Tuesday, September 25, 2007

The Truths About Beaded, Costume, and Cubic Zirconia Jewelry!

Shopping for Inexpensive Yet Brilliant Pieces

History of Beaded Jewelry

Beads have been used to create jewelry and adorn costumes since the dawn of time. If you were to look back on the Ice Age you would discover small objects crafted of natural "beads" including animal bones and teeth, seashells and colorful stones. These items were usually attached to clothing or plant fibers to form the most primitive forms of beaded jewelry.

Beaded jewelry symbolizes many different things for different people; different cultures have associated beads with varying spiritual beliefs, cultural customs and social traditions. Beads, like many other jewelry items, have been used throughout time to adorn the bodies of men and women alike, signifying power, beauty and the human spirit.

The very first actual "beads" that have been discovered date back to approximately 38,000 BC. Made by cavemen, these beads were crafted from animal parts. In later times, beads were crafted as symbols of fertility and animal spirits.

During the stone age, beads were crafted primarily as a means of adorning the body; they were also used for trading on occasion however. A couple thousand years later, beads were crafted out of coral and other "precious" substances. In ancient Greece there is evidence that carnelian beads and beads made of lapis lazuli were worn by wealthy members of society. The use of semi-precious stone beads began to become more popular about 2800 BC among the Syrians, who fashioned beads of materials like agate and serpentine.

Since that time beaded jewelry has become more and more valuable and popular. Gold and other semi-precious stones are often used to craft beaded jewelry.

Perhaps the most popular form of beaded jewelry is glass jewelry. Evidence of the first glass beads suggests that glassmaking was common in Mesopotamia around 2180 BC. Glass beads were popular then and are popular now in part because of their durability and inexpensive pricing. The Egyptian and Phoenician cultures are well known for their use of glass to make beaded jewelry. Beaded jewelry was commonly found buried with wealthy pharaohs in the ancient tombs of Egypt, though it was not uncommon for glass beads to be buried with poor families as well.

In modern times beaded jewelry is popular because of its versatility and diversity. Beads can be crafted from almost any material including the following:

  • Coral/seashells
  • Gemstones
  • Glass
  • Rock Crystal
  • Gold
  • Silver
  • Stone
  • Pearls

Beads can even be crafted out of plastic (though this is of course less lovely than some other more traditional options). Though in times of old beads served as symbols of status, wealth and heritage, today beaded jewelry is more much representative of a persons unique style preferences and personality. Beaded jewelry can be custom made in almost any style, using any type of chain and any type/combination of beads.

Beaded jewelry is just as popular today, if not more popular than it was in ancient Egyptian and Mesopotamian times. Buying online is easy, and perhaps the best option for bead savvy and not so savvy consumers alike. Buying online eliminates the hassle of traveling from store to store, which can take days or more to find the right beads or beaded jewelry. By shopping online, you have literally tens of thousands of unique selections to choose from. Though no longer traded for food, modern jewelry enthusiasts often engage in bead trading for fun and camaraderie.

Costume Jewelry

Costume jewelry is sometimes referred to as "fake jewelry" by some well meaning but unknowing individuals. Costume jewelry is crafted from among other items, rhinestones, glass stones and gold plated metal or sterling silver. Costume jewelry first surfaced in the United States around the early twenties; it was very popular among European immigrants that settled into the states during this time. Movie stars and common folk alike wore costume jewelry that was carefully crafted and ornamentally designed.

Costume jewelry, particularly antique pieces, are well worth their weight in gold. Many hand crafted pieces can fetch thousands of dollars on the open market. There are some designers that are more well known than others in the world of costume jewelry:

  • Napier
  • Nettie Rosenstein
  • Ciner
  • Hattie Carnegie
  • Miriam Haskell

Even celebrities currently invest thousands of dollars on costume jewelry every year. Because unique pieces are harder to come buy and rarely mass produced anymore, some pieces created in the early 30s to late 40s can be hard to find. More common are pieces that were created in the 1960s or later. Costume jewelry is fun in part because the wearer is at liberty to make a bold statement. Not modest, most costume jewelry shouts out "here I am, look at me!" An excellent choice for the bold and daring, costume jewelry can be a wonderful accessory to just about any wardrobe.

Costume jewelry collecting has even become a favorite pastime among many jewelry enthusiasts, much like beaded jewelry trading and collecting. The appeal of both of these styles is their uniqueness and diversity. Though in some instances hard to find, costume jewelry can be easily explored via online shopping. When buying online, be sure to have in mind a price range and style before shopping. The selection available online might leave you a bit overwhelmed.

If you collect costume jewelry, you might be wondering just how much it is worth. Just as there are popular designers for look and feel, some designers work is more valuable than others, including:

  • Ciner
  • Marel Boucher
  • Eisenberg
  • Hobe
  • Kramer
  • Vogue
  • Hollycraft
  • Monet
  • Coro
  • Kenneth J. Lane

These precious gems are often marked when crafted.

Cubic Zirconia Jewelry

Cubic zirconia jewelry has to be among the most popular inexpensive "knock off" jewelry items to buy. Part of the appeal of cubic zirconia jewelry is its remarkable ability to look exactly like real diamond jewelry. Most cubic zirconia is hard to distinguish from its natural cousins.

The widespread use of cubic zirconia became popularized around the 1980s, when it first became mass produced. It is created through a chemical process that combines zirconium oxide and yttrium oxide, which when melted together form a radiant and shiny crystal resembling a natural diamond.

Most cubic zirconia jewelry is very durable, brilliant and long lasting. Some people have to look at a cubic zirconia under a powerful magnifying glass to distinguish it from a real diamond, a testament to its quality and aesthetic appeal. If you are looking for a clear, brilliant and inexpensive option to traditional diamond jewelry, don't hesitate to shop a wide selection of cubic zirconia jewelry. Buying online provides the most advantages, because there is a wider selection and you have the ability to customize your pieces with the click of a button.

About The Author:

Successful freelance writer, Antigone Arthur has completed a number of informative articles providing valuable insight for consumers on such topics as beaded jewelry, costume & vintage jewelry, and cubic zirconia jewelry.

Buying Quality Gold, Platinum, and Titanium Jewelry Online

Everything You Need to Know About Buying Quality Jewelry Online

Gold, platinum and titanium are among the most coveted precious metals in the world. Jewelry crafted out of these pure substances is often highly valued and sought out by savvy consumers the world over. Learn everything you need to know about selecting quality pieces right here!

Gold Jewelry

Gold jewelry is perhaps the most traditional form of quality jewelry worn by men and women alike in every culture and society of the world. Gold has been used to fashion attractive pieces for centuries. Many historians believe that gold was used as far back as pre-historic times by man as a tool. Later gold jewelry was first discovered dating to around 3000 BC. Gold first became widely used by the Egyptians, who combined gold with other precious metals to achieve varying looks, colors and durability.

So what do you need to know about buying gold? Let's start with the basics. Most gold is assessed via its weight or karats.

14k Gold - 14k gold jewelry is made up of 58.5% gold mixed with copper and nickel among other things. It is the most popular karat of gold purchased the world over, and is known for its affordability and durability.

18k Gold - 18k gold jewelry is popular particularly in Europe. Most 18k gold jewelry is made from 75% pure gold. Most premium jewelry is made with 18 k, which is only slightly more expensive than 14 k gold.

22-24k Gold - 22 and 24 karat gold jewelry is usually considered the most valuable, and is very popular among elite gold shoppers. This form of gold is the most pure, consisting of almost 199% gold. Generally 22 and 24 karat gold products have a richer color than other gold jewelry.

Is one better than the other? The more pure the gold, the softer the jewelry will be and the more likely to scratch. Fine scratches are easily minimized however with proper care and cleaning over time. Quality is more related to craftsmanship than the actual percentage of gold in a particular piece of jewelry. When deciding on a piece that's right for you - you'll want to look for things like symmetry, overall appearance and finishing.

One of the best things about gold jewelry is it is available in both yellow and white. White gold is becoming increasingly popular though it is only available in 14 or 18 k styles. White gold jewelry is often plated with a platinum metal to help give its unique color.

Black Hills Gold

Black Hills gold is extremely popular among gold enthusiasts. Black Hills Gold is named not only after the style but also location the gold jewelry is fashioned in. Legend has it that a French goldsmith became lost during the gold rush of the mid 1870s in the Black Hills of South Dakota. During a dream, he believed he had seen a mountain stream with grape vines; upon awakening, he walked over to find the very scene he dreamed about, and in gratitude decided to devote his life to creating gold jewelry in the shape of grape leaves and clusters fashioned out of gold.

Black Hills Gold jewelry is a particular style of jewelry that must be manufactured in the Black Hills of South Dakota. This gold jewelry is often combined with silver and copper to create green and rose leaved color combinations. Most Black Hills Gold is available in 10, 12 and 14k versions. This makes Black Hills gold extremely popular among jewelry fans looking for attractive yet very affordable gold jewelry.

Platinum & Titanium Jewelry

Platinum and titanium jewelry are among the most expensive jewelry items, in part because they are crafted of white metals. Platinum jewelry is often very heavy and dense as is most titanium jewelry. Platinum jewelry is much heavier than gold jewelry because of the density of the metal used to craft it. Titanium is actually really light. It's only 60% heavier than aluminum and 45% lighter than steel! Platinum jewelry and titanium jewelry are also naturally white or silver, thus do not have to be combined with other metals to achieve a brilliant whitish sheen.

Most platinum jewelry is 90% pure or more, thus platinum jewelry is an exceptional selection for consumers who are allergic or who have sensitive skin. Gold jewelry might cause allergic reactions in people in part because it is mixed with other substances such as nickel, which can be irritating for some people.

Platinum and titanium jewelry usually will hold up well over time and require little maintenance, other than regular cleanings using a mild soap or cleaning agent. Titanium jewelry is in fact considered one of the most durable jewelry selections available, showing few if any signs of wear and tear over the years.

Both platinum and titanium jewelry can be fashioned with gold or silver inlays or adorned with stones. Platinum jewelry is often a popular choice for wedding and engagement bands. Titanium jewelry is slowly becoming more popular as its appeal and durability is more widely known. You can find platinum jewelry and titanium jewelry that is affordable. Most unadorned bands generally can range anywhere from $60 on up. Remember that in general, intricate and ornate platinum or titanium pieces are more expensive than their gold counterparts, and it isn't uncommon to see pieces that cost up to several thousand dollars.

You can find virtually any type of jewelry in platinum and titanium that you can in gold. Most people select one or the other based on style or budgetary considerations. Gold can actually be combined with platinum or titanium to produce unique custom pieces. The most popular platinum and titanium pieces remain rings for the most part; gold jewelry is still the reigning king and favorite it seems among jewelry wearers looking for a combination of rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces. That may change with time however, as more and more consumers realize the appeal and durability of other precious metals including platinum and titanium.

About The Author:

Successful freelance writer, Antigone Arthur has completed a number of informative articles providing valuable insight for consumers on such topics as Black Hills Gold jewelry, platinum engagement rings, and titanium wedding rings.

Celtic & Claddagh Jewelry

The History of Symbolism, Legend & Lore

History of Claddagh Jewelry

Claddagh jewelry is modeled after the claddagh ring, which first surfaced in Ireland more than 400 years ago. The claddagh ring has a rich history; if you aren't familiar already, the claddagh ring is shaped to resemble two hands grasping a heart with a crown on top. Legend & lore has several explanations for the creation of this unique and popular pattern.

One legend is that a man named Richard Joyce while on a voyage to the Mediterranean was captured by Armenian pirates, and spend years in captivity as a result. While held captive he learned the skills necessary to become an artificer of precious metals. Joyce eventually was returned to his homeland, despite protests from his owner, who had wished he would marry his daughter. Joyce pursued a career in crafting gold and silver jewelry.

Many myths abound as to how Joyce came up with the symbolism he used in his claddagh jewelry, but the true origins are not known.

Yet another legend follows a similar story; it tells the tale of Richard, a young man who was kidnapped by Spanish pirates one day while fishing with other men in his family. Richard and his family were sold into slavery off the North Coast of Africa. Just before being captured Richard had met his true love, and lived in fear that he would never see her again. Richard longed for his beloved, and each day to remember her he stole a minute amount of gold from the slave masters shop where he worked. After years had passed he was able to create a ring with the gold he gathered. Richard's hope was that one day, if freed, he could present the day to his love. One day Richard was able to return to Ireland, and found his beloved awaiting him. He offered her the claddagh ring for her devotion and patience.

The second story regarding the origin of this style ring and other claddagh jewelry is much more highly regarded, because among other things claddagh jewelry has come to symbolize love and devotion.

Claddagh jewelry has become very popular in Ireland over the centuries, and many of the pieces fashioned after this style are often kept as heirlooms among family members. At the time of Joyce there was a Claddagh village, which remained as a self contained community until about 70 years ago. Jewelry fashioned in the claddagh style is considered part of Irish legend & lore, and remains an important part of Irish history. Today claddagh jewelry is worn as a symbol of Irish heritage, friendship, unity and love among people in all cultures.

Tradition has it that if a claddagh ring is worn on the right hand, with the crown turned inward the wearer is still searching for love; if the crown is worn facing outward love is in the air. For those that wear the ring on the left of course, a person is said to be spoken for.

Celtic Jewelry Traditions

Celtic jewelry, like claddagh jewelry is rich in history and tradition. The term "Celtic" typically refers to people who are descendants of different provinces of western Europe, who lived during the time around the birth of Christ. Most Celtic history, legend & lore have been passed down from generation to generation via word of mouth, or through artwork and symbolism. Much celtic jewelry displays symbolism that represents life, death, the change of seasons, love and human spirit. Celtic jewelry is often embedded with many symbols that have been passed down from as early as the 8th century B.C.

Each of the symbols used in celtic jewelry have different meanings. Some were created by artisans, whereas others were created by tribal members.

Knotwork Designs

Celtic knotwork designs are perhaps the most well known celtic symbols; crafted by artisans these designs are woven into rings, bracelets, earrings, pendants and wedding bands. Symbols may reflect power and unity, and more commonly spiritual belief and kinship among people and eternity.

Other common designs crafted by Celtic craftsmen included:

  • Triskeles - The Triskele represented the importance of the number three, which symbolized the Threefold Sister Goddess worshiped by the Druids.
  • Spirals - This symbol was often found on Dolmans and gravesites; the true meaning of the symbol isn't quite known though many believe it represents the outer soul or higher spirit forms, the idea of growth and expansion and higher energy. A double spiral represents equinoxes.
  • Animal Motifs - Animal motifs represent a variety of different traditions; Birds were thought to represent death transitions; Boars symbolized masculine power; Bulls represent virility and wealth; Cats represented guardians; Cranes suggested punishment or deception; Deer represented profound changes in life; Dragons represent magic and power; Eagles were linked to God; Serpents the cycle of life, particularly when it shed its skin.
  • Crosses - The cross evolved in the British Isles, with the earliest form dating from the 9th century. Legend has it that St. Patrick created the first Celtic cross by drawing a circle over a traditional Latin cross. The circle is thought to represent eternity and God's love which is endless. The four arms of the cross have been used by other cultures to denote the four elements and the four parts of man (mind, body, soul and heart).
  • Chevrons - These symbols, resembling arrowheads linked together, represent power.

The oldest and most recognized of these symbols is the single spiral. Growth, expansion, cosmic energy, all of these ideas could be represented by the single spiral. The tightly wound symbol has been used by many other cultures since the time of the Celts. Many believe a spiral spinning in a counter clockwise direction is representative of the larger summer sun.

Celtic knots are considered the most ornamental pattern associated with the Celtic people. Celtic knotwork patterns were discovered all over Ireland in early settlements and at burial grounds. The idea that life is never ending, and that people are re-born at death is incorporated into the idea of loops or knots with no beginning and no end. One of the more well known celtic knots is the Trinity Knot, which is actually a combination of Celtic and spiritual heritage.

Whether purchasing claddagh jewelry or celitc jewelry, you can be assured that you are investing in gems that are rich in symbolism and tradition. Celtic and claddagh jewelry have been around for centuries, and will continue to be popular in many cultures and regions of the world.

About The Author:

With more than 10 years professional experience, freelance writer Antigone Arthur has completed a number of informative articles providing valuable insight for consumers on such topics as celtic jewelry, antique celtic engagement rings, and celtic wedding rings.

Sterling Silver - The "Other" Precious Metal

Learn More About This Affordable Alternative to Expensive Jewelry

History of Sterling Silver

Silver jewelry has been a staple in the lives of mankind since humans discovered the versatility of silver and the many uses it has. Silver has been used for functional and aesthetic purposes. In times of old, silver was used to create flatware and armor to protect soldiers on their way into battle. Silver jewelry was later created and used by Phoenician and Egyptian citizens desiring attractive and convenient pieces to add to their jewelry collections. Over time silver has been used to create flatware, decorative art, coins, dental fillings, jewelry and more.

Silver is produced in many different areas, though the highest concentrations of silver output come from Mexico and Peru.

One of the reasons sterling silver jewelry is so popular is its affordability and versatility. Sterling silver can be crafted into many different jewelry items including charms, rings and chains. Silver jewelry is often mistaken for other more precious metals including white gold and platinum.

Common Types of Silver

There are many different types of silver that can be used to create sterling silver jewelry. Silver is considered one of the precious metals along with its cousins gold, platinum and titanium.

Fine Silver - this is silver in its most natural state, when it is considered 99% pure. Often this type of silver is too soft to create ordinary products and is almost liquid in form. Usually silver has to be mixed with other metal alloys in order to create jewelry and household wear.

Sterling Silver - sterling is a mixture of fine silver and other metal alloys. The silver is considered about 92.5% pure. Sterling is usually combined with approximately 7.5% copper to make the jewelry more long lasting and durable. Sterling silver jewelry is usually marked on the inside with a "925", indicative of its purity. Sterling silver jewelry made of just the right combination of silver and metal allows a jeweler to create a long lasting, durable piece that is shiny and brilliant enough to be mistaken for more expensive precious metals. Sterling silver is more likely to tarnish over time because of the presence of copper; however this relatively mild side effect can be minimized through proper care. By consistently cleaning your silver jewelry you'll never even notice anything other than a beautiful shine and luster.

Silver Plating - plating occurs when a base metal such as nickel is covered with a layer of pure silver. This is often one of the most durable forms of silver, and is usually much less expensive than sterling silver because the percentage of pure silver in the jewelry is quite low. Most base metals need a re-coat of pure silver every few years to maintain a shiny outer coat and to prevent the base metal from peaking through the coating.

Nickel Silver - nickel silver is a combination of nickel, copper and zinc that is not actually silver, but resembles silver. It is an inexpensive and popular item that can be used to create look-alike jewelry.

Vermeil - this form of silver was popular in the eighteenth century. Silver is plated in gold, providing a polished and expensive looking custom piece of jewelry.

Caring for Silver Jewelry

Sterling silver jewelry does have a tendency to scratch more often than other metals, and may tarnish over time. Proper care can ensure however that the jewelry remains shiny and well kept. The following tips will ensure that your sterling silver lasts a long time and maintains its luster and original appearance:

  • Sterling silver jewelry should be stored in a cool dry place to reduce environmental damage.
  • Consider keeping each piece in an individual cloth pouch to prevent scratching.
  • Use a jewelry cleaner or polishing solution at least once a month to clean the surface of silver jewelry to help maintain its luster.
  • Use a soft cloth to clean silver; never use a toothbrush or other abrasive material that might result in scratching.
  • Clean silver at the first signs of tarnishing, when a yellowish tint appears on the jewelry. If you wait until the silver has turned black, you'll have to scrub harder and may damage the shine on the jewelry.
  • Consider using chemical dipping agents which clean jewelry without scrubbing.
  • Avoid cleaners that contain ammonia which can also turn silver jewelry black, consider soapy water instead.

Sterling silver is a popular item in part because it is more reflective than many precious metals. Proper care will ensure that silver jewelry remains beautiful for years to come. If you have other items in the house made of silver, such as silver wear or other household items, always use a cleaner or dip specifically designed to clean silver metal. Never put these items in a dishwasher, because you will scratch the surface and cause irreparable damage.

Purchasing Silver

When buying silver jewelry, you should be prepared to take your time to select quality pieces, just as you would if selecting a more expensive jewelry item. Young consumers are often attracted to sterling silver jewelry because it is so affordable and beautiful. Sterling silver also comes in many contemporary and modern designs which are appealing to young consumers.

So what should you look for when shopping? First and foremost always check the interior for the 925 mark, to ensure that you are purchasing premium sterling silver rather than sterling silver plating. Keep in mind that the more pure the silver, the more soft and likely that a piece will scratch, so don't go for anything more pure than sterling silver.

If you are looking to buy many different pieces, you might consider buying wholesale silver jewelry online. By doing so you'll be able to buy in bulk, and acquire large amounts of silver jewelry at inexpensive prices. Many jewelers and home business owners get into the habit of buying wholesale silver jewelry online because they can re-sell the merchandise at a higher price. There are hundreds of pieces to choose from, and you might even find a collection with a certain theme that appeals to you or the people you might be selling to.

Whey buying for yourself you should ensure you know what size jewelry you need if buying a ring. You might consider buying complete sets that include ring, bracelet and charm. Sets are very popular options for consumers purchasing sterling silver jewelry.

Silver is an exceptional choice for consumers looking for fine jewelry that is precious, attractive and inexpensive. From the dawn of time, mankind has invested in silver for practical and aesthetic purposes. If you haven't already, I highly recommend investing in a little silver.

About The Author:

Antigone Arthur is a successful freelance writer with 10 years of professional experience providing consumers with informative articles on such topics as silver necklaces, sterling silver charms, and engagement rings.

Men's Jewelry: It's Not Just for Women Anymore

Find out what mens jewelry is in, what to buy for a loved one and more!

People often associate the term "jewelry" with something a woman possesses and covets. Yet for centuries mens jewelry has been fashionable and popular among elite and average men alike. Kings and Pharaohs in ancient times wore jewelry as a symbol of power and prestige. Whether a member of a tribe, team, work group or family many men wore rings as a symbol of their belonging or achievement.

Jewels and jewelry have been coveted since the beginning of time, as symbols of power, richness, beauty, commitment and even pride. Just as princesses and Queen's of old fell under the spell of sparkling gems, so too have men fallen under the tempting promise a precious metal offers.

History shows that men have worn jewels and rings for a variety of reasons. Most jewelry serves as an aesthetically pleasing accompaniment to a wardrobe or fashionable figure. Yet mens jewelry has also served functional purposes, including describing a male's social status, place in society and of course, marital status.

Men's Wedding Bands

Mens wedding bands are among the most common form of mens jewelry purchased. The tradition of offering a double ring or mens wedding bands at a wedding ceremony can be traced back to the mid 1940s in the United States. At this time jewelry manufacturers popularized the idea of offering a groom's wedding band as the perfect accompaniment to the ladies wedding ring. The idea of a groom's ring however, existed long before advertisers popularized it. In fact, consumers had already bought into the idea that a groom's ring symbolized much more than marriage, but also male prosperity and stability.

Among the more common and popular forms of mens jewelry on the market today is the mens diamond wedding band. Many gentlemen prefer to purchase a dual wedding set featuring a mens diamond wedding band and ladies diamond wedding ring. Mens wedding bands are often much thicker than women's. Though many men prefer jewelry that is subtle and less adorned, others prefer mens wedding bands that are ornate and intricate.

Accessories

There is no end to the jewelry accessories available to today's modern man. Mens jewelry often comes with complementary mens jewelry boxes made to hold a collection of cherished pieces. In fact, many men have so many necklaces, rings and bracelets one might consider mens jewelry boxes the ideal gift.

Other more common accessories offered in the mens jewelry category include the following:

  • Cufflinks
  • Bracelets
  • Money Clips
  • Rings
  • Watches
  • Earrings
  • Chains

There is virtually nothing one can buy a woman that they can't buy a man when it comes to fashionable and tasteful mens jewelry. Don't be surprised to find many women out shopping for mens jewelry, a trend that is increasingly more popular as men continue to grow in their love of jewels and precious accessories. Why not? Who doesn't want to adorn their bodies with precious gems and sparkling gifts that say, I'm strong, I'm powerful, I'm handsome.

Finding Quality Men's Jewelry

Finding quality mens jewelry isn't difficult at all. More and more consumers are turning to the internet, buying mens jewelry online rather than in traditional department stores. The benefits of buying mens jewelry online are obvious. A consumer can browse thousands of unique and detailed selections, from mens wedding bands, bracelets, watches and more. Why not shop from the comfort of your home?

Consumers should be looking for several things when shopping online, particularly if buying a mens diamond wedding band. When it comes to diamonds, there are several important indicators of quality including cut, color, clarity and carat. Cut refers to the shape of the diamond; there are several different cuts available including:

  • Round
  • Oval
  • Pear
  • Marquis
  • Emerald

Color of course refers to the color of the stone; not all diamonds are clear. In fact, most are a definitive color such as yellow, blue or green. All diamonds have hints of some color in them. When a mens diamond wedding ring shows little evidence of flaws, the clarity is good. The weight of the stone of course is the carat, and price often reflects this valuable assessment.

Other signs of quality in mens jewelry include price, craftsmanship and originality. Antique jewelry is an oft popular option for men looking for something unique or one of a kind. Most antique jewelry offers quality that is time tested and trustworthy.

Tips for Maintaining Men's Jewelry

Once you've found the perfect piece of jewelry, you have to care for it properly so that it lasts a lifetime. The best way to do this is to clean the jewelry frequently to remove built up dirt. The best substances to clean a mens wedding band with are jewelry cleaning solutions or alcohol. These same products can be used on other pieces, such as cufflinks, clips and bracelets. You can clean most mens jewelry with a soft bristled toothbrush. Also remember to bring the jewelry in to a jeweler on occasion, particularly if you have purchased a mens diamond wedding band. The jeweler will be able to inspect the jewelry for loose prongs or damage to the ring. Lastly, mens jewelry should always be kept in a mens jewelry box. The kitchen counter or dresser top is no place for valuable gems!

A Final Word on Men's Jewelry

When buying mens jewelry, be sure you take enough time to look at the wide selection available. Take your time. Remember that shopping for jewelry can be fun. Find the right piece, and you can pass it down from generation to generation. You even have the option of customizing jewelry to match your own unique personality and style preferences. When it comes to mens jewelry, the options are limitless. Masculinity, femininity, pride and personality... all have the potential to shine with the help of a jewel or two.

About The Author:

Antigone Arthur is a successful freelance writer with 10 years of professional experience providing consumers with informative articles on such topics as online jewelry stores, mens jewelry, and mens wedding bands.

Buying Diamonds Without Being Ripped Off

Buying diamond jewelry can be fun, exciting and confusing. Whether you’re considering a gift of diamond jewelry for someone special or as a treat for yourself, take some time to learn the terms used in the industry. Here’s some information to help you get the best quality diamond jewelry for your money, whether you’re shopping in a traditional brick and mortar store or online.

Diamonds

A diamond’s value is based on four criteria: color, cut, clarity, and carat. The clarity and color of a diamond usually are graded. However, scales are not uniform: a clarity grade of “slightly included” may represent a different grade on one grading system versus another, depending on the terms used in the scale. Make sure you know how a particular scale and grade represent the color or clarity of the diamond you’re considering. A diamond can be described as “flawless” only if it has no visible surface or internal imperfections when viewed under 10-power magnification by a skilled diamond grader.

As with other gems, diamond weight usually is stated in carats. Diamond weight may be described in decimal or fractional parts of a carat. If the weight is given in decimal parts of a carat, the figure should be accurate to the last decimal place. For example, “.30 carat” could represent a diamond that weighs between .295 - .304 carat. Some retailers describe diamond weight in fractions and use the fraction to represent a range of weights. For example, a diamond described as 1/2 carat could weigh between .47 - .54 carat. If diamond weight is stated as fractional parts of a carat, the retailer should disclose two things: that the weight is not exact, and the reasonable range of weight for each fraction or the weight tolerance being used.

Some diamonds may be treated to improve their appearance in similar ways as other gemstones. Since these treatments improve the clarity of the diamond, some jewelers refer to them as clarity enhancement. One type of treatment - fracture filling - conceals cracks in diamonds by filling them with a foreign substance. This filling may not be permanent and jewelers should tell you if the diamond you’re considering has been fracture-filled.

Another treatment - lasering - involves the use of a laser beam to improve the appearance of diamonds that have black inclusions or pots. A laser beam is aimed at the inclusion. Acid is then forced through a tiny tunnel made by the laser beam to remove the inclusion. Lasering is permanent and a laser-drilled stone does not require special care.

While a laser-drilled diamond may appear as beautiful as a comparable untreated stone, it may not be as valuable. That’s because an untreated stone of the same quality is rarer and therefore more valuable. Jewelers should tell you whether the diamond you’re considering has been laser-drilled.

Imitation diamonds, such as cubic zirconia, resemble diamonds in appearance but are much less costly. Certain laboratory created gemstones, such as lab-created moissanite, also resemble diamonds and may not be adequately detected by the instruments originally used to identify cubic zirconia. Ask your jeweler if he has the current testing equipment to distinguish between diamonds and other lab-created stones.

For more information on jewelry and gemstones, we cordially invite you to visit http://www.morninglightjewelry.com to pick up your FREE copy of “How To Buy Jewelry And Gemstones Without Being Ripped Off.” This concise, informative special report reveals almost everything you ever wanted to know about jewelry and gemstones, but were afraid to ask.

Comparing Prices of Loose Diamonds Online

If you have started the daunting task of shopping for diamonds online, you have probably discovered how difficult it is to figure out who has the best price for similar stones. Going from site to site, running individual searches on each one, then trying to compare results in several different browser windows - sound familiar? Sounds like a pain!

There are consolidated shopping search engines out there and you may have used those when looking for the best price on some other products, but those search engines have a major weakness when it comes to diamonds. Shopping for a diamond requires additional details that generic shopping search engines are not able to display. If you can't at least see the cut, color and clarity of diamonds side by side, then the search results are useless. You can't compare apples to oranges and expect to figure out which is the better deal.

Wouldn't it be convenient if there were a comparison search engine designed specifically for loose diamonds where you could search by shape, weight, cut, color, clarity and price? Then you would see a list of matching diamonds from several online vendors and you could quickly see who has the best price for a 1.50 carat, H-VS2 round diamond with Ideal proportions. That's not too much to ask, is it?

Well, now there is such a search engine - and you may be shocked by the results. But first, I would like to share a dirty little secret of the online diamond world with you. Did you know that the diamond inventory you see at one online diamond vendor is the same as many other online vendors? How is this possible - these are competing companies, so how can they be selling the same exact diamonds? Simple - they don't have any inventory!!!

This is how the online diamond world works - Retailers get lists of available diamonds from wholesalers around the country. Those wholesalers give the retailers a cost price and the retailers decide how high to mark up each diamond. The difference in price between retailers can be as much as $10,000 for a large diamond!

The retailers will then post that diamond to their online inventory - the exact same diamond, same shape, weight, cut, color, clarity, table width, total depth and measurements - but the price you pay will be different at each site! When you decide to purchase that diamond, the retailer notifies the wholesaler and that diamond is removed from inventory and is no longer available to any other online retailer.

So how do you find the best price for the same exact diamond without spending hours searching through results from dozens of web sites? Simple. We have developed a loose diamonds price comparison search engine that shows you available diamonds that match your criteria from multiple online vendors. One search will yield results from around the web and you can sort the results any way you like. Give it a try and you will be amazed at the differences in price for the same exact diamond!

Good luck in your search.

Tanya Blok is the staff writer for the leading diamond prices comparison search engine on the internet. You can compare prices of loose diamonds from multiple online vendors in one easy search.

http://www.ezinearticles.com/?Comparing-Prices-of-Loose-Diamonds-Online&id=20924

A Diamond Christmas!

When Archduke Maximillian of Austria bestowed a diamond ring on Mary of Burgundy in 1477, giving a diamond as a symbol of love and commitment was birthed. Prior to this only royalty wore diamonds, believing they symbolized strength and courage. The root of the word diamond comes from the Greek word "adamas", which means unconquerable". Other folklore surrounding diamonds links them to Cupid, whose arrows were said to be tipped with diamonds.

A diamond is an exceedingly rare item. Over 250 tons of ore must be processed to come up with just one 1-carat diamond of any quality. There are five nations in the world which account for over 90% of the world's rough diamond supply, and those are Australia, Botswana, Namibia, Russia and South Africa. Several other countries produce smaller but significant stones, like the Canadian Excellent Cut diamonds from the Arctic circle.

Now that we agree that they are rare and quite valuable, why still do we want to give them as gifts? Because they're beautiful! And elegant, dazzling and all the other adjectives she'll likely apply when she opens the gift you've come up with. Diamond jewelry is like nothing else, and if you're looking to make this a Christmas or Holiday to remember, the gift of diamonds will make this an unforgettable Holiday season!

So how do you go about purchasing that diamond bauble she's always wanted? Here are some guidelines to follow that will give you the best chance at success!

WHAT DOES SHE WEAR NOW?

Notice her style now. To have the best chance at finding a diamond style that compliments her natural chosen style you need to come armed with the knowledge of several things. Some of those include does she like classic, contemporary, or vintage styling? What metals does she wear. Is it exclusively gold, platinum, silver? Does she like bold or muted pieces, and the relative size of the jewelry in her possession now.

WHAT SIZE DOES SHE WEAR?

You may have to be sort of James Bondish to get this information in order to preserve the surprise, but getting ahold of a ring just long enough to have it sized would be the mission, should you choose to accept it! That said, there is always the option or buying a loose diamond and letting her shop for the setting. You're still a hero and she gets exactly what she wants!

THE SHAPE & SETTING

Diamonds come in many shapes and settings. Would she like a round diamond, a marquise cut or oval, a princess cut or emerald, pear or heart; there are many choices available to you to find just the diamond jewelry she wants. When your're out shopping,linger by the jewelry counters long enough to let her look but not long enough to arouse suspicion. You may be rewarded with hints of preference that will help you. Take into consideration the size and shape of her hands. This will have a bearing on how the ring looks on her. For instance large rings sometimes overwhelm small hands. Try to think proportionately.

THE OCCASION

What is the occasion? Is it a Christmas or Holiday gift? A birthday bauble? Anniversary? Engagement? Whatever the occasion, know that she'll look upon this gift as something special, a gift of love and endearment. Choose wisely!

SHOPPING FOR DIAMOND JEWELRY

Choosing where you buy a diamond has never been easier. Besides the plethora of diamond retailers in your very neighborhood, the internet has made diamond shopping incredibly convenient. Most of the major jewelers have an online presence, and often this will get you more stone for the money, as they have little or no overhead online. Most offer guarantees and return privileges, and buying online is in my view very much safer than handing my credit card to an eighteen year old with a spending problem. Also, as you know if you're reading this, information is readily available online, and suspect at times offline. A website is not on commission or limited so mcuh by inventory as a commissioned salesperson might be.

Do some discreet research, gather your data, go online and find the rock of her dreams! Make this a Diamond Christmas!

About The Author

Keith Thompson has done more diamond shopping than he cares to admit!

http://www.DiamondChristmas.com and http://www.GiftsForBiz.com

Crack the Clandestine Code of Diamonds

Precious, brilliant and expensive—why wouldn't diamonds be a girl's best friend? When giving the most significant gift of a lifetime, most men, and even the women who receive them, know precious little about diamonds. By the time they're old and experienced enough to know about cut, shape, grade, brilliance, color, weight, and setting, they already have the diamond of a lifetime. Crack the vocabulary, and you'll be on your way to purchasing your first diamond with confidence.

The Four Cs

Diamonds are not created equally! "The Four Cs of Diamonds"— cut, clarity, color, and carat determine diamond grade. A diamond certificate accompanies each diamond and includes grades for each of the four Cs as documented by a gemologist. Learn what these terms mean to avoid that "deer in the headlights" look when the jeweler uses these terms.

Cut refers to the physical cut, not the shape of the diamond, and it affects the brilliance of the diamond. If the cut is too shallow or too deep, the refraction of the light detracts from the brilliance. Grades for cut, from best to worst, include Ideal, Premium, Very Good, Good, Fair and Poor. The Ideal grade applies exclusively to round diamonds.

Clarity measures the purity of the diamond. Most diamonds include some flaws, called inclusions. All but the rare flawless diamonds contain inclusions of varying number and size. The Clarity grade measures the purity of the diamond, the relative absence of flaws. Clarity grades the appearance under 10X magnification. Top grades include F (flawless—forget it, you'll never see this), IF (internally flawless, you'll never afford it), VVS1-VVS2 (very, very slightly flawed—not we're getting a little more realistic), VS1-VS2 (very slightly flawed), and SI1-SI2 (slightly flawed). All but the VS1-VS2 and SI1-SI2 diamonds contain flaws that are invisible or barely visible under 10X magnification. Lesser grades include I1- -I3 (flawed and obvious without magnification). If price is a consideration, then invisible to the naked eye is a reasonable tradeoff.

Color actually refers to the absence of color in diamonds. The finest diamonds are colorless, which allows them to absorb and reflect more light, displaying more brilliance. White diamonds range from ice white to light yellow. Color is graded on a scale from D-Z, with D-grade diamonds being colorless and Z-grade diamonds containing the most color. Grades G-J are near colorless to the human eye, and offer the best value for the money.

Carat refers to weight. Because large diamonds are extremely rare, the price rises exponentially rather than arithmetically according to carat weight.

Each of the four Cs affects price. Once you set a budget, determine the attributes most important to you and select your diamond according to your preferences.

Learn a few more simple terms, and you're well on your way to demystifying the world of diamonds and carrying on a conversation with your jeweler that will turn the heads of less astute shoppers.

Shape also affects price, but only in terms of "shape appeal," how pleasing the shape is to the naked eye. By far, the most popular shape is the Round diamond, and it's the most expensive as well. Fancy shapes such as Emerald, Marquis, Pear, Heart, Oval, Radiant and Princess, are less expensive than Round diamonds. Side by side, fancy diamonds look larger than Round diamonds of equal carat weight. If you want something out of the ordinary, a fancy shape might be right for you.

Facets refer to the flat, polished surfaces of the diamond. The round diamond checks in at 58 facets, the most facets of all the shapes. The most important facet is the top or Table facet—the largest facet. Diamonds cut to perfection enable the facets to refract the light brilliantly.

Settings should enhance the brilliance and size of the stones, not detract from them. The range of choices is stunning, from the metal to the prong display. Even more than shape, the setting reflects your personal preference and style.

Now that you understand the clandestine vocabulary of diamonds, you can relax and have fun while selecting that one-of-a-kind, perfect diamond for you

M J Plaster is a successful author who provides information on shopping online for jewelry, diamonds, and more. M J Plaster has been a commercial freelance writer for almost two decades, most recently specializing in home and garden, the low-carb lifestyle, investing, and anything that defines la dolce vita.

Is Bigger Better? The How-To's When Shopping For Diamonds

Buying a diamond can be an exhilarating but daunting adventure, especially if you're a newbie.

If I could offer only one piece of advice it would be this: "Learn as much as you can about the 4Cs before you go shopping."

For the uninitiated, that's cut, color, clarity and carat weight. And I like to add one more - common sense.

Choosing the perfect diamond (and there's no such thing as the "perfect" diamond, although a few have come close) is as much a matter of personal taste as it is a matter of the diamond's characteristics.

Some couples are willing to forego quality for size, others prefer the brilliance of a flawless blue-white diamond over a larger stone with less clarity.

You be the judge - but not until you're clear about those characteristics I mentioned. I suggest you read our Diamond Buying Guide, or go to one of the quality online jewelers such as www.bluenile.com or www.mondera.com.

Talk to any jeweler and they'll all give you a different opinion as to what they believe is the most important quality of a diamond.

According to Mayer Herz, Vice President of Diamond Acquisition at Mondera.com, "Cut is the most important consideration if you're on a budget. You can make up for low color and clarity if the stone is well cut."

However, Joseph Schlussel, Publisher of Diamond Registry Bulletin, says "I personally believe that color is the most important thing. Most people who go into a store today, they are told about cut. But I look at what you can see with a naked eye. I would put cut the last, because most people can't see it."

The safest all-round bet is to look for the overall "package", with the levels of cut, clarity, color and size as good as you can get for the price you're willing to pay.

Here are my tips to help you get the best value possible:

* Ensure you get a Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Society (AGS) Certificate when you purchase your diamond. A Certificate guarantees that you are getting what you paid for.

* If you are buying at a retail store, ask to see your diamond against a white cloth (or take your own - even a white piece of paper will do the trick!). Jewelers typically use a black felt cloth to display their stones because all diamonds look white against black.

* The American Gem Society says that the cut of the diamond can influence the price by as much as 50%. A well-cut diamond, when viewed from above, will sparkle with a brilliance you won't find in any other precious stone.

* Most diamonds have flaws (called inclusions) that developed during its formation millions of years ago. Some are impossible to see with the naked eye, others glare at you. The more inclusions, the poorer the quality of the diamond, and the less light it will emit. But its all a trade-off - fewer inclusions means a more expensive diamond.

Knowledge is power, and the more you understand about how diamonds are graded and how that determines the price you'll pay, the better you'll be able to judge what is good value.

Above all, remember that you'll be the one wearing it, and hopefully for a long time, so the final decision is yours. My very first diamond had a hairline crack deep inside it, and I came to love that diamond as much for its tiny flaws as I loved my husband for his!

Alex Miller has been involved in the jewelry industry for more years than she cares to remember! She lists her passions as "diamonds, diamonds and more diamonds" and has turned her passion into an informative website. You can find more great articles about diamonds, engagement rings, bridal jewelry, honeymoons and more at http://www.Engagement-Rings-Guide.com. The place to go BEFORE you shop for jewelry online.