All Posts in Antiques & Jewelry

by: Ben Tseytlin - on Antiques & Jewelry
Precious Metal Spotlight Ruthenium

Ruthenium is related to platinum yet it has a number of unique characteristics. It is harder and rarer but more brittle, and has a higher melting point. Its spectacular sheen makes it ideal for high end jewelry.

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by: Ben Tseytlin - on Antiques & Jewelry
Jewelry Spotlight Lacquer

Lacquer is a hard and shiny finish which is applied to a variety of materials including metal and wood. It originates in Asia where objects are coated with the dried, treated and dyed sap of the lacquer tree. It can also be used to produce fabulous jewelry.

This material has been manufactured for more than a thousand years in East and South Asia, but only recently have many in the West become familiar with it. Lacquer was most famously used in the armor worn by eastern and Central Asian warriors, especially the Mongols, Xiongnu and Huns. The finish has a number of advantages, such as being waterproof, extremely tough, and pleasant to look at. Asian lacquer will often be painted with images that may be inlaid with shells or gold dusted.

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by: Ben Tseytlin - on Antiques & Jewelry
Gemstone Spotlight Rhodolite

Rhodolite is a garnet gem that may appear in either raspberry or purple red. It is comprised of almandine and pyrope and has been used for millenniums. The pharaohs of Egypt used it for ceremonial and decorative purposes, and it was also prized by the Romans who were fond of garnet rings.

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by: Ben Tseytlin - on Antiques & Jewelry
Ed Weiner Silver Tie Bar Review

An exceptional tie bar does more than just keep the tie from getting out of place; it showcases a stylish, sophisticated man who has a profound understanding of fashion. Tie bars have been worn by all the greats, including Cary Grant and Frank Sinatra, and below is a review of the Ed Wiener silver series.

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by: Ben Tseytlin - on Antiques & Jewelry
Gemstone Spotlight Tourmaline

Tourmaline is distinct for having the biggest color range of any gemstone. They come in yellow, blue, green, and pink, and as a consequence are often mistaken for other gems such as emeralds or sapphires. However, tourmaline consists of silicate boron minerals that owe their color variety to elements such as copper, manganese, titanium, and iron.

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by: Ben Tseytlin - on Antiques & Jewelry
Tourmaline

Tourmaline is a collection of silicate boron minerals which come in a spectacular array of colors. They are comprised of manganese, iron, copper and titanium, and their beauty and rarity has long made them a fixture in high in jewelry and watches.

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