Blog
Birthstone Jewelry, Reconsidered: A Gemologist's Guide to Choosing Yours
Birthstones are one of the oldest traditions in jewelry, and one of the most misunderstood....
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What Makes a Jewelry Box Worth Owning? A Buyer's Guide
Most jewelry boxes are bad. Plywood with a thin felt lining, hinges that fail in...
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How to Care for Fine Jewelry: A Gemologist's Guide (And What Never to Do)
Most fine jewelry doesn't need much. A soft cloth, the right storage, occasional cleaning, and...
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Engagement Rings in Dallas: A Custom Designer's Guide to Getting It Right
Buying an engagement ring in Dallas is one of those decisions where the stakes feel...
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Why I Don't Use Lab-Grown Stones (Even When Clients Ask)
I lose business over this. Not a lot, but some. A client comes in wanting...
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How to Spot Quality 18k Gold Jewelry (And Why 14k Won't Last)
I get asked this constantly: is 18k really worth the upcharge over 14k? The short...
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What Is Essex Crystal? The Lost Victorian Art of Reverse Intaglio
If you've never heard of Essex crystal, you're not alone. It's one of the most...
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Where To Buy Custom Jewelry in Dallas: A 2026 Designer's Guide
If you're searching for custom jewelry in Dallas, you have more options than most people realize....
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Layering Tips Using Handmade Gold Jewelry for Spring Looks
Spring has a way of pulling us out of heavy coats and into lighter colors,...
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Natural vs. Lab-Grown Gemstones: Why the Difference Matters for Heirlooms
I only use natural gemstones. Never lab-grown. I get asked about this almost weekly, so...
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Styling Heritage Jewelry Online Picks With Your Spring Wardrobe
Spring gives us the perfect excuse to reset our closet and rethink how we wear...
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Fine Jewelry Designer in Dallas, Texas: A Gemologist's Guide to Heirloom-Quality Pieces
I'm Lauren Bellemare. I design fine jewelry in Dallas, Texas. I'm a GIA Graduate Gemologist....
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