Crash Course In Pearl Selection

What could be more beautiful, more traditional, more right than watching your bride walk down the aisle adorned in pearls? But buying fine jewelry for the woman of your dreams may seem to be a daunting task. Let me make it easy for you. There is nothing more beautiful to complement a wedding dress than a stunning strand of pearls.

Since pearls come in a variety of shapes, colors and overtones they are the versatile, perfect choice to support any wedding theme. Among the various types of pearls there is nothing more classic than a Bride in a white flowing gown, her neck draped with dazzling Akoya pearls known for their brilliant luster, elegance and infinite versatility. With uniformly round shapes, exceptional luster, shimmering orient, and an array of natural colors such as peach, lavender and white Cultured Freshwater Pearls are sure to charm and surprise your beautiful bride who’s looking for a more modern and contemporary wedding. And if you’re looking for something truly one of a kind then Tahitian Pearls in a tantalizing array of bold colors such as peacock, pistachio green and silver are perfect for an exotic wedding. Even White or Golden South Sea is sure to enhance the beauty of your bride.

Pearls are available in different grades and the buyer must bear some knowledge while selecting perfect pearl for your bride. Choose the right grade for your brides pearl jewelry. There are various grades that categorize pearls into different qualities.

1. A/A+: “A” quality is the lowest quality that is commercially available with wrinkles, small cracks, white or brownish spots, dimples and other nasty blemishes on their surface. They will be off-shape and only moderately matched.

2. AA: This quality pearls are near round in shape will have fair to good luster and the matching is done well.

3. AA+: Pearls of this quality are found perfectly round and well matched. The luster will be slightly sharper than the AA pearl and can be determined if can see your reflection in the pearl and some background detail.

4. AAA: Pearls of this quality are said to be ‘gem-quality’ pearl as it has less than 5% inclusions over its surface, and also can be completely free of inclusions with luster that sharper than AA+ quality. They have a glowing surface that is slightly translucent. There is little to no variation in shapes and matching of a strand.

5. HANADAMA: The term Hanadama is synonymous with rose color and vendors call them the flower pearls because of their rose colors, which lend proof to the fact that Hanadama is simply an identifying characteristic of color assuming the pearls have good luster and nacre. These are the absolute best Akoya pearls that you can buy.

It an be concluded that with a little crash course in pearl selection, you are ready to select the best pearl jewelry that she will treasure for a lifetime!

Diamond Replica Jewelry - Affordable Jewelry

A diamond is considered to be women’s best friend. But having this best friend is not an easy affair. One needs to shell out a huge amount for it. In that case, diamond replica jewelry comes as an easy way out. It is exactly the same as real diamond jewelry, but the only difference is that it is a replica. Diamond replicas have also become a rage these days. The beautiful diamond jewelry worn by famous personalities becomes a fashion statement and comes in the market as diamond replica jewelry.

Besides diamond replica jewelry, you can also go for some real diamond jewelry. You can get some of the unique designs in real diamond jewelry. There are some of the best designs in diamond rings. A diamond engagement ring is the best you can give to your fiancé. Diamond rings and bands are also ideal as a gift. Fine diamond jewelry must be the main priority when buying diamond jewelry. A diamond is also said to be forever, so even if you buy it generally it will be a treasured possession.

Diamond is one of the Indian astrological stones. Many a times, a diamond is prescribed for astrological reasons. Amongst all the gemstones, diamond is considered to be the most expensive. If you want to wear a diamond for astrological reasons a diamond ring appears to be the best option. A diamond is said to add its sparkling rays in a positive manner to your life. Diamond bracelets and diamond bangles are also very beautiful and add a beauty to your wrist.

Diamond necklace jewelry and diamond necklace sets spread sparkling rays all over you. So you can also get the diamond rays sparkle over you and on others by having diamond jewelry. Then you can make others jealous of your style by wearing a diamond necklace set or diamond bangles or even a diamond bracelet. Diamond is the in-thing lady. So get it and flaunt it. But why should men be left behind in this race. There are beautiful diamond rings, bracelets and studs for you.

Diamond replica jewelry has become a fashion trend these days. Its style and affordable price has made it popular among one and all.

Rare and Precious Gold and Platinum Buying Guide(2)

Platinum: cool, classic, and contemporary

Platinum, which has been used in jewelry since the turn of the century, became especially popular during the Edwardian period because its malleable character made it a natural for the intricate and lacy work style of the day.

Platinum is frequently used in finest jewelry and to set the most valuable gems because it’s more “workable” and easier to move the prongs or setting around the stone, thereby reducing the risk of accidentally damaging it. Long a favorite for classic looks and for the finest diamond settings, platinum is now evolving as the metal of choice for design trends; sleek, bold, contemporary looks for brooches, necklaces, chains, and earrings. Sometimes platinum is alloyed with another metal to create an interesting color, or used alongside gold to create an innovative look.

Nothing is purer than platinum

Platinum is even more rare and valuable than gold. The platinum family is composed of six elements; platinum, palladium, iridium, osmium, rhodium, and ruthenium. These six silvery white metals are generally found together in nature, with platinum and palladium the most abundant, and osmium, rhodium, and ruthenium the rarest.

Platinum is rarest and heavier than other precious metals and as the purest, it’s sometimes referred to as the “noblest.” Most platinum jewelry also contains small amounts of the rarer and more expensive elements iridium or ruthenium for added strength.

Because platinum is so pure, it rarely causes allergic reactions. This is greatly appreciated by those sensitive people who experience reactions to or skin discoloration from jewelry containing base metals. In addition, platinum is somewhat stronger than other precious metals.

Platinum is identified by karat marks. In the United States, the abbreviations PT or plat indicate platinum. In Europe the numerical marks 950 or PT950 indicate platinum. The finest jewelry often uses platinum mixed with 10% iridium or ruthenium for added strength. This cost more since these are rarer and costlier metals.

Rhodium plating

Rhodium, another member of platinum family, is the brightest and most reflective of all the platinum metals. Rhodium is also harder and whiter than platinum and, because it is so durable, doesn’t wear off quickly, as does gold plating. A a result, it is often used to coat gold and platinum jewelry.

Rhodium plating should be considered especially for people who have allergic reactions to 10 KT or 14 KT gold, since it can help eliminate reaction to the alloys.

Yellow gold, white gold, or platinum: Which one?

To decide whether or not you want yellow gold, white gold, or platinum, you must first decide which color metal you prefer. This selection usually depends on personal preference, skin tone, and the color of other jewelry you may own. If your choice is yellow gold, keep in mind that it is available in several different shades, including a pure yellow, a pinkish yellow, and greenish yellow.

If you decide yellow is the color you want, then you must decide whether to get 14 Karat or 18 Karat. Certainly, 14 KT is more affordable than 18 KT; it is also harder. But the yellow won’t be as bright. If you refer a brighter yellow, we recommend that you ask your jeweler for a 14 KT gold with an 18 KT finish, that is, an 18 KT coating over the 14 KT. After several years the finish may wear off, but it can be re-plated foe a minimal charge.

If you prefer a white metal, your choice may be more difficult. Even though white gold and platinum may be similar in appearance, they are very different metals. As we mentioned, platinum is much more expensive, so if you’re on a limited budget, white gold may be the sensible choice. White gold is very hard and very resistant to scratching but exhibit a brownish or yellowish cast which must be covered by rhodium plating. As we mentioned, this plating will eventually wear off, although it can easily be re-plated.

One significant disadvantage of white gold is that it is more brittle than platinum or yellow gold. So if you decide on white gold, be sure to have your jeweler check the setting; especially prongs, at least once a year.
Platinum is somewhat softer and more malleable than white gold, making it an ideal choice for very intricate settings that require intensive labor. It is much easier to use platinum for pave work, that is, designs in which the stones are set as closely together as possible, With platinum, the jeweler can also make a safer setting because a larger prong can be used, since platinum conforms so easily to the shape of the stone, reducing risk of damage. Over time, platinum also holds up better than gold
One disadvantage of platinum is that many jewelers do not have proper equipment to work with it. This, combined with platinum’s cost, results in more limited variety of styles from which to choose. If you like basic classic design, you shouldn’t have a problem finding a setting you like. But if you need custom work to get the look you want, it can add substantially to the cost of the finished piece.

In final analysis, it is up to the individual to weight the relative advantage and disadvantage of gold or platinum. Whichever precious metal you select, there are many beautiful styles and designs from which to choose.

Rare and Precious Gold and Platinum Buying Guide(1)

Gold: The timeless choice

Gold jewelry is very popular today and available in more styles, colors, and finishes than ever before. It is also a popular choice for setting gemstones. But it is very important to understand gold, and differences that affect price, in order to avoid confusion about the wide range of prices that seems to pervade the market for what may appear to be the “same thing.” As with gems, wherever there are significant price differences there are usually quality differences. The key to getting value in gold is understanding what accounts for differences in quality and price.

What is gold?

Gold is one of the world’s most precious metals. It is so soft and workable that one ounce can be stretched into a five mile long wire, or hammered into a sheet so thin that it could cover a hundred square feet. It is one of our rarest metals, and since pure gold doesn’t rust or corrode, it can last forever. Interestingly, gold is present almost everywhere around us; in the earth’s crust, in seas and rivers, and in plants, but it is very difficult and expensive to extract. Approximately two and a half to three tons of ore are needed to extract one ounce of gold.

Most gold used in jewelry is an alloy

Gold is the most popular metal used for jewelry today. The simple gold wedding band probably accounts for more of the world’s gold than any other single type of jewelry. But pure gold is very soft so it is usually mixed with other metals to make it stronger and prevent it from bending too easily. When two or more metals are mixed together, we call the resulting product an alloy. Most gold used in jewelry is an alloy; and the metals added to the gold are also called “alloys.”

What is a Karat? Or is it Carat?

In jewelry, the term carat (or, Karat) has a double meaning: carat is used as a measurement of weight for gemstones, with one carat weighing 1/5 gram; carat is also used in countries around the word to indicate the amount of pure gold in a piece of gold jewelry. In the United States, however, when using the word to indicate gold content rather gemstone weight, it is spelled with a “K;” hence “karat,” to avoid confusion. Jewelry should always be marked to indicate how much pure gold it contains.
In the united States a karat mark, abbreviated to K or KT, indicates the amount of pure gold present in the metal. The word karat (carat) is derived from the word for fruit of the carob tree: in Italian, carato; in Arabic, qirat; in Greek, keration. The seeds of the fruit were used in ancient times for weighing gems. Also, the pure gold Byzantine coin cald the solidus weighed 24 karats. therefore, a 24 karat mark (24K or 24KT) became the mark used to indicate that something was pure gold.
To understand the concept as applied to gold, imagine that, “pure gold” is a pie into 24 equal “slices” or parts. Each karat equals one part of the pie. So, 24 KT would mean that 24 parts (out of a total of 24) are gold. In other words, 24 KT would be 100% gold; or, pure gold. In the 18 karat gold jewelry, 18 parts are pure gold and six are another metal (or, 18/24 = 3/4 = 75% pure gold); in 12 karat, 12 parts are pure gold, 12 parts another metal (12/24 = 1/2 = 50% pure gold). And so on.
I some cultures, 24 karat gold jewelry is required for certain jewelry pieces, but it’s generally agreed that 24 karat, or pure gold, is too soft for jewelry use. In some parts of the world, 18 KT 0r 20 karat is preferred because of its brighter yellow color and because it is considered “purer” and more precious. In the United States, we prefer 14 or 18 karat gold because it is more durable than higher karat gold. We caution clients about the risk of high karat gold (20 KT, 22 KT, or 24 KT) for a gem-studded setting because prongs can be too easily bent open accidentally, resulting in the loss of the stones.
In some countries such as Italy, the percentage of pure gold is indicated by a number representing how many parts; out of a total of 1,000 parts, are pure gold. One thousand parts would be the equivalent or 24 karat; 750 means 750 parts of 1,000: 750/1000 = 75/100 = 75% pure gold. This corresponds to 18 KT.

A word about Russian marks

Old time pieces made in Russia were marked to indicate the content on its equivalent to a “zolotnik.” A piece marked 96 contained as much gold as 96 zolotniks, which equals pure gold; 72 equals 18 KT (750); 56 equals 14 KT (585).

To be called gold, what is the minimum gold content?

Many countries have established minimum standards that must be met for items to be legally called “gold.” The laws governing the actual content of gold required in piece of jewelry, however, vary. In the United States, to be called “gold,” the item must be at least 10 KT; in England and Canada, 9 KT; in Italy and France, 18 KT.

The many colors of gold

Pure gold is always yellow. But because pure gold is too soft for most jewelry use, and must be mixed with other metals (alloys) to increase its hardness, the color can also be modified by adding varying amounts of these other metals. Those usually added to gold for jewelry use include copper, zinc, silver, nickel, platinum, and palladium (a metal in the platinum family). Depending upon which alloys are used, a variety of colors can be produced. Another practice is to plate 14 KT gold jewelry with 18 KT for an 18 KT look, that is, a stronger yellow color. White gold is also frequently plated with rhodium, a rare and more expensive metal from the platinum family, to create a whiter, brighter finish.

Some people are allergic to nickel and should not wear white gold containing nickel. For this reason, a white gold alloyed with palladium is being used by some manufacturers. White gold that contains palladium will be more expensive than yellow gold or white gold containing another alloy. But it is still less expensive than platinum.

What causes skin discoloration with some gold jewelry?
Pure gold doesn’t tarnish and won’t discolor the skin, but alloys in the gold can corrode and produce discoloration to the skin in contact with the gold, especially under moist or damp conditions. Fats and fatty acids present in perspiration can set up a corrosive reaction, and the problem can be worse in warm, humid areas, especially where chloride (salt) is in the air.
Smog can also be a problem. Smog fumes can introduce chemicals that cause the alloys in gold to tarnish. The tarnish then rubs off, discoloring skin or clothing.
Cosmetics may be culprit.
Another common cause of discoloration is metallic abrasion caused by some makeup. Some makeup contains compounds that are actually harder than the jewelry with which it comes into contact. As the harder compounds rub against the jewelry, they cause tiny particles of metal to flake off, forming a darkish looking dust. When this dust makes contact with a soft, absorbent surface such as skin or clothing, it forms a black smudge.

There are several possible solutions to the problem of skin discoloration. First, get into the habit of removing jewelry often and cleaning the skin that has been in contact with it with soap and water. Keep your jewelry clean as well, and wipe it periodically with a soft cloth to remove tarnish. Next, try using an absorbent body powder, one free of abrasives, on all areas of your skin that are in contact with jewelry.

Pay attention to the design of jewelry you select if skin discoloration seems to be a problem; wide shanks can cause perspiration, and rings with an inner concave surface can cause moisture and contaminants to collect, causing both discoloration and dermatitis.

finally, try switching to a higher gold content or to a different manufacturer. The higher the gold content, the less likely it is that discoloration will occur because in the higher karat gold there is less of the alloy, such as copper, silver, nickel, that might corrode. People who have a problem wearing 14 KT gold jewelry may find that the problem disappears with 18 KT gold.

Sometimes simply changing to a similar product by a different manufacturer may solve the problem. This does not mean that one product is inferior to the other. Manufacturers often use different combinations of alloys, or different percentages or ratios of alloys. They may look the same, but you might find you can wear one manufacturer’s line better than that of another.

Since different metals, and different ratios, are used to produce different colors, discoloration may result when wearing one particular color or gold, but not when wearing other colors. If there seems to be a problem when wearing white gold, try white gold alloyed with platinum rather than nickel, since platinum won’t corrode.

Determining value requires more than scale!

- Weight is one factor that goes into determining the value of a piece of gold jewelry. Gold usually sold by weight, in grams or pennyweights. There are 20 pennyweights to one ounce; if you multiply grams by 0.643, you will have the number of pennyweights. Weight is important because it is an indication of the actual amount of pure gold in the piece. However, it is only one factor only to consider. When buying gold from a gold manufacturer, for example, factored into the price per gram is the cost of gold PLUS the cost for labor and workmanship. The price always takes into consideration:
1) The type of construction,
2) The means of production, and
3) How the piece is finished.

- Design and construction is important not only because of the piece’s finished look, but also because specific details in the overall design and construction affect comfort, wear-ability, and ease in putting the piece on or taking it off. Good design requires excellent designers, and extra care and attention to small mechanical details. This adds to the cost of any piece of jewelry.

In addition, jewelry design is also becoming recognized as an “art,” and jewelry designers as “artists.” some award winning designers command top dollar, as do top painters, sculptors, and other artists. A piece of gold jewelry made by a fine designer, especially if it is a one-of-kind or limited edition piece, will sometimes sell for much more than another piece of mass produced gold jewelry of the same weight and gold content.
In looking at a piece of gold jewelry, you must also consider the type of construction necessary to create a particular design or look. Is the construction simple or complex? Did the piece require extensive labor or minimal labor? Did it require special skill, talent, or equipment?
To ignore the design and construction factors and assign a value to apiece of gold jewelry based on gold content (i. e. 14 KT, 18 KT, etc.) and weight alone would be equivalent to placing a value on a painting based on the cost of paint and canvas alone.

- Production can affect price significantly. Is the piece produced by machine or by hand? The type of construction required to create a particular design may require that it be made entirely, or in part, by hand, while others can be completely made by machine. Some designs may be produced either way, but those done by hand will have a different look, and cost.

- Finish is where we take into account the care and labor costs associated with the actual finishing of the piece. For example, are there any special skills or techniques required to put on the final touches that make the piece distinctive, such as engraving, milgraining, hammering, or granulation? here we also need to note whether or not the piece has been carefully polished to remove any scratches that might diminish its beauty, or rough edges that might be abrasive or catch or snag on fabric. Consider whether the item was hand polished or machine polished; some pieces are machine made, but finished by hand. We must also take into consideration any special finishes to the metal itself, such as a florentine, matte, or sand blasted finish. Each step in the process, and each special step or skill required, adds; sometimes dramatically, to the cost.

Adding it all up

Many pieces of gold jewelry look alike at first glance. When examined carefully, however, if often becomes clear where the difference lie, both in quality and cost. Ask your jeweler to help you understand these differences by comparing different qualities for you. Only after carefully evaluating all these factors can you appreciate gold jewelry and recognize cost differences and real value.

Is that “Bargain” really a bargain?

Beware of underkarating, which is a serious problem around the world. If a piece of gold jewelry is underkarated, it means that the jewelry is marked to indicate a certain gold content, but actually contains less than is indicated. Needless to say, retailers who knowingly sell underkarated gold jewelry create the impression that they are giving you a bargain because their prices are so low, but if there is actually less gold ( and more alloy, so the piece would have a comparable weight to the others you might be considering), you aren’t getting any bargain. Unfortunately, most people never learn that they have bought underkarated gold. Thus, it is very important to buy gold jewelry from a reputable source, one that makes the effort to check its gold shipments carefully.

Look for a manufacturer’s registered trademark. Being sure gold is properly represented in terms of its value is what really matters; you should get what you pay for. Buying from a reliable source is the first step. In addition, be sure to look for a manufacturer’s registered trademark, a mark stamped near the karat mark. To avoid being held liable themselves, more and more jewelers are buying only from manufacturers willing to stamp what they make with their own mark, a mark registered with the U. S. Patent and Trademark Office. Buying gold with a “manufacturer’s trademark” is one way to help assure you get what you pay for, since the product can be traced to a specific manufacturer, whose name and reputation are on the line.
Fine, expensive gold jewelry should always be tested. While testing for exact gold content requires assaying, it is usually relatively easy to detect any underkarating that is serius enough to affect the value of a specific piece of jewelry and the price paid. Any jeweler or gemologist appraiser can make such determination, in most cases, quickly and easily with only a gold tester or by using the streak test. You should be aware that an electronic gold tester, some very heavily plated pieces might give a false reading indicating gold when the piece is only base metal. For this reason the streak test is better but the person doing the test must be sure to take a file or carbide scriber and make a very deep scratch in order to penetrate the plating for an accurate test.

There are strict laws pertaining to gold content and marks used to indicate it. Take the time to understand what you are buying, buy only from a reputable source, and be sure to have it tested. If you do, your gold jewelry will give you a lifetime of pleasure.

Christian Fashion Jewelry

Christian fashion jewelry can create a personalized statement about one's faith without ever having to say a word. In a time when evangelism is the norm and certain unbelievers are feeling overwhelmed by the verbal communication those that evangelize use when singling them out, an alternative method to evangelize without using the traditional methods is for believers to wear accessories that have a message all of their own. The idea behind this is that a Christian can wear fashion jewelry to express his/ her faith while at the same time allowing others to be informed of what they believe. Many times by wearing something as simple as a Christian jewelry bracelet, the wearer will be approached by people with questions about what the bracelet means. This creates a perfect opportunity to evangelize another. By the person approaching the wearer; it leaves no room for a "salesman" feeling. They asked a believer a question, and the believer is now in a situation to be able to answer that question by evangelizing.

Those that oppose regular expensive jewelry may find a Christian jewelry bracelet or the wearing of other related items to be an alternative option for accessorizing in the name of Christ. This is also done by the wearing of t-shirts and bumper stickers on automobiles that also have a message to tell. Many find that when expressing faith in a non-verbal way, they are approached more often with questions about why they display such bold statements about God and Christ. The opportunities that come by are endless, and there have been countless testimonials of those that have come to faith in Christ by noticing a bracelet, or other fashion accessories on someone, and approaching them for more information.

There is a plethora of religious and secular organizations that create and sell Christian fashion jewelry. It is recommended that a believer make their purchases from a Christian organization, so they can use the revenue to further the kingdom of God, instead of for the profits of man that secular organizations selling these items will make. There are also many organizations that will sell this type of jewelry for fundraising purposes. This money typically is given to those less fortunate or in some way to further God's kingdom. Participating in the wearing of this type of jewelry may also symbolize participation in a specific non-profit organization such as those that send Christmas presents to foreign countries or those that offer food and clothing to the poor.

When some people think of Christian jewelry, the image of a crucifix comes to mind, but that is not necessarily the case in reality. There are many different shapes, words and symbols that represent Christianity. Finding the one that best suits the individual wearer is the key. Sometimes just a specific colored bracelet can make more of a personal and spiritual statement than that of a particular symbol. This is likened to the pink ribbon that symbolizes the research for a cure for breast cancer. Many will also wear the pink ribbon in addition to their Christian fashion jewelry. These items can be given as a gift for a special occasion or at Christmas time. Believers appreciate the thoughtfulness of remembering Christ and their personal belief in him for special occasions.

There are also specialty stores that sell all sorts of related items, including Christian fashion jewelry. These stores cater to those that want to purchase books, music, clothing, knick knacks and accessories that send a specific message. These types of stores are also popular gift shops for those who want to purchase gifts for their friends. This type of shopping can also be done through the use of websites and the Internet. There are certainly a plethora of organizations selling Christ related items, such as a Christian jewelry bracelet, across the globe. What a consumer cannot find through their local distributor, they may be able to find in an online store environment. At Christmas times, the shipping for these items is typically discounted deeply and sometimes even free. This can make for a much easier time in finding that special piece for that special someone.

Another option is to create it as opposed to purchasing it. There are a variety of secular and non-secular stores that sell beads and the like for stringing together a Christian jewelry bracelet or other Christian based items. With Christianity and the rise of non-denominational churches as well, more chain stores are offering what their customers want, more Christian related items. This includes Christian fashion jewelry, t-shirts, bumper stickers, knick knacks, paintings, and the list goes on and on. It is suggested that those purchasing these items use that purchase for the better good, hopefully as a tool to evangelize to others in a non threatening way. "Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him." (2 Thessalonians 2:1)

Sterling Silver Gemstone Jewelry

The little girls stared at the sterling silver gemstone jewelry in the case at the store. The small lights perfectly positioned within the showcase made the fifty dollar necklaces jump with so much life, it was as if they cost five thousand dollars. The young girls began to be whisked away in their imaginations as they talked back and forth about how they would like wear such glorious necklaces on their wedding day when all eyes would be just on them for a few hours. The store clerk wore a bemused smile as she also remembered a time when she often stared at wholesale silver gemstone jewelry in her grandfather's small trading post in the southwest. She remembered not the bright lights of an expensive showcase, but rather the pride in her grandfather's eyes as he pulled out the cases of sterling silver gemstone jewelry from his small safe in the back of his store. Her grandfather had made every piece by hand, and when each piece was sold, he asked the customers where they were from, so that he could envision where the handiwork was headed.

The term sterling silver is a term to describe the precious metal that has been mixed with copper in a 92.5/7.5 ratio. Copper is the one metal that doesn't harm the color of this precious metal in that proportion, which is needed to give the metal a degree of hardness. The precious metal that is pure is quite soft and malleable, and can be damaged very easily, so for certain jewelry pieces, copper is employed for longevity. Adding copper to this precious metal in that proportion does not affect the price of gemstone pieces. Instead, this precious metal jewelry is priced by the intricacy of design and quality of the craftsmanship. The popularity of this precious metal appeared to be at its height from 1870 to 1920 when the metal appeared in everything from jewelry to flatware. Since the Victorian period dictated that there should be a separate fork, spoon and knife for every course, societal dictates did not call expectations unreasonable to find three or four or more of the same utensil at every place setting.

The term silver plating ought to be a term meaning "run and hide from anything with that moniker." If a well meaning person gives you a silver coated fishing pole because that person thinks you have everything, thank them and smile, but soon it will be black. Plated fashion accessories with this metal is a recipe for disaster, because the precious metal will soon show its true colors, and it won't be the gray we are used to seeing. So if there is a thirteen year old boy reading this blog that wants to give a first girlfriend a piece that is plated with this precious metal, don't do it! Wait till you are eighteen, then give her something in a sterling silver gemstone piece, or find some wholesale silver gemstone jewelry. One will be very surprised how much things change in five years. "In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God." (John 1:1)

This precious metal has always been the metal for the common man. It is very common and therefore the cost is very reasonable. A trip online to price wholesale silver gemstone jewelry will find the surfer discovering gemstone pieces for as little as four dollars from a wholesale outlet. From more high end retailers, beautiful jewelry with gemstones from all over the world including amethyst, topaz, larimer, pearl, jasper, garnet and citrine and almost twenty other gemstones. These delicately made pieces are much pricier, but far more beautiful than the wholesale sterling silver gemstone jewelry mentioned earlier. Again, the price of sterling silver doesn't vary, because the real thing is always advertised as true 92.5, or ninety two and a half silver, seven and a half percent copper. It is the intricate work, the details and the craftsmanship that makes the price of fashion pieces made from this precious metal rise.

Wholesale silver gemstone jewelry comes from a number of countries around the world, including Spain, Italy and the United States, but the greatest supplier is the country of Thailand. There are a number of websites originating in Thailand that offer beautiful sterling silver gemstone jewelry at very reasonable prices, as well as American websites with competitive pricing also. There are also many sites that are helpful in ways to clean precious metal jewelry, but often differ in the advice give. Some recommend the commercial metal cleaners, while others advice to use only something like baking soda. With gemstones as part of the items being cleaned, it might be more advised to stay with something like baking soda.

Our young girls continued to stare at the pieces in the case. From across the store, the grandmother who had brought them watched as a spectator might carefully watch the movement of athletes on a field. One of the great joys of this woman's life was observing the stages of the granddaughters' life unfold. She was careful not to disturb the wondrous moment and at the very last moment, came up behind the two and placed a hand on each of their shoulders. The girls pointed out the necklaces and told the woman of their dreams. The grandma did the magical thing and bought a necklace for each of the girls, but said she would keep the fashion pieces at her house until they were old enough to take care of their possessions. When they arrived back home, she made the young ones sit down and write about the new items they now owned.

Sixteen years later, when both girls were engaged, the now aged woman pulled out the little box in which each necklace had been kept. Included in the box, folded up tightly were the letters the girls had written. The stories told of dreams in a future time now here. The girls wept at the amazing memory both had forgotten. Sterling silver gemstone jewelry was pinned to two wedding dresses that may have seemed out of place, but very much belonged.

Gem Stone Gold Jewelry

Gem stone and gold nugget jewelry has a special appeal to those who love the beauty of nature compressed into a natural stone or shiny metal. Many online stores offer unique pieces that are made with nuggets from Alaska and gems from Sri Lanka. Gemstones are many and varied including diamonds, opals, sapphires, onyx, emeralds and rubies. They have held the awe of royalty and peasantry alike throughout the centuries of monarch rule in England and continue to grab the attention of anyone today who appreciates nature at its finest. Collectible pieces such as watches, necklaces, rings and bracelets made with gold and gemstones are a prized and sometimes rare possession in many people's jewelry boxes.

The creativity of God is seen in even the smallest elements sometimes and gem stone gold jewelry is not an exception. "The works of the Lord are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein. His work is honourable and glorious...He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered: the Lord is gracious and full of compassion." (Psalm 111:2,3a,4) Made from carbon that is compressed, diamonds are one of the hardest of all natural gemstones. Dazzling, diamond gemstones come in various colors including yellow, blue, green, orange and an almost black. Colors such as red, green, and blue are among the rarest of all diamonds and are certainly the most expensive to purchase. Diamonds are cut in such a way as to release the natural sparkle that occurs when light hits the stone.

Some stones come in varying degrees of clarity and can be purchased as flawless. This particular gemstone has been used for many years as the gift of choice for romantic occasions such as engagements, anniversaries and just because. Far from the gold rush days, but not too far to enjoy gold nugget jewelry, many consumers also appreciate customized pieces that are made from mined nuggets from Alaska, North Carolina, Virginia, California or the goldfields of Australia. While the amount of precious metal mined today has vastly dropped from the boom of yesteryear, there are still nuggets found today that are made into beautiful, unique pieces of jewelry.

In fact, some mines have become tourist attractions and may even offer to set a nugget into a piece of jewelry for anyone who mines it! Gold nuggets are rare and most gold that is mined is not found in nugget form, so many of the pieces are not melted or shaped, but left exactly as is. A designer then forms a setting around the particular shape and produces a one of a kind decoration that many people who value uniqueness will be glad to purchase. Gold nugget jewelry strikes the interest of many who like natural, earthy designs such as pieces from a Western look or a Native American design.

Many jewelers that produce nugget jewelry may provide a certificate of authentication with each piece and guarantee the authentic metal properties of the gold. Just as South Africa is known for its diamond mines, so is Australia known for its gold minds. Gem stone gold jewelry from either of these countries accrues in value for years to come. The one interesting note about natures production of gems and nuggets is the fact that no one item is ever alike. This makes these pieces an especial treasure for just about anybody who knows they have a piece of jewelry that no one else in the world has. Men and women can both enjoy wearing the simplicity of gem stone gold jewelry in just about any style and any type of piece.

Pendants, belt buckles, money clips, earrings and tie tacks can all be purchased sporting an onyx, emerald, diamond or amethyst set in white or yellow gold. There are many semi-precious stones as well that have captured the interest of buyers such as the garnet which comes in every color except blue. It is not as hard as a diamond or some of the other precious stones, but is very popular and symbolizes the stone for those born in February. Its traditionally dark, red color is used in rings and necklaces and is more commonly found in men's rings.

There are many other stones that are made synthetically through a chemical process that hardens and produces reflective color very similar to what is found in authentic gem stone gold jewelry. No matter how close a synthetic stone gets to an original, however, the value and beauty is almost never the same. So, whether choosing gold nugget jewelry or gemstone pieces, check for authentication, guarantees and warranties when considering any jewelry purchase. Wearing a piece of God's natural creation can be a small reminder of the awesome, creative power that He possesses and the time that He has taken to form something so beautiful.

The Fashion of Sterling Silver Jewelry

The Fashion of Sterling Silver Jewelry

Sterling silver jewelry is not a new concept and has been around for quite some time now. If we go into the annals of history, we would realize that sterling silver jewelry has been in vogue ever since man learnt to distinguish precious stones from normal ordinary ones. As of now, this elegant piece of authentic jewelry is much in demand and is often considered a fashion statement. I am not saying that it has reached an iconic status; nonetheless, it is definitely an epitome of luxury for the common man.

Perfect for the everyday use

Sterling silver jewelry is made from sterling silver which is a blend of silver and other alloys. The reason why we blend or mix silver with another alloy is the fact that silver is a weak metal and cannot withstand the adversities of everyday wear. At the same time, if we mix it with another metal which is tough and rugged, it becomes worthy for everyday use. Not only is it tough, it is also wearable and capable of withstanding the adversities of nature.

Fit to be worn in the office

Sterling silver jewelry is quite good to look at and is made elegant by its unique shape and design. A typical silver sterling necklace is quite appropriate to be worn at office or any formal gathering. It looks classy, chic, stylish and unique. At the same time, it has the ability to make you look professional. So, a necklace, an earring or a bracelet-all three and many more from the exclusive range of sterling silver are picture perfect to make you appear formal and professional.

Picture perfect for an evening cocktail party

What would happen if you had an important occasion drawing closer and no jewelry to wear? I am sure, like any other, you would be flabbergasted. You would be running from pillar to post, searching for a necklace or an elegant earring. In such a scenario, you would, in ordinary circumstances, spend a fortune in trying to get the best at a sizable cost. Here, you should always try and go in for the authentic collection from the sterling silver jewelry which is both, inexpensive and good to look at. A necklace from sterling silver can be worn to any cocktail party and is said to work wonders to all informal occasion. So gear up and choose the right piece.

A must have for the youth

All those who care for a funky piece of jewelry need to understand that the authentic collection from sterling silver jewelry is all set to rock even the most reserved of shoppers. The range is truly authentic and the shapes are in sync with the latest designs and styles. So if you are on the lookout for a hoop-earring or a stylish stud, the authentic collection from silver sterling would have a choice to suit your need. You can look good, appear casual and remain funky by wearing an elegant piece of jewelry from the elite silver sterling collection.

Fine Jewelry Store Online

Fine jewelry store online is the first place to look when shopping for a special gift for someone. They offer gemstones aplenty and are easy to browse through to find that perfect token. Fine jewelry online includes many variables such as price range, color, shapes, sizes, and quality. Perhaps the person to buy for loves diamonds, or birthstone trinkets or maybe they favor pearls or opals. Go on the Internet and do a search for a fine jewelry store online and take some time to browse and find that priceless gift. Valentine's Day will be here soon, so don't delay since many sites offer specials for the holiday.

Custom design and handmade jewelry is popular and is often inspired by art, geometric shapes, and natural gemstones. A fine jewelry store online offers custom design with precious and semi-precious stones in gold or silver settings. Handmade pieces are made with many different gemstones including agate, amethyst, amber, black onyx, garnet, jasper, opal, quartz, turquoise, sapphire, topaz, and many others. Some sites offer custom design ideas with examples of images created using digital photography. There are also items that are labeled ethnic pieces and include beaded jewelry that represent many different cultures.

When searching for reasonable prices try checking out wholesale fine jewelry online. Many retailers advertise wholesale prices are available to the general public and one doesn't have to provide a resale license to get the discounts. Some sites ship internationally as well as locally. Many wholesalers do not require quantity orders in order to receive discounts. Advertisements through some retailers claim to offer 20% to 50% off retail prices. It is possible to order online, by mail, telephone, or by fax. When purchasing items online shop around for the best prices, sales, and discounts, since there are many choices. If one is purchasing an item for a gift some retailers offer gift wrap for a small fee and a few offer it as a free service.

Antique and estate style pieces are becoming popular and are sold through fine jewelry online. Through the creation of antique engagement rings ornamented detailed pieces provide timeless items for collectors and jewelry lovers of all ages. Some pieces are nostalgic and have their own style and are quite different from conventional pieces. Antique and estate style items often appeal to the person who is looking for something different from the ordinary. The settings for these ornate pieces usually come in white metals such as white gold or platinum. Antique items offer a glimpse into the past but also appeal to the brides of the future. Pieces look clean and sparkle with brilliance. "And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband" (Revelation 21:22). Imagine the sight of New Jerusalem, like an ornamented token of jewelry coming down from heaven, adorned with sparkle and brilliance.

Turquoise is a popular gemstone considered to be a relatively soft stone and sensitive in nature. Color may fade throughout the course of wearing and because it is often treated, turquoise should be protected from cosmetics and sunlight. Retailers recommend using a soft cloth for cleaning and polishing. Quality turquoise is usually available through a fine jewelry store online, the highest quality is evident in the color, with the highest being sky-blue. Turquoise is considered one of the most valuable in the family of non-transparent minerals. It consists of two minerals and may have trace minerals that will affect the color of the stones. Popular Indian jewelry oftentimes includes turquoise in settings of white gold and yellow gold and ornamental pieces with inlays and carvings.

Fine watches and unique timepieces are available through fine jewelry online. Doing a search on a specific price range will help to speed the process and limit the choices based upon what one can afford. This will make shopping a little easier and certainly faster since there are so many varieties and prices through retailers online. A watch makes a wonderful gift for absolutely anyone since most people own a watch and readily check it for the current time as well as the date. Children's watches are also available through fine jewelry online. Many of the fine watches available come with a 1 year manufacturer's warranty and shipping is often free. Watches come with so many features today that it is best to get an idea of what kind to purchase before making a final decision. Different things are important to different people; preferences might include a second hand or an alarm and some people like to be able to see the face at night. Some watches allow one to keep up with more than one time zone. This is especially helpful for individuals in the military since they usually observe military time and may be stationed in places all over the world.

Heart Birthstone Necklace

An elegant, eye-catching heart birthstone necklace dangles from the neck of a manikin in a store front display window, its beautiful sapphires blazing like the ocean at noon from the white gold pendant suspended on a nine inch chain. On the busy street outside, a man pauses at the window, thinking suddenly of his wife whose September birthday is only two weeks away; without another moment's hesitation he enters the store, buys the item, and hurries home, eager for his wife's special day. Of course, the woman loves it--everyone loves birthstone gifts; it is the one birthday jewelry item that never fails to please. A birthstone charm necklace is an excellent, thoughtful way to let the wonderful mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, or friend know how singular and how loved she really is. Gemstones have traditionally been thought to hold special meaning and have been used since Biblical times to make special designations, as in the making of the priests' garments for the Tabernacle: "In the first row there was a ruby, a topaz and a beryl; in the second row a turquoise, a sapphire and an emerald; in the third row a jacinth, an agate and an amethyst; in the fourth row a chrysolite, an onyx and a jasper...There were twelve stones, one for each of the names of the sons of Israel" (Exodus 39:10-14).

Almost every woman can remember opening a gift box containing a heart birthstone necklace at some time in life, usually when she was a little girl; she remembers how her breath caught at how beautiful the gold or silver was, how she touched the gemstone that signified her month of birth with awe and appreciation, and how she wore the special gift every day until it was lost or the chain snapped in half. There is simply something very memorable and touching about birthstone jewelry, which is why it is always a perfect choice for a female of any age. Adolescent girls and teenagers will appreciate a delicate silver chain with a heart pendant studded with gemstones; new mothers will love a birthstone charm necklace containing a baby booty with their new arrival's special stone in it; and a sentimental girlfriend will relish paired hearts accented with her and the boyfriend's names and birthstones. There are endless choices for a woman in any station of life, no matter what her fashion tastes may be.

One popular gift idea for mothers is to buy a heart birthstone necklace that contains the individual gemstones of each of her children. These can usually be purchased at department and jewelry stores with up to seven or nine stones, and, of course, there are always stores willing to customize if more stones are needed. Sisters will love receiving matching necklaces with each of their sibling's stones included. Of course, proud grandmothers would love to try to fit all twelve of their grandchildren's gemstones onto one necklace, so a charm item may solve this dilemma. There are many different ways to wear the gemstones of one's beloved, whether a shopper is looking for something cute, elegant, or uniquely trendy.

The first step in choosing this kind of jewelry is selecting the appropriate stone; gemstone options vary according to ancient, traditional, and modern standards. This is actually a very good circumstance because it may give people who do not like their standard birthstone color a few choices. The modern designations are as follows: garnet for January, amethyst for February, aquamarine for March, diamond for April, emerald for May, pearl for June, ruby for July, peridot for August, sapphire for September, opal for October, citrine for November, and topaz for December. Shoppers hoping to find another stone for their birth month should do a little online or in-store research, as they may discover a different option that better suits their taste and budget. For example, an October birthday girl who doesn't like opals might prefer pink tourmaline for a personalized birthstone charm necklace.

As always when shopping for gemstones, buyers need to be aware of the different types of stones; most important is the stone's origin. Natural gemstones come to the buyer straight from the earth, only cut, polished, and affixed to a jewelry setting--these are generally the most expensive because they are already high-quality and don't need to be altered in any way by humans. Still, a stone can be genuine without being natural; this simply means that it has been treated to improve its appearance, either by heat, radiation, laser, diffusion, or some other laboratory process. Synthetic stones, however, are entirely human made and laboratory grown; generally, they are the least expensive. Synthetic stones are a good choice for shoppers on a budget, especially if the heart birthstone necklace is for a child, as young wearers tend to lose and break jewelry pretty easily.

Deciding on a birthstone charm necklace doesn't mean the shopping is over because the possibilities for such an item are endless. Pendants may come in the shape of hearts, crosses, rings, angels, shoes, or even figurines of children. Chains may be in yellow gold, white gold, sterling silver, or platinum; and accented with diamonds, engravings, or other designs. In addition, shoppers will also find rings, earrings, bracelets, and more to match their specially chosen gift. One creative idea is to buy an entire set of birthstone jewelry, presenting its recipient with one piece at a time, perhaps at each holiday or life milestone: a necklace on her birthday, a ring at Easter, earrings at Christmas, a bracelet on graduation day.

Silver Cross Jewelry

Quality sterling silver jewelry can be found online through many wholesale and retail stores that offer the latest in designer fashion accessories. From silver cross jewelry to customized pieces, the precious, white metal continues to fascinate young and old with its lustrous charm. The most affordable of all the precious metals, silver is known for its age old use and recurrent popularity among consumers. Silver tends to ride the crest of the trend wave throughout the centuries unlike the classic trend of yellow gold. The 20th century has seen a revival in its use and consumers of all ages enjoy wearing the precious metal in many forms and designs.

One of the current trends in designer items is fashion accessories that display the cross. Silver cross jewelry that presents the religious icon is not particularly due to an escalated interest in legitimate religious matters. It seems to be part of a gothic, satirical look at religion that is exposed by current designers. "That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ." (1 Peter 1:7) A fashion runway is likely to host at least one model during a fashion show that is wearing some form of the cross. Whether it is in beads, metal, wood or plastic, the icon is very likely to be found in either earrings or medallions. There are many shapes that are designed such as the Russian or Roman cross forms.

Runways are not the only place that cross fashion items are found. Television shows, Hollywood movies and other fashion stages can all be found host to someone sporting the cross in some form. The icon has been developed into a fashion symbol for the cultural elite as well as the sub cultural groups. The interesting twist to silver cross jewelry is that many who wear the symbol openly reject its meaning. Gone are the days that only religious people wore the symbol as a declaration of faith and practice. Secular designers have perhaps added a cynical note to the symbol by encouraging its popularity among a largely irreligious consumer group.

There are, of course, practical reasons for the appeal of white metal accessories no matter the particular shape or figure it offers. Quality sterling silver jewelry is less expensive that the other precious metals and offers a purchase opportunity for just about anyone. Price ranges can vary greatly depending on the silversmithing procedures and any inlaid or stone settings that are added. Mass produced pieces tend to be cheaper because of the volume sold to consumers and the cost incurred at production. Customized pieces are generally more expensive because they are produced by artisans and silversmiths who make unique items that are not reproduced.

When a consumer purchases a customized piece of jewelry, he or she can sometimes even receive a certificate of authenticity that the product is the only one of its kind. Many buyers who appreciate the uniqueness of handmade pieces are willing to pay more for these types of specialty items. Items made from this precious metal are still relatively cheaper than other metals such as platinum or gold. Another practical reason for elevated consumer interest, is the fact that this metal is lighter than gold. This metal weighs about half as much as yellow or white gold. Silver is also more malleable than gold which has allowed more creativity in design. For centuries artisans all over the world have used it to create quality sterling silver jewelry that reflects the various cultural overtones of each generation. Silversmiths can easily work with it and can more easily include stones and gems since it is softer.

This metal is also favorably worn because its qualities tends to stay less tarnished with wear. While some plated metals may tarnish with use, this metal tends to stay brighter when exposed to friction by daily use. That is why the metal gets easily tarnished when sitting in a box for years. There is one thing to always check before purchasing any piece of silver cross jewelry or other design. Make sure that the metal in any piece does not contain other metal properties such as nickel. Nickel overlaid with silver will corrode very easily and will not prove to be an item to keep for generations. Only quality sterling silver jewelry that is 925 grade should be considered for purchase.

A 925 grade contains some copper which strengthens the soft qualities of the metal while not lessening the superior quality of the metal. This combination is 75 parts copper and 925 parts silver and is considered the best form of the metal for fashion accessories such as rings, necklaces, bracelets, cuff links, pins, and watches. Before purchasing any item, inquire as to the sterling quality of the piece that should be backed by a guarantee. This will insure that any purchase is a piece of quality jewelry that can be worn and enjoyed for a lifetime. Heirloom pieces can be passed down for generations while still retaining the fine look and wearability that something like silver cross jewelry can provide. There are many online sources that offer extensive selections of fine pieces that will fit everyone's budget. Check out the prices, quality, designs and guarantees for the best piece to add to a personal, fashion collection.

Silver Jewelry Charm

Gold charm jewelry has been around since the superstitious days of Queen Cleopatra of the Nile or the covert era of the Roman Christians. Used for everything including the superstition of warding off evil spirits, silver jewelry charm accessories have entranced the general public of many bygone eras as well as today's fashion conscious consumer. Charms have existed since the early days of Egyptian royalty and have evolved over time to find a place in successive world wide generations as its popularity spread throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas. Today, Italy is at the forefront of the trendy piece of fashion accessory that no longer is used to ward of spirits but is produced to entice customers who have high style in mind.

Personal accessories that adorned many Egyptian Pharaohs and the wealthy elite displayed various charms. Originally used by many common folk to bring good or alternatively ward off evil, gold charm jewelry evolved from setting basic stones and semi precious gems into fancy, elaborate items. Charms were also used to show what status they had accomplished in this life by what type of elaborate settings or gemstones were used. Since the Egyptians rarely lived past their 40's, a heavy emphasis was placed on their place in the after life and attempt to control their fate through physical preparations was believed necessary. Charms were thought to be one such object that could be used to help the gods find them and take them to the proper place in life after death.

Rome was another place where this fashion accessory was more than just a necklace or a bracelet to the wearer. During the persecution of the Christians, many Christians would wear a silver jewelry charm piece in order to identify themselves. A 'fish' or ichthys was worn around their necks under clothing so that it could be pulled out anytime in order to show fellow Christians who they were. Wearing these charms became a practical item for many as Christians were careful in identifying themselves openly to the hostile Roman citizenry. "And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake." (Philippians 1:28-29)

Charms were also used by Jewish scholars to encapsulate a small piece of paper within that had a part of the Jewish law written on it. From the earliest of its uses, charms had more of a practical use than an aesthetic use for many of its wearers. During the medieval era, many nobility as well as pheasants wore some form of gold charm jewelry or plainly made charms to help cast or break spells and supernatural powers that were believed to be affected by it. Others wore specially made charms to show a family heritage and position in life. It is said that during the later eras, interest in charms diminished because of the broader knowledge that was acquired through books that dispelled many superstitious notions. This personal decoration is not seen to become popular again in history until Queen Victoria revived it with her own special version of flamboyant accessories that caught on with the general public.

Queen Victoria, known for her different moods and her personal reflections of it in her jewelry, added charms to her collection. The charms were totally aesthetic in purpose and grew into a widely cherished item in the Victorian era. Pieces can be found today that reflect the style and trends of the day in silver jewelry charm accessories. No longer were charms reflective of either a superstitious or practical mindset, but became a piece of prized accessory in many women's jewelry boxes. Fine pieces of necklaces, bracelets and pins were part of the commonplace selection that was available in the Victorian era. Since that time, history recounts several swings in consumer interest in gold charm jewelry. Post World War II created a mood for special charms that could be given for remembrances of teen birthdays, love interests and for just about any occasion.

Many women carried their sweethearts picture in a small necklace or added a special charm to their bracelet in remembrance of a holiday together. A low ebb occurred in the demand for silver jewelry charm items throughout subsequent years, until another revival of interest in them occurred almost in conjunction with the preference for silver accessories of the last few years. The most notable influence on the charms as a major fashion accessory has been in Italy where famous designers have displayed modern, sleek charms in precious metals. Bracelets can be found that have links and interchangeable images that are in high demand throughout the world market among young and old alike. Some of the most popular charms that can be added to any linked bracelet or necklace piece are those associated with relationships or country loyalty. The American flag has seen a major surge in purchase for US consumers, but the heart symbol continues to be in demand world wide as the charm of choice for just about everyone.

Custom Silicone Bracelets

Custom silicone bracelets are popular--one sees them everywhere, on the wrists of children, teens, and adults alike, often without knowing what they are called. They are the brightly colored slip-on rubber bracelets that people wear to promote breast cancer awareness, advertise for businesses, or match funky tennis shoes. First appearing in bright yellow to help raise funds for cancer research, personalized silicone bracelets took off, garnering millions both for non-profit organizations and regular for-profit companies. Cheap, trendy, and easily mass-produced, they have been used by endless organizations and businesses for advertisement and have provided a space for the expression of social and religious messages. Now there are hundreds of online companies offering bracelet making services to interested individuals and entities, whether for product promotion, fundraising, or fashion.

No longer do the bracelets come in single colors with plain old debossing; now they may be debossed, embossed, printed with silkscreen, ink filled, and color coated, and shoppers can find glow-in-the dark, tie-dye, swirled colors, segmented colors, and glitter items. Available in any font and color, custom silicone bracelets are so easy to create and personalize once one understands all of the terms and types. Embossed means that the letters on the bracelet are engraved into the silicone; debossed means that the letters are raised above the material. Printing one's message is the cheapest option; letters are printed onto the bracelet just as letters are printed onto a baseball jersey. Embossed letters may also be ink filled with a different color to make the message stand out more clearly.

Because so many personalized silicone bracelets are being worn today, people often don't pay as much attention to them as when the trend first started. For this reason, companies are beginning to get much more creative, in order to make their bands stand out from the crowd. Usually, a bracelet may be segmented into up to six colors or may have its colors swirled or tie-dyed. Shoppers can make purchases glow-in-the-dark or glittery for about ten cents extra per bracelet; also, some companies are beginning to offer figure bracelets, which have a little more design and shape to them than ordinary standard bands. These extra touches are helping to save custom silicone bracelets from fashion extinction.

Most websites offering this product have a page that allows shoppers to visually assemble the bracelet, first by choosing the size, colors, fonts, and techniques to be used. Often, a shopper is are able to see a preview of what the bracelet would look like and can try out different options until she finds the perfect combination of color, font, and graphics to express her own unique message. Websites also have a pricing chart, showing how much each additional characteristic will cost, per item; shoppers will save the most money by buying in bulk. Many of these websites have a minimum purchase amount of 5, 50 or 100, but some sites will allow shoppers to create a single bracelet of any type. This is convenient for people who want to buy personalized silicone bracelets bearing their name or a personal message.

Most companies have a toll-free number available so that shoppers can receive a price quote directly over the phone, which is ideal for shoppers wanting to buy simply-made items in bulk. Often, free shipping is available and some companies will package bracelets individually for an added cost. Shoppers choosing this method for ordering should be prepared to say how many items are needed, and of what sizes, colors, and designs; and should also be very specific about the wording and spelling of the message or advertisement. Typically, there are three available sizes: youth, universal, and large; shoppers may choose one size or buy a combination of sizes, depending on the customer's needs. It is important to be sure that one's purchase is made of authentic silicone and not a cheap rubber substitute; otherwise, the bracelet will probably not last very long and may break or fade easily.

So why should anyone choose custom silicone bracelets when there are so many other means of expression such as T-shirts, bumper stickers, fridge magnets, lanyards, and key chains? One answer is that this item can be worn every day and is less likely to be thrown in the garbage or stuck in a drawer and forgotten; plus, it is much cheaper to mass produce than a T-shirt. Schools can hand these bracelets out to students to inspire school spirit or as part of a character-building program; silicone bands make excellent souvenirs for church camps, family reunions, sports events, and graduations. Wristbands may advertise for an upstart band, promote a concert, and help solidify a fan base. Also, people with serious medical conditions such as diabetes, epilepsy, or severe allergies may wear them to let people know of their condition in case of an emergency.

Of course, individuals wear personalized silicone bracelets just for fun, to express their personalities, fashion taste, and personal values. Examples include wearing items with one's name, favorite quote, or primary personal characteristic, like "sassy" or "joyful." Children and teens will especially enjoy this, as they can inscribe the name of a favorite actor or singer or baseball player, make friendship bracelets with both friends' names included, and create matching looks for their teams, clubs, and cliques. Some people might like to wear a band bearing the name of a loved one or pet that has passed away, telling of religious beliefs, or inspiring others with unique and hopeful messages. Christians, for example, might want to use personalized wristbands to pass on these comforting words: "God is love" (1 John 4:16).

Diamond Bangle Bracelets

Wrist jewelry over the years has included: gold bangle bracelets worn in ancient Egypt by women of prominence, tennis bracelets and even the jelly bracelets in a variety of fun and exciting colors worn by young girls in America. Arm accessories are extremely popular. This is primarily due to the fact that they are sturdier than necklaces and can be worn regardless of whether the owner has pierced ears. Arm accessories are highly versatile. This versatility is proven by the fact that they can accessorize an exquisite evening gown and a simple pair of summer shorts equally as well. Apart from being brilliant pieces of jewelry wrist ornaments, like diamond bangle bracelets, have long been worn for spiritual and symbolic reasons. In many cultures, during various centuries, wearing bands around a wrist or forearm was a symbol of either marital status or class distinction. In fact, many archaeologists have uncovered the remains of ancient people buried wearing still arm jewelry.

In ancient Egypt a scarab arm ornament was made out of bone, stone or wood. Archaeologists believe that scarabs were worn as a symbol of rebirth. It is also thought that the ancient Egyptians believed that the scarab god moved the sun across the sky. In parts of South and Central America, Azabaches are arm jewelry worn to protect the wearer from the "evil eye." The evil eye is thought to be bad luck from receiving too many envious and jealous looks from others. Placing an Azabach on an infant is thought to protect the child for life from the pitfalls of the evil eye. In Bulgaria, white and red stings are often tied on people's arms to please Baba Marta. This practice, Martenitsa, is thought to make spring come sooner.

In India inflexible, circular arm bands, called Chudi, are worn to signify a Hindu woman's marital status. The term "bangle" denotes a piece of wrist ornamentation that does not bend or clasp. They are circular and can be made out of gold, silver, platinum and various other precious metals. A Hindu woman would rarely wear less than two, and she begins to wear them as soon as she is married. Occasionally, men wear single wrist bands, called a kada, but it appears to not be acceptable for women. Depending on the economic status of her parents, a married Hindu woman can adorn her arms in simple gold bangle bracelets or studded with pearls or semi-precious gems. Among the elite in India, it is not uncommon to see a married woman donning an arm full of diamond bangle bracelets. Not only would this be a status symbol, but also a visible deterrent to adultery. In ancient Israel, many men courted single women with multiple gold bangle bracelets. "And it came to pass, as the camels had done drinking, that the man took a golden earring of half a shekel weight, and two bracelets for her hands of ten shekels weight of gold." (Genesis 24:22) She would then continue to wear them as long as they were married.

Typically, the higher the quality of metal, the better the sound of the jingling bands as they adorn the woman's arm. High quality bracelets are praised for creating a deep and attractive jingle. Rather than brash, this sound is often lauded as being soothing to the listener, much like wind chimes in a breeze. As a result, this sound is often viewed as an attractive quality for a woman to have. Conversely, cheaper metal or plastic creates a rather tinny and flat sound when clapping together on a woman's arm. This unsavory clank is looked down upon by passersby and jewelers. Recently, these types of accessories have also been constructed out of glass that is between one fourth to one half of an inch wide. There are finer glass immovable arm bands made in a small city in India called Firozabad. They too are designed to produce an attractive sound when worn on the arm of a moving woman. It is this myriad of sounds, along with the solid, immovable shape that has helped bangle bracelets, from cheap plastic to diamond bangle bracelets, stand out among other arm accessories around the world.

Not always worn for proclaiming marital status or to ward off spiritual evils, in Western cultures gold bangle bracelets and those made of lesser materials like glass and plastic are simply worn for fashion. Hollywood's elite are now seen celebrating at hot spots wearing diamond bangle bracelets or diamond simulations from their wrists to their elbows. The jingling sound and the obvious visual appeal are creating quite a demand for this type of accessory. There are other advantages to this type of jewelry. Due to their unending circular form, gold bangle bracelets have no clasp to break and no pieces to become loose and fall off. There are no jagged edges or prongs to get tangled in a sweater or evening dress. If the jewelry proves too expensive, many jewelers are now rent their jewelry by the hour or by the event. This does not mean that there are no drawbacks to accessories such as these. Women with particularly large arms or hands may find fitting the unending circular accessory over their hands to be quite uncomfortable and unpleasant. Conversely, women with inordinately small wrists and hands may worry that their diamond bangle bracelets will slide or even fly off if they drop their arms or move too rapidly. If a woman with small wrist, but large hands has few options, as a bangle that would fit over her hands, would clearly be too large for her wrists. There are inflexible, circular wrist accessories available in children and youth sizes, but still that does not guarantee as good a fit as with a sizable piece of jewelry.

Fine Diamond Jewelry

Fine diamond jewelry stores on the Internet offer a variety of stones to meet individualized preferences. The brilliance of diamonds is due to the electrons found within the substance and the way it attracts light. The light seems to be dancing around the stone at times. This sparkle and brilliance has attracted stone lovers for centuries. High quality stones that are colorless seem to spray prisms of color when exposed to light, like a rainbow. Another high quality stone is an emerald. Fine emerald jewelry originates from the mineral, beryl and considered rarer than diamonds, one of the most popular in the gemstone family.

The color of emeralds can range from very light to very dark. In nature a stone is usually hexagonal in shape. Fine emerald jewelry gets its color from traces of other minerals, usually through chromium. When shopping for a stone look for color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. Some jewelers put an emphasis on the value of a gemstone being based upon the intensity of the color. Birthstones are widely accepted and popular gifts and those born in the month of May celebrate with emerald being their birthstone. Many jewelers online offer birthstones through many different pieces and in sets that might include a necklace, earrings and ring together.

Gift collections online for fine diamond jewelry include a large variety of colored diamonds. Some of these colors are blue, pink, red, yellow, white, and black. Some sites online offer the capability of designing one's own ring. Choices include solitaires, three stones, and combination stones. Some of the most popular choices are purchased for engagement, anniversary, and wedding celebrations and settings usually come in platinum, white gold, or yellow gold. Ask a professional about the differences in the stones and how to make the best choice for the money.

Gemstone certificates of authenticity are popular among collectors. The certificate provides a history on the stone in question. It will usually cover the color, clarity, cut, and finish, as well as the measurements of the piece. A fine diamond jewelry store should be able to provide the purchaser with a certificate of authenticity. It is always good to get a second opinion by seeking an appraiser, for verification of the stone in question.

Celebrating a wedding anniversary is always a special occasion. Celebrate the 20th and 35th wedding anniversaries by purchasing fine emerald jewelry. The green color of the stones is a color signifying beauty and love. Emeralds are often given as tokens of love to others, a unique way of showing that wonderful person that they are very special. Many retailers online offer emeralds in a variety of sizes, shapes, and prices. Some stones authenticity and quality is associated with places where they are mined. Popular mining sites include Africa and Brazil.

One of the latest phenomenon associated with find diamond jewelry is the right handed ring for women. Sites online offer right handed diamond rings with many styles and design options to choose from. A right handed ring symbolizes many things to women all around the globe; successful women are buying these tokens to celebrate themselves. While these are designed for women, there are also many choices pertaining to diamond rings for men offered online as well. Rings for men come in many designs and shapes. Some of the settings come in white gold, yellow gold, and antique gold.

With Valentine's Day right around the corner it is a good time to go online and check out fine diamond jewelry and fine emerald jewelry. Ideas for gifts might include a bracelet, necklace, earrings, a ring, or a watch. Online stores have a variety of gemstones as well as semi-precious stones. Many retailers provide price range selections based upon the amount one can spend. What a great way to show sentiments of love to that special person this holiday season. "And the servant brought forth jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and raiment, and gave them to Rebekah: he gave also to her brother and to her mother precious things" (Genesis 24:53). The giving of jewels was also popular during Biblical times.

When shopping for trinkets online take some time to look at trinket boxes. Storing jewelry is important in keeping with the quality of certain pieces. Pearls should not be stored with other pearls as storing them together or with other items can cause chips or pits in them. Some gemstones are delicate as well and should be handled carefully and stored separately to protect items from damage. Emeralds should not be stored with any cloth or absorbent surface since they may contain oils. Diamonds are the hardest gems but they can crack if hit on a cleavage point. Be careful storing chains together since they can become tangled with other priceless items. Watches should be stored to protect the face from damage. Do a search on the Internet for a suede lined box to protect priceless trinkets and valuable pieces.

Fine Designer Jewelry

Fine designer jewelry will bring a smile to the face of most women, especially if it is received as a gift for her birthday or some other special occasion, and the giver can rest assured the gift will be enjoyed for a long time. No matter what a person's taste, there is a designer of fine fashion jewelry somewhere who can make something satisfactory. There is a long list of custom designers on the Internet, with displays of their work for the prospective buyer to peruse. Stores have always had access to artists that are willing to design a special piece for a customer, whether it is an old family heirloom that needs to be updated, or a loose stone that needs to be mounted in the proper setting.

There was a time when fine fashion jewelry was available only to the very rich. Today it is possible for someone with modest means to buy a piece of fine fashion jewelry. It may have to be purchased on a lay-away plan or put on a credit card, but at least it is available to more people. What's more, the designers aren't always connected to large distributors. Some work independently, while others make their work available through a number of distributors. Fashion (clothing) designers often work with jewelry designers to have pieces produced that match a dress or other outfit they have designed.

Archaeologists have uncovered fine fashion jewelry among the artifacts of ancient civilizations, which proves people have always enjoyed wearable art. Ancient Egypt favored gold, and the Pharaoh's tombs were filled with more gold artifacts than anything else. The ancient peoples of South America also had an abundance of gold in their necklaces and bracelets. North American people, on the other hand, had more silver and turquoise to work with, and that tradition holds today with the Native American people. Centuries of fine work have created a lasting tradition of fine designer jewelry that is still in demand. The work of today's artists can be found at craft and trade shows, as well as the traditional specialty stores. Antique stores today often include gift items and new brilliants along with their traditional antique stock, and the sales are brisk.

There are events, like the Academy Awards, where fine designer jewelry takes the spotlight. The evening gowns and the jewels worn by actresses vying for the coveted Oscars are topics of comments by newsmen and women covering the event. The names of the designers of both are often mentioned in the descriptions. Needless to say, the sparkles worn in such places are very expensive, with nothing but precious stones mounted in them. Fortunately, fine designer jewelry doesn't end with diamonds and pearls. All manner of semi-precious stones are used, and metals other than gold or silver. The design of the piece is the most important factor, and very good artists can work with just about any substance to create a memorable piece of art. Today, jewelry isn't usually thought of as anything but adornment. However, in the Old Testament people used these items as sacrificial offerings at the Temple. "We have therefore brought an oblation for the Lord, what every man hath gotten, of jewels of gold, chains, and bracelets, rings, earrings, and tablets, to make an atonement for our souls before the Lord." (Numbers 31:50)

There are some companies producing fine designer jewelry that sell their wares through salespeople directly to customers at home gatherings, or "parties." Women enjoy getting together with friends who also like such finery, and buy from these representatives. These designs are the products of in-house designers whose original designs keep the merchandise fresh and appealing to prospective customers so they will return for more. The benefit to the designer in this situation is there is a constant market for the work produced.

Some of the Internet sites that feature the artistic adornment have links so that someone can request a special design not already shown on the website. Others simply show the merchandise they have on hand, and orders are placed from there. Prices and shipping costs are provided before charging the purchase to the customer's credit card. The only disadvantage of buying online is, sometimes colors are a little different in real life than in the photos, and if there are any flaws, they probably won't be detected in the pictures. However, a guarantee of satisfaction should also be included with this deal.

Whether a person is buying fine fashion jewelry or some other product online, it's a good idea to check the company out before buying. The Better Business Bureau and personal references will provide information on any complaints that have been filed against the company. Taking care beforehand can save the customer trouble later, especially if the purchase is intended as a gift. Finding that unique ring or necklace for someone shouldn't end in disappointment.

Many of the online sellers of bijouterie provide substantial information about their pieces. They will tell the potential purchaser about the designer, the methods used in creating the designs, and the quality of all the components. For the uninitiated, the information is both interesting and valuable, and for those versed in the business it provides assurance as to the quality of the work. You might sometimes get that degree of information from a salesman at the local store, but they often don't know any more than the customer.

Semi Precious Gemstone Jewelry

An endless variety of semi precious gemstone jewelry is sold on the Internet. A search will yield a great number of independent jewelry makers. Handmade gemstone jewelry is interesting because each designer brings his or her own special style and interpretation to the piece being fashioned. While the designs themselves may range from classic to outlandish, each item is influenced by the skill, personality and experience of its designer.

Traditionally, gems classified as precious were designated in this way because they were rare or had some type of ceremonial or religious significance. At first, these 'cardinal' gems were limited to five varieties: diamonds, sapphires, rubies, emeralds and amethysts. However, after large deposits of amethysts were found in Brazil, the stone was no longer included in this category, for it was now much more available and could be afforded by the general public. There are more than 130 types of stones which are classified as semi precious these days. Some consider these categories outdated and useless, because the difference between the grades of the stones is not clear cut.

Diamonds have the only internationally accepted grading system. Yet a low quality diamond may be worth less than a piece of high quality semi precious gemstone jewelry. Therefore, value is a somewhat fluid concept. Most jewelers would suggest that budget and personal preferences lend greater appeal to a gem than the classifications do. In this regard, many couples are incorporating handmade gemstone jewelry in addition to, or even in place of, diamond engagement rings. These gemstone jewelry items are less expensive, which allows greater flexibility in choosing a high quality setting. This also allows couples to create a unique expression of their relationship.

Ring designs may vary. Some are simple solitary gemstones, while others are part of a group design. This is part of the appeal of semi precious gemstone jewelry -- it can be whatever the individual wants it to be. Couples can have artists create a truly unique piece of handmade gemstone jewelry. Sometimes, the ring is a starting point for a set of jewelry, which may be added to over time.

Even for more of a fashion piece, the lower price and greater availability of semi precious gemstone jewelry allows for items to be found in an array of styles. Thus, there is great emphasis on chosing an item which will fit one's own personality and expectations. Many sites which feature handmade gemstone jewelry include articles about the history and legends associated with each stone. Some even offer information about where the stones are mined and other information specific to each stone.

One aspect of the information which may be troubling to a Christian is that some sites are quick to promote the supposed healing qualities or other properties of this handmade gemstone jewelry. Although this is probably mostly a marketing technique used to attract potential buyers who may be susceptible to such claims, it is troubling in that if there are indeed any such medicinal properties to these gemstones, it is because they have been placed there by the Creator, much as certain plants have medicinal attributes for our good. Otherwise, one may be found guilty of giving the creation, rather than the Creator, credit for these attributes. In addition, such practices can be a gateway to participation in occult beliefs and practices. Instead, one should look to God's Word for guidance, and trust in His personal and providential care instead of ' luck' and 'good fortune'. After all, Jesus claimed that ...I am the door of the sheep. All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief cometh not, but for to steal and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. (John 10.7-10) Who needs luck and fortune when one is under the providential care of the Creator?

The distinction between precious and semi precious gems is considered nearly meaningless these days. Actually, the concept itself is no older than the 19th century, and had more to do with economic realities than the actual value of the gems. As noted above, amethyst was reclassified after significant finds increased the supply of the formerly rare commodity. If that is the only qualification for inclusion in the 'precious' category, then the diamond should be considered semi precious gemstone jewelry. Diamonds are not rare, as is often supposed. A cartel controls the amount of diamonds allowed on the market. Originally, this was to safeguard the investment of financiers after a large amount of diamonds were discovered. Previously, the production of diamonds was small -- only a few pounds a year. However, with the discovery of a large amount of diamonds in South Africa in 1870, production rose into tons of the gem. Therefore, the cartel was needed to protect the investment. Also, an advertisement campaign to associate the diamond with love, courtship and marriage has been extremely successful, to the point where it became traditional to offer a diamond engagement ring. If diamonds have eluded the semi precious classification despite the fact that they are not rare, some 'semi precious' gems have migrated back and forth from the precious category. Pearl and opal once were considered precious, and to some extent enjoy a higher regard than other semi precious gems. Alexandrite, several varieties of garnet and tanzanite can be just as expensive as rubies and sapphires. Fine examples of tourmaline, spinel or aquamarine also command high prices. Since the distinction between the categories is nearly meaningless, the US Federal Trade Commission has considered banning the use of the term 'semi precious' to describe gems, in order to avoid confusion.

Fine Antique Jewelry

Finding fine antique jewelry is a real treasure for many people who value wearable or collectible decorations. Vintage pieces from the Victorian, Edwardian, Colonial or other era can prove to be a real find for collectors. Antique reproductions can also be found among fine art jewelry as well that has been handmade by specialty designers that include all the elements of retro wear. Many of the fine art designs, however, are authentic pieces that are one of kind and will rival antique pieces of the past in quality and value for years to come.

Collectible pieces of fine antique jewelry can be found at estate sales, collector's auctions, and in personal, collector displays. Many pieces are hard to find, especially from the Georgian era which included the British monarchs and the reign of Napoleon. Perhaps owing to the many wars fought during this period including the French and American Revolution, many pieces were lost or destroyed during the upheavals. A revival of the finer things ensued after this period, but the style and distinct appearance of this type of design has not been reproduced. Very few pieces from this era are available from either private or commercial collections which make any piece very rare and very expensive to purchase. "Lord, thou wilt ordain peace for us; for thou also hast wrought all our works in us." (Isaiah 26:12)

There were many sub periods associate with Victorian decorations and were influenced by the many moods of Queen Victoria who married, suffered the death of her husband, mourned and finally came out of that dark period before her death. Her influence on the cultural undertones of fine art jewelry is apparent by the obvious showcasing of these moods. Everything from bright, shiny gold jewelry to the subsequent dark, plainer designs evidenced her influence over her country. This period is marked by romance and its end is punctuated by the sparkle of new diamonds discovered in South Africa toward the conclusion of her reign. Many pieces survived that era and can more easily be found on the collector's market than some other pieces from bygone eras.

The Victorian era was a very popular time in history that produced many selections that have proved to be timeless designs. Reproductions of this age can be purchased in modern stores and can be worn as adornment on contemporary styles. An important era for fine art jewelry was among the Native American Indians who were expert in developing their own styles reflective of their culture even before the discovery of America by the Spaniards. Stunning pieces of originality can still be seen made from silver and turquoise as well as other materials. The trend for Native American jewelry has continued to this day and many tribes such as the Navajo of the Southwest continue to produce dazzling, ornamental jewelry that can be purchased by anyone who appreciates this special type of artistry.

Southeastern tribes such as the Cherokee also continue to contribute to the flow of fine art jewelry that is offered through tribal shops as well as through online commerce. America has always been a rich source of development, entrepreneurship and unique design when it comes to fine antique jewelry as well as contemporary creativity. Costume decorations for personal wear became very popular in the early 1900's and many American designers have continued to develop their own unique branding through style, design and artistic flair from New York City to the boondocks of Louisiana. Some jewelry that is very costly or of moderate value can be found online through many establishments. Unusual pieces can be found by customers who have a taste for unique items that are not manufactured from cookie cutter designs. Items such as bracelets, earrings, rings, watches, necklaces, bolo ties, and belt buckles can be purchased that have a one and only design.

Many famous designers of fine jewelry sign their pieces with their own signature which can elevate the worth of the item. Of course, there are reproductions of many products that are not as expensive and are accessible by consumers are not able to pay a king's ransom for earrings or a watch. There are many ecommerce sites that offer wholesale or discount prices for designer quality products and make it possible for just about anyone to own a valuable item. For those who love the mystique of fine antique jewelry but can't afford a collector's price, keep an eye out for auctions, estate sales and yes, flea markets. A treasure can be found among many discarded items on a roadside stand or at a yard sale. Part of the fun can be the search for a beautiful piece of antique jewelry and who knows, a profit might be gained from its resale. The beauty of various styles of jewelry is always in the eye of the beholder and the worth is always more than the asking price.