Check Out Jewelry Using December Birthstones: Topaz, Zircon and Tanzanite!

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The holidays are coming up fast, which means gifts will need to be purchased for your close friends and family. If you aren’t sure of what to get your loved one, but they have a December birthday, one of the best and easiest gifts is jewelry with their birthstone in it! Gemstones can easily be incorporated into jewelry to create a variety of pieces, including simple earrings, a unique necklace or even a wide selection of rings.

The month of December actually has multiple birthstones, each offering a vibrant and beautiful shade of blue. These blue tones echo the winter wonderland found outdoors in the Midwest, but are also very wearable year-round. If you’re interested in getting your loved one a piece of jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI using their birthstone, read on to learn more about each one and how they are unique.

Blue topaz

Topaz naturally occurs in a variety of colors, spanning icy blue, green, yellow, orange, red, pink and purple, and also can occur colorless. Colorless topaz is often heat-treated to produce a blue color, which is popular among consumers.

Topaz is one of the hardest minerals available, with only a few other minerals landing higher on the Mohs hardness scale. Topaz crystals are often elongated, which results in the gemstones being cut in more oval, elongated shapes. Blue topaz makes an excellent addition to a pendant or uniquely shaped ring.

Blue zircon

Zircon is a gemstone that occurs naturally in a wide variety of colors, including red, orange, yellow, green, blue and brown. It is often found in more earthy tones like red or brown, but can be heat treated to produce a bright blue color.

Zircon is actually one of the oldest minerals on Earth, dating back 4.4 million years. Blue zircon, especially, was very popular during the Victorian period among the elites. Rings are a popular way to wear blue zircon, and have been for decades.

Tanzanite

Tanzanite is one of many varieties of the mineral zoisite, which can only be found in Tanzania. This brilliantly blue mineral was discovered in 1967 and has since become extremely popular, particularly among jewelry manufacturers and collectors.

The mineral naturally has blue and violet hues, but can also hold some brown hues, so the mineral is often treated to minimize the brown colors. The mineral is often used as a substitute for sapphire because of its color.

Unfortunately, tanzanite is easily scratched, so it is best used in earrings or pendants, rather than rings, to minimize general wear and tear.

Browse our birthstone jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI

For an excellent selection of jewelry that incorporates gemstones for December birthdays, visit Howard’s Fine Jewelry. For almost 70 years, we’ve been a premium retailer of fine jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI. We specialize in silver and gold pieces and engagement jewelry, but also offer a large selection of diamonds, watches, engagement rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings for both men and women.

Can’t find what you’re looking for? We also do custom jewelry! And, if you need to refurbish some old pieces, we offer repair and cleaning services. Visit us today and see how our selection can serve you this holiday season!

Holiday Gift Idea: Unique Diamond Jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI

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With the holidays right around the corner, people are starting to assemble their gifts to show their appreciation for the loved ones in their lives. If you’re looking for the perfect gift to give your wife or girlfriend, jewelry is probably one of the first things that comes to mind. Giving the gift of jewelry is a time-honored tradition, and jewelry often serves as a luxurious reminder of your adoration for your partner.

When it comes to picking out the right jewelry to gift, though, that’s when many people falter. With so many types of jewelry on the market, how could you possibly be expected to pick “the” perfect one? However, you can rarely go wrong by opting to give the gift of diamonds!

As a leading provider of diamond jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI, we like to remind confused gift givers that holidays are a time for celebration and fun. Now is the perfect time to choose a piece that is a little more unique and special. We are certain your loved one will appreciate the extra touch.

Delight her with dancing diamonds

Some of the most popular and more unique types of diamond jewelry we offer in Sterling Heights, MI are diamond pendants that move and shimmer. We often refer to these as “dancing diamonds.” What makes these diamonds so special is the way they are suspended within the pendant; rather than laying flat against the body, they are suspended and able to move with each motion, creating a dancing, dazzling sparkle unlike other gems.

Pendants are also a great addition to a current jewelry lover’s collection. She can add the pendant to her favorite chain, or you can purchase a new one that completes the look.

Opt for simpler elegance with diamond studs

If your loved one isn’t much of a jewelry wearer but does appreciate adding a bit of sparkle around her face, diamond stud earrings are a great alternative. This gift is classic and timeless, and diamond stud earrings match virtually every occasion, meaning she will be able to enjoy your gift all year long.

If studs are a little too simple for your partner’s tastes, you might want to venture into the realm of dangling or chandelier-style earrings. While a little more extravagant, dangling earrings with diamond accents will give your loved one some extra glimmer to match the light in their eyes.

Browse our selection of diamond jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI

If you’re looking for the perfect gift and decide that diamond jewelry is the right choice, visit Howard’s Fine Jewelry. For almost 70 years, we’ve been a premium retailer for all of your jewelry needs in Sterling Heights, MI. We specialize in silver, gold and engagement jewelry, but also offer a large selection of diamonds, watches, engagement rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings for both men and women.

Can’t find what you’re looking for? We also do custom jewelry! And, if you need to refurbish some old pieces, we offer repair and cleaning services. Visit us today and see how our selection can serve you this holiday season!

Tips for Choosing Perfect Engagement Rings in Sterling Heights, MI

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Choosing whom you’re going to marry is undoubtedly one of the most important decisions you will ever have to make—and it’s followed closely by choosing the perfect engagement ring! Whether you have a simple proposal planned or an extravagant romantic gesture in mind, you want to make sure that you are popping the question with the right ring.

Walking into a jewelry store can be an overwhelming experience, especially if you don’t have a particular taste for design. Thankfully, you can follow some basic guidelines to help you find a ring that fits your style, preferences and budget:

  • Set a budget: The most common budget guideline when it comes to buying engagement rings in Sterling Heights, MI is that you should spend the equivalent of about two months’ salary. This can be a good starting point, but you might find that you want to spend more or less depending on your circumstances. Whatever the case may be, you should really have a price point in mind before you begin shopping.
  • Determine the style you want: You want to find a ring that expresses the style of the person to whom you are proposing, so make sure that you spend plenty of time thinking about her style preferences. Is she a fan of traditional designs, or does she like things that are modern and quirky? Whatever it is, it’s important that you focus on finding a ring that she will be thrilled to wear.
  • Select the perfect diamond: The diamond is the centerpiece of engagement rings in Sterling Heights, MI, and there are many different options that you will have to choose from. You will need to decide whether you want a round, princess, pear, oval or heart shaped diamond, and you will also have to consider the quality and cut.
  • Protect your investment: You might think that diamond insurance or protection is overrated, but it is a precautionary measure that is well worth the investment. You can often get some form of protection for your ring from the jeweler you buy from. This plan will usually cover the cost to replace the ring should it ever be stolen or damaged. You might also choose to get additional coverage through a third-party insurance policy.

When you need to find the perfect engagement ring, you want to make sure that you are getting expert advice. At Howard’s Fine Jewelry, we have decades of experience helping customers find all of the right jewelry pieces, from watches to engagement rings in Sterling Heights, MI. We understand that it can be a challenge for customers to find the perfect engagement rings in Sterling Heights, MI, which is why we are happy to offer expert advice and customizable options so that you can find a beautiful piece that will practically guarantee that you hear a “yes” when you pop the question. You can give us a call to find out more about us, or just stop in today to see what we have in stock.

November Birthstone: Topaz

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With the holiday season fast approaching, you may be starting to think about compiling a gift list for your friends and loved ones. While you might already have some great gift ideas for some of your family and friends, everyone has at least a couple people who seem nearly impossible to shop for. Thankfully, there are some gifts that are almost guaranteed to be gladly received. Jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI is a thoughtful gift that can be customized and tailored to the specific person for whom you are shopping.

One of the most thoughtful types of jewelry to give as a gift is birthstone jewelry. If your gift recipient was born in November, you can surprise them with a beautiful topaz piece. Topaz is a lovely stone, and it also has a lot of interesting characteristics that make it an even more meaningful gift.

All about topaz

As November’s birthstone, topaz is most commonly seen in beautiful blue and orange shades, but it also comes in other colors, including white, blue, red, green, purple, pink, gray and more. Topaz is actually a quite common gemstone, which makes it relatively inexpensive to purchase. In many cases, topaz can be found in large quantities and can be cut into gemstones weighing thousands of carats.

Even though blue topaz is often used in jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI, this color is actually not a naturally-occurring shade. The vast majority of the time, topaz is altered through irradiation and heat treatment to create the traditional blue hue seen in most pieces of jewelry. There are many countries around the world that produce topaz. Brazil is the most prominent source of topaz, but Pakistan, China, India, Burma, Russia, Japan, Australia, Madagascar, Mexico, Zimbabwe and more have also been common sources of this gem.

Popular uses for topaz include:

  • Earrings: A beautiful pair of topaz earrings makes a beautiful gift for a loved one. The deep hues of topaz add the perfect color accent to a pair of earrings.
  • Necklaces: You can’t go wrong with a topaz necklace to celebrate a November birthday. You can select a design and length that is perfect for your recipient.
  • Rings: Many people prefer to accent their outfits with colorful rings instead of necklaces or earrings. Rings with topaz gemstones are certain to stand out as gorgeous jewelry pieces.

If you are on the hunt for the perfect gift for your loved one, come to Howard’s Fine Jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI. We offer an outstanding selection of jewelry, including topaz pieces, so you can find a gift that your friend or family member will cherish. We have been in business for decades and we continue to help customers find the jewelry pieces that fit their specific preferences and needs. With the holiday season coming up, it’s a great time to start crossing a few names off your list. We would be more than happy to help you find gifts for your loved ones, or something special for yourself. Simply stop by today for an expert consultation with one of our knowledgeable staff members.

Check Out This Fall’s Trends in Jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI

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The great thing about jewelry is that most items are not season-specific, meaning that if you select the right pieces, you will be right in line with various style trends year-round. But the key to getting that relaxed autumn-ready look is to accessorize with your more fall-colored jewelry. And if you are looking to add new pieces to your jewelry collection this autumn, knowing the latest seasonal trends beforehand can be of great assistance.

Whether you’re into fashion or like to wear something sparkly only on weekends, you’ll want to check out the following trends in autumn jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI. Here’s a short guide to 2017’s fashionable fall jewelry styles, materials and stones:

  • Opals: October is at the start of fall, and opals just happen to be the birthstone of October. This classically lovely stone has become a popular choice for engagement rings for the younger generation, but you can wear opals everyday. Earrings, a necklace, a bracelet—just wear it! To really fit into the season, look for opals in rustic settings, which pair well with the stone’s iridescent quality.
  • Pearls: While pearls may seem plain on their own, they always seem to make a statement as jewelry. This autumn, give pearls a chance! Single pearls make beautiful necklace pendants, or you can try out a delicate full-length precious metal ear cuff with a large round pearl on one end and a smaller round one on the other. Also trending this season is a single pearl placed in the center of a square ring setting.
  • Crystals: From sparkling rings to chandelier earrings, crystals are all the rage this fall. The best part of crystal jewelry? You can wear it with just about any outfit, be it casual or formal, which makes it a great choice to complement your fall layers. Crystals that best fit the season include amethyst, tourmaline, citrine and topaz—mix and match for extra boldness.
  • Statement rings: Making a comeback this fall are statement rings. Both women and men can accessorize with statement rings, as boldness knows no gender. Basically, these rings have oversized stones and thick metal bands. They are attention grabbers when worn alone, or can be layered with your delicate, thinner, gold or silver ring bands.
  • Anklets: You might think of anklets as a summer accessory, but there’s still time to wear them throughout the autumn months. Made of simple metal chains or with stones, wear these with slip-ons or strappy high heels.

Gift giving season is right around the corner!

The arrival of autumn is like a seasonal “save the date” for the upcoming holidays. So, why not browse the jewelry counter now for the best Christmas gifts for your loved ones? Start looking early to find that perfect jewelry gift, and don’t forget to take advantage of all those fall sales!

For the finest selection of jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI, look no further than Howard’s Fine Jewelry. Our team can help you pick out your new favorite piece of autumn jewelry, and we’re ready to guide you through some early Christmas shopping, too!

Opal and Pink Tourmaline: Learn About October’s Birthstones from a Jewelry Store in Sterling Heights, MI

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Each month brings with it a different beautiful birthstone, but October highlights two—opal and pink tourmaline. So, October babies, take your pick! These stones are lovely as individual pendants on necklaces, bracelets, a pair of earrings or hair clips. They can also be placed together with others of the same stone for uniformity, or chosen to add contrast to a piece. Opal and pink tourmaline are each in their own rights a standout jewelry enhancer, but it’s your choice how you wear them as jewelry.

After learning about opal and pink tourmaline, you might be curious to see what they look like and how they feel. Head on down to your local jewelry store in Sterling Heights, MI to find out!

Here are some interesting facts about the two birthstones.

Opal

  • The word opal comes from the Greek word opallios, which means “to see a change in color.” This makes sense, since opals are an iridescent gemstone, meaning that they seem to change colors when you look at the stone from different angles.
  • Although there are dozens of opal varieties, opals are typically characterized by their background color, which is either black or white.
  • A top characteristic of opals is the “play of color.” Submerging the stone in water or oil is a way to enhance the play of color.
  • The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) states that play of color is one of the most important factors when opals are being valued. This characteristic includes a range of colors, patterns, color intensity and the percentage of colors when compared to the background shade of the opal.
  • Each of the gemstone’s colors is represented by mystical properties, and it’s said that the wearer is filled with whatever those properties may be.
  • Australia’s national gemstone is the opal. Interestingly enough, many of the world’s most precious opals are found in Australia.

Pink tourmaline

  • The word tourmaline hails from the Sinhalese word turamali—sometimes written as two words, tura mali—meaning “stone of mixed colors.” There are very few gemstones that come in as many colors as tourmaline. Because of the vast color options, pink tourmaline has been assigned to October as a birthstone.
  • Tourmaline gemstones are mostly classified by color—red, blue, green or pink.
  • There is a prized variety of red or pink tourmaline known as rubellite. A true rubellite will display the same vibrant red or pink shade whether in artificial light or natural daylight, while the average pink tourmaline can appear brown in artificial light.
  • Those who use gemstones in the spiritual sense say pink tourmaline reduces stress, anxiety and clumsiness in adults, and soothes and calms children.

Owning jewelry with your birthstone—like a watch, necklace, ring or another piece—adds a little something more to your identity, and it doesn’t even have to be a piece that you wear all the time. Visit the team at Howard’s Fine Jewelry to learn more about these October birthstones, or feel free to browse our jewelry cases. We hope to see you in our jewelry store in Sterling Heights, MI soon!

How to Pick the Perfect Wedding Band

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Selecting the perfect wedding ring can be a nerve-wracking experience. Chances are, you and your partner will be wearing these rings for the rest of your lives! Working with a qualified jeweler, however, can make the process of choosing your wedding rings in Sterling Heights, MI a much less intimidating task.

If you and your loved one are ready to tie the knot, there are several things that you should consider before selecting a ring. The size, comfort and color are all things to take into consideration before purchasing your band. Here are some helpful hints to think of when you go to buy your rings:

  • Narrow your options: The amount of wedding rings in Sterling Heights, MI that you have to choose from can be overwhelming. Setting initial parameters for yourselves is a great way to begin the search.
  • Consider your engagement ring: You want to be sure that your engagement band and your wedding ring don’t clash. As you begin the search for a suitable wedding band, you will want to keep the style and aesthetic of your engagement ring constantly in mind.
  • Start the search soon: The last thing that you want to be doing the week before your wedding is looking for a suitable set of bands. Beginning the search for a band early is the best way to ensure that you and your partner enjoy a stress-free shopping experience!
  • To match or not to match: There’s no rule stating that wedding bands have to match or even complement each other. This is a decision that you and your partner must make together—some couples may decide to purchase bands that are even made of different metals!
  • Stay on budget: When shopping for wedding rings in Sterling Heights, MI, the most important thing to keep in mind is your budget. Establishing which price point you are willing to pay early on in the search is the best way to avoid conflict later on.
  • Think of your lifestyle: You will be wearing this band consistently for the rest of your life, so it’s important to keep your lifestyle in mind as you shop. If you are an avid sportsman, for instance, selecting a band with lots of pizzazz may not be right.
  • Consider maintenance: All jewelry requires regular maintenance. Some types of rings, however, need a substantially higher amount of attention. Rings with extensive gemstones or ornate engravings may require more frequent cleanings.
  • Examine the quality: You should only purchase a band that is of the highest quality available. This means examining the ring in great detail, and ensuring that it’s of the quality that the jeweler says it is. Don’t forget that rings are a long-term investment!

Howard’s Fine Jewelry is the perfect place to select your wedding rings in Sterling Heights, MI. Our knowledgeable sales associates can assist you in identifying which types of bands are best suited for your relationship and your lifestyle. To learn more about our extensive selection of gemstones and rings, visit our charming local location today!

50% Off Sapphires: Stone of the Month

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Sapphires are some of the most stylish and elegant gemstones known to man. These dazzling displays of natural beauty are most commonly thought of as blue, although they can actually come in a myriad of colors. In the jewelry world, sapphires are widely regarded as some of the most desirable stones.

If you are looking to find a stunning stone for your special someone, jewelry stores in Sterling Heights, MI may have the perfect solution! With discounts and deals continuing throughout the month, now is the perfect time to pick up a lovely gem from your favorite local retailer:

  • Ancient history: Sapphires have been used as jewelry at least as far back as the Roman Empire, where they were polished up and used as pendants.
  • Close cousins: Despite their reputation for being blue, sapphires can actually be found wearing every color of the rainbow—except for red, that is. Red sapphires are better known as rubies!
  • Chemical composition: Sapphires are composed of the mineral corundum. Their colors come from trace element deposits within the gem. Blue sapphires, for instance, derive their color from iron and titanium.
  • Hard and durable: The only substance that can scratch a sapphire is, you guessed it, a diamond! Sapphires are routinely rated as one of the strongest and most durable minerals known to man.
  • September babies: Sapphires represent the September birthstone. If someone special in your life is celebrating a September birthday, now is the perfect time to pay a visit to one of the jewelry stores in Sterling Heights, MI!
  • Royal associations: Throughout the medieval era, kings wore sapphires, which were thought to be the symbol of royalty. In 1796, Napoleon Bonaparte gave his wife Josephine a sapphire ring that sold at auction for more than $1 million last year!
  • Starry eyed: Asterisms can be found in some sapphires. This starry effect provides a unique look to the already-stunning stones. Some jewelry stores in Sterling Heights, MI may carry starry sapphires.
  • Chameleons: Some of the most unique gemstones available are the “color changing” sapphires, which exhibit different trace elements depending on the lighting. These rocks often change from blue to purple as the day turns to night.
  • Found across the globe: These stones are mined throughout the world. Some of the most notable sapphire deposits are found in Australia, the United States and Madagascar.

For gemstone enthusiasts, sapphires are some of the most unique prizes available. You can experience these delightful rocks by paying a visit to your local jewelry store!

Sapphires are available for half-cost this month at Howard’s Fine Jewelry. Our establishment is one of the finest jewelry stores in Sterling Heights, MI. We are known for providing high-quality gems and minerals at reasonable prices. No matter what the occasion may be, you can find the perfect piece of jewelry to match it in our extensive collection! Pick up a sapphire for any September birthdays that you may be celebrating this month, or just show your special someone how much you care by visiting our amazing store.

Choosing the Right Summer Jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI

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Accessorizing your summer ensembles with the right jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI is a blast, but it is important to make sure it is done right. With the help of this guide, you can make sure that you are outfitted in the right jewelry for the rest of the summer!

Accessorizing in the summer

When the heat of the summer is beating down and you begin to sweat, the last thing you want is heavy jewelry pieces clinging to your sticky skin, leaving you in an uncomfortable situation. If you are looking for pieces that don’t have as much heft to them, but that can still complement your outfit well without the added discomfort, consider lighter pieces of jewelry such as earrings, bracelets or watches. All of these pieces of jewelry can easily be statement pieces on their own, and can definitely make a lasting impression.

In addition to being much more comfortable, lighter jewelry is also more convenient for summer activities. If you will be spending a lot of time at the beach, in the pool or working the grill at various cookouts, you will want hassle-free jewelry that can easily be removed and quickly put back on again when you are ready for it.

Choosing the right colors

If you really want your jewelry to stand out, it is also important that you focus on vibrant colors that will blend well with your colorful warm-weather looks:

  • Orange: There probably is no other color that represents summer better than the color orange. When you think of orange, you probably immediately think of the bright sun and warm, beautiful weather. In addition to spreading around happy thoughts, orange is a color that really pops, and it can be used to create some eye-opening jewelry pieces.
  • Shades of blue: Blue is also another color that has become very popular for jewelry during the summer months. The great thing about this color is that there are so many varieties and shades that accessorizing with different types of blue hues will be a breeze. Whether you opt for a light, turquoise blue or you want to explore the depth of a dark sea blue, this color is sure to be a part of some captivating combinations.
  • Green and olive: Since peridot is the birthstone for the month of August, you could also consider some pieces in this olive green color to close out the summer on the right note. Ranging from olive green to brownish green, this gemstone has an amazing shine in the sun, and sparkles just as much under the cover of night as well.

If you were born in the month of August, now is the time to head to Howard’s Fine Jewelry. We are currently offering peridot birthstone jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI for 50 percent off, which means that right now is your chance to add quality pieces to your collection that you can wear for the rest of the summer and beyond. We are ready to help you find the best selections no matter what you need, so make sure you pay us a visit today!

Everything You Need to Know About Peridot Before You Visit the Jewelry Store in Sterling Heights, MI

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There are very few months that have more than one birthstone, and August is one of them. Although sardonyx is a brilliant stone, the most widely recognized birthstone for the month of August is peridot. With the help of this guide and the jewelry store in Sterling Heights, MI, you can understand a little bit more about this gem and all of its splendor.

Background

In ancient times, peridot was mined from an island in the Red Sea called Zabargad, which means “olivine” in Arabic. This volcanic island is commonly referred to as St. John, and is known for its extremely hot temperatures year-round, except for during the middle of the winter months. As the magma in volcanoes rises to the earth’s surface and transforms into lava, olivine is formed, and this mineral can sometimes even be found in meteorites as well. Of gem quality, this stone is transparent and composed of magnesium-iron silicates, and the main source of peridot currently is right here in the United States on the San Carlos Reservation in Arizona.

Summertime shine

Depending on how much iron is present in the stone that is used to create a particular piece of peridot jewelry, the appearance can range from a striking olive or yellowish green to a rich, brownish-greenish hue. As this is one of the gemstones that is composed of very few impurities, the color often appears uniform and complete. That means that when you get this stone out in the sun, your jewelry will enjoy a special kind of glisten that is sure to turn heads, making these pieces great accessories to wear with your summer outfits. Peridot is also referred to as the evening emerald, because it looks just as great in artificial light as well. You can wear your peridot pieces to dinner or for a night out on the town, and they will still possess the right amount of glimmer that lets you represent your birth month with pride.

Fortunately, if you were born in the month of August and are looking for some peridot pieces that truly stand out, Howard’s Fine Jewelry is now offering 50 percent off of this month’s birthstone. This amazing sale coincides with one of the warmest months of the year, and you have the opportunity to collect pieces that will shine brightly under the August sun, so now is the time to come in and add your birthstone to your jewelry collection.

If you want to pick up your peridot birthstone this month as a part of our amazing deal, or are looking to get a gift for someone who has a birthday in another month, make sure you pay us a visit today. We have over 70 years of experience in the industry and you can be sure that, no matter what you are looking for, we are the jewelry store in Sterling Heights, MI that will have just what you need. We look forward to helping you find the perfect piece of peridot jewelry!