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As a business that specialises in buying and selling gold, fine jewellery and luxury watches, we often meet people that want to sell their gold items. There are many reasons for coming to this decision, but commonly we find it’s because the individual wants to upgrade to something else, simply fancies a change, or they want to realise the asset into cash. In light of this, we carry out daily valuations on a huge range of individual items of jewellery. Of course, as experts, we have a well-trained eye for what is real and what’s not. For those that are unsure as to how to tell genuine gold from fake gold, it can be a little trickier.

While the best way to be sure of the authenticity of your gold is to bring it along and have it inspected by our experienced team, there are other tell-tale signs that should help you establish if your piece is the real deal.

The most widely recognised go to bench mark for this is called a ‘hallmark’.

What Is A Hallmark?

Perhaps the best way to tell the difference between real gold and fake is by looking for what is called a ‘hallmark’. Be mindful real gold doesn’t always carry this stamp, depending on a range of factors including which country it was produced in, the age of the item, the style of the piece and how much wear and tear it has had. Many countries however, do have a hallmarking system.

Here’s what to look for:

Until 1998, a Hallmark had to include four compulsory marks.  Since 1998, this has reduced to three (the date letter has become optional).

The symbols must include:

• The maker’s stamp – who made the item
• It’s guaranteed standard of fineness – is it 9ct, 18ct, 22ct etc.
• Assay Office at which the article was tested and marked
• The year that the article was tested and marked (not compulsory on more modern pieces)

As mentioned above, with pieces made since 1998, the date mark is no longer compulsory.

In the example below, the RJ symbol is the maker’s mark. The crown refers to gold and is an optional mark. The number 375 represents 9ct gold and is the standard mark to verify the fineness of the metal. The lions face is the symbol of the London Assay Office where it was verified.

These symbols tell us that this is a 9ct gold ring that has been certified by the London Assay Office and is therefore a genuine piece of gold. It tells us everything we need to know in order to provide an accurate valuation of the item.

You can find a full explanation here.

No Hallmark

If the piece is not hallmarked, it is much harder to tell and you will need to get it verified by an expert who is trained to differentiate real gold from gold plated metals using other methods. Even if the item is verified as real, it can be tricky for the jeweller to resell the item without a hallmark so please bear this in mind.

NOTE

While something might contain gold, it needs to be a certain purity to have value. Anything that is less than 37.5% or 9cts of gold is considered fake in the UK market.

DIY Ways to Spot Fake Gold

Not by any means conclusive or fool proof, these “do it yourself” home tests may assist with how to spot real gold from fake or plated:

Does it Float?

Drop your ring in a jug full of water. Gold is denser than other alloys and will sink to the bottom. If your item is fake, it will likely float although this is not the case in all circumstances.

Try the Vinegar Test

If you drop a few drops of vinegar onto a ring and wait 15 seconds, real gold won’t change colour. Fake gold will.

Look for Faded Spots

If your ring is gold plated, over time the plating will wear away and you may find that your ring, necklace, bracelet etc is discolouring. Solid gold will not discolour so this is a pretty obvious sign that item is genuine.

Does it Leave Green Marks?

If your jewellery leaves a green mark on your skin after wearing it, it’s a sign that you are possibly wearing copper. Ever seen what happens to bathroom pipes etc? Over time they too can become green. This is the same with any copper that is exposed to the elements.

If your item is a mixture of gold and other base metals, the same may happen so this is not a definitive that your jewellery is not gold to some extent, but will give you an indication.

Understanding the Value of Your Jewellery

If you own a sentimental piece of jewellery and are unperturbed as to whether it is real gold or fake gold then you need not worry. The meaning is there to you regardless of its intrinsic worth.  If you want to ascertain the monetary value of something for insurance purposes however, then it is prudent to understanding your jewellery, or jewellery collection and arrange to have it formerly assessed. If you are looking to sell something and want to know if what its worth, getting the right price for your gold is key.

At The Goldmarket, our staff are trained to identify real gold from fake gold and are also licensed and certified to carry out written insurance valuations on items. In addition to this we buy gold at competitive prices and also purchase items of jewellery for resale. If you have a piece of jewellery that you would like valued, please bring it along to our High Street store in Weston super Mare and our friendly, expert team will be only too happy to help.

It’s the same story every year and has been since the year 1916. Every spring and every autumn, we have to change the clocks. As we get used to one season, it’s all change and we either welcome lighter nights or say goodbye to some daylight. But why do the clocks change and how did this tradition begin?

Why Do the Clocks Change?

The tradition of changing clocks was first suggested by William Willett in 1907. He wanted to introduce lighter evenings in the summer months and stop the waste of early morning day light. It was in 1916 that British Summer Time was passed as an Act of Parliament.

Since this time the clocks have moved forward an hour in spring and back an hour in autumn. The only exception was during the Second World War.

Which Way Do They Go?

Many people get confused over whether the clocks go back an hour or forward an hour. It doesn’t matter how old you are – it can often cause confusion. The easy way to remember it it ‘spring forward and fall back’ They go forward one hour in spring on the last Sunday of March at 1am, making the time 2am, and then back one hour on the last Sunday of October at 2am making the time 1am. This process is known as British Summer Time or Daylight Saving Time.

What is the ‘Correct’ Time?

Greenwich meantime, or GMT as it is known, is the yearly average (or ‘mean) of the time each day when the sun crosses the Prime Meridian at the Royal Observatory Greenwich.

If we didn’t change our clocks, we would all operate on GMT which doesn’t change for BST. In fact GMT is shown on the Shepherd Gate clock which can be seen at the gates to the Royal Observatory and which is never changed.

Changing the Clocks

For many years, clocks had to be changed manually with delicate clocks having their hands moved twice a year. Then came the age of cars when the clock car was a mystery to be solved by many. Some people just used to leave their car at the same time all year round without moving it – at least it was correct for 6 months of the year.

The Digital Age

With the advance in technology, many of us don’t even realise that the clocks have changed. We go to sleep and wake up to discover all of our smart and digital devices have been updated.

Changing a Watch

For those that own a watch including a Rolex or Omega, there is a particular method to changing the time. Unfortunately, as sophisticated as these timepieces are, they don’t change themselves. Let’s take Rolex as an example and give you some tips on how to set the date and time.

Quickset Rolex Adjust

• Step 1 – All Rolex watches have a screw-down winding on the outer edge. This screw-down function is used to change the date and time as well as to enhance water resistance
• Step 2 – Unscrew the winding crown counter clockwise until it releases from the casing
• Step 3 – Rotate the crown clockwise to manually wind the watch. The number of turns required will depend on your model. Most will be 25 revolutions but it can range from 20-40. You will need to check your watch manual or contact us for this info
• Step 4 – Pull the crown head to the first notch. You will notice that the time hands continue to move
• Step 5 – To set the date you need to rotate the crown first setting the date to the day before today
• Step 6 – To set the time, pull the crown to the second notch. Rotate crown clockwise or counter clockwise.
• Step 7 – Set the time to midnight – today’s date will appear
• Step 8 – Now set the time accordingly taking into consideration whether it is PM or AM
• Step 9 – Press the crown head back into the case to lock it. Wind it in a clockwise direction to ensure it is secure to the body of the watch. Never leave a winding crown screwed up as this can allow dust and moisture into the watch

Non-Quickset Rolex Adjust

• Step 1 – Locate the screw-down winding and unscrew until it releases from the casingNow manually wind the watch
• Step 2 – Pull out the crown to the second notch (skip past the first notch)
• Step 3 – Rotate crown in either direction until correct date appears ensuring it is either am or pm.
• Step 4 – Now set the correct time
• Step 5 – Push the crown securely back to the casing

Should you have an issue with setting the time or date on your watch, we would be happy to assist. Just pop into The Goldmarket, WSM and let us help.

To the untrained eye, spotting a real diamond from fake can be a real dilemma. How do you tell what’s real and what’s not? How can you be sure that you aren’t going to get ripped off to the tune of hundreds, or even thousands, of pounds? How to tell a real diamond from a fake is a job for the experts but there are a few tell tale signs that can help you spot a fake. Before you part with your hard earned cash, we share the benefit of our experience and offer you some real pearls of wisdom! 

A fake diamond is what’s known as a synthetic diamond – one that is produced in a lab or ‘above the ground’. Unlike those found in the ground, they are mass produced for the unsuspecting market and hard for the untrained eye to spot. They are for all intense and purposes diamonds, just not the pure ones you find in the ground therefore they don’t have the same value as a real mined diamond. 

There are a few tests and methods that you can try yourself which may help you to spot a synthetic diamond from an organic one which will also make anyone trying to sell you a fake, uneasy too!

The Line Test

Place the diamond on a single black like drawn on a piece of white paper. The black line will appear more visible through a fake diamond. With a real diamond, the line will virtually disappear! This is because white light bends when passing through a diamond.

Weigh Your Diamond

Possibly the simplest way to tell if a diamond is real. A 5mm round diamond should weigh almost bang on 0.50ct. It may be a few points either side but it will be there or thereabouts. A cubic zirconia of the same size will be weightier. The chart below shows you what your diamond should weight if it’s real.

The Breath Test 

If you breathe on a genuine diamond, the moisture beads that form will quite quickly disappear. If the diamond is not real, the moisture will fade much more slowly. This method is used by many experts to spot a fake from a real diamond. The simple truth is that diamonds are the best thermal conductors on the planet. 

Touching a Rock with Your Tongue 

While writing this we have visions of people licking their diamonds to test this theory but it really is something that can only be determined by an expert. The feel of a diamond on the tongue is much different than a non-diamond due to that icy feel and the thermal conductivity we mentioned above. A diamond will take the heat away from the surface of your tongue. 

If it Looks Too Good to be True….

Sadly, if it looks too good to be true then it probably is! If your diamond looks flawless, is very in white in colour and has no visible imperfections, you are probably looking at a fake. While flawless diamonds to exist they tend to be out of many peoples price range. To ascertain a diamonds authenticity, magnifying equipment is required. 

How Sharp are the Facets?

A diamond has very sharp facets when compared to CZ stones which tend to have more rounded ones. Again, magnification is required if you want to look in fine detail. A diamond never loses the sharpness of the facets.

Wear on the Diamond 

Genuine diamonds don’t wear like other gemstones. One reason that the popular “diamonds are forever phrase” was coined. They keep their sharpness and so don’t chip or scratch. If a diamond looks worn and tired, it’s probably not the genuine article. This is a great indicator of how to spot a real diamond from a fake if you are buying a vintage piece. 

Does it Have Small Marks?

Genuine diamonds, unless flawless, have small marks which are known as inclusions. There is a grading scale of how included a diamond is which is used as one of the considerations when valuing a diamond. If your diamond has no inclusions it’s either worth a small fortune or it’s not real. 

Still Not Sure?

If you’re not convinced and none of the above tests have made your mind up, we are happy to help. We provide experienced, professional diamond valuations for sale and insurance purposes and have the knowledge and skill to accurately assess your diamond. If you need help and advice with how to spot a real diamond from a fake, get in touch with us and we will offer the benefit of our experience to help you find your perfect gemstone. 

Just give us a call on 01934 628361 or pop along to 24 High Street, Weston-super-Mare where we will be happy to help.

The inspiration for our latest blog came from a bespoke engagement ring project for a client who wanted to propose to his partner with a ring that, at this stage, only existed only in his head. It was our job to try and extract that vision and bring it to life. This article documents the journey, how we arrived at the final piece and his partner’s answer to the all important question.

The Initial Consultation 

The process of designing a bespoke engagement ring starts with an idea, a vision or maybe even a photo of something similar. In this case, the client came to us with an idea that he had managed to sketch out on paper so that we had a starting base and some idea of what he was looking for. We then took those ideas, along with his verbal requests and our designer sketched out a number of variations of the design for him to peruse. 

Building a Wax Model 

Once we had the drawings agreed in principle, we could then get to work on the next stage in the process. Creating the wax mould of the ring mount so that it could be cast in metal. 

Now, when working with precious metal (in this case platinum), it can get very costly so in the first instance, we always create a silver mount. This way the client can see what the finished product will look like and make any changes to the silver model.

The wax mould

We are able to set the diamonds in the mount and remove them thus creating the overall impact of the finished design. 

This is the ideal time to make any significant changes and ensure that we get the mount absolutely right – including getting as close to the correct size as possible. We can do this using other pieces of jewellery if you are able to sneak them to us under the radar. If not, we can always adjust at a later date. 

The silver mount

Creating the Final Design 

Once the client has inspected the silver mount (and tried it on – if the ring is not intended as a surprise), we are then able to cast the ring in precious metal and set the stone/s in the permanent mount. All that is left to do then is present the finished article to the client. 

The final design

Popping the Question

Once we have created the ring and bought your designs to life and quite frankly, obliterated your expectations (yes we are that confident), its’ over to you. We can’t propose for you although we reckon we’d be great at that too. In this instance, the lady said “yes” and we couldn’t be happier for this lovely couple. The ring will last a lifetime, and those smiles will too! 

She said “yes”

Additional Ideas and Services

In addition to creating the ring of your partner’s dreams, we can also add a few other bespoke touches such as engraving the ring. Some people choose to have the date they met engraved on the inside of the band, or their names/initials. Some even have the coordinates of where they met engraved. We can also take existing pieces of jewellery, or elements of them, to create stunning designs that are super special.

All you need to do in the first instance is get in touch. Book a time to come in and see us and let’s discuss what you are trying to achieve. We have lots of ideas and inspiration that we can add to the mix too so that you can create a bespoke engagement ring that will win the heart of your beloved.

Diamonds are forever, and like anything that is forever, a big commitment! When selecting the perfect diamonds for you, there are a number of things to consider. In addition to the colour and style, you also need to consider the cut and clarity and your budget. Let’s call it the four C’s and examine each in further detail in our guide to choosing diamonds:

• Colour
• Clarity
• Cut
• Cost

Colour

There are many shades of diamond in addition to the traditional white diamonds. Fancy something different? Looking for pink or blue maybe? You have options. In fact, we have produced a whole article on the various colours of diamonds available which you can find here. Just bear in mind that opting for something other than white is going to increase the budget somewhat.

• White – the most popular colour and most widely available
• Champagne – more neutral/pale but you can find champagne diamonds with a pinkish tinge
• Green / Blue – Among the rarest and most valuable in the world. You will may more if you want to obtain a blue or green diamond
• Grey – for a more subtle and some might say, more dignified look. Classy and professional

You may not be aware of just how many different colours of diamond are available. In fact, it very much depends on personal taste. If you are buying diamonds as a gift or surprise, it is always wise to stick with white unless you know exactly what you are looking for.

Clarity

What do we mean by ‘clarity’ when it comes to choosing diamonds?

Natural diamonds are created deep in the earth. They are the result of carbon being exposed to incredible heat and pressure. The diamonds produced have internal characteristics which are referred to as inclusions and then blemishes which are external characteristics. The value of a diamond will depend on the size, position and nature of these inclusions and blemishes While it is almost impossible to find a ‘pure’ diamond, the better the clarity, the more valuable a diamond is.

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) use a grading system to assist in the evaluation of diamonds. Within this there are 6 categories, some of which are divided, giving a total of  11 grades. These grades are as follows:

• Flawless (FL) – no inclusions/blemishes visible
• Internally Flawless (IF) – no inclusions visble
• Very, Very Slightly Included – VVS and VVS_{2 –}inclusions so slight they are difficult for a skilled grader to see
• Very Slightly Included (VS₁and VS₂) Inclusions are observed with effort and charatyerised as minor
• Slightly Included (SI₁and SI₂) Inclusions are noticeable
• Included (I₁, I₂, and I₃)Inclusions are obvious and may affect transparency and brilliance

All of the above relate to the diamonds being examined under 10x magnification.

At The Goldmarket, we are able to value diamonds using this grading system.

Cut

The cut refers to the shape of the diamond. 75% of all diamonds sold are actually round cut but there are many others to consider. We go into much more detail in our blog Which Diamond Cut Should You Choose for Your Engagement Ring? but essentially you can choose from the following:

• Round
• Princess
• Oval
• Marquise
• Pear
• Cushion
• Emerald
• Asscher
• Radiant
• Heart-cut

A Marquise cut engagement ring

Then there are fancy cuts which include modified brilliants, step-cuts, mixed-cuts and rose-cuts. It is definitely worth checking out all the different cuts to find one that you prefer.

Cost

Last, and by no means least, there is the matter of cost. All of the aforementioned – colour, clarity and cut, will affect the cost of the diamond that you choose.

Most recently (May 22), The Pink Star, is the largest know diamond to have received a Vivid Pink Colour Grade. It sold for $71 million in Hong Kong. This oval-shaped 59.6 carat pink diamond broke records for the highest price ever paid for a jewel.

Now we don’t suggest for one minute that you have millions of pounds to spend on a diamond but can assure you is that if you come to The Goldmarket, we will help you find the best diamond to suit your taste and your budget.

Diamonds are Forever

Our commitment to finding the perfect jewellery doesn’t end with this brief guide to choosing diamonds. At The Goldmarket, we can create bespoke designs and pieces for you. Have you got a diamond that you would like setting into a new mount? Want to use the diamonds from a sentimental piece to create a new piece? We can help and have years of experience in matching the right diamonds with our happy clients.

Just pop along to The Goldmarket and let us help you find exactly what you are looking for.

With the Queen about to celebrate her Platinum Jubilee, we thought it timely to write a piece about this precious metal, where it comes from, why it is so much more valuable than gold and why platinum jewellery is such a popular choice for many.

A Brief Overview of Platinum

Only really used in the production of jewellery since the 19^thcentury (unlike gold which has been used for centuries), platinum was actually first discovered in 1557. In the late 16^thcentury, it was discovered by Spanish Conquistadors in the rivers in Ecuador. Of course, they had no understanding of its value and simply named it platina, throwing it back into the rivers for it to “ripen” into silver. Fast forward to today and we are much more aware of its benefits and value.

A Rare Precious Metal When Compared to Others

A far cry from the 16^thcentury, now we know platinum to be one of the rarest and most durable of the precious metals. In fact, if you took all of the platinum ever mined and put it in one room, it would actually fit into the average living room. That is not a lot – especially when you consider how many platinum wedding rings must exist.

Why Choose Platinum?

Platinum is an extremely durable and hard wearing metal weighing 60% more than gold. It maintains its luminosity unlike other metals which may tarnish. It is resistant to tarnishing and discolouration and it’s strong white lustre makes it an extremely popular choice

Aside from how shiny and hardwearing it is, many choose it as it is a hypoallergenic metal – great for those with sensitive skin that cannot wear other metals.

Some Interesting Platinum Facts

Here are a few snippets about this rare but favoured precious metal that you may not know already:

• The Hope Diamond is set in platinum
• It is great for every day wear due to its strength and durability
• Platinum doesn’t wear away and if you scratch it, you don’t lose any of the metal, it just displaces.
• It doesn’t fade, discolour or tarnish
• It’s hallmark is PT or PLAT. In Europe, platinum is identified by the following marks: 950 or PT950.

The Queen’s Platinum Jewellery Collection

Now, we can’t let the occasion pass without discussing some of the Queen’s platinum collection:

Nizam of Hyderabad Brooch

CREDIT: GETTY

The Queen often wears this brooch, which is actually the centerpiece of the Nizam of Hyderabad tiara.

Fern Brooch

A platinum fern brooch featuring diamonds was given to Her Majesty by the Women of Auckland on Christmas in 1953, when she toured New Zealand. It has also been worn by the Duchess of Cambridge.

Greville Emerald Kokoshnik Tiara

CREDIT: GETTY

This particular tiara was worn by Princess Eugenie on her wedding day. It is made of brilliant and rose cut diamonds pavé set in platinum, with six emeralds on either side.

Queen Mary’s Floret Earrings

CREDIT: GETTY

The main diamonds from these earrings were a gift to Queen Mary in honour of her July 1893 wedding. They have gone through a number of settings before becoming the centre piece of their current iteration. Set in platinum, the diamonds are surrounded by seven smaller diamonds for a floret effect.

King Faisal Necklace

CREDIT: GETTY

In May 1967, King Faisal of Saudi Arabia headed to the U.K. for a state visit — and brought this dazzling gift for the Queen in the form of a diamond necklace made by Harry Winston in the 1950s.

These are just a few of Queen Elizabeth’s famous platinum collection but let’s face it, it is a metal that is fit for a queen!

Caring for Platinum Jewellery

However durable and resilient this precious metal is, it is still highly important to look after your platinum jewellery. Avoid wearing it for manual labour or while at the gym/during exercise. Don’t allow your pieces to touch each other. In fact, it’s best if you can store your pieces separately in a fabric lined box. You should also be careful not to handle abrasives or acids while wearing platinum rings.

If your platinum jewellery does become scratched, fear not. At The Goldmarket, we have the tools to polish out those scratches and re-rhodium it to bring it up like new. You could even check out our collection of platinum jewellery while you are here!

Tangled chains, rings that are stuck on your finger, simple cleaning tips… we offer you the benefit of our wisdom with some top jewellery hacks. Of course, not everything can be fixed with a simple hack and for those jewellery issues that aren’t so easy to resolve, we are on hand with a warm welcome and a friendly smile to help. For now, let’s take a look at the things you can fix yourself.

Fastening a Bracelet

Not sure about you, but it’s not always easy to get those bracelets fastened one handed. There are a couple of things that you can try that will do the job though:

Use tape – a small piece of sticky tape will do the job. Using the tape, simply stick one end of the bracelet to your wrist to hold it in place while you fasten.

Use a paper clip or a bobby pin (hair grip) – Take a look at the below reel on Instagram to learn how you can quickly, and simply, fasten a bracelet with items that you have lurking in your bathroom cabinets or bedside tables.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by The Goldmarket (@goldmarketwsm)

Rings Stuck On Your Finger

If you are struggling to remove a ring from your finger, there are a few things you can try:

• Try twisting the ring off
• Use window cleaner – squirt some window cleaner on the the ring and the finger then try gently removing – be careful not to use anything with harsh chemicals in!
• Reduce the swelling – If you are struggling to remove the ring because your finger is swollen, try submerging the finger in question into a cup of ice cold water for a few minutes while lifting the finger over your head (this uses the ice and elevation theory to reduce the swelling). You may need to repeat the process a few times.
• Lubricate – using vaseline or a similar lubricant, try to slide the ring off the finger.

If none of the above remedies work then you are going to need to consider having the ring cut off. We can help. Not only will we remove the ring, we will also be able to repair, increase the size and make it good as new. You will get your ring back in once piece and it will fit.

Lengthen a Necklace

Got a favourite necklace that is just a bit short for the outfit you want to wear or want to give a new look to your favourite necklace? Use a bracelet as an extender to make it longer. Simply attach the clasps of the bracelet as you would do when fastening your necklace.

Sore Ears?

When you have left those earrings out for a while, or your ear lobes are a bit tender and you are worried about putting earrings back in, try popping some vaseline on the posts first – this will help the earrings to slide back into the ears.

Stop Jewellery Discolouring

Soap, sweat, salt, chlorine etc. all contribute to the discolouration of your favourite jewellery. Always remove it before you washing, cleaning, exercising, swimming etc to ensure that you keep your precious items in tip top condition.

Tangled Necklaces?

Among the popular jewellery hacks that you will find online, are how to untangle necklaces. If you find yourself with a hopelessly knotted pile of chains, simply lay them out on a flat surface and use baby oil and pin to carefully and gently untangle them. You are going to need lots of patience though.

To avoid them becoming tangled in the first place, when storing your necklaces, you can pop a straw over the end of the necklace, then hook the necklace closed. The chain then rests inside the straw stopping it from getting tangled. You can also cut slits into some card, hang your necklace over the slits and pop the rest of the chain into a small see through bag.

Tarnished Silver

Apparently, storing chalk with your silver jewellery absorbs moisture and stops the jewellery tarnishing so quickly. It is also important to take any jewellery off before cleaning, washing, showering, exercising etc.

Dirty Jewellery

Apart from keeping your jewellery clean with warm, soapy water, we really would advise leaving professional jewellery cleaning to the experts. At The Goldmarket, we take great care and attention when cleaning your precious jewellery. We not only clean the pieces but also re-rhodium then to ensure they come up looking as good as the day you bought them. If you have jewellery that needs some tlc, bring it along to our shop and often we can clean it while you wait.

Do you haver any top tips or jewellery hacks that we haven’t mentioned? We’d love to hear them.

The wedding ring is a symbol of love and commitment, usually worn on the ring finger of the left hand where the vena amoris(vein of love) runs from the finger to the heart. When it comes to choosing the perfect wedding rings, we can help!

Where it All Began

While wedding jewellery hasn’t always been a ring worn on the ring finger, it has always been a piece of jewellery worn to signify that the wearer is married. This practise has evolved from Ancient Rome and Greece into a more modern day tradition where a wedding band is worn now on the ring finger of the left hand, usually by both parties. Embedded more in Christian tradition, it is a practise that is carried out the world over.

The Modern Day Wedding Ring

Forged from metals such as gold or platinum, modern day wedding rings are often matching and can be set with diamonds or engraved. They can be made from more than one metal and feature intricate designs. It’s not unusual to see tricolour rings which combine yellow, white and rose gold or a combination of two colours of gold. There are so many options that you don’t have to opt for simple plain gold bands, unless this is what you want.

Our Excellent Wedding Ring Service

At The Goldmarket, we have an excellent reputation for providing wedding rings for that special day. Our service extends from helping the happy couple pick the perfect ring from our extensive range of stock to custom designing and creating rings to individual specification. Let’s take a look at some of the options available to you when it comes to choosing wedding rings for your special day:

Custom Made Rings

Do you have a sentimental piece of jewellery that you would like to encompass in your wedding ring? Maybe it’s a family heirloom handed down through generations or perhaps it was a wedding band or engagement ring of a loved one that you lost. The precious metal from this jewellery can be used to form part, or all, of your new wedding band/s.

Diamond Set Wedding Bands

Maybe you would like to have a band set with a diamond or other gemstone such as a birthstone. One, or both, of you may have the desire to have a diamond set into the shank to make it an extra special piece of jewellery. It may be a stone that was set in a relative’s engagement ring that you would like to feature in your wedding band so that it is always close to you. There are many options when it comes to which gemstones you use and where they feature on the ring (either on the outer shank or inside the ring).

Engraved Wedding Rings

We love receiving requests for special messages to be engraved on the inside or outside of wedding bands. Some of them are so creative and romantic. Have you thought about having the latitude and longitude coordinates of where you met, or where you got engaged, engraved inside the ring? Maybe you want to get the date you met or the date you are getting married engraved? You could have each other’s names or dates of birth or a special quote that means something to both of you. There are so many opportunities to have something special engraved on your wedding bands to make it truly unique and special to both of you. Let’s not forget that having the wedding date engraved on the inside of the ring, serves as a constant reminder to those that aren’t very good at remembering anniversaries (you just have to remember to look)!!  We love getting involved in this personal detailing at The Goldmarket, and have vast experience of different languages too; from Latin to Gaelic to Hebrew!

Choose From Our Extensive Selection

We are proud to offer an impressive selection of ready-made wedding bands here at The Goldmarket. These include both ladies and gents rings in all different sizes, including Z+ sizes. Of course, if you see something you like and it’s not in your size, we would be more than happy to resize it to fit. Our selection of beautiful rings is perfect for all tastes and budgets, with prices starting from as little as £150. There is so much to choose from – platinum, gold, white gold, diamond set…

If you find something you like from our range but want to personalise it, you could look to have it engraved or gem set with something special as mentioned above. You don’t have to have a ring custom made to do this.

One thing you can be sure of is our excellent customer service and attention to detail. We will be part of your journey, ensuring that you get exactly what you want and need for your wedding rings. After all, they are designed to last a lifetime.

To discuss your requirements in more details, pop into our Weston super Mare shop or call us on 01934 628361. We would be delighted to share in the magic of your special occasion.

Property, collectible cars, cryptocurrency, commodities… there are many investment opportunities that, if you get them right, can provide a return on your investments. Let’s face it, with interest rates being so low, even longer term saving options aren’t going to give you the dividends you could get from alternatives. For those that are looking to turn a profit there are a number of ways that you can indulge your passions, while your purchases increase in value. Investing in watches is one such way but, is this the right time to start your watch collection and what should you expect? We offer some tips on what to look out for and what to avoid.

The Art of Investing in Watches

When it comes to investing in watches, you can’t go wrong with a classic Rolex or the right Patek Phillipe model. In fact, some newly purchased Rolex models will almost double in value on the pre-owned market immediately after being purchased. Before you get excited, we aren’t suggesting that you should go out and buy a brand new Rolex and expect it to earn you money instantly.

Instead, you might look to invest in a classic pre-owned model in the right condition. Every Rolex will make you money if bought well and kept for 12-2 months

The Short Term Investor vs The Bigger Picture

There are two types of watch investors. There are the “flippers” who will buy the right watch at the right time with a view to sell it on and make a quick profit and then there are the collectors, the enthusiasts that are passionate about luxury watches and are looking to add to their collection with a longer term view. This bigger picture, playing the longer game, is a wise, and often fruitful way, for investing in watches of the luxury kind.

Demand and Popularity is Key

Many people enjoy success making money buying and selling vintage cars, vintage furniture and luxury watches. They use high profile auctions to attract the right buyers and interests but there is often no rational explanation for the amount paid for a watch or whether it sells or not. It’s usually linked to a hype surrounding a specific model. This could be who is wearing it, where it was featured and the demand for such a model.

Knowing the market, keeping an ear to the ground and learning what is hot and not, is a skill that will reward you with greater returns however, this can be time consuming and take time. Discussing your requirements with an expert that understands the market will not only save you time, but also help you to reap greater rewards.

Brands that Retain or Increase Their Value

Not every watch or brand will increase in value over time. There are those they will outperform the rest though – primarily the Rolex and Patek Phillipe. Other luxury watch brands such as Omega and classic models worn by well-known characters such as James Bond, also become a sought after piece, increasing its value.

Where Can You Buy Vintage Watches?

That’s easy – you can buy them from us. We are watch connoisseurs and know our luxury watches. We are always on the lookout for those special pieces, successfully sourcing them for our clients using our watch concierge service. If we don’t have it in stock, we will endeavour to source it for you. You just tell us what you are looking for and we will do the rest

Looking After Your Investment

Even sat in a box in a protected environment, luxury watches still need regular care and attention. For insurance purposes, it is vital that you get your watch serviced at recommended intervals in line with the manufacturers guides. Some Rolexes now only need service once every 10 years whereas others will require servicing more often. A service is important to ensure that all parts are in working order. We also offer a repair service and as part of our servicing, we can address any issues – a scratch, wear and tear, parts not working… We have certified watch technicians that take care of all of this for you.

Consider the Risks

Be wise with your investment and don’t commit to anything without first carrying out your research.

• Watch out for fraudulent or stolen watches
• Be careful of watches that are cobbled together from other parts (Frankenwatches)
• Buy from a reputable business
• Ensure your purchase comes with the original box and docs
• Find out as much as you can about the history of the watch
• Get it valued and insured

Taking carefully calculated risks is much safer than buying a watch of a mate or the guy down the pub. If it seems too good to be true, it usually is so take your time and ask for expert advice before parting with your money.

The Most Expensive Watches Sold at Auction

We will leave you with this thought. At the Only Watch auction, at Christie’s in 2019 a Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime 6300A-010 sold for a record $31.19m.

Other major auction sales include a 1943 Patek Philippe Stainless Steel 1518 which sold for $11.14m in 2016 and Paul Newman’s “Exotic” Rolex Daytona which sold in 2017 for $17.75m.

The most expensive watch in the world currently is the Graff Diamonds “Hallucination”. A price tag of $55 million!

Want to find out more about our watch services? Click here or get in touch with us here at The Goldmarket – 01934 628361.

Many different items of jewellery are brought in to us for repair, resizing and restoration. Below we share some of our recent precious jewellery repairs with you so that you can be confident of just how talented, fastidious and dedicated our wondrous team of jewellers (or as we like to call them, magicians) are.

Tiffany Bracelet

Just the other day we were charged with repairing a Tiffany bracelet that had fallen victim to a lawnmower. Unfortunately, Mrs Summers had lost the bracelet in the garden. It was found by Mr Summers… or should we say, Mr Summers and his lawnmower.

In this instance, the lawnmower got the better of the bracelet but it didn’t get the better of us! Re-building the charm, layer by layer, we were able to restore it to its former glory. Mrs Summers was delighted. We are sure that Mr Summers was relieved!

Multi-Gemstone Bracelet

A customer recently brought in this silver, multi-gem tennis bracelet for repair as the ‘male’ part of the clasp had broken. In order to fix it, we needed to add and solder new metal. Of course, soldering creates a lot of heat and at high temperatures, precious gemstones such as those pictured below, can crack and sustain damage. In this instance, our jeweller decided to remove a couple of the stones to negate this risk.

A thermo gel barrier solution was then applied to stop heat transference to protect the bracelet further. Once the bracelet had been soldered, the gemstones were re-set and the piece was as good as new.

Opal Ring Resize

This oval cut black opal and diamond trilogy was bought in to be re-sized. Again, applying heat around a gemstone of this nature can cause damage. As it’s more tricky to remove the stone, heat proof thermo gel was applied as a barrier to prevent the heat causing damage to the opal.

The ring was then re-sized, cleaned polished and returned to the customer. All good as new and a perfect fit. We can resize most rings up and down, especially if they are gold or silver. It’s a little trickier with precious metals such as platinum as they require lasering but we can arrange for this to be carried out.

If we need to reduce the size of the ring, we remove a section of the metal and then solder it back together, ensuring that the join is invisible to the naked eye and strong enough to last a good many years. If we need to increase the size of a ring, we will add a new section of metal, again strengthening the ring and making sure that the join is very carefully polished out.

A Missing Sapphire

There is nothing worse than losing a precious stone out of a ring, especially one as beautiful as this. The reason for the missing sapphire was the damaged claw. Not a problem for the team who replaced the claw and the sapphire. One very happy customer! One sapphire and diamond ring as good as new!

Ring Resurrection

Resurrection was actually the term coined by the jeweller who carried out this next repair. This 9ct ring was caught in a door. It got badly bent out of shape. Luckily, we were able to reshape it and ‘resurrect’ it. It is now perfectly round and polished up to look as good as new.

It’s such a pleasure to see these items restored and repaired and to see the smiles on the faces of the happy clients that they belong to. It’s not just an item of jewellery, it’s often a piece that carries great sentiment, a story, happy memories or a lasting legacy. We are able to do so much more than you might think. Our recent precious jewellery repairs include:

• Resizing – up and down
• Stone replacement
• Reshaping bent and out of shape jewellery
• Building back up weakened clasps
• Split ring shafts
• Refurbishment
• Watch servicing and repair
• Cleaning and polishing

So, if you have a ring that needs resizing, or your favourite item of jewellery has been run over by the lawnmower,  just pop along to The Goldmarket and let us take a look, Often, we can carry out precious jewellery repairs on site, and within the hour, as you watch our jewellers at work on the bench. On some occasions it may take longer. If the job requires specialist repairs or layering, it will need to be sent away. Even if you think your jewellery is beyond repair, bring it is as you will be surprised at just how much we can do. To arrange a time to bring your items in, you can call 01934 628361 or just pop along to our shop at 23 High Street, Weston super Mare.