Six Prongs Holding a Round Brilliant Diamond

Four Prongs vs. Six Prongs; Which One is Better?

One of the most common questions I get asked by brides is whether to mount their center engagement diamond with four prongs or six. This Santa Barbara Jeweler’s most common answer is: there are pros and cons to each.

You’ll want to consider the look and designDesigning jewelry starts with a drawing of an idea. Next, a hand-carved or 3D CAD (computer aided design) wax model of the drawing is fabricated. After the wax model is completed, the piece is cast in medal. of your ring, the security and protection of your diamond, the shape of your diamond, your lifestyle and finally, the size of your diamond. Continue reading →

“I never hated a man enough to give him his diamonds back.” ~ Zsa Zsa Gabor

Zsa Zsa Gabor didn’t see much in the way of lead roles, but she certainly had her fair share of husbands.  She has been married nine times and divorced seven of them (one was annulled).  She has been married to her current husband, Frederic Prinz von Anhalt, since 1983.

Besides her marriages and acting performances she was also known for her wicked wit.  Here are some other fabulous one liners from Zsa Zsa Gabor:

Continue reading →

Moissanite Passed the Sparkle Test

Do Moissanites and Engagement Rings Mix?

Do I like it? Do I sell it? Read on and find out. What is this post about?

As a Santa Barbara Wedding Jewelry Designer, I’ve had more than my fair share of questions about Moissanite as an alternate to Diamond.

I’ll give you the history, what it is, the pro’s and con’s of Moissanite, and the advice on how best to select and buy it should you choose to go down the Moissanite path. Continue reading →

“There are worlds in opal.” ~ Terri Guillemets

In the Middle Ages, opal was considered a source of great luck because it was thought to possess all the virtues of each gemstone whose color was represented in the color spectrum of the opal.

Read about one of my most memorable fixes with an opal and diamond ring.

~ Calla Gold

This Necklace is “Wearing” Kim Kardashian. That’s Not Right.

This Jewelry Stylist Wants You to Look Your Very Best

After speaking on “Image, Self-Confidence and Success” last week at Antioch University of Santa Barbara  I’m in the mood speak as a jewelry stylist on what your jewelry should do for you. It has a job! Continue reading →

On November 4, 1963 the Beatles performed at the Royal Variety Performance in London attended by Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother and Princess Margaret. The Fab Four’s arrival drew more attention than the arrival of the Royal Family. The Beatles, who were seventh on the bill of 19 acts, wowed the upscale crowd with “She Loves You,” “Till There Was You,” “From Me To You” and “Twist and Shout.” Continue reading →

Sarah Jessica Parker Looking Beautiful and Fashionable. But What is She Saying About Herself?

High Fashion vs. Your Personal Style

Fashion icons and trend setters like Sarah Jessica Parker influence fashion trends with outfits and accessories that use color and style to create big effects.

Using the interplay of their clothing and accessories fashion trendsetters are able to tell a story about themselves while dictating what is considered up to date in the fashion world.

You don’t have to be at the center of the fashion world.  You just need a style that looks fashionable for you and what you do.      You need a personal style. Continue reading →

Gotta love Rita Rudner, she’s so funny!  This quote speaks for itself.

“I think men who have a pierced ear are better prepared for marriage.  They’ve experienced pain and bought jewelry” ~Rita Rudner Continue reading →

Russian Cut Cubic Zerconia.

Cubic Zirconia is Not the Same as Diamond

Are you Considering a CZ vs diamond as your “Gem” of choice for getting married?

Is cubic zirconia on your radar for your engagement ringAn engagement ring is a ring that a man gives to a woman when he proposes to her. After she’s married, it will be worn together with her wedding bandTypically, bands are simple rings of uniform width. They can be thick or thin. Occasionally, gemstones will be flush set in bands..? You’d save a lot of money…. Do I approve? No! As a passionate wedding jewelry designer I’ll tell you why in technical and emotional terms. Continue reading →

William Congreve was a playwright in the 17th century.  He is also known for his quote:

“Heaven has no rage like love to hatred turned, Nor hell a fury like a woman scorned.”

Which is often paraphrased to: “Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.” Continue reading →