Showing posts with label san francisco jewelry. Show all posts
Showing posts with label san francisco jewelry. Show all posts

Thursday, December 14, 2017

Shop with the Area’s Most Knowledgeable and Trusted Jewelry Experts


You can feel confident when you shop with Padis Jewelry.  All of our knowledgeable jewelry advisors are diamond experts and very experienced in assisting Padis’ customers with important jewelry purchases including engagement rings and bridal jewelry.   

Also we know that many of Padis’ customers return to us each time they want a new piece of jewelry or to use our various services for repairs, cleaning and maintenance.  In addition we know that many of you have an established relationship with your Padis sales consultant, which is why we have now made it easier than ever to contact them.  All you need to do is to visit the Padis Jewelry website.  Right on our home page, you will find a photo of each of our consultants and a link that allows you to directly contact them with any questions, drop them a note or to just say “hi.” 

If you have never shopped with Padis, we want you to know that our jewelry consultants are trained diamond specialists, and every time you visit, we have at least two GIA Graduate Gemologists on hand.  Furthermore, by requesting that you set up an appointment to visit our showrooms, it ensures that one of our friendly staff members is ready to devote the time to help you find the perfect piece of jewelry.   

Also we want you to know that shopping with Padis Jewelry is an enjoyable, “no pressure” experience as our sale consultants work on a non-commission basis and all of our jewelry has clearly marked prices.  This means you get information regarding the quality of the diamonds and gemstones from an expert, and will know how much a piece costs before you fall in love with it.  Please see our website to talk to your sales consultant, to set up a visit, or to browse through our online collection.       

Padis Jewelry is a family-owned business and has been a trusted source for buying exquisite certified loose diamonds, engagement rings and fine jewelry since 1974.  We are one of the only jewelers in the area to offer such an exclusive selection of top names in the industry as well as such a large inventory.  For the opportunity to view our impressive collections, please contact us to schedule a visit.

Thursday, December 7, 2017

Repurpose Your Jewelry into Something You Love


Does your jewelry collection include pieces passed down to you from family members? Pieces which have sentimental value but are not your style and which you never wear?  We understand that while you may not want to sell the pieces outright, you might want to consider having the jewelry repurposed into something that better reflects your personal style. 

If you like the idea, go ahead and have the pieces appraised by a reputable jeweler.  An appraisal will give you the value of the jewelry as well as what precious metals were used and the quality of the gemstones or diamonds.   At Padis Jewelry, we have an American Gem Society (AGS) certified gemologist appraiser (CGA) on staff who can tell you all about your jewelry. 

We also have experience in redesigning jewelry and can help you repurpose your unworn jewelry into a design you will love and wear, yet will still have its sentimental value.  Moreover if you already have an idea of what you want, trust our jewelers to expertly guide you through creating it.     

Repurposing old jewelry can help alleviate some of the cost of a brand new custom piece.  In addition, if you have any gold or platinum jewelry you would like to sell, Padis Jewelry can give you a quote based on today’s metal prices.  Please visit our website for contact information to schedule an appointment with the Bay Area’s foremost jewelry experts.    

Padis Jewelry, a family-owned business, has been a trusted source for buying exquisite certified loose diamonds, engagement rings and fine jewelry since 1974.  We are one of the only jewelers in the area that offers such an exclusive selection of top names in the industry as well as such a large inventory.  For an opportunity to our impressive collections, please contact us to schedule at visit.

Tuesday, July 11, 2017

Halo Engagement Rings Offer a Variety of Options


For the last several years, halo engagement rings have been very popular and are just behind the most popular choice of a solitaire.  This may be due in part to the renewed interest in vintage and antique designs.  Halo engagement rings first became popular during the Victorian era and then again in the Art Deco period of the 1920s.     

It case you do not know, a halo ring has a center stone that is encircled by a collection of round pavé or micro-pavé diamonds or in some case colored gemstones.   All of these small stones increase the sparkle and help to draw attention to the center stone and make it look like it is a much bigger carat size.  For someone who wants a unique look, the Halo ring offers many different styles and finish options.  You ring can be a classic circle of stones on a plain band or elaborately decorated with stones or filigree along the shank of the ring.  

Another advantage to a halo design is that the cost of an average halo engagement ring can be slightly lower than that of a solitaire.  Also if you like bling, a halo ring can take up more space on your finger and attract more attention.  Keep in mind that you will want to buy a halo ring from a jeweler who is known for their craftsmanship as you want the stones to be evenly and securely set.   

At Padis Jewelry we have a large selection of halo rings from some of the top luxury brands.  Our inventory includes names such as Verragio, Simon G, A Jaffe, Gabriel & Co, Tacori, Jeff Cooper Design, Scott Kay, and much more.   Contact us to set up an appointment to visit one of our San Francisco showrooms to see our stunning collection of certified loose diamonds and ring settings.    

Padis Jewelry, a family-owned business, has been a trusted source for buying exquisite certified loose diamonds, engagement rings and fine jewelry since 1974.  We are one of the only jewelers in the area that offers such an exclusive selection of top names in the industry as well as such a large inventory.  For the opportunity to view one of San Francisco or the Napa Valley’s most impressive collections, please contact us to schedule at visit.

Monday, April 24, 2017

Rare Cache of Emeralds Up for Auction


Emeralds are both rarer and more valuable than diamonds.  Amanda Gizzi, a Jewelers of America’s spokesperson, explains, "Sought after for their rich color, regal history and identifiable look, emeralds are one of the most iconic gemstones in the jewelry industry." 

This month, the general public had the rare opportunity to buy some of the most valuable emeralds in the world when they were offered at auction by the Guernsey’s auction house in New York.  The offerings included 20 cut or raw stones as well as 13 magnificent pieces of emerald jewelry from the private collection of Manual Marcial de Gomar, a renowned emerald specialist.   

Some of the auction’s emeralds were recovered in the 1980s from the Nuestra Señora de Atocha that sank off the coast of Florida in 1622.   The auction catalog states that the shipwreck is considered by experts to be "the most valuable known shipwreck in history,” and the recovered gems are prized for their deep, clear green color.  The emeralds include nine rough stones totaling over 91 carats.  The “Nine Pillars of Andes” are expected to sell as a group somewhere in the neighborhood of $250,000 to $350,000.  Another stunner from the collection is the 4.39-carat emerald called the “Queen of the Sea.” Experts anticipate it will likely sell for $250,000 to $350,000. 

The La Gloria, an 887-carat emerald, which Guernsey reports to be one of the largest museum-quality emeralds in the world, should sell for around $4 to $5 million.  The once in a lifetime auction also includes the Marcial de Gomar Star Emerald that is believed to be the largest star emerald ever found and only one of 11 gem-quality star emeralds in the world. 

While our collection of emeralds at Padis Jewelry does not compete with the shipwreck stones from the Nuestra Señora de Atocha, we think you will be thrilled with what you see.  Please visit our website to browse our emerald loose stones and jewelry along with all of our other collections, as well as to set up an appointment to visit to our showrooms.       

As a family-owned business, Padis Jewelry has been a trusted source for buying exquisite certified loose diamonds, engagement rings and fine jewelry since 1974.  We have one of the area’s largest inventories as well as an impressive selection of top name luxury brands.  So if you are a lover of beautiful jewelry, we encourage you to schedule a visit to San Francisco and the Napa Valley’s best jewelry stores. 

Source: cnn.com/2017/03/16/luxury/guernseys-shipwreck-emeralds-auction/index.html

Tuesday, March 28, 2017

Let Us Help You Find the Perfect Engagement Ring


At Padis Jewelry we not only offer one of the largest collections of gorgeous engagement rings but also have a great selection of wedding bands and semi-mounts.   We understand that this is a very special time in your life, and we want you to know that Padis Jewelry is here to help. 

Our job is to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision on a piece of jewelry that will last a lifetime.  To accomplish this, all of our non-commissioned consultants are very knowledgeable, and we also have two GIA Graduate Gemologists on staff at all times.   

Furthermore, we can help you pick out a wedding band when you get the engagement ring, or you may prefer to come back later as a couple to buy your bands together.  Either way we can show you some complementary bands so you get an idea of what will work with your engagement ring.   

Another option is to design your own customized engagement ring.  It may be you have always had a specific jewelry design in mind or would just like the opportunity to explore your options.  In any event we will guide you through the steps, and with our enormous collection of loose diamonds and gemstones, we are certain you will find just what you had in mind.  To begin the process, just set up an appointment and we can get started creating a unique piece of jewelry for you.   

We have three showrooms in San Francisco and a Napa Valley store in St. Helena.  With at least 10,000 diamonds in stock at any time and thousands of other pieces of jewelry, you should have no trouble finding the perfect engagement ring and wedding bands.   Please visit our website for contact information and to browse through our inventory. 

As a family-owned business, Padis Jewelry has been a trusted source for buying exquisite certified loose diamonds, engagement rings and fine jewelry since 1974.  We have one of the area’s largest inventories as well as an impressive selection of top name luxury brands.  So if you are a lover of beautiful jewelry, we encourage you to schedule a visit to San Francisco and the Napa Valley’s best jewelry stores.

Sunday, February 26, 2017

Your Satisfaction is Important to Us!


Padis Jewelry is a family-owned business committed to providing customers with the optimal shopping experience.  Our non-commissioned sales staff works with each customer to help them find the perfect piece of jewelry that speaks to their personal aesthetic and lifestyle as well as budget.  Your satisfaction is important to us, and as such, we are always glad to get your feedback.   

Recently a customer shopping for an engagement ring at the Padis Jewelry Designer Galleria gave us a 5 star review about his experience.  He relates that after describing what he was looking for to his sale consultant, she was very helpful and showed him a number of different designs that fit his requirements.  After buying a ring, he states, “I am very happy with their service, and we will be going back there soon to pick out the wedding bands.”   He adds that he highly recommends our store. 

In another 5 star review, a customer described a visit to the Galleria for diamond earrings.  He states that, “They had so many great options and everyone was extremely helpful. They took the time to educate me about the process and the product, and it really made me feel valued as a customer.”  He continues to say his girlfriend was very pleased with the excellent quality and they will not go anywhere else but Padis for their jewelry. 

One enthusiastic customer from San Jose states, “Wow! Padis Jewelry Designer Galleria is amazing and they made buying engagement/wedding rings a great experience - as it should be. They are very professional, friendly, and quite helpful also. They don't oversell or push certain products on you saying 'just get this' or anything like that. They ask and listen to what you want, offer their top-quality products, then they back off and let you decide. No pressure to buy and they allow you to go at your pace - I really appreciate that!” 

Our staff understands that fine jewelry is an investment and we dedicate ourselves to providing customers with the knowledge they need to make an educated decision.  With two GIA Graduate Gemologists on staff at all times, you can trust the experts at Padis Jewelry for the best deals on beautiful jewelry. 

As a family-owned business, Padis Jewelry has been a trusted source for buying exquisite certified loose diamonds, engagement rings, and fine jewelry since 1974.  We have one of the area’s largest inventories as well as an impressive selection of top name luxury brands.  So if you are a lover of beautiful jewelry, we encourage you to schedule a visit to the area’s best jewelry store.

Wednesday, February 15, 2017

The Different Types of Jewelry Settings


When we buy a new piece of jewelry, it is generally an item we intend to wear and enjoy for many years.  This is why Padis Jewelry wants our customers to be satisfied with their purchases and believe that the more you know about the jewelry; the better the chance that you will love what you buy.  One of things that consumers can find confusing is the many different types of jewelry settings.    

The term bead setting describes the process of evenly setting diamonds or color gemstones with the surface of the metal.  Bead-like prongs between each of the stones secure them to the metal.  A bezel setting is the method of wrapping a diamond or gemstone with the metal so only the crown and table can be seen.  Another type of setting is called a cathedral and consists of cathedral-like arches on each side of the diamond or gemstone. 

Channel settings are very common.  It is the method used to arrange diamonds or color gemstones adjacent to one another in a channel with no metal showing between each stone.  A cluster setting is the term used to describe stones that are grouped together and arranged to look like one large stone.  In a flush setting, a hole is created in the metal surface and the diamond or gemstone is placed inside.  The table of the stone is set evenly with the metal’s surface.

With an inlaid setting, a part of the metal setting is cut away and the stones are set flush with the surface of the metal.  In an invisible setting, it appears as if there is no setting behind the stone due to the way the stones are set in the arrangement.  Prong settings are another very common type of setting, and in this case, the diamond or gemstone is mounted to the metal with prongs that wrap around its girdle and usually secured to the crown of the stone.  With a pave setting, small stones are held in place by very small handcrafted prongs and the tables of the stones are evenly set with the metal surface. 

If you have a question about a jewelry setting or want to know more about a particular piece of jewelry, please contact us.  In addition to our online store, we have three showrooms in San Francisco and a store in St. Helena, CA.

Padis Jewelry, a family-owned business, has been a trusted source for buying exquisite certified loose diamonds, engagement rings and fine jewelry since 1974.  We are one of the only jewelers in the area that offers such an exclusive selection of top names in the industry as well as such a large inventory.  We invite you to visit our showrooms to see our beautiful collection of fine jewelry.

Friday, February 10, 2017

Gemstones Meanings and Lore


Along with our extensive collection of diamond jewelry and certified loose diamonds, Padis Jewelry also has an incredible selection of gemstone jewelry and loose gems.  Our inventory includes high-quality sapphires and color-saturated emeralds preset in jewelry or available as loose stones ready to be used in your own designs.  We also have an array of fine jewelry set with amethyst, turquoise, topaz and other semi-precious stones.   

Throughout time people have associated gemstones with various characteristics and folklore such as having healing properties or the ability to ward off evil spells.  For example, the Romans believed emeralds had soothing qualities and Nero even wore a pair of crystal emerald glasses to calm his eyes.  They were also Cleopatra’s favorite gemstone.  The most sought-after emeralds are a deep green, and often carved into rectangular step cuts, known as the emerald cut.   

Sapphires have long been associated with romance and royal leanings, and in ancient times, people believed sapphires could predict the future.  The gem is available in a variety of colors including blue, yellow, green, orange, pink, and purple.  One of the most famous blue sapphires is the engagement ring Princess Di received from Prince Charles in 1981.

February’s birthstone, amethyst, ranges in color from pale lilac to a royal purple with reddish overtones that some experts consider to be the finest example of the gem.  The stone is believed to have a calming influence and is associated with intellect and wisdom.  Linked with Bacchus the god of wine, amethyst is a member of the quartz family.  

Another popular gemstone, Topaz is November’s birthstone and ranges in color from blues to green, yellow, orange, red, pink and purple as well as colorless stones.  Imperial, red, purple and pink topaz is rarer and more expensive.  The ancient Greeks believed that topaz bestowed strength to the wearer and thought it could ward off evil spells.

Treasured since ancient times by people in Egypt, Mesoamerica and China, turquoise is a rare phosphate of copper that forms in dry, barren regions in only a few places in the world.  Ancient people believed that turquoise offered protection from evil and bestowed good fortune and good health to the wearer. 

Padis Jewelry, a family-owned business, has been a trusted source for buying exquisite certified loose diamonds, engagement rings and fine jewelry since 1974.  We are one of the only jewelers in the area that offers such an exclusive selection of top names in the industry as well as such a large inventory.  We invite you to visit our showrooms to see our beautiful collection of fine jewelry.

Friday, January 13, 2017

Some of the World’s Largest Diamond Mines



Diamonds are now mined in many countries around the world.  According to the Kimberley Process statistics, there were 22 countries that produced rough diamonds in 2014.   Russia, Botswana, Canada, Angola, South Africa, and Namibia are among the world’s top producers of rough diamonds and make up 90% of production by value.   

Russia’s huge Mir mine in eastern Siberia is an enormous crater-sized pit that is 1,722-feet-deep and a diameter of nearly one mile across.   The mine’s open pit operations ended in 2004 and was replaced with underground tunnels.  The Mir mine produced over six million carats of rough diamonds in 2014 and has an estimated value of $16 billion including the diamonds that have already been mined and the amount of diamonds in reserve. 

The Jwaneng mine, owned by Debswana, is a joint operation between De Beers and the government of Botswana.  Located in south-central Botswana, it is the richest diamond mine in the world and the country’s most important asset.  Opened in 1982, the huge pit mine is more than a mile long at its widest point and is currently producing about 10.6 million carats a year.  

The world’s largest, new diamond mine is Gahcho Kué, which has the potential to become one of Canada's most high-grade and long-lived diamond mines.  Located in the Northwest Territories of Canada, the Gahcho Kué Mine is a joint venture between De Beers Canada Inc. (51%) and Mountain Province Diamonds Inc. (49%).  Discovered in 1995, the site has been under construction until it began producing diamonds in late September.  The mine is expected to produce an average of 4.5 million carats a year for an estimated twelve years.  The Gahcho Kué’s opening comes at a good time as two of Canada’s other large mines; the Ekati and Diavik are nearing the end of their production. 

Padis Jewelry, a family-owned business, has been a trusted source for buying exquisite certified loose diamonds, engagement rings and fine jewelry since 1974.  We are one of the only jewelers in the area that offers such an exclusive selection of top names in the industry as well as such a large inventory.  For the opportunity to view one of San Francisco and the Napa Valley’s most impressive collections, please contact us to schedule at visit.

Sources:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3741956/The-expensive-hole-world-Russian-diamond-valued-13-BILLION-vast-helicopters-banned-flying-case-SUCKED-it.html

http://www.cnn.com/2015/12/03/africa/botswana-diamonds-jwaneng/

http://www.myyellowknifenow.com/15336/gahcho-kue-could-contribute-6-7-billion-to-economy-de-beers/

Thursday, December 15, 2016

San Francisco’s Historic GiftCenter & Jewelry Mart



Padis Jewelry has three showrooms in San Francisco as well as one in Napa Valley, Padis Romance in St. Helena.  Our Designer Galleria and one of our showrooms are located at the GiftCenter & JewelryMart in San Francisco’s renowned jewelry district, which is a hub for the biggest names in jewelry and fashion accessories - all offered at the best prices.   

Conveniently located to serve the Bay Area, the five-story GiftCenter is on the National Register of Historical Places and the California Register of Historic Places.  The building was constructed in 1912 by the National Carbon Company, and later became a paper warehouse for Blake, Moffitt, and Towner.  It went through a major exterior and interior renovation when it was converted into the gift and jewelry showrooms in 1983.  The renovation added more usable space and light with the addition of a glass atrium.           

The GiftCenter is the leading wholesale jewelry emporium for Northern California and offers jewelry shoppers a truly unique experience.  For convenience you will find that all of the jewelry-related businesses are consolidated in the lower and street levels of the building.  Furthermore, customers can feel confident shopping at the friendly GiftCenter as most of the stores are locally-owned, family businesses.   

So not only are prices typically better than at corporate-owned jewelry chain stores, but like Padis Jewelry, most offer a personal touch to make you feel welcome from the moment you walk through the door.  At our Padis showrooms, you will find our entire inventory on display where we proudly offer pieces from the most sought-after jewelry designers and watchmakers with prices clearly marked.  In addition you will find one of the largest collections of rings and certified loose diamonds in California.  We encourage you to set up an appointment to experience firsthand our beautiful collection of jewelry. 

Padis Jewelry, a family-owned business, has been a trusted source for buying exquisite certified loose diamonds, engagement rings and fine jewelry since 1974.  We are one of the only jewelers in the area that offers such an exclusive selection of top names in the industry as well as such a large inventory.  For the opportunity to view one of San Francisco and the Napa Valley’s most impressive collections, please contact us to schedule at visit.

Monday, December 12, 2016

Some of the World’s Most Expensive Gemstones


Gemstones are defined as minerals created inside the earth; however, pearls and amber are notable exceptions as they are organic.  Minerals are classified as gemstones based on their chemical composition, refraction, crystal structure, and optical characteristics.  Both the classification and degree of imperfections determine the value and rarity of the stone. 

Throughout the world, gemstones lovers have always been on the lookout for beautiful and unique stones.  One such example is Jeremejevite, an extremely rare and very valuable gemstone first discovered in the Adun-Chilon Mountains in Siberia in 1883.  An aluminum borate mineral with variable fluoride and hydroxide ions, it is similar to quartz in hardness with a 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale.  Due to its rareness, it is not often used in jewelry, but jewelry cutters say Jeremejevite can be cut and polished without any problem and shows no reaction to heat. 

Another spectacular gemstone is Black Opal, which is the rarest type of Opal.  It is composed of silicon, hydrogen, and oxygen and most of the supply comes from the Lightning Ridge Mine in New South Wales.   The brilliant “fire” found in Black Opals and the scarcity make them extremely valuable.  Black Opals are believed to have lots of energy and in early times people wore the stone as an amulet against black magic.  

Taaffeite is one of the rarest and most valuable gems in the world.  It was named for the Australian gemologist, Richard Taaffe, who bought a cut and polished stone in 1945 in Dublin, Ireland.  Originally mistaken for spinel, Taaffeite is the first mineral to contain both beryllium and magnesium as major components.  The gem is found in Sri Lanka and Tanzania and hues range from nearly colorless to lavender, mauve and violet. 

Musgravite, which is in the same family as Taaffeite, is another very rare and valuable gem.  This very hard gemstone was first discovered in 1967 in the Musgrave Ranges in Australia and ranges from a brilliant green to violet color.  Musgravite is an aluminum oxide with various proportions of magnesium, iron, and zinc.  Today the gemstone is also found in Madagascar and Tanzania.   

Padis Jewelry, a family-owned business, has been a trusted source for buying exquisite certified loose diamonds, engagement rings and fine jewelry since 1974.  We are one of the only jewelers in the area that offers such an exclusive selection of top names in the industry as well as such a large inventory.  For the opportunity to view one of San Francisco’s most impressive collections, please contact us to schedule at visit.
Sources:

forbes.com/sites/trevornace/2015/11/02/12-most-expensive-gemstones-world/#5c0a94d25342 

discovery.com/tv-shows/game-of-stones/black-opal/

Thursday, December 8, 2016

Buy Responsibly Sourced Diamonds


Conflict-free is another important focus of family-owned Padis Jewelry, and are fully dedicated to supporting socially and environmentally responsible sourcing. We only buy and sell diamonds from carefully selected suppliers who adhere to strict labor and environmental standards and are able to demonstrate a complete chain of custody for their gemstones.  

For example, one of our collections of loose diamonds and diamond jewelry is from an industry leader in responsible sourcing.  Forevermark™, part of the De Beers Group of Companies, not only sells some of the world’s most exquisite diamonds but is committed to selling diamonds that have been responsibly sourced throughout their entire journey.  

In fact Forevermark sourcing standards go beyond the international certification established in 2003 by the Kimberley Process.  This certification process was designed to “stop the trade in ‘conflict diamonds' and ensure that diamond purchases were not financing violence by rebel movements and their allies seeking to undermine legitimate governments.”  Forevermark’s stricter standards include looking at the individual mines and mining companies along with the country of origin in terms of human rights, the political climate and the socio-economic situation. 

Another significant outreach by Forevermark has been to give back to the women and children of each community they do business in.  These activities include supporting women in small businesses as well as providing education, training, and healthcare.  The De Beers Group of Companies has also set aside 444,490 acres around their mines for conservation which includes a Game Park and a Rhino sanctuary.We are proud to offer our customers diamonds from a company that is committed to not only supplying the world with the most beautiful diamonds, but doing it with integrity.  Please visit our showrooms to see our large selection of certified loose diamonds and diamond jewelry and wear your jewelry with pride!
Padis Jewelry, a family-owned business, has been a trusted source for buying exquisite certified loose diamonds, engagement rings and fine jewelry since 1974.  We are one of the only jewelers in the area that offers such an exclusive selection of top names in the industry as well as such a large inventory.  For an opportunity to view one of San Francisco’s most impressive collections, please contact us to schedule at visit.

Source: kimberleyprocess.com/en/about

 

Monday, December 5, 2016

Let Our Experts Help You Make an Informed Jewelry Decision


At Padis Jewelry our job is to make jewelry shopping an enjoyable experience.  By owning one of the largest inventories of certified loose diamonds in California, we can help you buy a diamond you love at a price you can afford.  Furthermore, it is easy as all you need to do is set up a diamond consultation with one of our expert GIA (Gemological Institute of America) Graduate Gemologists.   

Before you even start the process of buying an engagement ring or another piece of diamond jewelry, you should educate yourself on how a diamond is graded.  Also while you initially may want to buy the largest size diamond you can afford, it may be better to consider a higher quality, smaller stone.  A larger diamond typically has more inclusions than smaller diamonds, and since it is larger, the inclusions will be more visible.  In addition cut and proportions determine a diamond’s brilliance and must be done correctly to allow the maximum amount of light through the top of the diamond.   

The GIA uses a D-to-Z scale to measure the colorlessness of a diamond, comparing it to masterstones under controlled viewing conditions.  Stones range from colorless to yellowish-brown with a grade of D to F as colorless, G to J as near colorless, K to M as faint, N to R as very light and S to Z as light.  One tip to consider is that in some cases when you mount a non-colorless diamond in yellow gold, it can help a diamond appear to be colorless. 

A diamond’s clarity is graded on the number, size, relief, and positions of inclusions as seen by 10x magnification.  Please contact the experienced jewelers at Padis Jewelry for more suggestions on how to shop smart when it comes to buying a diamond.  

Padis Jewelry, a family-owned business, has been a trusted source for buying exquisite certified loose diamonds, engagement rings and fine jewelry since 1974.  We are one of the only jewelers in the area that offers such an exclusive selection of top names in the industry as well as such a large inventory.  For an opportunity to view one of San Francisco’s most impressive collections, please contact us to schedule at visit.

Sunday, November 13, 2016

A Proud Member of the AGS


When you decide to invest in a piece of jewelry, you want to know you are buying from a reputable jeweler.  At family-owned Padis Jewelry, we understand that concern and it is one of the reasons why we are proud to be a member of the American Gem Society (AGS). 

So what is the AGS and why should you care if your jeweler is a member?  According to their website, the American Gem Society is the country’s preeminent jewelry trade organization dedicated to consumer protection.  Founded in 1934, it is a nonprofit organization that puts people before profit and is designed to help educate people to safely and easily buy jewelry.  Along with consumer protection, they are committed to ethical business practices and to the development and maintenance of superior gemological skills and knowledge. The organization holds their members to the highest standards.  They also help customers to find a jeweler that is a member of AGS.

Becoming a member of AGS is not easy, and in fact, only 5% of jewelers in the United States are able to meet the exacting necessary requirements.  A jeweler needs to obtain references from industry professionals as well as be approved by a panel of peers.  In addition to the initial exam, members must submit to an annual re-certification exam.  AGS members are also offered hands-on training.  

Furthermore, AGS Laboratories were founded as a way to support the AGS mission and is a nonprofit diamond grading laboratory whose primary purpose is to provide consumers protection.  The laboratory adheres to the AGS Diamond Grading Standards and offers consumers diamond grading reports “that provide consistency and accuracy based on science.”  Please see our website to learn more about Padis Jewelry’s high standards and our extensive collection of top luxury brands and the finest quality of loose diamonds.

Padis Jewelry, a family-owned business, has been a trusted source for buying exquisite certified loose diamonds, engagement rings and fine jewelry since 1974.  We are one of the only jewelers in the area that offers such an exclusive selection of top names in the industry as well as such a large inventory.  For the opportunity to view one of San Francisco’s most impressive collections, please contact us to schedule at visit.

Source: americangemsociety.org/en/

Wednesday, November 9, 2016

Offering Some of the World’s Finest Timepieces


Along with being San Francisco’s exclusive authorized retailer for top luxury brands such as Tacori, Ritani, Verragio, Endless, Jeff Cooper Designs, Forevermark, Henri Daussi, Michael M., Sylvie, Demarco, Simon G., and Scott Kay, we also carry some of the world’s most sought-after timepieces.  At Padis Jewelry, we proudly offer our customers a collection of watches that includes Bulova, Michele, Stuhrling, TAG Heuer, and Breitling. 

One of the Breitling models you will find in our showrooms or on our website is the Chronoliner, inspired by watches from the 1950s-1960s.  The Chronoliner’s signature feature is a broad bezel in scratch-resistant high-tech ceramic (an ultra-hard synthetic material), and has the original star-shaped cut-out.  Breitling’s website states the company was founded in 1884 and is one of the last remaining independent Swiss watch brands.  Their specialty includes technical watches and they have played a crucial role in developing the wrist chronograph.  In addition Breitling is one of the world’s only major watch brands that equips all of their models with chronometer-certified movement as well as produce their own, exclusive mechanical chronograph movements. 

Another luxury brand we carry is Bulova, which has long been known for its innovation, craftsmanship and advanced technology.  Padis currently offers the following Bulova models: Gemini, Stratford, Massella, Mirado, Bellecombe and more.  Founded in 1875, the company’s slogan is “A Bulova watch is not only a timepiece; it is a piece of history.”  The line includes watches designed for dress, sport and casual wear in a wide price range.

We also are pleased to offer our customers beautiful timepieces from Michelle that feature hand-set diamonds and mother-of-pearl dials in stainless steel to gold cases.  Our collection includes Deco, Serein, Urban, and CSX models as well as others and a beautiful assortment of watch bands.  

You will also discover we carry a selection of watches from the luxury brand, TAG Heuer.   Founded in 1860, TAG Heuer “has successfully embraced a number of contrasting elements; heritage and innovation, prestige and performance, sport and glamour.”  Our TAG Heuer collection includes models from the Formula 1, Aquaracer, and Carrera lines to name a few.  Please visit our website to see our full selection of timepieces along with the rest of our exquisite collection.

Padis Jewelry, a family-owned business, has been a trusted source for buying exquisite certified loose diamonds, engagement rings and fine jewelry since 1974.  We are one of the only jewelers in the area that offers such an exclusive selection of top names in the industry as well as such a large inventory.  For an opportunity to view one of San Francisco’s most impressive collections, please contact us to schedule at visit.

Tuesday, October 11, 2016

Tips for Taking Care of Your Diamond





The hardest mineral on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness is a diamond, which has the top rating of 10.  It is four times harder than the next hardest mineral, which is corundum that includes varieties of sapphires and rubies.  A diamond is so hard that it can cut through any rock or metal and it requires a diamond to cut another diamond. 

If you are lucky enough to own a diamond, you may have noticed it has lost some of its original sparkle and fire.  Did you know that even the smallest amount of oil from your fingertips can adhere to the surface of a diamond and cause dirt and grime to collect?  This is why we recommend that you handle your diamond as little as possible, and as we tell our Padis Jewelry customers, diamonds are forever, as long as you take good care of them!

One of the easiest ways to keep a diamond looking like the day you bought it is to clean it once or twice a week in a gentle solution of water with a few drops of a mild soap added to it.  Once it has soaked, remove the piece and use a clean, soft toothbrush reserved just for jewelry cleaning to gently remove any remaining dirt.  Remember to clean the back of the diamond as this is where most of the oil and dirt collects.  Rinse the piece thoroughly and dry with a lint-free cloth. 

Another tip is to avoid any chlorine or abrasive cleaning products including toothpaste as chlorine can harm the metal alloy in the gold and abrasive products can scratch the metal.    Also do not use an ultrasonic cleaner if the diamond has been treated by fracture filling, and keep in mind that a cleaner can shake loose stones from a mounting. Padis Jewelry does not sell fracture-filled diamonds.
Since bridal jewelry, such as engagement rings and wedding bands are typically worn on a daily basis, they should be cleaned on a regular basis.  Furthermore, it helps to remove your rings when applying lotions to your hands as they can form a film on your diamond.  We suggest not wearing your rings when doing rough work and in chlorinated pools or hot tubs.    

  
Since 1974, Padis Jewelry has been a trusted source for buying exquisite certified loose diamonds, engagement rings and fine jewelry.  We are one of the only jewelers in the area that offers such an exclusive selection of top names in the industry as well as such a large inventory.  If you are a lover of beautiful jewels, please schedule at visit to San Francisco’s top jewelry store.


Source: gia.edu/gia-news-research-Secrets-Keep-Diamond-Sparkling