Jess Jennings, Author at Wellington Jewellery Valuations

An example of turquoise jewellery that gemologists can repair

December birthstone: Turquoise

December 16, 2021 By Jess Jennings In Birthstone No Comments

Brilliant blue-green turquoise is one of three birthstones for December (the others are zircon and tanzanite) and has been cherished for millennia. It is said to represent happiness, honesty, serenity, and creativity. A unique beauty This gemstone’s name was derived from the French expression “pierre tourques,” which translates to “Turkish stone,” because it was first [...]

A topaz ring with white diamond inset into gold..

November birthstone: Topaz

November 13, 2021 By Jess Jennings In Birthstone No Comments

Those with November birthdays have two beautiful birthstones to choose from: topaz and citrine. Wonder why November has two birthstones? Read about it here. In this post we’ll focus on the vibrant topaz. Yellow and more The name topaz has two possible origins. One suggestion is that it comes from Topazios, the ancient Greek name [...]

An example of unmounted citrine jewels ready for valuation.

November birthstone: Citrine

November 13, 2021 By Jess Jennings In Birthstone No Comments

Those with November birthdays have two beautiful birthstones to choose from: topaz and citrine. Wonder why November has two birthstones? Read about it here. Here, we’re looking at citrine, which for hundreds of years, has been thought to remove negativity - the perfect gemstone for those seeking good vibes only! When life gives you lemons [...]

A collection of jewels; black diamonds and NZ gemstones

The origin of birthstones

October 23, 2021 By Jess Jennings In Birthstone No Comments

The concept of birthstones, gemstones that correspond to a person’s birth month, is a modern creation, with biblical origins. Historians trace its origin back to the Breastplate of Aaron, as described in the Bible. According to the Book of Exodus, the breastplate was a religious garment which boasted 12 unique gemstones representing the 12 tribes [...]

Stunning tourmaline and silver ring ready to be valued by WJV.

October birthstone: Tourmaline

October 4, 2021 By Jess Jennings In Birthstone No Comments

If you were born in October, then one of your birthstones is the intriguing gemstone tourmaline (the other is opal). Tourmaline symbolises a raw and strong connection with nature, encouraging peace, compassion and friendship. Tourmaline’s many colours Tourmaline’s name comes from the Sinhalese word turmali meaning stone of mixed colours. It comes in every colour [...]

Diamond and sapphire ring waiting for a professional valuation.

September birthstone: Sapphire

September 17, 2021 By Jess Jennings In Birthstone No Comments

September babies, ‘tis your season! Few gems have held our attention over millennia as well as your birthstone, sapphire. Since ancient times, it has represented loyalty, purity, trust and heavenly blessings. After diamonds, sapphires are the second hardest gemstone in the world, making them durable and ideal for everyday wear. More than blue The word [...]

Hand demonstrating how to clean a vintage diamond engagement ring.

A quick-reference guide to caring for your gemstones

August 30, 2021 By Jess Jennings In Jewellery Care, Jewellery Valuations No Comments

Enticing and dazzling, gemstones have fascinated people since ancient times, due to their varied colours, shape, and brilliance. Their rarity and natural toughness make them precious and prized possessions. But despite their tough nature, gemstones must be looked after if they are to have long and lustrous lives. For cleaning, most gemstones will respond well [...]

Closeup view of a gemstone ready for insurance valuation by WJV.

August birthstone: Peridot

August 17, 2021 By Jess Jennings In Birthstone No Comments

Peridot (pronounced PEAR-A-DOE) is the birthstone of people who celebrate their birthday in August. It’s often associated with harmony, good health, restful sleep, and peacefulness. Peridot is also the gem given to celebrate a 15th wedding anniversary. What’s in a name? Peridot is widely recognised by its brilliant green glow but the origin of the [...]

A cut diamond carefully being held ready for grading, Wellington Jewellery Valuations.

How diamonds are valued

July 26, 2021 By Jess Jennings In Jewellery Valuations No Comments

Ever wondered how a diamond’s worth is determined? The 4Cs Well, it all comes down to four characteristics, known as the 4Cs: colour, clarity, cut and carat weight. These are the globally accepted standards for assessing the quality of a diamond. Much like a human fingerprint, every diamond has unique characteristics and the relationship between its [...]

Stunning example of a cut ruby ready to be valued by WJV.

July birthstone: Ruby

July 14, 2021 By Jess Jennings In Birthstone No Comments

Known as the King of Precious Stones, ruby is the birthstone of people born in July. ‘Ruby’ is derived from the Latin word ‘rubeus’, meaning ‘red’ – the colour of love and passion. Ravishing in red Rubies vary from deep shades of red to dark pink, purplish red or orange-red. Their colour comes from trace [...]

December birthstone: Turquoise

November birthstone: Topaz

November birthstone: Citrine

The origin of birthstones

October birthstone: Tourmaline

September birthstone: Sapphire

A quick-reference guide to caring for your gemstones

August birthstone: Peridot

How diamonds are valued

July birthstone: Ruby

Blog Menu

Recent Posts

GET IN TOUCH

OFFICE HOURS

LOCATION

CONTACT

FOLLOW US

AFFILIATIONS