While overall sales were sluggish, the retailer said its non-bridal fine jewelry was a popular choice for Valentine’s Day.
April Birthstone Baubles
Those born in the fourth month of the year get to celebrate with what is arguably the most coveted stone of all--the diamond.
It surprised me when I first found out that the April birthstone was diamond. They’re everywhere these days, representing the commitment a couple makes and serving as the featured stone in some of the most classic, wearable pieces.
But, when you consider how long ago the idea of birthstones was created and how comparatively new the idea of a diamond engagement ring is, it’s less surprising.
According to the American Gem Society, it’s thought that birthstones date back to biblical times, when a priest’s breastplate was adorned with 12 different gems, which then became associated with the zodiac and connected months. This started the tradition of wearing a stone every month to bring good luck, rotating among each to maximize their benefit.
Then in 1912, the American National Association of Jewelers created a list assigning a specific gemstone to each month.
In the birthstone calendar, April now is associated with diamonds. They’re thought to bring a few positive aspects to the wearer, including better relationships, an increased inner strength, balance, clarity and abundance.
Though in today’s market diamonds are synonymous with bridal jewelry, designers also continue to find ways to keep them updated and front-and-center in fashion jewelry as well.
Here are 10 pieces of diamond jewelry that any April baby could wear all the time. All prices listed are retail.
Stuller’s 14-karat rose gold and diamond necklace ($501)
Page Sargisson’s emerald-cut tiny diamond studs in 18-karat gold ($650)
Gabriel & Co.’s studs boast a center stone with a diamond halo that creates a floral motif ($805).
KC Designs’ two-stone ring, featuring diamonds in 14-karat gold, offers a trendy but still classic look ($865).
Melissa Kaye’s “Hazel” necklace with marquise-cut diamonds set in 18-karat white gold ($1,155)
Judith Ripka’s “La Petite” diamond bezel snowflake necklace in 18-karat yellow gold ($1,800)
This is Tura Sugden’s diamond slice ring made in 18- and 22-karat gold ($3,300).
These are Penny Preville’s 18-karat rose gold earrings with pear-shaped center diamonds and pave diamond accents ($5,680).
This ring from Todd Reed has a rough diamond center weighing 1.35 carats and white brilliant-cut diamond accents set in palladium ($5,995).
An 18-karat gold fashion ring from Sylvie collection with yellow, black and white diamonds featuring a 2.01-carat center stone ($15,195)
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