JEWELRY & WEDDING BLOG

One of the reasons we like buying new items so much is that they are just that: new. Everything new and shiny looks great, be it a cheap plastic toy or an expensive piece of jewelry. White Round Brilliant Halo Stud Earrings (1.60Ct TW) However, even the most costly of items can reach a stage where it has seen better days. Dirt and grime can get anywhere, and unless it is dealt with it could temporarily ruin the appearance or functionality of whatever the piece is. In extreme situations, the object can suffer irreversible damage. This is why it is crucial to care for and clean your jewelry as you would your other valuable and invaluable belongings. Let us take a look at the easiest, fastest, and most inexpensive hacks that will change your lives. In extreme situations, the object can suffer irreversible damage. This is why it is crucial to care for and clean your jewelry as you would your other valuable and invaluable belongings. Let us take a look at the easiest, fastest, and most inexpensive hacks that will change your lives.  A 2.86 carat (TW) fancy intense purplish pink diamond ring in a floral design  How to Clean Jewelry? Read on For Our Top Jewelry Cleaning Solutions 1) Dish Soap, Water, and a Toothbrush The best and easiest way to clean all types of metal is actually with substances and items that you already have at home. (Read more about the different types and colors of gold used in your jewelry.) To keep your jewelry extra squeaky clean, all you have to do is prepare a solution of very warm water and a few drops of dish washing liquid. You need to soak your jewelry for 20 to 40 minutes depending on how much dirt there is. Use a clean toothbrush to loosen any stubborn dirt that is still clinging onto your jewels. Finally, rinse and dry before enjoying your gleaming jewelry. If needed, you can repeat the process once more. A Tanzanite Pear Side Stone Ring   2) Beer and a Soft Cloth This great hack is for cleaning solid gold rings. All you need is a little beer and soft cloth to bring back that shine to your faded ring. Just pour a bit of beer on the cloth and rub the ring gently. Do not clean the diamond with beer, and avoid dark ale beer at all costs. You can then dry the band with a dry clean cloth.   3) Windex and Hydrogen Peroxide While not every household stores hydrogen peroxide, you can pretty much find Windex or another generic window cleaner in every home. These two partners in crime can easily help you clean your gold or silver diamond ring. In a small bowl combine equal quantities of Windex and hydrogen peroxide and place your ring inside for 15 to 20 minutes. Between the Windex, which gets rid of all of the dirt your ring collects on a daily basis, and the hydrogen peroxide, which kills all of the bacteria your ring comes into contact with, you ring will be spotless and ready for a rubdown with a clean soft toothbrush to remove any extra residue. When you’re done, you can rinse the ring or piece of jewelry with cold water and dry with a clean cloth.    4) Jewelry Cleaner With Baking Soda or Vinegar If you happen to have a silver diamond ring or silver jewelry that you are interested in cleaning, this hack is for you. Take a half a cup of white vinegar and mix it with two tablespoons of baking soda in a shallow bowl. After mixing the solution so that the baking soda is dissolved well, you can place your jewelry in the bowl and leave it there for 2 to 3 hours. When your jewels are nice and clean, rinse them and dry with a cloth.   5) Ketchup Another great hack for cleaning tarnished silver jewels is with ketchup! Fill a small bowl with ketchup and put your jewels inside for just a few minutes. Using a small toothbrush, gently rub the jewels so that the dirt can be removed from every single tiny crevice. After that is done, wash the jewelry well with water and dry with a clean cloth. It is important to work fast and not to leave the ketchup on your jewelry for more than a few minutes.   6) Ultrasonic Jewelry Cleaner Aside from the first hack, which is good for all types of metal, there is also always the option of a non-abrasive and chemical free ultrasonic jewelry cleaner. Now, if you’re not familiar with this machine, it might sound like something big, bulky, and expensive. But, there is no need to worry, it isn't. You can grab one from eBay or Amazon for roughly $20 or less, and it works wonders with regards to cleaning your diamond jewelry. If you decide to go this route, it is imperative that you confirm that the cleaner or polish does not contain any chemicals as this can permanently discolor your jewelry or cause it to be less durable. There are several top-rated chemical-free jewelry cleaners that are good for all types of jewelry out there. These machines are small and very simple to use. \ LEIBISH extraordinary 8.56 carat (TW) sapphire and diamond ring There you have it, six very helpful and useful hacks for cleaning your jewelry simply and quickly without spending much money at all. In addition to cleaning your jewelry from time to time, try to avoid contact with certain substances such as thick lotions, food, oils, and chemicals. This means removing rings and jewelry when cooking, cleaning, washing dishes, and even swimming. Chlorine can, unfortunately, have a negative effect on your ring. Furthermore, you should avoid wearing jewelry during activities that would cause it damage such as sports activities, hiking, intense exercise, and gardening. It is advisable to have your jewelry inspected every so often, especially if it is under warranty, so that you can prevent stones from falling out. A loose prong might be difficult for you to identify for it is an everyday task for a jeweler. Check out our wide selection of rings, earrings, necklaces, or all jewelry.

When we think of engagements, it often brings to mind an engagement ring tradition. There are so many tender sentiments surrounding the engagement period and the traditions of one’s heritage. It also conjures up images of shimmering diamond rings to many people across the globe. However, you might be surprised to learn that the tradition of proposing with a diamond ring is a relatively new tradition not held by all cultures. While diamond rings are the most popular form of engagement rings, many cultures adhere to different traditions and practices for engagement rings. Each one holds its own charm and is cherished by those who are part of the culture. When it comes to including traditions in your own engagement ring, try researching the customs of your own culture even if you are not living in that country anymore. Engagement rings are meant to be very personal to the couple. And while you can embrace long held practices that belong to your heritage, there’s nothing wrong with embracing those of another culture that you have adopted by spending time there or simply valuing their ethos. Let’s review engagement ring traditions around the globe. LEIBISH Royal Blue Cushion Sapphire & Triangle Diamond Halo Ring   Africa Africa is a large continent with many different countries, and each one has distinct traditions to every aspect of their culture. In fact, in Africa there are 54 different nations, each with their own language, culture and traditions. So it is no surprise, for example that Kenya’s take on the engagement ring is like nowhere else on earth. The art form of ornate bead work has always played a dominant role in Kenyan culture. So it stands to reason that their engagement jewelry should feature their traditional artwork in place of more well known metal and gemstone jewelry. LEIBISH Oval Muzo Emerald and Diamond Halo Ring Asia Asia is another part of the world that brings us rich traditions, from cuisine to architecture to clothing and more. Indian women (specifically those from West Bengal) are presented with traditional iron bangle bracelets to announce their betrothal instead of with diamond engagement rings as is customary in the West. Women in Hindu cultures receive toe rings called bichiya. As Hinduism increasingly becomes influenced by Western culture, more engaged Hindu women are seen wearing finger rings. China is an ancient culture that fascinates all. Their beautiful artwork and architecture enthralls us. Yet engagement rings were absent from classic Chinese engagement traditions. Today however, many modern Chinese women enjoy wearing engagement rings—and they are especially interested diamond bridal jewelry. That’s not to say they’ve completely discarded age-old customs. With all the westernized influence, many Chinese brides still receive the traditional gifts of money and other goods instead. That’s a true mix of East and West amongst modern Chinese couples. LEIBISH Round White Diamond 3 Stones Engagement Ring Europe Jewish engagement ring traditions whether in Europe or the US are a rich cultural affair. Count on an engagement party to be hosted at the home of the groom-to-be’s parents. Engagement or wedding rings often have beautiful Hebrew inscriptions engraved on them. During the ceremony, the man places the ring on the bride’s left hand index finger—afterward it’s worn on the left hand ring finger. Eastern European Quirk: Right Hand Ring Placement In Eastern European places like Poland, Russia, and parts of Austria and Germany, brides and grooms wear their engagement and wedding rings on their right hand instead of their left hand. And notice we said, the brides and grooms. It’s an endearing custom for both brides and grooms to proudly wear a ring during their engagement period. It’s a charming custom to include the groom since it’s his special time too. The dual ring tradition, while unusual in the West, is still alive in other cultures as well. In Nordic countries like Sweden for example, an engagement ring is given to both the bride and the groom. Unlike their American counterparts which enjoy stylish engagement rings, Nordic rings are generally quite simple with bands made of plain gold or silver. LEIBISH Colorless Emerald Half Diamond Eternity Band French Elegance; Colored Gemstones Over Diamonds In France, colored gemstones are preferred over diamonds. Parisian ladies choose sophisticated stones like rubies, emeralds, and sapphires. This trinity of precious colored stones are often pricey and reveal their good taste and cultivated style. Rubies can often be more costly than diamonds, so their engagement ring choices represent genuine investments in their life together. LEIBISH Burmese Marquise Ruby and Heart Diamond Three-Stone Halo Ring Ireland's Claddagh Rings: A Unique Symbol of Engagement Ireland –that Emerald Isle, has a distinct custom for engagement rings. Some Irish women choose Claddagh-style rings which feature a heart held by two hands with a crown on top. This highly sentimental choice pays homage to Ireland’s rich history and illustrates a treasured love for their country. Since other people besides engaged women wear the Claddagh-style ring, there’s a specific protocol when it’s intended as an engagement ring. it is worn with the crown pointing down until the wedding indicating they’re engaged. After the wedding, it is worn with the crown facing up as the couple embark on their new life together. North America Unusual engagement ring traditions in North America can be found in the Native American culture. Native tribes in North America prefer silver rings adorned with semi-precious stones rather than more the lavish materials of their Western counterparts.   Central America A Mexican engagement and wedding is a big family affair. It is customary for the man to secretly ask permission of the bride’s parents privately first. The bride does not know about this. Mexican women are fond of ornate wide diamond band engagement rings, and the man will often wear one too during their engagement period. LEIBISH Very Light Pink Radiant Halo Diamond Ring South America Argentina's Unique Approach: Wedding Rings as Engagement In Argentina, couples only receive engagement rings. This means that they use their engagement rings during the wedding ceremony as well. Colombian engagement ring traditions are a grand event. The groom often creates a special serenata for his beloved---singing a romantic song written just for the occasion. Together with this lovely tradition, many Colombian brides keep their engagement ring on their right hand ring finger until the marriage ceremony when it is moved to the left hand. Often the engagement ring will be the wedding ring too. Chile's Blend: Right-Hand Rings Until Marriage, Then a Switch     Chile has a combination of several traditions. Like Nordic countries, both the man and the woman receive engagement rings, and like Eastern European countries, they wear them on their right hand. However, when they get married they switch the rings to the left hand. Asia Japan is a country of rich symbolism and long held traditions. This applies to Japanese engagement traditions too. While it may still be customary for the man to present gifts of tea and luxurious crafts, modern grooms usually present the woman with a diamond engagement ring too. While it’s not strictly customary for a groom in South Korea to give an engagement ring, couples enjoy the tradition of exchanging rings other to celebrate 100 days of dating. Breakdown of Diamond Jewelry Consumption by Country (Credit: Beyond 4Cs) Despite the enormous influence that Western culture has on the rest of the world, various cultures manage to retain their individual engagement traditions. While we the exchange of other goods besides jewelry is still popular with engagements in cultures like China for example, jewelry is widely accepted as an engagement marker. Aside for the obvious reason that jewelry is worn to easily acknowledge an upcoming wedding, engagement jewelry also has a very rich history. Dating back centuries, rings were originally worn as a sign of ownership which later evolved into an expression of love and the intention to be married. These distinct traditions around the globe remind us how powerful a cultural impact is felt on engagement rings and traditions. Cultural heritage where the engagement occurs and the family involvement all contribute to memorializing the upcoming wedding. What these celebrations all have in common is the love of a couple and the happiness that their families and friends share for their new life together. Whatever traditions you decide to include in your engagement event—it will be memorable, personal, and unique as the love you two share. Browse through our collection of diamond engagement rings.

There are certain things in this world that have become icons, for whatever reason. In the realm of engagements and marriage, a diamond ring is by far the biggest and most important icon. Even young children recognize the sparkling diamond ring as a symbol of being engaged. Why is this and when did it start? More importantly, why are diamonds specifically used for engagement rings? Let us take a look at this common practice, how it began, and where it stands today.   Yellow diamond engagement ring from LEIBISH   The First Diamond Engagement Ring Many may not know this, but diamonds weren’t always used in jewelry. When they were first discovered thousands of years ago in India, they were used as decorations and as talismans to keep away evil spirits. Later they were believed to “cure” diseases. It was only about a thousand years ago that diamonds started being used in jewelry for the first time. Four hundred years later, the first man proposed with a diamond ring. This was Archduke Maximilian of Austria who asked Mary of Burgundy to be his wife. Thus began a custom of proposing with diamond rings, although it was mainly reserved for the upper class. While this was the first documented case of a diamond engagement ring, it is by no means the first engagement ring. That tradition has roots that date back to ancient Egypt when reed rings were placed on one another's ring finger to symbolize their betrothal. The ring finger was chosen because it was believed there was a vein in that finger that was connected directly to the heart, symbolizing love. Choose your perfect Diamond engagement ring from LEIBISH's collection   Yellow diamond engagement ring   Read the 6 Myths about Engagement Rings That you Believed   Why Diamonds? The first engagement rings were far less romantic than they are today. In the past they were actually a symbol of ownership. Women were given gold rings by their husbands, and metal ones to wear at home, to show that they belonged to their husbands. Over time this tradition has evolved and is now synonymous with love and mutual commitment. Diamonds were the original gemstone used in an engagements ring, and once they were discovered in abundance in South Africa, they were marketed by the diamond company as “The” engagement stone one should have. The Great Depression slowed things down a bit, but it picked right back up once the economy strengthened.   Yellow diamond wedding and engagement ring set   Engagement Rings Today Today diamond engagement rings can be seen in practically every culture. However, as times change, people are moving further away from the traditions of the past and embracing a new world of individuality. While engagement rings once symbolized ownership, today they symbolize partnership and commitment. In a society where every kind of love is celebrated, it makes sense that tradition evolves. Fancy color diamonds are the perfect alternative for the traditional white diamond engagement ring. With a plethora of colors, shapes, and sizes, it is no surprise that we are seeing more and more couples that choose color as a way to celebrate their love. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Considering a color diamond engagement ring? Our team of color diamond specialists are here to help! Contact us today and get started on creating the ring of your dreams.     

The trade was deeply concerned that the worldwide corona epidemic will negatively affect the diamond and Jewelry sales. I was stunned to see that contrary to all expectations, Jewelry sales have gone up substantially during COVID and are continuing to rise even with all the new variants. According to prominent diamond analyst Edahn Golan all the price lists are showing great moves upward:  All the price lists are showing great moves upward- and price increases just started – Technology companies are reporting huge increases in sales and profits that we have never seen before- Apple, Google and so on- according to the prominent Diamond analyst it was also the best year the Jewelry industry has ever had. I had always had a great dislike for Diamond Price Lists for white or Fancy color alike. Lists try to turn diamonds into commodities which are sold on weight and papers like soya beans irrespective of their luster – but they reflect a strong trend. Diamonds have a soul; they radiate life and spirit on a different scale depending on their sparkle, material, cut and proportions - all that information is not reflected in the price lists. You don’t have to be a a GIA GG to communicate with a diamond or with a Gemstone - when one sees a stone it speaks to us. Finally started to understand - that although our life is completely interrupted due to COVID, where we cannot take overseas vacation, we cannot go to restaurants or a cinema, or even visit a shopping center, we can give ourselves and our loved ones special presents and we can buy jewelry online as compensation for lost fun. This reminds me of a conversation I had  long ago with a Bond St jeweler who worked heavily with Sultan on Bruney in its High days in the 1990s. I asked him why the Queen of the Sultan of Brunei buys so much jewelry? The Sultan spent over 700 million on Jewelry and his collection is in excess of 3 billion dollars! He answered: “Leibish, how can they spend money? She cannot go to Harrods to shop. They would need 7 bodyguards to go anywhere.” “You are lucky” he said to me “You reach everyone with your website- www.leibish.com the buyers don’t need bodyguards, facemasks or cash, they can just sit on their couch, and buy fancy color diamonds or gemstones jewelry with their cell phone!” It turned  out diamonds and jewelry are a compensation for the lost fun- it gives pleasure and satisfaction during COVID time, and forevermore.