jewelry -

8 Jewelry Trends You’ll See Everywhere In 2023

February 8, 2023February 28, 2023Fine Jewelrybracelets, diamond jewelry, earrings, fine jewelry, gold jewelry, hoops, jewelry, pendants, stackable rings

New year, new you. It’s that time of year, reinvention, renewal, and of course, revamping your look…starting with your accessories collection. After all, it’s the details that make the outfit. So to make things easier, we’ve gathered the top trends for the coming year so that your style and shine stay ahead of the game.

Jewelry Trends We Expect To See In 2023

Every year different looks make their way to the forefront of fashion. It’s no different with jewelry. This year we’re seeing lots of color, shine, and personal expression. The best part is that all these trends involve timeless classics, making each one a drool-worthy purchase.

We all know it is the accessories that complete the look. So check out these unique pieces and create a look that makes a statement.

Top Trends at a Glance

Silver’s Back
Pearls & More Pearls
Cocktail Rings
Drop Down Earrings
Cuff Bracelets
Punk Pieces
Signet & Pinky Rings
Enamel Accessories

Silver’s Back

Sumptuous silver is back! (But did it ever really leave?) Not that gold is going anywhere, but 2023 is giving silver its moment in the spotlight. This budget-friendly metal looks fabulous alone or mixed with other metals for a nice, layered look. Silver chains, in particular, create a modern vibe perfect for literally anyone. Check out these options below and get your silvery shine on!

Sterling Silver 2.5mm Round Franco Chain Necklace - 20 Inches

Sterling Silver 8.85mm Miami Cuban Bracelet - 8.5 Inches

Sterling Silver 5.5mm Figaro Chain Necklace - 24 Inches

The More Pearls, The Better

Have pearls ever really been out of style? We say no! Thankfully, pearls are getting their due this year as a top trend. Pearls on pearls on pearls, wear them on your ears, your wrist, your neck, and your finger! Give your pearls some pearls! What we love most about pearls is not just how classic and timeless they are but that they are pretty versatile too!

Pearls are perfect for Sunday brunch with the in-laws, yet they can be styled up for an endless night of dancing with the girls. Whether you prefer a classic string of pearls, a modern necklace, or a pearl enhanced by dazzling diamonds, we have the perfect pearl piece for you (say that three times fast!) See some of our favs below and check out more pearl jewelry here!

14K Yellow Gold Freshwater Cultured Pearl Double Strand Bracelet (6.0-7.0mm)

14K White Gold Tahitian Cultured Pearl Diamond Halo Ring

14K Yellow Gold Freshwater Cultured Pearl Lariat Necklace (8.0-9.0mm)

Cocktail Rings

Better believe that cocktail rings are at the top of that comeback list. Known for their fabulosity, cocktail rings make a fashionable statement with minimal effort.

Cocktail rings are larger than your average ring and were originally intended for special occasions. And while they are perfect for such events, we say wear them everywhere! Amp up an everyday outfit with a colorful cocktail ring. After all, happy hour has no limits with the fabulous accessories!

18K Yellow Gold East-West Oval Blue Topaz And Diamond Ring (7.0x5.0mm)

14K Yellow Gold Opal Oval And Diamond Birthstone Ring

Drop Down Earrings

Earrings are making a comeback, and this year the runways were filled with long, dangling earrings. Not only do they elongate the face, but drop down earrings can go from casual to dressy and are always elegant. These effortlessly luxurious accessories are easy to wear, work with your hair up or down, and are simply a must-have.

14K Yellow Gold Petite Long Drop Diamond Earrings

14K White Gold Dangling Ombre Sapphire Drop Earrings

18K Yellow Gold Bezel Hexagonal Amethyst Hook Earrings

14K Yellow Gold Front To Back Teardrop Earrings

14k Yellow Gold Cushion Halo Peridot And Diamond Drop Earrings (6.0x6.0mm)

Cuff Bracelets

Who doesn’t love a cuff bracelet? One piece that just pulls a whole look together makes a statement and is endlessly stylish. Oh, and it’s trendy now too? Fab! Wear them right on your wrist or higher up on your arm. Stylization is all you! Dainty or big, dazzling or minimalistic, a cuff is the perfect way to elevate any look. Check out some inspo below.

Punk Pieces

Punk is back baby! If you loved the bold shapes and looks of the punk era, then you will love 2023. With sharp shapes and mixed metals, the counterculture is making its way right into the mainstream. Get on board with the Westwood-inspo and try on these picture-perfect punk looks for size.

14K Yellow Gold Bypass Duo Garnet And Diamond Ring By Brevani

Signet & Pinky Rings

Have you thought, what is a signet ring? And how do I pull off a pink ring anyways? We’re here to help! Signet rings, simply put, are rings bearing a mark or seal, and are frequently worn on the pinky finger. Signet rings are part of the perfect pinky ring category.

Pinky rings aren’t just for the Godfather anymore. Pinkies provide one more opportunity to make a stylish, sparkling statement. There’s a reason it’s called the power pinky. Some argue pinky rings are the most feminine piece of jewelry one can wear. Dating back to the suffragette movement, back then women wore them as a symbol of self-love, and we are here for it!

Enamel Accessories

Dating back to Mycenaean goldsmiths of the 13th century, the decorative art of enameling jewelry became particularly popular during the 1920s Jazz Age, when flapper girls wore jewelry and vanity cases accented with graphic blocks of color.

Now in 2023, these vibrant enamel accessories continue to prove a popular choice among jewelry lovers. This is a trend that’s been growing over the past few years, and doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon!

FAQs

Are pearls in style in 2023?

Yes, yes, and yes! While pearls are timeless and never really go out of style, in 2023 pearls are making a major statement as part of this year’s jewelry trends. From a classic string of pearls to big bold pearls and everything in between. Mix your pearls with diamonds and gold or let them shine on their own, pearls are back in a big way, and you won’t want to be left out of this gorgeous trend.

What jewelry will increase in value?

Jewelry made with diamond, gold, platinum, and even silver is likely to increase in value thanks to the rareness of the materials. Pieces with a more classic look will also retain their value better than pieces considered to be more trendy.

What jewelry does not depreciate?

Generally, fine jewelry does not depreciate and, in some cases, can appreciate or increase in value. Jewelry made from gold, platinum, silver, and diamonds will usually hold or increase its value.

What should I buy instead of gold?

Try silver or platinum if you are interested in fine jewelry but prefer a metal different from gold. And, of course, don’t forget about dazzling diamonds!

Stay Trendy

The trends ahead for 2023 are some of the best yet! In fact, most of these looks are actually timeless trends just finding their way to the current spotlight.

From sumptuous silvers, precious pearls, bold, beautiful cocktail rings, dazzling drop earrings, show-stopping cuff bracelets, raging punk pieces, and perfect pinky rings. The trends this year are some of the yummiest yet. So get yours today at JamesAllen.com to set the trends others follow.

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first order!

Sarah Axelrad

Sarah is a stickler for grammar and prefers to use the Oxford comma. She enjoys her career as a writer since being a professional snowboarder/powerlifter/pastry chef didn’t pan out.

Yellow Gold vs. White Gold: Key Differences

January 25, 2023April 17, 2023Education, Engagement Rings, Fine Jewelryengagement rings, fine jewelry, jewelry, wedding bands, white gold, yellow gold

Deciding between yellow gold and white gold? We can help!

Gold has long been a classic metal choice for any piece of jewelry- and for good reason! Gold is both strong and stunning.

But when shopping for engagement rings, wedding bands, or even fine jewelry, it’s a good idea to determine the differences between yellow and white gold.
Apart from looking different from one another, each metal feels different on the skin, can have different price tags, and vary in durability.

In this blog, we’re going to break down the key differences between yellow gold and white to make your decision making process as easy as possible.

What Is White Gold?

Despite common misconceptions, white gold is always made up of pure gold and at least one other metal.

When the second metal (which is commonly palladium, nickel, or silver) is added to the gold base, it not only affects its color but makes it stronger.

On its own, pure gold is quite soft and malleable. Alloy metals strengthen the gold while keeping its quintessential shine!

Interestingly, white gold is not completely white until it gets plated with the precious metal rhodium. This rhodium coating adds a further lustrous sheen to the jewelry and protects it from scratches. And an added benefit is that very few people are allergic to rhodium!

At the end of the entire process, white gold is sleek and shiny- very similar to platinum or silver.

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Yellow-Gold-vs-White-Gold-A-Guide-_95027_W_2

What Is Yellow Gold?

Did you know that yellow gold is not pure gold? Yellow gold is composed of pure gold and at least one other white metal. For example, 18K gold is a mixture of 75% pure gold and 25% other white metals.

This is a breakdown of the common types of gold:

24K – 100% pure gold
22K – 92% gold and 8% alloyed metals
18K – 75% gold and 25% alloyed metals
14K – 58% gold and 42% alloyed metals

As you can see, the higher the karat number, the more pure gold there is.

Unfortunately, pure gold is far too soft to be worn as everyday jewelry. So white metals are added to strengthen the metal and give it that soft and creamy yellow that we all know and love.

Yellow gold has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Due to its historical rarity, gold was seen as a symbol of wealth and status. And even today, yellow gold remains highly desirable and sophisticated!

Yellow-Gold-vs-White-Gold-A-Guide-_95027_Y_1

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What Is The Difference Between Yellow Gold & White Gold?

The most obvious difference between these two beautiful metals is their color. White gold has a silvery tone, while yellow gold has that classic golden hue.

If you want to wear a metal color that looks best with your skin tone, match your metal to pre-owned jewelry, or include certain gems onto your metal, the color will make all the difference.

Since the properties are mostly the same, it all comes down to visual preference. That being said, both metals have their own pros and cons. Keep reading to find out what they are in more depth!

Yellow Gold vs. White Gold

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Yellow Gold vs. White Gold

Durability

Of the two metals, yellow gold is both the most expensive and the least durable. Yellow gold is more prone to scratches and dents, making it not the most durable option. This metal will also require regular polishing to keep its shine.

On the other hand, white gold has far more resistance to wear and tear. With its rhodium plating, white gold jewelry pieces have a shiny and strong finish. Unfortunately, this plating can wear off over time and may reveal the yellow-ish color underneath. While white gold is a stronger alternative to yellow gold, it still requires proper care and maintenance.

Neither of these metals is entirely hassle-free, but white gold is generally the safer and stronger option.

Price & Affordability

Believe it or not, yellow gold and white gold are frequently equal in cost. This is especially true if the percentage of pure gold is the same. For example, 14K white gold will be comparable in cost to 14K yellow gold.

In some instances, white gold may be slightly more expensive due to the rhodium plating.

At the end of the day, these two metals are rarely placed at drastically different price points.

Hypoallergenic Properties

Generally, white gold is considered to be more hypoallergenic than yellow gold. This is because of the alloyed metals that are added to the base (such as nickel or palladium) which are less likely to cause allergic reactions.

That being said, it is still very possible that someone may also have a sensitivity to white gold. It’s worth noting that even though white gold is considered hypoallergenic, it is not completely free of allergens.

If you know that you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies, it’s always best to consult with a dermatologist or a jeweler before buying gold jewelry of any kind.

Especially when deciding on an everyday piece of jewelry- it’s best to make sure you’ll be comfortable!

Color

As we know, the color of these two metals is their key difference.

In general, yellow gold tends to compliment warm skin tones beautifully. Yellow gold will bring out the warmth of yellow, olive, or medium-dark skin tones, creating a radiant glow.

White gold, on the other hand, tends to compliment cool skin tones well. White gold can give you a fresh and vibrant look if you have slightly paler skin with pink or red undertones.

That being said, it is so important to remember that personal preference plays a huge role in choosing your color of gold. Some people may prefer the classic and traditional look of yellow gold, while others may prefer the modern and sleek look of white gold, regardless of skin color.

Wear what you like and what makes you feel good!

Weight

The weight difference between yellow gold and white gold can vary depending on the specific piece of jewelry, but in general, the weight of the gold itself should be roughly the same.

The difference in weight between the two comes from the other metals used to alloy it. White gold typically requires more alloy metals than yellow gold to achieve its silvery color, which can make it slightly heavier. But this difference in weight would be minimal and barely noticeable when being worn.

Ultimately, weight should not be a significant factor when deciding on a type of gold- both are durable and long-lasting choices for your jewelry.

Popularity

The popularity of yellow gold versus white gold really depends on what type of jewelry you’re looking at.

In a very general sense, white gold has risen in popularity, especially in engagement rings. White gold has a modern and sleek appearance that appeals to many young people moving away from the traditional look of yellow gold.

On the other hand, yellow gold remains a timeless choice that is still popular in wedding bands and many types of fine jewelry.

Ultimately, personal preference plays a big role in determining which metal is right for you.

Both types of gold are stunning, classic, and easy to incorporate into any ensemble!

Why Choose A White Gold Engagement Ring?

There are plenty of reasons why white gold will make a great metal for your engagement ring!

The color of white gold is very similar to that of platinum but is less expensive, making it a more affordable option for the same look!

White gold is also a durable metal that can withstand everyday wear and tear, making it a practical choice for your engagement ring.

White gold is incredibly versatile; it will look good with a number of gemstones and styles! They even say that white gold tends to reflect the sparkle of any diamonds on your ring, enhancing their size and brilliance!

BROWSE WHITE GOLD RING

Why Choose A Yellow Gold Engagement Ring?

You simply cannot go wrong with a yellow gold engagement ring! This is a metal that has been used in jewelry for centuries!

Yellow gold has a warm, classic, and traditional appearance that many find attractive. Evoking these feelings suits engagement rings perfectly.

Additionally, if your ring has diamonds or warm-toned stones such as ruby, morganite, and purple sapphire, gold will pair with them nicely.

Because of yellow gold’s prevalence in jewelry, finding a wedding band or fine jewelry to match it will not be hard.

Plus, they say yellow gold looks good on everyone!

BROWSE YELLOW GOLD RINGS

FAQs

Which is better, white or yellow gold?

This all comes down to personal preference! If you have cool toned skin, white gold may be better for you. If you like the classic look of traditional jewelry, yellow gold may be better for you. It all depends on what you are looking for in your jewelry. Wear whatever feels best to you!

Is yellow gold more expensive than white gold?

Generally, the answer is no. More often than not, yellow gold and white gold with the same amount of pure gold will cost the exact same. If they’re not, it’s actually more likely that white gold will be more expensive due to its rhodium plating.

Does white or yellow gold last longer?

With the proper care, both yellow gold and white gold can last a very long time!

Even though the rhodium plating that is often coated on top of white gold strengthens the metal, it can wear off over time and need to be reapplied.

Unlike white gold, yellow gold doesn’t require plating or re-plating.

It’s important to remember that all gold jewelry will eventually show signs of wear and tear and may need to be polished or repaired over time.

Is yellow gold out of style?

Not at all! While white gold has definitely risen in popularity recently, yellow gold is as strong as ever. Yellow gold can still be found in engagement rings, wedding bands, and all types of fine jewelry. Just like diamonds, they say yellow gold is never out of style!

Final Thoughts

With two stunning metals to choose from, it can be tricky to figure out which one is best for you. At the end of the day, it all comes down to personal preferences and needs. Whether you decide on donning a silvery white gold piece or a creamy yellow gold piece, you’ll know they’re both stunning.

Check out all that James Allen has to offer- in both yellow and white gold!

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Rachel Glassman

Rachel is fond of the written word and the moving image- and will talk about both with anyone who will listen!

Valentine’s Day Gift Guide For Him 2023

January 23, 2023April 12, 2023Gift Guidesengagement rings, jewelry, men's jewelry

It used to be that men were overlooked when it came to Valentine’s Day…but no more! We know the man (or men) in your life need love, and more importantly, gifts on this Day of Love. But instead of the uninspiring gifts you see year after year on some top 10 list, get him something that is sure to WOW! Read on to find the perfect gift he never knew he wanted (or was too shy to ask).

What Is Valentine’s Day?

The romantic origins date back to ancient times, when Saint Valentine defied Roman Emperor Claudius II by performing marriages despite the Emperor’s ban. Claudius believed men made better soldiers than husbands and fathers. Valentine’s Day honors the Saint, who was eventually caught and executed.

Luckily, Valentine’s Day is now about celebrating love. It is a day of hearts, candy, flowers, teddy bears, and presents. Read on for stylish suggestions for your man, and then get him one more. After all, James Allen is giving 25% off site-wide for the occasion.

Why Do We Give Gifts On Valentine’s Day?

Valentine’s Day presents have evolved over the years, from sending love letters to treating the one you love to meaningful (and might we add, fabulous) gifts.

So why do we give a gift anyways? Well, giving presents is a sure-fire love language, helping many people express feelings of love by giving or receiving beautiful gifts. And as we all know, the best gifts are those that sparkle and shine!

But giving your man, or men, the perfect gift isn’t always easy. But don’t worry, we’re here to help! Luckily, you can’t go wrong with jewelry! An engagement for your soon-to-be fiancé? Diamond stud earrings? A classic gold necklace? We got you covered.

Check out our list of stunning Valentine’s Day gifts for him below!

Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas For Your Husband

He’s your soulmate, your better half, the love of your life. He deserves a present that will dazzle him as much as he does. Whether he prefers devastatingly gorgeous diamonds or goes for gloriously bold gold jewelry, we have a gift to fit every budget.

Gifts Under $500

Cobalt_Black_8MM_Wood_Grain_Comfort_Fit_Ring

14K White Gold 1.8mm Wheat Chain Necklace - 18 Inches

Titanium_7mm_Comfort_Fit_Hammered_Finished_Design_Ring

Gifts Under $1000

14K Yellow Gold 4.5mm Figaro Chain Bracelet - 7 Inches

14K White Gold Four Prong_Round_Brilliant_Lab_Created_Diamond_Stud_Earrings_(0.75 CTW - F-G / VS2-SI1)

Gifts Under $2000

14K_Yellow_Gold_4.5mm_Figaro_Chain_Necklace_18_Inches

14K_Yellow_Gold_Solid_5mm_Rope_Chain_Bracelet_8_Inches

Tantalum_6mm_Channel_Set_Diamond_Comfort_Fit_Ring

Platinum_Two_Toned_6mm_Comfort_Fit_Satin_Center_Band

Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas For Your Boyfriend

You love him, you love him, you love him! You want to get him the perfect gift, not too small, not too big, and that sends the right message. That’s a toughie! Check out some options below because no matter your budget, we have a gift he’s sure to love for the day of love…and everyday after that!

Budget-Friendly Options

14K_White_Gold_1.45mm_Forzentina_Chain_Necklace_18_Inches

Titanium 6mm Comfort Fit Satin Finished Design Ring

Sterling_Silver_5.5mm_Figaro_Chain_Bracelet_8.5 _Inches

Top-Tier Options

14K_Yellow_Gold_Cushion_Shape_Lab_Created_Diamond_Stud_Earrings _2.00 CTW - F-G / VS2-SI1)

14K_White_Gold_7.5mm_Comfort_Fit_Channel_Set_Sapphire_Ring

14K Yellow Gold Solid 4mm Flattened Bombe Franco Chain Necklace - 22 Inches

14K_Yellow_Gold_Solid_5mm_Miami_Cuban_Bracelet_7.25_Inches

Men’s Engagement Rings

14K White Gold Emerald Cut Solitaire Diamond Ring

14K Yellow Gold Octagonal Frame Solitaire Diamond Ring

14K Rose Gold Bezel Solitaire Bold Diamond Ring

Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas For Your Son

He may not be a baby anymore but he’ll always be your baby boy! He is the star of your world, so this Valentine’s Day, give him a gift that shines as bright as he does. Go for a classic necklace or a trendy dog tag. Whatever you choose, he won’t just love it because it came from you, he will love it cuz it’s awesome!

14K Yellow Gold Basket Weave Patterned Dog Tag

14K Yellow Gold Fancy Black Enamel Dog Tag

14K Yellow Gold 3.2mm Oval Rolo Chain Bracelet - 7 Inches

Be His Valentine

This Valentine’s Day, give the man you love a gift they’ll never forget. From delicious diamonds to bold gold looks, we have the pieces every man in your life is dying to get. Visit James Allen for even more bling, and make sure to check out our socials for all the inspo: Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, or Twitter!

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Sarah Axelrad

Sarah is a stickler for grammar and prefers to use the Oxford comma. She enjoys her career as a writer since being a professional snowboarder/powerlifter/pastry chef didn’t pan out.

The December Birthstone: Blue Topaz

December 2, 2022December 21, 2022Engagement Ringsbirthstone, education, engagement rings, fine jewelry, gemstones, jewelry

December is here and so are all its wintry hues! If you’re looking for a gem that will match this icy season, look no further. Blue topaz is one of December’s birthstones and for good reason.

Blue topaz comes in a range of azure tones, from sky to royal blue- so there’s something for everyone.

Keep reading to learn more about this striking stone.

What Is December’s Birthstone?

Depending on the source, December has 3 to 4 official birthstones. They are: tanzanite, zircon, turquoise, and blue topaz. Despite being very different in composition and properties, all four of these gems are known for their piercing blue color.

In this blog we’re going to be focusing on the ever-clear blue topaz!

What Is Blue Topaz?

Topaz is a silicate mineral, which in its purest state, is entirely colorless. Topaz can be many different colors, including yellow, gray, and red, though it is most often associated with the rare color blue.

Here are some fun facts about topaz:

1. On the Mohs scale of hardness, topaz registers at an 8 out of 10. This means it is harder than tanzanite and almost as tough as sapphire! Topaz is one of earth’s hardest naturally occurring gemstones, making it ideal for everyday wear- no matter how you choose to rock it.

2. Did you know that topaz has pleochroism? This means that depending on the angle of light, topaz can vary in color. Every which way you move, your topaz will appear in different aquatic hues.

3. And finally: topaz is also the gemstone for the 4th, 19th, and 23rd wedding anniversaries. Gifting your loved one a topaz piece for your December anniversary will make the occasion all the more meaningful.

Blue Topaz Birthstone Origin and History

In the Hindu religion, topaz means heat. In Sanskrit, the word ‘topazion’ means fire. This is likely because when it was first discovered, topaz was only known for its yellow-orange variety. In the 1700s, the name topaz came to refer to the gem we are now familiar with.

In the 1970s, gemologists discovered how to take colorless topaz, expose it to heat, and produce that iconic vibrant blue. Since then, the popularity of blue topaz has been on a steady incline.

Today, blue topaz can be found all over the globe, from Southeast Asia to Central Europe, to Southern Africa.

Blue Topaz Symbolism and Meaning

Blue topaz is not only cool in color. Topaz has a rich history of being associated with having a cool mind as well.

Even in the Middle Ages, people believed topaz could break curses and dispel fits of anger. In India, topaz has long been purported to assure a long life, beauty, and intelligence.

Today, blue topaz more commonly represents true love. A love that is clear-sighted, honest, and communicative.

Let the crystal clear transparency of the blue topaz inspire such qualities within your own relationships!

December Birthstone Colors and Appearance

Topaz naturally occurs in a columnar shape. For this reason, it tends to look its best in oblong cuts such as baguette, oval, and pear shapes. For the best clarity and color, go for an open facet cut.

In addition to shape and cut, topaz also varies in color. Blue topaz comes in three different hues: sky blue, London blue, and swiss blue.

Sky blue is pale with a light tone and saturation, London blue is deep with a moderate tone and saturation, and swiss blue is highly vibrant and rich in tone and saturation. Swiss blue does not occur naturally in nature but is highly sought after due to its electric shade.

Whether it’s pale, deep, or bright, any topaz is sure to turn heads and stun while doing so.

Types of Blue Topaz Jewelry

Blue topaz makes a beautiful addition to any piece of jewelry. Whether it’s a gift for someone else or a treat for yourself, topaz is the perfect December present!

Here are just a few ways you can show off this stunning birthstone.

Blue Topaz Rings

If you’re looking for a quieter way to don this regal gem, keep your eyes out for a blue topaz ring. Small but mighty, a topaz ring will add just a dash of striking blue to your ensemble. What’s not to love?

Blue Topaz Necklaces

Are you into statement pieces? A blue topaz necklace is the perfect way to draw attention to this birthstone. Front and center, a necklace will present this dazzling blue to everyone you encounter- loud and clear!

Blue Topaz Earrings

A pair of earrings means double the dazzle! Throwing on a pair of blue topaz earrings will instantly elevate your look while helping to keep your wits about you.

Blue Topaz Bracelets

Who doesn’t love a little shine around the wrist? A blue topaz bracelet will showcase this beautiful gem in a neat row of dazzling blue. Paired with another piece of topaz jewelry, and voila! Your look is complete.

What Jewelry Metals Look Good With Blue Topaz

Platinum silver is by the far the most popular metal type to pair with blue topaz. Silver and white gold accentuate the blue topaz’s clean and sleek energy beautifully.

Rose gold is another popular option. The contrast between the blue and rose tones creates a compelling pair.

But don’t feel the need to only stick to these suggestions! Think about your skin tone, eye color, and personal taste. Given the varying hues of blue topaz, you can pair it with just about any metal type!

How To Care For Blue Topaz Jewelry

Just like any other crystal, dirt and grime can easily accumulate on the surface of your topaz. Thankfully, this gem is very easy to maintain.

When you want to clean your stone, you can easily do so with warm water and soap. Make sure you scrub it gently with a brush or washcloth. Pat it dry and watch its shine return!

While this may sound very simple, make sure not to leave your topaz in water for too long. Doing so may cause damage to your piece. The cleaning process should be short, simple, and easy!

Just remember to handle your gem with care, and you’re all set.

To Wrap Up

If you ever feel like you need some clarity of mind, simply look to blue topaz to change that! You may be surprised at the results.

This December, you can pay homage to the chill of the season with equally chilly jewelry. We’re sure you’ll be cool as ice!

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Rachel Glassman

Rachel is fond of the written word and the moving image- and will talk about both with anyone who will listen!

How To Clean Your Jewelry At Home & Other Useful Tips

October 10, 2022October 16, 2022Educationfine jewelry, jewelry

Fine jewelry, engagement rings, and wedding rings – what does it take to properly maintain your gold and platinum jewelry? We’ll give you the complete rundown on how to clean jewelry at home.

Why Should You Clean Your Jewelry Regularly?

For sparkle: Your jewelry shines its brightest at its cleanest. Over time, thin layers of dust and oil accumulate and block light from reaching your jewelry’s surfaces. Without light, there’s no reflection, refraction, brilliance, or fire. So if you notice that your jewelry is looking a bit dull, your first thought should be to clean it.

For sanitization: jewelry is full of prongs and crevices that collect grime. This doesn’t just dull your jewelry’s shine; it also means your jewelry is constantly transferring germs between you and your surroundings. Think of regular cleaning like hand-washing for your jewelry; it keeps your jewelry sanitized and keeps you healthy. Particularly in the era of COVID-19, sanitization is critical.

For safeguarding: A dirty ring is a damaged ring. Particulate build-up can scratch and/or discolor your jewelry metal. On the other hand, cleaning your jewelry too often or too vigorously can also seriously damage your jewelry. Harsh cleaners on some metals can wear away plating, causing permanent discoloration.

How Often Should You Clean Your Jewelry?

How often should you clean your jewelry? That depends on how thoroughly you want to clean it. Regular, gentle cleaning should be performed weekly, while more thorough cleansing should only occur occasionally so that the harsh chemicals don’t damage your jewelry.

Light Cleaning: Every Week

Warm water + dish soap + soft toothbrush. Make your own jewelry cleaner by filling a bowl with warm (not hot) water, and then adding a few drops of dish soap. Put your jewelry in the mixture and let it sit for 15 minutes. Afterward, take your jewelry out of the bowl and scrub it clean with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinse, dry with a soft towel, and layout on a soft surface to dry.
Polishing cloth. In a pinch, a normal microfiber cloth will do. However, specialty jewelers’ cloths are the best, since they contain particular cleaning compounds formulated to both polish and remove small scratches in your jewelry.

Occasional Cleaning: Every 1-2 Months

Ammonia. For a deep cleaning at home, create a strong jewelry cleaner by adding one-part ammonia to six parts water. Let your jewelry sit in this mixture for no more than 1 minute. Remove, rinse under running water, dry with a soft cloth, and place on a towel to air dry completely.

Deep Cleaning: 1-2 Times Per Year

Free jewelry cleaning with James Allen. Either send your jewelry to James Allen for maintenance or take your jewelry to a local James Allen partner for a complimentary professional cleaning. Minor repairs are also free!

Ultrasonic jewelry cleaning machine. These are similar to the machines used by professional jewelers. Ultrasound waves loosen grime from even the smallest of niches, and it only takes about 5 minutes. If you want to give your jewelry a regular deep clean, it may be worth investing in one.

Expert Tip: Ultrasound jewelry cleaning doesn’t sanitize your jewelry, so it’s worth following up an ultrasonic treatment with a simple dish soap + water cleaning. The ultrasonic waves can also damage jewelry that contains tungsten or soft, porous gemstones like pearls.

Daily Habits To Protect Your Jewelry

To prevent tarnishing and scratching, it’s worth learning a few helpful jewelry habits. These actions are most important for protecting softer metals like yellow gold and plated metals like white gold, which can be most easily scratched or discolored.

Store each piece of jewelry in its own cloth bag to prevent scratching.
Purchase a jewelry box that has a soft inner lining to stop pieces from scratching each other.
Keep a jeweler’s polishing cloth in your bag or backpack for quick use.
Take your jewelry off when you’re sleeping.
Remove your jewelry during strenuous activities, like gym or construction.
Don’t wear jewelry when you’re using caustic materials like household cleaners – or wear rubber gloves.
Keep your jewelry off while you apply makeup or hairspray.
Remove your jewelry before you swim in chlorinated pools and salt water.

How To Clean Your Engagement Ring At Home

Related Post: How To Clean Your Diamond Jewelry

How To Clean Yellow Gold Jewelry

Most yellow gold jewelry is offered in two different karats of metals: 14k and 18k. While 24k is pure gold, lower carats are actually mixed with other metals (like nickel, copper, and silver) in order to strengthen it to the point that it’s suitable for jewelry.

If you’re wondering how to clean gold jewelry, you’re in luck: yellow gold is slow to tarnish and dull and doesn’t require maintenance as frequently as other gold jewelry metals.

Use: Dish soap + water, ammonia, or a polishing cloth.
Avoid: Bleach and tough scrubbing brushes

How To Clean White Gold Jewelry

White gold’s silvery luster is created by alloying yellow gold with white metals like nickel or zinc and finishing with rhodium plating. Normal wear and tear will result in the need for rhodium re-plating every 5-10 years in order to maintain white gold’s silvery appearance.

This rhodium plating can also be worn down by strong chemicals, so take off your white gold rings when cleaning.

Use: dish soap + water or a polishing cloth
Avoid: harsh chemicals which can strip the rhodium plating.

How To Clean Rose Gold Jewelry

Rose gold is a yellow gold/copper alloy. The gold gives it a malleability and sheen that’s perfect for jewelry, and the copper gives it its distinctive pink hue. It’s also the strongest of all the gold metals, so your rose gold jewelry can be worn more often, with less chance of scratching.

Use: dish soap + water or a polishing cloth
Avoid: abrasive chemicals

How To Clean Platinum Jewelry

Platinum is a rare, valuable metal with a gorgeous silvery sheen that retains its white luster with minimal maintenance. It’s also the most durable of all the ring metals! In general, you’ll have to clean platinum jewelry less regularly than gold, and it will also scratch less.

Use: dish soap + water or a polishing cloth.
Avoid: Ammonia

A Tidy Summary

No matter what metal your jewelry is made from, it’s important to maintain its sparkle via weekly cleanings with dish soap, warm water, and a soft-bristled toothbrush.

For a squeaky-clean professional shine, either send your James Allen jewelry to us for a quick and complimentary deep cleaning or take it to one of our brick-and-mortar partner jewelers. Or spend a bit of money to DIY and deep clean it with either an ammonia-water mixture or purchase an ultrasonic jewelry cleaner.

Treating your jewelry right will help it look continuously brilliant throughout the years.

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Jessica Thomas

Jessica feels too much anxiety trying to come up with a cool bio. Read her awesome blog post instead.