The April birthstone, traditionally the diamond, is celebrated by Nomination jewelry through a variety of charming designs. These pieces, crafted primarily from stainless steel and often accented with rose gold or sterling silver, feature both the month’s name and a gemstone representative of April – either a genuine diamond or a cubic zirconia. These charms are intended to be collected and added to Nomination’s signature Composable bracelets, allowing wearers to personalize their jewelry and tell their own stories. This article will explore the details of these April birthstone charms, covering their materials, design, and the symbolism associated with the April birthstone.
History and Lore
While the provided sources do not delve deeply into the historical lore of diamonds, they establish the diamond as the recognized birthstone for April. The sources indicate that the diamond is associated with qualities such as courage and aiding in meditation. Nomination’s own marketing materials highlight the personal significance of these charms, emphasizing the ability to create a unique and meaningful piece of jewelry. The charms themselves are a modern interpretation of birthstone jewelry, moving away from traditional settings and embracing a more playful, customizable aesthetic. The focus is on creating a personal narrative through the collection of charms, rather than adhering to strict historical precedent.
Materials and Craftsmanship
Nomination’s April birthstone charms are constructed from a combination of materials. Stainless steel forms the base of many designs, providing durability and affordability. This is often complemented by either sterling silver 925 or rose gold plating. The rose gold versions feature a 9kt rose gold plate, adding a touch of luxury and warmth. The birthstone itself is represented by either a genuine diamond or a white cubic zirconia. Charms featuring diamonds are explicitly stated to contain “genuine diamond gemstones,” while others utilize cubic zirconia as a more accessible alternative.
The charms measure approximately 10mm x 8mm, making them a suitable size for Nomination’s Composable bracelets. All pieces are “Made in Italy” and come with a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty, reflecting a commitment to quality craftsmanship. Nomination is identified as the UK’s leading engraver of charms, utilizing high-definition lasers for personalized designs.
Gemological Properties – Diamond and Cubic Zirconia
The April birthstone, as represented in Nomination’s charms, can be either a diamond or a cubic zirconia. While the sources do not provide detailed gemological properties for diamonds, it is understood that diamonds are renowned for their exceptional hardness and brilliance.
Cubic zirconia, used as a diamond simulant in some charms, is a synthetic gemstone. The sources specify that the cubic zirconia used is white and measures 1x1 mm. While not possessing the same hardness or fire as a diamond, cubic zirconia offers an affordable and visually appealing alternative.
The following table summarizes the key properties of both gemstones:
| Property | Diamond | Cubic Zirconia |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | C | ZrO₂ |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 10 | 8.5 |
| Refractive Index | 2.417 - 2.419 | 2.15 - 2.18 |
| Color | Colorless to tints | Typically colorless |
| Origin | Natural | Synthetic |
Design Variations and Collections
Nomination offers several variations of its April birthstone charm. These include charms crafted from stainless steel with a diamond, rose gold with a diamond, and sterling silver with a diamond. A crystal version is also available, featuring an engraved “April” alongside a striking crystal. The charms are part of the “Classic” and “Composable” collections, designed to be mixed and matched on Nomination’s Composable bracelets.
The “Composable” collection features links in bonded yellow gold with white cubic zirconia, offering a different aesthetic. The charms are designed to be easily added and removed from the bracelet, allowing for frequent customization. The charms are engraved with the word “April,” further personalizing the piece.
Symbolism and Meaning
The diamond, traditionally associated with April, is described as a stone that “helps meditation and gives courage.” This symbolism is highlighted in the product descriptions for the Composable charms. Beyond this, the sources emphasize the personal meaning that can be imbued into the jewelry through the selection of charms. The ability to engrave charms adds another layer of personalization, allowing wearers to create a truly unique piece that reflects their individual story. The act of collecting charms and building a bracelet becomes a symbolic representation of life’s journey and cherished memories.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide specific care instructions for the April birthstone charms. However, given the materials used – stainless steel, sterling silver, rose gold, diamond, and cubic zirconia – general jewelry care guidelines apply. Stainless steel is relatively low-maintenance and can be cleaned with a soft cloth. Sterling silver may tarnish over time and benefit from regular polishing with a silver cleaning cloth. Rose gold plating should be handled with care to avoid scratching or wear. Diamonds can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Cubic zirconia, being a softer stone, should be protected from harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners. It is recommended to remove the bracelet before engaging in activities that could potentially damage the charms, such as swimming or exercising.
Purchasing and Availability
Nomination’s April birthstone charms are available through various retailers, including Argento, John Greed, Grace & Co Jewellery, and True Bijoux. They are also available directly from Nomination’s official online shop. Delivery options vary depending on the retailer, with free delivery often offered on orders over a certain amount. The charms are typically in stock, but some items may require a restocking period of up to two weeks.
Conclusion
Nomination’s April birthstone charms offer a contemporary and customizable way to celebrate the April birthstone, the diamond. These charms, crafted from a combination of stainless steel, silver, and gold, and featuring either a genuine diamond or a cubic zirconia, allow wearers to personalize their jewelry and express their individual style. While the sources do not provide extensive historical or gemological detail, they highlight the significance of the diamond as a symbol of courage and meditation, and the importance of personal meaning in jewelry. The charms represent a modern interpretation of birthstone jewelry, focusing on collectibility, customization, and the creation of a unique personal narrative.