Jewelry Education

Few gemstones have captivated the world as quickly, or as completely, as the Paraiba tourmaline. With a neon glow that appears to radiate from within, this copper-bearing gem has gone from total obscurity to one of the most sought-after stones on earth in just a few decades. Whether you're a serious collector or simply drawn to its otherworldly color, understanding what sets Paraíba tourmaline apart is essential before making an investment in one of nature's rarest creations. What Is Paraíba Tourmaline? Paraíba tourmaline is a rare variety of elbaite tourmaline that gets its signature electric blue-to-green color from trace amounts of copper and, in many cases, manganese. While the tourmaline family includes dozens of color varieties from pink rubellite to deep blue indicolite none possess the vivid, neon-like luminosity that defines a true Paraíba. What makes Paraíba fundamentally different from other tourmalines is its chemistry. Standard tourmalines derive their color from elements like iron and sodium. Paraíba's color comes from copper, an element that is extraordinarily rare in the tourmaline family. This copper infusion creates an intensity of saturation and an internal glow that no other gemstone on earth can replicate. Many who encounter a Paraíba for the first time describe the experience as seeing a gemstone that appears to be lit from the inside an effect gemologists refer to as a "neon" or "electric" quality. The Discovery: A Miner's Obsession The story of Paraíba tourmaline begins in the early 1980s with a Brazilian miner named Heitor Dimas Barbosa. Convinced that the hills of the São José da Batalha region in the state of Paraíba, Brazil, concealed something extraordinary, Barbosa spent nearly a decade excavating, working on little more than instinct and determination. In 1989, his persistence paid off. Barbosa unearthed a vivid blue-green tourmaline crystal unlike anything the gemological world had ever seen. The stone's color was so intense, so luminous, that it immediately sent shockwaves through the gem trade. Named after the Brazilian state where it was found, Paraíba tourmaline debuted on the international market in the early 1990s and sparked what many in the industry still call "Paraíba Fever." Prices skyrocketed almost overnight. The combination of an entirely new color phenomenon, extremely limited supply, and intense collector demand; particularly from Japanese buyers who drove values above $20,000 per carat in those early years. Where Do Paraíba Tourmalines Come From? Today, copper-bearing tourmalines with the Paraíba designation come from three primary sources, each with its own characteristics and market positioning. Brazil: The Original and Most Coveted The original Paraíba deposits in the states of Paraíba and neighboring Rio Grande do Norte remain the most prestigious and valuable source. Brazilian stones are renowned for their exceptional color saturation, that unmistakable neon blue that collectors prize above all else. However, the original Batalha mine is now virtually exhausted. The mining area was remarkably small, roughly 400 meters long, 200 meters wide, and 65 meters deep. The total volume of gem-quality material ever recovered from Brazil is staggeringly small; experts have estimated that every cuttable Brazilian Paraíba ever mined could fit inside a single room. Finding a high-quality Brazilian stone over three carats is exceptionally rare, and most specimens on the market today weigh under two carats. Mozambique: The Primary Modern Source In 2003, copper-bearing tourmalines with remarkably similar properties were discovered in the Alto Ligonha region of Mozambique. These African stones quickly became the primary source of Paraíba tourmaline on the global market. Mozambican stones can display vivid, neon-quality color that rivals the best Brazilian material, and they tend to be available in larger sizes  sometimes exceeding five or even ten carats. While top Mozambican specimens are truly spectacular, the range of quality is broader. Stones vary from medium saturation to exceptional neon intensity. Pricing reflects this range, with top-quality Mozambican Paraíbas commanding significant premiums while remaining more accessible than their Brazilian counterparts. Nigeria: A Smaller Player Copper-bearing tourmalines were also discovered in Nigeria around 2001, predating the Mozambique finds. Nigerian stones tend to exhibit moderate color saturation and are generally the most affordable of the three sources. Production volumes are relatively small, and the material doesn't typically match the peak intensity found in the best Brazilian or Mozambican stones. The Continental Connection One of the most fascinating aspects of Paraíba tourmaline's geography is the geological link between Brazil and Africa. When you compare the coastlines of South America and Africa, the copper-rich regions where Paraíba tourmalines are found in Brazil align almost perfectly with the deposits in Mozambique and Nigeria; a remnant of when the two continents were joined as part of the ancient supercontinent Gondwana. The same copper-rich geological conditions that created these gems existed across a single landmass hundreds of millions of years ago. The Naming Debate For years, a significant debate raged in the gem industry over what could officially be called a "Paraíba" tourmaline. Purists argued that only stones from the Brazilian state of Paraíba deserved the name, while others pushed for a broader definition based on chemical composition rather than geography. In 2006, the Laboratory Manual Harmonisation Committee (LMHC) settled the matter by officially defining "Paraíba tourmaline" as a variety name for any copper-bearing elbaite tourmaline with the characteristic neon coloration regardless of geographic origin. Today, most major gemological laboratories, including GIA, follow this convention. Lab reports will typically note that "Paraíba" is a variety name that does not necessarily indicate geographic origin. That said, origin still matters enormously in the marketplace. Brazilian stones command the highest premiums, and serious buyers frequently request origin determination reports that use advanced chemical analysis, specifically laser ablation mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) to confirm provenance. What Makes Paraíba Tourmaline So Rare? To truly appreciate this gemstone, you need to understand the scale of its rarity. One Paraíba tourmaline is mined for approximately every 10,000 diamonds. That staggering ratio helps explain why even modest Paraíba stones command four- and five-figure-per-carat prices. Several factors contribute to this extreme scarcity. The geological conditions required to produce copper-bearing tourmaline are extraordinarily specific. The stones form in pegmatite veins deep within the earth, where precise combinations of heat, pressure, and the right chemical elements, particularly copper, must be present simultaneously. This convergence of conditions is exceptionally rare in nature. The original Brazilian deposits were tiny and are now largely depleted. While Mozambique and Nigeria have expanded the global supply, the total amount of gem-quality Paraíba tourmaline available at any given time remains minuscule compared to virtually any other precious gemstone. Mining Paraíba tourmaline is also inherently difficult. The crystals are fragile, and aggressive extraction methods like blasting can destroy them. Most Paraíba deposits are mined by hand using small tools, which limits output but preserves the delicate material. What to look for when buying a Paraiba Tourmaline: 1) Color (the #1 driver of beauty and price) This is what people are really buying. Look for: Neon blue, turquoise, or blue‑green A color that looks bright and alive even indoors Good saturation without looking too dark or too gray Tip: If the stone only looks vivid under very bright light, it may not have the “Paraíba glow” people love most. 2) Brightness and transparency A great Paraíba tends to look like it’s “lit up,” not sleepy or cloudy. Inclusions are normal, but they shouldn’t block the life of the stone. 3) Cut (how it performs on the hand) A well-cut Paraíba will: return light beautifully, show color evenly, avoid “windowing” (a see-through center that looks watery). 4) Size (carat weight) Larger Paraíba tourmalines with top color are significantly rarer, and prices can jump fast as size increases, especially when paired with high color quality. 5) Proof and paperwork Because “Paraíba” is sometimes used loosely in marketing, serious buyers like: a lab report confirming it’s in the Paraíba (copper-bearing) category, and clear disclosure of any treatments (see next). 6) Treatments (common, not “bad,” but should be disclosed) Heat treatment is common for Paraíba tourmaline, and some labs note it can sometimes be difficult to prove whether heat was used. What you should expect from a good jeweler: transparent disclosure, lab documentation when appropriate, confidence that the color is stable. Experience Paraíba Tourmaline at J.R. Dunn Jewelers At J.R. Dunn Jewelers, we've been passionate about extraordinary gemstones for over 55 years. Our curated collection of Paraíba tourmaline jewelry features both Brazilian and Mozambican stones, hand-selected for exceptional color and quality. From breathtaking one-of-a-kind statement pieces by our award-winning designer Robert Pelliccia to elegant everyday designs. Whether you're adding to a serious gemstone collection or searching for a truly unique piece that will take someone's breath away, our expert team can guide you to the perfect Paraíba. Visit our showroom in Lighthouse Point, Florida, or explore our collection online at jrdunn.com.

Proposing to your one and only can be nerve-wracking enough—planning all the little details of the proposal to make it a memorable moment that will last a lifetime. The last thing you want is for her to say yes to spending forever with you, but be unable to slip the ring over her knuckle. Most brides imagine this moment being a surprise, leaving you in the position to guess their ring size. The most accurate way to size a ring is having it done at your jeweler on her finger. However, if that isn’t an option for you, avoid that unwanted stress and try some of our suggestions below. Did you know: Most people’s right ring finger is slightly larger than their left. This is because most people are right handed, therefore using that hand more often. Try Her Ring on Yourself. One day while she isn’t around, go ahead and slip one of her rings on. Remember that each finger varies in size, so if you can, take note of which finger and which hand she wears it on. You will get the most accurate estimate based on a ring she wears on her left hand. With a pen, trace a line below where the ring falls on your finger. When you go to your local jeweler, they will be able to fairly accurately tell what her ring size is based on that line. Trace the Interior of Her Ring. Aren’t planning on going to the jeweler on the same day? Carefully trace the inner circle of her ring on a piece of paper. Then, simply bring it to an expert who will be able to help determine her size. Another option would be to print our complimentary ring sizer, carefully cut it out, and align it with your tracing. Don’t forget that when you print, choose to print to ‘actual size’ to prevent any distortion of the actual sizing. Grab a bar of soap. It’s time to put those mini soap bars you’ve collected from your stay in hotels to good use! Press one of her rings into a bar of soap, making an impression of the size. Be sure to carefully rinse it off before placing it back. Also, don’t leave the ring imprinted soap around for her to see. From there you can match the inside of the imprint to our printable ring sizer or bring it into your jeweler for a size estimate. Ask Those Who Know Her Best. A mother, close sister, or best friend…chances are they’ve been shopping one or two times with your soon to be fiance. Ask one of them whether they know her size—preferably someone less likely to spill the secret. Who knows! Maybe they’ve even been engagement ring shopping before together. It may be simpler than you think… Gift Her a Fashion Ring. For an occasion such as a birthday, Valentine’s day, or even Sweetest day, find an excuse to give her a more affordable fashion ring such as this classic John Hardy ring. This will give you an opportunity for a ‘trial run’ in choosing her size. Try out something around the average ring size range of 6 to 7 for starters. When you give it to her, you will be able to determine whether this size was a good fit, giving you guidance to size up or size down for the upcoming proposal. Most stock rings come in a size 6-7, which is around the average woman’s ring size—based on a 5’6” and 140lb. woman. Depending on how slender her fingers are, adjust a half size or two up or down from there to make an educated estimate. If you are still wary about ruining the surprise, it is always safer to go with a ring size a little on the larger side. Then you can always have it sized down at your local jeweler to perfectly hug her finger. Trusting your jeweler to assist you with this obstacle is key. Our J.R. Dunn team help people just like you with this exciting moment all the time and are dedicated to making it a stress-free experience.

So you've decided to buy your first luxury watch! What to buy and where to buy may seem complicated, but with a bit of thinking and research you can be well-armed to get the most value for your money. You have a lot of options, from entry-level to mid-range and high-end luxury models, all of which will exhibit an enviable quality, workmanship, attention-to-detail and style that will endure for years to come. Think of a watch as a way for you to express yourself. Your selection is a personal choice; an extension of your taste, lifestyle and accomplishments. Only you know best what will work for you and your needs. Your luxury watch should be what you like and want, as well as easy-to-read and comfortable on your wrist. To narrow the field, ask yourself: What style of timepiece do you want: classic, dress or sport (pilot, sailing, diving, or race-car motif)? Do you want the dial to have numbers or markers? If you prefer numerals, do you like Arabic or Roman more? Is a neutral or colored dial preferable? Would you like a stainless steel, titanium, gold, ceramic or diamond bezel? What kind of complication do you need? Date Second time zone Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Have you considered your proportions, relative to watch size? There is no typical wrist size or size of watch; try before you buy! Should the timepiece have quartz or mechanical movement? Do you want a leather or rubber strap, or a metal bracelet? A timeless Swiss watch is both a piece of jewelry and an accessory, at-once fashionable and functional. Classic watchmakers, such as Breitling, Rolex, Tudor, Tag-Heuer and Carl F. Bucherer are established brands that are a safe choice. Breitling, founded in 1884, is a technical watch expert, leading the way in wrist chronographs. Rolex tests their watches to the extreme; the brand is backed by more than a century of innovation. Tudor offers classic refinement with a modern twist; the clean lines of the watches balance elegance and performance. Chopard watches for men and women are luxurious, available in platinum, 18kt gold, titanium and stainless steel. Tag-Heuer, founded in 1860, delivers prestige and performance. Carl F. Bucherer is world-renowned for innovative, sleek styles. They all have this common: history, reliability and a proven track record of quality. Their designs combine design, engineering, mechanics and art. Never spend more than you can afford, and always buy from a trusted source that will do the right thing is there is a problem. Working with an authorized retailer for your brand of choice also ensures that you are buying genuine merchandise. To find an authorized retailer, go to the manufacturer’s website to see your jeweler’s name is listed as part of their distribution network. You can also call the manufacturer to ask. The procurement of a luxury watch is an emotional investment; it is a piece of history destined to be passed from generation to generation.

1) According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, the pearl is “a dense variously colored and usually lustrous concretion formed by concentric layers of nacre, as an abnormal growth within the shell of some mollusks and used as a gem.” In biology-speak, almost any shelled mollusk can produce some type of pearl, under the right circumstances. Take the Pearl of Lao Tzu, a naturally occurring non-nacreous pearl that was found in the Philippines in 1934, which came from a clam! The pearl is the only gem in the world produced by a living animal that needs no cutting or polishing. 2) The color of South Sea pearls depends upon the color of the oyster’s lips! Black South Sea pearls are produced in the waters of Tahiti and Okinawa from black-lipped oysters. The silver-lipped South Sea oyster produces white pearls with a satiny luster. Golden-lipped oysters produce warm, natural Golden South Sea pearls. 3) While the primary objective for the harvesting and cultivation of pearls is for use in jewelry, the gems have also been crushed into cosmetics, medicine and paint formulations. Pearl powder, made from pearls that do not meet the grading A system of luster, shape, color, surface and size, is widely used to keep skin healthy in Asia, clearing up acne, healing scars, sun spots and reducing lines and wrinkles. It is known to be good for stomach and abdominal disorders. 4) Legend has it that to show her wealth and power, Cleopatra made – and won – a bet with Roman leader Marc Antony that she could spend 10 million sesterces on a single meal. She did so by dropping a pearl into vinegar and, once it dissolved, swallowed it. The story could well be true, as research by classicist Prudence Jones showed that a five percent solution of acetic acid can dissolve a one-gram pearl in 24 to 36 hours, leaving a small amount of translucent gelatinous material on the surface. 5) Kokichi Mikimoto, who invented cultured pearls, believed that pearls aid longevity. It has been noted that he ate two pearls every morning. He did live to 96 years of age, following a life filled with many honors; he was appointed to the House of Peers; introduced to Thomas Edison; received in audience by Emperor Showa; and received by the Empress Dowager when she visited Tatokujima Island. Additionally, he was posthumously awarded the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Sacred Treasure. 6) Toba-Mikimoto Pearl Island is the birthplace of cultured pearls. Today, the destination is a tourist attraction with exhibitions of pearls and craft goods, where visitors can learn about how pearls are processed and watch ama (sea women) harvest oysters in a demonstration. Generations of these traditional sea divers made their living diving to depths of 25 meters without any breathing apparatus, holding their breath for up to two minutes, often in freezing waters. It was their job to collect oysters from the seabed so that a pearl-producing nucleus could be inserted, and then carefully return the oysters in a protected place of seabed. SHOP OUR PEARLS SELECTIONS >> Earrings >> Bracelets >> Necklaces

An eternity band is a ring she will want to wear forever! The ring features a simple and beautiful line of gemstones, usually in the same shape and size, set in precious metal. When diamonds are the gemstone of choice they are of matching color and clarity. Emeralds, rubies and sapphires are popular choices, too. All the top designers seem to want in on this symbol of never-ending love! Look at the Cento Florentine band from Roberto Coin. It is smooth with raised edges, engraved with a delicate pattern. The ornate piece is available in 18kt yellow and white gold finishes. See rings in halo style from The Center of My Universe collection from Forevermark. Michael B. has created a feminine eternity bands inspired by lace. You will be impressed by the Tacori touch in its Adoration collection. Check out the Verragio Eterna collection for two-tone bezel-set bands. Bridal designers have all tastes and styles covered. Tacori’s Classic Crescent and Reverse Crescent channel-set eternity bands; and various pieces from the Verragio Eterna collection, crafted in 18kt gold or platinum, from a two-tone bezel set wide band look to a ring with a carved bezel setting. Eternity bands are popular wedding band. Can you think of a more romantic gift idea? They are perfect to give for life’s big moments. They are perfect to give for life's big moments, from an anniversary to the birth of a child, Valentine's Day, holiday or promotion. You may also choose to wear an eternity band as a right-hand ring. Depending on the width of the eternity band, you may choose to stack them, or opt for a multi-row model, with a center row of larger stones book-ended by two rows with smaller gems. An eternity band is forever chic. It must be sized correctly from the beginning for a perfect fit. Princess and emerald shaped stones are commonly used, as they are compact and harder-wearing than rounds. Square and rectangular shapes are easy to set end-to-end around a band, and rounds can be used in any of the following styles: Bezel-Set – This contemporary-looking setting protects a gemstone that’s held in place with a metal rim that completely or partially encircles and extends slightly above it. Channel-Set – This secure, elegant style is prong-free, so you don’t have to be concerned with irritated fingers. The stones are held flush against the rings surface, with diamonds sitting side-by-side. While it makes for a comfortable ring, thanks to a smooth surface, this type of setting does have more noticeable metal. On the plus side, it can fit snugly against other rings without causing damage. Pave-Set – This style lends itself to multiple rows, as it features smaller stones set close together with very small beads of metal holding them in place. Prong-Set – This more traditional setting lets the gemstones be fully seen, whether you select a single, shared, U-shaped or four-prong variety. Diamonds in this type of setting sit above the band, allowing light to pass through the stone allowing them to show their brilliance. There are many variations to choose from when searching for your eternity band. You will find pieces in white, yellow and rose gold. An eternity band will immortalize the love you share and provide a vibrant visual reminder of cherished moments in your life together. Click Here to Check Out all of our Eternity Bands

If you are looking for a significant value for size in a diamond, here are two words for you: L’Amour Crisscut. The patented cut has 50-facets, straight-sides and a curved top and bottom. This makes a diamond look 45 percent larger than a comparably sized emerald-shaped gem. It means more sparkle, fire and scintillation. And a mirror-like reflection not seen before in engagement rings. The rings’ proportions are a blend of technology and aesthetics. Cut is the most important of the 4Cs. It is what gives diamonds their radiance. And what makes these rings a remarkable way to promise her forever. The designer said, “Light bounces off seven times inside the stone before exiting, greatly amplifying the stone’s brilliance.” When you buy a L’Amour Crisscut engagement ring, you do not have to choose between quantity and quality. Their beauty lies in the details, including handcrafting in 18kt gold, side stones and melee. Celebrate your love with one of several styles. Each collection tells a story. The looks are breathtaking. Bold. Classic and modern at the same time. The company calls them "The New Shape of Love." She will fall in love with you all over again every time she looks at her L’Amour Crisscut engagement ring! The romantic rectangles are a beautiful way to say "I love you!"

Take the shape of your face and your wardrobe into consideration when shopping for necklaces, too. Here are a few “tips of the trade,” to help you make an educated decision about shopping for that perfect piece: Chokers measure 14” to 16” and hug the neck, highlighting it by drawing attention to it. They will balance a narrow chin, creating the illusion of a fuller face. Best suited to those with slimmer necks, chokers can soften the sharp angles of those with heart-shaped, rectangular and oblong faces. People with round-shaped faces should avoid this length, opting instead for either a graduated necklace that elongates the face, by putting attention on its center, or a longer necklace with a pendant or charm that’ll create a slimming “V” as it drapes away from your face. The choker is a classic and versatile choice, complementing a wide open neck, v-neck, boat neck, off-the-shoulder and strapless styles. The Princess length is 17” to 19” long, coming down to or just above the collarbone. This popular length is universally flattering, the optimal measurement to show off a pendant. It’s also the model length for a pearl necklace. The Princess length goes with virtually almost any neckline, from strapless to crew neck, high necks and low, plunging necklines. Bear in mind that it should not compete with the neckline. You’ll find the 20” to 24” Matinee length falling just above the breastbone common for chains, strand necklaces and lockets. It’s suited for casual and business wear, like a suit or dress, attractively worn with both button-down blouses and turtlenecks. This length draws accentuates cleavage. The dramatic Opera length, at 30” to 36”, is long enough to reach the sternum or breastbone. It’s a length that can go from day, worn with a high neck or crew neck during the day, to formal eveningwear at night. The opera length emphasizes a tall frame and draws the eye in a vertical line. It elongates a round face and puts the focus on your chest. Necklaces can be double-wrapped to create multiple looks. For elegant business and evening wear, the Rope measures more than 36”. It’s typically crafted as a long strand without a clasp (if it has a clasp it would be termed a “lariat”), and may be wrapped to form a shorter layered-effect look. This formal length looks fabulous on taller women, and puts the attention to the female form, drawing the eye to women’s curves . Make sure your necklaces are visible! Mix precious metals and types of necklaces, with chains, pearl and gemstone pieces working in seamless harmony. These guidelines, while meant to be helpful, are not the be-all-end-all. It’s been said, “Rules were made to be broken,” so our number one piece of advice? Try some necklaces on and see what works best for you! Your height and weight, face shape and body type will all play a part in your comfort level. And comfort is key!

If you’ve ever bought a diamond, you’ve heard about the 4C’s – color, clarity cut and carat weight. Like a diamond, these qualities also determine the value of an emerald, “the gem of spring,” with the most important characteristic being color. Emeralds, a variety of beryl, get their color from trace elements of chromium, vanadium and iron. The highly treasured and highly priced emerald is evaluated for three aspects of color: 1) hue (purity); 2) saturation (strength); and 3) tone (lightness or darkness). In a perfect world, emeralds would be not too dark or light; a green that was the perfect balance of blue and yellow. The most valuable emeralds have a green that is dark, bright and intense, with evenly distributed color. The most desirable emeralds have a dark bluish-green color that retains a translucence and brilliance. The Roman author, naturalist and natural philosopher Pliny the Elder said of an emerald’s color: “…No stone has a color that is more delightful to the eye, there being no green in existence more intense than this.” Other factors to consider in the purchase of an emerald: Inclusions or fractures are natural and commonly occur in emeralds; a result of how the crystals form and harsh mining techniques. These are sometimes referred to as internal “jardin” (French for “garden.”) The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) classifies the stone as a Type III gemstone; “naturally included.” Opt for emeralds that have interior inclusions rather than surface or near-surface ones; the stone will be less likely to break. Because of their delicate nature, almost all – 99 percent, according to trade estimates – of emeralds are treated with filler substances like oil, resin or polymers, or a combination of materials after they’re cut to reduce the appearance of inclusions and surface reaching breaks. Oil (colorless is preferred) is the most common treatment in emeralds, used for centuries, that enhances the gloss and color of the gem, and masks inclusions; natural resins or waxes can also be used to treat the stone as well, providing more permanent protection. Fashion emeralds come in a wide range of sizes and price points, depending on its characteristics. The aptly named rectangular emerald cut is the most common shape for the exclusive stone; while you’ll also find round, oval, pear and cabochon cuts. A secure setting, such as a bezel or v-prong, for your emerald is best; something solid and well-made that can offer the beautifully captivating stone protection and ensure its long life. To find the stone that’s right for you, work with a jewelry you trust who has gemological credentials and can offer a certificate from a widely accepted and reliable gem society, like the GIA or American Gem Trade Association (AGTA). View a few gems side-by-side to see a difference in quality. Ask how the stone was treated and if the treatment of was minor (best), moderate (better) or significant (good); this is a factor that will affect the price of the gem(s) under consideration. You’ll also want verification that the treatment used was clear so as not to affect the color of the emerald. Incidentally, the GIA offers a Colored Stone Identification Report for emeralds that describes whether a stone is natural or synthetic, identifies the type of gemstone, and lists detectable treatments. It also contains a detailed description of the gemstone, outlining shape, cutting style of crown and pavilion, transparency, color and measurements, and features a photograph of the gemstone. An Identification and Origin Report does all this, along with an opinion on the geographic origin of the stone. These thorough, unbiased analyses are easy-to-understand. If you love emeralds, you’re not alone. The awe-inspiring gem was first discovered in Egypt 4,000 years ago, and has been loved by many. History shows Cleopatra’s passion for the gem, they adorned Russian crown jewels, a large emerald was set into the girdle of Alexander the great, and Charlemagne had an emerald collection, as did Queen Elizabeth II. Emeralds are sourced from all over the world, with Columbia having the best quality stones that are a deep green and may feature spiral inclusions from three mines -- Chivor, Coscuez and Muzo – with these three producers identifiable by the stone’s appearance: Chivor emeralds have deep blue tints and two-phase tubular inclusions; the emeralds of Coscuez have a faintly blue and an intense saturation; and the deep green emeralds of Muzo have slight traces of yellow or blue and often include mineral parasites that look like yellow-brown or red-brown needles, Additional emerald suppliers include Brazil, with its light bright green stones; India, purveyor of bluish-green gems; Zambia, where the emeralds have bright color and clarity; and Zimbabwe, where smaller stones of rich green color are found. There are mines in Afghanistan, Madagascar, Nigeria Pakistan and Russia, too. Emeralds are the birthstone for people born in May, and the anniversary stone that celebrates milestones of 20, 35 and 55 years. It’s also a great gem for those who simply like the color green!

Customer service and business ethics are at the core of J.R. Dunn Jewelers. The family-owned-and operated company has built a reputation of integrity and trust over 45 years, in part by taking some of the mystery – but never the mystique -- out of the business. We are happy to share some of the jewelry business’s “classified information,” because we firmly believe that an informed client is a wonderful client! Knowledge is Power! In today’s market, many gemstones are enhanced in some way to make them more aesthetically appealing. This is typically seen with emeralds, rubies and sapphires. Methods of enhancement include exposing the gem(s) to low or moderate heat to make inclusions melt, thereby improving the stone’s color and clarity; bleaching to lighten or create a more uniform color, filling the gem with glass, oil, resin or wax. • Ask where your jeweler gets emeralds from, and if the treatment is minor, moderate or significant. Remember, if an emerald has been treated with oil, it may need to be treated again once the oil dries out. Also, verify if a clear treatment was used (this is the accepted standard in the industry). • When buying a ruby, ask if it has been treated. If it has been treated, ask if it includes lead glass. Customer Service Matters Matter! • Purchase your jewelry from a knowledgeable, reputable source. • You owe it to yourself to deal with a jeweler with a generous return policy. • If you’re buying an expensive piece, get an appraisal that will ensure “genuine” also means “valuable.” Jewelry appraisals at JR Dunn Jewelers are done on-site by a Graduate Gemologist, who meets the guidelines established by Jewelers of America, Inc. Watch and fine jewelry appraisals, as well as updates, are complimentary for all fine jewelry purchased from our showroom. For pieces purchased elsewhere, an appointment can be made and a nominal fee paid for this service. • Your jewelers’ appraiser(s) should be able to identify gems, grade diamonds, know the market, find comparisons, and understand the difference between retail replacement, liquidation and estate values. Diamonds • The best diamond is a clean diamond – literally! An imperfect stone that has been cleaned of debris will look infinitely better than a flawless gemstone that is dirty. The best way to clean your diamond jewelry is to soak the piece in a warm solution of mild detergent and water, swishing it around and removing a dirt with a soft brush, if needed, then rinsing thoroughly in warm water and drying with a lint-free cloth. • Cut is the most important of the 4C’s. This does not refer to the shape of the stone, but rather to how light reflects from the diamond’s surface to the human eye, determining the brightness, scattering and patterns of light. While it has the greatest responsibility for a stone’s beauty, it is the factor least taken into consideration when determining cost. This is the one “C” that you want to capitalize on; buy the highest grade that you can afford (from ideal to premium, very good, good, fair and poor). A cut’s proportions can make a smaller diamond appear larger in size. • Since diamond costs increase in size steps, look for stones that fall just under the popular weights of a half-carat, three-quarter carat, one carat. You’ll save a bit of money, and it’s difficult to distinguish the difference visually. • Ensure that a diamond certification, a.k.a. a diamond report that assures the authenticity of the stone will accompany your diamond purchase. This unbiased scientific evaluation by a third-party guarantees the diamond’s 4C’s – color, clarity, cut and carat weight; the factors that determine the beauty, durability, quality and value of the gemstone. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) provides Diamond Grading Reports for loose D-Z color diamonds, with plotted diagram of the stone’s clarity characteristics and graphic representation of its proportions. • It’s hard to grade a diamond that’s already set, as they are graded upside-down. Getting the Most “Bang for Your Buck” • Don’t presume that you’ll get the best price from a national chain. They may have the most plentiful inventory, but all mark-ups are not created equal. Do your homework; compare prices with those offered by an independent jeweler. At J.R. Dunn, we offer a best price promise on all merchandise. • Some trends are cost-effective. Consider a sterling silver piece with gold accents. The benefits are many, including the two-tone look’s ability to work well with other pieces of precious metal and complement a variety of skin tones. • Shop with an authorized retailer. You’ll be guaranteed to receive authentic merchandise in original packaging, along with manufacturer warranties. • Look for warranties. We double the manufacturer warranty on all products sold at J.R. Dunn. Think Outside the Box There is a wealth of options available when it comes to jewelry. • If you think custom-design is out of your price range, think again! Some people come to their decision have a piece made-to-order when they don’t see anything to their liking, but custom-design can “save” a piece from extinction. Let’s say that you inherited a piece of jewelry from a family member that’s not your style. Well, you can use bits and pieces from the original, having a designer craft a piece that’s more “you!” When you get right down to it, you can’t put a price tag on jewelry that has sentimental value… We have award-winning designer Robert Pelliccia on-site to work with you through the entire custom-design process. He leads a team to create one-of-a-kind jewelry that’s as individual as the person requesting it! • Many types of stones come in a variety of colors, including diamonds (from white to black, and everything in-between, such as brown and “fancy” colors like blue, pink, yellow and more), sapphires (check out a rainbow of shades, such as blue, pink, orange and yellow) and topaz (from wine to blue, brown, pale gray, reddish-orange and yellow). Buying jewelry needn’t be like buying a car…it should be an enjoyable experience, with a pleasant partner.

Pearls are some of the oldest gems on the planet have been objects of beauty for centuries…and are still sought-after. They have been called “the queen of gems,” associated with wealth, royalty, elegance and glamour across milennia and cultures. There is no other gem in the world produced by a living animal that needs no cutting or polishing As described in the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, the pearl is: “A dense variously colored and usually lustrous concretion formed by concentric layers of nacre as an abnormal growth within the shell of some mollusks and used as a gem.” Biologically speaking, almost any shelled mollusk can produce some type of pearl, under the right set of circumstances). The largest pearl known was found in the Philippines in 1934. The naturally occurring, non-nacreous pearl – the Pearl of Lao Tzu – came from a giant clam. Pearls’ place in history – both world and political – is strong: The ancient Egyptians prized pearls so much that they were buried with them. They, along with the Romans prized pearls above all other gems. “Pearl fever” reached its peak at the height of the Roman Empire. The pearl featured prominently in Dutch artist Johannes Vermeer’s most famous painting, “Girl with a Pearl Earring” (1665), also the title of a New York Times bestselling novel by Tracy Chevalier that was translated into 39 languages and made into an Academy Award-nominated film starring Scarlett Johanson and Colin Firth. The most influential U.S. First ladies – from Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, who said “Pearls are always appropriate,” to Michelle Obama – have worn pearls (just take a look at some of the official portraits!). And, one of the world’s most famous pearls – “La Peregrina” (Spanish for “the Pilgrim” or “the Wanderer” – has a nearly 500-year history. Found at Pearl Islands in the Gulf of Panama by an African slave, it was passed to European kings and queens…and actress Elizabeth Taylor. The original weight of the largest, perfectly symmetrical pear-shaped pearl was 55.95 carats. Before the 1900s, natural pearls were reserved almost exclusively for the noble and very rich. While their timelessness and elegance have remained, they are available to the mainstream market…lucky for us! The fact is, more pearls are being produced now than at any other time in history. The primary objective for pearl harvesting and cultivation is for use in jewelry (the gems have also been crushed into cosmetics, medicine and paint formulations). There are two categories of pearl: natural or cultured. Both are formed when a foreign object enters a mussel or oyster, coating it with nacre. Over time, the layers of nacre form what we know as a pearl. The difference between the two is that with natural pearls, the process is organic; in cultured pearls the foreign object is introduced by man. The unique luster of pearls is dependent upon the reflection (image), refraction (bending) and diffraction (defusing) of light from the translucent layers. The thinner and more numerous the layers in the pearl, the finer the luster. A pearl’s iridescence is the result of the overlapping of successive layers, which breaks up light falling on the surface. Freshwater pearls – natural or cultured – form in fresh water (lakes, rivers, ponds) growing in mussels. They are very durable, and tend to be smaller and less symmetrical in shape. Saltwater pearls – natural or cultured – are grown in salt water (oceans, protected lagoons, volcanic atolls) and always in oysters. There are three cultured varieties: Akoya – the most popular “classic,” these pearls are widely believed to have the highest luster of all cultured pearls. Originally farmed in Japan, today’s Akoya pearls are mainly from China. Lustrous and round in shape, they range in size from 3-10mm and are generally used in strands. Their coloration goes from white to cream, pink or blue-grey. South Seas – rare and beautiful, these pearls are chiefly from Australia, the Philippines and Indonesia. They are large: 9-20mm, with a fine luster and unusual hues ranging from white to silver and gold. Tahitian – these pearls are found in and around French Polynesia. They are also referred to as “black” pearls, for the large black-lip oysters found there. Their nuanced colors range from dark purple to green and black. They are regal, and exceptionally lustrous.It is interesting to note that the first black cultured pearl farm was not in Tahiti, but was established on Okinawa Island by Mikimoto in 1914. Let's wish this authority on the highest quality black South Seas cultured pearls a happy 100th anniversary! Luster is the most important differentiator among color, size, lack of surface flaw and symmetry appropriate for the type of pearl under consideration when buying pearl jewelry, which includes earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings. Strands of Pearls are held together with soft silk thread. There are eight basic shapes of pearls, including: round; semi-round; button; drop; pear; oval; baroque (misshapen); and circled. A special vocabulary describes the length of pearl necklaces. A collar is 10”-13” and sits directly against the throat. It may be made up of multiple strands of pearls. A choker measures 14”-16”, nestling just above the base of the neck. The Princess length is from 17”-19” and comes down to or just above the collarbone. A Matinee length measures 20”-24”, falling just above the breasts. An Opera length is 28”-35” and is long enough to reach the wearer’s sternum or breastbone. The word Pearl Rope is used to describe a necklace more than 45” long and any length in excess of an Opera length. Additionally, necklaces may be uniform – created with pearls classified as the same size or falling in a range – or graduated, having at least 3mm differentiation from the pearls at the ends of the necklace to those at its center. Pearls require special care. Here are a few things to remember; do’s and don’ts Put on pearls after applying make-up, perfume or hairspray Have pearls restrung every two-to-three years Store pearls apart from your other jewelry to discourage scratching Avoid soaps, detergents and ammonia Gold and silver cleaning solutions, steam cleaning or ultrasonic jewelry cleaners should never be used

When purchasing jewelry I love to make sure I can get a ton of use from that one piece. It is just the nature of the beast, women like to get as many looks from a piece of jewelry that we can. So, here are some cool styles you might not have thought about when wearing that long chain necklace or pearl strand. Yes, this is ONE necklace, the necklace used was an 14k white gold 'Diamonds By The Yard' chain measuring 52 inches. Now, depending on your size, you can use a necklace that is a little longer or a bit shorter. The model used here is of a small frame and is 5'4' tall. The pendant is a heart pendant created by our own designer Robert Pelliccia. We recommend when purchasing a pendant to create these looks, that the bail on the pendant opens so you can place the pendant anywhere on the chain. Note the picture where our model is wearing the necklace over her shoulder. This might seem a little strange but it is actually hot look in Europe these days! Stay tuned for more cool ideas. Happy Shopping!

After being in the watch and jewelry industry for more than 25 years, I wanted to pass on some of my wisdom and dispel some of the below listed mis-truths that I have heard people say over the years. 1. MYTH - To shake an automatic watch, while on your wrist, is all you need to do to keep it fully wound. When you wear the watch during normal activity, this helps the watch maintain optimum power reserve. 2. MYTH - There is no way to manually wind an automatic watch. You CAN wind an automatic watch! It is advised to do so once or twice a week for better accuracy. 3. MYTH - I've been told I don't have to service my automatic watch, and haven't done so in 10 to 15 years. It's recommended to service all fine automatic wrist watches every 3-5 years. 4. MYTH - My automatic watch never gains or loses time. It is acceptable for finely tuned automatic watches to gain or lose approximately 30-60 seconds a month. 5. MYTH - Screw down crowns don't always need to be fully secured to the case of the watch to be rendered watch resistant. The crown MUST be screwed all the way down for water resistance. 6. MYTH - I thought my automatic watch needed a battery change every year or two. No, automatic watches do not function with quartz and battery operated circuitry. 7. MYTH - Dropping a sapphire crystal wrist watch on a tile floor will not damage the crystal. Shattering your crystal by dropping your watch on a tile floor is not covered by your warranty. Your watch then must be fully serviced and have the crystal replaced! 8. MYTH - Swimming in a pool, the ocean, or simply taking a shower with the crown open will not affect the watch. Swimming in a pool, the ocean, or taking a shower with the crown open WILL allow water and or moisture to develop internally. At this time the watch must be FULLY DISASSEMBLED, cleaned and regulated to restore to original condition. 9. MYTH - A portable watch winding device is not recommended if you possess more then one automatic timepiece. Preferably, a Watch Winder Box or similar device will actually maintain your watches' accuracy when not in use. 10. MYTH - It's not a bad idea to purchase fine timepieces from unauthorized dealers or sources. Buying fine quality timepieces should always be through Authorized Licensed suppliers and dealers to maintain authenticity as well as applicable warranty coverage.