Read all about Aquamarines — the March birthstone!

 Happy birthday March babies! Your official birthstone is not only beautiful, it’s full of history and mythology.

Here are some interesting facts about your March birthstone, the aquamarine.

• In addition to being the birthstone for March and the Zodiac sign of Pisces, aquamarine is also the gemstone used to celebrate a 19th wedding anniversary.
• The aquamarine is a transparent pale blue variety of beryl (beryllium aluminum silicate) — the same mineral family that emeralds belong to.
• Like many beryls, aquamarine forms large crystals suitable for sizable fashioned gems and carvings.
• The word aquamarine is derived from the Latin phrase “aqua marinus,” meaning “water of the sea” because they are said to resemble the beautiful blue green of ocean water.
• Aquamarines come in a wide range of shades and colors, from pale sky blue to richer blue, and blue-green. The rarest and most valuable aquamarines are those with a deep blue color.
• The best gems combine high clarity with limpid transparency and blue to slightly greenish blue hues.
• The color of aquamarine is due to trace amounts of iron that works its way inside the crystal. Most commercially sold aquamarines are heat treated to produce a more desirable blue-green color.
• Aquamarines have a hexagonal-shaped crystal system. They are pleochroic in nature, meaning they can show three colors, depending on the angle they’re viewed.

History of Aquamarine:

• Aquamarines were once said to calm waves and keep sailors safe at sea. March’s birthstone was also thought to enhance the happiness of marriages.
• Like many gems, aquamarines are said to have metaphysical powers, including the ability to clear and cleanse, refresh and uplift the mind. They are also said to promote courage, calm, compassion, tolerance, love, communication, self expression, reasoning, intellect, and connection to one’s higher self.
• Aquamarines are also said to aid in the healing of sore throats, swollen glands, calming nerves, improving vision, and cooling sunburns and fevers.
• The ancient Romans believed that Neptune, the god of the sea, obtained aquamarines from the jewelry boxes of the Sirens. Legend has it that Neptune gave aquamarines as a gift to the mermaids.
• Because of its bond with the sea, aquamarine is the gemstone of several sea goddesses, including Aphrodite, also known as the Greek goddess of love.
• Aquamarines are also said to bring safety to sailors, who are known to wear aquamarine talismans engraved with the likeness of Neptune, as protection against dangers at sea.

Where can aquamarines be found?

• Aquamarines are mined in exotic locations including Nigeria, Madagascar, Zambia, Pakistan and Mozambique, but most modern aquamarines come from Brazil.
• One of the largest aquamarines ever mined weighed 110.5 kg (243 lbs). It was found in 1910 in Marambaia, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
• In the United States, the only location where you can mine for aquamarines is Mount Antero in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. The elusive gem is said to be found at altitudes of 14,000 feet or more!

Where to shop for aquamarine jewelry?

If you’re looking to buy an estate, vintage or antique jewelry, shop with confidence Adina Jewelers, and for more selections of aquamarine jewelry, shop at Adina’s eBay store where you can rely on the experts at Adina. You’ll find fine a vast selection of fine jewelry at true wholesale prices and deliver a buying experience that’s above your expectations.

Learn About Calming Amethyst

Amethyst, the birthstone for February and the sign of Pisces, is said to have calming qualities

• In addition to being the official birthstone for February, amethyst is also the gemstone for the 6th and 17th wedding anniversaries.

• The gorgeous color, amethyst is the purple variety of quartz, occurring naturally as crystals within rocks.

• Amethyst is the most valued member of the quartz family, considered a semiprecious gem for its violet color.

• A quartz must be purple to be amethyst, but can range in shade from light lilac to deep purple.

• Heating amethyst removes the color or changes it to the yellow of citrine. Today, most citrine is made in this manner.

• The word amethyst comes from the Greek word “amethystos,” meaning sober.

• Throughout history, amethyst has been used to protect against drunkenness and to help overcome addiction. Today, amethyst is considered to be a symbol of calm and tranquility, and a stabilizing force for those struggling to overcome addictive behaviors.

• The astrologer Camillo Leonardi wrote that amethyst quickens intelligence and gets rid of evil thoughts.

• A gift of amethyst is a symbol of protection, said to strengthen the bonds of love and overcome difficulty.

• The gemstone amethyst was associated with Dionysus, the Greek god of wine. In ancient Greece, people believed wine served in amethyst goblets would protect against drunkenness.

• According to Greek mythology, Amethyst was a young virgin who angered the Greek god, Dionysus, after he became drunk from red wine. When Amethyst called the goddess Diana for help, Diana turned Amethyst into a white quartz. When Dionysus felt remorse, he cried, dripping his tears into his goblet of red wine. When the goblet overturned, the red wine spilled on the white quartz, coloring it purple—the color of amethyst.

• At one time, amethysts were once considered more valuable than diamonds, until deposits were found, increasing the quantity and lowering the value.

• Deposits of amethyst have been found in Brazil, Canada, Australia, India, Madagascar, Namibia, Russia, Sri Lanka and in the United States. Today, most amethyst comes from Brazil and Uruguay.

• Did you know … amethyst is the official state gemstone of South Carolina, after world-class amethysts were found at the Ellis-Jones Mine near Due West, SC on June 24, 1969. The South Carolina amethysts are presently on display at the American Museum of Natural History and the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History.

• In August 2011, the world’s largest amethyst, called the “Empress of Uruguay,” was vandalized by a tourist while the 2.5-ton geode was on display in Queensland, Australia.

• Known as “the royal beauty,” amethyst has been associated with royalty throughout the ages, in part because of its royal purple color. A large amethyst is among the closely guarded gemstones in the British Crown Jewels, and it is said that amethyst was a favorite of Queen Catherine the Great of Russia.

• Also, amethyst has much religious history and symbolism. In the Bible, it was one of the 12 stones that adorned the high priest Aaron’s breastplate in Exodus 39. As a symbol of spirituality and piety, amethyst has also been used to decorate churches and crosses, and worn in rings and on rosaries by religious clergy.

Where to shop for Amethyst affordable jewelry?

If you’re looking for a calming amethyst, see the Adina Jeweler’s Amethyst Section, and for even more choices, visit Adina by Empire Jewelers eBay store. You’ll find exquisite fine jewelry, at wholesale prices.

October Birthstone True or False: Opal

Opals, the birthstone for the month of October, have a mystery and history as interesting as their iridescence.

Whether you were born in October or not, test your knowledge of opals with the Adina Jewelers true or false quiz!

Scroll down for the answers—but don’t cheat!

1. The opal is an ancient mineral known as petrified silica gel that are found near the earth’s surface where geothermal hot springs once existed.
2. Many opals contain a rainbow-like iridescence known as “opalocka,” which changes the colors that appear in the stone depending on the angle it is viewed.
3. Opalescence is caused by a hydrous silicon dioxide material that causes the gemstone to flash iridescent colors when the opal is viewed from different angles.
4. The subcategory of opals known as precious opals are the most common and in demand because of their “opulence.”
5. The word opal is derived from the Latin word “opalus,” meaning precious jewel, as well as “upala,” the Sanskrit name for precious stone.
6. Opals are given to celebrate a 13th wedding anniversary, and are a symbol of faithfulness and confidence.
7. The ancient Romans called the opal “Cupid Paederos,” which translates to “a child beautiful as a heart.”
8. In ancient Rome, opals were ground up and consumed because they were believed to have healing properties and the power to ward off bad dreams.
9. The Great Bard, Shakespeare, loved opals so much, he nicknamed them the “queen of the gems.”
10. The opal is Australia’s national gemstone, and its indigenous people call opals “the water in the desert.”
11. Goober Pedy, Australia is known as “The Opal Capital of the World” because 51 percent of the world’s supply of opals are mined there.
12. In 2008, NASA discovered opal deposits on Mars! Since opal is made up of mostly water, Mars may have contained water for billions of years.

October Birthstone True or False Answers:

1. True.
2. False. The rainbow-like effect in opals is called opalescence.
3. True.
4. False. Precious opals are the most in demand because of their “opalescence” or “play of color.”
5. True.
6. False. Opals are given to celebrate a 14th wedding anniversary, and are a symbol of faithfulness and confidence.
7. False. “Cupid Paederos” translates to “a child beautiful as love.”
8. True.
9. True.
10. False. The indigenous people of Australia call the opal “the fire in the desert.”
11. False. The name of the city is actually Coober Pedy, Australia.
12. True.

Where to shop opal jewelry?

Whether you’re birthstone is an opal, you’re looking for a gift for an October birthday, or you just love this fiery gemstone, shop Adina’s eBay store for estate, vintage and antique opal jewelry, available at true wholesale prices. We have vast selection of opals and other fine gemstones, and we will deliver a buying experience that’s above your expectations.

Fabulous Facts About Sapphires

 

Fabulous Facts About Sapphires

Few gems are considered as regal and magical as sapphires—the royal gemstone and September’s birthstone.

Here are some fun and fabulous facts about sapphires, courtesy of GIA.

1. Blue sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum, the same mineral that rubies come from.
2. The sapphire is derived from the Greek word “sapheiros,” which means blue.
3. On the Mohs hardness scale, sapphires are second only to diamonds in hardness.
4. Although sapphires come in many colors, the most valuable and sought after are deep blue sapphires.
5. In addition to being the birthstone for September, sapphires are also the gemstone for celebrating 45th wedding anniversaries.
6. The ancient Greeks believed sapphires were a symbol of wisdom and purity.
7. The ancient Persians believed the Earth was supported by a giant sapphire and its reflection made the sky blue.
8. According to Jewish midrash, Moses was given tablets of sapphire that were carved from God’s throne, making them the most precious gemstone.
9. The late Diana, Princess of Wales, famously chose a blue sapphire and diamond ring for her engagement to Prince Charles.
10. After the engagement of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer, reproductions of her ring became so popular with the public that it became known as “the commoner’s ring.”
11. After inheriting it upon her death, Prince William gave his mother’s ring to Kate Middleton when he proposed to her. The Duchess of Cambridge can almost always be seen wearing it in public.
12. The 104-carat Stuart Sapphire is on the back side of the British Imperial State Crown and is currently on display as part of the British Crown Jewels collection at the Tower of London.

Where to buy sapphire fine jewelry?

If you’re looking for a beautiful piece of sapphire jewelry, visit Adina Jewelers on eBay. You’ll find amazing fine estate, vintage and antique jewelry at true wholesale prices!

Source: GIA

Cool and Classic Father’s Day Jewelry Gift Ideas

Father’s Day is Sunday! Here are some cool and classic Father’s Day jewelry gift ideas to help show the father figure in your life how you really feel about him.

History of Father’s Day

Let’s first start with some history of the holiday. Created in 1910 by Sonora Smart Todd, her idea was to create a day to complement Mother’s Day, which had been established in 1908 by Ann Jarvis. Although it would take almost two decades for the holiday to gain popularity, it eventually took hold, as we still celebrate it today.

A piece of jewelry to cherish

To really impress the dad in your life, you may want to consider giving a piece of jewelry, such as a watch, tie clip, or cuff links. As jewelry designer David Yurman said, “I’ve always felt that jewelry is one of the most personal and emotional gifts you can give your loved one.” Men really do appreciate a good piece of jewelry as much as women do, especially if it’s wearable and practical, in addition to being beautiful.

A timeless watch – Watches are truly a unique statement about the wearer. If you’re considering giving a watch, take a moment to think about your father’s personality. Is he classic and conservative, or edgy and cool? Is he active and in need of a durable sports watch? Or tech-savvy who will appreciate a smartwatch that is an extension of his iPhone? If so, then consider the Apple Watch Sport or a host of other iOS-compatible smartwatches on the market.

Depending on your budget, if his taste leans toward classic styles and higher end brands, a fine watch can become an heirloom that is handed down for generations. Before you spend more than you should, read 6 Things to do before Buying a Rolex.

A unique necklace — Like a watch and most pieces of jewelry, a necklace should really speak to your father’s personality and taste. Consider a pendant that reflects his personal beliefs, likes and interests. Is he a religious man? How about a nice gold cross or pendant with the Hebrew Life sign? Or a guitar if he’s a musician; or maybe a dog tag proclaiming your love for him. There are some unique options out there, including a Batman logo with the saying, “You are my superhero.” Take time to investigate and you’ll be sure to find the perfect piece.

A pair of classic cufflinks — Few pieces of men’s jewelry say class and elegance like a pair of gold or silver cufflinks. Prices range widely for cufflinks, so don’t be intimidated. A basic pair of stainless steel cufflinks generally starts around $20.00 and increase into the thousands, depending on the metals and gemstones attached to them. Go the extra step and have them monogrammed with your father’s initials.

Whatever you decide to give to your dad on Father’s Day, remember that time is the most precious gift of all, so if you can, spend Father’s Day with your dad doing something he likes. Or take time to reminisce and remember him with family. Happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there!

Shop Adina Jewelers for Father's Day Gifts

If you’re looking for Father’s Day jewelry gift ideas, whether estate, vintage or antique jewelry or watch, shop with confidence at Adina’s eBay store where you can rely on the experts at Adina Jewelers. 

Fun Facts about Festive December Birthstones

Interested in the three festive December birthstones? December birthdays are extra special occasions. Not only do they take place around holiday festivities, but those born in December have three birthstones with which to celebrate: turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon.

Below are some interesting and little known facts about these three festive gemstones.

1. Turquoise is a blue-green mineral, with the chemical name of hydrated copper aluminum phosphate.
2. The word turquoise is derived from the Old French word meaning Turkish stone.
3. Some of the finest turquoise is known to come from Iran, but high-grade turquoise is also mined in Arizona and New Mexico.
4. The ancient Egyptians used turquoise in jewelry, art, ornaments, and statues because they believed it had magical powers.
5. Tanzanite is named after the East African state of Tazmania, the only place in the world where it can be found.
6. The blue variety of tanzanite is called zoisite.
7. Originally known as blue zoisite, the mineral’s name was changed to tanzanite by Henry Platt, Vice President of Tiffany & Co., because he felt zoisite sounded too much like suicide.
8. In October 2002, the American Gem Trade Association officially named tanzanite as the third December birthstone.
9. Zirconium silicate is the chemical name for zircon.
10. The name zircon is derived from the Arabic words “zar” and “gun,” which means gold and color.
11. Today, zircon is primarily mined in Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam.
12. In the Middle Ages, many people believed zircons could relieve pain, induce hunger, protect travelers from disease and injury, ensure a warm welcome, and promote restful sleep.

Where to shop for Turquoise, Tanzanite or Zirconium jewelry?

If you’re looking for a gift for someone born in December, or you are looking for jewelry to give that’s perfect for the holidays, Adina Jewelers has an extensive collection of beautiful vintage and estate jewelry at true wholesale prices. You can also shop our for all your gift-giving  as well as a wide variety of precious and semi-precious gemstone jewelry on our eBay store. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Know Your Gemstones? Citrine and Topaz True/False Quiz

Think you know your gemstones?

Test your knowledge of citrine and topaz, November’s birthstones, with our true or false quiz! Scroll down for the answers—but don’t cheat!

1. Citrines are quartz crystals commonly found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks.
2. The common color of citrines is blue and green.
3. The word citrine is derived from the French word, citrin, which means yellow.
4. Citrine is the gemstone for the zodiac sign of Scorpio, and the gemstone given for the 13th and 17th wedding anniversaries.
5. In ancient times, citrine was worn as protection against bad skin, evil thoughts, snakebites, and even the plague.
6. A gift of citrine is a symbol of flexibility and quick learning.
7. Some believe citrine began as amethyst, the purple quartz, with the heat from molten rock changing it to yellow quartz.
8. The presence of fluorine usually indicates that topaz is likely to be found.
9. When topaz has yellow or green overtones, it is known as Imperial topaz, and can be very rare and expensive.
10. It is widely believed that the word topaz is derived from the Sanskrit word, topas, which means fire.
11. Topaz jewelry is given for the 4th, 19th and 23rd wedding anniversaries.
12. Topaz is known as the “stone of the gods” for its strength.
13. A gift of yellow topaz symbolizes friendship, strength, wisdom, and courage.
14. Topaz was believed to ease itchy feet and cravings for sweets.
15. The ancient Egyptians believed yellow topaz’s color came from the glow cast by the sun god, Ra.
16. The ancient Greeks believed topaz could make its wearer fly.

November birthstone true/false answers:

1. True.
2. False. The common color of citrines is yellow and orange.
3. False. The word citrin is a French word which means lemon.
4. True.
5. True.
6. False. Citrine given as a gift symbolizes strength and hope.
7. True.
8. True.
9. False. When topaz has red or pink overtones, it is known as Imperial topaz.
10. True.
11. True.
12. False. Topaz is known as the “stone of strength.”
13. True.
14. False. Topaz was believed to ease bad tempers, cure insanity, and help insomnia.
15. True.
16. False. The ancient Greeks believed topaz could make its wearer invisible.

Where to Shop for Citrine, Topaz Jewelry?

If you’re looking for jewelry but don’t want to pay retail prices, visit Adina Jewelers for the best online prices for fine jewelry. For more choices, visit Adina’s eBay store where you can rely on the jewelry experts at Adina Jewelers. You’ll find fine a vast selection of beautiful jewelry and get a buying experience that’s above your expectations.