My love affair with pearls began many years ago when my husband bought a pair of gorgeous pearl earrings for our fifth wedding anniversary. I had never worn pearls and never thought I would enjoy owning any. My opinion of pearls at the time was that they were a step down from the diamonds and gold that most of us are accustomed to, and I likened them to gaudy costume jewelry baubles or southwestern turquoise jewelry that I still wouldn’t be caught dead in.
That all changed with my first pearls, and ever since, I’ve been a pearl devotee. At that time, I had already amassed a fairly nice collection of yellow and white gold jewelry, from rings and necklaces to bracelets and earrings. I had diamond earrings and rings, ruby pendants, emerald rings and quite a bit of silver jewelry as well. I remember wearing the pearls on the night they were given, and the next day made a place for them within my jewelry collection. In the back of my mind, I had already designated them for permanent placement and thought they would rarely see the light of day again.
Pearls are beautiful on their own, but when placed next to other types of jewelry, one quickly realizes what makes them so unique. Pearls have an understated beauty that I can only describe as rich and deep. A diamond will reflect light and occasionally, the colors surrounding the room. Gold’s beauty is almost lost once it’s polished, as the inflections of what makes it gold disappear into a shiny haze. Pearls, on the other hand, have beauty from within. There is a depth to the reflection of a pearl, and an iridescence that sets pearls apart from everything else.
Since then, I’ve made it a point to ask for and purchase pearl jewelry, and I find that wearing pearls imparts an intelligence to my wardrobe that simply wasn’t there before. I prefer the understated beauty of pearls to the other options at my disposal. Best of all, pearls can go with almost anything, and when I’m getting dressed, they almost always do.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Birthstone Gems Make an Awesome Gift
There are different gemstones for every calendar month, which is why they serve as the perfect birthday present. Some believe that these gemstones bring you those who wear them good fortune, and are also believed to have special meanings that reflect a personality trait of the holders. Whether it is someone’s birthday, or just a token of love gemstones are the perfect gift.
Birthstone jewelry is perfect for someone important to you, on any occasion such as a Valentine’s Day gift or a Christmas present. When you surprise a loved one with a birthstone gem be sure to tell the recipient about the meaning. Showing attention to the gift shows that you put effort and time into the jewelry giving it even more meaning.
Sometimes purchasing a birthstone gem can be expensive and difficult, especially if you are on a tight budget. There are some gemstones that are rare and expensive including diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds. If you are not able to purchase a genuine birthstone then you can also purchase a synthetic gemstone which looks like the real thing, but for an affordable amount. The most commonly purchased synthetic gemstone is a cubic zirconia which looks very similar to a genuine diamond.
There are many retailers and online store retailers who specialize in genuine gemstones and cubic zirconia set in sterling silver. You are able to select from a range of jewelry items such as earrings, bracelets, pins, rings, necklaces, and pendants. You can find websites that specialize in genuine birthstones and cubic zirconia, as well as sterling silver to keep the price affordable. You can easily find a company that offers breathtaking sterling silver solitaire rings that represent each month of the year. You can purchase solitaire rings with heart, princess, or round cut stones.
Birthstone jewelry is perfect for someone important to you, on any occasion such as a Valentine’s Day gift or a Christmas present. When you surprise a loved one with a birthstone gem be sure to tell the recipient about the meaning. Showing attention to the gift shows that you put effort and time into the jewelry giving it even more meaning.
Sometimes purchasing a birthstone gem can be expensive and difficult, especially if you are on a tight budget. There are some gemstones that are rare and expensive including diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds. If you are not able to purchase a genuine birthstone then you can also purchase a synthetic gemstone which looks like the real thing, but for an affordable amount. The most commonly purchased synthetic gemstone is a cubic zirconia which looks very similar to a genuine diamond.
There are many retailers and online store retailers who specialize in genuine gemstones and cubic zirconia set in sterling silver. You are able to select from a range of jewelry items such as earrings, bracelets, pins, rings, necklaces, and pendants. You can find websites that specialize in genuine birthstones and cubic zirconia, as well as sterling silver to keep the price affordable. You can easily find a company that offers breathtaking sterling silver solitaire rings that represent each month of the year. You can purchase solitaire rings with heart, princess, or round cut stones.
Aquamarine
March's birthstone and the traditional stone for a nineteenth wedding anniversary, Aquamarine is the greenish-blue to blue-green variety of the mineral beryl (which includes emerald and the pink variety called morganite). The name comes from the Latin for "sea water."
People in the Middle Ages thought that aquamarine magically conveyed insight and foresight. Holding one in the mouth allowed a person to call up spirits to answer life's most vexing questions. Water that an aquamarine had soaked in was prescribed for eye troubles, respiratory diseases, and hiccups.
Many huge aquamarines have been found. One well-formed crystal found in Brazil in 1920 weighed 243 pounds. It was 19 by 16 inches, greenish on the outside, blue on the inside, and so transparent that objects were clearly visible through its length.
The British Museum of Natural History has a flawless aquamarine of 879 carats, and the Los Angeles County Museum of Natural History has a fine 638-carat stone. In 1935, the Brazilian government gave Eleanor Roosevelt a 1,847-carat aquamarine. It is now in the museum at Hyde Park, the Roosevelt's New York estate.
We carry this beautiful cool gem in the greenish-blue hue range in light to medium dark tones. We offer you a choice of two qualities of faceted aquamarines. In both qualities the gemstones are eye clean with good cuts. Our AA quality consists of light to medium tone stones and our AAA quality has a medium to medium dark tone.
We want to be your number one source for gemstones, so we continue to add new shapes and sizes throughout our product line. If you ever need a particular gemstone that is not found in our regular stock, just call our Gemstone Special Order Consultant.
People in the Middle Ages thought that aquamarine magically conveyed insight and foresight. Holding one in the mouth allowed a person to call up spirits to answer life's most vexing questions. Water that an aquamarine had soaked in was prescribed for eye troubles, respiratory diseases, and hiccups.
Many huge aquamarines have been found. One well-formed crystal found in Brazil in 1920 weighed 243 pounds. It was 19 by 16 inches, greenish on the outside, blue on the inside, and so transparent that objects were clearly visible through its length.
The British Museum of Natural History has a flawless aquamarine of 879 carats, and the Los Angeles County Museum of Natural History has a fine 638-carat stone. In 1935, the Brazilian government gave Eleanor Roosevelt a 1,847-carat aquamarine. It is now in the museum at Hyde Park, the Roosevelt's New York estate.
We carry this beautiful cool gem in the greenish-blue hue range in light to medium dark tones. We offer you a choice of two qualities of faceted aquamarines. In both qualities the gemstones are eye clean with good cuts. Our AA quality consists of light to medium tone stones and our AAA quality has a medium to medium dark tone.
We want to be your number one source for gemstones, so we continue to add new shapes and sizes throughout our product line. If you ever need a particular gemstone that is not found in our regular stock, just call our Gemstone Special Order Consultant.
Amethyst
February's birthstone and the traditional stone for a sixth wedding anniversary is Amethyst.
Of all the quartz varieties, amethyst is by far the best known and most valuable. Amethyst derives its name from the Greek word meaning, "not to intoxicate", and its reputed power to prevent inebriation led to the belief that drinking wine from an amethyst cup would prevent drunkenness.
Amethyst gave rise to many other legends. It was thought to safeguard soldiers, ensure victory, aid hunters, protect against diseases, control evil thoughts, quicken the intelligence, and make its owner shrewd in business.
Several amethysts adorn the coronation regalia of England. The Orb, a golden ball six inches in diameter, contains a spectacularly colored amethyst one and one half inches high (4cm). The Royal Scepter is studded with amethysts, as is the coronet of the Prince of Wales. Today, Roman Catholic bishops often wear amethyst rings, and their ceremonial wine is drunk from goblets made from amethyst.
The colors that create purple are red and blue, two colors poles apart physically, emotionally, and symbolically. Since the brain is uncertain which color it is responding to, red or blue, purple is known as a psychologically oscillating (swinging) color. People either have a positive passion ("purple passion"), or hate the color.
SELECTION
We offer amethyst in a variety of shapes, sizes, and color hues. Five qualities of genuine faceted amethyst are available for you, including our new checkerboard cuts. We also carry genuine amethyst in four qualities of Signity machine cut faceted gems and one quality of cabochon cut. Currently offer is amethyst cut from rough.
Of all the quartz varieties, amethyst is by far the best known and most valuable. Amethyst derives its name from the Greek word meaning, "not to intoxicate", and its reputed power to prevent inebriation led to the belief that drinking wine from an amethyst cup would prevent drunkenness.
Amethyst gave rise to many other legends. It was thought to safeguard soldiers, ensure victory, aid hunters, protect against diseases, control evil thoughts, quicken the intelligence, and make its owner shrewd in business.
Several amethysts adorn the coronation regalia of England. The Orb, a golden ball six inches in diameter, contains a spectacularly colored amethyst one and one half inches high (4cm). The Royal Scepter is studded with amethysts, as is the coronet of the Prince of Wales. Today, Roman Catholic bishops often wear amethyst rings, and their ceremonial wine is drunk from goblets made from amethyst.
THE COLOR PURPLE
The colors that create purple are red and blue, two colors poles apart physically, emotionally, and symbolically. Since the brain is uncertain which color it is responding to, red or blue, purple is known as a psychologically oscillating (swinging) color. People either have a positive passion ("purple passion"), or hate the color.
SELECTION
We offer amethyst in a variety of shapes, sizes, and color hues. Five qualities of genuine faceted amethyst are available for you, including our new checkerboard cuts. We also carry genuine amethyst in four qualities of Signity machine cut faceted gems and one quality of cabochon cut. Currently offer is amethyst cut from rough.
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Diamond Carat Weight: Shoppers Buying Guide
The weight of a diamond is usually expressed in carats. The term carat originated in ancient times when gemstones were weighted compared to the carob bean, where one bean weighed about one carat. The term was standardized and converted to the metric system in 1913 so that the current carat equals 0.2 grams, which is a little more than 0.007 ounce.
Knowing the technical definition of a carat is one thing, but the diamond shopper needs to understand carat weight so they can make the best purchase decision for their diamond. The carat weight of a diamond influences several key factors that should be part of the diamond decision.
Sometimes in the jewelry trade, the term carat weight is used synonymously with size. The implication is that all diamonds that weight one carat are the same size and those that weight two carats are the same size. This is not accurate and an astute diamond shopper will work to understand the difference between size and weight.
The size of diamonds can vary with the same weight because the shape of the diamond can be different. A one carat round diamond has a very different length and width than marquise shaped diamond weighing one carat.
The diamond industry has developed its pricing structure based on the carat weights that consumers request when they go into a jewelry store. Even carat weights have taken on a social importance far above their simple weight so consumers typically ask for whole carat weights or simple fractions of a carat. For example, a diamond shopper might ask for a half-carat, one carat, a carat and a half, or a two-carat so the diamond industry sets the price increases at these weights. A diamond weighing 1.00 carats has a significant higher price per carat than one that weighs 0.99 carats so diamond cutters to get the finished diamond weight at or over these requested carat weights. As a result, there are many more diamonds cut just over 1.00 carat than just under. Knowledgeable shoppers know there are some great values at just under the even carat weights but with few diamonds cut, the demand is greater than the supply.
The weight also affects the price in that the larger the carat weight, the fewer diamonds are available. Diamonds loose approximately 40-60% of their rough weight in the cutting and polishing process. Therefore, it can take over a two-carat rough diamond to produce a 1.00 carat finished diamond. Most diamonds mined are very small with larger stones relative rare. It can take many thousands of rough diamonds mined to yield one that results in a 1.00 carat finished diamond. The price of larger carat weights increases with the rarity. For example, a two-carat diamond can be almost four times the price of a one-carat diamond with the same quality.
Even with the same shape of diamond, the carat weight does not tell you the size. It is similar to asking how tall a 200-pound man is. Just as the height of a man can vary with the same weight, a diamond’s length and width can vary for the same carat weight. The challenge is to find diamonds that have the right depth parameters to give them beautiful brilliance and sparkle in addition to big size for the carat weight.
The weight of a diamond also affects the size, as diamonds get heavier the length and width do not go up as fast as the weight. For example, a two carat round diamond weighs 100% more than a one-carat diamond but the surface area you see only increases 64%.
Note that as the carat weight goes up, the price per carat goes up faster and the size goes up slower. The result is that as the carat weight goes up it takes a lot more weight and even more money to make the diamond noticeably bigger to the eye.
Perhaps the biggest question a diamond shopper has is what carat weight of diamond they should purchase. Of course, their budget is going to be limiting factor in determining what carat weight to buy but the target carat weight is influenced by several factors including the size of the finger, type of mounting, and the carat weight of friends and family diamonds.
Buying the right diamond requires consideration of many factors and understanding the impact of carat weight is one of the keys to making the best purchase decision possible.
Knowing the technical definition of a carat is one thing, but the diamond shopper needs to understand carat weight so they can make the best purchase decision for their diamond. The carat weight of a diamond influences several key factors that should be part of the diamond decision.
Sometimes in the jewelry trade, the term carat weight is used synonymously with size. The implication is that all diamonds that weight one carat are the same size and those that weight two carats are the same size. This is not accurate and an astute diamond shopper will work to understand the difference between size and weight.
The size of diamonds can vary with the same weight because the shape of the diamond can be different. A one carat round diamond has a very different length and width than marquise shaped diamond weighing one carat.
The diamond industry has developed its pricing structure based on the carat weights that consumers request when they go into a jewelry store. Even carat weights have taken on a social importance far above their simple weight so consumers typically ask for whole carat weights or simple fractions of a carat. For example, a diamond shopper might ask for a half-carat, one carat, a carat and a half, or a two-carat so the diamond industry sets the price increases at these weights. A diamond weighing 1.00 carats has a significant higher price per carat than one that weighs 0.99 carats so diamond cutters to get the finished diamond weight at or over these requested carat weights. As a result, there are many more diamonds cut just over 1.00 carat than just under. Knowledgeable shoppers know there are some great values at just under the even carat weights but with few diamonds cut, the demand is greater than the supply.
The weight also affects the price in that the larger the carat weight, the fewer diamonds are available. Diamonds loose approximately 40-60% of their rough weight in the cutting and polishing process. Therefore, it can take over a two-carat rough diamond to produce a 1.00 carat finished diamond. Most diamonds mined are very small with larger stones relative rare. It can take many thousands of rough diamonds mined to yield one that results in a 1.00 carat finished diamond. The price of larger carat weights increases with the rarity. For example, a two-carat diamond can be almost four times the price of a one-carat diamond with the same quality.
Even with the same shape of diamond, the carat weight does not tell you the size. It is similar to asking how tall a 200-pound man is. Just as the height of a man can vary with the same weight, a diamond’s length and width can vary for the same carat weight. The challenge is to find diamonds that have the right depth parameters to give them beautiful brilliance and sparkle in addition to big size for the carat weight.
The weight of a diamond also affects the size, as diamonds get heavier the length and width do not go up as fast as the weight. For example, a two carat round diamond weighs 100% more than a one-carat diamond but the surface area you see only increases 64%.
Note that as the carat weight goes up, the price per carat goes up faster and the size goes up slower. The result is that as the carat weight goes up it takes a lot more weight and even more money to make the diamond noticeably bigger to the eye.
Perhaps the biggest question a diamond shopper has is what carat weight of diamond they should purchase. Of course, their budget is going to be limiting factor in determining what carat weight to buy but the target carat weight is influenced by several factors including the size of the finger, type of mounting, and the carat weight of friends and family diamonds.
Buying the right diamond requires consideration of many factors and understanding the impact of carat weight is one of the keys to making the best purchase decision possible.
Things you Need for Bead Jewelry Making
Bead jewelry making is an activity that can be done by anyone, even if they haven’t been particularly trained to do beadwork. In other words, there is no level of skill forced upon you in order to complete an incredible decorative necklace or pair of earrings made out of beads. The number one advantage of creating your own jewelry or ornaments is the fact that they can be 100% original. Your creativity together with the benefits of the online shops which allow you to buy almost anything regarding jewelry making supplies will assist you to create unique pieces. If you are not interested in creating jewelry and simply want to buy wholesale beads, by visiting gemmall.com you will certainly find a wide range of beads from where you can take your desired pick(s).
When you get involved with jewelry making, experience is always a plus. In case you are not inspired, then you should make sure to have close at hand specific patterns to work on and, if possible, a tutorial to help you through the process, particularly if you are a beginner. Concerning the beadwork patterns, make a simple choice if you are a novice. You will also need thread, i.e. beading thread. Don’t use sewing thread or dental floss – they will break easily. Many bead makers favor C-Lon and Nymo types of beading thread. They are fairly resistant, even in high humidity circumstances. In addition, beading needles are a must: you will use them to pass the thread through the beads.
It is preferable to approach jewelry making in a “step by step” manner, but with imaginative enthusiasm. The results won’t be disappointing and you might discover yourself as an artist. As soon as you finish your first ornaments, you will feel more confident and attracted to future beadwork possibilities. In case you consider you’re not very skilled in jewelry making, gemmall.com can supply you with already stringed wholesale beads according to your taste. The amazing crafts will surely catch your attention and you might even find yourself in a difficult position of not knowing what exactly to choose from so many wonderful offers.
The key to successful bead making consists in the beads you’ll use. The choice is yours and the result depends on the material, the texture and color of the beads. By taking a look at the wholesale beads available on the above mentioned website you will be delighted to discover a world of gemstones, glass beads, crystal, plastic, wood or even sterling silver and gold beads. Attractive through color and shape these wholesale beads themselves can be a source of inspiration in creating some particular decorative item.
Because obviously no beadwork can be completed without beads, you should check out the available wholesale beads that interest you above all without leaving aside the other possibilities you have. It’s good if you know exactly what you want to purchase, but a second look at the other options might determine you to change your mind. Temptation is at every turn. And you might even realize the wholesale beads you bought now can be of help and an inspiration later on while jewelry making and while paying attention to the creative process.
Since you are buying wholesale beads, you will most likely be at an advantage: you will get them in cost-effective terms and in amounts that guarantee you can go ahead with your jewelry making without interruption caused by the lack of beads.
Finally, the workspace where you create your ornaments is very important. This means that you will need quality lighting conditions, particularly if you wear eyeglasses or if you feel that at a certain point during your work, your eyes sore - it is a clear sign that either you are tired so it’s time you took a break or lighting conditions are not appropriate. Jewelry making can be a particularly meticulous occupation. Attention to details is a must and you need to be able to notice everything.
Other measures you should approach out of caution concern the amount of beads you have at hand. It is preferable that you don’t get cheap about the amount of beads you purchase. There is nothing more unpleasant than finding that you are left with no beads just when you’ve managed to get a bit accustomed with bead threading or when you are close to the “finish line”.
Also, make sure that you have some spare needles. A single needle might get lost or misplaced. At times, it may even break should it come in rough contact with some other objects. So, in order to prevent a sudden interruption caused by your need to go to the nearest shop and buy another beading needle, it is best to stay on the safe side and secure a “supply” of needles and of wholesale beads prior to any potentially unpleasant event. Finally, you can start your work on the beadwork pattern. Good luck!
When you get involved with jewelry making, experience is always a plus. In case you are not inspired, then you should make sure to have close at hand specific patterns to work on and, if possible, a tutorial to help you through the process, particularly if you are a beginner. Concerning the beadwork patterns, make a simple choice if you are a novice. You will also need thread, i.e. beading thread. Don’t use sewing thread or dental floss – they will break easily. Many bead makers favor C-Lon and Nymo types of beading thread. They are fairly resistant, even in high humidity circumstances. In addition, beading needles are a must: you will use them to pass the thread through the beads.
It is preferable to approach jewelry making in a “step by step” manner, but with imaginative enthusiasm. The results won’t be disappointing and you might discover yourself as an artist. As soon as you finish your first ornaments, you will feel more confident and attracted to future beadwork possibilities. In case you consider you’re not very skilled in jewelry making, gemmall.com can supply you with already stringed wholesale beads according to your taste. The amazing crafts will surely catch your attention and you might even find yourself in a difficult position of not knowing what exactly to choose from so many wonderful offers.
The key to successful bead making consists in the beads you’ll use. The choice is yours and the result depends on the material, the texture and color of the beads. By taking a look at the wholesale beads available on the above mentioned website you will be delighted to discover a world of gemstones, glass beads, crystal, plastic, wood or even sterling silver and gold beads. Attractive through color and shape these wholesale beads themselves can be a source of inspiration in creating some particular decorative item.
Because obviously no beadwork can be completed without beads, you should check out the available wholesale beads that interest you above all without leaving aside the other possibilities you have. It’s good if you know exactly what you want to purchase, but a second look at the other options might determine you to change your mind. Temptation is at every turn. And you might even realize the wholesale beads you bought now can be of help and an inspiration later on while jewelry making and while paying attention to the creative process.
Since you are buying wholesale beads, you will most likely be at an advantage: you will get them in cost-effective terms and in amounts that guarantee you can go ahead with your jewelry making without interruption caused by the lack of beads.
Finally, the workspace where you create your ornaments is very important. This means that you will need quality lighting conditions, particularly if you wear eyeglasses or if you feel that at a certain point during your work, your eyes sore - it is a clear sign that either you are tired so it’s time you took a break or lighting conditions are not appropriate. Jewelry making can be a particularly meticulous occupation. Attention to details is a must and you need to be able to notice everything.
Other measures you should approach out of caution concern the amount of beads you have at hand. It is preferable that you don’t get cheap about the amount of beads you purchase. There is nothing more unpleasant than finding that you are left with no beads just when you’ve managed to get a bit accustomed with bead threading or when you are close to the “finish line”.
Also, make sure that you have some spare needles. A single needle might get lost or misplaced. At times, it may even break should it come in rough contact with some other objects. So, in order to prevent a sudden interruption caused by your need to go to the nearest shop and buy another beading needle, it is best to stay on the safe side and secure a “supply” of needles and of wholesale beads prior to any potentially unpleasant event. Finally, you can start your work on the beadwork pattern. Good luck!
Saturday, February 24, 2007
Diamond Tidbits
Why A Diamond Engagement Ring?
Here is one theory: Ancients used to believe gem stones were solidified drops of divine essence, embedded in rocks when the world was created. Diamonds were sacred to the Mother of the gods because they “ruled” all other stones by their superior hardness. Diamonds were sacred to the Supreme Goddess and were taken over by the cult of the Virgin. Because of this association with virginity, they came to be considered appropriate betrothal gifts.
Just How Many Diamonds are there on American Soil?
As it turns out...more than some of us might think!
1853...California. The first diamond is discovered in the Cherokee district of Butte County. California deposits are likened to the diamantiferous gravel of Brazil. More diamonds are found, in five more counties: Amador, Butte, El Dorado, Nevada, and Trinity. It ain't only gold what's in them thar hills.
1869...Idaho. Some small diamonds have been found in the placer diggings of Idaho. They're found under the same conditions as those found in California ...picked up by gold miners. A stir is created in the local papers. References are made as the abundant yield of Idaho diamonds. Out of curiosity, how many of you out there thought Idaho was only potato country?
1883...Montana. An octahedral diamond is found at a placer claim at Nelson Hill, near Deer Lodge County, Montana. It's brought to New York, submitted to a diamond expert, and pronounced real.
1884...Wisconsin. A Milwaukee jeweler buys a stone from a lady for $1.00. He tells her it's a topaz. It's said it was found while digging a well on her husband's property. Turns out it's a diamond, the first ever found in Wisconsin, and is therefore valued at quite a high price. Did this jeweler take the lady for a ride? I don't know. Once word got out, she sold her property at an inflated rate, so she made out okay.
1888...Cincinnati. A laborer is attending to a boulder-crushing machine and he finds a diamond weighing over 80 carats. A theory floats around that the stone might be one lost by a Mrs. Clark in 1806. Who know? Who cares? 80 carats! It's the lottery of 1888. Only thing is...they don't say whether it was a rough or cut stone. I think we're talking cut. But don't go rushing off to Ohio yet with your mining tools. Wait till I get some more info. I'll be sending you all a card...from Ohio, of course. :)
1888 again...Kentucky. There's an account of a diamond coming out of Russell County. It weighs a little over 0.43 carats. It's an octahedron. It's lustrous, nearly white, with a tinge of yellow. It was found in a gravelly field on top of a hill. A theory is advanced. Diamonds may have been formed in the peridotite of Kentucky. Ahh...for the sweet smell of blue grass country.
Arizona...don't know the year. A man called J.D. Yerrington of New York city owns a brown diamond. It weighs 1 carat. When cut, it will yield a 1/2 carat gem. It was found near Philadelphos, Arizona.
The time...many years ago. Sorry, that's the closest I can get. Koko Creek, in Eastern Tennessee...at the headquarters of the Tellico River. We're on the bench lands of the Smokey or Unaka Mountains. Three diamond crystals are found. This points to an extension of the diamond-belt of North Carolina.
There's more. It seems almost endless. There are diamonds found in Georgia--in Bangor, Maine--in North Carolina. The largest diamond ever found in America is supposed to be the Dewey Diamond, found in Manchester, Virginia, in 1855...found by a laborer while paving a street near Richmond. It's original weight was 23 3/4 carats. After cutting...11 11/16 carats. It's not very valuable. It's off color...it's imperfect. But so what? Corn and hay and beef and potatoes, and alfalfa and tobacco and chickens ain't our only resources folks. No sirree! There's diamonds out there...just for the pickin'.
And there you have it.
Diamonds...How and when they were created.
There is more than one theory as to how and when diamonds were created. We'll use one.
Let's go back back...to the beginnings of time...when the earth was young. We're talking about 70 million to 150 million years ago. It was the beginning of the continental drift...that time in history when the earth began to break up, and Africa and South America separated, and the Atlantic Ocean was formed. It was then, during the creation of the Atlantic Ocean, that violent volcanic activity created enough heat and pressure to create diamonds. How much heat and pressure? Well, we're talking about 7000kg/cm2 and 3,630 degrees Fahrenheit. (2000 degrees Centigrade) The only place on this planet of ours where that kind of heat and pressure can be achieved is roughly 120 miles deep into the earth. Sometimes, very rarely, a heavy meteorite hits the planet with enough heat and pressure to create diamonds. But this is a very rare occurrence. As the earth changed and shifted, diamonds slowly began to find their way to the surface...a great deal of the time via the eruptions of volcanoes. The name of the rock formed by these volcanoes is called Kimberlite...and much of it is found in South Africa...today's heart of the diamond producing mines of the world.
We now shoot forward through the mists of time. No one knows exactly when man discovered diamonds. What we do know, however, is that from the beginnings of ancient times, when man first discovered diamonds, to the middle of the eighteenth century, India was the world's only supplier. There was a king in India around the years 320 to 298 B.C. His name was Chandragupa. It was during his reign that documentation was revealed that proved that not only were diamonds known in the fourth century B.C., but they were also used as commodities for trade. It was sometime in the eighteenth century, Brazil entered the arena and became a major force in the production of diamonds.
Diamonds are mentioned in the times of Alexander the Great. They appear in the stories of the Thousand and One Nights with Sinbad the Sailor, and later, in the stories written about Marco Polo.
Today, the Diamond Syndicates of South Africa control world diamond production.
Diamonds...Pressure...and Peanut Butter
Yeah yeah...an unlikely title...what's he going to come up with this time? Yawn yawn.
Okay. Here's the story...here's the problem...and here's the solution. This all has to do, once again--I've skirted this topic before--with the making of man made diamonds. And here's the story. In theory, it should be simple. Diamonds are made from carbon...and so is almost everything else on this earth, including plastics, wood, and even us. Take out the water, squish a human being with enough heat and pressure, and, theoretically at least, you should get a diamond. So, next time any of you start to think your fellow human may be a bit worthless...think again.
Now...here's the problem. Pressure! At the turn of the century, there wasn't a lab around that could achieve a continuous pressure of over three thousand atmospheres. If you want to know what this means... listen. Go down to the deepest depths of our deepest oceans, and you'll only reach pressures totally a tad over one thousand atmospheres. And three thousand atmospheres doesn't begin to cut it for creating a diamond. It turns out that fifty thousand atmospheres or more is what you need to do the trick. Impressed?
In 1905 a man called Percy Bridgeman was able to create a machine that could generate seven thousand atmospheres (50 tons of pressure per square inch). By 1910 he had things going up to twenty thousand atmospheres. He could now get water to become ice at room temperature. Okay...it wasn't a diamond yet...but still...ice without a freezer. Move over G.E.
1930 comes around and Percy's got his equipment cooking in the range of four hundred thousand atmospheres (that's nearly 3000 tons per inch). More than enough pressure...but no dice...um...make that diamonds.
And now...the solution. It will only work if you can sustain a temperature level of 1000 degrees centigrade while keeping up the pressure of over fifty thousand atmospheres. Percy never made it, though he did get a Nobel Prize in physics for his achievements. So...we're off to Sweden. Let me introduce you all to a Mr. Baltzar von Platen. He's considered a genius and an eccentic...all at the same time. But you can't touch him for brilliance in a laboratory. He designs a machine that produces over sixty thousand atmospheres...and sets the pace for those that follow him...re: a scientist by the name of Erik Lundblad. On February 16, 1953, Erik makes history. He subjects graphite to a pressure of 83,000 atmospheres for a full hour...and creates the first synthetic diamond. But it's not announced...and so the race continues...and we end up back in America...with a company called General Electric. The date is now December 8, 1954. Wednesday evening. Herb Strong, a research scientist for G.E., loads his machine with black carbon powder, raises the pressure to fifty thousand atmospheres and the temperature to 1250 degrees centigrade...lets the stuff cook for 16 hours...and makes two small diamonds. December 16, 1954, another scientist does it again. His name is Tracy Hall.
Since then man made diamonds have become almost commonplace accomplishments. Today, production exceeds over one hundred tons per year. But it's all industrial stuff folks...not to worry.
Oh yeah...one more thing. The Peanut Butter. Where does that come in? I'll tell you. As an experiment, a scientist named Robert Wentorf Jr. took a spoonful of the stuff and put it into the machine and presto... the chef's delight...diamond crystals. And why not? Peanut Butter is carbon too you know. As is plastic, and tar, and wood, and us.
Cost of Operating a Diamond Mine
A question that surely weighs heavily and inexorably on the minds of the readers of Tidbits--and any other breathing human being for that matter--is unquestionably this: Is there a cost versus location situation when it comes to operating a diamond mine? In other words...is it more or less expensive to operate a diamond mine in the valley than on the mountain top? The answer to this tantalizing rebus is that it makes no difference at all. The reason is in the final product. Unlike gold or iron or copper or lead...we don't need enormous carting facilities like railroads and pipe lines to ship out the day's yield. One hundred million dollars worth of product can weigh only a couple of pounds at most...and can be hauled away in a light aircraft.
South Africa. Land of the lion, the leopard, the cheetah, and the diamond. Our gem is in good company. Ten thousand feet up, over the Lesothan mountains, our plane heads directly into a mountain wall. Mists hang heavily in the air. Suddenly, micro-seconds before what is surely destined to be a crash, a landing strip appears and we touch ground with little bump. Brigadoon? Well...close, but no cigar. We're in Letseng-La-Terai--the highest diamond mine in the world. We're on the roof of Africa. Welcome my friends. Let's stroll about, shall we?
Against the side of the mountain is a square tower--a citadel of iron reaching through the fog. It's the separation plant. Large stones are the mainstay of this operation...large being defined as any rough diamond weighing over 14.8 carats. This plant produces about 200 such stones a year, and it is only one of two where large stones are regularly gleaned, the other plant being in Sierra Leone. Hit a forty carat rough gem, you got a half a million dollars coming into the coffers.
It's the fifteenth of the month. A bell begins to clang with grating persistence. A large diamond has just been found...the first one this month, and it is for it the bell tolls. There's excitement in the air. The mine needed a find like this in order to remain solvent. There was an ever increasing belief that the mine was tapped out with larger goods. Everyone hurries to the sorting house. Relief is in the air. For now, the mine will not have to be closed...though it needs two or three such finds a month in order to survive.
It weighs fifty eight carats. It's is top grade color quality. How much will it bring in? As a rough...about 340 thousand dollars. Maybe a little more. This money will support the mine for two weeks...then that's it. Another one better be found soon. This enterprise employs 800 workers at an average gross collective salary of 20 grand a week for labor alone. If you take in the salaries of the engineers and other support crew... supervisors etc., cost of fuel and machinery...our little mine residing as close to heaven as a mine can get...cost about 150,000 dollars a week to operate. One diamond a month, clearly, doth not do it. The logistics are overwhelming. This mine needs to sort through three to four tons of kimberlite-- the material in which diamonds are found--in order to glean one single carat of diamonds.
Here is one theory: Ancients used to believe gem stones were solidified drops of divine essence, embedded in rocks when the world was created. Diamonds were sacred to the Mother of the gods because they “ruled” all other stones by their superior hardness. Diamonds were sacred to the Supreme Goddess and were taken over by the cult of the Virgin. Because of this association with virginity, they came to be considered appropriate betrothal gifts.
Just How Many Diamonds are there on American Soil?
As it turns out...more than some of us might think!
1853...California. The first diamond is discovered in the Cherokee district of Butte County. California deposits are likened to the diamantiferous gravel of Brazil. More diamonds are found, in five more counties: Amador, Butte, El Dorado, Nevada, and Trinity. It ain't only gold what's in them thar hills.
1869...Idaho. Some small diamonds have been found in the placer diggings of Idaho. They're found under the same conditions as those found in California ...picked up by gold miners. A stir is created in the local papers. References are made as the abundant yield of Idaho diamonds. Out of curiosity, how many of you out there thought Idaho was only potato country?
1883...Montana. An octahedral diamond is found at a placer claim at Nelson Hill, near Deer Lodge County, Montana. It's brought to New York, submitted to a diamond expert, and pronounced real.
1884...Wisconsin. A Milwaukee jeweler buys a stone from a lady for $1.00. He tells her it's a topaz. It's said it was found while digging a well on her husband's property. Turns out it's a diamond, the first ever found in Wisconsin, and is therefore valued at quite a high price. Did this jeweler take the lady for a ride? I don't know. Once word got out, she sold her property at an inflated rate, so she made out okay.
1888...Cincinnati. A laborer is attending to a boulder-crushing machine and he finds a diamond weighing over 80 carats. A theory floats around that the stone might be one lost by a Mrs. Clark in 1806. Who know? Who cares? 80 carats! It's the lottery of 1888. Only thing is...they don't say whether it was a rough or cut stone. I think we're talking cut. But don't go rushing off to Ohio yet with your mining tools. Wait till I get some more info. I'll be sending you all a card...from Ohio, of course. :)
1888 again...Kentucky. There's an account of a diamond coming out of Russell County. It weighs a little over 0.43 carats. It's an octahedron. It's lustrous, nearly white, with a tinge of yellow. It was found in a gravelly field on top of a hill. A theory is advanced. Diamonds may have been formed in the peridotite of Kentucky. Ahh...for the sweet smell of blue grass country.
Arizona...don't know the year. A man called J.D. Yerrington of New York city owns a brown diamond. It weighs 1 carat. When cut, it will yield a 1/2 carat gem. It was found near Philadelphos, Arizona.
The time...many years ago. Sorry, that's the closest I can get. Koko Creek, in Eastern Tennessee...at the headquarters of the Tellico River. We're on the bench lands of the Smokey or Unaka Mountains. Three diamond crystals are found. This points to an extension of the diamond-belt of North Carolina.
There's more. It seems almost endless. There are diamonds found in Georgia--in Bangor, Maine--in North Carolina. The largest diamond ever found in America is supposed to be the Dewey Diamond, found in Manchester, Virginia, in 1855...found by a laborer while paving a street near Richmond. It's original weight was 23 3/4 carats. After cutting...11 11/16 carats. It's not very valuable. It's off color...it's imperfect. But so what? Corn and hay and beef and potatoes, and alfalfa and tobacco and chickens ain't our only resources folks. No sirree! There's diamonds out there...just for the pickin'.
And there you have it.
Diamonds...How and when they were created.
There is more than one theory as to how and when diamonds were created. We'll use one.
Let's go back back...to the beginnings of time...when the earth was young. We're talking about 70 million to 150 million years ago. It was the beginning of the continental drift...that time in history when the earth began to break up, and Africa and South America separated, and the Atlantic Ocean was formed. It was then, during the creation of the Atlantic Ocean, that violent volcanic activity created enough heat and pressure to create diamonds. How much heat and pressure? Well, we're talking about 7000kg/cm2 and 3,630 degrees Fahrenheit. (2000 degrees Centigrade) The only place on this planet of ours where that kind of heat and pressure can be achieved is roughly 120 miles deep into the earth. Sometimes, very rarely, a heavy meteorite hits the planet with enough heat and pressure to create diamonds. But this is a very rare occurrence. As the earth changed and shifted, diamonds slowly began to find their way to the surface...a great deal of the time via the eruptions of volcanoes. The name of the rock formed by these volcanoes is called Kimberlite...and much of it is found in South Africa...today's heart of the diamond producing mines of the world.
We now shoot forward through the mists of time. No one knows exactly when man discovered diamonds. What we do know, however, is that from the beginnings of ancient times, when man first discovered diamonds, to the middle of the eighteenth century, India was the world's only supplier. There was a king in India around the years 320 to 298 B.C. His name was Chandragupa. It was during his reign that documentation was revealed that proved that not only were diamonds known in the fourth century B.C., but they were also used as commodities for trade. It was sometime in the eighteenth century, Brazil entered the arena and became a major force in the production of diamonds.
Diamonds are mentioned in the times of Alexander the Great. They appear in the stories of the Thousand and One Nights with Sinbad the Sailor, and later, in the stories written about Marco Polo.
Today, the Diamond Syndicates of South Africa control world diamond production.
Diamonds...Pressure...and Peanut Butter
Yeah yeah...an unlikely title...what's he going to come up with this time? Yawn yawn.
Okay. Here's the story...here's the problem...and here's the solution. This all has to do, once again--I've skirted this topic before--with the making of man made diamonds. And here's the story. In theory, it should be simple. Diamonds are made from carbon...and so is almost everything else on this earth, including plastics, wood, and even us. Take out the water, squish a human being with enough heat and pressure, and, theoretically at least, you should get a diamond. So, next time any of you start to think your fellow human may be a bit worthless...think again.
Now...here's the problem. Pressure! At the turn of the century, there wasn't a lab around that could achieve a continuous pressure of over three thousand atmospheres. If you want to know what this means... listen. Go down to the deepest depths of our deepest oceans, and you'll only reach pressures totally a tad over one thousand atmospheres. And three thousand atmospheres doesn't begin to cut it for creating a diamond. It turns out that fifty thousand atmospheres or more is what you need to do the trick. Impressed?
In 1905 a man called Percy Bridgeman was able to create a machine that could generate seven thousand atmospheres (50 tons of pressure per square inch). By 1910 he had things going up to twenty thousand atmospheres. He could now get water to become ice at room temperature. Okay...it wasn't a diamond yet...but still...ice without a freezer. Move over G.E.
1930 comes around and Percy's got his equipment cooking in the range of four hundred thousand atmospheres (that's nearly 3000 tons per inch). More than enough pressure...but no dice...um...make that diamonds.
And now...the solution. It will only work if you can sustain a temperature level of 1000 degrees centigrade while keeping up the pressure of over fifty thousand atmospheres. Percy never made it, though he did get a Nobel Prize in physics for his achievements. So...we're off to Sweden. Let me introduce you all to a Mr. Baltzar von Platen. He's considered a genius and an eccentic...all at the same time. But you can't touch him for brilliance in a laboratory. He designs a machine that produces over sixty thousand atmospheres...and sets the pace for those that follow him...re: a scientist by the name of Erik Lundblad. On February 16, 1953, Erik makes history. He subjects graphite to a pressure of 83,000 atmospheres for a full hour...and creates the first synthetic diamond. But it's not announced...and so the race continues...and we end up back in America...with a company called General Electric. The date is now December 8, 1954. Wednesday evening. Herb Strong, a research scientist for G.E., loads his machine with black carbon powder, raises the pressure to fifty thousand atmospheres and the temperature to 1250 degrees centigrade...lets the stuff cook for 16 hours...and makes two small diamonds. December 16, 1954, another scientist does it again. His name is Tracy Hall.
Since then man made diamonds have become almost commonplace accomplishments. Today, production exceeds over one hundred tons per year. But it's all industrial stuff folks...not to worry.
Oh yeah...one more thing. The Peanut Butter. Where does that come in? I'll tell you. As an experiment, a scientist named Robert Wentorf Jr. took a spoonful of the stuff and put it into the machine and presto... the chef's delight...diamond crystals. And why not? Peanut Butter is carbon too you know. As is plastic, and tar, and wood, and us.
Cost of Operating a Diamond Mine
A question that surely weighs heavily and inexorably on the minds of the readers of Tidbits--and any other breathing human being for that matter--is unquestionably this: Is there a cost versus location situation when it comes to operating a diamond mine? In other words...is it more or less expensive to operate a diamond mine in the valley than on the mountain top? The answer to this tantalizing rebus is that it makes no difference at all. The reason is in the final product. Unlike gold or iron or copper or lead...we don't need enormous carting facilities like railroads and pipe lines to ship out the day's yield. One hundred million dollars worth of product can weigh only a couple of pounds at most...and can be hauled away in a light aircraft.
South Africa. Land of the lion, the leopard, the cheetah, and the diamond. Our gem is in good company. Ten thousand feet up, over the Lesothan mountains, our plane heads directly into a mountain wall. Mists hang heavily in the air. Suddenly, micro-seconds before what is surely destined to be a crash, a landing strip appears and we touch ground with little bump. Brigadoon? Well...close, but no cigar. We're in Letseng-La-Terai--the highest diamond mine in the world. We're on the roof of Africa. Welcome my friends. Let's stroll about, shall we?
Against the side of the mountain is a square tower--a citadel of iron reaching through the fog. It's the separation plant. Large stones are the mainstay of this operation...large being defined as any rough diamond weighing over 14.8 carats. This plant produces about 200 such stones a year, and it is only one of two where large stones are regularly gleaned, the other plant being in Sierra Leone. Hit a forty carat rough gem, you got a half a million dollars coming into the coffers.
It's the fifteenth of the month. A bell begins to clang with grating persistence. A large diamond has just been found...the first one this month, and it is for it the bell tolls. There's excitement in the air. The mine needed a find like this in order to remain solvent. There was an ever increasing belief that the mine was tapped out with larger goods. Everyone hurries to the sorting house. Relief is in the air. For now, the mine will not have to be closed...though it needs two or three such finds a month in order to survive.
It weighs fifty eight carats. It's is top grade color quality. How much will it bring in? As a rough...about 340 thousand dollars. Maybe a little more. This money will support the mine for two weeks...then that's it. Another one better be found soon. This enterprise employs 800 workers at an average gross collective salary of 20 grand a week for labor alone. If you take in the salaries of the engineers and other support crew... supervisors etc., cost of fuel and machinery...our little mine residing as close to heaven as a mine can get...cost about 150,000 dollars a week to operate. One diamond a month, clearly, doth not do it. The logistics are overwhelming. This mine needs to sort through three to four tons of kimberlite-- the material in which diamonds are found--in order to glean one single carat of diamonds.
Garnet – birthstone for the month of January
Believed to represent faith, loyalty, truth and devotion, garnet is known as the stone of commitment. Most people think of garnet as a single type of gem that is dark red in color. Actually, garnet is a gem family that spans a range of red, green, yellow, orange, purple and brown shades.
Garnet's name comes from the Latin "Granatus," which means "seed-like." Many garnet crystals have the shape and color of pomegranate seeds.
Best known among the garnets are the deep red almandine and pyrope garnets. Their widespread availability makes them extremely affordable (under $40 a carat). In recent years rhodolite, a mix of almandine and pyrope, has become increasingly popular and is found in light to dark pink to purplish red, even grape. Rare garnets as the green colored tsavorite, can cost several hundreds of dollars per cart.
Buying Tips
Color is most important when determining the value of garnet. Lively, bright colors command higher prices than gems that are too light or dark. Better quality garnets are usually eye clean and very high clarity (not many inclusions) under magnification. Also watch out for synthetic imitations in lower priced jewelry.
Folklore
There are many ancient traditions and legends about garnets. According to the Egyptians, garnet is an antidote for snakebite and food poisoning. Some Hebrew writers include it as one of the 12 gems in Aaron’s breastplate. Christian tradition long considered the blood-red garnet symbolic of Christ's sacrifice. The Koran holds that it illuminates the Fourth Heaven of the Moslems. Garnet was said to give its wearer guidance in the night allowing him to see when others couldn’t. Legend claims that Noah hung a large garnet in the ark for illumination. Garnet was thought to help the wearer resist melancholy, cure heart palpitations, word off evil spirits, spark creativity and provide a grounding influence.
Care
Clean garnet with warm soapy water and a soft brush. A sonic cleaner can be used for most garnets except for Andradite (Demantoid) garnets because they are softer than other garnets. Do not use a steamer.
Garnet's name comes from the Latin "Granatus," which means "seed-like." Many garnet crystals have the shape and color of pomegranate seeds.
Best known among the garnets are the deep red almandine and pyrope garnets. Their widespread availability makes them extremely affordable (under $40 a carat). In recent years rhodolite, a mix of almandine and pyrope, has become increasingly popular and is found in light to dark pink to purplish red, even grape. Rare garnets as the green colored tsavorite, can cost several hundreds of dollars per cart.
Buying Tips
Color is most important when determining the value of garnet. Lively, bright colors command higher prices than gems that are too light or dark. Better quality garnets are usually eye clean and very high clarity (not many inclusions) under magnification. Also watch out for synthetic imitations in lower priced jewelry.
Folklore
There are many ancient traditions and legends about garnets. According to the Egyptians, garnet is an antidote for snakebite and food poisoning. Some Hebrew writers include it as one of the 12 gems in Aaron’s breastplate. Christian tradition long considered the blood-red garnet symbolic of Christ's sacrifice. The Koran holds that it illuminates the Fourth Heaven of the Moslems. Garnet was said to give its wearer guidance in the night allowing him to see when others couldn’t. Legend claims that Noah hung a large garnet in the ark for illumination. Garnet was thought to help the wearer resist melancholy, cure heart palpitations, word off evil spirits, spark creativity and provide a grounding influence.
Care
Clean garnet with warm soapy water and a soft brush. A sonic cleaner can be used for most garnets except for Andradite (Demantoid) garnets because they are softer than other garnets. Do not use a steamer.
Wednesday, February 7, 2007
Jewellery - Simple Tips for a Stunning Look
If you've been wondering how to show your jewelry off, or how to make your jewelry show you off, have a look at our jewelry ideas guaranteed to make you dazzle and look stunning.
Is it necessary to wear jewelry?
In a word, yes! Selecting the right jewelry can add that touch of class and sensuality, transforming you from plain Jane into a perfect princess.
When making a decision on what pieces of jewelry to wear, remember less is more. It only takes a pair of long dangly earrings to highlight your slender neck or a sparkling gem pendant to match your eyes, to create a startling effect.
Use the design, style and size of jewelry to enhance or deflect from particular aspects of your appearance.
If your arms upper arms are not as firm as they used to be, then avoid wearing bracelets and choose a dazzling ring instead.
Know your best asset, is it your face or an ample bosom? An attractive choker will draw attention to your face, while a long pendant will accentuate your cleavage.
Create different looks with your jewelry to match the clothes you're wearing.
Experiment with ideas like wearing layers of different length necklaces or several bracelets. Or why not go for one item that is really flashy and guaranteed to get you attention.
Celebrities have a huge influence on fashion trends but unless you are a celebrity or have a huge bank balance there is no need to splash out on expensive jewelry.
Most designers produce affordable, good quality costume jewelry and antique jewelry is also very popular and a good investment.
So you've selected the right pieces, how do you wear it?
One important point to bear in mind is, don't mix costume jewelry with antique jewelry.
Your choice of jewelry should reflect your personality and individual sense of style.
Whether your style is cool and sophisticated or more casual, make sure your jewelry is appropriate for the occasion.
The pendant you wear to a formal dinner should not be the same one you wear to work.
Next, think about the color of your jewelry. This will depend to a large degree on whether you are a warm or cool person.
If like most people you have brown eyes and black hair then you will fall into the cool category. For you, white metals like platinum, white gold or silver are the most flattering. For others who fall into the warm category then go for yellow gold, brass or copper.
Experiment with wearing warm and cool jewelry and see which one enhances your skin tone and make you dazzle.
And finally, for any of you who remember dressing up as a child, you should view wearing jewelry in exactly the same way it should be fun!
Is it necessary to wear jewelry?
In a word, yes! Selecting the right jewelry can add that touch of class and sensuality, transforming you from plain Jane into a perfect princess.
When making a decision on what pieces of jewelry to wear, remember less is more. It only takes a pair of long dangly earrings to highlight your slender neck or a sparkling gem pendant to match your eyes, to create a startling effect.
Use the design, style and size of jewelry to enhance or deflect from particular aspects of your appearance.
If your arms upper arms are not as firm as they used to be, then avoid wearing bracelets and choose a dazzling ring instead.
Know your best asset, is it your face or an ample bosom? An attractive choker will draw attention to your face, while a long pendant will accentuate your cleavage.
Create different looks with your jewelry to match the clothes you're wearing.
Experiment with ideas like wearing layers of different length necklaces or several bracelets. Or why not go for one item that is really flashy and guaranteed to get you attention.
Celebrities have a huge influence on fashion trends but unless you are a celebrity or have a huge bank balance there is no need to splash out on expensive jewelry.
Most designers produce affordable, good quality costume jewelry and antique jewelry is also very popular and a good investment.
So you've selected the right pieces, how do you wear it?
One important point to bear in mind is, don't mix costume jewelry with antique jewelry.
Your choice of jewelry should reflect your personality and individual sense of style.
Whether your style is cool and sophisticated or more casual, make sure your jewelry is appropriate for the occasion.
The pendant you wear to a formal dinner should not be the same one you wear to work.
Next, think about the color of your jewelry. This will depend to a large degree on whether you are a warm or cool person.
If like most people you have brown eyes and black hair then you will fall into the cool category. For you, white metals like platinum, white gold or silver are the most flattering. For others who fall into the warm category then go for yellow gold, brass or copper.
Experiment with wearing warm and cool jewelry and see which one enhances your skin tone and make you dazzle.
And finally, for any of you who remember dressing up as a child, you should view wearing jewelry in exactly the same way it should be fun!
Monday, February 5, 2007
Infinite Abundance With a Piece of Jewelry
“Abundance is, in large part, an attitude”, says Patton Thoele. With the proper approach, a positive thinking perspective and an apparently insignificant piece of jewelry, you will certainly find yourself in possession of that specific attitude. Certainly, you have heard until now about bijoux attracting prosperity. Some of you must have dismissed the issue with a suspicious look and thought. And yet some of you have given it a closer look and realized that, actually, there is a great degree of plausibility in such an approach.
Nothing has ever been accomplished in the absence of positive thinking. And when you blend positive thinking with Abundance jewelry, you may be certain that profusion will turn into an undeniable fact. We are not talking exclusively about material prosperity. There is also spiritual richness provided by such jewelry. In point of fact, equipped with such a bijou and mentally prepared for the prosperity to come, you can even “plunge” into sessions of contemplation of the best possible attitude necessary for a favorable outcome to what concerns your well-being.
There is one great truth: we, people, are practically unrestrained in our inventive, productive abilities. If you focus your energies towards this particular point, starting with the premise that you have been built according to the likeness of your Creator, favorable results will not fail to turn visible. Of course, your productive potential is augmented if during such sessions you allow Abundance bijoux complete your equipment and your constructive energies.
This particular type of jewelry will help you discover that there is a sacred dimension embedded even in the material aspects of our life. Once you have become certain of this fact and you have grasped its profound meaning and implications, you can go on with your contemplation and reach that stage where your mind and spirit are no longer restricted. Abundance jewelry will attract prosperity. Material prosperity will attract spiritual richness. The principle is not truly innovative; we have all known it for quite some time: like attracts like.
And, if you really think about it, it actually makes sense. Material Abundance will eliminate the material needs you are burdened with. Once this burden is removed, you are free to continue on your path towards spiritual Abundance. Subsequently, Abundance bijoux will not act only at the level of material achievement, but they will also call upon your assistance spiritual energies to help your spiritual fulfillment.
In other words, this particular type of jewelry will facilitate your understanding of the way things are organized in the whole universe. The key is this: you need to grow aware that you could enjoy anything – materially and spiritually – as long as you truly want it and you really focus your energies toward the attainment of this objective. An Abundance piece of jewelry will assist you in the proper distribution of your energies. Silver or gold, it really doesn’t matter at this point. The material out of which your bijou is built is strictly a matter of your personal choice, of your personal preference. If gold is the thing that gives you the feeling of abundance around you, then gold should be your choice. If, on the contrary, silver is the material providing the same feeling, you would better opt for silver.
You have probably reached the following conclusion on your own: you need to create an aura of profusion around you. Abundance bijoux are just the thing for it: they will increase the feeling of prosperity and, subsequently, you will be able to better focus on reaching that stage. So take your pick with an Abundance ring or Abundance pendant and see the results with your own eyes.
Source: http://www.ka-gold-jewelry.com
Nothing has ever been accomplished in the absence of positive thinking. And when you blend positive thinking with Abundance jewelry, you may be certain that profusion will turn into an undeniable fact. We are not talking exclusively about material prosperity. There is also spiritual richness provided by such jewelry. In point of fact, equipped with such a bijou and mentally prepared for the prosperity to come, you can even “plunge” into sessions of contemplation of the best possible attitude necessary for a favorable outcome to what concerns your well-being.
There is one great truth: we, people, are practically unrestrained in our inventive, productive abilities. If you focus your energies towards this particular point, starting with the premise that you have been built according to the likeness of your Creator, favorable results will not fail to turn visible. Of course, your productive potential is augmented if during such sessions you allow Abundance bijoux complete your equipment and your constructive energies.
This particular type of jewelry will help you discover that there is a sacred dimension embedded even in the material aspects of our life. Once you have become certain of this fact and you have grasped its profound meaning and implications, you can go on with your contemplation and reach that stage where your mind and spirit are no longer restricted. Abundance jewelry will attract prosperity. Material prosperity will attract spiritual richness. The principle is not truly innovative; we have all known it for quite some time: like attracts like.
And, if you really think about it, it actually makes sense. Material Abundance will eliminate the material needs you are burdened with. Once this burden is removed, you are free to continue on your path towards spiritual Abundance. Subsequently, Abundance bijoux will not act only at the level of material achievement, but they will also call upon your assistance spiritual energies to help your spiritual fulfillment.
In other words, this particular type of jewelry will facilitate your understanding of the way things are organized in the whole universe. The key is this: you need to grow aware that you could enjoy anything – materially and spiritually – as long as you truly want it and you really focus your energies toward the attainment of this objective. An Abundance piece of jewelry will assist you in the proper distribution of your energies. Silver or gold, it really doesn’t matter at this point. The material out of which your bijou is built is strictly a matter of your personal choice, of your personal preference. If gold is the thing that gives you the feeling of abundance around you, then gold should be your choice. If, on the contrary, silver is the material providing the same feeling, you would better opt for silver.
You have probably reached the following conclusion on your own: you need to create an aura of profusion around you. Abundance bijoux are just the thing for it: they will increase the feeling of prosperity and, subsequently, you will be able to better focus on reaching that stage. So take your pick with an Abundance ring or Abundance pendant and see the results with your own eyes.
Source: http://www.ka-gold-jewelry.com
Saturday, February 3, 2007
How to Buy Genuine Rolex Watches
Today, millions of people are buying and selling Rolex watches and other fine timepieces over the internet. It is said that Rolex produces around 650,000 to 800,000 watches annually. Sadly enough, counterfeiters around the world produce 10 times that amount each year, turning what was once a business operated in street vendors into a multi-billion dollar industry
Without knowing what tell-tale signs to look for, the average Rolex consumer may easily fall victim to scammers. And while connoisseurs will certainly discern between a $5,000 Rolex and a $50 replica, the existence of large number of counterfeits inevitably affects demand at some level
The best and most accurate way to tell a Rolex from a replica is by checking its Serial#, Model#, Case back ID, and Movement Signature (the 4 primary verification methods used by professionals) by looking between its bottom lugs (part where the band connects to case), top lugs, and by opening the case back respectively.
Clear Casebacks – If you encounter one of these, don’t bother strapping them on. Often times, a replica will have a clear caseback allowing you to see the inside of the watch. Rolex does not make watches with clear casebacks!
Engraved Casebacks – Again, with the exception of a rare Ladies model (circa 1990’s) and the “Sea-Dweller” model, Rolex does not engrave any logos or slogans on their casebacks. Moreover, they are free of any engravings.
Hologram Stickers – A newly purchased Rolex watch will come with a 3-D hologram-encoded sticker on the caseback. The Rolex “crown” trademark is featured just above the case reference number and can be easily identified when viewed. Often times, a fake hologram sticker won’t even have the 3-D effect when viewed. It is simply a hard, concrete pattern that won’t change in appearance one bit. If this is evident, it is surely a counterfeit Rolex.
Date Magnification – All genuine Rolex watches excluding the “Sea-Dweller” features the cyclops that magnifies the date by 2.5x. As you can see in the picture above, the cyclops on the counterfeit is significantly smaller and a bit misaligned. These are common flaws made by counterfeits and you will see many of them today with a larger font date to fool the average consumer.
Triplock Crown Seal – This pertains to the owners or future owners of the Sea-Dweller, Submariner, and the Daytona. These three models feature the “Triplock crown”. The image above shows that the genuine Rolex utilizes the extra seal by the rubber o-ring on the winding tube whereas the counterfeit comes with no seal at all. It is also worth mentioning this to be a case by case situation when purchasing a pre-owned Rolex, in which many original Rolex parts or accessories can be replaced by aftermarket parts and accessories.
Micro-etched Crystal – In 2002, Rolex began micro-etching the Rolex “coronet” or “crown” right below the 6 o’clock marker. Though it is better distinguishable using a jeweler’s loupe, you can see by the illustration that the genuine “crown” is much more distinguishable and robust as opposed to the counterfeit. Moreover, the counterfeit is poorly designed and is a clear indication of a fake.
Without knowing what tell-tale signs to look for, the average Rolex consumer may easily fall victim to scammers. And while connoisseurs will certainly discern between a $5,000 Rolex and a $50 replica, the existence of large number of counterfeits inevitably affects demand at some level
The best and most accurate way to tell a Rolex from a replica is by checking its Serial#, Model#, Case back ID, and Movement Signature (the 4 primary verification methods used by professionals) by looking between its bottom lugs (part where the band connects to case), top lugs, and by opening the case back respectively.
Clear Casebacks – If you encounter one of these, don’t bother strapping them on. Often times, a replica will have a clear caseback allowing you to see the inside of the watch. Rolex does not make watches with clear casebacks!
Engraved Casebacks – Again, with the exception of a rare Ladies model (circa 1990’s) and the “Sea-Dweller” model, Rolex does not engrave any logos or slogans on their casebacks. Moreover, they are free of any engravings.
Hologram Stickers – A newly purchased Rolex watch will come with a 3-D hologram-encoded sticker on the caseback. The Rolex “crown” trademark is featured just above the case reference number and can be easily identified when viewed. Often times, a fake hologram sticker won’t even have the 3-D effect when viewed. It is simply a hard, concrete pattern that won’t change in appearance one bit. If this is evident, it is surely a counterfeit Rolex.
Date Magnification – All genuine Rolex watches excluding the “Sea-Dweller” features the cyclops that magnifies the date by 2.5x. As you can see in the picture above, the cyclops on the counterfeit is significantly smaller and a bit misaligned. These are common flaws made by counterfeits and you will see many of them today with a larger font date to fool the average consumer.
Triplock Crown Seal – This pertains to the owners or future owners of the Sea-Dweller, Submariner, and the Daytona. These three models feature the “Triplock crown”. The image above shows that the genuine Rolex utilizes the extra seal by the rubber o-ring on the winding tube whereas the counterfeit comes with no seal at all. It is also worth mentioning this to be a case by case situation when purchasing a pre-owned Rolex, in which many original Rolex parts or accessories can be replaced by aftermarket parts and accessories.
Micro-etched Crystal – In 2002, Rolex began micro-etching the Rolex “coronet” or “crown” right below the 6 o’clock marker. Though it is better distinguishable using a jeweler’s loupe, you can see by the illustration that the genuine “crown” is much more distinguishable and robust as opposed to the counterfeit. Moreover, the counterfeit is poorly designed and is a clear indication of a fake.
Thursday, February 1, 2007
Titanium vs. Gold, Silver and Platinum
Either you are buying it as a gift or for yourself, there are many reasons why titanium jewelry can be a better choice than jewelry made in traditional precious metals like gold, silver and platinum.
Firstly, titanium is highly corrosion resistant and therefore does not tarnish easily. Especially for high-polish finished jewelry like gold and silver wedding band rings, it is expected that the jewelry will lose its color and shine over time. Even if they are stored properly in jewelry boxes or safe, the oxygen in the air reacts with the metals and turns the color. This process is of course accelerated if the jewelry is worn daily because the sweat combined with body temperature, acts as catalysts to the chemical process.
Also, titanium is hypoallergenic, which means that very few people have skin that is sensitive to it. People who are allergic to gold, silver or, more commonly, nickel, which is found in most gold and silver jewelry, don't have to worry about outbreak when wearing jewelry made from titanium and its alloys.
A widely known property about titanium is its durability. It is this attribute that makes it perfect for active individuals who frequently engage in outdoor activities, even water sports. It is not uncommon that people find their gold or silver jewelry damaged, or even lost, after a day of exciting outdoor events. These disappointments can easily be avoided if titanium jewelry is worn instead. In addition, titanium has a high strength to weight ratio. In other words, although it is much stronger than gold and silver jewelry, even steel, it is much lighter and hence more comfortable to wear.
Finally, it is fashionable and trendy to wear titanium jewelry. The metal is relatively new in the fashion industry with many new ideas being applied on it. Titanium is so versatile that it not only can be combined with gemstones, gold and silver, engraved and finished like traditional jewelry; it can also be anodized to create eye-catching colored titanium jewelry.
Common titanium jewelry includes wedding band ring, men's titanium rings and men's titanium bracelets. There is every reason to explore the vast possibilities and express your personality in a whole different way.
Firstly, titanium is highly corrosion resistant and therefore does not tarnish easily. Especially for high-polish finished jewelry like gold and silver wedding band rings, it is expected that the jewelry will lose its color and shine over time. Even if they are stored properly in jewelry boxes or safe, the oxygen in the air reacts with the metals and turns the color. This process is of course accelerated if the jewelry is worn daily because the sweat combined with body temperature, acts as catalysts to the chemical process.
Also, titanium is hypoallergenic, which means that very few people have skin that is sensitive to it. People who are allergic to gold, silver or, more commonly, nickel, which is found in most gold and silver jewelry, don't have to worry about outbreak when wearing jewelry made from titanium and its alloys.
A widely known property about titanium is its durability. It is this attribute that makes it perfect for active individuals who frequently engage in outdoor activities, even water sports. It is not uncommon that people find their gold or silver jewelry damaged, or even lost, after a day of exciting outdoor events. These disappointments can easily be avoided if titanium jewelry is worn instead. In addition, titanium has a high strength to weight ratio. In other words, although it is much stronger than gold and silver jewelry, even steel, it is much lighter and hence more comfortable to wear.
Finally, it is fashionable and trendy to wear titanium jewelry. The metal is relatively new in the fashion industry with many new ideas being applied on it. Titanium is so versatile that it not only can be combined with gemstones, gold and silver, engraved and finished like traditional jewelry; it can also be anodized to create eye-catching colored titanium jewelry.
Common titanium jewelry includes wedding band ring, men's titanium rings and men's titanium bracelets. There is every reason to explore the vast possibilities and express your personality in a whole different way.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
How to Choose the Perfect Diamond
A diamond acts like a prism whereby light can be divided into a spectrum of colours.* A colourless diamond, allows more light to pass through it than a coloured diamond, these colourless diamonds reflect the light as colourful flashes called ‘fire’. The less colour in a diamond the more colourful the fire and hence the better the diamond grade.
from:diamond rings
Diamond Colour
A diamond acts like a prism whereby light can be divided into a spectrum of colours.
A colourless diamond, allows more light to pass through it than a coloured diamond, these colourless diamonds reflect the light as colourful flashes called ‘fire’.
The less colour in a diamond the more colourful the fire and hence the better the diamond grade.
Colour in a diamond acts as a filter and reduces the range of colour exuded.
The perfect diamond is actually colourless.
The less colour (yellow) a diamond permeates the more rare and valuable it actually is.
A letter grade is given to a diamond to describe the subtle tones of colour in the stone.
D is perfectly colourless and therefore the most rare and expensive.
As you progress from D to Z on the alphabet colour scale, the level of colour increases with traces of a yellowish or brownish colour.
Vibrant colours such as pink, red, blue and green are constantly being discovered, but due to their rarity are incredibly expensive.
These colours do not follow the normal colour scale and are categorised separately.
At GoldeNet Australia you will only find the finest diamonds, therefore we do not offer diamonds that have been graded below M.
Which Colour Grade Should I Choose? Diamonds graded D through F are naturally the most valuable and desirable because of their rarity. The rarity and value of these diamonds are reflected in their price.
This does not mean that diamonds graded below F are not considered to be very attractive.
Diamonds graded G through I show virtually no colour visible to the untrained eye.
Diamonds graded J through M show an extremely faint trace of yellow, however this faint hint of colour can be minimised by the careful selection of the right jewellery setting on which to mount your diamond.
D, E, F = For the purest diamond, diamonds graded D-F are superb diamonds and are extremely expensive.
G, H, I, J = For excellent value in a diamond with no noticeable colour to the untrained eye.
Nearly colourless diamonds with noticeable colour when compared to higher grade diamonds. These are high quality and are excellent value.
K, L, M = Faint yellow diamonds.
N, O, P, Q, R = Very light yellow diamonds.
GoldeNet Australia does not offer these diamonds.
S, T, U, V, W, X, Y, Z = Light yellow diamonds. GoldeNet Australia does not offer these diamonds.
Diamond Cut
The cut of a diamond is one of the most important diamond characteristic as it provides the diamond with its unique sparkle and brilliance as the cut allows the maximum amount of light to enter and leave the diamond.
Of the Four Cs, the cut is the only value factor that is a result of human skill.
It refers to the angles and proportion of a diamond, as well as its polish and precision of faceting. Often the cut of a diamond is mistakenly referred to as the shape (round, pear, oval, etc.) of the stone.
Well-cut diamonds can reflect light like a mirror from one facet to another and disperse and reflect this light through the top of the stone.
A well-cut diamond will be symmetrically round, proper depth and width and have uniformity of the facets.
These features will result in optimal radiance.
On a classic round brilliant-cut diamond, for example, 57 or 58 facets must be precisely aligned so light will enter the diamond and reflect back through the large top facet, or table of the diamond. Diamonds that are cut either too deep or too shallow can lose light through the sides and bottom and will be less brilliant, and ultimately of less value.
The universal cut grading scale, as defined by the American Gemologist Society Laboratories (AGSL), is outlined below. Currently, only round diamonds are graded.
GoldeNet Australia does not carry any diamonds below the cut grade of ‘Good’.
IDEAL CUT: Represents roughly the top 3% of diamond quality based on cut.
Perfectly proportioned with the highest grade of polish and symmetry.
This grade of diamond reflects virtually all light that enters it.
They are the most brilliant, rare and expensive diamonds.
EXCELLENT CUT: Represents roughly the top 8% of diamond quality based on cut.
Proportioned to fit strict requirements for table and depth percentage.
This grade of diamond reflects almost all light but less than the ideal cut.
They are still quite rare and very expensive.
VERY GOOD CUT: Represents roughly the top 15% of diamond quality based on cut.
Proportioned to reflect much of the light that enters.
This is a high quality and moderately priced diamond.
GOOD CUT: Represents roughly the top 25% of diamond quality based on cut.
Proportioned to reflect most light that enters.
These are considerable value, quality diamonds.
FAIR CUT: Represents roughly the top 35% of diamond quality based on cut.
Disproportioned but allows some light to be reflected.
POOR CUT: This includes all diamonds that do not meet the proportion standards of a fair cut. Disproportioned so that most light entering is lost out of its sides and bottom.
Important characteristics of a diamond cut are described below. Some diamond cutters will compromise on the cut of the diamond in an attempt to optimise the diamond’s weight (carat).
This can result is a larger diamond with a duller appearance.
If all Cs are equal (cut, carat, colour and clarity), there can be as much as a 50% variation in the cost of a diamond if the cut is of poor quality.
TABLE SIZE %: The table length relative to the diameter of the diamond.
A table that is too large or too small will reduce the overall dispersion of a diamonds brilliance.
CROWN ANGLE: Angle between bezel facets and girdle.
Crown % is a measurement that relates to the depth of the crown to the diamonds overall depth.
GIRDLE THICKNESS: Ranges from extremely thin to extremely thick (assessed visually).
Extremely thin or extremely thick girdles are less desirable than more moderate girdles.
DEPTH %: Measurement of the distance from the table to the culet (bottom-most point). A depth that is too shallow or too deep will allow light to escape through the bottom of the stone, reducing the stones overall fire and brilliance. CULET SIZE: Ranges from pointed to extremely large (assessed visually). Unless the culet is abnormally large, it generally has no impact on the value of a diamond.
SYMMETRY: Refers to the overall uniformity of the cut of a diamond and is graded poor to excellent.
Symmetry is based on the diamonds proportions, the relation of one facet to another. A diamond with good symmetry can be more attractive than a less symmetrical stone.
Stones with poor symmetry can actually appear off-centred.
POLISH: The overall quality and uniformity of the polish of a diamond. It is graded poor to excellent based on the final finish applied to the facets and facet junctures by the cutter. Well-polished diamonds permit maximum passage of light and prevent potentially streaky surfaces.
Source: http://www.getprice.com.au
from:diamond rings
Diamond Colour
A diamond acts like a prism whereby light can be divided into a spectrum of colours.
A colourless diamond, allows more light to pass through it than a coloured diamond, these colourless diamonds reflect the light as colourful flashes called ‘fire’.
The less colour in a diamond the more colourful the fire and hence the better the diamond grade.
Colour in a diamond acts as a filter and reduces the range of colour exuded.
The perfect diamond is actually colourless.
The less colour (yellow) a diamond permeates the more rare and valuable it actually is.
A letter grade is given to a diamond to describe the subtle tones of colour in the stone.
D is perfectly colourless and therefore the most rare and expensive.
As you progress from D to Z on the alphabet colour scale, the level of colour increases with traces of a yellowish or brownish colour.
Vibrant colours such as pink, red, blue and green are constantly being discovered, but due to their rarity are incredibly expensive.
These colours do not follow the normal colour scale and are categorised separately.
At GoldeNet Australia you will only find the finest diamonds, therefore we do not offer diamonds that have been graded below M.
Which Colour Grade Should I Choose? Diamonds graded D through F are naturally the most valuable and desirable because of their rarity. The rarity and value of these diamonds are reflected in their price.
This does not mean that diamonds graded below F are not considered to be very attractive.
Diamonds graded G through I show virtually no colour visible to the untrained eye.
Diamonds graded J through M show an extremely faint trace of yellow, however this faint hint of colour can be minimised by the careful selection of the right jewellery setting on which to mount your diamond.
D, E, F = For the purest diamond, diamonds graded D-F are superb diamonds and are extremely expensive.
G, H, I, J = For excellent value in a diamond with no noticeable colour to the untrained eye.
Nearly colourless diamonds with noticeable colour when compared to higher grade diamonds. These are high quality and are excellent value.
K, L, M = Faint yellow diamonds.
N, O, P, Q, R = Very light yellow diamonds.
GoldeNet Australia does not offer these diamonds.
S, T, U, V, W, X, Y, Z = Light yellow diamonds. GoldeNet Australia does not offer these diamonds.
Diamond Cut
The cut of a diamond is one of the most important diamond characteristic as it provides the diamond with its unique sparkle and brilliance as the cut allows the maximum amount of light to enter and leave the diamond.
Of the Four Cs, the cut is the only value factor that is a result of human skill.
It refers to the angles and proportion of a diamond, as well as its polish and precision of faceting. Often the cut of a diamond is mistakenly referred to as the shape (round, pear, oval, etc.) of the stone.
Well-cut diamonds can reflect light like a mirror from one facet to another and disperse and reflect this light through the top of the stone.
A well-cut diamond will be symmetrically round, proper depth and width and have uniformity of the facets.
These features will result in optimal radiance.
On a classic round brilliant-cut diamond, for example, 57 or 58 facets must be precisely aligned so light will enter the diamond and reflect back through the large top facet, or table of the diamond. Diamonds that are cut either too deep or too shallow can lose light through the sides and bottom and will be less brilliant, and ultimately of less value.
The universal cut grading scale, as defined by the American Gemologist Society Laboratories (AGSL), is outlined below. Currently, only round diamonds are graded.
GoldeNet Australia does not carry any diamonds below the cut grade of ‘Good’.
IDEAL CUT: Represents roughly the top 3% of diamond quality based on cut.
Perfectly proportioned with the highest grade of polish and symmetry.
This grade of diamond reflects virtually all light that enters it.
They are the most brilliant, rare and expensive diamonds.
EXCELLENT CUT: Represents roughly the top 8% of diamond quality based on cut.
Proportioned to fit strict requirements for table and depth percentage.
This grade of diamond reflects almost all light but less than the ideal cut.
They are still quite rare and very expensive.
VERY GOOD CUT: Represents roughly the top 15% of diamond quality based on cut.
Proportioned to reflect much of the light that enters.
This is a high quality and moderately priced diamond.
GOOD CUT: Represents roughly the top 25% of diamond quality based on cut.
Proportioned to reflect most light that enters.
These are considerable value, quality diamonds.
FAIR CUT: Represents roughly the top 35% of diamond quality based on cut.
Disproportioned but allows some light to be reflected.
POOR CUT: This includes all diamonds that do not meet the proportion standards of a fair cut. Disproportioned so that most light entering is lost out of its sides and bottom.
Important characteristics of a diamond cut are described below. Some diamond cutters will compromise on the cut of the diamond in an attempt to optimise the diamond’s weight (carat).
This can result is a larger diamond with a duller appearance.
If all Cs are equal (cut, carat, colour and clarity), there can be as much as a 50% variation in the cost of a diamond if the cut is of poor quality.
TABLE SIZE %: The table length relative to the diameter of the diamond.
A table that is too large or too small will reduce the overall dispersion of a diamonds brilliance.
CROWN ANGLE: Angle between bezel facets and girdle.
Crown % is a measurement that relates to the depth of the crown to the diamonds overall depth.
GIRDLE THICKNESS: Ranges from extremely thin to extremely thick (assessed visually).
Extremely thin or extremely thick girdles are less desirable than more moderate girdles.
DEPTH %: Measurement of the distance from the table to the culet (bottom-most point). A depth that is too shallow or too deep will allow light to escape through the bottom of the stone, reducing the stones overall fire and brilliance. CULET SIZE: Ranges from pointed to extremely large (assessed visually). Unless the culet is abnormally large, it generally has no impact on the value of a diamond.
SYMMETRY: Refers to the overall uniformity of the cut of a diamond and is graded poor to excellent.
Symmetry is based on the diamonds proportions, the relation of one facet to another. A diamond with good symmetry can be more attractive than a less symmetrical stone.
Stones with poor symmetry can actually appear off-centred.
POLISH: The overall quality and uniformity of the polish of a diamond. It is graded poor to excellent based on the final finish applied to the facets and facet junctures by the cutter. Well-polished diamonds permit maximum passage of light and prevent potentially streaky surfaces.
Source: http://www.getprice.com.au
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Earrings: Balancing Style With Beauty
Geometric shapes are probably the current choice of working person that is getting an outlet in the form of earrings. In any jewelry set the presence of necklace along with earrings is common. But as the choice of modern person is taking a u-turn, earrings are available as single piece also. The blue, black, red and white rings that pass through the artificially created small holes at the end of the earlobes highlight the face and produce a charming look. Person of all culture, tradition and values wear earrings to symbolize power and richness. Your make over is not complete without an earring hanging from the ears and catalyzing your beauty. Apart from the use of precious metals the fashion jewelry include earrings that are made up of cheap materials that may not speak of richness but expresses style. In the past earrings were something meant for both men and person. But now person takes more pride in wearing jewelry while on the part of the men this has become a passion for few. However, today men might not go for the rest of the jewelries but they hunt for trendy earrings. So, in a way this jewelry is for both the sexes. Handmade beaded earrings, diamond earring and gold earring are available in plethora of styles and colors. Working person generally prefers light earrings that are fashionable and cheap but can be worn with all sorts of casuals. This is possible as most of the jewelers are concentrating on the creation of fashion jewelry that uses cheap ingredients to create exclusive earrings. The earrings that were the imitation of gold and silver can also be used up with suitable outfit.
Ornaments have always fascinated person both in the past and in the present. The fashion conscious people of today want to look graceful and for that they try out several accessories. Only the fashion designer however can predict the right one. The designer jewelry also includes some of the exquisitely designed earrings of which you won’t get a second creation. Those who prefer to wear the gold and the silver items hate the law to a large extent as there is not provision to make copy right laws on the jewelries and they can get to see the imitation of their original earrings, necklace or whatever it is. Earrings dangles with vibrating colors, cylindrical yellow beaded earrings, polygon shaped wood etc. and all together gives a different presentation. And working person, who move out for work and due to security reason cannot go for precious earrings, prefers such fashionable ones. The idea of fashion has completely changed today. Previously only the precious metals and stones hanging from the two sides of the face used to symbolize richness but now they have nothing to do with richness but only with fashion. When fashion is the buzzword why not wear something cheap yet elegant. Designer jewelry is created keeping this concept in mind. If you get some of the designer items that are fashionable yet affordable, then you can buy a handful of sets that can be put on everyday by matching them with your apparels.
Vivace has a collection of some of the exquisite earrings that can make the person attractive and eye catching. Brow spheric wood earring is affordable yet beautiful. This type of earring can go best with skirts giving you a completely young look. Yellow bamboo earrings are comfortable for the ears as they are light and can go best with any chocolate colored cloth. They are cylindrical in shape. Two cylinders are generally hung with the wire but you can open one of them to make it simpler. The blue spheric ceramic earring is the brainchild of the Italian designers who have given it the shape. The earring is cyan in color and will go best with any purple colored dress. Young and charming look is every person’s desire and this multicolored hanging earring is going to fulfill that desire too. This earring is a combination of red and yellow and is very lively. Classical disc earrings speak some different story. This has been made by the combination of ceramics disc and beads. This can suit best in any formal events and office parties. Each of the earrings has their respective importance and they tell stories of their own. However, it has to be accepted that handmade earrings have a completely distinguished appeal than that of the machine made ones. The Italian designers are creating marvelous works on various metals to make designer earrings. Earrings can also be seasonal as in spring people love to wear colorful and junk earring; but during summer the opposite happens. If you are short of gift ideas then search for the designer jewelry where you can get suitable earrings. They are generally cheap and useful. Those of you who are brand and material conscious can take a tour of any of the diamond shop or gold shop and get a meticulously sorted out piece from there. Purchasing these designer items is so easy today and can be done by just clicking on the mouse. Earrings, even in the absence of the necklace can beautify you and this is such a casual wear that you can put on wherever you go. They can be in the hanging form or on the form of tops. Whatever it is the desire of looking young, modern and beautiful is gratified with stunning earrings.
Source: http://www.vivace-jewelry.com
Ornaments have always fascinated person both in the past and in the present. The fashion conscious people of today want to look graceful and for that they try out several accessories. Only the fashion designer however can predict the right one. The designer jewelry also includes some of the exquisitely designed earrings of which you won’t get a second creation. Those who prefer to wear the gold and the silver items hate the law to a large extent as there is not provision to make copy right laws on the jewelries and they can get to see the imitation of their original earrings, necklace or whatever it is. Earrings dangles with vibrating colors, cylindrical yellow beaded earrings, polygon shaped wood etc. and all together gives a different presentation. And working person, who move out for work and due to security reason cannot go for precious earrings, prefers such fashionable ones. The idea of fashion has completely changed today. Previously only the precious metals and stones hanging from the two sides of the face used to symbolize richness but now they have nothing to do with richness but only with fashion. When fashion is the buzzword why not wear something cheap yet elegant. Designer jewelry is created keeping this concept in mind. If you get some of the designer items that are fashionable yet affordable, then you can buy a handful of sets that can be put on everyday by matching them with your apparels.
Vivace has a collection of some of the exquisite earrings that can make the person attractive and eye catching. Brow spheric wood earring is affordable yet beautiful. This type of earring can go best with skirts giving you a completely young look. Yellow bamboo earrings are comfortable for the ears as they are light and can go best with any chocolate colored cloth. They are cylindrical in shape. Two cylinders are generally hung with the wire but you can open one of them to make it simpler. The blue spheric ceramic earring is the brainchild of the Italian designers who have given it the shape. The earring is cyan in color and will go best with any purple colored dress. Young and charming look is every person’s desire and this multicolored hanging earring is going to fulfill that desire too. This earring is a combination of red and yellow and is very lively. Classical disc earrings speak some different story. This has been made by the combination of ceramics disc and beads. This can suit best in any formal events and office parties. Each of the earrings has their respective importance and they tell stories of their own. However, it has to be accepted that handmade earrings have a completely distinguished appeal than that of the machine made ones. The Italian designers are creating marvelous works on various metals to make designer earrings. Earrings can also be seasonal as in spring people love to wear colorful and junk earring; but during summer the opposite happens. If you are short of gift ideas then search for the designer jewelry where you can get suitable earrings. They are generally cheap and useful. Those of you who are brand and material conscious can take a tour of any of the diamond shop or gold shop and get a meticulously sorted out piece from there. Purchasing these designer items is so easy today and can be done by just clicking on the mouse. Earrings, even in the absence of the necklace can beautify you and this is such a casual wear that you can put on wherever you go. They can be in the hanging form or on the form of tops. Whatever it is the desire of looking young, modern and beautiful is gratified with stunning earrings.
Source: http://www.vivace-jewelry.com
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Mobius ring
Mobius ring - a ring with only one facet
The Mobius ring is the actualization of number of major spiritual ideas that are well established in sacred geometry. To make a Mobius strip, take a paper page and cut it into a strip (24cm height, 4cm width for the sake of convenience). Now give one of the two ends half a twist and then reattach the two ends. This way you will create a Mobius strip. The Mobius ring has only one side. To see it clearly, take a pen and draw a line on the paper ring so that the end of the line reaches the beginning of that same line. You will end up drawing the line on the whole surface of the ring.There is no difference between the inside and the outside of the Mobius ring. This is an example of the creator which created everything from him self. Man perceives reality in a dualistic manner for good and evil. The dualistic perception of reality does not recognize the one force behind existence.
Cutting the Mobius strip into two!
Take scissors and cut the Mobius strip in the middle - instead of two rings you will end up with one larger Mobius ring! This shows the idea of duality - when you perceive the One through the duality perception you get the illusion.Cutting the Mobius strip into three!
Now, cut the strip about 1/3 from the width. You will end up with two rings, a big one and a small one, one inside the other. To understand the meaning of this, let's look at the Hebrew names of God.Mobius strip and the Hebrew names of God
The Jewish tradition prohibits the pronunciation of the name of God. However the names of the Creator (as they appear in the Hebrew old testament) are not names at all but only symbols which lead to truths. The first Hebrew name for God is "EL" which means "into" - a definition of direction without a particular goal (since the creator is everything and everywhere).The numerological value of the first letter in the word "EL" is 1 and the second letter has the numerological value of 3 which means the one who is three or the holy trinity. When you cut the Mobius strip into 1/3 you get the bigger ring - the macro and the Creator and the smaller ring - the creatures, the living beings.
Taking the Hebrew word ELOHIM apart you get three words: "EL" (God in a male aspect), "ELA" (God in a female aspect) and "ELIM" meaning gods. Once again we have the holy trinity - male, female and plural.
Even the Hebrew name "Yehova" contains the words "haya" (was in Hebrew), "hove" (is now) and "yeeheeye" (will be) giving us the cycle of time…
When we realize who we truly are, the cosmic joke will reveal it self!
Source: http://www.ka-gold-jewelry.com
Friday, January 26, 2007
The Charm Bracelet- What Powers Do They Possess?
It seems that no one knows for sure.
where charm bracelets originated, But
throughout history there was always an interest in the occult, and a
demand for charms and amulets, so this could be how charm bracelets
started. Most charms were made out of different types of natural gems or
stones, that were carved with designs on them. Usually of their gods, or
animals whose power the wearer wanted to possess. They were generally
worn for protection or to bring luck.
gifts and trinkets. These were worn in lockets or in bracelets. The
trend started that when celebrating a special event a new charm was
given. They would then, and still do, represent special interests or
hobbies, or loved ones. Of course the more variety, the more interesting
the bracelet.
often purchased as a keepsakes, passed down through generations as a family
heirloom. New owners will then add charms that are special to them, in a
way, making it their own.
One type of charm bracelet that is new is the
Italian Charm Bracelet. Most charm bracelets are worn with charms
dangling from it. The Italian charm bracelet has charms that are soldered
directly to the chain, and the links are made so that they can be removed.
That way, charms can be added or changed. They are very trendy at this time.
uniqueness of these bracelets is that we can change them to show our
interests, loves, and add our treasures to them. They become a part of us.
It is this specialness that turns an ordinary piece of
jewelry into a treasure our hearts, and becomes a family heirloom.
Source: http://www.glassaffinity.com
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Beauty in jewels for any style and season
For all times jewelry has remained the most desired gift for a woman. However, choosing an appropriate piece of jewelry isn’t easy despite a big amount of offered adornments. Some adornments suit for every day and are good for any dress and occasion – they are rather small and moderate, but elegant and always fashionable. Other ones are meant for celebrations – parties, anniversaries, weddings. This kind of jewelry is allowed to be more remarkable. However, the most expensive adornment doesn’t always mean the most suitable one.
The latter-date fashion is rich in the astonishing variety of designers’ know-hows. One can get lost while choosing jewelry from thousands of perfect examples of jewelers’ art. However, no matter what, you will never make a mistake if you choose classics. It has passed the most difficult test – time check-up. It includes chains plaited in all possible ways – the adornments offered by famous Coco Chanel and enthusiastically accepted by public that remain popular up to this very day.
Rings take a special part in jewelers’ art. They are worn by almost every woman. But are they really beautify? Indeed they are, if suit to a person’s style. Women of a small height with tiny hands would rather wear narrow rings with one or several small jewels. Rings with oval or pear-shaped gemstones visually make a hand more delicate and refined. Girls and young women are recommended to wear rings with one small jewel, for middle-aged women rings with bigger jewels or scatterings of tiny ones are preferred. For shorter fingers one shouldn’t choose large wide rings. It is not recommended to wear more than two rings.
Jewelry, as long as clothes, is meant for emphasizing all one’s benefits and stressing all attractive features. An appropriately selected jewel can attract attention to an eye color, necklaces or chains with pendants – to delicate neck skin. It is not recommended to wear a big amount of jewelry or adornments that disagree in style or color.
Jewelry is different for every season and occasion. In summer the choice of adornments is almost unlimited. However, in winter, clothes and jewelry should be more moderate and reasonable. The adornments for the winter season are not very remarkable – small clips or earrings to emphasize complexion would suit perfectly.
Diamonds and other jewels, pearls, golden and silver adornments look most impressive in the evening light. Large brooches, pendants, necklaces, big earrings, bracelets of various colors of shine perfectly combine with evening dresses. Sometimes a tiny piece of jewelry can change a person completely, if the adornment is stylish and correctly selected. Appropriate earrings create harmony between one’s figure and the shoulder line. Earrings with pendants or large and round ones are not recommended for women with broad face or glasses. Such kind of earrings would rather be worn by young and middle-aged women with oval face. Small flat earrings perfectly suit for round-faced women. Young girls would rather avoid large earrings.
A high-necked dress combines with either beads or earrings. For a lower-cut d?collet? both kinds of adornments can be used.
Bracelets are usually worn on the right hand. Moreover, bracelets with jewels should fit tightly to the hand and the hoop-shaped or chain-shaped ones should be loose. For both hands only twin bracelets can be worn. Thin wrists can be beautified by a set of delicate bracelets. However, such kind of adornment isn’t the best choice for a woman with plump hands – it would hide all her attractive features.
On the whole, one can wear large and tiny adornments, a single one or a set of jewelry, colored and of various shapes, materials and combinations. There is only one condition – jewelry should be of impeccable taste.
However, this is only theory. While choosing jewelry, a man can hardly determine a personal style of a woman to select the best adornment. Here are several simple pieces of advice that can help you in this challenge:
1) Look and listen!
To understand what jewelry is preferred by a women sometimes a quick research of already existing adornments is quite enough. In that way, you can determine her individual style and understand which adornments are still lacking. For example, if your special person wears pearl necklace she will be happy to be presented with a pair of refined pearl earrings. You can unexpectedly show her pictures of jewelry and ask her about her likes and dislikes. Her answer will help you in your research.
To select a ring you can measure the diameter of her ring. That will be necessary for a shop assistant to offer the needed size.
If your special person has thin fingers then buy her a wider setting or smaller gemstone, as larger gemstones on thin settings will have tendency to twist and turn. If you are set on a larger gemstone then have the jeweler modify the ring with the addition of 2 small spheres of gold soldered at 8 and 4 o’clock on the inside of ring shank. This will allow the ring to slip over the knuckle but provide a tighter fit around the finger keeping the gemstone on top for everyone to see.
2) Appreciate her personality!
If she is a romantic kind of person, present her with a heart-shaped pendant, necklace or a ring with a heart-shaped gemstone. If she prefers classics or business style then an elegant diamond ring, a pair of refined diamond earrings or a flat-unit chain is the best choice.
Earrings are an excellent choice, but it is important to know if she has pierced ears or prefers clip-on mountings. Does she like long earrings or does she prefer studs.
But you can do even more than that! Sun, dolphins, butterflies and other beautiful shapes would be really appreciated by her. You would rather avoid ultrafashionable designers’ adornments or a just-for-a-party style since you are sure she would definitely like that.
3) Ask her friends!
Her sister, mother or friends can tell you about her likes and help you choose the best sphere for research. You can definitely ask her by watching what attracts her attention at the jeweler’s.
4) Do homework!
Knowing what colors she likes to wear can help you in deciding what color of gemstone would match her wardrobe, especially if its earrings or a necklace. Know her skin tone or dominant make up color as different colors of gold look better on different skin tones or make-up colors.
Your beloved one can be unsatisfied if you present her with a jewel that doesn’t agree with her horoscope.
Jewels and gemstones are believed to have special features and supernatural powers according to the Zodiac signs. They say, precious gemstones give magical protection to the people that have them as talismans. They help in achieving goals, granting wishes, protect from illnesses and misfortune.
Jewels are often involved in various legends, superstitions and beliefs. Only presented or bought jewels are considered to be true talismans.
Know about all dates that are important for her. Presents are not just for birthdays or Christmas – they are always welcome.
5) Present stylishly!
If you choose a pendant remember about an appropriate chain, so that she could wear it at once. You would rather pack it into a beautiful box and present it together with flowers. Romantic atmosphere would also be perfect for such occasion!
To be sure about the present for the next time you can buy a set of jewelry and present it in parts. For example, you can give her a ring for Christmas and the earrings from that very set – for the wedding anniversary.
6) And the most important one:
If you are still unsure about a gift – present her with a diamond ring.
Most of the women want a large diamond; remember that a larger diamond creates the illusion of power, wealth and influence. But to some women that may not be comfortable to wear. So it is always better for your special person to be humble with a smaller diamond which will not clash with her persona, something she may feel at ease wearing that is more humble to her soul. This will avoid a gaudy yet risky to wear ring also in fear of having it stolen. The size of the ring has to be decided as per the size of the finger also – the bigger the finger the bigger the diamond, the smaller the finger the smaller the diamond. Otherwise, the ring may once again look overawing unfit to her beautiful finger.
Such gift is relevant at all times – actually in this case the fact is much more important than a diamond size.
Article Source: http://mikesjewelryhouse.com
The latter-date fashion is rich in the astonishing variety of designers’ know-hows. One can get lost while choosing jewelry from thousands of perfect examples of jewelers’ art. However, no matter what, you will never make a mistake if you choose classics. It has passed the most difficult test – time check-up. It includes chains plaited in all possible ways – the adornments offered by famous Coco Chanel and enthusiastically accepted by public that remain popular up to this very day.
Rings take a special part in jewelers’ art. They are worn by almost every woman. But are they really beautify? Indeed they are, if suit to a person’s style. Women of a small height with tiny hands would rather wear narrow rings with one or several small jewels. Rings with oval or pear-shaped gemstones visually make a hand more delicate and refined. Girls and young women are recommended to wear rings with one small jewel, for middle-aged women rings with bigger jewels or scatterings of tiny ones are preferred. For shorter fingers one shouldn’t choose large wide rings. It is not recommended to wear more than two rings.
Jewelry, as long as clothes, is meant for emphasizing all one’s benefits and stressing all attractive features. An appropriately selected jewel can attract attention to an eye color, necklaces or chains with pendants – to delicate neck skin. It is not recommended to wear a big amount of jewelry or adornments that disagree in style or color.
Jewelry is different for every season and occasion. In summer the choice of adornments is almost unlimited. However, in winter, clothes and jewelry should be more moderate and reasonable. The adornments for the winter season are not very remarkable – small clips or earrings to emphasize complexion would suit perfectly.
Diamonds and other jewels, pearls, golden and silver adornments look most impressive in the evening light. Large brooches, pendants, necklaces, big earrings, bracelets of various colors of shine perfectly combine with evening dresses. Sometimes a tiny piece of jewelry can change a person completely, if the adornment is stylish and correctly selected. Appropriate earrings create harmony between one’s figure and the shoulder line. Earrings with pendants or large and round ones are not recommended for women with broad face or glasses. Such kind of earrings would rather be worn by young and middle-aged women with oval face. Small flat earrings perfectly suit for round-faced women. Young girls would rather avoid large earrings.
A high-necked dress combines with either beads or earrings. For a lower-cut d?collet? both kinds of adornments can be used.
Bracelets are usually worn on the right hand. Moreover, bracelets with jewels should fit tightly to the hand and the hoop-shaped or chain-shaped ones should be loose. For both hands only twin bracelets can be worn. Thin wrists can be beautified by a set of delicate bracelets. However, such kind of adornment isn’t the best choice for a woman with plump hands – it would hide all her attractive features.
On the whole, one can wear large and tiny adornments, a single one or a set of jewelry, colored and of various shapes, materials and combinations. There is only one condition – jewelry should be of impeccable taste.
However, this is only theory. While choosing jewelry, a man can hardly determine a personal style of a woman to select the best adornment. Here are several simple pieces of advice that can help you in this challenge:
1) Look and listen!
To understand what jewelry is preferred by a women sometimes a quick research of already existing adornments is quite enough. In that way, you can determine her individual style and understand which adornments are still lacking. For example, if your special person wears pearl necklace she will be happy to be presented with a pair of refined pearl earrings. You can unexpectedly show her pictures of jewelry and ask her about her likes and dislikes. Her answer will help you in your research.
To select a ring you can measure the diameter of her ring. That will be necessary for a shop assistant to offer the needed size.
If your special person has thin fingers then buy her a wider setting or smaller gemstone, as larger gemstones on thin settings will have tendency to twist and turn. If you are set on a larger gemstone then have the jeweler modify the ring with the addition of 2 small spheres of gold soldered at 8 and 4 o’clock on the inside of ring shank. This will allow the ring to slip over the knuckle but provide a tighter fit around the finger keeping the gemstone on top for everyone to see.
2) Appreciate her personality!
If she is a romantic kind of person, present her with a heart-shaped pendant, necklace or a ring with a heart-shaped gemstone. If she prefers classics or business style then an elegant diamond ring, a pair of refined diamond earrings or a flat-unit chain is the best choice.
Earrings are an excellent choice, but it is important to know if she has pierced ears or prefers clip-on mountings. Does she like long earrings or does she prefer studs.
But you can do even more than that! Sun, dolphins, butterflies and other beautiful shapes would be really appreciated by her. You would rather avoid ultrafashionable designers’ adornments or a just-for-a-party style since you are sure she would definitely like that.
3) Ask her friends!
Her sister, mother or friends can tell you about her likes and help you choose the best sphere for research. You can definitely ask her by watching what attracts her attention at the jeweler’s.
4) Do homework!
Knowing what colors she likes to wear can help you in deciding what color of gemstone would match her wardrobe, especially if its earrings or a necklace. Know her skin tone or dominant make up color as different colors of gold look better on different skin tones or make-up colors.
Your beloved one can be unsatisfied if you present her with a jewel that doesn’t agree with her horoscope.
Jewels and gemstones are believed to have special features and supernatural powers according to the Zodiac signs. They say, precious gemstones give magical protection to the people that have them as talismans. They help in achieving goals, granting wishes, protect from illnesses and misfortune.
Jewels are often involved in various legends, superstitions and beliefs. Only presented or bought jewels are considered to be true talismans.
Know about all dates that are important for her. Presents are not just for birthdays or Christmas – they are always welcome.
5) Present stylishly!
If you choose a pendant remember about an appropriate chain, so that she could wear it at once. You would rather pack it into a beautiful box and present it together with flowers. Romantic atmosphere would also be perfect for such occasion!
To be sure about the present for the next time you can buy a set of jewelry and present it in parts. For example, you can give her a ring for Christmas and the earrings from that very set – for the wedding anniversary.
6) And the most important one:
If you are still unsure about a gift – present her with a diamond ring.
Most of the women want a large diamond; remember that a larger diamond creates the illusion of power, wealth and influence. But to some women that may not be comfortable to wear. So it is always better for your special person to be humble with a smaller diamond which will not clash with her persona, something she may feel at ease wearing that is more humble to her soul. This will avoid a gaudy yet risky to wear ring also in fear of having it stolen. The size of the ring has to be decided as per the size of the finger also – the bigger the finger the bigger the diamond, the smaller the finger the smaller the diamond. Otherwise, the ring may once again look overawing unfit to her beautiful finger.
Such gift is relevant at all times – actually in this case the fact is much more important than a diamond size.
Article Source: http://mikesjewelryhouse.com
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