If possible, I would hold on to your gold as it is likely the price will continue to rise through the year, especially with the weak dollar. It should continue through election time.

Does anyone have any advice for cleaning pearls?

I'd be interested in this as well, as I purchased a pearl the same way and had it put in a pendant. My understanding is that blue and black pearls are the most valuable with white/pink the least.

I have had primarily positive experiences buying diamond rings on-line, although I am careful to do my research before hand. I have never had to return a single one.

I know a lot of people that are upgrading their engagement or wedding bands and have the originals made into right hand rings.

Does anyone know the elements in Black Hills gold that give it it's 3 unique colors?

What is the hardness range of synthetic diamonds? Are they able to create them to a hardness of 10?