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About Us

My name is Caroline McKillen and my business is based in Gloucestershire. I started Solitaire Jewellery in 1998 in order to offer the discerning shopper the opportunity to purchase unique, timeless and affordable prices of Sterling Silver jewellery that will keep their elegance forever.

I only source the highest quality natural resources including Baltic amber and Red Coral of which I am particularly proud off; as well turquoise, amethyst, moonstone and labradorite among many others. Please note that due entirely to the stones natural state each individual piece can be different in small and subtle ways giving each pendant, ring or bracelet a characteristic all of its own.

At Solitaire I aim to bring you the highest quality fashion and silver jewellery available keeping you up to date with the ever changing fashion scene in the UK and Europe while sticking to my belief that you the customer deserves the very best quality at a price that is affordable.

My contact details are as follows:

mckillens@longviewhouse.wanadoo.co.uk

Telephone/FAX: +44 (0) 1452 739028
Mobile: 07816 176254

ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
Solitaire is conscious of environmental issues and it is our policy not to supply jewellery manufactured using endangered or protected species. For example, research indicates that our red coral used in some of our jewellery is neither an endangered species nor is the harvesting of it regulated.

Amber

Amber is the ancient resin of trees that has gone through a number of changes over millions of years. Amber is a time capsule containing souvenirs from the early history of life on our planet. Ancient beads and carvings testify to the beauty prehistoric man found in this organic gem that glows like honey.

Amber comes in many stunning colours. It can be colourless, champagne-white, green as a sea wave or red as a sunset. But the colour that prevails is the golden yellow always referred to as the amber colour, the colour of honey and fruits. The ancient Greeks called amber elektron or sun made. One ancient account explains that amber is the tears of the sun that congeals in the sea; which is why amber can often be found washed up on beaches. You will find that all of ambers' warm colours complements any wardrobe and will look stunning when paired with earth tones such as blues, greens and greys.

Amber is valued not only for its colours but also for its transparency and cleanliness. Of all the amber deposits in the world, the most famous and by far the largest is that of the Baltic Region. While amber has appeared naturally in other parts of the world, notably the Dominican Republic, Baltic amber is well recognised as the oldest and most valued of all ambers.

Red Coral

Precious coral or red coral is the common name given to several related species of marine coral. The most distinguishing characteristic of precious corals is their durability and intensely coloured red skeleton which is used for making jewellery. Coral is also among the most ancient of gem materials and has been used for adornment since pre historic times. Coral inlays and ornaments have been found in Iron Age Celtic tombs. The Romans believed that coral could protect children from harm as well as cure wounds and diagnose diseases by changing colour.

The most valuable colours of coral are red, black, and pale pink which is also known as angel skin coral. High quality coral has an even colour and is free from fissures, spots bands or cavities. Since genuine untreated coral is very rare it is extremely valuable. Red Coral is however the height of fashion even today; its bold tones will flatter any skin, adds colour and drama to everything you wear. Coral is an essential addition to any wardrobe and is highly effective in complementing black, white, brown and other strong colours.

Special care is required when wearing coral. Coral scratches and abrades easily and it can be damaged by chlorine, alcohol, ammonia, nail polish remover, and other chemicals. You should remove coral rings before washing or moisturizing your hands.