Another addition to the Émile Charles jewellery line is a bevy of blue beauties, known as the Azzurro Collection.  I have chosen the subtle tones of genuine Aquamarines to be featured amongst colorless diamonds, all on a white gold backdrop.  I’ve always admired the color of a fine Aquamarine, there is something so cool and understated about them.  They are commonly known as the birthstone for those lucky individuals born in March (that’s me!), but they also are emerging as a fabulous alternative to diamonds for engagement rings and statement jewellery.  Did you know they also happen to be closely related to the Emerald, another beautiful and popular gemstone.  Even though the Emerald is vivid green and the Aquamarine is a cool blue, they both belong to the same family, known as Beryl.  The Aquamarine also has a good hardness making it perfect for every day wear. My love of this gem inspired the custom-made pieces you will find in our store.  A beautiful pendant, stunning drop earrings and an elegant right hand ring.

I know you have seen this ring before.  It is everywhere you look from the latest bridal magazines to the gleaming counters of jewellery stores across the country.  Just when you think the halo craze has begun to slow down, it picks itself up and rises again.  Its popularity comes down to one shiny thing … big, big bling!  The tiny pave set diamonds that encircle the main center stone create an illusion that your diamond is almost twice the size.  Proving that bigger is, well, sometimes just better!  You will find this stunner, along with many others, in our showcase this holiday season.  If love is in the air and a sparkly ring is on the wish list, it’s a no brainer.  This halo diamond engagement ring is here to stay.

With Fred retired, Sharon enjoying being a Grandma and my sister and I on maternity leave, you may wonder just who you will find behind the counter at Minichiello’s.  We all know Fred’s shoes are big to fill but there is one man who is up to the challenge.  Fred’s son-in-law, and lucky husband of my sister Crestina Minichiello, Daniel.  We have had our eye on him for a long time.  Desperately trying to get him involved in the family business to help us carry on the tradition for another 50 years.  And at last, we snagged him!  With over 15 years in the service industry and a diamond graduate with the GIA, Daniel has quickly and easily become a fixture in our little office.  He loves working with people and creating relationships, not only finding the perfect piece for the perfect client but making lasting friends as well.  His knowledge of diamonds and the jewellery industry is impressive and his design ideas are spot on.  Some may even joke and call him ‘Diamond Dan’, as loose diamonds are his specialty!  The next time you are in the area, pop by and say hello to the next generation.  We promise you will feel like one of the family.