Information On Jewelry Article and News

The Art of Jewelry in America

2008-03-26T09:52:00.000-07:00

As art jewelry comes into its own in America, galleries are clasping onto the trend and finding success with the art/jewelry mix.

Throughout the world, body ornamentation is an ancient and time-honored art form. Yet in the United States, jewelry as art has only recently come into its own.

Such art is not the series of gold tennis bracelets lined up in a glass case at the mall. Nor is it the design of a single artist whose staff puts it into mass production. These are handcrafted, one-of-a-kind works conceived and executed by the artist with all the technical elements and aesthetics that carry it across the line into the realm of fine art.

"The distinction between mass-produced jewelry and art jewelry is not just in the quantity but the design," said jewelry artist Gretchen Kubacky of Los Angeles. "I've seen some stunningly high-quality designs in a department store that wouldn't be considered fine art, and I've seen $5,000 diamond earrings that have no design quality to them. Art is in the eye of the beholder." All kinds of jewelry such as wholesale costume jewelry,fashion jewelry wholesale,wholesale jewelry,jewelry supply,pearl jewelry,body jewelry

Kubacky identifies her own work as "ethnicized contemporary" jewelry drawn from historical images, as well as craft and folk art. She uses sterling silver, high-quality stones and pearls, but she likes to mix them up, putting hand-made stones from India with cultured pearls--the fine and the not-so-fine--to create a more hand-made appearance.

"Jewelry-as-art depends on function and intimacy," wrote Carolyn Morris Bach, who exhibits her bone-and-precious metal jewelry at high-end expositions and in select fine art galleries across the country. "Every piece of jewelry that leaves the studio is entirely hand-fabricated by me. While I strive for perfection in my design and craftsmanship, I am not overly concerned that every form requires perfectly rounded edges or that every element be an exact replication of its counterpart. If this is art, it should be individual and unique and preserve for the viewer deliberate traces of the decisions for fabrication; the passage of the hands through materials."

Herein lies the realm of distinction between commercial jewelry and jewelry as fine art. Part of the departure lies in the purpose or intention behind the piece, whether it was made to be sold in quantity at a profit and ultimately worn, or if it was created for the sake of art--art that was hand crafted, using unconventional materials or traditional materials in unconventional ways. The closer the artist remains to the creative process, the closer the jewelry is to fine art.

"The difference is the same for jewelry as it is for the other decorative arts, such as glass and ceramics," said jewelry artist and photographer Douglas Steakley, who exhibits jewelry and other fine crafts at his Concepts Gallery in Carmel, Calif. "You can tell when they change into fine art because they cease being functional, or they become sculptural objects themselves," Steakley said. "Still, there remains a huge gray area of pieces that are semi-functional or are artistic but identifiable, wearable jewelry."

Steakley and his wife Jacqueline founded Concepts 15 years ago as a gallery featuring the work of jewelry artists like Carolyn Morris Bach, Sydney Lynch and more. Their criteria were that each piece had to be unique, well-developed and identifiable--the artist had to create a signature.

"Concepts hasn't changed much," he said, "except to introduce glass and photography that follow the same artistic criteria. It's a good mix. Glass, in particular, provides a nice contrast to the jewelry. It's larger, visually interesting and colorful. It's also more accessible than jewelry."

Jewelry continues to make inroads into fine art venues such as galleries, high-end shows and expos, and it is creating quite a presence in the marketplace.

Patina Gallery in Santa Fe, N.M., dedicates half of its expansive space to art jewelry and the balance to other fine crafts. Owned by Allison Barnett and directed by her husband, jewelry artist Ivan Barnett, the nearly two-year-old gallery is renowned for representing some of the finest art jewelry in the world.

"We make a huge commitment to European jewelry artists," said Ivan. "At lot of what I would call the cutting-edge of art jewelry is coming out of Europe. Theirs is a different, cleaner aesthetic. American jewelry artists are more decadent--not in a bad way--but there is a pared-down quality about the European designs. Americans are still tied a little more to the precious materials, largely because America is so market driven. Not to misrepresent the quality and aesthetic of many fine American artists, but Europeans are more closely aligned with our philosophy; creating surprises for people who have great sensibilities and want something way off the track."

For the past 23 years, the William Zimmer Gallery in Mendocino, Calif., has presented an "eclectic, expansive and imaginative collection of contemporary arts" in both traditional and craft media. Along with sculpture, painting and furniture, it specializes in fine art jewelry with work from Morris Bach, Lynch, Abrasha and others.

http://www.melodika.net/

RICHIE LAUNCHES JEWELRY LINE

2008-03-26T09:43:00.000-07:00

Nicole Richie is set to extend her portfolio of moneymaking ventures: She is launching her own jewelry line.

The reality TV socialite is designing pieces, which will be produced by Mouawad, the exclusive jewelers behind supermodel Heidi Klum's fine jewelry collection, according to People.

And the new mum is ecstatic with the way the production process is going, because she can fit in time for designing as she looks after her newborn daughter, Harlow Winter.

She says, "It's all costume jewelry. I like to play with jewelry and mix and match. (I'm working with) this really talented woman named Shelley Gibbs. She's an artist and she sketches everything.

"Everyone's been really mellow and able to work around my schedule. If I need to go feed the baby, I do it."

As well as the jewelry project, Richie, who already has author, actress and singer on her resume, is launching a children's clothes range in addition to rumors of plans for her own fragrance, reports People.com.

http://www.sfgate.com/

Jewelry retailers pledge to boycott Pebble gold

2008-02-15T04:13:00.000-08:00

In a different twist to the annual No Dirty Gold campaign backed by environmental NGOs, five major jewelers have pledged they will not use gold from the controversial Pebble copper & gold project near Bristol Bay, Alaska.

In a statement issued Tuesday, Jon Bridge, Co-CEO/General Counsel of Ben Bridge Jeweler in Seattle said, "I am pleased to stand with others in the jewelry industry today in announcing our support for protecting Alaska's Bristol Bay watershed from large-scale mining. As retail jewelers, we want to be able to tell our customers that the precious metals we use are mined responsibly-that the materials used in the jewelry they purchase have been mined in environmentally friendly ways, respectful of the Bristol Bay salmon fishery and the communities that depend on it."

Joining Bridge in the Pebble gold boycott were Tiffany & Co., Helzberg Diamonds, Fortunoff, Leber Jewelers, Inc., and Alaska's Blake's Fine Jewelry. The retailers are among a group of 28 jewelry retailers, representing 23% of U.S. jewelry sales, who have endorsed the No Dirty Gold campaign's "Golden Rules" human rights and environmental criteria for mining.

Last December an advertising campaign was launched in industry news publication National Jeweler, asking jewelers to boycott gold from the Pebble Mine project in the Bristol Bay watershed. Washington, D.C.-based EARTHWORKS placed the ad in the January, February and March issues of National Jeweler.

Vancouver-based Northern Dynasty Mines has proposed to build the Pebble copper-gold mine southwest of Anchorage. However, Northern Dynasty has drawn criticism for failing to conduct an effective consultation campaign outside of Alaska regarding Pebble's potential impacts on Bristol Bay. Conversely, Bristol Bay environmentalists have been able to draw on the support of national and international environmental NGOs, fisheries and sportsmen groups, as well as Alaska native interest groups.

The involvement of international mega-miner Anglo American in the Bristol Bay project is expected to improve national and international stakeholder consultation. Sean Magee, a spokesman for the Pebble Partnership, told reporters that they are disappointed that none of the jewelers or EARTHWORKS spoke to them prior to Tuesday's announcement.

Magee told the Los Angles Times that "there is a lot of common ground between the Dirty Gold camp and the approach we are taking. We support high environmental standards for mining. If the fisheries can't be protected, we won't advance this project."

Tiffany's CEO Mike Kowalski-who is also a prominent advocate for reform of the 1872 Mining Law-told the Anchorage Daily News that the company supports Bristol Bay residents who value the region's salmon fisheries over mining, and pledged that Tiffany will avoid using gold from Pebble if it is developed into a mine.

However, EARTHWORKS President Stephen D'Esposito told the Anchorage Daily News that mining companies, smelters and refiners also have to help jewelers, such as Tiffany, have more control over their gold supply chain.

The Pebble West project is believed to have a measured and indicated resource of 4.1 billion tonnes containing 42.1 million ounces of gold, 24.6 billion pounds of copper, 1.4 billion pounds of molybdenum and additional silver. The Pebble East project is believed to have a 3.4 billion-tonne inferred resource containing 42.6 billion pounds of copper, 39.6 million ounces of gold and 2.7 billion pounds of molybdenum.

GOLDEN RULES REPORT

In a report that accompanied the No Dirty Gold announcement of the Bristol Bay gold boycott campaign, EARTHWORKS and Oxfam America highlighted gold mining operations, which they believe, violate basic human rights, refuse to recognize their miners' right to organize through labor unions, or fail to adequately protect worker health and safety. Other mines are criticized for their alleged involvement in armed or militarized conflict, or forced relocation of nearby landowners and/or indigenous peoples.

The report also highlights mines which reportedly dump mine waste into oceans, rivers, lake or streams; and calls for ensuring that projects are not located in protected areas, fragile ecosystems, or other areas of high conservation or ecological value.

Among the mines criticized in the report are Freeport-McMoRan's Grasberg mine in Indonesia; Newmont's Yanacocha mine in Peru; Barrick's Cortez Mines in Nevada; BHP Billiton's iron ore mines in Australia; Barrick, Teck Cominco, and Newmont's Hemlo Camp mines in Ontario; AngloGold Ashanti's Mongbwalu mine in the Democratic Republic of Congo; Gabriel Resources' Rosia Montana project in Romania; Placer Dome's former Marcopper mine in the Philippines; Newmont's Minahasa Raya and Batu Hijau mines in Indonesia; Barrick's Porgera gold mine in Papua New Guinea; Ascendant Copper's Junin project in Ecuador; Newmont's Akyem gold mine in Ghana; and Anglo American and Northern Dynasty Minerals Pebble copper-gold project in Alaska.

Also featured in the report are the former Pegasus Gold Zortman-Landusky mine in Montana; Golden Star Resources' Bogoso/Prestea gold mine in Ghana; Yukon-Nevada Gold's Jerritt Canyon gold mine in Nevada; and the former Galactic Resources Summitville gold mine in Colorado.

http://www.mineweb.com/

When Gold Blossoms: Indian Jewelry from the Susan L. Beningson Collection

2008-02-15T04:11:00.000-08:00

This exhibition, organized by American Federation of the Arts, showcases the stunning beauty and intricate technical craftsmanship of Indian jewelry from the 17th to the 19th centuries. Primarily from south India, the works include rings, anklets, pendants for the hair, jeweled crowns, ivory combs and a gold throne for a deity. The works are predominately solid gold and often encrusted with rubies and other stones in geometric forms that exemplify the south Indian style. A small group of ancient artifacts also are included: sandstone seals and gold adornments dating back to the 2nd century BC. A catalog published by Asia Society, New York, accompanies the exhibition.

http://www.artinfo.com/

$250,000 in Free Jewelry Riding on New England's Perfect Season

2007-12-29T10:08:00.000-08:00

With a little help from Nevada-based Odds On Promotions, Worcester, Mass. jewelry retailer will refund up to $250,000 based on the outcome of Saturday's football game between New England and the Giants.

Reno, NV (PRWEB) December 29, 2007 -- While football fans everywhere will be tuning in Saturday to see if New England can pull off the perfect season, in Worcester, Mass., Arpine Azizian, owner of Shavarsh Jewelry, will be watching to see if she'll be handing out $250,000 in free jewelry. This fall, Azizian ran a season-long sales promotion offering her customers a 100% rebate on their jewelry purchases if New England could finish the regular season undefeated, something that hasn't happened since the Dolphin's perfect season in 1972.

While most retailers would be concerned about the prospect of refunding $250,000, Azizian isn't the slightest bit concerned about the outcome of the game. In fact, she'll be cheering New England on to victory, thanks to an insurance policy underwritten by the Reno, Nevada-based insured-prize promotions company, Odds On Promotions.

According to Mark Gilmartin, President of Odds On Promotions, whose company will be picking up the tab for the free jewelry if the New England defeat the Giants, "Retailers utilize these kinds of promotions in order to attract more shoppers. In fact, conditional rebates are quite popular because they are fun for customers and are effective at helping retailers grab attention."

http://www.emediawire.com/releases/2007/12/prweb594742.htm

Costume jewelry has more value if it's a signed piece

2007-12-29T10:07:00.000-08:00

Bling is back -- and couldn't be more appropriate than during the holidays and on New Year's Eve, when a little sparkle adds to the festiveness of the season.

Today's fashionistas have even rediscovered the bling of the past, making yesterday's costume jewelry big business and a hot collectible, says Judith Miller, co-author of "Costume Jewelry (DK Collector's Guide)" (DK Publishing, $30).

"Costume jewelry is essentially a 20th-century term for jewelry made from non-precious metals, such as imitation gemstones and faux pearls set in silver or inexpensive base metals," she explains in Costume Jewelry. "Costume jewelry was often produced in large quantities, with pieces designed to go with each new season's outfits. Much of it was unsigned and was never intended to last for a long time. However, despite the inexpensive materials used, much costume jewelry is just as beautiful and as highly crafted as its precious counterpart and is now considered highly collectible. All that glitters may not be gold, but it certainly can be addictive."

Many of our mothers and grandmothers had jewelry boxes filled with the types of pieces that now bring top dollar at antique shows. Sharon Kennedy's mother was a fan of costume jewelry, she says, and she is lucky enough to still have many of her pieces.

"My mother was a big fan of jewelry and loved glitter," says Kennedy, of Detroit.

"When she passed away, I acquired numerous amounts of jewelry that she had collected over her years of living and traveling because of gospel singing in National Baptist conventions."

Kennedy brought a number of those pieces to Robert DuMouchelle for evaluation during a recent appraisal session.

DuMouchelle praised the jewelry's "sparkle factor," and its affordability and reinforced costume jewelry's growing popularity in the ever-changing world of antiques and collectibles.

"We definitely sell a lot of costume jewelry these days," he confirms. "While we often sell them in groupings, the individual pieces are collectible and bring varying amounts. The nice thing is that many people can afford to collect costume jewelry, and it's fun to wear."

DuMouchelle says that certain pieces bring a premium. "First, signed pieces are always worth more than non-signed," he says. "Big names such as Miriam Haskell, Chanel and Trifari bring more than later or lesser-known names. Unusual styles and rare pieces also command more."

Sharon brought in five or six pieces, saying she had even more at home. DuMouchelle thought that, although unsigned, her enameled parrot pin could bring $75-$125. The rest varied in value.

Kennedy has considered selling them, but can't seem to part with them.

"I have had some offers, but I haven't really decided what to do," she says. "I'm thinking of making a shadow box out of some of them and keeping one or two to wear. I wore one to an event the other day and got a lot of compliments.

http://detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071229/LIFESTYLE01/712290390/1038/LIFESTYLE01

Diamond Rings - 3 Quick Tips to Avoid Paying Too Much

2007-12-16T22:36:00.001-08:00

Most of us are true novices when it comes to shopping for diamond rings and other jewelry. There’s a lot that goes into the process of evaluating the relative worth of diamonds, primarily centered around what are called the ‘4 C’s’ (clarity, cut, color, carat-weight). Unless you’ve bought a number of diamonds, chances are you’re more or less clueless. That’s certainly a common occurrence, so don’t feel bad!

Here are three easily remembered tips for the next time diamond ring shopping confronts you. Print this out or jot them down and keep in your wallet or purse. Assuming you remember you did so when the moment arrives, you’ll be armed with the basic knowledge necessary to avoid being taken to the cleaners by a clever jewelry shop salesperson.

Tip #1 – Always Get a Guarantee

This is a must. Never ever, under any circumstances, take the word of a diamond jewelry “expert” in a store on the value of a diamond (loose or in a setting). The shifty ones prey on excited customers who are novices and, thus, prone to making impulse purchases. Even if the seller offers official-looking paperwork as proof of the diamond’s quality, demand an ironclad written guarantee. If they balk, leave and shop elsewhere.

Tip #2 – Don’t Let Size Decide

If there’s one enduring myth about buying diamond rings and other jewelry, it’s that big diamonds are always worth more. In fact, the exact opposite is often true! Remember the ‘4 C’s’ mentioned earlier. Carat-weight is just one of four. A simple example will suffice to illustrate this point. If you have the choice between a large diamond that rates lower on clarity and color than one with the same cut that’s smaller but has a higher rating on clarity and color, choose the smaller option. The overall quality of the smaller diamond almost always makes it worth more as a long-term investment than the lesser quality big one. The bottom line: only let carat-weight decide if the clarity and color of two diamonds are identical (or at least very close).

Tip #3 – Ignore the Ring

This one trips up a lot of impulse buyers who fall in love with the ring setting, to the point of virtually ignoring the diamond it holds. If you remember one simple fact, you might be able to keep a rein on your emotions: diamonds are forever; settings can be changed easily. Don’t let the ring itself distract you from the primary concern, which is the quality and long-term value of the diamond that the ring merely holds in place.

Of course, at the end of the day, you have to really love what you’re buying. If you see a diamond ring you just have to have, you can ignore all of this and go for it. If you have the monetary means, why not, right? But, for the vast majority of us, following the simple tips outlined above will prevent a disaster in the making. Good luck!

John Schwartz is a freelance writer and website publisher. For more information and tips on diamond rings and other jewelry, visit his site at http://www.diamond-rings-1.com today.

Digging for Diamonds

2007-12-16T22:30:00.000-08:00

Jewelry has become a major online category, in a counter-intuitive development within the e-commerce business.

Online jewelry sales are expected to reach $3.2 billion this year, compared with $2.5 billion last year. Overall, 8% of all jewelry sales in 2005 are expected to come from the Internet, up from 6% in 2004 and 3% in 2002. BlueNile forecasts 2005 sales of $205 million to $215 million, up from $169 million in 2004.

Ann Poletti at eBay said, they do $1.6-$1.7 Billion in jewelry and watches, and she gave me these two statistics:

50% ($0.8M) is in diamonds and watches.
50% ($0.8M) is in rings and watches.
These are very compelling numbers, indicating a very compelling opportunity.

An easy way to get into this business for an investor could be by buying Odimo (Nasdaq: ODMO) that owns the portal diamond.com, as well as other internet brands such as Ashford. The company did $52 Million in 2004 sales, but is currently valued at a mere $13 Million. Of course, they are losing beaucoup money. However, some of the P&L problems seem to be artifically created by their majority shareholder, The Steinmetz Group, who remains the sole supplier of diamonds to the company, but at questionable terms. Gross margin numbers seem suspicious.

Bottomline, jewelry online is an opportunity worth pursuing, and TAM is expected to continue to rise as more of the web savvy generations enhance their buying power.

Silicon Valley Entrepreneur and Strategy Consultant Sramana Mitra writes about Entrepreneurship, Business Strategy, Emerging Technology, Market Moves, and sundry other topics in her Blog "Sramana Mitra on Strategy". Read more of her writings at http://www.sramanamitra.com

Finding the Perfect Engagement Ring for the Bride-to-be

2007-11-16T04:16:00.005-08:00

Do you know how the tradition of wearing an engagement ring on the fourth finger of the left hand started? The ancient Egyptians started this tradition symbolizing undying love as they believe the love vein Vena Amoris ran directly from this finger to the heart. Later in AD 860 the Pope Nicolas I made this practice of wearing gold engagement ring official.

Here are some engagement ring ideas.

You want to be unique. Consider getting a colored diamond. They are rarer than white diamonds. In fact, only one in 10,000 diamonds is a colored one. The colors range from yellow, pink and blue. Remember Jennifer Lopez's infamous pink diamond engagement ring ? A pink diamond ring is extremely rare and very expensive with prices starting from more than a hundred thousand. Yellow diamond is more common than the other colors and is definitely more attainable for a well to do couple. Generally, colored diamonds cost 25 to 50% more than white diamonds. In either case, choose a quality diamond by looking at the 4Cs.

Couples are also opting for bigger diamonds. The traditional one carat engagement ring has been superseded by 3 to 5 carat diamonds.

There are many new ideas for engagement rings. You can choose new diamond settings too. I understand round diamond is the most popular followed by the princess cut. The bezel setting is now very popular . Instead of the diamond being elevated, it is surrounded by metal. How about a tension set diamond engagement ring? The diamond seems to float and is actually held on its edges. It looks very cool.

Three stone rings are also hot now, the bigger center diamond is accented on both sides by smaller stones of the same shape. Guy Ritchie and Madonna,Phil Bronstein and Sharon Stone are two of the hottest Hollywood couples currently sporting them.

If you really want to be unique, consider antique diamond or heirloom diamond jewelry where the cutting was actually done manually by craftsman. You can then take out the old setting and place the diamond in a new modern setting. Alternatively, you can also consider getting a new diamond to be placed in your old setting thus making it unique.

The choice of metal is also important. Platinum is sought after for its hypoallergenic properties. It is stronger and heavier than gold and will remain tarnish free forever compared to gold. Other innovative use of metal include two toned rings and even rings that combine three metals.

If you want different gemstone, consider alternative gemstones like Sapphires, rubies and emeralds.

If money is an issue, consider getting a gemstone that looks like the real thing such as Cubic zirconia or moissanite. Moissanite rates an impressive 9.25 on the Mohs scale ( a diamond is a perfect 10) which is harder than emeralds and rubies.A one-carat moissanite cost about $500 while a diamond of the same size may set you back by $6,000. You can always upgrade to a diamond ring on your next wedding anniversary.

Buying a diamond? Check out the diamond prices at http://www.alljewelry.info/diamond-prices.php to ensure you are getting a fair deal. Here is where you can get Three stone diamond rings

Birthstone Jewelry Makes a Great Gift

2007-11-16T04:16:00.003-08:00

What is birthstone jewelry? Each month of the year has a specific gemstone associated with it that is considered the "birthstone" for that month. Your birthstone is the gemstone that the month you are born is assigned to.

Since the custom of wearing birthstone jewelry began, it has been thought to provide the wearer with luck and other virtues specific to their month of birth. It also was rumored to provide the wearer with protection from evil forces. In modern times,birthstone jewelry makes a perfect gift for any occasion - Holidays, Birthdays, Anniversaries and any other time you need a thoughtful, yet cost effective gift.

Birthstone jewelry is not hard to find at any department store, or online. Due to its popularity, merchants usually have a decent selection of birthstone rings, pedants, earrings and other birthstone jewelry. You can often find coupons and discounts on birthstone jewelry, especially around the Holidays, Valentines Day, and Mothers Day when it is a popular gift item.

Here is a handy list of months and their birthstones:

January - Garnet

February - Amethyst

March - Aquamarine, Bloodstone

April - White Topaz

May - Emerald

June - Pearl, Moonstone

July - Ruby

August - Peridot

September - Sapphire

October - Opal, Tourmaline

November - Yellow Topaz, Citrine

December - Turquoise, Blue Topaz

Birthstone jewelry makes a great gift for young girls. There is inexpensive quality costume birthstone jewelry that is made specifically for 5 - 12 yr old girls. Kids will find it neat that they are wearing "their" birthstone, not to mention that they will enjoy dressing up in their jewelry just like mom.

Speaking of Mom, birthstone jewelry makes an excellent gift for women as well. There are many varieties of gold, silver and platinum birthstone jewelry. Some of them can be pricey, but are often coupled with diamonds and/or other precious stones. Your recipient will be touched at the personal thought that went into their gift. Or, as a twist, you can even find custom jewelry that has several birthstones, one for each child or grandchild.

For a gift giving guide to birthstone jewelry, or to shop for elegant, yet affordable pieces, visit: The Birthstone Jewelry Gifts Guide at http://www.iWebShopping.org

Hot Tips on Choosing the Right Jewelry

2007-11-16T04:16:00.001-08:00

Here are jewelry ideas to help you look your best.

Why wear jewelry? In ancient times jewelry were used as good luck charm and protect the wearer from evil spirits. Nowadays, wearing the right jewelry gives you a touch of class and sensuality. Jewelry can transform you into a princess. A pair of long earrings underscores your lovely neck. A shining gem pendant seems to make your eyes sparkle .Best of all, you only need one or two pieces of jewelry to create the effect.

You can use the design and position of jewelry to enhance your appearance or to draw attention away. Have you got some skin peeling off your forearm from sun tanning ? Avoid wearing bangles or bracelets and pick a stunning ring instead. A choker will also serve to focus attention towards your face. If you got ample bosom that men admire , why not wear a pendant that goes down all the way to your cleavage?

You can try different ideas such as wearing layers of necklaces of different lengths. You can wear multiple bracelets too. Or go for chunky jewelry. You can wear an oversized cocktail ring to attract attention.

There's no need to buy expensive branded jewelry from Tiffany unless you are making an investment. Consider affordable jewelry like costume jewelry. Nowadays there are all kinds of materials used in jewelry from wood , plastic to natural stuff like bamboo and sea shells.

The rage these days is antique jewelry. Now here are some tips concerning wearing these jewelry. Wearing them with T-shirts and any other casual outfit won't match. Then another thing to note is don't match antique jewelry with costume jewelry.

What you wear also reflect your personality. Are you casual and hip or do you prefer a more sophisticated style? What you wear also depends on the occasion. Is it for work or is it for sports or dinner party?

Next, you need to consider the color of your jewelry. Now that depends whether you are a warm or cool person. Generally people are in the cool category because they have black hair and brown eyes. The jewelry in the cool group would be platinum, white gold , silver or other white metals. Warm jewelry includes brass, copper or yellow gold. One way to find out whether you are a warm or cool type is by taking a photo of yourself in warm and cool jewelry . The jewelry that glows and looks brighter on you will be the right one.

In the end , all this are just pointers, most importantly you must like what you are wearing. It's all for the fun and there's no need to wreck your brain.

You can find all these in the jewelry wardrobe put together for you at the jewelry portal http://www.alljewelry.info

Five Great Jewelry Gifts For Her

2007-11-16T04:15:00.004-08:00

Jewelry is the most romantic of all gifts. If romance is your end, then jewelry is the means to achieve it. The gift of jewelry speaks a thousand words: it talks about the seriousness of a relationship, the seriousness of one's intentions, and the amount of thought and passion invested in a gift selection.

When it comes to jewelry there are five gift choices: a broach, a pair of earrings, a bracelet, a necklace, and the ring.

1. The broach

A rule of thumb: jewelry items that are worn further away from the ring finger are less intimate. Jewelry worn closer to the ring finger are always more intimate, romantic and much more serious. With this in mind, a broach is the ideal first-time jewelry gift. It is a jewelry item that is classy, without being misunderstood.

2. The earrings

Women have adorned themselves with earrings for thousands of years. Even multiple ear piercings are not new; Egyptian women loved wearing numerous earrings. As a gift, earrings can be casual or formal, depending on your budget and the impression you choose to make.

3. The bracelet

Bracelets are available in two kinds: wrist bracelets and ankle bracelets. Wrist bracelets are more personal and intimate, while ankle bracelets are more casual and fun. Ankle bracelets are also deemed a sexy jewelry, so it all depends on what impression you want to make.

4. The necklace

Necklaces, by virtue of being worn close to the heart, are romantic and intimate gifts. Necklaces can be stylish and trendy or classic and traditional. They can be short or long, they can come with or without a pendant. Adding a pendant to a necklace is an extra personal touch. Pendants can also be engraved with a message.

5. The ring

Rings are the ultimate in romantic jewelry gifts and almost always symbolize a new phase in a relationship. There are rings to suit every budget, mood, and message. Rings can also be fun and casual, but they are always intimate symbols of romance.

Dylan Miles, journalist, and website builder, lives in Texas. He is the owner and co-editor of http://www.femininegifts.info on which you will find a longer, more detailed version of this article.

Jewelry Shopping Tips

2007-11-16T04:15:00.003-08:00

Whether you are looking for fine, custom, or fashion jewelry it is always fun to shop for the decorative accessories. You might be looking for that perfect anniversary gift or a thoughtful birthday surprise. With fashion or fine jewelry you can always find something that can fit that special someone’s personality.

Fashion jewelry comes in a variety of styles these days and you can find just about anything you desire. These fashion jewelry designs range from Indian delights to fashionable custom crystals from the sixties. You can find bracelets, necklaces, rings, earrings, watches, accessory pins and even a vast amount of gentlemen’s accent pieces. If you are looking for something a little bit more delicate and for all occasions you can also find rhinestone handbags, bridal tiaras, pageant jewelry, and pageant crowns. Many of these are found at reasonable prices and conveniently located around the corner in your local area stores.

If elegance is more your style, then know that there is a lot to choose from and more importantly, at affordable costs. Here are some practical tips when looking for that fine jewelry whether you are shopping in a local boutique or an online store.

• Investigate the fashion and fine jewelry auctions; you could save a ton of money cutting out the hidden costs at a regular retail store.

• Look for a reputable company with years of experience

• If you are buying a diamond, get a certificate stating the quality of the stone and any gems in the setting

• Check for color and information about the setting

• Decide how many flaws you can bear

• Check the details of their return policy

• Shop around and compare pricing

• Be weary of extremely expensive fashion or fine jewelry pricing

If you do your homework and check out the competition you could find just what you are looking for at a great price. Hopefully with these tips you will know what to look for and inform yourself in advance to get the best deal. There’s no need to be shy when it comes to searching for that perfect gift or accentuating your favorite outfit, because now you know what to look for and can find it without breaking your budget! So take your girlfriend, wife or mom and make her day a special one with just the right fashion or fine jewelry. You can make a lunch date to remember!

Need help locating a jewelry store in your area? We are the fine jewelry store directory. http://www.jewelrystorenearyou.com/

Hip Hop Pendants, A Must Have In The Hip Hop Jewelry Collection

2007-11-16T04:15:00.001-08:00

Hip hop pendants are one of the core pieces of jewelry in the hip hop jewels. These pendants can represent just about any aspect of hip hop that the customer wants them to wear. And, because they are offered in some very unique styles, there are sure to be enough options out there to fit everyone’s needs. Having a few great hip hop pendants shows off a love for the music, the bands, and the people in the hip hop world. A little bling bling never hurt anyone!

Hip hop pendants are offered in a number of various styles. Many of them represent a specific band or a specific group, but others show off dollar signs and various other hip hop elements. They can be quite flashy or they can be simple pieces. Really, there is a large selection of objects that they can represent. Many of the individuals who purchase hip hop pendants are looking for a unique look or one that they are copying from their favorite hip hop star.

In fact, the concept as well as the look of these hip hop pendants has come from many of the hottest hip hop bands and groups out there today. These stars have some of the most awesome pieces of hip hop jewelry that are out there. These often larger than life pieces of jewelry are then represented to fans. Who doesn’t want to look like their favorite singer? And, it doesn’t stop there because there are a number of stars that aren’t singing that are showing off some bling bling. Everyone has to have it!

There are a number of different things that hip hop pendants can represent. Many of those who are wearing them are sporting their favorite singers and bands. 50 cent and G Unit are some of the largest and hottest stars out there. There are a number of great pieces that people can purchase available right online. They don’t have to spend a ton of money on them either. They can have the hip hop pendants that they want at great prices right here on the web.

Hip Hop Capital is your online hip hop resource. The place where you can find TONS of everything hip hop. Hip Hop Capital has been a force online for years and only continues to grow. Go to http://hiphopcapital.com/catalog/pendants.html and see for yourself why thousands choose Hip Hop Capital.

Hip Hop Pendants, A Must Have In The Hip Hop Jewelry Collection

2007-11-14T06:04:00.001-08:00

How to Choose Your Diamond Wedding Ring

2007-11-14T06:03:00.005-08:00

A favorite activity of everyone getting married is the incredible fun of going through a wedding ring selection process. But there are so many things to consider - and sometimes it can turn into a nightmare.

I've got to be honest here, everybody secretly wants a monster stone in the most beautiful setting possible. Do most women get it? No, not really. A perfect, flawless 3K diamond (or bigger) isn't realistic for most. Getting married involves a lot more than a flash ring which is going to have to be paid for and, of course, the bigger it is, the longer it's going to take to pay for it.

Like most young girls, you may have spent a lot of time dreaming of the perfect diamond wedding ring. Hopefully, you and your fiance decided to shop for rings together, or you have informed him of what you like. You will wear the wedding ring for a significant amount of time and it only makes sense that it's something that you like. If your knowledge of diamond wedding rings is limited to size, it's a good idea that you obtain more information before you make your wedding ring selection.

Consider some alternatives like "Loose or Set".

When most people think of a diamond wedding ring, they often think of a stone that is already set or mounted. You can actually buy a diamond only and choose a setting later. Why would you do this? The cost. When you shop for loose diamonds you will notice that diamonds are available in various sizes and shapes, including oval, round, and marquise.

Now let's say you are pretty much indifferent to the shape, but you might want to consider your hands. Certain styles complement certain types of hands. A good guide is to match the shape of the diamond to the hand. Do you have long, narrow fingers? Then an oval-shaped diamond or similar elongated style diamond for your wedding ring would probably work for you. Round diamonds usually are considered a good choice for most hands.

Now, what about the setting.

You really need to carefully consider the setting when shopping for a wedding ring. Should you choose platinum or yellow or white gold? Yellow gold is the setting that most people choose for their wedding ring. It is typically less expensive than platinum or white gold. But if you do choose a yellow gold wedding ring, be careful that you don't choose a higher quality just because you think it is better. As the quality of yellow gold goes up, the softer the metal becomes. A wedding ring set in 24k gold will be less resilient to scratches and more malleable than a ring that is set in 14k gold.

Platinum is by far the most expensive and most durable of the trio. White gold is a good choice for a wedding ring setting if versatility is important to you. White gold tends to go with everything.

White diamonds are by far the most popular. Did you know that you could buy a pink diamond? Diamonds are available in other colors, but these are typically more expensive. Second to the classic white diamond is the yellow diamond. When shopping for your wedding ring you will actually find more of these than any other color of diamond.

OK, now the big one - consider the cost.

Your budget probably carries the most weight in your wedding ring selection. A wedding ring featuring a diamond can cost as little as $100 and as much as $1,000,000. In general, the amount of money you can expect to pay for a diamond wedding ring will vary according to the type of stone and the setting. The more carats (that is the bigger the single diamond or the more smaller diamonds there are in total) a wedding ring has the more it will cost. Diamonds set in platinum will cost you the most. You can, however, spend much less on a wedding ring set in 14-carat gold. You can balance the cost by buying a wedding ring with a high number of carats and set in a less expensive setting.

Ultimately, you have to carefully consider your budget and your future. There is no single answer that will suit everyone. Some have the enviable pleasure of being able to buy whatever combination they most desire. For most of us, however, we need to begin our married life by using smart and careful selection to make sure our diamond ring not only suits and satisfies us, but also doesn't stress our finances.

Richard writes on a variety of subjects for his own and other sites. If you're interested in great information and articles all about weddings be sure to visit Elena's Completely Weddings at http://Completely-Weddings.com

The History of Jewelry from Egypt

2007-11-14T06:03:00.003-08:00

Ancient Egyptians are very well known all over the world for their remarkable jewelry, especially the ones discovered from the period of the Middle kingdom’s reign. Egyptians started manufacturing jewelry during the Badari and Naqada eras from natural materials, such as stones, wood, and then becoming more sophisticated, made of pealed bones or braches, and starting to paint them with various substances. Their purpose was primarily religious and symbolic, often being a bit extravagant and were being worn by women and men alike. The most common symbol that was found from the ancients is the “Ankh” which was meant to represent eternal life. Some of the other symbols include the lotus flower, the falcon and the human eye, representing the healing process.

The art of jewelry-making started to flourish with the start of the Middle Kingdom, when pharaohs decided to express themselves better through gold objects. Egyptians started to master the technical methods of cutting semiprecious and precious stones with a sleek accuracy. Because of the regular missions to Nubian regions as well as Eastern Desert ones, Egyptians became more and more sophisticated in stone sculpturing, bringing from these regions not only gold, but silver, turquoise and agate as well. Pharaohs and high representatives of the ancient Egypt took to the tomb a large series of jewelry pieces like crowns, wreaths, rings, ear-rings and imposing necklaces, which were all placed on their mummified bodies. As a particularity, the vest that ancient Egyptians used to wore around their chest, has not been seen anywhere else in other ancient civilizations. It was made of pure gold, and sometimes surrounded with other precious stones. Ancient Egyptians used to make the vest even before the gold era, making it from other materials that they used to color in golden shades to make it look like gold.

Around Christianity period, and the time that followed, most jewelry were made of cheaper materials, but all incrusted with Christian symbols such as crosses, pigeons, a branch leaf, and the ancient Ankh sign. After the arrival of Islam in Egypt, men were prohibited from wearing jewelry, especially ones made of gold. However, they were allowed to wear silver ones. Not a lot of the ancient jewelries were recovered, since the artifacts were brutally ravished by thieves and the amount of gold from the ancient tombs was stolen. Still, what remained are true works of art and they are cherished at their real value, as should.

For more history and information on Egyptian jewelry please visit http://www.egyptian-gifts.com

What Jewelry Stores Don't Want You to Know About Their Pricing

2007-11-14T06:03:00.001-08:00

In the U.S., jewelry is weighed in grams. Some jewelry stores display the actual weight of each piece, while others do not. Some jewelry stores that don't display the weight say that "fine jewelry" is not sold by weight like products in a supermarket.

The real reason they do not display the weight is because the easiest way to make gold jewelry cheaper is to use less gold and make it lighter. But the problem with using less gold is that the jewelry will usually be weaker and more likely to bend.

How can knowing this pricing secret help you make better decisions when buying jewelry?

Whenever you shop for precious metal jewelry, the first thing you should figure out is the price per gram.

The average prices we have found at the mall are

$28 per gram for 14k gold
$36 per gram for 18k gold
$3 per gram for silver
$75 per gram for platinum.

Knowing the price per gram will help you compare apples to apples. It's easy to compare prices for two gold bracelets if they are the same weight, style, and quality. But this is hardly the case.

Most jewelry stores have very similar items that differ greatly by weight and price. So in order to compare apples to apples, you must find the price per gram at each store. As long as the quality and style are similar, the store with the lower price per gram is always a better value.

Negotiating with salespeople based on price per gram will let them know that you're a knowledgeable jewelry buyer who cannot be duped.

The price per gram concept also applies to diamonds. All diamonds over $1000 should come with a GIA certificate rating. When comparing two diamonds of the same rating, the lower price is always a better value.

Jewelry Trade Secret #1 Summary:

Weight of jewelry determines value.

Retailers purchase precious metal jewelry priced per gram, and so should you.

In order to compare apples to apples, always figure out the price per gram.

Eugenia Bivines' Wholesale Jewelry Connection is an online store that offers beautiful, affordable gemstone jewelry and fashion accessories, with low prices on wholesale swarovski crystal, discount jewelry, rings, earrings, necklaces, brooches and pendants in sterling silver and gold. Eugenia says, "All our items are dependable, quality products. We provide quality jewelry at wholesale prices."

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

Owning Jewelry

2007-11-14T06:02:00.000-08:00

Owning jewelry is one of the most interesting investments a person can have. There are so many different types and styles to choose from that just about anyone can appreciate the value of having fine jewelry. But, with owning jewelry comes a lot more than just having a few pretty pieces. You must know how to take care of them and protect them. We have a few ideas on how to do this, here. We also have a few hints about taking care when purchasing jewelry as well.

*When you own jewelry, it is important to properly care for it. This means that you should take the time to learn how to clean it. The bacteria and oils from your skin can harm the delicate, precious metals. If a piece is not taken care of properly, it may break or become dull and boring.

*It is important to have your jewelry properly taken care of if something does happen to it. For example, if it does break or gets damaged in another way, take it to a dealer or a certified repair technician for proper care.

*If you have highly valuable pieces, it is also important to realize their value and to insure it. If something were to happen to it, it would be beneficial to have an insurance back up.

As for choosing pieces of jewelry, it is important for all investors to look for quality pieces. But, if you do not know which characteristics you should look for, then you need to do a little research. The precious metals involved are only the first step in what you should learn. The value of the precious metals is dependant on the type of metal, the quality of the metal, and the amount in which they are used.

The second most important element in the cost of jewelry is the actual stone. Precious gems are rare and their rarity is what makes them expensive. Not only that, but the larger the gem, the more rare it is. To understand what makes a valuable gem, you will need to know what the clarity, cut, and karat of the gem is. These are descriptions of the actual stone.

Owning jewelry is a great investment. Through the course of time, its value is surely to rise. If it is properly taken care of, it will provide a lifelong beauty that is simply unsurpassed. Jewelry is a simple, yet wise investment when properly purchased and maintained.

Donahue Elway
Jewlery Directory

The Options In Watches

2007-11-07T02:32:00.001-08:00

Watches come in all shapes and sizes. Their main purpose is to tell time. They are now full of different options and features. When choosing which watches to wear it is fun and interesting to try on different choices and find the one that fits your style the best. But, what is there available in watches to consider? Let’s explore the options.

The standard watches offer the function of telling time. No harm in choosing this type because it is the least expensive yet quite functional type. It does its job after all!

Another feature that is nice is waterproof. Watches that are waterproofed have a protective covering on them. We all get caught in rain showers and none of us want to ruin our watch just because we get wet.

Watches can be purchased in a digital or a standard clock face. The difference is obvious. It is often more professional and businesslike to have watches that have a standard clock face on them. But, the digital can often help track things down to the second.

This stop watch feature is a real use when it comes to sports. It will pinpoint occurrences right down to then tenth of a second.

One of the coolest features in watches are those that have heart rate monitors. This is excellent when you are exercising. Most of the time, you will want to get your heart rate to a certain level during exercise. This feature on watches can help you know when you have reached that goal and how long you stay there.

Watches are also fashion accessories. They can match an outfit or serve the same purpose as other jewelry. They don’t have to be about the features but about the look. And, the brand is often very enticing as well! For those who love a good looking watch, check out the options that are available online. You’ll love the selection of options and you’ll love shopping for the best price as well. Watches serve many purposes, but we all need them to know what time it is, right? Why not make your next purchase one that is fashionable and full of the latest features as well?

Emily Jackson
Wrist Watch Directory

Gold Wedding Jewelry For Men

2007-11-07T02:26:00.000-08:00

For men's gold jewelry - individuality is the universal message. For a growing group of men, the only way to achieve individuality is to have their gold jewelry custom designed. Men like being involved in the design process, so they will end up with something totally unique. The new trend in men's gold jewelry - whether custom designed or carefully selected - seems to boil down to individual taste and style.

Modern men want something more innovative in their wedding bands and rings particularly. Thanks to a growing group of artisans who are rethinking the design of men's gold jewelry, men have more choice than ever before. The new wedding rings and bands run the gamut from modern, sculptural designs to turn-of-the century antiques. And the matte finishes on many of these rings and bands have an undeniable modernity.

Gold often has a special symbolic meaning, and men who prefer a lighter colored metal will find great choices in white gold wedding bands. While buying a white gold wedding bands, men need not worry about the cost since white gold tends to cost about the same as yellow gold.

Some rings and bands are even a combination of precious metals: Jewelry designers are mixing metal colors - like yellow with white gold, or traces of once popular platinum. Platinum was the standard in the early 1960s but gradually the trend moved to white gold.

For some men, only a real heirloom jewelry will do - particularly for their wedding day. They want something steeped in history that symbolizes the long-term commitment they're making. And here, too, the trend is toward that single gold band. The rich artistry of these pieces can easily substitute for the lack of precious gems in wedding bands.

If you are looking to buy cheap men's wedding bands, then you should always remember that your wedding band is a piece of jewelry that you are going to wear all the time and therefore, it's very important to choose a band that you really like. So, look for hottest styles in wedding bands and not just one that's cheap.

It is also possible to design your own wedding band by combining multiple wedding band designs. You can select your own band shape, size and mix of colors. These can be combined together to make a unique wedding band that fits your personal style.

© 2005, Kathy Burns-Millyard. Kathy is a professionally published freelance writer and stock photographer living in Southeast New Mexico. You'll find some of her best articles and reports on small business, motivation, and marketing in the Brain Dump section of her main, Electronic Perceptions website. Please visit and enjoy!

Diamonds! Everyone Loves Them!

2007-11-05T00:43:00.003-08:00

What is it about diamonds that so many people love so much? Of course it is the beauty that these precious stones offer, but is there something more than can lead us to grab up these stones so fast? There are so many people that collect them for their rareness. But, there are even more that collect them for their value. Because a good quality diamond is hard to come by, it is very valuable indeed. But, what about diamonds makes them so very valuable?

You have heard the saying that diamonds are a girl’s best friend. But, it is not necessarily about the beauty that they offer to the lady that makes them so attractive. Instead, it is about the value that they have. Yes, many women love to be given gifts of diamonds because they love the fact that people have purchased something so costly for them. It gives them a good ego boost, so to speak.

Diamonds are valuable because they are rare. Different sizes are not the only thing that makes them that way though. They are also quite profitable because of how they are cut and their clarity. Before heading into any diamond showroom, consumers should know the value of the diamonds by understanding how that big number is brought about. For example, the clarity of the diamond is important. Some will even have a tint of color. The rarest are clear but very, very few are completely clear. If you look closely, you will find true color lying in the recesses. The karat is of course the size. But, it is not the only player in the game. The larger the diamond is the better when it comes to the karat. But, there is also the cut. Because they are difficult to cut and a single wrong move can ruin it, the cut is often even more precious than the weight.

As you can see, there is a lot about these precious stones to know. Just remember, though, that diamonds are just beautiful. They are true investments financially and, yes, in the heart as well. When you are looking to purchase one, make no mistake in their quality by knowing what things to look for. And, when you do turn them over to your loved one, you will know that they do think they are beautiful, precious, and even fabulous, but they also know that you are showing them that they are worth something special to you.

Emily Jackson
Diamonds Directory

X Factor Jewelry - Comes With The Feel Good Factor

2007-11-05T00:43:00.001-08:00

Jewelry will forever excite just like it has in days gone by. Take the cave man adorned with ivory molars dangling from his neck or his mammoth tusk hanging from his waist. Then we have another fine example for finery the Indian chief sitting so brave attired in colored feathers and beads of every color of the rainbow running through his braided plaits.

It has taken millions of years for us to come to our senses and narrow down the amount of jewelry we wear. In saying that piercing of the body where you can end up looking like a voodoo doll is still very popular. What you have to remember is, to much of a good thing can spoil your image therefore taking the beauty away from your ornate piece. Bling diamond sparkling rings along side gold bulky sovereigns are not a match made in heaven.

Remember to many cooks spoil the broth.

Beauty behind Jewelry

How elegant exquisite precious stones sparkle more when mounted on a 9ct warm gold band and how Signet rings for men express a more strong masculine appearance. Items of Jewelry no matter the size will always hold some meaning or have a story behind it sentimental happy or sad.

RINGS

The mystery that lurks behind how the ring was titled with names such as the eternity, engagement and wedding band will always remain a mystery. Marriage vows become finalized with an exchange of gold wedding bands. Be sure to choose this ring with care as this piece which bonds two people together is for life. (Sadly not in all cases)

Before buying Jewelry get it right because wrong choice wrong image wrong you.

EARRINGS

What happened to one earring to each ear, today earrings are layered down the lobe in sequence which can be quite eye catching, even when pierced through the nose/nipple or belly button. Women today are only half dressed unless wearing jewelry. Pierced ears seem to dominate and hold a stronger presence over the clip or screw on. No matter your chosen outfit watch it transform when the gypsy dangler or Grace Kelly pearl peeper is placed onto the lobe

History behind time

How the concrete garden sundial went from the garden to the pendulum swinging grandfather clock in the hall only to be halved in size to stand on the mantle. There has been a dramatic change in the way we tell time today. When buying a watch choose wisely as this is worn and on show for all to see more frequently than most Jewelry items.

Jewelry speaks volumes about a person's personality so do not damage yours by making the wrong choice. Take a friend with you when shopping for gold or silver this way you can seek advice if you need it.

Jewelry has to be top of most peoples gift list for birthdays Christmas anniversary's retirement etc. For those people celebrating these special dates why not make that day extra special for them by giving a piece of Jewelry.

They say all that glitters is not gold. Not true. Check out this fabulous site and prove them wrong.Trendy to suit all mood Jewelry. Guaranteed to bring a little sparkle into your life. http://www.blingblingjewelrystore.com

Jewelry Shopping for Gifts, Hobbies, Symbolism and Health

2007-11-03T02:46:00.001-07:00

How else could humans accessorize themselves aside from wearing clothes and shoes? Also through jewelry, right? However, did you know that jewelry is not only used as accessories? Here are the other reasons as to why many don't bother splurging some good dough over these often small yet grand in value items:

- as a sign of wealth and authority (crowns and tiaras)
- as a hobby (as with collectible antique jewelry)
- for symbolic purposes (crucifix, wedding bands, and mourning jewelry)
- for health reasons (as with medical alert jewelry)
- for amusement (as with puzzle jewelry)

Aside from the generic bracelets, earrings, necklaces, bangles and rings, jewels are now also in the forms of tiaras, anklets, studded belts, cufflinks, belly chains, armlets, thigh bands, toe rings and brooches. Surely, there's one kind of jewelry that will enthrall each and every gender and genre.

Jewelry may be made of any kind of material, from precious to semi-precious gems to metals and less valuable materials such as those used for costume jewelry. Here are the most commonly used materials in making jewelry:

1. Organic material - such as shells, pearls and other similar objects

2. Gemstones - these include rhinestones, diamonds, rubies, and other precious and semi-precious stones.

3. Metals - a wide array of metals are used in jewelry. Here are those that are widely-used:

a. gold or gold plated - a metal or alloy that is one of the most commonly used b. sterling silver - often used as body jewelry and is very popular among teenagers c. platinum - often used in wedding bands, more rare and expensive than gold d. titanium - stronger and yet light, those who are sensitive to other metals prefer this e. niobium - also for those with metal sensitivity f. Lucite and Plexiglas - usually used for earrings

4. Wood - ethnic-designed jewelry and bangles

5. Plastic, pounded copper and brass are also used in making jewelry and are fast gaining popularity.

Whether your jewelry is a valuable one or simply something that you got from the flea market, surely it won't hurt to take care of it properly for it to last and probably still be in good condition to be given as an heirloom. Jewelry is not only precious because of the material they are made of. Oftentimes, it is the sentimental value that makes these items more than just accessories. If you are considering giving more value to your jewelry, here are some tips on how to take care of your jewelry, particularly a metal jewelry:

1. Don't use it every so often. Using it only during special occasions makes your jewelry earns more attention because of its novelty.

2. Don't wear it when you are taking a bath, washing the dishes or whenever you have to submerge it to the water such as when you are swimming. Components of water and soap may diminish the sheen of your metal jewelry.

3. Clean it regularly with a soft cloth and jewelry cleaner.

4. When engaging into activities that would make you sweat, don't wear your metal jewelry. Perspiration may make it lose its shine.

5. Have a jewelry box. This way, you not only secure the safety of your jewelry from thieves but also from other harsh elements that may tarnish it.

With those jewelry information in mind, your jewelry may just gain more value.

David Arnold Livingston enjoys giving gifts to family and friends,
especially for holiday occasions. He recommends the resource:
Roxys Jewelry - Great Gifts

Diamond Rings are Symbolic Gifts For Graduation, Wedding, and Engagement

2007-11-03T02:41:00.000-07:00

Rings, as jewelry, will never go out of style. Sometimes they don't just serve the purpose of embellishing nimble fingers but also as symbols of relationships and events of great values such as an engagement, wedding, anniversary, graduation etc. Diamonds are very popular stones in all of them. Here are the various kinds of rings:

1. Graduation or Class Ring

These rings are customized or designed for a particular class of students. They could either have the school's logo engraved and/or have the name or initials of the student who owns the ring engraved on the inner side of the ring.

2. Friendship Ring

These symbols of bonds could be in any kind of personalized design the wearers prefer. A group of friends could have these rings with the same design or in complementing designs.

3. Engagement Ring

The celebration of the decision that a couple will spend the rest of their lives together is often sealed with this piece of jewelry. Women usually enjoy the privilege of being given an engagement ring. An engagement ring is more appreciated when a man is just so in tune of his fiancée's character that he is able to give one that complements her personality so well. She may also want to be involved in the selection of the ring. Oftentimes, the couple will decide to buy the rings, as a set at the same time of becoming engaged. Engagement rings with diamonds often earn two thumbs up.

4. Wedding or Anniversary Ring/Band

Classic wedding rings usually comprise of diamond rings. However, platinum wedding bands are fast gaining popularity. This is because compared to gold, platinum is said to be a lot denser, thus more durable. Platinum wedding rings are known to be more able to last a lifetime, which is the very perfect symbol of marriage.

Now after that rundown of the different types of rings and their symbolic meanings, how about knowing more about the ring that often gets the most attention - the diamond ring?

Known as woman's best friend, it is imperative that one knows the basics of a diamond. Here are the 4 basic C's of a diamond:

1. Clarity

This is the clearness or the purity or imperfection of the diamond. The more clarity the more costly the diamond ring gets.

2. Color

This refers to the amount of color in the diamond. Black diamond is known to be more expensive than clear diamonds.

3. Cut

This refers to the proportion and polish of the diamond. It also determines the shape of the diamond. The more intricate or ornate the diamond the more attractive and, of course, the costlier the diamond gets.

4. Carat

This is the unit of measurement of a diamond. 1 carat is equal to .20 grams. The higher the carat of a diamond is the heftier its price tags becomes.

Although diamonds are known to last forever as having the reputation of being the hardest mineral, they still require proper care to be able to live up to that expectation.

a. Clean your diamond ring regularly with a soft cloth or a soft brush and jewelry cleaner particularly for a diamond ring.

b. After cleaning, rinse it thoroughly in warm water and wipe it dry with a lint-free cloth.

c. When doing rough work, common sense should tell you not to wear your ring or any kind of jewelry for that matter. Sweat and dirt may damage the metal setting of your ring.

d. Have your diamond ring checked by a jeweler for possible wear and tear.

With that indispensable information, wearing a ring could mean more than just accessorizing your hands.

David Arnold Livingston enjoys shopping for friends and family,
especially for holiday occasions. He recommends the resource:
Find Your Ring

Ear Threads - Hot Product for Winter

2007-11-02T03:23:00.001-07:00

Ear Threads are the hot trend for winter and they are catching on like wildfire! Browse any fashion magazine and you’ll see them: ear threads, ear threaders, threader earrings, earthreads. They go by different names, but all of the names help to describe these unique earrings that the wearer actually “threads” through the ear hole.

To wear, guide the Sterling Silver Ear Threads through one or more of your piercings and let the earring dangle. Wear the ear thread equal length on both sides or let more chain dangle on one side of the ear lobe for a different look. Many also come with a rubber backing, to keep the chain in place.

Ear threads are also incredibly comfortable. Instead of a stiff post found on other types of earrings, with ear threads a fine chain is guided through your piercing. Ear threads are so comfortable many people can even wear them while they sleep without discomfort!

Ear threads are usually about three to five inches long, depending on the beads, gemstones and charms connected to the end. They can come in any color imaginable and many are sterling silver or gold filled. With all of the different options, there is a style and color to match just about anyone’s taste.

For more information on ear threads, ear threaders and threader earrings we invite you to visit Jewels By Michele and view our beautiful ear threads earrings.

Michele Roberts is a jewelry artist and designs trendy jewelry as well as timeless classics.

Things To Know Before Gift Shopping For Platinum Jewelry

2007-11-02T03:20:00.000-07:00

Compare these - silver, gold, and platinum. Which amongst them do you think has the heftiest price tag? It's platinum, alright. But do you know why?

The Value of Platinum Over Gold

As early as the 7th century B.C., the Egyptians had already been using platinum to adorn the caskets of their Royalty. However, gold was the more popular metal for jewelry even during ancient times because Platinum was so hard to find. Platinum is found only in trace quantities on Earth. It is rarer than gold and for this reason alone, platinum would cost more than gold. Also, platinum is known in the jewelry industry to be a lot stronger and purer compared to gold. When it comes to purity, most platinum used in jewelry around the world is 85% except in the USA and the UK, which make use of 95% pure platinum.

Platinum is denser thus heavier than gold by about 68%. This makes platinum a lot more durable. Also, it is more resistant to tarnishing compared to gold. Platinum's strength gives a very secure setting for precious stones and diamonds. In fact, other precious metals such as ruthenium, cobalt, iridium, palladium, and copper are alloyed with it to make these metals stronger and durable. Gold may be more malleable than platinum, but it needs to be alloyed with other metals as well to improve on its strength and for it to stay in shape. The downside of the strength of platinum is that it requires a very high temperature to mold it: an astounding 1769°C and it needs more effort and skill on the jeweler’s part, unlike gold.

Another benefit of platinum, when used in jewelry-making, is its purity makes it perfect for people with sensitive skin.

The History of Platinum Jewelry

Wedding bands makers are now more leaning toward the use of platinum as the main material. Tiffany and Cartier introduced platinum in the jewelry world during the 18th century. After World War II, platinum became a controlled material and its use had declined.

During the 1960's, the demand for platinum resurged in Japan. It eventually became a symbol of purity and virtue because of its white luster. The other countries followed suit in terms of the demand for this precious metal.

Knowing Fake Platinum From Real Platinum

As platinum weighs heavier than gold, density is the main aspect of the metal that will tip off whether it is authentic platinum or not. Using a special instrument in detecting fake coins can also be of great use in this endeavor. The jewelry's label will also give you a clue. If one tells you that a piece contains 95% platinum, the label should have platinum or 950 platinum/plat.

Caring for Platinum Jewelries

No matter how strong platinum is known for, it will still require proper care for it to last. To clean platinum pieces, use a mild soap solution and warm water. Don't wear it while doing household chores. Scrub it gently using a soft toothbrush to maintain the luster. Have it inspected, polished and cleaned by a qualified jeweler at least twice a year or even more often if scratches appear.

With all that indispensable information put to practical use, your platinum jewelry has just gained more value for you.

David Arnold Livingston enjoys shopping for friends and family,
especially for holidays. He recommends the resource:
Apex Platinum

How to Care for Silver Jewelry

2007-11-01T04:33:00.001-07:00

Silver jewelry has a lovely patina, but the sad fact is that the patina darkens with age, turning from the original brilliant silver, to a light gold, and if left long enough it will become bronzed and then a black/blue.

This is due to the chemical reaction of the silver, with sulfides present in the environment. This is usually due to airborne pollutants, but can also be transferred to the jewelry on your hands.

One of the first rules of keeping your silver jewelry shining, is to store it properly in acid-free paper, or cloth especially for that purpose. Put them in a drawer or other safe place, that is away from exposure to wood or other types of smoke.

It is best to keep jewelry polished, instead of trying to play "catch up" when it has become heavily tarnished. But there are a number of ways to deal with the darkening color.

There are many home solutions, such as using white toothpaste and a soft brush. However, some jewelers point out that silver is not tooth enamel, and can't withstand the abrasive content. Although on things like chains, it's unlikely you would see any resulting scratches.

Commercial solutions do work, but depending on the nature of your jewelry (e.g. whether it contains gemstones or pearls), you may not be able to submerge it completely, and the cleaning will be uneven.

One basis of both commercial and home cleaning solutions, is the creation of an electrochemical cell, where there is a metal ingredient that is anodic to silver. This means that it will help turn the silver in the sulphide tarnish, back to silver.

A favorite home treatment is to line a pot with aluminum foil, one of the metals anodic to silver, put your jewelry in, and cover it with water, then add several tablespoons of baking soda. Boil gently until you see that the discoloration is gone. Your jewelry may be completely clean, or may have a white powder on its surface from the oxidization. This can be removed easily with a baking soda paste. Remember to exercise caution in cleaning silver jewelry. If it is not purely silver, like a chain or bracelet, the treatment you use can damage soft stone or pearls.

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

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

Irish Wedding Rings

2007-11-01T04:30:00.000-07:00

There are a number of Irish Wedding Rings that include Spirals, Triskeles, and Triquetas, Shield Knots and Sun Symbols. The most popular ring by far is the Irish Claddagh and it is surrounded by a romantic legend.

The Claddagh is as was said, the most popular in Ireland. The ring symbolizes love, friendship , and loyalty. The ring is named for an Irish fishing village. The design of the Claddagh is constructed of two hands holding a heart with a crown on top of it. The hands represent friendship, the heart represents love, and the crown represents loyalty.

Various traditions give different meanings to the ring depending on how it is worn. As a wedding ring it is worn on the left hand with the heart pointing inward to the wrist. As an engagement ring it is on the right hand with the heart pointing inward toward the wrist. For friendship it is worn on the right hand turned outward.

The legend of the Claddagh begins when a fisherman Richard Joyce and other crew members were captured by pirates shortly before Joyce was to be married. He was sold into slavery in Algiers and made the property of a goldsmith who taught him the craft of goldsmith. Joyce became the master of the craft. With is beloved back in Claddagh on his mind he fashioned the first Claddagh ring. The hands were to represent friendship, the heart was love, and the crown represented loyalty and fidelity.

In 1698 King Georges III agreed to free all of his subjects. Richard Joyce was once again free. His slave master offered Joyce his daughter in marriage and half of his wealth if he would stay in Algiers. Joyce refused the offer and instead returned home to Claddagh where he found his love waiting for him. Neither of them had married. Upon discovering this, Joyce gave his love the ring and they were married shortly thereafter.

The ring was dubbed The Claddagh because of the village Joyce and his Bride were from. There were others who made the ring much later and added jewels and an intricate crown design. The basic hands holding a crowned heart has never changed. Joyce wanted something that would his love for his Beloved.

The Claddagh today is as popular as it ever was. The basic design of the ring has not changed but now there is more intricacies in the crown, gemstones or jewels can be used to fashion the heart, and the hands are simply hands. The ring can be made of silver, gold or basically any metal.

The design is the clasped hands of the ‘fede’ or faith rings. These rings date from Roman times and were popular in the Middle Ages. The ring is worn now by many to speak to their Irish heritage. The Claddagh tells the story of two lovers who are separated and yet their love and commitment withstood the passage of time. It’s simple design and my heritage influenced my decision to purchase a Claddagh.

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.

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

2007-10-31T01:24:00.000-07:00

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

2007-10-31T01:23:00.000-07:00

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

2007-10-29T01:01:00.005-07:00

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.

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

2007-10-29T01:01:00.003-07:00

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?

2007-10-29T01:01:00.001-07:00

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

2007-10-29T00:56:00.000-07:00

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

2007-10-27T04:43:00.005-07:00

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

2007-10-27T04:43:00.003-07:00

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

2007-10-27T04:43:00.001-07:00

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

2007-10-27T04:42:00.000-07:00

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

2007-10-27T04:38:00.000-07:00

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

2007-10-25T05:59:00.002-07:00

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

2007-10-25T05:59:00.001-07:00

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

2007-10-25T05:58:00.002-07:00

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

2007-10-25T05:58:00.001-07:00

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

2007-10-25T05:54:00.000-07:00

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.

The Trouble With Moissanite

2007-10-24T03:43:00.004-07:00

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

2007-10-24T03:43:00.003-07:00

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

2007-10-24T03:43:00.001-07:00

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

2007-10-24T03:42:00.000-07:00

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?

2007-10-18T03:33:00.002-07:00

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

2007-10-18T03:33:00.001-07:00

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

2007-10-17T03:41:00.003-07:00

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

2007-10-17T03:41:00.001-07:00

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!

2007-10-15T22:36:00.001-07:00

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

2007-10-15T22:35:00.000-07:00

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

2007-10-15T02:09:00.003-07:00

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

2007-10-15T02:09:00.001-07:00

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

2007-10-13T03:01:00.002-07:00

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

Lab-Created Diamonds - Simulated Diamonds And Manufactured Diamonds Review

2007-10-13T03:01:00.001-07:00

There has been a great deal discussion about lab-created diamonds. Along with that talk, there is much misinformation and perplexity. The jewelry lover, who is interested in realizing the huge savings and aesthetic beauty that simulated diamonds offer, is often bewildered by the manufactured diamond industry jargon and available options. This article will categorically break it down in easy-to-understand terms so that anyone can make an intelligent decision when choosing a simulated diamond.

GEM MATERIALS: 99% of all lab-created diamonds sold worldwide are polycrystalline on a molecular level. The differences are fundamentally in the technical aspects of manufacturing, cutting, and polishing. Think of it this way—all coffeemakers are made of plastic, steel, and glass, the differences are how these materials are designed and implemented. Higher quality coffeemakers make a better tasting cup of coffee. Higher quality manufactured diamonds are in line with mined diamonds.

QUALITY VARIANCES: It seems like grade variations are made out to be a more complex lab-created diamond issue then it really is. Once boiled down, there are three primary grades of simulated diamonds—high, medium, and low. For the jewelry shopper it should be noted that the quality of setting goes hand-in-hand with the quality of the gemstone. Those that sell manufactured diamond jewelry off point-of-purchase displays in the costume jewelry sections of discount stores use low quality or scrap stones that are not gem quality, and have disco ball or murky look. Those that sell manufactured diamond jewelry on the TV shopping channels—which is generally with a sterling silver or a micro-thin layer of gold plated over silver (Vermeil [pronounced ver-may]) settings—use medium quality stones not of gem quality. Those that sell solid 14K gold or solid platinum settings, as a rule, use the highest gem-quality man made gemstones that replicate mined diamonds.

PRICING: Low grade stones are sold in bulk to costume jewelry makers and are often glued on electroplated settings. This jewelry is fine for children, where loss risk is high, and usually retails for less than $15 per item. You will find medium grade stones primarily in sterling silver jewelry that sells for under $100 per item, settings and stones. Medium grade simulated diamonds can be distinguished by the naked eye as not being mined diamonds. High grade gemstone quality lab-created diamonds, undistinguishable by the naked eye from mined diamonds, are found mounted on settings of solid 14K gold and platinum. This is considered to be fine jewelry, with the best quality gemstones selling for under $100 per carat for the gemstones alone. Manufactured diamonds that sell for over $100 a carat are not higher quality than those that sell for between $80 and $100 per carat.

RECOMMENDATIONS: If you are buying for someone that is likely to lose the jewelry, there is no reason to spend any more than you have to, and Wal-Mart will do just fine. On the clearance rack you can even pick up some jewelry for less than $5 per item. If you buy simulated diamonds set in sterling silver, expect decent stones, but they will fool few into thinking they are mined diamonds. Also, your fingers are likely to turn green or black in response to a chemical reaction, not with the silver per se, but with the nickel/copper alloys in sterling silver. With any plated settings, gemstones are low to medium grade, and the plating will eventually chip off, particularly around the edges. When that happens, the nickel/copper alloys will be exposed, the setting will look like it came out of a gum ball machine, and your finger will generally turn green or black. It is just a matter of common sense, if you want simulated diamonds with mined-diamond qualities, they must be set in 14K solid gold. Jewelers who offer lab-created diamonds are not going spend on money on gold and not mount the highest quality stones, which would defeat the purpose of creating fine diamond-like jewelry and alienate customers.

Robert Joseph is an expert jeweler and founding partner of Diamond Nexus Labs, a renowned online jewelry store that specializes in pristine affordable diamond simulants set in Solid 14K Gold.

To receive a FREE comparison chart on how Diamond Nexus Labs lab-created diamonds stack up against mined diamonds and register for a FREE no-obligation $50 Gift Certificate giveaway send E-mail to: freechart@diamondnexuslabs.com and just type Free Chart followed by your first name in the subject line.

A Quick Look at Jewelry Hallmarks

2007-10-11T23:49:00.002-07:00

British Hallmarks are the best in the world.

Who says so, the rest of the World. Although to be fair, other countries have great hallmarks too, it is just that they are NOT so often seen.

A book on World Hallmarks for Gold or Silver items is a must for any serious collector or dealer, but they can be a little intimidating and time consuming. Is that mark a Cockerel or a Tree? Could it be made in Switzerland or Germany?

Thankfully for the rest of us, a small pocket book on UK Hallmarks is more than up to the task, coupled with that very useful plastic 10X eyeglass I keep on hinting for you to buy.

It will show you that the item has been tested and stamped, to prove it is - what it says it is (9ct or 18ct etc).

British Jewelry with a full UKHM (United Kingdom Hall Mark) is generally clearly stamped and readable after you clean it (check the website below for another complimentary article on 'How to Clean your Jewelry at Home').

Once you are aware of the marks, you will always feel just that little bit better when you buy that 'Could it be an Antique?' item at the local market, or from the guy in the Pub that everyone talks about but nobody knows.

Buyer Beware....

*Six marks on British Jewelry.*

Yes... Six?

# 1: The Maker's Mark (Usually some initials). Not all that important for everyday items, unless you want to collect Jewelry from one maker. Silver collectors may want to buy items from say, Bateman (I should be so lucky).

# 2: The second stamp is the Assay Office mark or 'Mark of Origin'. It tells you where the item came from. The most common is the LONDON Hallmark. A Leopard's Head. Sometimes this has a crown on the Leopard's Head (until circa 1821). Modern items do NOT have a crown on the Leopard Stamp.

The other most common Assay Office marks are from Birmingham (an Anchor). Once there were many Assay offices around Great Britain and Ireland, the Chester mark for instance. Now there are just three offices left in England, Sheffield being the last using a 'Rose' on gold Jewelry (DO NOT CONFUSE THIS WITH 'ROSE GOLD' JEWELRY) as that is a color, not a mark.

In Scotland there is Edinburgh, while in Ireland there is Dublin. Pity the poor Welsh are left out again!

# 3: The next is the Assay Quality mark and is shown as the 'Lion Passant' (which means 'looking ahead') and is a guarantee of quality. This was later changed to a 'CROWN' mark with a stamp showing the quality of Gold.... 9ct or 18ct etc.

# 4: Finally, and possibly the most important mark, was the Date letter mark. It changed each year so we can tell when the item was made.

Occasionally there is an extra mark.

# 5: An example was the Queen's Silver Jubilee in 1977.

Suffice to say if you see a Brooch with four or five marks and one of them is an Anchor with an 18 next to it and a letter 'C' next to that.... It's a safe bet it was made in Birmingham in 1927, or was that 1952, or 1902, or, or, or.....

Buyer Beware the man in the Pub.

As with most Jewelry items though, our advise has always been to buy the best QUALITY you can afford from a reputable dealer who will guarantee it.

Other than that, your plastic 10X eyeglass sure helps a lot....

P.S.
If you administer a website or publish an ezine, please feel free to use this article as long as you leave all links in place, do not modify the content and include our resource box as listed below. Although it's NOT compulsory I would personally appreciate it if you could send me an email at: gemmo1@online-jewelry-appraisals.com to let me know if and where you used it. If you need other great content - complimentary of course - then drop me a line at the email address given - 'cause I've got Quality Content and Gallons of the stuff....

David Foard has spent over 30 years in the Antique Jewelry Trade as a qualified gemologist and member of the Valuers Council. Get a FREE 3 part 'Hallmarking Report' on How to Identify your Jewelry Hallmarks at Home or Work by going to ==> http://www.jewellery-antiques.com and grabbing yourself a fistful of Hints, Tips, and Secrets.

Bridal Jewelery

2007-10-11T23:49:00.001-07:00

The well known tradition of a bride wearing ‘Something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue’ is best suited to bridal jewelery. Many brides will wear a piece of bridal jewelery that is an antique, more than likely an heirloom, which qualifies as the ‘Something Old’. This may be a tiara or other head dress decoration.

The ‘Something new’ is probably the easiest part of the rhyme to follow and may be almost anything, including the wedding ring, or another item of bridal jewelery that the bride has been given especially to wear for the wedding ceremony.

Female family members and friends are the best people to look to for a piece of bridal jewelery that can count as the ‘Something borrowed’. Quite often the item borrowed will also count as the ‘Something old’ too as the bride is loaned a family heirloom.

Now onto the final piece of bridal jewelery that can fit the ‘Something blue’ requirement. Of course, sapphires are the first jewel that comes to mind when you think of a blue colored stone. The bride may have sapphire earrings or a pendant and this would complete the rhyme’s conditions. However, there are many other blue stones that bridal jewelery can be made from including

turquoise,

aquamarine,

azurite,

blue lace agate,

boulder opal,

chalcedony,

lapis lazuli,

topaz

blue zircon.

There is sure to be a piece of bridal jewelry made from one of these gemstones that the bride can wear and complete the custom.

Find out more about organising your special day and do it all from the comfort of your livingroom at http://www.a1-ourwedding.com

Why Do We Call Silver Jewelery 'Sterling' Silver

2007-10-10T22:37:00.001-07:00

We receive several enquiries each month, generally from existing customers, asking about the origins of the word 'sterling'.

I suppose most of these people have had a quick look over our small library of interesting silver jewellery facts but missed our brief article on the topic.

To discover the origins of the word we must go back hundreds of year in time to medieval England and the modern-day United Kingdom territories.

A form of currency was necessary for the ever-increasing levels of trade. Easterlings were one of these currencies, and were quite simply silver coins smelted and marked with their value based purely on their silver weight.

Sterling or sterlings was the abbreviation for this commonly used tender - and to this day the word remains in use all over the world.

As a brief side note of some interest easterlings were valued purely by their weight but over time monarchs debased this silver currency by adding additional alloys and removing a small amount of silver. This resulted in devalued coins as although their weight remained unchanged, the total level of silver in the coins was reduced.

Many historians suspect this was one of the key reasons for rapid inflation rates under the rule of kings Henry VII and Henry VIII.

Ashley Shameli, the author of this article, is a director of http://www.purdicejewellery.co.uk He also contributes to the Purdice Jewellery library of interesting jewellery facts at http://www.purdicejewellery.co.uk/qanda.asp

Synthetic Diamonds - Chagrined When Jewelers Scoff At Fabulous Fake Diamonds

2007-10-10T22:36:00.000-07:00

New synthetic diamonds are so closely resemble mined diamonds that the naked eye cannot tell the difference, often saving consumers enough money to make a down-payment on a new home or buy a car. Unfounded diamond jeweler arrogance, pretentiousness, and snootiness has gone too far!

My girlfriend has been parading around town with a magnificent 4-carat Round Brilliant cut synthetic diamond set in a stunning 14K solid gold filigree solitaire ring setting for a year now. She has been to restaurants, work, shopping, night clubs, museums, and parties. Family and friends have scrutinized her ring. She has been stopped repeatedly by others who were dumbfounded by her ring. Hundreds of people have seen her ring, astonished by its majesty, gushing about it. And despite its ostentatious size, no one has asked if it is a fake diamond!

How could this be? The latest breakthrough science in lab-created diamonds has brought them in line with mined diamonds. Long gone is the aurora borealis or "disco ball" effect that was seen in synthetic diamonds of the past decades. New millennium synthetic diamonds—with similar hardness, clarity, fire, and brilliance—are indistinguishable with the naked eye and simply don't look fake. High quality synthetic diamonds even have the coveted hearts-and-arrows effect.

This begs the question: If one were to saunter into a jewelry store with a synthetic diamond, can a jeweler tell the difference? Since all mined diamonds have color disparities (flaws), birthmarks (flaws), and inclusions (flaws), and lab-created diamonds have none of the above, a trained eye can tell the difference. A sneering glance under a loupe or even under discriminating examination with a magnifying glass, a jeweler will often proudly declare a synthetic diamond as a fake. Modern synthetic diamonds are too perfect in the world of jeweler snobbery when pushing over-priced high profit diamonds is the agenda at hand.

With the use of scientific testing equipment, mined diamonds will conduct electricity and synthetic diamonds will not. That is because mined diamonds are a carbon gem material and synthetic diamonds are polycrystalline. A thermal probe will produce different readings, differentiating the two. But does this really matter to a jewelry lover who is interested in aesthetic beauty and saving thousands of dollars? In the year my girlfriend has been showcasing her synthetic diamond on her finger; no one has walked up to her with scientific equipment asking to test her gemstone.

Why do virtually all brick-and-mortar jewelers carry only mined diamonds? Why do jewelers scoff at synthetic diamonds? You need to look no further than your wallet. A 1-carat high quality mined diamond is about $3000, a 2-carat about $18,000, a 3-carat about $40,000, and a 4-carat goes for about $90,000. Respectively, synthetic diamonds run about $79, $158, $237, and $326. It's about the money. Don't kid yourself.

It's also about indoctrination. For over a century, the diamond cartel has spent billions of dollars convincing the public that jewel quality mined diamonds have intrinsic value like gold. Not true. Why? During this time DeBeers has limited production, bought up supplies from others, stockpiled inventory, and imposed its monopoly position on jewelry manufacturers in the successful effort to keep prices inflated. And to make matters worse, the diamond industry as a whole has a checkered past with conflict stones, debt-slave child labor in India used in cutting operations, and shady techniques used to enhance perceived quality to further squeeze out ridiculous prices from beleaguered jewelry lovers.

Smart jewelry shoppers today are considering synthetic diamonds as an alternative to mined diamonds for some very savvy reasons: (1) They can acquire fine jewelry pieces set in solid 14K gold. (2) They will save literally thousands of dollars. (3) There is no need to buy insurance. (4) When wearing there synthetic diamond jewelry nobody will know that they are not mined diamonds unless they tell them!

Robert Joseph is an expert jeweler and founding partner of Diamond Nexus Labs, a renowned online jewelry store that specializes in pristine affordable diamond simulants set in Solid 14K Gold.

Man Made Diamonds - Save Big Money And Avoid Mined Diamond Scams

2007-10-08T23:16:00.001-07:00

High quality man made diamonds are a bargain at about $80 per carat, and they do not increase in price exponentially as carat weight increases. For example, a one-carat synthetic diamond costs about $80; a three-carat man made diamond would then sell for $240. A one-carat mined diamond that sells for $3000 would go for $45,000 in a three-carat size, all things being equal, which with mined diamonds is never the case. Perplexing comparative evaluations, exponential price growth, consumer confusion, and the reality of diamond industry antics is why the mined diamond business is awash in dirty tricks. Here are descriptions of the most sneaky and pervasive mined diamond scams:

THE BLUE-WHITE SCAM: A jeweler tells you, "This is a blue-white diamond." This is a very old term. The dealer will probably tell you that it is a better diamond, but actually it is just the opposite. Blue-white refers to the fluorescence that results in natural light, which contains ultraviolet wavelengths. This blue fluorescence actually makes a colorless diamond look a little oily or milky in sunlight and decreases its value.

THE LIGHT MAKES WHITE SCAM: Bright lights make every mined diamond look better. Of course, every jeweler wants to show his or her diamonds in the best light, but there are some lighting tricks you should avoid. Some bulbs have a strong blue component, which makes yellow stones look whiter. Special bulbs are often used with strong ultraviolet wavelengths, which make most diamonds fluoresce blue. This also has a whitening effect for stones in the lower color ranges.

THE GRADE BUMPING SCAM: A jeweler exaggerates the grade. The FTC says that a jeweler must be accurate within one grade of color and one grade of clarity on a diamond. So many jewelers bump the color and clarity just one grade. Unfortunately, this can mean a great deal of money if you are talking about a fine-quality, 1-carat diamond. For instance, you might find a stone that the jeweler quotes as a 1.00 carat F color / VS1 clarity for $6,500. However, if you sent it to a reputable gem lab like GIA, it would come back as a G color / VS2 clarity, which is only worth about $5,500. This means you lose (and they profit) about $1,000.

THE FRACTION SCAM: The tag says 3/4 carat, and the FTC allows jewelers to round off diamond weights. So a diamond labeled as 3/4 carat in weight might actually weigh anywhere between .69 and .81 carat. This could mean a significant amount of money, since diamond prices leap at certain popular sizes. In this example, you might be buying a .69 carat round G/VS2 worth about $2,100... but paying for what you thought was a 0.75 carat worth $3,000. You lose $900.

THE LASER DRILLING SCAM: Dealers drill holes to burn out black carbon spots. About 1 in 3 diamonds in the United States is laser drilled. Dealers use lasers to drill a tiny hole into the depths of a diamond to burn and evaporate large black inclusions to make them disappear. The trouble with this little trick is that laser drilling can make the diamond a little more fragile to breaking with a good knock. Most dealers trade laser-drilled stones for much less.

THE HIDING THE FLAWS SCAM: Every jeweler hides flaws under the prongs if he can. In many cases, this can make an I1 clarity appear like a VS2 if you look at it in a ring setting. Structural flaws like feathers and cleavages can be damaged by the high pressure exerted by the prong on the diamond to hold it snug in the ring.

THE FRACTURE FILLING SCAM: New treatments to make flaws invisible. There is a new process patented a few years ago that melts a kind of crystal into surface-breaking fractures in a diamond. This technique will slide by consumers unnoticed. The treatment is considered slightly fragile because it can be damaging under the extreme heat of a torch when the diamond is set into a ring. Fracture-filled diamonds should trade for much less than diamonds without this treatment, but in reality they often sell for as much or more because they look like a higher, more expensive clarity grade.

THE CHEMICAL COLOR COATINGS SCAM: A little paint goes a long way. This very deceptive practice involves a little point of blue or purple paint on the lowest tip of the diamond, called the culet. This is small enough that you might not detect it, but the location spreads the color throughout the stone. This counters the yellow tint in lower color grades, making a diamond look like a more expensive, colorless grade.

Man made diamonds or synthetic diamonds are manufactured in a laboratory under controlled conditions. If anything about synthetic diamonds is called into question it is that they are too perfect. And since all mined diamonds have inclusions, flaws, and birthmarks, under magnification a trained jeweler can tell the difference. Considering that man made diamonds cannot be distinguished with the naked eye, lab-created diamonds have aesthetic beauty matching—often besting—mined diamonds, and huge savings are realized, jewelry lovers must regard synthetic diamonds as an intelligent option. Plus, there is no insurance to buy after purchasing man made diamond jewelry and the thousands of dollars in savings can be banked!

Robert Joseph is an expert jeweler and founding partner of Diamond Nexus Labs, a renowned online jewelry store that specializes in pristine affordable diamond simulants set in Solid 14K Gold.

Understanding Diamonds

2007-10-08T23:15:00.001-07:00

A diamond is just pure carbon crystal. If you look at the chemistry of diamond, it is pure carbon. The arrangement of the carbon atoms differently makes it a unique gem. A diamond is considered precious from the ancient times and is popular for its strength.

How a diamond is formed?

Diamonds are formed in the earth thousands of years ago under extreme heat and pressure. This extreme heat and pressure in the earth transforms this carbon into crystals and colorless. Although diamonds are formed in the earth, the volcanic activities are thought to have brought them to the surface of the earth in the early days. Hence, these volcanic pipes are found to have diamonds in them. When some of the minerals mix with the carbon, the diamond takes some other color in it. Such diamonds that are colored are very rare and valued much than the normal diamond, which is colorless.

Some of the diamond mines

Diamond mines are found in Canada and Australia. Diavik Diamond Mines is found in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories Canada. It is estimated that this diamond mine reserves are 95.6 million carats. The Argyle diamond mine found in the Kimberley region in the far north of Western Australia is one of the popular mines that produce the Argyle diamonds. This mine produces more than one third of the world's production of diamonds.

How diamonds are valued?

Diamonds are valued by their Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat weight. You should remember the four C's that are used to value diamonds. Cut, Color, and Clarity are used to measure the quality of the diamond and the final C, which is Carat, is used to measure the size of the diamond. Man creates cut in a diamond and the other C's are formed in nature.

Types of diamonds

When minerals are mixed in nature with the diamond, it gives the characteristic color for the diamond. Based on the type of mineral that is mixed, we can classify the diamonds in to many types. The following are the colors that are found in the diamond.

Yellow: this color is formed when Nitrogen is combined with diamond crystals.
Blue: During the formation of the diamond if elements of Boron are mixed then the diamond will be in blue color
Green: Green color is caused due to a missed out atom in the lattice of atoms.
Brown: Any dislocation in the lattice of atoms causes brown coloring in the diamonds.
Pink: Dislocations in the lattice missed out atoms, and some impurities that are non-nitrogen causes pink color in diamonds.

Carat - The Measuring Unit

Carat is the unit that is used to measure diamonds. In the earlier days, diamonds were weighed by using the Carob tree seeds. A seed from this tree was considered as one carat. Now-a-days one carat is equivalent to 0.2 grams. Diamonds of less than one carat are known as pointers. Suppose the weight of diamond is 0.18 grams, and then it is known as 18 pointers. The more the carat the more is the price of the diamonds.

For more information, visit these sites:
http://www.DiamondInfoCenter.com

Making Diamonds Using The Earth

2007-10-04T23:30:00.001-07:00

We can make diamonds using the Earth’s inner forces, extreme pressure and heat. We simply send Carbon Blocks in tubes, which have been drilled into the Earth’s Mantle. Then let them return under the pressure built up in the tube and you will be able to make diamonds. Why would we wish to make diamonds? We can make diamonds for wealth to pay off our national debt, for nation building or even feeding starving Africans or perhaps poor South Americans in our own backyard?

Besides the obvious economic uses of diamonds for profit, we also can use diamonds as light energy batteries, computer processing with light, energy frequency manipulations and manufacturing. Diamonds are very hard and dense and can assist us for blocking radiation in space stations, cutting and we can still have plenty left over for jewelry; a girls best friend?

How can we drill into that region of Mother Earth? The fact is we already are:

http://geology.rockbandit.net/2005/04/10/drilling-into-the-mantle/

http://www.livescience.com/technology/050407_earth_drill.html

Now we need to send in tubes like the bank teller tubes for the drive up; canisters, which contain blocks of carbon the shapes we need to make diamonds in the sizes and dimensions for our various needs. Shoot them down into the tube with rockets and then wait for them to shoot back out completely “Diamond-ized” and ready to use to serve mankind. Think on this.

"Lance Winslow" - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/.Lance is a guest writer for Our Spokane Magazine in Spokane, Washington.

Don't Let Your Eyes Deceive You - You and Your Jeweler Must Know About Diamonds and Moissanite

2007-10-04T23:29:00.002-07:00

The demand for moissanite, a manmade gemstone that resembles diamond, is sweeping the nation. According to manufacturers Charles & Colvard, North American sales have skyrocketed to a 113 percent increase in the first-quarter of 2005. Moissanite is sold at several department store chains and appeals to people who want to buy inexpensive alternatives to diamond jewelry.

King’s Jewelry, one of the largest jewelry chains in the U.S., has marketed moissanite as a gemstone rather than as a diamond substitute, and this message has been successfully received by self-purchasing women. These consumers do not want to buy diamonds for themselves, but do want to wear diamond-like gemstones that have a higher quality than cubic zirconia.

Although moissanite is a beautiful and affordable gemstone, its diamond-like qualities might confuse you and your jeweler into thinking that the gemstone is actually a diamond. Scams have occurred throughout the United States, including in O’Fallon, MO where a man purchased moissanite stones from con artists, thinking they were diamonds. The buyer later brought the moissanite to a local jeweler who even mistakenly deemed the stones to be diamonds.

After carefully observing the dual trends of moissanite sales and diamond fraud, St. Louis-based Neustaedter’s Fine Jewelry offers tips about both jewels to dispel their common myths.

What is Moissanite?

Originally discovered by Dr. Henri Moissan at Meteor Crater in Arizona during the late 19th century, moissanite is a mineral composed of silicon carbide. A century after its discovery, laboratories began producing crystals from moissanite, and in 1998 Charles & Colvard began selling the gemstone.

Moissanite & Diamonds have Very Different Origins

Although the original moissanite fragments studied by Dr. Moissan originated from a meteorite that struck earth, moissanite gemstones are manufactured in labs. Since moissanite is difficult to grow, the gemstone is much more expensive than diamond substitutes like cubic zirconia.

In contrast, diamonds are created by natural processes. According to South African Diamonds, a Web site devoted to diamonds originating from South Africa, the jewels were formed millions of years ago in the earth’s mantle when carbon crystallized due to high temperature and pressure. When volcanoes erupted, magma carried diamonds just below or on the earth’s surface. Later the magma cooled and turned into rock which trapped diamonds for thousands of centuries. This rock is what people mine in places such as South Africa.

Their Similar Appearances have Some Distinguishing Traits

A glistening moissanite gemstone often looks like a diamond at first glance, but magnified moissanite has several characteristics that a qualified jeweler can identify.

Your jeweler should examine a suspected moissanite stone under a 10-power loupe to get a good look at the stone and its characteristics. Magnified moissanite stones often feature subtle greenish tints whereas quality diamonds are often colorless. Under 10-power magnification, moissanite’s facets seem to multiply, which is called “double refraction,” but diamonds only reflect their facets once. Moissanite also bears white ribbon-looking imperfections which are not present in diamonds. In order for you to observe everything first-hand, Neustaedter’s has a very large screen in its shop to magnify your gemstone.

Recent technological developments have improved testing methods for moissanite. Some jewelers use special moissanite testers to detect the gemstones. When the tester’s probe tip touches moissanite, you can see the Moissanite light flashing and hear a beeping noise. But since this test is not 100 percent accurate, your jeweler must use his or her knowledge and a trained eye to perform other tests.

A less hi-tech approach that some jewelers use is a flotation test, performed in a dense liquid. If performed properly, moissanite will float whereas a diamond will sink. It is recommended, though, that your jeweler uses multiple tests to determine the true identity of your stone.

What Should You do When Purchasing Moissanite or Diamonds?

You should only purchase the jewels when you are issued a guarantee that states the authenticity of your diamond or moissanite. Neustaedter’s recommends that you go to a jewelry store certified by the American Gem Society (AGS) because they will possess the knowledge and tools necessary to identify moissanite and diamonds.

Moissanite and diamonds both have their own advantages, but you and your jeweler must to understand the differences and characteristics of each stone to make a wise purchase.

Jay Heiseler is the Operations Manager at Neustaedter’s Fine Jewelry, a South St. Louis County jewelry store. Owned by Richard and Jacqueline Neustaedter, the firm has over 42 years experience in the jewelry industry. The Neustaedter’s belong to the American Gem Society, a group dedicated to the highest industry standards which accepts less than 1% of the country’s jewelers.

http://www.wowdiamonds.com

Imitation Diamonds - What's To Love About Faux Diamond Jewelry?

2007-10-04T23:29:00.001-07:00

Affordable: Once someone discovers imitation diamonds, it is inconceivable why they would not want everlasting elegance, saving thousands, or tens of thousands of dollars in the process, banking the difference. It is a fact that jewelry lovers are not acting out of charity when they buy diamond jewelry—endeavoring to make jewelers, mined diamond dealers, and the diamond cartel richer than they already are.

No way to tell the difference with the naked eye: Scientists have synthesized and created diamond alternatives that are so ostensibly close to a mined diamonds that even certified gemologists require scientific testing equipment to tell the difference. Breakthrough advances have made the latest faux diamonds closely mimic the properties of mined diamonds. They cut glass, they refract light into perfect hearts-and-arrows, and they have superlative fire and brilliance. In fact, in almost all measurable variations, they match or are superior to mined diamonds.

No pricing gymnastics: A common practice in retailing mined diamond jewelry is to use phantom prices and then show impressive discounts in an effort to lure buyers. This practice is called phantom pricing. With lab-created diamonds this deception is not possible because the prices are low to begin with, leaving no room to use phantom pricing.

No reason to constantly police your synthetic diamond jewelry: Do you forever want worry that you will lose expensive jewelry pieces, damage them, or have them stolen? Do you want to feel compelled to buy a home safe? When you travel, do you want to be burdened with frequently thinking about the security of your jewelry? With imitation diamonds all these concerns disappear.

No need to buy insurance: In a short time, what you’d pay in extra premiums to insure just a few pieces of mined diamond jewelry, you could fill your jewelry box with synthetic diamonds. But that is not the worst of it. Insurance is an ongoing never-ending expense.

No secret mined diamond dirty tricks and scams: All mined diamonds have flaws, birthmarks, and vary in quality. These realities are a breeding ground for a buffet mined diamond fraud that victimizes and robs consumers. From grade bumping to laser drilling to fracture filling, the mined diamond industry is awash in unscrupulous business practices. Lab-created diamonds are uniform, flawless, and priced low so frauds simply do not exist.

No supporting the diamond cartel: It all starts at the top with the De Beers diamond cartel, which would run afoul of federal anti-trust laws if headquartered in the united states. Diamonds are in fact cheap to produce and would be lower in price if it weren’t for the global cartel. Its aim is to maintain a strong monopoly position, an objective which it has successfully achieved for decades. In controlling the mined diamond market, De Beers has exploited a relatively simple idea: put a stranglehold on production, hold inventory, and limit distribution, thereby keeping prices stratospheric, and making diamond alternative engagement rings a popular choice. What makes De Beers so special is its execution. Over the past 60 years the cartel has done for mined diamonds something that eluded the oil producers of OPEC and even the cocaine barons of the Medellin cartel. De Beers has the muscle and the nerve to impose its own order on the market and has built a dominate juggernaut syndicate.

No “slave” or child labor used: Diamond mining operations are rife with horrific conditions and have a long history of dehumanizing humiliating practices. Debt slavery and child labor is common in diamond cutting operations in India, where much of the world’s diamonds are cut and polished.

No conflict stones: It is no secret that from the beginning of the modern mined diamond industry in the 1800s through today that mined diamonds are used to support regional wars, help fund murder on a grand scale, and contribute to genocide. Imitation diamonds are created in a lab by technicians at a reasonably low cost and, therefore, cannot possibly be used as a currency for human misery.

Prestige: While there is no prestige in overpaying, there is tremendous prestige in enhancing your existing wardrobe with beautiful man made diamonds on a budget. You can accessorize and glamorize till your heart’s content, with a smile on your face, showing you are a person of stature at any occasion or event.

Robert Joseph is an expert jeweler and founding partner of Diamond Nexus Labs, a renowned online jewelry store that specializes in pristine affordable diamond simulants set in Solid 14K Gold.

Permission to reprint this article is granted if the article is reproduced in its entirety, without editing, including the bio information. Please include a hyperlink to http://diamondnexuslabs.com/ when using this article in newsletters or online.

To receive a FREE comparison chart on how Diamond Nexus Labs lab-created diamonds stack up against mined diamonds and register for a FREE no-obligation $50 Gift Certificate giveaway send E-mail to: freechart@diamondnexuslabs.com and just type Free Chart followed by your first name in the subject line.

Celebrating a Special Occasion with Jewelry! How to Buy Jewelry? (Part I)

2007-10-04T23:28:00.000-07:00

Nothing more personal than our response to color. Color is the new language of passion, and nothing captures it better than distinctively styled jewelry.

Leave her speechless with our brilliant colorless and fancy colored diamond or bold brilliant gemstone jewelry styles.

Celebrating a Special Occasion with Jewelry!

How to Buy Jewelry? (Part I)

The concept of jewelry implies fashion, ornamentation, and adornments. But jewelry is much more than just that. It reflects your personality and shows what you value in life. It defines your style through colorful stones and gems jewelry.

Colored precious gemstone jewelry is the latest fashion. Colored gemstones are worn in rings, earrings, necklaces, pendants, and bracelets by every one. If you like to own an exceptionally beautiful and exclusive piece of jewelry, you should only consider gemstone jewelry. A piece of colored gemstone jewelry will distinguish you as a class apart from the crowed that wears gems like diamonds. The best way to go around shopping for a special kind of jewelry is to go to the Internet, look at the exquisite designs of colored gemstones or diamonds on white or yellow gold jewelry and select the one that matches your style.

· You are looking at gems and are shown, or viewed one on Internet, an evening Emerald, at a price much lower than what you would expect to pay for an Emerald of the same size. Would you buy the emerald and would you know what you are buying?

· You are admiring a piece of gold jewelry and are told it is 14 Karat gold. Do you know what marking to look for to make sure it is solid 14 Karat gold and not rolled gold, gold electroplate, or gold wash? Do you, in fact, know what 14 Karat and other terms Mean?

· You notice that brooches (or Pins) are the latest fashion in jewelry and are being shown in all fine jewelry stores as well as online jewelry stores. Do you know which you would buy and which might be the better buy, regardless of what you can afford?

· You are cleaning an opal ring, a pair of diamond earrings, and a string of pearls. Do you know the best way to clean them and would clean them together or separately? Also, how would you store them after cleaning?

· You want to buy a diamond ring. Would you look for a fine jewelry store or a fine online jewelry store where the each jewelry piece are clearly marked to show price and quality, a store offering a sale o diamonds, a store where you might be able to bargain for a lower price, or even a store offering of a packet of diamonds at a wholesale price? For that matter, do you know what the four Cs of diamonds are?

These are only a few questions about jewelry that are answered at The Jewelry Hut.

· An evening Emerald, for example, is not an Emerald but any green stone of Emerald color.

· All Karat gold jewelry in the United States and some other countries has to be marked to show its quality, according to law. The term “Karat” refers to the amount of gold used in proportion to another metal or metals.

· Another term for costume jewelry is fashion jewelry, and it can be the better buy for high fashion designs that you may tire of or may go out of fashion in a year or two.

· Certain gems and types of jewelry require special care in cleaning and should not be stored together or in the same way, since may become scratched or lose their luster or color.

· In buying fine jewelry, there are few, if any, bargains: You get what you pay for. Clarity, color, cut, and carat size are the four Cs of diamonds, determining the quality and cost of any diamond.

How to buy jewelry is only the beginning of what you need to know about jewelry.

When you buy a car, you buy the one you like and can afford. The purchase is emotional as much as it is practical, since cars in some way are extensions of ourselves. In addition, you know what you are buying, especially if you buying a well known brand luxury car. There may be features, in other cars that resemble or imitate the best of the best, but the genuine article is usually unmistakable. You know what to look for, what to expect, about what you are going to pay, and even where to go buy the car.

Fine furs have more of a mystique than the average car and they may seem more risky to buy. Yet, with time and patience, you can learn to differentiate among furs and to distinguish fine furs from inferior furs. Granted, you will never have the expertise of the experienced furrier, but you will be able to learn the difference between mink of an inferior quality. In short, you can easily learn what to look for, what to expect, about what you are going to pay, and where is the best place to buy the fur.

Both an expensive fur and a fine car are far more than purchases to keep you warm and provide transportation. They are also luxuries and status symbols. At the same time, the primary reason for the purchase is practical, you buy the car to drive and the fur to wear. You do not consider either an investment that appreciates in value. The criteria are that you like what you buy, that you have a use for it, that you can afford it, although you want to get the most for your money.

Jewelry should be bought the same way, regardless of whether it is fine jewelry of Karat gold, platinum, or silver, has precious gems or not, or whether it is costume jewelry. Even fine jewelry, which is a luxury item and can be as much as a status symbol as a sable coat or a Rolls-Royce although far more permanent and enduring should be bought because you like it, can use it, and can afford it. Jewelry after all, is a form of adornment and decoration.

One criterion you do not want to use for jewelry, any more than you would use it for buying a car or a fur, is whether the jewelry is a good investment or not. Some Jewelers, who are reputable and reliable in other respects, offer jewelry as “an investment.” Fine jewelers. In general, however, prefer to point out that jewelry is not really an investment except in beauty. Jewelry, in fact, is a purchase, just like a fur coat or a car. You should appreciate it, of course, although appreciation in that sense is not the same as the appreciation of increase in value of an investment.

What you should buy in fine jewelry, particularly platinum and karat gold, depends on you, your life style, and your preferences. You may be a woman who does not feel dressed without earrings, in which case you may want gold or diamond earrings that you can wear often with enjoyment. Or you may be a man or woman whose taste runs toward rings. A necklace, pendant or a bracelet could also be indispensable.

In any case, shop around. Look at styles and prices before you buy. Get an idea of what jewelry costs and how that compares to what you have to spend. Once you see an item you like, check its price against the prices of similar items in other jewelry stores or online stores. The major purpose is to give you an idea of value and to help you be satisfied, in all respects, after you have made the purchase.

Look in jewelry stores and the boutiques and the better online jewelry stores that often carry fine jewelry. But do not look for or expect or wait for sales. The finest jewelry stores rarely discount fine jewelry. If a style does not sell, it is more profitable for them to melt down the metal and reset the gems than it is for them to sell at a big discount. In this respect, fine jewelry is like no other luxury purchases, since the components can be reused.

Stores other the finest jewelry stores (or online) may offer jewelry at a discount. It may be a style that has not sold well, or the stores may be willing to make less profit or their overhead may be less. These are legitimate reasons to discount the price of a fine jewelry. If the discount is much over 25%, however, you should ask, “80% or 50% off of what price?” Despite laws prohibiting misleading advertising and the stand of reputable jewelers’ associations against it, there are still fraudulent advertising and selling practices going on.

For this reason, you want to read the part two of this article, about “How to buy fine Jewelry?” To understand what are the kinds of jewelry.

To Web Masters:

The article above can be used on your web site or newsletter.

When it is published, may I request that you include my name and resource box (the bio, contact and copyright information) that follows the article. I would also appreciate if you could send me an email of notification along with a complimentary copy of the publication.

Bijan Aziz is the owner and Web Master for The Jewelry Hut http://www.thejewelryhut.com The best source for fine Diamond, Gemstone, and Pearl Jewelry on the web.

Gold Jewelry Hallmarking Secrets Revealed

2007-10-04T23:27:00.000-07:00

We should be familiar with the BASIC hallmarks mentioned on the website. It might pay you to read them again, just to bring you up to speed and ensure you have grasped the principles. If you have not yet had the chance to read them please go to the website listed below.

Let's quickly remind ourselves where we should be regarding Hallmarks.

The first three marks mentioned before were:

1: The Makers mark

2: The Assay Office mark

3: The Quality mark

And that brings us to the last mark...

4: The Date stamp.

Please note that more mistakes are made with this mark than any other.

This is caused by two reasons.

The first: because 26 letters can only be used for 26 years (a different one for each year, although they did use italics or capitals for a change). So in order to extend their use, they changed the shape of the stamp mark itself.

One series of 26 years may use a Shield shape, while the next 26 years may use a square shape with the corners trimmed off. Go figure?

And second: because humans being humans, (and contrary to common belief, Jewelers are Human), a manufacturer who lived in Birmingham had to use one shape of stamp, while jewelers in London had to use another shape.

All very good, you say, until a jeweler who USED to live in London went to Birmingham to work and took all his old tools and stamps with him, and couldn't be bothered (they cost money) to buy a new set. So he used his old set....

Ahhh... Life is never simple.

However; and in general terms, if all else fails use common sense.

As London was the Largest and most common stamp, you may find a Birmingham mark with a slightly wrong date stamp, although the date YEAR mark should be the same.

By using all of the marks together and taking into account the wear and look of the item - plus what it is, you should get fairly close to accurate.

If your still not sure, get a written valuation done with your local professional Jewelry Appraiser, and use that piece of paper as fact.

Even though YOU know, they are going through the same process of 'Dating' it's still a little confusing. Plus it's not the only form of Dating I get confused with...? And my plastic eyeglass doesn't help at all....

Look out for these tips next time you're spying with your eyeglass.

HALLMARKING TIPS #1:

In Circa 1821 the Leopard's Head Hallmark became 'Uncrowned' In Circa 1891 Queen Victoria's head was no longer used in Hallmarking. The major point is to use ALL of the Hallmarks, not just the date letter. Also check the style of an item, as this could give a clue to the period.

HALLMARKING TIPS #2:

As a general rule, Hallmarks should be assessed by going from the 'Big Picture' to the 'Small Picture' or the particular date in question.

For example: Date the article within a 25 year time span first, as this can be calculated from the overall 'SHAPE' or style of the stamp mark (Shield or Oval etc). Then go to the actual 'Year' stamp mark.

Remember, these can sometimes be wrong, but if we are in the ballpark, so to speak, we won't be too far out.

It is interesting to note that the expression 'Circa' or 'c' actually means 'around'...

Silver imported into England carried the 'F' mark (for Foreign) between 1883 - 1904.

HALLMARKING TIPS #3:

It is helpful if we can remember some of the more important changes to Hallmarking and just how that effected Quality.

For example: The quality of Hallmarked Gold can give us a clue regarding its age. Items of 22ct stamped with the 'Lion passant' were made up to 1844. After that date items were stamped 22ct with a 'Crown' hallmark.

HALLMARKING TIPS #4:

UKHM stands for the United Kingdom Hall Marks and has been in existence since 1300. Yes... 1300!

The basic marks are:

The Assay Mark which indicated the 'Guarantee of Quality'.

The Origin Mark which shows WHERE it was Assayed.

The Duty Mark to confirm 'Tax' had been paid.

The Maker's Mark to indicate the company or individual who made the item.

The Date Mark based on the letters of the Alphabet, changing each year.

The Assay year was NOT a Calendar year as it began (as for London) in May. That means it covered TWO Calendar years.

There are several other SPECIAL REPORTS available through our eMail-on-Demand subscription box at the website, so please take some time to visit.

There is a timely warning on Security issues. It's good advice, plus there is some great tips on Investing in Jewelry, Insurance guidelines and other notes on selling, Hallmarking tips etc, and they are being added to all the time.

And the best bit is they are FREE....

Thank you for taking the time to read this special report. If you thought it interesting, useful or found it helped you in any way I would appreciate your comments via email at the address shown below.

This is my personal email address and I read every comment - good or bad.

Alternatively: why not pass it on to a friend. I'm sure you can think of someone who might benefit from this useful information. Treat it as doing me a big favor. I will certainly appreciate it.

Thank you... As usual take care and watch the road... Kind regards...

P.S. There are many other complimentary Reports available to you at our website, or if you haven't yet done so, you may like to subscribe to our email-on-demand Newsletters - the Antique Jewelry Guide - full of Hints - Tips - Secrets and Articles in every issue.

P.P.S. If you administer a website or publish an ezine, please feel free to use this article as long as you leave all links in place, do not modify the content and include our resource box as listed below. Although it's NOT compulsory I would personally appreciate it if you could send me an email at: gemmo1@online-jewelry-appraisals.com to let me know if and where you used it. If you need other great content - complimentary of course - then drop me a line at the email address given - 'cause I've got Quality Content and Gallons of the stuff....

David Foard F.G.A.A.
President gemologist/valuer at the Online Jewelry Appraisal Center.

Security Advice for Gold Jewelry, Diamonds, and Gemstones

2007-10-04T04:45:00.005-07:00

For you to enjoy your treasures, they need to be somewhere close and accessible, but NOT in the Bedside Jewelry Box.

Although we DO advise a Jewelry Box on the Dresser and easily seen, BUT ONE CONTAINING SEVERAL PIECES OF JUNK JEWELRY. It is a well documented fact that Burglars nearly ALWAYS check the Bedroom First knowing that people hide things there.

In general terms we have discovered, through HUGE amounts of research, (Please don't write and ask us how we know such things) that your average Crim or Thug, doesn't know the difference between Gold or Plated items, Diamonds or Shiny pebbles of Glass.

In the dimly lit beam of a torch, a handful of Jewelry, stuffed into a pocket, stops them searching any further, and they leave without any more damage.

If it looks like gold, it must be gold... Right?

Well, NO! But this can work in OUR Favor.

So OCCASIONALLY buy that antique looking string of pearls (which we know are glass beads) from the local Op shop or Charity Church Bazaar, and salt it into your 'attractive' Junk items in the Jewelry Box on the Dresser.

Costume Jewelry CAN look a Million Dollars. Old Brooches in a Base metal and containing a 'Plastic' Cameo, can feel and seem to be worth all the trouble.

Help these poor people out. Do the right thing. Give them something to Steal, and they will leave you alone, next time.

But what about the Good Stuff?

If you do 'Hide' it somewhere in your home there are a couple of points we wish to discuss. Firstly: tell a trusted or close relative where they are.

Too many people hide things and then forget where they put them. Over the years it slips from memory and after they 'Cross Over' as John Edwards would say, they get tossed out with the rest of the rubbish never to see light of day again. Shame - Shame - Shame. Please tell someone.

Don't hide the items in extreme temperatures.

It has seemed that over the past decade or so, some people have been hiding things in the Freezer. This is NOT recommended as Gold and Silver items may survive, but some gemstones are sure to suffer.

Opal for example contains a great amount of water in their chemical make up. Freeze opal and you will NOT have anything with color left after a very short while. Pearls too, and most of the softer 'Organic' gemstones like Coral or Ivory or Amber will all be damaged by this process.

The Kitchen is a good place to hide things, as is the Laundry.

We have had some clients (friends of ours) who hide things in the Children's Toy room. As long as it can't be found or played with by the Kids, it is safe.

If you come home one day and the Darling Little Ones are wearing your best Diamond Jewelry, chances are you didn't hide it well enough. Under the Lego pieces, just doesn't cut it.

Regardless of whether you have your items hidden or in a 'Safety Deposit' style box or wall safe etc, you should still insure your items.

We have mentioned this before, so if you're not sure, please read the advice on 'Selling your Jewelry' or go direct to the Online Jewelry Appraisal Centre for more information (address shown below).

As a last resort, it is comforting to know that if your treasures are lost or stolen, you can retrieve an accurate description and detailed specifications from a safe place OUTSIDE of your Home or Work.

One of the strengths of the 'Do-it-Yourself' Online Jewelry Self Appraisal system, is knowing your details are kept in a secure extraweb database that only you can access 24/7 from anywhere in the world.

We would hate to have Fire, Flood or Earthquake rip apart your world in more ways than one. After the event is NO time to get a Certificate done, and at such a low fee (less than the price of a Big Mac and Coke) is a tiny price to pay to ensure your details are covered.

Any good Manufacturing Jeweler should be able to remake an EXACT copy of your treasures thanks to the detailed descriptions in the Kit. Even if your Certificate was lost or destroyed, we can ALWAYS get you another copy and bring your Engagement or Wedding Ring back to life.

There are several other SPECIAL REPORTS available through our eMail-on-Demand subscription box at the website, so please take some time to visit.

And the best bit is they are FREE....

This is my personal email address and I read every comment - good or bad.

Alternatively: why not pass it on to a friend. I'm sure you can think of someone who might benefit from this useful information. Treat it as doing me a big favor. I will certainly appreciate it.

regards and please watch the road. David Foard F.G.A.A. Fellow of the Gemological Association of Australia and former member of JATVC - The Valuers Council (retired).

P.S. If you administer a website or publish an ezine, please feel free to use this article as long as you leave all links in place, do not modify the content and include our resource box as listed below. Although it's not compulsory, just send me an email at gemmo1@jewellery-antiques.com and let me know if and where you used it. If you need other great content - complimentary of course - then drop me a line at the email address given - 'cause I've got Gallons of the stuff....

Amsterdam and Diamonds

2007-10-04T04:45:00.003-07:00

Amsterdam takes a special place in the world of Diamonds. Walking down the streets you will see a lot of Diamond and jewelry stores as well as a lot of places that are locked up with signs saying "guided diamond tours from 2 to 4 PM".

Actually going on some of these tours you'll have a chance to see some fantastic diamonds and you'll have a chance as well to see how they are cut and polished. And if you want to, you can buy them for $4000 to $400,000 each.

Amsterdam has a long history relating to diamonds, and has been a major diamond centre since Sephardic Jews introduced the diamond cutting industry in the later 16th century. Nowadays there are about a dozen diamond factories in the city, five of which offer guided tours. The tours are free and are usually conducted 9am to 5pm every day.

These are some of the companies offering guided tours:

Amsterdam diamonds

Amsterdam has a long heritage in the diamonds, and has been a major diamond centre since Sephardic Jews introduced the diamond cutting industry in the later 16th century. Nowadays there are about a dozen diamond factories in the city, five of which offer guided tours. The tours are free and are usually conducted 9am to 5pm every day. Diamonds aren't necessarily cheaper in Amsterdam but prices are fairly competitive. At least you will have seen how they are worked, and when you buy from a factory you get an extensive description of the purchase so you know exactly what you are buying.

Diamond tours

The following renowned diamond stores offer diamond-cutting and polishing tours, and sales of the finished diamonds:

Coster Diamonds

Gassan Diamonds

Stoeltie Diamonds

Van Moppes Diamonds the first company to offer guided tours.

If you have a chance eat an "uitsmijter" as well.

Best time to visit is april or late september when the leaves on the trees are not blocking the view of the monumental facades. The winters are penetratingly cold and damp with lots of rain and sleet.

It actually feels colder than 30 below in Canada.

Bring a pair of good glasses: we tend to use very small lettertypes for the legends in museums.

Here are some of Amsterdam's major attractions:

Anne Frank House (Anne Frank Huis)
National Museum (Rijksmuseum)
Van Gogh Museum
Red Light District
National Museum of Modern Art (Stedelijk Museum)
Amstelkring Museum (Our Lord in the Attic Chapel)
Museum Het Rembrandt Huis (Rembrandt House)
Jewish Historical Museum (Joods Historisch Museum)
Dam Square
Sauna Deco

Amsterdam sail:
Sail Amsterdam

If you love boats, KNSM Island is where you should go. Not just because of its shipping past. Every 5 years this harbor area of Amsterdam hosts the Sail event. Each new edition attracts more visitors (Sail 2000 welcomed 2.5 million people). Each edition also offers more Tall Ships and more cultural activities in the area.

The Van Gogh Museum contains the largest collection of works by Vincent Van Gogh who shot off his ear and then committed suicide. You will find more than 200 fantastic works from the Master’s hand, as well as 500 drawings and 700 written documents. Together these provide a fantastic insight into his life and work.

Amasterdam is a fascinating place with lots of things to see and do.

Also, remember and try all its culinary delights.

http://www.diamondzmall.com

Moissanite Diamonds, The Beauty Of Diamonds Without The Price Tag

2007-10-04T04:45:00.001-07:00

Moissanite diamonds are taking the gem world by storm. Diamond specialists pride themselves on offering the best to their customers, selling diamonds that shine brilliantly and beautifully, not only because of the professional reputation they have worked so hard to foster, but also because they respect and admire the medium with which they work.

So it might come as something of a surprise that many professional gemmologists are now selling simulated diamonds alongside the ‘real thing’. Have they somehow compromised their principles? Or is it just that moissanite diamonds are simply that beautiful?

Simulated diamonds have long been held in disfavor, because of the assumption that simulation necessarily implies inferiority. This has caused moissanite diamonds to be greeted sceptically, and with no lack of foundation. Previously produced simulated diamonds have included such alternatives as cut glass, rhinestone and cubic zirconium, which might lay claim to a certain attractiveness in their own right, but in no way approaching the sublime beauty of a real diamond.

But the development of moissanite diamonds has shaken this old foundation to the core. Those who have yet to be awed by the physical presence of moissanite diamonds dismiss them prematurely as being manmade, unlike real diamonds, which Mother Earth has brewed in her belly for millennia. But this harsh dismissal is to ignore the many wonders that man has created throughout his evolution, from art and poetry to the scientific wonders that can save lives.

Many of man’s finest creations have been born in the lab, and moissanite diamonds are no exception. Even professional gemmologists have been able to distinguish them from real diamonds, and many of those who have deem their brilliance and fire superior to that of a real diamond.

Simulated diamonds were previously only the domain of those who were unable to afford the real thing, but now moissanite diamonds can offer, and even surpass, the beauty of a real diamond at a far lower price. Even the experts are impressed – and you will be too.

Moissanite diamonds offer the beauty and fire of diamonds, but without the price tag.

Lab Created Diamonds Are Now Exceedingly Good

2007-10-04T04:44:00.003-07:00

When we think of precious gems, we usually spare little thought to the hard work that it takes to bring them to us in the beautiful jewelry that we love to wear, but diamond mining is, in fact, an expensive and dangerous procedure, reflected to the consumer in the price that must be paid to own one. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if there were some way to recreate that same brilliance and beauty in a less dangerous, and hence less expensive way? Today’s technological innovations mean that this does not have to be a pipe dream any longer – with lab created diamonds, we can wear beautiful gemstones produced by the intelligence of mankind, rather than the trials and tribulations of nature, and without the expense that mining brings. Lab created diamonds are now very good and becoming as popular as the real thing.

The popularity of diamonds have urged experts to try to find more cost effective ways of providing the brilliance of the stone in our jewelry, and over the years there have been many alternatives to diamonds put forward, including cut glass, rhinestones and cubic zirconium. While these have proved satisfactory for some purposes, these lab created diamonds have consistently lacked the brilliance and beauty of a genuine diamond. This was until the discovery of moissanite in meteor fragments, and the realisation that moissanite could be reproduced in controlled circumstances, leading to the dawn of lab made diamonds.

It was discovered in 1995 that moissanite could be reproduced under laboratory conditions, and the unique beauty of the stone made scientists realize that there would be a huge market for these lab created diamonds. While the difficulty involved in growing these lab made diamonds remains quite high, the price for moissanite jewelry is higher than you might expect in a diamond substitute, but today, many gemmologists consider the moissanite stone to be a gem in and of its own right. Unlike previous substitutes, moissanite is in many ways superior to diamonds, with more sparkle and brightness that the mined gem.

Previously, choosing a gem that looked like a diamond but wasn’t one was seen as a step down, a compromise, but with the quality of today’s lab created diamonds, this is no longer the case. So take advantage of today’s great moissanite prices while they last, because someday soon, the brilliant sparkle of this stone will make lab made diamonds even more sought after than the ‘real thing’.

Lab created diamonds, and Moissanite in particular, are now as good as the real thing.

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

Gemstone Treatments

2007-10-04T04:44:00.001-07:00

Though not common knowledge to the public, most gemstones are treated in some way to enhance their color and clarity. An untreated gemstone is a rarity. These treatments are common and widely accepted in the industry and normally do not de-value the stone.

Most retail jewelers do not divulge this information to their buying public or they themselves are not aware. If they are a reputable and ethical establishment then they will be honest if queried on the subject. Don't expect this information to be offered without inquiring first.

Heat treatment is the most common method used to color enhance gems. Tanzanite, which has become a very popular gemstone in jewelry and to collect is heat treated to obtain that gorgeous cornflower blue color with lavender tones and flashes of red. The rough must be heated to 600 degrees; otherwise, Tanzanite as we know it wouldn't exist.

Colored diamonds (which do occur naturally) are irradiated to obtain those most sought after colors of red and blue. Naturally colored diamonds are very, very costly and rare. The “Hope” diamond is an example of a natural blue diamond. Natural colored diamonds can come in a rainbow of colors such as blue, brown, yellow, orange, red, purple, pink, and green, but the cost is just to prohibitive for most people to obtain. Irradiated diamonds create those beautiful colors at a cost which is more affordable. Natural colored diamonds are radiated in the earth's crust which takes millions of years. Man has learned how to speed up the process and produce those same colors in the laboratory. Champagne and yellow diamonds are more abundant in nature and are not usually irradiated to obtain their color.

Topaz is another gemstone which requires treatment to obtain the colors it's known for such as the “London Blue” color which takes about 18 months to process. A recent popular color is called “Mystic Fire” which is a rainbow of colors in the same gem. Another popular color is pink. Pink topaz is much more affordable than pink sapphire. Pink is one of the most popular colors in gemstone jewelry. The “Mystic Fire” color was created by a process called bulk diffusion. Topaz naturally is white (also called silver) or the golden-peach color known as “precious” or “imperial” topaz which is the most rare and expensive of topaz. Due to the demand for the other colors such as Swiss Blue, London Blue, Pink, Mango, Neptune Blue, Mystic Fire, etc. white topaz (which is needed to create colored topaz) has become more and more scarce and risen in cost.

There are a number of gemstones that don't require nor will they take any kind of enhancement treatment. Their colors occur naturally right out of the earth. They only needed to be cut and polished to show off their beauty. Those gems that come to mind are garnets, chrome diopside, red spinel, and peridot.

Untreated gemstones are more rare and therefore may fetch a higher price than treated gemstones. As a collector or investor I would seek the non-enhanced variety if available and affordable.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Debra enjoys collecting jewelry and gemstones. She operates a retail web site that sells wedding and bridal shower favors and gifts at http://favorsgiftsgalore.com
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Moissanite Diamonds - A Tinsel On Earth

2007-10-03T01:24:00.004-07:00

Are you jaded of the usual junk or gold or silver? Wish to append that exquisite flicker to your jewelry box? Nothing serves you better than moissanite diamonds. Moissanite diamonds will be the crown of glory on your fabulous jewel collection. For the admirers of splendor, looking to flaunt their luxury, these artificial diamonds are perfect.

Moissanite diamonds are simulated diamonds that are artificially created in the lab. Crafted with unmatchable expertise and almost unattainable proficiency, these gems truly reflect your class. They are intricately shaped and cut to perfection.

In spite of the fact that moissanite stones are simulated diamonds they do not give the feel of being counterfeit unlike most other diamond alternatives that can easily be distinguished. Their conspicuous fire lends moissanite jewels that exclusively fine look.

No Less Than A Real Diamond

Duly known as the substitute to diamonds, though simulated, it is extremely difficult to tell moissanite from a real diamond. Moissanite diamonds appear to be as real as a natural diamond. They come along with a bonus benefit of being cheaper. But however, this piece of cosmic gem is no less in the comparison of the glam element – even more than a diamond!

Originally found in Arizona about more than 50,000 years ago, moissanite was showered upon the earth by a meteorite. Looked upon as an absolute diamond look-alike with an added profit of being shinier, moissanite caught the fancy of all jewel lovers. With its crystal clear form and radiant blaze moissanite stands out among the rest of the semiprecious stones present today.

For that distinct silver lining all over you, that is sure to get you noticed, moissanite diamonds would make a smart decision you can rely on even with your eyes closed.

These simulated diamonds make a pleasing gift irrespective of the occasion. You could present it to a friend, a relative or could simply savor the beauty of this simulated diamond yourself!

Moissanite jewelry is the most contemporary mode of chic styling to enhance your personality. Moissanite jewelry carries an enthralling magic that will surely overwhelm your senses…

Get yourself some moissanite diamonds – pamper yourself today!

Find out more about Imitation Diamonds as well as Moissanite Engagement Rings and other types of Moissanite rings at Peter's website, The Magic of Moissanite.

Inimitable Beauty With Imitation Diamonds

2007-10-03T01:24:00.003-07:00

Been there, done that with gold, silver, platinum or even diamonds? Longing for a distinct, “out o’ the world” look that will make you easily spotable in a multitude? Well, good news for you! You’ve knocked on the right doors. Imitation diamonds give you exactly what you are looking for. These diamond alternatives set your personality ablaze. With an incomparable flare, imitation diamonds set an aura of elegance around you.

Moissanite jewels posses the sheen of clusters of a million stars put together, making them the best diamond alternatives available today. Due to their easy availability, breathtaking glimmer and apt durability, moissanite jewelry are the most suitable alternatives to diamond rings. Let your shine do the talking.

Various moissanite jewelry items enable you to look your stunning best. Seize your chance to wear that drop dead gorgeous look that promises to make several heads turn back for yet another glance. Moissanite jewels are expedient to use, exceptionally beautiful in appearance and do not look fake unlike most other diamond alternatives.

What’s more, you can enjoy the gleam, glam and bliss of a diamond at an astoundingly reasonable cost. Moissanite enables you to embellish yourself with better than diamond at a price less than that of a diamond. It is almost impossible to spot the difference between a real diamond and moissanite. With more than the beauty and appeal of a diamond, moissanite jewels are here to stay for sure.

More About Imitation Diamonds

Moissanite stones were actually showered upon Arizona about 50,000 years ago by a meteorite. These are counted today among the most fascinating jewels that are used all round the world. Due to its limited supply and progressively increasing demand, moissanite is artificially created in the laboratories.

Designed to serve as diamond alternatives, moissanite jewelry adorns you to perfection. To feel and look special with a striking patina, what better jewel than moissanite? Fascinate those around you with these imitation diamonds as alternatives to diamond rings. Why wait to make your mark!

Let the charm of moissanite lure your senses with the inimitable beauty of imitation diamonds …go ahead, sizzle in style!

Find out more about Moissanite Stones as well as Moissanite Engagement Rings and other types of Moissanite rings at Peter's website, The Magic of Moissanite.

Explore The World Of Man Made Diamonds

2007-10-03T01:24:00.001-07:00

Wondering what these are? Here are one of the few brilliant creations of mankind. Introducing an extensive series of the enormously beautiful and the most attractive of the semi precious stones. The man made diamonds – Moissanite. These man made diamonds shine brighter than even diamonds themselves.

Moissanite stones stand out in the faux diamonds’ array due to their brilliance. Not many jewelers are able to differentiate moissanite from a diamond. These artificially made moissanite jewels are the best alternative to diamonds.

Exquisitely designed for the person who loves to be adorned in rich glitters but find it beyond their reach to turn that one endearing dream into reality. Astoundingly affordable prices and availability are a few of the many traits of these faux diamonds.

Looking for a non-sham substitute to the pricey precious stones? Look no further. We give you the best of the best alluring patina within your means. Wear moissanite jewelry on naked skin for that fabulous killer look. Or style it with a mix of junk. Whatever your taste, these man made diamonds never let you down.

Moissanite – The Man Made Diamonds That Win Hearts

Shaped to perfection to compliment your style and guise, moissanite stones are lovingly handcrafted. Be it your friend’s birthday or a token of love or memories for that special someone, moissanite makes a peerless gift for any occasion.

A meteorite showered moissanite stones upon Arizona about 50,000 years ago. These are now being created in the labs to cope with its increasing demand. We are not very far away from the day where the demand for moissanite jewels shall exceed that of diamonds.

Have an evening out? Not sure what jewelry goes well with your new dress? Do not worry, help’s here. When in doubt, do not think twice. Go for moissanite faux diamonds. To make your appearance strikingly different, these charms help you make your point. Be the trendsetter, explore the world of man made diamonds!

Find out more about Moissanite Stones as well as Moissanite Engagement Rings and other types of Moissanite rings at Peter's website, The Magic of Moissanite.

Synthetic Diamonds - An Extremely Viable Jewelry Alternative

2007-10-03T01:23:00.004-07:00

The love of diamonds in our jewelry is a modern phenomenon. It has really only been since the 1930s that diamonds have been so desired as a jewelry stone. And with diamonds came synthetic diamonds. Synthetic daimonds will always be worth considering as an alternative to diamonds whilst real diamonds are so expensive, and synthetic diamonds are so good.

Diamonds have a number of natural qualities. They are, for example, the hardest of any natural product. Synthetic daimonds needed to have similar qualities to compete with the natural product. In jewelry a diamond has beautiful sparkle,and is very hard. Any synthetic diamond that is to compete with the real thing has to exhibit similar qualities. And synthetic diamonds do this admirably.

The first synthetic diamonds were produced in the 1950s in Sweden and then not so long after the synthesis of diamonds was reported a second time by researchers at GE. Even De Beers, the worlds larget producer of natural diamonds experimented with synthesising diamonds and succeeded.

Modern synthetic diamonds range hugely in their quality. Some come very close to real diamonds in their physical properties, and some do not.

There are many synthetic diamonds which do not exhibit anywhere near the qualities of diamonds, and some which come very close.

And there are some sythetic diamonds which can readily be distinguished from diamonds by experts, and some which cannot.

Even glass has been used as an alternative to diamonds and to many yields a reasonable result in costume jewelry. But it can be easily distinguished from real diamonds by anyone who knows what they are doing. Cubic Zirconia is a synthetic diamond which does not stand up for long to inspection by experts.

There are, however, many excellent synthetic diamonds which are so close to real diamonds in their physical properties that they are very difficult to distinguish from real diamonds indeed.

Prime amongst them is Moissanite. One of the newer of the synthetic diamonds, moissanite, is in fact a naturally occurring product, and it is therefore arguable whether it is a synthetic diamond or just a jewelry stone which is very close to diamond in it's qualities. It was first discovered in tiny amounts in a meteor that landed in Arizona in 1893. It was discovered by Dr Henry Moissan, after whom it was named. It has only been recently produced synthetically, because it does not occur in sufficient quantities naturally to be commercially viable, so it was necessary to devise a way to synthesise if it was to be available in jewelry.

Moissanite is extremely close to diamond in it's natural qualities. Whereas diamond is the hardest of all the jewels, rating at 10 on the hardness scale, moissanite is not far behind at 9.25, and harder than other natural jewelry stones such as ruby (9) and sapphire (9) or emerald (7.5)

There are other comparitive scales used to rate jewelry stones. In brilliance, which is a measure of it's refractive index, diamond is 2.42. Moissanite at 2.65 is superior to diamonds, and far outperforms ruby and sapphire at 1.77 and emerald at 1.58

In fire diamond rates at .044, moissanite at .104 ruby at .018 sapphire at .018 and emerald at .014. So again moissanite outperforms diamonds on this scale. Similarly on the scale used to assess luster moissanite outperforms diamonds and the other well known jewelry stones.

So it can be seen that there are very viable modern synthetic diamonds on the market. Many cannot be told apart from diamonds except by the most experienced jewellers, and moissanite cannot be told apart from diamonds by most jewellers without the use of specialised equipment.

And of course synthetic diamonds are available at a considerable cost savings to the real thing. That is why they are synthesised.

Any diamond merchant will tell you that synthetic diamonds are just junk. He is trying to protect his product. The reality is that for many, synthetic diamonds are a very viable alternative to real diamonds and it is highly unlikely that anyone could tell the difference between the two in any type of jewelry. And as the synthetic diamonds are much cheaper than the real thing they are extremely attractive to the jewelry buyer.

And the best amongst all the different types of synthetic diamonds? Moissanite.

Find out more about Moissanite as well as Moissanite Engagement Rings and other types of Moissanite rings at Peter's website, The Magic of Moissanite.

Ten of the Most Famous Diamonds and Who Owns Them

2007-10-03T01:23:00.003-07:00

There are more than three hundred fifty named diamonds famous for their histories.

The Cullinan, is the largest cut diamond in the world. It was found in South Africa and was named for the owner of the mining company. The Cullinan diamond was 3106 carats, and was cut into 105 stunning diamonds. The largest was named the "Star of Africa" and is 530 carats by itself. In 1907 this diamond was given to King Edward VII of England, and set into the Royal Scepter. It is kept, along with the other Crown Jewels, safely in the Tower of London.

The Cullinan II is 317.40 carats. The color is white and is the cushion-shaped diamond in the center-front of the Imperial State Crown of Great Britain. It is also in the Tower of London with the British Crown Jewels.

The Dary-i-Nur is 186 carats, is pink and is in the Iranian Treasury. It is the largest uncut diamond in the world. Its name means "Sea of Light".

The Dresden Green is 41 carats; it is green, and a very rare type ila diamond of extraordinary quality. It gets its name from the city of Saxony where it had been on display for 200 years. The Dresden Green is now on display at the Albertinium Museum in Dresden.

The Hope Diamond is 45.52 carats, is blue, and is in the Smithsonian Institute. According to legend, a curse was placed on the large, blue diamond after it was stolen from an idol in India. Whether you believe in curses or not, the diamond has had a fascinating past – it was owned by King Louis XIV, stolen during the French Revolution, sold to pay gambling debts, owned and worn almost daily by an American heiress, sold and worn to raise money for charity, and finally donated to the Smithsonian Museum.

The Hortensia is 20 carats, is peach colored and is in the Louvre. It is one of the crown Jewels of France, and was owned by Louis XIV. It was named after Hortense de Beauharnais, Queen of Holland, who was the daughter of the Empress Josephine, the stepdaughter of Napoleon Bonaparte and the mother of Napoleon III.

The Kohinoor is 108.93 carats, white and is located in the Tower of London. As with many of the most famous diamonds, there is a curse of death and destruction attached to it. Its name means "Mountain of Light" and legend has it that it actually comes from another diamond also rife with legend, called the "Great Mogul" which was said to have weighed 244 carats and mysteriously disappeared in 1665. The Kohinoor was owned by the first sultan of Mogul, and passed down through generations, until it was given to Queen Victoria. It was recut and now rests in the crown of Queen Elizabeth.

The Orloff is 189.62 carats. It is thought to have weighed about 300 carats when it was discovered. For a while, it was confused with the Great Mogul diamond. One of the legends of the Orloff is that it was set in the eye of a god statue in the temple of Sri Rangen, and stolen by a French soldier dressed up like a Hindu. He is said to have escaped by swimming down a raging river during a storm. It was eventually sold to Prince Gregory Orloff. In an attempt to win back her heart, he gave it to Catherine the Great, who collected lovers and precious gems with equal passion. She had the diamond mounted on top of the double eagle in the Imperial scepter. It is in the Russian Diamond Fund, Moscow.

The Spoonmaker Diamond has many legends associated with it. (It supposedly got its name when the owner--who is said to have found it sitting on top of a pile of garbage --bartered it to a spoonmaker for three wooden spoons.) More likely is that it was purchased by a Frenchman named Pikot, who bought it from the Maharajah of Madras in India. He took it to France, but was robbed. The diamond ended up at an auction, and was bid on by the notorious Casanova. It was finally bought by Napoleon's mother, Letizia Ramolino, who later sold her jewelry to help her son escape from Elba. It was bought again by an officer of Tepedelenli, and put into the treasury. When Tepedelenli was killed during a revolt, the entire treasury went to the Palace of Turkey, and the Spoonmaker's Diamond, now called the "Kasicki" is there.

The Taylor-Burton Diamond is a 69 carat pear-shaped white diamond that was originally called the "Cartier Diamond" after the jeweler paid $1,050,000 for it at an auction. Richard Burton purchased it the day after the auction for Elizabeth Taylor. She later renamed it the Taylor-Burton diamond. Ms. Taylor wore the diamond publicly at a party for Princess Grace's 40th birthday party in Monaco. She sold the diamond in 1978 and used the funds to build a hospital in Botswana. The diamond was later purchased by Robert Mouawad.

© 2005, Kathy Burns-Millyard. This article is provided courtesy of Home Gift Shopper: A premier resource for quality Gift Ideas. This article may be republished as long as it remains unchanged, this notice stays intact, and all links are made live.

Man Made Diamonds, The Affordable Alternative

2007-10-03T01:23:00.001-07:00

Diamonds may be a woman’s best friend, but modern man made diamonds are so good as to be indistinguishable from real diamonds. And when you look at the huge savings on price, man made diamonds may be a woman’s best decision.

Increasingly, engaged couples are considering the cost of some wedding jewelry. In today’s high pressure high cost lifestyle couples are really wondering whether or not it is appropriate to spend big on, say, a diamond engagement ring.

The more spent on wedding jewelry the less available later for the important things in the marriage, like a house. Or the kids when they arrive. Is it responsible to spend so much to buy a diamond engagement ring when these more important things may need to be compromised later?

Especially when you consider that good quality man made diamonds cannot be distinguished from real diamonds, even by jewellers.

Faux diamonds are big business. The pearl jewelry industry was revolutionised by the advent of cultured pearls. Synthetic diamonds are doing the same thing to the wedding jewelry business.

There are a range of ways to produce synthetic diamonds. Modern technology is very adept at making any product which will sell well and faux diamonds are no exception. And the quality is so good that many of the alternatives to diamonds perform exceedingly well when compared to diamond using the common diamond quality tests.

In such tests as hardness, refractive index, fire, brilliance, luster and others the man made diamonds perform admirably. Sometimes even better.

Brilliance is a test of the amount of light which enters the stone and gets reflected back. It is affected by the quality of the cut of the stone.

Fire is the ability of the stone to break light down into it’s component colors and is also affected by the cut. “Fire” can be seen as color coming out of the stone.

Luster is the amount of light reflected back from the surface of the stone.

Moissanite, for example, outperforms diamond in brilliance, fire and luster and is only very slightly lower on the hardness scale. In fact a special piece of testing equipment had to be designed so that jewellers could tell moissanite from diamond as so many were unable to.

And, of course, moissanite is much cheaper than diamonds. And if most jewellers cannot tell it apart from diamonds, could you?

There are a range of different processes used to produce a stone which is a good diamond alternative. Most produce fine quality stones which produce stunning quality jewelry which any woman would be proud to wear.

Moissanite is not strictly a man made diamond though, as it is, in fact, naturally occurring. Unfortunately it doesn’t occur in sufficient quantities to be commercially viable for mining. But technology has come to the rescue by devising a method of producing high quality crystals.

Our preference for the best alternative to diamonds? Moissanite. A fine jewelry stone which will make a stunning engagement ring, or other jewelry piece. And you can buy moissanite wedding jewelry at a fraction of the price of diamond wedding jewelry.

And when the kids come along, buy them something extra from us from the money you’ve saved.

Find out more about Moissanite as well as Moissanite Engagement Rings at Peter's website, The Magic of Moissanite.

Diamonds Are Forever

2007-10-03T01:22:00.003-07:00

Diamond jewelry: diamond rings, diamond earrings, diamond pendants and diamond bracelets are some of the most sought after gemstone creations. Your eyes tell you how beautiful a piece of diamond jewelry is, but how do you know you are getting your money’s worth?

A little knowledge can go a long way to help you purchase a beautiful piece of diamond jewelry at a fair price.

Diamond Jewelry 101

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

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

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

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

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

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

When shopping for diamond jewelry online, apply these tips.

1. Shop with companies you know or do some homework before buying to make sure a company is legitimate before doing business with it.

2. Take advantage of information and referrals from an internet company you have come to trust.

3. Get the details about the product, as well as the merchant's refund and return policies, before you buy.

4. Look for an address to write to or a phone number to call if you have a question, a problem or need help.

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

The Beauty and Meaning of Birthstones

2007-10-03T01:22:00.001-07:00

Birthstones have been around since ancient times, and in those days were believed to possess some magical force that could protect the owner or wearer of the stone. These birthstones were traditionally linked to the Zodiac.

However, modern birthstones are linked to calendar months, and each month has its own unique birthstone, with its own fabled properties. Many people love to wear jewellery set with their birthstone, as the ancient meanings and associations with these stones still intrigue them.

You can get many types of jewellery containing birthstones, such as birthstone rings, a birthstone pendant and birthstone earrings. Giving someone an item of jewellery set with their birthstone is a touching and wonderful gift, and whether you give them a birthstone ring, a birthstone pendant or a birthstone brooch, it is something that they are likely to treasure forever because it has real meaning and significance.

Below you will find a listing of each of the birthstones used today.

January

The birthstone for this month is the garnet, which was once thought to be connected with the blood. This stone is supposed to protect the wearer from nightmares and offer guidance through the dark.

Garnets are long lasting and durable gems, with a fiery, ravishing beauty. This is type of gem that the wearer will treasure forever, no matter what item of jewellery it is set into. Garnets are traditionally thought of as deep red, but actually come in a wide range of colours, so there is something to suit every taste for this month.

February

The birthstone for this month is the amethyst, and the folklore attached to this gem associates it with sobriety, tranquillity, protection and peace. This birthstone as also been linked to improving the skin and preventing baldness, as well as protection from deceit, so it has a lot to live up to!

The amethyst birthstone comes in varying shades of purple, and can be a pale lilac in colour. On the other end of the scale, you can also get deep violet amethysts, which means that you can enjoy a birthstone that is as subtle or as rich as you like. This birthstone is very hardwearing, and its strength and durability will ensure that it lasts for a very long time.

March

This month's birthstone is aquamarine, which has been linked to the making of new friends as well as affection and love, hope and health. This stone was once also thought to protect those at sea.

As the name of this birthstone suggests, it is a green-blue in colour and has a rich, sparkling look. You can get aquamarine birthstones in a variety of shapes and sizes, and you can also get this stone in varying shades of green-blue.

April

One of the most popular gems throughout history, diamonds are the birthstone for this month, and these stones are linked to love, eternity and strength. This has contributed towards diamonds being the most popular gems of all time when it comes to romance, such as engagement rings and wedding bands.

Diamonds are very strong and hardwearing, making them the perfect birthstone to wear on a daily basis. You can enjoy many different cuts of this stone, and the fiery, glamorous sparkle given off by diamonds is positively captivating.

May

This month's birthstone is the beautiful emerald, once linked to health and the curing of ailments, as well as being associated with the ability to see in to the future, giving them an almost bewitching, magical reputation.

These fiery green gems are amazing to look at, and can be found in a variety of shapes and cuts. The beauty and richness of this stone makes it the perfect gem for birthstone jewellery, and is something that the wearer can show off and take pride in for a long time.

June

The elegant pearl is the birthstone for the month of June, and this gem has been linked with chastity and modesty, making it something of an angelic, pure birthstone. They are also linked to successful and happy marriages.

These round, stunning birthstones come in a variety of colours, and a range of sizes. Pearls can look spectacular yet modest in all manner of jewellery from birthstone rings, to earrings and necklaces, making them a perfect gift.

July

The birthstone for this month is the ravishing ruby, a stone traditionally linked with protection and harmony. This birthstone has been mined since ancient times, and boasts a spectacular beauty.

Deep red in colour, rubies are stunning birthstones that will liven up and enhance any piece of jewellery. These gems have a unique, vivid and fiery appearance that would delight anyone.

August

The birthstone for the month of August is peridot, which was commonly linked with protection against evil and night terrors, as well as a gem that enhanced the properties of healing drugs.

Lime green in colour, this birthstone is a by-product of volcanic action, and comes in all sorts of shapes and sizes. This birthstone gives off its own unique energy, and is strong and durable.

September

Sumptuous sapphire is the birthstone associated with September, and this gem has been linked with faith and purity, as well as foresight. It was thought that the stronger the sparkle of the gem, the more faithful and honest the wearer.

These birthstones look stunning in all types of jewellery, especially in white gold and platinum metal. However, sapphires can come in other colours as well as blue. These are strong and durable gems that will last for years to come, and can be passed down to future generations.

October

The birthstone of October is the opal, a stone that has been linked to purity, hope and innocence. This gem has also been linked to healing forces, friendship and emotion, so it has experienced its fair share of folklore over the years.

This type of birthstone comes in white or black, and both variations have remnants of other colours within them. Opals have a unique look and beauty, making them a very interesting birthstone with a strangely exquisite appearance.

November

The birthstone for this month is topaz, once linked with sanity, healing, and life, as well as being connected to strength by the ancient Greeks. This stone has even been linked to an ability to make the wearer invisible in dangerous situations.

This birthstone comes in a range of colours, all of which will enhance any jewel with a fiery sparkle. Colours include golden, blue, pale green, pink and red, as well as some other rare colours. A stunning gem, topaz boasts both beauty and strength.

December

The given birthstone for December is turquoise, and this precious stone was once linked to happiness, fortune and luck, making it a very popular gem in centuries gone by.

Turquoise can range in colour from mid-blue to a green-blue or light green colour, and this birthstone is unusual and beautiful, making it a very distinctive and unusual addition to any jewellery collection.

Summary

Giving a birthstone to someone special as a gift means giving so much more than just a piece of jewellery. The ancient meanings associated with each of these birthstones make them extra-special, giving them a quality that is impossible to achieve with any other gem.

Whether you decide to give a birthstone ring, necklace earrings or any other piece of jewellery, you will always find stunning pieces where the precious metal and the birthstone complement one another perfectly. Birthstone jewellery makes a unique, beautiful, and affordable gift with real sentiment behind it.

About The Author:

Award winning author and freelance writer, Reno Charlton has completed a number of informative articles providing consumer information on such topics as birthstones and gemstones, promise rings, and celtic wedding rings.

The Benefits of Buying Jewellery Online

2007-10-03T01:21:00.000-07:00

Jewellery is a gift that is truly universal - something that can be given for just about any occasion, and something that has real meaning to it. If someone gives you jewellery as a gift, you feel touched, emotional, sometimes even overwhelmed. It's amazing to think that such small items can stir such powerful emotions, but this is something that happens all the time. You can bet that during every hour of every day, someone somewhere in the world is gazing open-mouthed at a beautiful piece of jewellery that has been given to them by someone special - perhaps an engagement ring, an elegant necklace or the perfect pair of earrings.

Of course, it's not just men that buy jewellery for women any longer as it was in years long gone by. These days, jewellery makes a popular gift for men as well, and many women choose to give rings, cufflinks, watches and other popular items of jewellery to the beloved men in their lives. Giving jewellery means that you can give a gift that actually speaks without words, and this is probably why jewels have been a hugely popular form of gift since ancient times.

Why buy jewellery online?

Since the explosion of the Internet, most products have become available to customers online, and jewellery is no exception. Modern technological advancements mean that it is no longer necessary for us to go scouring through every jewellery shop on the high street to find the perfect gift. We can now enjoy doing this from the comfort of our own homes, giving us more time to browse and compare the options open to us. Buying jewellery online offers many benefits, such as:

Choice: There is certainly no shortage of choice on the Internet, and you will find a wide range of jewellery at your disposal. This means that you can browse a wide selection of jewels until you find the perfect gift with which to surprise a loved one.
Convenience: Gone are the days when the local High Street jewellers was the only viable option if we wanted to get the perfect piece of jewellery in a short space of time. When you buy jewellery online, you can browse, order and pay from the comfort of your own home, and your chosen piece will then be shipped out to you safely and quickly. This means that you still have choice, however short of time you are. And, you don't even have to leave your home to get the perfect gift.
Saving time: We all lead busy lifestyles these days, and you simply may not have the time to troop from shop to shop looking for the perfect piece of jewellery. When you buy jewellery online you can benefit from speed and ease, and you aren't restricted to looking within certain times, as you would be with a bricks-and-mortar shop.
Affordability: When you buy jewellery online, you will benefit from far more choice, which in turn means that you are far more likely to find something within your budget. There are some really good quality jewellery products available online, and you can get these at a huge reduction compared to High Street prices. Online jewellers don't have the same overheads and running costs as their bricks-and-mortar counterparts, which means that they can afford to offer a bigger saving to their customers.

What sort of jewellery can you buy online?

These days it is possible to get just about every type of jewellery you can imagine online. You can even request custom-made jewellery, so if you can't find exactly what you are looking for you can simply get it made. Whether you are looking for engagement rings, wedding bands, necklaces, earrings, brooches, ankle bracelets, or any other type of jewellery, you will find a vast selection at your disposal when you buy jewellery online.

And you don't need to worry about "buying blind" when you buy jewellery online, because most quality sites provide totally accurate description and excellent photographs of each product, so you can get a real look at it before you commit to a purchase. Plus, of course, online jewellery stores accept returns and exchanges in the same was as High Street jewellery stores do, so you won't be compromising any of your statutory right when you buy jewellery online.

Whatever the occasion, buying jewellery online will prove effective, convenient, fast, safe and easy. Your chosen piece of jewellery will be delivered right to your door, and you can often request that it is gift-wrapped before it even arrives! It's never been easier to get the perfect gift of jewellery at an affordable, great value cost.

In summary

Buying all manner of products online is not the future any longer - it is the present. Online purchasing has become one of the most popular methods of shopping, and with the choice available to consumers it makes sense to buy your jewellery online. Whatever time of day or night, you can take your time to browse through the various products on offer from online jewellery stores, and when you are ready you can simply place your order and wait for it to arrive - no pressure, no rush, it's all done at your own pace and in your own time.

And you don't have to worry about security issues when you buy jewellery online. The advanced software used by websites these days means that monetary transactions are perfectly safe, so you can pay for your purchase by credit or debit card without having to concern yourself about a breach in security.

Buying jewellery from online jewellery stores can save you time, hassle and money, so why make more work for yourself by driving out and trundling from one shop to the next? You can now give the perfect, beautiful gift of jewellery to a loved one without even leaving the house - and you can benefit from a far wider selection and far better value with online affordable jewellery.

About The Author:
Reno Charlton is an award-winning author and freelance writer from the West Midlands, England. She has written many articles providing consumer information on such topics as online jewelry stores, wedding bands, and engagement rings.

Diamonds Are For Evil

2007-10-03T01:16:00.001-07:00

The task of executing successful advertising campaigns for products made exclusively for women is understatedly tempestuous. Any Average Joe consumer would relay the message that feminine product commercials put him under a great deal of stress and discomfort. Any Average Joe Consumer dreads the Vagisils, Cotex's, Summer's Eves, and Monistats of the world. There is just something about that viscous blue fluid dripping onto a Maxi Pad that gives us all that tingly feeling right before we want to be sick. However, there is another product that creates the same feeling in a more subtle, increasingly malignant fashion.

Diamond retailers advertise, advertise, and advertise. Expensive jewelry stores seem to be in every mall, strip mall, and shopping center, and we wonder how it is that these stores thrive. The answer is this: Venus and Mars, love and hate, and women and men. The diamond industry plays on the tensions between men and women like Beethoven's fingers on keys. "Every kiss begins with Kay?" Come on. If the only reason to kiss your husband is because he bought you something, then the issue of your relationship is even larger than the rock on your finger. Diamonds are forever saying 'I'm sorry.' If the only way a woman can be shown that you would "marry her all over again" is to give her an even bigger diamond in some market square in Paris, then your wife needs to be shown the front door. Men hate diamonds. Men buy jewelry when they are apologizing or when they have no other option for a anniversary, birthday, Mother's Day, Christmas (fill in any occasion here) gift. Jewelry is when flowers are not enough, and every single diamond retailer knows it, and thus knows that men will pay.

How does this make the female consumer appear?

The advertising for feminine hygiene is a necessary evil that reveals a vulnerability in all consumers, women and men, but advertising for the diamond industry maliciously creates fools of us all.

Men appear to be desperate and women appear to be demonic. What can be done to improve this dynamic?

What can be done to convey a more honest and meaningful brand face for diamonds? Well, perhaps it is time to consider more so why men and women love each other as opposed to why they need to buy each other gifts.

Molly Sunderdick
Stealing Share, Inc.
mollys@stealingshare.com
336-854-3441

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

2007-09-25T22:34:00.004-07:00

Shopping for Inexpensive Yet Brilliant Pieces

History of Beaded Jewelry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coral/seashells
Gemstones
Glass
Rock Crystal
Gold
Silver
Stone
Pearls

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

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

Costume Jewelry

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

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

Napier
Nettie Rosenstein
Ciner
Hattie Carnegie
Miriam Haskell

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

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

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

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

These precious gems are often marked when crafted.

Cubic Zirconia Jewelry

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

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

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

About The Author:

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

Buying Quality Gold, Platinum, and Titanium Jewelry Online

2007-09-25T22:34:00.003-07:00

Everything You Need to Know About Buying Quality Jewelry Online

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

Gold Jewelry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Black Hills Gold

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

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

Platinum & Titanium Jewelry

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

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

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

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

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

About The Author:

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

Celtic & Claddagh Jewelry

2007-09-25T22:34:00.001-07:00

The History of Symbolism, Legend & Lore

History of Claddagh Jewelry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Celtic Jewelry Traditions

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

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

Knotwork Designs

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

Other common designs crafted by Celtic craftsmen included:

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

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

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

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

About The Author:

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

Sterling Silver - The "Other" Precious Metal

2007-09-25T22:33:00.002-07:00

Learn More About This Affordable Alternative to Expensive Jewelry

History of Sterling Silver

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

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

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

Common Types of Silver

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

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

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

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

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

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

Caring for Silver Jewelry

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

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

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

Purchasing Silver

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

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

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

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

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

About The Author:

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

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

2007-09-25T22:33:00.001-07:00

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

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

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

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

Men's Wedding Bands

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

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

Accessories

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

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

Cufflinks
Bracelets
Money Clips
Rings
Watches
Earrings
Chains

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

Finding Quality Men's Jewelry

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

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

Round
Oval
Pear
Marquis
Emerald

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

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

Tips for Maintaining Men's Jewelry

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

A Final Word on Men's Jewelry

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

About The Author:

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

Buying Diamonds Without Being Ripped Off

2007-09-25T22:32:00.002-07:00

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

Diamonds

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

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

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

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

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

Comparing Prices of Loose Diamonds Online

2007-09-25T22:32:00.001-07:00

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good luck in your search.

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

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

A Diamond Christmas!

2007-09-25T22:31:00.000-07:00

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

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

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

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

WHAT DOES SHE WEAR NOW?

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

WHAT SIZE DOES SHE WEAR?

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

THE SHAPE & SETTING

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

THE OCCASION

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

SHOPPING FOR DIAMOND JEWELRY

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

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

About The Author

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

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