FACT #01: Pearls are the only gemstone that comes from a living animal! 

Pearls have been prized for centuries for their beauty. But very few people know pearls are the only gemstone that comes from a living animal. Pearls are formed when an irritant, such as a piece of sand, gets lodged in an oyster’s shell. To protect itself, the oyster coats the irritant with nacre, a substance secreted by the oyster. Over time, this coating builds up and forms a pearl! 

As pearls come from a living animal, they are therefore known as “organic” gemstones. Today, almost all pearls are cultured, making them readily accessible for commercial use. Pearls are popularly worn as jewelry. But they also have other benefits – Pearl powder is used in cosmetics and skincare products because of its purported anti-aging properties. 

FACT #02: The first-ever proven synthetic diamond was created in 1954. 

Howard Tracy Hall created the first-ever proven synthetic diamond in 1954. It was a monumental achievement in the world of science and engineering. Hall’s synthetic diamond was created using a high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) process. 

The HPHT process involves subjecting a carbon-containing material to incredibly high pressures and temperatures for a prolonged period. Hall’s work laid the foundation for developing better methods for creating synthetic diamonds, which are now used industrially and commercially on a large scale. 

FACT #03: Maximilian, the Archduke of Austria, started the concept of the diamond engagement ring! 

In 1477, Maximilian – the Archduke of Austria, started the concept of the diamond engagement ring. Within a few years, other European nobility also started giving their fiancées diamond rings. Eventually, this trend made its way to America and remained popular. 

Today, couples worldwide continue to exchange diamond engagement rings as a sign of their love and commitment. The original engagement ring was a gold band adorned with a single diamond. The diamond symbolizes the eternal love between the couple and the indestructibility of their relationship. 

FACT #04: Princess Diana’s stunning blue sapphire engagement ring is believed to be the most recognizable jewelry piece. 

When Prince Charles proposed to Princess Diana with a stunning sapphire halo engagement ring, he chose a piece of jewelry that would become the most recognizable of the 20th century! The blue sapphire at the center of the ring was surrounded by fourteen diamonds in a unique halo setting. The engagement ring was not only beautiful, but it also represented Diana’s love for her husband and her family. 

FACT #05: Did you know you can bend 24K gold with your bare hands?! 

When it comes to jewelry, the higher the karat, the purer the gold. 24K gold is 100% pure gold – the purest form. 

But you will be surprised to know that you can bend the purest gold with your bare hands! It is because 24K gold is very soft and malleable. For this reason, no jewelry is made using 24K gold. Instead, 18K or 14K gold, which contains a small amount of other metals to make it harder and more durable, is used for making jewelry. 

People have different ideas of what jewelry means to them. 

For some, it is a way to showcase their personality. Others believe it is a way to showcase their wealth or social status. Jewelry can be a great conversation starter, and it can also make you feel more confident. If you are looking for a way to express yourself, jewelry is a great option. 

Are you looking for unique gemstone jewelry? 

The Luxury Jewelry Network’s online shopping shows are a great place to find attractive gemstone jewelry pieces. There is something for everyone with a wide variety of styles and prices. Tune in and take advantage of the great deals on Facebook Live every Wednesday and Friday at 4:30 pm PST. 

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