Congratulations! You’ve found the love of your life and now it’s time to ask the question of a lifetime. For some, ring shopping may feel like an overwhelming task. But we get it! Our team is here to support you and walk you through an easy-peasy beginner’s guide to different types of engagement ring settings and popular ring styles. Without further ado, let’s get into it.
Before we fully begin, let’s quickly look at the difference between ring settings vs. ring styles. While sometimes used interchangeably, the setting and style of a ring are two different things.
The ring setting refers to the prongs that actually hold and secure the stone in place. Typically, most rings are designed with four or six prongs. The base of the prong is notched on the inside and the prong tip pushes over the top girdle edge to secure the stone. The ring style is based on the actual design or shape of the ring.
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular types of engagement ring settings that will suit any bride:
Now that you know a bit more about ring settings, let’s take a quick look at popular ring styles:
Still not sure which engagement ring setting or popular ring style is the best for the love of your life? Customize a ring for your bride-to-be to ensure you make a perfect choice. With JA-certified jewelers on staff, we’ll be sure to make your dreams come true. Contact us to learn more about our customization process today!
]]>Valentine’s Day, also known as Lover’s Day, is quickly approaching! For big days like these, it’s always best to plan ahead. So, if you’re reading this blog and taking the necessary steps ahead of time, cheers to you and your special loved one. Let’s take a quick look at how you can celebrate your love with Valentine’s Day jewelry gifts and how to pick the best Valentine’s Day rings for her.
Pave rings have a unique design that will surely attract attention in any setting. With a subtle yet brilliant flash, pave rings are perfect for those of us who love a sophisticated look. Featuring dozens of quality stones, this ring style will go above and beyond to impress her. If the leading lady in your life adores eccentric designs with a quality appeal, you can’t go wrong with a pave ring!
If you’re approaching your wedding day or have been married for some time, a statement wedding band is a great Valentine’s Day jewelry gift. At Citrus Studio, our striking wedding bands are bold enough to wear on their own and also precise enough to be stacked. Many brides enjoy wearing their band alone on a daily basis and then wearing their complete set for special occasions. Our wedding bands will ensure that any bride feels flawless, no matter how she wears her ring!
If you've been married for a while and you’re wondering how to choose the perfect Valentine’s Day ring for her, then you should definitely think about a brand new bridal set. While most couples update ring sets during special anniversaries, you can feel free to do it at any time! If your special lady just got promoted or has hit a superb milestone in her life, don’t be afraid to go over the top with her Valentine’s Day jewelry gift. It’s never too early for an upgrade!
Has your special lady been throwing hints about her favorite stone? If you’ve ever heard the words moissanite, diamond, or lab-grown and you scratched your head in confusion, this is your sign! It’s time to gift her with the ring of her dreams. Your Valentine’s Day ring for her will be super special if you choose one that has her favorite stone. Not only will you earn brownie points for being a good listener, but you’ll also earn points for gifting her with a dazzling ring that she loves.
If you’re hoping to make a lasting impression, a custom-made Valentine’s Day jewelry gift is the way to go. Design and customize an absolutely breathtaking ring to gift to an absolutely breathtaking lady this Valentine’s Day. While all jewelry is special, a custom-made ring goes the extra mile. Interested in customizing a Valentine’s Day ring for her? Contact us today!
]]>When you’re looking for a truly unique anniversary gift, jewelry may not be at the top of your list. After all, jewelry is sometimes considered a gift that’s too cliche or expected to be meaningful. Yet we believe that a piece of custom jewelry that can tell your love story is actually one of the most thoughtful gifts you can give!
While you may agree with the idea that custom anniversary rings make for a great gift, maybe you’re hesitant to create your own unique piece. At Citrus Studio, we often hear the reasons why customers don’t want to create custom jewelry for someone they love:
We understand where you’re coming from, so we’ve put together a shortlist to help you see that custom jewelry is both accessible and affordable, no matter your creative abilities or budget. Here are several ways that you can give a truly one-of-a-kind jewelry gift for your upcoming anniversary.
Citrus Studio is different from most other jewelry retailers in the way we craft our jewelry. Each piece we create is made-to-order after you purchase it, ensuring that you have a ring that was made exclusively for her. We understand that this isn’t custom jewelry, per se. However, it does mean that when you shop from our portfolio of exclusive designs, you’ll always get a ring that’s unique to Citrus Studio and fashioned just for you. So if you’re looking for unique anniversary bands without commissioning a fully custom gift, this may be the preferred route for you.
One of the distinct facets of Citrus Studio’s design process is that we can make changes to any of our existing pieces. Do you want to customize one of our rings with gemstones to match your partner’s birthstone? We can do that! Do you want to tweak one of our existing designs to match her current engagement ring or wedding band? That’s not a problem, either! At Citrus Studio, it’s easy—and affordable—to create custom anniversary rings by making changes to one of our current designs. Try that at your typical mall jewelry store!
If you’re looking for something completely and thoroughly unique, our design team can help you create a custom ring from scratch. Our certified artisans will work within your budget to fashion a unique anniversary band that will absolutely take her breath away. All you have to do is give us your ideas, and our designers will take it from there using their state-of-the-art CAD software. You don’t need a single artistic bone in your body to commission an anniversary jewelry gift that's a true work of art!
Our customer service team is standing by, and they’re ready to help you design the anniversary jewelry gift of her dreams. Contact us today so we can help!
]]>Early on, perhaps the most stressful decision in the course of a couple’s romance is trying to figure out how to pick the right engagement ring. Discerning her likes and dislikes while trying to choose the lifelong symbol of your love and affection is a mountain that may seem insurmountable for some. Yet, while the task may seem herculean, it’s absolutely possible to choose the perfect ring by simply knowing the right kind of questions to ask when buying an engagement ring.
At Citrus Studio, we happen to know a thing or two about engagement rings… and the women who wear them. We asked some of our staff to help us compile a list of questions you can ask her to help you know how to pick the right engagement ring. Here are our top five questions to ask her:
Many engagement ring buyers don’t realize that there are several choices to be made when it comes to precious metals. For instance, engagement rings are typically made with either 10-karat, 14-karat, or 18-karat gold. The higher the karat number, the more gold alloy that makes up the ring (which makes them more expensive). Additionally, gold can come in a variety of shades, such as natural yellow gold, radiant rose gold, and icy-cool white gold. On top of that, there are also other metals you can choose from, like platinum, that each have their own unique properties and price points.
Although many first-time jewelry buyers don’t realize it, engagement ring styles are as unique and varied as clothing styles. Does she like rings that are simple or ornate? Modern or vintage? Do you know if she likes certain design flourishes like milgrain or filigree? If you don’t know your pavé ring from your eternity band, don’t worry! You can contact our design team and we’ll help you learn the lingo in layman’s terms so that you’ll know how to pick the right engagement ring.
The classic diamond gemstone is always a hot choice, but have you ever considered other gemstones such as moissanite, a gemstone that originally came from a meteorite? How about Citrus Fresh Diamonds, which are lab-created, conflict-free diamonds that have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds? Maybe she’d like a certain colored precious or semiprecious gemstone in her engagement ring. You won’t know if you don’t ask!
If you want to know how to pick the right engagement ring, you need to learn a bit about gemstone shapes. Although diamonds are famous for their round shapes, there are actually a multitude of cuts that can be utilized in an engagement ring, including:
When she slips the ring on her finger, you want to know that it will fit perfectly without spinning or (heaven forbid) falling off. At Citrus Studio, all of our rings are made to order, which means we can create any ring size imaginable (including half-sizes). Asking her ring size (or surreptitiously finding her size by measuring one of the rings in her jewelry box) will help ensure you get the perfect fit.
No matter your budget, Citrus Studio prides itself on having quality jewelry available at your price point. We can even offer you custom jewelry at affordable prices far below what you’ll find at the big box jewelry retailers.
If you’re still wondering which questions to ask when buying an engagement ring, contact our helpful customer service team today. They’re standing by to show you step-by-step how to pick the right engagement ring.
]]>“I love that ring, but…”
Have you ever had a similar thought about a piece of jewelry in the past? Maybe you were in love with a certain engagement ring design, except for one certain element of the ring you wish you could tweak. Perhaps you wanted the ring to be cast in a different metal. Maybe you wanted to use different gemstones, trading standard diamonds for something truly unique. It could be that you wish you could make a tweak to the way the ring is sculpted.
In almost every instance, it’s impossible to make these kinds of custom ring design modifications at a standard jewelry store. Typically, what you see in the jewelry case or what you find in their catalog is what you get. Perhaps you could create a custom ring from scratch, but the process is both cumbersome and cost-prohibitive for most couples. So how can you find a timeless engagement ring that is designed by you?
Here at Citrus Studio, we understand your frustration. If you can customize a pair of Nike shoes, or you can select custom packages to modify a new car, why can’t you make modifications to an engagement ring? That’s exactly why we’ve worked so hard to modernize the custom jewelry process, making it easier than ever before to create a custom piece of jewelry in a method that’s both simple and affordable.
We have an amazing team of designers who are certified by Jewelers of America, a trade association that holds its members to the highest standards. They’re not just jewelers, they’re artisans who are passionate about their craft. By using state of the art Computer Assisted Design software, they can quickly and easily modify any stock ring… or create a custom masterpiece entirely from scratch. It’s up to you!
If you’re looking to customize your own timeless engagement ring, you can make any number of modifications, including, but not limited to:
At Citrus Studio, we want to make your bridal jewelry dreams come true. We have the knowledge, experience, and cachet to make your custom jewelry dreams a reality… all at an affordable price. Learn more about the custom ring design experience by contacting us today.
]]>Getting engaged is one of the most exciting moments in a person’s life. While this brings a lot of excitement for the happy couple, the engagement ring is the star of the show that everyone asks to see.
Instead of leaving you feeling pressured, Citrus Studio is dedicated to providing a fun and unique shopping experience. In addition to our beautiful pre-made designs, we specialize in custom jewelry and custom engagement rings. We can create the perfect ring for you that is made just how you want it to be. Our staff of JA jewelers are expert artisans that will take your engagement ring ideas and make them come to life.
We understand that you have a lot of questions and concerns when shopping for an engagement ring. This is why we recently decided to ask a jeweler to answer the most common jewelry questions we hear when people are starting the process of picking out an engagement ring.
After reading our Q&A, you will have more knowledge about the different options available for your engagement ring.
Q: Is there a difference in cost between custom rings and pre-manufactured rings?
A: Not much, but it depends! The advantage of a custom ring is that it gives you the opportunity to make a ring to your exact specifications. You get to choose the design, the size of your diamonds, color, clarity, etc. Ultimately, the customer gets to choose the price range by working with all the options available.
Q: What is the difference between white gold and yellow gold?
A: There is nickel in the alloy with white gold, and white gold is also plated with rhodium (which is a sister metal to platinum). White gold tends to be stronger because of the nickel. Yellow gold, however, is the true color of gold. The gold color you choose is ultimately up to personal preference.
Q: What is the difference between a white gold and a platinum crown?
A: Most crowns are white gold, but can be changed to platinum. Platinum is stronger and endures longer, but is actually more “bendable” than white gold. White gold won’t last as long but is less bendable. It is a good rule of thumb to do the crown in the same metal the ring is in.
Q: Could I be allergic to white gold?
A:Yes, it is possible. White gold’s major alloy is nickel. A small percentage of people are allergic to nickel and/or could develop an allergy to nickel, usually during situations like pregnancy. If one is allergic or develops an allergic reaction, a platinum ring can be a good alternative.
It is possible to feel like you’re having a reaction to the ring itself, but there are other factors that can be at play. Your ring could be too tight and need to be resized, or there could be dirt and chemicals stuck underneath or in the grooves. Sometimes the ring just needs a thorough cleaning to take care of the chemical reaction.
Q: What metals are used in the alloy with gold?
A: Silver, nickel, palladium, and copper can all be used to make 18k, 14k and 10k gold rings. By adding different measurements of alloy, you can have different colors of gold like white gold or rose gold.
Q: What is Rhodium plating?
A: Rhodium plating is electroplating this metal on a gold ring. It makes the ring look extra white and beautiful. Similar to a wax finish on a car, the finish is nice but it is not required and will wear over time.
Rhodium is a sister metal to platinum, hence why this process is sometimes called “platinum-dipped.”
Q: Which are better: prongs or bezel sets?
A: Over the long run, bezels tend to be more durable. The prong setting holds the stone up and allows more light to enter the stone. (Prongs will probably need to be re-tipped approx. every 10-15 years, bezels around 20-30 years.) The majority of gems are held by prongs.
Q: Can you set the diamond lower?
A: In most rings yes. There are low base and high base prong settings. Of course, when the diamond isn’t mounted, the crown appears higher than it will be when the diamond is set. You still must take into consideration the depth of the stone to determine how low it will be in a ring.
Q: How do you size a ring?
A: The bottom (shank) of the ring is cut, and metal is either removed or added to make the difference of size, then metal is soldered or lasered. The goal is to leave the ring without any sign of having been worked on. The ring will be cleaned and checked, and gems will be tightened if needed.
Plan Bands can be stretched within a size up or down. If more is needed, check with the shop because many can go a little more, if needed.
Q: How long does it take to set a stone or size my ring ?
A: It takes about a week or two. Is there a date you are hoping for? Let us know. We can alway express any job when needed.
Q: How do you know that the ring fits well?
A: A general rule of thumb is to have the ring go on easy and come off with a little bit of a pull. If it slides off easily, that is not good. When it is on, see if the rings flops around or only turns when you rotate the ring, which is best. Of course, if it is too tight, you will know.
Keep in mind the real ring does not usually fit just like a sizer, so you just do what fits best. Keep in mind, our hands do change about a half a size a day due to time of day and whether our hands are hot or cold.
Also, the wider the ring, the more you may need to compensate. For example, if the ring is 10 mm wide, you may need to plan on a half size bigger than a typical ring sizer tells you. The customer knows how they want it to fit, just help them pick the right fit.
Q: Can you clean my ring like new?
A: Yes, we can do a Goldsmith Cleaning. This is where a skilled craftsman will go over your ring, fill in scratches with a laser, round out, tighten all stones, and polish back to a factory finish.
Q: How do you know when a prong is bad and needs to be retipped?
A: Over time the metal that holds the diamonds wears down by day-to-day wear. Originally, each diamond has metal tips that are rounded. Over time, they become worn and flat, sometimes even breaking off.
When a customer complains of snagging, this is usually because the prongs need to be straightened or retipped. If they are worn, the process of retipping is done by melting new metal on each prong, extending the jewelry life and keeping the gems secure.
Q: How do I check for loose stones?
A: Using something pointy like the end of a tweezer, touch it lightly to the side of the gem to test if you see any movement. Sometimes light will play with your eyes to make you think it moves, but with a little practice, you will be able to distinguish the difference.
Q: What is a ring reshank?
A: When a ring is worn for years, the bottom part of the ring (shank) can be worn thin and bendable. The shank can be replaced with a new strong new bottom half of the ring, making it ready for years of good wear. The process is done by cutting off the old and adding a new thick bottom to the ring. It is then shaped to blend into the ring giving it new strength.
The answers to the jewelry questions above are a good starting point to guide you on your engagement ring purchasing journey. Start by browsing rings to see what styles you like. If you don’t find anything appealing, consider designing your own custom ring! We have JA-certified jewelers on staff that make the process seamless, and are happy to answer any of your questions or concerns.
Contact Us To Design A Custom Ring
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Here at Citrus Studio, we have numerous designs made to dazzle. If spring is on the mind, here are a few ring recommendations to help you find the right option for your needs.
White Gold Moissanite Janey Ring - $1,100.00
Floral Inspiration: Our Lily ring offers one of the most authentic floral ring designs, with the center gem accentuated by crystal petals bursting out from the sides. Meanwhile, our Daisy and Janey rings feature leaves extending towards the center of your ring. Ready to see your love blossom? Try one of these timeless options!
White Gold Diamond Jade Ring - $550.00
Studded Bands: Springtime is not just about appreciating the flowers. It’s also about appreciating life as a whole, even the vines and stems leading up to the beautiful blossoms. Looking for a band that builds upon the beauty of another ring or even stands strong on its own? Consider studded bands like Chelsea, Jade, or Victoria to help you get started!
Rose Gold Fresh Diamond Madeline Ring - $2055.00
Starbursts: Some flowers gently open as their time comes around again, while others burst open with color and vigor. If you’re a fan of quick and sudden spring, you’re going to love our starburst style spring jewelry. Arielle, Maddie, and Madeline are all rings that feature a dazzling center gemstone with more gems reaching out from the center of the ring, much like a star or a flower.
White Gold Moissanite Addie Ring - $749.00
Twisted Styles: When spring comes, life bursts forth from the earth. Certain rings with floral ring designs like Addie, Adele, and Vanessa look like two snakes or vines delicately twisting their way around the center gemstone. If you’re looking for a more sophisticated ring, these options are great for you.
No matter which ring you decide on, you can customize our floral ring designs by choosing the gold featured in the band itself (14-karat yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold) as well as the stones featured on your ring (moissanite, natural diamonds, and fresh lab-grown diamonds). Whatever look you want or price point you need, our customization options help you get the most out of your new spring jewelry.
Not shopping for rings or engagement rings at this time? Don’t worry! We also have jewelry like necklaces and bracelets so that you can flaunt your favorite spring gemstones in style. No matter what you’re looking to sport this spring, you’re sure to find it here at Citrus Studio.
Ready to get started, shop now to start looking for the rings that most represent springtime to you, or contact us if you have any questions or if you want to start designing your own custom ring!
]]>Whether you’re looking to learn more about how to clean moissanite or diamond jewelry, use the jewelry cleaning tips in the guide below to learn how to clean your pieces safely!
The good news about moissanite is it’s a gem very close in nature to diamonds. This strength prevents it from getting scratched or chipped from everyday use. If you’re looking into how to clean moissanite, this means that you will find that you’ll treat your diamond and moissanite pieces very similarly.
The best way to get the job done is to use some warm water and some mild soap, scrubbing your stone with a soft cloth or with a soft-bristle toothbrush to ensure that you’re getting the face of the stone as well as all of the hard-to-reach places. You may also wish to soak your jewelry for a couple of minutes before starting to scrub it. (Remember, the best thing to do is to clean your jewelry regularly and to remove it from your hand when applying creams or engaging in everyday activities so that buildup doesn’t become too difficult to remove.)
If you find that this is not enough for your moissanite jewelry, you have some other alternatives. Some solutions that can help you when you’re trying to learn how to clean moissanite jewelry include:
Ultrasonic cleaners are also recommended, but only when they’re being applied in a professional setting. However, if you do have the equipment to do this yourself, make sure that your setting is strong enough to deal with the strong vibrations. Otherwise, your stone may fall out during the process and require a new setting. It can be beneficial to have your jewelry professionally cleaned periodically throughout the year to take care of any residue you may have missed.
Now you know how to clean moissanite, but what are you supposed to do for diamonds? Fortunately, the same jewelry cleaning tips offered above work for both your moissanite and diamond gems. You’ll also find that the first suggestion — using warm water and mild soap with a soft cloth — is beneficial for your gold and silver bands, as well. Put simply, cleaning your diamond and moissanite jewelry is something that you can easily do at home!
Jewelry almost always has a sentimental meaning attached to it, especially when it comes to heirloom pieces or engagement rings. If you’re still shopping for the perfect piece, Citrus Studio can help! In addition to our beautiful and exclusive collections, we also offer services to help you design the ring of your dreams. Contact us if you have any questions about our diamond and moissanite jewelry!
]]>At Citrus Studio, we feel differently about custom jewelry. We think that the exclusive nature of custom pieces should be accessible to everyone, no matter their budget. That’s why we have a unique program to help you design your own jewelry, all while keeping the cost of custom jewelry in check.
Every custom piece starts with a single idea that’s deep within the mind of a potential customer. This is the part of the custom process that is often most intimidating to customers. They often feel that they’ll never be able to convey their dream ring, necklace, or other piece of jewelry to a designer. So because of this, they never get the process started in the first place.
At Citrus Studio, we endeavour to make the process of designing your own jewelry as simple as possible. We do this several different ways.
In the end, we take the complicated parts out of custom design, making the process where you design your own ring something fun and enjoyable!
The other oft-received complaint about custom jewelry is that it can be exorbitantly priced. The design process, coupled with the extreme markup that most brick-and-mortar jewelry stores apply to their custom pieces, ends up making the entire process cost-prohibitive for many.
Citrus Studio works differently. We will work within your desired price point, using a variety of materials at our disposal to create your dream ring, all without cutting corners or design features. The final product will be the design you crave at the price point that fits your budget.
This leaves us with our original question: is it worth designing your own custom jewelry? We believe that the answer is a resounding yes when you work with Citrus Studio. But there’s only one way to be sure: commission your own custom piece today! Contact our design team to get the process rolling.
]]>Gems hardness is measured on a Mohs Scale of Hardness, with 10 being the hardest to 1 being the softest. The moissanite sits at 9.25 on the Mohs scale. A diamond rates a 10 on the Mohs scale.
You may ask yourself which gem should I buy, Diamond or Moissanite?
Each gem comes in a variety of cuts. The round cut is the most popular because it offers the most sparkle and appears the most white.
Moissanite is closest to a diamond in terms of durability and brilliance. Don’t think of a Moissanite as a “fake diamond”. Moissanites are real Gemstones. They just look a lot like diamonds.
If you are on a budget and you want a diamond look, Moissanite is a very good choice.
Check out our moissanite rings here!
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For men, rings can send messages that reveal a lot about you. For example your commitments, achievements, and beliefs.
For men, there are wedding rings(which are usually simple, like a band), class rings, fraternal rings, family rings, and fashion rings. When you wear them what message do you want to send to those around you?
1- Before you put on the ring, think what you are wanting to say about yourself whether subliminal or a direct message.
- Rings used to send the message that the individual was wealthy and powerful.
- Then you will need to think of the placement of the ring. If you want it to stand out, wearing it on the center finger is suggested.
2- Wearing multiple rings. How confident are you to wear more than one ring? For first-timers trying to wear multiple rings try to wear it around the house to get a feel of it and get used to the extra weight on your hand. Then you could wear it around people you know to see if they notice the extra ring. Do this before you wear it out in public.
3- Make sure your rings are proportionate to your hands. A larger hand can wear larger rings. Thicker digits can wear wider rings. Therefore, smaller hands smaller rings, and thin digits more narrow rings. Whatever the case, make sure the ring is the right size for your finger.
4- Balance your jewelry when you add rings to the ensemble. Don’t overcrowd one hand with many rings and leave the other with none. Also keep in mind the watch you may wear or bracelet, to help balance.
5-This one rule is optional. We suggest you wear all the same color of the metal. It helps you stay coordinated. Belt buckles, watches, watch straps, rings, etc. To help with what color would look good on you, wear silver if you have a cool tone to your skin, and gold if you have a warm tone to your skin.
]]>What is 0.925 Sterling Silver? Is it a good choice to use for a wedding ring?
In order for silver to be classified as sterling silver, it must meet at a 92.5 purity, AKA 925. So, as you can see:925 silver is sterling silver.
Conversely, metals that contain less than 92.5 percent of silver are not sterling silver, which is important to keep in mind when buying sterling silver. Silver should always be clearly identified with a hallmark representing its standard grade and quality.
Sterling Silver, 925 is hypoallergenic. It is a good choice if you have a tendency to allergic reactions.
Pure Silver is soft. Adding other metals to the silver increases the hardness, making it more suitable and durable for use in jewelry and housewares and silverware.
The disadvantage of using Sterling Silver in Jewelry is that the metal is soft. It scratches and bends under repetitive daily wear, pressure, and sudden knocks. Thin silver rings will not wear well if worn constantly. Eventually Sterling silver can tarnish.
In conclusion, should you make a wedding ring out of Sterling Silver?
If you plan, as most people do, to wear your ring all the time, silver may not be a good metal to use unless you don’t mind it showing scratches and such. Other metals such as 14K yellow or white gold, or platinum may be the best choice.
]]>1. Convenience
Browsing can be done from the convenience and comfort of your own home. Even if the seller is many miles away we provide you with support 24/7.
2. Lower Costs
Lower costs are a product of drop shipping. Dropshipping involves stores listing images of a product on its website and only buying the inventory when a customer makes a purchase. This prevents the company from having unneeded space and the cost of carrying an inventory. Therefore resulting in a lower price because the product is sold directly to you without any in-between persons to have to pay.
3. Hassle-Free
We have all been to stores where we have been pounced upon by an enthusiastic salesperson. We don’t always like to be pressured into buying something we may or may not want. You may still be on the investigating side so having that pressure is uncomfortable. Online shopping allows you to explore your options freely with no sales pressure.
4. Wider Selection
Most jewelers have a limited selection. Depending on the size of the store and having the risk of being burglarized is higher with more product visibly in the store. Physical shops need to pay for the storage and protection of the valuables. They take that cost and add it onto the customer which results in another added fee.
1. Find the right dealer!
Most people want to touch and look closely at their product they would like to buy. Look to online jewelers that help you with this. For example, giving the customer various views of the ring.
2. Consider tax and shipping costs
No matter what you will be paying for shipping because that is the nature of ordering online. Your piece of jewelry usually doesn't weigh much so the cost of shipping would be rather low. Sales tax is another factor that we must take into consideration when purchasing jewelry.
3. Make sure you get a Certificate of Authentication.
Most valuable jewelry comes with authentication documents and certificates to prove the quality of the products. You need to make sure that the grading reports come from well-known companies such as the American Gem Society (AGS) or the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).
4. Ask for Real Photos/Videos
It is important that you receive a real photo of the product, not just the stock photo. Another suggestion is to get the dimensions of the product because cameras tend to make small items look bigger.
5. Check For Warranty
Be sure to buy from a company that backs up its products with the assurance that it is of good quality. Make sure you are comfortable with what the warranty will or will not cover regarding maintenance, repair, sizing, cleaning, etc.
]]>Picking out, designing, and putting your jewelry on for the first time is often the most exciting part of adding new jewelry to your collection. However, one of the most important parts of your jewelry journey is how you care for it in the following months and years. You are able to keep your jewelry looking pristine with a few simple tips and tricks. Jewelry cleaning and maintenance differ based on many factors. One of the first things that you should be aware of is the type of metal your jewelry is made of. Certain metals can withstand more than others, and the same applies to stones as well. Some stones like diamonds and sapphires are more durable than others, such as opal. As a general rule, no matter what your jewelry is made of you should be doing a cleaning every two weeks, and a deep clean every six months. However, these cleanings may differ based on your specific jewelry piece.
Gold is a relatively soft metal. In fact, gold rings are often a metal alloy. The additional metals make the rings stronger and less susceptible to damage. Gold jewelry can be cleaned with a soft cloth and should be wiped down fairly often - especially if you are wearing it every day. If your jewelry piece needs a more thorough cleaning you can put it in a bowl of soap and water. A gentle and preferably natural soap will be your best bet. After your jewelry has soaked for 1+ hours remove and gently scrub with a soft brush. You could do this with a soft-bristled kids toothbrush.
Silver jewelry does tarnish over time and looks best when regularly polished. Again, if you are wearing your silver jewelry every day you should consider polishing regularly. Knowing the rating of your silver jewelry can help determine the amount of polishing needed. For example, silver with a .950 needs much more polishing than a .925 rating. You can polish your silver by using a microfiber cloth to gently rub areas of wear.
Although it is often easier to leave your jewelry on than take it off intermittently, you should be aware that some activities will damage your jewelry over time. It is best practice to take off your jewelry from time to time to ensure that it receives the best care. Protect your jewelry by taking it off while doing these things:
Diamonds are a very durable stone. If you care for your diamond ring according to the tips from above based on metal your ring will look great for many years to come. If you notice that your diamond is lacking shine you can make a soaking solution with soap and water, and like stated above, scrub with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
We hope that these tricks are helpful when caring for your meaningful jewelry. At Citrus Studio we believe that jewelry is meant to last, and we want you to be as satisfied 10 years from now as you were when you first started your journey with us. If you have any additional comments or questions about jewelry care and maintenance please reach out to us!
]]>Looking for the perfect ring can be difficult. There are a lot of variables one needs to consider when looking for a ring. The number one issue I believe young couples need to be aware of is the price. How much can you get for the budget you set for yourselves? The setting of the ring has its price and then you add the center stone to that and that equals the cost of your ring.
We suggest you choose the center stone first. Then proceed to choose the setting of the ring. There are different stones you can use for the center stone. (for more info. Check out our blog about different gems)
In this article, we will specifically focus on a diamond center stone.
When choosing a diamond there are the four “C” you need to take into consideration; Color, Clarity, Cut and Carat. All these together determine the price of the diamond.
Color- determines the value of the diamond.
Clarity - is measured by the existence of or absence of visible flaws; what you can see in the diamond.
Cut- is how much sparkle the diamond has.
Carat - refers to the weight of the diamond.
When putting a diamond into a setting it’s good to remember that they’re measured in millimeters. Below shows what the diamond and Carat size may look like on a hand.
The following chart shows the average cost per Carat of the diamond.
Four variables determine the price of the diamond. If you want to get a larger diamond for less cost then one or all of the 4 variables of diamonds, cut, color, clarity will be compromised. You can also get a smaller diamond that could cost more because the four “C’s” are not compromised. That is why the prices of diamonds vary. Therefore, when choosing a ring you need to remember to take into consideration the color, cut, clarity and carat of the diamond as part of the cost so that you can determine what you would like and how much you want to spend.
]]>A popular trend that we are excited about here at Citrus Studio is stackable engagement rings. We love the freedom that stackable bands give brides. Stackable bands give you the option to mix and match and give a different look to your diamond ring. Adding bands of different sizes, shapes, and colors can give a whole new look to your ring stack. Stackable bands can also be worn on their own for a more subtle look.
Citrus Studio has the ability to customize stackable rings for your future or current wedding stack. If you already have an engagement ring that you love we can create a custom stack that will make you fall in love with your ring all over again. Stackable bands are compatible with many shapes of diamonds. Stacks with round and oval-shaped diamonds have been catching our eye lately, but customized bands can work with a variety of diamond rings.
Depending on what you are looking for you can add several stackable rings to your current diamond. These rings can be a variety of different shapes - each individually framing your diamond. We have been seeing a lot of curved, triangular, and straight bands. The shape of your primary engagement ring largely influences the shape of a stackable ring that would look best. These stacks give the option to mix and match and get a different look depending on the day or occasion. Stackable bands also make a perfect present for memorable events such as anniversaries.
Build your stack overtime to give yourself more options and variety. We love the look of stackable bands and are so excited to see more of this trend. The flexibility and uniqueness that each band can give to a stack is something fun and exciting. Contact us Citrus Studio for a consultation on stackable ring ideas.
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Initially, jewelry was used for functional purposes like holding clothing together. It was also used to ward off evil and as currency. Today it is used for decoration and a symbol of status. India has the longest tradition of making jewelry. Starting in 1500 BC in the Indus Valley. In Egypt jewelry was made from gold. The affluent class wore this in life and death.
Mesopotamia jewelry was made of metal and brightly colored adornments. They especially favored leaves. They used their jewelry for humans and statues. In Greece, Jewelry was made from all types of metal, ivory, gems and even clay. Asian design was introduced later when Romans ruled Greece. The Italians, added to the functionality of the jewelry, by creating clasps for necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. Jewelry is timeless! From 1500 BC to today jewelry has had an influence from all cultures and still does today.
Sedycias, Roberto, “The Fascination History of Jewelry, Streetdirectory, 2019. www.streetdirectory.com
Man Made
Our exclusive “Fresh Diamond” is an above ground diamond (Lab grown) it is truly amazing with the top of the charts in brilliance and fire. Our exclusive “Fresh Diamond” is conflict free and only comes in very will cut and ideal parameters.
We hunt down the diamond you are looking for in our stock, Let us know what you want and you can buy with confidence knowing you will have a “Fresh Diamonds” in your ring of choice. Not all diamonds are the same. At first glance, two diamonds compared may look very similar, but there may be enormous differences in rarity and value. With varying degrees of competency between jewelers and diamond grading, how do you know how to find the best value?
Our exclusive “Fresh Diamond”, on the other hand, MUST have ALL grades that meet or exceed the following: .40 carats, H color, SI2 clarity, and GIA Excellent or Very Good cut. These are reasons we know our “fresh Diamond” is a “cut above the rest”. Check in today to see what we can find for you. All diamonds sold will come with a report of its make and quality.
Earth Made
We sell responsibly sourced below ground diamonds (Natural Diamonds) following the Kimberley process so you can know your diamond is clean and with social responsibility.
Our Gold -- All the gold used is sourced responsibly with our suppliers and we even cast all rings with at least 50% recycled gold, taking care of our earth is one of our primary goals so we are doing all we can to break the caine “Durtty Gold” and provide you a one of a kind experience in your custom made jewelry.
Tell me about man made diamonds?
The number one question we get is “Are lab-created diamonds real diamonds?” (also called man-made diamonds or lab-grown diamonds)
The answer is a very simple yes.
The only thing that makes a lab-created diamond different from a natural diamond is its origin. A lab-created diamond is “grown” inside a lab using cutting-edge technology that replicates the natural diamond growing process. The result is a man-made diamond that is chemically, physically, and optically the same as those grown beneath the Earth’s surface.
“[Lab-created diamonds] are not fakes. They’re not cubic zirconias. They have all the same physical and chemical properties of a mined diamond.” Stephen Morisseau, a spokesman for the Gemological Institute of America, a nonprofit organization that oversees the international diamond grading system. Source
If we compare them to other popular diamond simulants, it’s obvious that manufactured diamonds, in fact, are the real deal.
One of the most frequent questions we get is, “Can you spot the difference between lab-created diamonds and real diamonds?”
This question is somewhat misleading. That is because lab-created diamonds are real diamonds. So to answer the question, “can you tell the difference between lab-created diamonds and “real” diamonds?” the answer is that there is no difference — they are one and the same, So you can buy with confidence Natural or an above ground diamond.
A lab-created diamond is “grown” inside a lab using cutting-edge technology that replicates the natural diamond growing process. The result is a diamond that is chemically, physically, and optically the same as those grown beneath the Earth’s surface.
Geologists know that diamonds formed deep within the Earth between 1 billion to 3 billion years ago. While they don’t know exactly how those diamonds came to be, they believe the process starts with carbon dioxide that is buried roughly 100 miles beneath the Earth’s surface.
The carbon dioxide is exposed to heat in excess of 2,200 degrees Fahrenheit and put under extreme pressure of roughly 727,000 pounds per square inch. The diamonds are then transported from deep within the Earth’s core to the surface by way of deep volcanic explosions.
There are two processes labs use to grow diamonds – High Pressure-High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD).
HPHT diamonds are made using one of three manufacturing processes: a belt press, the cubic press, and the split-sphere (BARS) press. All of these processes create an environment of extremely high pressure and temperature conducive to diamond growth.
An HPHT diamond begins as a small diamond seed that is placed into carbon. Using one of the manufacturing processes above, the seed is exposed to temperatures of about 1500 degrees Celsius and pressurized to approximately 1.5 million pounds per square inch.
The pure carbon melts and starts to form a diamond around the starter seed. It is then carefully cooled to form a pure carbon diamond.
A CVD diamond begins as a thin slice of diamond seed, which is often an HPHT produced diamond. The diamond seed is placed in a sealed chamber and heated to around 800 degrees Celsius.
The chamber is filled with a carbon rich-gas, like Methane, and other gases. The gases are ionized into plasma using technology similar to that of microwaves or lasers. The ionization breaks the molecular bonds in the gases, and the pure carbon adheres to the diamond seed and slowly crystallizes.
To the naked eye – it’s impossible to distinguish a lab-grown diamond from a mined diamond.
It’s highly unlikely that a jeweler – even one that is highly skilled – could determine if a diamond is lab-grown or mined.
While there are processes that can identify one from the other, it is incredibly complex and is typically only performed in diamond certification labs.
So, to answer the original question, the answer is no – you can’t tell the difference between a lab-grown diamond and a mined diamond.
However, you can get a larger diamond within your budget and make a more ethical and environmentally friendly purchase with a lab-grown diamond. So if you are looking for an engagement ring, wedding ring, or any other kind of stone for your jewelry, it often makes more sense to buy a man-made diamond, rather than a natural diamond — both for the benefit of your wallet, and the benefit of the earth.
If you want to learn more about the difference between lab-created diamonds and traditionally mined diamonds, as well as the various benefits in terms of the environment, ethical sourcing, and budget. Lab diamonds offer a real alternative to the traditional diamond market that few people are aware of, but which can really benefit those who take advantage of it. If you take some time to do your research and keep an open mind, there is no reason you and your significant other cannot be some of the few who do.
How Much Does Your Lab-Grown Diamond Impact the Environment?
1ct of mined diamond = nearly 100 sq ft of disturbed land & almost 6000 lbs of mineral waste. 1ct of lab-grown diamonds disrupt just 0.07 sqft of land & only 1 lb of mineral waste.
All in all, mined diamonds result in 1 injury for every 1,000 workers annually, while lab-grown diamonds result in zero. But natural does provide more jobs then lab-grown in mostly poverty nations.
Lab-grown diamonds can be anywhere from 30-40% less expensive than mined diamonds. This also means you can purchase a larger diamond within the same budget. Start your custom process today!
Neville recounted to The Washington Post how he had purchased the diamond engagement ring four years ago, but hid it in his work shed until he could come up with the perfect way to pop the question. In June of this year, the resident of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, got to work.
First, he filled a five-gallon bucket with soil. Then he pressed the engagement ring into the center of the bucket to bury it. Using a pencil, he poked a narrow hole aimed right through the center of the ring. He put a few carrot seeds in the hole, sprinkled a bunch of seeds around the perimeter of bucket and hoped for the best.
After tending his secret project for three months, it appeared that the carrots were ready for harvesting. On Saturday, he invited Squires and their three-year-old son, Eric, to pick some carrots for dinner.
Neville was relieved when Eric pulled a few well-formed carrots from the other edge of the bucket. Then he asked Squires to pull the one in the center. As she wriggled it out, Neville went down on one knee and said, "I love you very much. Will you marry me?" At first, Squires was a bit confused, but when she realized her new engagement ring was wrapped tightly around the middle of the carrot, her eyes started welling up and she nodded "Yes."
"I was in complete shock when I saw the ring on the carrot," Squires told CBC News. Then young Eric took a bite from the tip of the engagement carrot. Squires's new ring features a raw, uncut diamond. The couple noted that the stone pays homage to their homesteading way of life on Pinchgut Lake near Corner Brook. They have yet to pick a wedding date.
"Of course, he wanted to do something unique and imaginative," Squires told CBC News. "He just wanted the perfect idea to come along, and I guess it was worth the wait." “The more I think about it, the more amazing it is,” she told The Washington Post.
Neville had been inspired by the story of octogenarian Mary Grams, who lost her diamond engagement ring while gardening at her family’s farm in 2004. After unsuccessfully searching on her hands and knees for days, she gave up, assuming the ring she had worn since 1951 was gone forever.
Grams secretly bought herself a less-expensive replacement ring and never told her husband, Norman, of the mishap. Thirteen years later, her daughter-in-law, Colleen Daley, called with some fabulous news.
Daly, who had moved to the farm, found a strangely deformed carrot while plucking vegetables for her family’s dinner. The carrot was squeezed in the middle, like it was wearing a corset. On closer inspection, she saw that the constriction was caused by a diamond engagement ring. “I asked my husband if he recognized the ring,” Daley told CBC News. “And he said, ‘Yeah.’ His mother had lost her engagement ring years ago in the garden and never found it again. And it turned up on this carrot.” And the crazy carrot stories don't end there.
In December of 2016, the German press first reported the story of an 82-year-old man from Bad Münstereifel, who found his lost wedding ring wrapped around a carrot. The retiree had lost the ring while gardening three years earlier and then discovered it while collecting vegetables from his garden.
The man, whose name was not released, had just celebrated his 50th wedding anniversary. And way back in January of 2012, The Daily Mail and many other news sources covered the story of a Swedish woman named Lena Påhlsson, who pulled up a carrot cinched in the middle with a wedding ring she had lost in 1995. The ring has gone missing in her kitchen and she assumed that it must have gotten mixed up with some kitchen scraps that ended up in her compost pile. That material found its way to her vegetable garden and the rest is history.
]]>The easiest way to find out ring size is to schedule a consultation with Citrus Custom Jewelry. If you find that you are not within our physical service area we have included information on how to do it yourself.
If you are shopping for someone else, the best way to find his or her ring size is to ask. If you're planning a surprise, get help from friends and family. They can ask without raising any eyebrows. The average ring size available for women ranges from size 3 to size 9. The most commonly purchased women's rings range between size 5 and size 7. Size 6 is the most popular. The average ring size available for men ranges from size 6 to size 13. The most commonly purchased men's rings range between size 8 to 10-½. Size 9 is the most popular. These standard ring sizes can help guide you in the right direction. If you do not see the size you need, contact our experts for help placing a special order. There are also a number of at-home methods to find your ring size
Pure gold is 24 karat, and it's too soft to use in jewelry - it would bend, dent, or break very easily. Fourteen, ten, and nine karat gold are all blends of alloys (metals other than gold) and pure gold.
The karat number indicates how much alloy metal has been added to the pure gold, using the full 24 karat as the starting point for measurement. Fourteen karat gold is, therefore, 14/24 gold and 10/24 alloy metal; likewise, ten karat is 10/24 gold and 14/24 alloy metal.
For yellow gold, the base metals used are silver, copper, and zinc.
The different colors of gold are achieved by blending different alloy metals with the pure 24 karat gold. Fourteen karat yellow gold - the gold most commonly used in gold jewelry - is made with fourteen parts of pure gold and ten parts of a combination of silver, copper, and zinc.
Rose gold uses more copper and less silver than yellow gold.
White gold uses nickel instead of silver.
And green gold - which is more commonly seen in antique jewelry - uses more silver and less copper than yellow gold.
Silver needs to be combined with other metals because it is very soft, making it difficult to work with. Hardness has to be introduced, by adding other metals.
Sterling Silver consists of 92.5% silver and the remaining 7.5% consists of other metal, mostly copper. This is the reason why Sterling Silver is popularly referred to as 925 Sterling Silver or just 925 Silver.
The reason silver needs to be combined with other metals is that it is very soft, making it difficult to work with. A bit of hardness has to be introduced, by adding other metals.
Fine silver is 99.9% silver and has a small content of other metals such as copper.
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Custom jewelry is a unique experience that allows you to make a one of a kind piece of art. One of the possibilities is being able to customize the type of stone you use in your ring. Not only can you get a unique center stone, but certain gemstones can also be used for melee stones! Gemstones not only allow for more creativity and personalization, but they are also a cheaper alternative in most cases.
Begin by deciding if you are looking for a simple design or something a bit more complex. You can search for ideas from our inspiration gallery. From there you can have an idea of how many different type of stones you want to use in your piece.
Picking a Center Stone
One of the biggest costs in creating a piece of jewelry is the center stone. Usually the larger your stone the higher your cost. If you want a large center stone, but a diamond is out of the price range, consider a few alternatives. Many gemstones are cheaper than a diamond but can add a lot of sparkle and personality.
MORGANITE
Morganites are a great symbol of love and compassion. There is grace and elegance in these gemstones, and the soft colors are associated with innocence. Popular colors for morganite are pink and champagne. Both colors pair well with rose gold and a halo of diamonds. Morganites are relatively inexpensive making them excellent choices for pendants, earrings, and rings.
RUBY
A ruby symbolizes a passion for adventure, a zeal for life, and a driving fire. There is a timeless quality to a ruby that suggests nobility, grace, and beauty. Rubies look great set in a variety of golds and comes in many shapes. The symbolism of a ruby pairs well with both vintage and contemporary styles. Rubies also look great paired with a few white diamonds.
Genuine rubies are rare and come with their own personalities. The natural process that creates these beautiful stones makes each one unique. If a natural stone is out of your budget, a great alternative is a created ruby. These more common stones aren’t mined, but feature a similar luster and color as a natural stone for a lower price. Both types of rubies are a wonderful addition to any ring, depending on what you’re looking for.
SAPPHIRE
Sapphires symbolizes grace and beauty. A noble stone, its deep blue color invoking feelings of peace and serenity. These gems are beautifully highlighted in white gold and accentuated with white diamonds. They also are beautiful in a solitaire setting. As with a ruby, genuine sapphires are rare and the natural process makes each one unique. A created sapphire has similar features but a smaller price tag.
What’s next?
Once you have the style and gems picked we will have a CAD model designed for you. The CAD will show you what the jewelry will look like and what the price will be. You can also have a wax model created if you want to see the piece in person. When you are happy with the design, we will then cast and polish the piece. From there; Voila you will have a beautifully crafted custom gift! Get started today!
With the rise of social media a lot has changed, one of those many changes has impacted retail jewelry across the globe. Everybody is looking for that perfect ring for their special day, and they get inspiration from all of the jewelry they see on social media. Unfortunately supply has not caught up to demand.
Getting a custom jewelry piece with a custom jewelry manufacturer is a simple process. It starts by you sending in your ideas of the ring you want. Add a picture or drawing to help us understand your idea of the ring. Then you will receive a Computer Aided Design (or CAD for short) of the piece of jewelry. At this point you can see what the piece will look like when finished and make any necessary changes to make the ring perfect. Once the design is approved it is cast in whichever metal you decided on and you get the finished piece of jewelry in the mail.
The best news of all is that it doesn’t break the bank. Custom jewelry pricing is comparable or often lower to prices of jewelry found in most stores. Because these prices are mainly dependent on the price of the metal and stones, you can customize the ring to fit your budget.
Citrus Studio provides benefits to customers by offering these industry-leading features:
This has been a fairly new diamond that has been presented to the marketplace. While some may think that lab-grown diamonds are another diamond alternative such as moissanite, lab-grown diamonds are actually real diamonds. They have the same chemical composition, same grading system, same hardness, and the same brilliance as a mined diamond.
The most common process used for creating lab-grown diamonds, is to take a small “seed” diamond, placed in a microwave reactor with methane and hydrogen gases and heated to upwards of 1000 degrees celsius. Atoms begin growing on the “seed” in the exact same crystalline carbon structure of an organic diamonds. This process takes about a month to complete. The diamonds are then cut and polished to maximize brilliance, clarity and fire.
Speaking of lab grown diamonds, David Weinstein, executive director of the International Gemological Institute, told NPR: “Ten years ago, they were mostly very yellow, or very orangey-yellow.” But he says that now, “They’ve figured out how to get rid of all that color and go into the white diamond world. The quality has gotten to the point where they’re astonishingly white.”
At the new Silicon Valley-based company Ada Diamonds, a lab grown diamond company, say that “Ada white diamonds have fewer impurities and defects than Earth-extracted stones, and are in fact 99.999% pure carbon, making them brighter, whiter, and stronger than most mined diamonds. The company can also make a rainbow of diamonds of the same quality. (Sue Callaway, Man Made Diamonds are Now Better Than Mined. Here’s Why, fortune.com, September 22, 2016)
1. Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds.
You’ve likely heard the old adage, “Whether water freezes outside or in your freezer, it’s still ice.” So it is with diamonds. Diamonds grown in a lab are 100% the same in chemical composition, grading system, hardness, and brilliance as mined diamonds.
2. They are an environmentally and ethically-conscious choice.
While mined diamonds are a perfect example of the beauties and miracles of nature, there has also been an increasing amount of media on the negative impacts these mines are having on some of the environments and peoples involved. Lab-grown diamonds are an ethical and environmentally friendly way to add that sparkle to your rings.
3. Lab Grown Diamonds are great on your budget.
These are a great choice for people who are on a budget. This is because lab grown diamonds cost a fraction of the price of a mined diamond and are every bit as beautiful. So you can get that perfect ring for the perfect price.
At Citrus Studio we understand the importance of the jewelry we make. These aren’t just pieces of metal and rocks; these are expressions of love, works of art, signs of compassion, family heirlooms, and dreams coming true. We believe every ring should be unique and affordable. Which is why at Citrus Studio we provide both lab grown diamonds and mined diamonds as options in our custom jewelry. For custom design quotes, we can include the cost of lab grown diamonds, as well as mined diamonds so our retail partners have more options to present to their customers.
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