Anschar Diamonds Blog

A displaced polar vortex has sent record-breaking Arctic air plunging into the midsection of the United States this winter — and along with the brutal temperatures has come an unexpected visual treat: a phenomenon known as “diamond dust.”



While the name sounds like something from a jeweler’s showcase, this wintry sparkle is actually made of microscopic ice crystals suspended in the air, shimmering like glitter when they catch the sunlight and sometimes even creating dramatic evening “light pillars” across the frozen landscape.

Often called “Mother Nature’s tinsel,” diamond dust looks as if someone shook a jar of shimmer into the sky. It can appear even when the weather is clear and blue, which is why it’s sometimes nicknamed clear-sky precipitation.

So how does it form?

Diamond dust happens during prolonged periods of extreme cold, usually when temperatures drop near or below zero degrees Fahrenheit. In these conditions, the air becomes so cold and calm that moisture doesn’t fall as normal snow. Instead, water vapor freezes almost instantly into tiny ice crystals right near the ground.

Because these crystals are incredibly small and lightweight, they don’t tumble down like snowflakes. They hover and drift, sparkling as they move — more like icy confetti than a winter storm.

This phenomenon is most common in the Arctic and Antarctic, where frigid air is a way of life. But during the intense cold spell of late January and early February 2026, diamond dust has been spotted much farther south than usual — even as far as Kentucky, offering residents a rare glimpse of polar-style winter magic.

And the show doesn’t stop with glitter.

Diamond dust can also create one of the most breathtaking optical effects of the season: light pillars.

Light pillars appear in the evening or early morning, when streetlights, headlights, or even the setting sun shine upward through the icy air. The flat, plate-like ice crystals act like tiny mirrors, reflecting light back toward our eyes. The result is an otherworldly vertical beam — a glowing column of light that looks like it’s reaching into the sky.

It’s important to know these pillars aren’t solid beams, but rather an optical illusion, created by millions of crystals perfectly positioned in the air.

Together, diamond dust and light pillars transform ordinary winter nights into something straight out of a fairytale — sparkling skies, glowing towers of light and the sense that the atmosphere itself has been dusted with jewels.

Credits: Diamond dust photo by English: Jacob W. Frank, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons. Light pillars over London, Ontario Canada, as seen on January 13, 2018, photo by Ray Majoran, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

With the Winter Olympics set to launch in Milano and Cortina, Italy, later this week, attention is turning not only to the athletes, but also to the beautiful medals they’ll be competing for.



As with every Olympic Games, the gold, silver and bronze medals carry enormous emotional and symbolic weight. But for jewelry lovers, there’s always one irresistible question: What are these awards actually worth in precious metal?

The newly unveiled Milano Cortina 2026 medals feature a striking design unlike any before. For the first time, the Winter Games will be co-hosted by two cities, and the medals reflect that partnership through two interlocking halves — a bold metaphor for unity between Milan’s modern elegance and Cortina’s alpine heritage.

One half is textured, the other smooth, symbolizing contrasts coming together: city and mountain, athlete and supporter, Olympic and Paralympic spirit. One side bears the Olympic rings, while the other displays the Games’ logo, with each medal engraved for its specific sport and event.

Measuring 80 mm wide and 10 mm thick, the medals are handcrafted by Italy’s state mint, the Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato (IPZS), using recycled metals from its own production stream and produced entirely with renewable energy — an eco-conscious touch worthy of a modern Olympic era.

But let’s get to the melt value.

Some of our readers may be surprised to learn that Olympic “gold” medals are mostly silver. Milano Cortina’s gold medal contains 500 grams of .999 silver, plus 6 grams of pure gold. (International Olympic Committee rules mandate that gold medals must contain at least 6 grams of pure gold plating over a pure silver base.)

With silver priced at about $78.94 per ounce, the silver portion is worth approximately $1,392. The gold, at roughly $4,691 per ounce, adds another $990. That puts the total melt value at about $2,382.

(And if it were pure gold? The value would skyrocket to an astonishing $83,727 — a reminder of why solid-gold medals disappeared after the 1912 Olympics in Stockholm, Sweden.)

This year's silver medal is made entirely of 500 grams of .999 silver, giving it a melt value of about $1,392.

The bronze medal weighs 420 grams and is made primarily of copper. At copper’s current price of about $0.37 per ounce, the bronze medal’s metal value comes out to only $5.47. It's a humbling contrast, considering bronze medals are every bit as hard-earned.

In total, 735 medals (245 of each type) will be awarded across 116 medal events. You can be sure that none of the athletes would consider selling an Olympic medal for its melt value, but when these awards come up for auction, the results can be impressive.

For instance, back in 2013, billionaire Ron Burkle plunked down $1.46 million at SCP Auctions for a Jesse Owens gold medal from the 1936 Berlin Olympics. In 2019, Goldin Auctions offered for sale an Owens gold medal from the same Olympics. That medal was sold to an online bidder for $615,000.

Credit: Image courtesy of Milano Cortina 2026.

As the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks prepare to meet again on football’s biggest stage, jewelry lovers have a different kind of matchup on their minds: How enormous will the championship ring be this time and will it set a new record?



Super Bowl LX, set for February 8, 2026, is a rematch of Super Bowl XLIX, when the Patriots edged Seattle 28–24 in a thriller that still stings in the Pacific Northwest. But beyond the quarterbacks and playbooks, there’s another tradition quietly at play — an unwritten NFL rule that says the more championships you win, the more extravagant your ring can become.

It’s not an official policy, of course. The league provides a standard allowance — roughly $7,000 per ring for about 150 rings — but owners frequently go far beyond that number when history is on the line. And few franchises have embraced the concept of “bigger is better” quite like the Patriots.



New England enters Super Bowl LX with six Lombardi Trophies, tying the Pittsburgh Steelers for the most in NFL history. All six were earned during the Tom Brady–Bill Belichick era, and their rings have grown steadily more elaborate with each victory.

By the time the Patriots claimed their sixth title in Super Bowl LIII, the jewelry had reached then-record-setting proportions. That Jostens-designed ring featured 422 diamonds totaling 8.25 carats, along with 20 blue sapphires weighing 1.60 carats. It was billed as the largest Super Bowl ring ever created — essentially a wearable monument to dynasty-level success.

So if New England captures a seventh championship — the most ever by any team — it’s hard not to imagine the next ring crossing into cartoon territory. At some point, you have to wonder: If it gets much larger, will it need to be worn on two fingers?

Seattle, on the other hand, would be designing its second championship ring. The Seahawks’ lone title came in Super Bowl XLVIII, a dominant 43–8 win over the Denver Broncos, commemorated with a ring that balanced luxury with symbolism.

Designed by Tiffany & Co., Seattle’s ring was crafted in white gold and packed with meaningful details: the Seahawks logo formed from 65 round brilliant diamonds, highlighted by a neon-green tsavorite “eye.” A background of 87 pavé diamonds added extra sparkle, while 40 blue sapphires circled the ring in the team’s signature blue.

Of course, ring designs today aren’t driven solely by championship totals. Modern Super Bowl jewelry has become increasingly massive across the board, fueled by owner ambition and a competitive desire to out-bling the past. 

The Super Bowl LVI rings presented to the Los Angeles Rams’ players, coaches and staff in 2022 sparkled with 20 carats of white diamonds, along with custom-cut blue and yellow sapphires set in white and yellow gold. The Kansas City Chiefs' fourth championship rings (2024) featured 528 diamonds and 38 rubies, totaling 14.8 carats.

On February 8, the Patriots and Seahawks will battle for football glory — and the right to create the next great masterpiece of championship bling.

Credits: Patriots' ring photos courtesy of Jostens. Seahawks' ring photo courtesy of Tiffany & Co.

Revered for its regal purple hues and rich history, amethyst has been treasured for thousands of years — and one extraordinary example of February's official birthstone resides in the Smithsonian’s National Gem Collection.



The gem seen here is a spectacular 109.66-carat modified rectangular-cut amethyst from Brazil, a vivid purple showpiece that ranks among the world’s finest representations of this beloved quartz variety. The stone was presented to the Smithsonian in 1982 as a gift from philanthropist John W. May, and it remains a standout in a collection that includes more than 10,000 gems and 350,000 mineral specimens.

With its impressive size, saturated color and elegant cut, the Brazilian amethyst offers a perfect reminder of why this gemstone has enchanted jewelry lovers since antiquity.

Amethyst is the most prized gem variety of quartz, a mineral composed of silicon and oxygen. In its pure state, quartz is colorless — but when trace amounts of iron replace some of the silicon atoms within the crystal structure, the gem takes on its signature purple hue. Natural irradiation and geologic conditions deepen that coloration, producing shades that range from pale lilac to rich violet.

Most amethyst forms as crystals lining cavities in volcanic rock, and Brazil and Uruguay remain the world’s most important sources. Fine-quality amethyst also can be found in Zambia, Mexico, Canada, and even parts of the United States, including Maine, Colorado and North Carolina.

Throughout history, amethyst has carried an aura of mystery. Its name comes from the Greek word “amethystos,” meaning “not intoxicated,” reflecting an ancient belief that the stone could ward off drunkenness. According to legend, the Greeks associated amethyst with Bacchus, the god of wine, and wore it to stay clear-headed.

The gem’s purple color also made it a natural symbol of royalty. European monarchs prized amethyst as a stone of power and prestige, and during the Middle Ages it was incorporated into emblems and insignia representing nobility. Even today, amethyst rings are traditionally worn by bishops, underscoring the gem’s longstanding connection to spirituality and wisdom.

Over the centuries, amethyst has been linked with sincerity, protection and deep love. Farmers once believed it could shield crops from hail and locusts, while Leonardo da Vinci reportedly claimed the stone could “quicken intelligence” and calm troubled thoughts.

Whether admired for its beauty, history or symbolism, amethyst remains one of the most fascinating gemstones in the jewelry world.

Credit: Photo by Chip Clark / Smithsonian.

Welcome to Music Friday, when we spotlight popular songs that sparkle with references to jewelry, gemstones or precious metals. Today’s pick is “Opalite,” one of Taylor Swift’s most luminous recent tracks — a song that uses the language of stones to chart an emotional journey from darkness to self-made joy.



At its core, “Opalite” is about transformation. Swift frames that arc through two contrasting materials: onyx and opalite.

In the chorus, she sings, “Sleepless in the onyx night / But now the sky is opalite.” The imagery is instant and evocative.

Onyx — a deep black gemstone long used in fine jewelry, amulets and carvings — represents her sleepless, sorrowful past. In Swift’s lyric shorthand, it functions perfectly as a stand-in for despair: heavy, opaque and light-absorbing. Opalite, glowing and translucent, becomes the symbol of a brighter emotional horizon.

Opalite is a man-made, opalescent glass designed to mimic the glow of natural opal, shifting between milky blues, pinks and purples as it catches the light. While opalite occasionally appears in fashion jewelry or crystal collections, it lacks the rarity and geological pedigree of fine gems — a distinction Swift leans into deliberately.

In an interview with Capital Official Radio, Swift explained that she had been collecting favorite words and phrases in what she calls her “endless file of lyrics” when opalite caught her attention. She was intrigued to learn that it’s a synthetic material, and that discovery sparked the song’s central metaphor. Because opalite is created rather than unearthed, Swift saw it as a symbol of happiness that can be intentionally initiated and cultivated.

That idea carries personal significance. Natural opal is the birthstone of her boyfriend, Travis Kelce, and Swift has long been drawn to the stone’s play-of-color and symbolism. Choosing opalite instead of opal, she said, allowed her to explore the notion that joy, love and emotional clarity are things we actively construct after hardship.

Musically and commercially, the song has resonated just as powerfully. “Opalite” debuted at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and quickly landed in the Top 10 in markets including the UK, Germany, Australia and the Philippines. It’s one of the standout tracks from Swift’s album The Life of a Showgirl, which delivered a historic debut: 4 million units in its first week, the largest opening in modern chart history. All 12 tracks from the album charted simultaneously in the Hot 100’s Top 12, a first-ever feat.

Lyrically, “Opalite” fits neatly into Swift’s long tradition of using color and material as emotional shorthand. Where red symbolized passion and chaos, blue conveyed sadness and safety, and lavender haze bathed love in a purple dreamscape, “Opalite” feels like her prism era — refracting pain into something bright and luminous.

Please check out the lyric video for “Opalite.” The words are below if you’d like to follow along...

"Opalite"
Written by Shellback, Max Martin and Taylor Alison Swift. Performed by Taylor Swift.

I had a bad habit
Of missing lovers past
My brother used to call it
"Eating out of the trash," it's never gonna last
I thought my house was haunted
I used to live with ghosts
And all the perfect couples
Said, "When you know you know and when you don't you don't"

And all of the foes and all of the friends
Have seen it before, they'll see it again
Life is a song, it ends when it ends
I was wrong

But my Mama told me, "It's alright
You were dancing through the lightning strikes
Sleepless in the onyx night
But now the sky is opalite
Oh-oh-oh-oh, oh my Lord
Never made no one like you before
You had to make your own sunshine
But now the sky is opalite"
Oh-oh-oh-oh, oh

You couldn't understand it
Why you felt alone
You were in it for real
She was in her phone, and you were just a pose
And don't we try to love love? (Love love)
We give it all we got (Give it all we got)
You finally left the table
And what a simple thought, you're starving till you're not

And all of the foes and all of the friends
Have messed up before, they'll mess up again
Life is a song, it ends when it ends
You move on

And that's when I told you, "It's alright
You were dancing through the lightning strikes
Sleepless in the onyx night
But now the sky is opalite
Oh-oh-oh-oh, oh my Lord
Never met no one like you before
You had to make your own sunshine
But now the sky is opalite"
Oh-oh-oh-oh, oh

This is just a storm inside a teacup
But shelter here with me, my love
Thunder like a drum
This life will beat you up, up, up, up
This is just a temporary speed bump
But failure brings you freedom
And I can bring you love (Love, love, love, love)
Don't you sweat it, baby

"It's alright
You were dancing through the lightning strikes
Oh, so sleepless in the onyx night
But now the sky is opalite
Oh-oh-oh-oh, oh my Lord
Never met no one like you before, no
You had to make your own sunshine
But now the sky is opalite"
Oh-oh-oh-oh, oh



Credit: Taylor Swift image (cropped) by iHeartRadioCA, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

When the final whistle blew and the confetti settled, the Seattle Seahawks capped their Super Bowl 29-13 victory over the New England Patriots with one of sports’ most iconic moments: the presentation of the Vince Lombardi Trophy. As Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold lifted the gleaming prize high above his head during the postgame ceremony, he was holding a 6.7-pound masterpiece of sterling silver — a symbol of football supremacy and a triumph of American craftsmanship.



Standing 20.75 inches tall, the Vince Lombardi Trophy depicts a regulation-sized football poised in a kicking position atop a sleek, tapered three-sided base. The words “Vince Lombardi Trophy” and the LX Roman numerals for the 60th Super Bowl are engraved along its polished surface, while the National Football League shield adorns the base. Elegant in its simplicity, the design has remained virtually unchanged for six decades — a testament to the timeless vision behind it.

That vision famously began in 1966 with a sketch on the back of a cocktail napkin.

At the time, NFL Commissioner Pete Rozelle was preparing for the first AFL-NFL World Championship Game and wanted a trophy that reflected the league’s ambition to present the sport as a first-class spectacle. He turned to Tiffany & Co., which arranged a meeting between Rozelle and its head of design, Oscar Riedener.

There was just one catch: Riedener, a native of Switzerland, knew nothing about American football.

Determined to understand the assignment, the designer visited the FAO Schwarz toy store in New York City and purchased a football. The next morning, he placed it on his kitchen table and studied its shape over breakfast. After finishing a box of cornflakes, Riedener cut up the empty package and fashioned a three-sided base to support the ball. Days later, during a lunch meeting with Rozelle and Tiffany executives, he sketched the concept on a cocktail napkin. The commissioner approved it on the spot — and an enduring sports icon was born.

Today, each Lombardi Trophy is handcrafted by Tiffany & Co. in a painstaking process that spans roughly four months and requires about 72 hours of skilled labor.

The journey begins in the company’s hollowware shop in Cumberland, RI. Sheets of sterling silver are heated to approximately 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit, making the metal soft enough to shape. A master spinner then places the heated silver on a lathe and carefully forms it into the distinctive football shape.

Next comes chasing, a traditional silversmithing technique in which artisans hammer intricate details into the surface, including the ball’s seams and laces. At the same time, another master silversmith fabricates the three-sided base, cutting, forming and soldering the components with precision. The assembled piece is then bathed in acid to remove impurities before undergoing extensive polishing and final assembly — a process that gives the trophy its mirror-like brilliance.

Although the Lombardi Trophy is presented immediately after the game, its journey isn’t quite finished. The piece will return to Tiffany’s workshop to be engraved with the names of both teams, the date and location of the game, and the final score. Unlike many championship awards, the Lombardi Trophy is not passed from team to team — each Super Bowl champion keeps its own.

While the trophy’s sterling silver content carries a melt value of roughly $8,000 based on current silver prices, its true worth lies far beyond the metal itself. With a reported production cost of about $50,000 — and immeasurable symbolic value — the Lombardi Trophy represents the pinnacle of achievement in professional football.

Credits: Trophy image by Erik Drost, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Screen capture of the fabrication process via YouTube / The Wall Street Journal.

When Halle Berry appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on February 5, the Oscar-winning actress shared more than relationship news — she unveiled a striking engagement ring that perfectly reflects one of the biggest shifts in bridal jewelry today: the move toward bold, vintage-inspired, deeply personal design.



Berry confirmed that she is engaged to Grammy-winning musician Van Hunt after nearly six years together, flashing a distinctive diamond ring that immediately caught the attention of jewelry insiders. The piece features a white diamond center stone — estimated at roughly 1 to 2 carats — surrounded by an architectural grid of dark accent stones that experts believe could be black diamonds, deep blue sapphires or onyx. The geometric cluster sits atop a substantial yellow gold band, giving the ring both visual weight and a strong vintage character.



The overall effect is quietly dramatic — less red-carpet flash and more heirloom-inspired elegance. With its structured layout, bezel-style setting and bold use of negative space, the ring evokes early 20th-century design while feeling unmistakably modern.

Jewelry professionals say the piece aligns with several major engagement trends for 2026. Vintage-inspired rings continue to surge in popularity as couples gravitate toward styles with history, character and a sense of permanence. At the same time, chunky, gold-forward designs are making a strong comeback after years of ultra-delicate bands dominating the market. Berry’s ring also taps into the growing appetite for maximalism — statement pieces that stand apart from the predictable diamond solitaire.

Perhaps most importantly, the design reflects a broader cultural shift toward individuality. Today’s couples increasingly seek rings that feel one-of-a-kind, whether through mixed gemstones, unconventional layouts or sculptural forms. Berry’s ring, with its moody color contrast and architectural structure, embodies that desire for something distinctive and deeply personal. Experts estimate the value of the custom piece could exceed $100,000, with some placing the setting and craftsmanship alone near the $200,000 mark.

The engagement marks a meaningful milestone in Berry’s relationship with Hunt. The couple met in 2020 during the early months of the pandemic after being introduced via text by Hunt’s brother, who worked with Berry’s menopause and wellness brand, Respin. They spent months getting to know each other by phone and message before meeting in person, later making their relationship public that September and debuting together on the Oscars red carpet in 2021.

Hunt had previously revealed in 2025 that he had already proposed and was patiently waiting for Berry’s answer. On Fallon’s show, the actress clarified the outcome with a smile: “Of course, I said 'Yes.'”

Both partners are thriving professionally. Berry, 59, is starring in the upcoming thriller Crime 101 and continues to expand her production company, HalleHolly, with multiple projects in development, including an Apple TV+ adaptation of The President Is Missing. She is also growing her Respin wellness platform. Hunt, 55, an acclaimed singer-songwriter and producer, released his EP A Heart Full of Questions in 2025 and continues to create music through his independent label.

Credits: Screen captures via YouTube / The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

Cupid will be working overtime on Saturday, February 14, as an estimated 220,000 couples across the United States prepare for one of life’s most unforgettable moments: the marriage proposal.



That single day will account for just under 10% of the roughly 2.2 million to 2.8 million engagements that take place annually — a remarkable concentration of romance that solidifies Valentine’s Day’s status as one of the calendar’s premier proposal dates. In fact, February 14 regularly ranks as the third-most-popular day to get engaged, trailing only Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.

This year, the holiday’s appeal gets an extra boost: Valentine’s Day falls on a Saturday, giving would-be proposers the luxury of time. With no workday pressures, couples can enjoy full-day celebrations — romantic getaways, leisurely dinners or meaningful experiences — before the big question is asked. Weekend timing also makes it easier to celebrate afterward with family and friends, a factor that often influences proposal planning.

Valentine’s Day also serves as the grand finale of “Engagement Season,” the peak period stretching from late November through mid-February. According to The Knot’s 2025 Real Weddings Study, 47% of all proposals occur during this three-month window, fueled by holiday gatherings, festive moods and a natural focus on relationships and future planning.

So what makes February 14 such a powerful proposal magnet?

For many couples, the romance is already built in. Restaurants glow with candlelight, flowers and chocolates fill the air with symbolism, and the cultural spotlight is firmly fixed on love and commitment. The date itself is another draw — an anniversary that’s virtually impossible to forget. Perhaps most importantly, many couples already have special plans in place, making it easier to create a memorable moment without the pressure of designing an elaborate surprise from scratch.

Despite the cinematic image of a completely unexpected proposal, today’s engagements are rarely spontaneous. Research from The Knot reveals that 57% of couples discuss marriage more than a year before the proposal, ensuring both partners share the same vision for the future.

Ring selection is also far more collaborative than many assume: 77% of proposees are involved in choosing their engagement ring in some way, and nearly three in 10 couples shop for styles together ahead of time. In addition, about eight in 10 proposers report that their partners dropped hints about their preferences.

This Saturday, as countless ring boxes pop open and happy tears flow, Valentine’s Day will once again prove why it remains one of the most meaningful — and sparkling — days of the year.

Credit: Image by The Jeweler Blog, generated by aichatapp.ai.

A remarkable discovery in England is offering jewelry lovers a rare glimpse into how recycled precious materials can sometimes bridge a millennium. Recently analyzed by experts, a small medieval silver seal found in Essex combines craftsmanship from two vastly different eras — an 800-year-old silver setting built around a 2,000-year-old Roman gemstone.



The object, uncovered by a metal detectorist near the village of Gosfield in 2024, measures just over an inch long and weighs less than a quarter of an ounce. Yet despite its modest size, the piece tells an extraordinary story of status, symbolism and the enduring appeal of fine materials.



At its center sits a polished carnelian intaglio, engraved with a dynamic scene of a charioteer racing a two-horse chariot — imagery dating to the late first century BC or early first century AD. Surrounding the stone is a medieval silver bezel engraved in reverse with the Latin inscription “SECRETVM RICARDI,” meaning “Richard’s secret,” along with a small cross pattée, a Christian symbol common in the Middle Ages.

Because both the inscription and the carved gemstone are mirror images, the piece functioned as a personal seal, pressed into wax to authenticate letters and documents. A loop on the back suggests the owner likely wore it as a pendant, keeping his symbol of identity and authority close at hand.

What makes the Gosfield seal especially fascinating is the intentional blending of eras. Specialists note that objects combining components from periods separated by more than a millennium are rare in the archaeological record. The medieval owner — known only as Richard — may have chosen the ancient Roman gem deliberately, both to demonstrate knowledge of the classical world and to signal wealth and connections. Possessing an antique gemstone from a distant time and culture would have been a powerful status symbol.

The choice of carnelian was no accident. Prized for thousands of years across Egypt, Mesopotamia and the Roman Empire, the warm reddish-orange stone was associated with life, courage and protection. Romans, in particular, favored carnelian for signet rings because of a practical advantage: its smooth, waxy surface doesn’t stick to hot sealing wax, allowing for clean, detailed impressions.

That same beauty and durability continue to make carnelian a favorite today. With a Mohs hardness of about 6.5 to 7, the gemstone is suitable for everyday wear and remains popular in rings, pendants and beaded jewelry. Its rich, fiery color complements both silver and gold settings and appears in styles ranging from bohemian designs to high-end designer collections.

The silver matrix itself is believed to date from the 13th or 14th century, meaning the Roman gemstone was already more than a thousand years old when it was reset. The object has been submitted for consideration as treasure under the UK’s Treasure Act, and a local museum hopes to acquire it for public display.

Credit: Images courtesy of Colchester and Ipswich Museum Service.

Welcome to Music Friday, when we highlight songs that sparkle with jewelry, gemstones or precious metals in the lyrics or title. On the eve of Valentine’s Day, we’re revisiting a heartfelt favorite: Kelly Price’s romantic 2004 ballad, “He Proposed.”



In the Grammy-nominated track, Price recounts in great detail a Valentine’s Day surprise that turns an ordinary February 14 into a life-changing occasion. With emotion and warmth, she sings, “He proposed to me, my baby proposed with a diamond ring / I couldn’t believe it, I looked in his eyes and I said yes.”

The lyrics capture the essence of what makes engagement jewelry so meaningful — not just the sparkle of the stone, but the promise and emotion behind it.

Price saves one dazzling detail for the closing lines: “He proposed and what a surprise / Ten carats nearly filled my eyes.”

The official music video unfolds like an intimate gathering, with Price sharing the joyful story of her Valentine’s proposal with a circle of friends. Set in a cozy living room, the scene reflects the excitement, disbelief and happiness that often accompany a surprise engagement.

“He Proposed” appears as the 10th track on Price’s third studio album, Priceless. The song earned her a 2004 Grammy nomination for Best Traditional R&B Performance, adding another milestone to a career defined by powerful vocals and emotional storytelling.

Born in New York City in 1973, Price began singing in her grandfather’s Pentecostal church before launching a professional career that has spanned more than three decades. A nine-time Grammy nominee, she has collaborated with an impressive roster of artists, including Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Kanye West, The Isley Brothers, George Michael, Elton John and Faith Evans.

Still celebrated for her rich, soulful voice, Price continues to perform for audiences across the country, often bringing the same passion and authenticity that make songs like “He Proposed” resonate year after year. Ironically, she has a special Valentine's Day performance scheduled in Shreveport, LA.

Be sure to check out the official video for “He Proposed” — and the lyrics below if you’d like to sing along…

“He Proposed”
Written by Bobby Arrington. Performed by Kelly Price.

It was Valentine’s Day, February the 14th
My baby took me to a special place
Said he had a surprise for me

He told me to close my eyes, so that I could not see
And when I opened them up
He was on one knee reachin’ for my hand

That’s when

He proposed to me, he proposed with a diamond ring
I started crying, he placed it on my finger and I said yes

I’ll never forget that night. It was 8:43 pm to be precise
He looked in my eyes and said,
“You’ve made me the happiest man alive”

And soon as I got home I called my mother on the phone
I said, “Momma, you won’t believe what just happened to me”

He proposed to me, he proposed with a diamond ring
I started crying, he placed it on my finger and I said yes
He proposed to me, my baby proposed with a diamond ring
Couldn’t believe it, I looked in his eyes and I said yes

‘Cuz we will be together baby and this I know
See, we will love forever baby, my heart told me so
See, if you promise to hold me tight and never let me go
We will be husband and wife for the rest of our lives

He proposed to me, he proposed with a diamond ring
I started crying, he placed it on my finger and I said yes
He proposed to me, my baby proposed with a diamond ring
Couldn’t believe it, I looked in his eyes and I said yes

He proposed to me, he proposed with a diamond ring
I started crying, he placed it on my finger and I said yes
He proposed to me, my baby proposed with a diamond ring
Couldn’t believe it, I looked in his eyes and I said yes

He proposed and what a surprise
Ten carats nearly filled my eyes
I started crying, I looked in his eyes and I said yes
My baby proposed to me



Credit: Screen capture via YouTube / Kelly Price.

For US alpine skier Breezy Johnson, the 2026 Winter Games in Cortina d’Ampezzo delivered the kind of week most athletes — and romantics — only dream about. Just days after capturing Olympic gold in the women’s downhill, Johnson crossed another finish line that would change her life: a surprise marriage proposal and a bright blue sapphire engagement ring from boyfriend Connor Watkins.



Watkins had been planning the moment for nearly a year. On February 12, shortly after Johnson completed her run in the women’s super-G, he was waiting in the finish area. Still dressed in her Team USA gear, the gold medalist was stunned as Watkins dropped to one knee and asked her to marry him.



Johnson later described the experience as “everything I ever dreamed of,” adding that the timing felt perfect. The Olympic engagement fulfilled a wish she had shared early in their relationship — the hope of combining “the two loves of my life,” skiing and Connor.

The couple’s modern love story began in 2023 when they met on the dating app Bumble. What started with a simple brunch date grew into a partnership strong enough to weather demanding training schedules and international competition. Today, the Salt Lake City–based pair share a home — and now, an unforgettable Olympic memory.

At the center of the proposal was a custom-designed engagement ring that reflected Johnson’s personal style. Rather than choosing a traditional diamond, Watkins worked with a jeweler to create a white gold bypass-style ring featuring a vivid blue sapphire center stone accented by white sapphires.



“I’m so much more of a color person,” Johnson told vogue.com, noting that she “was not sold on the white diamond thing.” The sapphire choice also carried a personal touch. “Blue is also her color,” Watkins said.

Johnson had given Watkins full creative freedom. “I don’t want to go ring shopping,” she told him. “I want you to design it.” He completed the piece months ahead of the Games, ensuring every detail was ready for the big moment.

The presentation itself included another meaningful element. The ring was placed inside a custom wooden box engraved with a lyric from Taylor Swift’s song “The Alchemy”: “Honestly, who are we to fight the alchemy?” The track — known for its sports imagery and themes of love and victory — had become a favorite for the couple as their relationship deepened.

The story didn’t end there. After Johnson shared the engagement on Instagram, Swift herself commented with another lyric from the song, delighting the newly engaged athlete. Johnson later called the unexpected nod from the global superstar “so cute” and said she couldn’t believe it.

Credits: Images via Instagram / breezyjohnsonski and hashtagconnor4real.

For two dedicated diamond hunters, a winter delay turned into a once-in-a-lifetime reward when a glowing 6.03-carat canary yellow diamond emerged from a pile of frozen gravel collected at Arkansas’ Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro.



Mining partners Jack Pearadin of Nashville, AR, and Michael Schumacher of Soldiers Grove, WI, are no strangers to success at the park. Between them, the longtime friends have discovered more than 350 diamonds over the years. But nothing compared to what happened during a routine TikTok livestream on January 25.



The pair had collected buckets of diamond-bearing soil from the south end of the park in late December. Normally, they would have processed the material quickly, but a winter storm coated the region in ice, making it difficult to wash and sift the frozen concentrate.

At one point, Pearadin apologized to his partner for the delay. Schumacher’s response would later prove almost prophetic: “It’s okay, Bud, don’t worry about it — just leave that big, beautiful canary in there to grow. It’s not going anywhere.”

When the weather finally allowed Pearadin to begin processing the material, he set up a live demonstration for viewers. Using a saruca — a bowl-shaped screening tool designed to concentrate heavy materials — he flipped several batches of gravel. A “saruca pile” is the mound of heavier material left after the screen is flipped, the very place where diamonds are most likely to appear.

After his fourth flip, Pearadin began to walk away — then something caught his eye.

“Something big and yellow was just glowing,” he later recalled. At first, he assumed it was a smaller stone, but when he tried to slide a small spoon underneath it, the tool wouldn’t go deep enough. He had to dig nearly to the bottom of the pile before lifting out the gem.

“I was shaking,” he said.

Watching the discovery unfold live from Wisconsin, Schumacher immediately realized that his earlier prediction had come true.



The friends later returned the stone to park officials, who confirmed it as a 6.03-carat yellow diamond — about the size of a gumdrop. The crystal’s vivid canary color and rare hexoctahedral shape, featuring 48 natural faces, make it especially unusual. It now ranks as the fourth-largest yellow diamond and the 22nd-largest diamond of any color registered since the Crater of Diamonds became an Arkansas State Park in 1972.



Pearadin and Schumacher named their find the "Pearadin Schumacher American Dream Diamond," a nod to the 1954 doo-wop song “Sh-Boom (Life Could Be a Dream)” and the nation’s 250th anniversary year.

Beyond its size and color, the story behind the stone highlights what makes the Crater of Diamonds so special. It is the only diamond-bearing site in the world open to the public where visitors can search — and keep whatever they find.

For Pearadin, the discovery isn’t about potential value.

“I personally was never looking for this — I just enjoy the experience,” he said. Schumacher agreed, noting that the possibility of finding something extraordinary keeps him coming back.

Credits: Images courtesy of Arkansas State Parks.

The average price of a natural diamond engagement ring in the US climbed to $7,346 in 2025, marking a 9% increase from the previous year, according to a new industry report from the Natural Diamond Council (NDC) and analytics firm Tenoris. The findings, based on more than 4 million transactions across 2,500 specialty jewelry retailers, point to a clear trend: couples are choosing larger diamonds and more expressive designs to mark their engagements.



Size played a major role in the price increase. The average center stone grew 5% to 1.16 carats, reflecting steady consumer interest in diamonds that make a stronger visual statement. In fact, the fastest growth occurred in larger categories, particularly stones weighing 1.50–1.59 carats and 2.00–2.24 carats — further evidence that many buyers are moving beyond the traditional 1-carat benchmark.

While round brilliant diamonds remain the dominant choice, accounting for 62% of engagement ring sales, the report highlights growing momentum for fancy shapes. Elongated and distinctive cuts — including marquise, cushion and other non-round styles — are gaining traction as couples look for rings that feel more personal and unique.

Celebrity influence has helped fuel this shift. High-profile engagement rings worn by stars such as Selena Gomez, Taylor Swift and Zendaya showcased elongated and vintage-inspired shapes throughout 2025, encouraging consumers to explore alternatives to classic designs. The marquise shape alone posted notable year-over-year growth, signaling continued interest in statement silhouettes.

Overall, engagement rings — including finished pieces, loose center stones and semi-mounts — represented 38% of all natural diamond jewelry sales by volume, underscoring the category’s central role in the diamond market.

Looking ahead, the NDC expects generational change to further reshape buying patterns. Gen Z consumers (born between 1997 and 2012) are projected to remain the fastest-growing segment of diamond buyers in 2026. Younger shoppers are placing greater emphasis on individuality, storytelling and self-expression, trends that align with the rise of larger stones, distinctive cuts and bespoke design details.

Another emerging shift involves male consumers. The report notes that young men are increasingly likely to make their first diamond purchase in 2026, driven in part by the growing visibility of men wearing diamonds on red carpets and at major events. Appearances by style leaders such as Timothée Chalamet and Colman Domingo at the Golden Globes have helped normalize diamonds as a fashion choice beyond traditional bridal gifting.

Credit: Image by BigStockPhoto.com.

Sometimes the most remarkable diamond stories don’t begin in a jewelry store — they start at the bottom of a swimming pool and end, improbably, lodged in the sole of a shoe.



That was the case for a 1.3-carat diamond that spent months wedged inside the circular indentation of a pair of Lands’ End water shoes worn by a Pennsylvania playwright and writing instructor known simply as Coleman.

The discovery happened in February during a trip to Florida. After a day by the pool in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Coleman removed his water shoes and noticed something sparkling on the bottom.

“Look,” he told a friend, according to his personal website. “A gem.”

At first, he assumed it was nothing more than a piece of decorative glass — the kind of plastic “bedazzle” that turns up just about anywhere. But a visit to a Fort Lauderdale jeweler revealed a surprise: the stone was a genuine diamond, likely dating to the 1950s or 1960s and featuring what the jeweler described as an “old-fashioned cut.”

The find sparked Coleman’s imagination. He briefly considered having the stone set into a necklace for his grand-stepdaughter as a future graduation gift. Instead, he decided to share the unusual story on Facebook, posting a photo of what he jokingly called the “diamond on the sole of my shoe — thank you, Paul Simon.”

The musical reference was to Paul Simon’s 1986 hit “Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes,” the fifth track from the landmark Graceland album. Frequently ranked among the greatest albums of all time, Graceland earned the 1987 Grammy Award for Album of the Year.

Coleman’s post quickly turned his quirky discovery into a community mystery — and then, almost immediately, into a reunion.

Within minutes, neighbors from his Chester County, PA, community began reaching out with tips. One comment read, “I think I know who the diamond belongs to.” Soon after, his phone rang. On the other end was Cindy Ware.

“Hello,” she said. “I think you have my diamond.”

Ware had lost the stone in December while exercising at the community pool. The diamond, a cherished family heirloom from her late husband’s ring, had vanished without a trace.

“A diamond in a swimming pool to be found at all is impossible,” she told NBC10 Philadelphia.

The explanation was almost as unlikely as the discovery. Coleman regularly plays water volleyball in the same pool — wearing those same water shoes.

At some point, the loose diamond settled into one of the shoe’s small circular indentations, which turned out to be uncannily close to the stone’s exact size. Protected by the snug fit, the gem remained lodged in place for months — through repeated pool use, a trip to Florida and countless steps on beach and pavement.

“I assumed I picked it up in Florida,” Coleman told NBC10. “Went down there, wore them, wore them on the beach, to the pool.”

When the diamond was finally returned, Ware could hardly believe it. Coleman, meanwhile, was simply happy to help restore a piece of family history.

“To be able to add even a little bit more happiness there,” he told NBC10 Philadelphia, “well, that’s really swell.”

Credit: Conceptual image by The Jeweler Blog, generated by aichatapp.ai.

Welcome to Music Friday when we bring you classic songs with jewelry, gemstones or precious metals in the title or lyrics. Today, the incomparable Neil Young searches for love, purpose and personal redemption in his 1972 chart-topping classic, “Heart of Gold.”



He sings, “I want to live, I want to give / I’ve been a miner for a heart of gold / It’s these expressions I never give / That keep me searching for a heart of gold and I’m getting old.”

Young's “heart of gold” links the precious metal to an inner worth: a soul’s rare quality that shines when tested by loneliness, time and the prospect of a life unfulfilled. The “miner” is us all — digging for an authentic self that can love and be loved in return. His metaphor implies a core of warmth, generosity and openness — qualities that, in Young’s world, must be cultivated as one ages.

Penned by Young in 1971 and released as a single in February 1972 from his fourth album, Harvest, “Heart of Gold” became the Canadian artist’s only #1 hit on the US Billboard Hot 100. It also topped Canada’s RPM chart and was later ranked #259 on Rolling Stone’s 2021 list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.

Interestingly, this enduring favorite was born from a pair of unexpected circumstances. After suffering a painful back injury, Young was unable to stand long enough to play his electric guitar. The limitation pushed him toward a quieter, more introspective sound built around acoustic guitar and harmonica — the setting in which “Heart of Gold” took shape.

A second stroke of serendipity occurred in Nashville, where Young was recording Harvest. Linda Ronstadt and James Taylor happened to be in town for a television appearance, and producer Elliot Mazer recruited the two stars to provide the original recording's now-iconic background vocals.

In the decades since, “Heart of Gold” has been covered and reinterpreted by a wide array of artists from Fiona Apple, Willie Nelson and Tori Amos to Roxette, Diana Krall and Johnny Cash (with the Red Hot Chili Peppers). Its inclusion in films, such as the 2010 romantic comedy Eat Pray Love, has kept the melody in public consciousness.

Today, at age 80, Young remains a towering figure in rock lore, but his performing status has shifted. In early February, Young announced the cancellation of his 2026 European tour, stating he needed to "take a break" and that it was "not the time" to tour.

Please check out the video of Young’s live performance of “Heart of Gold.” The clip is taken from his 1971 appearance at the BBC Radio Theatre in London.

“Heart of Gold”
Written and performed by Neil Young.

I want to live, I want to give
I’ve been a miner for a heart of gold
It’s these expressions I never give
That keep me searching for a heart of gold and I’m getting old
Keep me searching for a heart of gold and I’m getting old

I’ve been to Hollywood, I’ve been to Redwood
I crossed the ocean for a heart of gold
I’ve been in my mind, it’s such a fine line
That keeps me searching for a heart of gold and I’m getting old
Keeps me searching for a heart of gold and I’m getting old

Keep me searching for a heart of gold
You keep me searching and I’m growing old
I've been a miner for a heart of gold
Keep me searching for a heart of gold

Credit: Photo by Andrea Barsanti, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

When it comes to popping the question, today’s couples share one clear priority: getting the engagement ring exactly right. According to The Knot Real Weddings Study 2026, the ring is no longer a solo decision but a collaborative effort, with 79% of recipients involved in the selection process and one in four couples shopping together at a retailer before the proposal.



Nearly 9 in 10 proposers had a ring in hand when they popped the question, and 96% of couples exchanged rings to mark their engagement. But the process behind that moment has become far more of a team effort. Only 21% of rings were chosen without any input from the recipient.

Research begins early. Fifty-seven percent of proposers start their search more than six months in advance, although 63% make the final purchase within two months of the proposal. More than half say it’s important to shop in person, with proposers visiting an average of two retailers and viewing about 10 rings before deciding. While 64% purchase in-store, roughly one-third complete the transaction online.

When it comes to design priorities, couples are clear about what matters most. Cut and shape rank #1, followed by style or setting (#2) and metal choice (#3).

The most popular diamond shape remains round (26%), closely followed by oval (25%). Other top choices — each at 8% — include emerald, princess, pear and marquise cuts.

Metal preferences continue to evolve. Yellow gold now leads at 39%, marking a dramatic rise in popularity over the past five years, while white gold continues a gradual decline.

Price and size expectations vary depending on diamond type. The average natural diamond engagement ring costs $7,000, with an average center stone of 1.6 carats. For lab-grown diamonds, couples spend an average of $4,300, but opt for larger stones averaging 2.0 carats.

The engagement journey often follows a familiar timeline. Couples dated an average of three years before getting engaged, and about 40% remained engaged for 11 to 18 months, with the average engagement lasting 14 months. Nearly 60% begin wedding planning within a month of the proposal.

As for popping the question, December remains the most popular month, with Christmas Day topping the list, followed by Christmas Eve and Valentine’s Day.

The study also offers insight into modern romance. One-third of couples met online, the leading way partners connect for the fourth consecutive year, followed by meeting through friends (14%) and at school (12%).

Once engaged, couples quickly turn their attention to wedding planning — and the budget. The venue is the top priority, with 83% calling it the most important decision and an average cost of $12,900. Other major expenses include photography ($3,000), florals ($2,800), the wedding dress ($2,100), rentals ($2,000) and a DJ ($1,800). Catering averages $80 per guest, while couples spend about $330 on groom’s attire, $530 on the cake and $300 for hair and makeup.

The “Real Weddings Study” is based on responses from 10,474 US couples married between January 1 and December 31, 2025.

Credit: Photo by BigStockPhoto.com

If your spare change looks a little different in 2026, don’t worry — it’s not a mistake. To celebrate the United States’ 250th anniversary, the US Mint is releasing a special series of one-year-only coin designs that honor the nation’s history, founding principles and enduring spirit of liberty. Each piece will carry the dual date 1776 ~ 2026 and will return to its familiar look in 2027.



The most collectible pieces you’ll likely spot first are the five new quarter designs, each highlighting a defining moment in America’s journey.



The Mayflower Compact Quarter features two Pilgrims embracing on the obverse, symbolizing unity and shared purpose. The reverse shows the Mayflower under full sail, honoring one of the earliest expressions of self-governance.



The Revolutionary War Quarter presents George Washington on the front, while the reverse depicts a determined Continental Army soldier at Valley Forge — a powerful tribute to perseverance during the fight for independence.



The Declaration of Independence Quarter showcases Thomas Jefferson, the document’s primary author. On the reverse, the Liberty Bell appears with its famous crack, a reminder of both freedom’s promise and the fragility of a young nation.



The US Constitution Quarter features James Madison, known as the “Father of the Constitution.” The reverse highlights Independence Hall and the inscription “We the People,” emphasizing government by the consent of the governed.



Rounding out the series is the Gettysburg Address Quarter, with Abraham Lincoln’s portrait on the obverse. The reverse shows two clasped hands alongside the phrase “A New Nation Conceived in Liberty,” reflecting unity and national resolve.



Beyond the quarters, the dime is getting one of the most dramatic redesigns in its history. Replacing the long-standing Roosevelt portrait is an “Emerging Liberty” design showing a windswept Liberty wearing a stars-and-stripes liberty cap. The reverse features an eagle in flight carrying arrows and the inscription “Liberty Over Tyranny.”



The nickel keeps its familiar Thomas Jefferson portrait and Monticello reverse, but adds the commemorative 1776 ~ 2026 dual date — a subtle but meaningful nod to the Semiquincentennial.



Collectors will also have two special options not intended for everyday circulation. The Enduring Liberty Half Dollar features a close-up of the Statue of Liberty on the obverse, while the reverse depicts Liberty passing her torch to the next generation — symbolizing continuity and the transmission of American ideals.



There’s also a commemorative 1776–2026 penny available directly from the Mint. Although the one-cent coin is no longer being produced for general circulation, collectors can purchase this special edition featuring Abraham Lincoln and the dual anniversary dates.

According to the U.S. Mint, the designs are meant to reflect America’s ongoing journey toward a “more perfect union” and to give citizens a tangible connection to 250 years of history.

So in 2026, it might be worth taking a second look before tossing your change into a jar. For one year only, the newly minted coins in your pocket won’t just be currency — they’ll be miniature works of art celebrating a milestone in the American story.

Credits: Images courtesy of the US Mint.

If it’s been a few years since your fine jewelry was last appraised, your insurance coverage may no longer reflect what it would actually cost to replace your pieces today.



The reason is simple: precious metal prices have surged dramatically. Gold is now trading around $5,235 per ounce, up from $2,040 just two years ago — a 157% increase. Platinum has climbed from $905 to $2,165 per ounce (+139%), while silver has jumped from $23 to $87 (+278%).

For consumers, those increases translate directly into higher replacement costs — and a growing risk of being underinsured.

Jewelry insurance is typically based on a specific appraised value, known as the retail replacement value. If that appraisal is several years old, the amount listed on your policy may fall far short of what it would cost to replace the piece today.

For example, a ring insured for $5,000 a few years ago might now cost significantly more to recreate due to higher metal prices and rising labor and material costs. If the piece is lost, stolen or damaged, your insurer will generally pay only up to the scheduled amount — leaving you responsible for any shortfall.

That gap could mean the difference between replacing a piece “like kind and quality” or settling for something smaller or less valuable.

Some insurance policies include automatic inflation adjustments, often in the range of 1% to 5% annually. While helpful during stable markets, these increases rarely keep pace with the rapid swings seen recently in gold, platinum and silver.

Even policies that apply broader “Insurance Value Adjustments” may not fully capture sudden spikes in specific metals or the unique characteristics of your individual piece.

Most jewelers, appraisers and insurers recommend updating jewelry appraisals every two years — or even annually in periods of significant market movement.

You should also consider a new appraisal if (1) Your piece has been repaired, resized or redesigned; (2) You’ve added stones or changed the setting; (3) Precious metal or gemstone prices have risen sharply.

Your trusted jeweler or certified gemologist can provide an updated retail replacement value based on current market conditions.

Here are a few steps to protect your coverage: (1) Check the date on your most recent appraisal. (2) Schedule a professional reappraisal if it’s more than two years old. (3) Submit the updated valuation to your insurance provider. (4) Confirm your policy covers full replacement value, not cash value or a capped amount.

Precious metals are often viewed as “safe haven” assets, which means their prices can rise quickly during periods of economic uncertainty, inflation or global instability. While that may increase the intrinsic value of your jewelry, it also raises the cost to replace it. Regular appraisals will help ensure your coverage keeps pace with the market.

Credit: Image by The Jeweler Blog, generated by aichatapp.ai.

For some of the world’s ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) elite, marriage proposals have evolved into meticulously engineered spectacles played out with synchronized drones, private islands and helicopter-pad theatrics.



Proposal Dubai, one of the region’s premier experiential agencies, has unveiled its 2026 Collection, a portfolio of what it calls “high-impact engagement productions” designed specifically for UHNW clients. The launch reflects not only rising expectations around proposals, but also the extraordinary wealth and youthful demographic driving demand in the emirate.

As of early 2026, Dubai ranks as the fourth wealthiest city in the world, home to roughly 81,200 to 86,000 millionaires, along with 237 to 251 centi-millionaires (those worth more than $100 million) and 20 to 23 billionaires. Even more telling: About 58.5% of Dubai’s 4 million residents are between 25 and 44 years old — prime engagement years. By contrast, only about 27% of New York City’s population falls into that age bracket.

Situated on the southeast coast of the Persian Gulf in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai has become a magnet for global wealth migration, fueled by tax-friendly policies, luxury real estate and a lifestyle built around spectacle. Proposal Dubai’s new offerings lean directly into that environment.



At the center of the 2026 Collection is “Love Story in the Sky,” a private drone light show featuring 1,000 synchronized drones that narrate a couple’s relationship across the Dubai skyline. The aerial storytelling is paired with fireworks and custom projection mapping on Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel.

Founder Ankur Bagga describes the experiences as “live theater where the couple is the protagonist,” made possible by exclusive access to some of the city’s most restricted and recognizable landmarks.

Among the new-to-market venues is The Next Level at The Palm Tower, the highest vantage point on Palm Jumeirah, offering 360-degree views that sweep from the marina to the sail-shaped silhouette of Burj Al Arab. That same architectural icon — famous for its 24-karat gold interiors and its dramatic 212-meter-high helipad — is now available for sunrise or sunset proposal productions. The helipad has previously hosted everything from a Roger Federer–Andre Agassi tennis rally to an airplane landing.

For those seeking seclusion, Sweden Beach Palace on The World Islands offers ultra-private waterfront mansions inspired by Scandinavian design, while AURA SKYPOOL — the world’s highest 360-degree infinity pool — provides a suspended-in-the-sky backdrop 200 meters above the city.

Not every proposal in the collection is sky-high. In the desert dunes at Bab Al Shams, A Rare Finds Desert Resort, Proposal Dubai introduces its “10,000 Candles” experience. A private desert arena is transformed into a literal sea of light, with a bespoke dinner and live string quartet. Comparable ultra-luxury desert dining experiences in Dubai have reached prices as high as AED 500,000 (approximately $136,000) for a single evening.

The company’s upcoming global portal aims to streamline bookings for international clients seeking curated UAE proposal itineraries — further positioning Dubai as the epicenter of cinematic engagements.

With extraordinary wealth concentrated among a largely young population, Dubai has become a place where even the most intimate question — “Will you marry me?” — can unfold on a billion-dollar stage.

Credits: Couple photo by Proposal Dubai. Ferris wheel at night by Richard N Horne, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Welcome to Music Friday, where songs with jewelry, gemstones or precious metals in the title or lyrics take the spotlight. Today we revisit Canadian rockers The Trews and their 2005 track “The Pearl (More Than Everything).” The song casts love as a treasure, with nautical and jewelry imagery weaving through Colin MacDonald’s storytelling.



In the lyric threads, the narrator adores his beloved as “the pearl,” and he compares her beauty to a diamond ring. He sings of pursuit and longing, noting, “Though the pearl eludes me while I’m sinkin’ still there’s no finer thing,” and adds, “I want you more than everything.”

The ballad paints a winter tempest as a backdrop for a vow to persevere, with the sea’s siren call echoing in the background. The moment of clarity arrives as the mist lifts and reveals the cherished prize he’s sought.

He sings, “Now I can find the gold and silver that I prayed tomorrow would bring.”

“The Pearl” appears as the eighth track on The Trews’ Den of Thieves album. It marked the band’s second studio album and climbed to #6 on the Canadian Albums Chart, signaling their growing national footprint.

The band formed in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, in the late 1990s and broke through in 2002 after winning a contest with Ontario rock station CHTZ-FM, which led to a Bumstead Productions deal. They earned Juno nods in the mid-2000s, including New Group of the Year (2004) and Single of the Year nominations for “Not Ready to Go” (2005). A standout moment came in November 2010 when they performed the Canadian National Anthem at the Grey Cup in Edmonton, a televised moment that echoed the country’s musical pride.

In 2024, reports highlighted the three principal members’ invitation to perform their 2010 release “Highway of Heroes” at Juno Beach, Normandy, for the D-Day 80th anniversary — a moment broadcast worldwide and watched by leaders and fans alike. As of 2026, The Trews — still featuring core founding members MacDonald (vocals), John-Angus MacDonald (guitar), and Jack Syperek (bass) — remain active on tour, with the band promoting their latest material and celebrating a heritage of rugged, melody-driven rock.

Check out the video of their 2009 live performance of “The Pearl” at the Myer Horowitz Theatre in Edmonton. The lyrics are here if you’d like to sing along…

“The Pearl (More Than Everything)”
Written by Colin MacDonald, John-Angus MacDonald and Gordie Johnson. Performed by The Trews.

The search of one true heart
Deep within you
The ocean will part
The clearness of blue
Though the pearl eludes me while I’m sinkin’ still there’s no finer thing
Diamonds do you justice only cause your beauty shines like a ring

I want you more than everything
I want you more than everything

The four winds on high
Of virtue they sing
It sharpens my eye
Determines these things… determination

Though the pearl eludes me while I’m sinkin’ still there’s no finer thing
Diamonds do you justice only ’cause your beauty shines like a ring
Fighting through the winter tempest I can hear the sea sirens sing

I want you more than everything
I want you more than everything

I feel your heart
It fades into view
The mist pulls apart
And reveals the…

Pearl that I've been seeking while I’m sinkin’ see there’s no finer thing
Diamonds do you justice only ’cause your beauty shines like a ring
Fighting through the winter tempest I can hear the sea sirens sing
Now I find the gold and silver that I prayed tomorrow would bring

I want you more than everything
I want you more than everything
I want you more than everything
I want you more than everything

More than everything
More than everything
More than everything
More than everything…



Credit: Photo by Lildreamer22, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.