necklace

National Jewel Day is observed March 13th of every year. While this day may be a day to give or receive jewelry, it could also be a day to recognize jewelers.   It may also be a day to wear those gems you may already have! 

Jewelry is like finding the perfect dress. You know the one I’m talking about. It can be new or an older favorite. When you see yourself in the mirror it enlivens your spirit, gives your confidence a boost, and no matter what you have a day better than others.

Favorite jewelry is the same be it a lucky pair of earrings, your special necklace or a ring that reminds of happy times. These are often a tangible link to a memory you hold dear. This is why we both buy and receive jewelry.

I was born in October which makes my birthstone an Opal. Now I’m extremely fair-skinned with red hair. I feel better when I wear Blue Topaz that enhances my blue eyes. Indeed I often get more compliments on my blue eyes when I wear it.

My wedding ring reminds me of all the happiness my husband and I have shared. Sure it hasn’t always been rosy, but I wouldn’t choose anything different. We just celebrated another year together knowing that we are even stronger today than when we started. I kept my original, but I got an upgrade on our Anniversary! See below.

So find your favorites. Whether you receive it as a gift or buy it yourself, these are the nudges to our memories. Best of all they can be shared and passed on to the next generation. Hopefully, some of the memories and stories go with them. Before you know it you have heirlooms worth so much more than mere money.

One last tip I learned as a jeweler. A good piece of jewelry can last as long as the memories tied to them. The real thing with proper care can be passed on for better than hundreds of years. Make sure you consult a professional for cleanings, repair, and periodic checks. Some of the things I’ve heard used to clean for instance would make you cringe. I’ve also seen both gems and setting ruined from these practices.

Birthstones by Month

• January – Garnet
• February – Amethyst
• March – Aquamarine
• April – Diamond
• May – Emerald
• June – Pearl
• July – Ruby
• August – Peridot
• September – Sapphire
• October – Opal
• November – Yellow Topaz, Citrine
• December – Tanzanite, Zircon, Blue Topaz

HOW TO OBSERVE

Buy some jewelry, make some yourself or sign up for a class to learn the art of jewelry making.  Freshen up your everyday attire with a little bling and use #NationalJewelDay to post on social media.