The Meaning of ZIVA

Posted on January 22, 2013 by Felicia Ceballos-Marroquin

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Why the name ZIVA for ZIVA Jewels?

Ziva is of Hebrew origin and means brilliance, brightness or to be splendid. These are ideal qualities for a diamond or gemstones, therefore it’s the perfect name for the quality that ZIVA Jewels always produces.

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Fall 2012 Collection Coming September 1st

Posted on August 21, 2012 by Felicia Ceballos-Marroquin

Ziva Jewels is premiering our new fall collection September 1, 2012 with an expansion of our popular Rose Gold and Halo Collection!

The collection will include double halo engagement rings in rose gold as well as white gold. Yellow gold will also be available upon request. The diamond halos are square shaped and will give a round center diamond the illusion of being a square or cushion shape.

We will also be adding one set of matching earrings and a pendant with a double halo to match the new rose gold engagement rings. All engagement rings will also have a matching wedding band.

Customers will be able to request to see the new items at their local jeweler under ZIVA’s exclusive TRY BEFORE YOU BUY program on the same day as the items’ debut.

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Rose Gold Engagement Rings

Posted on July 25, 2012 by Felicia Ceballos-Marroquin


Lately we’ve noticed more and more people have been placing TRY BEFORE YOU BUY requests for rose gold engagement rings. Our already popular halo collection became even more popular once we started offering rose gold as an alternative metal.

As one of the only fine jewelry designers with who carries a wide variety of engagement rings and wedding rings in rose gold, we’ve seen this trend emerge firsthand.

At first, lot of customers who would request to see an item in rose gold would change their mind and purchase the engagement ring in white gold.

Now, we’re seeing more and more women who have their hearts set on choosing something different and make the decision to choose rose gold whole-heartedly.

We must admit, it’s a great change. There is nothing we love more than seeing our customers walk away with an engagement ring that is uniquely “them” and fits their personality perfectly. Rose gold is a great way to stand out in a sea of white gold rings.

We’ll be expanding our rose gold engagement ring collection in mid-August and adding completely new styles, including some unique double halo styles that are sure to impress! Visit ZIVAJewels.com to see them in a few short weeks.

And remember, just because an item is not part of our Rose Gold Collection doesn’t mean we won’t make it in rose gold. As jewelry designers and manufacturers we can create all kinds of customized jewelry so tell us your ideas!

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High End Jewelry and Ultrasonic Cleaners, a Safe Combination?

Posted on June 12, 2012 by Felicia Ceballos-Marroquin

Are UltraSonic Cleaners Safe for High End Jewelry? In a word, no. Ultrasonic cleaners clean fine jewelry by bombarding it with sound waves in a hot solution. The intense vibrations shake free dirt while the heat loosens stuck on grime; however not all designer jewelry is up to the heat and vibrations. Some gemstones will melt or fracture so it is important to know which ones before you put yours in an ultrasonic cleaner.

Even though diamonds are the hardest gemstone, if yours has been fracture filled, an ultrasonic cleaner could melt the solution in the cracks. Jewelers must notify you if your diamond has been fracture filled because it will have a profound effect on the price of the stone. Synthetic diamonds should also not be placed in an ultrasonic cleaner because sometimes the heat will melt them.

Certain gemstones naturally have a lot of inclusions, such as emeralds. Often these are also fracture filled or oiled so the surface appears uniform. It is not recommended to put emeralds in ultrasonic cleaners since it will dissolve the oil and possibly crack the stone. Too many inclusions make the stone delicate and susceptible to chipping. Other delicate gemstones include peridot, tanzanites and tourmalines.

In theory, certain watches should be able to survive an ultrasonic cleaner. The important thing is to know the difference between water resistant and water proof. Water resistant means the outside of the watch repels water. Water proof means the watch can be immersed in water; however, when a watch his graded the water is not warmer than room temperature. Another important thing to take into consideration is if the watch’s battery has been replaced. In the event that is was, the seal or gasket of the watch may have been broken allowing water to seep in and rust the gears.

When you purchase gemstone jewelry, be sure to ask if it requires any special considerations due to the treatment it has received. Mostly all gemstones on the market are treated in some way. The majority of universally accepted treatments change the stone permanently; however, sometimes the new color that results could fade if the gemstone reheated. The same thing can happen with fancy color diamonds. With stones that are prone to fading it is advised to keep them out of direct sunlight and away from ultrasonic cleaners.

Photo courtesy of Ani-Bee through Creative Commons license.

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Art Deco Engagement Rings

Posted on June 8, 2012 by Felicia Ceballos-Marroquin

Vintage engagement rings have become increasingly popular, especially art deco engagement rings. Art deco, with its clean lines and modern geometric shapes, always looks timeless and classic with a chic twist.

The art deco style was popular in the 1920’s and the 1930’s. Art Deco originated in France and was highly influenced by the events of the era. Resources were abundant and the United States was enjoying a prosperous economic boom. The world was also experiencing a time of discovery. An emerging interest in Egyptian culture was inspired by the discovery of King Tut’s tomb and the modern industrial age left a generation that wanted to distinguish themselves with their own style.

Art deco combined all of these influences and the resulting fashion, architecture and zeitgeist would leave a lasting legacy, one that is still very popular today. Think about that the next time you try on an art deco engagement ring.

Photo courtesy of Andyket through creative commons license.

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Gemstone Pendants and their Healing Powers

Posted on June 2, 2012 by Felicia Ceballos-Marroquin

When it comes to healing properties, gemstones are said to carry planetary vibrations that can be used in one of two ways. You can wear a gemstone pendant necklace for a long life or as a temporary healing treatment. If you are wearing gemstone jewelry for longevity it is advised to wear your moon sign gemstone which is different from your traditional sun sign birthstone; however it is advised that you consult your spiritual healer to be certain you are choosing the right one.

For temporary healing, you can use the gemstone associated with the physical or spiritual area you are trying to improve. Ruby pendant settings are an empowering stone that give the wearer the strength to overcome martyrdom and escape self-inflicted suffering. Tanzanite is a calming stone and is said to enhance composure and harmony. It is the perfect stone for workaholics and helps them take it easy by calming overactive minds. According to folklore, peridots are protective stones that dispel negative energy, especially if it is set in a diamond pendant and worn around the neck.

 

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Gemstone Jewelry: How to Give the Perfect Gift

Posted on May 28, 2012 by Felicia Ceballos-Marroquin

Choosing your ideal gemstone ring can be a daunting task. With the latest edition of Walter Schumann’s Gemstones of the World listing over 200 different varieties, how do you know what gemstone is right for you?

If the gemstone will be a gift, find out if the person has an affinity for their birthstone. The most coveted birthstones are rubies, emeralds, sapphires so persons born in July, May and September will usually not object to receiving their birthstone. As for the other birthstones, it is usually a matter of personal taste. Plus some months have more than one gemstone, so the wearer my prefer one over the other.

You can also choose birthstones to represent a person. Some engagement rings have three stones, the traditional center diamond, the groom’s birthstone and the bride’s birthstone. Mothers are sometimes gifted with a ring that has the birthstone of each of their children.

In the event that you are giving someone a gemstone to celebrate an anniversary, there are different gemstones associated with different anniversaries.

Each gemstone has a varying level of hardness. Harder gemstones are better for gemstone rings while softer gemstones are more appropriate for a gemstone pendant or gemstone earrings. Where the gemstone ranks on the Mohs scale of hardness will tell you if the stone is considered durable or delicate. Sapphires and rubies (rated a 9 on the Mohs hardness scale) are the second-hardest stone after diamonds so they are the most dependable choice. Emeralds and Tanzanites, (both rated a 7.5 to an 8 on the Mohs hardness scale) are considered fragile but are still considered valuable because of their rarity.

Image courtesy of bored-now through Creative Commons license.

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Estate Jewelry: What You Need to Know

Posted on May 23, 2012 by Felicia Ceballos-Marroquin

Shopping for a vintage engagement ring is slightly different from shopping for a modern engagement ring. First you need to choose if you’re after a reproduction style or if you want a genuine antique engagement ring. If you want the real deal, you need to choose carefully.

One of your options is to visit a jeweler that sells estate jewelry. Always buy from someone who knows more about the history of the item. Older jewelry wasn’t as strictly monitored by consumer protection organizations so the quality can be lacking. That isn’t something you should overlook especially since older jewelry is also less reliable because of the wear the item has experienced over the years. Quality should be your first concern, so ask the vendor if he or she knows about any defects in the item.

Quality should also extend to the center stone. If possible take the center stone to be examined by a jeweler you trust. Diamonds set in older settings tend to be of reduced quality and may be of inferior cut. You could always get the stone re-cut so it could appear to be more brilliant, but if the quality is inferior, it may not be worthwhile. Older styles also tend to have center stones with antique cuts. This may mean that your center stone will not be as brilliant, but it will be more unique.

Image Courtesy of Jeremy Brooks through Creative Commons license.

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Where the Tennis Bracelet Gets Its Name

Posted on May 16, 2012 by Felicia Ceballos-Marroquin

Before there were tennis bracelets there were eternity bracelets. In actuality, the design is exactly the same so you’ll sometimes still hear the name eternity bracelet to refer to a single row of symmetrical inline diamonds or gemstones.

The name tennis bracelet didn’t gain popularity until the 1987 US Open. Chris Evert, the former World No. 1 woman tennis player and the winner of 18 Grand Slam singles titles, wore a George Bedewi diamond tennis bracelet to the match. This prompted attention from the crowds since it was uncommon to wear such fine designer jewelry to play tennis.

Although fashionable, the choice proved to be impractical when the clasp broke during the match. This only gave more allure to Chris’ elegant diamond bracelet. The match was halted so she could recover her diamonds and thus a jewelry trend began. Diamond bracelets gained popularity and the name tennis bracelet stuck.

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Try Before You Buy – A Better Way to Buy Fine Jewelry

Posted on April 23, 2012 by Felicia Ceballos-Marroquin

When we introduced Try Before You Buy more than a year ago, we didn’t expect what a success it would become. We’re changing the way customers buy jewelry online by building a relationship with our customers, something that other big name retailers have been quick to ignore. We wanted to provide a better service experience and our customers have embraced our new approach.

We’ve adapted Try Before You Buy several times to better serve the needs of our customers and we’ve finally arrived at what looks to be the most permanent incarnation of Try Before You Buy.

Starting in April, customers will no longer be able to buy directly from our site (although in exceptional cases we might be willing to make an exception and place an order by phone).

From now on, if you are interested in purchasing an item, place a Try Before You Buy request. Our Personal Consultants will answer any questions you may have related to the construction of our jewelry or direct you to one of our master jewelers if you would like to adapt a style or find out if your center stone will fit. We want you to find the piece you’ve been looking for.

Once you have decided on a style or two (or three) your Personal Consultant will locate an affiliate near you. In the event that no affiliate exists within a reasonable distance, we will find an independent jewelry store in your area who is willing to host your ring. We send the style you would like to see within 10 business days so you can decide if you would like to make a purchase.

The process is simple and allows you to be sure of what you are purchasing. Plus, you’ll receive the absolute best service since you get to speak with a sales associate in person. We stand by our high quality products and we are confident that once you see a ZIVA item, you’ll fall in love.

Start shopping at ZIVAJewels.com and experience the convenience of Try Before You Buy for yourself.

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The Love Story Project

Posted on February 1, 2012 by Felicia Ceballos-Marroquin

We’re looking for happy couples who have been married 30+ years to interview. Do you have a good old-fashioned love story? Did you fall in love at first sight? Did you have a grand adventure or endure crushing hardship with your spouse? Tell us about the love of your life.

We’d love to hear from couples whose relationship has endured the test of time. We want to know your secret to a lasting relationship and gather any advice you have for young newlyweds. Email us at marketing [at] zivajewels.com if you have a story to share.

Here is a story to get things started. Danny and Annie were married in 1978. Their story began with a frank speech he made on their first date and was filled with romantic weather reports and other beautiful moments until the end. Careful if you’re watching at work, you might get teary.

We can’t wait to hear your stories! Email us at marketing [at] zivajewels.com if you have one.

Photo inside ring : courtesy of Adwriter via Creative Commons License

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Small Business Saturday

Posted on November 18, 2011 by Felicia Ceballos-Marroquin

ZIVA Jewels is so pleased to be participating in Small Business Saturday. Place an order on Saturday, November 26 and receive and additional 10% off already reduced prices.

Get 10% off your order with the coupon code SBS2011*

*Excludes center stones and clearance items.

As always, we offer Free Overnight Shipping with no minimum amount and Gift Wrapping. We encourage shoppers to place any holiday orders early. Don’t put off choosing the perfect engagement ring or you might have to postpone your proposal!

Our Personal Consultants will be ready to help you choose the perfect holiday gift or engagement ring. Come enjoy everything that our new site has to offer.

Photo Courtesy of Ctz Nürnberg through Creative Commons License

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The ZIVA Jewels Blog featured in November Issue of JCK Magazine

Posted on November 9, 2011 by Felicia Ceballos-Marroquin

We’re we’re very excited to be featured as one of JCK Magazine’s Top Ten Blogs. You can read the full article here. A special thanks to our friend on Twitter Rob @robbatesjck for making it happen.

P.s. check out Rob’s funny comedy writer blog, you’ll get a kick out of it.

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The Average Engagement Ring

Posted on October 1, 2011 by Felicia Ceballos-Marroquin

Photo courtesy of spaceyjessie through Creative Commons license

Consumers are no longer following the 2-3 months’ salary rule when it comes to buying engagement rings. Without any guidelines, how do you determine how much you should spend?

The average annual salary in the US for 2011 is around $46,000. If a person followed the 2-3 month rule, they would spend $11,500-7,600 on a diamond engagement ring; however, people are usually spending much less.

According to a survey conducted by the Knot, the average cost of an engagement ring in 2009 was $5,487. In 2010, grooms spend on average $5,392. It is estimated that between 75-80% of first time brides receive an engagement ring, while only 67% of repeat brides receive one.

How big is the average diamond ring? A survey conducted by Glamour magazine concluded that the average carat weight is 1.18ct but most jewelers agree that size varies average varies according to region. In the Midwest, the average carat weight is between ½-1 carat, while in New York the average is 1.5-2 carats.

What does is look like? More than half choose the classic round shape diamond. The second most popular is the princess cut. When it comes to clarity, the majority of buyers fall between SI1-VS1 with VS2 being the most popular. For color, most people buy in the E-H range. G color diamonds are chosen most often.

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How to Finance a Ring for Your Fiancée

Posted on September 26, 2011 by Felicia Ceballos-Marroquin

Photo courtesy of thetejon through Creative Commons license

Buying an engagement ring can be costly to begin with, but if you don’t have the money upfront, it can quickly get even more expensive. What is the best way to finance a diamond engagement ring?

Well, the absolute way comes as no surprise. The best way is to save up. The earlier you begin the less you’ll have to save every month. If you start saving as early as your first date and you save $100 a month, you’ll have at least $3600 plus interest by the time your third anniversary comes around. Think about that when you’re starting to date someone new and are thinking that maybe she’ll make a good wife one day.

Paying for the engagement ring with the cash you’ve saved up isn’t the best idea though. You’re much better off paying for it with a credit card and paying off the balance with your engagement ring savings once you receive your statement. With such an important purchase, it helps to have the protections and benefits that buying with a credit card offers. These benefits might include the ability to return the ring in case she says no or an easy way to score some airline miles that you could use for your honeymoon.

If you must finance the ring, there are some creative ways to avoid the notoriously high interest rates some jewelry stores offer. First, see if there are any jewelry stores in your area that offer no interest financing or layaway. Then take in any gold or diamond jewelry to trade in toward the value of the engagement ring. You might want to see if the store is hiring before you mention you’re looking for a ring. If you can swing a part time job for a bit, then it could be a great way to score a sweet employee discount.

For those buying online, PayPal offers a payment option called Bill Me Later. It allows you to pay for a purchase over the course of six months with no interest, provided you have good credit. ZivaJewels.com offers this option and there are other online retailers that do as well.

Another creative financing option could work for you if you’ve been thinking of getting a new car. Interest rates for auto loans can be pretty low especially when compared to the 20% interest rate you could be paying at a jewelry store. You can sell your present car and use the cash to buy the ring. Then go to a dealer that has a zero down special and get yourself a new car. This is a win-win situation if you ask me. She gets a great ring and you get a new car!

 

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