As a form of fashion, jewelry trends constantly evolve and shift every season. On the one hand, there is always room for what’s new and innovative, while on the other hand, we often see resurgences of traditions and timeless styles. Here are a few of the jewelry trends that have been rising in popularity lately. 

Initials in Jewelry Trend

A bit of a classic, the trend of getting a necklace with a letter on it either representing your name or the name of a loved one has seen a resurgence in 2024. This trend is always a safe bet, as it always seems to come back around. It is also one of the most popular gift choices in jewelry; whether parents buy them for their children or people buy them for their partners, there always seems to be an interest in gifting jewelry that represents your personal story. 

Darker Colors 

The accents around jewelry, especially watch bands and faces, have shifted towards darker tones, especially reds and browns. Deep, rich burgundy and dark chocolate colors are commonly seen in various jewelry settings, often accented by gold. This combination of gold with rich colors evokes warmth and is perfect for winter outfits. 

A Return to Yellow Gold 

In recent years, there has often been a shift to new colors like rose gold, but in 2024, we saw a shift back to the classic yellow gold styles. Gold jewelry has always held a place of universality and is ubiquitous, which might explain this return to tradition. Its ever-present nature makes it possible to combine new pieces with heirlooms or jewelry gifted to you over the years. 

Square Shaped Jewelry 

While in terms of colors, we are seeing returns towards classic yellow gold, we are equally seeing innovation with shape. Many people try square and rectangular shapes in unique and interesting ways by rejecting the common rounded shapes of jewelry. Aside from square pendants, we have also seen bracelets and bangles with pronounced angles to give a unique rectangular shape. 

Larger Pieces That Evoke 90s Nostalgia

Nostalgia is often at the heart of trends in any corner of the fashion industry. Millions of people are rediscovering their love of large bangles that make a statement. After years of minimalism and simplistic design, it appears the pendulum has swung back towards confident pieces, including opulent gold bands studded with diamonds. 

Shop For Jewelry Trends at Bostonian Jewelers

Whether you are interested in following the latest trends in your jewelry collection or are looking for unique pieces that express your personal style, our store in Boston, MA, has the perfect jewelry selection for you. For more information, please visit our store or give us a call. 

Buying an engagement ring is the first step in many decisions. On the one hand, so much joy, excitement, and love is wrapped into each of these decisions. Conversely, we constantly hear from people how the weight of these decisions can sometimes be overwhelming.

We want to start by saying people should not worry about making the “wrong” choices when choosing an engagement ring. Thousands of articles and advice columns try to focus on making something that should be one of the most positive experiences for you and your fiancee into something negative. Instead, we want to focus on a few parameters and factors to help you choose the right ring for you and your partner. 

Making Sure You Pick The Right, Size, Metal & Stone

While we did say at the top that we don’t approve of the concept of “wrong” choices when it comes to ring purchases, that is mostly in relation to how people market engagement rings—in truth, ensuring that the materials in the engagement ring work for your partner, both in terms of preference and sometimes functionality, is essential.

Many people do not know their own ring sizes or their partner’s. Moreover, your partner might prefer the metal (silver, platinum, gold, or something else) and the layout, shape, and size of the stone(s). One of the significant challenges of engagement ring purchasing is that, traditionally, you should do it secretly, which means you will need to figure out how to get all this information. In terms of size, one option is to find a ring your partner already wears (making sure that it is a ring they wear on the appropriate finger) and bring it to a jeweler. 

Should You Keep Your Engagement Ring a Secret?

Tradition dictates that the person looking to propose should buy the ring secretly so that they can keep their proposal a secret. But every couple is unique, and part of life is figuring out which traditions work for you and which don’t. Some partners will actually go ring shopping together, which can help alleviate any of the stress about choosing the “wrong” ring.

If you want to follow the tradition of keeping the proposal a secret, you still have options. You could potentially ring shopping together and then hold on to the ring until you are ready to propose, or perhaps you could browse a store or ask your partner for some parameters for their perfect engagement ring. You can always work through a third party by talking with your partner’s close friend or family member.

Purchase Engagement Rings in Boston, MA

Here at Bostonian Jewelers, we provide beautiful jewelry options to our clients. If you have questions about engagement rings or need help with engraving, resizing, or getting the perfect ring for your partner, please give us a call or visit our store in Boston, MA.

The holiday season is a time to celebrate love, joy, and generosity. Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift to express your feelings or to surprise that special someone with something they’ll cherish, jewelry is always a good choice. From dazzling necklaces to elegant rings, the right piece of jewelry can be the perfect way to make this holiday unforgettable. Here are some holiday gift ideas to help you find that perfect something for the one who means the most to you: 

Personalized Necklaces

A personalized necklace is more than just a beautiful accessory—it’s a way to express your unique bond. A customized necklace can carry a special message or memory, whether a pendant with their initials, a birthstone, or a meaningful engraving. Choose from sleek bar necklaces, delicate nameplates, or heart-shaped pendants for a gift that speaks to your connection.

Timeless Diamond Earrings

Diamonds are a classic holiday gift, and for good reason. Diamond earrings add a touch of elegance to any outfit, making them the perfect accessory for casual and formal occasions. Whether you choose studs, hoops, or drop earrings, diamond earrings will sparkle as brightly as the person who wears them.

Engraved Rings

A ring with an engraved message is a sentimental and unique gift idea. Choose a simple band for a minimalist look or a gemstone ring for added flair. Whether you engrave a particular date, a meaningful quote, or both of your initials, an engraved ring is a timeless keepsake they’ll treasure forever.

Birthstone Jewelry

Gift a piece of jewelry that reflects their birthstone, adding a personal touch to your present. Birthstone jewelry is not only beautiful but also holds symbolic significance. Each stone is believed to bring luck, protection, and positive energy to the wearer. Whether in a necklace, bracelet, or ring, this thoughtful gift shows you’ve found something special just for them.

Customized Couples Jewelry

For couples, matching or coordinating jewelry pieces can be a beautiful reminder of your shared connection. Matching necklaces, bracelets, or rings are an endearing way to show your love. You can also create a meaningful custom design for both of you, making this gift a constant reminder of your bond.

Shop Holiday Gifts at Bostonian Jewelers

Across cultures and eras, gemstones have always been revered for their supposed healing properties, spiritual significance, and ability to influence emotions and luck. Whether you're drawn to the vibrant hues or the powerful energies believed to be contained within, each gemstone carries a unique story. Here's the meaning behind some of the most popular gemstones.

Amethyst: The Stone of Tranquility

Symbolism: Spiritual growth, peace, protection, and healing. 

With its stunning shades of purple, Amethyst is often regarded as a calming and spiritual stone. Known as the "Stone of Peace," it's believed to promote inner peace, clarity, and emotional healing. Throughout history, spiritual leaders and royalty have used Amethyst, symbolizing wisdom, balance, and protection from negative energy. It is said to help with stress relief, enhance meditation, and bring clarity of mind. 

Sapphire: The Stone of Wisdom 

Symbolism: Wisdom, loyalty, mental clarity, and protection. 

Sapphires are deeply connected with wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. Historically, they were worn by clergy and royalty, and it was believed the stone would protect its wearer from envy and harm. Blue sapphires are most commonly associated with this gemstone, but they can come in various colors, each with significance. Sapphire is believed to bring mental clarity, calm, and spiritual insight. 

Emerald: The Stone of Renewal 

Symbolism: Renewal, growth, fertility, love, and prosperity. 

Emeralds are rich, lush green gemstones representing growth, renewal, and fertility. The emerald's deep green color symbolizes the Earth's vitality and is thought to promote emotional healing, prosperity, and rejuvenation. In ancient cultures, emeralds were believed to hold the power of renewal and were associated with love and rebirth. The stone is used to promote healing in relationships and physical ailments. 

Diamond: The Stone of Purity and Strength 

Symbolism: Purity, strength, eternity, commitment, and success. 

With their brilliance and clarity, diamonds symbolize purity, strength, and eternity. Often referred to as the "king of gems," diamonds are associated with everlasting love and commitment, so they are the traditional choice for engagement rings. Beyond their romantic symbolism, diamonds are believed to promote inner strength, clarity, and endurance. They are also considered a powerful symbol of success and achievement.

Opal: The Stone of Creativity 

Symbolism: Creativity, transformation, inspiration, and good fortune. 

Opals are captivating gemstones that shimmer with a multitude of colors. They are often seen as symbols of creativity, inspiration, and transformation. The opal's play of colors is said to mirror the emotional spectrum, helping you tap into their artistic and creative potential. Opals have long been believed to bring good fortune, protect against negativity, and open the mind to new possibilities. 

Shop Gemstone Jewelry at Bostonian Jewelers

If you are interested in some of the above gemstones, shop at Bostonian Jewelers today. We offer a variety of ready-made jewelry and custom-made pieces depending on what you are looking for. Shop our products today or contact our jewelry designer to get started. 

When you start looking for the perfect engagement ring, the size of the diamond isn’t necessarily what to look for. A massive part of ring shopping is knowing what diamond shape you are looking for. Whether designing your ring or giving your partner hints about what you want, finding the right one is no small feat. The most common diamond shapes are round, emerald, cushion, oval, princess, radiant, asscher, marquise, pear, and heart. In the hunt for the perfect diamond, you’ll want to choose the most flattering one. 

Best Diamond Shape for Short Fingers

If you have small hands and short fingers, proportions are critical. Luckily for your budget, petite hands typically look best with a smaller-sized diamond. If this is you, pear, marquise, or oval-shaped diamonds would be the best option—and oval diamonds are currently trending! These diamond shapes have a larger surface area than other options, so they can look more extensive than those with the same carat weight.  

Best Diamond Shape for Long Fingers

Those with longer, thin fingers have a lot of flexibility regarding the shape of your diamond. Larger stores will appear more proportional, and nearly all diamond shapes are flattering with thin fingers. That said, longer fingers will benefit from thicker, heavier bands or double rows of diamonds without overpowering your hand.

Best Diamond Shape for Wide Fingers

You can easily pull off bolder, bigger rings with wider fingers without looking like they’re taking over your hand. Consider trying fancier diamond shapes, such as ovals, marquise, teardrop, radiant, and emerald cuts. These can make your fingers and hands look longer and slimmer if that’s what you want. You should also tell your partner that a larger diamond would be best—consider lab-grown diamonds a budget-friendly option.

Best Diamond Shape for Square Fingers

For those with square fingers—meaning your fingers' tips are more square than rounded—oval, marquise and pear-cut diamonds would be the most flattering. The soft silhouettes of these different shapes will complement your fingers' squareness. In the same vein, avoid square-shaped diamonds, like princess-cut or Asscher-cut, as these will amplify your hand's square shape–unless that is what you want, in which case these shapes are ideal.

Shop Diamonds at Bostonian Jewelers

While the options listed above are ideal for the most flattering diamond shape, choose whichever speaks to you. The ring will still be beautiful, look great on your finger, and always mean something to you. There are no strict rules as to which diamond is right for you–these are just some of our recommendations if you are having trouble getting started. Get started with lab-grown diamonds and natural diamonds at Bostonian Jewelers.

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.

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.  

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 

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. 

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.