Topaz - The Stone Of Strength

The ancient Greeks believed topaz gave the wearer great strength and could also make them invisible. Some other attributes and uses through the ages for the stone include increasing the appetite, treating hemorrhages, protecting eyesight and combating blood disorders. The ancient Egyptians wore yellow topaz and thought that it represented their sun god Ra.

Along with citrine, yellow topaz is a birthstones for November, while blue is the birthstone for December. But the stone occurs in more than these two colors. It also occurs in red, peach, orange, gold, pink, yellow, clear (the color of pure topaz) and brown. Some pink is obtained by heat-treating brownish yellow stones from Brazil. Certain shades of blue are also made by irradiating. It is a very hard stone, and jewelry made from it is very durable and should be stored separately from other jewelry to avoid scratches. Topaz is found in many parts of the world, including Siberia, Russia, Sri Lanka, China, Africa, Pakistan, Mexico, South America and areas of The United States.

The jewelry for the Russian Czarinas in the 18^th and 19^th centuries continued red and pink. That is why the gem is sometimes called Imperial Topaz. The most famous stone is a colorless one that was originally thought to be a diamond. It is a stone set in the crown jewels of Portugal, and weighs 1680 carats.

There are two theories as to how it got its name. One theory says that the name came from the island of Topazos which is in the Red Sea. The Romans got a stone from this island that was not really topaz, but peridot or chrysolite. The other theory says that the stone got its name from the Sanskrit word tapas, which means fire.

Topaz is a readily attainable and affordable gemstone used in jewelry, with the price depending on the quality of the stone. The most popular color today is any shade of blue, with some of the other colors of the stone being very expensive. Topaz, the stone of strength is also one of great beauty.

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

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

Have you heard the latest on the Bhutto Assaniation in Pakistan?

Why Is Hip Hop Jewelry So Popular These Days?

Everyone has seen hip hop jewelry, which ranges from jumbo dookie rope chains to iced out diamond crosses and ridiculously bright watches. You've seen it worn by all the hottest stars like P Diddy, 50 cent, Kanye West and others at music award shows, in music videos, and in even in public. Now, with the availability of replica styles on the internet, you even see your friends wearing bling jewelry. You may wonder what is the fascination and why everyone is buying it. To answer that, we have to dig deep and rediscover the roots of this lasting trend.

Jewelry as a Status Symbol

First and foremost, it is a status symbol. Hip hop jewelry is made with large amounts of precious metal like gold and platinum then laced with rare gemstones such as diamonds, rubies and sapphires. Because of this, it is very expensive, more so than most other types of jewelry. This makes it a status symbol because only a select few can afford to wear it. Within hip hop, it is a symbol of success and hard work. Not many fans and stars come from rich backgrounds. Most of us have to work hard and ride out the hustle in hopes of a brighter future. Along the way, some hip hop jewelry is a reward as well as a constant reminder of how far we've come.

Fashion Statement

It is a fashion statement as well. Much like the clothes you wear and the shoes you buy, hip hop jewelry says a lot about you. With tons of designs to choose from, there is something that fits you style. Most bling exudes attitude. It screams out I am a unique individual and I don't care what you think. This is why the stars keep buying bigger and crazier pieces, regardless of how ridiculous it looks. The bottom line is that is their preference and it reflects their unique personalities, anyone who objects probably can't afford to buy it anyway.

Luckily for us and many others, hip hop jewelry doesn't have to be expensive. It can be made with cheaper base metals like brass and sterling silver. The jewelry can be set with replica diamond stones instead of real diamonds. This makes it available to the masses and now you can buy hip hop jewelry without recklessly spending your hard earned dollars.

Diamond Engagement Rings - Important Details for Choosing a Diamond

The solitaire diamond ring is the engagement ring that everyone pictures. And with good reason. Although other gemstones such as emeralds and sapphires are becoming fashionable for engagement rings, a solitaire diamond is still the classic, safe choice.

Why? Because a diamond is traditional, and it goes with everything from blue jeans to a little black dress.

How to choose a good diamond

You've probably heard about the 4Cs: clarity, color, cut, and carat. Before you buy a diamond, make sure it has been independently appraised for all four of these qualities.

Clarity: this refers to the purity of the diamond, and it's the primary factor in determining the price. Clarity refers to how easily you can see imperfections in the diamond. The fewer the flaws, the more the light is reflected, and the more the sparkle.

Color: This is where the diamond gets it sparkle. Diamonds range from colorless to faint yellow. The brightest and most expensive have the least color.

Carat: this is the weight of the diamond, which determines its size. Diamonds are measured in carats, with 1 carat weighing 0.2 grams.

Cut: This is the diamond's shape. A diamond with a good cut means that all the facets are in the right proportions to each other, and different shapes, such as emerald, oval or round, have different, perfect, angles.

Avoid Conflict or Blood Diamonds

Blood diamonds, or conflict diamonds, are stones from countries such as Angola, Sierra Leone and the Democratic Republic of Congo, where the proceeds fund military and terrorist operations. While wars in many of those places have decreased in intensity, blood diamonds from certain areas are still being sold, and have caused massive human suffering.

Your engagement ring should reflect your joy and love. You can do your part by ensuring that the proceeds from your diamond will not been used to harm people in other countries. Jewelers committed to selling conflict-free diamonds often have systems in place to ensure no blood diamonds get in. Ask them about certification to ensure that the diamonds are conflict free.

Buying an engagement ring can be confusing. There are several other aspects that you should be aware of in choosing the gem and the setting, before you buy that special engagement ring.

Find out everything you need to know about buying an engagement ring at Engagement Ring Today, a popular website that specializes in offering free information on buying diamond, pearl, Moissanite and conflict free diamonds: http://engagementringtoday.com

Rare Blue Moonstone Jewelry

What is a moonstone?

The recent rise in popularity of moonstones used in jewelry is not surprising based on the history of the moonstone.

Moonstones were used as far back as 100 A.D. when the Romans thought that they were formed from moon light. In India of long ago and present day, people considered it a symbol of prosperity and good luck. Some Indian women attach the stones the inside of their skirts as they believe it will bring them increased fertility. The birthstone of Gemini's, they are considered a sacred stone in India.

What is it about a moonstone that is so alluring?

The mysterious play of shimmering, reflective light from the moonstone makes it alluring and very beautiful. When the stone is moved playfully in the light, the stone shows an opalescent luster and has a beautiful blue sheen that captivates the eye of the beholder.

In nature, the moonstone's qualities are hidden. It is when the stone cutter begins to shape the stone that the shimmering elegance begins to shine forth. It is often carved with a moon face.

The legends and beliefs associated with moonstones provide the owner with unusual qualities. Used frequently in promoting love, it can help reconcile lovers and open hearts. The gemstone can promote tenderness and bring happiness into its environment.

Moonstones come from a variety of places, but Sri Lanka seems to be the center of production. The composition of the stone is potassium aluminum silicates, a feldspar mineral. Blue is the most desirable color but it can also be found in grey, white, pink, green or brown. It is a relatively soft stone (a hardness of 6) and can be scratched easily.

Blue moonstones combined with sterling silver make beautiful necklaces, pendants and earrings. Many women love the way they look and feel while they are wearing them.

Rare Blue Moonstone Jewelry is available in many different styles with .925 sterling silver to accent the beauty of the moonstone.

Buying Loose Diamonds and Diamond Jewelry Online

Buying jewelry and precious stones such as diamonds, emeralds, rubies and sapphires has become a new "Internet trend".

Jewelry lovers, merchants and collectors often find their desired items online and for prices much lower than in the local jewelry stores.

Buying these items on the Internet saves the buyer a considerable amount of money since it cuts out the middle man. This way the buyer gets the best value for his money.
Unlike with other high end products sold online, the shipping and handling costs of the diamonds, gemstones and jewelry are minimal, making it very affordable to buy online.

What about fraud? When buying jewelry online, are you exposed to cheap products or even worse - fraudsters who can steal your money? Absolutely. Even though Credit and Debit Card companies today use security methods to combat the risk of fraud, it is still very important to pay close attention to whom your are giving your credit card details. Look for a phone number or live support on a website and ask them for their credentials. Check if the company has security checks of their own. If you receive patient and informative replies that could be a good indication of whether or not the site is genuine.

How can I know the quality of the item I get? Be a sensible buyer and always check out the details of the items. If it is gold, make sure you know if it is 14k or 18k. 18k is more pure and will therefore be worth more. Unlike gold, loose diamonds have several scales which determine the value of the stone. The weight, or Carat, is not the only criteria you should look for when buying a stone. Most people think that higher Carat means higher value. This common mistake lets jewelers make a nice profit.

The value of a diamond is determined by the following: Weight (Carat), Color, Clarity and Cut. Those are known as the 4 C's of a diamond.

Israel-Diamonds.com is one of the leading loose diamond and jewelry distributors online. Search our loose diamonds inventory.

Check out our new popular earring collection, go to: Diamond Stud Earrings.

Here's an interesting article about the Land Rover Discovery. The tame side of Land Rover Defender.

Citrine - The Lemon Gemstone

Citrine, a form of quartz similar to amethyst, was one of the most prized gemstones in antiquity because of its rare occurrence in nature. When intense heat is applied to the gemstone amethyst, it is transformed into citrine. This can happen in nature when deposits of amethyst are near a heat source in the earth's crust, but more often heat is applied industrially to create citrine. It can be transparent to translucent, and range in color from light yellow to golden brown. Naturally occurring citrine is usually a pale yellow, while citrine formed industrially is darker in color, with reddish tints.

Citrine gets its name from the old French word citrin, which means lemon. It is a relatively soft gemstone that is easily scratched. It is used in jewelry by itself, or is quite often combined with amethyst, peridot or garnet for contrast. It also compliments diamonds very well. Most natural citrine mined today comes from Brazil, with other deposits found in Russia, France and Madagascar.

This gemstone can be scratched rather easily, and its color will darken when exposed to too much sunlight. This darkening is permanent, so care is needed to keep the gemstone out of excessive amounts of sunlight. It is the birthstone for the month of November.

As most gemstones, Citrine has been attributed many healing and magical powers. Citrine was thought to stimulate the memory, influenced dreams, be a general talisman of protection, aid digestion, and enhance creativity. Also one of its main attributes was the power the stone had to protect against snake venom.

A stone that is readily available and relatively inexpensive, but as with all gemstones the better quality the stone (no matter what type) the higher the value and price. In the world of gemstones Citrine may have gotten its name from the old French word for lemon, but is far from being a 'lemon'. It is a versatile and beautiful stone.

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Lately, I've said goodbye to ordinary candles and started using Organic Candles. I tell you, you've got to try them too!

5 Types of Fashion Jewelry That Prevail In 2007

Jewelry, is the adornment of the human body. From the stone age to present time, its services have been changed from being religious belief to decorations of women. Jewelry never goes out of our lives. Today, the industry is reaching the peak that impressing us by the diversity of it, form delicately crafted jewelry to the more common kind of fashion, form titanium made to home made ones.

Fashion jewelry is the most popular type that favored by its grace and elegance. It can almost compare to the deluxe custom made pieces. More importantly, its low price ensures that it can be purchased readily by every people. Through a research conducted both online and off line, I sort them into 5 types - leisure jewelry, bold statement, pieces for special event wearing, men's wearing and kid's wearing.

Leisure jewelry, loved by ladies, is referred to the pieces that serves the pure sense of beauty. Besides eye-catching, some of them can cure and release pain - Jewelry therapy. A special magnet necklace can release your neck pain and man have already used it to cure partial body unease for centuries. Such magnet jewelry now have more selections of necklace and wrist belt. Others that are made of natural material or gemstone like pearl, turquoise, jasper, malachite are considered to reduce your blood pressure and stress by cooling your body.

Hand crafted jewelry- DIY your own pieces. It's not such a hard thing to make jewelry at home. The fact is that beaded necklace, bracelet and anklet are quite easy to make. Collect your necessary materials like beads, string and other adornments. Some times you may need to do a little polish and design plan to make a good-looking home-made jewelry. This kind of activity enrich your spare time and it is more interesting and meaningful if it is conducted with the family group or in a party.

Jewelry of bold statement,which conveys one simple theme - love. An engagement ring simply reflects how it can be used. Most of them feature designer-inspire form, eye-catching appearance and the strong feeling of affection. Such as a ring embedded with large gemstone or a sterling silver necklace. It is an excellent idea for wedding wearing, birthday party gift, valentine expression and promise gift.

Jewelry for special event. Piece that is designed to be worn for certain events like weddings or parties. A wedding brooch is crafted for bridesmaids in wedding festival. This brooch takes the shape of flower or leave and adorned by pearls. Want some special treat in your birthday party? There are LED jewelry that emit colorful light, best as party supplier to add joy and fun.

Men's wearing. Jewelry are exclusively used by women no more. Men's ring, men's bracelet and men's cross necklace. Now it's usual to see men wearing such kinds of things on street either for religious reasons or pursuit of fashion

Kid' wearing, are mainly referred to bracelets and anklets for child blessing. It's a eastern myth that by wearing them on a child or baby's hands and feet parents can bless their kids from injury and disease.

Advocate and writer about top fashion Jewelry and jewelry sourcing. learn more about fashion jewerly informations

at http://www.sourcingmap.com

Moissanite Engagement Rings - Brilliant Diamond Alternative Saves Money

Would you like to have a brilliant gem that is one of the rarest jewels in the world? Nearly indistinguishable from diamonds to the casual observer, Moissanite is a rare mineral that has the same or more brilliance and fire as a diamond.

What is it?

This lab-created mineral is almost as hard as a diamond, looks like diamond, but costs just a fraction of the price.

Relatively new on the jewelry scene, Moissanite was first discovered in 1893 by Nobel Prize winning scientist Dr. Henri Moissan while he was studying meteorite fragments. The naturally occurring meteorite crystals are too miniscule for use in jewelry, but a lab process was created to grow large, single crystals and the crystals became a practical choice for engagement rings.

Pros and Cons

Some people call Moissanite a fake diamond, but it's a genuine gemstone that should be valued for its unique properties. In fact, its hexagonal crystal structure is nearly twice as refractive as a diamond's isometric one. This gives it up to twice the brilliance and fire of a diamond, depending on the shape and cut of the stone.

It is nearly as hard as diamond and can be fashioned into a wide variety of shapes and settings. Unlike diamonds, it is rarely colorless, and may show faint green, gray, or yellow tints, especially in larger stones. Check it under different types of light to see how the color changes.

An affordable alternative

This gem can be less expensive than diamonds, but this depends on the quality of each type of stone. A poor-quality diamond may be less expensive than an exceptional Moissanite stone. As with any gemstone, examine the carat weight, color, purity, clarity and cut to insure you select a quality piece.

Moissanite is a rare and beautiful gem that has the distinction of originating in the stars. Not all jewelers carry it, but it is gradually becoming more popular, and may be a more affordable alternative to a traditional diamond engagement ring. You can find it in many jewelry stores, and online. Its stunning beauty makes it an intriguing choice for an engagement ring or wedding ring.

There are many different aspects to buying an engagement ring, and it's important to research all the options before you spend your money. Take the time to find out how to choose the gem and the setting, before you spend your hard-earned money on that special engagement ring.

Find out everything you need to know about buying an engagement ring at Engagement Ring Today, a popular website that specializes in offering free information on buying diamond, pearl, Moissanite and conflict free diamonds: http://engagementringtoday.com

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Men - Get The Look Of A High End Diamond Ring For Under $30

There's no doubt that when it comes to men's jewelry, a colossal diamond ring is a status symbol as much as it is a fashion statement. Men's diamond rings have become increasingly popular due to the exposure of fashion oriented celebrities such as Sean "P Diddy" Combs. These celebrities can be seen wearing large platinum or gold rings encrusted with many carats of VS quality diamond stones. While these works of art are extremely beautiful and pleasing to the eye, they come with a price tag of tens of thousands of dollars. For the modern everyday man, to spend that much on a ring is ludicrous regardless of income level.

Total Cost of Ownership

The total cost to own a diamond ring is extremely high, considering you only where it a few times a year realistically. What you don't realize is the opportunity cost involved in purchasing such a high cost ring. If you can't afford to pay for one all at once, putting it on a credit card is much worse. An $8000 ring can cost you well over $10,000 in the long run. So what is the point of spending so much on a ring that you're not going to wear a lot. Another issue that comes to mind is security. Where will you store it? What if you lose it? It's simply not wise to tie up so much money on something like a ring. I guess the only way this makes sense is if you are indeed a high income celebrity who can afford to throw away $10,000+. Luckily for the rest of us, there is a much better solution.

High Quality Men's Fashion Jewelry

Fashion jewelry has come a long way since the 90s. Over time new methods of production was discovered and nowadays you can pass off a lot of fashion jewelry as the real deal. They even last a whole lot longer. For large men's designs, a lot of fashion jewelry rings are now made with a rhodium plate. This is much more efficient than a simple silver plate because even genuine solid silver jewelry tarnishes. Rhodium is used to coat genuine white gold jewelry to prevent tarnish and to give the metal a nice deep platinum look. This is exactly why fashion jewelry makers now use rhodium as it provides a nice finish while preventing tarnish. The stones on men's fashion jewelry has come a long way as well, now using high quality diamond simulates that sparkle brightly. The best part about these gorgeous rings is that they cost less than $30. That makes a lot more sense for people like you and I.

Check out internet retailers such as hip hop bling for men's fashion jewelry and iced out rings. They offer a large selection of these products at fabulous prices. They also offer watches, chains, bracelets, hip hop jewelry and just about any other type of fashion jewelry for men.

Turquoise - The People's Stone

Turquoise is a stone familiar and valued since 3000 B.C.E. Ancient Egyptians, Persians, and Pre-Columbian Native Americans used it to make jewelry, mosaics, and carved it into many different shapes. The stone was unknown in Europe until the 14th century, when it was introduced by Turkish merchants. It is thought that the name of the stone was derived from the French word turc, which means Turk in English. This lead to the idea that the stone itself was mined by the Turks in their homeland. This is not true. The Turks were only merchants that dealt in the stone.

Rich deposits of turquoise mined in ancient times were located in Persia (modern day Iran), and some of the highest quality turquoise is still being mined there today. The stone is also found in Northern Africa, Australia, Siberia, and the American South West.

The Sacred Stone

Turquoise has been a sacred stone for many cultures. The Aztecs combined it with gold in ceremonial items. Some cultures believed that if a horse rider wore the stone it would protect them from falling off. It is a stone credited with bringing happiness and protection from accidents of all kinds, and with many other attributes. The stone is also thought to be one of the stones that make up the breastplate worn by Aaron in the book of Exodus of the bible. This breastplate had twelve gemstones on it, each one engraved with the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Some scholars believe that turquoise was one of these stones.

The sacredness of turquoise for Native Americans goes back before recorded time. It was carved into the shape of birds and animals. Some tribes put these carved items into tombs to help guard the dead and attract good spirits. The Shaman used turquoise for healing. Warriors attached the stone to the ends of their bows, for it was thought to ensure accurate arrow shots.

Although robin egg blue is the most familiar and most highly valued color for the stone, it can be sky blue, various shades of blue-green, to greenish gray. It is not always a solid color, and can have gradations of color within individual stones. Some stones have veins of other material running through them.

A very high quality turquoise can be expensive, but there are many beautiful stones available at a reasonable price. While this stone has been used and appreciated by royalty and the rich through the ages, it has also been available and appreciated by people in more common circumstances. And it remains the same to this day. A stone for all who appreciate its beauty, and its afford-ability. It is indeed The People's Stone.

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Amethyst - Named By The Ancient Greeks

The purple gemstone amethyst has been treasured by mankind since its discovery, and has been highly desirable by people in positions of authority throughout the ages. Tradition has it that the stone was worn as part of the official robes of ancient Jewish priests and represented the spirit of God. This type of quartz was used in jewelry and crowns of kings and queens of ancient Egypt, royalty of the Middle Ages of Europe, all the way to the present day.

The color of the stone can range from deep violet to pastel purple. The stone is found in various amounts in many places of the world, with most of the amethyst mined in modern times coming from South America. It is the birthstone for the month of February.

Origins Of The Name

The name amethyst comes from the ancient Greek word amethystos that means 'not intoxicated'. In ancient times it was thought that if a person drank alcohol from a cup made from amethyst they would not get drunk. This also led to the sprinkling of ground amethyst into wine to make the drinker immune from alcohol's effects.

These attributes for amethyst in turn derive from ancient Greek stories. One of these stories tells that the Greek god Dionysus was in love with a Greek maiden named Amethystos. She did not return his love, and prayed to the Greek goddess Artemis to protect her and her chastity from the drunken god. The goddess answered the prayer and turned Amethystos into crystals of white quartz. When Dionysus discovered what had happened, he wept for his lost love and poured his goblet of wine over the crystals, thus they were dyed purple.

From ancient Greece to modern times the rich purple hues of amethyst have made it a very popular gemstone. Formerly reserved for the rich and powerful, modern discoveries of large deposits of the stone in South America have made the beautiful stone affordable for more people to own and enjoy.

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The Tiara Effect - Princess Accessory

In modern times tiaras are often seen at weddings, balls and other formal events; but at one time they were the preserve of royalty. Indeed, a tiara is a form of crown which has been worn throughout history by various kings, queens, and emperors around the world, from Persia to Pompeii.

Most historians credit the Egyptians with creating the first tiaras, but since then they have featured in high society circles throughout history; Napoleon Bonaparte is said to have influenced the wearing of tiaras by making them a required accessory at all social functions during his reign, to ensure that others would take note of him and his family's affluence and nobility.

At one time, a tiara could be made of leather or other fabric, but now, a tiara refers to a semi-circular metal band which is often decorated with jewels and worn by women as a decoration rather than a symbol of rank. Queen Elizabeth is famed for her love of tiaras, and is said to have the largest and most valuable collection in the world - many of which have been passed down from other members of the British Royal Family or given to her as a gift by other countries.

Some pieces of the collection have been modified to include new jewels that have been presents to Her Majesty on later occasions; for example the Aquamarine and Diamond Tiara which was first made in 1957 consisted of three upright rectangular stones mounted on a simple platinum band. The large central stone was originally the pendant of the necklace given to The Queen by the president and people of Brazil in 1953 as a Coronation gift. In 1971 the tiara was adapted to take four scroll ornaments from an aquamarine and diamond jewel given to The Queen by the Governor of Sao Paulo in 1968. It's a priceless collection, selected pieces of which are sometimes put on display in London museums.

The popularity of tiaras waned during the mid 20th century but have recently made a revival, and today women wear tiaras for many special occasions such as proms, balls, weddings and beauty pageants. Today's tiaras are easier to wear than the tiaras of days gone by because they are now constructed with lighter materials, and they are available in a wide range of prices, meaning they are no longer the sole preserve of royalty.

Tiaras may have descended from Royal circles, but they now form a fashionable and elegant accessory which can turn any women, into a princess.

Andrew Regan is an online, freelance author from Scotland. He is a keen rugby player and enjoys travelling.

Celebrity Jewelry - Cuff Bracelets

As a native of New York City and also a marketing executive for a top jewelry retailer, I find it my number one duty to stay abreast of the current trends of celebrities and socialites alike. OK - so that might seem a bit exaggerated, especially seeing as fashion is (literally) all around me. On the streets of SoHo, on the subway, even in one of the nine trillion Starbucks in Manhattan. It's not exactly difficult for me to figure out what's up in the world of fashion.

So believe me when I say that big bracelets are, indeed, all the rage. Be it a cuff bracelet, or a ridiculously thick clasp bracelet with rows upon rows of material, big bracelets are definitely a current must. It seems like every celebrity I see is complementing their ensemble with one of these ostentatious, yet attractive, bracelets.

But the cuff bracelet does not bear the sole responsibility of "big bracelet." There are other ways to achieve big bracelet chicness! The "layered look" is also running rampant on the streets of Manhattan. Although the name probably explains itself, I will elaborate further...

Many women are stacking multiple thin bangles on top of one another to - deceivingly - present the look of one bracelet. The thinner the bracelet, the more you can stack! But don't overdo it or you will wind up looking like a wandering gypsy nomad, and no one wants that (Disclaimer: the previous sentence was not intended to offend any wandering gypsy nomads).

And don't forget to be creative! You don't have to stick to common metal alloys and gemstones - try a gold plated cuff with leather strewn in between gold wire. Perhaps a bracelet made entirely of enormous crystals is more your speed - then live it up!

Remember, selecting jewelry is your time to shine (pardon the cliche).

Jewelry is a form of expression - a form of art! So have at it and happy shopping!

Alexandra Z

http://www.mademoisellejewelry.com

Get The Perfect Wedding Rings Before You Get Married

Wedding planning is as important and exciting as the wedding ceremony itself. There are simple so many things that you need to prepare before the actual wedding take place and you want everything to be perfect and smooth. One of the most important things that you need to spend some time and money is the wedding ring.

When choosing a wedding ring, you need to think long term. You want to choose a jewelry style that can last a long time. Most women get fed up of a jewelry style in less than 10 years. If you want your women to wear your wedding ring and cherish it forever, you will need to find a perfect ring that is capable of showing your everlasting and undying love. After all, a wedding ring is a symbolic agreement that a couple decided to spend the rest of their lives together.

That's why it is so important that spend some time learning about diamonds. You should only choose wedding rings with nice diamond cut. A diamond cut is basically what determines the brilliance of the diamonds and you and I both know that women are crazy for diamonds. Without a nice cut, the diamond will not be able to show off it's true beauty and thus loses its charm and value. If you can't afford real diamonds, you can choose fake diamonds called cubic zirconia instead.

You should also pay attention to the type of metal used. If you have the money, go for platinum. Platinum is so much better than white gold because it's pure white, more durable and tend to last longer. If you can't afford platinum ring, go for white gold then. Diamonds simply look good on metal such as platinum and white gold.

Did you know that you can also engrave special message into your wedding rings? For centuries, secret messages have been etched onto rings of all types, but perhaps the most romantic is when they're engraved onto wedding rings. Although the size and width of the ring limits the message, creative couples can always find a way to convey a romantic thought. Some examples of messages people engrave onto their wedding rings are things like symbols, each others nickname, a special word, etc.

The custom of engraving wedding rings originated in Europe, but it has spread quickly to many other countries around the world. In some cultures, the wedding ring is only one of three rings that will be given when a couple is married. For example, it may first start with a simple engagement ring, then move onto the actual wedding ring, and finally an eternity ring. If you want to do something extra creative, you could try putting a message that spans across all three rings, in turn connecting the rings and making them all the more special and meaningful.

In short, be sure to spend some time while choosing the wedding rings. You want to make sure that they are as perfect and romantic as possible because you and your lover are going to wear them everyday.

To find more tips and information on finding the perfect rings for your wedding so that your love life and marriage will last forever, be sure to drop by our diamond wedding rings site.

Copyright 2007 - Jewel4Love.com.

Jewelry - Mixing Practicality and Beauty

Jewelry has greatly risen in popularity over the last few decades as one of the best gifts you can give someone. This is due to the many new options that are available on today's wide market. It isn't just about buying your girlfriend a little gold necklace or nice earrings to show that you care. A gift of jewelry can be the perfect way to tell any friend, relative, or lover that you really care for them.

It is not just about the piece of jewelry anymore but what you put inside the jewelry is what makes it a great gift. This has really become true thanks to all of the little customized pieces of jewelry that are now available and it is not just about the gift for them, it is also about the gift for yourself.

Jewelry can serve as a great gift for yourself for several reasons. The first merely revolves around expressing your individual fashion sense. It isn't too expensive to get a small customized locket or charm necklace that holds a favorite symbol or picture to make you feel a little better throughout the day.

If you really love Norse Mythology, then you could easily get a small metal piece engraved with a favorite quote. Or, you could get a small locket and keep a little picture of a lost relative close to your heart. Maybe you just like turtles and want a bracelet or set of earrings that displays this. In the end, it is your choice as to what you want to display.

The second reason has to do with displaying information of a much different kind. Someone with severe allergies or health issues should wear a medical ID bracelet. In the event of an unfortunate accident, the responding paramedics could immediately know about drug allergies and change their plans accordingly. But, these bracelets are not cool.

The standard has been just a little metal plate hanging on your wrist. That will not impress anyone. Today, you can preserve your health and your image by having a customized ID bracelet made. It is possible to have the ID plate surrounded by beads, decorative designs, charms, ties, or just about anything that you could possibly imagine. The plate is just safely planted in the material of your choice, making them practical and beautiful.

It goes without saying that jewelry can be a great gift for a loved one. A beautiful ring, bracelet, necklace, or earring should tell your girlfriend how much your care. No matter what happens, it will always be true that diamonds are a girl's best friend. It isn't just a little gift for a girlfriend, fiance, or wife though.

You can buy a small, tasteful locket for a friend and have it engraved with a little inside joke or picture. If you're into the best friends forever thing, you can even get a matching one. That way either one of you can brighten up a lousy day by looking at the few words and recalling the good times.

It should be pretty obvious that jewelry is a good choice for just about anyone. It has always been a great gift to express how much you care, but it is now even available as a way to express yourself or protect your health.

We are your one stop for Medical ID bracelets, Lockets, and other types of Personalized Jewelry. Visit us today.

Everything You Should Know About David Yurman Jewelry

Wearing a beautiful piece of jewellery is always the last addition one makes to their dress for an occasion. There are some who like diamonds, and others who prefer putting on a simple chain with an elegant pendant. Today, there are designers into creation of exquisite jewellery, sometimes with semi precious stones and others that are equally ravishing. Different people have different tastes, and so to cater to a wide market, there are varieties or products available. If you were to walk into a mall, you will find stores displaying designer pieces ranging from watches to rings and necklaces. One such designer who has carved a name for himself is David Yurman. The David Yurman Jewelry is available at select outlets and deals in men, women related items and other gift items.

Bracelets, clocks, necklaces, chains and watches form part of the David Yurman Jewelry collection. You could pick up a pink cable candy ring or a confetti ring that has many stones on it. These would perk up your appearance and add a touch of glamour. Their blue topaz earrings are a major attraction, and so are the Waverly watches series that look like bracelets fitted with an elegant dial. Whatever be the occasion, you are sure to find that perfect piece of jewelry here that would make your evening better and draw attention to you. If you wish to, you can get one of his simpler enhancers fitted with different stones, topaz to cerise, that have a ring of diamonds surrounding the stone and come with a thick silver chain. You get these both in gold and silver finish, with a wide choice in shape for the pendants. Whatever be the piece of David Yurman jewelry you pick up, it will be unique and one of a kind.

Written by Sophia Renaldson. Find the latest information on David Yurman Replica Earrings as well as David Yurman Replica Rings

How Jewelry Can Help With Charity

Jewelry (joias) is a common fashion item, worn by men, women and children alike regardless of social status. It is used for adornment and as a show of wealth or position around the globe. It is produced in thousands of tonnes every year, ranging from simple beaded jewelry to expensive and intricate gold pieces. It makes a statement about the wearer, and was as much a part of society in ancient times as it is in modern living.

However, recent trends towards the environment and economical situations worldwide have enabled jewelry (joias) to be used in a much more important way than mere investment or adornment. It is now being used to assist good causes and aid charities with funding.

The concept of charity is long established in the fashion industry, and now there is an influx of similar events around jewelry design, manufacture and production. Charity jewelry (joias) is a fantastic choice for many reasons. The obvious reason is that it raises money for a good cause. However, on another note it is often designed by famous designers at a fraction of the cost. It is often limited edition or unique in design, with each piece being hand made. It is a beautiful gift but has the added value of aiding a good cause. In time, the piece will become collectible.

One way in which jewelry (joias) is helping good causes is through charity events such as fashion shows. These fundraiser shows support specific causes with a donation of sales going to the named charity. Other features include famous designers providing designs for free to attract interest, or other famous names donating pieces to jewelry auctions with the funds donated.

Awareness jewelry is also a popular approach, with all major charities such as cancer research selling pin badges, ribbons and charity bands for small donations.

Another way in which jewelry (joias) is helping charities is through non profit charity organisations. These organisations encourage communities in need of financial assistance to create jewelry based on attainable natural resources including seeds, wood and semi precious stones such as jade. This enables communities in need to raise money which can be invested in areas that require urgent funding.

One such example is uniteforsight.org based in Africa. This charity supports rural villages and refugee camps by selling their handmade jewelry (joias) over the internet with the money that is raised funding their own eye care expenses. Other examples include organisations which work globally to rebuild lives of children and women at risk. The products are made by the people that receive the funds, creating employment and money raising opportunities.

Fair trade is a recognised organisation which is backed by the world leaders of the richest countries. They ensure that the jewelry (joias) they sell contains materials that respect conservation areas, that products replanted where possible and that any hazardous waste materials are disposed of correctly. This aids regeneration whilst ascertaining fair prices and employment for third world producers of jewelry and materials. There are 40,000 traders in America alone producing fair trade products, which include linens, food and jewelry. Products can be bought on the high street and are available also online for better marketing and availability.

Jewelry makers are also looking at the resources used. Precious metals are limited and so the amount released for the purpose of jewelry making is monitored yearly. It is environmentally safe as it is recycled as heirlooms and collectables. This means that jewelry (joias) is not destroying the earth supplies. Mining is safer for workers and the environment in modern day also. Another popular trend is to use natural and sustainable ingredients such as seeds, wood and semi precious stones, with recycled packaging.

This article can also be accessed from page Jewelry
Roberto Sedycias works as IT consultant for PoloMercantil

Crystal Makes Chic Jewellery

Crystal has always been popular for different purposes. Some use crystal to decorate their homes with objects like chandeliers and figurines of big and small sizes, while some use it in the form of beautiful utensils. Then there are people who believe in the healing powers of crystal and wear them to cure themselves of different ailments. There are different ways people choose to use crystal. But the most common use of all may be wearing them as jewelery.

This jewelery is quite popular in the UK and around the world. They are recognized because of their brilliance and because they make attractive jewelery. The colorful pieces of crystal, when they come in contact with light, produce a reflection of many colors that looks quite bewitching. It is one quick way of catching attention and, therefore, this type of jewelery are such a hit with women from different corners of the world.

Due to the sparkling properties of crystal, people are now using them in the accessories as well. From belts to bags, people are experimenting with this and their overall appearance. These are also made into beads to string them and make them into fine jewelery. Necklace and bracelets are given a special glow with crystal beads. Crystal beads are available in different shapes and sizes. And they can be used to make different and wonderful patterns and designs.

When this is carved into the shape of a droplet or a sphere, they make beautiful, eye-catching pendants. Some jewelers put a coating of Aurora Borealis on these pendants which gives them depth and different colors. When light reflects on them, they produce a varied range of colors. These pendants can not only be used in necklaces, but they are also used in bracelets and anklets and that looks really chic.

About The Author:
Paul Shane cherishes a hobby of studying and collecting Jewellery, to dig out the making and story behind them, especially the rare or exquisite ones, also the Pearls being used for manufacturing the jewelery. He also loves studying consumer behavior related to jewelery selecting and buying. At present he is associated with a leading group called E-Beads Limited.

Being Smart While Shopping for Vintage Jewelry

Jewelry of any kind makes a fashion statement, but perhaps the most interesting statement can be made by selection vintage jewelry. The workmanship in high quality vintage jewelry stands out from what you can buy in modern jewelry stores, and you'll stand out as someone with a very decided style.

Vintage jewelry is often quite detailed. That is one of the charms of it. A lot of work has clearly gone in to much of it.

You can buy both fine and fashion jewelry when you look for vintage pieces. In fine jewelry, it can have the advantage that the quality of gemstone is often higher than is easily available today. Edwardian jewelry in particular tends to use gemstones such as emeralds, sapphires, rubies and diamonds to good advantage.

A key factor in choosing good vintage jewelry is the condition it is in. Many pieces are very difficult or even essentially impossible to repair within a reasonable cost. The occasional loose or missing gemstone, especially if it is small, may not be a disaster, but other kinds of damage may be more serious.

There are a few areas you need to be careful in when shopping for vintage pieces. Perhaps the most obvious to say is that you need to know the difference between vintage and reproduction. It's not that uncommon to see pieces that are labeled as vintage style. You don't want to pay an excessive price for reproductions when you're looking for the real thing.

One of the delights of online shopping is that it is easier to find the pieces you want. Auction sites make this much easier, but you do have to be careful. It's all too easy to be fooled as to what it is you are buying.

One of the most important things to know is the reputation of the seller. Auction sites tend to make this easy with feedback given on transactions and available publicly. This lets you know if the seller has been providing quality products, at least if they've been around a while.

You'll also want to inspect pictures carefully. A good auction will include some closeup shots, so that you can really see the details of the piece and any flaws. Corrosion, discoloration and holes are all flaws that cannot be repaired, and you will want to consider if they ruin the piece for you.

Read the descriptions carefully. With vintage jewelry it is too common to read descriptions that are somewhat misleading, such as when something is of a vintage style. If you miss the word that makes it clear that something is not actually a vintage piece you can end up overpaying by quite a bit.

Cautious shopping, however, can result in great finds at reasonable or even amazing prices. If something doesn't feel right, trust that instinct, but if everything is checking out you might just find a beautiful new piece of jewelry for your collection.

Stephanie Foster runs http://www.findvintagejewelry.com/ because she loves shopping for fine vintage jewelry. Visit her site to find vintage jewelry to add to your collection.

Redeem Yourself on Your Wedding Day

Your plans are set, the tuxedos have been chosen, and the invitations are on their way. Of course, being the typical groom you were there for every decision, painstakingly fretting over every detail with your bride. Yeah right! If you're like most grooms your input ended with "Will you marry me?" but that's OK because you have a chance to redeem yourself. Most men have no idea how much work goes in to planning a wedding and it's very likely that your bride has placed her heart and soul in to creating a perfect day for you both and your friends & family. Don't miss your chance at thanking her for everything that she has done by giving her a wedding gift. In this article I will share with you ideas on how to choose a meaningful gift that'll warm her heart and make this very special day - just a little more special!

Give the gift of jewelry

I can't think of a better wedding gift to give than jewelry, it's always a romantic gift but in this case it's a great choice for so many reasons. First - it makes a stronger statement than just about any other gift you can give. Second - if you choose the right gift, she can wear it on her wedding day. Third - in some cases the jewelry that you give her can be worn for many years to come. So you can see that jewelry is a wonderful wedding day gift on so many levels. There are several jewelry items that is appropriate for wedding gifts and I'll cover the most important or popular with you.

Choosing a gift that she can wear on her wedding day and beyond

Diamond stud earrings are a classic jewelry gift and one of the best for a wedding day gift. Diamond studs are a staple in every woman's jewelry wardrobe and this is because they can be dressed up or dressed down. Many brides will wear the diamond studs that you give them on their wedding day, and of course she'll have them forever. Choosing the perfect diamond studs requires a little thought on your part, you should know what shape diamond engagement ring you've given her and what color precious metal her wedding set is made of. When choosing diamond studs, be sure to match the shape of the diamond to the diamond shape in her engagement ring. The most popular shapes for diamond studs are round or princess cut and chances are that her engagement ring is one of these shapes as well. Look for a jeweler that offers a lifetime upgrade policy on diamond studs, this way you'll be able to go up in size for other occasions. A good upgrade policy will give you full trade-in value on your studs toward a pair of a larger size. You can get great ideas on diamond studs and pricing by visiting http://www.rokstok.com.

Other ideas for jewelry gifts

If you think diamond studs are too safe or if you've already given them to her then you're going to need some other ideas. Weddings are of course a formal event and formal jewelry can be a very fun or daring gift. Some ideas for formal jewelry are dangle earrings, drop earrings, or necklaces. Dangle or drop earrings are longer and more dramatic looking earrings usually set with diamond or colored gemstones. They catch much attention and look amazing with a wedding dress, but keep in mind that she won't get as much use out of them as a simpler or more basic jewelry gift. Although, she'll be able to wear them for other formal events like your friend's weddings. One great idea for dangle earrings is chandelier earrings.

Pearl necklaces are one of the most popular wedding day gifts because many wedding dresses are made with sequins or beads that look like pearls. So a pearl necklace is a very appropriate choice, it's also a sophisticated and charming gift that she can cherish for many years to come. Many mothers give their daughters pearls that they have worn on their wedding day and this of course was made popular because of the tradition of wearing "something old", "something new", "something borrowed", "something blue".

A great time to give her your carefully selected wedding gift is the night of your rehearsal dinner, when you'll be surround by friends and family. Giving your beautiful bride a wedding day jewelry gift gives you a chance to slow down from the manic wedding planning and thank her for all the hard work that she has done and also tell her how much she means to you.

Andy Moquin

CEO

1-888-296-489

Andy Moquin has spent 20 years in the jewelry business buying and selling over $20,000,000 in diamonds, engagement rings and custom designed jewelry. He as traveled to Belgium and Israel to work with international diamond dealers and works as an advisor for DBC Diamonds an international consortium of diamond dealers. His experience in the jewelry business has become invaluable to consumers and business owners. He can be contacted at 716-630-7091, andrew@andrewsjewelers.com, www.andrewsjewelers.com , www.rokstok.com

Dubai 3Q Rough Diamond Trade Up 31%

The Dubai Diamond Exchange, a subsidiary of Dubai Multi Commodities Centre said Wednesday that the total trade in rough diamonds in Dubai reached $1.08 billion in the third quarter of 2007, a 31 percent increase year-over-year.

During the period, rough diamond imports into Dubai reached $447.6 million, up 32 percent year-over-year. Exports reached $640.2 million, a 30 per cent increase year-over-year.

“DMCC adopted the Master Plan for the diamond trade earlier this year to further develop a service economy supporting the diamond trade," Ahmed bin Sulayem, DMCC executive chairman and DDE deputy chairman. "Under this plan, DMCC launched International Diamond Laboratories, which provides high-quality diamond certification services, and appointed Jean van der Donckt as Special Advisor – Diamond Banking to foster the growth of diamond banking in Dubai.”

He added: “Such proactive initiatives undertaken by DMCC to develop the physical infrastructure and ancillary services are poised to further enhance confidence in the regional diamond trade.”

Youri Steverlynck, DDE chief executive officer, added: “The DDE’s efforts to enhance the diamond trade through value-added initiatives are clearly paying off. Today, Dubai has grown from being a transit point for rough diamonds to a center that provides comprehensive range of services, from mining to retail to the recently launched certification services.”

A total of 646 Kimberley Process certificates were issued by DDE in the third quarter of 2007.