July Birthstone: Rubies

The princess cut rubies in this 14 Karat white gold ring have a more pink red hue. This antique ring features an old European cut, round diamond in the center. Small diamonds accent the thin band on each side.

This 14 Karat white gold ring features a natural, oval cut ruby with a pink hue. The intricate detail and filigree work in this ring give it a more vintage appeal.

This natural, round cut ruby has a nice ruby red color that we usually have in mind.

This setting is a classic example of a ruby and diamond engagement ring. It can also be used as a fashion ring, but the baguette cut diamonds and lace design on the band are reminiscent of many antique engagement rings.

This natural, radiant cut ruby is accented by two emerald cut diamond solitaires for a classic past, present, future ring.

The red in rubies compliments yellow gold very nicely, as seen in this oval cut ruby ring with diamond accents.

June Birthstone: Alexandrite or Pearl

Although June passed, here is a post on last month's birthstone.

This natural, oval cut alexandrite has the whimsical quality of changing colors depending on the lighting. Here it looks more purple or magenta. Alexandrite is purported to be discovered in 1830 on the birth date of Alexander II in Russia, and hence it's name. In addition to being found mined in Russia, alexandrites can also be found in Brazil, Sri Lanka, India, Zimbabwe, and Burma.

In other lighting, however, it looks more dark forest green, teal/blue green, or even chocolate.

For contrast on color, here is a picture from the web showing off an alexandrite's more blue/green shade.

This is a simulated (or synthetic/man made), trillion cut alexandrite. Here you can see how the green and purple appears at the same time. Synthetic alexandrites are more common because a natural alexandiret from the earth is quite expensive on a per carat basis. For example, check out this 3.61 Carat, cushion cut genuine alexandrite for over $42,000.

Given the rarity of natural alexandrites, pearls are also an alternative birthstone for June. This 14 Karat white gold diamond and pearl ring has an antique feel with small prong set diamonds. The vertical direction of the five pearls makes this ring ideal for a pointer finger ring.

We also have this 14 Karat yellow gold pearl ring with three diamond accents (two on this side and one on the other side). This ring has a more modern edge with its smooth and sleek appearance.

If you are looking for a ring that makes a statement, you should consider this 14 Karat white gold ring with two large, genuine pearls in a bypass design. Diamond accents echo an inifinity design in the ring.

For earrings, we carry an affordable pair of pearl studs in 14 Karat gold with a diamond accent for only $45.

Along with white pearls, there are also black Tahitian pearls that have a beautiful peacock green, purple hue.

May Birthstone

Natural emeralds come in various shades of green. Take a look at how emeralds look set in yellow gold with diamond accents.

This is a large 2.00 Carat princess cut, emerald ring with 1.00 Carat in baguette and round diamonds in 14 Karat gold.
Cost: $3150

This is a unique trillion, cabochon cut emerald ring with pave diamonds in 18 Karat yellow gold.

These earrings feature a 1.00 Carat radiant cut emerald in each ear in 14 Karat gold.
Cost: $1290

Here are just a few of the natural emerald and diamond rings available at Handiwork in white gold and platinum.

This bezel set emerald ring with prong set diamonds in white gold has a vintage appeal.

A pear shaped emerald is accented by two pear shaped diamonds in white gold. Notice the fine antique engraving in the band.

Radiant cut diamonds surround this radiant cut emerald in a simple three stone platinum setting.

This wide diamond pave band features an oval cut emerald in white gold.

Trillion cut diamonds accent this radiant cut emerald in a simple and elegant setting.

A cushion cut 1.35 Carat emerald is accented with two round diamonds, each weighing 0.20 Carats.

Birthstone Re-Cap

October was the last birthstone featured, so I figure there should be a re-cap of November to April before May can be posted. Here goes!

NOVEMBER

Yellow topaz is the official birthstone for November, but citrines and yellow sapphires (and even a yellow diamond) would all work well for Thanksgiving circa babies.

This 18 Karat gold Torrini ring features a bezel set, multi-faceted citrine.


Belts can be worn around your waist... or on your hand. This citrine belt ring is accented by chocolate diamonds with a black enamel background.

For only $159, this 14 Karat yellow gold right hand ring featuring a large natural oval, yellow topaz is sure to make a statement.

DECEMBER

Blue topazes are a favorite, even if you were not born in the month of December.

This bangle with a solitaire, trillion cut blue topaz and yellow topaz is a perfect transition from November to December.

This trillion cut blue topaz pendant in white gold is accented by five round diamonds

These 14 Karat gold chandelier earrings will dangle with briolette cut blue topaz tear drops.

JANUARY

Garnets are a deep red brown hue that people either love or hate. If you appreciate antique jewelry, garnets can often be found in vintage pieces.

This 14 Karat natural, oval garnet ring with round diamonds is a steal at only $145.

This past, present, and future three natural, oval garnet ring in 14 Karat gold is only $99!

FEBRUARY

Purple amethysts here we go... a resilient and well priced gemstone.

This is another 18 Kart gold ring from Torrini and features a multi-faceted amethyst that reflects the light with little stars.

MARCH

Aquamarines and their light light blue, green (seagreen) color are also found in vintage jewelry. Aquamarines can be very expensive depending on their hue and quality.

APRIL

Diamonds are a girl's best friend... and April babies are just plain lucky. If you want an alternative, try white sapphires, or synthetic diamonds (cubic zirconia).