Fortunoff to liquidate

A sign of how troubled the economy is, venerable retailer Fortunoff's is liquidating it's assets beginning this week. Fortunoff's was a longtime jewelry destination for many people. With the tanking ecomomy, jewelry is one of the first things to take a hit, being considered more of a luxury than a necessity. Even Zales reports that sales are down 18% in the last quarter. While Bernard Bernanke said that he thought the recession may end in 2009, others believe it will more like 2010.

Diamond Basics

What makes a diamond valuable? What makes a diamond most valuable to you? Each person has a "C" that is most important to them. Which one is most important to you? Color? Carat weight? Clarity? In the diamond business, we like to say that the most important "C" is the "cut". While the other "c's" can make a visual impact, without a properly cut diamond, those other "c's" won't pop. A diamond has to be cut to proper proportions to maximize it's brilliance. Who wants a large diamond if it doesn't sparkle. The sparkle is what will catch someone's eye first, then they will be able to comment on the size ;-)
For more info on the basics of diamonds, visit our website at www.uglinc.com

Debeers DiamondSure

Universal Gemological Laboratory(UGL-USA) has acquired a DeBeers DiamondSure machine to assist us in ascertaining whether a diamond is natural versus synthetic. The machine tests colorless and nearcolorless diamonds to determine whether they need to be referred for higher level testing using the DeBeers DiamondView. 97% of all diamonds will be successfully weeded out with the DiamondSure, with only 3% being referred for futher testing. If you have a diamond that you suspect may be synthetic, let us test it for you.

Jewelry cleaner

UGL_USA now has jewelry cleaner available for purchase. This jewelry cleaner is great for using on your diamond engagement rings! When you stop in, ask for it! Only 5.00. Universal Gemological Laboratory is where you can get your diamonds, rubies, emeralds, pearls and wristwatches appraised. We do not buy or sell jewelry, so our opinion is unbiased. Universal Gemological Laboratory(UGL-USA) is your independent jewelry appraiser.