June’s traditional birthstone is pearl (even though pearls are not a stones) but if you don’t like wearing pearls try out some of the alternative birthstones: Moonstone and Alexandrite.

Moonstone is a shimmering gemstone with a hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale. So wearers should be careful when handling it. Rainbow [...]]]> Junes alternate birthstones.

June’s traditional birthstone is pearl (even though pearls are not a stones) but if you don’t like wearing pearls try out some of the alternative birthstones: Moonstone and Alexandrite.

Moonstone is a shimmering gemstone with a hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale. So wearers should be careful when handling it. Rainbow moonstone is known for its bluish shimmer, but is also available in peach, smokey white,  and green. It is often referred to as the lover’s stone.

One might have a hard time finding the Alexandrite stone. This stone is rare due to its chemical composition which requires specific geological conditions. It is also a unique stone because of its natural ability to change color when around certain light sources. Its rarity, hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, and ability to change color makes it a highly sought after stone.

Some June Stone Jewelry from Precious Metals

Moonstone Cameo

Black Pearl Studs

Silver sage fresh water pearls with rainbow moonstone

Moonstone Necklace

Most of the custom pieces we make at Precious Metals are non-representational, and use classic elements such as filigree, beading, and traditional diamond settings. Every once in a while we are commission to do a piece that uses images and symbols that are close to the [...]]]> Wearing Inspirations and Paying Homage to a New Level

Most of the custom pieces we make at Precious Metals are non-representational, and use classic elements such as filigree, beading, and traditional diamond settings. Every once in a while we are commission to do a piece that uses images and symbols that are close to the customers heart. Recently a customer asked us to design an intricate bumble bee ring.

This blog post is dedicated to representational designs that go above and beyond the typical and ordinary, and create the distinctive and extraordinary.  Some of these pieces are whimsical, and some of these pieces are funny. No matter what their aim is, one must admit they are very clever. The themes of the jewelry pieces were inspired by nature, mythology, science, art, and more.

* Precious metals Will Not copy the designs of another artist. If you like the works below follow the links to the designers’ websites, where you may make purchases directly from the artist.

This ring was based on a Japanese wood cut. Please note the original art work does not have a copywrite.

A swallow necklace by Julez Bryant that can be purchased at Precious Metals. The swallow bird symbolizes health, wealth, and loyalty.

An Au (thats gold, for those of you who dont know) element inspired ring. Perfect for a chemist, and much better than that boring old periodic table poster that we had to stare at in chemistry class. Available at the Itsnoname website.

I guess you might say I'm blinding you with science with all these scientific themed jewelry pieces. Check out the Made with Molecules site for these molecular structure themed pieces. Why settle for drinking red wine, when you can wear it?

This chalet might not fit any people in it, but it will sure get their attention. It would be a real estate agents dream to be able to flip a house with an easy swift motion of one hand. Check out more of Philippe Tournaire's architecture themed inspired rings.

Warning, pouring tea or coffee into this cup with saucer will result in third degree burns. Doesnt mean you cant sport this adorable ring by Kacchan on Etsy.

This is a question that arises often when buying jewelry, especially an engagement ring. It really all comes down to personal preference. Most pick one color over the other, and while two-tone jewelry is fun, very people mix the colors. So if you plan on buying your significant other a piece of [...]]]> Yellow or white?

This is a question that arises often when buying jewelry, especially an engagement ring.  It really all comes down to personal preference. Most pick one color over the other, and while two-tone jewelry is fun, very people mix the colors. So if you plan on buying your significant other a piece of jewelry, be sure to note what which color and metal they like the best.

If you like yellow, you will be getting gold. In the U.S. Yellow gold typically comes in 10 karat, 14 karat, and 18 karat. . Pure gold is 24 karats. The other karats are alloys, part gold and part other metal (usually copper or nickel). The number in 10k, 14k, 18k, and 22k represents the parts out of 24 that are pure gold.

The purer the gold means the richer the yellow color.   An 18 karat piece has a rich and luxurious yellow hue. Contrary to popular belief, 18k is not significantly softer than 14k. The two karats wear about the same way.

If you like to don a white piece there are several options. They are Silver, white gold, platinum, and palladium. Silver is the least expensive, and is one of the most popular metals for jewelry pieces. Silver is very soft, and sterling silver tarnishes easily (this means lots of up keep). Sterling silver is 92.5 % pure silver. Fine silver (pure silver) is 100% silver.

White gold comes is the same karats as yellow gold. The other metals (nickel and palladium) mixed with the gold are what gives it that white color. Because gold is so yellow, white gold is actually off-white, and is plated with rhodium to make its appearance a bright white. As the rhodium plating wears off the gold will appear yellow. Most rings need be re-plated at least once a year to maintain the brilliant hue. Precious metals can re-plate for $50.00, while you wait. Keep in mind the considerable up keep of white gold when purchasing your nest piece.

Platinum is the king of precious metals. It is the most expensive, and the most coveted. The high price is because most platinum is 95-98% pure platinum.  This dense (heavy) metal does not tarnish like silver or wear away like gold. Settings in platinum can last twice as long as gold. The color of platinum (clean grey-white) does not change over time and is a fantastic choice for an engagement ring that will last a long time. Platinum is hypoallergenic and is a great for those with sensitive skin and fine taste.

Palladium is the newest kid on the white metal block. This Precious Metals favorite has all the benefits of platinum without the high price. Like platinum it is hypoallergenic and is mostly pure.  Palladium is twelve times harder than platinum, but weighs less. This means you can make bigger pieces that keep their shine and resistance, and will not weigh your hand, neck, and wrist down. I can not express how incredibly affordable this metal is, with a price close to 14k gold. You may not have heard of it, but trust me, this divine metal is on the rise of popularity. You can expect to be seeing it in your jeweler’s case as consumers become more budget conscious.

18K Yellow Gold Bracelet By Precious Metals

Sterling Silver Tie Dye Cuff By Precious Metals

14K White Gold Humming Bird Earrings By Precious Metals

Platinum Engagement Ring by Precious Metals

Palladium Ruby Earrings By Precious Metals

Colors for weddings are typically based around Pantones Fashion Spring 2010 report. This [...]]]> The month of April is almost here, which means so is wedding season.  Precious Metals is pleased to inform  Brides and Grooms that we not only create and customize wedding bands, but also offer a selection of stylish and chic bridesmaids gift.

Colors for weddings are typically based around Pantones Fashion Spring 2010 report. This spring the colors are warm, bold, and vivacious:

Turquoise

Amparo Blue

Violet

Aurora.

Fusion Coral

Tomato Purée

Pink Champagne

Dried Herb

Eucalyptus

Make your wedding the best it can be.  Say NO, to giving your bridesmaids a typical tote.  Say NO, to giving silly t-shirts that will only collect dust in their closets after your special day is done.  Give them something that will look great with your wedding colors, and make them appreciate your special day even more.  Something they can wear on and off your aisle.

We have a few pieces that will look great with these spring colors and for your wedding day.  They can all be purchased at Precious Metals.  We also create custom pieces for a reasonable price.  Be sure to check the website for more details and descriptions.

Party Ring

Gorgeous Pattern Tops with Green Saphire and Diamond

Peacock Fresh Water Pearls and Natural Zircon Beads

Fleur De Lis

"Electrum" Fresh Water Pearl Necklace with Leaf Clasp

Black Fresh Water Pearl Studs

Flat Oval Bracelet

Flower Earrings

Pink Precious Topaz Necklace

White and Grey Fresh Water Pearls with Rainbow Moonstone Necklace