News – Page 2 – Prairie Jewelers

October 27, 2023

October's Gemstone of the Month: Opal

By Jamie Fish — 0 comments

As autumn leaves begin to fall, October shines with the iridescent beauty of opal. Known for its captivating play of colors, opal is a gemstone that never fails to mesmerize.

Dancing Colors: Opals are celebrated for their unique optical phenomenon called "play of color." This mesmerizing effect displays a spectrum of vibrant hues that seem to dance and shift as you move the gemstone.

Variety of Types: Opals come in various types, including precious opals, fire opals, and common opals. Precious opals are the most highly regarded for their stunning play of color.

Symbolism and Beliefs: Opals have been associated with hope, purity, and creativity. They are believed to inspire imagination and enhance one's inner beauty.

Jewelry Delight: Opals are often used in exquisite jewelry pieces, from rings to pendants. Their unique beauty adds a touch of enchantment to any ensemble.

October's birthstone, opal, invites us to embrace the magic of autumn. Whether you're celebrating a birthday this month or simply captivated by its spectral display, opal is a gemstone that embodies the beauty of nature's artistry.

Stay tuned for our next blog post on November's gemstone of the month!

October 27, 2023

September's Gemstone of the Month: Sapphire

By Jamie Fish — 0 comments

As we transition from summer to fall, September is graced by the stunning allure of sapphires. These precious gemstones are revered for their deep blue hues and have captured the hearts of many throughout history.

Elegance and Tradition: Sapphires have long been associated with nobility and elegance. They are often seen as symbols of loyalty, wisdom, and nobility. In fact, many royal engagement rings feature sapphires, including Princess Diana's and now, the Duchess of Cambridge's.

Variety of Colors: While sapphires are best known for their deep blue color, they actually come in a range of hues. From cornflower blue to velvety violet-blue, sapphires offer diverse choices for those seeking to wear this exquisite gem.

Durable Beauty: Sapphires are one of the hardest gemstones, second only to diamonds. This makes them not only a symbol of enduring love but also a practical choice for everyday jewelry.

Spiritual Significance: Throughout history, sapphires have been associated with spiritual enlightenment and inner peace. They are believed to bring calmness to the wearer's mind and promote focus and clarity.

September's birthstone, the sapphire, is a timeless gem that continues to captivate with its deep beauty and rich symbolism. Whether you're celebrating a birthday or simply drawn to its charm, sapphires are a classic choice that never goes out of style.

Stay tuned for our next blog post on October's gemstone of the month!

October 27, 2023

August's Gemstone of the Month: Peridot

By Jamie Fish — 0 comments

Peridot, the radiant green gemstone, graces the month of August with its vibrant charm. Known as the "Evening Emerald," this gem has a rich history and unique qualities that make it a cherished addition to any jewelry collection.

Origins and Legends: Peridot has been mined for over 3,000 years and was revered by the ancient Egyptians who believed it to be the gem of the sun. They even mined it on an island in the Red Sea called Zabargad. Legend has it that Cleopatra's famous emerald collection might have actually been peridot.

Vibrant Green Hue: The signature color of peridot ranges from a yellowish-green to a deep olive green. Its color comes from the presence of iron in its composition. The intensity of green can vary, and the most valuable peridot stones exhibit a pure, vivid green.

Spiritual and Healing Properties: Peridot is believed to bring good fortune, peace, and prosperity to the wearer. It is also thought to have healing properties, promoting harmony and reducing stress.

Jewelry Delight: Peridot is a versatile gemstone that complements both casual and formal attire. It's often used in rings, necklaces, and earrings, adding a touch of nature's beauty to your ensemble.

August's birthstone, peridot, is a stunning reminder of nature's beauty. Whether you're celebrating a birthday or simply drawn to its lush green allure, this gemstone is a timeless choice that captivates the senses.

Stay tuned for our next blog post on September's gemstone of the month!

August 25, 2023

Taking good care of your Jewelry is Important!

By Art Fish — 0 comments

At Prairie Jewelers I'm happy to help you keep your jewelry in great condition throughout the years. By remembering to do a few things you'll be able to enjoy those pieces longer!

Taking care of your jewelry, whether it's costume jewelry or fine jewelry, is essential to maintain its beauty and longevity. Here are some practical, hands-on tips for taking care of your jewelry:

Remove Jewelry When Necessary: There are times when you should avoid wearing your jewelry to prevent damage. Remove your jewelry when applying lotions, sunscreen, or other beauty products. Avoid wearing jewelry while deep cleaning, swimming in chlorine-treated pools, playing contact sports, or gardening.
Put Jewelry On Last: When getting dressed, put your jewelry on last to avoid tangling with clothing and coming into contact with chemicals like hairspray.
Separate and Store Properly: Store your jewelry pieces separately to prevent scratching and damage. Consider using cloth pouches or individual cases for fine or vintage jewelry. For silver, use tarnish-resistant bags to minimize tarnishing.
Regularly Check Your Jewelry: Before wearing your jewelry, take a moment to inspect it. Look for loose stones, clasps, or prongs that might need repair. If you notice any issues, avoid wearing the piece until it's fixed.
Cleaning Jewelry: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently clean your jewelry after wearing it. This will help remove dirt, oils, and sweat that can accumulate. For more thorough cleaning, follow these steps:
- Gold and Gemstones: Mix a mild dish soap with warm water. Soak the jewelry briefly, then use a soft brush (like a toothbrush) to gently scrub. Rinse and pat dry.
- Silver: Use a silver polishing cloth or a silver cleaner designed for jewelry. Avoid using abrasive materials that can scratch the metal.
- Pearls: Wipe pearls with a soft cloth after wearing to remove sweat and oils. Avoid submerging them in water, as it can damage the string.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Keep your jewelry away from harsh chemicals, including household cleaners and beauty products. These chemicals can damage metals and gemstones.
Store Properly: When you're not wearing your jewelry, store it in a dry and cool place. Avoid exposing jewelry to direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, or humidity.
Professional Repairs: If you notice loose stones, broken clasps, or other issues, consult Prairie jewelers. They have the expertise and equipment to make necessary repairs and adjustments.
Professional Cleaning: While you can clean your jewelry at home, consider having it professionally cleaned by Prairie Jewelers twice a year. They can also inspect it for any hidden issues.
Travel Carefully: When traveling, use a travel jewelry case or a small pouch to protect your jewelry. Pack it in your carry-on bag to prevent loss or damage.

Remember, proper care and maintenance can significantly extend the life of your jewelry, keeping it looking beautiful for years to come.