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You never forget your first purchase of fine jewelry — at least I haven’t!

Many a November, my folks would drive the lot of us to Nashville, IN to pick out a Christmas tree, visit the Lawrence Family Glass Blowers to pick up a few ornaments, and stop at the Nashville House to eat fried biscuits. Yum! This quaint little Southern town in Brown County had a warmth and kindness about it. One year — I was probably 20 — I wandered into a vintage jewelry shop. (Oh no, why did I do it? I couldn’t resist, the shop was calling my name!) I had no intention of buying anything — after all, I was a college student. But there it was…this sweet ring with a 1/4 carat (maybe 1/3 ct) deep, rich-red garnet set in gold and flanked by tiny diamond chips. As soon as I slipped it on my finger, I knew I had to have it!

I’ve always been the kind of shopper that if it’s a “considered” purchase, which this was at $200, I walk away and think about it. I don’t like to impulse buy and have regrets (been there, done that). So, I did. I spent the rest of the afternoon window-shopping at all the other shops. But I kept thinking about that garnet ring — how beautiful it was, how it made me feel, and how it looked on my hand. I knew I loved it and would wear it! And I have…for many, many years. (If I told you how many years, you’d know I wasn’t 25. LOL!)

Because of my affinity for beautiful gemstones and jewelry in general, I’m proud to be hosting the garnet jewelry show on Gem Day, June 25th at 3 p.m. ET. (Happy Anniversary, Mom & Dad!) You’ll have an opportunity to see/purchase special garnet brought in for the show. I hope you’ll join me. I’ll bring my ring with me for you to see. I’d love for you to share what your first purchase of fine jewelry was (gemstone, Diamonique, silver, gold), why you bought it, and if you still wear it today.

—Nancy Hornback

P.S. Tamo: Did you get to see the Bombay Heart Ring? It’s J260061 and $99. Merlin96: Thank you. I hope you can watch the garnet show on Saturday! GSMom: Thank you for your kindness!