Madison Gems

19th Anniversary, 19th Wedding Anniversary, Aquamarine, Aquamarine Tiara, Birthstone, Birthstones, Blue Gemstone, Gemstone, Madison Gems, March Birthstone, March Gemstone, March Jewelry, March's Birthstone, Nineteenth Anniversary, Nineteenth Wedding Anniversary, Princess Diana in Aquamarine, Princess Diana's Aquamarine Jewelry, Queen of England Aquamarine Crown, The Queens Aquamarine Tiara

March’s Birthstone: Aquamarine

01 Wednesday Mar 2017

Posted by Ify Onwualu in Birthstones

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If you’re a March baby, you were born during the most superior month of the year. March’s gemstone is the fabulous Aquamarine and it’s known particularly for its serene blue or blue-green color, which actually invokes the tranquility of its namesake, the sea. In fact, the name Aquamarine is derived from the Latin word aqua, meaning water, and marina, meaning the sea. Likewise, is it said that wearing Aquamarine cools the temper and allows the wearer to remain calm and levelheaded.

The Aquamarine gemstone is actually a variety of a mineral called Beryl. In fact, large stones have been found all over the world, including one mega stone found in Brazil that weighed over 240 pounds. Aquamarine grows in large, six-sided crystals that can be up to a foot long, making it a great gem to be cut and polished in larger carats for statement pieces.

Aquamarine is usually light in tone and ranges from greenish-blue to blue-green. However, the color is usually more intense in larger stones, therefore, darker blue stones are very valuable. This gemstone is mined mainly in Brazil, but can also be found in Nigeria, Madagascar, Zambia, Pakistan, and Mozambique.

Historically, this gemstone was believed to protect sailors, as well as guaranteeing safe voyages. The Romans believed that if you carved a frog into a piece of aquamarine jewelry, it would help to reconcile differences between enemies and make new friends. As well, other groups used aquamarine as gifts to the bride at a wedding in order to symbolize long unity and love. Some even believed it could re-awaken love between two people.

Withal, not only is Aquamarine the March birthstone, it’s also used to celebrate 19th wedding anniversaries. It’s a beautiful stone that looks great in many settings with different colored metals and gemstones. Furthermore, its been worn by royalty. The late Princess Diana had a famous aquamarine ring and bracelet set, and the Queen has a breathtaking set of aquamarine jewels that include a large tiara, necklace, earrings, and bracelet. Accordingly, if you’re purchasing a Aquamarine for yourself or a loved one the symbolism or sentiment behind the purchase will make the gemstone priceless to the wearer.

The Queen wearing the Brazilian Aquamarine Parure Tiara

Princess Diana wearing her infamous Aquamarine bracelet and ring.

Contact us anytime for jewelry & accessories inquiries…

Phone: 917-933-1747

E-mail: info@madisongems.com

Website: www.madisongems.com

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February’s Birthstone: Amethyst

01 Wednesday Feb 2017

Posted by Ify Onwualu in Birthstones

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17th Anniversary, 6th Anniversary, Birthstone, Birthstones, February Birthstone, February Jewelry, Madison Gems, Seventeenth Anniversary, Sixth Anniversary

Actress Zoe Saldana wearing a Lorraine Schwartz ring at the Academy Awards in 2010.

For those with February birthdays, Amethyst is a fitting birthstone because it’s associated with qualities of peace, courage and stability. Since the month of February is typically cold, dark and short in most regions Worldwide, it’s the ideal gem for individuals who need a little extra warmth and strength around this time of year.

Amethyst is a purple quartz gem with a blend of violet and red. It’s most commonly recognized to be a purple color, however, the gemstone can range from a light pink violet to a deep purple that can read more blue or red, depending on the lighting. Oftentimes, even the same stone can have different layers or color variants. Therefore, the way the gemstone is cut, plays an important role in the way the color shows on a finished piece.

The name Amethyst is Ancient Greek and it’s derived from the word methustos, which means intoxicated. To boot, Ancient wearers believed the gemstone could protect them from drunkenness. As well, it has been associated with many myths, legends, religions and numerous cultures. There’s even been historical accounts’ saying that Saint Valentine owned an Amethyst ring carved with an image of cupid. In addition, in the Old Testament, Amethyst was one of the twelve gemstones that represented the twelve tribes of Israel. As well, ancient Greeks and Romans believe that Amethyst keeps the wearer clear-headed and quick-witted.

For quite some time, Amethyst was considered one of the most precious gemstones, and it was held in the same regard as the diamond. Additionally, it was favored by royalty or exclusively by the clergy as a symbol for the diety of Christ. English regalia were even decorated with Amethysts during the Middle Ages to symbolize royalty and wealth. Amethyst jewelry has been found and dated as early as 2000 BC. Many historical wearers of amethyst were said to have prized the gem for its symbolism as well as its beauty. Even the legendary Leonard da Vinci once said that amethyst helps to quicken intelligence and get rid of evil thoughts.

Today, Amethyst can be found all over the world, including the United States, Canada, Brazil and Zambia. The gems hardness is a 7 on the Mohs scale, which is the same as other quartz, making this gem a durable and lasting option for jewelry. For that reason, with all these chronicles, Amethyst is ideally the best gem to represent February.

Whether you’re purchasing an amethyst for yourself or a loved one, you’re making an investment in a beautiful piece, that will stand the test of time, with fabulous statement pieces ranging from pendants to rings. Nevertheless, the gem is very durable and can compliment both special occasion looks as well as everyday ensembles, in addition to flattering both warm and cool colors. Alas, besides being the February birthstone, Amethyst is also used to celebrate the 6th and 17th year of marriage and the wearer gets to bask in the allure of beauty and clarity.

Contact us anytime for jewelry & accessories inquiries…

Phone: 917-933-1747

E-mail: info@madisongems.com

Website: www.madisongems.com

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Accessories, Bling, Fashion, Fashion jewelry, Glam, Jewelry, Madison Gems, Statement Jewelry, Valentine's Day, Valentine's Day Accessories, Valentine's Day Gift Guide, Valentine's Day Gifts for Her, Valentine's Day Gifts for Him, Valentine's Day Jewelry, Valentine's Day Wish List

Sparkle In Love: The Ultimate Valentine’s Day Gift Guide

31 Tuesday Jan 2017

Posted by Ify Onwualu in Valentine's Day Gift Guide

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The Wades, The Obamas and Oprah & Stedman

It’s finally February, the month of love, love and more love. If you’re anything like me you’ve come to a point, where you want to be wowed with an over-the-top present, that’ll send your social media followers into an “ooh and ahh” frenzy. So let’s face it, drugstore chocolates are pretty much a cliché, flowers wilt pretty fast, balloons deflate in no time and stuffed animals eventually got tossed to the side. While super sweet and with the greatest of intentions, those gifts are definitely not revolutionary. I mean they’re cute, but why not gift something that lets love sparkle. Trust me! Everyone globally is secretly screaming “Valentine, please note that jewelry & accessories are truly the key to my heart.”

Now that I’ve revealed our secret, I’ve gone ahead a created a gifting solution by putting together a Valentine’s Day Gift Guide of glimmer and gleam for men, women and children. Hey! why not celebrate love with something that makes a big impact with a shelf life longer than a week. Likewise, we all know the best statements are made through the expression of jewelry. Anywho! be sure to take my foolish advice and leave this blog open, there’s nothing wrong with being conspicuous, so you can get your sparkle on.

Here’s to celebrating love…

Click here for our Valentine’s Day Gift Guide.

Contact us anytime for jewelry & accessories inquiries…

Phone: 917-933-1747

E-mail: info@madisongems.com

Website: www.madisongems.com

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Trending: Beaded Jewelry

19 Thursday Jan 2017

Posted by Ify Onwualu in Trending

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Accessories, African Beads, African Jewelry, Beaded Jewelry, Beads, Bracelets, Fashion, Fashion jewelry, Fashionista, Madison Gems, Necklaces, Nigerian Beads, Rings, Statement Jewelry, Stylish, Trendy

Michelle Obama, Taylor Swift & Rihanna wearing beaded jewelry.

Runways in New York, London, Paris and Milan have been featuring beads as of late. As a result, in Spring 2017 accessories will be getting a super-fabulous beaded treatment. We’ll be sure to see hues ranging from earthly and natural colors to rich and aquatic tones; with embellishments varying from tiny tassels to raw crystals and metal accents. Whether its seed beads, glass beads or wooden beads, the layered and wrapped look will be the finishing touch to statement-making ensembles.

Moreover, beaded jewelry is a trend that never fades. From cuffs to body-chains to head-wraps to necklaces and rings, beads are the perfect accessory to accent any look from avant-garde to minimalistic. The presence of this trend for Spring 2017 will be alluring and will definitely showcase a fashionistas creative genius, i.e. beads paired with an LBD, knitted shawls, high-necked sweaters or embellished with traditional tweed looks. Beads are an awesome trend, that predominantly use classic designs but can also be morphed into something magnificently modern and chic, while still appearing quite sophisticated.

Check out our favorite beaded pieces from madisongems.com below.

Druzy Charm Multi-Bead Stack Stretch Bracelet – $23

Chunky Crystal Pendant & Multi-Strand Bead Necklace Set – $32

Tree Of Life Charm Beaded Stack Stretch Bracelets – $23

The “Nneka” Necklace Set – $47

Charm Lucite Bracelet – $23

Metal Beads & Multi-Hoop Wire Earrings – $17

Boho Beaded Wide Metal Cuff Bracelet – $22

Braided Wide Boho Bead Strand Necklace Set – $30

Beaded Starfish Stretch Ring – $15

The “Ifeyinwa” Necklace – $39

Contact us anytime for jewelry & accessories inquiries…

Phone: 917-933-1747

E-mail: info@madisongems.com

Website: www.madisongems.com

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Website: www.madisongems.com

January’s Birthstone: Garnet

03 Tuesday Jan 2017

Posted by Ify Onwualu in Birthstones

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Birthstone, Birthstones, Garnet, January Birthstone, January Jewelry, Madison Gems

Kate Beckinsale at The 66th Annual Golden Globe Awards wearing garnet earrings. Image courtesy of Zimbio

For those with January birthdays, Garnet makes the perfect birthstone. As January is the start of a New Year, garnet is a fitting gem, because it symbolizes peace, prosperity and good health. Many have said that this stone has the power to give the wearer eternal happiness, health and wealth. As a result, the gem is affectionately called the “Gem of Faith” and legend has it that those who wear it and do good…more good will come. As well, garnet symbolizes deep and lasting friendship. Moreover, with all these acclamations, garnet is ideally the best gem to start each year.

The word garnet descends from the 14^th Century Middle English word “gernet” which means dark red. In fact! It’s also derived from the Latin word ‘granatum” which means seed. Therefore, it’s called garnet because of the gemstone’s resemblance to the red seeds of a pomegranate. Conversely, this beautiful gem is most commonly found in spectrums of red, like rust or deep violet-red, but can also be found in a range of colors, i.e. pink, orange, green, brown, purple, yellow, black and blue. Garnets range from a 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness and are found in the U.S. (Arizona & Wyoming), South Africa, Argentina, Czech Republic, Russia, Australia, Brazil, Myanmar, Scotland, Switzerland, India and Tanzania.

Historically, references that go back to 3100 BC show that Egyptians used garnet as inlays in their jewelry and carvings, likewise, it was placed in graves for good luck in the afterlife. Ancient Romans also used garnet in signet rings in the 3^rd and 4^th Century and the Victorian era popularized the gemstone by designing large statement pieces. For the same reason, Garnet was actually one of Queen Victoria’s favorite stones. Today, garnet can be found in a range of breathtaking jewelry pieces and styles from tiaras to rings. Celebrities like Kate Beckinsale, Carpenter, Mariska Hargitay, Sofia Vergara, Julia Ormond, Minka Kelly, Selena Gomez and Jessie J have been spotted wearing garnets at various events.

Accordingly, if you’re purchasing a garnet for yourself or a loved one, it’s a great way to recognize and celebrate a January birthday, venerate a friendship or salute a 2^nd wedding anniversary. Ultimately, you’re making an investment in something beautiful with symbolic attributes and the wearer gets to start the New Year with a sense of goodwill, happiness, and purpose.

Contact us anytime for jewelry & accessories inquiries…

Phone: 917-933-1747

E-mail: info@madisongems.com

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Trending Gem: Pearls

10 Wednesday Aug 2016

Posted by Ify Onwualu in Pearls, Trending

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Accessories, Bling, Bracelets, Fashion, Fashion jewelry, Fashionista, Madison Gems, Necklaces, Pearl Accessories, Pearl Bracelets, Pearl Earrings, Pearl Jewelry, Pearl Necklace, Pearl Rings, Pearls, Statement Jewelry, Trending Jewelry

Left to Right – Rihanna, Michelle Obama and Viola Davis all wearing stunning pearl jewelry.

Pearls are a true classic and have played a dazzling role in high fashion for decades. Pearls are magnificently beautiful and can be both inexpensive and incredibly bank-breaking (depending on the quality of course!). The least expensive pearl is man-made, while the freshwater takes second place and then, there’s the saltwater which comes in different colors and textures from around the World, therefore, price varies.

Nevertheless, pearls aren’t limited to sweet sixteen gifts or something you find at the bottom of grandma’s jewelry box anymore. In fact, the classic pearl has come out of its shell and recurs each year in more vibrant and luxurious styles. Choices range from simple to statement worthy and you’re sure to make heads turn while wearing them.

Shop our favorite picks below from www.madisongems.com

Pearl & Crystal Garland Necklace Set – $22

Pearl Cluster Clip-On Studs – $16

Pearl Accented Ring – $12

Swarovski Crystal & Freshwater Pearl Flower Bangle Bracelet – $63

Elegant Crystal & Pearl Floral Comb – $30

Multilayer Pearl Accent Ankle/Heel Chain – $20

Antique Silver Diamond White Pearl Bridal Earrings – $42

Freshwater Pearl & Rhinestone Floral Necklace Set – $148

For more pearl jewelry & accessory options click here: Pearls

Contact us anytime for jewelry & accessories inquiries…

Phone: 917-933-1747

E-mail: info@madisongems.com

Website: www.madisongems.com

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Pop, Fizz, Clink! It’s Our 2nd Anniversary…

14 Tuesday Jun 2016

Posted by Ify Onwualu in Jewelry & Accessories, Milestone

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Accessories, Anniversary, Bling, Fashion, Fashion jewelry, Fashionista, Madison Gems, Men's Accessories, Men's Jewelry, Philanthropy, Statement Jewelry, Stylish, Trendy, Two year anniversary, Two Years in Business

I can’t believe it’s our 2^nd Anniversary already. It feels like yesterday when we 1^st launched our website www.madisongems.com to the entire World. Throughout the past two years, we’ve had the opportunity and privilege to work with so many wonderful people likewise small businesses, but most of all we’ve made many new friends and trusted alliances.

Our two-year gem-adventure has been nothing short of extraordinary because at Madison Gems we don’t just retail jewelry & accessories; we believe the perfect accessory has the power to make you feel great about yourself all the time. In this fashion, we’re a boutique where you can celebrate your unique style one accessory or two or three at a time lol.

At Madison Gems jewelry and accessories aren’t just tangible ornaments, they’re gems that make people admire and appreciate their appearance; they help to exude a sense of pride and enrich lives daily. Hence, Madison Gems is synonymous with luxury and joy. Therefore, you will undoubtedly always find that perfect piece you’ve been looking for and discover new trinkets and treasures to treat yourself and your loved ones.

Over the past two years we’ve grown tremendously, we purvey trendy men’s, women’s, children and wedding/bridal jewelry & accessories. As well, we even acquired jewelry from our CEO’s birthplace Nigeria, in addition to opulent Farasha kaftans from the Far East. Therefore, providing you the best quality and value so you can shop with peace of mind is our #1 staple. On top, we’ll always aspire to have the perfect pieces to help you look your best and to compliment your big days as well as your every day ensembles.

In the past two years Madison Gems achieved several milestones:

Madison Gems has been featured in a few blog publications
Our ads were featured in two online magazines
We helped raise funds for an elementary school in Ghana
We’ve sponsored several small businesses events
We jewelry styled our 1st Art Deco Themed Wedding Photo Shoot
We spoke to High School Seniors about accessorizing for Prom
We donated jewelry to High School seniors for their Prom
A celebrity wore our jewelry
We attended our 1^st accessories trade show
Madison Gems was a vendor for the 1^st time
We’ve donated to non-profit organizations with causes dear to us
We accessorized our 1st Bride
We accessorized our 1st Bridal Party
We were retained for our 1st Bridal Party Gift order
We instructed our 1st Accessorizing 101 class
We sponsored several events to feed the homeless
We donated jewelry to the homeless for job interviews
We accessorized our 1st pageant contestant (and she won!)

At Madison Gems our philosophy is centered on the belief that clients should be treated like royalty. Thus, we endeavor to express our deepest appreciation in every package we ship. We call it the Madison Gems experience; hence, our complimentary gift-wrapping, personalized handwritten thank you cards from the CEO herself and stellar customer service.

Ergo, Madison Gems has sustained itself because of our magnificent clientele and we thank you dearly for the trust and confidence you’ve placed in us. In a World full of so many choices, our clients choose us time and time again and we assure you that we don’t take your trust for granted.

As we continue to garner a stronger relationship with you, we fully recognize that your support and the continued trust that you place in us is the foundation of our success. You are at the center of everything we do and we will work tirelessly towards ensuring that we meet and exceed your expectations in a fair, professional and luxurious way.

We’re now embarking on our journey to year three… then four, then five, and so on. Withal, this business is truly a gift, a creative blessing, and an experience beyond our words. We’re uber excited for the growth leading up to year three. So please make sure you subscribe to this blog and follow us on our social media channels, as great new things will arise from us in year three. Thank you to all who have made this possible. Thank you for this gem-tastic adventure, for the endless possibilities of growth and for your loyalty to Madison Gems. We look forward to continuosly serving you and exceeding your expectations. Let’s toast to two wonderful years. Clink Clink!

Happy Birthday/Happy Anniversary to us!

Pic from Pinterest

“My favorite thing about running Madison Gems is the sense of accomplishment that I feel once a clients life has been impacted. There’s an added boost of confidence they receive by accessorizing their wardrobes with my merchandise.” -Ify Onwualu

Contact us anytime for jewelry & accessories inquiries…

Phone: 917-933-1747

E-mail: info@madisongems.com

Website: www.madisongems.com

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Fathers Day 2016 Gift Guide

01 Wednesday Jun 2016

Posted by Ify Onwualu in Accessorizing, Father's Day Gift Guide, Men's Accessories

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Cuff Links, Fathers Day, Fathers Day 2016, Fathers Day Gift Guide 2016, Gift Ideas, Gifts, Gifts For Dad, Gifts For Guys, Madison Gems, Men's Accessories, Men's Jewelry, Money Clip, Product Ideas, Stainless Steel, Trendy

www.madisongems.com

Does his style exude adventure? Or is he a dapper man of the finest hour? Maybe he treasures essentials that have a modern flair. Whatever his style, he’ll most certainly appreciate a gift tailored to him from www.madisongems.com. As Fathers Day approaches on June 19^th, it’s time to start deciding what you’re gonna get for the Dad in your life. Below is a list of our top Fathers Day jewelry & accessories gift ideas for 2016. Psssst!…Don’t forget all Men’s accessories from Madison Gems come in boxes with complimentary gift wrap.

Polished Money Clip, $15

He carries his cash in style. Money clips are the perfect alternative to wallets. They’re simple, lightweight and minimal and they’re for the dad who’s style is sleek yet simple.

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2. Designer Inspired Love Bangle Bracelet, $180

He makes accessorizing his wrist an art form. Bangle bracelets set the tone for dapper style. They’ll add a bit of shine to his attire, while exhibiting his high style. They’re for the Dad who pays attention to the details.

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3. Square Textured Grid Cufflinks, $30

He’s effortlessly sophisticated. Cuff links are the ideal accessory to polish up your go-to dress shirts. They’ll add a personal touch to his ensemble and they’re for the Dad known for his good taste.

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Still stuck for ideas? Don’t worry we have a Father’s Day Collection on our website. Check it out here: Father’s Day Boutique

Happy Shopping!

Contact us anytime for jewelry & accessories inquiries…

Phone: 917-933-1747

E-mail: info@madisongems.com

Website: www.madisongems.com

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