July 20th, 2012 by James L. Sweaney, CGA, FGA. GG
This beautiful opal ring is the final piece of a set of custom jewels we just completed. A frequent visitor of art and gem shows, our client had collected an eclectic mix of opals over several years. Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: Australian opal, Custom Jewelry, Ethiopian Opal
Posted in Custom Jewelry, Gemstones, Jewelry Facts, Jewelry Services | Comments Off on A Custom Opal Parure
July 18th, 2012 by James L. Sweaney, CGA, FGA. GG
The Press Enterprise Reader’s Choice voting is going on NOW! You have until August 1 to cast your ballot, naming your favorite businesses and services in Riverside and the Inland Empire. By showing your support for locally owned and operated businesses, you are helping the businesses that are unique to our community survive– it’s important! Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: PE Readers Choice
Posted in Mardon Happenings | Comments Off on Reader’s Choice 2012- Don’t Forget to Vote
July 13th, 2012 by James L. Sweaney, CGA, FGA. GG

We just acquired this striking Amethyst cameo from an estate. Measuring almost an inch and one half long, the piece is not for the shrinking violet. Imagine the drama of making an entrance wearing this grand purple adornment! Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: amethyst, Cameo, Carved Gemstone, Estate Jewelry, Vintage Jewelry
Posted in Estate Jewelry, Gemstones, Jewelry Facts, Jewelry Services | Comments Off on An Opulent Amethyst Cameo
July 4th, 2012 by James L. Sweaney, CGA, FGA. GG
Don’t throw away today’s Press Enterprise just yet– this year’s Reader’s Choice ballot is on page 4 of the local C Section– easy to find between the funnies and the TV guide. You can also vote quickly and easily online, no postage required. Read the rest of this entry »
Posted in Mardon Happenings | Comments Off on Reader’s Choice 2012- Time to Vote
June 30th, 2012 by enterprise

ALEXANDRITE–THE CHAMELEON OF GEMSTONES
What better time to talk about the beauty, richness and chameleon-like qualities of the alexandrite than in June! That’s when Alexandrite is one of three birthstones (along with the pearl and the moonstone) that represent this sunny month. Like June’s Gemini Twins, the rare chrysoberyl stone has two distinct personalities. By day it shines a vivid blue-green. Then by night it transforms to a rich purple-red. Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: Alexandrite, Custom Jewelry, natural alexandrite, Russian Alexandrite
Posted in Custom Jewelry, Gemstones | Comments Off on Custom Gemstone Jewelry – Russian Alexandrite
June 29th, 2012 by enterprise
Many people don’t know about their individual birthstone but really should learn more. The birthstones for every month of the year are lively and impressive for sure. Much like the astrological signs and people’s assimilation with their own zodiac placement, an individual’s birthstone can say so much about the person born during this month.
For those who don’t know their birthstone, the generally accepted list is as follows: Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: birthstones, guide to birthstones
Posted in Gemstones, Jewelry Facts | Comments Off on Guide to Birthstones
June 29th, 2012 by enterprise
Some people have a hard time finding jewelry they like that can accommodate their special needs. Usually they wear rings that are comfortable as compared to stylish. Other people have fingers shaped more like a snowman, where the knuckle is larger than the place where a ring rests. This can be because they are very slim, or have knuckles enlarged from injuries or arthritis. The ring has to be sized large enough to go over the knuckle, but once it’s there it has a tendency to spin around and make a nuisance of itself. Often knuckles swell, and the ring is painful or difficult to remove. Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: fingermate, mardon shank, special needs jewelry
Posted in Special Needs Jewelry | Comments Off on Jewelry for Special Physical Needs
June 24th, 2012 by enterprise
It’s important to remember that jewelry style tips for teenagers differ from those meant for an adult. As a general jewelry buying guide, it’s a good idea to wear styles designed for the wearer’s age and according to the season. Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: jewelry gift giving, tips for gift giving
Posted in Gem Industry News, Jewelry Facts, Mardon Exclusive Jewelry, Uncategorized | Comments Off on Jewelry Style Tips for Gift Giving
June 17th, 2012 by enterprise
While beautiful jewelry sparkles and shines, keeping it beautiful can sometimes be a challenge. Things we encounter everyday, from natural to man-made, can steal the sparkle from jewelry and gem stones without proper care. Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: jewelry and gem care, jewelry care
Posted in Gemstones, Jewelry Facts, Jewelry Services | Comments Off on Jewelry and Gem Care
June 9th, 2012 by James L. Sweaney, CGA, FGA. GG

Today, more and more brides are choosing colored gems for their wedding jewelry, a trend we love and appreciate. We just made this sweet white gold engagement ring, set with diamonds and an absolutely beautiful Benitoite. Read the rest of this entry »
Tags: Benitoite, California State Gemstone, Downtown Mall in Riverside, Engagement Ring, MissionInn, San Benito County, San Benito River
Posted in Custom Jewelry, Featured Post, Gemstone of the Month, Gemstones, Jewelry Facts, Jewelry Services, Mardon Exclusive Jewelry | Comments Off on A Benitoite Engagement Ring to Talk About