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We hope you find this information helpful.  For answers to specific questions not listed below, please call us at (562) 986-4380, Monday - Friday: 08:00am - 06:00am Saturday: 09:00am - 06:00pm or e-mail your questions to jnljewels@aol.com

Q:  How can I tell if a diamond is real?
A:  The easiest way is pressing the stone against a smooth glass surface such as a mirror.  A real diamond will etch the surface of the class.  This method is not recommended, however, as it could damage the setting or loosen the stone.  Another way to determine a stones’ authenticity is by examining it with a magnifying glass or jewelers’ “loop.”  All diamonds will exhibit naturally occurring imperfections upon close inspection. 

Q:  What is a carat?
A:  Many people mistakenly associate this term with the size of a diamond or other stone but carat is a unit used in measuring weight.   One carat is equal to 200 milligrams. 

Q:  How should I clean 18k gold jewelry?
A:  The best way to clean most jewelry is to steam it.  Cleansers and polishes can leave residue that can attract and trap dust and debris.   We provide complimentary cleaning that’s completely safe and will leave your jewelry sparkling like new.

Q:  What is the difference between carat and karat?
A:   A carat is a unit of weight used to describe the weight of a diamond or other gemstone.  A karat is a unit used to describe the purity of gold.  Each karat is equal to 1/24 of the total composition of a piece of gold.  Therefore 24-karat gold is pure gold while 18-karat gold would be 18 parts gold and 6 parts copper.

Q:  Where did the birthstone tradition come from?
A:   Most aficionados agree that the tradition originated with the biblical story concerning Aaron’s breastplate that appears in the book of Exodus, chapter 39, verses 8 through 14.  Although specific stones are not named the breastplate is described as being adorned with 12 colorful stones to signify the 12 tribes of Israel.  In 1912 the American National Association of Jewelers compiled a standard list of gems and semiprecious stones have been added to that list as alternatives in recent years.

Q:  What is the worlds’ largest diamond?
A:  The largest gem-quality diamond ever discovered is the Cullinan diamond, also known as “The Star of Africa.”  Weighing in at an amazing 530.2 carats the Cullinan diamond takes its name from Sir Thomas Cullinan who owned the mine where it was discovered.  This massive stone is housed in the Tower of London and is estimated to be worth more than $400 million.  Although more widely known, the Hope diamond is a mere 45.52 carats but has gained notoriety resulting from the legend of the Hope diamond “curse.”