Author windsimplicity.ca
Replacing the old windows in a historic or older home can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re trying to keep its original charm while also getting better energy efficiency. This guide will help you navigate the process. We’ll cover why you might want to replace old windows, the different types you’ll encounter, various replacement options, and useful tips for a smooth project. We’ve also put together a comparison table, an FAQ section, and links to trusted resources so you can dig deeper into any topic.
Many homeowners hear the words “solid glass” or “solid pane” windows and wonder what exactly that means—especially when comparing older single-pane windows to today’s insulated options. If you’re curious about what solid pane windows are, why they might (or might not) be right for you, and how they stack up against modern double- and triple-pane designs, this guide will walk you through everything. We’ve also linked to authoritative sources when you want to learn more.
The Impact of Noise Pollution on Home Comfort
Noise pollution can disrupt our daily lives and have a negative impact on our well-being. Whether it’s traffic noise, construction sounds, or loud neighbors, excessive noise can lead to increased stress levels, lack of sleep, and reduced productivity. By investing in soundproofing solutions for your home in Maple Ridge, you can create a peaceful sanctuary where you can relax and enjoy a quieter living environment.
Understanding Soundproofing: How Does It Work?
To effectively reduce noise transmission, it’s essential to understand how soundproofing works. Sound is transmitted through vibrations, and the key to soundproofing is to minimize these vibrations. When it comes to windows and doors, there are specific features and materials that help to absorb or block sound waves, reducing their transfer into your home.
Factors to Consider for Soundproof Windows and Doors
When selecting soundproof windows and doors for your Maple Ridge home, there are several important factors to consider. Let’s explore each factor in detail:
- Window and Door Materials: Different materials have varying soundproofing capabilities. For example, laminated glass windows and solid-core doors are known for their excellent sound-blocking properties.
- Glass Thickness: Thicker glass can provide better sound insulation. Consider double or triple-pane windows with varying thicknesses to enhance sound reduction.
- Weatherstripping: Proper weatherstripping around windows and doors creates a tight seal, preventing sound leaks and improving overall soundproofing.
- Frame Design: Opt for windows and doors with sturdy and well-insulated frames to minimize sound transmission through the frames.
- Air Cavities: Windows and doors with multiple air cavities help to trap sound waves and reduce their impact on your home’s interior.
Pros and Cons of Soundproof Windows and Doors
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Reduces external noise | Higher upfront cost |
| Enhances privacy | Limited design options |
| Improves energy efficiency | Professional installation |
| Increases home value | Additional maintenance |
Professional Installation vs. DIY
Approach When it comes to installing soundproof windows and doors, you have the option of professional installation or a DIY approach. While a DIY approach may seem cost-effective, professional installation ensures precise measurements, proper sealing, and optimal soundproofing performance. It’s recommended to consult with experts who can guide you through the selection and installation process to achieve the best results.
Conclusion
In a bustling city like Maple Ridge, creating a peaceful home environment is essential for your well-being. By incorporating soundproofing solutions and selecting the right windows and doors, you can significantly reduce noise pollution and enjoy a quieter living space. Consider the factors discussed in this article, weigh the pros and cons, and consult with professionals to find the perfect soundproof windows and doors for your Maple Ridge home. Invest in a quieter future and experience the tranquility of your own oasis.
What design options are popular today?
When deciding on window décor elements, you should consider the overall ambiance of the room, its color scheme, and its purpose. It is true that apartment curtains cannot look the same as those in an office or public institution, for example. Thus, a wide variety of options are available today. Let us examine which curtains, blinds, and shutters are bought most often this year.
Curtains
These window decoration elements have been popular for centuries. They are most often made of fabric (artificial or natural) and can be used both alone and in combination with other curtains.
Roman blinds
It is a plain cloth that closes or opens the window when you move the fabric vertically (up-down) using transversal slats. When lifted, it gets together in waves. This option is perfect for both classic interiors and modern style furnishings. They are used in all types of living areas – from bathrooms to living rooms. Typically they are monochrome, but you can also experiment with prints, as shown in the photo.
Roman blinds can go effectively with darker colored drapes. In the photo, the set perfectly matches the Ecoline windows installed in an Edmonton house.
Geometric blinds
These are trendy curtains with triangles, the perfect option for decorating the interior with big panoramic semi-circular windows. In the picture below, you can see Roman blinds in this particular style. The triangles have tassels on the tops, which add a highlight to the curtains when they are rolled up.
Austrian curtains
Before, when decorating the monarchs’ chambers, they used to cover the windows with French curtains, which look a bit pretentious and probably ridiculous in relation to modern apartments. However, these days they have a simplified version – Austrian curtains – which look attractive and rather appropriate for classic interiors. Their key feature is that they have folds that appear when they are pulled together. The picture shows a classic style bathroom with Austrian curtains.
Bamboo curtains
Would you like your room decoration to look nice and expensive? An extremely popular option would be bamboo curtains. Three varieties are offered today:
- Woven curtains.
- Pleated curtains.
- Vertical curtains (folded).
It is an all-natural fabric made from bamboo, which, in addition to its direct function, also safeguards us by destroying germs. These curtains are long-lasting and can be used on any windows. For instance, they look good on Ecoline windows in Edmonton’s detached houses (photo). Similarly, the pleated version is used in place of interior doors that divide the space.
French blind
They started using this type of light protection devices not so long ago, as they are “only” a little over 250 years old. A distinction is made between vertical and horizontal designs, depending on the direction of opening – up/down or right/left.
Initially, blinds were only made of wood, but now they are also made of fabric, plastic, and metal. With these, you can trigger light into the room and still keep what’s going on in the apartment hidden. Obviously, they are mostly associated with office designs, but there are other options as well. In this picture, for example, we see the dining room, where the windows are covered with floor-to-ceiling wood blinds, which looks laconic and attractive.
Shutters
Whereas original shutters (which appeared in the pre-Christian era) protected against the cold and burglars, today they are more of a decorative element. The picture below shows a classic version of modern shutters, installed on nice arched windows. They give the room extra texture and spaciousness and do not cover the wide window sills. You have to admit, curtains and blinds would look less impressive here.
Here’s another option for floor-to-ceiling wooden shutters on regular windows that give the impression of panoramic structures.
What is popular in Canada today?
Canada is in step with the rest of the world, and you can’t say that there are any different preferences in the choice of curtains. Canadians buy today’s trendy models and don’t shy away from ever-popular classics; they look perfect on Ecoline windows in Edmonton, Vancouver, Calgary and other cities. Most often people buy:
- Roller blinds that roll up when you open them; the preferred color is sandy and milky white.
- Various types of curtains for bedrooms and living rooms in the mocha color (with a plant print) that look luxurious and require no tulle.
- Day-Night curtains which allow you to adjust the light permeability through the use of strips of different densities.
Speaking of shutters, the old classics of the genre – long and floor-length wooden structures that can virtually increase the window height and imitate panoramic structures – are once again in vogue today. We mentioned them earlier.
Canadians also favor lacquered wood blinds, a trend that surfaced last year and continues today.
A high-quality modern window must have a stylish frame, and curtains, blinds or shutters are perfect for this. Not only they fulfill their function of light protection, but also add their own unique appeal to the interior design.
The composition of two- and three-layer insulated glazing units
All windows consist of two main components – profile and glass. The first takes about 30% of the glass unit, while the second – up to 70%. Of the additional components, we should highlight the fittings. Both the profile and the glass can be different, and their construction and composition primarily depend on energy-saving characteristics. It is the number of chambers in the profile, which varies from 3 to 6, and the number of chambers between the panes (the most popular are 1 or 2 chambers, rarely 3-chambered structures) that influence the ability to retain heat in the house.
A single-chamber glazing window consists of two glass panes that have a space between them, called a chamber. A two-chamber construction consists of three glass panes – two external and one internal. The number of chambers affects the insulation characteristics first: the more of them, the better the window retains heat in the house. They often inject inert gas, which conducts almost no heat, into the chambers. The gas used is almost always argon as it is safe for people and plants and does not evaporate, due to which the glass can be used without a “refill” for up to 10 years and more.
Another characteristic of modern windows is that they use coated glass containing tin and silver ions, which work like a mirror and reflect more than 60% of the escaping heat back into the room.
It’s obvious that the energy efficiency of 3-layer structures is higher than that of 2-layer ones, yet the latter have their own advantages, described below.
The thickness of two- and three-layered double-glazed units
A single-chamber construction usually consists of two glass panes 4 mm thick and a distance between them (the chamber itself) of 16 mm. Thus, the total thickness of double-glazed units is 2.4 cm. Thus, the total thickness of double-glazed units is 2.4 cm (0,9 in).
Obviously, the three-layer glazing unit is thicker. Dimensions of each layer:
- Three glass panes of 4 mm.
- The first chamber – 16 mm.
- The second chamber – 14 mm.
So it appears that the standard thickness of a three-layer double-glazed window is 4.2 cm (1.6 in), although there are other sizes. As we mentioned earlier, they also produce 4-layer windows with a thickness of up to 6 cm (2.4 in). Yet their use is justified only in conditions of severe cold, where winter temperatures fall below -40⁰C (-40⁰F); in warmer regions, though, a 3-layer structure will suffice for effective energy conservation.
The weight of the insulated window depends on the number of chambers, so it is clear that single-chamber structures weigh less than double-chamber ones, and noticeably so.
Advantages and disadvantages of 2-layer and 3-layer insulated glazing units
The basic advantage of double-glazed windows is in weight and price, which are both significantly lower if compared with 3-layered structures.
A single-chamber window weighs about 20 kg per 1 sq. m., while a two-chamber product will weigh 30 kg/m2. The difference is considerable. Less weight simplifies the transportation and installation process. Such a window reduces the load on the walls and will be more securely fixed in the opening. One more advantage is that more light enters the room through a single-chamber glazing unit. If you compare prices, you will find that they are lower for two-layer windows; however, the difference is not so critical – about 25-30%.
Yet, all the benefits of single-chamber structures pale into insignificance if you want to save money on heat. Two-chamber windows are far ahead here. When analyzing the energy efficiency of the entire system, you should also consider the number of chambers in the profile, the number of coated glass panes in the overall system, and their thickness. Either way, if you install three-layer structures, you will have to spend much less money on the heat in the winter.
The glass coating also plays a major role. For instance, the energy savings of a single-chamber glazing unit with a coating will be higher than that of a two-chamber glazing unit with normal panes. When it comes to soundproofing, the latter wins.
Field of application of 2-layer and 3-layer insulating glass units
One-chamber double-glazed windows with ordinary glass panes (rather than energy-saving) may be quite suitable for installation in regions with mild winters, where temperatures rarely fall below -10⁰C (14°F).
They are commonly used when glazing balconies, except when these areas are set up as an additional room with heating. With the installation of a one-chamber insulated glass unit, the loggia or balcony will serve as an additional chamber between the street and the main room.
Choosing a one-chamber design is a perfect solution when glazing summer cottages and summer kitchens, especially if you don’t spend much time out of town in the winter. Such double-glazed units are placed on patios that are used more often in the warmer seasons.
Two-chamber or 3-layer windows are mounted in the main rooms in regions where winter temperatures fall below -10⁰C (14°F). Installing them is worthwhile if your house is close to traffic interchanges or other noisemakers. Having paid extra money once, you will later feel more comfortable, save money on heating and keep the precious heat away from the street.
Therefore, the difference between the two-layer and three-layer structures in terms of heat and sound insulation is very substantial. But if you don’t want to overpay, carefully weigh all factors and only then order installation.
A storefront is a kind of window from which buyers find out about the assortment, the arrival of a new collection, or the period of sales. According to statistics, 80% of buyers enter a jewelry store not to find and purchase a specific product, but simply because they want to make a purchase. A well-designed showcase provokes a momentary desire to buy the thing presented in the storefront and also causes a desire to return to this store again.
When working on the concept of a storefront, many factors are taken into account: the flow of buyers; the location of the store; its class; brands that the store represents, and, of course, environmental friendliness. From an artistic point of view, a showcase window is a small theater; a well-designed storefront gives an impression of great depth. To achieve this effect, there are four tools, the correct use of which will give a good result.
4 Tools in Creating a Good Showcase
- A successful correctly made multi-level composition of objects (jewelry and decor) and printed material;
- Harmonious color combination;
- Correctly exposed backlight, which works equally well both day and night;
- Use of environmentally friendly materials.
It is known that the goods from the storefront are sold faster, so you shouldn’t display the most beautiful and expensive ones. You can exhibit what sells poorly; if such a product is correctly displayed, its attractiveness for purchase increases significantly.
When working with a showcase, it is crucial not to overload the composition with objects. The eye is more attentive to fewer objects. Besides, a viewer will perceive several beautiful pieces of jewelry collected in a harmonious composition as more valuable.
Change the showcase every 10-15 days. The update doesn’t mean a complete change of scenery. It is enough to change the products in the storefront, the compositional arrangement of the bases, or the color accent (for example, put a flower of a different color). Such correction gives a signal to a regular customer that something new has appeared in this store, and new color accents are attracting new customers. Don’t forget: the product displayed in the window must be in stock in the store!
Let’s consider separately each of the tools for creating an effective storefront.
Composition
To showcase jewelry, you need to create a working composition. There are three main types of composition:
- Composition of the type “3-5-8” (the objects used in the showcase differ in size “large, small, medium”).
- Composition “staircase — straight or spiral” (objects are located at different levels).
- Row (objects are located on one straight line).
The main objects are always located in the center, higher than other objects, and at a level that is convenient for viewing (just below eye level).
Lighting
Jewelry lighting shouldn’t be overly bright, it should show off the jewelry in its natural, authentic form. To do this, use directional light or spotlighting, snatching out individual decorations from the semi-darkness.
Color and Materials
Jewelry showcase can be decorated in one color or divided into several color groups. One color should dominate in the composition — it should be at least 80%. A combination of similar tones is possible, while a harmoniously selected color accent can be included in the remaining 20%.
Jewelry Brands and Ecology: Points of Contact
Humanity has realized that we have only one planet, and it must be saved. If a few years ago, reusable materials of showcase windows caused ridicule and bewilderment, now it is becoming the norm. Society chooses the concept of conscious consumption and care for the environment.
Following the ecology is a costly business, it requires attention to detail, but on the other hand, it opens up new opportunities for brand PR activities. The concept of sustainability — the desire to restore balance on the planet — sounds familiar nowadays.
Sustainability affects two aspects: the impact on the environment and the impact on society. Within the framework of this concept, the goal of any project is to positively influence one of the areas. Planning a development strategy towards brand sustainability is essential: if a company cannot take responsibility for its actions, it has no future.
This directly applies to jewelry stores. After all, the use of environmentally friendly and recyclable materials for windows, storefronts, and showcases doesn’t harm the environment, as well as also attracts buyers who practice conscious consumption.
We have researched the market and concluded that Ecoline Sliding Windows are the middle ground for many Canadian homeowners. However, you might be curious why sliders are so popular if there are many other great window styles available, especially those traditional crank styles. Let’s find out!
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Sliding windows contain sashes that slide horizontally or vertically in a single frame. While the horizontal sliding windows are more popular, some homeowners fancy the vertical sliding window.
Single-hung and double-hung windows are typical examples of vertical sliding windows. The only thing that separates these two types is the presence of movable panels. Therefore, a single-hung window can only open one sash, but a double-hung window can open from the top or bottom.
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Crank windows (casement windows) have one or more hinges that connect them to the frame. When you rotate the crank handle, they open to the outside. Casement windows have a straightforward design. You have a glass panel with a structure that extends similarly to a door. The casement window frame is tied to a hinge, so you can crank it open or shut. Some of these windows have internal and outward openings, while the majority only have an outer opening.
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Would you prefer to slide a sash open or crank your window open or closed by turning a handle? Part of the factors for selection is the amount of space available for the window and the purpose of the window since casement and sliding windows frequently fit better in somewhat different spaces.
While you are pondering that, here are the pros and cons of both window styles to help your decision-making process more straightforward.
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- Ease: Sliders glide along the track and thus are effortless to operate even with one hand.
- Cost: Standard sliding windows usually cost less in comparison to other major styles.
- Size: Sliding windows are available in every dimension: large, small, broad, and tall. So, you don’t have to worry much about finding a window to fit your window size.
- Maintenance: Sliding windows are easy to clean and maintain even after many years.
- Ventilation: gliders allow excellent unrestricted airflow.
- Space: Sliding windows, unlike casement windows, are ideal for situations where you don’t want an extruding window. They slide on a track and do not take up any more space.
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- Sliding windows may not seal properly. If you reside in a cold, windy region, wind may get in even when the window is locked. Also, during winter, the sliding track may fill up with snow making it impossible to slide the window open.
- The sliding track is prone to accumulating dirt over time, making it more challenging to open and close the window. If you live in a dusty area or along dusty roads, the tracks may need to be cleaned or flushed with water frequently.
- Sliding windows are sometimes affected by height restrictions. Horizontal rather than vertical orientations are better for slider windows. They work well in wider openings rather than tall and narrow openings.
- Due to the window gap, the windows may rattle in a storm or when a truck rumbles along the road.
- Ventilation is partly restricted because only one-half of the window opens completely.
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- Ventilation: Casement windows, more than any other window style, provide optimum ventilation.
- Maintenance: Casement windows are typically a suitable choice in terms of care due to their design. They are simpler to open, close, and clean since they are cranked open rather than slid up, down, or sideways. This means you can incorporate it into your daily cleaning routine without having to dedicate time to clean them outside.
- Unobstructed view: With casement windows, you will have a clear picture of the outside of your house, plenty of ventilation, and natural light will filter in through the windows.
- Security: Burglars are kept out of the house thanks to the casement window’s handle-type mechanism. Even if they manage to smash the glass, they will be unable to enter your home since they will need to use the crank or lever to do so. Some homeowners remove the opening mechanism from casement windows for better security when they are not used to improve the window’s security.
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- Your casement window mechanism can be damaged if the crank is operated incorrectly.
- While new casement windows are a tremendous deterrent to robbers, they can rust, and the opening mechanism can break down over time, making them an obvious target for would-be intruders.
- Casement windows are typically more expensive than other window types. However, the size, window material, and positioning all play a role. As a result, don’t make your final decision on windows just based on price.
- Size also matters in the case of casement windows. They can’t be extremely wide due to the way they’re installed. They’re also unsuitable for window-mounted air conditioners since they swing-out.
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Of course, the price comes first when making a decision of which window to go for. Since getting new units is a long-term investment, you should not pick the cheapest option. Here is a table that represents the price comparison if you want to but sliders or crank windows. Keep in mind that it is for reference only since your final quote will be made of different aspects such as frame, glazing, hardware and additional add-ons. For more precise quotes, contact your local window company.
| Location | Casement | Awning | Single Slider | Single Hing |
| Basement | $535 – $1,022 | $471 – $1114 | $394 – $1057 | n\a |
| Bathroom | $446 – $1,032 | $432 – $943 | $394 – $1033 | $95 – $1500 |
| Bedroom | $444 – $1193 | $893 – $909 | $437 – $1521 | $587 – $2115 |
| Bonus room | $676 – $1134 | $494 – $944 | $820 – $1248 | $634 – $1374 |
| Dining room | $550 – $1348 | $843 – $1429 | $669 – $1957 | $529 – $1466 |
| Family room | $605 – $1999 | $621 – $1157 | $490 – $1131 | $569 – $1155 |
| Foyer | $858 – $1999 | n\a | $465 – $778 | $500 – $854 |
| Front | $583 – $1014 | $483 – $1414 | $785 – $968 | $510 – $925 |
| Garage | n\a | $703 – $902 | $391 – $1085 | $588 – $732 |
| Kitchen | $329 – $1356 | $419 – $1471 | $394 – $1595 | $445 – $1595 |
| Living room | $484 – $1614 | $485 – $1384 | $433 – $2327 | $429 – $1614 |
| Master bedroom | $545 – $1304 | $588 – $1120 | $452 – $1810 | n\a |
| Nook | $549 – $1149 | $734 – $920 | $658 – $1142 | $473 – $1186 |
Choosing the right window for your home and needs is a personal decision. In terms of cost, sliding windows are less expensive than crank windows. However, consider other pros and cons outlined above before making your decision.
Impact of Defects on Diamond Clarity
The clarity of a diamond determines the degree of visibility of internal/external defects in the stone. It is on the purity of a diamond that its durability and, of course, the final cost depend.
Internal Defects
These are natural imperfections that go deep into the stone but can also appear on its surface.
They are divided into:
- “aesthetic” defects that only affect the appearance of the stone;
- deep flaws that threaten the integrity of the stone.
Crystalline or Mineral Inclusions
These are particles of other minerals that are located inside the diamond. Inclusions can be microscopic, colorless, or colored. Large particles make it possible to recognize which mineral is inside (olivine, rutile, spinel) and are called crystalline. The edge on which the inclusion appears is hard to polish.
Structural Defects
They are single clusters of tiny dots that consist of voids or impurities. More concentrated ones create a white haze and reduce the clarity of the diamond. Structural imperfections also include deformations in the form of parallel stripes and seams.
Attention! The most dangerous structural defects are cracks or splits, especially when such a line reaches the stone surface. If the diamond is strongly exposed, it can crack! But, for example, you shouldn’t be afraid of black dots on the surface of a diamond. They only spoil the appearance of the stone but don’t pose a danger to its structure. They are least visible on the sides of the stone. Avoid diamonds with such inclusions closer to the top.
Pressure Cracks
They arise as a result of the unequal thermal effect of an included allophylian crystal.
Cleavage Cracks
They always run straight, parallel to each other in a particular direction. Along cleavage cracks, a diamond can easily crack upon mechanical stress.
Fracture Cracks
These are cracks that run chaotically in all other directions.
Feathers
Such cracks in the light resemble a white feather. The longevity of a diamond is usually only affected by the deep feathers that reach the stone surface.
Twin Planes (Seams)
These are lines in the form of parallel stripes located on the bottom of the diamond. They appear when two diamond crystals grow together. Twin planes are usually colorless, less often with a yellowish tinge.
External Defects
These are the imperfections that appear on the surface of the cut. There are three types of them:
- natural imperfections;
- flows arising in the process of stone cutting;
- defects that were formed during mechanical damage.
Natural Facets of the Crystal
These are the facets of the original diamond that remain after the stone has been cut. They are usually not recognized when viewed from above.
Notches and Breaks
Porous particles/incisions on the stone that occur under mechanical stress.
Fringe on the Girdle
Small abrasions and cracks that extend into the stone over a short distance are called girdle’s “beard.” They appear during roughing of the diamond and negatively affect the clarity of the diamond.
Growth Lines
These are heterogeneities in the stone structure in the form of thin lines that arise during the formation of a diamond. They are invisible even from close range.
Twin Lines and Plates
These are the seams that appear on the surface of a diamond when two crystals are spliced. Since these planes are colorless, they are visible only as thin seams.
Grinding and Polishing Marks
These operations are carried out using a diamond paste, while the direction of movement of the polishing disc must be carefully verified. Otherwise, on the surface of the facet of the diamond, stripes and strokes will appear.
Figures From Impact and Damage
They are formed on the stone surface in the form of small spots and scratches of various sizes. While the latter are only on the surface, they are viewed as external imperfections.
Additional Facets
The cutter leaves natural facets under the girdle after the initial cutting or after grinding small defects. Additional facets don’t affect the stone’s brilliance and are a confirmation of the diamond’s authenticity.
Laser Needles
These are white channels that form when laser drilling a diamond. They are generally relatively straight with a small diameter.
Burn Marks
They appear when the stone overheats during polishing and can be removed by re-polishing, which will slightly reduce the weight of the stone.
Snags
These are small knotty irregularities on a polished diamond. They are formed from inclusions that reach the surface of the stone from the depths.
Stage 1. Preparing Sketches
Making rings begins with creating a sketch. A designer draws the future product from several angles to achieve the ideal variation. Interestingly, the hardest thing for him/her will be balancing between their own fantasy and reality. After all, the designer understands that their dream needs to be fulfilled, cast in metal.
Designers and technologists (people who check whether it will be possible to implement design solutions) should feel each other’s profession. The technologist has to evaluate the model proposed by the designer in terms of whether it can be implemented. A good technologist will almost always see an opportunity to simplify a piece of too complex shape, that is, to split it up into several parts that are made separately and then fastened together.
Stage 2. Forming a Master Model
When the designer has decided on the appearance of the ring, and the technologist approved it, you need to make a master model. It is a cast that shows how the ring will look after production. Several materials are used at this stage:
- The model can be made in silver or a non-precious alloy. The finished future ring is baked in rubber, then the master takes the model out of this rubber.
- If the jewelry is unique and does not need mass production, the model is made from a cheaper and simpler material — wax.
- The most popular, but rather expensive method today is considered to be printing a model on a 3D printer. A special program gives the master a lot of opportunities, the main one of which is the ability to see the product in advance before it is ready.
Stage 3. Preparing the Christmas Tree
Outwardly, the result of casting in gold is very similar to a Christmas tree. During production, it is irrational to cast each piece one at a time. Therefore, the craftsmen take a thick rod, hang 20 or 30 models on it and bake this Christmas tree wrapped in a layer of clay. Once the process is complete, the wax melts and flows out of the tree, leaving only voids that will then need to be filled with jewelry.
Stage 4. Casting
The molten metals are thoroughly mixed. This is a responsible job, as the artisan must achieve homogeneity of the alloy. Once the alloy is ready, it is poured into the voids prepared.
Stage 5. Taking out the Rings
After the molten metal has hardened well, the master rinses off the clay layer with a high-pressure water jet.
Step 6. Optional. Assembling
Sometimes a product has such a fancy design that several parts are required to make it. After casting, these parts need to be bonded into a single whole. The assemblers are engaged in this responsible work. These guys put the ring together, carefully solder the parts, and are responsible for making the product look almost finished.
Stage 7. Making It Shiny
When the master takes out the rings from clay, they look very unpresentable. To give the accessories a truly jewelry look, the craftsmen grind and polish them. Not everyone knows what the difference is between these concepts:
- grinding — the process of initial, rough processing of the product; with its help, defects are eliminated;
- polishing is the final process of making the product bright and shiny.
Stage 8. Submitting for Verification
A finished product made of gold cannot be recognized as such until a special responsible body puts its mark on it. This body is the Assay Office. In this institution, the conscientiousness of the jeweler is checked: whether the product corresponds to the declared purity, is it really gold as much as the jeweler says.
Step 9, Optional. Inlay
If the designer assumes that the ring is made only of metal, there are no issues, the process is over. But if stones are required, then the next stage is the setting of stones. First, a gemologist must pick up gems. This is a complex process: the stones must be ideally matched in color, size, etc. Then the fixer installs them in the grooves and seals them.
As you can see, every step is crucial to make the perfect piece of jewelry. And the better and more qualitatively each step is performed, the more perfect product you will be able to acquire in the end.
Why is aquamarine called a magic barometer? How not to confuse it with a blue topaz? You will find out about this and not only in our list of facts.
Stone History
The name, which was given in the 1st century AD by the Roman writer Pliny the Elder, quite accurately reveals the essence of the stone (from the Latin “aqua marina” is seawater). The Ancient Greeks and Romans believed that Poseidon was the patron saint of aquamarine. The stone was treated with special favor and was taken on long journeys as a talisman. In the Middle Ages, it was believed that aquamarine amulets pacified the elements of the sea and protected sailors on their travels. Besides, the stone supposedly preserves and strengthens cooled feelings over time.
Did you know that …
In the 13th century, aquamarine plates were used as the first lenses for spectacles! At the beginning of the 18th century, after a series of British naval victories over Spain, Holland, and France, the title of “mistress of the seas” was fixed for a long time. That is why aquamarine (weighing 920 carats!) was chosen from all possible stones to decorate the royal crown.
Aquamarine Mines
Aquamarines vary in color depending on the deposit. For example, in Brazil, where the largest deposits are located, the most beautiful dark blue crystals are mined. Elsewhere (India, Madagascar, USA, Russia, Australia, South Africa) aquamarine can be pale blue, grayish, or green. Jewelers especially appreciate large stones over 10 carats. The largest specimen was found in Brazil — the weight of the stone was 110.5 kg!
Physicochemical Properties
Aquamarine is a mineral of blue and greenish shades with a glossy sheen. The hue of aquamarine depends on iron impurities in the compound and can vary from pale turquoise, pale green to dark blue. To some, aquamarine may look very similar to blue topaz. But don’t confuse them. The main difference of aquamarine is its two-color effect, which manifests itself when the angle of view is changed!
Aquamarines are not produced artificially. At high temperatures (up to 400 °C), you can only change the color of the stone. The most valuable are dressed stones of dark blue shades.
The Healing Properties of Aquamarine
The Romans used aquamarine to treat throat, stomach, and liver diseases. The mineral was believed to relieve coughs and respiratory cramps, and also has a beneficial effect on the thyroid gland. Lithotherapists say aquamarine helps improve vision. To do this, you need to look at the stone every day for 20 minutes.
According to one of the versions, rings with aquamarine also cure skin diseases, and wearing a pendant/necklace with a blue stone has a positive effect on hormones. The gentle play of the stone’s colors calms, relieves headaches, insomnia, and panic attacks.
Magic Barometer
It is believed that the stone changes color depending on the weather and the change in the mood of its owner. In ancient times, they said, “If a stone turns cloudy and green, this is a sure sign of a storm.” If the color has changed in clear weather, then the owner has become depressed or deceived. Esotericists claim that aquamarine as a shield protects its owner from gossip and envy. But it doesn’t patronize liars, so it can easily split. Previously, aquamarine was often given for weddings because people believed in its ability to tame sea and family storms. Also, the stone helps not to lose love in a long separation.
For Whom Is Aquamarine?
Aquamarine has relaxing properties that help balance the emotionality of Cancers and the volatile nature of Aquarius. Astrologers also recommend wearing aquamarine for Pisces and Taurus. For them, it is both an inspiration and a helper. The stone helps to build relationships with like-minded people, eliminates doubts and ambivalence.