Tips for Choosing the Right Wedding Bands

Summer has officially arrived, which also means that wedding season is in full swing. The beautiful weather makes the summer months the ideal time for a destination or outdoor wedding. While you are ironing out the last details of your big day, organizing your registry and putting the finishing touches on your honeymoon plans, it’s important to think a little bit about the kinds of wedding bands you want. Even though many of your guests might not get a good look at your wedding rings, you’ll be looking at them for years to come, so it’s important that you choose a style that you really love. While purchasing wedding rings can seem overwhelming, you can make the right selection by following some simple tips:

  • Start with a budget: Before you can start shopping at a jewelry store in Sterling Heights, MI, always work with your partner to set a budget—and stick to it. Weddings are already an expensive event, and you don’t want to put any extra burden on yourself by falling in love with a wedding band that’s way outside of your budget. When you go ring shopping, make sure to tell your jeweler about your budget and ask them to avoid showing you anything that is out of your comfortable price range.
  • Think about your lifestyle: If you or your partner has a particularly hands-on job or you spend a lot of time on projects or physically involved hobbies, you might not want to buy a ring that has gemstones or other settings, since they are more likely to come out under stress or incur damage.
  • Don’t get hung up on matching sets: If you and your partner have very different preferences when it comes to wedding bands, you don’t have to get a matching set. If you like platinum and your partner likes gold, why not get one of each? You can still get your rings in similar styles or add personalized engraving, but you don’t have to try to come to a consensus on a specific material.
  • Figure out a general style: Before you go to a jewelry store in Sterling Heights, MI, it’s helpful to have some direction. While you don’t need to have a very specific style in mind, it’s a good idea to at least know what you don’t want in your wedding band. Ruling out certain styles and features can help ease your shopping experience significantly.

Whether you know exactly what style you want for your wedding bands or you don’t have the faintest idea of what you’re looking for, you can end your search for the perfect rings at Howard’s Fine Jewelry. Our jewelry store in Sterling Heights, MI carries an extensive selection of fine jewelry, including wedding rings that are designed to fit a variety of preferences, styles and budgets. For 70 years, our team has delivered outstanding customer service and a quality selection of products that stand the test of time. Stop by today for a consultation, and let us help you find the perfect pieces of jewelry for you.

July Birthstone: Rubies

If one of your close friends or family members has a birthday in July, you might be at a loss trying to figure out what to give them. Giving birthday gemstone jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI can be a thoughtful gift, and July’s birthstone is the ruby. The ruby is a beautiful stone, but you might not know much about it beyond its signature red hue. Find out a little bit more about this gemstone and tell your loved one about the significance of the ruby to put even more meaning behind a ruby birthday gift.

The origin, significance and status of the ruby

The actual name “ruby” comes from the Latin word “rubis,” which can literally be translated as “red.” The ruby has all kinds of wonderful meanings behind it. The gem represents love, emotion, passion and courage, and has long-been considered the king of all gemstones. Centuries ago, it was commonly believed that the person wearing a red ruby would encounter good fortune. As such, rubies have been worn by royalty, including kings and emperors, throughout history.

Rubies come in a variety of red shades, with hues ranging from reddish purples and blues to red-oranges. Burmese rubies are the most valuable rubies and have a distinctively vibrant red color that has some blue undertones. Rubies are nearly as strong as diamonds and exceed emeralds in their strength. They are also one of the most valuable gemstones on the planet. In fact, rubies that don’t have any imperfections actually surpass diamonds in value. Over the years, many labs have produced synthetic rubies that closely imitate the real thing.

Despite their inherent beauty and strength, most of the rubies that you see incorporated into jewelry have been treated to some extent to increase their appearance and strength. The most popular and valuable rubies tend to come from Thailand or Myanmar, which is where the term “Burmese ruby” came from. Because a ruby’s color is defined by a specific mineral, the geographic location of a ruby can have a significant impact on its appearance, depending on the geological presence of chromium. Myanmar rubies are renowned for their impressive fluorescence. In fact, these stones are even known to have a kind of glowing appearance when exposed to sunlight.

Shop for jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI

Looking for the perfect gift for that special someone? Come to Howard’s Fine Jewelry to browse an extensive selection of beautiful pieces. Whether your loved one has a more classic style or likes jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI with a modern design, we can help you find exactly what you’re looking for. We’re proud to have a 70-year history in the community and an outstanding track record for quality and customer service. We will work with you to determine what your style and budget can accommodate and can show you pieces that have all of the elements you’re looking for. Come see what we have in stock by browsing our website or visiting us in person today—we look forward to helping you!

Five Jewelry Ideas for Mother’s Day in Sterling Heights, MI

Mother’s Day is just around the corner! If you want to find that perfect jewelry gift, Howard’s Fine Jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI is here for you. We have a wide inventory for a variety of preferences and budgets. There are even pieces on sale, so visit us today for a deal and know that you are prepared for Mother’s Day. Here’s what we offer for that perfect gift:

  • Gemstone variety: Diamonds are not just for weddings and romantic gifts. They also work for Mother’s Day, as we offer tasteful pieces in earrings and pendants. But if your mother or spouse prefers different gems and colors, we are here for you. Check out our emerald, aquamarine, ruby and sapphire pieces as well, for those who want something beyond the basic diamond or plain gold piece. Emeralds are the May birthstone, and you can make Mother’s Day extra special for those moms who also have birthdays this month. Many of our rings are on sale, which makes this an excellent opportunity for that personal gift.
  • Watches: Sometimes we need a classic watch that does not communicate with our smart phones or count our steps. The Apple Watch and Fitbit are staples of most people’s everyday life, but sometimes a special occasion demands something better—or at least a break from the world’s distractions, demands and fitness goals. Those devices do not match well for an evening out, or your spouse or mother may enjoy being less connected some days. We offer Citizen, Bulova and ESQ watches for men and women. These high-quality timepieces are functional and attractive. They are also fine classic designs that are built to last.
  • Diamonds: As mentioned above, diamonds offer more flexibility than realized. While culture often associates diamonds with romance, it is a versatile gem that is appropriate for any occasion. Howard’s Fine Jewelry offers a vast array of diamond items including pendants, earrings, bracelets and, yes, non-wedding ring styles. Diamonds also work well in combinations, as we currently stock diamond earrings that also feature rubies. No matter the occasion or design, diamonds always make a fashion statement.
  • Gold options: If you or your gift recipient are not fans of yellow gold, have no fear—our pieces are also available in white or rose gold. We use high-quality 18-karat gold that offers the durability and shine needed for jewelry pieces that last. This allows us to offer something for everyone.
  • Budget considerations: You do not have to be rich to afford that unique and valuable gift. Many items are available on sale, and silver is just as acceptable for mounting as gold. Quality and meaning are not incompatible with budgets, so do not write off jewelry just yet. Visit us today and see that we have something for everyone—and every budget.

Visit Howard’s Fine Jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI and enjoy our wide selection of Mother’s Day gifts that are sure to please the special person in your life. We look forward to showing you what we offer!

Emeralds: Find the May Birthstone at Our Jewelry Store in Sterling Heights, MI

Emeralds are the birthstone for May and a traditional gift for 20th, 35th and 55th wedding anniversaries. Our jewelry store in Sterling Heights, MI currently has emerald inventory on sale, and this would be an excellent opportunity to enjoy these green gems. Before you buy, here are six fascinating facts about emeralds:

  • Colombia is a big producer: The most common source for emeralds is Colombia. Our latest inventory features Colombian emeralds, and that makes sense when you know that over 50 percent of emeralds sold worldwide are from that country.
  • Ancient gem: Emeralds are among the four precious gemstones; the other three are diamonds, sapphires and rubies. The oldest emeralds are estimated to be 2.97 billion years old and were first mined in Egypt around 1500. Incas enjoyed them, too. However, the Spanish did not discover emeralds until the 16th century, when they first arrived in South America.
  • They are difficult to create in labs: A demand for synthetic gems started in the 20th Many of them match in quality to their natural counterparts and make fine jewelry more accessible to more people. Sapphires and rubies were first created in the lab, but emeralds took a little while longer. In 1935, American chemist Carroll Chatham created a one-carat emerald that is now on display in the Smithsonian.
  • Unexpectedly fragile: Emeralds rate 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness. This is a durable rating, but emeralds lack the density of diamonds and other gems. A one-carat emerald looks larger than a one-carat diamond because of this characteristic. Jewelers must be extra cautious when mounting emeralds into settings because they are susceptible to chipping and cracking. Many jewelers treat emeralds by filling their cracks with oil to reduce the chance of chipping or cracking. Once purchased, you can maintain your emeralds by coating them with baby oil as an extra precaution.
  • High value: The highest quality emeralds are worth more than diamonds. All emeralds have imperfections, but that is accepted as their character standard. The most important element of an emerald is its color; the highest-valued ones are vivid or blueish green and largely transparent. If they are too light, they are not considered emeralds by most gemologists. An emerald pendant belonging to Elizabeth Taylor sold for $6.5 million in 2011, which averaged about $280,000 paid per carat. So, if you choose wisely, your emerald jewelry will be more than an accessory—it will be a good investment.
  • Folklore abounds: Emeralds are surrounded with mystic properties. Ancient tales claim that placing an emerald under your tongue helps you see into the future. Wearing emeralds was thought to support intuition and limit memory loss. If you believe your spouse or partner fails to tell the truth, emeralds are said to act as a truth potion, so you can determine whether your gut feeling is correct. Once, early lapidaries used emeralds to reduce eyestrain after long periods of concentration. Of all these myths, that one remains true—it is often thought emeralds help with eyestrain after long computer use.

Howard’s Fine Jewelry offers jewelry for a variety of occasions, including those May birthdays and anniversaries on your list. Visit our jewelry store in Sterling Heights, MI today to see our collection of Colombian emeralds!

Wow Mom with a Mother’s Day Gift from Howard’s Fine Jewelry This Year

Moms go above and beyond every single day of the year. They’re always ready to drive the kids to soccer practice or read one more story aloud before bedtime. This year, let your mom, grandmother, wife or a woman who’s like a mother to you know just how much you appreciate all she does. There’s no better way to spoil her than with a present she can wear and cherish forever.

Howard’s Fine Jewelry has you covered this Mother’s Day with our unique collection of premium jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI. Here are a few of our favorite gift ideas for mom this year:

  • Personalized pieces: A personalized necklace, ring or bracelet is an everyday reminder of how important Mom is. Consider having the names of each child engraved on a bracelet, or add their birthdates to the inside of a gold band featuring a beautiful ruby stone.
  • Classic bracelet: Give mom a staple she can turn to for years to come. A classic sterling bracelet is a timeless piece that can easily transition from casual to formal. Another option is a diamond tennis bracelet that will be sure to wow everyone at the next party.
  • Diamond pendant: A diamond pendant is a beautiful gift Mom will absolutely adore. Consider a white gold diamond pendant in the shape of a heart, flower or cross. These minimalist designs are sure to make a statement.
  • Diamond earrings: Every woman needs a good pair of diamond earrings. Diamond dangle or stud earrings will leave her speechless as soon as she unwraps the box.
  • Charm bracelet: Give Mom something personal this Mother’s Day with a custom charm bracelet. Choose from a variety of different charms that convey her personality and interests. Add a flower charm for the mom who loves to garden, or the logo of her favorite sports team. Gift her an additional charm each year for a new Mother’s Day tradition she will love.
  • Custom jewelry: Do you already have the perfect gift in mind? Let your creativity shine by creating a custom piece of jewelry for Mom. A jeweler will work with you to turn your idea into reality. The gift will mean even more to Mom when she hears it’s an original idea made just for her.
  • Birthstone: Incorporate Mom’s birthstone into a ring, necklace or earrings for a personalized touch. July’s ruby birthstone will pair well with a gold band, while the dark opal stone of October is a perfect match for a statement necklace.

Jewelry is the perfect gift to tell Mom how special she is this Mother’s Day. From customized pieces to diamond heart shaped pendants, Howard’s Fine Jewelry is here to help. You’re sure to find something she will love among our selection of fine jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI. Stop by today to browse our selection of jewelry in the store, or check out our stock online today. We look forward to helping you make this Mother’s Day one she will never forget.

The Diamond Is the Birthstone for April

The diamond has been a popular jewel of choice for centuries. The sparkling, crisp and luxurious diamond has long been beloved by women and men alike, across cultures and geographies. The unmistakable shimmer of the decadent diamond is found in everything from the most elaborate wedding rings and watches to the subtler statement necklaces. Around the world, the diamond is admired for its extreme resilience, beauty and opulence.

The beloved gemstone is actually the birthstone for those lucky enough to be born in the month of April. There is so much more to the diamond birthstone than just having an excuse to wear the sparkling favorite, though. Here are a few interesting facts about the April diamond birthstone and the true meaning behind it.

Deeper meaning

The diamond carries a special meaning for those with an April birthday. There are countless legends and myths about the different healing powers and therapeutic influences of wearing one’s birthstone. Opting to wear your birthstone during the assigned month is said to increase the powers thought to be carried by the stone. Traditionally, wearing diamonds has been known to improve happiness in relationships, increase success at work and assist in developing inner strength. The diamond is also associated with a variety of other benefits, including mental clarity and financial prosperity. Now, we’re not saying you’ll automatically get a promotion at work by wearing diamonds, but it can’t hurt to try!

A classic favorite

Mythology aside, the diamond is a wonderful birthstone for a variety of reasons. You likely already know that diamonds are incredibly durable. In fact, the diamond is actually the hardest gemstone available, and can only be cut with another diamond. Diamonds come in multiple colors. Most people know the classic colorless stone, but diamonds can also come in yellow, red, blue, pink and green. The shade can vary from faint to incredibly vivid. Typically, a more saturated diamond will have a higher price tag. The carat weight and clarity will also influence its value.

How to buy diamond jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI

Before you start shopping, do a little research to determine what type of diamond and cut the recipient would like. Some women might favor a timeless oval shape, while others prefer a vintage pear cut. The diamond will last a lifetime and should reflect the personality and taste of the lucky wearer. Then, identify your budget before heading to the jewelry store to start shopping. Remember, you don’t have to sacrifice quality to get a sizable diamond. A jeweler will be able to help you select the perfect diamond pendant, ring or tennis bracelet based on your budget.

Looking for a great April birthday gift? Howard’s Fine Jewelry has a wonderful selection of diamond birthstone jewelry. Giving diamond jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI means giving a perfectly beautiful gift they will love and cherish for years to come. Stop by Howard’s Fine Jewelry today to check out our extensive selection of diamond watches, engagement rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings!

Spring Is Coming! Time to Look for Engagement Rings in Sterling Heights, MI

Spring is the time of year when the weather starts to change and the flowers once again begin to blossom. Since spring inherently represents a time of new beginnings, it is also one of the best times of year to pop the question to the one you love. Here are just a couple of the reasons why spring engagements are so popular.

Photography shoots

Since spring is the time of year when the flowers and foliage are at their most abundant, an engagement during the spring season presents couples with the chance to set up a picturesque outdoor photo shoot to mark the occasion. Even if you prefer to have an indoor photo shoot, the bright, natural light that the spring sun provides will still guarantee that your photos turn out flawlessly.

Planning ahead

During the hectic winter holiday season, many people find that, by the time the new year rolls around, all of the gift giving and holiday travel has tapped them out financially. A spring proposal gives you a couple of months to recuperate and save up for the perfect engagement ring in Sterling Heights, MI, and might also give you the opportunity to take advantage of your tax return. Additionally, many couples try to set a wedding date that is about a year after the engagement, so a spring proposal will also put you in line for a beautiful spring or early summer wedding.

Showing off the ring

One of the most rewarding things about a spring engagement is that your loved one won’t have to worry about wearing gloves for several months, and will be able to show the ring off all the time. Because the ring will be displayed so prominently, it is important to take the time to pick out the best custom ring you can find, while also staying within your budget.

Here at Howard’s Fine Jewelry, we go above and beyond with each custom piece we craft, and we will work with you for as long as it takes to make sure you have a ring that your loved one will fall in love with. In fact, more than half of our engagement rings are custom made! All you have to do is show us a photo, or even a picture on your phone, and we will make a memorable ring with stunning, top-of-the-line quality. And because we make the ring for you, we will be able to cut out the middleman and can save you additional money that you can put towards your big day.

If you are ready to pop the question and want to browse an expansive collection of engagement rings in Sterling Heights, MI, visit us at Howard’s Fine Jewelry. Popping the question starts with the perfect ring, and since 1948 we have been helping couples find exactly what they are looking for as they start preparing for the rest of their lives. Pay us a visit today so that you can browse our vast selection, or have your ring custom made and send your love over the moon.

March Birthstone: Find Aquamarine Jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI

With the month of March signaling the start of the spring season, the aquamarine birthstone similarly represents new beginnings, while also presenting hopeful prospects of a bright future. With the help of the jewelry store in Sterling Heights, MI, let’s look a little deeper at just where aquamarine originates, as well as some of the most popular ways to wear the luxurious jewelry pieces that incorporate this popular gem.

The aquamarine backstory

Aquamarine can be found in Mexico, Africa and in the Middle East, but is primarily mined in Brazil, which is home to some of the most valuable beryl reserves in the world. The name of the aquamarine stone conjures images of water, and the gem is aptly named, given its range of light-greenish blue colors and bright blue hues. In fact, it is the tint of the blue that can help to determine a particular jewelry piece’s value, with the deeper blue hues being more valuable.

The rich blue color of aquamarine comes from the iron that is present in the beryl mineral, and once the piece undergoes the heating process that eliminates the traces of the green colors that are naturally present, this vibrant blue can really shine through. Aquamarine also comes in at 8 on the hardness scale, making it one of the best stones to use to make durable jewelry pieces, because it can easily withstand the manufacturing process.

Get the look

Once aquamarine is mined, the gemstones are cut and formed into various jewelry pieces that can add elegance and grace to any fashion ensemble. Much like the sea the stone embodies, the clarity of the blue stones has a calming and relaxing effect, and mimics the stress relief that comes from staring into a deep blue ocean or looking up at a tranquil, light blue sky. What makes aquamarine jewelry and accessories truly unique is that, while the softness of the stone promotes peacefulness, the sharpness of the blue can add an edge to any look. The aquamarine birthstone also symbolizes trust and harmony, as well as happiness and youth. The blue stone looks great with any outfit, but will really stand out on those who have blue or green eyes.

No matter what your preference is, be it accessorizing subtly or making a bold statement with your jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI, we have the aquamarine pieces that you are looking for at Howard’s Fine Jewelry. For 70 years we have provided top-of-the-line jewelry pieces that you can’t find anywhere else, and we take pride in taking the time out with each piece to make sure every customer can find the right fit. Whether you need an aquamarine bracelet or necklace or a nice set of earrings, our knowledgeable staff is ready to make sure you have the jewelry you’re looking for. If you want to sport the aquamarine birthstone for the entire month of March and beyond, give us a call today so we can help you pick out the perfect piece!

A Unique Symbol of Love: Amethyst Birthstones are 50% Off This February!

Amethyst—its brilliant purple hues are recognizable anywhere. Historically, it’s said that the woman who wears amethyst will enjoy its purifying qualities; it soothes the soul, lifts the spirit, and brings peace and clarity. It’s also known to strengthen relationships, which makes it one of the most romantic gift ideas for the month of love.

Whether or not your significant other was born in February, she will likely appreciate a strikingly beautiful amethyst stone set in any of our fine jewelry pieces. Its unique color makes it stand out from the crowd, yet it is one of the most affordable gemstones in our collection. Right now we’re offering all amethyst birthstones at 50% off in our jewelry store in Sterling Heights, MI, but if you’re not convinced that the amethyst is the right gift idea, here are a few interesting facts about this brilliantly beautiful stone that may change your mind!

It gets that purple color from iron

An amethyst is actually a type of quartz. That beautiful purple color comes from irradiation, iron impurities and the presence of trace elements within the stone. The result is complex crystal lattice substitutions and a color that can range from a deep indigo to a pinkish violet. The deeper and more rich the indigo coloring, the more expensive the stone will be.

It originates in Greek Mythology

Bacchus, the God of Wine, was in love with one of Aphrodite’s nymphs, whose name was Amethyst. However, Amethyst did not share Bacchus’ feelings. She grew weary of Bacchus’ advances, and asked Aphrodite for help. Aphrodite’s solution was to turn Amethyst into a pile of crystals. Bacchus, it is said, was so distraught that he spilled his wine over Amethyst, which gave her the deep purple color that we all recognize so well.

It was the stone of royals

Until the 19th Century, when a large deposit of amethysts was discovered in Brazil, amethysts were once as rare and as valuable as rubies and emeralds. They were often reserved for the adorning of royalty only. Historically, you would often see amethysts featured in the crowns, rings and necklaces worn by royals worldwide. Amethysts were not only rare and valuable, but their rich purple color also made them a sign of wealth, and they were said to bring wisdom and clarity to those who wore them.

There’s a lot of meaning behind them

The amethyst is typically used as a symbol for understanding, wisdom and stronger relationships, and has even been known to bring healing and protection. Regardless of the symbolism tied to the stone, however, your significant other will first and foremost see it as a symbol of your love.

If you are looking for the perfect gift for your love this February, we’d love to show you our collection of amethysts. Just stop in to our jewelry store in Sterling Heights, MI anytime this month and you will also enjoy 50% off all our amethyst birthstones. Call or come see us today at Howard’s Fine Jewelry!

Give Her a Gift that Will Last: Diamond Heart Pendants and Diamond Engagement Rings 50% Off for Valentine’s Day!

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and, if you haven’t found the perfect gift yet, you may be starting to feel the pressure. Valentine’s Day is the one day a year to make that special romantic gesture that will always remind her how much you love her. Unfortunately, chocolates and roses don’t exactly say “forever love.” If you want a gift that will truly symbolize the love you share, give her a gift that will last—diamonds.

Diamonds are a time-honored tradition and the official gift of Valentine’s Day, and it’s no wonder why. The warm fire sparkling from within the depths of diamonds, combined with their quality and ever-lasting beauty, makes them the perfect symbol of the deep love you share. At Howard’s Fine Jewelry, we have a large selection of premium quality diamonds and beautifully crafted ring settings, bracelets, pendants and more. No matter what stage of your relationship you are in or what her unique taste may be, you’re sure to find the perfect gift among our large selection of diamond jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI.

However, if you’re looking for suggestions, we think there are two options that definitely exceed the rest when it comes to giving the perfect diamond gift this Valentine’s Day. Read on to learn more!

Engagement rings

If you’ve reached a stage in your relationship where you’re ready to pop the question, you couldn’t pick a better day than Valentine’s Day. Just imagine forever celebrating Valentine’s Day as the day the two of you promised your love to one another. In honor of the holiday and all the loving couples out there, we’re offering diamond engagement rings at 50% off for Valentine’s Day, which is just one more reason why this is the perfect time to ask her to be yours forever.

Heart pendants

If you’re not quite ready to propose marriage, but still want to show her how much you care, we offer other, subtler options for diamond jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI. Heart pendants are the perfect option to show her how much you love her this Valentine’s Day. The heart is the historic symbol of the center of love and affection. What better way to show her that she’s the center of your love and affections than giving her a diamond heart pendant? At Howard’s Fine Jewelry, we have several styles of diamond heart pendants to choose from to fit any style or budget. Plus, for Valentine’s Day only, all of our heart pendants are 50% off!

No matter what stage your relationship is currently in, diamonds are always the perfect gift for Valentine’s Day. From diamond heart pendants to engagement rings and everything in between, you’ll find the perfect way to say “I love you” among our selection of fine diamond jewelry in Sterling Heights, MI. But don’t wait! Valentine’s Day is almost here, and these discounts won’t last forever. Browse our selection of beautiful diamond jewelry in store or online today. We look forward to helping you!