RING TERMS DEFINED: CONTEMPORARY

Here at The Gold Mine, we are happy to continue the tradition of giving finely-made, breathtakingly-beautiful rings as gifts at many of life’s special occasions. This is a major purchase, though, so we want to make sure that you are as well-informed as possible before you make that selection. Modern-style or contemporary rings are different than their older counterparts, and knowing what the term means will help you make the perfect selection. Let’s cover it in-depth so you know what you are getting in to.

What does contemporary mean?

When dealing with jewelry, something that is contemporary means something that was made in the style of more recent times. This includes everything from material and color to look and feel. While an older ring might be made to fit the ideals of the time, so too does a contemporary ring reflect current values. That is why we are beginning to see new metals, more diverse colors, and different weights becoming popular.

What do they look like?

While a vintage ring might be large and bulky, a modern ring will usually be sleek and light. This is due to a more minimalistic modern style, and our movement away from past aesthetics. Contemporary rings will usually have minimal decoration and a smaller stone at the top; not only that, but metals such as titanium and cobalt are becoming popular instead of traditional silver and gold. What we are beginning to see is a trend toward shiny and sleek rather than large and elegant.

Who wears it best?

A contemporary style ring is best for the person who enjoys making a quiet fashion statement, or one who prefers to be minimalistic. They fit best on the hand of someone who values shine and feel rather in-your-face beauty. Lightweight and stylish, a contemporary ring might go best with a young, trendy couple or with someone doesn’t like to make a lot of noise in a social setting.

Modern or contemporary rings are very different than their old-fashioned counterparts. They differ in nearly every area. That doesn’t mean one is better or worse than the other, it just means that different styles will fit different kinds of people. Now that you know what it means and who it works best on, stop by to see the Gold Mine's vast collection to see if you find the right fit.

'til next time,
Bill Warren, DDJ (Doctor of Dynamic Jewelry) & Owner
The Gold Mine
www.hudsongoldmine.com 
828-726-1009

Which Precious Metal is Right for You?

There are a lot of options for engagement rings and wedding bands out there. However, it is incredibly important to find the metal that is right for you and your aesthetic preferences. There are many benefits to each type of metal. Here is some information on your options when choosing an engagement ring or piece of jewelry in general.

Yellow Gold

Yellow gold has a mesmerizingly rich color. For centuries, traditional jewelry across different nations, histories and civilizations was made of yellow gold. Of all the existing colors of gold, yellow gold most closely resembles the color of the metal when it is mined. There is nothing quite as iconic or rich as a yellow gold ring, and any piece created in yellow gold is sure to carry a certain classical beauty with it.

White Gold

White gold, unlike silver which can look similar at first glance, is a far superior metal than silver. It does not tarnish to black in the way silver does, and as a result does not need the same kind of cleaning regimen.  An alloy of gold and at least one other white metal, white gold can contain nickel, palladium, or be plated with rhodium to emphasize the white color. White gold makes a very sturdy and long lasting piece of jewelry that truly shines.

Rose Gold

For that touch of personality and uniqueness, rose gold is the way to go.  Rose gold is a type of gold with more copper in its alloy – the more copper present in a gold alloy, the more of a rose hue or tint.  Most often, rose gold will consist of partly silver, partly copper, and of course gold. Rose gold offers a splash of unexpected color in any piece and would suit anyone with a creative or expressive streak.

Platinum

Platinum has an unparalleled rarity and is naturally white in color, letting any platinum piece shine with a breathtaking vigor. This hypo-allergenic metal does not tarnish, ages well over time, and is a clear choice for any jewelry piece that will last forever and stay beautiful the entire time.

Knowing all you can about the best materials for your jewelry can make all the difference. Taking into account a person’s occupation, personality, and aesthetic preference, each precious metal has a unique appeal.

'til next time,

Bill Warren, DDJ (Doctor of Dynamic Jewelry) & Owner

The Gold Mine

www.hudsongoldmine.com  email:  goldman86@bellsouth.net

828-726-1009