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Something Old, New, Borrowed and Blue.

Something Old, New, Borrowed and Blue.

Weddings are filled with beautiful traditions, but few are as timeless and beloved as the rhyme: “Something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue.” This charming custom, dating back to Victorian England, is said to bring good luck and happiness to the bride on her wedding day. While the words are familiar, many modern brides look for creative and meaningful ways to honour the tradition, often through their jewellery choices.

At HC Jewellers, we love helping couples bring their stories to life through heirloom-worthy pieces. Here’s a closer look at what each part of the rhyme means, along with elegant ideas for incorporating it into your big day.

Something Old: A Link to the Past

This part of the tradition represents continuity, heritage, and the bride’s connection to her family.

Jewellery idea:

A vintage brooch from a grandmother, a locket with a family photo, or an antique ring passed down through generations.

If you don’t have a family heirloom, consider a vintage-inspired piece that captures the spirit of the past.

Our Pre-Owned Collection has some beautiful vintage pieces; you may even find something old, new (to you), and blue!

 

18ct White Gold Aquamarine & Diamond Pendant

Pre-owned 18ct White Gold Aquamarine and Diamond Pendant

9ct Gold Opal & Diamond Ring

Pre-Owned 9ct Gold Opal & Diamond Ring

18ct Gold Sapphire Diamond Bracelet

Pre-owned 18ct Gold Sapphire Diamond Bracelet

18ct White Gold Diamond Fancy Drop Necklace

Pre-owned 18ct White Gold Diamond Fancy Drop Necklace

18ct White Gold Aquamarine & Diamond Pendant

Pre-owned 18ct White Gold Aquamarine and Diamond Pendant

9ct Gold Opal & Diamond Ring

Pre-Owned 9ct Gold Opal & Diamond Ring

18ct Gold Sapphire Diamond Bracelet

Pre-owned 18ct Gold Sapphire Diamond Bracelet

18ct White Gold Diamond Fancy Drop Necklace

Pre-owned 18ct White Gold Diamond Fancy Drop Necklace

18ct White Gold Aquamarine & Diamond Pendant

Pre-owned 18ct White Gold Aquamarine and Diamond Pendant

9ct Gold Opal & Diamond Ring

Pre-Owned 9ct Gold Opal & Diamond Ring

18ct Gold Sapphire Diamond Bracelet

Pre-owned 18ct Gold Sapphire Diamond Bracelet

18ct White Gold Diamond Fancy Drop Necklace

Pre-owned 18ct White Gold Diamond Fancy Drop Necklace

Something New: Hope for the Future

“Something new” symbolises optimism and the fresh start of your new life together.

Jewellery idea:

This is the perfect opportunity to choose a new necklace, bracelet, or pair of earrings that complements your dress and becomes a forever reminder of your wedding day. Our Bridal Collection offers timeless designs that make beautiful “something new” pieces.

Mother of Pearl Clover Necklace

Silver Mother of Pearl Clover Drop Necklace

18ct White Gold Diamond Tennis Bracelet

18ct White Gold Diamond Tennis Bracelet

9ct Gold Amore Opal Oval Studs

9ct Gold Amore Opal Oval Studs

9ct White Gold Amore Marquise Blue Topaz Pendant

9ct White Gold Amore Marquise Blue Topaz Pendant

9ct Gold Fresh Water Cultured Pearl Bracelet

Mother of Pearl Clover Necklace

Silver Mother of Pearl Clover Drop Necklace

18ct White Gold Diamond Tennis Bracelet

18ct White Gold Diamond Tennis Bracelet

9ct Gold Amore Opal Oval Studs

9ct Gold Amore Opal Oval Studs

9ct White Gold Amore Marquise Blue Topaz Pendant

9ct White Gold Amore Marquise Blue Topaz Pendant

9ct Gold Fresh Water Cultured Pearl Bracelet

Mother of Pearl Clover Necklace

Silver Mother of Pearl Clover Drop Necklace

18ct White Gold Diamond Tennis Bracelet

18ct White Gold Diamond Tennis Bracelet

9ct Gold Amore Opal Oval Studs

9ct Gold Amore Opal Oval Studs

9ct White Gold Amore Marquise Blue Topaz Pendant

9ct White Gold Amore Marquise Blue Topaz Pendant

9ct Gold Fresh Water Cultured Pearl Bracelet

Something Borrowed: Shared Happiness

This gesture connects the bride to someone she loves and trusts, symbolising borrowed happiness and good fortune.

Jewellery idea:

Wearing your mother’s pearl earrings or a close friend’s bracelet ticks this box and adds a deeply personal touch to your look. Just be sure to return it with thanks, and maybe a thank-you gift! (We can help you with that, too!)

This gesture connects the bride to someone she loves and trusts, symbolising borrowed happiness and good fortune.

Jewellery idea:

Wearing your mother’s pearl earrings or a close friend’s bracelet ticks this box and adds a deeply personal touch to your look. Just be sure to return it with thanks, and maybe a thank-you gift! (We can help you with that, too!)

Something Blue: Love, Purity, and Fidelity

Blue has long been associated with purity, faithfulness, and love, all essential qualities for a strong marriage.

Jewellery idea:

Subtle Sapphire studs, a delicate Aquamarine pendant, or even a hidden blue stone inside your wedding band can be meaningful ways to add “something blue.” It’s a small pop of colour with a lot of symbolism.

9ct White Gold Amore Oval Blue Topaz Pendant

9ct White Gold Amore Oval Blue Topaz Pendant

Silver Amore Blue Content Studs

Silver Amore Blue Content Studs

9ct Gold Amore Blue Topaz Triangle Pendant

9ct Gold Amore Blue Topaz Triangle Pendant

9ct Gold Amore Blue Topaz Triangle Studs

9ct Gold Amore Blue Topaz Triangle Studs

18ct White Gold Sapphire and Diamond Oval Pendant

white gold sapphire and diamond oval pendant

Silver Turquoise Coloured Multi Clover Bracelet

Silver Turquoise Coloured Multi Clover Bracelet

9ct White Gold Amore Oval Blue Topaz Pendant

9ct White Gold Amore Oval Blue Topaz Pendant

Silver Amore Blue Content Studs

Silver Amore Blue Content Studs

9ct Gold Amore Blue Topaz Triangle Pendant

9ct Gold Amore Blue Topaz Triangle Pendant

9ct Gold Amore Blue Topaz Triangle Studs

9ct Gold Amore Blue Topaz Triangle Studs

18ct White Gold Sapphire and Diamond Oval Pendant

white gold sapphire and diamond oval pendant

Silver Turquoise Coloured Multi Clover Bracelet

Silver Turquoise Coloured Multi Clover Bracelet

Making the Tradition Your Own

Whether you’re a bride who loves sticking to tradition or someone looking to modernise it, the “something old…” rhyme is a lovely way to honour your journey. Jewellery plays a perfect role, elegant, sentimental, and often passed through generations.

At HC Jewellers, we’re here to help you find pieces that fit the tradition and become cherished keepsakes for years to come.

Looking for inspiration?

Explore our Bridal collection or contact our team to help create your custom bridal piece.

Crime and Jewellery, How to Stay Safe

Crime and Jewellery, How to Stay Safe.

 

When we think of jewellery-related crime, our minds often go to an image of burglary—the horrific feeling of someone breaking into your house when you are not home and stealing your precious items. Jewellery fraud and cybercrime are growing concerns, and unfortunately, criminals are getting more inventive and will find new, imaginative ways to scam you without needing to step inside your home.

In this blog, we will examine how they do this and some scenarios we have encountered. We hope you will recognise a red flag and know how to keep yourself and your jewellery safe from those with ill intent. Staying informed is the first step to protecting yourself.

Understanding Jewellery Fraud.

 

Jewellery fraud is any deceptive practice involving selling, purchasing, or valuing jewellery. Criminals use various tactics to mislead buyers. Fraudsters are becoming increasingly creative. Some scams involve fake products, while others use clever deception to steal valuables or money. One particularly dangerous method involves scammers posing as authority figures like the police or banks. Let’s explore these scams in more detail and how you can protect yourself.

1. Counterfeit Jewellery Scams

Fraudsters sell imitation jewellery (fake Gold, Silver, or gems) while claiming it’s genuine. These items are often marketed at a “bargain” price to entice quick purchases. The counterfeit pieces may even have forged certificates or misleading hallmarks to appear legitimate.

🚩 Red Flags:

Prices seem significantly lower than market value.

Vague or misleading product descriptions.

Lack of official documentation or certificates of authenticity.

How to Protect Yourself:

Purchase only from reputable, well-reviewed jewellers.

Verify hallmarks and request legitimate certification.

When in doubt, get an independent appraisal.

2. Jewellery Switch Scams

In this scam, a fraudster swaps a genuine gemstone, valuable jewellery or watch with a fake during a transaction, appraisal, or cleaning. This often happens when an untrustworthy jeweller or scammer requests to inspect the piece and switches it quickly without you noticing.

🚩 Red Flags:

The person handling your jewellery insists on taking it out of sight.

You receive your jewellery back with minor but noticeable differences.

They do not have any reviews online or on social media for their work.

 

How to Protect Yourself:

Stay present during any appraisal, inspection, or cleaning.

Take detailed photos or videos of your jewellery before handing it over.

Only use a jeweller that you trust, and that has good reviews for cleaning or repairs.

3. Police or Bank Impersonation Scams

This sophisticated scam preys on fear and urgency. Scammers pose as police officers or bank officials, calling to inform you that your money or jewellery is at risk. They may claim your account has been compromised or your valuables are being targeted by thieves. They often insist you transfer your jewellery or funds for “safekeeping” or hand them over to a “courier” who will visit your home. In reality, your valuables are being stolen.

🚩 Red Flags:

Unexpected calls from people claiming to be police or bank officials.

Urgent requests to transfer valuables or money immediately.

Instructions to keep the matter secret or avoid contacting others.

Requests for your jewellery to be collected by a “courier.”

How to Protect Yourself:

Verify the Caller: Hang up and call the official number of your local police station or bank to confirm the claim.

Don’t Share Personal Information: Never give out personal details, account numbers, or PINs over the phone.

Refuse Requests for Collection: Legitimate authorities will never ask you to hand over jewellery or money for safekeeping.

Trust Your Instincts: If something feels suspicious, it probably is.

4. Online Marketplace Scams

Fraudsters advertise jewellery on online marketplaces or auction sites. After you have made payment, the jewellery may be fake, or the seller may disappear without delivering the product and then block your messages. Sometimes, buyers are tricked into sending high-value jewellery to a fake “buyer” who never pays and also disappears.

🚩 Red Flags:

The seller insists on direct payment methods (bank transfer) instead of secure platforms.

The seller will use PayPal through friends and family transfer.

Unverified profiles with little or no transaction history.

The seller or buyer pressures you to complete the transaction quickly.

How to Protect Yourself:

Use secure payment methods (credit cards or PayPal for business)

Check the seller’s profile and reviews carefully.

Avoid transactions that bypass the platform’s safeguards.

5. Phishing Emails and Fake Website Scams

Fraudsters create fake jewellery websites or send phishing emails pretending to be reputable jewellers. These websites look convincing and encourage you to enter payment details or download malware. (Software used by hackers to steal data or corrupt your computer).

🚩 Red Flags:

Websites with no physical address, vague contact information, or poor design.

Emails with spelling errors, urgent language, or suspicious links.

The senders email address will not reflect the business name.

Deals that seem too good to be true.

How to Protect Yourself:

Verify website URLs and look for “https” at the beginning for secure sites.

Never click links in unsolicited emails.

Search for reviews and ratings of the website on Google.

Scammers in the Street.

The most popular street scam happens near a supermarket or petrol station. A scammer approaches you, stating that they have no money for petrol. They then offer you a Gold chain in exchange for some money so they can pay. The person approaching you could be male or female and usually has a child with them to make the matter seem more urgent. Once you have given them some cash, the jewellery they give you will be fake and not worth anything.

🚩 Red Flags:

Will put their jewellery in your hand quickly.

They usually drive nice cars and may be dressed well.

They may state they have been robbed of their wallet, yet they still have their jewellery on.

Often have children in the car with them.

How to protect Yourself:

If you are in your car, do not stop if they are waving you down.

Do not let them place anything in your hand.

Politely decline and leave the situation.

If at a petrol station, tell the station manager who will move them along.

What to Do If You’re Targeted by a Scam.

Stop Communication: Avoid interacting with the suspected scammer. Hang up the phone, block the email address, or simply walk away.

Report the Scam: Contact your local police, bank, or fraud reporting agency Action Fraud.

Inform Your Bank: If you shared personal details, immediately notify your bank to protect your funds. Tell them you believe scammers are trying to target your account.

Spread Awareness: Share your experience with friends, family, or online forums to prevent others from falling victim.

At HC Jewellers, your safety and trust are our top priorities. By staying alert to jewellery fraud and cyber crime, you can confidently protect your jewellery and yourself. If you ever have questions or concerns about the authenticity of your jewellery purchase, please contact us or visit our stores—we’re here to help!

Guide to Engagement Ring Styles

Guide to Engagement Ring Styles

 

Choosing an engagement ring is one of the most exciting and meaningful decisions in a person’s life. With so many styles, finding the perfect one that reflects your partner and matches their taste can feel overwhelming.

To help with the process, we’ve compiled a guide to the most popular engagement ring styles, each with unique charm and appeal.

Other blogs that may be usefull to read:

Engagement Rings Buying Guide

Wedding Bands Explained

Natural vs Lab Created Diamonds

The 4 C’s Explained

Solitaire Rings

Solitaire rings are perfect for those who appreciate simplicity and elegance. The minimalist design ensures all the attention is on the Diamond, making it a versatile option that pairs beautifully with any wedding band.

Solitaire rings can be enhanced with diamond-set shoulders, adding sparkle and sophistication while maintaining their classic appeal.

Solitaire Rings

Solitaire rings are perfect for those who appreciate simplicity and elegance. The minimalist design ensures all the attention is on the Diamond, making it a versatile option that pairs beautifully with any wedding band.

Solitaire rings can be enhanced with diamond-set shoulders, adding sparkle and sophistication while maintaining their classic appeal.

Solitaire Rings

Solitaire rings are perfect for those who appreciate simplicity and elegance. The minimalist design ensures all the attention is on the Diamond, making it a versatile option that pairs beautifully with any wedding band.

Solitaire rings can be enhanced with diamond-set shoulders, adding sparkle and sophistication while maintaining their classic appeal.

Specialist Insight

A diamond’s cut influences its brilliance and sparkle. Its shape defines its overall appearance and how it sits in the ring’s band. Choosing the ideal cut and shape for an engagement ring transforms it into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, infusing it with a unique personality.

Three Stone Rings

Three-stone engagement rings, or Trilogy rings, feature three stones set side by side. The stones are often said to represent a relationship’s past, present, and future, making this style deeply symbolic. Many couples choose to personalize their three-stone ring with different gemstones or cuts to add a meaningful touch.

Three Stone Rings

Three-stone engagement rings, or Trilogy rings, feature three stones set side by side. The stones are often said to represent a relationship’s past, present, and future, making this style deeply symbolic. Many couples choose to personalize their three-stone ring with different gemstones or cuts to add a meaningful touch.

Three Stone Rings

Three-stone engagement rings, or Trilogy rings, feature three stones set side by side. The stones are often said to represent a relationship’s past, present, and future, making this style deeply symbolic. Many couples choose to personalize their three-stone ring with different gemstones or cuts to add a meaningful touch.

Specialist Insight

Trilogy rings are also available in a mixture of cuts; for example, the centre stone can be an emerald cut, and the side diamonds can be brilliant round cuts. The mix of shapes creates stunning rings. Just keep in mind how the ring would sit next to a wedding band. If the centre stone is a different shape, you may require a shaped band to match it.

Halo Rings

Halo engagement rings are known for their dazzling sparkle. This style features a centre stone surrounded by a “halo” of smaller diamonds or gemstones, which amplify the brilliance and create the illusion of a larger centre stone. Halo rings are ideal for those who love glamour and want their ring to make a bold statement.

Hidden halo rings offer a modern twist on the traditional halo design. In this style, a delicate ring of diamonds is placed just beneath the centre stone, adding an extra layer of sparkle that is visible from the side but remains subtle from above. This design enhances the overall brilliance of the ring while maintaining a sleek and elegant look. Hidden halo rings are perfect for those who appreciate a touch of hidden beauty.

Halo and Hidden Halo designs can be paired with plain or Diamond set shoulders.

Halo Rings

Halo engagement rings are known for their dazzling sparkle. This style features a centre stone surrounded by a “halo” of smaller diamonds or gemstones, which amplify the brilliance and create the illusion of a larger centre stone. Halo rings are ideal for those who love glamour and want their ring to make a bold statement.

Hidden halo rings offer a modern twist on the traditional halo design. In this style, a delicate ring of diamonds is placed just beneath the centre stone, adding an extra layer of sparkle that is visible from the side but remains subtle from above. This design enhances the overall brilliance of the ring while maintaining a sleek and elegant look. Hidden halo rings are perfect for those who appreciate a touch of hidden beauty.

Halo and Hidden Halo designs can be paired with plain or Diamond set shoulders.

Halo Rings

Halo engagement rings are known for their dazzling sparkle. This style features a centre stone surrounded by a “halo” of smaller diamonds or gemstones, which amplify the brilliance and create the illusion of a larger centre stone. Halo rings are ideal for those who love glamour and want their ring to make a bold statement.

Hidden halo rings offer a modern twist on the traditional halo design. In this style, a delicate ring of diamonds is placed just beneath the centre stone, adding an extra layer of sparkle that is visible from the side but remains subtle from above. This design enhances the overall brilliance of the ring while maintaining a sleek and elegant look. Hidden halo rings are perfect for those who appreciate a touch of hidden beauty.

Halo and Hidden Halo designs can be paired with plain or Diamond set shoulders.

Get the perfect fit with our Ring Size Guide

Coloured Gemstone Rings

Coloured gemstone engagement rings are a stunning and unique alternative to traditional diamond rings. Whether set in classic solitaires, vintage-inspired halos, or modern minimalist designs, coloured gemstones add a distinctive touch to an engagement ring. These rings celebrate individuality while making a lasting statement, perfect for those seeking something bold and meaningful.

 

Coloured Gemstone Rings

 

Coloured gemstone engagement rings are a stunning and unique alternative to traditional diamond rings. Whether set in classic solitaires, vintage-inspired halos, or modern minimalist designs, coloured gemstones add a distinctive touch to an engagement ring. These rings celebrate individuality while making a lasting statement, perfect for those seeking something bold and meaningful.

Coloured Gemstone Rings

Coloured gemstone engagement rings are a stunning and unique alternative to traditional diamond rings. Whether set in classic solitaires, vintage-inspired halos, or modern minimalist designs, coloured gemstones add a distinctive touch to an engagement ring. These rings celebrate individuality while making a lasting statement, perfect for those seeking something bold and meaningful.

Specialist Insight

Coloured gemstones can reflect a partner’s personality or favourite colour or even symbolise their birthstone. Choosing a birthstone adds more profound significance, making the ring even more special. 

Split Shoulder Rings

Split shoulder engagement rings feature a band that gracefully splits into two or more strands as it approaches the centre stone. They incorporate pavé, micro-claw, or channel-set diamonds, adding extra sparkle to the ring. The split band offers a contemporary twist on the classic solitaire, making it a stylish choice for those who want something a little different. Depending on personal style preferences, you can choose a delicate, subtle split or a bold, wide separation.

Split Shoulder Rings

Split shoulder engagement rings feature a band that gracefully splits into two or more strands as it approaches the centre stone. They incorporate pavé, micro-claw, or channel-set diamonds, adding extra sparkle to the ring. The split band offers a contemporary twist on the classic solitaire, making it a stylish choice for those who want something a little different. Depending on personal style preferences, you can choose a delicate, subtle split or a bold, wide separation.

Split Shoulder Rings

Split shoulder engagement rings feature a band that gracefully splits into two or more strands as it approaches the centre stone. They incorporate pavé, micro-claw, or channel-set diamonds, adding extra sparkle to the ring. The split band offers a contemporary twist on the classic solitaire, making it a stylish choice for those who want something a little different. Depending on personal style preferences, you can choose a delicate, subtle split or a bold, wide separation.

Learn more about how the cut affects the Diamond here.

Vintage or Pre-Owned Engagement Rings

 

Opting for a vintage or pre-owned engagement ring is a wonderful wayto embrace

history, craftsmanship, and sustainability while choosing a ring with a unique story.

Vintage or Pre-Owned Engagement Rings

 

Opting for a vintage or pre-owned engagement ring is a wonderful wayto embrace

history, craftsmanship, and sustainability while choosing a ring with a unique story.

Vintage or Pre-Owned Engagement Rings

Opting for a vintage or pre-owned engagement ring is a wonderful wayto embrace

history, craftsmanship, and sustainability while choosing a ring with a unique story.

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