Notes & stories
The School of Fine Jewelry
lessons in antique & vintage jewelry
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Citrine vs Topaz: Why Your "Topaz" Is Probably Citrine
I'll show you why so many inherited 'topaz' rings are really citrine, and the simple weight and wear tricks that help you tell the two...
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Amethyst in Antique Jewelry: The Purple That Was Once Precious
Discover why amethyst once rivaled emeralds in royal courts, how Brazilian discoveries turned rarity into abundance overnight, and what makes an antique stone glow rather...
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How to Untangle a Necklace Chain Without Breaking It
I'll show you the four simple things that free any knot without a single pull, so she stays smooth, unharmed, and ready to wear.
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How to Get a Stuck Ring Off Without Damaging It (or You)
Learn why pulling only makes things worse, and discover the calm cold-raise-slick-twist trick that frees almost any stuck ring in minutes.
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What Is a Puzzle Ring? The Ring That Falls Apart on Purpose
Discover how a puzzle ring's separate bands lock into one, why she falls apart when you slip her off, and what to check before you...
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What Is a Bangle? Bangle vs Bracelet Explained
Discover what truly separates a bangle from a bracelet, how she should fit your hand or wrist, and why the rigid ones outlive almost everything...
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What Is an Albert Chain? How to Wear an Antique Watch Chain Today
Discover how a Victorian pocket watch chain becomes today's best bracelet or necklace, from single and double Alberts to what her fittings and hallmarks reveal...
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What Is a Tennis Bracelet (and Why Is It Called That)?
Find out how Chris Evert's broken bracelet gave this design its name, and learn exactly what to check in the clasp before you trust it...
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What Is a Claddagh Ring? Hands, Heart and Crown Explained
Discover what the hands, heart and crown truly mean, and learn the right way to wear a Claddagh so she tells your story correctly.
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Types of Chain Necklaces Explained: Curb, Anchor, Bismarck and More
Learn to tell a curb from an anchor, discover why bismarck chains steal the show, and find out how to spot a truly well-made vintage...
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What Is an Eternity Ring and When Is It Given?
I'll show you when an eternity ring is truly given, why she isn't the first ring of a love, and which style actually suits your...
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How Much Is My Gold Worth? The Honest Math
Curious what your gold jewelry is truly worth? I walk you through the honest math, so no buyer can outsmart you with a lowball offer.
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