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  • August 25, 2023

    Taking good care of your Jewelry is Important!

    By Art Fish — 0 comments
    Taking good care of your Jewelry is Important!

    At Prairie Jewelers I'm happy to help you keep your jewelry in great condition throughout the years.  By remembering to do a few things you'll be able to enjoy those pieces longer!

    Taking care of your jewelry, whether it's costume jewelry or fine jewelry, is essential to maintain its beauty and longevity. Here are some practical, hands-on tips for taking care of your jewelry:

    1. Remove Jewelry When Necessary: There are times when you should avoid wearing your jewelry to prevent damage. Remove your jewelry when applying lotions, sunscreen, or other beauty products. Avoid wearing jewelry while deep cleaning, swimming in chlorine-treated pools, playing contact sports, or gardening.

    2. Put Jewelry On Last: When getting dressed, put your jewelry on last to avoid tangling with clothing and coming into contact with chemicals like hairspray.

    3. Separate and Store Properly: Store your jewelry pieces separately to prevent scratching and damage. Consider using cloth pouches or individual cases for fine or vintage jewelry. For silver, use tarnish-resistant bags to minimize tarnishing.

    4. Regularly Check Your Jewelry: Before wearing your jewelry, take a moment to inspect it. Look for loose stones, clasps, or prongs that might need repair. If you notice any issues, avoid wearing the piece until it's fixed.

    5. Cleaning Jewelry: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently clean your jewelry after wearing it. This will help remove dirt, oils, and sweat that can accumulate. For more thorough cleaning, follow these steps:

      • Gold and Gemstones: Mix a mild dish soap with warm water. Soak the jewelry briefly, then use a soft brush (like a toothbrush) to gently scrub. Rinse and pat dry.
      • Silver: Use a silver polishing cloth or a silver cleaner designed for jewelry. Avoid using abrasive materials that can scratch the metal.
      • Pearls: Wipe pearls with a soft cloth after wearing to remove sweat and oils. Avoid submerging them in water, as it can damage the string.

    6. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Keep your jewelry away from harsh chemicals, including household cleaners and beauty products. These chemicals can damage metals and gemstones.

    7. Store Properly: When you're not wearing your jewelry, store it in a dry and cool place. Avoid exposing jewelry to direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, or humidity.

    8. Professional Repairs: If you notice loose stones, broken clasps, or other issues, consult Prairie jewelers. They have the expertise and equipment to make necessary repairs and adjustments.

    9. Professional Cleaning: While you can clean your jewelry at home, consider having it professionally cleaned by Prairie Jewelers twice a year. They can also inspect it for any hidden issues.

    10. Travel Carefully: When traveling, use a travel jewelry case or a small pouch to protect your jewelry. Pack it in your carry-on bag to prevent loss or damage.

    Remember, proper care and maintenance can significantly extend the life of your jewelry, keeping it looking beautiful for years to come.

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  • July 14, 2023

    Ruby: July's Gemstone of the Month

    By Jamie Fish — 0 comments
    Ruby: July's Gemstone of the Month
    Hello there, cheeseheads and gemstone buffs! We're overjoyed to greet you from our humble yet spirited Sun Prairie jewelry store nestled within the heart of Wisconsin. As the dog days of summer roll in, we're featuring a gemstone that captures the very essence of this sun-soaked month—Ruby. This splendid jewel, crowned as the king of precious stones, represents passion, protection, and prosperity.

    Just a stone's throw away from Madison, Sun Prairie may not be teeming with naturally occurring rubies, but our ties to these radiant stones are as strong as the global gemstone community we're proud to be a part of. Rubies, predominantly sourced from distant lands such as Myanmar, Thailand, and Sri Lanka, exude a fiery appeal that complements the fervor of our summer months and echoes the gorgeous sunsets painting the skies over our beloved Wisconsin.

    Our ruby collection glistens with a beautiful range of pieces that reflect the diverse tastes of our Sun Prairie clientele. Whether it's a ruby ring etched with vintage charm, a modern pendant casting a scarlet glow, or a bracelet where rubies dance with twinkling diamonds, there's a piece here for every style.

    Now, as passionate as we are about our exquisite rubies, we also know that our customers sometimes have a unique vision in mind. That's why we're proud to offer Madison custom jewelry services to help make your jewelry dreams come true.

    Whether it's integrating a fiery ruby into your design, choosing another precious stone, or creating a piece that's entirely your own, our Madison custom jewelry services are here to bring your unique vision to life. We believe that your piece should be as special as you are, and we work closely with you from initial sketching to the final polish to ensure it tells your unique story.

    With our Madison custom jewelry services, you're not merely purchasing a piece of jewelry—you're investing in a wearable work of art, lovingly and meticulously crafted, right here in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin. Remember, a custom piece means it's designed and crafted especially for you, by folks who care about every detail.

    So, as we bask in the brilliance of July's radiant Ruby, let's remember that every gemstone, like each one of us, has its unique sparkle. What better way to let that sparkle shine than through a piece of Madison custom jewelry? We're just a short drive away, and we can't wait to help you find or create your perfect piece.

    Remember, folks, whether you're from Sun Prairie, Madison, or even the quaintest corners of Wisconsin, at our little Sun Prairie jewelry store, you're always part of our family. So here's to a sizzling July, filled with the glow of our warm Wisconsin sunshine and the enchanting allure of ruby-red gemstones!
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  • June 15, 2023

    Top 5 Engagement Ring Trends to Watch in Madison, WI: Stay Ahead of the Curve with These Stunning Designs

    By Art Fish — 0 comments
    Top 5 Engagement Ring Trends to Watch in Madison, WI: Stay Ahead of the Curve with These Stunning Designs

    Engagement rings are timeless symbols of love and commitment, but that doesn't mean they have to be traditional or boring. Madison, WI, is home to some of the most innovative and creative jewelry designers, who constantly push the boundaries with their stunning designs. Here are the top 5 engagement ring trends to watch in Madison, WI, and stay ahead of the curve with these breathtaking designs.

    1. Fancy-Shaped Diamonds

    While round diamonds remain the most popular choice for engagement rings, fancy-shaped diamonds are becoming increasingly sought after in Madison, WI. Oval, pear, and marquise diamonds are just a few of the fancy shapes that offer a unique and contemporary look. These diamonds can also create the illusion of a larger carat weight, making them a great option for those looking for a bigger impact on a budget.

    1. Non-Traditional Stones

    For those looking for something truly unique, non-traditional stones are a growing trend in Madison, WI. From sapphires to emeralds, colored stones are a great way to inject personality and style into an engagement ring. These stones also offer a more affordable option for those on a budget, without compromising on style or quality.

    1. Colored Gold Bands

    Gone are the days of plain white gold or platinum bands; colored gold bands are a fresh and modern twist on the classic engagement ring. From rose gold to yellow gold, these colored bands add warmth and personality to any ring. They also complement a variety of skin tones, making them a versatile and stylish option.

    1. Vintage-Inspired Designs

    Vintage-inspired engagement rings continue to captivate couples in Madison, WI, who appreciate the elegance and romance of bygone eras. These designs often feature intricate detailing, such as filigree and milgrain, and can incorporate a variety of shapes and stones. A vintage-inspired engagement ring is a great way to honor tradition while also showcasing your unique style.

    1. Mixed Metals

    Mixing metals is a bold and daring trend that is gaining popularity in Madison, WI. Combining different metals, such as white gold and yellow gold, creates a striking contrast that adds visual interest to the ring. This trend also allows for more flexibility in choosing the perfect band to complement the engagement ring.

    These top 5 engagement ring trends in Madison, WI, offer something for every style and budget. From fancy-shaped diamonds to non-traditional stones, these designs are sure to turn heads and capture hearts. As you embark on your journey to find the perfect engagement ring, keep an open mind and don't be afraid to try something new and exciting. The possibilities are endless, and with the right designer, you can create a ring that truly reflects your personality and love.

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  • June 01, 2023

    Dazzling June Gemstones: Pearl, Alexandrite, and Moonstone

    By Art Fish — 0 comments
    Dazzling June Gemstones: Pearl, Alexandrite, and Moonstone
    Hello, my dear friends and cherished patrons,

    As we flip our calendars to June, we are met with warm summer days, bright skies, and the beginning of a new gemstone cycle. June holds the honor of being one of those unique months that is associated not just with one, but three different gemstones: the timeless pearl, the color-changing alexandrite, and the mystical moonstone. Today, I am excited to share my passion for these gems and unravel the stories and qualities that make each of them truly unique.

    Pearls are perhaps the most recognized of June's gemstones. Their classic appeal and timeless elegance have made them a beloved choice for centuries. Unlike most other gems that are mined from the earth, pearls are produced by living organisms, mainly oysters and mussels. They are a testament to nature's ability to turn an irritant into a thing of beauty – the embodiment of grace under pressure. From a simple string of pearls to a more modern pearl cocktail ring, these gems offer unparalleled sophistication.

    June's second gemstone, alexandrite, is a captivating marvel of nature known for its phenomenal color-changing property. Alexandrite appears green in daylight or fluorescent light and turns to a red or purplish-red in incandescent light. This gem, discovered in Russia in the 19th century, symbolizes good fortune and love, making it a heartwarming gift for those with June birthdays. Due to its rarity, jewelry featuring alexandrite tends to carry a higher price tag, but the allure and magic of this color-changing stone make it worth every penny.

    Last but by no means least, we have moonstone, named for its eerie, moon-like sheen. Moonstone typically boasts a delicate blue or white sheen against a translucent background, but can be found in a variety of colors. Throughout history, many cultures have associated moonstone with lunar deities, believing it to possess the properties of balance, introspection, and reflection. A piece of moonstone jewelry, such as a pendant or a pair of earrings, can be a striking addition to anyone's personal collection.

    Each of these June gemstones carries its unique beauty and symbolism, allowing individuals to choose the one that resonates most with their personal style and life story. Whether you opt for the classic appeal of pearl, the dramatic allure of alexandrite, or the ethereal beauty of moonstone, remember that the best gemstone is the one that speaks to you.

    I invite you to celebrate June's glorious trio of gemstones. Whether you're shopping for a loved one or treating yourself, remember the charm and allure that these precious stones bring. At our local store, we're always ready to assist you in finding the perfect gemstone piece to celebrate this month or any moment worth cherishing.

    Here's to a brilliant June, filled with warmth, joy, and dazzling gemstones!
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