Vintage platinum peridot, aquamarine & diamond bypass ring.

The height of summer. Warm sunshine. Long lazy days. Savoring the last of summer vacation. August! It’s fitting that its birthstone is Peridot with its warm, almost glowing, green color and lively sparkle. It is fascinating to explore Peridot’s celestially-related origins and history and how it’s used in jewelry today.

(more…)

Ruby is one of the most iconic and sought-after gems in the world. What makes a ruby high quality & how do you tell if the ruby you’re looking at is desirable?

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about ruby quality—from color & clarity to origins & care. If you’re shopping for a ruby engagement ring, a birthstone gift, or just love red gems, this article will help you confidently understand what makes a ruby beautiful.

(more…)

One of the few organic gems (others are amber, coral & jet), there’s something undeniably magical about pearls. Elegant, luminous & steeped in history, these treasures from the sea have captivated wearers for centuries. The pearl is one of the gems for June, along with alexandrite & moonstone. Whether you’re drawn to their romantic glow or their classic versatility, pearls are always in style. In this article, we’ll touch on their fascinating past, explore different types, discover how to wear & care for them & how to evaluate their quality.

A woman needs ropes & ropes of pearls – Coco Chanel

(more…)

Emeralds from A&L’s loose gem collection: emerald-cut, oval & marquise.

Introduction

Emerald, the birthstone of May, has captivated hearts for millennia with its lush green hue and timeless elegance. Known for its deep symbolism and storied past, this gemstone is a favorite among royalty, jewelers, and anyone who loves a touch of nature’s brilliance. In this blog, we’ll explore the fascinating history of emeralds, uncover some of the most famous specimens, dive into their meaning and symbolism, and offer practical tips on how to care for them.

(more…)

Embracing Innovation and Tradition

Photo: Adobe Stock

The advent of lab-grown diamonds has sparked a fascinating dialogue, prompting questions about their cultural, economic, functional, and aesthetic implications. To shed light on this sparkling inquiry, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) that delve into the nuances of both natural and lab-grown diamonds. Whether you’re a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry connoisseur, or simply curious about this captivating topic, these FAQs will provide you with authoritative insights and enlightening perspectives.

A Mesmerizing Encounter

Years ago, we had the privilege of witnessing a remarkable demonstration at a jewelry show, where a man skillfully heated a diamond until it vaporized in a sudden flash before our eyes. This awe-inspiring spectacle prompted us to invite him to share his demonstration & story at an Argo & Lehne staff meeting where he was a big success. Little did we know that this encounter would foreshadow groundbreaking advancements in diamond synthesis, a process that would reverse the very phenomenon we had witnessed. Today, lab-grown diamonds have emerged as a viable and economically accessible alternative, vying for a place alongside the natural diamonds we’ve cherished for generations.

(more…)

Introduction

“It’s fascinating – I really do feel the same when looking at an aquamarine as I do when gazing out at the ocean.” Robert Argo, gemologist.

Since ancient times, aquamarine has captivated humanity with its serene blue hue reminiscent of the tranquil ocean. Once believed to be a treasure of the sea, gifted by mermaids and cherished by sailors as symbols of protection and good luck. Today, aquamarine figures prominently in some of the our most beautiful jewelry. Here at Argo & Lehne, it is one of our all-time favorites.

(more…)

What is a Gemstone Roundtable?

A gemstone roundtable is an exclusive event for gemstone loving customers.  It is an intimate group of just 8 – 12 customers seeking the most beautiful gemstones with which they may later create a stunning piece of jewelry. We will have sales associates at the ready to discuss possible designs and answer any of your questions. Presenting the roundtable is Italian designer and gem aficionado, Leonardo from Luxury by Leonardo. He will curate specific gemstones sought out by individual guests as well as many jaw dropping one of a kind and highly desired colored gemstones.  Be prepared to have a fun and educational evening while quenching your aesthetic thirst for juicy gemstones.

October 12, 6-8pm

Drinks and heavy hors d’oeuvres will be provided.

(more…)

A&L peridot diamond earrings.

The height of summer. Warm sunshine. Long lazy days. Savoring the last of summer vacation. August! It’s fitting that its birthstone is Peridot with its warm, almost glowing, green color and lively sparkle. It is fascinating to explore Peridot’s celestially-related origins and history and how it’s used in jewelry today.

Peridots from our loose gem collection, clockwise from top: oval, trillion, heart, cushion, oval.

(more…)

A favorite gemstone of the British Royal Family is the blue sapphire. It has been used to represent love & holds much sentiment to many in the family.

A Brief History of Sapphires & Royalty

The association of Royal families and sapphires dates back to the Middle Ages, where the clergy wore blue sapphires to symbolize Heaven and the common person believed that the gemstone attracted divine acts.

In Ancient Greece & Rome, sapphires were believed to have protected you from harm, envy and bad spirits, so were often worn by leaders.

Sapphires have adorned many royal crowns, gowns, jewelry and robes for as long as we can remember.

Symbolism of Sapphires

The blue sapphire has been thought to bring wisdom to its wearer. It is also believed to be the gemstone of nobility, truth, sincerity, romance and faithfulness.

(more…)

The Chicago River runs green on St. Patrick’s Day!

By Glenda Argo

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Green is the color of the day – the wearing of the green, shamrocks, green beer, a river of green, etc. I’m not Irish, but after visiting Ireland a few years ago, I feel a kinship with and affection for that beautiful country and its people, and a new appreciation for their national holiday. And I’m wearing green!

Green Symbolism

“Green is the prime color of the world, and that from which its loveliness arises.”

Pedro Calderon de la Barca, Spanish poet and playwright, 1600 – 1681

(more…)