Posted on Tue, Aug 03, 2010
When it comes to jewelry, especially engagement rings, we all know people tend to focus on diamond. But, let’s not forget it’s the setting that holds the diamond – one of the first major investments of your life – securely for as long as you both shall live.
So, make sure to do your homework to determine what setting is best for you and your lifestyle. Maybe you know you want a yellow gold setting or maybe you prefer a white metal. If you want white, you’re in luck - you have options! You’ve probably heard of platinum and white gold, but most likely don’t know the difference
Only you can determine what’s best for you, so below are a few fun facts about the metals as well as an in-depth, side-by-side comparison chart to help arm you with the knowledge to complete your engagement ring shopping journey. If you’re not in the market for a ring, you will at least be equipped with fun trivia to spout out at your next cocktail party!
- Did you know platinum is a naturally white metal?
- Did you know white gold is actually yellow gold that has been whitened and plated to look white?
- Did you know platinum’s strength and durability makes it the most secure setting for diamonds and other precious gemstones?
- Did you know platinum is one of the densest precious metals, making it 60% heavier than 14K gold?
So, next time you visit Kwiat or any other jewelry store, feel empowered to ask for what you want and ask to feel the difference between platinum and other metals. And even if you think platinum is out of reach, you might be surprised. Visit www.preciousplatinum.com for more platinum tips.
Our guest blogger, Heather Zachary Rogoff is the Manager of Public Relations at Platinum Guild International.
Posted on Wed, Jun 30, 2010
Tips for taking it with you
Summer officially kicked off last week and, with it, many of us are hitting the roads and runways in search of some well deserved R&R (including me!). As you consider what accessories to take on your travels, Jewelers Mutual Insurance offers a few tips for protecting your jewelry:
Carry on
If you're flying, never pack any valuables in your checked luggage. Never. Ever. Pack the jewelry you're taking with you in your carry-on bag or wear it.
Crowd control
Whether your travels include a visit to a must-see tourist hotspot or a colorful open-air market, crowded areas can be alluring to thieves. Consider turning any prominent gemstones on your ring toward the palm of your hand. Similarly, tuck a dangling pendant inside your blouse or shirt.
No need to attract unwanted attention that might make you a target for theft.
Water wisdom
Don't wear your jewelry to the pool or beach. Fingers constrict when they're cold, and rings can easily slip off in the water. (I can personally attest to this. It happened to my husband after we went snorkeling.)
Play it safe
Leaving your jewelry at your hotel is better than taking it to the beach-however, don't leave it unattended in your room. Rather, place it in the in-room safe or, if there is none, ask the front desk to hold it in the hotel safe.
Wide open spaces
Don't remove your jewelry in public places. It's best to leave it on when washing your hands in a public restroom, trying on that expensive lotion at a boutique, or applying sunscreen before a stroll downtown.
Tennis, anyone?
If you're the sporting type, bear in mind that luxury watches and bracelet clasps weren't meant for the court. Consider leaving them in your in-room safe.
Make sure it's insured
Finally, make sure your jewelry is properly insured before you begin your trip. Consider a policy that covers theft, accidental loss, and mysterious disappearance, such as the Personal Jewelry Insurance policy with Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company. Check them out at InsureYourJewelry.com. Also, make sure your coverage will travel with you!
Guest blogger, Layna Shuppert is a regular contributor to Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company's blog, The Jewelry Box, and has written about jewelry security for more than six years. With the tips she's learned, she hopes never again to lose a piece of jewelry. (Her keys, however, are a different story!) Visit The Jewelry Box for more advice about how to keep your jewelry safe.
Posted on Tue, Jun 22, 2010
It's difficult to keep up with the dynamic relationship between diamonds and fashion. Jewelry trends, like clothing, change with the seasons. Now, of course the classics will always be classic... Diamond stud earrings will always be the most versatile piece of jewelry any woman can have in her wardrobe, and a diamond line bracelet will always compliment a little black dress as well as the season's most eclectic fashion. But diamonds have come a long way from the pages of ancient Indian texts and tales of Kings & queens...Once reserved only for the wealthiest class, modern time made diamonds accessible to everyone. From the diamond engagement ring to a pave diamond iPad, diamonds are used to convey love, style, desire, ambition, success.... So how are we wearing our diamonds now? Think organic... it's really a continuation of our on-going obsession with vintage influences. Older cutting styles have become very popular once again; rose cuts, slices, miners and even rough. These cuts are usually accompanied by pave diamonds - I mean let's be honest, we all need a bit of sparkle. And as the newest trends continue to borrow from our past, diamonds continue to lend themselves to all the latest fashions - colorful bracelets, drop earrings, big rings and of course our favorite gadgets.
Now if keeping up with today's trends feels like you're fighting a level five hurricane, let me give you a little piece of mind... A classic will always be a classic whether it's a Chanel suit or a diamond tennis bracelet, and as fashion and pop culture come & go, one thing is certain, a diamond should always be Simply Brilliant®.
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Posted on Fri, Mar 26, 2010
GET ORGANIZED: SIMPLE TIPS TO MAKE OVER YOUR JEWELRY BOX
If you are like most women across America, your jewelry box is most likely cluttered and unorganized. However, getting it organized is easier that you might think. It is also very important. Storing jewelry properly will help ensure it will last for generations to come. The right organization will also allow you to see your jewelry so you can wear it more regularly. Here are some simple tips to getting your jewelry box worthy of the jewels you put in it:
Don't jumble your jewelry – Always store your jewelry in a clean, dry place. Keep your jewelry in a fabric-lined jewelry case, or in a box with numerous compartments and dividers. If you prefer to use ordinary boxes, wrap each piece individually in soft tissue paper. This keeps your jewelry untangled and will help keep it from tarnishing. The problem with a lot of jewelry boxes is that they don’t have enough compartments and that causes your jewelry to get jumbled together. Look for a style with many little compartments over the styles that have a few larger sections.
Separate your everyday jewelry – Jewelry that is worn often can be placed it in a smaller jewelry box or in jewelry trays. Find a box or tray that can be kept accessible. Find one that matches your style so it can be left on top of a dresser. Many women don’t wear their beautiful pieces of jewelry because they overlook them or accessing them is difficult. Keeping jewelry accessible will help you find what you need and remind you of what you have. Keep in mind however, that a secure safe is still your best bet for your irreplaceable gems.
Hang them up – There are a variety of organizers that have a hanger like hook with numerous clear pouches. Those styles are a great way to keep your earrings separate and visible. Place one pair of earrings in each pouch to ensure that the posts will not scratch the other earrings. Hang them on the back of your closet door or even hanging in your closet.
Implementing these simple tips will makeover your jewelry box and ensures you will be able to enjoy your jewelry for years to come.
via Jewelry Information Center - www.jic.org
JIC.org is the online home of Jewelry Information Center (JIC), the consumer education arm of Jewelers of America, which is the national trade association for businesses serving the fine jewelry retail marketplace.
Posted on Fri, Feb 12, 2010
Ahhh Valentine's Day.... A day to spend with the one you adore. Even though it doesn't have to be a holiday to show someone you care (it definitely should not be the only time), I admit - there is something about February 14 that puts most people in a romantic mood. Valentine's Day weekend is upon us, your plans for that special someone probably include flowers, candy, maybe dinner or perhaps a piece of jewelry. Now...It's obvious that there is a little bias here, but jewelry will last much longer than any of the other traditional Valentine's Day gifts. So let me give you some advice... hearts are great. Heart jewelry is a great gift, especially on v-day. BUT SWEETHEART BEWARE! Not all women love hearts...some actually use the word hate. Good news though! You don't have to give heart jewelry for Valentine's Day. It's silly to think jewelry requires a theme - a woman's jewelry should reflect her personal style. So when you're shopping consider who you're buying for, and remember flowers will fade and chocolates melt but jewelry tells a story....and really who would say no to jewelry?? Happy Valentine's Day!
Posted on Wed, Feb 03, 2010
If you have not already discovered the Kwiat Vintage website, here is your official invitation.Since its introduction, Kwiat Vintage has been a success. Drawing on Kwiat's vast archives and a century of experience, the collection ranges stylistically from Nouveau to Deco to Modern Vintage. It is a favorite among our celebrity clients and is only carried by exclusive dealers, it is a collection that embodies the 100 year history of a company that respects jewelry as artwork.
Visit the Kwiat Vintage website to view the complete collection or find an authorized dealer in your area.
Posted on Mon, Feb 01, 2010
Last night's Grammys were not only music's biggest night, but the Grammys biggest night since 2004. 25.8 million Americans watched the broadcast last night and I was definitely one of them!... But by now you know the excitement starts on the red carpet. Music's biggest night always brings out the biggest stars of music - and this year those stars rocked diamonds! Kwiat diamond earrings and bracelets were the choice of two of last night's winners. The first, Taylor Swiftwon early and graciously accepted her Grammys wearing Kwiat diamond earrings and diamond line bracelet - a classic choice for the lovely and talented Taylor. The Black Eyed Peaswere also early winners, taking home a total of three Grammys by night's end. The fashion critics are already humming about the blue Emilio Pucci mini that Fergie paired perfectly with a Kwiat diamond cuff from the Wave Collection. With the Grammys down, Hollywood sprints toward the Oscars! See you there
Posted on Wed, Jan 27, 2010
Are you Recently Engaged or Married and Want to Know the Secret to Caring for your Most Treasured Platinum Rings?
Caring for platinum jewelry
First off, congratulations on your smart and savvy decision to choose platinum for your engagement ring and/or wedding band! In fact, many members of the Kwiat family selected platinum for their bridal rings. Why? Because not only is platinum is the highest quality, but it is the best metal for the value. And when it comes to caring for platinum, it is the easiest of all metals to maintain since it is naturally white and will never fade or tarnish unlike white gold.
Tip 1: Where should I keep my platinum jewelry when I am not wearing it?
Store pieces separately, in a jewelry box or chamois bag so other items don't scratch them. I keep mine in a cute porcelain dish next to my bed so I can keep my eyes on it at all times! It's actually one of my favorite items and I now gift it to all of my girlfriends who get engaged! You can check it out at:Majories.com
Tip 2: How do I care for platinum jewelry?
Clean platinum in the same way you clean other fine jewelry to maintain its fine appearance and ensure that it lasts. Either use a mild solution of soap and warm water, and gently rub it with a soft cloth, or buy a jewelry cleaning solution. Also, feel free to bring it back to our store and we will be happy to take of this for you free of charge!
Tip 3: Will platinum jewelry scratch?
All precious metals scratch, and platinum is no exception. It is unique in that the metal is only displaced, not lost. Have your platinum jewelry polished if you are interested in maintaining a high shine. But, if you choose not to polish it, your ring will develop a beautiful patina over time that will capture life moments as your marriage grows. And if needed, feel free to visit one of our Kwiat locations and we will assist with all adjustments, resizing, polishing and cleaning.
Tip 4: Can I wear my platinum ring while doing manual work such as cleaning or gardening?
Remove your platinum jewelry when undertaking heavy work. It is also advisable not to handle bleach or harsh chemicals when wearing your jewelry. Although they won't hurt the platinum, chemicals may discolor diamonds or gemstones.
Most importantly, remember that platinum's high quality should allow you to rest easy! Your platinum setting holds your precious center stone more securely than any other metal. So, wear it proudly and tell all your friends that platinum is worth it!
--Heather Zachary Rogoff, Manager of Public Relations, Platinum Guild International
Posted on Thu, Dec 17, 2009
With much enthusiasm we announce our partnership with renowned women's golfer,
Cristie Kerr. We have teamed up to design a limited-edition collection to support Cristie Kerr's foundation,
"Birdies for Breast Cancer", which is committed to increasing breast cancer awareness.
The new Birdies for Breast Cancer Collection is inspired by Kwiat's Signature Platinum Star Collection, and includes a pair of delicate, diamond-drop earrings as well as a pendant of the same design. Invoking the charitable connection, both pieces are set in 18-carat pink gold and accented with a pink sapphire. The collection will debut in January 2010 with a launch event at Kwiat's Madison Avenue flagship boutique and from there it will be made available at Kwiat Las Vegas, as well as all other Kwiat retailers nationwide. 10% of all proceeds will go directly to benefit Birdies for Breast Cancer.
Our partnership with Cristie Kerr officially launches this Saturday with the start of the Wendy's Challenge in Las Vegas at the Rio Secco Golf Club. The event will be aired this Saturday & Sunday 4 - 6pm EST on the ABC network. Make sure to tune in and root for Cristie.
