Tag Archives: engagement

19 Apr

Bridal Shower Jewelry Gifts

Jewelry Gifts for Bridal Shower

Bridal shower jewelry gifts have changed quite a bit from their origin. Although they still remain a commonality in American weddings, we believe they have changed for the better. Historically these parties, “socialized women into the hyper-feminized traditional wife role”, according to sociologist Beth Montemurro. Nowadays, more women remain in the workforce so the “traditional” wife role and the associated gifts have changed.

At Schwanke-Kasten Jewelers, we came with several bridal shower jewelry gifts that the bride-to-be would actually use every day.

Bridal Shower Jewelry Gifts

We are firm believers of owning a solid pair of pearl earrings or a necklace. Dress them down into a casual chic look or wear them when presenting a trial, pearls are one of the most versatile pieces of jewelry you can own. Plus, they look great when she walks down the aisle!

Bridal Shower Jewelry Gifts | Pearl Drop Pendant Necklace set in 14k yellow gold

Pearl Pendant Necklace

The Pearl Pendant Necklace is a beautiful 9mm freshwater pearl pendant (17mm total) necklace set in either 14k white or yellow gold affixed to a 18” cable chain necklace. It is simple, elegant and affordable, retailing at $245.

Freshwater Pearl Stud Earrings

Fresh Water Pearl Studs

Like the pearl pendant necklace, these fresh water pearl studs are another piece of absolutely fabulous jewelry. Set in 14k white gold, the 5mm fresh water pearl studs retail at $150.

Saint Christopher Medal

St. Christopher Medal

As you can tell, we thoroughly enjoy bridal jewelry that is functional and can be worn all the time.  You can engrave a St. Christopher medals to add a personal touch for the recipient. The medals are said to protect the wearer as they journey through life because he is the patron saint of safe travels. As she begins another major journey, that is marriage, a St. Christopher medal can be a perfect companion for this exciting trip. The medals are available at Schwanke-Kasten Jewelers in an array of sizes and colors.

Stop by Schwanke-Kasten Jewelers today to pick up the perfect, unique, bridal shower gift! Both locations have a great selection of bridal jewelry.

20 Jun

Carat Weight – 4 C’s of Diamonds

Today we finish our “Making of a Diamond” exposé with an in-depth look at carat weight.  When a jeweler refers to the overall weight of a stone, the are referring to the carat total weight or CTW. It’s important to note, karat and carat are not the same. Karat is associated with gold purity, whereas carat measures how much diamond weight is in a particular jewelry piece.

Carat Weight - Martin Flyer Tri-Stone Engagement Ring

Carat Weight Origins

So, where did the word “carat” comes from?  Hundreds of years ago, traders used a carob for determining the weight of gemstones. A carob is a small seed from the St. John’s beard (or locust bean) plant) which is consistently uniform in size and weight; perfect for determining carat weight of diamonds. Jewelers and gemologist began officially using the term “carat” in 1907. Now, jewelers and shoppers universally use “carat” to measure diamonds and other valuable gemstones.  One carat is equal to 200 mg (.02g), which is another way of looking at carat weight. The GIA likens carat weight to comparing a dollar to pennies. In other words, think of it “as a dollar divided into 100 pennies, a carat is divided into 100 points” (GIA).

It is worth noting, while the overall carat weight can increase the stone’s value (all other properties held equal), two stone of equal carat weight can have vastly different values due to differences in the other Four C’s. Jewelers will typically describe a diamond to the hundredth of a carat. However gemologist measure diamonds to the hundred thousandth due to the stone’s value.

At Schwanke-Kasten Jewelers, we have a variety of GIA certified diamonds of all sizes to meet the budget for your dream stone. Should you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with one of our GIA certified gemologist, please do not hesitate to reach out to Schwanke-Kasten Jewelers.