The Joy of Tanzanite

22. March 2016 · Comments Off on The Joy of Tanzanite · Categories: Tanzanite · Tags:
3 Stone Oval Tanzanite Round Diamond Ring in 14k yellow gold

Yellow Gold Past Present Future Tanzanite Ring from MyJewelrySource

Tanzanite is a unique gem, found only in one location on Earth. And since it has such a gorgeous color, we are all so lucky it was first discovered some 40 years ago and then made its way to fine jewelry. MyJewelrySource has a special collection of fine quality tanzanite jewelry and we carefully source the most beautiful stones we can find. You probably are aware that tanzanite in jewelry has a wide range of hues, from pale lavender to dark purple. But it’s the medium to dark tones, strong saturations, and slightly purplish blue hues that are the most prized.

Oval Tanzanite and Round Diamond Ring with Engraving in 14k white gold

Three Stone Tanzanite and Diamond Ring with Engraving

We have a delightful three stone design which features a 7x5mm oval tanzanite with a 10 point round diamond on each side, GR-7080 (shown above) and GR-7075 (shown left). In addition to the symbolism of the design, the ring has been given a vintage feel with the engraving that adorns three sides of the band. This is one ring we just had to offer in 14k white or 14k yellow gold because fine quality tanzanite is one of those gems that looks amazing in either color of gold.

AAA Grade Tanzanite Rings

Fine quality Cushion Cut Tanzanite Ring from MyJewelrySource

If you’re looking for a really spectacular gem, our GR-7067 (shown right) features a stunning purplish blue 7mm cushion cut tanzanite with a medium tone and strong saturation. Tanzanites that show a more predominantly blue color are more rare and valuable since more gem weight is lost when a cutter orients the rough to bring out the blue hue. Therefore, gems are not usually cut this way and when you find one, you know you have a very special stone. The tanzanite in this ring has an exceptional cut and it is very lively. The setting features a split shank design adorned with rows of small, fully faceted round diamonds. The ring has a low profile so it will be quite comfortable for frequent wear. Notice too how we have used substantial V style prongs to not only hold the tanzanite securely but to also protect it from daily bumps and bruises.

Princess Cut Tanzanite, Pink Sapphire and Diamond Ring in 14k white gold

Stunning Tanzanite, Pink Sapphire and Diamond Ring from MyJewelrySource

The last design we wanted to showcase in this blog in our princess cut tanzanite and pink sapphire ring, GR-7089 (shown left). Wow, this ring will literally take your breath away. The combination of the jewel tones of the tanzanite and pink sapphires is mesmerizing. To highlight it all, we’ve framed the gems with bright, sparkling round diamonds. And to make sure the ring is a showstopper from every angle, we’ve added gorgeous filigree detail to the basket. In case this speaks to you as an engagement ring, we’ve already designed a coordinating diamond wedding band to complete the set.

Please take a look at all of our tanzanite rings on our website.

Tip of the Day: Choosing a Gemstone Engagement Ring – Tip 7 – Hues of Blue

19. November 2015 · Comments Off on Tip of the Day: Choosing a Gemstone Engagement Ring – Tip 7 – Hues of Blue · Categories: Aquamarine, Blue Zircon, Gemstone Engagement Rings, Sapphire, Tanzanite, Uncategorized · Tags: , , ,

Tip #7- Hues of Blue: Blue is a soothing color and a symbol of commitment. It is a constant in our lives, from the color of the sky to the color of the ocean.


1.50 ctw Princess Cut Blue Sapphire and Diamond Ring in 14k

1.50 ctw Princess Cut Blue Sapphire and Diamond Ring from MyJewelrySource


Sapphires are the best choice for many reasons (including their superior hardness and range of colors) for a blue gemstone engagement ring. Other options include tanzanite, which also had purple tones, and aquamarine, a lighter, softer shade of blue, has been the focal point of many outstanding engagement rings we have created. If she likes sky blue or turquoise blue, don’t overlook blue topaz engagement rings and blue zircon engagement rings.

2.30 ctw Blue Zircon and Diamond Ring in 14k white gold

12.30 ctw Blue Zircon and Diamond Ring from MyJewelrySource


Did you know that blue zircon is one of the most sparkly gemstones? With a refractive index similar to that of a diamond, it is a brilliant beautiful stone. Blue zircon and Swiss blue topaz often look very similar. The highest quality of blue zircon has a color saturation that blue topaz does not have. Both are reminiscent of a gorgeous bright blue sky, or of the Caribbean sea.
 
Sapphires too can be very sparkly; this is particularly true of sapphires with Ceylon origin. At MyJewelrySource, we primarily offer Ceylon sapphire engagement rings for that very reason. Ceylon sapphires are found in a wide range of blue shades from periwinkle to cornflower to cobalt and royal blue. Sapphires from other locations like Africa or Thailand are also quite beautiful and generally have a richer, darker tone.

3.05 ctw Pear Shape Tanzanite and Diamond Ring in 14k

3.05 ctw Pear Shape Tanzanite Ring from MyJewelrySource


Tanzanite is found in only one location in the world, Tanzania, Africa. It is an exceptional bluish purple gemstone and is often found in large sizes. Lower quality material often is more of a lavender color, which is actually quite pretty. The lighter colors are more affordable and often times set in silver rather than precious gold or platinum.

Affordability:

Blue topaz is the most affordable of the blue gemstones with blue zircon following as a close second. Fine quality aquamarine, particularly the prized Santa Maria aquamarine, is very rare and is priced accordingly. Some qualities and colors of blue sapphire are very affordable especially in sizes of 1 carat or smaller. Fine, vivid cornflower blue Ceylon sapphires are among the most expensive, which reflects the rarity and the quality of the gem.


2.55 ctw Round Aquamarine and Diamond Ring in 14k

3.05 ctw Pear Shape Tanzanite Ring from MyJewelrySource

More Tips on Gem Care and Jewelry Cleaning

18. November 2015 · Comments Off on More Tips on Gem Care and Jewelry Cleaning · Categories: Gemstone Care, Gemstones, Tanzanite · Tags: , , , ,

The purpose of this post is to add to the information we provided on March 17, 2012 about gemstone hardness and cleaning methods. Below are a few more tips and additional information about gemstone and jewelry cleaning.

Striking 3.88 ctw Marquise Shape Tanzanite and Diamond Ring in 14k white gold

Tanzanite is susceptable to thermal shock, therefore, avoid rapid changes in temperature such as occurs during steam cleaning (image: Tanzanite ring from MyJewelrySource.com)

Tanzanite is susceptable to thermal shock, therefore, avoid rapid changes in temperature such as occurs during steam cleaning (image: Tanzanite ring from MyJewelrySource.com)

When a gemstone is subjected to a rapid temperature change it is referred to as thermal shock. Thermal shock can actually crack stones like tanzanite and peridot so don’t use hot water when cleaning them. Other gems that can be damaged from hot cleaning solutions include opal, lapis lazuli and turquoise. Thermal shock is one reason to avoid having your jewerly steam cleaned at your local jewelers especially if your jewelry contains any of the gemstones metioned above.

Organic gems like amber, pearls and coral, can be damaged by lotions, perfumes and especially ammonia, so that’s why you probably have been told to put your pearls on after you are completely finished getting yourself ready in the morning. Although most gems stand up much better to chemicals, it is best to remove jewelry when using cleaners or solvents and it is not recommended that jewelry be cleaned with them.

Chlorine can attack gold alloys and acids can etch gemstones so it is best to remove your jewelry before enjoying your pool.

Ultrasonic and steam cleaners can do a great job at cleaning jewelry but they have many drawbacks and we do not recommend them. Ultrasonic cleaners can loosen stones from their settings and damage porous stones like lapis or turquoise. Because most emeralds are oiled, they should never ever be placed in an ultrasonic cleaner because this will cause the oil to leak out of the stone and severely damage the gem’s appearance. This is also true of any fracture filled gemstones. Additionally, the vibrations caused by ultrasonic cleaners may loosen the stones in the settings, expecially rings with the pave setting of many small stones.

In summary, it’s best to avoid having your jewelry cleaned with an ultrasonic or steam cleaner altogether (even if you are offered a free cleaning by your local jeweler). We clean all of our jewelry at MyJewelrySource with a soft-bristled tooth brush or a cloth using plain luke warm or slightly soapy water or gentle jewelry cleaner.