Diamonds aren't just pretty gemstones that you put on a wedding ring or necklace; they are also versatile materials that have found various applications in various fields in the modern world. One such field is machining, in which diamonds are used for cutting out metal, computer science, and even medicine. Diamonds can be found in the natural environment, which is rare and difficult to mine, with many ethical concerns; they can also be produced in the lab. Lab-grown diamonds have a lot of advantages over naturally sourced ones, making them a go-to for many technological applications. Here are five advantages of lab-grown diamonds.

Lab-Grown Diamonds Are Cheaper Than Natural Diamonds 

Natural diamonds are expensive because they are rare and labor-intensive and require a lot of machinery, which adds to the cost. This is unlike synthetic diamonds, which can be formed quickly and efficiently in a controlled laboratory with fewer people and equipment. These results in lab-grown diamonds being 30% to 40% cheaper than natural diamonds due to reduced labor, machinery, and transportation costs. So, lab-grown diamonds are the way to go if you're looking for a diamond ring on a budget.

Lab-Grown Diamonds Have Superior Quality

Another advantage of lab-grown diamonds over natural ones is their quality and purity. The production methods used to create these diamonds, such as CVD, Chemical vapor deposition, and HPVD, high-pressure vapor deposition, allow for greater control over the diamond's size, color, and purity, unlike natural diamonds mined from the mantle. Natural diamonds have varying sizes, colors, and purity alongside many dirt impurities and imperfections. The ability to control the size and clarity of a lab-grown diamond has made it a favorite amongst jewelers because it allows them to make and sell diamonds of any size, color, or purity.

Lab-Grown Diamonds Have Ethically Safe Origins

The biggest controversy surrounding diamonds and diamond mining is the so-called blood diamond. A blood diamond refers to any natural diamond sourced from dark or morally reprehensible activities or whose method of mining and distribution helps fuel violence, abuse, and human trafficking. This has been a cause for worry by many buyers of natural diamonds, as purchasing them might mean that you are inadvertently funding a civil war or human trafficking group halfway across the world. Even though the Kimberly process was adopted in 2003 to help track the origins of natural diamonds, there are still some difficulties with determining the origin of a carat of diamond. This is why many people have pivoted to using synthetic diamonds, as they have an ethical origin and can easily be traced back.

Lab-Grown Diamonds Are Environmentally Sustainable

Diamond mining requires heavy machinery, which requires a lot of fossil fuels to function and pollutes the environment. The effect of diamond mining on the environment is often overlooked, even when you remove the heavy machinery from the equation. Mining requires you to mine deep and wide holes, which release a ton of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. They also result in the destruction of forest areas and the destruction and contamination of watersheds and rivers. Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, are different. Since they are grown in the lab, they are less harmful to the environment since they can be grown using power from renewable energy. This makes them more environmentally sustainable than natural ones, which release greenhouse gas emissions and destroy valuable real estate.

Shop Lab Grown Diamonds at Bostonian Jewelers

Synthetic or lab-grown diamonds are the future, and they help mitigate the ethical implications of natural diamond mining. They can come in huge sizes and are a cheaper option. There are many options to choose from, but Bostonian Jewelers will help you choose the best option that suits your needs.

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 

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.

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!

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. 

Do you have a specific vision for an engagement ring or wedding band? At Bostonian Jewelers, we want to make the custom ring design process simple for you. We specialize in crafting bespoke engagement rings, wedding bands, and fine jewelry. Our integrated technology, such as three-dimensional design and printing, laser welding, and advanced casting methods, can bring your vision to life. 

We’ve broken down this process so that it is designed to be a rewarding journey to the wedding ring of your dreams. Custom design can feel daunting, but we work hard to eliminate the confusion. Contact us today to get started. 

Step 1: Initial Design Process

The first part of this process is discussing what you would like your ring to look like. Schedule an appointment to meet our designers, or walk in! We want to give you the piece you’ve been dreaming of, so try to come to this with a clear vision of what you want. Bringing along any inspirational images and elements of the design you’d like will help us start building our first adaptation. 

Step 2: Computer Aided Drawing Technology

The next step is using our 3D computer-aided drawing technology (3D CAD) to build out the first design of your custom ring. This step will enable you to be involved throughout the process so you know exactly what we are designing. These are high-resolution images of your piece of jewelry before it’s completed. Your approval is essential before proceeding to the next step.

Step 3: 3D Mold Printing

Once approved, we move on to creating the actual mold for your unique piece of custom jewelry. We utilize high-resolution 3D printers to create a wax mold, allowing you to see and feel your custom ring. This will also let you lay gemstones into the appropriate areas, giving you a sense of what your finished product will look like. We will also use this 3D wax mold to build the actual piece of jewelry - we make an impression of the wax, burn it out, and replace the cavity with the metals of your choice. 

Step 4: Cast Processing and Gem Placement

Once the casting process is complete, your ring will go through multiple polishing, blending, and softening steps. This is where custom elements such as engraving, micro-detail applications, and size adjustments are implemented. We then bring your ring for gemstones to be matched for size and quality and securely set into the piece. We will give the ring a final polish with an industrial ultrasonic bath and a high-pressure steam to remove any remaining residue. 

Work with Bostonian Jewelers 

After everything, our favorite step is seeing the first expression once we deliver the finished design. We have experienced and shared tears of joy and emotions that accompany these special moments. Three generations of manufacturing exceptional jewelry have separated Bostonian Jewelers from the competition by using innovative designs and techniques to make your dream piece of jewelry. Book your consultation with us today to get started.

Jewelries are one of the top items to spice your look or make a statement. But customized jewelry is on an entirely different level. They scream luxury and allow you to create something exclusive to you. However, things can go awry if you go in blind. To avoid this, there are a few things you need to know about customizing jewelry.

Do Your Research

Customized jewelry might seem fantastic, but things can go south if you need to know what you want. So, the first step is to do your research. You can do this by checking for various options online to see the one that suits your taste.

Set Out A Budget and A Timeline

Custom jewelry is quite pricy. But I'm sure you already knew that. However, it's still possible to underestimate a particular custom design's cost. So, speak with your jeweler as fast as possible to learn the designs that fall within your budget. You'll also need to know how long it'll take to make a particular design, especially if you need it for an occasion.

Adopt A Collaborative Process

Unlike the usual jewelry you get online or at the store, custom jewelry requires more collaboration with your jeweler. You must communicate with the designer to know how long the design will take and ensure they stick to the timeline. 

Know All The Fine Details

The appeal of custom jewelry is in the details. You need to discuss all the fine details with your jeweler so you can know what to expect at the end of the process. If you're customizing the jewelry for someone else, you also need to consider factors like allergic reactions to metals.

Benefits of Customized Jewelry

Besides the beauty that comes with customized jewelry, these works of art are usually preferred for the following reasons:

• They allow you to create a unique design
• They serve as fantastic gift ideas
• They can be used to preserve family heirlooms
• It is a great way to personalize your jewelry.

Contact Bostonian Jewelers

Customized jewelry is one of the most luxurious items you can get. Bostonian Jewelers offers various jewelry customization services. Whether you want to preserve a family heirloom or customize a wedding ring, they've got you covered. They also offer many customization options.