Journal · 980 notes
Notes from the bench
Written for buyers rather than for search engines: what a specification actually means, where an order usually goes wrong, and what to ask before you pay a deposit.
Care & after-sales · Sep 2026
How to Clean a Diamond Ring at Home
Dull diamond? Learn the safe step-by-step method to clean diamond rings, stud earrings and solitaire jewelry at home with soap, ammonia and a soft brush.
Buying guides · Sep 2026
Jewelry Buying Scams
Ten red flags of jewelry buying scams: fake certificates, overgraded stones, plated metal sold as solid, and how to verify any piece before you pay.
Buying guides · Sep 2026
Birthstone Jewelry Gifts
Birthstone jewelry gifting guide: the modern birthstone chart, choosing metal and setting, sizing a gift ring, and avoiding birthstone gaffes.
Buying guides · Sep 2026
Buy Jewelry Wholesale
A practical guide to buying jewelry wholesale: find verified suppliers, navigate MOQs, inspect stock, negotiate and avoid common new-buyer mistakes.
Buying guides · Sep 2026
Lab Grown vs Natural Diamonds
Lab grown vs natural diamonds compared on price, 4Cs, certification, resale and ethics, so you can choose the right diamond for your ring.
Buying guides · Sep 2026
Bracelet Sizes
Measure your wrist, compare chain, bangle, cuff and tennis bracelet sizes, and learn the fit that looks right and survives daily wear.
Buying guides · Sep 2026
Earrings Buying Guide
A complete earrings buying guide covering studs, hoops, drops, earring backs, metals for sensitive ears and matching earrings to your face shape.
Buying guides · Sep 2026
Necklace Lengths
Master necklace lengths, chain styles and pendant proportions. Learn which length flatters each neckline, face shape and body type.
Buying guides · Sep 2026
Wedding Band Styles
Compare wedding band styles, widths, metals and profiles, and learn how to size, match and care for the ring you will wear every day.
Buying guides · Sep 2026
Engagement Ring Shapes
Compare 9 engagement ring shapes from round brilliant to oval, cushion, emerald and marquise, and find the cut that flatters her hand and budget.
Buying guides · Sep 2026
Engagement Ring Budget
Learn how to set a realistic engagement ring budget, where every dollar goes, and how to maximize sparkle without overspending in 2026.
Making & process · Sep 2026
Bench Polishing Compounds and Mops: The Right Ladder
Tripoli, white diamond, red rouge on muslin, calico, and flannel mops: the correct polishing sequence, RPMs, and mop hygiene for jewelry.
