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Monthly Archives: September 2009

Enameled Jewelry Stars in Estate Collection

Recently, we had a real treat in purchasing a large group of estate jewelry items- many pieces were enameled, of European make. The enamels shown above feature the technique commonly referred to as “French” enameling, where the enamel is fired directly onto the face of the item as a final decorative touch. Even the fangs […]

Vintage Calfornia Gold in Quartz

In the latest Mardon blog, we discuss the California Gold Rush of 1849 and the jewelry it gave rise to. Forty-Niner goldsmiths and jewelers settled in San Francisco and created the classic gold in quartz styles. The best examples of vintage gold in quartz jewelry were made beginning 1850 and ending 1906, when the great […]

Padparadscha Redux

We beat the drum again for one of our favorites, the Padparadscha Sapphire. New pricing info and enlarged photos showcase our article on the gorgeous orangy-pink gem– or is it pinkish orange? We discuss the definition of Padparadscha color, countries of origin, Pad look-a-likes and imitations at the Mardon blog.

Best Blue Sapphires by Country of Origin

This third part in the series explores the relationship between country of origin and the color of blue sapphires. We focus on the “classic” sources for the best blue sapphires, including Kashmir, Burma, Ceylon, and the new kid on the block, Madagascar, discussing quality of color, heat treatment, and values plus information about the geology […]

What is the Best Color for Blue Sapphire?

Don’t miss this 4 part series on the blue sapphire.  We’ll discuss gem grading and market preferences for blue sapphire, the physical characteristics of natural sapphires that affect their color, some of the characteristics of stones from classic sources of sapphire including Ceylon, Burma, Kashmir, Madagascar, Thailand, Australia, and Montana, and the various methods of […]