What role do cultural and historical factors play in the popularity and design of jewelry, and how have these trends shifted over time across different regions of the world?
Can you explain the significance of a gemstone's cut, clarity, color, and carat weight (the four Cs) in determining its value and how buyers can assess these attributes when selecting jewelry?
What are the primary differences between karat gold, plated gold, and gold vermeil in jewelry crafting, and how do these differences affect the quality and value of the pieces?
How has the market for synthetic and lab-created gemstones evolved, and in what ways do they compare to natural stones in terms of value, appearance, and durability?
What are some ethical considerations to keep in mind when purchasing diamonds and other precious stones, and how can consumers ensure they are buying conflict-free gems?
