Chrome diopside, the vivid “Siberian Emerald,” glows with the pure green of untouched nature. First discovered in Siberia in 1988, this chromium-rich gem symbolizes renewal, abundance, and the Tree of Life. Loved for its rare, springlike hue and raw crystal beauty, chrome diopside needs no treatment—just the care of a gentle hand.

Go behind the scenes of Portraits of a Lady, where the Sylphide collection takes center stage. See how thoughtful design, expert styling, and a talented creative team transformed a vision of timeless elegance into striking editorial images.

Inspired by the legend of prima ballerina, Marie Taglioni, dancing under the stars on a winter’s night, the Sylphide collection is rich in mysterious geodes, shimmering sillimanite and clusters of twinkling raw diamonds and champagne zircons.  Graceful and elegant, these designs celebrate and re-imagine that magical moment as contemporary one-of-a-kind wearable works of art.

Discover the magic of Herkimer Diamond mining in New York. Learn history, best mines, tools, and tips for finding these sparkling quartz crystals.

Take a look inside Squirrel City Jewelers, now featuring Michelle Pajak-Reynolds jewelry.

Discover the beauty of pin-set gemstones, a centuries-old jewelry technique reimagined with modern artistry. Unlike traditional settings, pin-setting allows gemstones to shimmer from every angle, creating luminous, one-of-a-kind designs. From delicate chains to bold statement necklaces, explore how this artisanal process transforms natural gems into wearable works of art.

Carat and karat are often confused, but one measures gemstone weight while the other defines the purity of gold. This post breaks down the history and meaning of both terms, explains how gold fineness works, and offers practical guidance for choosing the right karat based on lifestyle, aesthetics, and personal values.

Inspired by moss, literature, and long walks through Ohio’s forests, this post traces the creative journey behind the Voyageuse Collection. From ancient moss colonies and national park trails to chrome diopside, golden enhydro quartz, and vesuvianite, it explores how nature’s textures, colors, and quiet resilience are translated into ethically crafted fine jewelry with a deep sense of place and purpose.

Unlike gemstones pulled from the earth, pearls are created inside living mollusks, forming slowly through time, patience, and care. This post explores how natural and cultured pearls are formed, why character-rich seed pearls hold special beauty, and the symbolism of pearls as June birthstones representing resilience, wisdom, and transformation. You’ll also find simple care tips to help your pearl jewelry glow for years to come.

At first glance, labradorite appears soft and grey, but when light hits its surface, it reveals vivid flashes of blue, green, and fiery orange known as labradorescence. Rooted in Inuit legend and inspired by the Northern Lights, this post explores the history, symbolism, and unique beauty of labradorite, along with how I love to work with these ever-changing stones in my jewelry designs.

Tarnish happens to every silver jewelry lover, but it doesn’t have to be intimidating. This post breaks down what tarnish really is, how to tell if your jewelry is real sterling silver, the difference between tarnish and patina, and the safest ways to clean and prevent tarnish without damaging your pieces. With the right care, silver jewelry can stay beautiful and become a future heirloom.

Discover the creative process behind the “Angels & Gems” editorial, a collaboration between jewelry designer Michelle Pajak-Reynolds and fashion photographer Julie Stanley. From designing jewelry inspired by water goddess mythology to styling, hair, makeup, and photography, this behind-the-scenes look shows how every detail comes together to create ethereal, magazine-ready images that bring jewelry collections to life.