JewelSmith News Blog

Some new designs right out of the oven coming up!

2012-02-28T23:54:00.001-08:00

We have been busy designing and creating some new designs and they will be out very soon. They are in the process of manufacturing. One of the designs is a Japanese symbol, Palladium wedding band with side accent diamonds. Another is a multiple pearl drop contemporary designed yellow gold pendant.

There are more and I will be getting them done, taking pictures and showing them off on our blog.

The final pictures of our studio relocation

2012-02-22T00:25:00.001-08:00

It has been a long time since we took final pictures of our relocated and remodeled San Ramon Design Studio. I thought that it would be a great time to take pictures and get them off for all to see. The relocation has been great and it has been a year since the move. We have settled in very well and the crew loves the area and customers, as well as the new and old customers loving the new location. The old location was set back off the freeway about two miles and it was somewhat off the beaten trail. The new area gives us plently of space and allowed us to redecorate the studio, incorporating some new ideas.

Her are the pictures of the finished studio.

Enjoy...

An award winning design for one of our clients.

2012-02-21T18:10:00.002-08:00

This design had won a design award awhile back and I had showcased it in our studios. A customer fell in love with the design because she had a large black pearl that she wanted to use and thought that this design was perfect for her. This is the final on the design with her black pearl.

Enjoy...

A Valentine present from a saved citrine from long ago

2012-02-15T18:17:00.000-08:00

A gentleman came in and had a citrine that he saved for many, many years and wanted to create something very nice for his bride of one year. She loved contemporary, so we came up with a look that extended well and added some diamond accents for enhancing the center gemstone. He suggested to do it in yellow gold because she did not have much in yellow and thought it would be nice.

Enjoy...

2012-02-10T17:56:00.000-08:00

Family Jewelry for Him: Coat of Arms Medallions

Familial jewelry is worn as an expression of love for your family and pride in your ancestry. For ladies, there are many beautiful design options: mother’s rings, birthstone brooches, family tree pendants - the list goes on. For men however, conventional ladies designs just don’t cut-it. Men are typically rougher on their hands, so a ring of some sort may not fit the bill. My suggestion: consider a medallion. A medallion can be worn daily, conformably, and conspicuously or inconspicuously as you desire.

I was commissioned to create a “coat of arms pendant” for a client of mine from San Ramon. His intention was to create something for his son to wear as a reminder of his “old-world” Italian heritage. Upon inspection of the coat of arms sample image I was provided, I began to suspect that it needed updating in order to satisfy his son’s modern sense of style. The finished product was received with rave reviews, so much so, that a second medallion was ordered on the spot!

Blog entry and design by: Jonathan Harrison of JewelSmiths San Ramon

Some designs of past years...

2012-02-09T18:09:00.000-08:00

Thought I would post some of our older designs of past years...

Enjoy...

From Grandmother to Granddaughter

2012-02-09T14:09:00.000-08:00

It is always nice to see a very cherished family jewelry heirloom, handed over to an chosen family member so that the tradition will continue and be enjoyed for years to come. A woman came into our studio with her granddaughter to have a diamond three row anniversary ring inspected so that her granddaughter could wear it. The granddaughter was so excited and pleased to be the recipient. You could tell that both of them were very close. There was some wearing issues with the ring and she decided to have the ring repaired. She came in today to pick it up and it looked great all repaired and polished. Now that she is wearing it, she will always know that her grandmother is always with her.

Enjoy...

Just some design work we are getting out.

2012-02-08T23:25:00.000-08:00

Just chugging away...

Enjoy...

The repurposing of jewelry, the value of giving.

2012-02-08T23:06:00.000-08:00

It seems to be a phenomenon, that more and more individuals are passing along their cherishes items of sentimental jewelry to family members, special friends or other relatives. What is so cool about it all is that the giver really thinks about what they want to turn over and the recipient is incredibly surprised and honored about the gift. It takes more real thought to determine who would deserve or cherish an inherited item. We usually have the giver come into our studios to clean, polish and inspect and repair anything that needs to be done.

With the economy changing our attitudes towards value, friendship and lifestyles, it makes perfect sense to give the joy of yourself to someone important.

Someone was looking out for her.

2012-02-07T23:25:00.000-08:00

About eight years ago, I had a female customer come in to my studio straddling her grandson with her left hand, leaving her dominant hand free to pick up a repair she had left a week before. While I was talking to her, she was repositioning her grandson on her left hand and I noticed that her wedding ring had a diamond missing. Her ring was pretty impressive, with a two carat princess cut center and two flanking one carat princess side diamonds. As soon as I told her of her missing diamond - I was waiting for her to reply, "yea, I lost my diamond awhile ago". Unfortunately, that was not the reply that I got. Her face turned ash color and she said that she must have just lost it - she was looking at it during her previous errand, ten minutes before. I was able to keep her calm and proceeded to ask questions so that we could try to back track her steps. As I was discussing her lost diamond, I realized that the chances of her finding that diamond was slim to none, but we carried on. Her car was parked right out front of the studio and I decided to go outside to further my search. As she followed me, I decided to get closer to her car and out of the side of my eye I saw a glimmer. That quick ray of sunshine was her diamond - it had got caught on something and had fallen onto the street under her left front tire.

Well, I think that everyone reading this can assume that she was excited. Afterward, I told her that it would be best to set all three diamonds into new settings since they were 14k yellow gold and very worn (traditionally diamonds are set into white gold because of the security strength). She was all to happy to agree. All of this happened over eight years ago.

I was happy to see her...she came into the studio today to do some repairs, she has been an advocate for my studio for years and I thought it would be nice to recount the eight year old story through our blog site.

Enjoy...

Another design we did many years ago.

2012-02-01T18:48:00.000-08:00

This design was commissioned from a drawing and picture. She wanted to utilize a number of her stones and add where need be. It is a large piece, but she wears it very well and it shows and presents itself very well. The metal is yellow gold with diamond rounds and square cuts along with the center diamond. Also accenting her ring are the small ruby rounds that set off a nice red and white background.

Enjoy...

My little hole in the wall design area.

2012-02-01T18:09:00.000-08:00

I thought I would take a picture of my mad design area. Where all of the "big" ideas get tossed around (yea right). My area looks like a programmers cubical, but I like it. Most of my inspiration gets uncovered here. I have all of my tools located in one handy area and can see clients if I need to. If I told anyone how much I have put into my designing computer, they might pass out.

Enjoy...

Another Floral designed wedding ring

2012-01-28T17:52:00.000-08:00

Customer will be in next week to set her diamond into the new band. All of her diamonds are being utilized (the six smaller round diamonds set into the pedals and the center diamond). We satin brushed the pedals with a high polish side edge to give a nice contrast look.

Enjoy...

The results of the diamond emerald "S" designed pendant.

2012-01-28T14:14:00.000-08:00

Well the design was all the rave at her special event last Friday night. She didn't even have time to get her over coat off when everyone was surrounding her to look at the pendant. The pendant was attached to a thin omega necklace that sets off the pendant and places it front and center on her neck. She was sooo excited that she called me on Sunday to tell me the news. She is a wonderful lady and she definitely made a statement that evening.

Enjoy...

This design brings a very big smile to my face.

2012-01-26T13:22:00.000-08:00

My customer had saw a floral designed band that she loved and we sat down and added to it with the outside solid bands. We took her older diamond wedding set and removed the center diamond and the smaller accent diamonds. After we decided to include the small diamonds into the middle of the flower pedal, her husband secretly calls and asks if we could add more to the design. It was for an anniversary and he wanted to surprise her. I told him that an additional two to four pedals down the sides would complete the floral diamond motif on the band. He agreed and this is the end result.

Enjoy...

Nice to see one of rings back

2012-01-25T17:47:00.000-08:00

It is always a site to see one of our design rings come back for re polish or finish after a lone bout of wearing. This design won an eastern design award about five years ago, but it was a two tone design. This was created from the award design, but done in white metal.

Enjoy...

We hit a milestone!!!

2012-01-21T12:31:00.000-08:00

I am very excited to see that a milestone for us has been hit. We are now over 10000 unique visitors that have visited our blog site. It gives us a feeling of accomplishment to know that what we are doing is beneficial to others. I enjoy posting our projects and will continue to do so.

Thank you all for your continued interest.

Greg Stopka

A beautiful palladium ring setting to hold her family's diamond.

2012-01-17T18:10:00.000-08:00

Her center diamond was BIG. She had come in to discuss possible designs and she saw one of our designs and feel in love with it. The next day she brought her husband in and said that was the ring!!! He smiled and took out his credit card. The beauty of the ring is that the design can be viewed from all angles. There is something from every side and the center is balanced very well with the two smaller flanking diamonds.

Enjoy...

A Little of this and that...

2012-01-17T18:05:00.000-08:00

She wanted to use everything and I am always against trying to use a person's total collection. I do not like to "force" something to work. The design should always have flow and balance. This design has a lot working, but, it does flow and looks great on her two tone omega necklace. It is a slide that fits over chains and they look best on omegas because of the broad and full look. I liked the the design after it was put together and completed. It is when, after all the discussions, drawing and renderings, that the rubber meet the road when the creations is completed and displayed. It doesn't get any better than that.

Enjoy...

We have a new and unique way to design online!

2012-01-16T22:52:00.000-08:00

A very nice wedding anniversary present.

2012-01-13T17:53:00.000-08:00

This design was from stratch, meaning that she purchased the princess diamond and designed the two tone custom ring around it. It is a striking piece because it is created in four parts - the two outside 18k yellow gold, the inside palladium band and the palladium round decorative diamond tube element. It was made to fit like a glove and in real life it does. Each part was created, casted and polished and assembled to all come together for the center princess diamond. It is a show stopper.

Enjoy...

A little of the vintage with her three diamonds

2012-01-13T15:09:00.000-08:00

She wanted to keep the tradition going with her inherited diamonds in resetting them all into a "vintage" designed ring. The only change outside of the older look was that she wanted to use yellow gold instead of the old traditional platinum or white gold. I can not take complete credit on the design. The design was from another designer that allowed me to reconfigure it to accommodate the clients three diamonds.

Enjoy...

A traditional standard from sentimental treasures.

2012-01-12T18:20:00.000-08:00

This design was a great combination of a personal family collection and added diamond accents. The center pear cut diamond and the flanking trillions diamonds were from an older three stone diamond engagement ring. She had brought in a picture of a more modern three stone design and we started from there. Rather than using all prong settings, we introduced a diamond halo surrounding the center pear diamond and then bezel set both side trillion diamonds. For added accent we brought in small round diamonds set down both the sides of the shank of the ring. It was a great ring to design and she gets people that always asked about it.

Enjoy...

Using everything she had for this design!

2012-01-07T16:11:00.000-08:00

I love how everything can flow together incredibly well in many cases. This design is utilizing her diamonds from her wedding ring and a couple of other pieces. We did add extra diamonds to this, but the design flowed very well with what she had to work with. It is a complete transformation from her older wedding ring.Her husband picked it up today and said he was going to surprise her with it. He is sooo sneeky, isn't he?

Enjoy...

She put me to the challenge, but it was all worth it.

2012-01-06T00:20:00.000-08:00

A fantastic and elegant lady that has done another design with me decided to give herself a present for the holidays. She had some small emeralds and a large round diamond left from her dads estate and said lets do something. The three design rounds were great designs, but she wanted something that just spoke to her. She told me, "it can be better". I totally agreed because I was in hog heaven designing something that might just take someones breath away.

Enjoy...

A beauitful accent to a customer's jade.

2011-12-28T14:36:00.000-08:00

This design was centered around the larger oval jade and some smaller older cut diamonds. She wanted a more classical look so we brought in some lavender jade gemstones that are alternating with the small diamonds. The finishing look was to create a very classic scroll ring shank that brings everything together.

Enjoy...

Another swirl palladium design

2011-12-27T18:38:00.000-08:00

This is from the same clients as the pear diamond pass over ring. This was designed around a tanzanite oval and smaller round accent diamonds. Extra diamonds went down the sides of one side of the ring shank.

Enjoy...

One of my favorite designs

2011-12-27T15:53:00.000-08:00

I love this couple because they greatly appreciate my designing style and give me freedom to create around cherished diamonds and gemstones that they have. This design was from a collection of diamonds that she had from other rings. She loved the deep pass over style that this has so.... we designed the creation around her pear diamond. I have always loved this ring.

Enjoy...

A great looking bypass ring for the Holidays.

2011-12-24T13:55:00.000-08:00

She came in and wanted to design something that was her and wanted to use her special gemstones or diamonds. We settled on her diamonds and she has one diamond that is a little warmer than the others and she decided to use that diamond her a special purpose. This was her Christmas present.

Merry Christmas.

Enjoy...

An engagement ring to remember...

2011-12-23T20:05:00.000-08:00

This was a very special engagement ring because it represents the people that are important to her. The interplay of different gemstone color give this design a very unique and great look. The stones are as follows... pink sapphire, peridot and blue diamonds.

Enjoy...

A very special engagement.

2011-12-23T19:59:00.000-08:00

This diamond halo engagement ring started out last summer when my client came in to inquire about purchasing an engagement ring. He told me that he had a diamond and was considering purchasing two other diamonds to design a three stone diamond engagement ring. We both decided that the diamond that he had inherited was a beauty! We started out my making up a simple and elegant solitaire ring. After she received the ring, they both came in and decided on a great looking twelve diamond halo engagement ring. He came in to pick it up to make the Christmas a very merry one.

Enjoy...

Some of our Christmas rushes....

2011-12-23T19:52:00.001-08:00

A three stone diamond engagement ring

2011-12-23T15:06:00.000-08:00

A great looking wedding ring design.

2011-12-22T18:52:00.000-08:00

It was so refreshing to design in a style that I have always enjoyed - contemporary designing. Most of our creations are very traditional and classic looking. It was a pleasure to redesign her other wedding ring into this look. The center holds over a 2.50 carat marquise with flanking diamond trillions. The cross over ring design has over 70 plus small diamond accents all individually set into the shank.

It was a wonderful piece to create and she is going to have a Very Merry Christmas this year!!!

Enjoy...

Another service that seems to be popular.

2011-12-15T23:38:00.000-08:00

Some of our new services that we are adding to our website.

2011-12-13T00:02:00.000-08:00

I am a geek!

2011-12-12T23:58:00.000-08:00

I am a geek! I really don't mind being called one. I guess the correct description would be an older geek. At 57, I enjoy taking in all that I can understand about technology. There is one caveat - to much technology can be detrimental in many ways unless there is a healthy dose of staying human along the way. One of the reasons I enjoy writing on our blog is to stay in touch with people. Technology seems to separate our selves from the ability to stay in contact with humans. My job allows me to interact with people. I enjoy listening and having a conversation my clients. In that sense, Facebook, Twitter, Blogger all have kept me touch, even though I still spend a large portion of my time on computers.

I guess there are always two sides to every situation. I am grateful that I can still stay up with my son and daughter when it comes to computers and such. One of the greatest accomplishments has been how software has allowed me to design better. I have always been able to convey a design with pencil and paper, but I enjoy creating with the benefits that computer software has provided me. I saw a commercial the other day about this special software that enables you to speak your thoughts while the computer types out the words. I think that I will stay with my hunt and peck ability with a keyboard. To much tech might burn me out.

Enjoy...

Beauitful opal design.

2011-11-30T13:31:00.000-08:00

This was a very gratifying design to create. She had a beautiful opal in a wire setting that just wasn't enough to make the opal stand out. She has always like my design style and allowed me to be as creative as possible. I started with the wired design that the opal came out of. It had a wire wrap look over both sides of the opal, so I elaborated on the original design and created this great look. The opal is somewhat suspended between all four "straps" and then is tapered down to be worn comfortably. She loves it and I hope to create another design with a pearl or another opal.

Enjoy...

A very sentimental design created from her sentimental collection.

2011-11-30T00:18:00.000-08:00

She had always wanted to do something different and her husband was very much in favor of changing her orignal wedding set. Because she had collected many item of important jewelry over the years, she thought it was time to get something started. Her first idea came from a design piece that we had displayed in our counters. Upon discussing the design, she decided to go a little further and add some smaller diamond accents down both sides of the ring. She had the diamonds so why not???

Enjoy...

First came the engagement ring and then the extra wedding bands.

2011-11-30T00:10:00.000-08:00

This couple had visited me awhile back and wanted to design a Palladium five stone diamond engagement ring. It was a trellis design with a 1.00 carat center and 4 smaller accent round diamonds flanking the center. We had completed the design about a year ago when they came back in and wanted to add another two matching bands. The overall wedding set came out beautiful and it is all diamonds as far as the eye can see. We joined all three bands together so that the fit stays close and doesn't turn from side to side.

Enjoy...

A swirl design for some diamonds and garnets.

2011-11-26T17:19:00.000-08:00

A great design for a great lady! Her father had given her some very cherished diamonds from his own ring to be used for a redesign someday. She came in and wanted to do something in remembrance of all the memories she had with her family. She loved a little more of the contemporary, which was fine with me because I love contemporary. We started out with establishing all of her small and larger center diamond into a free flowing swirl design and then she decided to add some accent with the three small round garnets, which are a great contrast against the yellow gold, brushed textured application ring design. Its is a great design for a great gal.

Enjoy...

A beautiful design out of a little of this and that.

2011-11-22T23:08:00.000-08:00

Once again, we stretch the boundaries of imagination to take what once was a great collection of personal jewelry and add it all together. A side note, our client had purchased the two large diamonds from daughters that no longer were in need of them. The smaller side diamond accents that trail down the sides of the band were from a Tanzanite and diamond dome designed ring and the smaller diamond next to the larger ones was from a family engagement ring. The only gemstone that we added was a yellow sapphire. She loves the additional color that the yellow gives off. It was a stunning creation... her only problem is which finger and hand to were it on - the left or the right.

Enjoy...

Fun to play with color and diamonds

2011-11-22T16:48:00.000-08:00

These designs were great to recreate! The multi color multi band ring was challenging because of the two tone white and yellow that was assembled after it was casted in multiple pieces. My clients were just the greatest to work with because they allowed me to have some freedom with them. The multi gemstone and diamond band was from her collection of assorted items. The different colors work very well and reflect her personality. The other diamond cathedral band was very handsome and straight forward. She pulled diamonds from a family anniversary ring that included straight baguettes and round diamonds as well as the center larger round.

The first two (2) pictures are the sequence of a design render of the design and the secound is the finished results.

Enjoy...

What does it take to be a "Real" jewelry designer.

2011-11-21T13:40:00.000-08:00

I know I have written about this subject before and I got quite a number of personal replies back from it, however, I often read about individuals that think they can just start out by taking a drawing class and draw. Unfortunately, many newcomers often enter our field after taking a jewelry class an open shop. The real work is in the realistic ideals in turning a sketch into a piece of jewelry. Sounds easy, but it is not. Like a chef knowing how ingredients work together and blending them. A chef must practice for years to understand how to cook. That doesn't happen from looking at a cooking show or going to a culinary academy. Jewelry designing is about relationships, precious metals, gemstones, balance, inspiration and a never ending appreciation of all things beautiful. On top of that they must understand how it is put together as well as how it might need to be repaired or serviced over time. Designers are constantly aware of their surroundings and work to apply what they see into what they can create. When a designer works with a client, the relationship is one that warrants respect and negotiation on both sides. Why is this so important? The exchange of ideas that comes from both parties are crucial, but and understanding of how all of it is put together is much more important. Just because a "WOW" idea feels good as a concept, doesn't mean it is applicable to the actual finished design. There is a healthy tug of war that is exchanged and a better understanding comes from that.

As a suggestion for anyone considering custom, it might be a good bet to visit with a designer and talk to them about anything other than jewelry. Getting a feel of how a person responds to an ordinary conversation will tell a lot. Also, looking at a "in progress" portfolio of designs that have been done over the years. The proof is if they present a portfolio that they have done personally and not from an outside sub-contracted goldsmith.

So the next time you hear from an individual that says they want to be a designer, ask them how it's cookin;))

Enjoy...

It's funny how the more technology we have the simpler we become.

2011-11-18T15:43:00.000-08:00

Over the years I have always analyzed how technology would increase our ability to design better, create and manufacture easier. It does work that way, however, in many ways, it's seems that we all respond to simpler data when conveying or communicating a concept. Why design something that is basically simple and elegant on a designing computer when a regular piece of scratch paper and a pencil will suffice? I have finally come to understand that less is actually more. Most elegant creations are found by a simple wisp of a pencil or slight glance at a shape from an object, (such as outline from a human body) to capture the essence for the initial idea. I have thought about all the designs that I have done and how they were thought up... most of them were from taking something from my surroundings and not a high tech computer.

I will still use my designing computer to design, but my thought process will be more organic from now on.

Enjoy...

Another progression series of a diamond contemporary ring

2011-11-15T18:22:00.000-08:00

This design is a open mouthed cross over shank diamond accented design in which the center large marquise and side trillion diamonds will be added after everything is done and set. I will show a series of progression steps that will show start to finish designing. The design is to be done in platinum.

Stay tuned...

A fun piece to create.

2011-11-15T17:17:00.000-08:00

This was a great design to create. On top of that, my client was also a designer in her own right and we had a great time coming up with designing around an assortment of diamonds from a tennis bracelet and two larger tanzanites. One came from her husband a number of years back and the other was acquired because she like it. This design just looks stunning on a chain and she has already gotten many complements on how it shows off so well.

Enjoy...

Sitting here just pondering....

2011-11-10T21:01:00.000-08:00

I am sitting (which I don't do a lot) thinking about how Christmas will be and trying to get ready. We are busy with individuals that want customization in their lives. It is sooo enjoyable to see the excitment in a client's eyes because they are happy about their design and the way it all came out. Jewelry, from what I have learned over the years, is all about memories and the "life story" behind it. Something triggers a person to inquire about a special moment in their life that needs to be captured. I think that is the reason I love this job so much.

Greg

Its time for another Design of the Week

2011-11-07T21:45:00.000-08:00

Every week we try to post another design that is up for voting on our JewelSmiths website. Check it out and tell us what you think.

Enjoy...

Its time for the reveal....

2011-11-02T10:17:00.000-07:00

Well, here is the actual design finished and ready to be picked up by the customer. Once again, the design is done in Palladium white metal with a center emerald cut red spinel, yellow trillion cut sapphires and round diamond accents surrounding both sides of the ring.

Enjoy...

Our new Design of the Week on our website

2011-11-02T00:44:00.000-07:00

We have just implemented a new fun contest on our website... We will produce a design every week that we would like to show and have visitors vote on it. At the end of each month, we will bring back all designs for the month and have a voting for the winner! Each month will be a new round of voting for four new creations. At the end of three (3) months we will have a grand voting for the best overall design during the three (3) month period. The winning design will be posted on our website and blog with all of the individual replies associated with it. We will not post any personal information, such names, emails or addresses.

The event has started and you can visit the first design at www.jewelsmiths.com Go to the home page and click on "Design of the Week". The design is a platinum and green gold tsavorite and diamond accent swirl fashion ring. I could post the design here, but that would take away all of the excitement.

Enjoy...

Not ready for the complete reveal...

2011-11-01T22:41:00.000-07:00

A client of ours recently had us design around some yellow sapphires, diamonds and a emerald cut red spinel. The challenging part was trying to use all of her provided gemstones and diamonds. After some revisions, we finally decided on a beautiful bypass design that centered the red spinel around the sapphires and diamonds. Now for the best part... attached is one of the renderings that we presented to our client during the initial designing phase. This image is very close to what the real design looks like and we will unveil the stunning creation in our next posting.

Stay tuned...

Red spinels look just like fine rubies

2011-10-28T18:19:00.000-07:00

A client of mine came in to do a jewelry design makeover with some tapered baguettes and a beautiful red spinel. The red is bright red like that of a ruby and the color is intense. The tapered baguettes were fun to design around (they came out of an older yellow gold wedding ring) and we decided to set them face to face with prongs in side a channel wall. The design is simple and elegant.

Enjoy...

New Wedding Band Styles

2011-10-28T00:05:00.000-07:00

Well, its that time again where I sit down and start to discover what is new and stylish in today's jewelry bridal wedding bands. Here is a small collection of new bands right out of the oven!!!

Enjoy...

JewelSmiths is going Hollywood... on designing!

2011-10-20T01:32:00.000-07:00

Since we have finally gotten our website up and running, we thought that it would be a great time to incorporate some videos and show how we do what we do. They videos are about actual designing that we are doing everyday in our studios. Its great fun to show others the behind the scenes progression of what goes into designing, repairing, enhancing or restoring from personal collections. This is a continuing series and we will continue to add more and more videos as soon as we get them done. So sit back and grab some popcorn and a soda.

Enjoy...

The redesign process

2011-10-19T18:59:00.000-07:00

Its not all easy to design and then create the final design. There is a lot of background work that needs to be done to complete the final creation. These photos are a peek of the creating process that goes into all of our designs.

Enjoy...

Original ring

The designing process

Designers & Goldsmiths working together

The old & new side by side

The finished creation

From an assortment of diamonds and sapphires

2011-10-19T13:32:00.000-07:00

It is always fun to create a design from what clients bring in to utilize. This client wanted to create a pendant slide and ring with her sapphires and diamonds. She had many stones to work with and we took the gemstones and diamonds that were going to work the best in both designs. The pendant slide also acts like a pendant enhancer so that she can not only wear it on different chains but also between pearls and beads on necklaces. Both of her designs are just beautiful.

Enjoy...

We launched our new website !!!

2011-10-12T17:03:00.000-07:00

Already-then, we finally launched our new JewelSmiths website. We are still doing some fixes here and there, but it is a site that will enable us to introduce our "live" online designing program as well as our in store studio designing. Our galleries are getting populated with more designs and should have many different design styles to show. The site address is http://www.jewelsmiths.com/

Enjoy...

A great setting for an inherited center diamond.

2011-10-07T13:17:00.000-07:00

This was a neat design to work on. She was adamant to use all of the diamonds and metal (platinum) into her new engagement ring. The center stone was an older European cut diamond, it had a little warm color in the stone but surfaced well and looks great in the new setting. All of the floral motif designing was special to her and all of the smaller diamonds came from a collection of rings and things she acquired over the years. There is something to be said about recycling jewelry into unique one-of-a-kind personal jewelry.

BTW, the diamond center was from her grandmother.

Enjoy...

Our almost new website!!!

2011-10-06T23:45:00.000-07:00

I have to say that I have been neglecting my posting duties here on our JewelSmiths Blog, but has been for an important reason. We are putting finishing touches on our new website. It is not launched yet, but will be by next week. We are trying to finish make sure all of the new features are bullet proof and functioning. Some of the new features are lots and lots of new designs, categorized by style, such as Bridal, Modern, Classic, Contemporary... Also we are introducing our new "live" online designing system. There will be two ways to design with us - in studio and online designing. Our blog will be attached to the new website as well as a new concept of jewelry designing - a private site that will have all of our collections, diamond listings for purchasing and selling your no longer worn diamonds. The private site will also include complete design catalogs, design forms and even a virtual "Design Try On" to get a better perspective of what a new creation will look like before its physically created. We will also have EBooks on Jewelry Designing that can be sent out to all interested individuals. Unfortunately this private site is for clients that are interested in considering a restoration, restyle, redesign or a custom design. The designing presentation can either be done in one of our Bay Area studios or online, "live" in front of a designer.

We are pretty excited about it so stay tuned.

Greg

A mother's gift to her daughter

2011-10-06T23:16:00.000-07:00

This client had used us in the past for some small repairs and a redesign, however, she was very excited to call on me to setup an appointment to look over some jewelry she had. When she came in, she placed this two piece diamond wedding set in front of me and said, " Greg, I want to give this to my special daughter, she will appreciate it as I did when my mother gave it to me". I was very surprised, aside from some small restoration work, that it was in good condition after being in the family for 83 years. The wedding set was an elegant platinum diamond five stone diamond engagement ring with a matching seven (7) stone diamond wedding band.

Its nice to see how something so beautiful has held up all these years.

Enjoy...

My designer friend

2011-09-20T23:49:00.000-07:00

Everyone has a muse to some extent. A soulmate that connects with you to give you inspiration and support. I believe that there is something magical about having something to bounce off someone every now and then. He is a great one for that and he never asks for anything in return.............. except an occassion treat now and then.

He is thinking

He is still thinking...

Forget it, I am going to go to sleep.

A great design style for an engagement

2011-09-11T14:29:00.000-07:00

Cathedral mountings with tulip center settings are all the rage these days and you can see why. They have an elegant look from all sides. They look great with or without accents smaller diamonds. In this case, she wanted more diamond accents. Even though the couple are just getting engaged, they decided to make the wedding band attachment now instead of later. The possible dilemma might be if she can keep from trying it on and not wearing it before the wedding, which is a year and a half off.

Enjoy...

A very contemporary design.

2011-09-10T20:19:00.000-07:00

I had done a special design for this customer's mother a while back and she decided to use some of her mother's diamonds to create a very, very different design. She had many straight and tapered baguettes, along with some rounds and a beautiful emerald cut diamond center. We decided to channel her baguettes down all sides of her ring and it worked very well.

Enjoy...

A complete remake of her wedding ring

2011-09-06T18:04:00.000-07:00

Some of our best work is designing around inherited, sentimental or no longer worn jewelry collections that make better sense to redesign into something more favorable to the client. I have always felt that taking what a client has and working a design around it, takes more skill because you are limited to the gemstones or diamonds in front of you. It is more challenging, but more exciting to create from these situations.

The example design was from a collection of her engagement, wedding band and anniversary ring. She had plenty of small graduated accents and a couple of trillion diamonds with her large marquise center stone.

This is what we created....

Blue Star Surprise

2011-09-06T17:34:00.000-07:00

This gentleman always wanted a blue star and finally came in to pick out his gemstone. He wanted a two tone look and wanted the ring design somewhat substantial. We started the design to fit his pinkie finger and over the last minute changes, he decided to wear it on his right ring finger. It looks great on that finger and he couldn't agree more.

Enjoy...

A fleur-de-lis diamond cross created from the family collection

2011-08-26T19:12:00.000-07:00

This was fun! He wanted a fleur-de-lis pendant with diamonds and some of the diamonds were very special because it was from his family. The remembrance was important. He wanted the pendant to contain bits, parts and pieces of a family that meant a lot to him and his wife. He gets lots of complements and thought that it would be nice to add some extra diamonds in and around the top and bottom parts of the four extending pedals elements.

Enjoy...

A sketch to finish design waterfall gemstone ring

2011-08-18T00:20:00.000-07:00

I thought that it would be different to see how an idea comes to completion. It is done in fast forward mode (the finished design is already conpleted) however, it shows some aspects of how a simple rough sketch turns into a colorful gemstone ring.

Enjoy...

And now go get the popcorn and soda and watch how we do what we do!

The last of the Jewelry Designing tips....

2011-08-18T00:12:00.000-07:00

This is the third and last part of the designing tips and hints. My next list will be about jewelry repair and how to looks for and discuss jewelry repair with your jeweler.

Enjoy...

Design Tip 13. One of the most important aspects of a great design is planning. Planning allows you to control certain steps of the designing process. From the beginning to end, planning will allow you to stop or continue with the design at your pace, not theirs. If there is a problem with the process you can step back and work through the concern. Keeping the lines of communication open allows you to become comfortable with the design process every step of the way. Always remember, once a design is finished it is very difficult to alter.

Design Tip 14.
Another important step is locating a designer that can communicate with you on the design. This is very important because some designers like to design pieces they like, not what you like. A good designer can help you develop a design and consult with you on different settings or finishing techniques. It is very important that your designer has the ability to create using the fore mentioned steps. Without the basic concepts of designing you and your designer will develop a piece that belongs in mechanics illustrated, not on you. If you are in the early stages of designing give us a call or email us and one of our designers will answer any question you might have.

Design Tip 15.
As with any other technical profession, the designer that you select should have tools to aid in his/her presentation. These tools should be graphic, visual and come under two descriptions - manual and technical. The first relate to basic tools that help convey the design. Tools such as tweezers, display stones, measuring gauge, loop, colored pencils, drawing forms, waxes and mountings or pictures of mountings all help in bringing the idea to visual life. The second describes technical tools that require skill and imagination, this is a highly graphic designing computer. The computer allows the designer to put collective ideas onto a computer "canvas" and create the design, right in front of you. This technical innovation will become the standard for the future because it answers all of your designing concerns and draws up your finished piece in color.

Design Tip 16.
After the drawing is created and agreed on, the next step should be to design a "wax prototype" that can be put on to see if the design "fits" your design idea. This wax can be worn and gemstones can be displayed on it to give you a sense of proportion, balance and feel. The wax allows you to adjust, alter or change the design if you’re not in harmony with the design. It is much easier to change a wax than to change a piece of hard precious metal. Never allow a designer to complete your design until you have entered into this wax phase. Most designing problems are encountered at this stage of the game, so insist that you have a wax prototype made first.

Design Tip 17.
The setting of all gemstones will be the next most important area of concern. This phase must be communicated to you visually not verbally. Not all setting work is the same and only a highly skilled goldsmith should be commissioned to do this area of work. Have the designer show you pictures, portfolios or physical designs on how the setting finish will look. The setting of stones around mounting is what completes the design allowing balance, texture and depth to come together.

Design Tip 18.
I have a saying about beautiful jewelry, "jewelry designers create beautiful jewelry for the eye, but not the body". Many pieces of glorious jewelry is great to look at but will not wear well over prolong periods of time. In our centers we see attractive designer pieces that were purchased less than three months before and the item needs extensive repair work. Always think of the wear factor when selecting a design. Designs should include thicker or slightly heavier mountings, hinges or links. All areas should be substantial and settings should be heavier or made of platinum or white gold (both are harder than yellow gold).

Jewelry Desiging Helpful ideas cont.......

2011-08-13T16:39:00.000-07:00

More of the helpful tips on designing your jewelry...

Design Tip 7.
There are three elements that go into a great designer piece; first - center gemstone; second - the mounting design; thirdly - the accent gemstones or finishes. The center gemstone should be selected first so that all the other pieces can take shape. The mounting design should take the shape of the stone so that continuity and form is established. Thirdly, the accent of smaller gemstones or a finish around the mounting will tie everything together to create a special piece. The design process is very basic and once established then higher or advanced techniques can be added.

Design Tip 8.
The mounting should take on the shape of your center stone and your creative tastes. Look for shapes that fit with your center stone, setting your stone either in the center or off center of the mounting. Remember that center stones do not have to fit exactly in the center of a mounting to work. Off center balancing is done all the time with great results, just look at pieces in magazines or books. If your mounting fits both those categories you will have a great design.

Design Tip 9.
Accent stones or finishes should allow the center gemstone to radiate over the accent finish. This finish should not become too busy or cover a large portion of the ring as such overwhelming accent will drown out the center stone. Try to go for balance in percentages - 50% center stone; 30% mounting design; 20% accent finishes. Remember these percentages are estimates, be creative, take some risks but always go for balance.

Design Tip 10.
Color of precious metal is somewhat important because certain metal colors go better with certain gemstone colors. A good example is white or blue colored gemstones attain a better radiance in white metals verses yellow metals. This example is not always the case in all designs, in fact many designs are attaining great color combinations through different techniques. Before you start selecting, it's best to consult a professional designer on color combinations and techniques.

Design Tip 11.
Select a design style that fits your personality and tastes. Select a design that works with you, not against you. The piece should make a statement you can live with. If you are not into large swirling free form rings don't try to make it work. If you have a large or fancy cut gemstone, try to develop your personality around it. You can still develop a creative design, using the above methods in establishing your likes and dislikes. Don't force something to work just because you want to purchase a design. One design can be created a hundred different ways, so be patient an go for your particular balance.

Design Tip 12.
Presentation and balance is what you should achieve from a piece. Ask yourself some simple questions to see if you are heading down the right path. Do all the elements go together - center stone, mounting and accents? Does it balance with your finger, neck, ear or wrist? How does it "talk or show " to others looking at it? Do the colors balance between gemstone and metal? Do they compliment each other in the design?

Tips and helpful hints on Jewelry Designing

2011-08-12T12:08:00.000-07:00

I am listing these helpful tips on what to look for when considering a jewelry design. Most helpful ideas are limited to jewelry cleaning and repair, however, we have collected many suggestions over the years on what to look for in designing and thought it would be a great idea to list them here.

Enjoy...

Design Tip 1.
Try to keep your design idea to as few as possible. Too many designs or styles will only confuse your selection of a creative piece. Start out with a grouping of like- kind designs, such as nugget, free form, traditional etc... then start limiting them down to three basic designs.

Design Tip 2.
Always start with a major center gemstone first. The center attraction is the point where all attention is drawn. Whether it's a diamond or colored gemstone doesn't matter, just select the one major focal point that the eye will be drawn to.

Design Tip 3.
Never try to use two or more gemstones center pieces. The design will become too busy and will lose its purpose. Same size center stones will not compliment each other, but instead will make it difficult to establish balance. Select the stone that will bring out brilliance and balance and it will.

Design Tip 4.
Size and shape doesn't always matter although emerald cuts are somewhat difficult, but not impossible to design around. Usually a good rule of thumb is anything over .25 carat in rounds, marquise, pear and ovals are best for overall designing.

Design Tip 5.
I'm sure all of you have heard of the "KISS" method to everything. This method also applies to creative designs, "keeping it simple" will keep the design from becoming cluttered or busy. The less you set on your design the better. The mind's eye likes to seek out balance, so less is actually more.

Design Tip 6.
Before you start selecting a design, it's best to look for ideas through jewelry or fashion magazines, different jewelry stores, internet jewelry sites or any other avenue that can offer up ideas. Your ideas start from something already imbedded in your mind. Your ideas are a collection of experiences. Sights, sounds and colors all brought together can help you create a wonderful design. Be patient and start collecting ideas, all of our designers start their careers by looking at hundreds and hundreds of jewelry designing catalogs, this is how they build their creative ability.

A great add on for a very sentimental wedding set

2011-08-11T22:38:00.000-07:00

This was fun! This story is rich in emotion and sentiment. My client wanted to add on a diamond accented wedding band to give her center diamond more energy. The added diamonds were from her husband's family that were set into a ring. The center diamond was from her husbands mother that had pasted just two weeks before they were to be married. Sooooo the entire wedding set is full of family and emotion. The best part is that the additional diamonds were of very good quality and accented all the more up against her wedding set. I know this means so much to her and all can say is ENJOY IT VERY MUCH ;))

Her original Wedding Set

The rendered drawing showing the diamond band

The final Diamond Wedding Set

Creating a Beautiful Contemporary Pendant from an Inherited Diamond Broach!

2011-08-11T01:30:00.000-07:00

This was definitely a project that tested my will of tearing apart a beautifully created diamond broach to make another free form diamond pendant slide. But she pays my bills, so to speak, so her wish is my command...

Sit back and enjoy...

The JewelSmiths Story in video form

2011-08-10T02:48:00.000-07:00

I like videos soooo much more because they are more dramatic and vivid - plus you can add some great tunes as well! Here is a video that we just completed that gives a good, well rounded explanation of who we are.

Enjoy...

More of jewelry storage tips an hints

2011-08-08T23:45:00.000-07:00

Storage Tip 8.
If you plan to store watches, especially manual wind or automatics, it is a good idea to get in the habit of winding your watches every two weeks. The oils that lubricate the watch will dry up and attract dirt and moisture. If you are storing quartz movement watches, you should try to leave the watch running. Contrary to some who say disengage the battery, it is a better idea to leave the watch running so that it continues to keep accurate time.

Storage Tip 9.
Chains, especially fine chains, present a problem of tangling when not in use. A simple remedy is to fasten both ends and hang the chains either on a self made hanger, tie rack or a chain tree. This allows you to keep the chains from tangling with each other and also to keeps your individual chains from stretching or bending.

Storage Tip 10.
Always store your jewelry face up, not on its side or upside down. Bracelets, chains and necklaces can develop bends and kinks if they are not properly positioned. Earring posts or clips can bend and rings can wear if they are not secured to a display or insert. Ring, bracelet, pendant or earring presentation boxes work great because they are made for long term storage. Sometimes you can purchase old display boxes from garage sales, closeouts, auction houses or jewelry stores (I would tread lightly going to a jewelry store and asking for a display box).

Storage Tip 11.
Add a drop of glycerin or baby oil to delicate, fine jewelry. Apply a small amount of the solution to all parts of the gemstone and metal. This procedure will help keep moisture in the gemstone and the metal lubricated, preventing dust, dirt or tarnish in making it's way to working parts, joints or clasps that can break down over time. The idea of preventive maintenance is having your jewelry work with you, not against you. A lubricated piece of jewelry also keeps its luster, strength and beauty far longer than something thrown into a purse. Ever heard of Antique Jewelry? (a piece of jewelry that is over a 100 years old) How do you suppose it got that way.

Storage Tip 12.
If you do a lot of traveling and want to enjoy wearing it, there are a few basic supplies and rules for the road. First and foremost, invest in a professional leather/felt lined jewelry portfolio pouch. They are the size of a large manila folder or workbook and usually come in basic black. The leather pouch rolls open to contain multiple areas for storing. Rings, bracelets, chains, brooches, pendants and earrings can easily fit into a pouch, providing ample room for other precious items as well. Each area is designed for complete security and storage allowing snug fits for all sizes of jewelry items. The pouch rolls up tight so that it fits in most suitcases, makeup case, business attache or the inside pocket of your overcoat. Only a few companies manufacture these items, most of these leather portfolios are made for jewelry salespeople that sell, on the road, to other jewelry stores. If you would like more information on these items, email back and we will help you locate one.

Storage Tip 13.
If you do store your jewelry it's important to remind you of some simple and yet not fully recognized methods of jewelry storage. First, always plan your storage, storing your glittering valuables haphazardly will cause some possible damage. Itemize your jewelry on a piece of paper, creating units of storage. Try to think of jewelry storage as storing of large household items in an off site warehouse facility. You try to store in areas so that you can easily access, identify and retrieve your items instead of opening all to get to one particular item or items. This method allows you to keep jewelry organized and packed until you really need them. Second, always handle your items while wearing cotton gloves. You can leave an oily impression, usually a tarnished fingerprint, on jewelry after you have prepared them for storage, only to find out later that a ugly and tarnished impression was created when you take them out after a long hibernation. This imprint is very difficult to remove if left for a very long time.

Storage Tip 14.
Sterling silver is probably one of the softest precious metals around. It absorbs everything around it, becomes abraded, dented or scratched by touching something harder then it and wears very fast when worn. Most silver today has a fine layer of finish over it so that the elements can't do their harmful work. Unfortunately this layer can and will eventually wear off leaving you to handle as carefully as a newborn baby. When storing DON'T clean or polish with a heavy hand or with a lot of elbow grease. The overcoat will rub off. The best method for care is to apply a cleaner or clean very delicately then dab very, very, very dry. Brass is another metal that is very unpredictable.

Storage Tip 15.
Just like anything else, it is a very good idea to have all items for storage be checked and inspected for any possible problems or concerns. A jewelry inspection allows your jeweler an opportunity to professional clean and inspect wear areas that can lead to breakage, abrasion or god forbid a lost gemstone! Treat your jewelry like your health and it will take care of you - emotionally and financially.

Now for some jewelry storing tips and hints...

2011-08-07T21:05:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you just do not want to wear particular items within your jewelry wardrobe for awhile and a good idea would be to clean them and storage them professionally, so that they keep for the next time they are to be worn. These tips will help to understand how jewelry can be stored carefully and safely.

Storage Tip 1.
Keeping jewelry secure and contained can be as simple as using old, usable collectibles that are lying around the house. An old jewelry box, pouch, old purse, cloth diaper or even a old piece of rolled up felts works well to keep jewelry secure.

Storage Tip 2.
Did you know that certain jewelry boxes can actually do more harm than good to your precious pieces! Some jewelry boxes do not have "holding areas" to keep your jewelry from rolling, grinding or bumping into each other, so always separate your jewelry when storing.

Storage Tip 3.
The jewelry industry has developed new jewelry holders, pouches, professional leather portfolios and clutches that are portable and flexible for traveling. They also have secure holding areas, snaps and grooves to keep jewelry from dancing when your not! You can find these items at major department stores or if you are not having any luck, call us and we can ship one out to you. They vary in price and size- from $10 to $50.

Storage Tip 4.
Sometimes jewelry, either gold, costume or silver tarnishes went it is not worn. Silver grays or blackens while gold sometimes turns reddish brown. Gold does not tarnish, but the alloys in gold do. To keep the luster when storing, place silver (yes, silver) anti-tarnish strips wherever you store jewelry. This will create an environment that will absorb oxidants that discolor and tarnish jewelry.

Storage Tip 5.
Ever hear the story about someone that " took jewelry off in a public place, to clean their hands and face and forgot to put them back on, left, returned only to find their precious items were gone forever". It happens ALL THE TIME! Never remove your jewelry when you're at an unfamiliar place. Only remove your jewelry when you are going to store it, which is usually at home. Get in the habit of removing your jewelry only in front of your jewelry box. This is an important procedure preventing you from leaving or misplacing something valuable or sentimental.

Storage Tip 6.
Inventorying your jewelry is an excellent way to keep accurate records should anything happen to your precious pieces. A photograph and a written physical description (a jewelry appraisal would be great) detailing every piece and it's cost or value. This handy inventory list will become a valuable tool in case anything should happen. Most insurance companies will expedite a claim much faster when accurate records are submitted to them. Also, if you should want to replace your item, a jeweler can produce the lost item from the photograph much better than if you had to describe it to them.

Storage Tip 7.
If you plan to storage some of your jewelry for an extended amount of time, make sure that your living climate (weather) is not a moist or salty one. Corrosion can braise or destroy fine delicate items, even when protected by felts or tissues. If the climate is testy then make sure that your items are completely dry and clean, then secure them in felts or diapers with some anti-tarnish strips for good measure. After all that is completed, then put them into a jewelry box or container and wrap them into a baggie. If you have a freeze-dried machine, put the WRAPPED ITEMS into a freeze bag before procedure, then store as indicated above. If you are unsure about the procedure, please email or call us and we can talk you through it. It seem like a lot of work, but its better to be safe than extremely sorry.

Continuing jewelry cleaning tips and hints...

2011-08-07T20:15:00.000-07:00

Cleaning Tip 11.
When self cleaning jewelry always use this handy visual checklist first: check to see if there are any loose or damaged gemstones; cracked or broken metal; bent or warped prongs/tips; discolored or pitting metal. Sounds like lots to go through but jewelers have the same mental checklist when cleaning and inspecting.

Cleaning Tip 12.
Always use warm not HOT water. Cleaning agents can be absorbed and react to very hot water causing a jewelry to discolor. Sterling silver is especially sensitive to hot water and can discolor in a heartbeat. Fires or smoke damage can cause jewelry to discolor. Many customers come into our centers, distraught over the discoloration of their jewelry. Not to worry though - a careful polishing ( a buffing machine ) or a special jewelry tarnish remover can zap it back to life. Call us or come in and we will help or direct you the best way possible.

Cleaning Tip 13.
Never clean any jewelry that is badly damaged, abrasive, cracked or broken. As with any other item broken our badly scratched items can exacerbate or worsen the problem. Also, if you see that your items are damaged while you are wearing them it only makes sense to remove and have them looked. You know the old saying, " an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure".

Cleaning Tip 14.
Just like anything else, it is a very good idea to have all items for cleaning be checked and inspected for any possible problems or concerns. A jewelry inspection allows your jeweler an opportunity to professionally clean and inspect wear areas that can lead to breakage, abrasion or god forbid a lost gemstone! Treat your jewelry like your health and it will take care of you - emotionally and financially.

Cleaning Tip 15.
When using a polishing cloth try to stay away the gemstones unless they are the major colors of the flag - red (ruby) white (diamond) blue (sapphire). Some gemstones can have their facets/angles polished off or rubbed out by hard polishing. One good example is Tanzanite, any polishing on the gemstone can rub out or dull its brilliance.

More of the cleaning tips and hints.....

2011-08-06T17:13:00.000-07:00

Cleaning Tip 6.
Polish silver or gold with a jewelry polishing cloth for best results. You can use a svelte or an old diaper, but the professional cloths are the best. Use of tissue or paper towels can cause scratches because of fibers in these products.

Cleaning Tip 7.
An old toothbrush is probably one of the oldest cleaning tricks in the book. Make sure that you use an old, soft bristle brush, because the hard bristle can loosen gemstones from their settings. Lightly brush at hard to reach areas with the brush while frequently applying cleaning solution. Never use the brush to remove caked on dirt or grime because sometimes the dirt is holding the gemstone into place, especially if the setting is worn or weak. Old toothbrushes are also great for cleaning watchbands, but remember to stay away from the watch case/movement, as it will develop rust - a killer of quartz or mechanical movements.

Cleaning Tip 8.
Be careful of cleaning or polishing hollow or tubular jewelry. Their thickness is very thin and unstable for polishing. Be very careful when rubbing cleaning or polishing solutions into them because the slightest pressure can dent or collapse the metal.

Cleaning Tip 9.
Many gemstones are enhanced with other substances and they have to be handled with care. It's best to read all cleaning solution labels before cleaning, also use care when directly cleaning gemstones. Cleaning solutions will lose power over time and must be repurchased. If unsure about witch solutions to use, contact us or your local jeweler and they will be able to walk you through it.

Cleaning Tip 10.
Be careful of cleaning costume, fake or vermeil, as it's very sensitive to any cleaning solutions. Costume or vermeil jewelry is a base metal (base or silver) with a gold layer over or absorbed into it. This layer is not made for abrasive cleaning or prolonged wear. These pieces are only for show or special occasions and should be slightly cleaned and carefully put away.

The results to the princess engagement and matching wedding band

2011-08-03T22:48:00.000-07:00

The final design picture from the posting of " An Anniversary with a Great Story".

Enjoy...

Some great tips of cleaning your jewelry from people that do it all the time

2011-08-02T23:00:00.000-07:00

Jewelry Cleaning Tips

Cleaning Tip 1.
Remove all jewelry before showering or cleaning. Soap can cause a film to form, making it appear dull and dingy. By preventing the formation of this film you immediately reduce the occasions of servicing.

Cleaning Tip 2.
To clean your jewelry at home, there are many available commercial cleaners that can be purchased at jewelry stores. If your would rather make and mix your own cleaner, drop us a email and we will give you instructions. The trick to solution cleaning is to soak the jewelry for as long as possible. This will loosen any built up material that is trapped in and around the piece. Always remember to read the instructions on the commercial cleaners before you attempt cleaning.

Cleaning Tip 3.
For certain jewelry, an ultrasonic vibrating cleaner may be appropriate, but always read the instructions first. Ultrasonic vibrating machines can loosen or damage precious gemstones while cleaning the jewelry, so be careful. If you have questions, please give us a call. Also never ultrasonic different metals at the same time, silver can tarnish gold if cleaned together.

Cleaning Tip 4.
Having a hard time removing grease, grime, paint or any other substance? Try using plain rubbing alcohol, soak then clean normally should do the trick.

Cleaning Tip 5.
Never, never, clean your jewelry in bleach! This solution will literally destroy your jewelry. Bleach will react to the metal, causing it to become very brittle. If you must emergency clean, use soap and water.

Enjoy, more to come...

An anniversary with a great story!

2011-08-02T22:47:00.000-07:00

One of the special moments for me as a designer, is to hear some of the stories that I come across while creating a special piece of jewelry. They are always very special and endearing, however, this story was indeed very special...

This romantic couple were celebrating their seventh wedding anniversary (which by the way was going to be a month long) and they decided to come to me to create a diamond matching wedding band to match their engagement ring. They came in to pick it up when we started to talk about how they got together. Before they were married, they were both single and had daugthers that attended the same high school together. These two daughters became good friends and started to talk about their parents. Well, one thing led to another, and after they learned about each other's situation, they conspired to get the their parents together. Well, that was many years ago and now they are the perfect couple. I think the daughters should reconsider a career in matchmaking. They have a great track record going.

This design was created from the picture below of a princess center and accent three stone diamond engagement ring. In tomorrow's posting I will showcase the finished results of the matching diamond band.

Enjoy...

Enhancing a free form diamond wedding set

2011-07-29T01:42:00.000-07:00

We are excited because we have merged two technologies to bring the complete viewing experience in virtual designing and enhancement. We will be bringing more exciting designing projects to our blog for your viewing pleasure. soooo sit back, grab your popcorn and soda and be ready to experience the full designing experience.

Enjoy...

Our new engagement collection video series #1

2011-07-26T23:27:00.000-07:00

This is a short video on some of our new engagement ring designs that will be out later this year...

Enjoy...

Our continuing series updates of jewelry tips and hints...

2011-07-26T23:16:00.000-07:00

Here are the ending list of storage tips and hints... we will continue with the repair, design and cleaning tips for future postings.

Enjoy...

Storage Tip 12.
If you do a lot of traveling and want to enjoy wearing it, there are a few basic supplies and rules for the road. First and foremost, invest in a professional leather/felt lined jewelry portfolio pouch. They are the size of a large manila folder or workbook and usually come in basic black. The leather pouch rolls open to contain multiple areas for storing. Rings, bracelets, chains, brooches, pendants and earrings can easily fit into a pouch, providing ample room for other precious items as well. Each area is designed for complete security and storage allowing snug fits for all sizes of jewelry items. The pouch rolls up tight so that it fits in most suitcases, makeup case, business attache or the inside pocket of your overcoat. Only a few companies manufacture these items, most of these leathered portfolios are made for jewelry salespeople that sell, on the road, to other jewelry stores. If you would like more information on these items, email back and we will help you locate one.

Storing your jewelry - tips and hints

2011-07-25T23:14:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be a great idea to give jewelry information that pertains not only to jewelry manufacturing, but also on tips and hints of cleaning, repairing, designing and storing. Over the years of servicing the local community, I have come across many ways and methods of tackling the jewelry issues that always arise. Over the next few days, I will post many tips and hints on how to really address the important issues of keeping your jewelry just as important as the day you received or purchased them.

Engagement rings are becoming a couple event.

2011-07-25T18:18:00.000-07:00

Posted May 24, 2011 | By Sonia Nair

Designer James Temelli said he believed it was Temelli Jewellery’s attention to detail, personalised approach and unique designs that resonated with brides. Close one-on-one relationships with clients are an important aspect of Temelli Jewellery’s business.

“We make a lot of custom-designed and handcrafted rings, specifically to customer specifications,” Temelli said. However, Temelli said he had started to create plain or diamond-band dress rings as initial engagement rings in response to escalating demand for joint-design engagement rings.

“Some men are starting to propose with a diamond-set band, which is then used as a dress ring. If a man wants to surprise his future wife, and is not exactly sure what kind of setting or shape diamond she would like, this is a great way to maintain the surprise element and make sure she loves her engagement ring,” Temelli said.

Couples then come in after the proposal to look at engagement ring designs together.

“Considering an engagement ring is a piece of jewellery that will be worn for a lifetime, the importance of having a design that everyone’s happy with is important,” Temelli said.

“The process gives the bride the chance to try different options, find a style she really likes and create something with her partner that will uniquely represent their relationship,” he explained, adding that the process was no more expensive for the consumer than buying a ready-made ring.

Despite the Global Financial Crisis, Temelli revealed that he had not seen any drop in consumer spending on engagement rings: “It seems love has no financial barriers – the average amount spent on engagement rings has remained unchanged during the past five years.”

The new virtual way to design or repair jewelry without physcially touching it.

2011-07-24T18:02:00.000-07:00

Being a jeweler, I understand the challenging times we face. That is why we are doing so much more in the recreation, enhancing or repair of customer's jewelry right now. It is sooo much more enjoyable
to enhance or repair a sentimental or cherished article of jewelry. It is personal and less expensive then to purchase new during these times.

One of the new ways that enables us to change or alter jewelry, is to take a picture and pretend to create something different without really touching the actual item. We can go into the future to present what something might look like if there was a need or desire to repair, enhance or redesign. This short video just shows the new methods that technology can provide to a picture of a ring.

Enjoy...

The finishing results of our recent posting of the watermelon tourmaline ring

2011-07-21T17:41:00.000-07:00

Well the design is completed and it looks great. The center tourmaline warmed up very well against the 18k yellow gold setting and the diamonds give it just enough accent on both sides. She told me when she picked it up today that the tourmaline was just sitting in her jewelry box collecting dust. I really love the way the ring came together and how the sides of the shank are concave in design. She had thought about making the shank part of the ring more rounded and full, but after seeing the two designs, she went back to the original creation. I think it was the best choice.

Enjoy...

A great looking pendant for some good looking opals

2011-07-21T17:35:00.000-07:00

This customer had some great looking opals that she wanted to design for. She wanted something very flowing, so we created a cross over sculptural slide pendant with accented diamonds set along one side of the tail. The pendant is also set with an enhancer clip bail that allows for easy installation on larger chains and bead or pearl necklaces.

Enjoy...

Video Presentation of enhancing wedding ring

2011-07-21T00:08:00.000-07:00

The continuing series of repairing, restoring and redesigning sentimental jewelry.

A collection of memories...

2011-07-20T11:11:00.000-07:00

She had many, many stories to tell about her collection of gemstones and all of them brought a smile to her face. One was from her mother-in-law, one from her mother and the rest from her husband. She wanted to put them all together to think of them all in one designed ring. She choose a broad free form style to accommodate all of the shapes and sizes of the gemstones. It was created in silver to keep the cost down, but we added substantial weight to the design so that it would be very wearable over time.

Enjoy...

Our new series of audio and video series about repair, restore, design.

2011-07-19T00:47:00.000-07:00

Its always better to give anyone the whole nine yards when it comes to informational presentations. They are so much more exciting, inspiring and rich in view and content. I have always been a person that was able to grasp a concept when I was shown how something was done, instead of having to read it and understand it. We will produce a series of videos that will take a look into our world of what we go through to communicate and complete individual needs and desires of our customers. It kind of like a new series that I would like to call "American Jeweler". The only thing that is different is that we don't work on motorcycles (a reference to the American Chopper's fame).

I hope you all enjoy them...

A video restyling progression of a customer's wedding ring

2011-07-17T00:16:00.000-07:00

This video is only a computer generated process of an actual customer's wedding ring. She wanted to visualize and get some ideas of adding more to her wedding set. Since the wedding set is her original, she did not want to completely start over and redesign it. Her thought was to enhance it so that she could re-enjoy it and the memories involved. The computer process enabled her to consider options that she would not have had before. It clearly showcased the repair progression and the addition of the white gold matching shadow bands that give her ring a great two color accent appeal. She has not made up her mind yet, but it gives her a lot more information to make a comfortable decision.

enjoy...

Taking a Wedding Ring and enhancing it.

2011-07-13T00:42:00.000-07:00

I can draw, but do I need to now-a-days? Drawing is the natural process to convey an idea, however, the vivid capture of color, shape and perspective to get a better idea what something will look like when it is done is the game changer!!! Just think... viewing something that can be done before its started, virtually eliminating any risk. I know that when I am considering something conceptual, I need to visualize it, to understand it.

In today's world, many individuals are adding touches to their most prized possession... their engagement or wedding rings. Its not as expensive as purchasing a new selection (unless they really want to). Just adding an accent, in many cases, is all that is needed for some great new looks and perspective. It not to bad to get some new comments from friends and family also.

This video is an example of a design add on that we did for a client.

Enjoy...

Coming to a theater near you!

2011-07-11T15:45:00.000-07:00

Pictures and images are always great to look at and admire, but its time with all the new technology, to get a little more tech savoy and communicate more in video and audio. Video will allow for more actual experience so that the posting conveys more of what we do in our studios. Its one thing to write about it,,, and that is great, but I want to let the audience experience more of what it is all about when we design and create.

This video is with audio off, however, we will be providing more videos with sound, so stay tuned.

Enjoy...

Buying An Engagement Ring

2011-07-07T23:33:00.000-07:00

Posted August 27, 2009 by Jeweller Magazine

Navigating through the sea of engagement ring choices can be tough, so read through these simple steps when considering which ring will suit best.

There are thousands of engagement rings to choose from. Bear in mind that it will be worn for a lifetime so it's worth taking the time to choose the right one. Couples should not be pressured into a purchase. Instead, they should shop around and be sure to buy from a reputable company.

Diamonds are traditionally the most popular stone for engagement rings. This is because the diamond's rarity and durability symbolises the constancy of the love declared by the couple. Sapphires come a close second, followed by rubies and emeralds.

When selecting a diamond, consider the 4 Cs - carat, clarity, colour and cut. The combination of these characteristics determines the value, rarity and beauty of a diamond. For more information on the 4Cs, click here: Buying a diamond.

Think about the shape of the diamond. The most traditional is round brilliant, but there are many others including pear, emerald, oval, heart, marquise and princess. For more information on diamond shape, click here: which diamond shape?

Many engagement rings are designed with a main (larger) stone, set with diamonds around it.

The most popular engagement rings are diamond solitaires, followed by clusters, and the increasingly fashionable, three stone ring.

The bride-to-be should have her ring size measured properly. This can be done in any jewellery store. The ring shouldn't fit too tightly – in hot weather hands swell up and the wearer won't be able to get it on or off. Equally, it shouldn't be so loose that it slides around on the finger or over the knuckle too easily.

Couples should consider the type of wedding ring they’d like to wear, so that both the engagement and wedding rings will go together. Usually wedding rings are gold, white gold, rose gold or platinum. The engagement ring generally looks better made from the same metal.

Consider the quality of the metal used in the construction of the engagement ring.

Most engagement rings are made in either gold or platinum. The Gold can be 18-carat, 14-carat or 9-carat and be either white, yellow and/or rose gold.

18-carat gold, whether it is white, yellow or rose, is the best and preferred choice for gold engagement rings.
The couple can also choose platinum for their engagement ring, although platinum is significantly more expensive than gold.

Choosing an engagement ring design is simply a matter of personal preference. However, there are some pitfalls in certain designs. Remember that an engagement ring has to do four things: It has to be easy and practical to wear, it has to withstand everyday wear, it has to hold its gemstones securely and it has to look good. If an engagement ring lacks any of these properties it is not of good design and is not the ring to choose.

1. Easy and practical to wear
What is easy and practical depends on the wearer’s lifestyle. The higher the setting of the diamond or gemstone in the engagement ring, the more often it will catch on things. If the wearer works behind a desk, they may be able to wear a very high set ring. If they are a preschool teacher, for example, they would have to wear a safe ring that won't get caught.

2. Withstanding everyday wear
The engagement ring must withstand constant every day wear. Some environments are more destructive to engagement rings and jewellery than others. For example, a work area near a factory that uses abrasives is bad news for jewellery. Surprisingly, one of the worst places for jewellery is an office where lots of paper is used. Paper is mildly abrasive, and constant daily exposure to that type of environment will wear the jewellery over the years. If one is in an environment where their engagement ring is likely to wear, a heavier style will last longer, and cause less worry. However, "heavy" doesn't necessarily have to mean wider, it just means a sturdy, strong shank/band should be used. If one prefers finer, more delicate styles, they can consider platinum, as platinum will out-wear gold many times over.

3. Holding gemstones securely
The engagement ring must hold the gemstones securely. The following is a general guide for engagement ring gemstone settings: Six prongs (claws) are best, though a good secure four prong is also good; A bezel (rub over) setting is safer than a prong setting. A heavier setting is stronger than a light setting; and a lower setting is less likely to be damaged than a higher setting

A guide to engagement ring etiquette
Now that the ring has been selected, the next step is popping the question. Marriage proposal can be a daunting experience, so it helps to know the rules of ring-giving. The tradition of giving a diamond engagement ring as a promise of marriage began in 1477 when Archduke Maximillian
Traditionally, the man pays for the ring and one popular guideline is that it should cost him a month's salary. It should be left to the individual to decide whether that's net or gross!

Etiquette denotes that if the bride-to-be calls off the engagement, the engagement ring should be returned. However, if the man calls it off, she gets to keep it and, if she's got any sense, flog it to the highest bidder.

It's best to steer clear of second-hand rings, unless they are quality antiques or family heirlooms, and even then one should be careful. The groom-to-be should never give a girl a ring he already gave to someone else and got back when it all went pear-shaped.

If the man decides to give his prospective finance his great grandmother's engagement ring (potentially very romantic), he should make sure he offers to pay to have it re-set and fitted for his partner, as she might appreciate the gesture but not the design. Check this won't break mother's heart first.

Men planning a surprise can be sneaky and check their girlfriend's ring size by “borrowing” one of her other rings. Don't forget to replace it before she notices it's missing. To gauge what style she likes, boyfriends can look-out for styles she likes on her friends, in advertisements and in jewellers' windows. Does she prefer traditional or modern jewellery? Does she wear yellow, white gold or platinum jewellery?
After the purchase, always keep the receipt. If she doesn't like it, says no or if an insurance claim is needed, then the receipt is essential. Insure the ring as soon as possible, just in case. And, if one plans to pop the question abroad, they should make sure it's covered by travel insurance.

A great idea is to buy a cheap silver ring with which to propose and then let the bride to be choose her own ring (the man must make sure she realises this or he may not be popular!). Or to be really unique and very romantic, the couple could design the ring themselves, with a trained jewellery consultant.

Some couples exchange rings on engagement, usually a signet ring for the prospective groom.

From drawing concept to finished pendant

2011-07-07T18:39:00.000-07:00

All ideas must start with pencil and paper. Drawing out the basic idea or concept helps put a physical perspective to the idea. This customer had brought in an assortment of diamond rounds and a couple of tapered baguettes along with the larger opal and wanted to create a pendant using all of the stones. I usually try to assess the amount of gemstones and diamonds and start with a small amount so that the creation is simple and elegant. This design worked with all her diamonds. We even set the baguettes; one on the front and one on the back. She has an omega to slide the pendant onto and away she goes. Perfect pendant for all occasions.

Enjoy...

A combination of many memories....

2011-07-05T19:03:00.000-07:00

This design was a fun challenge because the client wanted the center to mimic a larger marquise diamond and with all of her diamonds from collections of inherited jewelry, it was a possibility. We started with a design that she liked from another and took her assortment of diamonds and developed the center cluster first and then the flowing accent shank. She had a very good selection of graduated diamonds so setting them smaller to larger, down the mounting was a dream. Now when she looks at her ring it will remind her of all the great memories of the past.

Enjoy...

What to look for when considering a design project.

2011-07-05T14:31:00.000-07:00

A design project can be an enjoyable experience or it can go horribly wrong in a short amount of time. Communication is everything and the more that the designer and client come together through words, pictures, prototypes and samples, the better. Because, initially a design is not physical, but rather an idea, it has to be communicated somehow in the physical world. The use of visual and verbal tools help convey the design experience. Through better communication, a design can be a success for both sides of the counter. The more of it the better. Below is a storyboard of how the process takes shape....

A custom designed police ring

2011-07-02T18:45:00.000-07:00

Great design and great layout is all I can say about this ring. The gentleman was a retired policeman that always wanted to create a ring that had a special purpose about his career. He was specific about what he wanted and the symbol elements came out beautifully. The ring is 14k yellow gold and palladium white with side accent diamonds surrounding the top and a nice blue sapphire for the center piece. The other side of this ring was a Phoenix bird that had a special memory for him.

Enjoy...