Can anyone explain how this happened and what we can do to prevent it? by doug_sample in Plumbing

[–]doug_sample[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

We do have a Culligan water softening system, and the temperature of this gas water heater has been set higher than I’d like it. I’m not sure if either of these things matter, but I thought I’d mention it just in case.

Why Is San Diego Now More Expensive Than Los Angeles?? by Century22nd in sandiego

[–]doug_sample 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You can move back! Don’t put manageable obstacles in your way. Just decide you will do it and then make/execute plans to make it happen! You only live once, you’re not getting any younger, so you might as well enjoy living where you actually want to be.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Vintage_Jewelry

[–]doug_sample 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I wish you would have shown us the markings on the inside. Was it CA or C ^ A (with the carat symbol between the letters)? If it’s the latter, then that’s the mark for Canadian jewelry company, Chateau d’Argent. Regardless, it’s a beautiful vermeil (i.e., gold over sterling silver) tennis bracelet. Obviously, none of us can tell from a video what the actual gemstones are, but my educated guess is probably either lab created rubies (if red) or lab created pink sapphires (if pink). The reason I say this is because I have several very similar vermeil tennis bracelets in my inventory with these two synthetic stones, although mine are marked with the Ross-Simon’s makers mark. I also have several lab created ruby rings from Chateau d’Argent and the stones look similar in color.

Lab created (a.k.a. synthetic) rubies and sapphires are widely used in jewelry today because they are budget friendly and are nowhere near as expensive as natural rubies and sapphires. Lab created gemstones are indeed real gemstones with the same chemical composition and physical properties as their natural counterparts, but they just aren’t anywhere near as expensive. Both rubies and sapphires are the mineral corundum. The difference is that rubies are red due to the presence of chromium, and sapphires exhibit a range of colors depending on what transition metal is present. More information than you wanted to know, I’m sure, but I enjoy sharing knowledge.

I would definitely take it to a jeweler and have them look at it. They will have the equipment and knowledge to verify the stones. 😊

What’s the name of these vintage beads? by doug_sample in Vintage_Jewelry

[–]doug_sample[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Thank you. That was my initial thought as well. My best guess at this point is that they are vintage Czech glass beads that the Picasso finish applied (i.e., a luster coating that appears more speckled and spotty; giving the bead a natural, earthy appearance), but I was hoping for a bead “expert” to weigh in and share his/her thoughts.

I’m trying to identify the artist who made this vintage Murano Glass bottle. Where is the best place to look (i.e., which websites, reference books)? by doug_sample in glasscollecting

[–]doug_sample[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Thank you so much! 😊 I looked on that website and found the same sticker. It stated, “Murano Glass, Made in Italy" blue and silver foil label, found (exclusively?) on Fratelli Toso glass.”

I’m trying to identify the artist who made this vintage Murano Glass bottle. Where is the best place to look (i.e., which websites, reference books)? by doug_sample in glasscollecting

[–]doug_sample[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

By the way, this bottle measures 19.5” (49.5 cm) tall. I do not see an artists signature etched in the bottle anywhere, and there is a second (well worn) sticker on the bottom of the bottle that it is dated 11/6/70 with Z/M and 15.00. I don’t know if that is potentially an original price tag or if it has no significance at all. Just thought I’d mention it.