Necklace trends are anything but demure for winter 2009. In fact, they just might steal the show. Here’s what to look for. Nothing dresses up a plain blouse or knit top faster than a necklace and the necklace will take on new importance for fall and winter 2009. If you could
sum up the trend in neckwear for the upcoming winter/holiday season in two words it would be “statement necklace”. No longer relegated to accessory status, the necklaces for this season have come out of hiding and are stealing the show as headline acts. If you love jewelry, this is the year to express yourself with your own statement making neck piece. Here are some of the best necklace trends going into 2009:
Necklace trends 2009: Bold and chunky
Necklaces take on a life of their own with bold, chunky beads with tons of personality. These necklaces look best with simpler clothing that doesn’t steal their thunder. Slip on a long fitted, knit sweater and pair of trendy wide legged pants with boots and wrap it all together with a chunky, beaded necklace. Keep the earrings simple. With a statement making pieces, there’s such a thing as jewelry overkill.
Necklace trends 2009: Pearls, pearls, pearls
Yes, pearls are big news for fall and winter 2008-2009 but these pearl strands are anything but demure. The simple, single strand pearl necklace may not make the fashion cut this year. Instead, envision draping yourself in ropes of pearls that hang down to your waist. This is a bold look that works best when other accessories are kept to a minimum. Surprisingly, some fashion sites are even showing pearls for men this year ranging from black pearls to creamy shades. Who
would have thought?
Necklace trends 2009: Layers of metal chains
This look will be hot well into the spring of 2009. Look for multiple strands of thin chains intertwined into one necklace, often incorporating beads and charms to give an offbeat, eclectic look. Chains in multiple metals from silver to copper adorn eye catching necklaces designed to play up the contrasting softness of warm winter sweaters. Layering is key and if you don’t want to spend money on a new necklace, look through your jewelry box for interesting chains and create your own customized, layered look. You’ll be right in style.
Necklace trends 2009: Bib necklaces
You’ve probably seen this necklace trend worn by celebrities at special events. Cascades of stones or beads hang down in long chains form a central strand creating various
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Necklace Trends for Winter 2009
Necklace trends are anything but demure for winter 2009. In fact, they just might steal the show. Here’s what to look for. Nothing dresses up a plain blouse or knit top faster than a necklace and the necklace will take on new importance for fall and winter 2009. If you could
sum up the trend in neckwear for the upcoming winter/holiday season in two words it would be “statement necklace”. No longer relegated to accessory status, the necklaces for this season have come out of hiding and are stealing the show as headline acts. If you love jewelry, this is the year to express yourself with your own statement making neck piece. Here are some of the best necklace trends going into 2009:
Necklace trends 2009: Bold and chunky
Necklaces take on a life of their own with bold, chunky beads with tons of personality. These necklaces look best with simpler clothing that doesn’t steal their thunder. Slip on a long fitted, knit sweater and pair of trendy wide legged pants with boots and wrap it all together with a chunky, beaded necklace. Keep the earrings simple. With a statement making pieces, there’s such a thing as jewelry overkill.
Necklace trends 2009: Pearls, pearls, pearls
Yes, pearls are big news for fall and winter 2008-2009 but these pearl strands are anything but demure. The simple, single strand pearl necklace may not make the fashion cut this year. Instead, envision draping yourself in ropes of pearls that hang down to your waist. This is a bold look that works best when other accessories are kept to a minimum. Surprisingly, some fashion sites are even showing pearls for men this year ranging from black pearls to creamy shades. Who
would have thought?
Necklace trends 2009: Layers of metal chains
This look will be hot well into the spring of 2009. Look for multiple strands of thin chains intertwined into one necklace, often incorporating beads and charms to give an offbeat, eclectic look. Chains in multiple metals from silver to copper adorn eye catching necklaces designed to play up the contrasting softness of warm winter sweaters. Layering is key and if you don’t want to spend money on a new necklace, look through your jewelry box for interesting chains and create your own customized, layered look. You’ll be right in style.
Necklace trends 2009: Bib necklaces
You’ve probably seen this necklace trend worn by celebrities at special events. Cascades of stones or beads hang down in long chains form a central strand creating various
sum up the trend in neckwear for the upcoming winter/holiday season in two words it would be “statement necklace”. No longer relegated to accessory status, the necklaces for this season have come out of hiding and are stealing the show as headline acts. If you love jewelry, this is the year to express yourself with your own statement making neck piece. Here are some of the best necklace trends going into 2009:
Necklace trends 2009: Bold and chunky
Necklaces take on a life of their own with bold, chunky beads with tons of personality. These necklaces look best with simpler clothing that doesn’t steal their thunder. Slip on a long fitted, knit sweater and pair of trendy wide legged pants with boots and wrap it all together with a chunky, beaded necklace. Keep the earrings simple. With a statement making pieces, there’s such a thing as jewelry overkill.
Necklace trends 2009: Pearls, pearls, pearls
Yes, pearls are big news for fall and winter 2008-2009 but these pearl strands are anything but demure. The simple, single strand pearl necklace may not make the fashion cut this year. Instead, envision draping yourself in ropes of pearls that hang down to your waist. This is a bold look that works best when other accessories are kept to a minimum. Surprisingly, some fashion sites are even showing pearls for men this year ranging from black pearls to creamy shades. Who
would have thought?
Necklace trends 2009: Layers of metal chains
This look will be hot well into the spring of 2009. Look for multiple strands of thin chains intertwined into one necklace, often incorporating beads and charms to give an offbeat, eclectic look. Chains in multiple metals from silver to copper adorn eye catching necklaces designed to play up the contrasting softness of warm winter sweaters. Layering is key and if you don’t want to spend money on a new necklace, look through your jewelry box for interesting chains and create your own customized, layered look. You’ll be right in style.
Necklace trends 2009: Bib necklaces
You’ve probably seen this necklace trend worn by celebrities at special events. Cascades of stones or beads hang down in long chains form a central strand creating various
Introduction to Gemology: Identifying Gemstones
How do you tell a gemstone from a common rock or an ore?
No matter where you live, there are rocks around. If you can’t see them, they are underground. If you can see them, they may be very large boulders or cliffs, or possibly pebbles that you can pick up as you walk through the field or along a stream. Every region has its share of gemstones, too, and many of them may be mixed in with your rocks.
Have you ever been walking along and picked up a pretty rock that looks like a crystal or a piece of gold? You may have had a pretty rock or a piece of ore, but you may have had a gemstone. How can you tell which is which?
Gemstone Charts
A gemstone chart is a useful tool to have. It will help you identify the different gemstones. If you can find a gemstone chart that is specific to your region, that would be even better. These charts can be found at your local historical society, as well as at many parks, or you can go online and print one out if you have a good printer.
No matter where you live, there are rocks around. If you can’t see them, they are underground. If you can see them, they may be very large boulders or cliffs, or possibly pebbles that you can pick up as you walk through the field or along a stream. Every region has its share of gemstones, too, and many of them may be mixed in with your rocks.
Have you ever been walking along and picked up a pretty rock that looks like a crystal or a piece of gold? You may have had a pretty rock or a piece of ore, but you may have had a gemstone. How can you tell which is which?
Gemstone Charts
A gemstone chart is a useful tool to have. It will help you identify the different gemstones. If you can find a gemstone chart that is specific to your region, that would be even better. These charts can be found at your local historical society, as well as at many parks, or you can go online and print one out if you have a good printer.
Monday, August 24, 2009
The Four C's of Diamonds, Choosing the Right One
The 4 C´s of a Diamond - clarity, cut, color and carat weight with a view to understanding what to look for in order to make an informed decision. Included are six tips on caring for your diamond. The Four C´s of Diamonds Choosing the Right One
People have had a love and fascination with diamonds since early history. Diamonds were thought to have magical powers beyond their beauty. They were worn as talismans, providing protection and warding off evil spirits. For 3000 years, the diamond has had many mystical uses.
Today we love diamonds for their pure beauty and brilliance. They are richly luxurious gemstones no engagement can do without. When buying a diamond, there are some very important things to consider and learn. If you want to make an informed decision, consider the four C´s of a diamond.
Color
Not all diamonds are used in jewelry. In fact, most diamonds found in the world are used for industrial purposes. These are found in hues of yellow, black and brown and are generally considered flawed or defective for jewelry purposes. The clear white or transparent diamonds make their way to the jewelers work table and these are the diamonds most people see and love. That being said, colored diamonds are slowly being incorporated into jewelry.
As a mineral, diamonds contain three atoms, hydrogen, boron and nitrogen. Nitrogen gives a diamond that yellow hue and occasionally brown or pink hues. Boron gives the gem the gray hues. Hydrogen gives it the reds, greens, violets and blue tones.
Colored diamonds have flaws that cause the coloration, while clear diamonds are pure and colorless.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Cut
The cut of a diamond is not the same thing as shape. Shape can be round, pear or oval. The cut speaks of the diamond’s qualities – the way it reflects light and sparkles. The quality of the cut or reflection greatly affects the value of the diamond. A well-cut diamond gives it that sparkle and richness diamond lovers look for. Those perfectly formed angles are what gives the diamond that brilliance - like a star in the daylight.
The cuts can be shallow, fine and deep, but the ideal cut is one that is proportioned in such a way that the light will reflect back and forth inside the diamond before reflecting out. This is what gives the viewer that flash of brilliance. The deeper or shallower the cut, the less brilliance. Deeply cut diamonds may be higher in carat weight, but they are not as desirable.
Diamond cuts are graded. The Ideal Cut and the Premium Cut is perfectly-proportioned with the best reflective value. These are suitable for round diamonds. The third grade is Very Good. These diamonds are cut in such a way that may give up some of their brilliance for the sake of size. Good diamonds do reflect most of the light, but these too are bigger diamonds. In most cases, the cutter has chosen to create a large diamond using as much of the crystal as possible, rather than removing most of it to make a Premium stone. Fair and Poor diamond grades generally mean they don’t reflect light well and don’t have that sparkle and brilliance found in other grades. For the most part, these diamonds are cut for size rather than brilliance.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Clarity
Diamond clarity concerns the characteristics of the diamond. Clarity characteristics present in the stone at the crystal stage, could show as black spots, hazy areas or crystal growth within the stone. Diamonds often have flaws resulting from stress in the cutting stage. As a result of cutting, many diamonds have scrapes and scratches - flaws that affect clarity. The fewer the flaws, the rarer and more valuable the diamond. However, a diamond can still be a shining, sparkling stone even with flaws.
Experienced jewelers know how to pick out the flaws. It’s not easy to judge as a consumer without some training. Gemologists use the term "eye-clean", which means the flaws are not visible to the naked eye. Unless the consumer is carrying a loupe or jeweler’s magnifying glass, he or she won’t notice the flaws. Diamonds with only minor flaws or none at all are considered the best investments.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Carat Weight
Carat weight is a standardized measure to define a diamond’s weight. It does not refer to the actual size of the diamond. However, diamonds weighing one-carat or higher are very rare and only a small percentage of women own a ring of these weights.
As a unit of weight measure, rather than size, two diamonds with the same weight could be quite different in size. It depends largely on the cut of the diamond.
For the consumer, even though the carat weight is high, other factors should be considered before purchasing. Look at the cut for brilliance and clarity, for very few flaws and for the clear color of the stone itself. It isn’t necessarily all about the weight. Understanding this will ensure a good investment. Don’t let weight alone be the deciding factor.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Buying a diamond in a ring, necklace, bracelet or earrings doesn’t have to be daunting, if you go to the jeweler with the knowledge you need to assist in your decisions. By understanding the basics of the four C´s of the diamond, you’re in a better position to find one that’s right for you and at a fair price. Once you have your diamond, you’ll need to take good care of that investment.
Six Tips For Diamond Care
1) Diamonds are hard substances, but they can still be chipped. If you’re doing rough work, like moving stones in the garden, it’s advisable to remove your ring.
2) Store your diamond jewelry in their own felt or velvet-lined containers. Metal from other jewelry can scratch a diamond.
3) Hand creams, dishwashing liquid and soaps can cause a build-up of grit on your diamond, lessening its brilliance. Gently scrub it away, with a soft tooth-brush and warm water. You could also soak your diamond overnight in a tiny bit of window cleaner. Doing this once a week will keep it sparkling. Rinse it and polish it dry with a soft cloth. Polish gently to avoid damaging the prongs in the setting.
4) Remove your diamond ring when working with strong cleansers and chlorine bleach. These can wear down the settings holding the diamond.
5) Ensure the setting is always secure. If it feels at all loose, take it in to a jeweler for immediate repair.
6) Insure your diamond.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
With care, your diamond will last a lifetime and always retain that luxurious brilliance.
People have had a love and fascination with diamonds since early history. Diamonds were thought to have magical powers beyond their beauty. They were worn as talismans, providing protection and warding off evil spirits. For 3000 years, the diamond has had many mystical uses.
Today we love diamonds for their pure beauty and brilliance. They are richly luxurious gemstones no engagement can do without. When buying a diamond, there are some very important things to consider and learn. If you want to make an informed decision, consider the four C´s of a diamond.
Color
Not all diamonds are used in jewelry. In fact, most diamonds found in the world are used for industrial purposes. These are found in hues of yellow, black and brown and are generally considered flawed or defective for jewelry purposes. The clear white or transparent diamonds make their way to the jewelers work table and these are the diamonds most people see and love. That being said, colored diamonds are slowly being incorporated into jewelry.
As a mineral, diamonds contain three atoms, hydrogen, boron and nitrogen. Nitrogen gives a diamond that yellow hue and occasionally brown or pink hues. Boron gives the gem the gray hues. Hydrogen gives it the reds, greens, violets and blue tones.
Colored diamonds have flaws that cause the coloration, while clear diamonds are pure and colorless.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Cut
The cut of a diamond is not the same thing as shape. Shape can be round, pear or oval. The cut speaks of the diamond’s qualities – the way it reflects light and sparkles. The quality of the cut or reflection greatly affects the value of the diamond. A well-cut diamond gives it that sparkle and richness diamond lovers look for. Those perfectly formed angles are what gives the diamond that brilliance - like a star in the daylight.
The cuts can be shallow, fine and deep, but the ideal cut is one that is proportioned in such a way that the light will reflect back and forth inside the diamond before reflecting out. This is what gives the viewer that flash of brilliance. The deeper or shallower the cut, the less brilliance. Deeply cut diamonds may be higher in carat weight, but they are not as desirable.
Diamond cuts are graded. The Ideal Cut and the Premium Cut is perfectly-proportioned with the best reflective value. These are suitable for round diamonds. The third grade is Very Good. These diamonds are cut in such a way that may give up some of their brilliance for the sake of size. Good diamonds do reflect most of the light, but these too are bigger diamonds. In most cases, the cutter has chosen to create a large diamond using as much of the crystal as possible, rather than removing most of it to make a Premium stone. Fair and Poor diamond grades generally mean they don’t reflect light well and don’t have that sparkle and brilliance found in other grades. For the most part, these diamonds are cut for size rather than brilliance.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Clarity
Diamond clarity concerns the characteristics of the diamond. Clarity characteristics present in the stone at the crystal stage, could show as black spots, hazy areas or crystal growth within the stone. Diamonds often have flaws resulting from stress in the cutting stage. As a result of cutting, many diamonds have scrapes and scratches - flaws that affect clarity. The fewer the flaws, the rarer and more valuable the diamond. However, a diamond can still be a shining, sparkling stone even with flaws.
Experienced jewelers know how to pick out the flaws. It’s not easy to judge as a consumer without some training. Gemologists use the term "eye-clean", which means the flaws are not visible to the naked eye. Unless the consumer is carrying a loupe or jeweler’s magnifying glass, he or she won’t notice the flaws. Diamonds with only minor flaws or none at all are considered the best investments.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Carat Weight
Carat weight is a standardized measure to define a diamond’s weight. It does not refer to the actual size of the diamond. However, diamonds weighing one-carat or higher are very rare and only a small percentage of women own a ring of these weights.
As a unit of weight measure, rather than size, two diamonds with the same weight could be quite different in size. It depends largely on the cut of the diamond.
For the consumer, even though the carat weight is high, other factors should be considered before purchasing. Look at the cut for brilliance and clarity, for very few flaws and for the clear color of the stone itself. It isn’t necessarily all about the weight. Understanding this will ensure a good investment. Don’t let weight alone be the deciding factor.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Buying a diamond in a ring, necklace, bracelet or earrings doesn’t have to be daunting, if you go to the jeweler with the knowledge you need to assist in your decisions. By understanding the basics of the four C´s of the diamond, you’re in a better position to find one that’s right for you and at a fair price. Once you have your diamond, you’ll need to take good care of that investment.
Six Tips For Diamond Care
1) Diamonds are hard substances, but they can still be chipped. If you’re doing rough work, like moving stones in the garden, it’s advisable to remove your ring.
2) Store your diamond jewelry in their own felt or velvet-lined containers. Metal from other jewelry can scratch a diamond.
3) Hand creams, dishwashing liquid and soaps can cause a build-up of grit on your diamond, lessening its brilliance. Gently scrub it away, with a soft tooth-brush and warm water. You could also soak your diamond overnight in a tiny bit of window cleaner. Doing this once a week will keep it sparkling. Rinse it and polish it dry with a soft cloth. Polish gently to avoid damaging the prongs in the setting.
4) Remove your diamond ring when working with strong cleansers and chlorine bleach. These can wear down the settings holding the diamond.
5) Ensure the setting is always secure. If it feels at all loose, take it in to a jeweler for immediate repair.
6) Insure your diamond.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
With care, your diamond will last a lifetime and always retain that luxurious brilliance.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
The Dark Side of Jewelry
An article profiling the current trend in jewelry of dark, brooding pieces, both romantic and rock in style. The catwalk this year has been full of a brooding darkness, inspired by rock culture, the goth movement and historical figures like Byron, Mary Shelley and Emily Bronte’s Heathcliffe. The jewelry which complements all this ranges from romantic pieces like onyx necklaces and jet rings, to full on hard core skull rings and goth chains.
Depending on how far you want to take this look there is a range of jewelry and accessories to fit. If you want to go all out then skull and cross bones can be found adorning all areas of jewelry from diamond skull rings and cufflinks to silver stud earrings. There are even some really scary pieces like a ring by Philippa Holland and Jamie Strachan which consists of a miniature bird’s skull complete with long hooked beak to peck away at your fingers!
If you aren’t that daring, but still love the look, it’s possible to find darkness in all areas of jewelry without walking too much on the wild side. Black and white diamond cuffs are both sophisticated and chic, while simple black bangles add a touch of goth to your look without going over the top.
Another area where jewelry has immersed itself in darkness is watches. Watches have now become more about style and fashion than time pieces than ever before. Black watches complete with black rubber wrist bands and entirely black faces are cool and up to the minute in style. Some of these watches feature detail like a diamond surround or a single diamond on the face, but others go completely bare and would be lost in darkness save for the simple and elegant gold hands which are a statement in themselves.
But probably the most visible and obvious place you can where this look is going to be in rings. Cocktail rings are big for any look right now and that includes both romantic and rock. Large jet rings, trimmed with diamonds are beautiful and stylish, as are any vintage cocktail rings and over-sized rings with semi precious stones. But if you want a slightly edgier look then watch out for the clunky silver or white gold rings which feature onyx and diamonds and have an almost industrial feel to them. Some of these latest rings are using a chain design and others even encompass enamel in their list of materials.
However far you want to take it, darkness is most definitely in, and whether you lean more to the side of rock or romanticism there is plenty to choose form in the world of jewelry right now.
Depending on how far you want to take this look there is a range of jewelry and accessories to fit. If you want to go all out then skull and cross bones can be found adorning all areas of jewelry from diamond skull rings and cufflinks to silver stud earrings. There are even some really scary pieces like a ring by Philippa Holland and Jamie Strachan which consists of a miniature bird’s skull complete with long hooked beak to peck away at your fingers!
If you aren’t that daring, but still love the look, it’s possible to find darkness in all areas of jewelry without walking too much on the wild side. Black and white diamond cuffs are both sophisticated and chic, while simple black bangles add a touch of goth to your look without going over the top.
Another area where jewelry has immersed itself in darkness is watches. Watches have now become more about style and fashion than time pieces than ever before. Black watches complete with black rubber wrist bands and entirely black faces are cool and up to the minute in style. Some of these watches feature detail like a diamond surround or a single diamond on the face, but others go completely bare and would be lost in darkness save for the simple and elegant gold hands which are a statement in themselves.
But probably the most visible and obvious place you can where this look is going to be in rings. Cocktail rings are big for any look right now and that includes both romantic and rock. Large jet rings, trimmed with diamonds are beautiful and stylish, as are any vintage cocktail rings and over-sized rings with semi precious stones. But if you want a slightly edgier look then watch out for the clunky silver or white gold rings which feature onyx and diamonds and have an almost industrial feel to them. Some of these latest rings are using a chain design and others even encompass enamel in their list of materials.
However far you want to take it, darkness is most definitely in, and whether you lean more to the side of rock or romanticism there is plenty to choose form in the world of jewelry right now.
Buying Diamonds: What To Look For
As well as stylish accessories and treasured possessions, diamonds can be excellent investments. Buying diamonds requires careful consideration and forethought. Diamonds are evaluated according to four criteria: carat, colour, clarity and cut. Understanding these basics will allow buyers to make an informed choice when shopping for diamonds. Inside every diamond there is a fire. No other stone can split white light to create the magical play of coloured flashes that so captivates our imagination. Buying diamonds demands an understanding of the ‘Four Cs’: carat, clarity, colour and cut. Sculpting raw stones so that each seems to blaze and spark is the essence of the diamond-cutter’s art. Some knowledge of it helps with buying diamonds.
A diamond’s weight is measured in carats, with one carat equal to 200 milligrams. Smaller stones are measured in points (fractions of a carat). When buying diamonds, size isn’t everything. A large stone with specks or cloudiness is worth less than a smaller diamond without flaws. The largest flawless cut diamond is South Africa’s Centenary Diamond, discovered in 1986, weighing a massive 599 carats (just under 120 grams).
A diamond’s clarity depends on the presence or absence of tiny flaws, visible when magnified ten times. Diamonds are compressed carbon. As they form, other crystals may be caught within. Sometimes the pressure causes tiny fractures in their internal crystal planes. Inclusions, minute cavities and cracks mar the stone’s brightness. If you’re buying diamonds rough, remember that surface blemishes affect value less than flaws of internal structure and can be excised. Depending on size and location, internal flaws not only affect brilliance but may make stones vulnerable to fracturing. Over three-quarters of the world’s diamonds fail on clarity and are used in industry.
If you’re buying diamonds, remember that clarity is also linked to colour. Though we think of diamonds as ‘white’, only diamonds with no impurities or crystalline deformities are truly
colourless, and they are exceptionally rare. Some diamonds are valuable because they are coloured, but colour can also be a flaw. When buying diamonds a key caveat is that yellowness in white diamonds lowers value.
Diamonds may be yellow, blue, pink, green, orange and even red or black. Stones from the Kimberley area, South Africa, include nitrogen that sometimes gives the stone a bright yellow hue. These ‘canary diamonds’ are greatly prized. Blueness can be due to boron or hydrogen. Pinks and reds hues are determined by a gem’s crystal structure, which affects the absorption and reflection of light.
A diamond’s weight is measured in carats, with one carat equal to 200 milligrams. Smaller stones are measured in points (fractions of a carat). When buying diamonds, size isn’t everything. A large stone with specks or cloudiness is worth less than a smaller diamond without flaws. The largest flawless cut diamond is South Africa’s Centenary Diamond, discovered in 1986, weighing a massive 599 carats (just under 120 grams).
A diamond’s clarity depends on the presence or absence of tiny flaws, visible when magnified ten times. Diamonds are compressed carbon. As they form, other crystals may be caught within. Sometimes the pressure causes tiny fractures in their internal crystal planes. Inclusions, minute cavities and cracks mar the stone’s brightness. If you’re buying diamonds rough, remember that surface blemishes affect value less than flaws of internal structure and can be excised. Depending on size and location, internal flaws not only affect brilliance but may make stones vulnerable to fracturing. Over three-quarters of the world’s diamonds fail on clarity and are used in industry.
If you’re buying diamonds, remember that clarity is also linked to colour. Though we think of diamonds as ‘white’, only diamonds with no impurities or crystalline deformities are truly
colourless, and they are exceptionally rare. Some diamonds are valuable because they are coloured, but colour can also be a flaw. When buying diamonds a key caveat is that yellowness in white diamonds lowers value.
Diamonds may be yellow, blue, pink, green, orange and even red or black. Stones from the Kimberley area, South Africa, include nitrogen that sometimes gives the stone a bright yellow hue. These ‘canary diamonds’ are greatly prized. Blueness can be due to boron or hydrogen. Pinks and reds hues are determined by a gem’s crystal structure, which affects the absorption and reflection of light.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Give a Unique Gift
Mudit's jewelry always makes a great gift. The popularity of mudi's jewelry was no doubt enhanced by the runaway success , but jewelry lovers have been collecting these special earrings, pendants, rings, necklaces and bangles for many years. Jewelry with a wizard theme makes a great gift for anyone with a penchant for the supernatural, whether they are a fan of the boy wizard or not.
In fact wizard jewelry makes a wonderful gift for people of all ages and interests. From beautiful sword pendants and wizard rings to lovely dangling earrings, this special jewelry makes a wonderful gift at holiday time or any time of the year.
Many people with wizard fans on their gift lists have created their own special gift giving tradition with special charm bracelets and bangles. There are many wonderful wizard themed charm bracelets on the market, and they make a wonderful gift for any wizard fan. In addition, gift givers can add special bangles to those charm bracelets year after year, providing an enduring tradition any wizard fan is sure to love.
One of the great things about giving wizard jewelry is that these special gifts are perfect for both men and women. Unlike some other kinds of earrings, pendants and rings, wizard jewelry is truly unisex. Men and women alike can enjoy these special chains, bangles and other pieces of jewelry, and that makes gift giving easier, more convenient and more special.
In fact wizard jewelry makes a wonderful gift for people of all ages and interests. From beautiful sword pendants and wizard rings to lovely dangling earrings, this special jewelry makes a wonderful gift at holiday time or any time of the year.
Many people with wizard fans on their gift lists have created their own special gift giving tradition with special charm bracelets and bangles. There are many wonderful wizard themed charm bracelets on the market, and they make a wonderful gift for any wizard fan. In addition, gift givers can add special bangles to those charm bracelets year after year, providing an enduring tradition any wizard fan is sure to love.
One of the great things about giving wizard jewelry is that these special gifts are perfect for both men and women. Unlike some other kinds of earrings, pendants and rings, wizard jewelry is truly unisex. Men and women alike can enjoy these special chains, bangles and other pieces of jewelry, and that makes gift giving easier, more convenient and more special.
Treat Your Friends and Yourself with the Finest Wizard Jewelry
People have been enjoying the beauty of jewelry from time immemorial, and jewelry has always been a welcome gift. This article explores the history of jewelry, and why wizard jewelry has suddenly become so popular.
People have been adorning themselves with jewelry since the earliest days of human history. Archeologists and researchers have found ancient rings, pendants, necklaces, earrings and other bangles in ancient sites, and these pieces of jewelry are thought to have played an important role in the day to day life of those ancient peoples. In fact items of jewelry represent some of the most stunning works of art ever created, and the museums of the world are filled with examples of this unique art form.
The tradition of fine jewelry continues to this day, and earrings, pendants, rings, necklaces and other pieces of jewelry are always a welcome gift when the holiday season rolls around. Fine jewelry is always a welcome gift, and these days both men and women love to give and get pieces of fine jewelry.
The world of jewelry is home to many fine pieces, and lately one of the most popular parts of the jewelry market has been wizard jewelry. From dragon claw pendants and sword rings to beautiful wizard earrings, lovers of the supernatural have been flocking to these special pieces.
People have been adorning themselves with jewelry since the earliest days of human history. Archeologists and researchers have found ancient rings, pendants, necklaces, earrings and other bangles in ancient sites, and these pieces of jewelry are thought to have played an important role in the day to day life of those ancient peoples. In fact items of jewelry represent some of the most stunning works of art ever created, and the museums of the world are filled with examples of this unique art form.
The tradition of fine jewelry continues to this day, and earrings, pendants, rings, necklaces and other pieces of jewelry are always a welcome gift when the holiday season rolls around. Fine jewelry is always a welcome gift, and these days both men and women love to give and get pieces of fine jewelry.
The world of jewelry is home to many fine pieces, and lately one of the most popular parts of the jewelry market has been wizard jewelry. From dragon claw pendants and sword rings to beautiful wizard earrings, lovers of the supernatural have been flocking to these special pieces.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Titanium Jewelry
Many people are probably unfamiliar with the use of titanium in the Jewelry business. It is, however, a very strong, lightweight and lustrous metal that is 100% hypoallergenic. Unlike other precious metals, it is less likely to dent or scratch, and will continue to keep its elegant appearance for many years to come. Most people are familiar with the use of platinum, gold and silver in the
Jewelry business, but are perhaps less familiar with the use of titanium. Titanium was discovered in 1791 by a man named Gregor Williams, who was a British mineralogist, but was not introduced to the Jewelry business until the middle of the 1980s. Unlike other precious metals, titanium is a naturally occurring element that is present in the earth’s crust, and is therefore more readily available than most other precious metals. This shiny silver-grey coloured metal is as light as aluminium and as strong as steel. It also has a good resistance to acidity and is 100% hypoallergenic. These qualities have helped titanium to increase in popularity over the years, as it can produce robust items of Jewelry that will continue to look chic and lustrous for many
years to come.
Titanium would actually be less expensive to buy than other precious metals if it weren’t for the expensive manufacturing process. This precious metal cannot be soldered and, due to its immense strength, it is necessary to use high-tech equipment and machinery to process it. The difficulty in processing titanium consequently restricts the range of Jewelry that is available to buy, as well as making it almost impossible to resize rings. Rings are generally crafted on a lathe, which leaves
no welds or seams in the metal.
One thing that makes titanium rather unique compared to other metals, is the fact that it can be easily coloured. This offers the buyer a huge range of exotic colours and designs to choose from, as well as plain titanium pieces. Unfortunately, though, the colour is produced by oxidisation, which means that only the surface area of the metal is coloured and will consequently wear off in
time. A large amount of titanium Jewelry is also made with the addition of yellow gold and diamonds, which offers a more exclusive alternative to coloured rings.
Although there are many different items of Jewelry available in titanium, rings, bracelets and pendants are the most commonly seen pieces. Wedding rings in titanium are becoming more and more popular nowadays too, and men in particular like titanium as it looks good and is extremely hard wearing. Titanium is also very easy to care for, as it doesn’t tarnish and shouldn’t lose
its lustrous appearance. It should only ever be cleaned with mild soapy water and a soft cloth, and abrasive cleaners should be avoided altogether. However, it is recommended that titanium Jewelry is professionally polished at least once a year, just to ensure that it does continue to keep its perfect and elegant appearance.
Jewelry business, but are perhaps less familiar with the use of titanium. Titanium was discovered in 1791 by a man named Gregor Williams, who was a British mineralogist, but was not introduced to the Jewelry business until the middle of the 1980s. Unlike other precious metals, titanium is a naturally occurring element that is present in the earth’s crust, and is therefore more readily available than most other precious metals. This shiny silver-grey coloured metal is as light as aluminium and as strong as steel. It also has a good resistance to acidity and is 100% hypoallergenic. These qualities have helped titanium to increase in popularity over the years, as it can produce robust items of Jewelry that will continue to look chic and lustrous for many
years to come.
Titanium would actually be less expensive to buy than other precious metals if it weren’t for the expensive manufacturing process. This precious metal cannot be soldered and, due to its immense strength, it is necessary to use high-tech equipment and machinery to process it. The difficulty in processing titanium consequently restricts the range of Jewelry that is available to buy, as well as making it almost impossible to resize rings. Rings are generally crafted on a lathe, which leaves
no welds or seams in the metal.
One thing that makes titanium rather unique compared to other metals, is the fact that it can be easily coloured. This offers the buyer a huge range of exotic colours and designs to choose from, as well as plain titanium pieces. Unfortunately, though, the colour is produced by oxidisation, which means that only the surface area of the metal is coloured and will consequently wear off in
time. A large amount of titanium Jewelry is also made with the addition of yellow gold and diamonds, which offers a more exclusive alternative to coloured rings.
Although there are many different items of Jewelry available in titanium, rings, bracelets and pendants are the most commonly seen pieces. Wedding rings in titanium are becoming more and more popular nowadays too, and men in particular like titanium as it looks good and is extremely hard wearing. Titanium is also very easy to care for, as it doesn’t tarnish and shouldn’t lose
its lustrous appearance. It should only ever be cleaned with mild soapy water and a soft cloth, and abrasive cleaners should be avoided altogether. However, it is recommended that titanium Jewelry is professionally polished at least once a year, just to ensure that it does continue to keep its perfect and elegant appearance.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Jewelry with an Asian Twist
The jewelry of China, Japan, India, Bali, and Tibet is explored. Nations of Asia inspire some of the most unique jewelry in the world. Elegant artistry coupled with a myriad of Asian motifs make eastern jewelry prized by women who collect it or simply like to wear it. The following article discusses a wide variety of Asian-inspired jewelry available from artisans, designers, and jewelry sellers today.
Jade is generally held in high regard throughout the Orient, but the quality of jade and jade-like jewelry runs the gamut. The most sought-after jade, and most expensive, is jadeite. Jadeite can be green, pink, and even red. Jadeite is harder than nephrite, a slightly inferior jade, but also rarer.
Jade lovers will be greeted by many types of jewelry comprised of jade. Bangles in milky green shades or pendants that feature crosses, elephants, lotus flowers or circles are just some of jade jewelry.
While China is known for many jewelry types, its beads stretch back to 3000 B.C.
The Chinese have worn beads as ornaments from that time through the present. Today, Chinese beads may be made from precious materials like jade or less-expensive materials like clay or glass. Many Chinese beaded jewels incorporate a wide color spectrum. Carved beads often display Chinese symbols like dragons.
Asian designs incorporated into silver and filigree pieces make for striking combinations. Tibetan rings, for example, demonstrate the hand-pulled wire technique known as filigree. Tell-tale Tibetan patterns comprise wide ring bands with their intricate swirls.
Jewelry styles of India often incorporate some of the world’s most intricate and precious jewels. Rare stones in an array of colors often decorate Indian jewelry. Valuable pieces might showcase sapphires, rubies, and even colored diamonds. Many pieces of Indian jewelry harbor a spiritual side.
Stylistically, the jewelry of Asia is all over the map, but its exotic qualities always seem to demonstrate an Oriental mystique. Look for great artistry coupled with fine materials.
Jade is generally held in high regard throughout the Orient, but the quality of jade and jade-like jewelry runs the gamut. The most sought-after jade, and most expensive, is jadeite. Jadeite can be green, pink, and even red. Jadeite is harder than nephrite, a slightly inferior jade, but also rarer.
Jade lovers will be greeted by many types of jewelry comprised of jade. Bangles in milky green shades or pendants that feature crosses, elephants, lotus flowers or circles are just some of jade jewelry.
While China is known for many jewelry types, its beads stretch back to 3000 B.C.
The Chinese have worn beads as ornaments from that time through the present. Today, Chinese beads may be made from precious materials like jade or less-expensive materials like clay or glass. Many Chinese beaded jewels incorporate a wide color spectrum. Carved beads often display Chinese symbols like dragons.
Asian designs incorporated into silver and filigree pieces make for striking combinations. Tibetan rings, for example, demonstrate the hand-pulled wire technique known as filigree. Tell-tale Tibetan patterns comprise wide ring bands with their intricate swirls.
Jewelry styles of India often incorporate some of the world’s most intricate and precious jewels. Rare stones in an array of colors often decorate Indian jewelry. Valuable pieces might showcase sapphires, rubies, and even colored diamonds. Many pieces of Indian jewelry harbor a spiritual side.
Stylistically, the jewelry of Asia is all over the map, but its exotic qualities always seem to demonstrate an Oriental mystique. Look for great artistry coupled with fine materials.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)