How to Spot Quality Jewellery and Recognise Genuine Silver
When buying jewelry, it’s essential to ensure you’re getting good value for your money. As we are obsessed with perfection and authentic style, here are five key tips to help you identify quality pieces and genuine silver:
2. Check the Weight:
3. Examine the Craftsmanship:
4. Test with a Magnet:
5. Conduct a Nitric Acid Test:
By following these tips, you can confidently select high-quality jewelry and ensure that your silver pieces are genuine. For more beautiful and authentic jewelry, visit us at Laverdure.
Happy Shopping !
Stephane @ Laverdure
At Laverdure, one of our main influences is not only a minimalist and sleek style but also travel which is big on our bucket list. Simply put, without exploring the world this brand wouldn’t exist !
I have been blessed to discover so many gems of places around the world and I encourage everyone to pack your luggage and do it more often. You’d be amazed to see how good you would instantly feel uncovering new cultures, landscapes and even snap up some bargains for your wardrobe and jewellery collection. We have you covered for another jewellery travel destination recommendation.
If you're a jewellery lover, you know that it can be expensive to buy high-quality pieces. But there are a few travel destinations where you can find affordable items without sacrificing style or craftsmanship.
Here are three of the best places to go shopping for jewellery on a budget:
1. Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok is a shopper's paradise, and jewellery is no exception. You'll find everything from traditional Thai silver jewellery to modern, trendy pieces at prices that won't break the bank.
One of the best places to shop for jewellery in Bangkok is Chatuchak Weekend Market. This massive market has over 15,000 stalls selling everything from clothes and souvenirs to food and electronics. You're sure to find some great deals on jewellery here.
Another great option is to visit the Grand Palace. This complex of royal buildings is home to a number of shops that sell traditional Thai pieces. You'll also find some beautiful silver jewellery here.
The amazing Thai culture, beautiful smiles and of course food you will encounter are just some additional perks!
2. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is another great city for finding affordable jewellery. The Grand Bazaar is a must-visit for any shopper, and it's home to a number of jewellery stalls selling everything from gold and silver to semi-precious stones.
You'll also find some great deals on jewelleryin the Spice Bazaar. This smaller market is a great place to find unique pieces that you won't find anywhere else.
In addition, Istanbul is a very dynamic, international and cosmopolitan city where you will never get bored. There are tons of cultural and culinary offers available. And the view of the Bosphorus is to die for.
3. Jaipur, India
Jaipur is known as the "Pink City" for its distinctive pink sandstone buildings. But it's also a great place to find bargains.
The most famous jewellery market in Jaipur is Johari Bazaar. This market is home to over 2,000 shops selling all types of pieces, from traditional Indian pieces to modern designs.
You'll also find some great deals on jewellery in the City Palace. This palace complex is home to a number of jewelry shops that sell everything from gold and silver to precious stones.
Tips for Buying Affordable Jewelry While Traveling
Here are a few tips for buying affordable jewellery while traveling:
With a little planning, you can find some great deals on affordable jewellery while traveling. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next shopping trip today!
Stephane @ Laverdure
Are you feeling overwhelmed by clutter and the constant need to acquire more possessions? Adopting a minimalist lifestyle may be the solution you need. By focusing on simplicity and reducing material possessions, you can improve your mental and physical health, reduce stress, and increase productivity.
I truly believe that embracing a minimalist mindset allowed me to become more creative and give birth to our very first jewellery collection. As I firmly believe that our brand is much more than products, it’s a philosophy of life we adhere to.
Discover the benefits of a minimalist lifestyle and start living a simpler, more fulfilling life today, and it is easier than you think.
How can minimalism improve mental and physical health?
Minimalism can improve mental and physical health in several ways. By reducing clutter and simplifying your surroundings, you can reduce stress and anxiety. A minimalist lifestyle can also promote better sleep, as a clutter-free environment can help create a more peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. Additionally, by focusing on experiences rather than material possessions, you can increase your overall sense of well-being and happiness, it can even improve your self-esteem and sense of purpose that most of us seek inside. On the physical side, a minimalist lifestyle can encourage healthier habits, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, as well as reduce the risk of chronic stress-related illnesses.
How can minimalism increase productivity?
Minimalism can increase productivity by reducing distractions and allowing you to focus on what’s truly important. When you have fewer possessions and commitments, you have more time and energy to devote to your goals and priorities. A minimalist lifestyle can also help you streamline your daily routines and eliminate unnecessary tasks, freeing up more time for work or creative pursuits. By simplifying your life, you can create a more efficient and productive environment that supports your personal and professional growth. Do more with less, get better results !
Tips for living a minimalist lifestyle.
Living a minimalist lifestyle can be a challenging but rewarding journey. Here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Start small: Begin by decluttering one area of your home at a time, such as your closet or kitchen.
2. Focus on quality over quantity: Invest in high-quality items that will last longer and serve multiple purposes. Do you really need that object ?
3. Practice mindfulness: Be intentional about what you bring into your life and focus on what truly brings you joy and fulfillment.
4. Simplify your schedule: Eliminate unnecessary commitments and prioritize your time for activities that align with your values and goals.
5. Embrace imperfection: Let go of the need for perfection and embrace the beauty of simplicity and minimalism. Perfection does not exist and it can make you waste valuable time.
Give it a try! Relax, declutter bit by bit and have a cup of tea in the process, your mind, body and soul will thank you for it. I have to admit I cleared a lot of things and thoughts to offer you this collection. Enjoy!
Stephane @ Laverdure
Jewellery can be made from a variety of materials, each with its own unique properties and characteristics. From precious metals to natural stones, there are many options to choose from when it comes to selecting the perfect piece of jewellery. In this guide, we'll explore 4 popular jewellery materials that we use and plan on using for our upcoming designs.
Silver - The Classic and Classy metal
Silver is a popular choice for jewellery due to its versatility and affordability. It is a soft metal that can be easily shaped and molded into intricate designs. Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% made from other metals. It is durable and resistant to tarnishing, making it a great option for everyday wear. Silver can also be combined with other materials, such as gemstones or enamel, to create unique and eye-catching pieces. This is especially for these reasons that we decided to use Sterling silver for our very first collection ( Harvest Pendant, Panda Ring & the Oryx Pendant ), so that you can wear your favourite jewellery everyday care-free.
In addition to its malleability and durability, silver is also a hypoallergenic metal, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin. It is also a timeless metal that can be worn with any outfit, from casual to formal. Perfect for your fashion statement!
Stainless Steel - The Versatile
Stainless steel is a versatile material that can be used to create a variety of jewellery styles, from simple and classic to bold and edgy. It is often used as a base metal for plated jewellery, such as gold or rose gold, to create a more affordable option without sacrificing durability. Stainless steel is also a popular choice for wedding bands, as it can withstand daily wear and tear without losing its shine or shape. Overall, stainless steel is a reliable and cost-effective material for jewellery that offers both style and practicality.
One of the biggest advantages of stainless steel is that it does not require special care or maintenance, making it a low-maintenance option for those who want to enjoy their jewellery without worrying about upkeep. Browse our collection for our unique Teddy Bear Necklace.
Recycled Metals - The Future with the Existing
Recycled metals are a popular choice for sustainable jewellery as they reduce the need for mining new materials and can be melted down and reused indefinitely. Look for jewellery made from recycled gold, silver, and platinum, which are often sourced from old jewellery, electronics, and industrial waste. Recycled metals can also be combined with other sustainable materials, such as ethically sourced gemstones or wood, to create unique and eco-friendly pieces.
In addition to being environmentally friendly, recycled metals also have a unique character and history. Each piece of jewellery made from recycled metals has its own story, as it may have once been a piece of old jewellery or a discarded electronic device. So next time you’re shopping for jewellery, consider choosing a piece made from recycled metals and help support sustainable and ethical businesses in the industry. We will surely add more styles to our collection with interesting materials.
Gemstones - The Colourful Touch and Personality
Gemstones are a popular choice for jewellery, adding a pop of color and sparkle to any piece. There are many different types of gemstones, each with their own unique properties and characteristics. Some popular gemstones include diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and amethysts. Gemstones can come in a variety of colors, from clear and colorless to deep, rich hues. The cut of a gemstone can also affect its appearance, with popular cuts including round, princess,pear and marquise. When choosing a gemstone for your jewellery, consider the color, cut, and overall look you want to achieve.
Diamonds are one of the most popular gemstones, known for their brilliance and durability. They come in a range of colors, from clear and colorless to yellow, brown, and even pink. Rubies are another popular choice, with their deep red color symbolizing love and passion. Sapphires come in a range of colors, with blue being the most well-known, but also including pink, yellow, and green. Emeralds are known for their rich green color and are often associated with royalty. Amethysts, with their purple hue, are said to promote calmness and clarity of mind. When it comes to cuts, round is the most popular for diamonds, while princess and pear cuts are also popular choices. We have chosen green marquise cut stones for our Harvest Pendant. The Legend has it that Louis XV of France paid a jeweller to create a very uniquely shaped diamond in the form of his mistress' lips, the elongated gemstone was born!
Whether you are a jewellery maker or just on the lookout for some eco-conscious or unique jewellery pieces, choosing the right necklace, ring, pendant or material doesn’t have to be a difficult task. We will always strive to provide the best design possible using the most sustainable supplies and practices.
I hope that you find your happiness in our collection !
Stephane M
At Laverdure, not only do we want to provide stylish and elegant accessories of beauty, but we also believe that feeling good is the most important aspect of your life you need to prioritize.
What is the definition for mental health ? How to feel better ? We all hear everywhere that your mental well-being is super important to preserve but what exactly is it? And how does it fit inside our increasingly stressful society?
Mental well-being is a complex yet vital part of mental health that allows us to function positively in our daily lives. We are all susceptible to being affected by negative outcomes in our lives which could translate into a permanent way of being and feeling inside.
Our world is moving fast, from technology to transportation, results, expectations, goals or even relationships, we can all sometimes feel that everything is moving too fast for us to comprehend, let alone feel included.
Because every single action starts from your core, here are seven ways to increase your feel-good currency supply. Mental health matters.
Note: Always seek the help of a professional when in need. These guidelines are for friendly informational purposes.
1. Be present and mindful
It is no secret that mindfulness techniques can positively impact your state of being. Activities such as meditation or relaxation practices automatically raise your self-awareness and reduce your negative perception of a situation. By focusing on your breath or other focal points, you realise that nothing else matters at that moment in time and you are here alive and well.
There are so many health and psychological benefits to losing yourself in the present moment.
You might even reach Nirvana!
2. Be more active
Speaking of health, as the Latin saying goes “a healthy mind in a healthy body” is not just a random quote. According to the World Health Organization, insufficiently active people have 20 to 30% more risk of early death compared to sufficiently active people and regular physical activity has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
The most important is for you to feel comfortable and not overdo it. You are the only person who knows how far you can push your physical abilities, a simple brisk walk into nature can do as much wonder as a cross-fit training session to your mental health. Move your body!
3. Seek connection with other people
As human beings, we are social creatures. We have never been designed to cut ourselves off from others. Throughout history, we have always engaged in cultural collaborations, exchange, trade or even strong disagreements.
The more you connect with other people, the more you increase your self-esteem. There are tons of ways to engage with people, just have a chat with a family member or a neighbour, contact an old friend or if you feel like it, join a social group online or in your local community.
4. Stuff can always wait, take your time
If you are reading this, I would like to congratulate you! You have survived every single challenging day of your life! And do you know why? Because time was on your side.
In our society, everything seems to be urgent, we have become champions of productivity even when not necessary. It won’t hurt to postpone a few tasks if you feel overwhelmed, you are already doing great at prioritising, remember that things will always fall into place in due time.
5. Have fun learning new things
“ The greatest virtue of a man is perhaps curiosity “ — Anatole France
Learning new things is without a doubt one of the most brain-stimulating actions you can perform. Learning changes your brain and makes you feel better.
Whether you take on a new hobby, learn a new language, visit new places or even acquire new skills for work, make those discoveries and produce that grey matter, your happiness will thank you for it.
6. Recognise you are enough
For a very long time, when I was younger I used to care a lot about what other people thought of me. This significantly affected my mental health at times but fear not, as you gain more experience in life, you will realise that other people’s opinions of you are out of your control and that they should not matter at all.
The more you work on your self-esteem, the more your personality will shine although modesty is of the essence, there is no competition with others. One book I highly recommend on this subject is this one.
7. Help others
“ We rise by lifting others “ — Robert Ingersoll
Feeling good can actually be measured by Science. The levels of serotonin and dopamine present in your brain can determine your anxiety and stress. Decreasing the amount of these chemicals literally improves your mood. Helping out others is another way of making you feel great, you are also contributing to the happiness of the person you are helping.
Volunteering is a prime example of donating your time and efforts to a good cause and positively change a situation, but it can also just be a matter of helping your neighbour with the grocery shopping or even mentoring in your community. Your service will always be appreciated and you’ll feel awesome for it.
There are of course plenty of ways to make you feel better instantly, and others that might take a bit longer and more work from you. The way I like to see mental well-being is like a bank account in which you possess your own currency ( a.k.a happiness ) and it is up to you to spend as you wish but also to make sure you replenish that account by doing more of what makes you feel amazing.
Our societies are heading in the right direction by acknowledging the problems and tackling the issue by raising awareness and offering medical and alternative solutions to people, but we also have our own individual parts to play and then positively influence the collective.
Cheer up, feel better about yourself and have a little dance and talk to your neighbour, you might be richer than you think!
There are simple and easy steps you can take to make an eco-friendly impact in your life.
Plastic waste is a big problem all around the world with a big chunk of it ending up polluting marine life and the environment. The UK is considered the second biggest plastic waste producer per capita in the world. We throw away a shocking 100 billion plastic packaging items per year, which equals 66 items per household per week.
Fortunately, it is not all doom and gloom. More and more awareness is raised about the issue and governments are now acting accordingly.
Waste management is a problem, but not the only one. Air pollution and global warming are also a catastrophe unfolding before our own eyes.
Because you are responsible citizens and consumers, I am sure you always look for ideas to help your ecosystem.
Here are a few simple suggestions you can apply to your daily life.
Reduce packaging
That sounds like an obvious option but we still use a lot of unnecessary plastic bags for shopping ( there's a reason why you are being charged for a bag at the supermarket ).
Arm yourself with canvas bags, use your containers at local shops (when possible ), and reuse them again and again.
Shop at your local market and look for loose fruits and veggies, they don't come in plastic packaging, you are helping a local business owner and you get a friendly service and produce. It's a win-win situation.
Recycle as much as possible
Nowadays, it is easier than ever to recycle your waste. Most households provide bins and crates for that purpose. Most consumer item packaging is now showing recycling guidelines. They are very easy to follow.
You also have access to many recycling facilities in supermarkets or out in the streets ( e.g glass bottles, clothing banks... ).
I know you are awesome at sorting your waste, if I can give some advice to skepticals, it would be to take it as a game.
Grow greener
I'm not saying you have to grow green and turn into Hulk!
Your home is your temple and the cleanest air you want to breathe would surely be inside it.
Plants are the best natural way to purify the air in a room, they can trap your carbon emissions ( heating, electricity, thermostat ) and reduce mould if you live in a place with a lot of humidity. Did I mention that they provide extra oxygen?
Caring for a plant can increase your mood and give you a sense of purpose, and they are beautiful to look at.
Shop less and better quality
One of the most sustainable ways to shop, especially for your wardrobe or jewellery, for instance, is to spend on better quality items that are durable and if possible locally.
Online shopping is great and convenient. Receiving your order shipped from a faraway country in a matter of days has never been easier, but long-distance shipments have a bigger carbon footprint. I let you imagine the return process as well!
As for shopping less, ask yourself a few times if you really need this item and if it's exclusive and unique.
Of course, it is not always possible to apply every single eco-friendly method to your life. Sustainability is a long-term process and by all doing a little, we can all create a positive impact on our society.
At Laverdure, I created a jewellery brand that is inspired by nature, and I would also love it to be reflected in the collections and minimise the impact on the planet. That's why the quantity of items is limited and I want to make sure to give you the best quality.
More styles are coming up soon, and I can say that more sustainable materials will be used, watch this space!
Stephane @ Laverdure
Summer is almost over in the northern hemisphere, autumn is just around the corner and you are getting ready to go back to work in your favourite warm jacket. The days are getting shorter, the temperatures are coming down and you are already missing all that sun and vitamin D your body has absorbed on some of the best beaches this summer.
Fear not as I've got you covered with a list of travel destinations you will love for their beautiful natural scenery, and they are also very popular for beautiful rare gemstones and jewellery at affordable prices. Some of these places are high in the ecotourism sector which makes them even more charming in my opinion.
Here are 3 of my suggestions for a perfect green getaway to add to your jewellery collection.
Note: Always consult your government travel advice on a destination
Tanzania
Tanzania is a gorgeous country located on the east coast of Africa renowned for its wonderful safari parks, exceptional wildlife and landscapes.
You have to visit the Serengeti national park and try to spot as many wild animals as you can.
If you are feeling fit enough, climbing mount Kilimanjaro is an unforgettable experience as I'm sure you know it, this is the highest peak in Africa.
Head to the autonomous island of Zanzibar and you will be welcomed by some of the most stunning beaches in the world. Wander around the capital Stone town and lose yourself in its quaint cobbled stone narrow streets infused with strong ancient Arabic and Swahili architecture.
The best places to shop for colourful gemstones such as Tanzanite and jewellery are Dar-Es-Salaam and Stonetown. Don't forget to haggle down even if the price is already very affordable.
Sri Lanka
Although it is very important to currently check the travel advice from your government, I still feel I have to include this gem of an island in this list.
Sri Lanka is an island situated in the Indian Ocean off the southeast coast of India. It is well known for its welcoming people, lush green tropical forests, yummy south Asian food, magnificent beaches and blends of cultures coexisting together. It is very common to find a mosque, a Hindu temple, a Buddhist temple and a church all on the same street, that's how tolerant and welcoming the mentality is there.
Colombo, the capital is a vibrant up-and-coming metropolis where modern skyscrapers and traditional buildings exist side by side.
Head to Kandy, the spiritual centre of the country where you can visit the temple of the Tooth relic ( a sacred tooth of the Buddha is stored there ) and appreciate all the Buddhist statutes and temples all the surrounding hills have to offer.
It's tea time! Not a problem, Sri Lanka will cater for you. The country offers plenty of tea plantations and factory tours, you can see the process of making tea from the leaves to your cup and sip it in fashion.
If perfecting your tan on the beach is your thing, Sri Lanka has your back ( apply some sun cream though ). The island boasts 810 miles of coastline and a multitude of fine golden sandy beaches such as Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, Bentota, and Mirissa. Explore the coastal fort city of Galle with its Dutch colonial architecture or swim with the turtles, your choice!
You've guessed it by now, Sri Lanka has a lot to offer and that includes some beautiful gemstones and jewellery at very good prices. Jewellery outlets are available all over popular destinations and also in big cities like Colombo or Kandy.
Namibia
You are in for a treat with this destination! Namibia is a country located on the southwestern coast of Africa, it is actually an ex-German colony called South West Africa.
If you fancy vast arid landscapes, amazing wildlife, and desertic almost extraterrestrial scenery, then Namibia is the place for you. Your camera will thank you for visiting this place!
It is a very sparsely populated country packing a lot of adventure activities. Your first entry point is the capital Windhoek, a very sleepy city with all the modern amenities you need like shopping malls, restaurants, guest houses and jewellery retailers where you can find some of the most incredible gemstones in this region of the world.
The infrastructures in the country are pretty good so it is not uncommon to hire a car and drive to the coastal towns of Swakopmund or Luderitz and their distinctively German architecture mixed with African culture.
Swakopmund hosts the largest Quartz crystal cluster in the world which is 3 metres high and 3 metres wide. If you visit at the right time, you might even attend the biggest Oktoberfest in Africa.
Join a local tour company to explore the rest of the country, Etosha national park, spot a multitude of wildlife, trekk some of the biggest sand dunes in the world at Sossusvlei in the Namib desert, and even stay at the many camping spots available in the Namib and Kalahari deserts.
Visit the Skeleton coast where the desert dunes dive directly into the Atlantic ocean.
Despite feeling empty, Namibia has a lot to offer, and that is definitely true in terms of gemstones and jewellery. It is commonplace to see locals selling stones at a stall or if you prefer there are a multitude of gemstone specialised stores, but I felt more comfortable buying from local people in the street.
Namibia will touch your soul in many ways.
Of course, jewellery and gemstones hunting should not be the only reason why travel to a new place but if you can combine it with discovering new cultures, filling your sense with new tastes, perfumes and delight for your eyesight, why not?
Any travel agency can advise you on those destinations but make sure you do a bit of research as well. Enjoy your trip!
Stephane @ Laverdure
It is 2022 and the western world seems to ramp up its efforts on turning green to avoid or mitigate the consequences of climate change or pollution. Everywhere in the news, we are encouraged to cut down on carbon emissions, use less plastic, or even travel responsibly using more sensible modes of transport like trains. However, despite efforts to tackle the issue, the fashion industry seems to struggle to stick to its environmental commitments by filling up dumpsters with fabrics or even contaminating rivers and sending tons of microplastics into maritime ecosystems.
Fortunately, a shift towards a circular economy is now on the horizon and it can benefit all aspects of society, from the manufacturer to the consumer.
But what is a Circular economy?
A circular economy is an economic system based on the principles of recycling, sharing, reusing or refurbishing materials as much as possible. Stretching out the lifespan of a product is key! We do this every day when we recycle our waste.
For example, I have long been an advocate of redesigning jeans rather than throwing them away. More and more brands are adopting this trend.
Can we have an impact on big factories’ levels of waste, I hear you say?
The industry is largely moving in the right direction, coming up with fresh initiatives to curb the disaster. We can influence the economy by choosing to buy better quality, therefore less, or buying more second-hand items. Decide to buy in the community more often, materials are usually sourced locally and you’ll help support a ‘real’ person you can relate to.
At Laverdure, we take pride in delivering jewellery which is ethically sourced, of high quality and with a tiny waste footprint. The longer you love your jewellery, the happier you are! And so are we!
We all have a part to play, from big corporations to consumers. Fashion has been a catalyst for so many cultural and artistic movements, and key to so many life-changing events, and its future depends on the environmental response it will give. I am optimistic!
Stephane M,
Director @ Laverdure
