An engagement ring getting cleaned by a Crown Point jewelry cleaner.
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Signs It’s Time to Clean Your Engagement Ring

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Your engagement ring is not only a symbol of love and commitment; it’s also a significant piece of fine jewelry that requires regular care to maintain its sparkle and shine. With the excitement of wedding planning and daily activities, it’s easy to forget about the routine maintenance your ring needs. But, just like any treasured item, it deserves attention to ensure it looks as stunning as the day you said “Yes!”

Signs that Indicate It’s Time to Clean Your Engagement Ring

Have you noticed that your once-glistening engagement ring seems to have lost its luster? Here are a few signs that it’s time to clean your precious piece:

Dull Appearance

If your ring has lost the brilliance it had when it first graced your finger, it could be crying out for a clean-up. Daily exposure to lotions, soaps, and natural skin oils can leave a film on your diamond, reducing its sparkle.

Build-up of Dirt and Grime

Take a close look at your ring. If you see a build-up of dirt or grime, especially behind the stone where dust and particles easily accumulate, it’s cleaning time. The ring’s intricate settings are prime spots for unwanted residue.

Faded Sparkle

Diamonds refract light, causing them to sparkle. When a layer of everyday pollutants coats the surface, your gem can’t reflect light as effectively. You’ll notice this as a significant reduction in the scintillation that made your heart skip a beat.

Skin Irritation

If your ring is causing unexpected irritation, it might be a sign that debris and bacteria have built up. A thorough cleaning can help alleviate this discomfort.

The Importance of Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

By regularly cleaning and maintaining your engagement ring, you not only preserve its beauty but also prevent potential damage. Brad’s Designs & Jewelry understands the sentimental and material value of your ring. That’s why we offer professional cleaning and maintenance services to keep your ring looking its best.

Different Methods for Cleaning Engagement Rings

For a DIY approach, mix warm water with mild dish soap and let your ring soak before gently brushing it with a soft toothbrush. However, for a thorough clean that addresses not just the surface but the structure of your ring as well, a professional service is unmatched.

Tips for Maintaining the Ring’s Shine and Sparkle

To keep your ring shining bright:

  • Proper Storage: When it’s not adorning your hand, store your ring somewhere safe and dry.
  • Regular Inspections: Have it looked over by a professional jeweler regularly to ensure there are no loose stones or damage.
  • Avoiding Harsh Chemicals: Remove your ring during cleaning or when handling harsh substances that could dull its finish.

Visit Us Today

At Brad’s Designs & Jewelry, every shimmer of a diamond and gleam of a band is a testament to moments of joy and love you hold dear. We believe in nurturing those moments by extending the life and luster of your engagement ring with the highest standards of care. Your ring isn’t just jewelry; it’s a narrative of your unique love story, cherished day in and day out. Allow us to ensure its beauty endures as long as your love. Come in, share your story with us, and let us help you keep your symbol of love as radiant as ever.

A jewelry box that a woman got at a Crown Point jewelry store.
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How to Pack Jewelry for Travel

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When it comes to traveling, jewelry often becomes a matter of concern. With the constant worry of misplacement or potential damage, packing your precious pieces can be quite challenging. At Brad’s Designs & Jewelry, we understand this dilemma and have crafted this guide to help you navigate through the process.

For over three decades, our expertise in handling various materials like gold, silver, platinum, and other metals has taught us a thing or two about caring for jewelry. We’re here to share these insights with you, ensuring your treasured pieces remain safe during your travels.

Storage Options

Choosing the right storage for your jewelry is paramount. Small, compartmentalized boxes or travel-specific jewelry cases are excellent options. They not only keep your jewelry organized but also prevent them from rubbing against each other, avoiding potential scratches or damages.

Soft pouches made from materials like silk or velvet can also be utilized for individual pieces, especially for those that are more delicate or hold sentimental value. Remember, the goal is to keep your jewelry secure and separate to avoid any tangles or harm.

Special Care for Certain Jewelry

Not all jewelry is created equal. Some pieces might require a bit more tender, loving care than others. For instance, jewelry with gemstones, pearls, or diamonds may need extra protection as they are more prone to scratches. Wrapping these pieces in soft cloth before storing them can add an extra layer of security.

Similarly, heirloom pieces or antique jewelry need special attention due to their age and sentimental value. Consider keeping these pieces in individual pouches or separate compartments within your jewelry box. 

Packing Tips

When it’s time to pack, always place your jewelry in your carry-on luggage. This ensures that you have full control over where your jewelry goes and reduces the chances of it getting lost or stolen. Another pro tip is to create a detailed list of all the jewelry you’re taking with you. This list can serve as a reference in case any item goes missing or is accidentally left behind.

Additional Considerations

When packing your jewelry, remember to consider the climate of your destination. Humidity can tarnish silver pieces, while extreme temperatures might affect certain stones. It’s always best to do a little research beforehand to ensure you’re fully prepared.

Additionally, consider your itinerary. If your trip involves adventurous activities like hiking or swimming, it might be best to leave your valuable or delicate pieces at home.

Lastly, don’t forget about maintenance. At Brad’s Designs & Jewelry, we offer a range of services, from cleaning to resizing rings, replacing broken clasps, and even repairing watches. Ensure your jewelry is in its best condition before you embark on your journey.

Contact Us for Your Jewelry Needs

Traveling with jewelry doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation and care, you can keep your beautiful pieces safe and secure, no matter where your travels take you. And remember, for all your jewelry needs, Brad’s Designs & Jewelry is here to help. Safe travels!

A woman's hand holding a variety of diamond rings at Crown Point Jewelers.
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How Do You Choose the Right Engagement Ring?

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In the journey of love and commitment, an engagement ring holds a profound significance. It is more than just a piece of jewelry; it is a symbol of enduring love, an emblem of your unique love story, and a reflection of your partner’s style and personality. At Brad’s Designs & Jewelry, we understand the gravity of this decision and are here to guide you every step of the way to finding the perfect ring.

Choosing a Style

Choosing the right engagement ring entails several considerations. One of the first things to ponder is the style of the ring. From the classic elegance of a solitaire to the intricate allure of a halo or the timeless charm of vintage-inspired designs, there is a plethora of styles to choose from. Choosing between a solitaire or a cluster of smaller stones is another important decision to make. While a solitaire diamond exudes a classic simplicity, a cluster of smaller stones offers a dazzling array of sparkle. Reflecting on your partner’s personal style and preferences will assist in narrowing down the options.

Determining the Right Cut

Next, the diamond cut is another crucial factor to consider. The cut of the diamond greatly influences its sparkle and aesthetic appeal. Whether it’s the popular round cut, the regal princess cut, the soft and romantic cushion cut, or the sophisticated emerald cut, each one offers a unique charm.

Gemstone Options

When deliberating the carat size, consider whether your partner would appreciate a larger stone or a clearer diamond. It’s essential to strike a balance between size and quality that aligns with your budget and your partner’s preferences. Understanding the significance of diamond clarity and color is also essential. Consider your budget and prioritize the factors that matter most to you.

Alternatively, you could explore the option of choosing a different gemstone that holds special meaning or uniqueness.

Ring Metals

The choice of ring metal also plays a significant role in the overall look and durability of the ring. Whether it’s the warm glow of yellow gold, the cool sophistication of white gold, the modern romanticism of rose gold, the traditional elegance of silver, or the enduring strength of platinum, the selection should match your partner’s lifestyle and personal taste.

Your Trusted Guide

Identifying the perfect ring for your partner goes beyond these considerations. It involves keenly observing your partner’s style, considering their lifestyle, and ensuring the correct ring size.

At Brad’s Designs & Jewelry, our experienced team will guide you through this exciting journey. With a wide selection of ring styles, diamond cuts, and metal options, we cater to diverse preferences and budgets. Our personalized approach ensures that you find the perfect ring that encapsulates the essence of your love story.

Whether you’re drawn towards a classic solitaire diamond or a unique custom design, our expertise will help bring your vision to life. Our commitment to quality craftsmanship and exceptional customer service sets us apart, making us an ideal partner in your quest for the perfect engagement ring. Contact us today or visit our store to begin your journey toward finding the perfect ring for your partner.

beautiful diamonds used by Crown Point Jewelers
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The Ultimate Guide to Colored Diamonds

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Creating a customized gift of jewelry can start with selecting a unique stone and gems. While diamonds are always a girl’s best friend, diamonds in unique colors can be a fun way to amp up a special gift of jewelry. Natural diamonds in colors are a unique part of the stone world. There are also color-enhanced diamonds that can add pop to any piece. Here we look at some of the cool colors that your diamonds can sparkle in as part of your next new piece of jewelry.

Pink: What is more feminine than the soft color of pink? Or more fun than the punch of a bright raspberry? Pink diamonds are rare and not typically found in mines throughout the world.

Orange: This color is a very rare diamond. It is an elusive find out in diamond mines. The shade is a vibrant way to see a sparkle.

Yellow: From pale to bright, yellow is a diamond color that is most widely known and seen among the rich and famous who shine on the red carpet at events. Yellow diamonds have a special way of capturing and displaying light as it glows throughout the stone. 

Green: This shade of diamond is another rare offering. There are only a few that are part of the market each year and they range in color from light to dark shades and along the spectrum.

Blue: The second rarest of the colored diamonds is the blue diamond. Blue diamonds have a tradition of sea meets sky and are seen as a powerful color.

Brown: A neutral offering, the brown diamond is a way to add a little color without being overpowering. Brown diamonds are a timeless way to go beyond just a regular diamond as they are considered a classic choice for added color.  

Jewelry Designed for You, By You

At Brad’s Designs & Jewelry, we can discuss your stone options, from diamonds to gems and beyond. Creating a unique, customized gift can be daunting, so we have created a step-by-step process to help you throughout from the beginning to the end. If you are considering colored diamonds as part of your piece, we can discuss your options. We will begin with a discussion at our initial consultation. We want to hear the story behind your gift. This will help us truly customize your design. Next, we will incorporate your ideas, sketches, pictures and more into an initial sketch. A wax carving brings your ideas into 3D before we cast your piece in your choice of material. The fabrication is completed by hand as well as the setting of your stones. 

Get Going on Your Custom Piece of Jewelry

We are honored to serve our community members for more than 30 years. Our team at Brad’s Designs & Jewelry can assist with putting together a new piece, repairing your damaged items, cleaning or purchasing your unwanted gold pieces. Reach out with questions through our online contact form. 

A man checking size of a ring to resize, when looking for Ring Resizing Jeweler Hobart.
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How Do Jewelers Resize a Ring?

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For comfort, you want your ring or the ring of your loved ones to fit just right. If you are giving a ring as a gift, it can be hard to know the exact size without having the person’s finger measured. If you have an old ring that is being passed down as an heirloom, it will probably need to be resized as well. Or if your fingers have changed over the years, you may need an updated fit. No matter the “why” behind the need for resizing a ring, here is the breakdown on how it is done.

A Smaller Size is Needed

Walking around with a ring that is too loose can be worrisome as it can fall off and be lost. When a ring needs to be resized to a smaller loop, our professional team of jewelry experts at Brad’s Designs & Jewelry will cut the needed amount out of the material. This is an intricate process that needs to be performed carefully in order to ensure that the integrity of the ring is maintained. As we have decades of experience with hands-on work, we understand how to work with metals and stones and mold them carefully. 

When a ring is sized down, the metal will be heated to just the right temperature after the cut and reformed into a perfect loop. You want to have the circle just right as it was before it was manipulated into a new circle. The perfect temperature is vital to keep the chemical properties of the metal just right while also being able to be formed and moved. After it is the right size, it will be cleaned from any oxidation that may have happened during this process.

A Larger Size is Needed

Depending on how much the ring needs to go up in size, there are a couple techniques that can be applied. A half-size larger can be obtained by stretching the ring out or by shaving some of the gold, platinum or silver from the inside to make it thinner. If the ring needs to be larger than a half size, then we will need to add additional material by cutting the ring, adding the amount needed and soldering it back together. 

We will take the time to ensure that there is another perfect circle and that your ring is polished and cleaned to wipe away traces of making the ring larger. Platinum, gold and silver or a combination of these three can allow for resizing as they are malleable materials when heated and can be reshaped and rehardened.

Talk to Our Team for Help

Our experts are proud to provide additional repair services on your jewelry, including retipping prongs that secure your stones, replacing lost stones, watch repair, soldering or fixing broken clasps. If you have questions, contact us through our online contact form.