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The Artisan's Guide to Choosing a One-of-a-Kind Alternative Engagement or Anniversary Ring

Choosing a one-of-a-kind alternative engagement or anniversary ring is a journey filled with limitless possibilities. By embracing unique gemstone rings for engagements, exploring artistic settings and designs, and incorporating sustainable and ethical elements, you'll find a one of a kind ring that is more than just a piece of jewelry—it's a testament to the depth and beauty of your love, crafted with care and passion.

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The Complete Guide to Gemstone Durability: Understanding Mohs Ratings and Wearability

Understanding the Mohs Scale of Mineral Hardness The Mohs scale is a widely used measure of a mineral's resistance to scratching. It ranges from 1 (being the softest and most vulnerable) to 10 (being the hardest and most durable). Here's a breakdown of the Mohs ratings of some popular gemstones: Very Soft - a fingernail can scratch it (e.g., Talc) Soft (e.g. Gypsum, Pearls) Soft - a copper coin can scratch it  (e.g., Calcite, Coral) Medium - a knife can scratch it  (e.g., Fluorite) Medium-Hard (e.g., Apatite, Turquoise) Medium-Hard - steel can scratch it (e.g., Tanzanite, Feldspar - Moonstone, Opal) Hard - It will scratch glass (e.g.Tourmaline, Peridot, Garnet, Amethyst, Quartz) Harder (e.g., Topaz, Emerald, Aquamarine, Spinel) Harder - Corundum,...

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A Guide to Adobe Photoshop for Basic Photo Editing

Before we get into the weeds on Photoshop skills - A special Note About My Jewelry Photography: As a one woman business I take and edit all of my own photos for my jewelry and website. I never use photoshop to alter the reality of any piece that I have created. I simply use photoshop to brighten photos, remove dust or background distractions and shadows and crop for listings and publications. As an artisan bench jeweler who creates with traditional tools and techniques, I relish in the beauty and the reality that comes with handcrafted and one of a kind jewelry! Ok here we go!  I thought it might be fun to explore how to do a little photoshop correctly…...

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