Jewelry Speaks

Before there were elaborate settings, ad campaigns and retail stores everywhere – mankind has used jewelry as a way to say to speak without ever saying a word.

• Jewelry says, “I love you.”
• Jewelry says, “I care.”
• Jewelry tells a story and sparkles on even the darkest days

It does this every single day.

This Mother’s Day (May 10), send your mom a constant reminder that she’s your rock.  Because remember, your mother

• Says, “I love you.”
• Says, “I care.”
• Tells you stories and shines even on the darkest days.

She does this every single day.

To celebrate moms, we’re offering free shipping and 15% off any order under $99 until May 10.  Just use code MUMRULES at checkout.  Find something that lets her know you still remember listening to “Where the Wild Things Are” as you were falling off to sleep.

The code says it all, moms rule.  Happy early Mother’s Day, moms!

Three-Stone Jewelry for Life

Past, Present and Future jewelry pieces are everywhere – from earrings to rings to pendants – but how did this simple three stone design get so popular?Introduced in 2000, past-present-future jewelry is basically a simple three stone setting, often with graduated stones, arranged vertically or horizontally.  Just like any trend, past-present-future pieces rose in popularity due to the simple beauty of their design.  While there is beauty in simplicity, it was the meaning behind the piece that caught the world’s attention. Each of the three stones represents a station in life or a milestone reached so the jewelry not only accents your wardrobe, but celebrates your life.

One stone represents the past- either as a couple or as an individual.

One stone represents the present- life as a couple now.

One stone represents the future- either as a family or as a promise to the future together.

The design reminds us that life is who we are.  We write our own stories.  While the past is set, it does help to shape the present, which in turn shapes the future.  The three are intrinsically linked to one another through eternity and so represented in the jewelry design.

The sentimental meaning behind the design makes it an excellent gift for celebrating special moments in life like anniversaries, engagements, weddings, graduations or births.

For anniversaries or weddings, a couple can use the design to symbolize their union by celebrating road they’ve been on, their position in life now and look forward to what may be.  For this reason, the three stone past, present, and future design is commonly used in engagement and wedding rings, but it also makes an excellent right hand ring as the ladies from Sex in the City taught us.

The design is also commonly given at the time of high school or college graduation.  The stones in the design symbolize the effort and hard work done, commemorate the moment, and give encouragement for the years ahead.

Families also seek the multifaceted design to celebrate the birth of a child as the stones represent the life as a couple, the birth of a family and the future joy the birth will bring.  While diamonds are often the most popular gemstone used in past-present-future jewelry, many choose to personalize this type with the child’s birthstone.

Whether it is a ring, pendant, earrings or bracelet, three stone past-present-future pieces will continue to remain popular because they are so versatile.  The design’s simple beauty complements every type of attire, can accomodate any number of different gemstone combinations and it can symbolize so many different lifetime milestones.

The Appeal of the Charm Bracelet

People have been wearing charm bracelets for thousands of years . In ancient times, different cultures placed stones, religious charms, coins and other items on a chain to ward off evil and bring good luck. Charms were also used as family identification and symbol of status in the community – the more charms one wore – more more presence they had.  Soon, people began wearing multiple charms at once and the charm bracelet was born.

While they’re no longer seen as talisman, there is a certain, shall we say, charm to them.  Today, men and women wear  charm bracelets more as a fashion statement and a unique way to express themselves than as a way to fend of spirits and bring good luck. The chain link charm bracelet is the traditional style.

You can buy the chain with the charms attached, like the bracelet on the right, or you can purchase the chain and add charms to it as you find ones that suit your tastes.  With these, the charms hook to the loops and dangle from the bracelet.

A more contemporary style is called an Italian charm bracelet. With this version, the the charms are affixed to the face of a flat rectangular link and lie flush with the rest of the bracelet.  Italian charm bracelets are sleek; nothing dangles from them because the band is made with interlocking expandable links.  This makes the piece stretchy so that the wear can slide the bracelet over the wrist without using a clasp. Regardless of which type, there are certain charms that remain the most popular.

• Horseshoe:  positioned with the points facing downward it means you are collecting luck.  Stored with the points facing up it means you are storing your luck.

• Ankh: The Egyptian symbol for eternity.

• Baby bottle: Represents a new child and ensures health.

• Elephant: Ensures your life will be full of wonderful moments to remember.

• Shamrock: Luck will be on your side.

• Flowers:  Roses stand for beauty, flowers for fertility, daisies for happiness and lilies represent a lost loved one.

• Owl: Represents wisdom

• Ship: Represents a dreamer and ensures adventure.

• Monkey: Represents mischief and fun.

• Fox: Stands for mischievous wisdom and can also represent protection.

• Skeleton Key: Ensures a happy home.

• Cross: Represents didactic purity.

• Angel: Ensures you will lead a blessed life.  Many also believe angel charms are small representations of one’s guardian angel.

• Padlock: Often given along with a key to symbolize the love of two people.  Padlocks can also represent the future which is yet to be seen.

• High Heel Shoe: Represents true devotion to style and fashion.

• Suitcase, airplane or car: Represents travel.

• Locket: Represents the desire to protect a love that has grown.

• Picture Charm: Pride in family and friends.

• Camera or paint brush: Stands for creativity.

• Typewriter: Represents a loquacious penman.

• Heart: Symbolizes love and friendship.

• Butterfly: Represents transformation, spring and beauty.

• Dove: Symbolizes peace.

• Pink Ribbon: Breast cancer awareness

• Flag: Represents pride in one’s country or heritage.

• Dragon: Symbolizes strength, the sublime power of nature and can also be seen as a protective spiritual guide.

• Lizard: In Greek times it represented both death and resurrection much like a phoenix.

• Lion: Lions stand for bravery, courage and resolve.  Recently, lions also represent Harry Potter’s Gryffindor house.

• Unicorn: Symbolizes healing, love, kindness, purity and beauty.

• Wishbone: Stands for hopes and dreams.  Wishbones are often paired with the horseshoe for added luck.

• Oroborus: The serpent eating its tail symbolizes the circle of life.

So, from a lucky horse shoe to a picture of a child to the oroborus, there are charms to commemorate special occasions and holidays, charms that become popular and obscure collectibles, charms that cater to quirky tastes and much more. A charm bracelet really allows a a person to express him or herself and, in gold, silver or two-tone, they go with everything. Finding the perfect charms to create a unique piece of jewelry is fun and makes for a bit of family history as it is passed down from one family member to the next.

Seven Pieces of Jewelry Every Girl Needs

Whether you’re sporty, classic or contemporary – there are some items every girl needs in a well-rounded jewelry box for a simple yet effective way to enhance any look. The pieces selected are both classic and versatile ensuring they’ll stay in style and go with multiple different ensembles and work for a variety of different functions.

Studs:
Every girl needs studs, but pick a size that’s right for you. If classic diamonds aren’t your thing, go with something more vibrant.

Why studs? They’re classic. They’re versatile. They’re timeless. They’re good for day and night.

Hoops:
Hoops are quintessential in the fashion world, but choose a size that’s right for you. If you’re more at home on the basketball court than on 5th Avenue, don’t go for massive hoops. Pick something that flatters your personality.

Why hoops? They’re versatile. They’re timeless. They work anytime of the day.

Pearl Necklace:
Pearl necklaces are the easiest way to add some sophistication to anything you’re wearing. Who says you can’t throw on a string of pearls with a plain white tee? Wear them in a way that shows people who you are. Wear them during the day to add an eccentric twist to casual. Wear them at night for a romantic evening. Wear them to the interview to show off your sophisticated, smart fashion sense. Or wear them to channel style icon Grace Kelly.

Why pearls? I think I’ve clearly outlined why. Pearls are a true necessity. They’re timeless. They’re sophisticated. They’re feminine. They’re romantic. They’re versatile. They’re elegant.

Dangle Earrings:
Dangle earrings, whatever type you choose, be it short and dainty dangles or a pair of shoulder dusters, are a must in every woman’s jewelry arsenal. They just make you feel fashionable. I would go as far to say that chain dangles are a must as are at least one pair with gemstone accents for more dressy events. Choose a pair that makes you feel invincible. It may sound weird, but they exist. Once you’ve found them… get them. They’ll be one of your favorite items.

Why dangle earrings? They’ve got power. They’ve got movement. They’ve got style. But a word to the wise, if you’re getting the really long ones, don’t turn too quickly. They will hit you in the face. I know from experience.

Bangle Bracelets

Bangle bracelets – plural – are a must. Grab a few in the metal of your choice that match one another. They don’t have to be from a set, just as long as you can throw a few on at a time or wear one alone. That way you have several looks in one and can play your outfit down or up accordingly. The ancient Egyptians can’t be wrong.

Why bangles? They’re stylish. They’re versatile. They’re timeless. They’re spectacular. They’ve movement.

Locket:
Every girl needs a locket. Lockets are excellent. They’re young yet mature. Timeless yet have a vintage appeal. Go with everything anywhere. And are easily the most customizable piece one can own. Instead of adding a picture of your beau or best bud, put something inside that makes sense to you. Add a tiny shell from your trip to the shore. Put in a lock of your child’s hair. Roll up your best fortune cookie fortune and slip it in. A locket won’t just accent your outfit, it can accent your day. Each time you catch a glimpse in the mirror, you’ll think about what’s inside.

Why a locket? They’re feminine. They’re timeless. They’re versatile. They’re customizable. They’ll lift your spirits. They’ll make your day

Signature Piece:
Be bold. Be yourself. Pick something – even if it’s crazy colorful and vibrant – to wear as often as possible. Pick something that reflects who you are. Make it unique. Make it special. Give it meaning. You can choose a family heirloom and flaunt your family’s history or you can choose something that says, “This is me.” It’s your choice. Choose a ring, a pair of earrings, a bracelet, an anklet, a pendant or necklace. It’s signature, because it’s you.

Why a signature piece? Why else?

You don’t have to have a lot of jewelry to have a very fashion centric collection that not only compliments your clothes but also your personality.  Buying jewelry doesn’t have to be difficult. It should be a simple, fun way to show off who you are while adding a bit of style to your day.

Valentine’s Day Sale

For everything sweet and lovely, use code GemVday9 for FREE shipping on ALL orders over $25.  And, just to show you how much we want to be your Valentine, we’ll throw in free gift wrap and a free gift card for your sweetheart.

Jewelry is great.  Getting it at the GEMaffair.com price is even better.

If you’re stumped, give us a ring and we can help you make the perfect selection.  Our jewelry concierge specialists will ask you questions in order to best choose a gift they’re sure to love.  Or, you could always go with our Valentine’s Day Best Sellers:

White gold and Diamond bow necklace

$108.99

Men’s Skeleton Window Bulova Watch in Stainless Steel

$318.99

Abstract White Gold Diamond Heart Pendant

$223.99

Men’s Diamond Ring in Brushed Yellow Gold

$423.99

Ladies Hugs and Kisses Two Tone Diamond Ring

$212.99

Men’s Sleek ID Bracelet in Stainless Steel

$39.99

Baguette Cut Diamond Hoop Earrings in White Gold

$394.99

Happy shopping!  And remember, if you have any questions, we’re always here to help.  1-800-471-GEMS.