Platinum

  Popular in the 18th century, the bruting of diamonds became available in the industry. As a result, diamond cutters began shaping Old Mine Cut diamonds by following the octahedral shape of the diamond crystal. The cutter then meticulously ground two diamonds together to complete the desired shape.  After the shape was completed, a diamond polisher would polish the facets. Dimensions varied from stone to stone because of the odd...

Manufacturing of jewelry can occur in several ways - two of which are die-striking and casting.  Die-striking, from the 1890's to early 1930's requires more hand fabrication and hand finishing of jewelry.  The end result is that die-struck jewelry is of a much higher quality than those items created by way of casting.  The process was tedious creating meticulous patterns, often with filigree and one-of-a-kind results.   With die-stiking, a sheet...

The Edwardian Era covered the reign of King Edward VII, son of Queen Elizabeth, in the United Kingdom of Great Britain. This period was a change from traditionalism to growth, wealth, the fine arts and fashionable style of dress. Beautifully well-attired men and women were known to have attended parties where socializing was considered a part of high society. Fine jewelry was worn by the king and his style became...

A large natural pearl is considered the oldest and most valuable gemstone. When found, a single perfectly round natural pearl would be sold as a collector's item because of its scarcity and considerable value. The larger the pearl, the more it is worth. In 1520 B.C., a portion of a rare natural pearl was found in the sarcophagus of a Persian princess. This information is not surprising because natural pearls...