Notes from the bench

Stones & grading · Sep 2026

Rhodium Plating on Jewelry Explained

Rhodium plating on jewelry: what it is, how it is applied, why white gold needs it, how long it lasts, signs of wear, and cost of re-plating.

Stones & grading · Sep 2026

18K Gold vs Platinum

18K gold vs platinum: compare purity, weight, color, durability, price, hypoallergenic properties, and maintenance to pick your ring metal.

Stones & grading · Sep 2026

Lab Grown Diamond vs Moissanite

Lab grown diamond vs moissanite: compare chemistry, brilliance, hardness, price per carat, certification, resale, and how to choose for an engagement ring.

Stones & grading · Sep 2026

925 Sterling Silver vs Fine Silver

925 sterling silver vs fine silver: compare purity, hardness, tarnish, durability, price, and hallmarks to know which silver jewelry lasts longer.

Stones & grading · Sep 2026

Moissanite Fire and Brilliance

What is moissanite fire? Learn how moissanite dispersion compares to diamond, why it flashes rainbow, and how cut and color grade affect its sparkle.

Making & process · Sep 2026

Custom Jewelry Design Process Step by Step

A step-by-step look at the custom jewelry design process: consultation, sketches, CAD renders, stone sourcing, casting and aftercare.

Making & process · Sep 2026

Jewelry Plating Rhodium Gold and Rose Gold

How rhodium, gold vermeil and rose gold plating work, typical thicknesses, how long finishes last and how we control plating quality.

Making & process · Sep 2026

Gemstone Cutting and Faceting Process

How rough gemstones are planned, sawn, faceted, smoothed and polished, and why cut quality matters more than carat weight for brilliance.

Making & process · Sep 2026

Handcrafted vs Machine Made Jewelry Compared

What handcrafted vs machine made jewelry really means: where hand work wins, where machines win, and how the best ateliers blend both.

Making & process · Sep 2026

Jewelry Quality Control and Inspection Process

How ateliers inspect jewelry at every stage: incoming stones, in-process checks, stone tightness tests and final QC before shipping.

Making & process · Sep 2026

Jewelry Polishing and Finishing Process

How jewelry is polished and finished: emery to rouge, brushed and satin finishes, ultrasonic cleaning and why finish affects longevity.

Making & process · Sep 2026

Diamond Setting Types Compared Prong Bezel Pavé Channel

Compare prong, bezel, pavé, channel and halo diamond setting types by security, sparkle and lifestyle to choose the right setting.