How to Reinvent the Jewelry You Already Own

by Cherry Bruce

Sometimes you just don't have the money to spend on updating your wardrobe or adding to your jewelry box. But there are a lot of different things you can do with the pieces of jewelry that you already own. So if you're a fashionista interested in creating new style statements from your closet, then read on.

If you already own a sparkly stunner like a pair of over-the-top rhinestone chandelier earrings or a stretchy CZ bracelet, then consider pairing the precious gems with a low-key pair of jeans or distressed jean skirt. This keeps you looking cool and collected, even though you're rocking rhinestones from last year's Christmas party. Choose black accessories to keep the attention on the jewelry and really let it shine.

If you already own an ornate necklace that is dripping in crystals or rhinestones, then add it to a simple t-shirt and cargo pants for a feminine balance to an edgy outfit. Again, keep all other accessories neutral or black, for true emphasis on gorgeous necklaces.

If you already own hoops, then consider yourself ahead of the fashion game. These pieces of jewelry will never go out of style, and are versatile enough to be worn with anything in your closet. Add gold hoop earrings to everything from t-shirts and tanks, to sundresses and blouses. You can even get away with wearing these to the office, just as long as they're not too big. Thick gold hoops have a slight boho chic vibe, and you can find carved and matte gold hoop earrings for a modern take on this jewelry classic.

Be sure to shop the sales at your favorite stores for off-season jewelry pieces that can be worn anytime of the year. Try to think of new combinations and play with separates that you already own, until you find a winning combination.

Sapphire Jewelry Remains 'Precious' To September Babies

The sapphire, which symbolizes clear thinking, is a precious gemstone that also serves as the birthstone for the month of September. By definition, a sapphire is a precious gem that appears as a transparent, blue form of corundum. Although various other corundum colors are considered to be sapphires, a true sapphire is recognized as being deep blue in color. Specifically, the cornflower blue color of sapphire is considered to be the best and most desirable form of sapphire. Other forms of sapphire include white, yellow and pink, each of which derive from corundum of the same color. The sapphire's sister-gem, the ruby, is the red form of corundum and is also recognized as a precious gemstone.

When it comes to gemstone jewelry, clarity is significant. Sapphires, like all gems, can have inclusions. Genuine sapphires are highly prized, especially when they are found to be clear and in the deeper shades of blue. However, a gem-quality sapphire can be very expensive. Synthetic, which is a term used to define a gemstone that is not genuine, sapphires are one alternative that allows women to enjoy the look of a flawless gemstone without paying a hefty price tag. Much like the process of creating synthetic rubies, technology now allows for the recreation of properties similar to that of a genuine sapphire. This means that only an educated jewelry professional, in most cases, can visually distinguish between a genuine gem-quality sapphire and a synthetic sapphire.

At Almost Diamonds, a popular online retailer specializing in sterling silver jewelry, buyers are sure to find a dazzling selection of styles at prices that are sure to outshine the competition. From earrings and necklaces to bracelets and rings, Almost Diamonds has a variety of choices that feature both clear and colored cubic zirconia designs, along with genuine gemstones. Because the jewelry is available in sterling silver, which is a precious metal, you will be wearing something that can last a lifetime. When set in sterling silver, sapphires are especially vibrant. The soft tone of the sterling silver metal provides a perfect backdrop and setting for this precious gemstone.

Although sapphire is the birthstone for September, it can be enjoyed by every jewelry lover during every month of the year. In fact, most people will tell you that their favorite color is blue, which makes sapphire jewelry an obvious choice for anyone who favors a rich blue gemstone. Plus, adding color to a jewelry wardrobe is a terrific way to let your personality show through. Whether you are wearing your favorite pair of jeans, a business suit or a simple black dress, sapphire jewelry will compliment your outfit perfectly.

In conclusion, genuine sapphire is a highly-respected gemstone that has earned the honor of being named as one of the few precious gems in existence. If you happen to be born in the month of September, wear your sapphire jewelry with pride in knowing that you are wearing a gemstone that celebrates the month of your birth. According to some, birthstone jewelry is also a symbol of good luck. Whether you choose a genuine or synthetic sapphire, you're sure to shine.

by Melanie Spark