Thursday, February 21, 2008

Antique Engagement Rings - One of a Kind

By Andrew W John

Antique engagement rings can be bought through a dealer in second hand ring stores, or there might be an antique ring that has been passed down in a family - often a man will want to offer this to his sweetheart when he proposes. Whatever way you decide to do things an antique engagement ring could bring years of happiness and joy to a man and woman.

When a couple have been dating for a while there comes a time when their thoughts turn to marriage and a longer term commitment - this is often the point where the man begins to think about a proper proposal and choosing an engagement ring.

It is a very happy time when a couple go out together to choose an engagement ring. For the girl and the guy who want something different; then an antique ring might be the answer. An antique engagement ring is usually distinguished from other rings because of the way the stones are cut and set. Diamond settings especially seem to come and go out of fashion so an antique diamond ring might be just the thing for a couple who aren't necessarily taken up with following the current trend.

More than a century ago the most popular cuts of diamond were the mine cut and the cushion cut. These particular cuts were designed to be shown off in candle light as the facets of the stone would glimmer and shine, throwing back the light of the candles in a way that doesn't happen now.

Some dealers would regard any pre-nineteen fifties ring as antique but this is because the word refers to a number of different periods, such as the Georgian period which ran from the mid eighteenth century to 1837, then followed the Victorian period which lasted until 1900. Following these the most sought after twentieth century antique engagement rings are the Art Nouveau period which ran from the eighteen nineties to 1919 and the Art Deco period which can be dated to between nineteen twenty and nineteen thirty five. All of these had their own unique design elements and many of them are available on the antique jewelery market today.

If you do decide to go for an antique ring that is not a family heirloom then you should go to a reputable dealer or auction house where there is an expert on hand who can identify which period the ring came from and whether it is a genuine antique. Once the ring is purchased you can then begin to enjoy the engagement period and hopefully the rest of your lives together.

For one of the largest selections of antique engagement rings available anywheres in North America, please visit our website at Natalia-Diamonds.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_W_John

Where Our Diamonds Are Mined

By Jan Smith

Argyle mine is located in the Kimberley region in the far north east of Western Australia. Owned by Rio Tinto, this mine is the world's largest single producer of volume of diamonds. However, due to low proportion of gem quality diamonds it is not the value leader. It does produce 90-95% of the world's supply of pink diamonds. These are just some of the stones used in wedding rings and engagement rings throughout the western world.

Diavik is also owned by Rio Tinto, located in Canada it is a very large mine. It is located north of Yellowknife and south of the Arctic Circle on an island. The island is connected by an ice road. It is also an important part of the regions economy employing more than 700 people and producing more than 8 million carats annually.

Ekati diamond mine is owned by BHP Billiton and located south of the arctic circle in the Northwest Territories of Canada. The Ekati is Canada's first operational diamond mine. Diamonds mined here are sold under the Aurias trade name Authenticity is verified through Canada Mark service. CanadaMark service is also owned by BHP Billiton Diamonds, Inc.

Baken diamond mine is located along the lower Orange River in South Africa. It is owned and operated by Trans Hex. The average size stone for 2004 was 1.29 carats. In 2004, this mine produced a 78.9 carat D color flawless diamond that sold for more than 1.8 million dollars (US), as well as a 27.67 pink diamond that was sold for over 1 million US dollars.

Merlin is the second of only two diamond mines in Australia. No longer operating it was owned by Rio Tinto and sold to Striker Resources, who has explored the possibilities of reopening the mine.

Orapa is the world's largest diamond mine. It us located 240 Km west of Francistown. The mine is owned by "Debswana" which is a partnership between DeBeers and the government of Botswana. This mine operates 7 days a week. It maintains pre primary and primary schools for its employee's children. There is also a 100 bed hospital and game park. This mine began production in 1971 and is the oldest mine owned by the Debswana Company.

The Premier mine located in Cullinan, South Africa produced the largest gem diamond ever in 1905. The Cullinan Diamond weighed 3,106.75 carats. This mine also produced the Golden Jubilee diamond which weighed 545.67 carats. This mine is owned by the De Beers Company and was renamed The Cullinan Diamond Mine in 2003 in celebration of its centennial.

The McArthur River mine in the Northern Territory of Australia, produces many industrial grade diamonds but frequently has flooding problems from the McCarthur River which is an important river system in the N.T. The N.T only has two seasons a year ~ the 'wet' and the 'dry'. During a typical monsoonal 'wet' season the heavy rainfalls close the mine each year.

Due to it's extremely remote location, it is only reachable by road for six months out of every year so keeping supplies going into the minesite is a very expensive exercise. The mine personnel work a 2 week out, 1 week in fly-in/fly-out roster. It's a lifestyle that many city dwellers are very unfamiliar with but these are some of the conditions under which our Diamonds are mined.

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A video Directory of weddings to inspire or scare you.

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The Value Of Gold - Today And Yesterday

By Alan Beggerow

Every culture throughout history has known of gold and treasured it. Unlike many other metals, gold can be found in its natural state as nuggets that can be very pure without further refining. Gold may have been the first type of metal ever known to humans, for archeologists have found small nuggets of natural gold in caves that were inhabited by humans as long ago as 40,000 B.C.E. The oldest solid evidence of gold are pieces of jewelry from ancient Egypt around 3000 B.C.E. These items are also the oldest known examples of jewelry of any kind that have been found.

The discovery of King Tutankhamen's tomb in the 1920's revealed the extent and mastery of working in gold that ancient Egyptians possessed. Among some of the items found in this 2000 B.C.E. tomb were many pieces of gold jewelry and a sarcophagus that weighed over 3,000 pounds. Inside the sarcophagus were 3 coffins nested inside each other, with each coffin more elaborate than the other. The two other coffins were made from wood and were covered with sheets of gold. The inner coffin was pure gold, and weighed over 240 pounds. Inside this coffin the face of the mummified king was covered with a death mask that was made from pure gold and precious gems that weighed 220 pounds.

While gold was treasured by the ancient Egyptians, it wasn't used as money for trade and exchange. Barley was the favored material for use as a medium of exchange, while gold was given an even higher spiritual value in that the metal could help pay the departed's way into the next world. The first evidence of gold being used as a form of currency occurred in the 7th century B.C.E. in what is now western Turkey.

So why has gold always been and continues to be valued so highly? Gold has some very unique qualities:

* Pure gold's luster does not tarnish or corrode.

* One ounce of pure gold can be hammered into a sheet as thin as 5 millionths of an inch thick and cover over 100 square foot. That is so thin that 1,000 of these sheets piled on top each other would equal one thickness of a sheet of newspaper.

* Gold is a very dense metal. One cubic foot of pure gold would weigh more than a half of a ton.

* The visual beauty of the metal also plays a part in its value.

All of these attributes are part of the reason for gold's high value, but the main reason is its scarcity. Even with the estimation that 75 percent of all gold that has been produced has been extracted since 1910, gold remains one of the rarest metals found on earth. How rare? Imagine using a simple kitchen measuring cup, and measuring out 1 million cups of earth into a pile. How much gold would be contained in this pile of earth? 4 thousandths, or 0.004 of a cup! Compare that with the 56,000 cups of iron contained within the same pile of earth and you can get an idea of how rare gold is, and the reason for its value today and yesterday.

Alan Beggerow owns and operates Cathleen's Bargain Basement, an online business that offers custom made apparel and hand crafted teddy bears by Cathleen, and also offers a selection of jewelry, home decor, Asian motif items, and much more. http://www.cathleensbargainbasement.com

Alan Beggerow is also a free lance writer. For further examples of his writings, visit his political and current events blog Random Thoughts at http://www.winkle52.blogspot.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alan_Beggerow

Class Rings - Making Your School Ring Special

By Ilse Hagen

Class rings are typical memorabilia for high school and college graduates. They are usually engraved with the school's insignia, motto or any other type of symbol for the class along with the class' graduation year. They are made of usually inexpensive alloy although there are those that are actually made of platinum, gold and sterling silver. For many students, such rings are one of the only tangible reminders of what the class went through together. The responsibility of selecting a ring design as well as the metal to be used for the ring rests on the school administrators. The design is usually agreed upon by the graduating batch but the alloy to be used depends on the school's budget as well as that of the students who will be availing of the rings.

Gemstones

Some schools opt to engrave more than just the school's insignia on the ring. To make it look more elegant, you can have semiprecious stones in your school's colors placed on your class rings. Such embellishments may only be attractive to the female batch so you may want to make sure that you create a design that will work for both sexes. Anything too flashy may not suit the taste of your graduating class.

Engravings

Another good idea for your class rings is to have each one engraved with the student's name or nickname. It would make each ring personalized and extra-special especially if the student found that the ring seemed to have been made exclusively for him.

Other design options

While the general rule suggests creating a ring that will be suitable for both sexes, you may want to consider a thicker band for males and a more delicate one for females.

More information on Class Rings is available in Picky Guide, one of the fastest growing online magazines giving free consumer reviews and information.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ilse_Hagen

Alexandrite Rings - What You Need To Know About Alexandrite Rings

By Ilse Hagen

Alexandrite is a variety of chrysoberyl common in locations such as Brazil, Madagascar, Myanmar, and Russia. With a greenish shade that can sometimes turn to red purple when you view it under artificial light, it is a rare gem, costly, and believed to be a stone for good omens. And as with most kinds of jewelry, alexandrite rings are normally set in sterling silver, yellow or white gold, or platinum.

Kinds to choose from

Solitaire: A solitaire alexandrite ring is made up of a single stone set in prongs, with the stone cut in a variety of styles including round, marquise, square, or oval.

Diamond: A diamond alexandrite ring, on the other hand, can be made up of one or more alexandrite stones alongside diamonds arranged in a certain patterns or designs, normally depicting a flower, a heart, or the sun.

Three-stone: As the name implies, a three-stone alexandrite ring has three stones. The stones are horizontally arranged and may be set with other precious stones as well.

Five-stone: A five-stone alexandrite ring has five stones. And like the three-stone version, the stones are horizontally arranged and may also combine the use of other precious stones.

Buying alexandrite rings

Aside from being a good omen stone, alexandrite is also attributed with healing abilities, most especially for spleen or pancreatic problems so you can greatly consider buying one if you're suffering from those. Aside from health conditions, this is also believed to rid one of low self-esteem. Take note that alexandrite is also the birthstone for Geminis and the anniversary stone corresponding to 45th or 55th wedding anniversaries so these rings also make good gift ideas.

More information on Alexandrite Rings is available in Picky Guide, one of the fastest growing online magazines giving free consumer reviews and information.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ilse_Hagen

Are Diamonds a Good Investment?

By Neil William

Even though the diamond industry looks very complicated on the surface, it actually is very simple. Diamonds are often associated with being precious, mysterious, magical and romantic token of love.

Purchased at the right price, diamonds most certainly retain their value; in fact they actually increase in value over time. Over the last 20 years Diamond prices have been steadily increasing. Though there is no absolute certainty it is unlikely that diamonds will ever loose their value.

Thinking of these stones as the main part of financial or retirement investment is not advisable but when considered as a timeless and beautiful gift that symbolizes love and commitment, diamonds are an excellent investment. But if someday you have to dispose of your diamonds they will almost always be appraised by those who are found of this precious stone. The resale value of a fine stone will always yield better money. Fine diamonds will almost always find a buyer if they are offered a little under the market price.

Of all the tangible assets of investment diamonds are most advantageous:

• protection from inflation, bank bankruptcy, market collapse, currency reforms
• anonymity (no registration required)
• world-wide convertibility - diamonds are the only international accepted alternative currency which has the same value all over the world
• tax free betterment
• no maintenance costs
• very prestigious

You can also enjoy wearing diamonds in the form of jewelry. Lasting for a lifetime, diamonds are the only assets that serve as secure investment and also bring to you the wonderful feeling of beauty, luxury and passion.

B2cjewels

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Neil_William

Body Jewelry Will Make Heads Turn Around

By Manny Charro Ramirez

Jewelry is something women can associate themselves with completely. Of late body jewelry seems to be the ideal fashion statement and is taking off the fashion markets by storm. The teenage girls cannot seem to take their eyes off those sexy belly buttons or those cute nose-pins. Well this is the effect of body jewelry among the sect of the fashion conscious folks. Body jewelry seems to be the perfect accessory when you desire to accentuate your halter neck corset teamed with a pair of leather Capri's. In fact it lends to your persona a tinge of funk as well as extreme poise with which a female is said to be blessed with.

Nowadays it is often seen that the college-goers are in the lookout for some ornamental pieces which would give them a sporty and cool look. It is here where the body jewelry plays its magic. It is hard to believe the fact that the men are also seen getting inclined day by day on these cute pieces of body art. They also love to pair their denims and tees with those funky ear studs or those dazzling finger rings or armlets. Most of the men sport body jewelry on arms and legs and some of them even turn out to be bold enough to don them in the male genitals. Body jewelry is available in the contemporary markets in an assortment of styles and designs and comes in various shades and composure. Some of them are even embellishes with semi-precious stones. Many people love to sport body jewelry which is expensive and is crafted out of gold, platinum, silver, copper or other ornamental metals.

There are many people who believe that body piercing is not safe but the doctors have cleared this misconception and it is regarded as an extremely safe procedure to pierce different parts of the body to adorn them with body jewelry. It is also seen that after body piercing some people develop some kind of infection or injury but these particular incidents cannot be credited to the professionalism of the body piercing professionals. The cause of these infections can be solely personal and can even result from the sensitive of that particular body part of the client. In some cases the teenagers are seen to be seeking parental consent while others are often found to consult a doctor before opting for this fashions phase. So what are you holding yourself for? Get set to zoom in the next party season by sporting some of the exotic body jewelry available in the local designer stores.

Manny Charro Ramirez is the webmaster and writer of Bcheap Fashion Body Jewelry store site, where you can find more information about body jewelry and navel jewelry. Read more and find great deals on BCheap

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Manny_Charro_Ramirez

Eternity Ring History

By Ian A. Maher

The history of the eternity ring goes back almost four thousand years. Ancient Egyptians are thought to be the first to make and wear eternity rings. Eternity rings are essentially a continuous circle of metal studded with stones either halfway or all the way around. Early eternity rings were meant to symbolize eternal life and love. The unending, unbroken circle of precious metal represents a never-ending circle of trust, or the circle of life. Eternity rings today symbolize an everlasting relationship of love and are commonly used for wedding or anniversary bands.

Early eternity rings featured stones that went halfway around the shank of the ring. They also further set their meaning in stone when they were fashioned to look like a snake swallowing its own tail. This snake swallowing its tail eternity ring really helped solidify the meaning of the continuous circle as the eternal symbol of love and life. Eternity rings were originally made with the stones flush mounted. This is where the stones are actually embedded into the metal. The flush setting makes for a very comfortable wear. If the stones are too large or protrude from the sides too far, then they can be uncomfortable between your fingers.

Modern eternity rings are usually channel set for comfort and larger stones are avoided. Channel set refers to how the stones are encased by the metal only on the edges of the shank. This is not to be confused with claw set where the stones are raised above the shank and held on by prongs. Claw set is almost exclusively used for half eternity rings so that the prongs do not irritate the skin on the surrounding fingers. Modern advances in jewelry crafting have actually made full claw set eternity rings much more comfortable and popular. Channel and claw set eternity rings give a more brilliant shine to the stones used than the flush mount setting, but some still prefer the original embedded stone eternity rings.

The meaning of an eternity ring traditionally is eternal love, but it is really open for individual interpretation. Couples very often come up with their own meanings. Eternity rings are used for wedding bands and vibrantly compliment diamond solitaire engagement rings. They are becoming increasingly popular as anniversary bands or right hand rings. But, you can give an eternity ring for any occasion. The birth of a child is a very appropriate time to give an eternity ring. In this instance, it could symbolize the eternity of your new family or your never-ending love and compassion for your wife who has helped you create this new life. Some like to say that it symbolizes the eternity that it took for the baby to arrive or some other personal meaning to you as a couple. As an anniversary gift, it could symbolize the eternity that you will be together or how it has felt like an eternity being married.

Whatever meaning you come up with, an eternity ring will leave a lasting impression and most definitely become an heirloom and beautiful conversation piece for years to come. The long-lasting reputation and never ending popularity of the eternity ring will ensure that it never goes out of style and is always admired and loved. Showing your love with eternity rings is a long standing tradition and will surely make your special someone feel loved and appreciated.

About the Author: Ian Maher is the CEO of Maliere, a leading provider of diamond rings, eternity rings, platinum rings and gold rings. For more information, please visit http://www.Maliere.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ian_A._Maher

Diamond Rings and Their Cuts

By Ian A. Maher

Diamond rings are certainly the most popular rings in the world. They are widely used for engagement, but are also very commonly used for anniversary gifts, graduation rings and congratulatory rings, as with the birth of a child. If you are in the market for diamond rings, then you probably have a lot of questions about cut, carat, clarity and quality. Here we will focus on the cut of diamond that you may prefer. Diamonds come in all shapes and sizes, so the one you choose will have some personal significance. Although no two diamonds are identical, there are nine basic cuts that you can choose from.

The princess cut is the most popular today. This is a square cut diamond with added facets for fire and brilliance. Square diamonds are beautiful, but have lost out in the popularity contest with round brilliants in the past. That is why the princess cut has become so popular lately. The old style of square cut just didn't sparkle like the round cuts did. The princess cut brings you the sparkle of the round cut in a beautiful, sophisticated square shape.

The asscher cut diamond is a square diamond with the corners cut off. This helps eliminate chipping risks. The asscher doesn't have all of the facets of the princess cut, but does have a unique sparkle. Higher quality diamonds are generally used for the asscher cut because its design can show flaws more vividly than more brilliant cuts. The emerald cut is basically the same, but more of a rectangle shape. The emerald cut can also show flaws if the quality of the diamond is not high enough.

The cushion cut diamond is rectangular with the corners rounded. It has more facets than the emerald cut and can more effectively hide flaws. It has more sparkle and brilliance, but doesn't show the clarity that an emerald or asscher cut can. Similar to the cushion, asscher and emerald cut is the radiant cut. This is a marvelously faceted rectangular cut. The corners are cut off and the facets are triangular like the popular round brilliant.

An oval cut is very beautiful with its smooth lines and sparkling facets. This is a good alternative for people who love round brilliants but prefer something a little more unique. Another unique shape that really sparkles is the heart shaped diamond. The pear cut and marquise cut are also popular alternatives to the traditional round brilliant. All are beautiful and have lots of facets to sparkle. Pear cut diamonds are round on one end and come to a point on the other, like a teardrop. Marquise cut diamonds are oval with a point on two ends, giving them a unique yet feminine shape.

Whatever styles of diamond rings you are considering, you're sure to make an impression with any shape of diamond that you choose. Make shopping for diamond rings fun by educating yourself on what types of diamonds are out there before you shop. Buying diamond rings is an experience that you should feel good about. Once you've decided on the right one for that special someone in your life, you're sure to win her heart.

About the Author: Ian Maher is the CEO of Maliere, a leading provider of diamond rings, eternity rings, platinum rings and gold rings. For more information, please visit http://www.Maliere.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ian_A._Maher

Tag Watch - The Unique Face Of An Essential Tool

By Korbin Newlyn

It has often been noted that imitation is the greatest type of flattery. This often reveals itself as true as men and women of the younger generation attempt to emulate those people, who they revere, that might be considered by most to be a sports star or is in the entertainment business. For instance, when the immortalized band of the Beatles were at the height of their popularity numerous young men would try to imitate the way that they dressed or tried to have their hair styled the way the Beatles had it done.

There is a similar type or imitation going on in the world of manufacturing. This happens when a certain product becomes highly popular or when there is an association with being a product that is considered by many to be luxurious. One such example would include clothing that contains a designers label attached to it.

Very often, people who are unscrupulous will produce a product that is highly similar to the original product and then attempt to trick their customers by putting a designers label onto that fake piece of clothing. An additional type of imitation of success is in the industry of expensive watches. One such watch that has many competitors that attempt to match the watches various characteristics is the Tag watch.

History

The founder of the Tag watch was Edouard Heuer and it is with him that the history of the Tag watch began. The date he founded the company was in the year 1860. His primary goal was to give people timepieces that functioned with precision.

In the beginning, Heur's enthusiasm was focused in creating timepieces that would be utilized in sports where keeping track of time was vital. The dedication and achievement of this watch is evidenced in contemporary society as the official timepieces of such sports as sail boating, snow skiing, and Formula 1 racing.

The organization has invariably strived to outdo its competitors in as many areas of time tracking and management as could be achieved. In time, due to the fact of their ongoing upgrades and implementation of improved processes they inevitably became regarded as the "avant-garde of watch making".

Hallmark

The Tag watch is associated with numerous special developments. One of these notable accomplishments was to the the first watch manufacturer, in the year, 1916, to enable the measurement of time using their time pieces, down to the hundredth of a second.

Quality

The quality of the Tag watch is not only evidenced by its precision in the tracking of time but by the way that it is constructed. The Tag watch is constructed from the highest quality materials which includes the use of stainless steel. It also has a very easy to read face.

Additionally, in an effort to consistently improve their time pieces, the Tag watch organization has achieved numerous patents that have demonstrated their persistent devotion as well as commitment to improving their particular product as well as the science of time keeping in general. The Tag watch is considered by many to not simply be a reliable watch, but also associated with being an item that is luxurious in the world of timepieces.

Listen to Korbin Newlyn as he shares his insights as an expert author and an avid writer in the field of fine jewelry. If you would like to learn more go to Watch Band advice and at Guess Watch tips.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Korbin_Newlyn

Identifying Valuable Cameos

By Jon Kreps

Found on everything from necklaces to watches, the cameo remains a popular design today despite having roots that date back more than two thousand years. No trace of the design can be found during the Dark Ages but it started to resurface again in the Age of Enlightenment. Popularity for the cameo really exploded because of Napoleon Bonaparte. You can now find cameos embedded into just about any type of jewelry imaginable, like: rings, watches, bracelets, and pendants.

By and large, a cameo can be identified by the portrait which adorns each and every piece. Buying valuable pieces that will appreciate in value boils down to knowing how to spot the hidden gems in flea markets and online auctions. The materials used when crafting the portrait will play the largest role in price determination. Learning how to distinguish the various materials used to create the portraits is vital to determining value. Materials used to create cameos include:

Abalone

Agate

Bone

Coral

Glass

Ivory

Plastic

Stone

Wood

But looks can be deceiving and there are a lot of great imitations out there made out of plastic. Cheaper cameos will have a molded portrait while your more valuable pieces will be carved. Some of your really cheap molded versions will appear shiny and may even have blended colors. Molded cameos made from something called Bake Lite, however, can actually command more than some carved versions.

Despite the few exceptions, most molded pieces are not worth very much money so you want to avoid them where possible. The key to cameo collecting is to avoid those molded pieces and focus on identifying quality carved pieces. Rounded features and a marked lack of precise or sharp lines are hallmarks of molded pieces. Learning the distinguishing features of the molded cameos will help you avoid them and focus instead on the more profitable carved pieces.

Owing to their fine craftsmanship and superior materials, carved cameos will almost always command more value than any molded piece. The great diversity of materials used in creating carved cameos means collectors have a lot of things to look for when trying to identify a specific piece. Authentic shell cameos will have crisp lines along with a thin back. However, some carved cameos will have a thicker back like those made from mother of pearl or abalone. The infamous "two-toned" effect common to many of the most prized cameos is often found in pieces made from agate, the same substance used by the Greeks to create the very first known examples of the design.

But while the carved pieces made from mother of pearl, shell, and other similar materials are all worth money, those made from stone tend to be even more valuable. There are many fakes out there that will look like a stone piece but careful examination should tell otherwise. Unless the back of the portrait is undercarved, avoid it because it is a fake glass imitator. Unlike their shell and coral cousins, the carved stone cameos are much rarer but they can still be found by seasoned collectors who know how to spot them.

By simply taking the time to learn how to spot the valuable pieces, the rewards of finding those hidden gems makes everything worthwhile. Genuine carved pieces appreciate in value and will almost always have greater detail than a plastic or glass piece. In the end, value really does boil down to carved or molded. For over two thousand years we humans have been in love with the cameo and it looks to remain that way for the next two millennia as well.

Jon Kreps is a jewelry expert specializing in vintage cameos, indian jewelry, and authentic costume jewelry. To learn more about cameos or other vintage jewelry, visit http://www.vintagetemptations.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jon_Kreps

Buying the Best Cameos

By Jon Kreps

While spotting the cameo design is simple enough thanks to the classic portrait which adorns each piece, assessing value is another problem entirely. When a person knows what to look for, they can find absolute gems out there for pennies on the dollar. One of the easiest ways to identify the valuable pieces is by looking closely at the materials used to create both the portrait and the piece itself. Actually, cameos have been and are currently made from a wide range of materials, including:

Agate

Glass

Bone

Coral

Ivory

Plastic

The truth is, however, that plastic can be made to replicate just about any natural material. The unique and valuable cameos will be carved and made from your better materials while the molded ones are mass-produced knock-offs. Manmade materials are used to create the molded cameos and they will tend to weigh much less than a carved version. Carved versions are typically worth more but some molded cameos made from Bake Lite can actually be more valuable.

For the most part, however, most molded cameos are quite literally a waste of time for the serious collector. Collecting cameos can be profitable when you know what to look for. Collectors can identify glass cameos by looking on the back of the piece for the appearance of mold marks or ridges. Since the carved pieces are where all the money is at, be sure to remember how to identify the imitation pieces.

The materials and time investment needed to create the carved cameos are what makes them more valuable than the molded pieces. Made from things like bone, shell, and even wood, the specific identifying features for carved cameos varies according to the material used when making it. The cheaper plastic versions can be spotted upon close inspection of the portrait and will feature few precise lines and poor detail. The thin back and precise lines are common to most carved cameos but those made from mother of pearl or abalone will actually have a thick, flat back. Many of the finer pieces are carved from agate, a layered substance that produces a brilliant dual-colored effect.

Collectors are well advised to buy carved cameos made from shell, agate, and abalone but they should be especially motivated to find those made from stone. Many glass imitations are specifically designed to mimic a stone cameo so you have to know what to look for. At the junction between the portrait and plaque, there will be a slight concave curve to the back of the portrait creating a slight gap. Stone cameos are perhaps the most likely to appreciate in value and are definite collector's items.

It takes knowledge and experience to really collect cameos for serious profit. If the piece is shiny or seems to have few sharp lines or detail, it is most likely plastic or glass. Abalone, mother of pearl, and some wood pieces will have thick, flat backs while the other carved pieces will tend to be thinner and have undercarving. Investing in vintage cameos can be a great way to have some fun while building a reliable nest egg.

Jon Kreps is a jewelry expert specializing in vintage cameos, Indian jewelry, and authentic costume jewelry. To learn more about cameos or other vintage jewelry, visit http://www.vintagetemptations.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jon_Kreps

Designer Inspired Jewelry Is An Affordable Quality Alternative

By Joe Smart

Designer Inspired Jewelry is the cost efficient solution to keeping up with the latest trends while effectively managing your budget. Since fashion trends are constantly changing it becomes expensive to update your collection with high priced designer jewelry.

You can have a designer image for a lot less money if you wear quality designer inspired jewelry instead, AND it will look just as impressive. Even a trained eye will find it difficult to tell the difference. Why pay retail designer prices when affordable inspired jewelry will make the same impression?

The impressive combinations found in designer inspired jewelry are incredible to look at. It is even more amazing how these designers are able to replicate the pieces to the finest detail, providing beautiful creations that are durable and practical. They attract attention and yet the price is much more affordable than the real thing.

There are designer inspired jewelry for women, men, & even babies. They are inspired by famous designers such as Cartier, Gucci, Chanel, Chopard, Roberto Coin, Mikimoto, Bulgari/ Bvlgari, Hermes, Stephen Lagos, Fred Leighton, Judith Ripka, Harry Winston, Heidi Klum, Tiffany, David Yurman, Michelle Round Deco, Van Clef & Arpel, Gloria Vanderbilt, Kieselstein, Juicy Couture, Vera Wang, Majorica and other famous designers.

Designer inspired jewelry includes necklaces, pendants, engagement rings, wedding rings, earrings, bracelets, ankle bracelets, watches, cufflinks, chains, pins, brooches, baby gifts, baby charms, chandelier earrings, and jewelry accessories. You can even copy the fashion trends of your favorite hollywood stars with celebrity inspired jewelry.

These inspired pieces are made from the highest quality materials available, such as diamonds, sterling silver, yellow & white gold, cubic zirconium (CZ's), gemstones, jewels, pearls, stainless steal & turquoise. They might not use the exact same material as the original but they sure look as if they do.

It can truly and honestly be said that there is something for everyone when it comes to choosing designer inspired jewelry. You don't have to worry too much about your budget because, thanks to the Internet, there is something available for every budget imaginable. Even the wealthiest people on the planet wear them because it is a great way to keep up with the ever-changing fashion trends.

With the whirlwind of fashion trends, designer inspired jewelry gives you the flexibility to update your look on a whim. Who needs the real thing when you can opt for enormous diversity from affordable, quality alternatives? Mix and match the pieces in your jewelry box to achieve chic day and elegant evening looks or rich winter and bright summer styles. They truly do look like the real thing.

Check out thousands of celebrity and designer inspired jewelry pieces at Designer Inspired Jewelry

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joe_Smart

Brazilian Gold Jewelry

By Alexandra Zeb

If you're like me, you're a gal who doesn't just want to be caught up with the fashion trends, you want to be way, way ahead of them. For instance, I take special pride in announcing what I think is going to be the newest, hot thing, and then (hopefully) watching it actually happen. A while back I wrote about the importance of cuff bracelets and then watched in amazement as my prediction came to fruition at the 2008 Grammy Awards. Celebrities like Beyonce, Rihanna, and Fantasia strutted down the red carpet with their beautiful, bling bangles. Now that cuff bracelets are omnipresent, it's time to move on to what I feel will undoubtedly be the next best thing ... Brazilian gold jewelry.

So here's the skinny fashion-savvy chicas, and you won't be disappointed that you read this! I have no doubt in my mind that Brazilian gold jewelry, is going to be one of the next biggest trends for this year, in case you want to head up these gorgeous gems before they hit the scene. In fact, I've already seen British songstress Natasha Beddingfield donning a bracelet, in the infamous yellow-gold shades that are well-known to Brazilian jewelry.

Having been to several trade shows in New York City, I often get an unfair (and sweet) insight into the upcoming trends. In the most recent shows I've seen a sudden, yet subtle, increase in Brazilian distributors. However, Brazilian jewelry is very difficult to find which adds to its exclusivity. Another reason why I believe it will be a huge hit with stylish celebs. Even among jewelry retailers, Brazilian jewelry is extremely difficult to find, making it quite the hot commodity. This is probably due to several factors, including shipping fees, customs investigations, language barriers, time difference, etc..

How do I spot Brazilian jewelry, you ask? Look for that yellow-gold hue, which typically means that the piece is 18 Karat Gold plated. Also, Brazilian designers weave intricate designs, with an emphasis on geometric patterns. Another method known to Brazilian jewelry is the brushed gold effect, where the jewelry actually has gold brush strokes on the surface, which creates an absolutely beautiful and unique effect. And lastly, Brazilian jewelry often has a very rustic, even Egyptian, look and feel to it. Brilliantly colored gems are often attached to ring bands and necklace chains with woven gold wires.

So keep an eye out, I have a feeling you will soon see Brazilian gold jewelry popping up all over the place!

Alexandra is the Head of Marketing and Sales for Mademoiselle Jewelry - a company that was founded on the principal that jewelry is art. Mademoiselle Jewelry specializes in unique jewelry, sterling silver jewelry, and designer jewelry. Each piece of jewelry is hand selected for quality, uniqueness, and creativity. Mademoiselle Jewelry also carries jewelry lines specifically designed for men and children.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alexandra_Zeb

Prom Jewelry

By Alexandra Zeb

Yes, I realize it is still February, but when you're a teenage girl preparing for her first prom, there is no such thing as too early! In fact, I remember making prom my own personal hobby as a high schooler! It can be such a fun time figuring out your perfect dress, perfect shoes, accessories, hairstyle, purse, and oh my gosh! There is so much to do, you should have started months ago!

Of course I'm kidding and you have plenty of time, but it never hurts to start preparing early for prom. Especially because the savvy-shopper can often find tremendous deals you won't ever see if you wait until the last minute to get organized. Plus, it's always fun to peruse style magazines and websites to find what the latest trends are for prom. Not to mention the fact that prom provides endless hours of conversation for adolescent gals all around, while you drive others around you absolutely bonkers!

Some girls like to go all out with tiaras and sparkling jewels (otherwise known as "bling"), while others are a touch more sedate and like to stick with simple pendants and stud earrings. As I always recommend in any situation -- if you are going to wear a lovely pair of large chandelier earrings, keep the rest of the jewelry simple, so as not to overdo it. Besides, the main attraction of the evening should be your gorgeous gown!

Here are some prom accessory tips...

I don't recommend the tiara at all, to be honest. I think it is tacky and not all that attractive. But if tiaras are your thing, then go for it, who am I to stop you?

Another classic item is the jewelry set. You really can't go wrong with a tastefully-chosen necklace and earrings set, and they generally stay within the bounds of a normal gal's budget.

If you want to look like a celebrity, check out the 2008 Grammy Awards' photographs, where cuff bracelets were the rage. You can find cuff alternatives that won't cost you a fortune at most online jewelry retailers that offer fashion jewelry substitutes.

My advice to you, prom diva, is to find jewelry that best complements your dress. For instance, if your dress is a deep, solid color, like blue, green, purple, or red - try matching it with gold bangles, gold hoop earrings, and skip the necklace! If your dress already has some sparkle, match it with a complementary gold or silver, but keep it simple! If you are going for the boho-chic effect, get a little crazy and find some unique jewelry that incorporates leather or feathers!

Never wear a big necklace if your dress already has a ton of sparkle near the neckline.

And most importantly, remember to let your personality shine! Don't be shy, it's your night to dress like a rockstar - just be certain not to behave like one, we wouldn't want you getting suspended!

Alexandra is the Head of Marketing and Sales for Mademoiselle Jewelry - a company that was founded on the principal that jewelry is art. Mademoiselle Jewelry specializes in unique jewelry, sterling silver jewelry, and designer jewelry. Each piece of jewelry is hand selected for quality, uniqueness, and creativity. Mademoiselle Jewelry also carries jewelry lines specifically designed for men and children.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alexandra_Zeb

Are Diamonds Really Rare?

By Jan Smith

When you walk into a jewelry store and see all the diamonds in the various settings that are for sale, it is difficult to realize that diamonds are really rare.

Most people don't even stop to consider how that diamond came to be sitting in that jeweler's case! There is quite a bit of work that is done before a diamond is ready to sell to the general public.

For every one million diamonds that are mined, only one will be found that is a quality one caret diamond. In order to find a two caret diamond, about five million diamonds must be mined. More than two hundred tons of ore must be mined to find one small diamond, and even then, more than 80% of the diamonds that are mined are only good for industrial use, such as diamond drill bits or nail files.

So, the next time you visit your local jewelry store, ask to see the one carat diamonds. Then you should look at this diamond with new appreciation - knowing that it truly is one in a million!

In Australia, there have been several big diamond mines opened and producing good quality stones. The majority of them though are used for industrial purposes. I have had a friend who was a security guard at one of the big mines in the Flinders ranges of Western Australia and what he was able to tell me about their screening methods was incredible.

There had been a big find at a diamond prospecting site beside the mine he was working on. The diamond had actually ended up in the slag heap because the size of the diamond was so big it slipped through their x-ray machine and ended up in the mine dump! Needless to say, the x-ray machine was re-set and all the tailings re-screened.

www.weddingrings.mumsdomain.com

Where all the best diamond information can be found for your wedding and engagement rings. Now you don't have to buy a 'pig in a poke'

www.mumsvideo.com/wedding

A video Directory of weddings to inspire or scare you

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jan_Smith

Jan Smith - EzineArticles Expert Author

Buying Designer Diamond Jewelry Online

By Leroy C. Calstard

There are hundreds of different options available when you are considering buying designer diamond jewelry, however there are certain important things that you must look out for when purchasing diamond jewelry. Some important options which you must decide about will be discussed here.

Your Best Options

If you're looking at designer jewelry then some very big names will immediately spring to mind. One such brand is Tiffany's. This is a very famous American designer which was founded way back in 1837 in New York. If you are looking for an engagement ring, a wedding ring, or any piece expensive, jewelry, Tiffany's is always a great place to start.

Tiffany's is best known for creating beautiful designer jewelry using diamonds, if you look at their website you will see they offer a huge selection of different designs. Tiffany's is one of the most popular brands, especially by celebrities. Tiffany's is well known and is often mentioned on film, plus you could go to have breakfast there!

Another jewelers that you might want to check out is Kay Jewelers, these specialize in producing high quality jewelry which is very beautiful. For the last few decades they have been considered as one of the best brands of jewelry in America. You can buy online or through their shops, either way you will get fantastic customer service.

Kay's is a division of Sterling Jewelers Inc, which is owned by signet in London. This company is the biggest jeweler in the world, pretty impressive I'm sure you'll agree!

Before You Buy

There are some important things that you need to think about before you spend any money on jewelry. When you are shopping around for designer jewelry you should carefully inspect the price, quality and service. When comparing try to compare like for like so that you get a true indication of how much something is truly worth.

It's also not a bad idea to check out the company before you buy from them. Make sure you find out about other people's experiences with this store. Also look into their refund and returns policy. You should also make sure you get a certificate that states the exact specifications of the jewelry you are buying. You should defiantly get something stating the size and clarity of any stones used.

You should only buy jewelry from companies that you trust, if you spend money with untrustworthy companies then you could end up getting disappointed. Try getting some personal recommendations from your friends and family, or failing that look up organizations through the better business bureau. Either of these methods will allow you to learn more about the business without having to risk any of your money. If you do have problems with anything you have brought then first try to resolve it amicably, if this fails then take it up with your local consumer protection agency.

Leroy Calstard often publishes online reports on information much like . His comments on and engagement ring can be found on his web pages .

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Leroy_C._Calstard

Adding Handmade Jewelry to Your Collection

By Ray L. Walberg

It can be difficult to keep up with the trends of the fashion world, everything changes so fast. Something can be in fashion, out of fashion and then back in fashion again in the blink of an eye! It can be very difficult to find beautiful pieces of handmade jewelry to add to your personal collection. You ideally need to find accessories and pieces of jewelry that improve your appearance. When I recently had my engagement picture taken, I chose many pieces of handmade jewelry to compliment various poses.

It can be very difficult to find handmade designer jewelry because lots of it is imported from foreign countries. Handmade jewelry is understandably more expensive than mass produced stuff. Very beautiful and detailed jewelry requires a lot of skilled time, and the use of expensive materials. You can check many websites to get these handmade pieces of jewelry at reasonable prices.

Your One Stop Shop

There are believe it or not some good things that computers have done for us, one of these things is shopping on the internet. It is now possible to buy goods from all over the world all from the comfort of your own home. You can do pretty much anything on the internet, even bank online, never mind simple things like buying products and getting them sent to you.

If you're looking for places to buy beautiful handmade jewelry from then you should try www.farfallina.net. This website stocks lots of different designs of jewelry from different countries all around the world, they even carry the popular brand names such as Harvey Nichols, Saks fifth avenue and Bloomingdales. No matter what type of handmade jewelry you are looking for Farfallina is defiantly the place that you should check out.

This website is so useful because all of the products are categorized into easy to understand categories. This makes searching for your favorite piece of jewelry much easier than other websites. If you are looking for a certain type of jewelry then you will find this website a pleasure to use. There is no easier, faster or more convenient online jewelry store around. Handmade jewelry is a must have for any jewelry lover, it can also make you look much more sophisticated.

Ray Walberg's informative papers can be found on quite a few web pages related to engagement picture. Sharing his passion in writings such as http://www.engagement-rings-tips.com , he showed his deep knowledge on subjects dealing with engagement picture poses.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ray_L._Walberg

Buying Art Deco Designer Jewelry

By Vince L. Paxton

Art deco was a very innovative period in design history, many different materials were used to create a unique look which reflected the new times that we were all in. Art Deco is from the 20's and 30's, these are the times when you would of seen jazz, the flapper and the start of the machine age. Engagement rings made of aquamarine and other exotic stones were popular during this time.

Different Materials Used

These were times of great excitement, you could wear beautiful pieces of jewelry that were created from a number of different materials. These materials were not used to make jewelry before this time. Popular jewelry materials during this time included:

- Plastic
- Chrome
- Steel
- Precious metals
- Stones
- Semi precious gems

Precious metals and gems were commonly mixed with the newer materials to create unique looking art deco themed jewelry

The art deco period inspired costume jewelry. This uses non-precious materials such as base metal and gems. Many important jewelry designers actually stared in this period to, including Elsa Shiaparella, Rene Lalique, Paul Emile Brant and most importantly Coco Chanel. Just because the materials used in art deco jewelry were cheaper it certainly didn't mean the actual cost of such a piece would be any cheaper. The same is true today, art deco jewelry can e quite expensive.

Exotic And Futuristic Influences

Many jewelry designers have been influenced by different cultures all around the world. In particular ancient Egypt, eastern, and African cultures have influenced modern jewelry designs.

Other popular designs for art deco jewelry were floral designs, machines and anything to do with the future. You can normally identify art deco pieces of jewelry by simply looking at the geometric design. Some art deco jewelry is extremely beautiful, while others can look ridiculous. The plastic badges with faces and moving eyes were popular, however they look very silly nowadays!

The home of Art Deco is Paris, its considered an art and started there. The name actually comes from an event held there in 1925 which was the Exposition des Arts Decoratifs et Industriels Moderns. This set new trends for the design of jewelry.

The art deco designers had the freedom to experiment with different designs, and different materials to produce jewelry designs. These designs were so popular that they continue to influence the designs today.

Vince Paxton is publishing especially for http://www.engagement-rings-tips.com , an online publication with information about aquamarine engagement ring , aquamarine and diamond rings and different themes. You can come across his observations on aquamarine engagement rings at http://www.engagement-rings-tips.com .

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Vince_L._Paxton

How To Clean Diamond Jewelry in 4 Easy Steps

By Nikki K

Many people often ask how to clean their diamond jewelry so that it is brilliant and full of fire. Diamonds attract grease and dirt like a magnet. Lotions, creams, hairspray, makeup and perfume form a film over your diamonds over time and make them look dull and lifeless.

After years of experience, we have found that the following method is one of the surest ways to keep your diamonds clean and brilliant if cleaning at home. It is a simple yet effective method that takes no more than fifteen to twenty minutes of your time. This method is not advisable for Pearl or Emerald jewelry or for any gemstone jewelry that has been enhanced.

1. Mix one part Mr. Clean (available at most major supermarkets) to eight parts of hot water. (Water does not need to be boiling hot).

2. Carefully soak your diamond jewelry for a short period of time in this solution - approximately 10 - 15 minutes is usually enough. (Reminder: Please do not put pearl jewelry or emerald jewelry into this solution - pearls are too soft and some emeralds may discolor).

3. Remove all your diamond jewelry slowly and gently brush off residue and dirt with a SOFT bristle toothbrush.

4. Rinse well with water, set jewelry aside to let air dry. You now have diamond jewelry that sparkles and is full of fire and brilliance.

More information on Diamonds and Diamond Jewelry can be found on the Nirvana Treasures website under the Education tab.This article is a copyright of Nirvana Treasures. http://www.nirvanatreasures.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nikki_K

Friday, February 15, 2008

Mood Beads - What Mood Are You?

By Stephanie A White

In the 1970's a new and interesting kind of jewelry became one of the biggest fads of the decade to hit the market. It was the first piece of jewelry that could supposedly tell what mood its wearer was in. This piece of jewelry was the mood ring-it was fun, it was fresh, and it was totally cool if you owned one! Today, mood jewelry comes in more than just the original form of mood rings. There are now necklaces, earrings, toe rings, and most recently, beads to become bracelets. Regardless of form, however, mood jewelry has an interesting history.

It is a bit uncertain as to who actually invented the mood ring. One story says that in the 1960's a man named Marvin Wernick invented it. He had supposedly gotten the idea while watching a doctor friend of his apply a thermotropic strip to a child's forehead during an emergency. The strip changed color according to how hot the strip became. After giving it some thought, Wernick, a jewelry designer by trade, realized that he could turn this into a fun invention for ordinary use. It wasn't long before the mood ring came about.

Still others attribute the arrival of the mood ring to a man named Joshua Reynolds, who was also the inventor of the Thighmaster.

Apart from who invented it, it still works the same. The stone of the ring itself is either a hollow piece of glass filled with liquid thermotropic crystals, or a clear glass stone that sits on a sheet of liquid crystals. These crystals reflect different wavelengths of light based on the body temperature of the person who is wearing it. The stone then changes color according to the body temperature.

So how can you tell the mood by a person's body temperature? People's body temperatures tend to vary based on what mood they are in. For example, if a person feels stressed their body temperatures often drop. If that person is wearing the mood ring, it would typically be represented by the ring changing from the neutral green to black. When one is very happy, or even in love, body temperature rises, and the ring should change from the neutral green to dark blue or purple.

Whether mood jewelry actually works or not remains to be seen. There are a few different variables that can render them inaccurate. For one thing, individual companies calibrate the temperature of their rings slightly differently, so sometimes the colors are not completely universal. Another thing to keep in mind is that not everyone's body temperature is the same in certain situations, like extreme stress or when in love. The following is a list of colors and their general meanings:

* Brown: Anxious, nervous, fearful

* Black: Stressed, tense or feeling harried

* Grey: Extremely nervous or anxious, scared

* Amber: Slightly nervous or anxious

* Green: Neutral reading, normal, not under great stress

* Blue-green: Emotionally charged, somewhat relaxed

* Blue: Relaxed, At ease, calm, lovable

* Dark Blue/Purple: Very happy, in love, passionate, romantic

Regardless of who invented it or how accurate they are, mood jewelry is still great fun to both own and wear. It is attractive, stylish and comes in many different forms. So why don't you try it out for yourself, test out the accuracy-see what mood you are in! After all, that is part of the fun of owning mood jewelry.

www.SWCreations.net

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stephanie_A_White

5 Tips for Buying an Engagement Ring

By Kurt Howard

The quest for finding the perfect engagement ring can be a very stressful time. There is never more pressure to succeed or more chances for failure at buying jewelry than there is with the engagement ring purchase. It has to be perfect because this is the piece of jewelry that will show her how much she means to you.

Rather than becoming overwhelmed with the task of finding the perfect ring, you should accept it as a challenge and look forward to the experience. The perfect ring is out there, and you will find it if you follow these five tips for buying an engagement ring:

1. Never buy a ring unseen. Purchasing jewelry online or at auction sites can be a gamble. Always purchase jewelry that you can hold in your hand and inspect rather than rely on pictures that might be staged or brushed up.

2. Do not be afraid to take your intended with you. This will give you an opportunity to see what she likes and what she doesn't like. Remember, not all women love to wear a huge rock their hand, and styles of rings vary greatly. Having her input may save you from buying a ring that she hates.

3. Always make sure that the ring is sized correctly. While this may be a challenge if the ring is to be a surprise, purchasing a ring that fits perfectly will show your intended how much thought you put into the purchase of the ring.

4. Do not get stuck in the traditional diamond rut. There are many kinds of precious stones that make beautiful engagement rings, and if you want to buy a ring that is truly unique, buying a rare stone might be the way to go.

5. Make sure that the ring that you purchase is boxed and wrapped beautifully. Remember, the presentation of the ring makes as much of an impression as the ring itself.

When buying an engagement ring, also be sure to purchase the ring from a jeweler that you trust. It is extremely frustrating to receive a flawed piece of jewelry when you were expecting perfection. Having to return a flawed or incorrectly sized ring may also result in having to postpone your plans to ask the big question.

Get all your iced out jewelry including LED Belt Buckles with scrolling text that can be personalized with any message you want. You can also pick up a Pimp Cup just like Lil Jon uses.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kurt_Howard

Truly An Elegant Piece Of Beauty - Pearl Bracelets

By Sascha E Ghods

Pearl bracelets enhance a woman's overall appearance with its natural and elegant beauty. Pearl is considered as a priceless gem from time immemorial because of its classic grace and beauty. A bracelet as an ornament itself is capable of giving a sort of self-confidence to the woman wearing and if it is a pearl bracelet, she becomes the center of attraction.

Pearls can be natural or cultured and the freshwater pearls are in great demand these days because apart from the traditional white color, there are other colors like pink, rose, blue, cream, violet, yellow, golden, silver etc. They also come in a lot of shapes like drops, egg shaped, round, pears etc.

With so many colors and variety of shapes, these freshwater pearls are becoming a real treasure for woman who value taste and fashion. Pearl bracelets are prepared in different designs and style with freshwater pearls sometimes mixed with other gems too. Some of the styles of bracelets are chain and link, in which the pearls are separated with silver cable chain or gold, stretchy bracelets where pearls are paired with gold beads with the help of stretchable nylon. Then there's the bangle style of bracelet, which is of multiple strands of pearl of same or different colors tied in one silver clasp and toggle style is the bracelet with pearls with a toggle at the end to clasp the bracelet so that it holds on your wrist.

Pearl bracelets can be shopped online also and you will find lot of online stores and you have to research and find out the best suited for you. You should also have a good knowledge of pearls before opting to buy online. In fact many of the online stores have websites which offer plenty of knowledge on pearls. To avoid scratching, pearl bracelets should be kept separately.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sascha_E_Ghods

Pearls - The Epitome of Feminine Beauty

By Sascha E Ghods

From time immemorial, pearls have been the semblance of women wardrobe, especially, women belonging to the rich and affluent class of society. They are practical examples of beauty and grace intact in natural form.

A natural pearl is an idyllic masterpiece which is used in combination to adorn the gold, silver and platinum jewelry. It is accented in different shapes and numbers to render a tint of dynamic veracity to wearer.

Pearls as personal utility jewelry pieces of women are being exploited by many women haute couture dress designers to embellish the ethnic wear and give a more traditional outburst to the party and the onlookers.

Pearls as most likeable jewelery item amongst women gentry, enhance the elegance and rich look effect as they adorn the nape, ears, hands and wrists of women in a subtle manner.

Pearls have been essence of women beauty in the past. Their role has increased all the more in present scenario. As the tone of the festivals are undergoing sea change, pearls are light glittering spherical items simply going along with the mood and tempo of every woman, whether fat, skinny, or a zaftig.

Amongst the pearls, fresh water pearls are much in demand and adored by women. The primary reason being their austerity, simplicity blended with sophisticated looks.

You can have pearls studded as head hoop pierced earrings, in platinum accented bracelets, rings, earrings and necklaces, in 10k gold Bracelet and 10k Star Ring, and other variety of assortments. An example of perfection, pearl resembles love and tenderness. The spheroids are all what a woman wants. Whether it is any party occasion, or occasion of festivity, every woman boasts her beauty by adorning themselves in vibrant color robes.

Pearls form an ideal piece of keepsake jewelry item and the grace and shine of these shimmering pieces is long living. Since, these awesome pieces have less maintenance; these can be preserved for years without causing any affect to their luster, color and overall appearance.

Today, there is a comprehensive online directory of exotic potpourri of synthetic and natural pearls, which can be purchased online. Choose the one of your choice for that special one!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sascha_E_Ghods

Why Do Women Love Pearls?

By Sascha E Ghods

Pearls are one of the nature's best gifts to mankind and woman feel proud to wear and show it off. From time immemorial pearl has been considered as the symbol of wealth and prosperity and pearl jewelry has been associated and considered only as part of the rich and famous.

However, now pearls are within reach of the common people as well, and women are ecstatic about this. Pearls were initially found only naturally but now they are cultured and hence found in many colors also. You can have a variety of colors and shapes in pearls and can make jewelry of your choice. Natural pearls are very rarely found and hence costly.

Pearl's shape, size and color depend upon the environment in which it is grown. The shape, size and color of the pearl also define the personality of the woman wearing it. Pearl jewelry is for sophistication and graceful appearance and at the same time it is eye catching and attractive also. So a woman wearing a pearl jewelry can define herself along with its combination with her outfit and the manner in which she carries it off.

Pearls are of two types, one are freshwater pearls and the other seawater pearls. Seawater pearls are much rarer than freshwater pearls and so costlier too. You will find a lot of colors and different shapes in freshwater pearls. Pearl jewelry is considered to be a symbol of class and sophistication and at the same time considered lucky also. In ancient times people had the idea that pearl is a gift of God and so for good fortune and happy life parents used to gift pearl to their daughters. It was the sign of love, good health and prosperity.

Few things should be kept in mind before buying pearl jewelry. Pearl should have a reflecting luster and a smooth surface. Pearl should be properly cared for and stored properly after using it.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sascha_E_Ghods

Opal - The Queen Of Gems

By Alan Beggerow

The birthstone for October, opal was highly prized in ancient Rome and considered to be a gem of hope and healing. Ancient Arab cultures thought that opals fell from the sky during flashes of lightning. It can occur in many different colors, along with colorless. Seldom is a stone only one color. Shakespeare in one of his plays describes the stone as being 'the queen of gems'.

There are many theories as to how the stone got its name. The Sanskrit word upala, meaning valuable stone is one theory. Some scholars say it came from the Greek word opallios which means color change. Others say that the ancient Romans called it opalus, which means stone of many elements.

There are two different types of the stone. Precious opal which is a stone that has the play of light characteristic, and common opal which does not. Play of light means that reflected and refracted light in many colors can be seen in the stone when viewed from different angles, colors that are different from the main color of the stone. Most gemstones are precious opal but the common type can also on occasion be of gemstone quality. Up until the middle of the 19th century, precious opals were very rare and most were found in what is now Slovenia in Europe. It is now found in Australia and Czech Republic, Hungary, North, South and Central America, and Northern Africa as well as Slovenia.

Not all opals used in jewelry are solid gemstones. Doublets are thin pieces of opal that are fastened to a backing material, while triplets are thin pieces of stone that are attached to a backing material that have a clear quartz cap. There are also synthetic opals being manufactured that are indistinguishable from natural stones except by trained gemologists.

Compared to other gemstones, opal is fragile. Its softness makes it susceptible to damage if not worn with care. It is also a gem that is made up of 3 to 6 percent water. If the stone is exposed to conditions that would dehydrate it, cracks can occur as well as the loss of the play of light. An opal should be worn often to allow the stone to retain its moisture by contact with the air and human skin, and should be mounted in such a way as to give it protection.

There is a great price variation with opals, with the common variety usually much less expensive than the precious. The most expensive precious type of stone is the black opal, which refers to a stone that has a dark main color, and very brilliant flashes. Because precious opal can reflect so many different colors, it can be stylish and match many different types and colors of apparel. As long as care is taken when worn, opal can be worn and enjoyed every day.

Alan Beggerow owns and operates Cathleen's Bargain Basement, an online business that offers custom made apparel and hand crafted teddy bears by Cathleen, and also offers a selection of jewelry, home decor, Asian motif items, and much more. http://www.cathleensbargainbasement.com

Alan Beggerow is also a free lance writer. For further examples of his writings, visit his political and current events blog Random Thoughts at http://www.winkle52.blogspot.com

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Got to Get Me a Gucci

By Gary Ingram

There is one sign that guarantees every fashion conscious girl on the planet to turn her head and flash green eyes of envy - the famous 'GG'. A Gucci bag is the ultimate sports car for women. It is a first class status symbol.

It says I'm sexy, I'm powerful and I have excellent taste. It is the one design name that spans every class and is classless, every generation and is flawless. Gucci means simple, elegant, timeless luxury.

Originally, a small family run saddlery founded by Guccio Gucci it became an Italian Fashion and Leather Goods label in 1921. In 1947, the bamboo handle handbag was introduced and the rest is history!

Huge icons like Grace Kelly and Jackie O helped cement the Gucci bag into the elite handbag of choice. In the 60's and 70's it was the epitome of chic and although popularity waned a little in the 80's, Tom Ford dramatically transformed Gucci back to its former glory in 1994 and onwards. In fact, Gucci topped ACNielsen's Global 'Most Coveted Fashion Brands' ranking by scoring consistently high responses from online consumers in every part of the world - "a remarkable testament to the power and universal appeal of these two luxury fashion brands," said Frank Martell, President and CEO, ACNielsen Europe.

There are many styles of Gucci bags, ranging from texture and colour, to punk or posh. The common thread is that they are all carefully made to the highest standard and will last you a lifetime.

It is one of the only brands where there has to be a style for you. From the most up to date fashion conscious to classic sophisticats, there is a bag for everyone. As it is an important purchase, for a considerable amount of money, the average lady usually opts for the traditional, much adored Gucci GG pattern in classic chocolate or Black.This will never date, and keeps it value.

The more adventurous often opt for this with the red/ green stripes for a more authentic look. Then there is the style of bag to consider.

Want to look great in the airport? Go for the classy travel bag that is practical yet beautiful and oozes power. Want to look great in the evening? Go for a pagoda, hobo or clutch. They neatly tuck right under your arm and will accessorise every outfit perfectly.

Want to look great in the day? For the ultimate in day chic go for the new look oversized shopping bag that just says I'm It! Plus it fits the lipstick, keys, spare pair of underwear,oversized wallet and huge filofax leaving plenty of room for more 'can't leave home without' essentials!

And for classic elegance you can't go wrong with a tote.

For an authentic Gucci prices start at £275, with the most popular styles at around £1000 mark. Think of it as a worthwhile investment. After all, life may be dull but hey, I've got a GUCCI!

Gary Ingram is Managing Director of The Diamond Store.co.uk, The UK's largest internet jeweler that specializes in selling Engagement Rings and now offers a selection of Gucci Bags

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gary_Ingram

Should You Go Cheap On Jewelry?

By Victor Epand

Okay, first of all, what is wrong with you that you have to get cheap on jewelry? Wouldn't it be better to simply not buy any jewelry at all? Of course, maybe you want to send that special message to a loved one and you just don't have the money to buy expensive items.

It all depends on circumstance, but buying cheap jewelry can be a slippery slope and if the reasons are not good, you could find yourself right out of a relationship.

Jewelry, as we know, comes at a very high cost usually. Rings, necklaces and earrings with gemstones like diamonds in them often run at hundreds of dollars in price. Naturally, it can be very hard for many of us to afford that.

If you do decide to go cheap on jewelry, make sure you do it right.

First of all, tell the person you bought the jewelry for that you did in fact buy it cheap, but if you have a good reason like "I just wanted to do something special for you but I didn't have the money", then you should be okay. However, if you are just buying it because you don't want to spend a lot, then don't bother, she will know. Honesty in a relationship is the best policy, so go with it.

Don't buy poor quality. There are many items of jewelry out there that are cheap, but their quality is half-way decent and you won't have to worry that the ring you bought her is going to start losing chips of gold paint only a few days after you buy it. Often, jewelry stores will carry lower-end jewelry that is still of a decent quality. Take a look at those and tell the store owner what your price range is. Most will be more than happy to find the right item for your budget.

Go to a second hand shop since, sadly, in our society there will often be nice rings on display that had to be hawked to pay bills or other expenses. You can at least benefit by buying a very nice ring, for a very cheap price.

If you can, don't buy anything cheap, especially an item of jewelry that symbolizes your love. However, if you just have to show why you care, then at least do it right and you won't be in trouble with your loved one who thought you didn't care enough to buy a quality item.

Victor Epand is an expert consultant for flowers and gifts. When shopping for flowers and gifts, we recommend you shop only at the best online stores that specialize in cheap gifts, cheap flowers, cheap jewelry.

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The Benefits Of Princess Cut Diamonds

By Jonathan Blocker

The art and science of diamond cutting dates back to the mid 1500s, and princess cut diamonds represent the latest and one of the trendiest available. Part of the appeal of princess cut diamonds is the rectangular shape that manages to retain the sparkle and fire of more traditional round cuts.

Diamond Cuts Galore

Diamond as jewelry dates back to ancient Rome, but it wasn't until the High Renaissance that the first diamond cutters' guild was formed in the Belgian city of Antwerp. Natural diamonds are octahedral in shape (visualize two pyramids with their bases glued together). The earliest method of cutting loose diamonds was known as the point cut, which simply followed the gem's natural shape. During the early Renaissance, it was learned how to cut off one point of the octahedron; this was known as the table cut.

The problem with these early cuts is that they failed to reveal diamonds' light dispersion, which is what jewelers and gemologists call the stone's "fire." Diamonds in the early days were prized mainly for hardness and surface luster, but had little in the way of shine and sparkle.

Revealing the 'Inner Light'

The first brilliant cut diamonds date from the mid-1600s. Although fairly dull by modern standards, these early "Mazarin" diamonds were substantially more brilliant than those cut even a century earlier.

Modern brilliant diamonds were first produced around 1900; for decades, round cuts were the most common as well as the most popular, as these maximized the gem's fire and brilliance.

Comeback of the Square Cut

Princess cut diamonds are gaining in popularity, currently ranking #2 among those who collect loose diamonds and diamond jewelry.

Among diamond cutters, princess cut diamonds are the more desirable, as this particular cut wastes very little of the rough diamond; thus, the diamond retains more of its original carat weight. This also makes princess cut diamonds less expensive than their traditionally round cut counterparts.

Princess cut diamonds made their initial appearance in 1979, and combine the brilliance provided by a traditional round cut with the square or rectangular shape. It was an innovation of one Israel Itzkowitz, who worked at the Ambar Diamond Company in Los Angeles, California. His work was based on three years of study that resulted in a cut that was literally the "best of both worlds" - square and rounded.

Because of the tetrahedral molecular structure of diamonds, the princess is really one of the most efficient ways to cut diamond. Princess cut diamonds are also known as "modified square brilliant."

Jonathon Blocker specializes in diamond jewelry and diamond engagement rings. He is a consultant for GemFind.com, a trusted name in the jewelry industry since 1999.

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Taking Care Of Silver Jewelry The Easy Way

By William Long

With gold and platinum prices at all-time highs, lots of folks are buying sterling silver jewelry instead. Did you know that silver is the whitest metal, even whiter than platinum or rhodium? That's why a flat, polished silver surface makes a perfect mirror. Only problem is, it tends to tarnish, meaning that the surface silver molecules combine with oxygen, and when they do, they form silver oxide, which is black! Quite a contrast! That's why, to make a mirror, the silver is covered with glass, or actually the glass is coated with silver: the glass blocks the oxygen and prevents tarnish.

Since you can't buy glass-coated silver jewelry, you can expect it to tarnish eventually. Some silver jewelry is plated with rhodium to prevent tarnish, but the rhodium will eventually wear off, and you will have the same problem. Besides, rhodium is not as white as silver, and there are some advantages to leaving the silver au naturale, and we will talk about that in a minute. By the way, Viridian Gold does not sell rhodium-plated jewelry.

Some silver jewelry just doesn't need regular polishing, because tarnish is kept at bay by skin oils and regular washing. That means that an item worn against the skin, such as a cross on a chain, or a ring, tends to stay relatively tarnish-free. Except when it is exposed to some harsh chemicals which accelerate oxidation. For instance, if you wear a silver neck-cross and go swimming in a chlorinated pool, the cross will quickly turn black! But, swim in a lake or spring-fed pool (like our Barton Springs pool here in Austin!), and nothing happens.

Silver is, as the chemists say, "highly reactive". Some substances besides oxygen, especially sulfur and chlorine, will combine with the silver to form compounds which are black in color. So, if your water supply is high in sulfur (well water is sometimes this way), or is loaded with chlorine, you will have a problem with silver tarnish. And, some folks' skin oils contain chemicals which can accelerate tarnishing, because of their particular body chemistry or diet.

So, how to clean the polish? Well, you could use silver polish, and that works great--some polishes leave behind a film which helps prevent tarnishing (but that quickly wears off of a piece of jewelry that gets handled). Or, you could do what I do--just put a little toothpaste on your fingers and rub it on the piece, then rinse with water. Quick, convenient and cheap.

If the silver item is something that is not in constant contact with your skin, such as earrings or a brooch, then you need to make sure you store the jewelry item in an air-tight container or in a tarnish-inhibiting cloth.

What could possibly be good about silver tarnish? Well, the tarnish adds a beautiful aged effect to silver items, because it tends to darken the recesses of the piece where silver polish does not reach. This effect gives a unique dramatic character to silver jewelry that sets it apart from gold and platinum, making it a great choice for both casual and formal wear!

William Long is the president and founder of The Viridian Gold Jewelry Store your source for high quality gold jewelry and jewelry information Viridian Gold also carries platinum and sterling silver jewelry, and has a broad selection of Religious and Family jewelry items.

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Uncut Diamonds - Potential Beauties

By David Faulkner

Diamonds have been used as status symbols and heirlooms for thousands of years. Before modern equipment for mining diamonds were used, diamonds were said to be sighted on riverbeds. These stones have reached the surface of the Earth but have actually been formed billions of years ago.

From the Greek term "adamas" meaning unconquerable, the word diamond has always signified durability and superiority. Even before the science and art of cutting were developed, uncut diamonds have already been cherished by people from all walks of life.

Ancient royalty used uncut diamonds to reinforce their breastplates. As they still did not have the technology and the knowledge we now know, people of long ago wore them as is, without ever knowing the true beauty these diamonds possessed within.

Uncut diamonds can present challenges to gem artisans. The type of cut is only determined after a careful study of the uncut diamond's shape, plus its inclusions and where the flaws to be removed are located. They also need to determine which cut should preserve the uncut diamond's weight the most.

Another factor that gemologists need to consider is the popularity of a diamond's shape. There are certain diamond shapes that significantly raise or lower the value of a gem.

When the uncut diamond is in the shape of an octahedron, the preferred cut is a round brilliant. On the other hand, fancy cuts are used for uncut diamonds that are irregularly shaped. There is a significant loss of weight after an uncut diamond is shaped into a finished product. At times, the diamond's symmetry is sacrificed in order to eliminate inclusions found in the uncut diamond.

The largest uncut diamond ever discovered and authenticated is the Cullinan diamond, found by a Supt. Wells in the afternoon of January 26, 1905. He was making his regular inspection when he noticed something that reflected light in the shaft. He pried it out using a pocketknife and up until the time he had it analyzed, thought it was a practical joke played on him by the miners.

This uncut diamond had a weight of 1.5 pounds and was eventually split into 9 major pieces. Joseph Asscher was tasked to work on the uncut diamond and years later was honored with a diamond cut named after him - the "Asscher cut."

Recently, a massive 7,000-carat rock believed to be a diamond was discovered in South Africa. If authenticated, this faint green stone that's nearly the size of a coconut would become the largest uncut diamond ever to be discovered in all history.

You can also find more info on diamonds and certified diamonds.Topdiamondsguide.com is a comprehensive resource to know more about diamonds.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Faulkner

September Birthstone - September Sapphires from Ancient Egypt to Today

By Stephanie A White

In Ancient Egypt, sapphires were associated with the wisdom of the all-seeing Eye of Horus, which makes this gemstone the perfect birthstone for the month of September. Then, as now, September was a month for celebrating learning and knowledge. During September's autumnal equinox, when day and night are in balance, the ancient Egyptians celebrated the wisdom of Isis, who used her knowledge to resurrect her dead husband, Osiris. And since ancient sapphires were prized by the Egyptians for their eye-opening qualities, they have come down to us as the birthstone for September--the month that starts our academic year, and our own quest for wisdom.

But when the ancients talked about sapphires (derived from saphirus, the Latin term for 'blue stones), they were almost certainly referring to lapis lazuli. Modern sapphires are velvety blue gemstones made of corundum and they are second only to diamonds in hardness. By contrast, lapis lazuli, the ancient sapphire, is a semi-precious gemstone with white and gold inclusions. Modern sapphires come in a variety of colors, though they are most famously blue, but lapis lazuli is made of a mixture of minerals that render them almost exclusively azure.

No matter which kind of sapphire the ancient writers saw, the oracular Eye of Horus was omnipresent in their minds. So strong was the connection between eyes and the blue gemstones, that Egyptian physicians turned ancient sapphires into powder to be used as an eye wash to help patients see more clearly. Cleopatra herself used ancient sapphires in her eye shadow and the Egyptian Book of the Dead even describes a powerful magical amulet in the form of a carved eye made of sapphire.

The Greeks, who came to rule ancient Egypt after the conquest of Alexander the Great, would adopt the sapphire as the gemstone of Apollo-their own god of oracular wisdom and knowledge. They said that sapphires would "open the third eye." Hebrews, after having been enslaved by the Egyptians, developed the notion that the Ten Commandments, wisdom from God, were written on sapphire tablets.

The ancient Egyptian veneration of the sapphire and its connection to knowledge and wisdom passed through the ages to medieval monarchs who wore sapphires to help them rule wisely. Evidence the Imperial State Crown of the United Kingdom, which is set with two famous sapphires, one of which was worn by Edward the Confessor at his coronation in 1042.

Even today, though we have given up magic amulets and oracles, we still take sapphires with us on our quest for knowledge; sapphires help us construct lasers and NASA uses sapphires as components of advanced particle collectors. So while the ancient Egyptians saw sapphires in the heavens, we now send them there to unlock the secrets of the universe.

We may no longer celebrate the autumnal equinox as the ancient Egyptians did, but we have inherited the idea of September as a time of balance and wisdom. Modern astrologers believe that those born in September are intellectually curious, so sapphires were chosen as this month's birthstone. Given their ancient heritage, what better way to honor September's challenges and promise than by giving the gift of sapphires?

www.SWCreations.net

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Why Buy Hand Crafted Jewelry?

By Stephanie A White

Mass production is the producing of identical items in extremely large volume on a continuous basis. It is usually done on an assembly line by laborers who often use specialized machinery and have low skill levels. It's popular because, of course, more products are made at a cheaper cost, thereby making the final product itself less expensive than hand crafted products. Ever since Henry Ford created the Ford Model T. in the early 20th Century, mass production has taken over the world at the expense of the small business owner, the outstanding customer service only a small business owner can give, and the hand crafted products they create.

Low cost? Sounds great, doesn't it, but what about quality? When laborers produce jewelry on an assembly line, they aren't putting the time or effort into making sure they are perfect and blemish free. They do exactly what their job is-no more, no less-because that's really all they have time for and that's what they get paid to do. An anklet might look pretty when purchased, but what good is it going to do you if you only get to wear it once and it snaps in two because inspections aren't that thorough?

Crafters take pride in the quality of their products. When a crafter creates an item, you can be sure that time, talent, thought and energy go into its creation. Great effort has gone into each individual piece-making certain every one is lovely and of the highest quality.

How about originality? When you buy mass produced, you get what everyone else has. Sometimes that's fine, but one reason many people wear jewelry is to stand out. We want to wear jewelry that's as unique and individual as we are. We want it to represent us as such. Your local chain department store may have some attractive jewelry, but it's not really symbolic of who we are as individuals because everyone is wearing the same thing.

Hand crafted jewelry is original. You can pick a one of a kind piece of jewelry that embodies your individual taste. If you like dainty things and specific color combinations, you might choose to wear sparkling Swarovski Crystal earrings in your favorite colors. If you have a bold personality, you might wear something bright and sassy that will really catch someone's eye. If there is something you like, but cannot find, many crafters take pleasure in creating exactly what you ask for.

Of course, mass production has its advantages too, but the sad thing is that it doesn't represent American pride, nor does it support the small business owner. Large chain retailers are wonderful for the general population. They make shopping easier and more affordable for middle class society, but many items you see at these stores are imported. Quality is poor and the small business owner struggles to support his family-often putting them out of business.

If you ask me the reasons to buy handcrafted jewelry far outweigh those of buying mass produced. Handcrafted jewelry is a superior, quality product, it is unique and original, and it supports the small business owner. I think I'll splurge on the hand crafted jewelry. Which do you think is the better choice?

www.SWCreations.net

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stephanie_A_White

November's Citrine and Topaz - Birthstones With A Sunny Disposition

By Stephanie A White

With fallen leaves swirling on chill winds, November marks our last fond farewell to warmer days. As trees turn color and people get cozy with spiced cider, the gemstones for this month are bound to bring seasonal cheer. Citrine and yellow topaz are November's birthstones, heralding the harvest with their warm and sunny hues.

Topaz is one of the oldest and most revered ornamental gemstones in the world. The ancient Egyptians believed that the bright and beautiful stones were glowing drops of light cast to earth by the sun god Ra. The Romans attributed the golden gleam of topaz to Jupiter, their god of light and sky. And in the Bible, topaz was one of the twelve named gemstones set into the breastplate of Aaron.

In fact, at one time, all yellow stones were called topaz.

Topaz runs the gamut of autumn shades from the pale yellow of a chardonnay to ambered honey or a vibrant pumpkin orange. Topaz will not scratch because it is extremely hard (rating an 8 on the Mohs scale), but it also has what is known as "perfect cleavage." This means that it can chip easily, which, combined with its expense, may be why many people with November birthdays prefer citrine.

Citrine, November's other birthstone, is sometimes indistinguishable from topaz to the untrained eye. Citrine has often been sold to fool consumers under the names golden topaz, Madeira topaz, Brazilian topaz, Bahia topaz, and citrine topaz.

But as closely as citrine and topaz resemble each other, they are very different gemstones. In fact, citrine's sister gemstone is actually the amethyst. Both citrine and amethyst are varieties of quartz. Amethyst can be heat treated until the purple color turns amber when it can then be sold as citrine. Of course, the same phenomenon occurs in nature when purple amethyst crystals are exposed to hot centers in the earth and transformed into citrine. So the distinction between the two gemstones is largely a function of color. (When a gemstone combines amethyst and citrine together, it is known as ametrine.)

But while citrine, amethyst, and ametrine are essentially the same stone, the two November birthstones, citrine and topaz, are entirely different minerals.

Of the two, citrine is more common. Ranging in color from a bright lemon yellow to a deep tawny brown, citrine brings out the gleam in any gold setting. Along its color spectrum, citrine even encompasses cinnamon orange and a shade of red that is reminiscent of Madeira wine.

There are not many yellow gemstones in the world, and of those that exist, citrine is the most affordable. It is also extremely durable. Citrine's hardness measures 7 on the Mohs scale, which makes citrine largely impervious to scratches. But more importantly, its crystalline properties make citrine difficult to chip.

Historically, both yellow topaz and citrine were said to bring light and clarity of mind to those who owned them. Yellow topaz and citrine were both worn to gladden hearts, banish fear, and to help see through deception. Even in the contemporary world, these gemstones are known to evoke images of autumn gourds, roaring fires, sunflowers, and melted butter over cobs of corn. So what better way to commemorate the month of November than with one of these elegant birthstones?

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Ankle Bracelets For Any Woman

By Stephanie A White

Wearing ankle bracelets is simply an expression of the wearers personality. Anklet bracelets can be worn by any woman. There is no age discrimination when it comes to accessorizing your ankle only a taste discernment.

Anklet bracelets are available in a wide range of styles, types, and colors. Anklets can be modest, alluring, funky, fancy, classy, bold, or delicate. They are available in sterling silver, 14k gold, gemstone anklets, woven anklets, pearl anklets, and beaded anklets in a wide variety of bead combinations. You will find most of the handcrafted beaded anklets will be the most unique and often one of a kind.

Most men appreciate them on women and find them to be sexy and alluring. Women expect flowers, perfume, and intimate gifts and an anklet is a great way to surprise that special women with something unique. Giving a women ankle bracelet shows can be very thoughtful gift and unexpected.

When selecting an anklet for a gift you should consider the colors of the clothes she wears and what her sense of style. This will help you determine if you should give her a simple sterling silver anklet, a neutral pearl anklet, or a funky colorful beaded anklet.

Selecting a size can be a real challenge so make sure the store you purchase the anklet from has other sizes and will allow exchanges if the anklet is not a perfect fit or a befitting style. Some companies offer adjustable anklets to ensure you will find a bracelet that will be a perfect fit.

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