Handmade Jewellery vs Handcrafted Jewellery

Handmade jewellery and handcrafted jewellery are terms that are often used interchangeably in the jewellery world, but there are differences between the two. Larger retail jewellery stores and online sellers almost always offer only handcrafted jewellery.

Handmade jewellery refers to jewellery pieces that are crafted by hand, rather than mass-produced by machines. Handamde jewellery can range from simple, minimalist designs to intricate and highly detailed pieces that require a high degree of skill and precision to create.

A jeweller has the necessary training, skills, experience and equiptment to make from scratch detailed pieces of jewellery. Independent registered jewellery valuers pay particular attention to whether a piece of jewellery is handmade or handcrafted. The uniqueness of a specially commissioned one-of-a-kind handmade piece of jewellery is part of what protects its value.

With handmade jewellery, each piece is unique and one-of-a-kind, no two pieces are the exact same. Handmade jewelery is often of higher quality than mass-produced jewellery, as the jeweller has taken the time to carefully create each piece by hand. Handmade jewellery typically delivers strength, durability and a higher retained value (including for resale and replacement).

Handcrafted jewellery refers to jewellery that is made using a combination of hand tools and machinary. This means that while the jewellery is still made by hand, some parts of the process may be automated or assisted by machinary. Both handmade and handcrafted jewellery can be customised to suit individual preferences and needs, such as choosing specific gemstones or materials.

Handcrafted jewellery is generally faster to make due to the casting or pressing as a production method. A jewellery design can be reproduced as many times as needed which generally reduces the cost of production for the manufacturer and customer.

Both types of jewellery can be beautiful and valuable, and the choice between them will ultimately depend on your personal preferences, budget, the quality and uniqueness, and the specific piece of jewellery you are looking for.

Natural Diamonds v Lab Grown Diamonds - what’s the difference?

When deciding between a natural diamond or lab grown diamond, I often get asked this question by my clients - what’s the difference?

Natural diamonds and lab grown diamonds are two different types of diamonds, distinguished primarily by their origin and how they are formed. 

Origin:

Natural Diamonds: Natural diamonds are formed deep within the Earth's mantle under high pressure and temperature conditions over millions of years. They are created by carbon atoms bonding together in a crystal lattice structure. Natural diamonds are mined from the Earth's surface, typically through diamond mines.

Lab Grown Diamonds: Lab Grown diamonds, also known as lab-created diamonds, engineered diamonds, cultured diamonds, synthetic diamonds or man-made diamonds, are created in a controlled laboratory environment. These diamonds are produced by replicating the natural diamond-growing process, using high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) or chemical vapor deposition (CVD) methods. Lab grown diamonds are essentially grown from a tiny diamond seed or carbon source.

Composition:

Natural Diamonds: Natural diamonds are composed of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice structure. They may contain impurities or trace elements that can impart various colors to the diamond.

Lab Grown Diamonds: Lab Grown diamonds have the same chemical composition as natural diamonds, consisting entirely of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice. They are virtually identical in terms of chemical and physical properties.

Rarity and Ethical Concerns:

Natural Diamonds: Natural diamonds are considered rare, mainly due to the fact that they take millions of years to form. They can is some circumstances be associated with ethical concerns related to diamond mining, including issues like environmental impact, labour practices, and conflict diamonds.

Lab Grown Diamonds: Lab Grown diamonds can be considered more ethical and environmentally friendly in many cases because they do not involve the environmental destruction associated with mining. They are often referred to as "conflict-free" diamonds, as they are not associated with the same ethical concerns as some natural diamonds. However, it's important to note that the ethicality of lab grown diamonds can still be influenced by factors such as the environmental impact of the energy sources used in the lab-growing process and the labour practices of specific companies. Not all lab grown diamond producers operate with the same ethical standards. Ultimately, whether lab grown diamonds are considered more ethical depends on one's specific ethical priorities and concerns.

Price:

Natural Diamonds: Natural diamonds are typically more expensive than lab grown diamonds due to their rarity and the costs associated with mining and distribution.

Lab Grown Diamonds: Lab grown diamonds are generally more affordable than natural diamonds of comparable quality, making them an attractive option for those looking for a more budget-friendly choice. For engagement rings, I often tell my clients that with a lab grown diamond you are not investing in the actual lab grown diamond itself, you are investing in the person you are wanting to spend the rest of your life with.

Quality and Appearance:

Both natural and lab grown diamonds can come in various qualities and appearances. Factors like colour, clarity, cut, and carat weight influence the overall quality and appearance of a diamond. High-quality lab grown diamonds can be virtually indistinguishable from high-quality natural diamonds to the naked eye.

The primary differences between natural and lab grown diamonds are their origin, rarity, ethical considerations, price, and how they are produced. Both types of diamonds have their advantages and are suitable for different preferences and budgets. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on individual preferences, ethical concerns, and budget considerations.

Discover the beauty Down Under: Australian Sapphires

When it comes to precious gemstones, sapphires are renowned for their captivating beauty and rich history. While you might associate sapphires with exotic locales like Sri Lanka or Burma (Myanmar), Australia is a hidden gem in the world of sapphire mining. Australian sapphires boast a unique charm and are celebrated for their quality, colours, and ethical mining practices. In this blog post, I’ll dive into the fascinating world of Australian sapphires and discover why they are considered a true treasure down under.

Geographic Diversity: Australia's vast expanse harbors various sapphire deposits across its states and territories. Some of the most notable sapphire-producing regions include Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and the Northern Territory. Each area offers its distinct sapphire characteristics, adding to the diversity of Australian sapphires.

A Kaleidoscope of Colours: While blue sapphires are undoubtedly the most well-known variety, Australian sapphires come in a kaleidoscope of colours. Beyond the classic blue, these gemstones can exhibit stunning shades of green, yellow, orange, and even pink. The diversity of colors makes Australian sapphires particularly intriguing for collectors and jewellery designers alike.

Exceptional Quality: Australian sapphires are renowned for their high quality, often rivaling sapphires from other famous sources worldwide. Quality is determined by several factors, including colour intensity, clarity, cut precision, and carat weight. These gems are cherished for their brilliance and luster, making them ideal candidates for exquisite jewellery pieces.

Famous Australian Sapphire Mines: The Anakie Sapphire Fields in Queensland stand out as one of Australia's most famous sapphire mining locations. These fields have yielded top-quality sapphires for generations. Other notable mines include Inverell in New South Wales and Lava Plains in the Northern Territory. These mines have contributed significantly to the reputation of Australian sapphires on the global stage.

Ethical Mining Practices: Australia takes its mining regulations seriously, ensuring that sapphire mining activities are conducted responsibly and sustainably. Ethical mining practices protect the environment and promote the well-being of local communities. Some mining areas in Australia are located on or near Aboriginal lands, highlighting the importance of respecting Indigenous interests and cultural heritage.

Heat Treatment: To enhance colour and clarity, many Australian sapphires undergo heat treatment. This common practice in the gemstone industry is considered acceptable as long as it is disclosed to consumers. Heat treatment can transform a good sapphire into a stunning one, revealing its true beauty.

Market Demand: Australian sapphires are highly sought after by both collectors and jewellery designers. These gems are used to create a wide range of exquisite jewellery pieces, from engagement rings to necklaces and earrings. The allure of Australian sapphires lies in their rarity and uniqueness.

Investment Value: For those considering sapphire investment, Australian sapphires hold promise. High-quality and rare Australian sapphires have the potential to appreciate in value over time, making them an attractive option for investors and collectors alike.

Australian sapphires are a hidden treasure in the world of gemstones. Their remarkable quality, dazzling array of colors, ethical mining practices, and potential investment value make them a true gemological wonder. Whether you’re wanting a piece of jewellery with an Australian Sapphire, a collector, jewellery enthusiast, or investor, exploring the world of Australian sapphires is an adventure worth undertaking. These gemstones offer not only breathtaking beauty but also a connection to the land and culture of the land down under.