Morganite magic
As an antiques expert, few gemstones thrill me quite like morganite! Soft, romantic and quietly luminous, this blush-pink beryl has a subtle elegance that makes it perfectly suited to antique jewellery, where refinement and craftsmanship matter far more than showy brilliance. Discovered in the early 20th century, morganite was named in honour of financier and […]
How to take care of precious Pearls
Pearls are a most beautiful gemstone, formed in a most unique way, and which are still immensely popular in classic jewellery design. Pearls.com explain that: “Natural Pearls form when an irritant – usually a parasite and not the proverbial grain of sand – works its way into an oyster, mussel, or clam. As a defense […]
Jewellery Restoration explained
Our clients have been telling us that they have been using their lockdown time to sort out their jewellery boxes! This is great news but if you find that your box has a few broken pieces that you thought were beyond repair, you may be surprised to know what could be done. Breathing new life […]
Let’s make it personal
Engraving is an age-old art used as a means of expression. The simple scribing or cutting-in of a pattern into a surface to create decoration was used thousands of years ago and there is evidence of its use on organic materials such as ivory tusk and bone as far back as the Stone Age. The […]
Charity donation treasure valued by Heirlooms!
In a scenario worthy of Antiques Roadshow, we were approached by a local charity who had been given a donation of a rather unusual ring and they asked us whether it was of any value. The striking diamond and onyx ‘domino’ dress ring in yellow gold was immediately identified by Heirlooms owner, Amy Brenan, as […]
Rubies – Rare and Ravishing
Ruby is the birthstone for July and is one of my favourites! As you would imagine from a gemstone that displays a vibrant red colour, it is said to represent love, anger, passion and danger. It is also the stone that is associated with a 40th Anniversary. But did you know that rubies are created […]
Getting personal
There is nothing quite like engraving a piece of jewellery to make it truly personal. Whether it is a wedding ring, signet or seal ring, or a locket, cutting in words or a pattern makes it unique to the wearer. Engraving was used thousands of years ago and there is evidence of its use on […]