I have a weakness for engagement rings. And by weakness, I mean that it’s not physically possible for me to walk by a jewelry store window without screeching to a halt when I see them on display, so I guess I’m putting it a bit mildly.

Thirty-three carats of London blue topaz are showcased in Enamorata’s 18-karat gold and diamond earrings, which boast the richest topaz blue I’ve ever seen. Considering the hefty carat weight, the $1800 price is decidedly reasonable. If, however, a four-digit tag still induces a case of sticker shock, the company offers an equally beautiful pair of 7.5-carat London blue topaz hoop earrings for a third of the price.

This newsletter celebrates the March birthstone, Aquamarine, and makes the point that jewelry is a safe commitment. Pearls are potentially more long-term than a relationship.

Some believe the idea of metaphysical properties in gems was first cultivated in the ancient cultures of Babylonia and India where astrologers believed gems were filled with magic and spiritual powers. In early societies a stones’ healing and mystical properties had more meaning for its wearer than its aesthetic qualities. Celestial planets were linked to specific stones and this ultimately led to the foundation of our Western birth month, zodiac sign and gemstone traditions.

And if you need more reasons to love this gem of the sea, aquamarine increases intelligence and helps make one youthful! The aquamarine is an excellent stone for meditation. There is lightness about this stone that causes one to see the equality of life: a sense of serenity or peace with it, much as the sea brings peace to many who have troubled souls. How Zen!

The Egyptian Pharaohs adorned not only their bodies, but all varieties of decorative items, including their grave furnishing, with this magnificent, prized blue gemstone. Esteemed as a holy stone, turquoise talismans of good fortune adorned daggers, sabers and bridles of horses throughout history. Levantine traders commonly known as Turks brought turquoise to Europe from the Eastern Mediterranean. Hence the name turquoise, a term used to describe any color that resembles this stunning gemstone.

A loupe, pronounced loop, is any small magnifying glass mounted for hand use, that allows the user to take a closer look at a gemstone.