Tips on Buying Beads
Sunday, August 30, 2009
- Good sized holes (so can use a stronger thread)
- Evenly shaped beads (as appropriate)
- If the beads are being sold in a 16" strand -- I make sure it is 16" -- not 14" or 15" if possible.
- Look for the best quality stone (if buying real stones)
- Make sure beads are not cracked or chipped by the holes as this tears the thread
- Good color (so can create harmonious necklaces and matching earrings)
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Gemstone's Different Cut & Shape
A cut can give the gemstone a certain shape, bringing out its luster and color.
Gemstone Cuts
‘Faceting’ is how a gemstone cutter shapes the gem. This is a fundamental to cutting gemstones. Here are the most common gemstone shapes used by experts: antique cushion, round brilliant cut, oval cut, baguette, octagon cut, square cut, princess cut, emerald cut, pear cut, trilliant cut, round cabochon, briolette, and marquise cut.
* The round brilliant cut is especially designed for diamonds but now is used in almost all kinds of gems. The standard number of facets of a round brilliant cut gemstone is 57. This cut is designed to give accent to the gemstone’s brilliance and scintillation. By using this cut, the gem’s sparkle and lust can be emphasized. This is the most popular cut for a diamond engagement ring.
* The baguette cut has a standard of 20 facets only. This cut is best used on those gemstones that are shaped special oblong in rough.
* While having a standard of 57 facets, the square cut is similar to the baguette cut for they are both step cuts, which means that the facets on the pavilion are cut in steps, parallel to the edges making a pyramid with its top chopped off. Only the sides of a square cut gem are on the same length.
* The trilliant cut, on the other hand, has 43 facets in standard, which comes in a triangular shape having thin and pointed tips.
* Seventy-one is the standard number of facets of a pear cut gem. This is a hybrid cut, combining the oval cut and the marquise resulting to a gem shaped like a teardrop.
Those are only some of the few gemstone cuts. There are still other cuts one can choose from depending on the feature of the gemstones he wants to give accent to. These are simply the most popular. More info here
See also: Colored Gemstones Buying Guide , How to Store Gemstone JewelryLabels: Gemstones
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Sapphire History and Myth
Thursday, August 27, 2009
The word sapphire originated from the Green word “sappheiros”, meaning blue. Because of this, during much of the ancient world all blue gemstones were referred to as sapphires, even if they were technically different gems. The irony is that, as mentioned above, sapphires come in colors other than blue. Sapphires are actually the same mineral as rubies; whenever the stone appears in a red color it is known as a ruby and when corundum is any other color it is a sapphire. Blue sapphires have been long been favored by royalty as a symbol of wisdom, virtue and holiness, and many rulers have worn sapphire necklaces or pendants as a protection from harm. Supposedly the Ten Commandment tablets were actually made of sapphire, likely due to the sapphire’s role throughout history as a symbol of virtue and holiness.
Ancient Persians poetically believed that the earth rested on a large sapphire, and that the skies reflected the brilliant blue color of the gemstone. The sentiment that sapphires were symbolic of the heavens runs through many cultures in history, and even today many people feel that sapphires are a representation of heaven. sapphire white gold earrings
When Prince Charles proposed to Princess Diana he used a ring with sapphires, boosting the gemstone’s popularity in engagement rings. Even today many engagement rings utilize sapphires, whether sapphires are flanking a diamond center stone, the center stone is a blue sapphire or the center stone is a clear sapphire used to mimic the appearance of a diamond. More info here
See also: Sapphire Facts, Sapphire Properties, Facts-September BirthstoneLabels: Sapphire
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Cleaning & Storage Tips for Diamond Earrings, Pendants and Jewelry
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Why Cleaning is Necessary
Diamond jewelry accumulates dirt and oil buildup after a while. This buildup comes from hand lotions, hair styling products, dust, and even perspiration. If you never clean your diamond jewelry, the buildup will only get worse and will finally turn into gunk on the back of your jewelry or stone. The buildup is usually not noticeable for a while, but before you know it, your diamond looks dull and dirty. You can clean jewelry at home or have a jeweler clean it for you.
How to Clean Diamond Jewelry
To clean diamond jewelry, create a solution using warm water and mild liquid dish detergent such as Ivory detergent. Ammonia solution or water solution may be used for fracture-filled diamonds. If other gemstones are included with your diamond, be extremely careful not to damage these during cleaning. There are also jewelry cleaning solutions available in the marketplace, but you can use the household remedy above to save time and money.
Soak the jewelry in the solution for a while and then use a soft brush to remove dirt and gunk from the jewelry. Never use a brush with hard or stiff bristles because this could scratch any metal areas of your jewelry. After cleaning with the brush, swish the jewelry around a few times in the solution. Then, rinse the jewelry in warm water. Always cover or close your drain before rinsing diamond jewelry over a sink. Small pieces may fall down the drain if you drop them.
How to Store Diamond Jewelry
Diamond earrings, pendants, and jewelry should be stored so the jewelry doesn’t rub together and get scratched. Use soft jewelry cloth to separate your different pieces of jewelry. Store your jewelry in a dry room or area of your home, safe from moisture or condensation. Also, keep your valuables in a safe, hidden place. Even with jewelry insurance coverage, losing a sentimental diamond ring or other diamond jewelry can be a heart-breaking experience.
For jewelry items very close to your heart such as a diamond engagement ring, never leave them lying around on a counter, dresser, or table where they can easily be knocked off. Place them in your jewelry box when you need to take them off for chores so you’ll always know where they are.
Clean and store your diamond earrings, pendants, and jewelry safely, and they’ll never lose their beautiful, shiny appeal. More info here
See also: How to Use an Ultrasonic Jewelry CleanerLabels: Diamond-Jewelry
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Top Ten Jewelry Cleaning Tips
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
1. Before you start cleaning jewelry always do a quick visual check to see if there are any loose or damaged gemstones; cracked or broken metal; bent or warped prongs/tips; discolored or pitting metal. You would not want to cause any further damage.
2. Jewelry should be removed before showering or cleaning. A film can form if the soap is not washed off completely. This film will then become a magnet for dirt, dust and other contaminants.
3. Use a nub free, 100% cotton cloth and gently wipe the piece clean using only the soft pads of your fingers.
4. You can also purchase jeweler's cloths from jewelry stores. Be sure to use fresh cloths since the dirt and grit left on the cloth from a previous use will now leave scrapes and pits in the piece you are trying to clean and polish.
5. Commercial cleaners can be purchased at jewelry stores. Always remember to read the instructions on the commercial cleaners first before you attempt cleaning.
6. Never clean your jewelry in bleach! Doing this will literally breakdown your jewelry. Bleach is an oxidizing agent that will react to the metal, causing it to become very brittle. Similarly, avoid swimming pools and bathing in hot tubs as chlorine products are added to prevent bacteria growth.
7. Besides chlorine bleach, denatured alcohol, turpentine, acetone, and ammonia are harmful too. These chemicals can dull or even pit the surface on softer gemstones.
8. For best results, polish silver or gold with a jewelry polishing cloth. Use of tissue or paper towels can cause scratches because of the fibers in these products.
9. An old toothbrush is very handy. Make sure that you use an old, soft bristle brush. Lightly brush at hard to reach areas while frequently applying cleaning solution.
10. Never use toothpaste or other abrasives to clean metal or stones. Some websites recommend toothpaste as a cleaner, but this is not an accepted practice by fine jewelers. The abrasives in toothpaste can damage the surface of the metal. Toothpaste will also abrade the surface on amber, lapis, turquoise and other soft stones.Labels: Jewelry-Tips
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Turquoise Guide-All About Turquoise, December Bithstone
Thursday, August 20, 2009
The gemstone used in December birthstone jewelry is the turquoise, a bluish green stone which is a phosphate of copper and aluminum. It’s a rare stone that has been used in decorative work and jewelry for many thousands of years and was worn from approximately 6000 B.C. by the Egyptians. It was a prized gem worn by the Pharaohs and Aztec kings. High quality turquoise is mined in Afghanistan, Australia, Iran, Arizona and New Mexico in the US.
Turquoise is believed to come from the French word meaning Turkey as it was erroneously believed that the precious stones originated in that country as they were sold in the bazaars to Venetian merchants. In reality they most likely came from Persia (now Iran) or the Sinai Peninsula. It may also have arisen from the French word pierre turquin which means blue stone. It’s often found in deposits of copper typically in very dry, arid conditions.
Before turquoise was discovered in the US the highest quality gems, with an intense blue color, were from Persia and ‘Persian Turquoise’ is still used these days to designate the top quality gemstones. In the last part of the nineteenth century turquoise was found in the USA with deposits that were the equal of the quality of the gems from Persia. Nowadays the United States is the largest producer of this lovely precious stone.
How the Native Americans Used Turquoise
The Apache, Navajo and Pueblo tribes used turquoise as an amulet frequently believing it could influence an archer’s aim. The original turquoise jewelry made by Native Americans included mosaics, beads and carvings and only from around 1880 was the characteristic silver jewelry made. Navajo artisans started to make this style of jewelry from silver coins for trade with white men.
Looking After Turquoise Jewelry
Turquoise is moderately soft and must be looked after with care to avoid being scratched. It can become dull if it is heated, or exposed to sunlight or weak acids so you should take care to take off any turquoise jewelry before using household chemicals or hot water. More info here
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Sapphires One Of The Most Stylish Precious Stone
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Sapphire is one of the most precious and expensive stone. Corundum is the scientific name of Sapphire. Probably when you think about sapphire you think about the shades of blue color but it is more likely than that you even can see wide range of shades from navy to white blue. And their cost and worth can be determined by their shine and unique color. Due to its unique and exclusive color and design it worth’s more than other gemstones.
Sapphire has many shades of different colors like pink, black and yellow stones apart from bluish shades. The non bluish shades categories of sapphire are known as “fancy”. You look more attractive and elegant in pink or yellow sapphires. A large variety of sapphires and other diamond rings are also available at verifiedbuy.com. This site has a large variety of expensive and genuine gemstones. And the salient feature of this site is that it provides proper information and guidance regarding every kind of jewelry. Usually, authentic and genuine dealers of diamond and other jewelry provide proper and complete info about all the jewelries and gemstones.
Important thing is that Sapphire needs to be clean regularly otherwise it looses its shining and grace. Though this stone is very durable, but needs proper care and it’s very hard so we can wear it on daily basis. But still it needs great care and protection. Because sometimes little scratches or hits looses its grace and worth. So give them to your trustworthy jeweler who’ll clean it by ultrasonic cleaner and steamer, but if you want to clean it by your own than simply soak it in warm soapy water.Labels: Sapphire
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Most Expensive Necktie
The Satya Paul Design Studio, a company with roots in the early stages of India’s fashion industry, displayed the most expensive necktie in the world at a fashion show aptly titled “Cultural Ties” in Mumbai on October 29th, 2003. Tied around the neck of bollywood film star Salman Khan, this unique tie is made of pure silk with a pattern in 150 grams of gold. It’s also adorned with 271 diamonds weighing 77 carats weighing 77 carats total. The world’s most expensive necktie was created for the Suashish Diamond group and priced at INR 1 crore—that’s 10 million rupees or, at the time, over $220,000. More info here
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Most Expensive Women’s Shoes
Stuart Weitzman’s Ruby Slippers $1.2 million
Based on their namesake footwear from The Wizard of Oz, these extravagant slippers were designed for the 2003 Oscars. Unfortunately, they were never worn due to the solemn mood of the times. They are studded with 642 Burma rubies weighing in at 123.33 carats. The settings are made of half a pound of platinum. These shoes were made with the help of Oscar Heyman Bros.
Stuart Weitzman’s Cinderella Slippers $2 million
Worn by singer Alison Krauss at the 2004 Academy Awards, these shoes were Weitzman’s next pair of fantasy-themed slippers. They are studded with 565 Kwiat diamonds—55 carats of clear diamonds and a single 5-carat gem. Unfortunately, they’re probably not made of glass. They are currently on display in Beverly Hills, California.
Stuart Weitzman and Le Vian evening shoes $2 million
Made in conjunction between Stuart Weitzman and the 500-year-old tradition of the Le Vian name, these stunning slippers are made of silver leather set with over 200 carats of precious stones. There are over 185 carats of museum-quality tanzanite gemstones along the ankle bracelets, including the two 16-carat gems hanging from each. Additionally, there are 28 carats of diamonds along the front straps.
Harry Winston’s Ruby Slippers $3 million
While the original ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland were made with sequins, these spectacular slippers designed by Ronald Winston of the House of Harry Winston to mark the classic movie’s fiftieth anniversary used real rubies. The slippers include 4,600 rubies totaling 1,350 carats (as well as 50 carats of diamonds) which took craftsman Javiar Barerra two months to set. Made in 1989, the world’s most expensive shoes were still on sale in 2000.
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Exquisite Chocolate Pearl Rings
Chocolate pearls are often described as exquisite and exotic pieces which are cultured to perfection. Most manufacturers source chocolate pearls from Tahiti and Hawaii, where some of the world’s largest cultivators of pearls can be found. These pearls are either sourced from fresh waters or the South Sea or saltwater. Hence, they are classified as freshwater or south sea.
Chocolate pearl rings, particularly have had its debut to the jewelry market recently. They are now one of the most favored types of item in gift shops and jewelry retail stores. More often, these items are considered part of the premium pearl collection. More than jewelry, they are considered fashionable but more valuable than accessories that are designed to match outfits and accentuate the user’s hand. More infoLabels: Pearls
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Types of Indian Jewelry
Friday, August 14, 2009
Antique Jewelry
The jewelry which is not in mainstream production and of which the mode of production is no longer popular is known by the name of 'Antique Jewelry.' This kind of jewelry has dull and rough look, combined with an old world-world charm, and this serves as the major USP of such jewelry.
Bead Jewelry
Bead art in India is five thousand year old and dates back to the time of Indus Valley Civilization. People of that civilization used to make beads out of gold, silver, copper, clay, ivory and even wood. The excavated carried out there came out with finished and unfinished beads from the site.
Bridal Jewelry
India has great tradition of wedding jewelry. Made of superior metals and excellent quality, jewelry accentuates the beauty of bride in multiples. Though these days silver and platinum jewelry is gaining popularity, gold jewelry still holds the most popularity among Indians.
Custom Jewelry
Custom jewelry is personalized jewelry, which a customer gets her made on her interest and fancy. This happens particularly in cases where readymade jewelry does not match the taste of person. Custom jewelry gives total freedom to customer about the specifics.
Fashion Jewelry
Fashion jewelry is also called costume jewelry, mainly for the reason that it is not made of precious metals and stones, rather lighter and cheaper material are used. Fashion jewelry is trend-conscious and keeps on changing as per changing needs.
Filigree Jewelry
Filigree work is done on silver and involves lots of precision and technicality, added with great amount of patience and an eye for minute details. Historically, filigree work was quite popular in countries like Egypt, Italy, and Spain. India's history of filigree work goes back to early centuries.
Gold Jewelry
Gold is a metal that lures many. It gives the security against any financial crisis, because of its easy liquidity, and is also used by women for adorning themselves. Traditionally, gold has been considered auspicious among Hindus and is regarded to be symbolic of Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth.
Handmade jewelry
Talking about jewelry manufacturing in India is as good as talking about handmade jewelry in India. A major chunk of jewelry in the country is made by independent craftsmen. Traditionally also, a significant part of jewelry manufacturing has been handmade jewelry.
Ivory Jewelry
Jewelry that is made from the tusk of an elephant is called ivory jewelry. Importance of ivory jewelry can be guessed from the fact that in Gujarat, the bride receives an ivory bangle from her family just before marriage as jewelry. During marriage ceremony wearing of ivory bangles is must for bride. More
Jadau Jewelry
Jadau Jewelry forms one of the major examples of high skilled craftsmanship that was brought into India by Mughals. Historically speaking, the tradition of Jadau work has been in practice in the states of Rajasthan and Gujarat since the Mughal era. Jadau jewellery is also called engraved jewelry.
Kundan Jewelry
During Mughal period, the art of kundan work reached Rajasthan from Delhi. Later on, craftsmen from the different part of the country migrated to the place and made Rajasthan a hub of Kundankari. Rulers and feudal lords gave patronage to the art and it developed into perfection.
Lac Jewelry
Lac jewelry, also known as lacquer jewelry, originated in Rajasthan and has gained considerable popularity in India today. Lac jewelry is available in versatile designs, which add to its beauty. Among the various items in lac jewelry, the bangles need a special mention.
Meenakari Jewelry
In Meenakari jewelry, precious stones are set and then enameled with gold. Historically speaking, the art was introduced to Rajasthan artisans by Raja Mansingh of Amer. He invited Lahore-based skilled artisans to his kingdom, and their intermingling with the locals craftsmen resulted in an amalgam.
Navratna Jewelry
In Navratna jewelry, nine auspicious stones are used in a single ornament. The belief behind this is that the nine stones together ensure well being of the person who wears it. In India, Navratna jewelry has been given major importance, because of its astrological significance as well as its innate charm.
Pachchikam Jewelry
In the world of fashion and design, old trends tend to come over again and again, though with slight changes. Pachchikam jewelry making craft is one of the examples of jewelry that has come back once again. Originated in Gujarat and Kutch, centuries ago, Pachchikam jewelry has again become popular.
Silver Jewelry
Silver Jewelry, along with gold jewelry, is quite popular amongst Indian women. Ornaments made of silver, such as rings, bracelets, chains, necklaces, nose rings, earrings, toe rings, heavy kadas, and armlets, form integral part of Indian jewelry.
Stone Jewelry
Jewelry studded with different gems is quite popular among Indians. For reasons ranging from spiritual to aesthetic to health, gemstone jewelry has become the part of life of Indian women and men both. These stone jewelries are worn according to the individual's astrological chart and ruling of planet.
Temple Jewelry
Indian jewelry art is at times divided into three kinds - temple jewelry, spiritual jewelry and bridal jewelry. Temple jewelry of India initially used to be described as the jewelry used to adorn the idols of Gods and Goddesses. The statues In India were ornamented with chunky necklaces.
Tribal Jewelry
Tribal jewelry in India is quite rich. Each tribe has kept its unique style of jewelry intact even now. The original format of jewelry design has been preserved by ethnic tribal. Jewelry that is made of bone, wood, clay, shells and crude metal, by tribals, is not only attractive, but also holds a distinct rustic charm. More info here
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Pearl shapes
Pearl’s shape depends upon factors inside the shell of mollusk like; shape of nucleus or position of pearl within the shell and many more. The shape of the pearl determines its value. Perfectly round pearl is very rare. There are mainly three categories of pearl shape; spherical, Symmetrical and Baroque.
Spherical shapes are nearly round; this shape is most familiar, classic shape of pearl. Symmetrical pearls are regular shaped pearls, if pearl is divided into two parts they can be divided into two equal halves and Baroque shapes are irregular and abstract.
Some basic pearl shapes:
Round: When anyone thinks about the Pearls, round is only shape that comes into the mind. These pearls are very rare. Perfectly round and unblemished they look which are very rare and expensive. They range from perfectly round to oval in shape.
Near Round: These pearls are not round but oval. These pearls are slightly flattened or elongated. These pearls belong to Spherical category.
Oval: These pearls are “Oval” in shape and they are narrower at the ends than center. They belong to symmetrical category.
Drop: Drop pearls are pearls which looks like a pear or sometimes available in a teardrop shape. They are usually short and fat. They are usually used for making earring and pendants. They belong to same Symmetrical pearls category as “Oval” pearls.
Button: These pearls usually have flattened shape. They are suitable for stud type of earrings. Their flattened side can be easily attached to jewelry setting.
Baroque: Baroque pearls do not have any specific shape. Any irregular shaped pearl fall into this category. They are very cheap. They can have amazing luster and can look amazingly gorgeous. Most info here
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All About Citrine - November's Birthstone
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Citrine is the birthstone for November and the traditional anniversary gemstone for the 13th year of marriage. Its name comes from an old French word for lemon -- "citrin". A variety of quartz and the "sister stone" to the purple variety known as Amethyst, citrine comes in a wide range of colors. Some believe that some citrine may have actually begun as amethyst, but that nearby molten rock changed it to the yellow form of quartz.
Mined mainly in Brazil, but also found in Bolivia, citrines come in vivid yellows and oranges, and also the unusual and extremely popular "madeira red." (Citrines that are pale yellow or yellowish-brown are often mistaken for yellow or golden topaz.) Natural citrine can also be found in the Ural Mountains of Russia, in Dauphine, France, and in Madagascar.... More info hereLabels: Citrine
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Birthstone Jewelry
Garnet – The January Birthstone
Burgundy red in color, garnet is a mesmerizing piece of birthstone jewelry. It derives its name from the Roman word “granatum”, a word which signifies the pomegranate fruit. It is said to represent faith and courage, and can enhance a person’s popularity when worn. It is also said to bring good luck to business.
Amethyst – The February Birthstone
This birthstone is a variety of quartz, and possesses a vibrant purple hue. The Greeks believed amethyst to prevent intoxication, and often wore it when drinking. It was also once used in adorning crowns, particularly those of the British royalty. Amethyst is said to signify peace and spiritual wisdom, and is believed to cure headaches and insomnia, as well as bring good dreams.
Aquamarine – The March Birthstone
Aquamarine, as its name suggests, is translucent blue. It symbolizes safety and serenity, and has been used by those who travel by sea to guarantee a safe passage. It also means everlasting youth, and is said to help you get in touch with your inner child when worn.
Diamond – The April Birthstone
“Diamonds are a girl’s best friend,” says a song. But aside from its flawless beauty, have you ever wondered why this April birthstone is often used to express love? It’s most probably because its name comes from the Latin words “Dio”, which means God, and “amante”, which means love. Simply put, a diamond symbolizes “divine love”. It also represents innocence and constancy – both desirable attributes of love.
Emerald – The May Birthstone
Its rich green color makes emerald one of the most favorite birthstones out there. It is often used in making accessories like rings, bracelets, and necklaces. It is said to boost one’s intelligence, and heal the heart. some say it helps people become more healthy or flexible depending on the tradition.
Pearl – The June Birthstone
In ancient times, pearls were believed to be a mixture of moonlight and dewdrops, particularly because of its iridescence. Pearls are a product of shelled mollusks, but the most beautiful ones come from oysters. They are said to signify longevity, but some people also believe that giving them as gifts would bring tears to the recipient.
Ruby – The July Birthstone
Ruby is associated with passionate love. It is believed to bring good luck to one’s endeavors in romance, and is often used as ring ornaments. Ruby is unusual as it seems to be the July birthstone across many many traditions including Ayurvedic which is over 1000 years old.
Peridot – The August Birthstone
This birthstone boasts olive green hues, which does not grow dim at night. Though it is a very common stone, it is hard to find high gem quality peridot. It was originally found in Egypt, and is believed to drive away evil spirits. It also brings forth good luck. Some say that this gem will help dreams become a reality.
Sapphire – The September Birthstone
Sapphire was once believed to be the source of the sky’s color. Sapphire comes in many colors besides blue such as: yellow, pink and orange. Red sapphire is actually ruby.
Sapphire means lotus blossom. It is a symbol wisdom and truth. It also signifies commitment and loyalty, and is a popular choice of jewelry.
Opal – The October Birthstone
Opal is most enjoyed for the array of colors it displays. Its vivid flashes of color is sure to enchant any pair of eyes that fixes its gaze upon it. Shakespeare even used it as his muse once. Similar to its play of colors, this birthstone is also associated with delight.
Most high quality opal comes from Australia. Some say that opal helps one see more of the available possibilities.
Citrine – The November Birthstone
This birthstone’s name comes from the French word for lemon, “citron”. It is the most abundant mineral, and signifies light-heartedness. One often wears citrine to have more happiness enter their lives.
Turquoise – The December Birthstone
Turquoise has a blue-green color that has been used as an ornament as early as the time of the pharaohs. It is said to be a stone of power, one that could amplify the strength of the person who wears it. Contrary to its powerful image, however, turquoise is easily damaged by chemical agents like soap, and is advised to be kept with care to avoid discoloration.
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150 Carat Diamond Wedding Dress, $12 Million Dollar
Monday, August 10, 2009
Jeweler Martin Katz and dressmaker Renee Strauss teamed up to create the most expensive wedding dress on record, featuring a stunning 150 carats worth of diamonds laced throughout the dress. The veil that is shown in the picture worn with the dress does sparkle, but it does not feature diamonds. Instead, the veil has some pretty rhinestones. But we figure, if you’re doing to drop $12 million on a dress, why not just have someone custom create a matching, diamond-laced veil? And while you’re at it, get some fancy diamond-studded shoes to add to the bling factor!
The dress hasn’t yet been sold, so if you’ve got your eye on it (as well as the $12 mil), Strauss and Katz would be more than willing to discuss a sale. Unlike other wedding dresses, this one will still have a high resale value after the wedding.
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Swarovski Studded Kitty Cam
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Kitty is a popular choice for children the world over, ad this year the Hello Kitty goodies will be even better than the previous years because little Kitty celebrates her 35th birthday this year. In celebration of this, Hello Kitty goodies have been making their way to the market this year but perhaps the best was yet to arrive. The CASIO EX-Z2 camera has Hello Kitty written all over it and is even more special.
The pink camera is studded with Swarovski crystals outlining the camera lens. Other features of the Hello Kitty camera include 12.1MP and 3X optical zoom. The camera comes in an identical Hello Kitty carrying case. The limited edition cameras can be pre-ordered now and would cost $500. Better get your hands on this one for your little girl now, else your sweet little pussy cat will become a wild cat!
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Vivid Pink Diamond At Christie’s Is Fancy Too
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
This precious ice is called The Vivid Pink, which really explains, more or less, it’s sparkling good looks. It has been set in a ring designed by graff and comes from a private collection.
 Jewelry experts have estimated the value of this diamond between $5million and $7 million. The auction is expected to be held in the beginning of December. With a weight of a neat 5 carats, it is perhaps the largest Fancy Vivid Pink Potentially Flawless diamond to have ever been sold at Christie’s.
Again, this pink diamond is also treasured because it has not a single trace of any other color exceot for the deeply saturated shade of pink which is rarely seen in diamonds (if you refer it to the ‘Pink Panther’ as in the famous movie, trust us, the vivid pink will still win with its unique vibrance)! Apparently, only one in one hundred thousand diamonds have a color that is deep enough to qualify as ‘Fancy’. Before the December auction, the Fancy Vivid Pink diamond will for on a touring display in NY, Singapore, Bangkok, Geneva and Taipei from October onwards. More info hereLabels: Diamond-Jewelry
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Diamond Jewelry Trends 2009
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Women In Blue:
Come to the world of latest diamond jewelry which has gone completely blue. Thanks to the blending of traditional diamonds with the precious stones like topaz, sapphire, lapis lazouli, turquoise, aquamarine etc. Probably, such a beautiful combination will make you blush in blue, not in red though.
 Pure Purple:
Purple diamonds are a reality. Believe it or not, though they are found very rarely. So if you are looking for a diamond jewelry made of natural purple diamond, then be sure that you are recession proof. Definitely, its rareness can burn numerous holes in your pocket. However, you can go for diamond jewelry made of artificial purple diamonds.
Pink Parade:
The pink diamond jewelry can be another choice of those who are planning to marry this summer. Telling him to buy you a pink wedding ring can be a great idea, if you want to look beyond purple. Everybody knows how pink makes a magic when combined with white wedding gowns.
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PermaLink - Diamond Jewelry Trends 2009
posted by Sudha @ 1:25 AM 1 Comments
Pearl & Burgundy Lampwork Necklace
Breathless is an intertwined double strand of dark ivory and bronze freshwater pearls adorned with a magnificent handmade artisan* lampwork pendant. The 2 inch rich burgundy pendant is wrapped with delicate ivory and burgundy dimensional flowers with gold and crystal accents. The finishing touch to this 20-inch necklace is a coordinating gold-plated toggle clasp. The matching round handcrafted lampwork beads have been transformed into 2 1/4 inch earrings with gold-plated ear wires.
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PermaLink - Pearl & Burgundy Lampwork Necklace
posted by Sudha @ 1:06 AM 0 Comments
Edwardian Diamond Platinum Ring
Captivating all the way from its gorgeous 1.17 carat diamond to the spectacular hand-crafted platinum mount, the jeweler’s motif is a circular diamond within a square setting. Brilliance and fire emanate from the central stone with G-H color and clarity of VS2. Against the platinum setting the diamond scintillates as it takes on the colors of a prism. Accent diamonds aplenty, six (6) to be exact—a duet for each shoulder, a single on the north face and another on the south. Although accent diamonds tend to be a simpler single cut, these sparkling gems are a full old European cut of approximately .04 carats each. The total estimate diamond weight comes to 1.41 carats.
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PermaLink - Edwardian Diamond Platinum Ring
posted by Sudha @ 1:02 AM 1 Comments
Gold Quality, Gold Buying Tips
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Know Why You Are Buying
As we know, people buy jewelry for different reasons because they people are using it in a variety of purposes as well. Some collect it as a form of investment while others merely go for it as an ornament. These reasons, most of the time, give variations on how people get the right jewelry for them. If you are the type who considers gold as an investment, you should be looking for the quality like looking for the purest ones. On the other hand, if you tend to use it for ornamental purposes, you may just settle for cheaper and less pure forms of gold jewelry.
Quality
When buying gold jewelry, the first thing that you should ask for is its value. Gold’s purity is always measured in karats. You may see them labeled with 24K, 18K, 14K, 12K, and 10K. Just remember, the higher the number associated with gold, the purer it is. The one with 24K is made with pure gold, while others are 75 percent, 58.3 percent, 50 percent, and 41.7 percent respectively. So depending on how you will use the jewelry, you need to choose the best gold quantity in it. If you plan it for daily use, 24K is not a good idea because it is soft. You may choose the jewelry with mixture of other metals if you go after its durability, and good news, that doesn’t increase the prices. In fact, the more percentage of other metals there is in a gold jewelry, the cheaper it is.
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PermaLink - Gold Quality, Gold Buying Tips
posted by Sudha @ 10:12 PM 2 Comments
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