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Bostonian Jewelers continues to follow safety protocols regarding COVID-19, while effectively serving our clients. We're offering both in-person & virtual consultations at this time. Schedule a one-on-one today! Bostonian Jewelers continues to follow safety protocols regarding COVID-19, while effectively serving our clients. We're offering both in-person & virtual consultations at this time. Schedule a one-on-one today!
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The History and Symbolism Behind Wedding Bands

The History and Symbolism Behind Wedding Bands

Wedding bands are a traditional but sentimental part of a wedding ceremony. When two individuals come together to celebrate their union, a wedding band symbolizes that ceremony. It's a public declaration of relationship status and symbolizes the couple's love and commitment. This piece of jewelry holds different cultural significance in various cultures. 

Are you curious about the history and significance of wedding bands in a marriage ceremony? This article covers all you need to know about this subject. 

The Symbolism of Wedding Bands 

The joining of two people together for eternity has always been a sacred ceremony. All over the world, wedding bands represent different meanings to different cultures. Many cultures drew meaning from the shape and design of the rings. In Western culture, the circular shape of a wedding band signifies unending and eternal love. In India, rings are part of an ornate jewelry set that symbolizes the couple's commitment. However, the Jews have a traditional wedding band without embellishments, representing their commitment to simplicity and purity. It's said to be a constant reminder of the vows exchanged by the couples during their ceremony. 

Wedding bands were worn on the fourth finger of the left hand with the belief that a vein known as Vena Amoris or the "vein of love" connected the fourth finger directly to the heart. This tradition is speculated to have originated from Ancient Egypt, where rings symbolize eternity. However, the Vena Amoris proved anatomically wrong. Notwithstanding, the placement of rings on the fourth finger has become the custom to date. 

The History of Wedding Bands

The exchange of rings as a sign of eternity dates back to ancient Egypt and Greece. However, many people believe that exchanging rings began in ancient Rome. Roman weddings were not as elaborate as today's, and marriages were more about family alliance than love. Furthermore, the Romans used copper and iron and only recently began exploring gold ring options. Brides from wealthier families had two wedding bands, which they shuffled: an iron ring around the house and a gold ring, a statement ring to wear in public. Other cultures found it fascinating and adopted the tradition of exchanging rings; they recognized the commitment and love it symbolizes. Over time, the design of wedding bands has evolved in terms of materials used. Today, wedding bands are made of simple materials like gold or silver. In addition, the designs of wedding bands have progressed, incorporating gemstones and personal engravings to give a modern touch. 

In Europe, during the medieval period, Christians introduced a wedding ritual where rings are presented as a part of the ceremony performed by the priest. The Gimmel rings, familiar in the Renaissance era, were made of two interlocking bands separated for the man and woman to wear during the engagement. Later on, they were returned to the bride, who would wear both rings after the marriage. After uncertainty began concerning World War II, marriage rates went up significantly, and jewelers began promoting wedding bands for men, which worked. By the end of the 1940s, 80% of U.S. couples exchanged rings with each other during the ceremony, which is what is still in existence today. 

Shopping Wedding Bands at Bostonian Jewelers

It's interesting to see the timeless nature of wedding bands. It's also exciting to see how their designs, materials, and shapes have evolved. But one thing remained constant: the symbolism of these bands. There is also the love, purity, commitment, vows attached to them, and the promises of eternity they represent. 

If you want to purchase a ring that does all the heavy lifting and declares your love to your bride, contact Bostonian Jewelers. Our amazing catalog can help you curate whatever ring design and embellishments you want.  

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Fall 2024 Jewelry Trends To Look Out For

Fall 2024 Jewelry Trends To Look Out For

As the weather cools down and wardrobes shift to cozy layers and rich autumnal hues, jewelry trends for fall 2024 are beginning to emerge. From statement pieces to delicate accents, this season’s jewelry offers a variety of styles that reflect both glamour and personal expression. Whether you want to make a statement or add subtle touches of elegance, here are the top jewelry trends for this fall! 

We’re Obsessed with Chunky Chains This Fall 

Bold and oversized chains are back in a big way this fall! Whether in gold, silver, or mixed metals, chunky chain necklaces and bracelets are perfect for layering over fall knits or peeking out under oversized blazers. These pieces add edge to a polished outfit, and the beauty lies in their versatility—wear them solo for a statement or mix and match with daintier pieces for a layered look. 

Embrace Fall with Colored Gemstones 

Autumn is all about embracing rich, vibrant colors—including gemstones! Expect to see deep emeralds, royal sapphires, and fiery rubies incorporated into everything from rings to earrings. These bold pops of color offer a luxurious feel that pairs well with fall’s earthy tones. Whether it’s a chunky gemstone ring or dainty gemstone studs, these pieces will elevate your wardrobe this fall. 

Vintage-Inspired Brooches Are Making a Comeback 

Believe it or not, those beloved brooches are making a comeback! Brooches offer a nostalgic nod to classic fashion with a contemporary twist. Think ornate, vintage-inspired designs adorned with pearls, crystals, and intricate metalwork. Pin them on your fall coats, sweaters, or scarves to add a touch of old-worn charm. This season’s brooches are far from fussy and add a polished, elegant touch to your everyday outfits. At Bostonian Jewelers, we offer vintage jewelry restoration for those beloved pieces that have lost their charm over the years—including brooches. 

Pearls in Unconventional Shapes and Sizes

Pearls have been a staple in jewelry for centuries, but this fall, we’re giving them a fresh new twist. Find pearls in unconventional shapes and sizes and pair them with unexpected materials such as leather, metals, or colored gemstones. From oversized pearl earrings to delicate saltwater pearl necklaces, these reinvented classics add a modern, chic appeal to any ensemble. Perfect for both casual and formal wear, pearls this season are anything but traditional! 

Express Yourself Through Personalized Jewelry

The trend of personal expression through jewelry is still going strong and becoming increasingly popular, taking center stage this fall. Think custom name necklaces, initial pendants, and zodiac sign charms or rings. Layer these personal touches with other pieces to create a unique, curated look that tells your story. Personalized jewelry adds a sentimental touch and keeps your accessories on-trend and meaningful. Get started with our custom jewelry design at Bostonian Jewelers. 

Shop Fall 2024 Jewelry Trends at Bostonian Jewelers 

This fall, our jewelry trends offer something for everyone—from bold statement pieces to delicate accents that can be worn daily. Whether layering chunky chains, flaunting colorful gemstones, or personalized jewelry, this season is about blending personal expression with style. Embrace these trends and start shopping at Bostonian Jewelers. Continue reading

Prevent Jewelry From Tarnishing With These Tips

Prevent Jewelry From Tarnishing With These Tips

For many people, jewelry is more than just an accessory. It can express personal style, hold sentimental value, or symbolize the love between you and another person. However, tarnishing can quickly erode the beauty and charm of these pieces. Tarnishing occurs when metals, typically silver, react with oxygen and moisture in the air, leading to a dull appearance over time. 

You can keep your jewelry looking shiny and new with a few simple tips. Keep reading for some of our recommendations to prevent tarnishing. If your jewelry has already tarnished, contact Bostonian Jewelers for our jewelry repair and restoration services. 

Tip #1: Store Jewelry Properly to Prevent Tarnishing 

How you store your jewelry when you're not wearing it can be crucial in preventing tarnish. Always store your pieces in a cool, dry place, preferably away from direct sunlight and high humidity. These elements can cause your jewelry to tarnish quicker than in other environments. Consider using anit-tarnish bags or cloths designed to absorb moisture and prevent oxidation. If you have a jewelry box, ensure it's lined with a soft material. 

Tip #2: Avoid Tarnishing By Putting Your Jewelry On Last 

Believe it or not, one of the easiest ways to protect your jewelry is to constantly remove it when sleeping, showering, working out, etc., and always put it on last when you're getting ready again. Sweat, water, lotions, perfumes, and cosmetics can all impact the quality of your jewelry. The moisture and chemicals can accelerate tarnishing, so it's best to wait a few minutes to let your skin dry and absorb any products before putting on your jewelry. Making this a part of your daily routine reduces your jewelry's exposure to harmful elements. 

Tips #3: Clean Jewelry Regularly to Eliminate Wear and Tear

In addition to not wearing your jewelry while showering or applying products, you should also clean your jewelry regularly to avoid wear and tear and tarnish over time. A simple wipe with a soft, lint-free cloth will remove oils and specks of dirt that accumulate. For silver jewelry, consider using a silver polishing cloth treated with specific chemicals to help prevent tarnishing. Additionally, several products are designed to prevent tarnishing. Anti-tarnish sprays, for example, can create a protective barrier on the surface of your jewelry. At Bostonian Jewelers, we have a great jewelry cleaner for you to use to keep your jewelry in top condition. 

Get Your Jewelry Restored with Bostonian Jewelers 

Following the tips above, you can keep your jewelry collection looking beautiful and tarnish-free for years. Proper storage, regular cleaning, and mindful wear can make all the difference in preserving the brilliance of your pieces. If you need help maintaining your jewelry's quality, Bostonian Jewelers provides restoration and cleaning services to get your jewelry looking brand new again. 

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4 Steps to Design Your Custom Wedding Bands

4 Steps to Design Your Custom Wedding Bands

Your wedding band is more than just jewelry—it symbolizes the love and commitment you share with your partner. Designing a custom wedding band will allow you to integrate personal meaning into every ring detail. It won't just be a wedding band; it will be a keepsake for years to come that you can pass down through generations. Here are some tips for creating a custom wedding band that reflects your love story. 

4 Steps to Custom Wedding Band Design

1. Start With Inspiration 

Gathering inspiration before starting the design process is the best way to get started. Look at different styles online and from popular jewelers near you to find options close to what you're looking for. You should look at metals, stones, and styles that resonate with you and your partner. Consider any design elements that could have significance–such as birthstones, engravings, and more. 

2. Choose Your Band Metal 

After gathering some inspiration for styles you like, the next step is choosing which metal you'd like to use for your wedding bands. The metal you select will set the tone for the entire design, and each has unique characteristics–consider both durability and style when choosing. Popular choices include: 

  • Gold: Timeless, versatile, and comes in various colors 
  • Platinum: A luxurious option that's more durable and hypoallergenic  
  • Palladium: Lighter than platinum and more affordable 
  • Titanium: Known for its strength and modern aesthetic

3. Select the Stones 

The next step after choosing your metals is to select the stones you'd like in your wedding band. While diamonds are a classic choice or simply metal, custom designs allow you to explore all gemstones. Stones can hold a personal significance for many people and can also complement your engagement ring if designed correctly. The stones can bring a unique touch to your band, whether sapphires, rubies, or emeralds. 

4. Think About A Personal Touch 

Once you pick out the basic features of your wedding band – metal, stone, style, etc. – you can start thinking about the personal touch you'll add to the bands. Although the gemstone can serve as the personal touch, there are a variety of other ways that you can add to make it even more special. Engravings are a beautiful way to personalize your wedding bands—they could be wedding dates, initials, or even a meaningful quote. Some bands may only have space for limited characters, so be sure to discuss this with your jeweler. 

Design Your Wedding Bands with Bostonian Jewelers

If you're ready to start designing your custom wedding bands, collaborating with a skilled jeweler is the best way to start. At Bostonian Jewelers, we can guide you through the process, offering expert advice on design and craftsmanship. Look no further than Bostonian Jewelers for your custom wedding band design; schedule your one-on-one consultation today.

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What Engagement Rings Are In Style 2024

What Engagement Rings Are In Style 2024

Whether you are looking for some inspiration for yourself, planning for the future, or shopping for that special someone, a variety of engagement ring styles are popular in 2024. From heirloom stones to lab-grown diamonds, we'll walk you through some trendy styles this year. If you are ready to start designing your engagement ring, work with Bostonian Jewelers today and schedule your one-on-one consultation.

Engagement Rings with Family Heirlooms 

Your engagement ring is not just a piece of jewelry; it's symbol of your love and commitment. It will be one of the most essential pieces of jewelry you own. Why not make that piece even more special by incorporating a family heirloom piece into your ring? A popular way to do this is by utilizing the stone/diamond from another piece of jewelry and repurposing it for your ring. Plus, this can be your "something old" on the big wedding day! 

 

Solitaire Setting Engagement Rings 

The most popular among celebrities is the solitaire-setting ring style. This ring style is simple and elegant, drawing all attention to the center stone. It has been around for decades and has remained a classic choice well into 2024. Add some spice to this style with engravings or different colored stones — whatever you choose, we can help you create. 

 

Engagement Ring Stacks 

Why limit your engagement ring to just one? Ring stacks are becoming increasingly popular in 2024. They showcase your love by wearing multiple rings stacked atop one another. You can curate this over, adding sentimental value rings, or you can customize each specific ring to your liking. These rings can be simple bands, birthstone rings, family heirlooms, and endless possibilities. 

 

Unique Engagement Ring Designs 

Another popular engagement ring style in 2024 is unique designs customized for your special someone. Lean into your style and choose a custom engagement ring that defies traditional styles—think Art-Deco, nontraditional diamond shapes, etc. At Bostonian Jewelers, we provide customized jewelry design and can help you build your dream ring from scratch. Just come with some inspiration, and we can take it from there! 

 

Shop Trendy Engagement Rings at Bostonian Jewelers 

If you're ready to take that next step, shop engagement rings with Bostonian Jewelers. We have a variety of styles available, including lab-grown diamonds, to bring you a more affordable, sustainable diamond alternative. Get started with us today by visiting our storefront in Boston or scheduling an appointment!

We look forward to working with you to plan the special day. 

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What is the Most Durable Jewelry Metal?

What is the Most Durable Jewelry Metal?

There is a saying out there that diamonds are a girl's best friend. That may or may not be true, but a diamond is only as good—and protected—as the metal that encases it to keep it safe. Today, whether it is a diamond setting, another precious gemstone, or just a piece of metal jewelry, you'll see all varieties of metals and styles.

This begs the question: what is the most durable jewelry metal? In this article, we'll give you the insights you've sought. With our guidance, you can pick the metal that aligns with your style and will last the longest.

Understanding the Different Types of Metals Used in Jewelry

Let's start by discussing the different metals you see in jewelry today. There are far more available than you might realize. 

You'll come across a wide range of jewelry metals, each with unique qualities and appeal. Some of the most common ones include gold, silver, and platinum, which are famous for their timeless beauty and rarity. There's also titanium, known for its lightweight and strength, and stainless steel, which is appreciated for its affordability and resilience. 

Metals like palladium, tungsten, and various alloys are used to create pieces that cater to different tastes and budgets. But which of all of these is the strongest? Let's get to it.

The Strongest Jewelry Metals

Regarding the strongest metals for jewelry, the top contender is tungsten carbide. This once-unfamiliar metal has quickly become a favorite for men's wedding bands. Its superior scratch resistance means that a tungsten ring won't get scratched, making it perfect for those who want a ring that can withstand everyday wear and tear. However, tungsten rings are generally not the best option for women due to their weight and less traditional look.

Next in line is platinum. This long-lasting metal symbolizes true, enduring, and everlasting love. Platinum's density makes it an excellent choice for securing diamonds and other precious gemstones, providing strength and peace of mind that your jewelry will stay intact.

Surprisingly, gold is the softest of the jewelry metals, so jewelry makers highly favor it. Its softness allows for more detailed and intricate designs. Silver comes in second as another softer metal, ideal for creating beautiful, elaborate pieces.

When considering gold jewelry, it's essential to understand how gold-plated and gold-filled pieces differ, as you may see these descriptions at the jewelry store near you. Gold-plated jewelry has a thin layer of gold applied to a base metal, which can wear off over time. On the other hand, gold-filled jewelry has a thicker layer of gold bonded to the base metal, which means it will last longer.

Trying to Decide on the Best Metal for Your Jewelry?

If you are considering investing in a piece of jewelry, it is often best to speak with a jeweler who can advise you on the metal and the best pieces that align with the metal in question. Doing so can help you get a piece that you will love and stand the test of time.

If you are looking for a long-lasting piece of jewelry that you—or the intended recipient—will love for a lifetime, contact our expert jewelers at Bostonian Jewelers today.

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Different Ways to Repurpose Family Jewelry

Different Ways to Repurpose Family Jewelry

Family jewelry often holds lasting sentimental value, passed down through generations; each piece tells a beloved story. Yet, styles change, and sometimes, these precious items end up tucked away, forgotten. What if you could give new life to these treasures? Let's look at creative and heartfelt ways to repurpose family jewelry, blending tradition with modern aesthetic styles.

Why Repurpose Family Jewelry

Repurposing family jewelry isn't just about updating your accessories; it's about preserving memories. Each piece stores precious memories—your grandmother's engagement ring, your father's cufflinks. Repurposing is sustainable and eco-friendly, reducing the need for new materials and honoring the past. My mother's old brooch, now a necklace I wear daily, feels like a piece of family history to me constantly.

Creative Ideas to Repurpose Family Jewelry

Transform into New Pieces

One of the simplest ways to repurpose is to transform old jewelry into new pieces. For example, you could turn an outdated ring into a modern pendant or stylish earrings. My cousin had an antique ring resized and reshaped into a sleek bracelet, making it a perfect mix of vintage charm and contemporary style. This process can rejuvenate items, making them suitable for daily wear while maintaining sentimental value.

Combine Pieces to Create Unique Items

Why settle for one piece when you can have a statement item? Combine different pieces to craft something unique. Merge brooches and chains into a standout necklace or bracelet. I combined two mismatched earrings and an old chain into a custom charm bracelet. It's now a one-of-a-kind piece that always starts conversations.

Incorporate into Everyday Items

Repurpose jewelry into everyday accessories. Embed pieces into hairpins, belts, or bags for elegance. I added my grandmother's brooch to a plain clutch, turning it into a vintage chic accessory. You can also sew jewels onto shoes or clothing, adding a personal touch to your wardrobe.

Use in Home Décor

Jewelry can be more than just accessories; they can be part of your home. Incorporate pieces into picture frames, mirrors, or decorative boxes. Create art pieces or wall hangings with jewelry elements. A friend used her old family necklaces to decorate a lampshade, giving her living room a unique, sentimental glow.

Pass Down with a Twist

Modernize pieces for the next generation while preserving their original charm. Create keepsakes like lockets with family photos or initials. My sister turned an old signet ring into a pendant for her daughter, adding a contemporary twist to a family heirloom. These updated pieces ensure that family traditions continue in style.

Practical Tips for Repurposing

When repurposing, choose a trusted jeweler for custom work. They can help preserve the integrity and value of the original pieces. Before repurposing, safely clean and handle your jewelry to avoid damage. Remember, repurposing isn't just about creating something new but respecting the old.

Why We Can Help

At Bostonian Jewelers, we specialize in transforming old jewelry into new custom masterpieces. Our expert jewelers provide personalized advice and craftsmanship, ensuring your family jewelry retains its sentimental value while gaining a modern touch. Visit our store or website to start your repurposing journey today!

Revitalizing your jewelry is not just about fashion; it's about carrying your family's story into the future. So, get creative and let your jewelry dazzle with new life!

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Keep Your Jewelry From Tarnishing This Summer

Keep Your Jewelry From Tarnishing This Summer

Summer is a time for sun, fun, and, unfortunately, sweaty, tarnished jewelry. There's nothing worse than your favorite silver necklace turning dull or your cherished gold ring losing its shine. But don't worry! You can keep your jewelry sparkling and new all season long with simple tips. Let's learn how to prevent tarnish and keep your bling in perfect condition.

Why Jewelry Tarnishes

Jewelry tarnishes because of a chemical reaction with sulfur and moisture in the air, forming a dark coating. Actors like sweat, sunscreen, and humidity speed up this process in summer. Imagine spending a sunny day at the beach, only to find your silver bracelet has gone from chic to shabby by sunset. Understanding these triggers helps us take proactive steps to protect our precious pieces.

Tips to Prevent Tarnishing

Here are some of our best tips to help you prevent tarnishing this summer;

Store Properly

How you store your jewelry can make a world of difference. Use airtight containers or zip-lock bags to minimize exposure to air. Please keep them in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight. I once forgot my silver earrings on a sunny windowsill; by the end of the week, they looked ancient! Anti-tarnish strips or silica gel packets are great for added protection.

Clean Regularly

Regular cleaning is vital. Use a gentle jewelry cleaner or a DIY solution with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasives. After a fun night out, quickly wipe your jewelry with a soft cloth to remove oils and residues. It's a slight touch that makes a big difference.

Wear with Care

Be mindful of when you wear your jewelry. Please put it on after applying lotions, perfumes, and hairspray. Remove it before swimming, exercising, or anything that makes you sweat. I once wore my favorite necklace to a sauna – big mistake! Also, avoid high-humidity environments or prolonged sun exposure, which can speed up tarnishing.

Use Protective Coatings

Consider applying a thin layer of clear nail polish to create a barrier against tarnish. This tip has saved my costume jewelry collection! For valuable pieces, professional anti-tarnish treatments are available at most jewelry stores. Make sure to ask your jeweler at your next visit.

Special Considerations for Different Metals

Silver Jewelry: Silver needs frequent cleaning and proper storage. It's more prone to tarnish, so keep a close eye on it.

Gold Jewelry: Gold is less prone to tarnish but can still dull over time. Regular care will keep it shining.

Costume Jewelry: Costume jewelry often tarnishes faster. Take extra precautions with these pieces, as they are typically more vulnerable.


Contact Us

With these tips, you can keep your jewelry looking fabulous all summer. Remember, a little care goes a long way in maintaining the sparkle of your favorite pieces. So, get started today and enjoy a tarnish-free summer!

At Bostonian Jewelers, we offer a range of products and services designed to keep your jewelry in top condition. We've covered you, from professional cleaning solutions to jewelry restoration services. Visit our website or drop by our store for expert advice and premium care products. Let us help you keep your treasures shining bright!

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How to Design Custom Wedding Bands

How to Design Custom Wedding Bands

Your wedding band will be one of the most essential pieces of jewelry you’ll own. It symbolizes the love between you and your partner, so it’s no wonder you’re considering creating unique wedding bands with their own story. Designing a custom wedding band allows you to create something extraordinary and meaningful; here’s a brief guide to help you start the design process. If you think you’re ready, contact our team at Bostonian Jewelers to learn more about it. 

Find Your Wedding Band Inspiration 

Before starting the design process, you need to find inspiration from different sources. We know the final product will be unique, but it’s always good to have some roadmap to get us started. Pinterest and Instagram are great platforms where you can browse through countless images of wedding bands to see what styles, metals, and stones you like best. You could also visit our storefront in Boston to try on some different styles and designs to see how they feel and look on your hand. Lastly, start thinking about memorable elements from your relationship—places, symbols, and shared interests- that could all be incorporated into your design. 

Set A Wedding Band Budget

The next step is to determine what you can afford. Custom rings can range from affordable to quite expensive, depending on the materials you use and the complexity of your design. Setting a budget in the early stages of the design process will help you make an informed decision and avoid any cost surprises. If you’re concerned about this side of things, we urge you to contact our team to discuss your options. 

Choose the Wedding Band Elements 

After finding inspiration and knowing what you can afford, you can select some aspects of the ring you want as the foundation. To start, you can choose the metal for your bands. Common options include: 

  • Gold: available in yellow, white, and rose 
  • Platinum: durable and hypoallergenic
  • Palladium: affordable alternative to platinum
  • Silver: budget-friendly, less durable

After choosing which metal you like, you can consider which gemstones you’d like, if any. While diamonds are traditional, you can select any gemstones that hold special meaning in your life. For example, birthstones, colored gems, and lab-grown diamonds are great alternatives to traditional diamonds. 

Add Custom Personal Touches 

This may or may not be the hardest step. Custom wedding bands are, of course, all about personalization. Some options include engravings of special dates, initials, or meaningful quotes that can be engraved inside the band. Unique designs are also a fun option, which could be a one-of-a-kind pattern or motif—if you have a favorite hobby, movie, book, etc., that is meaningful to you, it could be incorporated into the design. As mentioned above, personal touches could also be added through birthstones and gems that are meaningful to you and your partner. 

Work with Bostonian Jewelers

After finalizing what type of design you’d like, finding the right jeweler is crucial. At Bostonian Jewelers, we promise to bring your vision to life. We have plenty of experience with creating beautiful custom pieces. We can set up a one-on-one consultation to discuss your budget and inspirations and bring it to life. 

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Jewelry Appraisal 101

Jewelry Appraisal 101

Have you ever wondered about the value of your favorite jewelry? Whether you're considering selling old pieces to make room for new ones or simply curious about their worth over time, appraising your jewelry is a great idea. Here's everything you need to know about jewelry appraisal, from the basics to understanding the processes.

What is Jewelry Appraisal?

Appraisal involves assessing a piece of jewelry's cost, quality, and authenticity. Appraisers are skilled in various appraisals for insurance coverage, resale value, and educational purposes for curious individuals. Many seek appraisals when inheriting jewelry or determining its current market value, as market dynamics constantly evolve.

Appraisal Types

Understanding the various types of appraisals is essential, as each serves a distinct purpose. The most common is an insurance appraisal, which helps you determine a replacement value for insurance coverage in case your jewelry gets stolen or lost. 

A fair market appraisal estimates the price that a buyer and seller would agree upon in an open market. This type of appraisal is used for estate planning, taxation, or legal purposes. 

While these are the two primary types of jewelry appraisals, numerous other appraisal methods are available to suit your specific needs.

Understanding The Appraisal Process:

Understanding the jewelry appraisal process is essential, especially for first-time appraisals. The appraiser typically begins by thoroughly examining the piece and assessing various factors such as the materials, gemstones, craftsmanship, and condition.

Next, the appraiser researches the piece within the current market context, considering factors like demand, rarity, and comparable sales. This research allows them to estimate the jewelry's value in real-time.

The appraisal process typically takes 45 minutes to an hour. However, to ensure accuracy and thoroughness, it may take longer for particularly rare or complex pieces of jewelry.

Choosing An Appraiser

When selecting an appraiser for your jewelry, choosing someone with a wealth of experience and a range of certifications is essential. Look for appraisers with certifications, such as GIA (Gemological Institute of America) or AGS (American Gem Society), indicating gemological knowledge expertise. 

Additionally, the appraiser must follow the guidelines set forth by reputable organizations such as the International Society of Appraisers (ISA) and the American Society of Appraisers (ASA). By choosing an appraiser with these credentials, you can have confidence in the accuracy and professionalism of the appraisal process.

Work with Appraisal Experts at Bostonian Jewelers

Ready to have your jewelry appraised? We're here to assist you every step of the way. Our experienced team will guide you through the entire appraisal process, ensuring that your jewelry's estimated value is determined using the most thorough and reliable methods. Whether you're seeking evaluation for a new piece or have been curious about the worth of an older one, we're dedicated to providing you with support and expertise.

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