Engagement Rings, Jewelry Trends
Ring Finger: What Hand Does Your Wedding and Engagement Ring Go On?
Wearing a ring to symbolize your love has been a centuries-old tradition across the world. These days, a lot of attention, planning, and effort goes into picking out the perfect ring; couples look for the ideal wedding bands while people search for an engagement ring to propose to their significant other with great care.
The meaning and tradition of the ring also involves the right wedding ring hand and finger, and also adds the subtle status symbol in terms of the ring’s size and material. That said, let’s dive into the story surrounding the wedding, engagement, and even the promise rings.
The Meaning of the Ring Finger
Traditionally, we wear wedding and engagement rings on the fourth finger of our left hand. These days, we view this practice as a romantic one and even refer to this particular finger as the “ring finger” regardless of whether there’s a ring on it or not.
In ancient Roman times, it was believed that there’s a vein that stretches from the fourth finger of the left hand straight to the heart. As such, this vein was called the Vein of Love (Vena Amoris), which only made it more appropriate for wedding rings to be worn on this finger in particular. The act itself represented true love and devotion due to the closeness of the heart and one of the main lifelines.
This story is truly heartwarming but today we are well aware that this vein doesn’t exist. Of course, many cultures around the world still value the meaning and tradition of the story and continue to wear the wedding/engagement rings on the fourth finger of their left hand.
For instance, this practice is still very popular in the US. On the other hand, some cultures have shifted to wearing such a meaningful ring on the fourth finger of their right hand. This is the case in countries like Greece, Russia, and Colombia, to name a few.
The Symbolism of Wedding Ring Finger
Wedding rings have symbolized eternal love for thousands of years. The origins of this tradition can be traced back all the way to ancient Egypt, around 4800 years ago. The true power of the ring was about its shape; namely, the circle presents eternity as it has no beginning and no end.
And the space inside the circle is not just empty; the meaning goes well beyond placing it on a finger. Actually, this space represents a gateway to immortal love.
The bride and groom give the wedding rings to each other during the wedding ceremony. According to the tradition, they place the ring on the fourth finger of the left hand of their spouse-to-be once they exchange their vows. These days though, deciding what finger to wear wedding ring on is up to interpretation.
The practice even extends beyond the question of the left or right hand, with some people choosing to wear a ring on a necklace, have the band tattooed, or even get a finger piercing.
What’s more, wedding rings come in all shapes and sizes. The couples these days are free to choose the metal, decide on whether they’ll get rings with stones and/or intricate designs, have them inscribed, and so on. Also, there’s no rule that both the groom’s and bride’s wedding rings have to be the same; they can choose bands that best suit their individual taste.
The Symbolism of Engagement Ring Finger
Engagement rings don’t have as long and rich of a history as wedding rings. It’s believed that the practice started in 1477 when Archduke Maximilian of Austria proposed to Mary of Burgundy with a ring embellished with baguette diamonds in the shape of the letter M. It was his choice that set the trend that remains popular to this day.
As the hardest and most durable natural material on this planet, diamond is extremely valuable and a perfect choice to symbolize eternal love. Not to mention that every single diamond is rather unique, which tells an original story of promised forever for different couples.
Of course, an engagement ring doesn’t need to feature diamonds. There are plenty of alternatives that may be better suited to the style and taste of the wearer. A great example is the beautiful blue sapphire engagement ring that Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton wears. As such, other precious stones are always a trendy choice for an engagement ring, including other options such as pearls, moonstones, and so on.
The engagement ring is typically placed on the same finger that the wedding ring is meant to be on. Some people decide to wear both their engagement and wedding rings on their ring finger while others opt to move their engagement ring to another finger once they get married and start wearing their wedding ring on the ring finger.
Traditionally, it’s the man who proposes to a woman, which means that in most cases only ladies wear an engagement ring. However, there’s no rule stating that man can’t wear one, which is a growing trend in this day and age.
Are There Different Meanings to Different Fingers?
As mentioned, there’s no specific rule that states which finger to wear your wedding ring on. True, tradition has it that the fourth finger of the left hand is the most popular choice, but that’s not the case in every single culture in the world. Therefore, not only do you have the choice to switch between the ring fingers on your left and right hand, but some people opt to wear their wedding ring on the index finger of their right hand. Furthermore, a pinky ring is also considered a marital status symbol.
In that respect, people have complete freedom to choose on what finger they’ll wear their wedding ring nowadays, and even decide whether they’ll go with the actual ring in the first place to signify their marital bond.
What About the Promise Ring Finger?
It’s a common misconception to use the term promise and engagement ring interchangeably, but the promise ring is not the same as the engagement ring. Essentially, people in a steady relationship can give one another a promise ring to show their devotion and love, as well as their readiness to consider marriage in the future – but not immediately and without the actual act of getting engaged.
In that sense, promise rings are common among both men and women and are typically worn on the ring finger of the left hand, just like the engagement and wedding rings. And after the marriage, tradition dictates to move the promise ring to the right ring finger. Of course, many people choose to wear this ring on some other finger, especially if they don’t want it to be perceived as an official engagement.
Regardless of what your opinion and preference are when it comes to the engagement/wedding ring finger, you definitely can’t go wrong with choosing a top-quality and unique ring to represent your everlasting love. And you can get all that and more at our wedding ring store in Miami.
At Santayana Jewelers we commit to designing timeless yet custom jewelry pieces made just for you! Our recognizable style and competitive prices make Santayana pieces that are more valuable and meaningful. Feel free to check out our online store as well.
Jewelry Trends
The 10 Hottest Jewelry Trends for the 2020 Christmas Holidays
Jewelry is not just something we wear to match our outfit; it’s a type of fashion and personality statement that can enhance the overall look and the confidence of the wearer. And during those special occasions when we want to look our absolute best, it’s only natural to want a special piece of jewelry as well. That said, Christmas fashion jewelry brings some very hot jewelry trends that are bound to turn heads and make you look stunning. Of course, you can also rock the following pieces whenever you see fit; the point is to find a style and trend that you can 100% vibe with.
Crystal Statement Necklaces
Is there anything more festive than large sparkling gems to compliment your Christmas fashion gear? If you prefer to make a statement wherever you go, you’ll love rocking crystal statement necklaces for the 2020 holiday season. Big chains adorned with fancy crystals mimicking the shapes of flowers and stars are among the most popular pieces at the moment. You can choose a “subtle” version by opting for single color gems or go all out with a range of different gem colors. Both options are bound to make you look like million dollars as you sparkle brighter than the Christmas tree.
Gold Chain Jewelry
If you’re interested in the whole statement concept but aren’t too keen on gems, you can find your ideal bling in the heavy gold chains. From the 80s and 90s, gold chain jewelry has made a comeback in recent years, and it’s all the rage in 2020. The simplicity of the design allows the wearer to pair these chains with whatever fashion style they prefer (even athleisure) but the size of the chain is what makes the true statement. It’s easy to wear them as both necklaces and bracelets. A layered look featuring different lengths makes an instant pop!
Yellow Gold Jewelry
It’s not just that gold seems to be the go-to metal for 2020 – yellow gold is where it’s at if you want to look bougie and elegant. In case you prefer to keep your outfits simple and toned down, yellow gold can make you stand out from the crowd like the rarest jewel. Be it rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, or brooches, nothing can replace yellow gold when it comes to that high-end look. You can’t go wrong with 24k gold pieces, but even if you plan to go lower make sure that you choose real gold as this will help your bling piece stand the test of time.
Geometrically Shaped Jewelry
Your goal is to blend a fashion statement, newest jewelry trends, and a unique take on jewelry design seamlessly? The answer lies in the geometrically shaped jewelry pieces. From triangles and diamonds to rectangles and other more “interesting” shapes jewelry-wise, these days you can easily find a plethora of jewelry pieces featuring a geometry concept of some kind. Aside from necklaces and bracelets, chandeliers and even stud earrings are also amazing bling additions that can let you pull off this particular trend. What’s more, the whole trend has a dose of modern, fast-paced lifestyle that instantly makes you look more fashion-conscious and put together.
Hand Bracelets
If you don’t like the feeling of something heavy and bulky around your neck you can still make a fashion statement with your bracelet jewelry. That said, one of the most popular Christmas jewelry ideas revolves around the statement hand bracelets. You can go for daintier or bulkier designs. What makes these bracelets so special and interesting is the attachment to the ring worn on your finger. In a way, you get to turn your wrist and entire hand into a work of art with one single piece of jewelry. It’s also relatively simple to exercise your creativity and DIY some of your favorite bracelets and rings by linking them together.
Mirrored Necklaces
No, you won’t be wearing an actual mirror around your neck. The mirrored effect of these amazingly beautiful necklaces is created by the careful blend of different metals that reflect light. Not only is this a truly luxurious and unique addition to your fashion style, but it’s also a perfect example of true holiday bling, as the reflectiveness and delicate nature of the piece are very reminiscent of Christmas ornaments. So, why leave all the job of bringing the light and life to the party to the Christmas tree, when you can do even better with a statement mirrored necklace?
Oversized Chain-Linked & Tribal Necklaces
A true feast for people who value individuality and uniqueness, short-length tribal necklaces and oversized chain-linked necklaces are a huge part of 2020 fashion and are bound to make you stand out during the entire Christmas party. These pieces are typically handmade or designed to look the part and feature a range of colorful beads and pearls. If you can’t decide what style you love more – color or monochrome – you can easily get the best of both worlds by opting for a planer outfit and this type of gorgeous neck décor.
Pendant Earrings
We all know and love wearing pendant necklaces, but the trends for the 2020 holiday season don’t stop there. Rocking pendants for earrings is a unique and interesting way to adorn your outfit and feature your individuality, especially since you have the freedom to mix and match different pendants however you see fit. That said, you can easily transform your favorite pair of earrings, no matter how subtle they may look, by simply adding a pendant you deem perfect for a Christmas party – or whatever other special occasions. Simply take the pendant off afterward, and you’re back to your old set. It’s a truly dreamy trend for creative and artistic souls.
The Single Earring Trend
Rocking a single earring seems to be a trend that will never go away. This holiday season, too, you can show off your unique fashion sense and quirky personality by choosing an eye-catching and elegant earring that will hang straight to your shoulder on just one side. These days there are even earring pairs available with purposefully different sizes and lengths of the earrings if you’re looking for a more cohesive jewelry look.
Three-Finger Rings
Bold rings are where it’s at! The bigger the better trend is still going strong, but the current spotlight is reserved for the triple or three-finger rings that, as the name suggests, adorn three of your fingers at once. If you plan to make a strong impression while sipping your cocktail at the party, this is the bling you want to get alongside!
Adding jewelry to your outfit is a great way to feature your taste, style, and personality. And if you’re looking for Christmas jewelry ideas for 2020, you can’t go wrong with the trends mentioned above.
Visit us at Santayana Jewelry, the best cuban jewelry store in Miami, or check out our website if you’re on the lookout for unique, trendy, yet timeless and durable pieces that will make that much-needed bling a part of your staple look. Don’t be afraid to shine and be the star of your own galaxy. After all, why not be the one to bring the light into the bland and bleak setting?
Jewelry Trends
Kids’ Jewelry: It’s Not Just Trendy, It’s Traditional – 2020 Update
Kids jewelry is not a new concept even though it may seem like it at first. Actually, the tradition of young children and even newborns wearing their own jewelry has deep roots and dates back to ancient customs. Bracelets and anklets are definitely the most popular types of jewelry for children, but in some countries, necklaces and earrings are also a common gift for small children, both boys, and girls.
The History of Kids’ Jewelry
In ancient times, gifting children with jewelry has been a globally practiced custom. It was thought that these particular jewelry pieces will guard the kids against evil spirits – together with the decorative aspect of it all. At first, this jewelry was made from animal hair and shells only to evolve into elaborate gold and stone designs that have been found in areas of ancient Egypt, the Roman Empire, Byzantine, and so on. Even the Bible mentions the instances of children wearing jewelry.
Every part of the planet and every nation has its own approach to kids’ jewelry but the indisputable fact is that the tradition existed and is still going strong. For instance, Cambodian parents would often tie silver strings with bells on their children’s ankles to ward off evil and keep track of their movement. According to African tradition, the stretching of the earlobes begins with baby jewelry. From the early 14th century, a big custom among Italians was to gift their newborns small cross necklaces made of coral to protect them from the “evil eye”, and so on.
During the 17th century, jewelry craftsmanship became very popular in Europe, which also included making special diaper/bib clips made of gold or silver for the babies at the time. And during the Victorian period, this trend boomed into plated baby bracelets and necklaces specifically designed to carry the child’s name or simply have the word “baby” inscribed. Jeweled brooches were a popular baby ornament for the wealthier families. These trends have soon traveled to America as well, where parents would use baby pins instead of common buttons for baby clothes as well as gift the children coral-bead necklaces for protection.
Furthermore, in some cultures such as Latin American and South Asian, it’s actually expected that baby girls have their ears pierced. Namely, buying the first set of earrings for the baby is one of the most special moments for the parents and/or grandparents in these cultures.
Is Baby Jewelry a Good Idea?
In this day and age, we are much more knowledgeable about health and safety, which poses the question of whether baby jewelry is a good idea at all. That said, it’s important to mention that there are no medical statements that label baby jewelry as dangerous, as long as the materials used are hypoallergenic and all the safety measures are taken, especially in regard to ear piercing.
Aside from potential allergies that can be prevented by choosing the right jewelry material suitable for a child’s sensitive skin, the biggest concern is the choking hazard. In that sense, the most important thing is to simply listen to common sense when giving a child a piece of jewelry to wear.
That said, it would be best to avoid necklaces completely until the child is old enough to know not to put foreign objects in their mouth. But the choking hazard is not only present with the necklaces but also anklets and bracelets that are too dangly or have loose clasps. In that respect, make sure to purchase jewelry that doesn’t have charms and beads, keep the bracelets and anklets tight-fitting, and ensure that the pieces always have a safety clasp. If you take care of these issues and choose adequate jewelry according to the child’s age, the question of whether baby jewelry is a good idea or not bottles down to the matter of aesthetics, and nothing more.
Popular Baby Girl Jewelry Options
There are plenty of different choices when looking for the best baby girl jewelry gift.
Bracelets are very popular as a baby jewelry gift for a little girl as they don’t bother the baby too much and look absolutely adorable on her tiny wrist. What’s more, they can be passed down through generations and serve a nice decorative purpose for the family once the girl overgrows it. A very popular bracelet style for baby girls involves a string with the child’s birthstone or a plate with her date of birth inscribed.
Anklets have become more popular in recent years as far as the modern trends go in baby jewelry as they pose the least danger to a child when it comes to a potential choking hazard. They can be found in various styles, often labeled as “baby’s first anklet”. The best selection of baby anklets is available at Asian jewelers and merchants.
Necklaces are not the most popular baby girl jewelry and it’s more common to find necklaces suitable for toddlers than infants. However, it’s possible to find clunkier necklaces of a suitable size for babies that are actually meant to help with teething. Still, those are not as decorative and fashionable as regular necklaces.
Earrings are definitely in abundance when one is looking for suitable baby girl jewelry. In general, the earrings are always made as tiny studs but they come in a variety of shapes such as stars, hearts, butterflies, flowers, or even have one delicate cubic zirconia as a nice detail. Of course, it’s essential that a specialized professional performs the ear-piercing so that there’s no risk of infection. The ideal material is 14-carat gold to prevent allergic reactions.
Religious jewelry pieces are also very popular as both baby girl and baby boy jewelry. In general, these are typically bracelets symbolizing baptism and christening. As mentioned, necklaces with crosses, Star of David, and so on, are better left for toddlers.
The Rise of Baby Boy Jewelry
Baby girl jewelry may be more common, but nowadays there are more options for baby boy jewelry as well. As mentioned, religious bracelets are gender-neutral. In that sense, there are more choices when it comes to other baby boy bracelets as well that are a bit more masculine in style, with bangles or names spelled in blocks. Furthermore, popular necklaces for boy toddlers involve dog-tag style pendants as well as pendants featuring the religious aspect of the family, and so on. It’s true, however, that baby boy earrings are still not taking off and it’s difficult to find earrings specially made for boys. But if you like the look and want your boy to have pierced ears, there are still plenty of simple stud earrings to find.
If you’re looking for the best kids jewelry store in Miami, don’t hesitate to pay us a visit at Santayana Jewelers. We offer top-quality pieces that are customized and specially designed for our unique customers. It’s with special care that we cater to young children, making sure there’s no risk of allergies thanks to the superb materials used while incorporating interesting and fun designs bound to turn into a true family heirloom for generations. It’s our goal to allow all of our customers to show off their individuality, starting as early as newborns.
Jewelry Trends
4 New Jewelry Book Titles Just in Time for the Holidays
The holidays are almost upon us, which means one thing – delighting our loved ones! Getting a meaningful present can be a difficult task, especially if you want to give something personal, something that can speak to the very soul of your loved one.
When it comes to jewelry, the choice is extra hard. But if your loved one is a jewelry lover and a book lover, jewelry books can be the perfect solution!
Here are just some of the titles perfect for enjoying a cozy Christmas morning.
The Pearl Necklace by Vivienne Becker
The Little Black Dress of jewelry, a pearl necklace can be dressed up and down, it can be bold and discrete, it can be opulent and humble. Award-winning journalist, Vivienne Becker, traces the pearl back to history and on the way explored and presents the history of jewelry, along with the evolution of fashion itself.
This book can be considered the authoritative work on pearls and, just like the jewel, it’s gorgeous – the pearlescent story is told through photography, still-lifes of the most famous pearls, along with the women who draped them around their neck.
Hidden Gems: Jewelry Stories from the Saleroom by Sarah Hue-Williams and Raymond Sancroft-Baker
What’s a jewel without a story? You can argue it’s nothing more than a pretty colored rock. Fortunately, one jewelry historian (Hue-Williams) and one European Jewelry Director for Christie’s (Sancroft-Baker) have joined forces and decided to reveal all the secrets and stories behind our favorite jewelry.
Each gem inside this jewelry book is followed by a tale, and each of those is a result of the writers’ first-hand encounters with the gems. Whether it’s a diamond worn in battle or ruby that once graced the neck of the most famous French lady of the court, each of the stones in the book is spellbound by a story of where it came from and what it saw along the way.
Jewel: A Celebration of Earth’s Treasures
This book on jewelry delivers on its promise – behind the black velvet cover is an explosion of color, wonder, and brilliance. An encyclopedia of jewels of sorts, this book is a comprehensive guide, peppered with spreads that feature some of the most well-known jewels in history.
Not just another coffee table book, this title will provide you with surprising information on almost every page – topics range from Halley’s Comet opal, the Shwedagon Pagoda in Myanmar, to the Staffordshire Hoard.
Elizabeth Taylor: My Love Affair with Jewelry
Elizabeth Taylor’s jewelry book is almost as dazzling as the woman herself. From the time she’s first stepped on the stage, she’s been a star. Over the years, she’s continued to evolve and dazzle, with each step proving her greatness and poise to both herself and the world.
Jewelry is just one of her many passions and one she has stayed true to over decades. In her book, she gives the reader a personal, guided tour of her impressive collection. From Burmese rubies and Cartier diamonds to a 33.19 carat Krupp diamond, each is followed by amusing anecdotes and intimate tales from this extraordinary woman’s life.
If you want to make the present extra special, why not include some jewelry in the box? From key chains to charm bracelets and divine earrings – you can find the perfect match for your loved one in our shop! A custom made jewelry piece just might be even better – get us the design, and we’ll make sure the joy you bring to your loved one is extra special!
Diamonds, Engagement Rings, Jewelry Trends, Men Jewelry
Best Wedding Anniversary Jewelry Gift Ideas
Should you get your special someone wedding anniversary jewelry? After all, it’s common that on your first wedding anniversary, you should receive something made of paper. Leather comes at year three, while tin or aluminum (as in a piece of jewelry) is set for year ten anniversary.
If you scratch the surface, you’ll find that each anniversary corresponds to a precious stone! Gold jewelry is traditionally given at both the first and 50th anniversary, pearl marks year two and 30, while diamond is for a happy year 10 and a happier year 75.
So, when it comes to the perfect anniversary necklace for her, it will definitely bring delight to your darling. And on that note, here are some anniversary jewelry ideas:
Wedding Anniversary Jewelry For Him
Oftentimes, people think there is something tricky about choosing men’s jewelry. The truth is, it is quite simple. Jewelry can enhance style – and it always has. A watch, a pair of cufflinks, a signet ring – any of these can be a perfect choice for an anniversary gift! Here are some great ideas when it comes to men’s jewelry.
- First Anniversary – Gold
Despite the prevalence of smartphones, a watch is still the mark of sophistication and professionalism. Impress your husband with gold, or even gold-toned watch – a gift that is both stylish and practical.
If your spouse isn’t the watch type, you can always get him a pair of cufflinks. Check out this handy guide – you might find something useful to help you make a decision.
- Fifth Anniversary – Sapphire
A deep blue sapphire can be a perfect addition to your husband’s style. With a signet ring, worn on the pinky, he can project the image of confidence and power to the world. If you know your husband would love that, we suggest a sterling silver Cuban crest ring – a perfect way to show heritage and style.
- 10th Anniversary – Diamond
Opt for a tie pin that can make your husband stand out in any situation. Tie pins, a former basic element of good style, have become rarities today, but they still remain an accessory that signifies success.
Wedding Anniversary Jewelry For Her
Does your loved one prefer earrings or necklaces? Or is her fav accessory a bracelet? No matter your wife’s style and personality, these ideas for anniversary jewelry gifts for her offer you plenty of options!
- First Anniversary – Gold
A 14k gold heart pendant can be a perfect addition to your wife’s necklace collection. She can choose when to wear it and with which chain, so it’s safe to say it’s extremely versatile. In that same vein, you can go for some medals.
- Fifth Anniversary – Sapphire
While you’re still at the very start of your marriage, the fifth year is still a big deal! If you want to impress your wife, you can go for an 18K white gold, .67 carat sapphire ring surrounded by .17 carat diamonds. Despite the lush description, it’s discrete enough she can wear it with almost any outfit!
- 10th Anniversary – Diamond
How do you get a diamond piece of jewelry that can rival your wife’s wedding ring? You can’t – but you can get quite close. Consider jaw-droppingly gorgeous diamond earrings – they can enhance your wife’s natural beauty while also projecting an image of elegance and confidence.
Is your partner unique? Do you know they won’t settle for something ordinary? In that case, you can check out our custom jewelry store or surprise them with custom jewelry! Get in touch with us, explain what your special someone loves, and we can make you a custom design that will make your spouse feel truly special.
Jewelry Trends
How to Match Jewelry with a Dress?
You’ve got that perfect dress, but now you’ve fallen into new trouble – how to accessorize it? Fortunately, you don’t need to worry! Here’s a short, handy guide to help you enhance your look no matter the style of your dress.
Jewelry for a black dress
A little black dress is usually a staple in everyone’s wardrobe. Mixed and matched with the proper accessories, it can give you a stylish, elegant look no matter the time of day or the occasion!
When it comes to jewelry, a perfect piece for a black dress depends on the cut and the statement you want to make.
For example, if you’re going out to brunch, pairing the dress with a shell necklace or dangling earrings can give you a casual, bohemian look. If you want a more formal style, a delicate pendant necklace or a minimalistic ring can give you a sophisticated look.
Pairing a red dress with jewelry
Yellow gold is a traditional choice when pairing jewelry with a red dress. Choose the style of your yellow gold jewelry to match the occasion and the cut of your dress.
If you want to go bolder, pair your red dress with white gold or sterling silver. You’ll get a high-contrast, fashionable look.
There’s no need to shy away from precious stones either! Choose the stone you want to wear depending on the shade of red of your dress. If you’re unsure about the match – well, diamonds can give you an elegant, sophisticated look no matter the color of your outfit!
Jewelry for a strapless dress
Strapless dresses are made to highlight your neck, collarbone, and the upper part of your body. When choosing jewelry, it’s best to pick one focus piece. Your goal here should be to keep the focus up and on your face – a pair of earrings is the best way to do. And remember, the bolder the better!
Jewelry for a high neck dress
A high collar can be a statement itself, so what works best is if you accentuate other parts of your body. You can style this type of dress with a pair of delicate earrings, some bracelets, or even hair accessories!
Jewelry for a one shoulder dress
The asymmetric cut of the one shoulder dress can be tricky to style! What’s most important here is not to take any attention away from the style of the dress, and let the necklace complement it. To accentuate the style of the dress, you should accessorize the side of your body opposite the shoulder strap. A bold, statement cuff bracelet is a perfect choice.
Jewelry for a V neck dress
If the V neckline of your dress is deep, you could try wearing a choker paired with a pair of simple earrings. Another, more interesting option is a long pendant or a lariat necklace. If you really want to wow with your outfit, your best choice is to layer your necklaces.
Jewelry for a halter dress
When styling a halter dress, you should avoid wearing too much jewelry. Instead, pick bracelets! A bold one, a delicate one, or a stack of them, the choice is yours!
Are you ready to accessorize? Now that you’ve got this handy guide, you can look polished, elegant, and sophisticated no matter which dress you choose to wear! If you’re looking for that perfect piece of jewelry, visit our jewelry stores in Miami, FL.
Fun Facts, Jewelry Trends
Mixing Silver and Gold Jewelry: How to Do it Right?
Like any old adage in the fashion world, the rule to never mix your metals when wearing jewelry is gone. Finally, mixing gold and silver is no longer a taboo!
Wearing gold and silver together can give you a fresh, new look, enhance your style and natural beauty, and even give a spring to your step. When mixed, gold and silver can match your outfit, mood, and personality.
Mixing Silver and Gold Jewelry
Can you make a mistake when combining different metals? No, not really – after all, fashion is not what’s in, but how you wear it. Even the most shocking trends (just remember that it was a sin for women to wear pants) had to start with one confident woman. So, when combining gold and silver, your best guide is your own taste and sense of style. If, however, you still feel insecure about it, we can give you some tips and tricks.
Tips for Properly Mixing Silver and Gold Jewelry
Focus on one spot
While you can wear bracelets, necklaces, and rings all at once, what works best is having a focus area. This can be your neck, wrists, hands, or ears.
To avoid wearing too much jewelry, pick an area you want to focus on, and let that be the spot where you’ll combine silver and gold jewelry.
If you want to accentuate your neck, for example, you can choose a gold necklace, and layer some silver necklaces over it. On the other areas, choose jewelry pieces that won’t take the attention away from your focus – this means small, delicate jewelry.
The perfect bridging piece
To combine silver and gold well, you should always have a bridging piece of jewelry – this means there should be one piece that stands out, so you can build around it.
For example, if you want to show off an antique gold ring, you can wear it on your index finger and wear smaller, simpler rings on your other fingers. This way the gold ring is the focus, while the other rings serve as a backdrop that only makes it stand out more.
Your bridging piece can be the most exotic, or most unusual piece in your collection. That one silver necklace you love but you believe never pairs well with any of your outfits can be combined with several gold chains and voila – a new look that suddenly perfectly matches your style!
Precious stones are always a good choice
The centerpiece of your gold and silver jewelry combination can be a precious stone. Topaz, sapphire, emerald, and amethyst can pair perfectly with the silver-gold combination.
Choose your perfect stone and try to build around that. If, for example, you have a necklace with a blue sapphire pendant, you can layer delicate gold and silver necklaces around it so that, in the end, it shimmers and shines like the night sky – and the sapphire as the brightest star!
Go simple… or go bold
There are simply no limits to what you can do when mixing gold and silver, so don’t be afraid to experiment! The way you combine your jewelry can vary from casual and simple to bold and unique.
A look for the office can be your silver watch flanked by thin gold bangles – this sounds simple, but it gives you a sophisticated, elegant look, even if you’re wearing a pair of jeans and a simple t-shirt. A bolder look can be combining your showstopper ring with a dozen of smaller, delicate bands.
All you really need to successfully wear a mix of gold and silver is one thing – confidence! Feel free to experiment, and don’t be afraid to have fun. If you’re on the lookout for a perfect piece of jewelry, drop by our gold jewelry store – we promise you’ll find it!
Jewelry Trends
What Jewelry Goes Good With Your Skin Tone?
Skin tone is not the first thing that comes to a person’s mind when choosing what jewelry to wear. However, if you take it into account, it can really make you look more elegant, luxurious and polished. Jewelry is, after all, worn against the skin, so why not make a choice that compliments your skin tone?
This begs the question – will silver or gold jewelry make your skin tone shine? Or will rose gold match your skin tone and make it look divine? The first step to answering them is, of course, determining your skin tone.
What’s Your Skin Tone?
Determining your skin tone might sound tricky, but it’s actually fairly simple. The only thing you’ll need to determine your skin tone is natural lighting.
Your skin tone will fall in one of two categories – cool or warm. To find out on which end of the spectrum your skin tone is, look at the inside of your arm in natural light. If your veins appear bluish, your skin tone is cool. If they appear greenish, you have a warm skin tone.
People with cool skin tones will often notice pinkish or rosy-red undertones when looking in the mirror, while people with warm skin tone will notice a yellow or apricot undertone.
Warm Skin Tones Look Best With…
If you’ve ever wondered ‘rose gold vs yellow gold for my skin tone,’ no need to twine your fingers in despair – if your skin tone is of the warm variety, both of those metals suit you! Metals that will compliment your skin and enhance its natural, fresh look are rose gold, yellow gold, copper, and brass.
When choosing gems, the ones that will look particularly good on you are Ruby, Garnet, Morganite, Citrine, Mandarin Garnet, Alexandrite, and Peridot. Choose warmer colors and shades, such as pinks, reds, oranges, yellows, and golds.
Cool Skin Tones Look Best With…
If you find your veins looking bluish, jewelry that will suit your skin best is something made of light metals like white gold, platinum, and silver.
As for precious stones, your skin will shine if you accentuate it with Amethyst, Ruby, Emerald, Opal, Blue Sapphire, Aquamarine, Zircon, Tanzanite, Turquoise, Jade, or Paraiba Tourmaline. A string of pearls can also be a divine match to your skin tone. Choose colors from the blue/green side of the spectrum wheel.
All Skin Tones Can Wear…
No matter your skin tone, a good diamond jewelry piece is what will make you stand out with your fashion taste! Because of their delicate, glamorous, and brilliant appearance, any skin tone can wear diamond jewelry with the full certainty that it matches their skin tone.
How Much Does Matching Jewelry to You Skin Tone Matter?
If you really want to bring your beauty to the forefront and dazzle everyone around you, maybe you should try matching your jewelry to your skin tone, too! You might find out that an old, boring outfit can suddenly become your new favorite with a simple update of a suitable jewelry piece.
After all, the devil is in the details. An extremely simple little black dress, paired with the right shoes can show off your stylishness. However, if you want to elevate it, try pairing it with jewelry that both compliments the dress and your skin. Just like that, you can make a somewhat dull outfit into a trendy, polished look!
Next time you need to pick a piece of jewelry for your outfit, try matching it with your skin tone!
Now that you’ve found out whether gold or silver compliments your skin tone, all you need to do is choose your favorite jewelry pieces – drop by one of our stores and find the one that will truly make you shine!
Fun Facts, Jewelry Trends
6 Jewelry Trends To Master in 2020
It’s no secret (nor a surprise) that jewelry trends change from season to season. And as always, the runways have provided us with a peek inside the jewelry trends 2020.
What’s most evident is that the trends verge on the bolder, more experimental, and striking styles. Old, vintage pieces have been reimagined and reshaped for the new year, so it’s safe to say that 2020 bring us the old transformed into braver, bolder, and more extravagant.
Here are some of the most prominent jewelry trends spotted on various runways:
Stacking and Layering
We’ve seen stacking jewelry, most prominently stackable wedding rings, are growing in popularity, slowly but surely. The trend is quickly spreading to other pieces of jewelry. As seen on the runways of Gucci, Alexander McQueen, Chloé, and others, stacking has crossed over from dainty to more bold looks.
You can stack, layer mix, and match multiple pieces of jewelry with abandon – from necklaces to rings, bracelets, and even toe rings.
Hoop Earrings, Reimagined
A staple of style for decades, hoop earrings are coming back full force in 2020. They are, however, no longer simple. Hoop earrings are reimagined in bolder, more experimental looks, that’ll make anyone wearing them a style icon.
Eliminating the bottom part of the hoop (as seen on the Valentino runway), mobile-inspired pieces (brought on by Givenchy), or placing a pearl in its center (the Rodarte runway) – hoops are coming back, brighter than ever.
Updated Chokers
Since their comeback in recent seasons, chokers have been unstoppable – and 2020 is no different! Chokers will continue their reign, but with a new, more experimental look.
Dior, Marni, and Hermès all updated the choker to a rugged, striking chain look, while Marc Jacobs presented an extra large choker. Chokers have not gone without a more elegant makeover – Yuna Yang updated them with pearls, while Brandon Maxwell dressed them up in gold.
Statement Earrings
Another daring look coming in 2020 is that of a statement earring or a pair of statement earrings. These go beyond just bold – from beaded styles to free-from metal, designers are choosing either only one or a pair of earrings as a perfect way to frame the face.
Oscar de la Renta presented only one woven earring, whose tassel reaches below the collarbone, as a striking way to style your outfit, while other designers (such as Givenchy, Gucci, and Andreas Kronthaler for Vivienne Westwood) chose to elongate and enlarge earrings to the point where they can easily rival necklaces.
Bold, Built-In Jewelry
Possibly the most fearless new jewelry trend of 2020 is the built-in jewelry. Striking pieces are incorporated into clothing, either as decorative embellishments or as a part of the clothing’s structure.
The Reign of Headpieces
Tiaras, coronets, and crowns are no longer reserved for only the most elegant events. A multitude of headpieces strolled down the runways and made their place in 2020 jewelry trends.
A piece that accentuates your hairstyle, face shape, and elevates your style to that of royalty, no matter what kind of outfit you have on, is a piece of jewelry perfectly poised on the top of your head.
Simone Rocha presented a bejeweled headpiece inspired by portraits from the 16th century Tang dynasty, Gucci opted for a more dramatic, elven tiara-like piece, while the Miu Miu runway chose a more delicate headpiece – a glittering string of jewels that ties in a bow on the crown of the head. Another delicate look was presented by Saint Laurent – a gentle, though striking, band that wraps around the head.
Now is the perfect time to experiment with all the upcoming trends! Pick your favorite and drop by our Miami jewelry store to choose your perfect match!
Jewelry Trends
7 Popular Wedding Ring Trends
Wedding and engagement rings are hopefully to be worn for an entire life. This is precisely why the design and look of these pieces tend to be very detailed and intricate. There have been many popular wedding ring options to date, but if you’re looking to join hands with your loved one soon, modern engagement rings and wedding bands are definitely the way to go. Luckily, there are plenty of fabulous trends to choose from.
Unique Diamond Shape
Diamond rings don’t have to be specifically round. As a fan of a traditional diamond, it’s still possible to add a touch of personality to the band by opting for fancier and more unique cuts such as the oval, marquise, heart-shape, and so on.
Romantic Emerald Rings
Those valuing unique, personal, and even slightly unconventional style when it comes to jewelry are bound to appreciate the mysterious nature of lovely emerald. What’s more, there are plenty of interesting myths and legends about these green gems, some of which claim that the stone fosters everlasting love. Just perfect for a trendy engagement ring or wedding band!
Vintage-Inspired Wedding Rings
New style engagement rings and wedding bands are all about drawing inspiration from the past. The most popular design styles include Victorian-era bling and art deco. The beaded detail together with the intricate wiring and halos makes these vintage rings truly unique and endlessly romantic. The best thing is that pieces kept in the family for generations can be refurbished to match current trends yet still preserve the meaningfulness of a true heirloom.
Rose Cut Diamond Rings
Diamond engagement rings for women have considerable value and meaning in the sense that they represent both love and tradition. In case you’re not fond of contemporary diamond cuts though, rose cut diamond is definitely worth a try. Essentially, this particular cut resembles a rosebud as the top is domed while the bottom is flat. They have an antique feel to them and a glassy appearance yet maintain a subtle, romantic feel of a classic sparkler.
Rings with a Hidden Halo
The popularity of a halo setting has been going strong for years, but contemporary trends bring a modern twist to this well-loved concept. Namely, the hidden halo has taken the spotlight as it offers an extra glam factor thanks to the intricacy of details. The diamond/halo is placed just beneath the gem that provides a solitaire look from the top yet a more unique bling from the side.
Rings with Two Stones
Rings with two stones also referred to as Toi et Moi rings, are some of the most popular women’s engagement rings and even wedding bands today. Not only do these rings look beautiful on a finger but they also have a powerful symbolic meaning, with the two stones representing the joining of the two hearts. What’s more, opting for Toi et Moi allows for an added touch of creativity, as one can mix different stones and play with their shapes.
Rings with Three Stones
Three-stone rings are similar to Toi et Moi rings in the sense that they allow for a rich dose of creativity and a combination of stones, colors, and shapes. They also have a very powerful symbolism, as the stones represent the trilogy of friendship, love, and fidelity. The concept can also be viewed as the couple’s past, present, and future. What’s more, they can be incorporated in stackable or multilayer bands, a very popular style of engagement ring in Miami, which is perfect for those looking for something a bit extra.
Looking for an engagement/wedding ring is a task not to be taken lightly. These rings will represent the bond of two souls and are meant to decorate the wearer’s hand for years to come. We invite you to check out the vast ring selection at Santayana Jewelers as we pride ourselves on the quality and innovation that our pieces provide. Feel free to explore our unique range of fine jewelry online or pay us a visit at our Miami store.
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