Judging by the popularity of our recent discussion of cabochons, you are ready for some more examples of these phenomenal stones. Which one is your favorite? Tiffany & Co. Columbian Emerald Cabochon in a Platinum Ring Setting with Diamonds This Art Deco ring from the 1900s exemplifies the term “wearable art.” A typical Tiffany & […]
Earlier this week, we discussed asterism (the display of a six-ray star within a gem). We showed you some examples of this amazing presentation from our ruby collection. At that time, we pointed to quite a few gems that displayed the cabochon cut. If you were wondering, “what is the big deal with this cut,” […]
Every so often, Peter Suchy Jewelers succeeds at bringing you rare vintage jewels that are not only visually attractive but also commemorate a historic event. This is the case with the S. F. Hausner Polish American Atlantic Crossing medals we currently offer. S.F. Hausner’s Contribution to Aviation Stanislaus Felix Hausner was a celebrated aviator. Of […]
Some gems are considered de rigueur among serious vintage jewelry collectors. These include the fancy yellow diamond, the black opal and the pigeon blood ruby. How did this gem get its name? In addition, why is it so desirable among collectors? Pigeon Blood? Granted, this description is rather odd. It is frequently synonymous with the […]
When a ruby presents with asterism, jewelers refer to it colloquially as a star ruby. Asterism is the event when a gem displays a six-rayed star design that is not the result of tampering or artificial enhancements. Jewelers like to cut this type of gem as a cabochon, which displays the star motif to its […]
This week we focused on an array of gem treatments. If all this talk of dyeing, irradiation and heat treatments leaves you longing for the natural thing, we have just what you are looking for. Untreated gemstone jewels that you have to see to believe. Art Deco Jadeite Jade Dangle Earrings with Stunning Diamonds These […]
The goal of a heat treatment is the change of a gem’s color. The application of heat to a so-so gemstone with a less than average color display can turn the stone into a spectacular stunner that will have buyers come knocking. Like most other gem alterations, reputable sellers always disclose heat treatments. Is High […]
There is plenty of talk about irradiation. Purists among vintage jewelry collectors do not like to purchase pieces that feature these types of stones. For the collector who adores a beautiful setting design and vivid stone color, the irradiation of the stone is immaterial. In fact, opting for an irradiated gem cuts down on the […]
Would you own a gemstone that technicians exposed to radiation? While you may worry about this question, the practice is actually far more common than you might assume. Irradiation has the power to change the color of a gem or enhance its presentation. From Pale Colors to Lustrous Hues For example, the typical blue topaz […]
Look at this dyed-black cultured pearl necklace. It is gorgeous. Strung onto 32 inches of silk, you find 95 Japanese Akoya pearls. They measure between 7.5mm and 8.0mm. These cultured pearls display a beautiful luster and a black coloration coming from artificial dye. Now, compare this necklace to the Mikimoto Tahitian black South Sea pearl […]
