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    <title><![CDATA[Blog]]></title>
    <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/</link>
    <description><![CDATA[Blog]]></description>
    <pubDate>Sun, 10 May 2026 12:08:58 +0000</pubDate>
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    <docs>http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss</docs>
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      <title><![CDATA[Spring 2026 Engagement & Wedding Ring Trends Affinity & Co Jewelers – Huntington Beach, CA]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/Spring2026/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Spring is one of the most popular times to get engaged&mdash;and this year, couples are choosing rings that feel more personal, modern, and intentional.<br /><br />At Affinity &amp; Co Jewelers in Huntington Beach, we&rsquo;re seeing a shift away from traditional, one-style-fits-all rings. Today&rsquo;s couples want something that reflects their style and tells their story.</p>
<h1>Elongated Shapes</h1>
<p><br />Round diamonds will always be classic, but they&rsquo;re no longer the default.<br /><br />More couples are choosing elongated shapes like oval, pear, elongated cushion, and marquise.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h1>Yellow Gold</h1>
<p>One of the biggest changes we&rsquo;ve seen is the return of yellow gold. It feels warm, natural, and easy to wear.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h1>Hidden Details</h1>
<p>Today&rsquo;s rings often include subtle details like hidden halos, engraving, and unique side profiles.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h1>Stacking Bands</h1>
<p>Matching sets are being replaced with curated stacks that evolve over time.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h1>Custom Design</h1>
<p>We work one-on-one with clients to design custom rings that reflect their personal style.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h1>Lab Grown</h1>
<p>Lab-grown diamonds allow for larger stones within budget and are visually identical to natural diamonds.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>If you&rsquo;re looking for an engagement ring or wedding band in Huntington Beach, visit Affinity &amp; Co Jewelers or schedule a consultation.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 18 Mar 2026 15:23:00 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Why Jewelry Is the Most Meaningful Valentine’s Day Gift]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/VDayGifts2/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<h1>Why Jewelry Is the Most Meaningful Valentine&rsquo;s Day Gift</h1>
<p>Every Valentine&rsquo;s Day, people search for something memorable &mdash; something that communicates appreciation, commitment, and love. Jewelry continues to stand apart from other gifts for one reason: permanence.</p>
<h2>Jewelry Becomes Part of Her Story</h2>
<p>Unlike flowers or chocolates, fine jewelry becomes part of her daily life. A necklace rests close to her heart. A bracelet catches the light during everyday moments. Earrings frame her face in photos and celebrations.<br /><br />Jewelry isn&rsquo;t just a gift &mdash; it becomes memory.</p>
<h2>It Marks Milestones</h2>
<p>Whether you&rsquo;re celebrating a first Valentine&rsquo;s together, a proposal, an anniversary, or decades of marriage, a fine jewelry piece becomes a timestamp &mdash; a physical reminder of that chapter.</p>
<h2>It Reflects Thoughtfulness</h2>
<p>Selecting jewelry shows intention. It communicates that you considered her taste, her style, and what would make her feel seen. That level of thought elevates the gift from ordinary to meaningful.</p>
<h2>It Lasts for Generations</h2>
<p>Fine jewelry is often passed down. The piece you choose today may someday be worn by a daughter or granddaughter. Few gifts carry that potential.</p>
<p>At Affinity &amp; Co. Jewelers, we specialize in helping clients select gifts that feel intentional and refined &mdash; not rushed or generic. Reserve your visit and let us help you choose something extraordinary this Valentine&rsquo;s Day.<br /><span>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/schedule-private-viewing</span></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Sun, 08 Feb 2026 19:21:30 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[How to Choose the Perfect Valentine’s Day Jewelry Gift]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/VDayGifts/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<h1>How to Choose the Perfect Valentine&rsquo;s Day Jewelry Gift</h1>
<p>Valentine&rsquo;s Day is about more than flowers and dinner reservations &mdash; it&rsquo;s about giving something meaningful. Jewelry remains one of the most enduring and personal gifts because it lasts long after the celebration ends.</p>
<p>At Affinity &amp; Co. Jewelers, we help clients select pieces that reflect personality, style, and sentiment. If you&rsquo;re not sure where to begin, this guide will simplify the process.</p>
<h2>1. Start with Her Everyday Style</h2>
<p>Before choosing a piece, consider what she wears daily:<br />&bull; Does she prefer yellow gold, white gold, or mixed metals?<br />&bull; Is her style minimal and classic &mdash; or bold and modern?<br />&bull; Does she wear statement pieces or delicate layering jewelry?<br /><br />Matching her existing aesthetic ensures your gift becomes part of her regular rotation &mdash; not something reserved for special occasions.</p>
<h2>2. Choose a Meaningful Symbol</h2>
<p>Certain designs naturally align with Valentine&rsquo;s Day:<br />&bull; Heart motifs &mdash; timeless and romantic<br />&bull; Infinity symbols &mdash; representing enduring love<br />&bull; Diamond solitaires &mdash; classic elegance<br />&bull; Gemstone pieces &mdash; adding color and personality<br /><br />A thoughtful symbol adds depth to your gift beyond appearance alone.</p>
<h2>3. When in Doubt, Choose Diamonds</h2>
<p>Diamond stud earrings and diamond pendants are among the most universally loved gifts. They are versatile, elegant, and appropriate for nearly any relationship milestone &mdash; from your first Valentine&rsquo;s Day to decades together.<br /><br />A well-selected diamond piece will be worn for years.</p>
<h2>4. Book a Personalized Appointment</h2>
<p>Jewelry shopping doesn&rsquo;t need to feel rushed. Booking a private appointment allows you to receive personalized recommendations, compare options confidently, ensure proper sizing, and make custom engraving selections if desired.<br /><br />Schedule your appointment today and let us help you find a gift she&rsquo;ll treasure long after Valentine&rsquo;s Day has passed.<br />https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/schedule-private-viewing</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h1>&nbsp;</h1>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2026 18:26:00 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Holiday Diamond Shopping at Affinity & Co. Jewelers — Lab-Grown vs. Natural Explained]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/HolidayShopping1/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-size: small;">One of the biggest questions we hear is: <em>Should I choose a lab-grown diamond or a natural diamond?</em></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">The good news? Both are real diamonds. The decision simply comes down to what aligns with your vision, values, and goals.</span></p>
<p><strong><span style="font-size: small;">Understanding the Difference</span></strong></p>
<p><strong><span style="font-size: small;">Lab-Grown Diamonds</span></strong><br /><span style="font-size: small;">These diamonds are created in advanced labs that replicate the natural diamond-growing process. They offer:</span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Larger carat sizes for the same budget</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Exceptional clarity and sparkle</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">A modern, ethical choice favored by many younger buyers</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Natural Diamonds</strong></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">Formed deep within the earth over billions of years, they&rsquo;re treasured for:</span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Their rarity and timeless appeal</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Long-term heirloom value</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Their deep emotional significance</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-size: small;">Both are beautiful &mdash; but they speak to different priorities.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Why the Holidays Are the Ideal Time to Explore Diamonds</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;">At Affinity &amp; Co. Jewelers, the holidays mean expanded inventory, special collections, and an elevated shopping experience. You&rsquo;ll have access to:</span></p>
<ul type="disc">
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Exclusive seasonal designs</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">A wider selection of center stones</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Popular engagement styles that often sell out earlier in the year</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-size: small;">And because December is the most popular month for proposals, our team is ready to help clients plan the perfect moment.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Find the Diamond That Matches Your Story</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;">Are you drawn to the cutting-edge brilliance and value of lab-grown diamonds? Or does the natural history of earth-grown diamonds speak more to your heart? Seeing both side-by-side helps you choose with confidence.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;">This season, let Affinity &amp; Co. Jewelers guide you toward a diamond that reflects your style, your values, and your story.</span></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 02 Dec 2025 03:44:27 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[2025 Holiday Gift Guide: Natural & Lab-Grown Diamonds that Shine Brighter Than Ever]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/2025HolidayGiftGuide/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<h2 data-start="232" data-end="325"><strong data-start="326" data-end="377">Affinity &amp; Co. Jewelers &ndash; Holiday Diamond Guide</strong></h2>
<p data-start="379" data-end="780">The holiday season is here, and it&rsquo;s time to celebrate love, sparkle, and the timeless beauty of diamonds. At Affinity &amp; Co. Jewelers, we believe gifting fine jewelry is more than a moment &ndash; it&rsquo;s a memory in the making. Whether you prefer the romance of natural diamonds or the modern brilliance of lab-grown diamonds, our curated holiday collection offers the perfect piece for every style and story.</p>
<p data-start="782" data-end="1263">This year, diamond trends blend classic sophistication with fresh, modern glamour. Think elegant solitaires, luxurious tennis bracelets, east-west ovals, hidden halos, and pear-shaped pendants that dance with the light. Our natural diamond pieces deliver rare beauty crafted by nature over billions of years &ndash; an irreplaceable symbol of forever. And for those who love bold brilliance at exceptional value, lab-grown diamonds offer breathtaking sparkle and size without compromise.</p>
<p data-start="1265" data-end="1693">For romantic proposals and once-in-a-lifetime moments, a diamond engagement ring is the ultimate holiday surprise. From timeless round-brilliant center stones to trending elongated shapes like ovals and emerald cuts, every ring in our collection is hand-selected for quality, fire, and brilliance. We also specialize in custom design, so you can bring your dream ring to life with personal details that speak to your love story.</p>
<p data-start="1695" data-end="2098">If you&rsquo;re shopping for everyday luxury, nothing beats diamond jewelry designed to be worn and adored long after the holiday lights fade. Our diamond stud earrings, tennis bracelets, stackable bands, and chic diamond pendants shine beautifully with everything&mdash;from winter sweaters to New Year&rsquo;s cocktails. Whether you choose natural or lab, each piece delivers lasting elegance and extraordinary sparkle.</p>
<p data-start="2100" data-end="2538">For the trend-setter on your list, 2025 highlights include bezel-set diamonds, chunky gold chains paired with diamond charms, and Toi et Moi rings with dynamic stone shapes. Lab-grown diamonds continue to rise in popularity, making it easy to upgrade size and wow-factor while staying mindful of budget. Our experts are here to help you explore all options and select the perfect stone based on cut, clarity, carat weight, and brilliance.</p>
<p data-start="2540" data-end="2926">Let this holiday season be filled with warmth, joy, and meaningful sparkle. Visit Affinity &amp; Co. Jewelers in Huntington Beach to explore our limited-edition holiday pieces, estate diamond selections, and exclusive designer lines. Whether you&rsquo;re spoiling someone special or treating yourself (which we fully support), our team is here to wrap your holiday in elegance, love, and light. ✨</p>
<p data-start="2540" data-end="2926">&nbsp;</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 04 Nov 2025 17:07:40 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Engagement Rings with Lab-Grown Diamonds: The Future of Forever]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/EngagementRingsLabGrownDiamonds/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<h2 data-start="107" data-end="176">&nbsp;</h2>
<p data-start="178" data-end="601">Love is timeless &mdash; and today, your engagement ring can be too. More couples than ever are choosing lab-grown diamond engagement rings as a modern, meaningful, and brilliant way to symbolize their commitment. Chemically, physically, and visually identical to mined diamonds, lab-grown diamonds offer the same breathtaking sparkle with an ethical and value-forward edge. It&rsquo;s not just a trend &mdash; it&rsquo;s the future of luxury.</p>
<p data-start="603" data-end="1088">Lab-grown diamonds are created in advanced facilities using technology that replicates the natural diamond-forming process deep within the earth. The result? Real diamonds with the same brilliance, fire, and durability as traditional stones. Whether you prefer a classic round brilliant, an elegant oval, or a sleek emerald cut, lab-grown diamonds make it possible to choose a larger or higher-quality stone at a more accessible price point &mdash; without compromising on beauty or quality.</p>
<p data-start="1090" data-end="1583">Design lovers adore lab-grown diamonds for the creative possibilities they unlock. From hidden halo designs and to-i-et-moi settings to chic solitaire classics, today's customization options allow couples to create a ring as unique as their love story. Modern settings in platinum, yellow gold, and rose gold beautifully showcase lab-grown stones, and trending details like bezel settings, floating halos, and east-west orientations give each ring a contemporary yet timeless feel.</p>
<p data-start="1585" data-end="1982">Sustainability matters more than ever, and many couples appreciate the environmental benefits lab-grown diamonds offer. Produced with thoughtful innovation, lab-grown diamonds provide a transparent and forward-thinking alternative to traditional mining. With complete traceability and exceptional quality control at every step, lab-grown stones offer peace of mind along with unparalleled sparkle.</p>
<p data-start="1984" data-end="2391">Choosing an engagement ring is one of life's most sentimental decisions, and lab-grown diamonds allow couples to prioritize what truly matters: love, intention, quality, and value. Whether you&rsquo;re drawn to the ethical production, the modern luxury aesthetic, or the opportunity to invest in a larger, show-stopping stone, lab-grown diamonds give you the freedom to design your dream ring without limitations.</p>
<p data-start="2393" data-end="2766">At Affinity &amp; Co. Jewelers, our diamond experts are here to guide you through the journey of selecting the perfect lab-grown diamond engagement ring. Explore breathtaking shapes, premium cuts, designer settings, and fully custom creations &mdash; all crafted to shine for a lifetime. Visit us in Huntington Beach and let us help you find the ring that tells your forever story. ✨</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 04 Nov 2025 17:06:06 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Why Couples Choose Lab-Grown Diamonds]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/WhyChooseLabGrown/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<h2><span style="color: #000000;">&nbsp;</span></h2>
<p><span style="color: #000000;">Every couple has a different story, and many today are drawn to lab-grown diamonds for unique reasons.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;">- Value: Typically priced 30&ndash;40% lower, couples can often select larger or higher-quality stones within their budget.</span><br /><span style="color: #000000;">- Ethics: Their origin is clear and transparent, which appeals to many modern buyers.</span><br /><span style="color: #000000;">- Variety: Lab-grown technology allows access to fancy colors and shapes that might be rare in nature.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;">Natural diamonds still embody heritage, rarity, and romance. Lab-grown diamonds highlight innovation, accessibility, and choice. Affinity &amp; Co. is proud to offer both, so you can choose what resonates with you.<br /><br /><span>A love story told in a single moment &mdash; and a Tacori engagement ring that says it all.&nbsp;</span><br /></span></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 15 Oct 2025 03:05:22 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[The Affinity & Co. Guide to Lab-Grown Diamonds]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/LabGrownDiamonds1/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<h2><span style="color: #000000;">Part 1: Lab-Grown Diamonds Explained &ndash; Beauty Meets Innovation</span></h2>
<p><span style="color: #000000;">Diamonds are timeless symbols of love, and at Affinity &amp; Co. Jewelers, we&rsquo;re proud to offer both mined and lab-grown options. Lab-grown diamonds are created in modern laboratories using advanced technology, producing stones that are chemically and visually identical to natural diamonds. They&rsquo;re not imitations, but real diamonds&mdash;crafted through science rather than geology.</span></p>
<h3><span style="color: #000000;">How They&rsquo;re Made</span></h3>
<p><span style="color: #000000;">Two main methods bring lab-grown diamonds to life:</span><br /><span style="color: #000000;">- High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT): Replicates the conditions found deep within the Earth.</span><br /><span style="color: #000000;">- Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): Grows a diamond crystal layer by layer using carbon-rich vapor.</span></p>
<h3><span style="color: #000000;">How They Compare to Natural Diamonds</span></h3>
<p><span style="color: #000000;">- Sparkle &amp; Hardness: Lab-grown diamonds shine just as brilliantly and rate 10 on the Mohs hardness scale.</span><br /><span style="color: #000000;">- Certified Quality: Respected labs like IGI and GIA grade them using the same standards as mined diamonds.</span><br /><span style="color: #000000;">- Visual Appeal: To the naked eye, they&rsquo;re virtually indistinguishable from natural stones.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;">Natural diamonds remain wonders of the Earth, formed over billions of years. Lab-grown diamonds represent innovation and modern values. Both are stunning choices for engagement rings and fine jewelry.</span></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 01 Oct 2025 23:40:20 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Engagement Ring Tip: Start With Shape]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/start-with-shape-engagement-ring/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr"><span>Are you on the search for your perfect engagement ring? </span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Our most basic tip: start with diamond shape! </span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The shape of your diamond has a huge impact on your engagement ring&mdash; no matter the setting. While metal, style, and carat size all play a role in your dream engagement ring, the shape of your gemstone is often the first thing people notice and will make the biggest impact on your ring's style (just imagine the difference between an elongated marquise diamond and a round diamond). &nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The shape of a diamond can drastically alter the look of the ring, the way it catches the light, and how the stone sits on your hand.&nbsp;</span>With more than ten different possible shapes, it&rsquo;s easy to get overwhelmed while shopping. Here is a quick overview of the most popular diamond shapes couples choose for their diamond engagement rings, and how to determine which might be right for you.</p>
<p><span><span><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media//wysiwyg/121647352_10158976392304040_7502539790373183226_o.jpg" alt="" width="563" height="563" />&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>Engagement Ring Tip From The Pro's&mdash; Start with Diamond Shape</span></h3>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>Round</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The round shaped diamond is by far the most popular choice for engagement rings around the world, for a few reasons. Round is a safe bet if you aren&rsquo;t sure what kind of diamond your fianc&eacute;e prefers, as it is universally popular and shaped to capture the most light when worn. It&rsquo;s also likely to please a woman with traditional style who doesn&rsquo;t like anything too unique or funky.</span></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>Pear</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The pear-shaped diamond is less like the fruit shape and more like a teardrop, with a rounded bottom that comes up to a pointed tip. Pear shaped diamonds saw a surge in interest in early 2018 when Ariana Grande wore a pear-shaped diamond engagement ring during her short-lived engagement to Pete Davidson. Sources said she was drawn to the ring because it reminded her of the teardrop emoji symbol.&nbsp; Pear shaped diamonds are said to make short fingers appear longer and stand out thanks to the pointed shape, which refracts extra light.</span></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>Square or Cushion</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Eye catching and unique, the distinctive shape of a square cut diamond draws the eye as it stands out against the finger. A square shaped stone is best for women with long fingers, as it can make short fingers look even shorter.</span></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>Emerald</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The emerald is a rectangular shape with multiple long facets cut along each side to encourage the light to reflect and sparkle. These are called stepped cuts, and they encourage light refraction. This cut can make the diamond attract more light than other shapes like a round or square cut. Fashionable and unique, many celebrity women love emerald cut diamonds for both modern and vintage-inspired engagement rings.</span></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>Heart</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>A heart shaped diamond can stand out in a sea of engagement rings, because you do not see as many of them as the more traditional shapes. For obvious reasons, a heart shaped diamond is a romantic choice for an engagement ring.</span></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>Princess</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Like the emerald cut, a princess cut is a variation on a geographic shape. While the top of the stone is a square or rectangle, the bottom side comes down to a point. This inverted pyramid shape is due to the beveled cut, which creates multiple beautiful facets. A relatively new shape, the princess cut originated in the 1960s and quickly became the second most popular shape for engagement rings, behind the round shaped stone.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<h3><strong>A Custom Designed Engagement Ring In Any Shape</strong></h3>
<p>If you don't find what you're looking for online or in our jewelry cases, bring in a picture or sketch and our skilled designers will create something for you. We can help you create a custom three-stone engagement ring or any piece of custom jewelry you choose. Stay involved through the entire design process as we offer both computer design images and wax prototypes, addressing any changes you request until you're completely satisfied. Learn more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/services/custom-design">here</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">Explore our full collection of engagement rings at our Huntington Beach showroom, or browse a selection online&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/engagement-rings.html">here</a>.&nbsp;</h3>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<blockquote>
<p><em>"<span>Joe and the rest of the team at Affinity&amp; Co are excellent! Super helpful, incredibly friendly, and they provide wonderful customer service. I came in on short notice to get my engagement ring resized and they were able to expedite the process and take care of everything within the same week. They are genuinely happy to help and appreciate their customers! I would definitely recommend.? &mdash; Morgan H. on Google</span></em></p>
</blockquote>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 27 Oct 2020 18:32:00 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[What Is a 3-Stone Engagement Ring?]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/what-is-three-stone-engagement-ring/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Now that you've found a partner you want to marry, it's time to find the ring.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2020 17:27:00 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[How to Get Engaged This Fall]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/how-to-get-engaged-this-fall/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr"><a><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/8_2.jpg" alt="" width="441" height="441" /></a></p>
<p dir="ltr">Are you planning on popping the question this fall or winter?&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>With a little planning now, you can plan the perfect proposal to end 2020 with a moment to remember! At Affinity &amp; Co. Jewelers, it's our passion to help California-area couples find their perfect engagement ring and tie the knot. In this post, we are sharing our top proposal tips to help you take this next step with ease.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Like most big decisions in life, communication is key, and picking out an engagement ring is no exception. Even if the proposal will be a surprise, it's a good idea to discuss a few key factors as a couple.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Your engagement ring will likely be your most-used, most-treasured piece of jewelry. It will be worn for years to come, through all seasons and all life events, so now is the time to explore, discuss, and try on different shapes, styles, and sizes to find a ring that feels just right for </span><span>you</span><span>.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>While you can visit our showroom today and purchase an engagement ring, there is a lot of value in a little preparation. Start with the questions below and visit us when you are ready to find your dream engagement ring.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>&nbsp;</span></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>Chat about it early.&nbsp;</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Even if you plan on making the proposal a surprise, now is a great time to casually bring it up in conversation&mdash; fish out little details to see if your partner would want their ideal proposal private or public, indoors or outdoors, and other important details. By bringing it up now, they are less likely to suspect anything when you pop the question later on!&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>&nbsp;</span></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>Start with budget.</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>It might not be the first thing you want to talk about when considering a proposal, but getting an idea of budget is healthy and helps set expectations for both partners. There are a lot of engagement rings out there, and getting an idea of budget early helps narrow the choices and keep you on track.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>&nbsp;</span></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>Colorless or color?&nbsp;</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Many couples are opting for engagement rings featuring a center or accent colored gemstones. Consider if you want only white diamonds, or if you'd like to include some color as a nod to your favorite color, birthstone, or the month you plan to marry. Consider sapphires, rubies, emeralds, or fancy-colored diamonds.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>&nbsp;</span></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>What about style?&nbsp;</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>It's a good idea to get a basic understanding of different engagement ring styles to start off with. Consider a simple solitaire, a bold halo, or a pretty vintage design to get started. You can explore different engagement ring styles </span><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/engagement-rings.html"><span>here</span></a><span>.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>&nbsp;</span></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>How about shape?&nbsp;</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>There are a number of different diamond shapes or &lsquo;cuts&rsquo; available, and having an idea of which you prefer (round, pear, heart, and more!) will make it much easier to find the perfect gem for your engagement ring. The diamond shape might be the most visually significant choice you make, so be sure to consider shapes that reflect your personal style.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Explore different diamond shapes and sizes </span><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/diamonds/loose-diamond-search.html"><span>here</span></a><span>.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>About that ring size...</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>There are three common ways you can measure your ring size right at home so you can finally get your ring measurement right, for good. https://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/shoes-accessories/jewelry/how-to-measure-ring-size Be sure to measure both at the beginning of the day and at the end, as your fingers are prone to change size slightly throughout the day. Find out how to measure easily at home </span><a href="https://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/shoes-accessories/jewelry/how-to-measure-ring-size"><span>here</span></a><span>.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>&nbsp;</span></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>Stop by for a visit!</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>While it's easy to fall in love with engagement rings on Pinterest or Instagram, it's also a good idea to try on different styles in person. You&rsquo;ll want to know how the ring really feels and fits on your hand until you actually see it up close.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>&nbsp;</span></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>Don&rsquo;t forget the important stuff.</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>We'll make sure you are set during and after purchasing your engagement ring. We are happy to provide services to make sure your engagement ring stays as stunning as the day you said "yes!" Learn more about our master craftsmen and graduate gemologists&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/services"><span>here</span></a><span>.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">Explore our full collection of engagement rings at our Huntington Beach showroom, or browse a selection online&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/engagement-rings.html">here</a>.&nbsp;</h4>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<blockquote>
<p><em>"Usually you only hear about customer's loyalty to a business, but never the other way around. This all changed with Affinity where for the first time, I experienced loyalty from a business I have patroned.&nbsp;</em><br /><br /><em>Per my previous review, my husband and I had a great experience buying both of our wedding bands here. Fast forward 4 years later and my husband's wedding ring slipped off his finger while surfing. I called them asking to re-order it, and they offered a discount due to the circumstances of the situation. I had no expectation of that, and was completely taken back at their thoughtfulness.&nbsp;</em><br /><br /><em>They had everything in our records, so re-ordering the ring was a breeze and completely stress free. I'm almost grateful for the experience of needing to re-order because I saw even more of their integrity and love for their customers and it blessed me so. It doesn't get any better than this folks!" &mdash; Grace B. on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/affinity-and-co-jewelers-huntington-beach-2">Yelp</a></em></p>
</blockquote>
<p dir="ltr"><span>&nbsp;</span></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 01 Sep 2020 18:28:00 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Guide to Care for Your Engagement Ring At Home]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/Guide-to-Care-for-Your-Engagement-Ring-At-Home/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/services_img1.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p>Your engagement ring is most likely one of the most precious items you own. Incorporating a few precautions and maintenance habits now will make sure your engagement ring shines for years to come!</p>
<p>We've outlined key tips to keeping your engagement ring as dazzling as the day you first put it on!</p>
<h3><span>Guide to Care for Your Engagement Ring At Home</span></h3>
<h4><strong>Clean at home with mild solutions.</strong></h4>
<p>Regularly wash your ring at home by soaking it in a mixture of warm water and mild dishwashing liquid for roughly 30 minutes before gently scrubbing it with a soft bristle toothbrush.</p>
<p>You can also clean metals and precious stones with baking soda with its mild, non-abrasive consistency that makes it perfect for cleaning . Simply pour a bit of baking soda into a bowl and mix it with a bit of warm water to create a soft paste. Take off your ring and use your fingers to gently rub the paste around the stone, the setting, and the ring. Rinse the ring in warm water and dry with a lint-free cloth.</p>
<h4><strong>Consider an alternative ring.</strong></h4>
<p>Many brides are choosing to rely on a &ldquo;backup ring.&rdquo; This ring is an alternate ring to your engagement ring that is often less valuable and can be worn without worry of it getting lost or damaged.</p>
<p>When you don't want to put your engagement ring at risk (a long day at the beach or gardening, for example), leave the real bling at home and opt for an alternative ring.</p>
<h4><strong>Avoid harsh chemical residue.</strong></h4>
<p>Chemicals from everyday products ( like the ones in perfume, sunscreen, and lotion) can add residue to the ring and diamond, which can cause potential damage. Make it a habit to remove your ring before applying products that may be made with harmful chemicals.</p>
<h4><strong>Have a go-to safe spot.</strong></h4>
<p>Whether you always take your ring off to sleep or shower, or if you only remove it when you really must, it's wise to have a designated spot for it. Whether you choose a specific area in your jewelry box, or a small dish on your dresser, having a go-to location will cut down on the chances of forgetting where you put it.&nbsp;</p>
<h4><strong>Restore shine to white gold and platinum.</strong></h4>
<p>No matter what care you give your ring, every white gold ring will start to dull and a yellow hue will start to shine through. This is natural and unavoidable, but the gold&rsquo;s original sheen can be easily restored through a process called Rhodium plating.</p>
<p>While platinum rings do not need Rhodium treatments as platinum does not originally start off as yellow, those who want a shinier look to their platinum engagement ring can opt to have their platinum band plated for more shine.</p>
<h4><strong>Get insurance.</strong></h4>
<p>As with any serious investment, it's wise to consider getting insurance for your engagement ring. While it might be emotionally difficult to ever have to replace your engagement ring, knowing you wouldn't have the financial upset if you ever did lose it can be more than worth it.</p>
<h4><strong>Schedule professional cleanings.</strong></h4>
<p>Our jewelers are happy to give your engagement ring a thorough professional cleaning. Not only will we clean your ring, but we will examine it under magnification to make sure the prongs are secure, and to check for diamond fractures and loose stones. It is wise to have your ring professionally cleaned twice a year to maintain the structural integrity of your ring and keep it as dazzling as the day you first saw it.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h4>Explore wedding bands at our Huntington Beach showroom, or browse a selection online&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/wedding-bands.html">here</a>.&nbsp;</h4>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<blockquote>
<p><em>"Usually you only hear about customer's loyalty to a business, but never the other way around. This all changed with Affinity where for the first time, I experienced loyalty from a business I have patroned.&nbsp;</em><br /><br /><em>Per my previous review, my husband and I had a great experience buying both of our wedding bands here. Fast forward 4 years later and my husband's wedding ring slipped off his finger while surfing. I called them asking to re-order it, and they offered a discount due to the circumstances of the situation. I had no expectation of that, and was completely taken back at their thoughtfulness.&nbsp;</em><br /><br /><em>They had everything in our records, so re-ordering the ring was a breeze and completely stress free. I'm almost grateful for the experience of needing to re-order because I saw even more of their integrity and love for their customers and it blessed me so. It doesn't get any better than this folks!" &mdash; Grace B. on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/affinity-and-co-jewelers-huntington-beach-2">Yelp</a></em></p>
</blockquote>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 10 Aug 2020 10:37:00 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Ask a Jeweler: Why the ring finger?]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/why-the-ring-finger/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/3.jpg" alt="" width="483" height="483" /></p>
<p>Have you ever wondered why you wear your engagement ring on the "ring finger" and how that came to be?</p>
<p>Today's couples tend to make their own way rather than lean on tradition. We are wear colored wedding gowns, serving donut at the reception, and women are popping the question more than ever.</p>
<p>Still, the tradition of wearing an engagement ring on the left hand ring finger has stuck.</p>
<h4><strong>Why the ring finger?</strong></h4>
<p>While the answer varies depending on where you are in the world, those in the United States consider the ring finger to be the finger between your pinkie and middle finger (aka your fourth finger). Wearing a ring on your ring finger on your left hand is known to represent your relationship status.</p>
<p>Many credit this custom to the Romans, who believed that the ring finger had a vein running directly to the heart. This vein was called this the Vena Amoris, or the &ldquo;Vein of Love,&rdquo; although modern science has shown there is actually no such vein.</p>
<p>Inspired by concept of the Vena Amoris, wearing a ring on the fourth finger represents a connection to the heart and is tied into affection, love and creativity.</p>
<p>Women typically wear an engagement ring after they've accepted their partner's proposal, and both partners will gain a band once married. There is an upcoming trend for men to also wear engagement rings before saying, "I do."</p>
<p>Not all countries or groups of people relate the ring finger on the left hand to represent their commitment.</p>
<p>Many same-sex couples will wear a ring on the right hand to represent that they are in a monogamous relationship, whether that&rsquo;s a long-term partnership or marriage.</p>
<p>Couples in India and Spain typically wear their engagement and wedding rings on the right hand.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">Explore wedding bands at our Huntington Beach showroom, or browse a selection online&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/wedding-bands.html">here</a>.&nbsp;</h4>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<blockquote>
<p><em>"Usually you only hear about customer's loyalty to a business, but never the other way around. This all changed with Affinity where for the first time, I experienced loyalty from a business I have patroned.&nbsp;</em><br /><br /><em>Per my previous review, my husband and I had a great experience buying both of our wedding bands here. Fast forward 4 years later and my husband's wedding ring slipped off his finger while surfing. I called them asking to re-order it, and they offered a discount due to the circumstances of the situation. I had no expectation of that, and was completely taken back at their thoughtfulness.&nbsp;</em><br /><br /><em>They had everything in our records, so re-ordering the ring was a breeze and completely stress free. I'm almost grateful for the experience of needing to re-order because I saw even more of their integrity and love for their customers and it blessed me so. It doesn't get any better than this folks!" &mdash; Grace B. on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/affinity-and-co-jewelers-huntington-beach-2">Yelp</a></em></p>
</blockquote>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 16 Jul 2020 10:20:12 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Complete Engagement Ring Vocabulary Guide]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/complete-engagement-ring-vocabulary-guide/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/8.jpg" alt="" width="522" height="522" /></p>
<p>Finding your perfect engagement ring doesn't have to be overwhelming. While we recognize the vocabulary around cut, color, style, and more can sometimes feel more like a lesson in terminology than picking out a meaningful piece of jewelry, we are here to make the engagement ring shopping process easier&mdash; and therefore more enjoyable&mdash; for you.</p>
<p>If you've ever felt lost when talking with a jeweler or doing engagement ring research, this vocabulary guide is for you. While we promise to use easy-to-understand language when you visit us at Affinity &amp; Co. Jewelers, this guide should serve you as you research and compare to avoid doubt as you find the perfect ring for your partner.</p>
<h2><strong>Jewelry and Engagement Ring Vocabulary Guide</strong></h2>
<h3><strong>The Diamond</strong></h3>
<p><strong>4Cs</strong>: Acronym standing for cut, color, clarity and carat&mdash; these are the top four characteristics to look for when purchasing a diamond.</p>
<p><strong>Accent diamonds:</strong>&nbsp;Diamonds that surround or enhance the main diamond; they are typically smaller in size than the main diamond.</p>
<p><strong>Crown:</strong>&nbsp;Top half of a diamond.</p>
<p><strong>Halo:</strong>&nbsp;Ring of diamonds or stones surrounding a center diamond or stone.</p>
<p><strong>Pavilion</strong>: Lower half of a diamond.</p>
<p><strong>Scintillations:</strong>&nbsp;Sparkles in a diamond that are seen as the diamond moves under a light.</p>
<p><strong>Table:</strong>&nbsp;Flat surface that is the uppermost part of a diamond; it is calculated by dividing the width of the table by the width of the diamond.</p>
<h3><strong>The Diamond Cut</strong></h3>
<p><strong>Asscher cut:</strong>&nbsp;Square shaped diamond with a high crown, step facets, and a small table.</p>
<p><strong>Cushion cut:</strong>&nbsp;Square cut diamond with rounded edges and the third most popular diamond cut.</p>
<p><strong>Emerald cut:</strong>&nbsp;Rectangular shaped with small, rounded edges and a large, open table.</p>
<p><strong>European cut:</strong>&nbsp;Antique diamond cut created before the precision created by modern technology was available.</p>
<p><strong>Heart cut:</strong>&nbsp;Diamond in the shape of a heart typically found in solitaire settings.</p>
<p><strong>Marquise cut:</strong>&nbsp;Long and narrow diamond-shaped similarly to a football. It&rsquo;s best set with prongs on each end to protect the points from chipping.</p>
<p><strong>Oval cut:</strong>&nbsp;A unique take on a round diamond. Oval-shaped stones come in a variety of widths ranging from slim to wide.</p>
<p><strong>Pear cut:</strong>&nbsp;Combination of a round and a marquise shape diamond available in a variety of narrow to wide sizes.</p>
<p><strong>Princess cut:</strong>The second most popular diamond cut, below round and above cushion. The cut has a square or rectangular shape when viewed from above, and from the side is similar to that of an inverted pyramid with four beveled sides.</p>
<p><strong>Radiant cut:</strong>&nbsp;Square or rectangular diamond with minimal curved edges similar to an emerald shape.</p>
<p><strong>Round cut:</strong>&nbsp;Circular-shaped diamond. It&rsquo;s&nbsp; the most common shape for engagement rings.</p>
<p><strong>Trillion cut</strong>: Triangular shaped diamond, often used as side stones to frame a square diamond.</p>
<h2><strong>The Ring Style</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Art deco:</strong>&nbsp;Rings created during or inspired by the art deco era from 1920 to 1935, known for bold line and geometric shapes.</p>
<p><strong>Baguette:</strong>&nbsp;Meaning &ldquo;long rod&rdquo; in French, the baguette cut features long, clean lines, and is typically used in side stones.</p>
<p><strong>Band:</strong>&nbsp;Ring that tends to accompany an engagement ring. Can be made of a precious metal, alloys, and/or include stones.</p>
<p><strong>Bezel:</strong>&nbsp;Metal that completely surrounds the diamond or featured gemstone. A half bezel is the term used when half of the stone is framed by metal. Bezel ring settings are stronger and more protective than prong settings.</p>
<p><strong>Colored diamond:</strong>&nbsp;Natural and dyed color diamonds. Popular diamond color options include yellow, pink, blue, chocolate and black.</p>
<p><strong>Colored gemstone:</strong>&nbsp;Engagement rings featuring a colored gemstone stone ranging in a variety of colors. Popular gemstone options are sapphire and ruby.</p>
<p><strong>Halo:</strong>&nbsp;Ring featuring a center stone that&rsquo;s surrounded by a circle of stones. Engagement rings can have more than one halo, referred to as a double halo if two circles of gemstones encircle one center stone.</p>
<p><strong>Hand-crafted</strong>: Ring that&rsquo;s been made by hand instead of the casing process of filling a mold. It&rsquo;s shaped by hand by the jeweler.</p>
<p><strong>Pav&eacute;</strong>: Setting of stones where they&rsquo;re placed close together so as to avoid seeing metal in between the stones.</p>
<p><strong>Side Stones</strong>: Ring featuring a main stone and surrounded by smaller stones. Can also be referred to as a three-stone ring or a halo.</p>
<p><strong>Solitaire</strong>: An engagement ring with a single, solitary center stone.</p>
<p><strong>Tension set:</strong>&nbsp;Gemstone is held in place by metal on either side, thus creating tension.</p>
<p><strong>Three-Stone:</strong>&nbsp;Ring featuring three stones, typically three diamonds or a diamond centered between two other stones. Known to celebrate a couple's past, present, and future together.</p>
<p><strong>Unique shank</strong>: Engagement ring with an individualized lower part that goes around the finger, also known as a shank.</p>
<p><strong>Vintage or Vintage-Inspired</strong>: These are classic-style engagement rings typically created, or modeled after, jewelry from the early 1900s or earlier. An antique engagement ring is technically defined as being over fifty years old.</p>
<h2><strong>The Metal</strong></h2>
<p><strong>14k gold:</strong>&nbsp;Made of 14 parts gold and 10 parts other metals or alloys.</p>
<p><strong>18k gold:</strong>&nbsp;Made of 18 parts gold and 6 parts other metals.</p>
<p><strong>24k gold:</strong>&nbsp;Pure gold. The softest gold, as gold gets softer the purer it is.</p>
<p><strong>Alloy</strong>: A mixture of two or more metals mixed together.</p>
<p><strong>Gold plated:</strong>&nbsp;Thin, almost microscopic layer of pure gold used to coat another type of metal.</p>
<p><strong>Platinum:</strong>&nbsp;Precious metal with a silvery white color and shine.</p>
<p><strong>Rose gold:</strong>&nbsp;An alloy of gold tinted with copper to create a rosy tone. The deeper the pink color, the more copper there is in the alloy.</p>
<p><strong>White gold:</strong>&nbsp;Yellow gold mixed with a white alloy.</p>
<p><strong>Yellow gold:</strong>&nbsp;The color of pure gold, yellow gold gets darker or changes color the more alloys are mixed with it.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">Explore wedding bands at our Huntington Beach showroom, or browse a selection online&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/wedding-bands.html">here</a>.&nbsp;</h4>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<blockquote>
<p><em>"Usually you only hear about customer's loyalty to a business, but never the other way around. This all changed with Affinity where for the first time, I experienced loyalty from a business I have patroned.&nbsp;</em><br /><br /><em>Per my previous review, my husband and I had a great experience buying both of our wedding bands here. Fast forward 4 years later and my husband's wedding ring slipped off his finger while surfing. I called them asking to re-order it, and they offered a discount due to the circumstances of the situation. I had no expectation of that, and was completely taken back at their thoughtfulness.&nbsp;</em><br /><br /><em>They had everything in our records, so re-ordering the ring was a breeze and completely stress free. I'm almost grateful for the experience of needing to re-order because I saw even more of their integrity and love for their customers and it blessed me so. It doesn't get any better than this folks!" &mdash; Grace B. on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/affinity-and-co-jewelers-huntington-beach-2">Yelp</a></em></p>
</blockquote>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 2020 10:19:00 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[How to Choose a Wedding Band for Your Wedding]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/how-to-choose-a-wedding-band/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>&nbsp;<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Screen_Shot_2020-03-31_at_1.16.33_PM.png" alt="" width="564" height="524" /></p>
<p>Congrats! You&rsquo;ve found the perfect diamond ring for your partner and you&rsquo;ve popped the big question. But now, it&rsquo;s time to find the perfect wedding band for you (and you thought proposing was the hard part)!</p>
<p>While some men love jewelry and everything that comes with it, some grooms-to-be are easily overwhelmed with the limitless options when finding or creating a wedding band that reflects their style and needs.</p>
<p>There is truly a band for every man. Whether your style is rugged or polished, and if you are a fan of rose gold or technical metals, you are sure to find a ring that truly captures your personal style. Your wedding band will most likely be your most-worn piece of jewelry, and it symbolizes the biggest commitment you will ever make, so we encourage you to take the time to find a ring you will love to wear.</p>
<h3>Five steps to the perfect wedding band:</h3>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><em>Traditional or modern?</em></h3>
<p>It&rsquo;s your wedding ring, so the style is entirely up to you. If you want to keep it traditional, choose a simple gold band. If you prefer to choose something a little more unusual, there are plenty of distinctive wedding rings available!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Screen_Shot_2020-03-31_at_1.20.50_PM.png" alt="" width="503" height="423" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><em>Think about the finish.&nbsp;</em></h3>
<p>Some wedding bands are naturally polished, providing a high-shine finish. Others use brushed metal, which dulls the natural shine. Think about your personal style, and what is best suited to it.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><em>To match, or not to match?&nbsp;</em></h3>
<p>Some couples like to have matching rings, to symbolize their union in marriage. Others like to choose rings that celebrate their unique personality. Discuss your options with your bride before choosing a ring, to ensure that you&rsquo;re both in agreement, whatever the decision.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><em>Know your size.&nbsp;</em></h3>
<p>It&rsquo;s always a good idea to know your ring size before heading out to make your purchase. If you&rsquo;re unsure, it&rsquo;s likely that the jewelry store will be able to measure your finger for you.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Screen_Shot_2020-03-31_at_1.16.11_PM.png" alt="" width="507" height="494" />&nbsp;</p>
<h3><em>Think about practicality.&nbsp;</em></h3>
<p>You&rsquo;ll be wearing this ring every day, so you&rsquo;ll want to make sure that it can withstand the rigors of your lifestyle. If you work a lot with your hands, you might want to consider choosing a material that is scratch-resistant.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Work with an expert to find your perfect wedding band.</h3>
<p>If you&rsquo;re on the fence with finding the perfect ring, our team of experts at Affinity &amp; Co. Jewelers are happy to show you options that will fit your style and lifestyle. Visit us at our Huntington Beach showroom to experience a large variety of men's wedding bands.</p>
<div>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">Explore wedding bands at our Huntington Beach showroom, or browse a selection online&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/wedding-bands.html">here</a>.&nbsp;</h4>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"Usually you only hear about customer's loyalty to a business, but never the other way around. This all changed with Affinity where for the first time, I experienced loyalty from a business I have patroned.&nbsp;<br /><br />Per my previous review, my husband and I had a great experience buying both of our wedding bands here. Fast forward 4 years later and my husband's wedding ring slipped off his finger while surfing. I called them asking to re-order it, and they offered a discount due to the circumstances of the situation. I had no expectation of that, and was completely taken back at their thoughtfulness.&nbsp;<br /><br />They had everything in our records, so re-ordering the ring was a breeze and completely stress free. I'm almost grateful for the experience of needing to re-order because I saw even more of their integrity and love for their customers and it blessed me so. It doesn't get any better than this folks!" &mdash; Grace B. on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/affinity-and-co-jewelers-huntington-beach-2">Yelp</a></p>
</blockquote>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 15 May 2020 17:20:00 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Win This Ring From TACORI]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/tacori-giveaway/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="tacori.com/loveisessential"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/winthisring_ht254615rd6w_web.jpg" alt="" width="537" height="537" /></a></p>
<p>While our brave health heroes and other essential workers are going to work for us, they&rsquo;ve asked Americans to stay at home for them. &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>
<p>And staying at home together has many people realizing LOVE IS ESSENTIAL. &nbsp;</p>
<p>For each week that we&rsquo;re under stay-at-home guidelines, Tacori is giving away a grand prize to a weekly winner. &nbsp;</p>
<p>This week, Tacori is giving away a&nbsp;<span>Petite Crescent Engagement Ring with a center diamond.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 05 May 2020 09:21:48 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Win These Earrings from TACORI ]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/win-these-earrings-from-TACORI/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.tacori.com/loveisessential"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Tacori_earrings.png" alt="" width="542" height="464" /></a></p>
<p>While our brave health heroes and other essential workers are going to work for us, they&rsquo;ve asked Americans to stay at home for them. &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>
<p>And staying at home together has many people realizing LOVE IS ESSENTIAL. &nbsp;</p>
<p>For each week that we&rsquo;re under stay-at-home guidelines, Tacori is giving away a grand prize to a weekly winner. &nbsp;</p>
<p>This week, Tacori is shining a light on all the amazing moms out there.</p>
<p>On Mother's Day and every day in between, they demostrate the power of love. &nbsp;</p>
<p>Enter for yourself, for your mother, or for any one of the many amazing women in your life! &nbsp;T</p>
<p>10 winners will be chosen to win this week's grand prize!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Enter to win from Tacori here:&nbsp;<a href="http://tacori.com/loveisessential?fbclid=IwAR1qv8s2XNHH7qjPp177FPBa0V6jfDkb3H0Mv5ZA3FbkocxTE9IZyM62_gQ" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="origin" data-lynx-uri="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Ftacori.com%2Floveisessential%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR1qv8s2XNHH7qjPp177FPBa0V6jfDkb3H0Mv5ZA3FbkocxTE9IZyM62_gQ&amp;h=AT2M_04whaBb-ooWgBPNo_5gOrVvXWXVHR3UgkAwb-XglWc5MUjhXA3155tNO0fZT5QyhhYdNlg_PnfShfwq6mTWz0wwNZw-rRjYwVTcfsHV5f7A7rda3QlosjaBLgnmEY_aG-ocSaxjXv8">tacori.com/loveisessential</a></strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h4>Explore wedding bands at our Huntington Beach showroom, or browse a selection online&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/wedding-bands.html">here</a>.&nbsp;</h4>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"Usually you only hear about customer's loyalty to a business, but never the other way around. This all changed with Affinity where for the first time, I experienced loyalty from a business I have patroned.&nbsp;<br /><br />Per my previous review, my husband and I had a great experience buying both of our wedding bands here. Fast forward 4 years later and my husband's wedding ring slipped off his finger while surfing. I called them asking to re-order it, and they offered a discount due to the circumstances of the situation. I had no expectation of that, and was completely taken back at their thoughtfulness.&nbsp;<br /><br />They had everything in our records, so re-ordering the ring was a breeze and completely stress free. I'm almost grateful for the experience of needing to re-order because I saw even more of their integrity and love for their customers and it blessed me so. It doesn't get any better than this folks!" &mdash; Grace B. on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/affinity-and-co-jewelers-huntington-beach-2">Yelp</a></p>
</blockquote>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 2020 21:35:27 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Tacori Love Is Essential Giveaway]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/Tacori-love-is-essential-giveaway/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/week2_tacoricouple_web.jpg" alt="" width="538" height="483" /></p>
<p>Because you deserve some&nbsp;<span class="_5mfr"><span class="_6qdm">✨</span></span>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Every week Tacori is giving away something amazing to share the love. Are you ready to win the stay-at-home wedding bands of your dreams?</p>
<p><span>Enter to win these Coastal Crescent Wedding Bands from Tacori at&nbsp;</span><a href="http://tacori.com/loveisessential?fbclid=IwAR1qv8s2XNHH7qjPp177FPBa0V6jfDkb3H0Mv5ZA3FbkocxTE9IZyM62_gQ" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="origin" data-lynx-uri="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Ftacori.com%2Floveisessential%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR1qv8s2XNHH7qjPp177FPBa0V6jfDkb3H0Mv5ZA3FbkocxTE9IZyM62_gQ&amp;h=AT2M_04whaBb-ooWgBPNo_5gOrVvXWXVHR3UgkAwb-XglWc5MUjhXA3155tNO0fZT5QyhhYdNlg_PnfShfwq6mTWz0wwNZw-rRjYwVTcfsHV5f7A7rda3QlosjaBLgnmEY_aG-ocSaxjXv8">tacori.com/loveisessential</a>. Good luck!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">Explore wedding bands at our Huntington Beach showroom, or browse a selection online&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/wedding-bands.html">here</a>.&nbsp;</h4>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"Usually you only hear about customer's loyalty to a business, but never the other way around. This all changed with Affinity where for the first time, I experienced loyalty from a business I have patroned.&nbsp;<br /><br />Per my previous review, my husband and I had a great experience buying both of our wedding bands here. Fast forward 4 years later and my husband's wedding ring slipped off his finger while surfing. I called them asking to re-order it, and they offered a discount due to the circumstances of the situation. I had no expectation of that, and was completely taken back at their thoughtfulness.&nbsp;<br /><br />They had everything in our records, so re-ordering the ring was a breeze and completely stress free. I'm almost grateful for the experience of needing to re-order because I saw even more of their integrity and love for their customers and it blessed me so. It doesn't get any better than this folks!" &mdash; Grace B. on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/affinity-and-co-jewelers-huntington-beach-2">Yelp</a></p>
</blockquote>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 13 Apr 2020 20:58:30 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Ultimate Mother's Day Gift Guide]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/ultimate-mothers-day-gift-guide/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Whether you are celebrating your wife, mom, grandmother, or other leading lady, she deserves love every day of the year, but on Mother&rsquo;s Day, it&rsquo;s your duty to make her feel extra special and appreciated. This usually means spending time with her and taking the time with a special card, but jewelry doesn&rsquo;t hurt, either.</p>
<p>Our 2020 Mother's Day jewelry gift guide is full of our favorite unique, standout pieces from Tacori&mdash; dazzling diamonds and gemstones that will shine this season and far beyond.</p>
<p>We&rsquo;re big fans of treating her to jewelry that makes her feel confident and beautiful, and we love styles that she will be able to cherish for years to come. If you&rsquo;re looking for the perfect gift, we&rsquo;ve rounded up a few of our favorite pieces that accomplish that goal and more this Mother's Day.</p>
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Silver_Bloom_Gem_Studs_featuring_Sky_Blue_Topaz.png" alt="" width="525" height="448" /></p>
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Lemon_Quartz.png" alt="" width="506" height="496" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Tacori_Pendant.png" alt="" width="551" height="580" /></p>
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Pav_Cushion_Cut_Drop_Earrings_featuring_Sky_Blue_Topaz_over_Hematite.png" alt="" width="541" height="560" />&nbsp;</p>
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Dew_Drops.png" alt="" width="529" height="510" /></p>
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Petite_Pav_Frame_Earrings_featuring_Amethyst.png" alt="" width="530" height="467" /></p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Sky_Blue_Topaz_Pendant.png" alt="" width="520" height="539" /></p>
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Rose_Amethyst.png" alt="" width="555" height="488" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Floating_Bezel_Bracelet_featuring_Chalcedony.png" alt="" width="517" height="504" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h4><span>We are ready to help you find the perfect Mother's Day gift. Please call us to make an appointment during COVID-19 restrictions</span>, or browse a selection online&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/jewelry.html?cat=165">here</a>.&nbsp;</h4>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"Affinity Jewelers is reputable, creative and honest, offer amazing technical ability and have reset a number of my blotched pieces from other jewelers in ways I could never had envisioned!They are reasonably priced while providing exceptional work.&nbsp;<br /><br />I feel at ease leaving my jewelry with them for repairs, as well as fortunate for their expertise in design creation. Their jewelers are trustworthy, dependable and take the time to listen with the ability to deliver exquisite work! Affinity Jewelers is well worth the visit whatever your jewelry needs may be!" &ndash; Nancy S. on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/affinity-and-co-jewelers-huntington-beach-2">Yelp</a></p>
</blockquote>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 01 Apr 2020 10:26:00 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[How to Buy a Loose Diamond]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/how-to-buy-a-loose-diamond/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/81388494_10158067250209040_7030250178036629504_o.jpg" width="630" height="331" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p><span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Have you been wondering how to shop for a loose diamond&mdash; whether you are considering a loose diamond as the start of an engagement ring, to upgrade an existing piece of jewelry, or for another design entirely? Nothing compares to the brilliance and fire of a loose diamond. By purchasing a loose diamond apart from a setting, you are able to get the best look at the stone to really see the </span><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/diamonds/diamond-education"><span>4 C's</span></a><span>&mdash; cut, color, clarity, and carat weight&mdash; up close. You can view inclusions that a setting might otherwise hide or distract from, allowing you to make an informed decision about the diamond you are investing in.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>We are happy to offer our customers an extensive collection of loose diamonds, including different diamond shapes from round brilliant, princess, oval, cushion, and radiant cuts, to different fancy color diamonds.</span></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>The Anatomy of a Diamond</span></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Learn about the 4 C's from our diamond experts. Our diamond education center has in-depth diamond information so you can learn even more more before you visit or shop for your loose diamond&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/diamonds/diamond-education"><span>here</span></a><span>.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>&nbsp;</span></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>Fancy Color Diamonds</span></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Diamonds come in every color of the rainbow, including yellow, blue, pink, green and purple. Fancy colored diamonds are graded based on the depth of color - Fancy Light, Fancy, Fancy Intense and Fancy Vivid. Visit our showroom to experience our fancy color diamond collection.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>&nbsp;</span></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>Explore our Diamond Search</span></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Get a head start on your diamond search. Explore and compare diamonds by shape, carat, color, clarity, cut, and more with this innovative diamond search tool. Find this online tool </span><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/diamonds/loose-diamond-search.html"><span>here</span></a><span>.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Loose Diamonds for Your Perfect Piece</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Are you ready to design your perfect piece? It is our pleasure to help you through the entire custom design process. If you don't find what you're looking for on our website, bring in a picture or sketch and our designers will create something for you. We can help you create a custom wedding ring, a custom engagement ring, or any piece of custom jewelry you choose. &nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">Stay involved through the entire design process as we offer both computer design images and wax prototypes, addressing any changes you request until you're completely satisfied.&nbsp;Come in and see what we can do for you. Learn more about custom jewelry design&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/services/custom-design">here</a>.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">Explore loose diamonds at our Huntington Beach showroom, or browse a selection online&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/diamonds/loose-diamond-search.html">here</a>.&nbsp;</h4>
<p></p>
<blockquote>
<p>"Usually you only hear about customer's loyalty to a business, but never the other way around. This all changed with Affinity where for the first time, I experienced loyalty from a business I have patroned.&nbsp;<br /><br />Per my previous review, my husband and I had a great experience buying both of our wedding bands here. Fast forward 4 years later and my husband's wedding ring slipped off his finger while surfing. I called them asking to re-order it, and they offered a discount due to the circumstances of the situation. I had no expectation of that, and was completely taken back at their thoughtfulness.&nbsp;<br /><br />They had everything in our records, so re-ordering the ring was a breeze and completely stress free. I'm almost grateful for the experience of needing to re-order because I saw even more of their integrity and love for their customers and it blessed me so. It doesn't get any better than this folks!" &mdash; Grace B. on <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/affinity-and-co-jewelers-huntington-beach-2">Yelp</a></p>
</blockquote>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 02 Mar 2020 10:20:17 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[How to Buy an Engagement Ring]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/how-to-buy-engagement-ring/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/81902339_10158078760089040_3182434018872262656_o.jpg" width="602" height="316" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>Are you planning on popping the question in 2020? We're sharing our top engagement ring shopping tips to help you take on this next step in your relationship with ease.</p>
<p>Like most big decisions in life, communication is key, and picking out the perfect engagement ring is no exception. Even if the proposal will be a surprise, it's a good idea to cover a few key factors as a couple beforehand.</p>
<p>Your engagement ring will likely be your most-used, most-treasured piece of jewelry. It will be worn for years to come, through all seasons and all life events, so now is the time to explore, discuss, and try on different shapes, styles, and sizes to find a ring that feels just right for&nbsp;<em>you</em>.</p>
<p>While you can visit our showroom today and purchase an engagement ring, there is a lot of value in a little preparation. Start with the questions below and visit us when you are ready to find your dream engagement ring.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h4>Get to know the different engagement ring styles.</h4>
<p>It's a good idea to get a basic understanding of different engagement ring styles to start off with. Consider a simple solitaire, a bold halo, or a pretty vintage design to get started. You can explore different engagement ring styles&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/engagement-rings.html">here</a>.</p>
<h4>Decide which type of gemstone or diamond you want.</h4>
<p>Many couples are opting for engagement rings featuring a center or accent colored gemstones. Consider if you want only white diamonds, or if you'd like to include some color as a nod to your favorite color, birthstone, or the month you plan to marry. Consider&nbsp;sapphires,&nbsp;rubies, emeralds, or&nbsp;fancy-colored diamonds.</p>
<h4>Get an idea of budget.</h4>
<p>It might not be the first thing you want to talk about when considering a proposal, but getting an idea of budget is healthy and helps set expectations for both partners. There are a lot of engagement rings out there, and getting an idea of budget early helps narrow the choices and keep you on track.</p>
<h4>Decide on the shape.</h4>
<p>There are a number of different&nbsp;diamond shapes&nbsp;or &lsquo;cuts&rsquo; available, and having an idea of which you prefer (round, pear, heart, and more!) will make it much easier to find the perfect gem for your engagement ring. The diamond shape might be the most visually significant choice you make, so be sure to consider shapes that reflect your personal style.</p>
<p>Explore different diamond shapes and sizes&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/diamonds/loose-diamond-search.html">here</a>.</p>
<h4>Figure out your ring size.</h4>
<p>There are three common ways you can measure your ring size right at home so you can finally get your ring measurement right, for good.&nbsp;Be&nbsp;sure to measure both at the beginning of the day and at the end, as your fingers are prone to change size slightly throughout the day. Find out how to measure easily at home&nbsp;<a href="https://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/shoes-accessories/jewelry/how-to-measure-ring-size">h</a><a href="https://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/shoes-accessories/jewelry/how-to-measure-ring-size">ere</a>.</p>
<h4>Try it on for size.</h4>
<p>While it's easy to fall in love with engagement rings on social media or the hand of a friend, it's also a good idea to try on different styles in person. You&rsquo;ll want to know how the ring really feels and fits on your hand until you actually see it up close.</p>
<h4>Remember the important stuff.</h4>
<p>We'll make sure you are set during and after purchasing your engagement ring. We are happy to provide a line-up or services to make sure your engagement ring stays as stunning as the day you said "yes!" Learn more about our services including&nbsp;jewelry cleaning, repar, polishing, and diamond and stone setting <a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/services/custom-design/financing-options">here</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">We are ready to help you find the perfect enagagement ring at our Huntington Beach showroom, or browse a selection online&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/engagement-rings.html">here</a>.&nbsp;</h4>
<p></p>
<blockquote>
<p>"Affinity Jewelers is reputable, creative and honest, offer amazing technical ability and have reset a number of my blotched pieces from other jewelers in ways I could never had envisioned!They are reasonably priced while providing exceptional work.&nbsp;<br /><br />I feel at ease leaving my jewelry with them for repairs, as well as fortunate for their expertise in design creation. Their jewelers are trustworthy, dependable and take the time to listen with the ability to deliver exquisite work! Affinity Jewelers is well worth the visit whatever your jewelry needs may be!" &ndash; Nancy S. on <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/affinity-and-co-jewelers-huntington-beach-2">Yelp</a></p>
</blockquote>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Sun, 12 Jan 2020 20:29:51 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Your Ultimate Guide to Diamond Shape]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/ultimate-guide-diamond-shape/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/75349129_10157893880524040_2824239613311188992_o.jpg" width="504" height="264" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>Diamond shape is possibly the single decision that will have the biggest impact on your engagement ring. While metal, setting, and carat size all play a role in your dream engagement ring, diamond shape is often the first thing people notice. In this post we are covering the top six diamond shapes.</p>
<p>The shape of a diamond can drastically alter the look of the ring, the way it catches the light, and how the stone sits on your hand. With any of the popular diamond shapes on the market, the idea behind the cut is to leave as much of the top of the stone intact as possible. This allows light to filter through and reflect the natural sparkle of the stone. Each diamond shape has different facets and cuts that help to make the diamond shine.</p>
<p>With more than ten different possible shapes, it&rsquo;s easy to get overwhelmed while shopping. Here is a quick overview of the most popular diamond shapes that you are&nbsp;likely to see while shopping for an engagement ring, and how to choose one.</p>
<h3>Find&nbsp;Your Perfect Diamond Shape</h3>
<p><b>Round</b></p>
<p>The round shaped diamond is by far the most popular choice for engagement rings around the world, for a few reasons. Round is a safe bet if you aren&rsquo;t sure what kind of diamond your fianc&eacute;e prefers, as it is universally popular and shaped to capture the most light when worn. It&rsquo;s also likely to please a woman with traditional style who doesn&rsquo;t like anything too unique or funky.</p>
<p><b>Square or Cushion</b></p>
<p>Eye catching and unique, the distinctive shape of a square cut diamond draws the eye as it stands out against the finger. A square shaped stone is best for women with long fingers, as it can make short fingers look even shorter.</p>
<p><b>Pear</b></p>
<p>The pear-shaped diamond is less like the fruit shape and more like a teardrop, with a rounded bottom that comes up to a pointed tip. Pear shaped diamonds saw a surge in interest in early 2018 when Ariana Grande wore a pear-shaped diamond engagement ring during her short-lived engagement to Pete Davidson. Sources said she was drawn to the ring because it reminded her of the teardrop emoji symbol. &nbsp;Pear shaped diamonds are said to make short fingers appear longer and stand out thanks to the pointed shape, which refracts extra light.</p>
<p><b>Heart</b></p>
<p>A heart shaped diamond can stand out in a sea of engagement rings, because you do not see as many of them as the more traditional shapes. However, your fianc&eacute;e might find the cut too cute or girly, especially if she works in a professional office environment.</p>
<p><b>Emerald</b></p>
<p>The emerald is a rectangular shape with multiple long facets cut along each side to encourage the light to reflect and sparkle. These are called stepped cuts, and they encourage light refraction. This cut can make the diamond attract more light than other shapes like a round or square cut. Fashionable and unique, many celebrity women love emerald cut diamonds for both modern and vintage-inspired engagement rings.</p>
<p><b>Princess</b></p>
<p>Like the emerald cut, a princess cut is a variation on a geographic shape. While the top of the stone is a square or rectangle, the bottom side comes down to a point. This inverted pyramid shape is due to the beveled cut, which creates multiple beautiful facets. A relatively new shape, the princess cut originated in the 1960s and quickly became the second most popular shape for engagement rings, behind the round shaped stone.</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p><span>We are ready to help you find the perfect enagagement ring at our Huntington Beach showroom, or browse a selection online&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/engagement-rings.html">here</a><span>.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p></p>
<blockquote>
<p><span><span>"I had a great experience at Affinity and Co and Joe was extremely helpful. I live about 2 hours away so we communicated mostly through telephone and he would always make time to help me out. I highly recommend them. Thanks again guys!" &mdash; Justin S. on Yelp</span></span></p>
</blockquote>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 02 Dec 2019 17:34:13 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[November's Two Birthstones: Jewelry, Facts, and Folklore]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/november-two-birthstones/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<h2>Citrine and Topaz: The Two Birthstones of November</h2>
<p>Happy birthday to all those celebrating in November! This month features two birthstones: citrine and topaz. While they are often confused for one another, topaz is actually found in a wide spectrum of colors (including the lovely blue you see below).</p>
<p>Both November birthstones are known for their calming energies, bringing warmth and fortune to those who wear them.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Blue Topaz&nbsp;November Birthstone Facts and Jewelry</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Screen_Shot_2019-11-13_at_12.29.40_PM.png" width="454" height="425" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>Topaz is one of November's birthstones.&nbsp;It&nbsp;is a soothing stone that has been said to calm tempers, cure madness and eliminate nightmares. While the gemstone&nbsp;is found in many colors, the most prized color is Imperial topaz, which features a vibrant orange hue with pink undertones. Brazil is the largest producer of quality topaz. Shop blue topaz jewelry&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/catalogsearch/result/?cat=0&amp;q=blue+topaz">here</a>.</p>
<div class="mceTemp">&nbsp;</div>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3>Citrine&nbsp;November Birthstone&nbsp;Facts and Jewelry</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Screen_Shot_2019-11-13_at_12.31.12_PM.png" width="455" height="458" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>Citrine is November&rsquo;s second birthstone, a&nbsp;variety of quartz that ranges from pale yellow to brownish orange in color. It is named after&nbsp;the citron fruit because of its&nbsp;lemon-inspired shades. Citrine has been referred to&nbsp;as the &ldquo;healing quartz&rdquo; for its ability to comfort, soothe and calm. It is believed to&nbsp;release negative feelings, spark imagination, and even attract wealth and prosperity. The largest supplier of citrine is Brazil. Shop citrine jewelry&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/catalogsearch/result/?cat=0&amp;q=citrine">here</a>.</p>
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<p>"<span>Affinity Jewelers is reputable, creative and honest, offer amazing technical ability and have reset a number of my blotched pieces from other jewelers in ways I could never had envisioned!They are reasonably priced while providing exceptional work.&nbsp;</span><br /><br /><span>I feel at ease leaving my jewelry with them for repairs, as well as fortunate for their expertise in design creation. Their jewelers are trustworthy, dependable and take the time to listen with the ability to deliver exquisite work! Affinity Jewelers is well worth the visit whatever your jewelry needs may be!" &mdash; Nancy S. on Yelp</span>&nbsp;</p>
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      <pubDate>Wed, 13 Nov 2019 17:21:17 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Can we help plan your holiday proposal?]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/plan-holiday-proposal/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr"><span><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/67889432_10157611656584040_8423662938954399744_n.jpg" width="593" height="310" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Are you dreaming of a holiday proposal? Maybe you are the planning type, or maybe your partner has always wanted to get engaged around the holidays. Whatever the reason, now is a wonderful time to start planning your holiday proposal&mdash; especially if you still have some research to do or want to begin the custom design process for your engagement ring.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>From Thanksgiving to Christmas to Kwanza to Chanukah to New Year's Eve, the end of the year means friends and family gathering together for celebrations.</span></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>Begin planning your holiday proposal now:</span></h2>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>1. &nbsp; &nbsp; Discover her engagement ring style (and ring size!).</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Start to look at the jewelry she already wears. Does she wear minimal jewelry, or does she choose bold, statement pieces? Does she love the simplicity of a diamond, or is her jewelry box full of different colors?</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>It&rsquo;s also a great idea to ask trusted friends and family members. It is likely that she has mentioned different styles she prefers&mdash; and maybe even some she doesn&rsquo;t!</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>&nbsp;</span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>2. &nbsp; &nbsp; Explore different engagement ring options.</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>While your engagement ring turnaround time might be quick, it&rsquo;s always better to begin your search early in case you want a custom piece or decide to include existing jewelry in your design.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>While you might have an idea of what you like, seeing and feeling different designs might point you in a whole new direction! Stop by our Clearwater, Florida, showroom or look around online </span><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/engagement-rings.html"><span>here</span></a><span>.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>&nbsp;</span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>3. &nbsp; &nbsp; Brainstorm the specifics.</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>With at least an idea of your engagement ring in mind, now it&rsquo;s time to scope out the specifics of your holiday proposal.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Where? </strong><span>Huntington Beach has beautiful landmarks ready for a romantic holiday proposal! Consider locations that are important to you as a couple&mdash; and whether you'd prefer an indoor or outdoor proposal&mdash; for your dream moment.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span><strong>When?</strong>&nbsp;</span><span>Are there events over the holiday season where loved ones will be near? Even if you don&rsquo;t want to propose in front of others, you might enjoy having them near to celebrate with after!</span></p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span>We are ready to help you find the perfect enagagement ring at our Huntington Beach showroom, or browse a selection online&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/engagement-rings.html">here</a><span>.&nbsp;</span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><em>"I am thrilled that I found this place! I was looking for a place close by so I can get my wedding ring &nbsp;bonded and replaces the batteries on several watches I had so I got into Yelp and read all the great reviews so I decided to try it. &nbsp;As soon as I walked in the door, I was greeted by a lovely staff. &nbsp;I interacted with 3 different staff and they were all so nice and fulfilled my needs. It's a family own place and they make you feel like at home I will definitely be coming back here for my next jewelry and I will totally recommend this jewelry place to everyone." &mdash; Mina R. on Yelp&nbsp;</em></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 01 Oct 2019 18:05:00 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[September's Sapphire Birthstone]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/september-sapphire-birthstone/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Screen_Shot_2019-09-04_at_1.59.27_PM.png" width="501" height="537" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>Happy birthday to all who celebrate a birthday in September!</p>
<p>Sapphires are rich in color, classic in style, and popular throughout history. Those born in the month of September are lucky enough to call this magical gemstone their birthstone. But did you also know sapphire is also a traditional anniversary gift for four wedding anniversaries? Learn more about this beloved, royal blue stone below.</p>
<h2>Celebrate September birthdays with sapphires!</h2>
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<div><strong>Popular Throughout History&nbsp;</strong></div>
<div>Popular since the Middle Ages, the sapphire is a classic favorite of royalty, clergy, celebrities and fine jewelry collectors. September's blue birthstone ranges in color, but medium to medium-dark blue hues are the most coveted.'</div>
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<div><strong>Sapphire Engagement Rings&nbsp;</strong></div>
<div>Some of the most famous blue sapphire engagement rings were worn by Princess Diana, Kate Middleton, and Elizabeth Hurley.</div>
<p><strong>Sapphire Folklore<br /></strong>Folklore tells that sapphires will protect loved ones from envy and harm and grant the wearer spiritual enlightenment and inner peace. They are believed to offer healing properties for rheumatism, colic, and mental illness. Sapphires are also considered an antidepressant.</p>
<p><strong>Sapphires as Anniversary Gifts<br /></strong>For couples looking for a traditional anniversary gift, sapphires are given for the 5th, 23rd, 45th and 65th wedding anniversaries. Couples celebrating these milestone anniversaries might consider a sapphire anniversary band that can be worn with the bridal set.</p>
<div><strong>Sapphire Birthstone Jewelry<br /></strong></div>
<div>Sapphire jewelry is a meaningful gift for those who celebrate a September birthday&mdash; and anyone who loves this gorgeous gemstone! Shop sapphire birthstone jewelry <a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/catalogsearch/result/?cat=0&amp;q=sapphire">here</a>.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;"><em>"I worked with Eva at Affinity &amp; Co. from the beginning and the entire process was incredibly easy. I had done some research prior to my first visit but didn't know much about engagement rings/diamonds, and Eva was there to help. She explained everything thoroughly and helped with the design based on the parameters I gave her. The whole Affinity team provided regular updates on the status of the ring, from initial CAD drawings to final production, and met a very tight timeline. I can't thank Affinity enough for a seamless process and absolutely incredible final product. Needless to say, my fiancee was amazed with the ring!" &mdash; Nick S. on <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/affinity-and-co-jewelers-huntington-beach-2">Yelp</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</em></div>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 04 Sep 2019 17:57:41 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[What Diamond Shape is Right for You?]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/what-diamond-shape-is-right-for-you/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/19.jpg" width="671" height="671" /></p>
<p>You've found the one you want to marry. You might have even come up with how you will propose. Now, it's time to find the perfect engagement ring. There is a lot to decide when you shop for a diamond that your loved one is going to wear forever.</p>
<p>First you must decide on a metal, a setting and a style of ring. The size of the band and design can make or break how it looks on your future wife. But the biggest decision is what shape of diamond you select for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/engagement-rings.html">engagement ring</a>.</p>
<p>The shape of a diamond can drastically alter the look of the ring, the way it catches the light, and how the stone sits on your fiancee&rsquo;s hand. With any of the popular diamond shapes on the market, the idea behind the cut is to leave as much of the top of the stone intact as possible. This allows light to filter through and reflect the natural sparkle of the stone. Each diamond shape has different facets and cuts that help to make the diamond shine.</p>
<p>With more than ten different possible shapes, it&rsquo;s easy to get overwhelmed while shopping. Here is a quick overview of the different diamond shapes that you are&nbsp;likely to see while shopping for an engagement ring, and how to choose one.</p>
<h3>What Shape of Diamond is Right for Your Fianc&eacute;e?</h3>
<p><b>Emerald</b></p>
<p>The emerald is a rectangular shape with multiple long facets cut along each side to encourage the light to reflect and sparkle. These are called stepped cuts, and they encourage light refraction. This cut can make the diamond attract more light than other shapes like a round or square cut. Fashionable and unique, many celebrity women love emerald cut diamonds, including Amal Clooney,</p>
<p><b>Round</b></p>
<p>The round shaped diamond is by far the most popular choice for engagement rings around the world, for a few reasons. Round is a safe bet if you aren&rsquo;t sure what kind of diamond your fianc&eacute;e prefers, as it is universally popular and shaped to capture the most light when worn. It&rsquo;s also likely to please a woman with traditional style who doesn&rsquo;t like anything too unique or funky.</p>
<p><b>Square or Cushion</b></p>
<p>Eye catching and unique, the distinctive shape of a square cut diamond draws the eye as it stands out against the finger. A square shaped stone is best for women with long fingers, as it can make short fingers look even shorter.</p>
<p><b>Pear</b></p>
<p>The pear-shaped diamond is less like the fruit shape and more like a teardrop, with a rounded bottom that comes up to a pointed tip. Pear shaped diamonds saw a surge in interest in early 2018 when Ariana Grande wore a pear-shaped diamond engagement ring during her short-lived engagement to Pete Davidson. Sources said she was drawn to the ring because it reminded her of the teardrop emoji symbol. &nbsp;Pear shaped diamonds are said to make short fingers appear longer and stand out thanks to the pointed shape, which refracts extra light.</p>
<p><b>Princess</b></p>
<p>Like the emerald cut, a princess cut is a variation on a geographic shape. While the top of the stone is a square or rectangle, the bottom side comes down to a point. This inverted pyramid shape is due to the beveled cut, which creates multiple beautiful facets. A relatively new shape, the princess cut originated in the 1960s and quickly became the second most popular shape for engagement rings, behind the round shaped stone.</p>
<p><b>Heart</b></p>
<p>A heart shaped diamond can stand out in a sea of engagement rings, because you do not see as many of them as the more traditional shapes. However, your fianc&eacute;e might find the cut too cute or girly, especially if she works in a professional office environment.</p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">We are ready to help you find the perfect enagagement ring at our Huntington Beach showroom, or browse a selection online&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/engagement-rings.html">here</a>.&nbsp;</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 01 Aug 2019 21:40:00 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[How Much Should You Spend on an Engagement Ring?]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/how-much-spend-engagement-ring/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/4.jpg" width="543" height="543" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<div class="disabled name formatted_content">How much should you spend on an engagement ring? It&rsquo;s a difficult question with a different answer for each person. We're digging into how much you should spend on an engagement ring (and some of the factors that will make your ring more or less expensive) below!</div>
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<p>Before you start shopping, consider not only how much you want to spend but how you will pay for it. If you can save the entire amount, you can pay for a ring in cash, but many people prefer to be able to pay a ring off over time with a credit card or in-store&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/services/financing-options">financing</a>. Remember that getting engaged means that soon you&rsquo;ll be spending money to plan and throw a wedding, so consider these upcoming expenses as you decide how much to budget.</p>
<p><b>The Two Month Salary Rule</b></p>
<p>While some people use the rule of thumb that you should spend two months&rsquo; salary on an engagement ring, this isn&rsquo;t a hard and fast rule. This rule came to popularity decades ago, when the people getting married were likely to be younger, living at home, and not carrying student debt. You can use this figure as a guideline to help you start shopping, but do not feel that you must be bound by it.</p>
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<p><b>The National Average</b></p>
<p>Sales figures show that Americans spend the most on engagement rings, with Australians spending the second most. The average engagement ring in this country costs around $6000 and is about one karat in size. Australian shoppers spend around $5000 and buy around the same size of diamond as their US counterparts. On average, buyers in other countries, like Canada and the United Kingdom, spend two to three thousand dollars less than Americans.</p>
<p><b>Using an Heirloom Ring</b></p>
<p>If a family member has given you a ring, but it doesn&rsquo;t fit your fianc&eacute;e&rsquo;s style, you can work with a jeweler to revamp the setting, move the stone to a band made from a different metal, or add extra stones. This lets you keep the family significance while presenting your fianc&eacute;e with something you know she will love. Taking this approach can end up costing less than purchasing a brand-new ring, and it gives the ring an interesting back story your fianc&eacute;e can tell for years.</p>
<p><b>Diamond Cuts Can Make a Difference</b></p>
<p>If you know that your future fianc&eacute;e dreams of a ring that features a cushion or princess cut diamond, you may need to spend a little more than you would on a ring with a round or oval diamond. These cuts take more effort to produce, but they reflect the light beautifully and grab the attention of everyone who sees them.</p>
<p>If you&rsquo;re ready to propose to the love of your life, we would love to<span style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;help you find the perfect enagagement ring at our Huntington Beach showroom, or browse a selection online&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/engagement-rings.html" style="text-align: center;">here</a><span style="text-align: center;">.&nbsp;</span></p>
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      <pubDate>Mon, 01 Jul 2019 17:07:07 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[How to Find The Ideal Engagement Ring ]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/how-to-find-engagement-ring/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr"><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/59626219_10157373918639040_5516339493994496000_o.jpg" width="587" height="587" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p dir="ltr">Whether you've already asked or are looking forward to popping the question in the near future, finding the perfect engagement ring is a big deal! Like most big steps in life, communication is the first step, and picking out an engagement ring is no exception. Even if you or your partner are planning a surprise proposal, it's a good idea to discuss a few key factors as a couple.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>You will wear your engagement ring for years to come, through all seasons and all life events, so now is the time to explore, discuss, and try on different shapes, styles, and sizes to find a ring that feels just right for </span><span>you</span><span>.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>While you can visit our showroom today and purchase an engagement ring, there is a lot of value in a little preparation. Start with the questions below and visit our engagement ring experts when you are ready to find your dream engagement ring.</span></p>
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<h4 dir="ltr"><span>Which engagement ring styles catch your eye?</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>It's a good idea to get a basic understanding of different engagement ring styles to start off with. Consider a simple solitaire, a bold halo, or a pretty vintage design to get started. You can explore different engagement ring styles </span><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/engagement-rings.html"><span>here</span></a><span>.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<h4 dir="ltr">What shape do you love?</h4>
<p dir="ltr">There are a number of different diamond shapes or &lsquo;cuts&rsquo; available, and having an idea of which you prefer (round, pear, heart, and more!) will make it much easier to find the perfect gem for your engagement ring. The diamond shape might be the most visually significant choice you make, so be sure to consider shapes that reflect your personal style.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Explore different diamond shapes and sizes&nbsp;<a href="https://www.goldanddiamond.com/measurement-guidehttps://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/engagement-rings.html">here</a>.</p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>What kind of diamond or gemstone do you fancy?</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Many couples are opting for engagement rings featuring a center or accent colored gemstones. Consider if you want only white diamonds, or if you'd like to include some color as a nod to your favorite color, birthstone, or the month you plan to marry. Consider sapphires, rubies, emeralds, or fancy-colored diamonds.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>What does your budget look like?</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>It might not be the first thing you want to talk about when considering a proposal, but getting an idea of budget is healthy and helps set expectations for both partners. There are a lot of engagement rings out there, and getting an idea of budget early helps narrow the choices and keep you on track.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>Do you know your ring size?</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>There are two ways you can find your or your gift recipient&rsquo;s ring size. Simply use the ring size guide </span><a href="https://www.jewelrywise.com/tools-resources/ring-sizer"><span>here</span></a><span> using a few household items. Be sure to measure both at the beginning of the day and at the end, as your fingers are prone to change size slightly throughout the day.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>Next up: Try it on for size.</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>While it's easy to fall in love with engagement rings on Pinterest or Instagram, it's also a good idea to try on different styles in person. You&rsquo;ll want to know how the ring really feels and fits on your hand until you actually see it up close.</span></p>
<p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">Let us help you find the perfect enagagement ring at our Huntington Beach showroom, or browse a selection online&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/engagement-rings.html">here</a>.&nbsp;</h3>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 07 Jun 2019 20:02:00 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Everyday Jewelry Guide]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/Everyday-Jewelry-Guide/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr"><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/49211169_10157065316929040_1219291037231480832_o.jpg" width="540" height="540" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p dir="ltr">If you're a busy woman on the go, a lover of minimalist style, or a fashionista traveling from work to happy hour, everyday jewelry pieces are critical to your style. Basic pieces look fabulous on their own, work with bolder jewelry, and never go out of style. Collect everyday earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings so dressing up your look is the most effortless part of your day.</p>
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<p dir="ltr"><span>Here are some of our go-to everyday pieces we love from Tacori at Affinity &amp; Co. Jewelers:</span></p>
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<h3 dir="ltr"><span>EARRINGS</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/52964781_10157215681619040_5069527393287274496_o.jpg" width="555" height="555" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Make it yours. Because your ears like to party as much as you do. From everyday studs to statement dangles, earrings are the perfect addition that completes your look, in a style that's totally your own.</span>&nbsp;Shop earrings <a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/jewelry/earrings.html">HERE</a>.</p>
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<p dir="ltr"></p>
<h3 dir="ltr">RINGS</h3>
<p dir="ltr"><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/46508579_10156980724214040_160358771569197056_o.jpg" width="569" height="569" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p dir="ltr">Complemented with wedding rings or not, rings are an absolute must in any look. A stacked look is trending and allows you to wear your favorites and really show off your personal style. Shop fashion rings <a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/jewelry/rings.html">HERE</a>.</p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>NECKLACES</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/56697058_10157319891719040_1372518372087955456_o.jpg" width="561" height="561" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></p>
<p dir="ltr">A necklace is often the final piece to make any look polished. A delicate pendant makes a statement on its own and is even better when layered with other favorites. We love these&nbsp;<span>stunning diamond pendants perfect for every day wear.</span><span>&nbsp;Now the question is rose gold or platinum?&nbsp;</span>Shop necklaces <a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/jewelry.html?cat=165">HERE</a>.</p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>BRACELETS</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/50183029_10157115748589040_8057818672653139968_o.jpg" width="553" height="553" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p dir="ltr">We love bracelets alone or stacked with our favorite watch. Bracelets are wonderful alone; stack them together to up the impact. Shop bracelets <a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/jewelry/bracelets.html">HERE</a>.</p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span>We are ready to help you find the perfect everyday jewelry at our Huntington Beach showroom, or browse a selection online&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/jewelry.html">here</a><span>.&nbsp;</span></h3>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 07 May 2019 19:32:36 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Falling for Tacori Halo Engagement Rings]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/falling-for-tacori-halo-engagement-rings/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr"><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/51611125_10157170812149040_4950556069043634176_o.jpg" width="600" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p><span><span>&nbsp;</span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>A halo engagement ring features a halo of smaller diamonds surrounding a larger center diamond. Unlike a solitaire engagement ring that showcases a single diamond, the halo engagement ring style pulls out all the stops to shine. This engagement ring style is perfect for the bride who really wants to maximize her center diamond&mdash; even making it appear a much larger carat size than it actually is!</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Tacori halo engagement rings are perfect for brides looking for a romantic, classic look. This style can accommodate any diamond shape&mdash; and even works with three-stone engagement rings! If you are attracted to styles with maximum sparkle and a classic appeal, we invite you to explore Tacori halo engagement rings up close at our Huntington Beach showroom.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>A twist on a classic halo engagement ring, a Tacori Bloom is a gorgeous design detail that will make heads turn with its added pop of sparkle. Tacori Blooms perfectly wrap around the center stones for a seamless blanket of diamonds. The spotlight bloom adds just a dust of diamonds. It is positioned beneath the center stone for a dainty look that adds a little extra sparkle to your ring.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>All Tacori pieces are handcrafted with extraordinary care by artisans in California.</span></p>
<h2 dir="ltr">A Few of Our Favorite&nbsp;Tacori Halo Engagement Rings</h2>
<p dir="ltr"><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/ht2624pr9_10.jpg" width="600" /></p>
<p dir="ltr"><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/ht2560cu75_10_1.jpg" width="600" /></p>
<p dir="ltr"><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/2620rdlgp_10.jpg" width="600" /></p>
<p dir="ltr"><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/ht2556rd65_10.jpg" width="600" /></p>
<p dir="ltr"><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/ht2547pr6_10.jpg" width="600" /></p>
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<p></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><br /><span>Let us help you find the perfect wedding bands for your 2019 or 2020 wedding at our Huntington Beach showroom, or browse a selection online&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/wedding-bands.html">here</a><span>.&nbsp;</span></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 03 Apr 2019 15:41:27 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[The Only Engagement Ring Vocabulary Guide You'll Need]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/engagement-ring-vocabulary-guide/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr"><span><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/49938460_10157107562709040_4115418872545280000_o.jpg" width="600" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Finding your perfect engagement ring doesn't have to be overwhelming. While we recognize the vocabulary around cut, color, style, and more can sometimes feel more like a lesson in terminology than picking out a meaningful piece of jewelry, we are here to make the engagement ring shopping process easier&mdash; and therefore more enjoyable&mdash; for you.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>If you've ever felt lost when talking with a jeweler or doing engagement ring research, this vocabulary guide is for you. Save this handy guide so you'll never doubt again when finding the perfect ring for your partner.</span></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>The Only Engagement Ring Vocabulary Guide You'll Need</span></h2>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>The Diamond</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>4Cs</span><span>: Acronym standing for cut, color, clarity and carat&mdash; these are the top four characteristics to look for when purchasing a diamond.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Accent diamonds:</span><span> Diamonds that surround or enhance the main diamond; they are typically smaller in size than the main diamond.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Crown:</span><span> Top half of a diamond.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Halo:</span><span> Ring of diamonds or stones surrounding a center diamond or stone.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Pavilion</span><span>: Lower half of a diamond.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Scintillations:</span><span> Sparkles in a diamond that are seen as the diamond moves under a light.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Table:</span><span> Flat surface that is the uppermost part of a diamond; it is calculated by dividing the width of the table by the width of the diamond.</span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>The Diamond Cut</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Asscher cut:</span><span> Square shaped diamond with a high crown, step facets, and a small table.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Cushion cut:</span><span> Square cut diamond with rounded edges and the third most popular diamond cut.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Emerald cut:</span><span> Rectangular shaped with small, rounded edges and a large, open table.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>European cut:</span><span> Antique diamond cut created before the precision created by modern technology was available.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Heart cut:</span><span> Diamond in the shape of a heart typically found in solitaire settings.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Marquise cut:</span><span> Long and narrow diamond-shaped similarly to a football. It&rsquo;s best set with prongs on each end to protect the points from chipping.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Oval cut:</span><span> A unique take on a round diamond. Oval-shaped stones come in a variety of widths ranging from slim to wide.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Pear cut:</span><span> Combination of a round and a marquise shape diamond available in a variety of narrow to wide sizes.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Princess cut:</span><span>The second most popular diamond cut, below round and above cushion. The cut has a square or rectangular shape when viewed from above, and from the side is similar to that of an inverted pyramid with four beveled sides.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Radiant cut:</span><span> Square or rectangular diamond with minimal curved edges similar to an emerald shape.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Round cut:</span><span> Circular-shaped diamond. It&rsquo;s &nbsp;the most common shape for engagement rings.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Trillion cut</span><span>: Triangular shaped diamond, often used as side stones to frame a square diamond.</span></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>The Ring Style</span></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Art deco:</span><span> Rings created during or inspired by the art deco era from 1920 to 1935, known for bold line and geometric shapes.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Baguette:</span><span> Meaning &ldquo;long rod&rdquo; in French, the baguette cut features long, clean lines, and is typically used in side stones.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Band:</span><span> Ring that tends to accompany an engagement ring. Can be made of a precious metal, alloys, and/or include stones.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Bezel:</span><span> Metal that completely surrounds the diamond or featured gemstone. A half bezel is the term used when half of the stone is framed by metal. Bezel ring settings are stronger and more protective than prong settings.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Colored diamond:</span><span> Natural and dyed color diamonds. Popular diamond color options include yellow, pink, blue, chocolate and black.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Colored gemstone:</span><span> Engagement rings featuring a colored gemstone stone ranging in a variety of colors. Popular gemstone options are sapphire and ruby.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Halo:</span><span> Ring featuring a center stone that&rsquo;s surrounded by a circle of stones. Engagement rings can have more than one halo, referred to as a double halo if two circles of gemstones encircle one center stone.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Hand-crafted</span><span>: Ring that&rsquo;s been made by hand instead of the casing process of filling a mold. It&rsquo;s shaped by hand by the jeweler.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Pav&eacute;</span><span>: Setting of stones where they&rsquo;re placed close together so as to avoid seeing metal in between the stones.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Side Stones</span><span>: Ring featuring a main stone and surrounded by smaller stones. Can also be referred to as a three-stone ring or a halo.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Solitaire</span><span>: An engagement ring with a single, solitary center stone.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Tension set:</span><span> Gemstone is held in place by metal on either side, thus creating tension.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Three-Stone:</span><span> Ring featuring three stones, typically three diamonds or a diamond centered between two other stones. Known to celebrate a couple's past, present, and future together.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Unique shank</span><span>: Engagement ring with an individualized lower part that goes around the finger, also known as a shank.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Vintage or Vintage-Inspired</span><span>: These are classic-style engagement rings typically created, or modeled after, jewelry from the early 1900s or earlier. An antique engagement ring is technically defined as being over fifty years old.</span></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>The Metal</span></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span>14k gold:</span><span> Made of 14 parts gold and 10 parts other metals or alloys.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>18k gold:</span><span> Made of 18 parts gold and 6 parts other metals.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>24k gold:</span><span> Pure gold. The softest gold, as gold gets softer the purer it is.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Alloy</span><span>: A mixture of two or more metals mixed together.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Gold plated:</span><span> Thin, almost microscopic layer of pure gold used to coat another type of metal.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Platinum:</span><span> Precious metal with a silvery white color and shine.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Rose gold:</span><span> An alloy of gold tinted with copper to create a rosy tone. The deeper the pink color, the more copper there is in the alloy.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>White gold:</span><span> Yellow gold mixed with a white alloy.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span><span id="docs-internal-guid-d5ae4951-7fff-7b5f-e36a-97a0faf223c8"><span>Yellow gold:</span><span> The color of pure gold, yellow gold gets darker or changes color the more alloys are mixed with it. </span></span></span></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">Let us help you find the perfect wedding bands for your 2019 or 2020 wedding at our Huntington Beach showroom, or browse a selection online&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/wedding-bands.html">here</a>.&nbsp;</h3>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 01 Mar 2019 16:37:00 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[How to Drop Hints for Valentine's Day]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/how-to-hint-valentines-day/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr"><span><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/valentine-candy-hearts-conversation-sweet-37532.jpeg" width="600" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Does your partner tend to feel lost when it comes what to get you for holidays, anniversaries, and other special occasions? </span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>There's no need for him to spend hours searching for the perfect gift or to seek out an overpriced bouquet of flowers at the last minute to make Valentine's Day special. From direct to more subtle, we are sharing our top tips to help him figure out what you really want for Valentine&rsquo;s Day.</span></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>Show And Tell</span></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span>If you&rsquo;re browsing on your phone and come across something you like (jewelry, a restaurant, or activity you can do together), don&rsquo;t be afraid to show it to him. While you're at it, ask him his opinion on it, too!</span></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>Turn to Pinterest</span></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span>While you are pinning your Valentine's Day outfit ideas, why not also create a board for Valentine&rsquo;s Day gift ideas? If he is active on Pinterest, he will most likely see it on his own. If you want to be more straightforward, create a board titled &ldquo;Valentine&rsquo;s Day Gift Ideas&rdquo; and share it with him.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/22459293_10155917438229040_2470483695780553388_o.jpg" width="600" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>Window Shop</span></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span>If you happen to shop together, point out a few things you particularly. You might be surprised to find that your significant other is paying a lot more attention than it seems.</span></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>Walk Down Memory Lane</span></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Has your partner knocked it out of the park on a previous Valentine&rsquo;s Day or another occasion? Bring up how much that meant to you&mdash; and don't forget to include the specific parts that made it special, such as if he kept it a surprise, the restaurant you went to, a gift he gave you. This might inspire duplicate success!</span></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>Give Them an Early Gift</span></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span>If your partner is more forgetful or didn't pick up on the other hints, consider surprising him with your gift a few days before Valentine&rsquo;s Day. This sets the bar for what kind of gift you hope to receive, and reminds him that the holiday is around the corner!</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/29749482_1578746672194575_2318496909310085423_o.jpg" width="600" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>Tag Them</span></h2>
<p dir="ltr">Facebook and Instagram allow you to tag your significant other in any public post. Tag your partner on social posts that feature engagement ring styles, specific jewelry, or date ideas that you like. As Valentine&rsquo;s Day approaches, your significant other will have a digital copy of your favorite things. Find gift ideas on our Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/affinityjewelers/">here</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>Tell A Friend</span></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Whether it is an engagement ring, piece of jewelry, or date idea, people often consult their partner's friends for advice. Make sure your friends know what you want to make things easier for everyone is they ask!</span></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>Talk to Them </span></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Last but not least, there is always the option to be direct. If there&rsquo;s something you really want, tell them. Having an open conversation about gifts&mdash; including whether or not you&rsquo;re going to splurge on something or opt something small&mdash; can be helpful for both of you. </span></p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><br /><span>Let us help you find the perfect Valentine's Day gift at our Huntington Beach showroom, or browse a selection online&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop.html">here</a><span>.&nbsp;</span></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 05 Feb 2019 16:20:21 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Top 2019 Wedding Trends]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/top-2019-wedding-trends/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/pexels-photo-679568.jpeg" width="518" height="345" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p dir="ltr">Wedding trends are an exciting part of planning a big day&mdash; they suggest ways to add a unique twist to even the most traditional weddings. Here are five of the top wedding trends that we expect to sweep weddings of 2019.&nbsp;</p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span><br /></span><span>2019 Wedding Trends</span></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span><br /></span><strong>Regal bridal looks</strong><span><br /></span><span><br /></span><span>In the name of all things royal, expect a new wave of pageantry to enter bridal fashion. Brides in 2019 can expect regal capes, sleeves, and tiaras.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span><strong>Wedding vibes and themes</strong><br /><br />Most brides today are looking beyond simply picking wedding colors. Today's brides are envisioning entire wedding themes&mdash; a vibe or feeling for their guests to enjoy.</span><span><br /></span><span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span><br /></span><span><br /></span><strong>Smoke bomb exit</strong><span><br /></span><span><br /></span><span>An upgrade to a classic sparkler exit, smoke bombs are the new way to send the newlyweds off in color. Match the smoke to your wedding colors&mdash; or opt for a rainbow pattern for an all-out color display.</span><span><br /></span><span><br /></span><span><br /></span><span><br /></span><strong>Revamped registries</strong><span><br /></span><span><br /></span><span>With more couples getting married later in life, less couples are in need of the basic dishes and KitchenAid Mixer. In 2019, expect to see more personalized registries from honeymoon funds on.</span><span><br /></span><span><br /></span><span><br /></span><strong><br />Unique venues</strong><span><br /></span><span><br /></span><span>Couples are straying from traditional venues and embracing out-of-the-box wedding locations. Distilleries, raches, greenhouses, and breweries are gaining popularity as unique wedding venues.</span></p>
<p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">Let us help you find the perfect wedding bands for your 2019 wedding at our Huntington Beach showroom, or browse a selection online&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/wedding-bands.html">here</a>.&nbsp;</h3>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 02 Jan 2019 21:04:07 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[December's Blue Birthstones]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/december-blue-birthstones/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/pexels-photo-1178600.jpeg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>December is a busy month nestled between Thanksgiving and the new year&mdash; and with big holidays of its own&mdash; and it is also the birth month for people celebrating their birthday in the 12th month of the year. Those celebrating a birthday in December can expect a cooler birthday as the month has the shortest daylight hours and marks the beginning of winter. </span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>A few facts about December birthstones:</span></p>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr"><span>Fewer children are born in December than other months. December is part of a four month cycle between November and February where the birth rate worldwide drops, reflecting many couples' choice to avoid the holiday season when planing their pregnancies. </span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr"><span>December's Zodiac signs are Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21) and Capricorn (December 22 - January 19).</span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr"><span>December is also Universal Human Rights Month and National Read a New Book Month. </span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr"><span>December was the 10th month of the year until January and February were added to the front of the Roman calendar. </span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr"><span>Many celebrities celebrate a December birthday: Lucy Liu (12/2), Walt Disney (12/5), Larry Bird (12/7,) Frank Sinatra (12/12), Bob Barker (12/12), Taylor Swift (12/13), Jamie Foxx (12/13), Vanessa Hudgens (12/25), Ludwig van Beethoven (12/16), Samuel L. Jackson (12/21), Sir Isaac Newton (12/25) and Stan Lee (12/28). </span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr"><span>The birth flowers of December are narcissus and holly.</span></p>
</li>
<li dir="ltr">
<p dir="ltr"><span>December has three birthstones: Turquoise, Zircon and Tanzanite.</span></p>
</li>
</ul>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>More on December's three birthstones: </span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>TANZANITE</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/parade-design-fashion-r2865-o1-fs.html"><span><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Screen_Shot_2018-12-13_at_3.47.02_PM.png" width="446" height="454" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></a></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>A one-of-a-kind gemstone, Tanzanite is known for its exotic deep blue color with a rich overtone of purple. This popular blue gemstones comes in a variety of shapes, sizes and striking assortments of blue tones. Tanzanite was first discovered in 1967 in Tanzania, East Africa, and was added to the official birthstone list by the American Gem Trade Association in 2002. Tanzanite is also the suggested gemstone for the 24th wedding anniversary.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>TURQUOISE</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/island-rains-bold-simply-gem-stud-49288.html"><span><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Screen_Shot_2018-12-13_at_3.49.09_PM.png" width="456" height="423" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></a></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones has enjoyed worldwide popularity for centuries. A favorite of Egyptian Pharaohs and early Native Americans, this beautiful blue gemstone is believed to offer healing powers, promoting the wearer&rsquo;s status and wealth, protecting from evil and bringing good luck.</span></p>
<p></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>ZIRCON</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr">Zircon is best known as a bright blue gemstone, but it is also available in beautiful earth tones of green, dark red, yellow, brown, and orange. Popular in the Middle Ages, Zircon was said to aid in resting, bring prosperity and promote honor and wisdom in its owner. Other special properties include fighting evil and avoiding jealousy, protecting from insomnia and promoting happiness and self-satisfaction.</p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">Let us help you find the perfect December birthstone gift at our Huntington Beach showroom, or browse a selection online&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/jewelry.html">here</a>.&nbsp;</h3>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 13 Dec 2018 20:53:33 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Customer Appreciation Holiday Party]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/holidayparty2018/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 03 Dec 2018 11:20:41 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Spotlight on Solitaire Engagement Rings]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/solitaire-engagement-rings/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr">A solitaire engagement ring showcases the dazzling beauty of a single diamond. This engagement ring style is perfect for the bride who appreciates elegance and simplicity&mdash; and brides looking for a classic, traditional engagement ring. In a solitaire engagement ring, the diamond takes center stage, unlike a halo engagement ring or three-stone engagement ring. This engagement ring style is typically paired with a prong setting to maximize the sparkle.</p>
<p dir="ltr">A solitaire engagement ring setting is a perfect choice for any diamond shape, from round to pear to heart. This classic style can be personalized with metal colors, accent diamonds, and other details that will make an engagement ring one-of-a-kind. With a single center diamond, this ring style is a classic choice that never go out of style.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Our Favorite Solitaire Engagement Ring Settings at Affinity and Co. Jewelers:</h3>
<p></p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/tacori-engagement-rings-p100ps85x55fw_10.jpg" width="606" height="606" /></p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/tacori-engagement-rings-p104pr55fw_10.jpg" /></p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/tacori-engagement-rings-p104ov75x55fw_10.jpg" /></p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/tacori-engagement-rings-p100pr5fw_10.jpg" /></p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/tacori-engagement-rings-p104rd65fw_10.jpg" /></p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/tacori-engagement-rings-p104ec75x55fw_10.jpg" /></p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/tacori-engagement-rings-p100rd65fw_10.jpg" /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">Let us help you find the perfect solitaire engagement ring at our Huntington Beach showroom, or browse a selection online&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/engagement-rings.html">here</a>.&nbsp;</h3>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 01 Nov 2018 21:05:47 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[How to Find Her Perfect Wedding Band]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/how-to-wedding-band/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr"><span>Picking out wedding bands is often one of the last big to-do's before walking down the aisle. Your engagement ring says </span><span>yes </span><span>to getting engaged... your wedding bands say </span><span>yes </span><span>to forever.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The wedding band is the perfect opportunity to enhance that beautiful engagement ring and really show off your personal style. Wedding band options are more unique than ever. You are no longer limited to the classic thin, coordinating band. Now you have colors, shapes and multiple bands to consider!</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Affinity &amp; Co. Jewelers is proud to offer Huffington Beach-area couples the best in men's and women's wedding bands.&nbsp;<span>We offer many designs of men's wedding bands and women's wedding bands. We feature gold wedding bands, cobalt, palladium, platinum, silver, stainless steel or titanium wedding bands.&nbsp; You can also select from specific designer jewelers or specific wedding collections.</span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/TacoriPageArt_weddingbands.jpg" width="551" height="369" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>Four Things to Consider When Buying Her Wedding Band</span></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Think about function.</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr">If you are active or like to travel with minimal jewelry, you might like the option of wearing just your wedding band and leaving the engagement ring in the jewelry box. Consider a style that stands on its own so you have options that fit your lifestyle.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Choose your own look.</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Do you like the matching look or are you into something that stands on its own apart from your engagement ring? Contrasting engagement rings and wedding bands are on trend and create a look that's all your own. If you love rose or yellow gold but have a white gold engagement ring, you might appreciate the mixed metal look with your wedding band.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Play with numbers.</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The only thing better than one stunning wedding band is two! When creating a look that complements your engagement ring, two (or more!) bands might be perfect for you. Try on a pair matching bands stacked on either side of your engagement ring and see what you think!</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Consider color.</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr">We love the sparkle of white diamonds, but color is always invited to the party! Your wedding band can express your personal style or other things that are important to you like the birthstone of your partner or the month you will say "I do." The most commonly chosen colored stones in a wedding band are ruby, emerald and sapphire.</p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<h3 dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;">Visit our Huntington Beach showroom to view our complete engagement ring selection, or explore a collection online <a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/wedding-bands.html">here</a>.&nbsp;</h3>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 16 Oct 2018 18:03:00 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Girls Night Out Event Benefiting Project Self-Sufficiency]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/GirlsNightOut2018/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 16 Oct 2018 05:58:24 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[All About September's Sapphire Birthstone]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/sapphire-birthstone-jewelry/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Sapphire is the birthstone for those born in the month of September, although its popularity extends far past the ninth month of the year. Did you also know sapphire is also a traditional anniversary gift for four wedding anniversaries? Learn more about this beloved, royal blue stone below.&nbsp;</p>
<div>Popular since the Middle Ages, the sapphire is a classic favorite of royalty, clergy, celebrities and fine jewelry collectors. September's blue birthstone ranges in color, but medium to medium-dark blue hues are the most coveted.</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>Some of the most famous blue sapphire engagement rings were worn by Princess Diana, Kate Middleton, and Elizabeth Hurley.&nbsp;</div>
<p><strong>Sapphire Folklore<br /></strong>Folklore tells that sapphires will protect loved ones from envy and harm and grant the wearer spiritual enlightenment and inner peace. They are believed to offer healing properties for rheumatism, colic, and mental illness. Sapphires are also considered an antidepressant.</p>
<p><strong>Sapphires to Celebrate Anniversaries&nbsp;<br /></strong>For couples looking for a traditional anniversary gift, sapphires are given for the 5th, 23rd, 45th and 65th wedding anniversaries. Couples celebrating these milestone anniversaries might consider a sapphire anniversary band that can be worn with the bridal set.&nbsp;</p>
<div><strong>Sapphire Birthstone Jewelry&nbsp;<br /></strong></div>
<div>Sapphire jewelry is a meaningful gift for those who celebrate a September birthday&mdash; and anyone who loves this gorgeous gemstone!&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
<div><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/parade-design-engagement-ring-r2771-c1-fs2.html"><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Screen_Shot_2018-08-31_at_5.29.50_PM.png" width="466" height="512" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a></div>
<div></div>
<div><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/parade-design-fashion-p3033-p1-fs.html"><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Screen_Shot_2018-08-31_at_5.41.49_PM.png" width="440" height="511" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a></div>
<div></div>
<div><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/parade-design-fashion-bd3070a-sa.html"><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Screen_Shot_2018-08-31_at_5.31.01_PM.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="468" height="517" /></a></div>
<div></div>
<div><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/parade-design-fashion-bd3614a-sa.html"><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Screen_Shot_2018-08-31_at_5.42.53_PM.png" width="465" height="485" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a></div>
<div></div>
<div><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/simply-tacori-51810.html"><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Screen_Shot_2018-08-31_at_5.43.54_PM.png" width="448" height="368" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a></div>
<div></div>
<div></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">Shop our full collection of sapphire jewelry at our Huntington Beach showroom.&nbsp;</div>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 06 Sep 2018 21:26:36 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Jewelry Care Tips to Know]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/jewelry-care-tips-to-know/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr"><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/38674351_10156727334474040_6161025853334487040_o.jpg" width="512" height="512" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p dir="ltr">Your engagement ring is likely one of the most precious items you own&mdash; both in terms of sentimental and financial value. By simply incorporating a few precautions and maintenance habits now, you will ensure your engagement ring shines for years to come!</p>
<p dir="ltr">We are sharing &nbsp;key tips to kep your engagement ring as dazzling as the day you first put it on!&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<h4 dir="ltr">Clean your ring at home with mild solutions.</h4>
<p dir="ltr">Regularly wash your ring at home by soaking it in a mixture of warm water and mild dishwashing liquid for roughly 30 minutes before gently scrubbing it with a soft bristle toothbrush.</p>
<p dir="ltr">You can also clean metals and precious stones with baking soda with its mild, non-abrasive consistency that makes it perfect for cleaning. Simply pour a bit of baking soda into a bowl and mix it with a bit of warm water to create a soft paste. Take off your ring and use your fingers to gently rub the paste around the stone, the setting, and the ring. Rinse the ring in warm water and dry with a lint-free cloth.</p>
<h4 dir="ltr">Have a go-to safe spot.</h4>
<p dir="ltr">Whether you always take your ring off to sleep or shower, or if you only remove it when you really must, it's wise to have a designated spot for it. Whether you choose a specific area in your jewelry box, or a small dish on your dresser, having a go-to location will cut down on the chances of forgetting where you put it.&nbsp;</p>
<h4 dir="ltr">Consider adding an alternative ring to the mix.</h4>
<p dir="ltr">Many brides are choosing to rely on a &ldquo;backup ring.&rdquo; This ring is an alternate ring to your engagement ring that is often less valuable and can be worn without worry of it getting lost or damaged.</p>
<p dir="ltr">When you don't want to put your engagement ring at risk (a long day at the beach or gardening, for example), leave the real bling at home and opt for an alternative ring.</p>
<h4 dir="ltr">Avoid contact with harsh chemical residue.</h4>
<p dir="ltr">Chemicals from everyday products (not just harah cleaners&mdash; even the ones in perfume, sunscreen, and lotion) can add residue to the ring and diamond, which can cause potential damage. Make it a habit to remove your ring before applying products that may be made with harmful chemicals.</p>
<h4 dir="ltr">Restore shine to white gold and platinum.</h4>
<p dir="ltr">No matter what care you give your ring, every white gold ring will start to dull and a yellow hue will start to shine through. This is natural and unavoidable, but the gold&rsquo;s original sheen can be easily restored through a process called Rhodium plating.</p>
<p dir="ltr">While platinum rings do not need Rhodium treatments as platinum does not originally start off as yellow, those who want a shinier look to their platinum engagement ring can opt to have their platinum band plated for more shine.</p>
<h4 dir="ltr">Get insurance.</h4>
<p dir="ltr">As with any serious investment, it's wise to consider getting insurance for your engagement ring. While it might be emotionally difficult to ever have to replace your engagement ring, knowing you wouldn't have the financial upset if you ever did lose it can be more than worth it.&nbsp;</p>
<h4 dir="ltr">Schedule professional cleanings.</h4>
<p dir="ltr">Our jewelers are happy to give your engagement ring a thorough professional cleaning. Not only will we clean your ring, but we will examine it under magnification to make sure the prongs are secure, and to check for diamond fractures and loose stones. It is wise to have your ring professionally cleaned twice a year to maintain the structural integrity of your ring and keep it as dazzling as the first time you put it on.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Repair broken jewelry as soon as posssible.&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr">Do you need your jewelry inspected or repaired? Our master craftsmen will repair, clean, and polish your jewelry and timepieces&nbsp;on the premises. Our services include ring sizing, rhodium plating, soldering, clasp replacements, pearl restringing, prong repair, diamond and stone setting, and watch repair.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Learn more about jewelry repair by visting our Huntington Beach showroom, calling us at 714-596-3900,&nbsp;or visiting our website&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/services#jewelry-repair">HERE</a>.&nbsp;</strong></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 31 Aug 2018 21:24:02 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Tacori RoyalT Spotlight Event ]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/RoyalTSpotlight/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 28 Aug 2018 09:19:52 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Celebrate a July Birthday with Rubies]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/July-birthday-rubies/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr"><span>July is wonderful a month to celebrate a birthday! From summer getaways to 4th of July BBQ's, July is a fabulous month to be born. Nothing marks the passing of another year better than jewelry when your birthstone is the beautiful ruby! Ruby is the traditional birthstone for July, and there are other birthstones that are associated with the month of July including Onyx, Carnelian, and even Moonstone.</span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Screen_Shot_2018-06-26_at_4.02.22_PM.png" width="500" height="500" longdesc="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/parade-design-fashion-p2771-c1-wyfs2.html" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></h3>
<h3 dir="ltr">The Origin of Birthstones</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Have you ever wondered where the tradition of associating a certain birthstone with your birth month was born? Birthstones and their association to the Zodiac extends back to the twelve stones used in the Arron's breastplate mentioned in Exodus. However, the tradition is probably even far older. Adopted and further codified by Christians and related to a passage in Revelation; the association of birthstones with birth months continues in the West up to modern times. There are textual references to the association of certain stones with certain birth months from eighth century Poland and sixteenth century Germany. Exactly which stone represents which month was further refined in the 1870s and revised in 1912. For centuries stones have been associated with healing powers, luck and power&mdash; even more reasons birthstones are so popular.</p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Screen_Shot_2018-06-26_at_4.03.43_PM.png" width="500" height="500" longdesc="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/silver-bangle-14kt-gold-ruby-34mm-87980.html" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Some Interesting Facts About Rubies</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Rubies are a variety of the mineral called corundum and the line between pink sapphires and rubies is based on color rather than composition. Rubies have a Trigonal structure and the chemical name is Aluminum oxide. The hardness of a ruby is a 9. Rubies can be cut into a variety of different shapes, but brilliant cut and cabochon, also known as star rubies, are two of the most prized cuts for this fabulous, rare stone.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Screen_Shot_2018-06-26_at_4.05.00_PM.png" width="500" height="500" longdesc="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/parade-design-fashion-r3373-t1-fs.html" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>The Meaning of Rubies</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Rubies are red and luscious, alive and mysterious. From their deep color comes the associations and symbolism associated with this gem. Rubies represent power and love. They also represent passion and energy. According to Bishop Marbodius from the eleventh century, "Ruby is the solitary and glowing eye which dragons and wyverns carry in the middle of their foreheads."</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span></span></p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;">Shop ruby birthstone jewelry <a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/catalogsearch/result/?cat=0&amp;q=ruby">HERE</a>.&nbsp;</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 05 Jul 2018 20:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Top 10 Engagement Ring Myths ]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/top-10-engagement-ring-myths/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr"><span><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/teaser-main_1.jpg" /></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>If a proposal is in your future, there's a chance you have a few things you know about engagement rings. Whether it be the best size, the ideal shape, or the rules for budget, we all have ideas of what is right that we have picked up over time.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>An engagement ring is both an emotionally and financially&nbsp;big purchase, so of course it is a purchase you will want to get right. Just like purchasing a car or putting a down payment on a house, it's best to go into it informed.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>We've pulled together ten of the biggest engagement ring myths&mdash; and what is actually true&mdash; for discerning brides- and grooms-to-be.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>Top 10 Engagement Ring Myths</span></h2>
<h4 dir="ltr">A solitaire is a ring with a single round diamond.</h4>
<p dir="ltr">Solitaire comes from the word &lsquo;solo,&rsquo; meaning a single diamond when referring to an engagement ring. A solitaire ring can actually have any shape of center diamond. The only real standard for a solitaire engagement ring is that it has no additional diamonds on the band. You can absolutely have a heart shaped diamond solitaire engagement ring, for example!</p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>Diamonds are indestructible and can&rsquo;t be damaged.</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>While diamonds score a 10/10 on the Mohs Scale of hardness (meaning of all minerals, they&rsquo;re one of the hardest and most difficult to destruct), it&rsquo;s possible for a diamond to chip or crack if struck at the right angle with the right force. This is why it's a good idea to leave your ring in a safe place when working with your hands or playing hand-contact sports.</span></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>Platinum engagement ring settings are indestructible.</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Just like its white gold and yellow gold counterparts, your platinum engagement ring setting can be damaged through excessive wear or blunt force.&nbsp;</span></p>
<h4 dir="ltr">You have to spend XX% of your salary on the ring.</h4>
<p dir="ltr">We've heard it all: that you should spent two months pay, three months pay, and a certain percentage of your annual salary on an engagement ring. This is a myth; the best budget is the one you come up with and that feels comfortable in your own financial situation. Remember, you can always finance, or pay with credit card.&nbsp;</p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>Round diamonds appear the largest compared to other shapes.</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>While round diamonds have the potential to sparkle more than any other diamond shape, their symmetry also makes them appear slightly smaller in comparison to a fancy shaped diamond of the same carat weight.&nbsp;</span>The apparent size of any diamond, when viewed from the top down, can vary depending on the shape and size of the wearer&rsquo;s hand. This is why it's a great idea to try on different diamond shapes and setting styles when beginning your engagement ring search.</p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>The engagement ring and wedding band should match.</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Gone are the days of the engagement ring and wedding band having to be a perfect match (thankfully). There are endless opportunities to create your own unique look with a mix of metals and styles between your engagement ring and wedding band. If you really want to create a unique look, choose more than one wedding band for a stacked look.</span></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>An true engagement ring has a diamond center stone.</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>While we love a diamond engagement ring, emeralds, sapphires, and other gemstones are stealing center stage in some stunning engagement rings. Each gemstone has its own beautiful hue and meaning, so there is no need to feel like you have to choose a diamond when finding or creating your perfect engagement ring.</span></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>The setting is just a stage for the center diamond.</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>While your center stone might be more expensive than the setting, both combine to make the whole package. If you view an engagement ring setting as simply a stage for the diamond, you could be missing out on some beautiful details. Give thought to the setting as much as the center stone.</span></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>The engagement ring has to be a surprise.</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr"><span>While most couples still prefer a surprise proposal, discussing what she likes and dislikes in engagement rings&mdash; or even stopping by the showroom to try on rings together&mdash; will help ensure your partner will love the final ring you choose. Don't worry&mdash; the proposal will still be a surprise!</span></p>
<h4 dir="ltr"><span>Designing your own engagement ring is hard.</span></h4>
<p dir="ltr">While custom designing your engagement ring can be a tedious process, it can actually be very easy (and cost efficient!) to design the ring of your dreams. A custom, handcrafted piece of jewelry from Affinity &amp; Co. allows you the opportunity to create and design a one of a kind piece of jewelry that will become a part of you. Our designers give you the opportunity to create the jewelry piece of your dreams so you can be assured it will be exactly what you are looking for and enjoy for years to come. Learn more about custom design <a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/services/custom-design">HERE</a>.&nbsp;</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 26 Jun 2018 19:55:15 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[How to Find Her Engagement Ring Style ]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/find-her-engagement-ring-style/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr"><span>If you're planning on proposing to your partner soon, you'll want the perfect ring. You know, the ring she will post all over Instagram, look at far too often, and be proud to show off to her friends.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>While the options for engagement rings (diamond shape, ring style, gemstone choice, and size just to name a few things to consider!) can be overwhelming, it is totally possible to find the perfect ring she will love.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The first step is to find a ring that exemplifies her personal style. In doing this, you ensure she ends up with a ring that will compliment her lifestyle and that she will adore for a lifetime.</span></p>
<p>There are many ways to pick up on her style. Start paying more attention to the clothes she wears, the perfume she uses, the brands she loves, and her overall aesthetic to uncover her ideal jewelry style.</p>
<p></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>If She&rsquo;s Old Fashioned</span></h2>
<p><span><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/21688485_10156200247539040_7605960502792787918_o.jpg" width="437" height="437" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Soft and romantic, drawn towards all that is whimsical and nostalgic - perhaps she&rsquo;s a bit more old fashioned. She&rsquo;s likely an old soul who loves watching sunsets, reading novels, and collecting things from different eras. A glass of wine paired with a classic, black and white film is her idea of a romantic evening. If she&rsquo;s dreaming of an intimate ceremony with close family gathered around in a charming garden with her favorite flower tucked behind her ear and violins playing in the background - she&rsquo;s probably an old fashioned bride to be.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>For an old fashioned gal, think delicate pieces with an old world feel. A touch of floral design mixed with a soft pastel hue or warm tones are likely to match her style preferences. Think feminine and romantic and vintage inspired.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>If She&rsquo;s Classic</span></h2>
<p><span><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/32482903_10156513117324040_3468135754503290880_o.jpg" width="436" height="436" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>There are tons of new and emerging trends in the world of bridal jewelry, but you might find that you&rsquo;ve fallen for a women who&rsquo;s a bit more traditional. If you&rsquo;re bride to be is a bit more classic, chances are she enjoys the simpler things in life. She&rsquo;s chic, but not flashy, refined and elegant. She knows that simple does not have to be boring. If she&rsquo;s dreaming of a white wedding, complete with family, friends, and all the tried and true traditions - she&rsquo;s probably a classic bride to be.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>When shopping for her engagement ring, think simple yet beautiful, more modest and understated designs. Focus on rings with classic solitaire settings or prominent round or square cut diamonds in the center of a simple silhouette cast in white or yellow gold.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>If She&rsquo;s Modern</span></h2>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/30715360_10156442893609040_4541038079900647424_o.jpg" width="445" height="445" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></h2>
<h2 dir="ltr"></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span>A modern woman is trendy and isn&rsquo;t afraid to stand out in the crowd. She enjoys spontaneous adventures and knows how to make any day memorable. She&rsquo;s into big, bold fashions that breakaway from the norm. If she&rsquo;s dreaming of a destination wedding, a quick flight to a fun place, the more unexpected the better - she&rsquo;s probably a modern bride to be.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>For a Modern bride to be, think interesting shapes, bold colors, and fun designs - jewelry that makes a statement. Geometric patterns, dual-tones, loud colors, and unique features. Consider fun rings that incorporate asymmetric features, vibrant hues, and unexpected details.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>If She&rsquo;s a Creative</span></h2>
<p><span><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/31306726_10156459954419040_183605711555526656_o.jpg" width="449" height="449" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Fun, quirky, colorful... if her style is ever-changing, bold and bright, there's a good chance she's a creative. She is a unique gal who craves something out-of-the-box. She enjoys trying the latest restaurant and setting out for a drive without a map. Her perfect wedding includes a fun venue like a rooftop bar, a backyard, or the beach. While she thinks traditional engagement rings are pretty, her heart really craves special details that makes it all her own.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr">For the creative woman, look at colorful gemstones and less common shapes. Warm rose gold or a two-tone design would add an extra detail for the creative bride-to-be. &nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<p dir="ltr"></p>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;">And remember, no matter her personal style, we have the perfect ring for your bride to be. Shop all these engagement ring styles at our Huntington Beach showroom, or explore styles online <a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/designers/tacori.html">HERE</a>.</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 30 May 2018 19:51:10 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[May’s enchanting birthstone Emerald]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/Emerald/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p></p>
<p>May is bursting with greens when spring arrives and the foliage awakes from it&rsquo;s winter sleep. Appropriately, the May birthstone Emerald, comes in an array of greens.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/">Affinity &amp; Co. Jewelers</a>&nbsp;carries a large selection of stunning Emerald jewelry. Treat your May birthday love to a custom jewelry piece with their beautiful birthstone or find that special sparkling Mother&rsquo;s Day gift for your mom.&nbsp; Discover fun facts about this gorgeous precious gem below.</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/80151-690x460-polished-emerald.jpg" alt="Emerald May Birthstone" /></p>
<p></p>
<ul>
<li>Emeralds are one of the four most recognized precious gemstones, the others being diamond, ruby and sapphire.</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li>Emeralds are beryl just like the gems Aquamarine. The deep green color defines the classification of Emerald. The best color is vivid green or blueish green.</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li>Used as a healing crystal Emerald brings loyalty and provides for domestic bliss. It enhances unconditional love, unity and promotes friendship. Keeps partnerships in balance and can signal unfaithfulness if it changes color. Emerald stimulates the heart chakra, having a healing effect on the emotions as well as the&nbsp;physical&nbsp;heart.</li>
</ul>
<p></p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/214770-690x460-emerald-crystal-cluster.jpg" alt="Emerald rough" /></p>
<p></p>
<ul>
<li>It is extremely rare to find an Emerald without flaws. Some top quality Emeralds can be more expensive than diamonds.</li>
</ul>
<p></p>
<ul>
<li>An emerald pendant necklace owned by Elizabeth Taylor sold for $6.5 million in 2011, breaking down to about $280,000 paid per&nbsp;carat.</li>
</ul>
<p></p>
<ul>
<li>50% of Emeralds world wide come from Columbia. Other countries that mine Emeralds are Russia, Brazil, Madagascar and Zambia</li>
</ul>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p style="padding-left: 30px;">GIA has more interesting Emerald facts here:&nbsp; <a href="http://4cs.gia.edu/en-us/blog/may-birthstone-emerald/">http://4cs.gia.edu/en-us/blog/may-birthstone-emerald/</a></p>
<p style="padding-left: 30px;">Pictures: GIA.edu</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 08 May 2018 16:17:05 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Mother's Day Jewelry Gift Guide]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/mothers-day-gift-guide/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Moms deserve recognition and thanks every day, but Mother's Day is a good excuse to simply spoil them! Mother's Day falls on Sunday, May 13th, this year, so you still have some time to prepare!</p>
<p>Whether you are shopping for your own mom, picking out the perfect gift for the mother of your children, or making a wish ist for yourself, we have Mother's Day gifts she will love&mdash; and in every price range, so you have plenty of room leftover for brunch and flowers.</p>
<p></p>
<h2><span>For the Trendy Mom</span></h2>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/29354726_1578892585513317_8845003546448529262_o.png" width="495" height="516" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>Gift the trendy mom earrings, a necklace, a bracelet, or a ring in beautiful earthy tones. These moonstone earrings are a beautiful, neutral piece that she can wear any day of the week!&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><span>For the Trendy Mom&nbsp;</span></h2>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/26196174_10156160398024040_9030924367213427603_n.jpg" width="512" height="512" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>Her jaw will hit the floor when you surprise her with a gemstone diamond band from Tacori or any one of our stunning designers. A band can be worn on its own or stacked with other rings, including her engagement ring! Stop in to explore bands in every price range, color, and shape.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><span>For the Classic Mom</span></h2>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/29749482_1578746672194575_2318496909310085423_o.jpg" width="510" height="510" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>For the woman who loves style but isn't a fan of too much jewelry, a simple diamond or gemstone pendant is the perfect gift she will wear all year! These blooming beauties are Tacori.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><span>For the Stylish Mom</span></h2>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/29684192_1578776745524901_3084105213563446627_n.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>Surprise the minimalist mom with colorfil, chic she will adore, like these Charles Garnier Paris bangles. We have the perfect necklaces, rings, bracelets, and earrings she will love.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span>Stop by our Huntington Beach showroom to see our full collections, or browse gift ideas online&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/jewelry.html">HERE</a><span>.</span></h3>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 25 Apr 2018 19:15:52 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Hand and Hand with Matching Bands Tacori Special Event]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/TacoriMatchingBandsSpecialEvent/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><strong>TACORI Special Event</strong></p>
<p><strong></strong><br /><strong>Hand in Hand with Matching Bands</strong><br /><span>Over 200 Wedding Band sets and Fashion Bands for you both to try on.</span><br /><br /><span>One Weekend Only!</span><br /><span>April 27th - 29th</span><br /><br /><span>Call to make your appointment today</span><br /><span>714-596-3900</span><br /><br /><span>Join us for Mimosas &amp; Light Hors D&rsquo;Oeuvres</span><br /><span>Receive a Tacori jewelry dish for attending the event</span><span class="text_exposed_show"><br />Enter to win a diamond Tacori necklace (valued at $900) with purchase<br />Prepaid Visa Card with purchase:<br />$300 on $2500+ purchase<br />$500 on $5000+ purchase<br />$750 on $7500+ purchase<br />Special 0% Financing available</span></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 11 Apr 2018 04:29:41 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Martini Madness Recap]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/martini-madness-recap/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Martini_Madness__13_1_.jpg" width="893" height="670" /></p>
<p><strong>On March 22, 2018, we hosted our annual Martini Madness fundraiser and jewelry sales event!</strong></p>
<p>We had a blast partnering with Assistance League of Huntington Beach, and raising money to help support their great cause.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Here are a few pictures from the event!</p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Martini_Madness__10_1_.jpg" width="891" height="668" /></p>
<p>Our bartender did a great job supplying delicious martinis throughout the evening.&nbsp;</p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Martini_Madness__6_1_.jpg" width="892" height="669" /></p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Martini_Madness__19_1_.jpg" width="892" height="669" /></p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Martini_Madness__20_1_.jpg" width="892" height="669" /></p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Martini_Madness__16_1_.jpg" width="960" height="720" /></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Martini_Madness__18_1_.jpg" width="984" height="738" /></p>
<p>We had so much fun, and want to thank everyone for coming out to our event! We are already looking forward to next year's Martini Madness!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>If you are interested in one of our hand-painted martini glasses, or any of our other jewelry pieces, then schedule a private viewing by clicking below or calling 714-596-3900.</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/schedule-private-viewing?utm_button=schedule_private_viewing" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Schedule-Appointment-Button.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 02 Apr 2018 21:18:53 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[7 Steps to Care for Your Engagement Ring]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/clean-engagement-ring/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/tacori_img2.jpg" width="541" height="350" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>Do you remember the moment he proposed?</p>
<p>Do you remember how sparkling your engagement ring was?</p>
<p>More than likely, your engagement ring is one of the most precious items you own. By setting into motion just a few habits now, you can make sure your engagement ring continues to shine like the day you first got it!&nbsp;</p>
<h4>Here are seven key tips to keeping your engagement ring as dazzling as the very first day:&nbsp;</h4>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><b>Clean at home with mild solutions.</b></h3>
<p>Regularly wash your ring at home by soaking it in a mixture of warm water and mild dishwashing liquid for roughly 30 minutes before gently scrubbing it with a soft bristle toothbrush.</p>
<p>You can also clean metals and precious stones with baking soda with its mild, non-abrasive consistency that makes it perfect for cleaning . Simply pour a bit of baking soda into a bowl and mix it with a bit of warm water to create a soft paste. Take off your ring and use your fingers to gently rub the paste around the stone, the setting, and the ring. Rinse the ring in warm water and dry with a lint-free cloth.</p>
<p></p>
<h3><b>Consider an alternative ring.</b></h3>
<p>Many brides are choosing to rely on a &ldquo;backup ring.&rdquo; This ring is an alternate ring to your engagement ring that is often less valuable and can be worn without worry of it getting lost or damaged.&nbsp;</p>
<p>When you don't want to put your engagement ring at risk (a long day at the beach or gardening, for example),&nbsp;leave the real bling at home and opt for an alternative ring.&nbsp;</p>
<p><b>&nbsp;</b></p>
<h3><b>Have a go-to safe spot.</b></h3>
<p>Whether you always take your ring off to sleep or shower, or if you only remove it when you really must, it's wise to have a designated spot for it. Whether you choose a specific area in your jewelry box, or a small dish on your dresser, having a go-to location will cut down on the chances of forgetting where you put it.&nbsp;</p>
<p></p>
<h3><b>Avoid harsh chemical residue.</b></h3>
<p>Chemicals from everyday products ( like the ones in perfume, sunscreen, and lotion) can add residue to the ring and diamond, which can cause potential damage. Make it a habit to remove your ring before applying products that may be made with harmful chemicals.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><b>Get insurance.</b></h3>
<p>As with any serious investment, it's wise to consider getting insurance for your engagement ring. While it might&nbsp;be emotionally difficult to ever have to replace your engagement ring, knowing you wouldn't have the financial upset if you ever did lose it can be more than worth it.</p>
<p></p>
<h3><b>Restore shine to white gold and platinum.</b></h3>
<p>No matter what care you give your ring, every white gold ring will start to dull and a yellow hue will start to shine through. This is natural and unavoidable, but the&nbsp;gold&rsquo;s original sheen can be easily restored through a process called Rhodium plating.</p>
<p>While platinum rings do not need Rhodium treatments as platinum does not originally start off as yellow, those who want a shinier look to their platinum engagement ring can opt to have their platinum band plated for more shine.</p>
<p></p>
<h3><b>Schedule professional cleanings.</b></h3>
<p>Our jewelers at here at Affinity and Co. are happy to give your engagement ring a thorough professional cleaning. Not only will we clean your ring, but we will examine it under magnification to make sure the prongs are secure, and to check for diamond fractures and loose stones. It is wise to have your ring&nbsp;professionally cleaned twice a year to maintain the structural integrity of your ring and keep it as dazzling as the day you first saw it.&nbsp;</p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 27 Mar 2018 19:39:53 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[March Martini Madness]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/march-martini-madness/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Affinity---March-Madness---Hero-Image.png" alt="March Madness - Jewelry " title="March Madness - Jewelry " /></p>
<p>March Madness has begun and it's time for Affinity &amp; Co. Jewelers&rsquo; annual March <i>Martini</i> Madness!</p>
<p>What?&nbsp; Our<strong> Annual Martini Fundraiser and Jewelry Sales Event</strong></p>
<p>When?&nbsp; Thursday, March 22<sup>nd</sup>&nbsp;from 4:00 to 7:00 PM</p>
<p>Where?&nbsp; Our Huntington Beach location (<a href="https://www.google.co.in/maps/place/18575+Main+St,+Huntington+Beach,+CA+92648,+USA/@33.6935228,-117.9937332,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x80dd26c6d280c967:0xe124a8ea46ee1eeb!8m2!3d33.6935184!4d-117.9915445" target="_blank">18575 Main Street, Huntington Beach, CA</a>)</p>
<p>We have partnered with<strong> Assistance League of Huntington Beach</strong>, to help raise money and support their great cause!</p>
<p>Assistance League is a local organization that uses the money they collect to give back to the community by helping families in need, single moms, children, and schools. &nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>10% of all sales will be donated to Assistance League.</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/ASL.jpg" alt="Assistance League of Huntington Beach" title="Asssitance League of Huntington Beach" /></strong></p>
<p></p>
<p>Featuring our new line of <strong>hand-painted martini glasses</strong> and giving them away every hour!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Martini-Glasses.jpg" alt="Jewelry Martini Glass" title="Jewelry Appointment" /></p>
<p></p>
<p>Back by popular demand - our <strong>March Madness Discount Game</strong>!</p>
<p>Earn up to 20% off and show off your basketball skills!&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Basketball--2.jpg" alt="Jewelry Contest" title="Jewelry Contest" /></p>
<p>Refreshments will be served, so come join us for this special <strong>FUN</strong>draising event!&nbsp;</p>
<p>If you have already had the chance of browsing our selection and would like to schedule a "private viewing" of a particular piece of jewelry, please c<span>lick below or call&nbsp;</span><a href="tel:7145963900">714-596-3900</a>.<span><br /></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/schedule-private-viewing?utm_button=schedule_private_viewing" title="Schedule Appointment"><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Schedule-Appointment-Button.png" alt="Schedule Private Viewing" title="Schedule Private Viewing" /></a></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 16 Mar 2018 20:09:06 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Band]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/weddingbandguide/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>If you recently became engaged, it is now time to find your perfect wedding band! There are as many wedding band options as there are engagement rings&mdash; and even more when you consider the combination your wedding band will make alongside your engagement ring.</p>
<p>Your wedding band can simply complement your engagement ring, or it can be a standout piece on its own. Some women even prefer to leave their engagement ring at home and only wear their wedding band for certain events.</p>
<p>Affinity &amp; Co. Jewelers is proud to offer Newport Beach and surrounding areas a large selection of gold and diamond wedding bands. Here are a few different styles and tips to consider when shopping for your wedding bands.</p>
<p></p>
<h3>Consider a classic diamond eternity band.&nbsp;</h3>
<p>Women who love their solitaire engagement ring might especially love the option of a diamond eternity wedding band. With continuous diamonds all around, this option provides maximum shine and instantly upgrades a simple engagement ring.&nbsp;</p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/24131930_10156049737374040_7308182563157108556_o.jpg" width="448" height="448" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p></p>
<h3>Choose a band that contrasts your engagement ring.&nbsp;</h3>
<p>If you love rose gold or gemstones but didn't include that in your engagement ring, a contrasting wedding band might be perfect for you. Consider a different metal or a gemstone that reflects your favorite color, birthstone, or anniversary stone.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/26196174_10156160398024040_9030924367213427603_n.jpg" width="448" height="448" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p></p>
<h3>Go for a simple band that allows your engagement ring to shine.</h3>
<p>A simple gold or platinum wedding band provides a simple backdrop to allow your engagement ring to truly shine.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/22459293_10155917438229040_2470483695780553388_o_1.jpg" width="448" height="448" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p></p>
<h3>Try on something totally unexpected.&nbsp;</h3>
<p>If traditional wedding bands don't live up to what you envision, consider something out of the box. Try on a wedding band with unexpected details that will perfectly reflect your style.&nbsp;</p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/27709380_10156224763524040_527348773866748531_o.jpg" width="444" height="444" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">Shop Affinity and Co. Jewelers wedding bands <a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/bridal/wedding-bands.html">here</a>.&nbsp;</h3>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 21 Feb 2018 22:20:15 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[When should you get married in 2018, 2019, or 2020?]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/get-married-date-2018-2019-2020/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<h2><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/pexels-photo-313707.jpeg" width="629" height="419" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></h2>
<h2>When should you get married in&nbsp;2018, 2019, or&nbsp;2020?</h2>
<div id="div-gpt-ad-slimcut-1514035803411" data-google-query-id="CJeFrPWeoNgCFcESgQodlUkKbw">After the celebrations of an&nbsp;engagement settle down, most couples choose their wedding date before any other wedding planning.&nbsp;When you decide to get married can impact how many of your guest list will be able to come and what you will pay for your venue and services.</div>
<div class="row text-center">&nbsp;</div>
<div class="row text-center">Of course there are obvious dates to consider when considering a wedding date:</div>
<ul>
<li class="row text-center">The birth date of you, your significant other, and your immediate families</li>
<li class="row text-center">Any pre-scheduled major events such as family reunions</li>
<li class="row text-center">Any expected upcoming moves or job changes</li>
</ul>
<p>Other than personal dates to consider, here are some key wedding dates you might want to avoid or simply look into more before booking:</p>
<div class="row text-center">&nbsp;</div>
<h3>Religious and Cultural Holidays</h3>
<p>Your house of worship may be unavailable during these key religious and cultural holidays.</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Palm Sunday</strong></p>
<p>March 25, 2018</p>
<p>April 14, 2019</p>
<p>April 5, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Easter Sunday</strong></p>
<p>April 1, 2018</p>
<p>April 21, 2019</p>
<p>April 12, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Passover (begins at sunset)</strong></p>
<p>Friday, March 30, 2018</p>
<p>Friday, April 19, 2019</p>
<p>Wednesday, April 8, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Tisha B'Av&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>Saturday, July 21, 2018</p>
<p>Saturday, August 10, 2019</p>
<p>Wednesday, July 29, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Rosh Hashanah&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>Sunday, September 9, 2018 until nightfall on Tuesday,&nbsp;September 11, 2018</p>
<p>Sunday, September&nbsp;29, 2019 until nightfall on Tuesday, October 1, 2019</p>
<p>Friday, September 18, 2020 until nightfall on Sunday, September 20, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Yom Kippur&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>Tuesday, September 18, 2018 until nightfall on Wednesday, September 19, 2018</p>
<p>Tuesday,&nbsp;October 8, 2019 until nightfall on Wednesday,&nbsp;October 9, 2019</p>
<p>Sunday, September 27, 2020 until nightfall on Monday, September 28, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Hanukkah (begins at sunset)</strong></p>
<p>Sunday,&nbsp;December 2, 2018 until Monday, December 10, 2018</p>
<p>Sunday,&nbsp;December 22, 2019 until Monday,&nbsp;December 30, 2019</p>
<p>Thursday, December 10, 2020 until Friday, December 18, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Christmas</strong></p>
<p>Tuesday, December 25, 2018</p>
<p>Wednesday, December 25, 2019</p>
<p>Friday, December 25, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Kwanzaa&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>Tuesday, December 26, 2017&nbsp;until Monday, January 1, 2018</p>
<p>Wednesday, December 26, 2018&nbsp;until Tuesday, January 1, 2019</p>
<p>Thursday,&nbsp;December 26, 2019 until Wednesday,&nbsp;January 1, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Ramadan&nbsp;(dates may vary based on the lunar calendar)</strong></p>
<p>Tuesday,&nbsp;May 15&nbsp;until&nbsp;Thursday,&nbsp;June 14, 2018</p>
<p>Sunday,&nbsp;May 5 until&nbsp;Tuesday,&nbsp;June 4, 2019</p>
<p>Thursday, April 23 until Saturday, May 23, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Eid al-Fitr (dates may vary based on the lunar calendar)</strong></p>
<p>Thursday, June 14&nbsp;until Friday, June 15, 2018</p>
<p>Tuesday,&nbsp;June 4&nbsp;until Friday, June 7, 2019</p>
<p>Saturday, May 23 until Sunday, May 24, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Eid al-Adha (dates may vary based on how each family observes)</strong></p>
<p>Beginning Tuesday, August 21, 2018</p>
<p>Beginning Sunday,&nbsp;August 11, 2019</p>
<p>Beginning Thursday, July 30, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Ram Navami</strong></p>
<p>Monday, March 26, 2018</p>
<p>Sunday,&nbsp;April 14, 2019</p>
<p>Thursday, April 2, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Krishna Janmashtami</strong></p>
<p>Monday, September 3, 2018</p>
<p>Saturday,&nbsp;August 24, 2019</p>
<p>Tuesday, August 11, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<h3><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/engagementrings_img1.jpg" width="491" height="319" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></h3>
<h3>Holiday Weekends to Consider</h3>
<p>Holiday weekends usually mean people have time off work and can travel. They might have standing holiday plans, and your top venues and service providers might have limited availability or holiday pricing over these weekends.</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Martin Luther King Jr. Day (always a Monday)</strong></p>
<p>Weekend of January 13&ndash;15, 2018</p>
<p>Weekend of January 19&ndash;21, 2019</p>
<p>Weekend of January 18&ndash;20, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Presidents' Day (always a Monday)</strong></p>
<p>Weekend of February 17&ndash;19, 2018</p>
<p>Weekend of February 16&ndash;18, 2019</p>
<p>Weekend of February 15&ndash;17, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Mother's Day (always a Sunday)&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>Weekend of May 12&ndash;13, 2018</p>
<p>Weekend of May 11&ndash;12, 2019</p>
<p>Weekend of May 9&ndash;10, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Memorial Day (always a Monday)</strong></p>
<p>Weekend of May 26&ndash;28, 2018</p>
<p>Weekend of May 25&ndash;27, 2019</p>
<p>Weekend of May 23&ndash;25, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Father's Day (always a Sunday)&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>Weekend of June 16&ndash;17, 2018</p>
<p>Weekend of June 15&ndash;16, 2019</p>
<p>Weekend of June 20&ndash;21, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Independence Day</strong></p>
<p>Wednesday, July 4, 2018</p>
<p>Thursday, July 4, 2019</p>
<p>Saturday, July 4, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Labor Day (always a Monday)</strong></p>
<p>Weekend of September 1&ndash;3, 2018</p>
<p>Weekend of August 31&ndash;September 2, 2019</p>
<p>Weekend of September 5&ndash;7, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Columbus Day (always a Monday)</strong></p>
<p>Weekend of October 6&ndash;8, 2018</p>
<p>Weekend of October 12&ndash;14, 2019</p>
<p>Weekend of October 10&ndash;12, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Halloween&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>Wednesday, October 31, 2018</p>
<p>Thursday, October 31, 2019</p>
<p>Saturday, October 31, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Thanksgiving (always a Thursday)</strong></p>
<p>November 22, 2018</p>
<p>November 28, 2019</p>
<p>November 26, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>New Year's Eve</strong></p>
<p>Monday, December 31, 2018</p>
<p>Tuesday, December 31, 2019</p>
<p>Thursday, December 31, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/teaser-main_1.jpg" /></p>
<h3>Days of Remembrance</h3>
<p>These days of remembrance might make your event more meaningful, or you might decide they are better to avoid altogether.</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Patriot Day</strong></p>
<p>Tuesday, September 11, 2018</p>
<p>Wednesday,&nbsp;September 11, 2019</p>
<p>Friday, September 11, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day</strong></p>
<p>Friday, December 7, 2018</p>
<p>Saturday,&nbsp;December 7, 2019</p>
<p>Monday, December 7, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/17991343_1259493680786544_532294103447226928_o.jpg" width="515" height="515" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<h3>Major Sporting Events</h3>
<p>In case you, your partner, or any VIPs on your guest list are die-hard sports fans, consider the timing of these major sporting events.</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Super Bowl Sunday</strong></p>
<p>February 4, 2018, in Minneapolis, MN</p>
<p>February 3, 2019, in Atlanta, GA</p>
<p>February 2, 2020, in Miami, FL</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Final Four During March Madness</strong></p>
<p>Saturday, March 31, 2018 and Monday, April 2, 2018</p>
<p>Saturday, April 6,&nbsp;2019 and Monday, April 8, 2019</p>
<p>Saturday, April 4, 2020 and Monday, April 6, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<h3><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/15975168_1172608089475104_5934425486110999474_o.jpg" width="516" height="516" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></h3>
<h3>Traditionally Unlucky Days</h3>
<p>Test your superstition when considering the unlucky and superstitious&nbsp;dates.</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>The Ides of March&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>Thursday, March 15, 2018</p>
<p>Friday, March 15, 2019</p>
<p>Sunday, March 15, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>Friday the 13th&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>April 13, 2018</p>
<p>July 13, 2018</p>
<p>September 13, 2019</p>
<p>December 13, 2019</p>
<p>March 13, 2020</p>
<p>November 13, 2020</p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/22459293_10155917438229040_2470483695780553388_o.jpg" width="489" height="489" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<h3>Traditionally Lucky Days</h3>
<p><strong>Leap Years&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>Legend has it that leap years bring good luck, so this might be one date you want to consider!</p>
<p>Saturday, February 29, 2020</p>
<p></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 02 Jan 2018 12:53:00 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[2017 Holiday Gift Guide]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/2017holidaygiftguide/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/2017_Holiday_Gift_Guide_1_.png" width="554" height="277" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<h2>Welcome to the Affinity &amp; Co. Jewelers 2017 Holiday Shopping Guide!&nbsp;</h2>
<div>The holiday season is officially here, and we've gathered our favorite jewelry for gifting in our 2017 Holiday Shopping Guide! If you are looking for the perfect piece for your close friend or loved one, we have the perfect jewelry to fit their style and your budget.</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>As a 4th-generation jeweler in Orange County, we are proud to serve the local area with custom designs, jewelry repair, and top designers including Tacori, Parade, ArtCarved, and more!&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
<div>Here are our favorite items and trending jewelry gift ideas for 2017:&nbsp;</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<h3>Everyday Earrings</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Screen_Shot_2017-11-28_at_10.37.43_AM.png" width="402" height="337" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<div>A must-have in every jewelry collection, every woman should own a chic, simple pair of stud earrings. These faceted white Chalcedony oversized studs are a lovely complement to many colors and styles, picking up hints of blues and pinks depending on how they're paired.&nbsp;Shop these earrings <a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/jewelry/earrings/classic-rock-cushion-cut-gem-stud-52221.html">here</a>.</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<h3>A Pendant with Personality</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Screen_Shot_2017-11-28_at_10.41.39_AM.png" width="368" height="408" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<div>Full of personality and style, pendants are the perfect "something extra" gift for the holidays! We recommend looking at her birthstone, your anniversary, or her favorite things for inspiration! Shop this pendant <a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/jewelry/pendants/14kt-yellow-pendant-hand-84789.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<h3>A Colorful Gemstone Ring</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Screen_Shot_2017-11-28_at_10.48.14_AM.png" width="456" height="437" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<div>Gemstone rings are a favorite of women who appreciate a bold, colorful statement piece. We have gemstone rings in every shape and color to fit her style! Shop this ring <a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/jewelry/rings/14kt-yellow-7-rings-multi-color-85371.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<h3>Stackable Rings</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Screen_Shot_2017-11-28_at_10.50.51_AM.png" width="430" height="380" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>Diamond or gemstone bands are a top trend this year. They can be worn on their own, with her engagement ring, or with other stackable bands. Shop this simple Tacori band here.&nbsp;</p>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<h3>A Timeless Estate Piece&nbsp;</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/estate_banner_main_1.jpg" width="523" height="122" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>Estate jewelry is truly timeless. Stop in to find the perfect one-of-a-kind piece that she will always treasure. Find more info <a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/jewelry/estate.html" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
<h3>A Statement Cuff&nbsp;</h3>
<div><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Screen_Shot_2017-11-28_at_10.59.53_AM.png" width="435" height="447" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></div>
<div></div>
<div>The fashionable woman will love a bold, statement cuff! The right piece will transform any basic look to extraordinary. Shop this cuff <a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/designers/charles-garnier/julia-1.html" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<div>Want to see more? Shop jewelry for the holidays&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop.html" target="_blank">here</a>!</div>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 01 Dec 2017 08:02:00 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[5 Favorites From the Tacori Blooming Beauties Collection]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/tacoribloomingbeauties/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/tacori_img2_1.jpg" width="515" height="333" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>A wonderful gift or accessory for all occassions, flowers symbolize youth, beauty and uniqueness. If you love a bouquet of flowers, or can get lost at the intricate details of your favorite bloom, you might adore the Tacor Blooming Beauties Collection.&nbsp;</p>
<p>These elegant platinum beauties feature dynamic diamond halos for the perfect bloom that will never fade. We've pulled together five of our favorite Tacori Blooming Beauties engagement rings. Can you pick a favorite?&nbsp;</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>TRIPLE THE DIAMONDS</strong></p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/1.png" width="394" height="343" /></p>
<p>Double the blooms and triple the diamonds for limitless shine This ring is for the glamour girl who knows what she wants and is not afraid to sparkle. Signature diamond crescents and the exposed culet give this blooming beauty the prettiest of profiles. Shop this ring <a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/designers/tacori/bridal/blooming-beauties-52074.html">HERE</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>CUSHION SHAPED HEIRLOOM</strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/4.png" width="390" height="378" /></strong></p>
<p>A cushion shaped double bloom creates an heirloom, glittering look, amping up the volume on a round center diamond. With loops of diamonds creating petal-like details, diamond crescent silhouettes decorate the sides for an engagement ring that is beautiful from every angle. Shop this ring <a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/designers/tacori/bridal/blooming-beauties-52057.html">HERE</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>PRINCESS THREE STONE</strong></p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/5.png" width="397" height="373" /></p>
<p>With glamour to spare, this three stone princess cut ring is a bold and beautiful blast of diamonds. A pretty profile with diamond crescents and double blooms surrounding each diamond make this ring distinctive and elegant. Shop this ring <a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/designers/tacori/bridal/blooming-beauties-52076.html">HERE</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>UNIQUE DOUBLE BLOOM</strong></p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/3.png" width="397" height="357" /></p>
<p>A single string of diamonds along the ceiling and the unique, cushion shaped double bloom make this ring an impressive, positively beautiful ring. With a gorgeous carriage, the culet of the diamond just kisses the sweetheart carriage, and diamonds decorate crescent details for a provocative profile, gorgeous from every angle. Shop this ring <a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/designers/tacori/bridal/blooming-beauties-52062.html">HERE</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>A BLOOMING EMERALD</strong></p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/2.png" width="399" height="342" /></p>
<p>The elegance of an emerald center diamond is amped up by a spectacular double bloom of diamonds, framing and enhancing the center diamond. With strings of pav diamonds and a beautiful, distinctive profile, this ring could be the one for you. Shop this ring <a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/designers/tacori/bridal/blooming-beauties-52549.html">HERE</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>View the entire collection <a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/designers/tacori/bridal.html?gf_collection_name=2770">HERE</a>.</strong></p>
<p><span>For a limited time: Earn up to a $5,000 Travel Voucher with any Tacori Engagement Rings, Wedding Bands and Jewelry purchase with Tacori Journeys.</span><span class="_5mfr _47e3"><span class="_7oe">&nbsp;Learn more <a href="https://buff.ly/2v9Hyxj">HERE</a>.&nbsp;</span></span></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 01 Nov 2017 07:53:00 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Girls Night Out at Affinity & Co. Jewelers]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/girlsnightout/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><span><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/Screen_Shot_2017-10-10_at_5.04.52_PM.png" width="588" height="172" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></p>
<p>Get the girls together for a fun night out for a cause! Girls Night Out is happening November 2nd, 4-7pm, at Affinity &amp; Co. Jewelers!&nbsp;<br /><br />Join us for an evening of food, wine, prizes and goody bags in support of <a href="http://www.pssfoundation.org/">Project Self-Sufficiency</a>.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><span>Project Self-Sufficiency is a community-based program&nbsp;in Huntington Beach, assisting&nbsp;low income, single parents to achieve economic independence through education, training, and social services.</span>&nbsp;</p>
</blockquote>
<p>We will feature brand new jewelry from our leading silver designers, so it is a great time to treat yourself or find a holiday gift for someone special! &nbsp;</p>
<p>This evening benefits the good work of&nbsp;Project Self-Sufficiency. We invite you to support this project by brining<span>&nbsp;a gift card for the teens of Project Self-Sufficientcy. All donations will be matched!</span></p>
<p>Show you are interested in this event by RSVPing on Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1958824797723875/">HERE</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/1.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="412" height="612" /></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 17 Oct 2017 07:35:12 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Tacori Journeys]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/TacoriJourneys/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><strong>Earn up to a $5,000 Travel Voucher with any Tacori purchase!</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><strong><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yBicK6od8Us" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Purchase any Tacori 18K Gold Engagement Ring or Wedding Band- Receive $1,000 Travel Voucher</span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">Purchase any Tacori Platinum Engagement Ring or Wedding Band- Receive $2,500 Travel Voucher</span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">Purchase any Tacori RoyalT Engagement Ring or Wedding Band- Receive $5,000 Travel Voucher</span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">Purchase any TWO Tacori Wedding Bands- Receive $2,500 Travel Voucher&nbsp;</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Use your Tacori Journeys card to save BIG on your honeymoon, bachelor or &nbsp;bachelorette &nbsp;party, or a weekend getaway to propose!&nbsp;</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/media/wysiwyg/One_sheet.jpg" alt="Tacori Journeys Program" title="Tacori Journeys Program" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;">FAQs</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;">How Do Travel Savings Dollars Work?<br />Use your membership code to access your savings bank. When you book your trip, deduct travel savings from your bank balance to arrive at your exclusive price. Your membership allows you to discount the retail price all the way down to the wholesale rate.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;">Are the Savings Dollars a Gift Certificate?<br />It&rsquo;s not a cash value gift certificate. Once you create an account and search for hotels you will see the lowest available rates at each property. Each property offers a private closed user group wholesale price. With this membership you are given access to those rates continuously up to your savings balance.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;">Can You Redeem the Full Savings Balance at One Hotel?<br />Possibly, but the membership doesn&rsquo;t work like money. It is a savings card. For example, if you have $300 savings balance, you would deduct the amount that you saved on the hotel you book from your $300 balance. The greater the savings and the longer the stay, the more savings dollars you will be able to use.</span></p>
<p></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 17 Jul 2017 21:52:53 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Annual Estate Jewelry Sale]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/AnnualEstateJewelrySale/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><span>It's our annual Estate Jewelry Sale! Huge savings that only come around once a year. Save 20% over already huge discounts of 40%, 50% and 60%! 3 days only - July 28, 29, and 30. &nbsp;Including: Tiffany &amp; Co., Cartier, Bellari, Omega, David Yurman and Rolex.<br /></span></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Sun, 25 Jun 2017 09:57:57 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Be Mine Forever]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/bemineforever/</link>
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<td valign="top" class="mcnTextContent" style="text-align: center;"><span><em><span><span color="#696969" style="color: #696969;"><strong>There is no better day to say "Be mine forever"<br />than Valentine's Day</strong></span></span><br /><br /><span><span><strong><img align="none" height="120" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/6085ef78d320b9ff50cd832ea/images/efbe982f-c95c-49ec-ba8d-6d7822791340.png" width="120" /></strong></span></span></em></span><br /><br /><span><em><span><span><strong>Earn a credit of 10% of your Tacori ring purchase total<br />towards&nbsp;your next Tacori purchase!&nbsp;</strong></span></span></em></span><br /><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/" target="_blank"><span><span><span>Shop now! www.affinityandcojewelers.com</span></span></span></a></td>
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<td class="mcnImageCardBottomImageContent" align="left" valign="top"><a href="https://www.tacori.com/blog/tacori-girl-style/share-the-love-valentines-day-gift-guide" title="Tacori Gift Guide" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/6085ef78d320b9ff50cd832ea/images/2345c648-cc60-4793-837a-755877ce01d2.jpg" width="564" class="mcnImage" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a></td>
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span><a href="https://www.tacori.com/blog/tacori-girl-style/share-the-love-valentines-day-gift-guide" target="_blank" title="Tacori Gift Guide"><span>Shop the Tacori Gift Guide here</span></a></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /><span><em><span><span><strong>Earn a credit of 10% of your first Parade Design ring purchase total<br />towards your next&nbsp;</strong></span></span></em></span><span><strong><em><span><span>Parade</span></span></em></strong></span><span><em><span><span><strong>&nbsp;Design purchase!&nbsp;</strong></span></span></em><br /><br /><span><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/designers/parade.html" target="_blank" title="Shop Parade Designs here"><span>Shop for Parade Design rings now! www.affinityandcojewelers.com</span></a></span></span><br /><span><strong>&nbsp;</strong></span></div>
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<td class="mcnImageContent" valign="top"><a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/services/financing-options" title="Fall in Love with Platinum" target="_blank"><img align="center" alt="" src="https://gallery.mailchimp.com/6085ef78d320b9ff50cd832ea/images/9ac8e05d-2688-4510-9e37-4b19acf46b04.png" width="600" class="mcnImage" data-pin-nopin="true" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a></td>
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<td valign="top" class="mcnTextContent" style="text-align: center;">We can help you make her dreams come true with easy flexible financing</td>
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      <pubDate>Wed, 01 Feb 2017 20:40:06 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Customer Appreciation Holiday Party - December 17th]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/HolidayParty/</link>
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      <pubDate>Mon, 12 Dec 2016 12:23:53 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Fall in Love with Platinum - Special Offer on Tacori]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/Fall-in-Love-with-Platinum-Special-Offer-on-Tacori/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><strong>Fall in Love with Platinum - Limited Time Special Offer on Tacori</strong></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: small;">Earn money while you shop? Sounds too good to be true, but guess what, it&rsquo;s not!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: small;">We believe that a love as strong as yours deserves the strongest metal. So let your love shine in platinum this Fall, and lead you to your perfect platinum pair with the Tacori &ldquo;Fall in Love with Platinum&rdquo; special offer!<span class="text_exposed_show"><br /><br />Here&rsquo;s how it works. For a limited time only, when you purchase your dream platinum Tacori engagement ring, you can automatically earn up to a $500 certificate towards your Tacori platinum wedding band purchase! Your Tacori platinum wedding band purchase in turn, earns you $250 for any platinum purchase thereafter.<br /><br />Fall in Love with your Platinum Tacori jewelry here&nbsp;<a href="https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/shop/designers/tacori.html" rel="nofollow nofollow" target="_blank">https://<wbr /><span class="word_break"></span>www.affinityandcojewelers.c<wbr /><span class="word_break"></span>om/shop/designers/<wbr /><span class="word_break"></span>tacori.html</a><br /><br />Hurry, as the &ldquo;Fall in Love with Platinum&rdquo; offer ends December 12, 2016.<br />Here&rsquo;s why we think everything looks better in platinum:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.tacori.com/blog/education/why-platinum" rel="nofollow nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.tacori.com/<wbr /><span class="word_break"></span>blog/education/why-platinum</a><br /><br />For complete Rules &amp; Regulations, please see<a href="http://www.tacori.com/fallinlovewithplatinum2016" rel="nofollow nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.tacori.com/<wbr /><span class="word_break"></span>fallinlovewithplatinum2016</a><br /><br />*Gift cards must be redeemed by June 30, 2017. Available at Participating Retail Partners only.</span></span></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 02 Sep 2016 19:28:45 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Welcome to our New Website]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/welcome-to-our-new-website/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><span>We&rsquo;re pleased to show off our new look, with a sleeker design and easier-to-find features. Our new site more effectively highlights what&rsquo;s most important to us and to our community. Plus, our new site is 100% mobile-friendly.</span></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 12 Aug 2016 15:20:41 +0000</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Connect with us on The Knot]]></title>
      <link>https://www.affinityandcojewelers.com/blog/connect-with-us/</link>
      <description><![CDATA[<p><span>Affinity &amp; Co Jewelers is on The Knot, the nation&rsquo;s largest source for wedding news and inspiration. We&rsquo;ll help you stay on top of trends to plan a wedding that&rsquo;s totally you.</span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.theknot.com/marketplace/affinity-and-co-jewelers-huntington-beach-ca-552578" title="The Knot" target="_blank">Submit A Review</a></p>]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 11 Aug 2016 15:30:37 +0000</pubDate>
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