It Is "Showtime!"

The holiday season is complete and now as we get a little breather between Christmas and Valentine's Day it's time to think about restocking our inventory.  We have two jewelry shows coming up very soon where we'll see all the popular & latest jewelry styles.

Of course, we always try to listen to you our clients and discern what it is you'd most like to see us carry at The Gold Mine.  Many of you have expressed interest in rose gold jewelry, two stone diamond jewelry and yellow gold...yes, its coming back strong!

As we visit the jewelry show to replinish our inventory, we'll be looking for hot items, the next "Big Thing" along with our list of wants and needs.

Is there something you'd like to see us carry that we currently don't have in stock?  Drop us a line...we'd love to hear from you!  We're always trying to be sensitive to our client's needs.

Have A Blessed Day,

Bill Warren, Owner/Gemologist
The Gold Mine (828) 726-1009
www.hudsongoldmine.com

goldman86@bellsouth.net

THE HISTORY OF THE WEDDING BAND

Marriage is one of humanity’s oldest institutions, and symbolizes the love and commitment between two people who wish to stay together for the rest of their lives. Joining together in matrimony is a statement to the world that you consider each other life partners spiritually, physically, and legally for the remainder of your days.

When two people are to be married, tradition dictates that a wedding band is given to symbolize their love and promise to each other – but where did this tradition come from? The more we learn about the history of the wedding band, the more we come to realize just how wonderful it is.

An ancient tradition

Although the tradition of publicly displaying the promise of marriage likely dates back far earlier than we can trace, the first instances of wedding bands date back to Ancient Egypt. It wasn’t until the discovery of metal crafting, however, that they really became popular. We have the Romans to thank for that. They traditionally gave bands of gold or silver to new brides as they crossed the threshold. They believed that the eternity of a circle stood for the never ending love that they had for each other. It really is beautiful to know that you are continuing this age-old tradition when you slip that ring on your loved one’s finger.

Medieval times and later

Fast forward to Medieval Europe, and things begin to become more lavish. The betrothed would exchange gold bands, and would sometimes even add in gem stones. It was also common during later years to give “gimmel” or puzzle rings. These were interlocking bands that the bride and groom would each have separately, and then combine at the ceremony for the wife to wear. Perhaps the most romantic of the bunch was the “poesy” rings trend of the Renaissance. These sterling silver bands were engraved with an expression of love such as a poem – which is a great idea for a custom ring, even today.

Modern innovations

These days, the wedding band is often used in conjunction with an engagement ring, and double-ring ceremonies are common in North America. While it was common only for the bride to have the band in the past, both the bride and groom now receive one in the vast majority of cases. This is mainly due to changing attitudes of equality between the sexes, and marketing campaigns of the early 20th century. These days, rings can come in many different colors and sizes, and metals. The variety of designs and extras that can be easily added to a ring makes now the best time to be buying a wedding band that is truly unique – the days of the wedding band as an afterthought in wedding planning are gone.

It doesn’t matter how people celebrate love between each other, who gives the ring to whom, or how much it costs, the only thing that really matters in the love that is behind it. Throughout history, people have symbolized their promise of eternal love to each other with beautiful wedding bands and rings. We are certain that this wonderful tradition will continue well into the future, too. If you are looking for the perfect wedding band, look no further than the Gold Mine. We can help make your dreams come true.

'til next time,

Bill Warren, Owner/Gemologist

The Gold Mine  828-726-1009

www.hudsongoldmine.com 

Reasons To Consider Rose Gold

Rose gold has a strikingly beautiful hue. It is comprised of a percentage of yellow gold mixed with copper and other metals. The result is a gorgeous, warm and romantic version of traditional gold.

A Brief History

Did you know Rose Gold used to be called “Russian gold” back in the 19th century? It began to become popular in the 1920's when wedding ring designs were blossoming and moving into the use of uncommon alloys. During this time, highly creative jewelry was on the rise that made a distinction from the geometric and monochromatic “icy white” designs of the Art Deco period in the 1930's.

Rose gold has such a beautiful delicateness to it that compliments all skin types and can be combined with many different kinds of gems and diamonds. This is why rose gold trends came back with a vengeance — and this is also why it was able to stand the test of time.

Rose gold brooches, cocktail rings, and large cuffs all became part of the glitz and glamour of that era— influencing the current era where rose gold is a standard option for all types of ring choices.

Some of our Favourite Rose Gold Designs

Do you love the look of a vintage ring with the diamond surrounded by a beautiful halo? Let your eyes rest on the beautiful engagement ring pictured above. The Rose gold is the absolute perfect back drop to let the diamonds shine.

Ready to have your heart stolen? This Rose gold ring with floral carvings has gorgeous vintage detailing

Learn more about The Gold Mine's wide range of uniquely designed rings and happy ring shopping!

See you soon,

Bill Warren, Owner/Registered Gemologist

The Gold Mine  www.hudsongoldmine.com 

828-726-1009

How To Find A Ring That Suits Your Hand

Everyone’s hand is a little bit different. Fingers can be long, short, thin or wide; they can be spaced close together or far apart. Rings can always be resized for a perfect custom fit, but there are certain ring designs that flatter certain types of fingers, in the same way that certain dress patterns compliment certain figures. If you’re looking for a ring that will perfectly embellish your finger, follow these helpful tips for finding a ring that suits your hand.

Short Fingers

If you have short fingers, your ideal ring should lengthen your hand. Narrow-width bands are the best way to create that elongated shape. Marquise, oval or pear-shaped centers are more elongating than rectangular or square centers.

Long, Slender Fingers

Many different styles of bands and stones will be flattering on long, slender fingers. The engagement ring or wedding band you choose is really dependent on your personality, so find a ring that suits your unique style. Rings with a princess-cut center diamond, are a particularly strong and dynamic choice for people with long, slender fingers.

Wide Fingers

Slender bands may accentuate the width of your fingers, so you may want to avoid them if you have wide fingers. A split-shank band can help to elongate the finger, drawing the eye along the length of the finger rather than focusing on its width.

Knuckles

If you’re trying to draw attention away from your knuckles, a ring is the perfect way to re-shift the visual focus of your hand. Wide bands and ornate centers are a great way to pull the eye along your finger away from your knuckles. Let the ring become the centerpiece of your hand, and all the other features of your finger will fade into the background. 

Finding the most flattering ring for your finger can be a challenge. It’s important that your ring be proportionate and attractive without compromising your personal style. If you’re looking for your dream engagement ring, wedding band, or anniversary ring, you’ll find it in The Gold Mine's wide range of styles and designs.

Stop by soon,

Bill Warren, Owner/Registered Gemologist

The Gold Mine www.hudsongoldmine.com

828-726-1009

3 Misconceptions About Buying Engagement Rings

Marriage is one of the beautiful things in life. Nothing rivals seeing two people in love forever joining together in holy matrimony. But nobody ever said it was easy! Working up the courage to ask is just the beginning. There’s a lot of planning, budgeting, adjusting your original plans when things change and actually managing all of the major issues in the process. Buying an engagement ring is just one of many tasks on your plate. There’s a lot of misinformation out there so we thought we’d clear up 3 misconceptions about buying engagement weddings rings to help you along.

It’s very complicated

Our selection at The Gold Mine is huge. We have many different types of rings and with all types of colors and styles – and it might be overwhelming to first-time buyers. In fact, getting an engagement ring at The Gold Mine is actually easy. All you need to do is talk to your partner, and then talk to one of our friendly sales associates. They will walk you through the process and even make recommendations. Find the right size, pick your favorite color, and voila! At the end of the day, it’s hard to go wrong with any of our beautiful rings.

Custom is too expensive

There are plenty of companies out there that might overcharge for customization, but getting a custom ring is less expensive than you might think. Technology has come a long way and the craft has been honed by experts around the world. You should never go into the process blind, though. Ask our experts for advice. Try on some of our rings to get a feel, and search our collections for something to your liking. Who knows, you might find one that you like and not need the customization after all.

You can’t find good rings at affordable prices

There are many persistent myths in the jewelry world: you need to spend several months’ pay on a ring, you need to buy a ring with a large stone, or that you can’t possibly find a good ring at an affordable price. That’s all false. The right ring for you is not a matter of price but of fit. You need to find the right ring for your partner and not worry about what other people say about spending money.

Buying a ring doesn’t have to be a stressful process. We deal with plenty of couples that are anxious for their big day, but want to find the right ring first. Finding the right engagement ring with one of our friendly staff will help make the whole process a lot easier – feel free to contact us for more information!

www.hudsongoldmine.com

828-726-1009

Should I Wear Yellow & White Gold Together?

Perhaps one of the questions we're most often asked is, "Should I wear yellow gold & white gold or sterling together?"  Let me digress with an answer...over the last 30 years I've been in the jewelry business, I've noticed a change in attitudes about this question.

Years ago, ladies always wore one color or the other and never the two should meet on the same hand!  Yes, when clients walked in..our sales staff always knew that this person was a yellow gold person while the next client might be a silver or white gold only person.

A unique thing started happening over the years and that was the development of "Two Tone" jewelry.  People immediately saw that the two colors could actually compliment each other in a bracelet, ring, necklace or earrings.

Now fast forward to today and we quite often see ladies wearing a yellow gold necklace with a white gold ring...in fact, my wife Angie loves to do just that!  Of course, each and every person has their own "Sense of Style" and whats right for one may not be for another.

All this being said, we've been a highly "White Metal" dominated market for about the last decade.  However, this past year we noticed many coming in our store asking for more yellow gold.  As a matter of fact, we sold more yellow gold this Christmas than all the past 5 years combined!

Personally speaking, I like a balance of both white & yellow colored metals instead of it being completely dominated by one or the other.

How do you feel?  Drop me a line at:  goldman86@bellsouth.net and let me know!

'til next time,

Bill Warren, DDJ (Doctor of Dynamic Jewelry) & Gemologist
www.hudsongoldmine.com
828-726-1009

Exciting Weekend Buying New Jewelry At Show

Yes..being a jeweler is certainly fun!  We spent the better part of this weekend picking out new styles and buying stock for our store.  Of course, we get to see all of our jewelry biz friends who are actually more like family.  After nearly 30 years, our industry contacts have become invaluable to us and we couldn't do without them.

In the picture above, you can see my wife Angie and valued employee Lynn Stringham picking out gold & silver chains and earrings!  We carefully scrutinize and look at each piece selecting it for quality and value.  Some stores simply order 30 chains and throw them in their showcase...we'll go thru 30 chains to find that meets our standards for value and price.

This particular jewelry show which is part of the SJO Jeweler's Group of which we are members also fed us extremely well..as a matter of fact we'll probably need to go on a diet!  :)

Stop by in the next few days and see the new merchandise...we've picked some pretty items for sure!  Also, please overlook the mess our store is in as we are in "Part 2" of our remodeling.

'til next time,

Bill Warren, DDJ (Doctor of Dynamic Jewelry) & Gemologist
www.hudsongoldmine.com 
828-726-1009

LET THE EASTER EGG FREE PRIZE GIVEAWAY BEGIN!

ONE MILLION DOLLAR JEWELRY EVENT

For one day only on Saturday, October 17th between the hours of 9:00 AM and 4 :00 PM you'll have the opportunity to see over ONE MILLION DOLLARS of fine jewelry sale priced up to 60% Off Regular Price!  Why is that?  Because The Gold Mine is celebrating our 22nd Year Anniversary in Business and we wanted to invite you to this huge jewelry party!

It's hard to believe 22 years have passed since we opened our doors and we certainly couldn't have been successful without you!  Therefore, we're going to have a super Anniversary Sale & Party in your honor!

Because we value you our friends and clients, we've brought in the largest assortment of fine jewelry to be seen in the Unifour area at the best pricing and values that you've come to expect!  During this one day only event, you'll discover a gorgeous array of diamonds, gemstones, watches, silver and more.

Our most popular jewelry brands such as:  Rhythm of Love Diamond Jewelry (you know..it vibrates to the beat of your heart), Southern Gates, Waxing Poetic, Chamilia, Lafonn, Citizen Watches, OWL, Kellee Designs and more will all be discounted heavily during this one day only event!

Of course, it wouldn't be a party without gifts and we're giving away hourly door prizes which will feature stunning jewelry & gifts which will be yours for the taking...(you do have to come in that day to sign up!).  

Oh, I almost forgot...we'll also have awesome finger foods and drink for your enjoyment all day long and you don't want to miss that....

So don't forget, Saturday, October 17th from 9 'til 4...mark it on your calendars now and stop by...we'd really love to see you and thank you for helping make us one of the leader's of fine jewelry in the area!

Sincerely,

Bill Warren, Owner
The Gold Mine
www.hudsongoldmine.com 
828-726-1009

Don't Miss Our Annual Summer Clearance Sale

Some things like Christmas, Thanksgiving, 4th of July only come around once a year and you certainly wouldn't miss them!  Well don't miss our One Day Only, One Hour Only Summer Clearance Event coming this Saturday!!!

Enjoy 60% Off Regular Price of our jewelry inventory for 60 Minutes on Saturday, July 18th from 1 PM 'til 2 PM..some exclusions apply. Enjoy 60% off savings on diamonds, gold, silver, gemstones & estate jewelry..and when the clock rings at 2 PM..its done..not to be repeated until next year! Don't miss this huge Summer Clearance Jewelry Sale!!

THE LITTLE BLACK STONE

Almost daily I have someone ask "What is that little black stone in your showcase?  Is it black onyx or what?"  Most definitely these little & some not so little black stones have come into their own as of late.  Yes, I think "Black Diamonds" are definitely here to stay in fine jewelry fashions.  But I digress...what are black diamonds and where do they come from?

Various global deposits have produced black diamonds going back to diamond mining's glory days in Brazil and later in South Africa.  A particular black diamond of legend is the 33.74 carat pear shaped Amsterdam Black Diamond from the 1970's.  Originally this diamond was destined for industrial use until it was discovered to be tough when it met the diamond saw.  It was later cut into a fetching pear shape that earned $352,000 US when it sold at Christie's Geneva in 2001.  Today the diamond is estimated to be worth millions.

With more & more designs featuring black diamonds, we've incorporated them into our inventory mix here at The Gold Mine with great success!  It seems you our client's enjoy the look and have found that just like "White Diamonds"...their neutral shade goes with most any outfit.

If you're curious about "Black Diamonds" or other colored diamonds in general..give me a buzz at 828-726-1009 or better yet, stop by and we'll show you these shaded beauties!

Until Next Time,

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

The Gold Mine

www.hudsongoldmine.com 

545 Main St. Hudson, NC 28638

828-726-1009

Only 59 Days Until Christmas!!

It's hard to believe that summer has come and gone and now it's only 59 days until Christmas!  Here at The Gold Mine we've been busily preparing for the Christmas season.  You see a jeweler has to start thinking about Christmas around June or July so that we purchase enough stock for the store as well as anticipating what will be this year's hottest jewelry items!

Angie & I of course traveled to several jewelry shows as well as making visits to different vendors this year who could help provide us with the perfect holiday jewelry items at the perfect values!  I even got to visit a wholesaler who was going out of business and was able to pick up some wonderful buys while there.  Already many of our clients have commented on how we seem to have a better jewelry selection than most stores at better prices...so our travels seem to have paid off!

What will be hot this year?  It's our belief that there are a few trends that will be extremely popular this season such as:

The phenom created by "Rhythm of Love" where the diamonds actually vibrate to the beat of her heart is simply amazing and there are so many new styles in this featuring blue diamonds, black diamonds, rose gold, yellow gold & much more.  The price points start at $99 on these beauties and they're breathtaking!!

Another trend we're seeing is in the Lafonn jewelry brand which features the finest Lassaire Gemstones which simulate the look of diamonds set in a patented platinum/sterling silver mounting...a gorgeous piece of fine jewelry at reasonable prices!

Ladies stackable bracelets in silver, rose & yellow gold colors are also very popular with all ages and we carry what you'll discover to be the finest in the "Angelica Bracelet" line with prices starting at $25.  Plus, a portion of each sale of Angelica is donated to "Generation Rescue" which benefits the autistic!!!

Of course, I always invite you to visit our website at:  www.hudsongoldmine.com  which is constantly being updated with our latest products, news and events!

Thanks for taking time to read this blog post...I've been absent for a while and I'll try to keep you updated more often!

Take care,

Bill Warren, Owner/Gemologist

The Gold Mine

545 Main St. Hudson, NC 28638

828-726-1009

goldman86@bellsouth.net 

P.S. -  if you have questions about anything or there is something you'd really like to see us carry..please let us know by clicking on my email link above!!

Christmas in July

For most jewelry store owners, Christmas is really here in the heat of July!  What do I mean?  Simple...I'm already thinking about what items will be hot for the Christmas season and I've been watching what our clients ask for.  I'm making mental notes even now on things that seem to be up and coming.

What are some of the items that are sure to be hot?  The hottest thing going in the jewelry biz right now is most definitely "Rhythm of Love" vibrating pendants and earrings!  The center diamond literally moves with "Her Heartbeat"...it must be seen to be believed.  Click here to get a preview:  http://roldiamonds.com/

Another item that is extremely popular is the new "Angelica" bracelet line.  Angelica uses recycled metals to make bracelets fit for every occasion and they can be stacked on top of each other.  To see them, click here: http://angelicacollection.com/  I also failed to mention that a portion of each sale goes to benefit "Generation Evolution" who works with the autistic!

Other items?  Who knows!! It boggles the imagination to keep up with all the new jewelry lines that are coming out every day but we love to do it...that's why The Gold Mine is well known for offering the latest, "State of the Art" jewelry way ahead of it's competitors.

Got something in mind you'd like to see?  Let us know...we're always glad to lend an ear to your requests.  Thanks for being a great Gold Mine friend & client!

Sincerely,

Bill Warren, Owner/Gemologist

www.hudsongoldmine.com 

828-726-1009

email:  goldman86@bellsouth.net

This Year's Hottest Jewelry Item!

Here it is the end of October and another holiday season is once again upon us!  For me, the Christmas season actually started back in July when I had to get my advertising/marketing planned for the holidays and purchasing what I felt was going to be hot for Christmas.

The item that is creating an international phenomenon most definitely is "Rhythm of Love" diamond jewelry that is powered by her heartbeat.  What do I mean by that?  The center diamond on each piece actual vibrates with each beat of your heart or any movement what so ever...it's quite the rage!

We've just finished our latest TV commercial for the holidays featuring Rhythm of Love...click on the link below to see this piece live in action and watch the center diamond move:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V0uAwJnrJHs

Here's a close up picture:

You'll simply love these beautiful earrings & pendants...when you have a minute..stop by for a quick peek and you'll see why "Rhythm of Love Jewelry" is powered by her heartbeat!

'til next time,

Bill Warren, Owner/Registered Gemologist
The Gold Mine 545 Main St. Hudson, NC 28638
828-726-1009
www.hudsongoldmine.com 

Checking In All The New Goodies From Atlanta!

Well...I'm sitting here tonight after returning from the Southeast's largest jewelry show in Atlanta and I'm looking over all the new pieces we purchased for our clients.  You see, for jewelers...Christmas is beginning right now..yes, I mean right now!  We have to be thinking many months in advance, anticipating what our clients will like and following consumer demand and trends.

It's not always easy to do either...but thanks to our good customers, they're great about letting us know what they like and we do watch purchases like a hawk.  No we're not doing surveilance like the government but we do try to see what trends our client's purchases show us.

Right now one of the hot items we see coming along is the "Rhythm of Love" diamond jewelry which is powered by her heartbeat.  What do I mean by this?  Simple...with every movement made, the diamond in the center of one of these pendants or earrings will vibrate and I'm here to tell you its like nothing you've ever seen!

We've been testing and tracking sales of these "Rhythm of Love" items and so far, you (our clients) have judged them a winner by the way you're purchasing them!  If you really want to get a good look at them..watch this short Youtube video clip and you'll see what I mean  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYb5eYfB-QM

Of course, we also picked up many new items such as a complete new line of men's titanium rings at super prices plus some diamond cocktail rings that will take your breath away!!!  Give us a few days to get all of this checked in and stop by for an early peek...yes, Christmas will be here before you know and your friends at The Gold Mine will be ready to serve you!

Take care,

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

P.S. - mark your calendars now...this year marks our 20th Year Anniversary in Business and we've got great things planned for you in October!!

It's A Roller Coaster Ride On The Precious Metals Market

Ok, I must admit myself that the last few weeks have been a roller coaster ride in the precious metals market!  Many folks have asked if they should go ahead and sell their old scrap gold & silver or continue to wait for prices to go back up...well....

Perhaps we can look at this a couple of different ways:

1.  It appears that the economy is strengthening albeit slowly and as things progress and get better and the dollar strengthens, precious metal prices will go down.

2.  There are those who say that the economy is completely bankrupt and that we should hold onto our precious metals as a "Safehaven" investment.  Of course, this is a bit negative and I tend to feel that America, who has the world's largest economy in scale has quite a way to go before its bankrupt.

Everyone is obviously entitled to their personal opinion but here is mine...

Its better to take advantage of the gold & silver prices still being historically high and make a little than lose a lot!  Almost daily we're still seeing folks bringing their old metals in and we've put cold, hard cash in their pocket.

What are things that we purchase from clients?  Old broken gold & silver chains, rings, bracelets, mis-matched earrings, dental gold (yes, old teeth), platinum...you name it, if it has precious metal we probably buy it.

Why do we buy it?  Because much of it can be recycled and used in our very large repair department to fix other's jewelry items or to make new jewelry with.  Sometimes we might purchase a nice, older item to sale as estate jewelry.

You can simply bring your items by any time for a FREE, no hassle, no obligation evaluation and if things feel good to you, we'll purchase your items on the spot!

"til next time,

Bill Warren, DDJ (Doctor of Dynamic Jewelry) & Owner
The Gold Mine of Hudson, NC
828-726-1009
www.hudsongoldmine.com
email:  goldman86@bellsouth.net

Gold Mine Featured in Our State Magazine!

We were recently honored to have been featured in "Our State Magazine" regarding our "Southern Gates" jewelry collection.  Many folks who came by and visited to do Mother's Day shopping commented about it as well.

The ad (listed above) we were featured in showed several of our Southern Gates items.  Of course, these jewelry pieces have long been a favorite of those (In the Know) Gold Mine customers.  Made from gorgeous sterling silver, Southern Gate items feature and commemorate the ironwork designs that you see in Charleston, Wilmington, Savannah and New Orleans.

Southern gals everywhere appreciate the delicate designwork of Southern Gates jewelry.  The company that produces this lovely line is out of Charleston, SC.  Perhaps many of you don't know how we discovered it...

Several years ago, Angie (my wife) and I were visiting the markets in downtown Charleston and we kept seeing this lovely jewelry.  After inquiring about it, what a pleasure it was to discover that the company who produces this was only a few short blocks away.  So we simply walked on down and met the owners and of course, inquired about carrying their jewelry in our own jewelry store.

The rest as they say is history, and too great success, we've carried and our customers have enjoyed purchasing "Southern Gates Jewelry" now for several years.

With the Mother's Day rush now behind us, I'm finally catching a breather to restock the store with this and other great jewelry lines.  If you have something that you'd like to see, or if you just have a question, let me know..I'm happy to take the time to serve you.  Also, don't forget if you have a broken jewelry item or watch, we do all of our repair work here on the premises by trained and trustworthy experts...

See ya soon,

Bill Warren, DDJ (Doctor of Dynamic Jewelry), Owner-Gemologist
The Gold Mine
www.hudsongoldmine.com
828-726-1009
email:  goldman86@bellsouth.net 
545 Main St. Downtown Hudson

Store Hours:
Mon-Fri 10am - 6pm
Sat 10am - 4pm