Thursday, February 17, 2011

Passenger Side Engagement: First step in purchasing a diamond


What should my first step be in buying a diamond?

First step is obviously to find someone you want to spend the rest of your life with. The second step would be to give her something to represent your love for each other. You can begin two different ways.  First, search around locally to find a reputable jeweler that has a Gemologist on staff to help you begin looking for a diamond.  Make sure they have an assortment of shapes and sizes for you to view.  Most jewelers are more than happy to assist you in the beginning stages and inform them if this is your first purchase.  Learn all you can and ask every question you have, and I guarantee they have heard every question imaginable and are happy to answer yours.  Remember, there is no such thing as a stupid question, just stupid people!

Secondly, you can search online, ( or my blog) and learn many aspects of purchasing a diamond.  There are many resources out there (and my blog) to help you step by step. The quality of diamond and budget you have set aside to make the purchase is important. The choice is up to the individual, but my preference is quality.

No budget is too small. For example, my father, the owner of the business purchased a diamond 1/20th of a carat for my mom. That was all he could afford and it still today holds true in my eyes. No customer is too small or insignificant. Let's have fun and choose the piece of her dream.

All the best,

Amir Chokr Gemologist (GIA)

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Passenger Side Engagement: Tips to find the perfect diamond ring



I'm clueless...How do I figure what my girlfriend's perfect ring is?

First off, get used to being clueless. I have.
- your most valuable clues are going to be from her friends.  Whether you know it or not, she and her friends have talked about it.  Ask her friends for clues.  If she doesn't have any friends, or you don't want to clue them in due to loose lips then try window shopping at your local mall and peer in the windows with her casually.

Think about her style, Is it contemporary?  Does she like vintage things? Does she like to be more simple and laid-back?  Is she rough with her items? Another aspect to think about is her career and how the ring will be worn day to day.  For example, being in Florida, there are a lot of hospitals for the old people and therefore many nurses and doctors.  In this scenario, I would suggest the diamond to be set low and without too many prongs.  This will allow the latex gloves to come on and off with ease and keep them from ripping easily.

If you would like to surprise her you can purchase a diamond and have your jeweler set the diamond in a plain solitaire setting so that you may propose with the chosen diamond.  Then later go back to your jeweler and search for the setting of her dreams together and have your diamond set in the new setting.  This will allow you to have the element of surprise and work together for the best setting.

As a side note, some jewelers will give you credit for the old solitaire.  I suggest to keep it and add a synthetic cubic zirconia in the center and have that as a travel ring so you don't risk getting your real ring lost or stolen in the unfamiliar area.    

Thanks for tuning in,

Amir Chokr Gemologist (GIA)

Blog Launch Winners!

Hello All,

Thank you for all your entries! I have chosen a winner. We were supposed to do the pulling of names from random.com, but due to technical difficulties, we were kicking it old school with a twist. What is the twist? I thought you would never ask! I used a salad spinner to mix the names and pull the name while it was spinning. I still have all my fingers...thanks for the concern. So, to the important stuff.

The winner for the first day is Julie Martin. Congratulations on your new earrings!


The winner for the second day is Ashley Newell. Congratulations on your new earrings too!


Last but not least,the winner for the third day is Renny! Congratulations on your new necklace!



Happy Valentines ladies!

Thank you all for your comments and support!!  Keep them coming!  More giveaways and prizes to come throughout the year.

Amir Chokr Gemologist (GIA)

Monday, February 14, 2011

Engagement Series "Passenger Side Engagement"

Hello all, 

Happy Valentines Day!  I wish you all a lot of chocolate, roses, and diamonds!

I am going to be posting a two week series titled, "Passenger Side Engagement".  This will be a ride in the passenger seat of the engagement experience from both men and women's point of view.  I will discuss the topics that men need to know to get the best possible outcome...her to say, Yes!  Also, I will discuss topics that women need to know to get the best possible outcome for them...the engagement of their dreams! (or an enormous diamond)

This week is going to be directed to the guys!  If you haven't proposed yet, then listen up!  I will be giving you an inside look at the whole process from figuring out what she wants, getting the best deal, and how to pop the question.  Warning, tuning into this blog will lead to a better knowledge about diamonds and jewelry.  This may lead to a happier relationship and many happy endings!  Like in cartoons of course.   Again with your head in the gutter!  

Lady's, please share how you were proposed to, and if it hasn't happened yet please share ideas for the guys on your ideal proposal.  Would you like it more intimate, in public, or with family, etc.  

Also, If you could choose, would you like to be a part of the engagement ring selection or be surprised?

**Tonight I will be announcing the (3) winners of the pearl earrings and necklace.  Thank you all for the great comments, recommendations and support.

Stay tuned, three of you will be adding some pieces to your collection! 

Amir Chokr Gemologist (GIA)

Friday, February 11, 2011

Rolex. Pinnacle of time keeping?

Image from www.rolex.com

Hello all,

When it comes to watches, Rolex receives the most amount of notoriety in the United States. Their timeless design and precise movements are what draws the attention that it receives. At the same time, they have a stigma from many longtime owners that they do not keep good time.

As with most finely crafted and tuned machines, regular maintenance and care is key to keeping your Rolex running properly and timed to strict standards. Most Rolex timepieces contain automatic movements. Automatic movements are typically composed of over 200 metal parts and gears that work together to keep time. The movement gains it's power through a mainspring that is wound with a weighted rotor that moves while the wearer is moving.

Automatic watches should be serviced once every 3 to 5 years. This service is also refereed to an overhaul which includes disassembling the entire mechanism and cleaning each part. After the parts are cleaned, the watch is then reassembled, oils are added to the proper places, then the watch is timed in 6 positions.

Automatic watches should be accurate within 2 to 3 minutes per month. The accuracy will as it ages and if not regularly maintained. A typical service or overhaul will be $350 to $700 (price will vary depending on your local jewelry store or watch maker). This also should include an outer refinish that will restore the timepiece to it's original beauty.

So what about you?  Do you have a favorite watch?  When was the last time you had it serviced?

Amir Chokr Gemologist (GIA)

Note: this post is not sponsored by Rolex.   I doubt they even know me.

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Don't let your rings age like fine wine: suggested care and maintenance of your jewels


Hello all,

I received this message from Anthonette:

Hi Amir,
My question is about taking care of and proper cleaning for my wedding rings. I've got platinum bands and a princess cut diamond with a 4-prong setting. I've been married for almost 10 years. What do you recommend?


First off, congratulations on the climb to ten, blissful, argument free years together! I recommend getting your rings and other jewelry checked and cleaned once every three months. This is good for three reasons. First, having your jewelry checked every three months will allow the jeweler to check the prongs for any weakness or damage. Secondly, the jeweler can inspect it for any loose gems. Lastly, aesthetically the piece will look amazing and allow the gems to shine like the day you purchased it.

Most Jewelers will clean and inspect as a complimentary service. However, they will charge for any prong work, tightening of stones, and polishing of the piece.

As a side note, rings are a magnet for bacteria and grease and may cause skin irritation. Keeping up with regular cleaning will help minimize the risk of any irritation and keep up the brilliance of your piece.


I have seen many men and women spend countless dollars with dermatologists and skin products because of a red rash or bacterial infection on their fingers. The typical cause: build-up of bacteria, lotions, and dead skin. The typical remedy, remove the jewelry from the place it is being worn and have the piece professionally cleaned. You may add a antibacterial ointment or simply let it heal. Then you may begin wearing your precious piece after your skin is fully healed. Please note, with any skin conditions, it is always recommended to seek professional help!

Thanks for the question Anthonette.  I hope this helps you and another person out.

Amir Chokr Gemologist (GIA)

************************

Don't forget to enter my blog giveaways:

Monday, February 7, 2011

Yikes my white gold ring is now yellow!



Hello all,

I have had many customers afraid the white gold ring they purchased is yellow gold. Time-out. Did the jeweler cheat me? Is this an inferior metal? Many people might think this or feel this way if they were never informed on the formulation of white gold. In order to make what is known as white gold, pure 24kt gold is mixed with nickel, palladium, and/or manganese. These metals are known as alloys, and alloys are added to pure gold to make different purities of gold such as 10kt, 14kt, and 18kt.

The casted white gold appears to be a faint yellow hue after final polishing, but it is then rhodium plated to a brilliant, pure white color. Rhodium is a pure white metal that is plated to the piece using a plating solution with the metal in it. This plating will wear off and eventually your piece will need to be re-plated to restore it's original purchased look.

Most Jewelers charge a fee to re-plate your piece due to the expense of the plating solution that. The solution its self typically costs the jeweler over $600! So, white gold will look pretty brand new and will need a little maintenance as time progresses.

*WARNING* White gold contains nickel. Which some people can be allergic to and cause a red rash. This is something to think about when selecting a piece. There are ways to get a white ring if you are allergic to nickel. First, you can purchase platinum, select a piece with palladium as the alloy (it's hypoallergenic), or choose a piece made of palladium.

Thanks for stopping by I hope you learned something new.

Amir Chokr Gemologist (GIA)

Friday, February 4, 2011

Great comments! Please keep them roaring in!

Thank you all for all the support you have shown for this new venture! I really believe that I can help people avoid many misnomers that are posted online or spoken from salespeople. I have had many discussions with people about metals like platinum and gold, diamonds and gemstones, and buying jewelry from various portals (online, TV, Cruise ships and island Jewelers, etc)

For example, I sold a diamond to a beautiful couple last Saturday they loved it! It is a 1.50ct (ct is short for carat) E in color, and SI1 in clarity. The diamond is cut very well and sings with beauty. The couple came in today to look at the diamond again. They were second guessing their choice because they researched online and were mislead about fluorescence in a diamond. (fluorescence in a diamond is when the diamond is expose to ultraviolet light and emits a glowing color) the topic of fluorescence in diamonds will be part of a future posting, but it can, in rare instances, have a negative influence on a diamond. It is one of the most misunderstood characteristic of a diamond and many people in the diamond industry do not learn about the differences and how in affects the diamond. It can be both positive and negative on beauty and price!

This is an example of how with a few minutes a day reading the Diary of a Jeweler can save you money and/or make you money. Plus, free pearls to a select few! Man, I feel like I am buying your love...that's ok with me!

Thank you all again and please keep the comments, talking points, and questions coming.

Amir Chokr Gemologist (GIA)

Thursday, February 3, 2011

Blog Launch Giveaway Day 3: Pearl Necklace



One lucky winner will win this pearl necklace.

Description:  This is a 16 inch stand of Freshwater cultured pearls that are segmented by handmade twisted sterling silver.  This looks great on the above palmetto strap, but will look better on the lucky someone who wins them!

Contest Details: 

1.)  Subscribe to my blog, leave me a comment on this post and tell me your favorite gemstone.

2.) Get up to 3 more chances to win and enter the contest.  Post about this giveaway on your blog, facebook and/or twitter.  Make sure to link it back to my blog: www.amirchokr.com and leave me a link back to your post(s).  Feel free to copy the images above and use it for your post.   If you talk about this giveaway on 2-3 social media avenues then you get to leave me 2-3 additional comments.  


3.) If you don't have a blog... go ahead and "suggest to friend" to like my fanpage

4.) Be sure to leave your contact info (example: email, blog address, twitter name or facebook page link






I apologies but this contest is open to US residents only.  One day I promise when I get bigger, I will have enough funds to send prizes internationally.  

Thanks & Good Luck,

Amir Chokr Gemologist (GIA)

Note: This prize being given away is sponsored by me, Amir Chokr. This means that I purchased the prize myself.  No Sponsors here.  Winners will be chosen randomly using randomn.org

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Blog Launch Giveaway Day 2: 3 Sets Pearl Earring



One lucky winner will win all 3 sets of pearl earrings.

Description:  7mm Freshwater Cultured Pearl earrings.  The earrings are a stud style with sterling silver posts and backs.  These are great for a date with a new someone, old someone, or by yourself!!

Contest Details
1.)  Subscribe to my blog, leave me a comment on this post and tell me your birthstone.  If you don't know your birthstone just tell me the month you were born.

2.) Get up to 3 more chances to win and enter the contest.  Post about this giveaway on your blog, facebook and/or twitter.  Make sure to link it back to my blog: www.amirchokr.com and leave me a link back to your post(s).  Feel free to copy the images above and use it for your post.   If you talk about this giveaway on 2-3 social media avenues then you get to leave me 2-3 additional comments.  


3.) If you don't have a blog... go ahead and "suggest to friend" to like my fanpage

4.) Be sure to leave your contact info (example: email, blog address, twitter name or facebook page link

I will pick a winner on Valentines Day, February 14, 2011.  So you have until then to enter this giveaway.

I apologies but this contest is open to US residents only.  One day I promise when I get bigger, I will have enough funds to send prizes internationally.  

Thanks & Good Luck,


Amir Chokr Gemologist (GIA)

Note: This prize being given away is sponsored by me, Amir Chokr. This means that I purchased the prize myself.  No Sponsors here.  Winners will be chosen randomly using randomn.org

Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Tips to keep your pearls like your teeth...pearly white!




Image by: Mikimoto


Hello everyone,

Thank you all for the great comments. Without you, the reader, this blog would be pointless. Many of the comments posted were regarding pearls and proper care of pearls. So...I will touch upon the proper care of pearls and explain in more depth in future posts.

In may ways, pearls are like our teeth. Located in a living organism...check...wear down over time...check...can be damaged by improper care...check. Pearls are organic gems that are formed when the oyster has detected a foreign object inside its shell and secretes nacre over the object to protect itself. These layers create a calcium carbonate coating that is much like our teeth.

This coating creates the beloved iridescent finish, and it can appear white, pink, grey, and black to mention a few. Most fancy colors of pearls like the rich greens and blues are going to be due to a process of dying the pearl. With proper care, the pearls should last generations.

Pearls are susceptible to damage from acids, perfumes, hair spray (not the movie), and other metal jewelry. The best practice to care for pearls is to put them on last before going out and remove them first when arriving back home. After use, it's best to wipe them with a damp cloth and leave them out to dry overnight. This allows the acids and perfumes from our body to be removed when wiped and the silk to dry overnight. Also, annual inspection of the pearls and silk strand by your local jeweler (or me) is highly recommended to help ensure the strand is in good order.

Thanks again for all of your great comments so far and words of encouragement. The more input by you the better the blog will become. Like I say, there is no stupid questions, just stupid people! I believe in you!

Thanks for tuning in,

Amir Chokr Gemologist (GIA)

Welcome to my new blog & Giveaway Day 1: 3 Sets of Pearl Earrings!





One lucky winner will win all 3 sets of pearl earrings.

Description:  7mm Freshwater Cultured Pearl earrings.  The earrings are a stud style with sterling silver posts and backs.  These earrings will look great on your ear while your strutting your stuff on the catwalk!!

Contest Details:

1.)  Subscribe to my blog, leave me a comment on this post and ask me a question about purchasing an engagement ring, a piece of jewelry, diamonds, gemstones or anything at all related to the industry.

2.) Get up to 3 more chances to win and enter the contest.  Post about this giveaway on your blog, facebook and/or twitter.  Make sure to link it back to my blog: www.amirchokr.com and leave me a link back to your post(s).  Feel free to copy the images above and use it for your post.   If you talk about this giveaway on 2-3 social media avenues then you get to leave me 2-3 additional comments.

3.) If you don't have a blog... go ahead and "suggest to friend" to like my fanpage

4.) Be sure to leave your contact info (example: email, blog address, twitter name or facebook page link)






I apologies but this contest is open to US residents only.  One day I promise when I get bigger, I will have enough funds to send prizes internationally.  

Thanks & Good Luck,

Amir Chokr Gemologist (GIA)

Note: This prize being given away is sponsored by me, Amir Chokr. This means that I purchased the prize myself.  No Sponsors here.  Winners will be chosen randomly using randomn.org