Cyber Monday Special!

Receive 20% off Diamond Studs at www.valleyjewelersonline.com!

Use code DCLSJ-CKWRT to access discount!

"Black Friday" & "Shop Small Saturday" Only ------- 20% Sale on Fine Jewelry*

Why would you want to endure crowds at the mall when you can have a pleasant day & get great deals in lovely Upper Montclair? Enjoy your holiday shopping by avoiding the stress at the malls and receive 20% any fine jewelry in stock in our store.*

What’s Shop Small Saturday?
Register your AMEX card for Shop Small Saturday and receive $25 statement credit from AMEX if you make a purchase of at least $25 from a small business on Saturday, November 26, 2011. See AMEX for more details!

*Sale includes Gold & Gemstone Jewelry, excludes Diamond Engagement Rings, Wedding Bands & Pandora.

1000 Reasons to "Like" Us on Facebook!

BIG VALLEY JEWELERS ANNOUNCEMENT at Midnight tonight!

But we can't talk about that yet, so...

In completely unrelated news, the wait is almost over for the PANDORA Black Friday Midnight Magic Bead. Just one more week until we can unveil it! Arrive in store early on Black Friday. Quantities won't last... (Based on response, we're already thinking we should've ordered more!)

VALLEY JEWELERS Voted 2011 Best Single Jewelry Store!

Thank you so much for making us the top ranking single-store jewelers in Suburban Essex Magazine 2011 Best of Awards! And in such a densely populated county with hundreds of jewelry stores, the competition was stiff in this 3-month poll!

Amongst all jewelry stores -- single-store, multi-store or chain, we placed second and to us this Silver is Gold! (First place went to a 5-store chain which could cull votes from several customer bases.) We’re thrilled to hear you think we’re doing a great job! We so appreciate your votes!

NEW ONLINE ARRIVAL: Armadani Diamond & Gemstone Bands

Introducing Armadani wedding, anniversary & eternity bands. Three friends with over 76 years of experience started the company in 1999 to achieve one common goal -- creating exquisite gemstone bands. And as you can see on our website, they succeeded. Each band combines full-cut, high quality diamonds with princess-cut rubies, blue, pink or yellow sapphires channel set in 14K gold. A WOW holiday or anniversary gift. Check out Armadani under the "Our Designers" (top toolbar), then choose "Available Online."

In-Store Designer Spotlight: Tashka by Beatrice

Referring to the Hungarian term for handbag, Tashka by Beatrice was endearingly named for the tote that designer Beatrice Matiash carried her accessories in when first launching in 2000.

From polished to playful, the Tashka by Beatrice collection has been designed to explore the facets of femininity through color, texture and ornamentation. Semiprecious stones ranging from muted pastels to primaries in vibrant or deep tones are all arranged in unexpected combinations. Tashka by Beatrice is further distinguished by a selection of styles that incorporate wire-wrapped components forming knobby clusters, with up to 300 per necklace.

Through the years, Beatrice has been and continues to be motivated by unconventional sources of inspiration. “I am in part a collector,” she said. “Everywhere I go, I feel drawn to the color combination on anything from a flyer to a tea set, and I collect all these things that influence my jewelry designs.”

Beatrice earned her B.A. from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York and formerly worked at DKNY.

In-Store Spotlight: Dina Mackney Designs

VALLEY JEWELERS is proud to carry Dina Mackney Designs.
Dina's artistry has graced the pages of InStyle Magazine, The Washington Post, Condé Nast Traveler, The Atlanta Journal Constitution, and The Palm Beach Post, as well as adorned the necks and fingers of many celebrities.

Her designs are substantial -- gemstone heavy with a casual elegance.
Most known for her necklaces and rings, pieces typically range from $300 to $1000.

Dina uses the highest quality materials, creating unusual combinations that make women feel fabulous. Her goal is to have women look and feel great in her jewelry no matter where their busy lives take them.

A native Texan, she has lived in Florence, London and Manhattan.
She has studied at The University of Virginia as well as The Parsons School of Design. Currently, she is a single mom sharing her life with her two children, Jackson & Lily.

Lavender Amythest and Garnet Pendant on Spinel Necklace.



Olive Quartz Pendant on Green Garnet Multistrand Necklace

Spotlight on October Birthstones: Tourmaline & Opal

Mention this blog and receive a 20% discount on any tourmaline or opal item in our store!

Tourmaline is the traditional birthstone for October, and is given as the gemstone for the 8th anniversary. It is associated with balance, endurance, and safety. Most people consider tourmaline to be a single mineral. But in fact it is a group named for several different, but closely related minerals.

Elbaite is the tourmaline mineral that is most often found in jewelry, as its color is extremely variable with the most common colors being red, pink, green, blue, orange and yellow. Elbaite has many variety names based on color.

The pink to red variety is called rubellite. Often a specimen can have more than one color zone in the same crystal, with the most famous variety being a pink and green combination called watermelon tourmaline. Uvite is a green translucent to opaque tourmaline that is growing in popularity and is being cut as a gemstone.



Romans called opals “Cupid paederos” -- a child as beautiful as love. They believed that opals were pieces of heaven that got knocked down during violent thunderstorms, falling to Earth in a flash of lightning. Opals were thought to bring wisdom and good fortune; however, there is a superstition that an opal you buy for yourself can bring you bad luck, but is not bad luck if received as a gift.

An opal will cut glass just like a diamond, but it stands alone as the only non-crystalline gemstone. In addition to being the October birthstone, opals are given for the 14th wedding anniversary.

This gemstone actually contains up to 30% water, so it must be protected from heat or harsh chemicals, both of which will cause drying and may lead to cracking and loss of iridescence. Opal must also be guarded from blows, since it is relatively soft and breaks easily.

1/2 Off Sale Today & Tomorrow Only!

Have you had your eye on something but just haven't made your move yet?
The time is now...

50% SALE on 100's of items at our Sidewalk Sale tomorrow: Saturday, 9/17!
Preview Day today for facebook fans and blog members!

Get in early for best selection!
We're clearing out space for new collections arriving soon!

One Last Reminder...VOTING CLOSES TOMORROW!

It's that time of year again...
Please vote for us in Suburban Essex Magazine's Best of Essex Contest! (In fact, please choose us twice on the ballot: Jewelry Store and Custom Design.)

It's quick, easy and painless... but time is running out.
Voting closes Thursday, 9/15.

Just copy & paste this link into your browser:
http://sgiz.mobi/s3/Best-of-Essex-2011-Ballot

Thank you for your support!

P.S. Saturday is our annual Sidewalk Sale! Half-price on 100's of items!

Spotlight On Blue Sapphire -- September's Birthstone

Photos: A custom designed pendant by Craig Brady.

The sapphire is second only to the diamond in hardness, making it a durable gemstone for setting into jewelry. A gift of sapphire represents sincerity and faithfulness.

Sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum. Corundum is found in every color of the rainbow. Red corundums are known as rubies and all other hues are known as sapphire -- even though the word sapphire comes from the Greek word "sapphirus," meaning blue. And the rich, deep blue of the September birthstone is considered the most desireable of all sapphires.

These gemstones were mined as early as the 7th Century BC from India and what is now Sri Lanka. They are found today in Sri Lanka, Kashmir, Myanmar, Thailand, Australia, Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, China, Madagascar, and the United States. Large specimens of corundum crystals are rare; the 563-carat Star of India can be seen in the American Museum of Natural History.

Ancient civilizations believed that the world was set upon an enormous sapphire, which painted the sky blue with its reflection. This legend, as well as the belief that the ten commandments were inscribed upon tablets made of sapphire, gives September’s birthstone a royal place among gemstones.

Mention this blog and receive 20% off any blue sapphire item in stock during the month of September! (Excluding Pandora.)

Your Vote Counts!

It would mean a lot to us if you would vote for us in Suburban Essex Magazine's Best of Essex Contest! (In fact, please vote twice: Jewelry Store and Custom Design.)

Just copy & paste this link into your browser:
http://sgiz.mobi/s3/Best-of-Essex-2011-Ballot

It's quick, easy and painless... but please hurry. Time is running out.
Voting closes on Thursday, 9/15.

Thank you for your support!

Words cannot express...

Our hearts & thoughts are with the families and friends of 9/11 survivors today.

Three Days Only - Free PANDORA Bracelet!

Don't miss this in-store event! Great time to stock up for Christmas...

Friday Fun: Our Bit for Equality!

Today is Women’s Equality Day. While the gap has closed a bit in recent decades, women are still paid only 80% on average of the gents’ compensation for the same work. We’d like to do our part to close the economic gap. Ladies, mention "EQUALITY" today or tomorrow and receive 20% off any in-stock items! (Sorry: Excludes diamond & Pandora items.)

Photo: Our daughter in "The Clown" at Centenary College's Young Performers Workshop.

Wednesday's Bride: Choosing the Right Setting

When choosing a style, consider the everyday lifestyle of the wearer, not just the desired look. For example, a high prong-set diamond (as seen in Craig's custom designed ring above) can be tough on an active woman's hand. Instead, active types might want to consider a setting that offers good protection for the stone and a smooth surface to avoid damaging or losing the stone and scratching other people.

The size of the wearer's hand should also be considered to select the most flattering style. Keep it in proportion: people with small hands and fingers may look overwhelmed with a huge ring; small rings make large hands look larger.

We agree with TheKnot.com, "Stones set vertically will make a hand seem longer; an oversized, broad ring will make it look shorter; a diagonal design -- or a multistone ring -- pulls the eye across the hand and gives the illusion of greater width. On the other hand (no pun intended), a broad ring can 'rein in' and balance long, thin fingers."

Tuesday's Trend Outlook: Necklaces "By the Yard"

Perhaps a result of their prominence on the red carpet, by-the-yard necklaces were everywhere at recent jewelry shows we've attended. Yes, they've been around for the last couple of years, but they're still going strong, maybe even stronger than before. So much so, they might just be the new staple of a jewelry wardrobe. Rightfully so: they're a smart investment in this economy, giving you several looks for one purchase.

These long necklaces with "stations" (gemstones, mini-medallions, or some sort of accent) every inch or two, are most commonly worn alone or layered with pendants on short chains. Very versatile, they can also be shortened with or without the use of an enhancer, creating a multi-strand look on their own. Some can be doubled over and threaded, creating a lariat or Y necklace effect. Wrapped around the arm, many also work as multi-strand bracelets.

Available in gold and sterling, with and without gemstones, by-the-yard necklaces are currently available at VALLEY JEWELERS. Even more varieties are coming in the fall. (Look for a enhancer giveaway special with BTY holiday purchases.)

Tuesday's Trend Outlook: Mix It Up!

As the price of precious metals continue to rise, designers are finding inventive ways to make great looks more versatile and affordable. In this case, interchangeable tops offer more freedom of choice and individuality at a fraction of the cost of a whole new bracelet. The base bangle can be worn alone or with one of countless tops available. Available in all 14K, sterling silver with 14K accents, or straight sterling alone -- something for everyone's budget.



All Photos: From The Touch's Sailor's Valentine Collection available at VALLEY JEWELERS.

Monday's Message: Win A $100 Gift Card!

Win a free $100 gift card to VALLEY JEWELERS by joining our blog! One of the first 100 members to sign up will be randomly chosen to receive a $100 in-store gift card! And we'd love to hear your feedback on the blog.

Photo: Freshwater Cultured Pearl & Diamond 14K Pendant by HONORA available at VALLEY JEWELERS.

Friday Fun: Blame It On The Brits

The word "sterling" is short for "Easterlings," a form of money used in 12th-century England.

Sterling silver, which contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper, is used as the standard for quality for silver jewelry.

Photo: Oxidized sterling silver post earrings by Tamalon available at VALLEY JEWELERS.

Thursday's Thought: Add A Bit of Whimsy

According to designer Craig Brady, more and more clients are building something hidden into their custom pieces. A small diamond tucked inside a ring shank serves as a secret between groom and bride. Or, as with this pendant, the back is not the typical forgotten blank slate. Instead, Brady cut out a beautiful monogram from the flipside of a carnelian pendant.

Wednesday's Bride: "With This Ring..."

Custom designed by Craig Brady, this platinum ring is a work of art on your finger. When you choose a design like this, you are getting a masterpiece which will be admired from all angles. The intricacy in the engraving, millegrain work and pave diamonds give the ring an old-world charm while the clean top view is both tasteful and elegant.

Tuesday's Trend Outlook: Sterling Is The New Precious Metal

Designs in sterling silver jewelry are evolving rapidly with its growing popularity and affordability. Diamonds set in sterling used to be unheard of but now they’re relatively commonplace. Oxidized sterling is also gaining in popularity, as is sterling with touches of high-karat gold.

Photo: Sterling silver slide bracelet with 14K and gemstone accents by ANATOLI available at VALLEY JEWELERS.

Monday Morsel: Unique Floral Estate Brooch

With both statement pins and anything floral being hot, this timeless piece remains current. Boasting a center of .91ctw sapphires and .14 diamonds as well as gorgeous workmanship, this weighty 18K estate brooch is available at VALLEY JEWELERS for $1200.

Friday Fun: Sisters Shop for 25% Less!

Sunday, August 7th is Sister’s Day! So we’re making shopping a family affair… Stop into VALLEY JEWELERS with your sister today or tomorrow (Friday or Saturday, August 5th or 6th) and receive 25% off any in stock item when you both make a purchase! (Sorry, excludes Pandora.)

Thursday's Thought: Mother's Jewelry

Photos: A Birthstone Line Bracelet of Diamonds, Emeralds and Sapphires in 18KW by Craig Brady

"Mother's jewelry doesn't have to be so obvious. Sometimes just incorporating birthstones of the kids and/or grandkids can be enough to make a landmark birthday present -- like 50, 60 or 70 -- very, very special."

Wednesday's Bride: A Return to Simplicity

The clean lines of this 18KW custom-designed engagement ring by Craig Brady read modern yet timeless. Nothing distracts from the beauty of the princess-cut diamond (as well as none of the budget being diverted away from the main investment of the center stone).

Tuesday's Trend Outlook: Colossal Color

Splashy colors continue to dominate the industry. Depending on the cut, large colored stones in minimal settings are funky, elegant or glamorous.

Photo: 4.25ct Tourmaline surrounded by 1.02ctw Diamonds in 18KW; $2190.

Monday's Message: Spotlighting Peridot, August's Birthstone

Photo: 1.84ct Peridot Oval Surrounded by .19ctw Diamonds in 18KY Gold, $770.


Peridot is the only gemstone found in meteorites.

The history of peridot goes back to the ancient Egyptians who hunted the iridescent stone at night with lamps.

In the 1990’s it experienced a renaissance when spectacular mines were found in Kashmir.

In addition to being the gemstone of August, peridot is given for the 16th wedding anniversary.

Mention this blog and receive 20% off any peridot item in stock during the month of August! (Excluding Pandora.)

Friday Fun: 20% Off for Girlfriends!

Bring a girlfriend into VALLEY JEWELERS between now and Monday, August 1st (National Girlfriends Day), shop together and if you both make a purchase, you’ll both get a 20% discount on any item on display in our showroom (excluding Pandora) if you mention this blog! There’s nothing like a shopping buddy oohing and ahhing to make it more fun!

Thursday's Thought: Go Green with Our NEW ARRIVALS!

Harness some of this sun with a solar-powered Eco-Drive watch.

Never needs a battery, so it's as green as it gets. We just expanded our selection on this fantastic, best-selling watch line.

Wednesday's Bride: More Meaningful When Kept in the Family...

Here is an example of incorporating old with new...

This client had a yellow diamond and a chocolate diamond (known as a "brownie") from her grandmother. She wanted to incorporate these sentimental gemstones along with her own white diamond into a new engagement ring. Craig executed this 3-stone ring in 14K white gold.

Tuesday's Trend Outlook: Break Out The Bracelets!

Statement bracelets are hot in every conceivable variation --wide, light-weight, comfortable cuffs --thin, stackable bangles --and of course, Pandora’s personalized, beaded charm bracelets (below)!



Photo: Pink Leather Cuff with Amulet Charms from ELLE available at VALLEY JEWELERS.

MONDAY'S MESSAGE: The Price of "Ice"

Above: Custom Designed 3-Diamond Platinum Engagement Ring by Craig Brady

Why are diamonds prices going up so much? In short: 1. No new mines. 2. Weak dollar. 3. Increasing global diamond demand. We have to mine over 100 tons of the earth's crust to get one diamond large enough to cut a fine one carat gem! Over one million diamonds are mined to get that one gemstone!

FRIDAY FUN FACTS About "The Sweat of the Sun"

Above: 14K triple-strand "coffeebean" necklace available at VALLEY JEWELERS.

Did you know that gold is eternal? The gold in your jewelry was floating around in space before our planet was formed and even before our solar system came into existence! The Incan people considered gold to be "the sweat of the sun."

Karat refers to purity of gold. Pure gold is 24 karat and 14 karat gold (14k) is 14 parts gold out of 24. All of the gold in the world could be compressed into an 18-yard cube, which is about 1/10 the mass of the Washington Monument.

THURSDAY'S THOUGHT: A Rare Opportunity for Watch Collectors

We have something special for watch collectors or Tiffany enthusiasts... A completely intact, operational pocket watch from the 1800's. This rare find is in gorgeous condition. Often, timepieces this old have been tampered with by unknowing hands in an effort to repair, effecting the integrity and value. This watch is all original. And we would love to see it go to one of our loyal customers. If not, it will soon be up for auction in NYC...

For pricing details, speak to Craig.

WEDNESDAY'S BRIDE: Design Your Own Engagement Ring & Wedding Bands

Often, designer Craig Brady sketches as he talks to a couple. The idea evolves into a wax mold, then a casting in the precious metal of choice. Once the finishing work is done on the mounting and the gemstones are set, the sketch comes to life.

Other couples use the "Design Your Own" function on the top toolbar of our website to start building their dream ring. Sometimes their website creation is a home run; othertimes they use the website creation as a jumping off point which gets further refined when they meet with Craig.

Check out this neat "Design Your Own" feature on the website-- to build, to dream, or just to play!

TUESDAY'S TREND OUTLOOK: Get Personal!

Personalization continues to be the juggernaut of trends in the jewelry industry. Traditionally, personalization meant engraving inside a ring, birthstone jewelry or charms hanging on a link bracelet. Today, it’s beaded charm bracelets, interchangeable tops on bangle bracelets, hoop earrings with interchangeable dangles, even map jewelry. Yes, a map of your hometown -- or your college town -- in a sterling silver pendant, available at VALLEY JEWELERS.

MONDAY'S MESSAGE: Get Out Of The Doghouse Today!

This may be your last chance. Today is National "Get Out of the Doghouse" Day. It's not too late to use it to your advantage. Does he/she have a sense of humor? Just maybe you can wiggle back into good graces today. Remember: flowers are fleeting, but jewelry is forever. Good luck!

FRIDAY FUN FACTS: Share Some Joy!

The word jewelry comes from the ancient French, "joaillerie", meaning joy and gladness.

Photo: A little "joy" from Artistry Ltd... A Whimsical 14K Cuff available at VALLEY JEWELERS.