How to Safely Buy a Diamond Online - Part 3 of 3

It is now possible to save 40% to 60% by purchasing a diamond engagement ring from an online diamond retailer, rather than from a bricks-n-mortar High Street jeweller. Online diamond retailers don’t have retail shops, sales staff, large diamond inventories and other associated operating expenses and are therefore able to pass on the cost savings to consumers.

Of course, a diamond might be one of the largest one-off purchases made in one’s lifetime and so it is understandable that many people may be uncomfortable paying for a diamond before it has been seen and examined.

However, as long as the correct research and precautions are taken there should be no reason to be fearful about buying diamonds from Internet diamond merchants.

The three most important aspects of the pre-purchase checks that must be carried out are:

1. Assurance that the diamond business is legitimate,

2. Assurance that the payment method is secure,

3. The risk of merchant fraud or failed delivery is mitigated.

In part three of this three part series we examine the third aspect which is to ensure mitigation of the risk of diamond merchant fraud or delivery failure.

Mitigation of risk of diamond merchant fraud and failed delivery

Only Buy Laboratory Certified Diamonds

Rule number one when buying any diamond is that it must have a certified laboratory report from one of the major gemmological institutes. This gives assurance that the diamond being purchased is the same specification that the diamond merchant has described.

Returns Policy

Examine the returns policy of the diamond merchant carefully for any extraordinary or unusual points. When making any purchase over the internet the buyer has a 7 day cooling off period within which to cancel a purchase for a 100% refund. This is because internet retailing falls into the retail category governing selling at a distance and the relevant UK consumer protection laws. All online diamond merchants should mention this as matter of course.

Credit Card

A significant advantage of paying by credit card is that if anything goes wrong with the purchase then the buyer is covered by the UK Consumer Credit Act 1974. The credit card company may then also be liable for the purchase to the same amount as the diamond merchant and payment of the credit card to the amount of the purchase can be withheld until the purchase dispute is resolved.

Escrow Service

An escrow service is effectively an independent third party that ensures receipt of the diamond by the buyer and receipt of payment by the merchant.

The process is as follows:

1. The terms of the transaction are agreed between the buyer and merchant and the escrow service is contracted to aid the transaction. 2. The escrow company receives payment from the buyer of the diamond.
3. The escrow company then confirms to the merchant the buyer’s payment has been received.
4. The merchant then sends the diamond to the buyer.
5. The buyer confirms receipt of the diamond to the escrow company.
6. The escrow company sends payment to the merchant.

The escrow service usually charges a small percentage of the purchase cost as a fee. As an indicator of the importance of using an escrow service eBay recommends using one for purchases over £300.

Remember, a large saving is being made by purchasing the diamond online, so it won’t hurt to get peace of mind for the small percentage an escrow will charge. But make sure you carry out the appropriate research on any escrow company as there have been instances of fraud.

Independent Appraisal

An extra precautionary check is to have the diamond merchant send the diamond to an independent diamond appraiser so the appraiser can confirm that the diamond matches its Laboratory Certificate. The appraiser will confirm the authenticity to the buyer, who can then arrange payment for the merchant.

Once receipt of payment is confirmed by the merchant, the appraiser can then send the diamond on to the buyer. In this way the appraiser also acts as an escrow service. An insurance appraisal could also be carried out by the same appraiser, which is something any insurance company will need to see before insuring the diamond.

Recorded, signature-required, insured postage

A recorded delivery method that is insurable and requires a signature on arrival is the safest way of receiving the diamond through the mail. Royal Mail Next Day Special Delivery with Consequential Loss Damage purchased is an excellent choice. When transporting the diamond by mail always use this method or a similar one for maximum security of delivery.

Mike Bradley owns http://www.Dubai-Diamonds.com and http://www.UK-Diamond-Ring-Supersite.co.uk , the premier resource directory for diamond engagement ring research in the UK. Visit the Supersite and download the FREE detailed book The Essential Guide to Buying UK Diamond Engagement Rings.

The author grants reprint permission to opt-in publications and websites so long as the copyright and resource information immediately above are included intact and the article is not used in spam.

How to Safely Buy a Diamond Online - Part 2 of 3

It is now possible to save 40% to 60% by purchasing a diamond engagement ring from an online diamond retailer, rather than from a bricks-n-mortar High Street jeweller. Online diamond retailers don’t have retail shops, sales staff, large diamond inventories and other associated operating expenses and are therefore able to pass on the cost savings to consumers.

Of course, a diamond might be one of the largest one-off purchases made in one’s lifetime and so it is understandable that many people may be uncomfortable paying for a diamond before it has been seen and examined.

However, as long as the correct research and precautions are taken there should be no reason to be fearful about buying diamonds from Internet diamond merchants.

The three most important aspects of the pre-purchase checks that must be carried out are:

1. Assurance that the diamond business is legitimate,

2. Assurance that the payment method is secure,

3. The risk of merchant fraud or failed delivery is mitigated.

In part two of this three part series we examine the second aspect which is to be satisfied that your payment details will be secure.

Assurance payment details will be secure

There a number of assurance companies that will provide an additional level of comfort for online consumers. These companies provide certification that a particular company’s website is relatively safe and secure for online purchases.

Consumer Protection Accreditation

This is an accreditation service which audits an applying online retailer for ethical retailing and best practice data privacy. If the audit is passed the retailer is permitted membership and a unique membership number is provided, which can be added to the retailer’s website.

This number can then be cross-checked back to the issuing accreditation body to ensure that the retailer is in fact a member, giving confidence to the consumer that an online purchase from that diamond retailer is safer.

Examples of these service companies are TRUSTe, Internet Shopping Is Safe (ISIS), SafeBuy, ShopSafe.co.uk, WebTraderUK and TrustUK.

Beware of fraudulent operators that have just added the accreditation logo image to their website. A tell-tale sign of this is when the logo is clicked the homepage of the accreditation company’s website appears, rather than the legitimate detailed membership page for the retailer website you are purchasing from.

Website Verification Service

Also known as web seals or trust marks, the website verification services give Internet users information on the data security and trustworthiness of websites. They check whether a website URL address really is authentic or whether it has been hijacked by hackers.

Before exchanging sensitive information, such as providing a credit card number, personal identification information or other confidential data, these services typically allow you to check that the site has been verified by the trusted third party company and that the retailer website is using appropriate safeguarding measures against hackers.

An actual certified member website will have the logo displayed prominently. When this logo is clicked the page displaying the company’s details within the verification company’s website should appear.

Common providers are ScanAlert/HackerSafe, SquareTrade, Thwate/Verisign, TrustLogo/Comodo, and Trustwatch/GeoTrust.

Beware of fraudulent operators that have just added the verification logo image to their website. A tell-tale sign of this is when the logo is clicked the homepage of the verification company’s website appears rather than the legitimate detailed membership page or signed security seal for the retailer website you are purchasing from.

Secure Socket Layer

When making a purchase over the Internet make sure that the order page URL starts with https:// and that there is a small padlock symbol in the bottom right hand corner of the browser window. This means that the data you enter on the page will be more secure from hackers and your payment information will be less at risk.

Credit Card Verification (CCV) Service

This service is an added protection for online or phone purchases. Since the diamond merchant doesn't actually see the credit/debit card in these situations then it's harder to be sure that the person supplying the card number details is actually the card holder and not someone who just happens to know the credit/debit card number.

To address this problem, debit/credit card providers put a three or four digit CCV number on the card (usually on the back of the card on the signature strip) that is not embossed (raised). This number doesn't get printed on sales receipts. Thus someone trying to use the card number fraudulently is much less likely to know this number if they do not have the card in their physical possession.

This type of checking device really reinforces the importance of notifying a credit card provider promptly if a debit/credit card is ever lost or stolen so that card can be cancelled.

The most common of these services are MasterCard Secure Code and Verified by VISA.

Mike Bradley owns http://www.dubai-diamonds.com and http://www.uk-diamond-ring-supersite.co.uk , the premier resource directory for diamond engagement ring research in the UK. Visit the Supersite and download the FREE detailed book The Essential Guide to Buying a UK Diamond Engagement Ring .

The author grants reprint permission to opt-in publications and websites so long as the copyright and resource information immediately above are included intact and the article is not used in spam.

How to Safely Buy a Diamond Online - Part 1 of 3

It is now possible to save 40% to 60% by purchasing a diamond engagement ring from an online diamond retailer, rather than from a bricks-n-mortar High Street jeweller. Online diamond retailers don’t have retail shops, sales staff, large diamond inventories and other associated operating expenses and are therefore able to pass on the cost savings to consumers.

Of course, a diamond might be one of the largest one-off purchases made in one’s lifetime and so it is understandable that many people may be uncomfortable paying for a diamond before it has been seen and examined.

However, as long as the correct research and precautions are taken there should be no reason to be fearful about buying diamonds from Internet diamond merchants.

The three most important aspects of the pre-purchase checks that must be carried out are:

1. Assurance that the diamond business is legitimate,

2. Assurance that the payment method is secure,

3. The risk of merchant fraud or failed delivery is mitigated.

In part one of this three-part series we examine the first aspect which is assuring that the diamond merchant is running a legitimate business.

Assurance of legitimacy of diamond businesses

Physical Address

The physical address of the online diamond retailer should be prominently displayed somewhere within the website. It should give the full street address and postcode. A PO Box is not acceptable. Conduct a search on the full address using Google and make sure that other results are returned that include the name of the business along with that address to check that the physical address is not a bogus one.

Landline Phone Number Active & Manned

A contact landline phone number should be prominently displayed. Ring the landline number given and make sure that either a salesperson or the proprietor of the business answers and is helpful and knowledgeable with questions about the company and diamonds.

Testimonials Available For Inspection

All businesses should have records of customer testimonials. Ask if a few of these can be emailed or faxed through for inspection.

Company Number

Is the diamond merchant’s business registered with UK Company House and does it display its Company Registration number? This registration number can be entered through the UK Company House website to check the registered business details of the diamond merchant.

If the diamond business is registered then this gives you additional reassurance that it is a legitimate business. If the diamond business is not registered this may indicate the business is being run as a sole proprietorship, or it may indicate that the business is not legitimate.

VAT Number

Is the business registered for VAT and is the number displayed on the website? If it is then this is another positive indicator that the business is a legitimate and profitable one. The threshold for taxable supplies for VAT registration is £60,000 so most diamond merchants would have the need to be VAT registered.

Trade Association Membership

There are several jewellery industry associations in the UK. If the diamond merchant that you are considering purchasing from is a member of an association then this gives further assurance of the reputability of that merchant. Some of the most prominent associations are the British Jewellery Association, the Assay Office and the National Association of Goldsmiths. These can all be contacted to confirm any claims of membership.

Key Staff Named With Photos

Another reassurance of the legitimacy of the business is when key staff members are named and have their photographs displayed within the site.

Mike Bradley owns http://www.dubai-diamonds.com and http://www.uk-diamond-ring-supersite.co.uk , the premier resource directory for diamond engagement ring research in the UK. Visit the Supersite and download the free detailed book The Essential Guide to Buying Diamond Engagement Rings in the UK.

The author grants reprint permission to opt-in publications and websites so long as the copyright and resource information immediately above are included intact and the article is not used in spam.

The Age of Titanium

Although Titanium is an abundant element on earth it was not discovered until 1791 but it would be another hundred years after that before it was possible to isolate the metal.

In appearance the metal is grey and lustrous and has often been used to make alloys which are light and resistant. Titanium has also been detected in meteorites and in the moon rocks brought back from the Apollo 17 mission.

It is because of its desirable properties which make Titanium an ideal metal for this technological age that has lead to a huge rise in popularity of this metal.

In industry the uses for titanium are many because of its resistance to corrosion even from salt water, alkalis and acids and even corrosive gases. Because of its corrosion resistance and the fact that it is also physiologically inert and hypoallergenic, Titanium is also used extensively in the field of medicine and in particular for prosthetic implants such as hip and knee replacements.

This wonderful metal has very high strength to weight ratio and it is much utilised in critical and demanding applications such as in the aerospace industry. The use of Titanium has made space exploration possible and the earlier rockets such as Mercury, Apollo and Gemini were all made largely of this metal. The Space Shuttle also has many parts made from Titanium as have many jet fighters, submarines, ships and tanks.

Titanium therefore is used across a broad spectrum of applications making it very much a metal of our modern age.

Aircraft grade titanium is now becoming increasingly popular in the jewellery trade and has found favour particularly in the manufacture of mens jewellery because of it’s hard wearing properties. Titanium rings have become increasingly popular as wedding rings in part because they will stand up to more wear and tear than precious metals but probably just as much because of the look. Titanium really is a very versatile metal and lends itself very to the making of fine jewellery and a variety of looks can be achieved utilising different finishes and even the application of heat which brings about a change in colour ranging through the whole spectrum.

This property of colouration by heat has been used particularly in the manufacture of ladies jewellery for making eye catching unique designs in earrings, necklaces and modern, trendy titanium rings.

In the making of rings, titanium can also be inlaid with precious metals and set with precious stones and although the material is more difficult to work with because of its strength, once made you will have a beautiful piece of jewellery that will look good and last a lifetime.

The durability, strength and looks of titanium will ensure that it continues to grow in popularity as a metal in the manufacture of jewellery and in particular for the making of titanium rings.

Written by John Lewis of Love2Have. Love2have specialises in quality handcrafted designer titanium rings made here in the UK by small independent designers.

CTI Watches - What Makes Them So Popular?

CTI watches have quickly become favorites among casual wearers and collectors alike. They have features and styles that are usually reserved for watches that the average person can't afford. A genuine Patek Philippe watch can run many thousands of dollars. They are probably worth the price, but this vastly limits the market to the few who can afford them.

CTI watches stand on their own. They don't try to be "replicas" of any brand name watch. They are, however influenced by many of the styles and innovations represented by the famous brand watches. People have commented that they bought CTI watches because they don't try to copy other watches. They also have the CTI brand name and logo on each watch. They don't try to fool anyone by exactly replicating a brand name style down to the name and logo on the watch. This practice is illegal in that it violates trademarks and patents of other companies. All CTI Watches have a CTI logo and not any brand name.

Popular CTI styles include Navitimer, automatics, Seamaster, chronographs and skeleton types. They are available in leather or metal bands and many color combinations.

In addition, if the watch says "Rolex" on it, who really made it? Where is it from? If the company is violating the law by selling "replicas", what type of message does this send to a buyer?

CTI is constantly releasing new styles. Many people buy several CTI Watches. They do this because they can buy several styles for every occasion. They don't have the fear of loss that a genuine Vacheron Constantin creates. How many people would comfortable wearing a $10,000 watch to the mall? For about 1% of that amount, they can wear any CTI Watch anywhere and not give it another thought. You often read about celebrities that wear replicas of the genuine jewelry they own because of insurance restrictions. Why own it if you can't wear it? That's where CTI Watches have their greatest appeal.

The author has expertise in many areas. He is the webmaster of My Time is Your Time.com and at a site that carries UZI, Luminox and Smith & Wesson Watches

How to Make a Smart Investment in Watches

I'm sure you have all heard of record breaking prices of vintage watches at auctions and are considering making an investment in watches. The phenomenal success of quartz watches in the seventies and eighties drove up values of old mechanical watches as they became rarer.

It is this enthusiasm for mechanical watches that has spur manufacturers to come up with new innovation in mechanical watches.

So how do you choose a mechanical watch that will not only hold its value but also rise in value?

Buy a brand which is reputable and has a long history of preferably at least a century old.

Check with auction sites and used watch dealers and find out the value of a 5 year model. Is it worth any value? How about older ones? Are they worth more than the new models? If yes, then this brand may have good investment potential. Whether a time piece appreciates in value depend on the simple law of economics. The rarer it is the more highly prized it is. That's why rarity is so important. A reputable manufacturer can issue a special edition with only a limited number of watches available, preferably of less than 100.

Going deeper into this issue there may be many different brands but they may buy the watch movement supplied by one main supplier which means in essence they are basically the same watch.

For a watch to be unique , the watchmaker should design and manufacture most of the different parts rather than simply source components from another supplier.

The watch should be of high quality. It should have a quality movement.

Look at the case finish and design too. Check out the innovation in the watch.

Collectors are also interested in complications such as Perpetual Calendar, tourbillon, moon phases, power reserve indicator and day and night indicator. These are extra features besides the standard time telling. Perpetual calender accurately keeps track of the day, date, month and year. You do not have to worry whether the date is correct and set the correct date. Tourbillon is one of the most complicated components in watches which minimizes timekeeping errors caused by gravity.

The appreciation in value in mechanical watches is not as quick as other forms of investment. You should treat it as a long term investment. A investor wouldn't buy a watch today and sell it off the next day.

Potential watch investor should also know that value of a watch is dependent on the amount a buyer is willing to buy. In other words, a watch is worth only as much as a buyer is willing to pay for it.

Therefore it is very important that you like the watch and has emotional and sentimental value to you.

Lastly, you have to take good care of your watch and maintain it too . Remember to keep all the papers and documents too.

You can buy watches as investments. You can get the best prices on watches at http://www.cheapestsale.com/watches/

How to Care For Your Gold Jewelry

As a precious metal, gold represents less work to maintain its appearance than other metals, such as silver. Gold does not tarnish, smudge, or discolor, but it can become dulled by contact with soaps, perspiration, hand creams and other substances from your daily life.

A good rule of thumb, is to wash your hands before putting on, or taking off, gold jewelry. This prevents contamination with natural body oils and other matter that your hands have touched. Also, if you're going to be wearing perfume, creams, lotions or other chemical substances, put them on before your jewelry. Gold items will be dulled and dirty from lying on skin that is still moist with make-up, or if they are in the line of fire from hairspray.

Always be sure to remove your rings before immersing your hands in the dishwater or laundry. Repeated exposure to harsh chemicals like chlorine, can permanently damage the gold's luster. That also means removing rings when using swimming pools.

Store gold jewelry that you aren't wearing, in their original boxes, or clean, cloth bags in a drawer away from other jewelry. Never leave pieces jumbled together in a box, as they can scratch each other, particularly if they happen to be set with hard gemstones. Even wrapping each piece in plain tissue paper, will preserve the surface and the shine.

The gold portions of jewelry can be cleaned with a mild soap solution and a soft cloth for polishing. A used, soft-bristled toothbrush may be helpful in reaching small crevices such as the links of a chain, or the underside of settings in a ring.

If you love jewelry, why not make a career out of it? Visit http://www.jewelrysalesbusiness.com for company profiles and connect with representatives

All You Ever Wanted To Know About Earrings But Were Afraid to Ask

It is thought that earrings date back to 3000 BC where they originated in Asia and appeared in 2 formats, one being the simple hoop earring and the other the more elaborate pendant earring. The oldest earrings ever found by archaeologists were discovered in royal graves in Iraq and date back to around 2500 BC. Gold, silver and bronze hoop earrings have also been found dating back to 2000 BC in Crete. In those days it was customary to bury jewellery with the dead.

In 16th century in the New Kingdom of ancient Egypt a type of earring called an earplug became fashionable and these fitted snugly into a wide stretched hole in the earlobe. This type of piercing is seen on the sculpture of Tutankhamen. Poverty in the Dark ages meant that work with precious metals dwindled although some goldsmiths preserved designs that were to later emerge in 7th century Greece. The most popular earrings then were the pendant type and they often featured a bird or likenesses of the gods Eros and Nike.

In the 2nd century during the Roman Empire, earrings became a popular way for rich women to show off their wealth and the use of precious gemstones in the jewellery also became more popular. During the Middle Ages, earrings became less popular and practical due to the popularity of elaborate hairstyles and headdresses. In fact for a time it was considered immoral for respectable married woman not to have their heads covered in public.

In 16th century Italy, hairstyles changed with hair being swept away from the face leaving ears exposed although for another 100 years things stayed the same in England, Spain and France with the wearing of high collars keeping earrings out of fashion.

By the 17th century, earrings became very fashionable accessory for the well dressed lady across the whole of Europe. One of the most popular designs of those times were the very large heavy pendant type earrings called girandoles which were great favourites of Queen Victoria. These earrings required a substantial amount of precious metals and gemstones and so were very heavy, which meant that most people that wore them suffered from elongated earlobes.

Although earrings were popular with wealthy people throughout the ages, they were also popular with poorer people who adopted their own styles which were less elaborate and made from less expensive materials. It wasn’t until the 20th century that earrings were completely revolutionised. Different fittings appeared such as screw and clip on as well as those for pierced ears and it also became the norm for women to wear earrings in the day and not just for special occasions.

The 1960’s marked a massive change for the wearing of earrings when designs became completely unrestrained and it became common to see men also wearing earrings although most only usually wear one earring. Women began to collect earrings and with so many designs available the choices were endless. Today the choice is even greater and the popularity of earrings increases with many people now having more than one set of piercings in which to display their jewellery. Modern materials such as titanium and different types of plastics have also become popular in the making of earrings because of their lightness, design possibilities and in the case of titanium because of its hypoallergenic qualities.

There is now a never ending choice of different types of earrings from modern trendy cheap and cheerful everyday earrings to the more expensive gold, silver or platinum earrings inlaid with diamonds and other precious gemstones.

Written by John Lewis of Love2Have and Earrings UK. Love2have specialises in quality handcrafted designer earrings made here in the UK by small independent designers.

Online Jewelry Store, Basic Knowledge Part 1

An Online Jewelry Store is without question one of the best starting points for your online business venture. Initial outlay is minimal, product is easy to handle and returns can be massive.

This article is part 1 of a 3 part tutorial that discusses some basic knowledge you should know when you decide that the jewelry industry is the path you want to take. Parts 2 and 3: Gold rating and Watches are still to be released. They can however be found on our website: http://watches-n-jewelry.com.

The Four c's & Valuation

The four c's stand for color, clarity, cut & carat. These are the parameters used when valuing a diamond and various other precious stones.

For now, we will concentrate on diamonds as these are the most popular of all gemstones.

Color refers to the tint or shade of the stone. The clearer the stone, the greater the value. Most people look on diamonds as being expensive clear see-through objects. We all know that diamonds are expensive. Clear and see-through however is on the whole not the case. Practically all diamonds used in jewelry will have faint, barely visible yellow or brown tints. To determine the affect the color has on the value of a stone; the D-Z Color Grading Scale was developed, with D being colorless and Z being light yellow.

Clarity or clearness represents the amount of flaws or blemishes on the surface of, or inside the stone. The rule is, the fewer flaws a stone has, the more expensive it will be. The Gemological Institute of America, GIA grades clarity in the following manner:

(fl) Flawless; Shows no inclusions or blemishes of any sort under 10X magnification when observed by an experienced grader.

(if) Internally Flawless; Has no inclusions when examined by an experienced grader using 10X magnification, but will have some minor blemishes.

(vvs1 and vvs2) Very Very Slightly Included; Contains minute inclusions that are difficult even for experienced graders to see under 10X magnification.

(vs1 and vs2) Very Slightly Included; Contains minute inclusions such as small crystals, clouds, or feathers when observed with effort under 10X magnification.

(si1 and si2) Slightly Included; Contains inclusions (clouds, included crystals, knots, cavities, and feathers) that are noticeable to an experienced grader under 10X magnification.

(i1, i2, i3) Included; Contains inclusions (possibly large feathers or large included crystals) that are obvious under 10X magnification and may affect transparency and brilliance.

Our advice to both dealers and consumers is to look for jewelry pieces with diamonds of SI1 and SI2 or VS1 and VS2 clarity. The cost of anything above VS2 is prohibitive and you are likely to get complaints if you offer pieces with diamonds of I1-I3 standard.

Cut refers to the finish or the shape and style of the diamond. There are many different cuts; the most popular in our experience is the brilliant or round cut.

Carat is the term used to express the weight of a diamond. One carat is equivalent to 200 milligrams. The weight measurement for smaller diamonds is often referred to as points with one hundred points making up one carat.

Valuation. Large diamonds are rare and consequently more sought after than smaller stones of the same quality. The added demand affects the value and therefore a larger stone can attract a higher price. A solitaire ring for example with a one carat stone will almost always be more expensive than a ring with say, three stones making up one or even more than one carat. This is where something we refer to as carat levels becomes relevant. Stones of 9/10ths of a carat rather than one carat or 1.90 carat instead of two carat are normally less expensive.

Tip When you buy a piece of diamond jewelry, always aim for just under the next full carat. There is no visible difference when the stone is set but there are big savings in cost.

About the Author:
Steve Blanchard established Jewelrysearch in 1991. Jewelrysearch is a market research company specializing in the Jewelry industry. Visit their web site http://watches-n-jewelry.com for more information on the Jewelry industry and in particular online jewelry stores.

Imitation Diamonds - Perfect For All Kinds Of Rings

Imitation diamonds make it possible for you to have exquisite rings for a lot less money than real diamond rings will cost you. Moissanite is the perfect choice when you are looking for imitation diamonds that do not look fake. Rings containing moissanite look just like real diamond rings and have more fire and brilliance to them.

In order to tell the difference between imitation diamonds and the real thing, you would have to bring the rings to a jeweller. It is only through a high powered microscope that the jeweller will be able to distinguish moissanite rings from those containing real diamonds. You cannot tell the difference just by looking at the ring. This means you can have more rings than ever in your armoire and everyone will think you are rich.

Cubic zirconia is another of the imitation diamonds you can use in rings. It is widely used because of the cheaper price. However, the physical properties of this imitation are not the same as a diamond when it comes to hardness and refractive ability. If you want a stone that more closely resembles a diamond, the best choice is a moissanite ring. The moissanite stone is almost as hard as a diamond and looks beautiful when set in gold, silver or platinum.

If you are unsure which of the imitation diamonds to choose, you should look at both of them and compare their characteristics. Compare both moissanite rings and diamond rings side by side to see whether or not you can tell any difference between the two with your naked eye. You should also have a ring containing a cubic zirconia diamond, so you get the full picture when dealing with imitations. One thing you have to look at is the setting of the imitation you choose. This fact will make or break the overall look of the ring.

You can have imitation diamonds in the same types of settings as you would have with a real diamond ring. By using an imitation, such as in a moissanite ring, you can have a larger stone or several stones in a chanel setting. Choose a high grade metal, such as 14k gold or platinum to show off the imitation diamonds to their best advantage. You will feel like royalty when you have one of these moissanite rings on your finger and will enjoy the admiration of others.

For a website all about Moissanite rings visit Peter's Website The Magic of Moissanite at http://www.magic-of-moissanite.com/moissanite-stones.html and find out about Moissanite Engagement Rings, Moissanite Wedding Rings, and more, including Mens Moissanite Rings.

The Attention of a Diamond Necklace

The movie Titanic highlighted the relationship between Jack and Rose, an unlikely courtship that blossomed into an intriguing love story throughout the story on the true-life, ill-fated ship. The storyline, however, focused on another aspect of the movie; an exquisite piece of jewelry, the heart of the ocean. This beautiful diamond necklace, worn by Rose, was a well-sought out jewel by the characters on the ship, and also by the modern-day characters in the film.

The rarity of this diamond necklace proved to play a controversial role in the film from the beginning to end. Only do we realize at the end of the film, a now seasoned Rose gives the diamond necklace its final resting place.

The diamond necklace in the movie was held in high regard, valued and worn by only the upper-class passengers of the Titanic. Does the entertainment industry then suggest that diamonds are worn only by the privileged and wealthy? Well, possessing real diamond jewelry is not just some frequent commodity for the average person. Diamonds are rare and beautiful jewels, and for that reason they are exclusive.

In fancy jewelry, diamonds are showcased in a collection of necklaces, earrings, bracelets and rings. For special occasions, these diamond accessories complement any formal wear you would display at such places like a fancy ball, a dinner party or a milestone affair like on your wedding day. For women, wearing a strapless gown complemented by a diamond necklace will put all emphasis on the beautiful jewel. Imagine the sparkle you could exhibit by wearing diamond jewelry!

If you are interested in buying a necklace for yourself or for a gift, be aware that a diamond necklace is a pricey, yet worthwhile investment. Such gifts as a diamond necklace should be given to a special loved one or bought with the intention of wearing to formal affairs.

The various styles of diamond necklaces gives one a personalized preference to accompany their formal outfit. For example, actresses observed at an award show are seen wearing distinctive diamond necklaces. For an extravagant look, one movie star was seen wearing a necklace with sparkling diamonds all around the neck. For a simpler look, another actress was seen wearing a thin chain, emphasizing all attention to the solo diamond. Moreover, finding a diamond necklace that suits your preference can well be accomplished with the huge variety of styles to choose from.

With Titanic referring its diamond necklace as the heart of the ocean, a diamond necklace can likewise follow reputation as being a high-valued accessory. If you do decide to give someone a diamond necklace, explore and shop around to a variety to designs and styles and hopefully, you will find the perfect diamond necklace for your loved one!

Harris Michael Jewelry, an Internet-based wholesale jeweler, will help you find the perfect diamond necklace for your special occasion.

Trading In Semi Precious Stones, Emeralds and Diamonds

This cultured world is for elite individuals with contacts and/or mining experience?

Not even close

Did you know you can cash and carry diamonds, rubies emeralds and every other precious stone that interests you? The lasting value of diamonds is known by everyone. But you may not realize that entry level opportunity investors can pyramid substantial profits by involving themselves in this highly lucrative industry.

Why?

You will be astounded to realize that precious stones are paid for by non-industry buyers who decide by emotional decision. Per Ca-pita, the most avid consumers of precious stones are wealthy females. Money is rarely the issue. There is an "intrinsic value" index that precious stones can be measured by. But when it comes to the retail buyer of these beautiful sparkling symbols of eternity- they are paid for by the "thrill" and not by the carat.

Many affluent individuals are very sophisticated in their buying habits. They rarely buy "rocks" premade into jewelry. They prefer to focus on buying the "rocks" separately and have an artisan craft the finished product usually having an input into the design process.

Horse shoe diamond ring anyone?

This particular attribute of the precious stones industry makes it so astoundingly lucrative. Buyers fall in love with certain aspects of a particular stone. Often a high price tag and a few choice words of objective justification of the price can add 30% or more value.

Now that is low-cost value adding. An investment objects ultimate measure of value is simply somebody saying "yes, I'll take it" How to achieve that is up to you as a professional "price justifier"

Please don't think for a moment that this is pushing ethical boundaries. How else do commodities get valued if not by measuring the markets willingness to pay a price. After all, if somebody has enough discretionary income to pay $19,090 for a little polished rock, then how can getting $22,000 for it be any more unethical.

The value is measured in the satisfaction it brings the new owner. Your price justifications manufacture that permanent happiness and install permanent, portable value into the stone they just bought.

There are several pieces of information you need to know, to become specialized in this field. It isn't rocket science. Stone clarity, weight and the quality of "cutting" are a few examples.

There are many good resources on these topics. As an opportunity investors our interest is limited to the final outcome.....the deal. So discovering the fundamentals is all we require to make a good living and building enourmous wealth with semi precious stones gems and diamonds.

Warm Regards,

Martin is a professional investor that trades in yachts, precious stones and real estate. Jack Reynolds is one of Martin's students, Jack was a broke Insurance salesman only 2 years ago, today he owns assets valued at several million dollars. What did Martin teach Jack in 24 short months? You can read about Jack's remarkable and rapid transformation and download Hayden's famous book "The Million Dollar Mentor" by clicking here

Bracelets - Fashionable and Affordable Attractions and Various Bracelet Types

Bracelets are an inexpensive way to impress the right people.

We have Friendship bracelets, Family bracelets, donation bracelets, sex bracelets and many more. With companies like Lance Armstrong and Nike jumping in there, is going to be a lot more coming.

What are bracelets?

Bracelets are ornaments worn around wrists or upper arm. These are often called armlets when worn above elbow.

Bracelets have been used since a very long time but the style has definitely changed considerably.

Indian civilization has recorded wearing bracelets since 6th century.

Bracelets can be made using a variety of articles.

· Cloth
· Metal
· Rocks
· Wood
· Shells
· Stainless steel is commonly used.
· Nike and Lance Armstrong Companies use silicon now.

Also they are used for medical and identification purposes. Here is how—

Patients with allergies, diabetes or who has a previous history of heart illness wear bracelets. Identifying these patients can be tough under emergencies and these bracelets can be extremely useful in saving a patients life sometimes.

Bracelets are more famous than wristbands and bangles and necklaces.

They can be made at home and commercially they are available for cheap.

Friendship bracelets are more famous among children and teens. They are given as a symbol of friendship. Usually embroidery threads or wool are used. By tradition they are not to removed voluntarily as any intentional removal will mean end of friendship. They have to fall off naturally.

Another type of bracelets that are becoming popular are sex bracelets. Various types are coming in everyday and they convey different messages from romance to sex.

Ankle bracelets have been and are used in courts for prisoners. They have been used on ankles of certain criminals on probation especially in the Pima county Superior court.

Susan Smith is very passionate about bracelets. She shares her tips on bracelets at www.braceletsworldonline.com

Also visit www.teddy-bears-world.com www.ceramic-tile-resources.com

Susan Smith is very passionate about bracelets. She shares her tips on bracelets at http://www.braceletsworldonline.com

Pearl Jewelry Care

Your pearls are a valuable investment. Though their compact crystalline structure makes them durable, their exterior is delicate and soft. Proper care is necessary in order to maintain their beauty and luster for future generations to come.

Storing Pearls

Because pearls can be easily scratched or damaged, keep your pearls separated from other items or jewelry. They are best kept in a soft cloth, a soft pouch, or a soft, lined jewelry box. Do not keep your pearls in an airtight or excessively dry environment. They need moisture in order to prevent cracking. If they need to be kept in a safety deposit box or a vault, keep a damp (not wet) cloth nearby. Re-dampen as needed, but be careful not to have too much moisture. This can cause mildew.

Avoiding Harmful Products

Personal care products such as cosmetics, perfume and hair spray, can dull the pearl’s luster and should be applied before putting your pearls on. Other harmful products, such as vinegar, ammonia, chlorine bleach, and even inks will also damage the pearl surface. Make sure to remove your pearls before any strenuous exercise or work. Perspiration is another harmful substance that contains natural acids that can eat away at your pearl’s surface. These are all harmful substances that can spot or disintegrate the pearl’s beautiful nacre.

Cleaning Pearls

After each use, gently wipe your pearls with a warm, damp cloth before putting them away. Make sure not to use anything abrasive to wipe off the pearl surface. Periodically, gently wash your pearls in warm, soapy water using a mild soap (not a detergent) to remove any harmful buildup. After washing, gently rinse your pearls in clean water and then, wrap them in a thin, damp (not wet) cotton towel. Once the towel is dry, your pearls will be dry, too. Make sure not to hang your pearls to dry, since this can stretch the silk thread. If your pearls are particularly dirty, you can also wipe them with acetone polish remover. Unlike ammonia and vinegar, acetone will not damage your pearls.

Restringing Pearls

If your pearls are worn frequently, you should have them restrung annually. They should be restrung with silk thread and knotted in between each pearl to prevent them from rubbing against each other and possibly scattering, if the thread should break. The exception is with smaller pearls, since the knots could be aesthetically displeasing.

Christina Suh is a co-founder of www.Pearltopia.com, an online retailer of fine pearl jewelry.

The Queen of Pearls - Tahitian Black Pearls

During the 19th century in Europe, Especially England's luxury markets created a huge demand for items made from "Mother of pearl." Mother of pearl refers to the nacre layered on the inside the oyster’s shell. Nacre is the substance used by an oyster to form a pearl. Mother of pearl was used for jewelry, buttons, inlay, and even carved gaming chips for the aristocracy in England and Europe.

Only one out of every 15,000 to 20,000 oysters opened is found a "natural" pearl. The natural pearls' rarity and beauty has been adored as "The Queen of Pearls." They were used in the jewelry of the world’s royalty. The most famous of these natural black pearls was called “Azurai” It was the centerpiece of a necklace that was part of the Russian crown jewels.

Unfortunately, demand was so high that all of the accessible black-lipped oyster populations were severely depleted. Divers had to dive deeper and deeper to find the oysters, until finally the there were so few oysters left that the trade could not be sustained.

Today, thanks to decades of careful work by Polynesian growers, enough pearls are available that we can make them into necklaces, earrings and pendants.

The Tahitian black pearl has become reasonably popular during the past several years. It has a generally black-green appearance and often carries with it a cast of a particular color. See Tahitian black pearl jewelry.

Tahitian Pearls come from the Pinctada margaritifera, the black-lipped oyster.The dark shell of this species of mollusk hints at the breathtaking natural black color of the pearls it produces. While described as Black Pearls, Tahitian pearls actually come in a range of body colors from black to silver and even dark gold. Don’t confuse these pearls with their cousins, the South Sea Pearls. SOUTH SEA pearls are formed by the Pinctada maxima, commonly called the silver- or golden-lipped oyster. Their colors range from white, gold, and pink. Black-lipped oysters are indigenous to the beautiful lagoons of French Polynesia, Fiji, Samoa, and the atolls of the Cook Islands. Oddly enough, despite their name, the pearls are not actually found in the waters off the island of Tahiti itself. But Tahiti remains the primary commercial center for the natural black pearls.

Question regarding Tahitian black pearl jewelry? Plese contact info@myhawaiianjewelry.com for more information.

History of Sterling Silver Jewelry Charms

Charms are also known as amulets and pendants. They are as popular today as they have been throughout recorded history. Ancient Egyptians wore bracelets with charms or amulets. They were used to protect against bad luck and evil forces. They began with religious symbols and became a part of everyday dressing.

Charms/jewelry were made of almost any material of value to people in their time. Many were made of precious metal. Others were made with gemstones inlaid in them or mounted with precious metals in the form of necklaces, crowns, staffs, and bracelets. Queen Victoria gets the credit for popularizing jewelry charms throughout Europe by wearing lockets or charms on her royal bracelets

America became enchante with Charms around the time frame of World War II. Soldiers returning from duty station brought with them various types of charms or pendants. Today popular charms are maded from Gold and Sterling silver. Other materials are still used in the making of charms.

Sterling Silver Charms today represent as many things as there are interests and personalities. Some charms or pendants represent the religious leanings of the wearer. They also represent the interest of the wearer such a musical instrument for a music lover, a pair of sneakers for a jogger, or ballet slippers for a ballerina. Imagination is the only limit for what a charm can represent. Silver charms are also used to commerate life events such as births, weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, or graduations.

Silver is a soft metal and its usage has been favored for centuries. It is used to make charms often related to religious worship. Silver has been a symbol of comfortable living. Sterling silver is much stronger than pure silver which is harder to work with when making pendants or charms. Sterling silver is approximately ninety percent silver. The last ten percent or so can be any one of the following: copper, zinc, or nickel and is more durable than pure silver but it still retains its inherent beauty.

Charms whether made of sterling silver or some other materials are often used to represent the person who wears or carries the charm. As has been mentioned however, they often represent the interests and personality of the wearer. During war particular items are given to the soldiers who are going off to fight. When a young teen-aged couple ’goes steady’ the young man generally gives the girl his ring or something of particular value to him. The girls might also do the same.

Charms have also been said to represent the particular spirituality of the wearer. Many people wear plain simple crosses while still others will wear the cross with the corpus - the body of Christ on it. Others wear saints medals. Lockets are worn with images of loved ones inside. Once used to ward against evil spirits, for good luck, and for protection in times of trouble charms have come to be an adornment for the wearer. Charm bracelets are gifts that keep on giving. A charm is often given for birthdays, graduations, a dance recital, or sports victory. They make wonderful gifts for young girls that will grow with them. There are charm necklaces as well.

About the Author
Martin Smith is a successful freelance writer providing advice for consumers on purchasing a variety of products which includes Wedding Ring and and more! His numerous articles provide a wonderfully researched resource of interesting and relevant information.

The Trouble With Moissanite

Natural mined diamonds have been coming under a lot of heat recently. Award-winning journalist Cecil Adams sums it up the best in a recent article: “diamonds are a scam, pure and simple.” Most people in the new millennium understand that between the DeBeers diamond cartel, the issue of child labor in Third World diamond processing operations, and “blood diamonds” used to finance oppression and genocide in Third World African countries, not to mention your snooty and pretentious local jeweler, diamonds are just not worth the hassle, guilt, and let’s not forget thousands and thousands of questionably spent dollars.

Lately, new synthetic diamonds have come on the market that have all of the look, appeal, and glittering beauty of natural diamonds, but without the baggage, and at a fraction of the cost.

Since moissanite burst upon the scene in the late 90s, it has created quite a stir. Moissanite is gem-quality silicon carbide. The production of moissanite is a proprietary process and it is available only from C3 Inc, a division of Cree Research.

When moissanite was first introduced to the market it created a great deal of publicity. This was due to the fact that moissanite would often fool a jeweler into thinking it was a natural diamond. Both the Nova and 20/20 TV news shows did segments featuring hidden cameras showing jewelers fooled and embarrassed by moissanite. What was actually happening though was not quite so simple.

Jewelers generally rely on something called a “thermal-probe” to detect a fake diamond. Thermal probes work well with cubic zirconia, for instance. Moissanite, however, has a thermal conductivity that is very close to diamond. They were able to fool the older thermal probes. The fact of the matter is though; moissanite really just does not look that much like diamond. The two substances have radically different optical properties. These differences are clearly visible to the naked eye. It was obvious in both the Nova and 20/20 segments that the jewelers were clearly confused. They kept looking at the stone and then testing at and saying things like, “Well, I guess it must be real.” What they were really saying is “Well, I guess it must be real, but it sure is a weird looking diamond!”

Problems with Moissanite as a Diamond Stimulant

Anisotropy

Unlike natural diamonds, or some of the better quality synthetic diamonds like those available from Diamond Nexus Labs, (http://www.diamondnexuslabs.com) moissanite stones have an optical quality known as “hexagonal polytypic.” What this means is that moissanite is doubly-refractive. And because of this they create a strong visual effect known as “birefringence.” This is visually seen as a doubling of the stone’s back facets that creates a marked “drunk-vision” effect.

Dispersion

Moissanite has a dispersive power nearly 2.5 times greater than that of diamond. This creates what’s known as the “disco-ball” effect. Some think that this excess fire is beautiful; others think it cheap and fake looking.

Color

It is impossible to produce a pure white moissanite. The stones have a quality known as “fluorescence” that causes them to appear slightly green or gray. This effect is much greater under natural light. In the jewelry store a moissanite dealer will always show the stones under a pink tinged light, as this tends to cancel out the fluorescence. Many people say they loved their moissanite ring until they got it into the sunlight.

Cost

Due to its relatively extensive manufacturing process and the fact that it is only available from one source, moissanite tends to be quite expensive (though still cheap when compared to diamonds) good quality moissanite stones run around $520 per caret.

Better Synthetic Diamond Alternatives

In the last two years there have been almost miraculous breakthroughs in the science of synthetic diamond creation. There are several new processes that create gemstones that are virtually indistinguishable from natural diamonds. One of the best I have found are the gemstones available from www.DiamondNexusLabs.com. I recently did independent research for several synthetic diamond companies and found their products to be among the best.

Diamond Nexus gemstones cut glass, they have brilliance, dispersion and radiance factors that are very close to mined diamond, and best of all, as they are new in the US market, they are priced at an incredible $79 per caret. This is a bargain that probably will not last.

Conclusion

Moissanite stones are beautiful in their own right. They offer great sparkle and flash. However, if you truly are trying to purchase a gemstone that comes as close as possible to the properties of a natural diamond moissanite is not the best choice.

Gary LaCourt is an expert in refractive dynamics and a technical consultant who has recently done independent research for a consortium of synthetic and a natural gemstone producers including http://www.DiamondNexusLabs.com

Man-Made Diamonds; A Buyer's Guide

It seems nearly impossible to watch TV or open a newspaper without seeing something about man-made diamonds. For hundreds of years science has tried to create a perfect synthetic diamond. Finally, 21st-century technology has made that prospect a reality.

There are many reasons to purchase synthetic diamonds instead of the mined variety. The prices charged for mined diamonds are, in the very best verbiage, an illusion. To put it more bluntly, Cecil Adams, in his award-winning newspaper column “The Straight Dope” says: “Diamonds are a con, pure and simple.” Diamond prices are largely controlled by the DeBeers diamond cartel, and they are not a fair reflection of diamond scarcity. Additionally, studies show that one out of three diamonds sold in the US today has been altered to artificially increase its value. Further studies have shown that on average a couple pays 40% too much for their diamond engagement ring.

Beyond deceptive pricing, there are the issues of “blood diamonds”, forced child labor, and a myriad of other disturbing diamond facts.

Recently, socially conscious celebrities such as Gwyneth Paltrow, Minnie Driver, and Angelina Jolie have made a vocal issue of wearing only synthetic diamonds to the many gala events they attend.

Good synthetic diamonds are virtually indistinguishable from the mined variety, but without the baggage, and additionally, they cost thousands of dollars less. But, which synthetic diamond is the best choice?

There are many types of man-made or synthetic diamonds available. The choices are numerous, but unbiased information is scarce. Here is an overview and comparison of the synthetic diamonds currently unavailable on the market:

Cubic Zirconia
The grandfather of simulated diamonds, Zircons are available widely. In their best examples, CZ’s are actually a fairly decent diamond replica. Unfortunately, the commodity-like availability and vast differences in quality have made the stone synonymous with low-cost fashion jewelry. Perhaps a good choice for cheap bling, but not for fine jewelry. Many sources are available, a decent one is: http://www.czfantasy.com

Russian Diamonds
Including Russian Brilliants, Russian Stars and others, they are in fact nothing but high quality cubic zirconias. This is not mentioned prominently on their web sites and they will only cop to it when pressed, but that is the fact. Russian diamond simulates are priced around $280 per carat.

Russian Diamonds are a fine jewelry selection and are usually mounted in quality precious metal settings.

Russian Brilliants are one of the best and oldest sellers of “Russian Diamonds” available at: http://www.russianbrilliants.net

Moissanite
Moissanite is a lab-created mineral that is a very good diamond simulant. Moissanite has been on the market as a fine jewelry choice since the early 90s and has picked up quite a few fans. Moissanite is a hard mineral that, like diamond, will cut glass. There are a couple of minor downsides to moissanite however. First, it is quite expensive, (though still cheap compared to diamonds) usually priced about $500 per carat for good samples.

Secondly, moissanite does not have the same optical qualities as diamond and there are several indicators that make them easy to spot with the naked eye for an experienced practitioner. It is difficult to produce a pure white moissanite and they often appear slightly green when viewed in natural light. Also, moissanite has significantly higher radiance and brilliance factors then natural diamond, causing them to appear “too sparkly” to some. Overall though, moissanite is a beautiful synthetic diamond choice.

“Moissanite From the Sky” at http://www.fromthesky.com is a good source of fine moissanite jewelry.

Diamond Nexus
Diamond Nexus gemstones are the result of a fairly new scientific advancement in processing technique, and have only recently been available in the United States.

Diamond Nexus gemstones are excellent diamond simulants and come very close to matching the properties of mined diamonds at many different comparison points. They cut glass, being virtually identical to diamond on the Mohs (hardness) scale. They refract perfect “hearts and arrows” and have radiance and brilliance readings extremely close to flawless diamond.

Best of all, they are currently introductory priced for the U.S. market, and are a steal at $79 per caret. Diamond Nexus gemstones are only available in precious metal, solid-gold settings.

Diamond Nexus is only available from Diamond Nexus Labs at: http://www.DiamondNexusLabs.com

White Sapphire
Sapphire is the second hardest natural mineral on the Mohs scale, surpassed only by diamond. They are, unlike the others in this review, a natural stone. Their radiance and brilliance are not up to the standards of diamond however. Nevertheless, quality white sapphires priced at around $220 per carat are a good diamond alternative.

A quality source is: http://www.TheNaturalSapphireCompany.com

Gemisis Cultured Diamond
Gemisis diamonds are beautiful and almost perfect diamond replicas. Unfortunately, they are not available in a clear, white color, so they are not a good choice for traditional diamond settings. However, if a yellow, orange or pink diamond is what you crave, Gemisis offers stunning choices in beautiful precious metal, fine-jewelry settings.

Gemisis Cultured Diamonds are only available at: http://www.gemisis.com

Recap:

Synthetic diamonds offer many advantages over the mined variety. You can buy with confidence, knowing that you are getting exactly what you paid for, and have not been the victim of diamond pricing chicanery. If you are concerned with the world around you, you can have a clear conscience, knowing that your money has not contributed to the support of an unethical and abusive industry.

However, there are many choices of synthetic diamonds, with varying degrees of quality. Take a little time to review the seller’s information to get a clear idea of what the science is behind the gemstones you are buying.

For my money, I believe the best choices are quality Moissanite stones or the new diamond simulant gemstones available from Diamond Nexus Labs.

Gary La Court is a technical consultant, an expert in refractive dynamics and a frequent author. He has recently done research for several synthetic diamond manufacturers including http://www.DiamondNexusLabs.com

How To Restore Old Jewelry

Over the years you can acquire a lot of jewelry. Some of it you may not wear very often, while some of it might be appropriate for everyday where. So what do you do with the rest of it? Here are some ideas for you.

1. First, get all of it cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner at a jewelry store. This will help restore its luster and may revive an old piece you had fallen out of love with.

2. Next, separate the pieces you own into three piles: The pile you always wear, the pile you wear on special occasions, and the pile you never wear. For the last pile, don't feel badly about putting jewelry in that pile. Just because you probably won't wear it doesn't mean that it doesn't have sentimental value for you. Very shortly you will find a way to enjoy it. But just hold on and let's deal with the other piles first.

3. With the first pile, the pile you always wear, you can keep them in a place that is convenient for you on your dresser. If there are pieces that you rotate, and you're concerned that they may go missing if your house were ever broken into, consider getting a hidden compartment safe built into your home. For example, get a safe that looks like a regular electrical outlet where you can keep your regular jewelry away from an intruder if they were to get in.

4. With the second pile, the pile you only wear on special occasions, identify if you wear them with a certain outfit. If you do, put them in a plastic bag and put the bag in the pocket of that outfit. That way, you don't have to worry about it until it comes time to wear the outfit, then you can pull out the bag and put on the jewelry.

5. With the last pile, the pile you likely won't wear, there are a few ideas you can use. First, you can find great joy in giving the jewelry to someone else, like your daughter or a special niece. Jewelry is beautiful and sentimental but is made even more special when passed from one person to another. For some of the other jewelry, take it to a frame store and see if they can put it into a shadow box. You'll be amazed at some of the things they can do with frames and shadow boxes and will really make your special jewelry even more special, and available for everyone to enjoy!

Jeff Lakie is the founder of Jewelry Information a website providing information on Jewelry

Keep Your Jewlery Safe

The best place to hide something is right in front of someone's eyes. When you have jewelry that should be kept in a safe place, but you don't want to spend money on those ugly traditional safes, what can you do to protect her jewelry? A hidden compartment safe might be a good solution.

Hidden compartment safes look like real items around the house, but they have enough space in them to keep your jewelry and other personal items. For example, they look like cleaning products or soda cans or books or even electrical outlets.

When shopping around for hidden compartment safes you want to make sure that you buy a safe that looks like a real product you might use. For example, soda cans that are weighted to feel full are more likely to be ignored by an intruder than the ones that are empty and have distinctive rattle of jewelry! If you have one that tends to rattle, pack your jewelry with tissue paper to keep it from rattling around.

Another tactic to keep your jewelry safe is to make sure the hidden compartment safe you are using is a real brand: poorly designed hidden compartment safes use brands that no one has ever heard of, while well designed ones use common products that might be found in nearly every home.

Why are hidden compartment safes so effective? Consider this: an intruder skulking through your dark empty house and doesn't know what time the homeowners are coming back, is more likely to look through the obvious spots rather than open every book in the bookshelf, shake every pop can in the fridge, or look at every cleaning product under the sink. And they will definitely not pry open every electrical outlet in the house!

This activity is a huge time waster for them, since the likelihood of them finding a hidden compartment safe among several cans of soda is quite rare. That's what is so great about hidden compartment safes to hide your jewelry. They use such common items that no thief will spend the time searching the house so thoroughly!

Next time you're thinking about leaving your house, take a look around. You've worked hard for your jewelry. Protect those beautiful investments!

Jeff Lakie is the founder of Jewelry Information a website providing information on Jewelry

Diamonds or Moissanite? Which Should You Choose?

Diamonds and Moissanite look very much alike. Both are clear, usually white stones with a brilliant fire. One is very much cheaper than the other.

Which should you choose?

One look at the prices and you might go straight for moissanite.

Then again, diamonds are way more expensive because diamonds are natural gemstones that are rare and mined from the earth itself. The moissanite you see in stores is actually a manmade gemstone. Often used as diamond substitute as they look very much alike. Diamonds are rare and precious while more moissanite can be made any time to meet any demand. Diamonds are an investment. Moissanite is well... decorative.

Both do have their uses.

When should you buy diamonds, when should you buy moissanite?

As diamond prices tend to be really high, especially for the larger, whiter diamonds, for glamorous jewelry that features large "diamonds", to be worn at a function, go for moissanite.

Huge real diamonds set in jewelry would be way too expensive to wear safely, in public without bodyguards following you around. In fact, high society ladies who own such covetable real diamond jewelry would lock the diamonds in the safe and wear moissanite replicas or other diamond replicas of the real jewelry in public.

If the jewelry in question is an engagement ring, please go for the real thing. She is not going to be impressed if that 3 carat diamond ring is actually moissanite and not diamonds. She might even be humiliated if she tells her friends about it and later finds that it is not a real diamond. Better get her a smaller diamond you can afford than a huge moissanite, for important jewelry like these.

How about that diamond stud earrings?
Or that diamond tennis bracelet you intend to wear all the time.
Should you go for moissanite?

That depends on your budget and your taste. Moissanite is more brilliant than diamond but the light tends to be harsh. Some people think it looks fake and cheap and has a disco light effect. Others love the extra brilliance.

If you like the extra brilliance and are on a relatively tight budget but want something that dazzles and really catches the eye, moissanite is your rock.

If you also want your jewelry to double up as an investment in case of hard times, then the answer is to stick to diamonds all the way.

If you prefer diamonds, choose your diamond carefully. You can find out how to pick a quality diamond at http://www.buy-diamonds.net

Diamond Alternative Engagement Rings -Brilliance At An Affordable Price

For diamond alternative engagement rings, moissanite is an excellent choice. You get a dazzling brilliance, which draws attention to your ring at a much more affordable price that a real diamond. When you choose platinum as the metal of the ring, you have exquisite diamond alternative engagement rings that any woman would be thrilled to wear.

Platinum moissanite engagement rings are very popular. Although platinum is more expensive than gold or silver in rings, it has a durability that the other metals do not have. This choice in diamond alternative engagement rings provides you with choices in rings that you can wear on all occasions. If you work in an environment that does not lend itself to wearing gold or silver because it might get scratched or tarnished, then platinum is the perfect alternative.

Rather than use cubic Zirconia in engagement rings, many couples are looking at moissanite as the stone of choice in diamond alternative engagement rings. This is because moissanite is a lab-created imitation diamond. It naturally occurs in nature and its scientific name is silicon carbide, but it occurs in very small quantities. It is only slightly less than the diamond on the Mohs scale of hardness, being 9.4 as compared to the diamond at 10.

For the ultimate diamond alternative engagement rings, look at what the platinum moissanite engagement rings have to offer. The hardness and durability of the moissanite stone, combined with the durability of platinum offers an impressive combination. The silver color of the platinum gives the appearance of white gold and goes well with any attire. With these rings, you also save money that you will need later on to plan your wedding or to buy a new home.

Having a moissanite engagement ring also means that you can have a much larger stone in your ring than if you opted for the traditional diamond. In diamond alternative engagement rings, moissanite also looks divine when you have several stones in a chanel setting. Moissanite actually outperforms diamonds when it comes to brilliance, although it does not have the same clarity.

Jewellers have to struggle to tell the difference between diamonds and moissanite. They need to have a high-powered microscope in order to tell the difference. This makes it a perfect choice for diamond alternative engagement rings. If you choose this stone for the engagement ring, you do need to tell your fiancé that it is a diamond alternative engagement ring, just in case she decides to take it to a jeweller to have it appraised.

For a website totally devoted to Moissanite rings visit Peter's Website The Magic of Moissanite, and find out about Moissanite Bracelets as well as Loose Moissanite Stones and more, including Mens Moissanite Rings, Moissanite Earrings, Moissanite Bridal Rings and Moissanite Engagement Rings

Choosing Diamond and Gemstone Rings

Diamond and Gemstone Rings are both beautiful and unique. There are so many styles, cuts, and weights that is hard to choose just one. Let’s take a look at what a diamond is and briefly discuss what gemstones are. We can then progress to discussing diamond rings and gemstone rings or any combination of the two.

A diamond is the hard substance known. Diamond rings symbols of everlasting love and affection. Many men become overwhelmed when they go to purchase diamond and/or gemstone rings. There are many styles, band widths, and settings. The size and weight of the stone is also something that will play into the decision, but I digress.

Here is a quick overview of ring settings. Settings are defined as the manner in which a stone is place on a ring. An example of a setting is the traditional solitaire was engineered by Ifanes. It is a single diamond set in either a four or six pronged mounting high above the band. This allows the most light to refract in the stone. This setting is also very easy to clean and is also less expensive than other settings.

Another setting is the Diamond Accent setting. The stones used are smaller. The Channel Street Baguette style are stones set into the band that accentuates a center stone.

Gemstone settings are basically any setting with a combination of diamonds and other precious stones. The colors of the other stones enhance the beauty and sparkle of the diamond (i.e. rubies, emeralds, or sapphires). One way to do this is put a diamond in the center with the birthstones of the couple on either side. Later if children come along their stones could be added as well. Gemstones rings can be made with almost any precious stone such as Fancy Gems, Sapphires, Topaz, Emerald, Black Onyx or a Ruby.

The Truffle setting usually accompanies a three stone ring where a large stone has a smaller stone on either sided and is a design where loops on each of the stones connect the stones together. There are many combinations of metals, diamonds and gemstones that can be created. You need to decide what you want and what you can afford and come up with the perfect ring.

Both gemstones and diamonds can be cut in round, rectangular, or oval. Shapes such as hearts or diamonds are also used particularly in gemstones. Almost anything is possible. When choosing a diamond ring or a gemstone ring you should consider your budget bearing in mind that taxes, insurance, and warranties will add to the cost of the ring. The likes and dislikes of the person who will receive the ring is crucial to your decision. For example you see this exquisite diamond ring that has the birthstone of the person to whom you will give the ring. It so happens that the ring is in your price range. Right next to it is a very simple diamond in a solitaire setting and it is very pretty. Now you think the more exquisite one is perfect and you purchase it. When you give it you can’t help noticing a look on their face that you can’t explain. Later it is explained to you that simple designs are more the persons style so you return the ‘gaudy’ ring for the simple solitaire one.

So think about your budget. Think also about the recipient do they wear jewelry and if so is it simple in design or are they more the type that loves ornate pieces. Know that for the most part your choice will be gratefully accepted. Good luck!

About the Author Martin Smith is a successful freelance writer providing advice for consumers on purchasing a variety of products which includes Wedding Ring and and more! His numerous articles provide a wonderfully researched resource of interesting and relevant information.

Head 2 Toe

Old is Gold. We now say this phrase with a difference. We say, Gold is old. Yes gold is old. The precious yellow metal is facing stiff competition from diamonds, gems ,pearls and even its alter ago in the form of white gold.

You turn up at a social do in glittering gold and you are considered yuppie! So passe!

You turn up at a social do in white gold and you are so trendy !! So with it!!

Whether or not Diamonds have passed the test of friendship is something no one can swear by, but yes, they are loudly proclaimed to be a woman’s best friend. We continue to dig into mother earth and recover from her an endless bounty of rubies and gems, topaz and sapphires. Add to this the mystique of good and bad fortunes associated with precious stones and one veers more and more towards gems and baubles to complete an ensemble. All precious and semi precious stones are believed to impart positive energies to the wearer according to planetary influences. So you have necklaces and chains, bangles and bracelets , and rings and pendants studded with myriad coloured stones . Add to that a penchant for clubbing the right clothing with the right jewellery and you are ready to step into the party zone.

Matching jewellery is the order of the day. Jewellery is no more something which lies in the darkness of a closet and which can be boringly termed as an “ asset”, only to be aired at social functions and gloated over in private. On the contrary, its something that enhances ones presence. Makes one feel special.

Whatever be one’s station in life,the possession and feel of a trendy piece of jewellery never fails to transport one to a comfort zone and never fails to trigger a surge of happiness. Celebrations are also strongly associated with sporting a lot of adornment by way of jewellery.

Fashions come and go, trends change but jewellery continues to be a harbinger of good tidings . So, all that glitters may not be gold ,but surely, it makes one feel precious.

Uma V Nagpal

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

I should have just given my roommate some cat jewelry!

One day I came home from school and found my roommate relaxed on the couch with a tiny little creature bundled in her arms. Hoping it was just a stuffed animal, I soon realized it was a live kitten. Not an avid fan of cats, I reminded her of our landlord’s policy of no pets in the condo. She insisted that she would keep her kitten in her room, or out on the patio while she was out. I reluctantly gave in and tolerated the kitten’s presence, but made it known that I couldn’t stand to have a cat living in the condo.

Looking back on this unfavorable living situation, I laugh now to realize that years have passed, and only was I reminded of that cat when I came across some cat jewelry at a store showcase. When I viewed the various designs of cat jewelry in necklaces, pendants, and bracelets, I thought of my cat lover roommate. Could we have made a compromise, giving the cat a new home, and getting my roommate some cat jewelry? If I could have gone back to that situation, I would have convinced my roommate that cat jewelry is a much better alternative than taking care of a real one. Here is why.

Cat jewelry doesn’t give you allergies: Some people are just allergic to cats, or they say they are because it’s a relevant excuse to get rid of them. Some may be more partial to other animals like dogs. Especially if you’re in a roommate situation, having cats in the home is not accommodating if others are allergic. Be considerate of your roommates and resort to your love for cats by wearing jewelry.

Cat jewelry doesn’t require maintenance: Compared to most animals, cats are pretty low maintenance when it comes to taking care of them. However, when you are very busy, an extra duty to tend to your cat can be tiresome. With cat jewelry, the only maintenance appreciated, but not required, is to have a jewelry box to store all of your jewels. For college students, your living situation is mobile, which doesn’t give your cat a stable home.

Cat jewelry is a pretty accessory: Celebrating your love for cats can be displayed in various designs of necklaces, bracelets, pendants, earrings and rings. Wearing your cat jewelry is an expression of your love for the animal. In public places where you are prohibited from having animals around, you won’t be condoned for sporting around your cat accessories. For this reason, freely express your love for cats and make a fashion statement with your cat jewelry.

Comparing cats to cat jewelry might be like comparing apples to oranges- you can’t really compare the pros and cons, they are just different. But when it comes to the consideration of other people, like roommates, opt for cat jewelry to avoid the disagreements and confrontation.

Harris Michael Jewelry's collection of cat jewelry makes up just a small part of any even more extensive collection of animal jewelry.

History of Diamonds

Where in history did we first see the value and beauty beheld in diamonds? What is the story behind diamond engagement rings. The word, diamond, historically derived its roots from "Adamas", a Greek word which means unconquerable or indestructible. Diamonds have traveled our many different cultures throughout history affecting everyone in every possible way. The ancient Greeks believed that diamonds were tears from the Gods. They were thought to be mystical and powerful stones that affected both the heavens and the hearts. Diamonds today continue to hold this fascination as it did throughout history.

For thousands of years, it was the common belief that diamonds contained special magic abilities and power for royalty. Diamonds were thought to have the same powers as of Gods and these powers contained within the fiery gems were beyond the common man's knowledge. Kings would go into battle adorned with diamond studded breast plates hoping that the physical presence and the spiritual power of the diamond would bring them victory. The belief was so powerful and so widespread that warriors in battle avoided the Kings and other nobles who were porting the powerful gemstones. Over the centuries, the history of diamonds has received its meaning as the highest gift of one's love, probably because marriage and love are seemingly as powerful & as indestructible as the gemstone itself.

The first diamonds in history were discovered in India around 800 B.C. These diamonds were found to be a result of a volcanic source, however this source was never discovered. Indian diamonds continued to supply the world up until the eighteenth century, it was a large deposit. These diminishing supplies spawned the next finds in Brazil and in the mid 1800's, South Africa. South Africa had a massive diamond deposit, and was a global supplier for a long time. In the mid 1900's major diamond deposits were found in Siberia, and today Western Canada is the site of the world's newest diamond mines.

Most of the history of diamonds, the gemstones were extracted from sand and gravel along river banks, like in India. However, when South Africa's diamond rush started new process of finding the diamonds not along waterways, but in the earth, was discovered. Still today, diamonds are for the most part mined using various extracting methods.

Please follow the link for MORE history of diamonds. At AllAboutDiamonds.org, we discuss all aspects of the diamond. You can learn about how to buy diamond engagement rings to pages talking about the mystical powers of diamonds, to the most famous diamonds in history. And if you are search for a diamond engagement ring, we have a large and growing directory of trusted online jewelers.

How Are Diamonds Made - Fake Diamond Manufacturing Tips

How are diamonds made? Well, under natural circumstances, it takes putting carbon under pressure millions of years to create a diamond. This is why diamonds are so expensive to purchase. Fortunately, man is no longer confided to waiting for nature to create diamonds. Diamonds made by man can be created much faster and the quality is higher than ever before. In fact, a layman may now find it hard to tell the difference between a fake diamond from a real one.

Fake Diamonds – Spot a Counterfeit Diamond

Here are some easy tips you can use to determine fake diamond - or real?

Ask. Ask the salesman straight out if the diamond you are looking at is a fake or real. A reputable salesman will give you an honest answer.

Wear and Tear. Real diamonds are almost indestructible. If you seek chips or scratches on the gem, chances are your diamond is made by man and not nature.

Documentation. Ask for a certificate from the Gemological Institution of America. The GIA is the largest diamond grading authority in the world.

Appraisal. Take the diamond to a certified diamond appraiser. While the naked eye may not be able to distinguish between a real diamond and fake one, appraisers have the tools needed to tell the difference.

Setting. Look at the quality of the setting. If the diamond is fake, there is a higher chance the setting will be of poor quality than if the diamond is real.

Fake or real, a beautifully cut diamond in a dazzling setting can be a real eye catcher. The trick is not to pay more for your diamond, fake or real, than it is really worth. By taking the proper precautions to know what you are buying, you can enjoy your diamond purchase without regrets.

Carrie O'Shaughnessy runs http://www.best-diamonds-online.com where she looks for the very best diamond and jewelry deals possible. If you are interested in buying diamond rings then you must check this site out!

Buying Diamonds: 6 Handy Tips on Choosing the Right Diamond

1. I can’t help myself but to keep on emphasizing this to anyone who wants to buy a diamond online: LEARN SOMETHING ABOUT DIAMONDS! Sorry, I don’t mean to shout. But in reality, many people are still very ignorant about diamond, believe it a not, there are jewelers who are unable to differentiate a diamond cut from a diamond shape. Everyone is so hyped up about the carat weight and has totally forgotten about the other 3 characteristics of a diamond.

Still unconvinced? Here’s another great reason to start learning about diamonds. Remember this saying: “Diamonds are women’s best friend.”? You want to win your girl’s heart with her ‘best friend’s’ help and yet you do not know anything about a diamond? You might even get yourself scammed before you even present the stone to her.

Anyway you aren’t trying to get a qualification in gemology, so it won’t take you years or months to learn something about diamond. There are plenty of articles and information on the 4C of a diamond. Spend some useful time in the library or internet and learn about diamonds. Who knows, you may become an expert in diamonds.

2. Prioritize the 4 characteristics. There are much more about diamonds than just the 4C. But at the end of the day, the 4Cs are still the major factors influencing the quality and price of a diamond.

Before you start prioritizing the 4Cs, you got to know what your girl actually likes about a diamond. If she like big one, go for a diamond with big carat weight but with poorer quality in terms of color, cut or clarity. If she likes the brilliance of a diamond and doesn’t mind the size, choose one with excellent cut and clarity. Whichever the case is, prioritizing the 4Cs will give you a better idea of what diamonds will suit her taste as well as your budget.

3. With your list, do some price research at the jewelry retail stores. Based on your list, the dealers should be able to give you a rough estimate on the market price. If the price is out of your budget, try to go for a grade lower than your expectation and you may eventually find one that suits you well.

Another alternative is to purchase online jewelry stores. Online jewelry stores make use of technologies to cut down on expenses and hence they are able to offer you much competitive prices, about 30% lower than average US retail price. The top online jewelry stores often have excellent search engine to save you the time and trouble of searching and comparing diamonds prices.

4. Whether you are buying diamond offline or online, being comfortable with the dealer is very important. If you found online jewelry stores or retail stores with great prices and feel tempted to take out your card and start buying anything, cool down first.

If you have been doing researching, you would have come across information on cubic zirconium diamonds. These synthetic diamonds are D-color graded, flawless and cut to perfection. In short, a CZ diamond is a ‘perfect’ diamond. It is brilliant, flawless and yet cheap. Their prices do not increase exponentially with their quality unlike diamonds.

There are also some natural diamonds which have undergone treatments to reduce its blemishes thus enhanced its appearance. It is still a low grade diamond but dishonest dealers may try to pass it off as a good graded diamond and sell you at a higher price.

Before you start swiping your hard-earned money away, do some research about the jeweler as well. Ask your family, relatives or friend who have purchased from the dealer. Online forum is a good place to ask around and there are plenty of sites that review on jewelry store online. Give the jewelry store a visit or call their hotline, talk to their staffs and decide for yourself if you are comfortable with the store.

5. Always remember to ask for a money back guarantee. Especially if you are intending to buy online, be doubly sure the store has the complete details about their return policy, which should include information about the validity period, what to do if you wish to return your purchase and their address. As a rule of thumb, online stores should offer you no less than 21 days return policy. In fact, most of them have a return policy of 30 days.

6. Remember to ask about the grading report as well. Certified diamond should come along with a grading report by reputable gemology organizations such as GIA or AGS. Some dealers certified their diamond by in-house gemologists and they may be using different grading standards from GIA or AGS. After you have purchase your diamond, get it appraised again with the grading report by a trained gemologist.

About The Author:

Kelvin Ong is the owner of The Perfect Engagement, a website that offers reviews on online jewelry stores selling engagement rings and on books about marriage proposals and diamond engagement rings. The Perfect Engagement has a growing collection of marriage proposal ideas and diamond guides.

Diamonds in the Rough

While I was recently engrossed in some meditation, the lamp picked up a tiny sparkle in my diamond ring. "As I watched it, the spectrum of light changed from white to blue to green, even red and yellow. How could one tiny ray be all those colors of the rainbow?

Diamonds....a piece of ore found in the ground, formed by the workings of the earth's pressures upon the terrain. We, too are diamonds in the rough, formed by the pressures of living in an imperfect world. Friends and neighbors, co-workers, clerks in the business world, all rub shoulders with each of us. Each encounter could be an embracing one, but too often they are characterized by uncontrolled tempers, even downright meanness. Does our light shine during those moments? Or do we enter a mud-slinging foray with an unbridled reaction of some sort?

It's one thing to be dragged down fighting, but quite another to be rubbed the wrong way and come out shining. For often we let ourselves be lowered to someone else's standard which will not likely produce the gem that God desires us to be. We are all gems that virtually look plain as a rock until we're polished enough to reveal those hidden virtuous qualities that will promote peace.

Do you see, that like a diamond you have many facets of light in the prism of your soul? You can polish them by prayer and tending to others needs. The better you feel about yourself, the more fortitude you'll find to handle rude personalities, to let your light illuminate your day to day work. Ultimately, one's job extracts the gems of their own personality from the salt mines of living.

The edge of a diamond has been known to cut a trail on glass. The more beautiful one's soul becomes (the more precious) it can be as that diamond; tough and able to cut a path with shining goodness. Others may not know they are handling a 'gem' but they will somehow be affected by their encounter with that person. That's one of the facets of God's love. It passes through another's behavior. Standing in line for a service window, your patience can be a virtue of humility instead of the anxiety of aggravation.

A diamond ring becomes dulled by the film of soapy water while doing household chores. Periodically it must be cleaned with a stronger solution. The same is true of one's soul. It must often be cleansed by confessing some sin to another person, so that it may once again have the chance to sparkle with God's grace. Then being transformed into a warm, loving compassionate ray of sunshine instead of the sometimes cold, unfeeling 'rock' of indifference is really the pot at the end of the rainbow.

Lynn Moriarty Parman is a free-lance writer and author. Mushroom Marathon, Running Toward the Prize of Serenity was published in 2004. Her article Land of the Morning Calm, 50 Years Later was published by E-Zine Articles. Her website may be found at http://www.images-of-joy-literature.com