Search Results
Fine Jewelry University Articles matching: “antique setting”
Showing only FJU Article results. Click here to show all results.
Fine Jewelry University
-
Gem in the Spotlight: Tanzanite
… is stable and won’t be harmed under normal conditions the low hardness and poor to fair toughness (and a property called cleavage, which is a tendency to break when struck) means that care should be taken to avoid sharp impacts. Setting it in earrings or a pendant will help protect it if the intended use is daily wear. Rings and bracelets set with tanzanite should only be worn carefully on occasion. We recommend cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft bristle brush. You…
-
Gem in the Spotlight: Blue Zircon
… with good hardness on the Mohs scale (6 to 7.5). However, Zircon has what is known as indistinct cleavage which creates a somewhat brittle tendency that can lead to chips, especially along facet edges requiring extra care when setting, cleaning, or wearing. The Mythology and History of Zircon Since it has been known from antiquity, Zircon has a rich mythology. Zircon is one of December’s birthstones. In the middle ages, Zircon was said to aid in resting, induce sound …
-
Gem in the Spotlight: Emerald
… received a 23.46 carat emerald and diamond pendant/brooch from her future husband Richard Burton during the shooting of Cleopatra . She wore the emerald on her wedding day and it was later sold at Christies in 2011 for $6.6 million, setting the record for the most expensive emerald jewelry ever sold at auction. The Chalk Emerald is a famous 37.8 carat emerald known for its clarity and rich green color. It was donated to the Smithsonian by Mr. and Mrs. O. Roy Chalk in 1972…
-
Platinum
…. It is resistant to tarnishing and discoloration due to chlorine and other chemicals. These factors, along with its strength and white luster, have made platinum an increasingly popular choice for jewelry, either on its own or as the setting for diamonds and other precious gemstones. Platinum jewelry does not fade or tarnish and keeps its looks for a lifetime. Platinum’s purity makes it hypoallergenic and ideal for those with sensitive skin. All the platinum ever mined …
-
Caring for and Cleaning Your Jewelry
… list at Mohs 3. Platinum list at Mohs 4.33. Sterling silver list at Mohs 2.5. This shows why jewelry metals get scratched by things like hard toothbrushes and dirt (most dirt ranges 4-8 on the Mohs scale). Several different types of settings hold diamonds in the jewelry. From time to time gently touch the stone to see if it moves. If the stone moves, don’t wear it and have a professional jeweler tighten the gem. Most jewelry stores will check you jewelry for free. Take …
