that makes a pricey watch is the exclusivity in its ownership. For instance, the limited number of pieces produced for a special edition watch can make a very watch expensive.

The advantage

Investing on a one of a kind watch would mean investing on any of the pieces under the brands Vacheron Constantin, Blancpain, Audemars Piguet, Girrard-Perregaux, ChronoSwiss, Chopard, Jaeger-LeCoultre, International Watch Company, Omega and Breguet. Quality timepieces from Switzerland, Italy and France usually crafted with nothing but the timeless standard of superior watch craftsmanship. They are assembled and put together with screws instead of cheap pins. The exclusivity of their ownership as well as their style and innovative features make them a perfect gift for yourself or for someone precious in your life. Quality and expensive watches are timeless; they never go out of fashion. Expensive watches are certainly money that is well-spent.

Is it worth it?

If you are shopping for jewelries, you would rather invest on the real thing than the simulated, plated or fake ones. For one thing, real gold or diamond jewelries can last forever. Technically speaking, a watch is considered a piece of jewelry. You deserve the best. All those hard work have paid off. Treating yourself with a fine timepiece makes a wise investment. It certainly is worth every penny in complementing you with nothing but the best.

Shopping for expensive watches

Thankfully, locating the design, brand and price range of watches that meet your preferences are made easy. Online shopping stores feature a categorized listing of expensive watch designs for your shopping convenience. In addition, season sales are offered to give you the opportunity to buy your dream watch at a much better value. This way, you are few mouse clicks away to buying and having your choice of exquisite and expensive watches delivered right at your doorsteps.

Princess Cut Engagement Rings

May 25, 2009

The princess cut engagement rings are among the most sought-after for engagement rings. Diamonds and other gemstones like sapphires are often given princess cuts by lapidaries to allow the stones to reflect light more readily. Thus it is said that princess cut diamonds have great “sparkle and fire”. The origins of today’s princess cut are credited to Johannesburg diamond cutter Basil Watermeyer, who developed the cut in 1971.

A princess cut diamond is a rectangular or octagonal shape. It typically has 76 facets, but there are a few variations on the theme:

58 facets (33 pavilion, 21 crown, 4 girdle)
50 facets (25 pavilion, 21 crown, 4 girdle)
Up to 144 facets, dependent upon the cut of the pavilion

Experts say that a princess cut diamond should really be a square, with a 1:1 ratio of length to width. But they usually aren’t a perfect square, so don’t worry about finding one that is.

The cut of a diamond is one of the four Cs of the gemstone world. The other Cs are color, clarity, and carat weight. If you select a princess cut diamond for your engagement ring, you should choose a “colorless” diamond if possible. However, if you want a colored diamond or can’t find a colorless one within your budget (since they are the most expensive), avoid getting yellow princess cuts. These tend to be murkier in clarity than other diamonds of this cut. Brown or “chocolate” diamonds are in vogue these days and they are less expensive than other diamonds of similar carat weight.

Carat weight is considered the most important of the Cs. Some people think that wearing diamonds with more carat weight is more impressive, and it might make a diamond look more dazzling in many instances, but with the princess cut it’s not really necessary to have a diamond of more than one carat for it to look exquisite, and even less than a carat is beautiful if the color and clarity of the gemstone are good. This is important for your budget considerations, since more carat weight raises the price of a diamond.

If you’re going to try to get a princess cut diamond engagement ring, find a jeweler that has many different rings for you to choose from. You could also look for a loose princess cut diamond and then find a jeweler who will set it for you. Remember to first know your budget before you go shopping so that you don’t overspend. Do your research ahead of time to see what you can afford in a princess cut diamond ring. If you get a loose stone and have it set, stick with a white gold or platinum band.

A princess cut diamond engagement ring is a beautiful way to show your future bride how much you love her. If you want to surprise here, just be certain that you know her tastes in diamonds and jewelry first!

Sapphires Can Be Your Best Friend

May 23, 2009

The diamond engagement ring is the tour de force of engagement rings. However, the second hardest gemstone after the diamond is the sapphire. Sapphires are gemstones of surpassing beauty and durability–and they don’t cost nearly as much as diamonds. If you want a beautiful, lasting, elegant engagement ring but you are concerned that you can’t pay the price for a diamond, you may not need to look any further than to sapphire engagement rings.

Sapphires are, in fact, the largest selling of all gemstones in the United States. Sapphires are commonly thought of as being blue, but not all of them are this color. As a matter of fact, blue sapphires are “royal gems” because they are even more rare than diamonds. Large carat sapphires are even more rare. Blue sapphires come in a range of shades from light to deep blue. It all depends on the amount of titanium contained within the particular stone. If a sapphire contains too much titanium, however, it will actually appear as nearly black and won’t be as attractive or valuable. Most blue sapphires come from Madagascar, Burma, and Sri Lanka. Burmese sapphires are brilliant in hue and more expensive than the average sapphire. But the blue sapphires of Kashmir are the most expensive and coveted, because they have been relatively rare there for the last 100 years.

Other sapphire colors include purple, pink, brown, black, “clear”, and “rainbow hue”. If you have decided to look into a sapphire engagement ring, there are some steps to take to find the best.

First decided what your budget is. If you have a larger budget you might want to get a sapphire of two to three carats. If you want plenty of brilliance and clarity but don’t have a large budget, consider synthetic sapphires or those of lesser carat weight. Remember that sapphires are denser than diamonds, so a carat weight of sapphire weighs more than a diamond of the same carat count.

Next, what shape do you want? The shapes for sapphires include: heart shape; triangle; oval; pear; princess cut; cushion cut; marquise cut; emerald cut; baguette; and channel set. Look into these before you decide what you want.

When you start looking over sapphires, don’t take any that have low clarity, poor symmetry, surface flaws, irregular shapes, or uneven facets. These won’t be worth enough and will be worth less than you are made to pay for them. Much sapphire stone cutting is done by relatively unskilled laborers. The attention given to cutting diamonds is not always given to cutting sapphires.

The best way to select sapphires may be the Internet. Look for stones that fall within your price range that are around the size you want. In that context, choose the best color and clarity. You can also go to local jewelry stores to see how these objects look in person.

Sapphires are the perfect gemstone for those who have the taste for beauty and class and a “royal” look but don’t have the diamond budget.

The Beauty of Antique Diamond Rings

May 17, 2009

Imagine if you could own an antique diamond ring. Many would question this and ask what all the fuss is. To some a ring is just a ring, but to many others it is so much more. Today diamonds are cut and crafted by machine, but many years ago these precious stones were hand-crafted and mass production of these gemstone rings was not available. These jewelers were considered artists.

When purchasing a piece from the Edwardian, Victorian and Georgian era, you can rest assured that you are not only purchasing a ring but you are purchasing a piece of history.

Today many of the antique diamond rings, especially those from the Edwardian era, have been remade. Platinum is the metal of choice, mainly because it is a stronger metal and also because it possesses much finer settings that enables the jeweler to perform much more intricate work.

Antique diamond rings are purchased mainly for engagements and weddings. The reason for this is that the occasions are unique and special, which complements the rings to perfection. Purchasing antique rings for these occasions is great, but it is not an easy task finding the right one.

Firstly, you need to do research, and many find that the internet is a great place to start. This way you are able to gather the required information on the type of ring you are looking for. Another great source of information could be found in books at your local library, or even visiting jewelers and jewelry experts.

Once you have sufficient information on antique diamond rings, it will make it much easier for you to walk into a jewelry store and recognize an antique piece – where before you knew too little or nothing at all about antique diamond rings.

The next important thing on the list is telling whether the ring is authentic, and the best way to do this is to have a professional appraise the piece. What should be noted is that antique diamond rings should at least be a century old and belong to either one of the following historical periods: Georgian, Edwardian, Victorian, Art Deco and Art Nouveau. The professional will also be able to substantiate the price of the stones, which are embedded in the piece.

Find out exactly what year the piece was authenticated, and this can be done by checking the certificate. As a customer you can insist on a certificate from a Gemological Institute in your country.

Compare your certificate with your ring, and do this with utmost care. Make sure you have all the documents, the authenticity certificate, the receipt, the appraisal certificate, and so forth. In this case more is better.

Make sure you purchase from a reputable and large outlet, because there you will find a huge variety and also the possibility of your getting scammed is reduced.

Shop around and take your time. Think about the style and the type of antique diamond ring you are interested in. Browse the internet or browse through books and get an idea of your choices.

Dolce and Gabbana Watches – A World of Sensations, Traditions, Culture and Mediterranean Nature

May 8, 2009

Dolce and Gabbana Watches are a part of the designer collection and world of Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, who have made a trademark from their surnames throughout the world. These two designers have made a flag of their Italian character, and interpreted and imposed their sensual and unique style on a world-wide basis.

Hollywood stars like Madonna, Isabella Rossellini and Angelina Jolie are among their clients. When looking at their collections of designer fashions and accessories, you can easily see the world-wide appeal, and it’s no wonder they are seen on so many model runways. They have an elegant and eccentric style all their own.

The D & G style may involve a woman dressed in very high heels, extremely sexy bras that can be seen under sheer clothes, or contrasted with a very masculine pinstripe suit. No wonder Dolce and Gabbana watches come in a number of styles and go under different model names. They are a collection in a design movement that fits the taste and style of these two modern designers, with a watch that will fit every personality and fashion sense.

They have won International Awards for different lines in their collection, and have won International Designers of the Year on numerous occasions in different categories. Since bursting onto the world designer scene in the early 1990’s, they have maintained a reputation for leading the direction of the fashion world.

Dolce and Gabbana watches come in a variety of styles with names like Estelle, Nikki, Highlander, Promenade, Rugby, Scotch and Sir D & G, just to name a few. All of them are unique designer quality watches that have their own identity. There are many different models to choose from. The watch bands are as unique as the faces themselves, making each watch a unique and beautiful timepiece that has a jewelry quality about it.

D & G or Dolce and Gabbana watches start at slightly over $100 and range up to $400 on the average. They are considered fashion watches that convey a message of elegant eccentricity with eye-catching looks, and they come in men, women’s and unisex models. With bracelet bands, woven mesh gold bands, metal link bands or leather bands, they each have a rich quality about them.

There are a variety of face shapes, and they come in silver, stainless and gold-tones, primarily, but there are also black and different colors. Most of the collection is typified with D & G across the watch-face, and may have crystals, bezel and jeweled decoration. You can tell you are looking at a fine Italian designed watch that screams fashion and class when you see them.

They are an upper class designer item, with a middle class price tag, but make no mistake about it- they are a fashion investment that have stardom qualities about them. No wonder the Hollywood crowd is among the adoring fans of this designer collection that not only includes watches, but also men’s wear, footwear, jewelry and of course, women’s accessories. Dolce and Gabbana watches are a must for the fashion conscious!

Relic Watches and Finding Them Online

April 19, 2009

It is no secret that Relic watches remain some of the finest men’s and women’s watches on the consumer market. These watches have long since established themselves as top brands that provide a quality design with a very unique look. This is a solid mix because a reliable watch that is also stylish is a nice mix. And, no, you really should not look for one without the other.

That is, in terms of reliability, the production of the watches is top notch. Many Relic watches are made with a stainless steel bracelet. That means the watches will not be prone to easily damaging. This allows a person to wear the watch in a variety of environments. Granted, there will be some limitations (You probably wouldn’t want to go on an outdoors excursion with an elegant watch) but the stainless steel design will protect the watch from a variety of common hazards. Then, there is an added benefit that stainless steel presents: it allows the watch to embody a shiny, appealing look. This adds to the visual display making these watches incredibly appealing.

And speaking of visual displays, the artistry that goes into the crafting of these watches is among the best a consumer could possibly ask for. Keep in mind, when you purchase Relic watches, you are not just doing so for the sake of being able to tell time. You are also doing it to add a little style and flair to your wardrobe. The brilliance of the craftsmanship in these watches definitely adds to displaying style and flair. That is another reason why they remain so popular. Actually, it is a reason why Relic watches will continue to be poplar for many more years to come.

In the past, it was not always easy to purchase Relic watches. Consumers were limited to what was available in stock at their local retail or jewelry store. Today, thanks to the internet, the ability to make such purchases has been enhanced. There are a number of ways consumers can purchase Relic watches online. The two most common are through an auction site or through a recognized distributor. While both methods have their value, purchasing through an official retail distributor has a number of additional benefits. Yes, you can get a lot of great deals through an auction site. However, a recognized distributor will also offer warranties, return policies, and provide a comprehensive customer service apparatus. That means if you have any problems with your order, it can be handled quickly and efficiently. And, in terms of finding a good deal on Relic watches, retail stores are always offering discounts and deals. Simply shop around and you will surely find an offer that is appealing to your budget.

Of course, you do not have to purchase Relic watches for yourself. These watches make fine gifts for all the reasons detailed herein. Once again, Relic watches embody a sturdy craftsmanship and amazing artistic design. That is why they are popular and that is why they are so highly recommended.

Relic Watches are available for purchase on eBay.

Preowned Rolex Watches Make a Great Investment

August 26, 2008

Preowned Rolex Watches Make a Great Investment

While Patek Philippe has been the vintage watch to watch, historically being one of the most expensive, Rolexes are climbing up the popularity scale quickly, sometimes fetching over 18 percent more when auctioned than originally bought for. Not only do they carry the reputation of being one of the most sought-after watches in the world, they are not as flashy as a new watch from Jacob the Jeweler and carry a sort of luxurious cool associated with them.

Vintage rolexes are a gentlemen’s watch, and became the first watch to be waterproof and airtight after a certain Englishman swam for over 15 hours with one on his wrist. They are known for their signature crown at the top of the dial. Speaking of dials, in order for a vintage watch to keep its value, the dial cannot be altered in any way, not even polished or they will lose up to half their value.

When looking for preowned Rolex watches, there are some things to be careful of. If buying over the internet and the price looks too good to be true, it probably is. Only deal with reputable dealers and always try to get recommendations from other collectors you know. Follow the steps to learn about preowned Rolex watches and how to spot a fake, so you keep your money in your pocket when looking at vintage Rolex watches for sale.

1.Rolex watches for sale with a clear backing so you can see the movement. There are very few preowned Rolex watches that actually have this feature, and these were made in the 1930s and are extremely rare. Steer clear from any of these, they are not real vintage Rolex watches.

2.Vintage Rolex watches for sale with engravings on the caseback. The caseback of most preowned Rolex watches will be smooth. The exception to this rule is the Sea-Dweller model, which says “Rolex Oyster Original Gas Escape Valve” in black along with two logos on it. A couple of ladies’ models may have some engraving, but stay away from any vintage Rolex watches for sale that have elaborate engraving on the caseback.

3.In all preowned Rolex watches, the date is magnified 2.5 times the original size. This means that it fills up the entire bubble. Some models use larger fonts on the date to make them appear that way, but it is still clear that these Rolex watches for sale are forgeries.

4.When looking at vintage Rolex watches for sale, pay attention to the little details. Fakes will have rough edges on bands, serial numbers that appear to have been scratched in the side, and be much lighter than a real Rolex. Genuine preowned Rolex watches weigh a lot more, and will not be rough at all. Be careful when looking at materials used to make the watch, as many high-end fake vintage Rolex watches for sale will use real gold parts and substitute glass for sapphire, which is almost identical and you cannot really tell the difference.

5.There are several other considerations, but most do not apply to preowned Rolex watches. Be sure that the movement of the watch is smooth and continuous. All Rolex watches for sale that contain jerky movements, especially in the second hand, are fakes. However, some of the high-end counterfeits may have smooth movements.


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