The Diamond Loupe

Wedding Band Trends

2011-08-03T09:00:00.002-04:00

SAYING “I DO” WITH STYLE
Every day over 6,500 couples get married in the United States of America alone. There are two things that are the ultimate symbols of love, unity and dedication…wedding bands! However, finding the right ring is important. With so many styles to choose from, how do you know which one is right for you? Below is a mini guide to the trends that will be a big part of “I Dos” this year:

COLORFUL “I DOS”
White reigns as the color for weddings. From the wedding dress and flowers to diamonds and precious metals, white is symbolic. However, now more than ever color is being used in fresh ways. For wedding bands, color gemstones and even color diamonds are available in every color in the rainbow and make wedding bands personal. Think eternity bands of colored gemstones such as rubies, blue sapphires, yellow sapphires, and pink sapphires are favored by brides who want a splash of color and romance.

DIAMONDS GALORE
Diamonds are no longer just a girl’s best friend; they are men’s friends too. Men and women alike are choosing to add some sparkle to their wedding bands. For women, eternity bands (a narrow band with diamonds set all around it) are the ultimate choice because they provide the maximum amount of shine and can be worn together with the engagement ring or alone. For men, flush set princess or round diamonds make a great (and surprisingly manly) addition to a simple band. Cognac or black diamonds also are great accents to men’s bands

STACKING
One ring is lovely. Two rings are fantastic. However, three rings is quickly becoming a look that women are in quest of for their left hands. There is something about the symmetry of wearing things in three. Two wedding bands seem to flank the engagement ring and give it balance. It also doesn’t hurt to have extra diamonds or extra precious metal.

VINTAGE INSPIRATIONS
Vintage wedding bands are romantic and ornately crafted. However, you don’t have to scour estate sales to find vintage design. New, vintage inspired rings are meticulously designed to be just as beautiful as their predecessors. Platinum is reigning as the metal of choice for vintage styles but white gold and palladium are options as well.

Source: http://www.jic.org/?page=wedding-band-trends

Our engagement ring designer, Kirk Kara, was featured on The Price is Right Ultimate Wedding Giveaway episode on CBS!

2011-06-21T16:23:00.005-04:00

Kirk Kara’s Wedding Bands Featured in
Special Episode of The Price Is Right

(Los Angeles—June 2011) Kirk Kara’s stunning wedding bands were highlighted as a fabulous prize on the popular CBS game show The Price Is Right. The Ultimate Wedding Giveaway episode, which aired on June 20th, featured prizes provided by weddingchannel.com and offered couples the chance to win everything from the dress to the honeymoon—including, of course, the rings.

Kirk Kara’s gorgeous Angelique ladies’ hand-engraved wedding band (K1220-B) and sleek Artin men’s hand-engraved comfort fit wedding band (SS6992M-B) were key elements of the prize package awarded to the lucky winners. The Angelique ring puts a new twist on the traditional wedding band with its subtle handcrafted accents and intricate detail work, while the Artin ring, specially designed to complement the Angelique piece, is artfully crafted with elegant hand engraving inspired by the masculine elegance of the 1920s. Both luxurious 18K white gold designs feature the signature craftsmanship of the renowned 120-year-old Kirk Kara brand and are beautiful heirloom pieces that can be enjoyed every day.

This high-exposure integration introduced Kirk Kara to brides and grooms around the country. Under the helm of host Drew Carey, The Price Is Right is the number one rated daytime show on network television with more than five million viewers daily. Thanks to promotions like this Ultimate Wedding Giveaway, the series has established itself as the ultimate shopping, travel, and lifestyle guide for American television viewers.

Women’s Band: Angelique collection, K1220-B
http://kirkkara.com/#section=gallery&productid=K1220-B

Men’s Band: Artin collection, SS6992M-B
http://kirkkara.com/#section=gallery&productid=SS6992M-B

KIRK KARA is a Los Angeles-based fine jewelry company, family owned since 1890. Our philosophy is to create artistically stunning symbols of devotion with the same passion and commitment as the bonds they represent, while honoring the family pledge of excellence and expertise set forth generations ago. We design fine handcrafted engagement sets, elegant wedding bands for women and men, and fine jewelry set with diamonds and sapphires. Each piece is meticulously hand engraved and milgrained in platinum or 18K gold. With Kirk Kara, consumers can find jewelry that epitomizes enduring romance and future heirloom pieces that can be enjoyed every day. To view our collections and learn more about the Kirk Kara brand, please visit www.kirkkara.com.

About Dunkin’s Diamonds
For over three generations, Dunkin’s Diamonds has offered an experience unlike any other in the jewelry industry. Known for their standard of excellence, Dunkin’s Diamonds is also known for providing a fantastic selection of high quality jewelry and outstanding customer service. You can shop at Dunkin’s Diamonds with peace of mind because they personally guarantee the quality and craftsmanship of every piece of jewelry they sell.

Dunkin’s Diamonds makes every effort to ensure you enjoy your shopping experience with them. Dunkin’s Diamonds, 7 convenient locations in Ohio and Florida. www.dunkinsdiamonds.com

Sell or Trade Your Old Gold and Diamonds

2011-04-14T15:19:00.005-04:00

Now is the BEST Time to Sell or Trade Your Old Gold and Diamonds...
If you have checked gold prices, you know that gold is at an all time high. There has never been a better time to sell or trade in than right now.
Years pass and your jewelry box can become cluttered with pieces of old or worn out jewelry that you no longer wear.
Now is the perfect time to bring in old scrap gold in any form of broken, unworn or unwanted jewelry, bring all items into Dunkin’s Diamonds in the Indian Mound Mall and we will buy it from you and pay immediate cash!
We are paying top dollar for old/broken gold jewelry and diamonds:
Mismatched earrings, gold chains, gold bracelets, old earring backs, gold anklet chains, old ring mountings, old school rings, old gold charms, old gold watches and much more!

Or Trade Up... old treasures into new pleasures!
If you are looking for a new piece of jewelry, you can trade your old jewelry and diamonds in towards a new purchase.
Get up to an extra 50% on your cash value if you put your old gold towards a new purchase!

Unable To decide… Sell Or Trade?
Just bring your gold and diamonds and we will weigh it and tell you the value - at no charge – there is absolutely no obligation. Our trained and knowledgeable staff will weigh the options with you so you can decide the best direction for you.
Most people are amazed once they learn the value - many getting more value then they thought they had.
We want to buy all of the items that you no longer wear or no longer want. Why let it gather dust, clutter a drawer when you could sell or trade the old jewelry and diamonds, and receive a substantial cash payment or even a new piece of jewelry for your old gold items?
Here are just a few good reasons to sell your old jewelry and diamonds to us...

Fast payment
Top dollar paid
No hidden fees
A trusted name for over three generations
A local store you can visit
A friendly, knowledgeable staff
A bonus – if the old jewelry and diamonds were purchased at Dunkin’s Diamonds we match the Trade In – dollar for dollar!!!

Schedule a private appointment to discuss any questions or concerns.

https://www.dunkinsdiamonds.com/t-contact.aspx

Help Dunkin's Diamonds Help Hospice!

2011-02-28T14:17:00.002-05:00

AN EVENING OF HOPE AND BUTTERFLIES
Dunkin’s Diamonds to Host Benefit Event for Hope Hospice, March 19th

FORT MYERS, Fla. – February 25, 2011 – A delightful evening of hope and butterflies is coming to Fort Myers on Saturday, March 19th when Dunkin’s Diamonds will host a benefit event for Hope Hospice.

The event will be held at the Dunkin’s Diamonds Gulf Coast Town Center location at 9918 Gulf Coast Main Street from 4 PM to 7 PM. The opening ceremony will include an introduction to Hope Hospice and a live butterfly release followed by the reception with hors d'oeuvres by PF Chang’s China Bistro.

Gold and sterling silver butterfly jewelry will be on display with a portion of the proceeds of each piece sold to be donated to Hope Hospice. Guests will also have the opportunity to buy a bag of “Healthy Chocolates” for $10. Inside select bags, are gift certificates ranging from $25 to $100, provided by Dunkin's Diamonds and local Gulf Coast Town Center merchants. Infiniti of Fort Myers will have the 2011 QX56 and M Class available for viewing as well.

Spectacular raffle items up are up for grabs including a sunset dinner cruise for two on the Sanibel Harbour Princess, two tickets to a performance of "Rent" at the Broadway Palm Dinner Theater and a $1,000 Dunkin's Diamonds gift certificate. Tickets can be purchased starting at 10 AM up to the drawing at 6:30 PM.

For details on the event, please call (239) 267-4547.

Hope Hospice’s mission is to provide exceptional care and support to every individual and their loved ones as they fulfill life’s journey. For more information on Hope Hospice, please visit http://www.hopehospice.org.

Dunkin’s Diamonds is known for having the largest selection of designer jewelry, precious gems and diamonds. A third generation tradition, starting in Europe, the company has since grown into Southwest Florida’s Premiere Jewelry Company. The diamonds are direct from the world’s top diamond cutters, enabling Dunkin’s Diamonds to offer the best prices in Southwest Florida. For more information or to view the online gallery, please visit http://www.DunkinsDiamonds.com or call (877) 343-4883.

Join us for a great cause!

2011-01-26T12:06:00.004-05:00

Dunkin’s Diamonds is excited to announce they are helping build for the future of Southwest Florida with Habitat for Humanity. The renowned jeweler, home of Stuart Dunkin “The Diamond Man”, will be hosting an event with Porsche of Ft. Myers and Irresistible Confections to raise money for the nonprofit.

The event will be held at the Dunkin’s Diamonds Fort Myers location at 11500 Cleveland Avenue on Thursday, February 3rd from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM. There is no cost to attend and numerous items to be raffled off including a $2,000 Dunkin’s Diamonds shopping spree and a three-day lease with Porsche.

Guests can also purchase $5 boxes of chocolates for a chance of finding 5 additional $100 Dunkin’s Diamonds gift certificates. A portion of the proceeds from the chocolate sales will go directly to Habitat for Humanity Lee County. Guests will also enjoy the music of Mario Infanti and light refreshments throughout the event.

For details on the event, please call (239) 277-1011.

A portion of proceeds raised at the event will go to Habitat for Humanity of Lee County helping make home ownership a reality for less fortunate Southwest Floridians. More information on Habitat, please visit http://habitat4humanity.org/.

Dunkin’s Diamonds is known for having the largest selection of designer jewelry, precious gems and diamonds. A third generation tradition, starting in Europe, the company has since grown into Southwest Florida’s Premiere Jewelry Company. The diamonds are direct from the world’s top diamond cutters, enabling Dunkin’s Diamonds to offer the best prices in Southwest Florida. For more information or to view the online gallery, please visit http://www.DunkinsDiamonds.com or call (877) 343-4883.

http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=98angcdab&oeidk=a07e3b6ntypce9095cd

Happy Birthday December!

2010-12-03T09:49:00.003-05:00

December Birthstone : Blue Topaz
Birthstone Color: Blue

As cool and inviting as a blue lake on a blistering summer day, December's birthstone is derived from the Sanskrit word "tapas," meaning fire. This is because Blue Topaz was considered by ancient civilizations to have cooling properties. Not only was it believed to cool boiling water when thrown into the pot, but to calm hot tempers as well! This gemstone was credited with many other healing powers, among them the ability to cure insanity, asthma, weak vision and insomnia. The Blue Topaz was even thought to have magical properties in its ability to make its wearer invisible in a threatening situation.

Blue Topaz is the hardest of the silicate minerals. While pure Topaz is colorless, minor changes of elements within the stone result in a variety of other colors, such as blue, pale green, red, yellow and pink.

The blue hue is created when Topaz is heated, whether the heat source is natural or engineered by man. The three shades of Blue Topaz are Sky, Swiss and London Blue. The latter is the deepest blue and is often used as a less expensive substitute for Sapphire.

Topaz is found primarily in Brazil, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, Mexico, Pakistan, China, and the United States.

A gift of Blue Topaz is symbolic of love and fidelity. Luckily, this cool blue gemstone has no legendary power to put out the burning flame of love!

Alternate Birthstone
An alternate birthstone for December is the Turquoise. So named because it was initially brought to Europe by way of Turkey, this stone is one of the first gems to be used in jewelry. Turquoise was considered by ancients to be a sacred stone, protective against all manners of evil and ill health. This beautiful gemstone is mined in Iran and the southwestern United States. A gift of Turquoise represents friendship and luck.

Article courtesy of: http://www.about-birthstones.com/decemberbirthstone.html

Happy Birthday November!

2010-11-11T09:41:00.004-05:00

November's gemstone, Citrine, is as warm as a Van Gogh painting of sunflowers. The name Citrine comes from an old French word, "citrin", meaning lemon. One of the more rare forms of quartz, this gemstone ranges in color from the palest yellow to a dark amber named Madeira because of its resemblance to the red wine.

Perhaps because of its scarcity, there is little mention of Citrine used as a gemstone prior to the first century B.C. The Romans were thought to be the first to wear the yellow quartz, crafting it into cabochon, or highly polished but unfaceted cuts of stone set into jewelry. Citrine became more popular during the Romantic Period, when artisans often favored these warm colored gems to enhance gold jewelry. Citrine, like all forms of quartz, was believed to have magical powers and was worn as a talisman against evil thoughts and snake venom. It was also considered to have medicinal properties and was commonly used as a remedy for urinary and kidney ailments.

Sister stone to the purple quartz known as Amethyst, Citrine crystals are found in igneous metamorphic and sedimentary rocks. It is believed that some Citrine may have actually begun as Amethyst, but heat from nearby molten rock changed it to the yellow form of quartz. Citrine is known to change color when subjected to heat and is routinely heated in the jewelry-making process to intensify its color. For this same reason, though, this gemstone should not be left in direct sunlight for a long time because it will permanently alter the color. Most Citrine is mined in Brazil, but other sources of the quartz are Bolivia and Madagascar.

A gift of Citrine is symbolic for hope and strength. With its sunny brightness, this gemstone is ideal for helping anyone to get through the tough times in life!

Alternate Birthstone
Yellow Topaz is an alternate gemstone for those born in November. It's golden color was believed by the Egyptians to be the glow cast by the sun god Ra. Yellow Topaz ranges in color from a peachy blush to a deep cognac. A gift of this gemstone is said to symbolize friendship and to strengthen one's capacity to give and receive love.

source: http://www.about-birthstones.com/novemberbirthstone.html

Dunkin's Diamonds Advises on Current Jewelry Trends

2010-10-29T13:43:00.004-04:00

The holidays are a common time for a gift of fine jewelry, but that does not mean the jewelry has to be common.

Many times, when browsing through the average jewelry stores, you reach a point where everything looks the same. You want to get that perfect gift, but are not sure what represents perfection. Dunkin’s Diamonds encourages pre-shopping. Send your recipient to us today! We make it a point to be up on the latest styles so that we can help your special someone find exactly what he/she wants. We will take notes such as finger size, personal preferences of metals, and favorite gemstones; then all you have to do is come in and we will show you their selections.

If the element of surprise is more your style, you will be in good hands letting us suggest the latest fashion trends. To help you create your list, here are a few ideas.

Belle Etoile - our newest French collection features handmade silver pieces. Fashion forward European designs are modern and feature unique materials such as quartz, mother of pearl, enamel, and rubber. Come in and look at the Element collection with items starting at $69.

Elle is one of the most well-known fashion designers, and their jewelry collection reflects the bold styles displayed during New York fashion week. Every Elle item has a trade mark hidden ruby. Chunky rings, long wraps around layered necklaces, and large hoop earrings are the pulse of fashion.

Fancy color diamonds are the way to satisfy fine jewelry taste and the love for colored stones. Many know well that the staples of jewelry, such as heart pendants, journey, crosses, and past/present/future items are all given an updated look with blue or black diamonds. Try a pair of blue diamond earrings with a white diamond halo. There is absolutely nothing common about these!

If you are popping the “big question” this holiday season, cushion cut diamonds are the hottest request. Designer Henri Daussi pairs cushion cut diamonds with delicate micro pave diamonds to make graceful rings with soft lines. The cushion is one of the first diamond cuts created, and Henri Daussi uses technology to update this diamond into a must have.

If you just want to update the look of a current bridal ring, ask to see the uniqueness of Kirk Kara. One of the most sought after designers in the industry, Kirk Kara has distinctive, detailed oriented rings that are hand engraved, featuring elaborate diamond placement.

As a final thought, if you are searching for something that is a classic, such as diamond solitaire earrings or a dazzling pendant, remember that quality never goes out of style. We have an extensive choice of carat sizes, all of which feature the whitest and brightest diamonds. And, if you are partial to a favorite color, we offer a broad variety of brilliant gemstone jewelry.

No matter what you are looking for this holiday season, from the latest trend to a great classic, Dunkin’s Diamonds will provide you with the best value, service, and shopping experience.

Courtesy of Dunkin's Diamonds Tuttle Mall Location

Happy Birthday October!

2010-09-30T10:48:00.005-04:00

October's birthstone treats the eye to an explosion of shimmering colors, not unlike those of a magnificent rainbow following a summer rain. The Opal derives its name from the Latin word "opalus," meaning precious jewel. Prized for its unique ability to refract and reflect specific wavelengths of light, the Opal was called "Cupid Paederos" by the Romans, meaning a child beautiful as love. One legendary explanation for this gemstone's origin is that it fell from heaven in a flash of fiery lightning.

Ancient monarchs treasured Opals, both for their beauty and for their presumed protective powers. They were set into crowns and worn in necklaces to ward off evil and to protect the eyesight. These gemstones were also ground and ingested for their healing properties and to ward off nightmares.

The Opal dates back to prehistoric times. It is a non-crystallized silica, which is a mineral found near the earth's surface in areas where ancient geothermal hot springs once existed. As the hot springs dried up, layers of the silica, combined with water, were deposited into the cracks and cavities of the bedrock, forming Opal. This gemstone actually contains up to 30% water, so it must be protected from heat or harsh chemicals, both of which will cause drying and may lead to cracking and loss of iridescence. Opal must also be guarded from blows, since it is relatively soft and breaks easily.

Most of the world's Opal deposits are found in Southern Australia. Other sources of this gemstone are Brazil, Mexico, Czechoslovakia and Nevada. Quality Opal is very expensive, made more so by the caution that must be exercised in cutting, polishing and setting it into jewelry.

A gift of Opal is symbolic of faithfulness and confidence. And the powerful energy radiating from this fiery gemstone will surely illuminate any occasion!

source:www.about-birthstones.com/octoberbirthstone.html

Happy Birthday September!

2010-09-07T09:20:00.004-04:00

Birthstone Color: Deep Blue

The striking deep blue of a quality sapphire is reminiscent of a cloudless night sky. Ancient civilizations believed that the world was set upon an enormous sapphire, which painted the sky blue with its reflection. This legend, as well as the belief that the ten commandments were inscribed upon tablets made of sapphire, gives September’s birthstone a royal place among gemstones.

Named after the Greek word "sapphirus", meaning blue, Sapphires have long been a favorite among priests and kings, who considered them symbolic of wisdom and purity. These gemstones are prominent among the British Crown Jewels, and Prince Charles chose this as the engagement stone for his fiancée, Princess Diana.

In ancient times, Sapphires were thought to be protective against envy, and even against poisoning. A common belief was that a venomous snake placed in a Sapphire vessel would rapidly die! Ground to a powder, the blue stone was believed to cure colic, rheumatism and mental illness, and to strengthen eyesight.

Sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum. Corundum is found in every color of the rainbow, with red being designated as ruby and all other hues Sapphire. But the most prized color of Sapphire is a rich, deep blue. These gemstones were mined as early as the 7th Century BC from India and what is now Sri Lanka. They are found today in Sri Lanka, Kashmir, Myanmar, Thailand, Australia, Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, China, Madagascar, and the United States. Large specimens of Corundum crystals are rare, although the 563-carat Star of India can be seen in the American Museum of Natural History. This is the largest and most famous of star Sapphires, which are cut to reflect light from inclusions within the stone, revealing a bright six-legged star pattern.

The Sapphire is second only to the Diamond in hardness, making it a durable gemstone for setting into jewelry. A gift of Sapphire represents sincerity and faithfulness. As nourishing to the soul as gazing up at the sky on a summer day, this brilliant blue gemstone is truly a heavenly choice!

source:www.about-birthstones.com/septemberbirthstone.html

Happy Birthday August!

2010-08-05T09:01:00.004-04:00

August Birthstone Peridot
Cleopatra's Favorite Green "Sun Stone" Prized in Rings, Earrings

Peridot is a clear olive-green gemstone valued for its brilliant color and durability. The gem is said to heal the heart, lend strength and help dreams come true.

Peridot is the perfect summer stone, a gemstone colored with the green of nature and the gold hues of the sun. First popular nearly 4,000 years ago in ancient Egypt, the brilliant peridot has made a stunning comeback in recent years and is considered the gemstone of the month of August and of the astrology sign Libra. Peridot is often mistaken for emerald and other green gems, but it has a beauty all its own.

Green Peridot

Peridot is gemstone-quality olivine, a mineral that is very abundant but not usually found in high enough quality to be used as gemstones. The name peridot was derived from either the Greek "peridona," (richness) or the Arabic "faridat" (gem). Peridot is also known as chrysolite, Greek for "gold stone."

The most valuable peridots are those with the richest green color, lending to gold – coloring that is caused by the traces amounts of iron that color the gemstone. Peridot is not very hard, ranking 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, but it is easy to care for when properly cut and is very durable.

Peridot in Myth and History

When Hawaiian natives first discovered peridot in the black sands of volcanoes, they believed the clear, green gemstones were the tears of the volcano goddess, Pele. Egyptian jewelry featured peridot, "the gem of the sun," as early as two centuries B.C., believing it connected them to their goddess, Isis. Peridots are said to have been a favorite gemstone of Egypt's most famous queen, Cleopatra.

The Romans admired the stone for its constant color which does not change in artificial light, calling it "emerald of the evening." Peridot is found in Medieval Christian churches and shrines and was also popular during Europe's baroque period of the 17th Century.

When a new source of peridot was discovered in Pakistan in 1994, finer than any samples that had been found before, the gemstone was popularized for modern use. These Pakistani stones have been called "Kashmir peridots," linking them in name with the famed Kashmir sapphires that are so highly prized.

Magical Significance and Powers of the Peridot

Like most gemstones, peridot has been attributed with a long list of healing and magical powers. Peridot is said to:

* protect from negativity and nightmares
* aid with stress reduction and relaxation, acting as a tonic for the whole body
* clean and heal the heart
* boost medicine's potency
* be linked with nature
* enhance persuasiveness, fame, and vitality
* help dreams and ambitions to come true
* aid in finding strength and encouraging future growth

Peridot is commonly considered the birthstone for the month of August, the gem corresponding to the astrology sign Libra, and the gemstone for the 16th wedding anniversary.

Peridot Gemstones in Jewelry

Until the discovery of new sources in the mountains of Pakistan in 1994, peridot had hardly been seen since the artwork of the 17th century. Today, however, peridot is found in Brazil, Norway, the Congo, Australia, Myanmar (Burma), Mexico, China, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Saudi Arabia and the US. Peridot has also been found in crashed meteorites.

Peridot is striking when set in pendants, earrings, bracelets, and rings. The popularity of this gemstone is on the rise, as is its availability and the creative uses to which jewelers are beginning to put the stone.

Reference

* About Birthstones, "August Birthstone," About-birthstones.com, 2008.
* Bernardine Fine Art Jewelry, "August Birthstone – Peridot," Bernardine.com, 2009.
* International Colored Gemstone Association, "Peridot," Gemstone.org, 2009.

Courtesy of © 2009 Victoria Anisman-Reiner

Read more at Suite101: August Birthstone Peridot: Cleopatra's Favorite Green "Sun Stone" Prized in Rings, Earrings http://gemstones.suite101.com/article.cfm/august_birthstone_peridot#ixzz0vk0JOn5U

Happy Birthday July!

2010-06-28T10:42:00.004-04:00

Like a perfect red rose, the Ruby's rich color speaks of love and passion. Called the "Rajnapura" or King of Gems by ancient Hindus, July's birthstone is among the most highly prized of gems throughout history. The Ruby was considered to have magical powers, and was worn by royalty as a talisman against evil. It was thought to grow darker when peril was imminent, and to return to its original color once danger was past—provided it was in the hands of its rightful owner!

Rubies were thought to represent heat and power. Ancient tribes used the gem as bullets for blowguns, and it was said that a pot of water would boil instantly if a Ruby was tossed into it. Ground to powder and placed on the tongue, this crystal was used as a cure for indigestion.

The word Ruby comes from the Latin "ruber," meaning red. It is a variety of the mineral Corundum, and is found as crystals within metamorphic rock. Corundum is the second hardest mineral, after Diamond. It comes in a variety of colors, and is considered a Sapphire in any color except red, which is designated as a Ruby. Rubies range in hue from an orangey red to a purplish red, but the most prized gems are a true red in color. Large sized Rubies are very rare and valuable.

The history of Ruby mining dates back more than 2,500 years ago. The most beautiful crystals are thought to be from Burma, but quality Rubies are also found in India, Sri Lanka, Australia, Kenya, Tanzania, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and the United States.

It has been said that the Ruby's red glow comes from an internal flame that cannot be extinguished, making a gift of this stone symbolic of everlasting love. With its hardness and durability, it is a perfect engagement gem. And if worn on the left hand, ancient lore has it that the Ruby will bring good fortune to its wearer, too!
Article courtesy of www.about-birthstones.com

FAQs About Gold!

2010-06-02T10:29:00.008-04:00

Q ~ What is 14K Gold?

A ~ Gold does not always occur naturally as "pure". Trace metals and other impurities must be refined out and the result is 24K gold or 999.99 fine gold. Asian and Middle East sources market 22k to 24k yellow gold jewelry since nearly pure gold is easy to work with simple methods handed down for centuries. Long term durability is limited and shows wear and abuse readily because the gold is very soft. Most countries use alloys of copper, silver, zinc and nickel to harden the pure gold so it will last a lifetime of use and enjoyment. 14k gold has been alloyed with silver and copper at a rate of 58% pure gold and 42% alloy metals, creating the fine 14k yellow gold that we see in limitless designs today!

Q ~ What gives gold "colors"?

A ~ The alloys that produce different colors of gold are very subtle and best seen in side by side comparison. For example to produce "rose" gold, a blending of yellow gold and copper produces a pink to reddish color in the finished piece. Rose gold was very popular in the 1930's and has come back to life in recent years and is dazzling when set with Rubies and diamonds! Mixing silver, yellow gold and copper will produce a green hue and white gold is alloyed with nickel, zinc, copper and sometimes palladium and usually washed with a rhodium solution, a rare platinum metal that adds brilliance to white gold and soft sheen to the eye.

Q ~ How much gold is in my gold?

A ~ 24k = Pure Gold @ 999.%
18k = 75% Pure Gold and 25% Alloy
14k = 58% Pure Gold and 42% Alloy
10k = 42% Pure Gold and 58% Alloy
All gold marketed in the United States should carry the stamp of its karatage somewhere on the item that you are purchasing, ask to see this whenever you purchase fine gold jewelry!

Submitted by Diana Root - Sales/Ft Myers

Happy Birthday June!

2010-06-02T09:39:00.007-04:00

From one of the humblest of life forms, the mollusk, comes the pearl -- a gem of unsurpassed beauty and elegance. Ancient civilizations had many stories to explain the origin of June's birthstone, such as the Greek belief that pearls were the hardened tears of joy that the goddess of love shook from her eyes as she was born from the sea. According to Arab legend, pearls were formed when oysters were lured from the depths of the ocean by the beautiful moon and then swallowed moonlit dewdrops. And the Ancient Chinese thought that these gems originated from the brains of dragons.

The scientific explanation for natural pearls is almost as mystifying as folklore. When an irritant, such as a small parasite or a fish lodges in the flesh of an oyster, mussel, or clam, a protective substance called "nacre" is produced. Over years, layer upon layer of shimmering nacre coats the intruder, creating a lustrous pearl. Natural pearls are relatively rare, so a process evolved in which a piece of shell or bead was placed inside a mollusk to stimulate the production of nacre. This results in a cultured pearl, which accounts for about 90 per cent of the pearl industry.

Divers find natural pearls in The Persian Gulf as well as in the waters off Japan, the South Pacific Islands off northern Australia, and the coasts of Panama, Venezuela, and California. Most of the cultured pearl industry is in Japanese and Australian coastal waters. These gems come in a variety of colors, from pure white to pink, yellow, gray and black. They also come in different shapes and sizes.

Pearls have been a passion and even an obsession of people throughout the ages. They have been ground up and used in cosmetics and as a medicine to treat heart and stomach conditions. Some cultures swear by pearls as an aphrodisiac. These gems have adorned crowns, clothing, and temples, and were said to be a favorite of Cleopatra.

Only those with royal status once wore pearl jewelry, but eventually these gems were seen among all classes of people. They continue to be viewed as a mark of taste and refinement as well as a symbol of purity, and they are often given to celebrate a marriage or the birth of a child. Pearls are nature's perfect gift, suitable for all ages, and elegantly worn with everything from jeans to an evening gown. - www.about-birthstones.com

Happy Birthday May!

2010-05-12T16:38:00.002-04:00

Emerald gems have fascinated mankind since they were discovered. Green in color, these stones are a composition of the mineral Beryl. Emerald gemstones are also the May birthstone, that is, people who are born in the month of May can wear an emerald. Emerald gemstones can be worn in rings, in pendants, in brooches, and so on. That list is endless.

There are many stories and qualities linked to the emerald stone. Come find yours at Dunkin's Diamonds.

Dunkin's Diamonds Giving Back!

2010-04-16T13:38:00.004-04:00

Free Mother’s Day Charm Bracelets from Dunkin’s Diamonds to those who are unemployed or had foreclosure on their property

April 16, 2010
Beginning April 30th-May 2nd Stuart Dunkin, Owner of Dunkin’s Diamonds is pleased to announce a giveaway of 100 Sterling Silver Bracelets for Mother’s Day to those who are unemployed or had foreclosure on their property.

Mother’s Day is an occasion for everyone to celebrate and honor their mother or the mother of their children. Dunkin’s Diamonds wants to do their part and make it special for those who are in an unfortunate situation.

“This is a way to give back to our communities,” says owner, Stuart Dunkin, “we want everyone to know we understand and we are here for you.”

These beautiful Mother’s Day Bracelets are crafted of sterling silver with a decorative locket that can hold a picture of a loved one and is valued up to $119 each. Dunkin’s Diamonds will give-away 100 bracelets on a first come first serve basis.

Each bracelet is presented in a jewelry box.

For complete details, visit Dunkin’s Diamonds nearest you.

About Dunkin’s Diamonds
For over three generations, Dunkin’s Diamonds has offered an experience unlike any other in the jewelry industry. Known for their standard of excellence, Dunkin’s Diamonds is also known for providing a fantastic selection of high quality jewelry and outstanding customer service. You can shop at Dunkin’s Diamonds with peace of mind because they personally guarantee the quality and craftsmanship of every piece of jewelry they sell.

Dunkin’s Diamonds makes every effort to ensure you enjoy your shopping experience with them. www.dunkinsdiamonds.com

The Economy and The Diamond

2010-04-15T11:41:00.003-04:00

Last week as I was wrapping up a new bridal set for a couple's anniversary, the husband leaned close to me and asked "So, with the economy so tight, how is your business?". He was such a nice man, and so truly concerned, that I almost felt bad having to tell him that our business was really doing very well. Everything you hear about the luxury business seems to be bad, however, people often forget that the few businesses to come out ahead even during the "Great Depresssion" were jewelry stores. There will always be love, engagements, marriages and anniversaries, birthdays, with new babies being added to the mix. There are always special occassions in which jewelry is the right and cherished gift, and the small list above just scratches the surface.

I have found in this "tight economy", most men will still pop that question with a 1 carat diamond. Those particularly painful birthdays (the one's ending with a 0) are always less painful when accompanied by that pretty "Dunkin's Diamonds bag" with it's shiny silver foil peeking out the top. Anniversaries are celebrated every day. Ask any woman about any piece of jewelry she is wearing and she will tell you exactly when and for what occassion she received it.

There will never be anything like a diamond to make your special someone feel cherished.

So, in this "tight economy" feel free to come in - we've got you covered.

Kim, Manager, Lima, Ohio

Happy Birthday April!

2010-03-31T15:21:00.002-04:00

April's birthstone is remarkably simple in composition, yet stunning in its unique ability to reflect and refract light into vivid flashes of brilliant color. The ancient Hindus called the Diamond "Vajra," meaning lightening, both because of the sparks of light thrown off by this gem as well as its invincible strength. The Diamond is harder than any other substance on earth.

Diamonds have been revered throughout history. Used to embellish such items as crowns, swords and emblems as well as jewelry, they've even been part of national holidays. Queen Victoria declared the celebration of her 50th year of reign a "Diamond Jubilee." Diamonds have also been credited for having certain medicinal properties. During the middle ages, these gemstones were thought to heal illness, but only if the ailing person took the Diamond into bed to warm it up first!

Formed deep within the earth where there is intense heat and pressure, Diamonds are simply crystallized carbon. Volcanic activity of centuries ago brought these gemstones to the earth's surface, where they are found either within volcanic rock formations or washed out into rivers. India is thought to be the first river-bed source of Diamond mining, but today these gemstones are found primarily in Australia, the Soviet Union, and Africa.

No more notable it its uncut state than a plain pebble upon the beach, the true beauty of the Diamond was not revealed until the 16th century, when gemstone cutting and polishing techniques were perfected. Prior to this time, it was considered taboo to modify the original state of a Diamond. Today, the value and appeal of this stone depends largely upon how skillfully it is cut and faceted.

A gift of a Diamond is symbolic of everlasting love. There is no more convincing a promise of an enduring relationship than the brilliant gemstone that has endured in people's hearts throughout the ages.

JCK's Jewelers Choice Award Winner!

2010-03-05T10:33:00.004-05:00

(Los Angeles – March 2010) The jewelers have spoken once again! For the third year in a row, acclaimed jewelry designer Kirk Kara has won first place in the JCK Jewelers Choice Awards.

This year, Kirk Kara won first place in the Best Bridal Design/$5,001–$10,000 for an engagement ring from the Carmella collection, featuring over 218 pavé-set brilliant diamond rounds equaling 1.61 ct. Four tapered diamond baguettes accent the beautifully handcrafted split shank. The design can accommodate any center stone size or shape, and the ring is available in platinum or 18k gold. Suggested retail price is $6,305 (center stone not included).

Hundreds of entries were submitted by designers and manufacturers the world over for retailers to vote on as the best of the year. Categories highlighted all areas of fine jewelry, including colored diamonds, platinum, gold, earrings, and more, from businesses engaged in the design and manufacture of jewelry for retail distribution.

With close to 12,000 votes from retailers this year, the competition is the first jewelry industry design contest to conduct all judging via the Internet and allow jewelry retailers to serve as the official judges. Kirk Kara won the inaugural JCK competition, receiving the award for Best 3-Platinum Ring Bridal Set/$10,000-$20,000 in 2008 and Best Bridal Under $2500 in 2009.

Dunkin's Diamonds is honored to be a retailer of Kirk Kara Jewelry. Come see for yourself we are "Southwest Florida's #1 Jewelry Superstore!" Visit one of our locations or shop online!

Dunkin's Diamonds Designer Spotlight

2010-02-26T09:52:00.003-05:00

The Hearts On Fire Company is a passionate team of marketing and branding specialists who are committed to changing the way that diamonds are bought and sold.

Established in 1996 by Glenn and Susan Rothman, Hearts On Fire specializes in the development, branding and marketing of The World's Most Perfectly Cut Diamond™ and a complete collection of jewelry to showcase the Hearts On Fire diamond - Jewelry by Hearts On Fire. Under the Rothmans' leadership, the Hearts On Fire Company has led the paradigm shift in diamond branding and has defined a new industry standard for perfection. Today Hearts On Fire is one of the luxury industry's fastest growing companies and is recognized as the leading branded diamond in the world.

The company name, Hearts On Fire, was derived from the cut of the diamond itself, which features a perfect ring of eight hearts when viewed from the bottom and a perfectly formed symmetrical FireburstT when viewed from the top. Hearts On Fire diamonds are sold in both loose form as Hearts On Fire® and Dream® and showcased in the Jewelry by Hearts On Fire collection, featuring strikingly unique pieces engineered to promote the beauty of the Hearts On Fire diamond.

The Hearts On Fire Company is headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, USA, and is rapidly expanding internationally, with regional offices in Asia, Europe and Latin America.

www.heartsonfire.com

Dunkin's Diamonds Mail Call

2009-09-25T15:12:00.005-04:00

We just wanted you to know how fantastic we were treated by Kris and Bill the evening of 9/24/09. We purchased my wedding band, we didn't have much to spend, and yet they went above and beyond to make us happy and feel totally comfortable with our purchase. They made us feel like it was a thousand dollar purchase. These guys are great, we will definitely spread the word about the superior treatment we were given, and hope that these guys get the raise and bonus they deserve!

Thank you, Saundra and Phillip

Happy Birthday August!

2009-08-06T12:29:00.001-04:00

August is here and Peridot is in the limelight. Its vibrant yellowish green to green color it was an obvious choice for the birthstone of the summer month of August. It complements sunny days and light summer attire.

Peridot has been an inspiration for thousands of years; it has been found in jewelry dated over four thousand years old. Peridot has been mined in the Middle and Far East, as well as the Americas; it is no wonder that Peridot has such a rich history.

Ancient Romans revered Peridot as the “Evening Emerald” because its brilliance did not fade in lamp light; rather, it appeared to glow in the weak light. This may have contributed to the belief that it can make dreams come true and ward off evil spirits. Hawaiian tradition claims Peridot to be the tears of the goddess Pele, with all of its heritage and folklore Peridot will always remain a popular gem.

Sources: www.gemstone.org
Stuller, The Diamond and Gemstone Book V58

Source for Karat Platinum article: www.karatplatinum.com