Tahitian Pearls

When Oro, the Polynesian god of peace and fertility, came down to earth to find a mortal wife, he traveled the rainbow where one end was in the sky and the other on the earth. As Oro walked along the rainbow using it as his pathway, bits of color fell from the rainbow, mingled with the moonlight, and fell into the sea as black pearls.
There have been many ancient legends handed down from one Polynesian generation to the next on the creation of black pearls. According to one of those legends, Oro, the Polynesian god of peace and fertility, came down to earth on a rainbow to offer a special type of pearl oyster to man.

Another legend tells of the origin of the black pearls, according to this legend, when Oro decided to marry, he created a rainbow between the heavens and the earth and traveled across it where he offered the pearl to the beautiful princess of Bora Bora as a sign of his love.

The most romantic legend is how the moon shines its light upon the ocean to attract the oysters to the surface where it impregnates them with heavenly dew. Polished by time, this drop of light holds this heavenly radiance within its heart and cloaks itself in a garment that glistened with the blue, green, pink and golden colors of all the fish that swim.
For centuries before contact with Western civilization, Black Tahitian Pearls were revered for their beauty and rarity. Always associated with love then and now, this gem, seemingly created by magic in the turquoise waters of the Polynesian Islands, has a mystique that is difficult to define with words.
These myths tell of the love and admiration that people have for the "Queen of Pearls".
Tahitian Pearls remind me of that old joke...
Q. "What is black and white and red all over?" A. a newspaper.
Tahitian Pearl Jewelry is black, green, silver, aqua, pistachio, purple, peacock green, gunmetal gray all over, or as the ancients say created from a mixture of a rainbow and moonlight.
Like all the colors of the fish that swim in aqua colored tropical waters.
Bold, exotic, mysterious iridescent Tahitian Black Pearls are the most dramatic and beautiful of all the "Queen of Gems".
A gift of Tahitian Pearl jewelry is a gift that will be remembered forever.
A Tahitian Pearl necklace is completely unique, a head turner. One of the most desirable of all pearl jewelry pieces, and a necklace made of these black pearls is an instant heirloom, something to be cherished.
Whether the jewelry is a Tahitian Pearl Pendant, necklace of earrings, the owner will cherish as much as the ancient Polynesians who immortalized their beauty in myths.

Patrick Cavanaugh Sunshine Pearls http;//www.sunshinepearls.com/ Let me share a secret with you Sunshine Pearls is the place to find these beautiful pearls at prices 85 percent of what you will find in jewelry stores.

Source: http://www.classicarticles.com/Article/Tahitian-Pearls/68610
Shopping For Clothing

The Myth and Lore of Topaz: November's Birthstone

Topaz was one of the original gems on the Breastplate of the Second Temple, inscribed to with the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. While many of the birthstones have been changed over the millenia, topaz is one gem that is almost universally accepted as November's birthstone; it is the gem of the zodiac sign Sagittarius. It is also called Sunday's gemstone - and it associated with the sun.

Indeed, St. John in Revelation writes that topaz was 'touched by the splendor of the sun.' He lists topaz as the ninth foundation stone-each of the stones representing Christian virtue. To St. John, topaz is the clearest of all gemstones and signifies contemplation which expands the heart and aligns men with the nine orders of angels. "The love with which contemplation burns, colors it gold," he writes. He noted the size of the gem - topaz crystals have been found over a foot long, and claimed that the gem was a favorite of kings.

The name, topaz, comes from the island, Topazio, which is in the red seas. It was commonly used as an amulet as protection from the "evil eye." The theme of a cure of eyes runs though some of the early Christian writing from the tenth century. St. Hildegarde claimed the gem was so brilliant that it illuminated prayers in a dark chapel, and claimed the gem was a cure of dim vision. She recommended placing a piece of topaz in white wine for three days and nights, then rubbing the eye with the stone before sleep with the wet stone and using the wine as an eye wash. (Kuntz 308)

Other "healing" applications vary over the centuries. Powdered topaz placed in wine cured asthma, burns, insomnia and hemorrhage. It was said to cure sadness and make you more intelligent and was particularly powerful if used in moonlight. Pope Clement VI and Pope Gregory II claimed that topaz could even cure the sores from the plague. (Kuntz 209-210)

It is almost laughable these days, in our current cultural milieu, to read about these "healers" of old who were able to claim miraculous results by using topaz or for that matter, any gemstone. Yet belief cannot be underestimated; our bodies heal particularly quickly if we have faith in the modality and the healer himself, whether that be the doctor, shaman or Pope. Medicine is full of such accounts of miraculous events that cannot be explained by the current scientific world view.

An Italian American friend of mine told me about her grandmother because the doctors wanted to cut off her leg which had a gangrene infection. The leg couldn't be healed. Everyone wanted the leg off. My friend convinced the family to give her two weeks. She bought bags of organic garlic, made poultices and applied them to the leg. She and a few friends sat and prayed over the leg day and night. The leg was healed.

The soul of the world appears separate from us, but perhaps it is within us. If so, topaz, or any gemstone, has the potential to be "healing." Each gem contains its own energy based upon its particular shape and molecular structure. Our bodies, too, are energetic and we are capable with practice, to respond to other objects in our field as energy. The two questions are: how sensitive are we to listening to the feelings or thoughts that the gemstone brings? Secondly, how capable are we at interpreting what we perceive?

The early writers lived in a world which was based on lore and superstition, but at the same time, it was alive and infused with mystery. Objects had power. Today, such thoughts are driven underground by our Cartesian intellect, which has faith in the scientific point of view; except, we are still mysteriously interested in gemstones.

Topaz is has many colors, and each would have its quality. The shape of the gem, which is orthorhombic, with three accesses radiating toward each other, is said to represent radiant energy and a heavenly connection. (Kuntz 331). The square shape also suggests that topaz has something to do with structure, discipline and building foundations. Think about how you use squares in your life.

Early writers seem to be speaking of clear and gold topaz. Gold is a color associated with the soul, the essential, immortal part of ourselves. Gold is radiant life energy. Gold is the color of the sun. Sagittarius, the zodiac symbol associated with this gem, is a mutable fire sign; always striving, full of passion and intellectual intensity. This intensity, with the help of topaz, might be well structured in any pursuit.

From all these small hints, we can see how topaz can be used as an alliance that can help one align with the one's inner light. For many of us, therefore, dismayed by our personal affairs or the state of the world, topaz is the perfect healing stone.

References: Most of the historical content, myth and lore referenced in this article came from two books, both of which are in print and available on line:

George Frederick Kunz, The Curious Lore of Precious Stones, New York; Dover Publications, Inc. 1913, 1971 edition.

Bruce Knuth, Gems In Myth, Legends And Lore, Parachute, Colorado, Jewelers Press, 2007.

Source: http://www.classicarticles.com/Article/The-Myth-and-Lore-of-Topaz--November-s-Birthstone/63818
About Unique Jewelry

Jewellery as an art of decorating ones body

Beauty has always been an ideal that people have strived to attain. Whether moral or physical, beauty revealed itself as a goal, but also as a means to improve one's life from several points of view. Consequently, jewellery proved to be an excellent tool for achieving that ideal. Necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings and so many others, became in time a symbol of wealth, of elegance, of status, of belonging to a certain social group.

People are inclined to associate jewellery with precious metals or stones. This tendency is partially justified, as the common techniques of producing jewellery involves using such material, or replace it with another that imitates the genuine one. Nevertheless, one thing we should know is that the material of jewellery is carved in does not give its entire value. For instance, religious jewellery such as medallions, crosses or rosaries can be just as well made from wood, as their worth is not an earthly one.

The cultural significance of jewellery has met many transformations. In earlier times, only people of certain ranks were allowed to wear jewels. Moreover, the meaning of wearing jewels varies not only from a temporal perspective, but also from a geographic point of view. For instance, whereas in eastern cultures rings represented a common ornament for men, the western societies in the nineteenth century received that habit with prudence, considering it as a tendency of effeminate men.

Nevertheless, the western estimation of men's jewellery is not a universal one. The market of men's jewellery is not yet as developed as the female jewellery market, its tradition goes a long way back. The history of men's jewellery states that, in the beginning, men used ornaments as a sign of power. They were employed either for the sake of a mere adornment, or for more practical purposes, such as intimidating in warfare by exhibiting the fighter's rank.

Somehow, in the course of history, common people stopped wearing jewels. Jewellery became the privilege of priests and kings, and that situation lasted until later times. Nowadays, though, men's jewellery recovered from that long period of darkness. At first, subtly, it was restricted to rings, pins, watches, but then ostentatiously via the hip-hop musical and cultural trend. New artists imposed the image of a man adorned with heavy golden chains, enormous rings meant to shine and show that the one who wears it has a certain style and status. They included golden teeth that should demonstrate that the wealthy one could afford to spend a little on their dentition, to embellish one's smile, or to simply mark the eccentricity of the owner.

Obviously, men's jewellery regained its social significance. It is no longer regarded as a taboo or as a habit of dubious, peculiar individuals, but as a common routine. Of course, excessive display of jewels remains a practice of some people that state in this manner their belonging to a particular group with which it shares a specific view of life, or tastes in music, art or part of their culture.

Source: http://www.classicarticles.com/Article/Jewellery-as-an-art-of-decorating-one-s-body/66879
About Unique Jewelry

Essential Jewelry Tips And Suggestions

Many girls spend days dreaming about their wedding day. They want to look their best. Beauty is incomplete without jewelry. Especially when it comes to a wedding, you can't imagine a bride without jewelry. Your wedding day is one of the happiest days in your life and you don't want to look outdated. A girl will do anything to look her best. However, as the wedding day approaches you become a little unsure as to what kind of jewelry can add the extra spark to your attire.

Here are a few tips that can help you choose the bridal jewelry.

First, you need to keep in mind that you have to choose jewelry that will not only suit you but also your dress. One has to keep in mind the 'mood' of the wedding.. The time of the wedding should be considered, whether it's going to be in the daytime or in the evening, as this will help you select jewelry accordingly. Don't just go by what you like, but see to it that the jewelry compliments your wedding gown. Before you get down to your jewelry shopping conduct research on the latest fashion and the various types of designs available on the market.

If you plan a glamorous wedding, jewelry with bold designs and glaze will be just perfect to give you a glamorous look. If you are going for a simple wedding, you can select jewelry that has a classy look. Antique jewelry with pearls will help you with the elegant look.

If you have organized your wedding at the seaside, you need to choose simple, but outstanding jewelry. As beach wedding means having loads of fun while dancing and jumping around. You don't want the heavy jewelry to stop you. So to avoid this, you need to select lighter jewelry. If you plan for a cultural wedding, you can choose jewelry that suits your customs. Many times it happens that you want to wear colorful jewelry but the white gown stops you. It's a myth that colorful jewelry doesn't suit the white gown. Instead you can match your jewelry with the wedding theme.

There is variety of jewelry on the market, but if you are a perfectionist you can even ask the jeweler to design the jewelry as per your needs. Most of the bridal jewelry is made with the Swarovski crystal. These crystals are known for their beauty and the wide range of colors. These crystals can be used to make bracelets, necklaces and earrings. These crystals will help you compliment the dress.

Pearls are an all time favorite. Pearls are known for their classy and traditional look. A strand of pearls combined with pearl earrings will surely add to your charm. You can combine the pearls with diamonds to add that extra shine.

Diamonds are a woman's best friend. Most of the engagement rings are made with diamonds. The markets are flooded with a wide range of bridal jewelry. With a little knowledge and care you can sport the best look ever.

Source: http://www.classicarticles.com/Article/Essential-Jewelry-Tips-And-Suggestions/64003
Shopping For Clothing

Party Purses - Something Very Interesting For You

The purse parties be different, on the other hand, on or after these additional party in that the goods at purse party.

The reward party is a kind of social gathering plan promotion system in which a party is apprehended in a hostess' residence for the reason of trade of handbags. It is model after comparable function where such goods like the tupperware, the pampered chef, and the partylite candles are sold.

Without a doubt, it is not extraordinary for mixture parties to be held; anywhere a broad assortment of such goods is made obtainable. The purse parties be different, on the other hand, on or after these additional party in that the goods at purse party almost always consists of knock-offs of the well-liked name-brand purse such as Coach, the Louis Vinton, and the Kate Spade.

For the reason that much, if not all, of the goods at purse parties is counterfeit, and for the reason that most of it is smuggled into the state from overseas, purse party have turn out to be of interest to law enforcement.

Each place has an area of expertise of its possess and the crop that are completely are characteristic to that exacting place. The purses are finished in the America and have an individuality of their own. The fabric used for creation western purses completely matches the taste of American women.

The Western purses are usually complete of skin that is moreover obtained in the vicinity or import from abroad. These purses are then bedecked with resources such as crystals and glass beads that are favorites of American women. The Purses completed out of cowhide have a wide solitary strap studded with the crystals. The shape of the western purses range from four-sided figure to semi moon shapes.

A number of the western purse have stamped grains on the skin and are creased with nylon on the in pockets. The Colors are used for dye the leather and a variety of additional treatment such as acid wash are prearranged to these purses for an only one of its kind effect.

In attendance are also purses made out of denim fabric. These purses may have removable handles and be able to hold up to five pockets inside. The Denim purses are in fashion at current and they are obtainable at a great deal reasonably priced rates as compare to the unadulterated leather purses.

A number of the purses are prepared by means of a mixture of resources such as leather and denim. The Sale of purses depends upon the necessities and option of buyers, as buyers. They would want purses that may be just functional or the more fashion conscious buyer would decide on for recognized individuality.

A lot of stores around the world put up for sale western purses. Only seasoned buyers can decide the authenticity of the product. The Sellers of western purse have place up their goods on sale online. It is likely that not all of the products see in the photograph in point of fact look the similar. Cautious assortment of products is essential and it is sensible to select a dependable and knowledgeable seller.

Source: http://www.classicarticles.com/Article/Party-Purses---Something-Very-Interesting-For-You/67077
About Unique Jewelry

The Secret to Choosing an Engagement Ring That Will Exceed Her Dreams and Save You Money

Buying an engagement ring can feel scary and intimidating. This is the ring she will wear for the rest of her life and it will be from you. Sometimes you might feel afraid that she won't like what you pick or that you can't afford the perfect ring. You can get around all of these dilemmas with one trick: give it a story.

If you observe newly engaged women or any woman talking about her engagement ring, you will notice they are all doing the same thing: they are telling the story of the ring. Very few women would say "Isn't it nice? It's a G color VS2 clarity 1.2 carat diamond and it cost $5000." It is more common to hear things like, "Isn't it beautiful? It was his grandmother's." Or "He said it reminded him of me the moment he saw it. It is so special." This is how women talk because this is what is important to them. You can save money and stress by going with your heart and being creative: give the ring a story she will tell with pride for decades.

How to Give a Ring a Story:

Have a ring made that has a little bit of both of you.

You can have a ring made that contains a stone for you, a stone for her and a stone for your future together. For example, you can have your birthstone and her birthstone on either side of a diamond. Or if you each have a favorite gemstone that you relate to strongly, you can use those two together. For example, if she loves the sea and you love the forest, you can have a ring made with a pearl from the ocean and amber from an ancient tree.

Give her a piece of your family history.

If you have any jewelry pieces that are special to your family, you can consider either giving her the entire ring, or taking some of the stones to use in a ring you have custom made. You can also use her family history. If either of you look up to a particular couple as your models, say, a romance that lasted for 65 years, you can make a replica of that couple's engagement ring.

Find a ring with a history of its own that you would like to continue

It might be possible to find a very nice ring at an estate sale, antique shop or auction that has an interesting history that is relative to what you would like to have in your marriage. For example, if there is a ring that was owned by early settlers of the Western US, you might give your beloved that ring as a symbol of starting your life together on your own terms and against all odds.

Replicate a Ring from one of her fairy tales

If there is a story she loves, or a celebrity she admires, consider researching and replicating the engagement ring they have. For example, Prince Frederick of Denmark gave his fiance Mary a ring with an emerald cut diamond and 2 emerald cut rubies on either side. Napoleon Bonaparte gave his wife Josephin a peridot to show his love.

Challenge the Status Quo

Instead of giving a diamond ring, use another gemstone that has a meaning and power that is relevant to your lady or your union. Diamonds as the common stone for engagement rings are relatively new- only in the last century. In previous eras, there was more variety. Research the meanings and powers of different gemstones and give yourself permission to think outside of the jewelry box. For example, you could give her a sapphire, which brings abundance and heightens the wearer's perceptions of beauty, as a way to introduce her to the glorious life you will live together.

Source: http://www.classicarticles.com/Article/The-Secret-to-Choosing-an-Engagement-Ring-That-Will-Exceed-Her-Dreams-and-Save-You-Money/63884
About Unique Jewelry

Jewelry Can Be A Multifunctional Item

Jewelry is an expression of the human need to adorn the body and look beautiful. Through the ages, jewelry has been used for a number of reasons and to fulfill a number of functions. A few of them are listed below:
Display of wealth: It is a common known fact that people who flaunt jewelry are associated with status and power in society.

Jewelry display and storage is symbolic of monetary stability. The best examples of such a show are celebrities and the "creme de la creme" of societies around the world.

Functional use: Jewelry such as clasps, pins, and buckles are associated with specific functions, the most common being the holding together of fabric. Such jewelry pieces are unisex and enable a flashy show of intricate designs.

Symbolism: Special jewelry is sometimes created to display membership or status. Artificial gold stars and the gold platted ones play a very important role to the ranks within the aviation industry and the military.
Protection: In earlier times and in the mystical world of wizards, special jewelry was designed in the form of amulets and wands. The idea behind the special designs is to protect the wearer from the elements or other humans or mystical beings.

Artistic display: Jewelry is also designed as display pieces.

Most cultures all over the world have at some point or the other maintained a tradition of accumulating and hoarding large amounts of wealth in the form of jewelry. In numerous cultures, dowries or special wedding give always include jewelry, in the form of multiple chains, coins, or simply pure metal nuggets. In the earlier times, pre historic and later, jewelry was also used as currency for trade. A good example of this are the slave beads that were a common sight during the slave trade in Europe.

Many of the items of jewelry like the dedicated brooches and special buckles were initially designed purely with a specific function in mind. Somehow in time, they evolved into decorative pieces and simply to add glamour and quality. There is religion specific jewelry also available. The crucifix in Christianity and the Star of David in the case of the Jews are good examples of such jewelry pieces. In the west, it is a common practice for couples getting married to exchange specially designed 'wedding bands'.

In some cultures, the wearing of medals and amulets are supposed to symbolize the attempt to provide protection. Such jewelry is usually made with stones, plants, animal body parts or glyphs. In the case of jewelry functions, even though there are examples that highlight the fact that they are used for artistic display, the functions of symbolism, wealth and power are clearly more dominant. In the latter part of the 19th century, the work of masters like Peter Carl Faberge and Rene Lalique became famous and added to the functionality of jewelry.

Jewelry functionality differs from one part of the world to another and individually from person to person. The different types of jewelry available on the market today and the wholesale range have added to the popularity and use of the various designs.

Source: http://www.classicarticles.com/Article/Jewelry-Can-Be-A-Multifunctional-Item/65577
About Unique Jewelry

Diamonds That Sparkle - In Her Eyes, With You

The most ancient precious item out of creation, beyond even gold, was a diamond. A princess resplendent in her riches of gemstones and gold, would have a centerpiece that held a diamond to behold. All would gaze in awe, as this diamond of a person glided by, diamonds in her eyes, and splendor all around. And then there those human diamonds, in the east in China was Confucous, who taught of good behavior and obedience to the state, and he did not believe in an after life.

Then came Guatama Buddha (560-480 B.C.E.). Buddha was born as a prince, in a palace of diamonds. But at age 29 Prince Guatama left that behind to find in a simpler way to live, and to find peace somehow within. At that time the ancient religion of Hindhu beliefs held many fables and stories, in that the world was balanced on the back of a giant turtle, or gods with many arms. This also had a caste system that is hard for India to shake, and it had become a central part of the religion. At the top were the usually lightest skinned rulers and those of the court, who were closest to God.

Many religions still follow this 5,000 year old Brahmin superiority over other faiths. Buddha was actually in the second highest caste system, those of the warriors, who had to be that high, like modern civil servants but more as protection on their way to Nirvana first. Down it went until the darkest skin people were the real life and spiritual untouchables, and were perhaps going to have to undergo many transformations. And until that, their children were doomed as they to be the latrine duty for life.

Buddha rejected all this. His quiet, diamond eyes found eight steps to bliss, painful discovery at a time. By the time of his gentle death at age eighty, a very old age for that time, he began with a simple meal with his family of friends, and they all began a final meditation as one in this life. At the end of the meditation, which my caste allows twenty minutes as perfection, gentle Buddha had followed his meditation into Nirvana so blissfully. A diamond of a life.

It was his three disciples, surely, that were wise and from the east, there to look into the eyes of baby Jesus. The next son of God would surely have eyes that glittered like diamonds, then they knew. And this search is how Buddhists, up in Tibet, as the ruling holy man is frail and dying, begin to prepare for their search. In the time after the death of their dear leader, they follow the trails of Tibet, and look into the eyes of each new born child. At times, it has taken them years, and when that baby is found, all holy men must agree.

When they look into those eyes, the diamonds are there, then all praise their leader, and nurture him for life. And I think of the diamonds in the eyes of the mostly kindly at church, or in a shopping line, or in life. Researchers at the University of California have showed that there are eight general virtues of those who report most bliss and happiness in their lives, live the longest, report best health for age, gender, and income group. These sound an awful lot of church going people who do charity work that I have known.

Such diamonds, I thought and still do, were those diamonds sparkling all around America that GHW Bush, the senior, to talk about, little halos of light. And I knew it was his compassionate conservatism saying we may have some budget cuts to the needy, as we get people less dependent on government. So come on, you diamonds and sparkles of light, pitch in. If you want government off your backs, then more volunteering will be needed. And he was mocked in cartoons as a sparkling airhead, which he is not. That empty hat belong to his son, we mostly agree.

But diamonds for her, from you, make her sparkle, eyes, through and through. So as you do your good deeds, heed these words of diamonds with soft, not hard, souls. These eight virtues to Nirvana are here, science proves Buddha. Count your blessings. Do acts of kindness daily. Savor the joys of life. Learn to forgive. I find this most effective by going first. I approached an old enemy from decades ago. He twitched as if here we go again. I said that whatever happened I could not go to my grave feeling badly. I asked for his forgiveness. You might try it and see what happens. I had a blabbing man shaking my hand, saying no it was really his fault.

Now when we pass, windows go down, friendly hand wave, both sets of eyes sparkle like diamonds. Stay close to your friends and family. Take care of your body. Science says we begin to lose life when we are no longer able when we are unable to get off the toilet without help. Our muscle mass and we, begin our gradual route to heaven with diamonds in our eyes and souls, or to hell with our Tibet Han policeman eyes of coal.

Swing that baton, wield that gun, people who only knew to love are so easy to shove. Those diamond eyes of monks wince, it is true, when hit by a billy club. Would not you? After his roaming and meditations, Buddha came to conclude, it was most wise to ask little, give much, be holy. All his followers understood. And then, when his meditation was over, the others made a shrine, which I have seen, of where he had last been. If all we do is that in life, it will be a place they plant flowers forever. With a diamond below.

Derek Dashwood enjoys the combining of science into the humanities to measure politics and use and wise use of power and how it is shown at It's Her Diamond,Let Her Pick

Source: http://www.classicarticles.com/Article/Diamonds-That-Sparkle---In-Her-Eyes--With-You/65223
Jewelry gifts

The Quality Of Children's Jewelry

Many families were able to view the excitement of Christmas gift giving on Christmas morning through their child's eyes. The quality of children's jewelry item came through from the moment boxes were opened because the fashion jewelry items shined because they were made from precious metals such as platinum and 14-karat gold. An older child might have received a bracelet fashioned from 18-karat gold, and other children in the house would have wanted to stop and have a look.

Parents do not have to worry anymore about the expense of children's jewelry items because even lesser precious metals of silver will produce quality jewelry items that can be worn on many occasions. The intricate details of the jewelry will come through no matter which precious metal is used and the quality of these jewelry items will make parents secure in buying it for them each year. Some children expect jewelry as gifts but never know which kind they are getting because the styles in children's fashion jewelry and accessories is very plentiful.

Families will know in an instant if they are viewing quality made fine jewelry for children just by touching the item in a store. Gold has a smooth finish that is unmistakable to a seasoned shopper and gold produces quality jewelry no matter what type of stones are placed in the settings. Children can own diamond jewelry at bargain prices because diamond chips are not priced as high as marquis cuts and princess cuts. A child might have to wait for years before receiving a diamond solitaire but when they do, most are assured of owning quality jewelry at some time in the future.

Younger children might be trusted with fashion jewelry from a mass merchandiser a time or two before they ever receive jewelry items made of 14-karat gold. Some might receive fashion earrings on their birthday but the quality of children's jewelry sold will be poor and not expected to last long. A child will learn about the quality of jewelry to buy when they begin shopping for fine jewelry for personal wear at parties, proms and on evenings out with the family for dinner and celebrating. While the quality of this jewelry is poor, it will still deliver the same delightful feelings.

The quality of jewelry may be very evident when children view stones of opal, garnet and birthstones in a display case in a local department store. The moment will be a magical one because the lights in the case make the gems sparkle and some of the stones might seem to glow all on their own. The evident quality in some stones might make it seem like the stars in the heavens are held inside bursting to get out. A child will love gazing at this type of jewelry because the quality of the jewelry always comes through.

Some quality in jewelry is found in the type of clasp placed on a bracelet or necklace. Lesser quality jewelry items feature circular closures that are secured with a spring and nothing else. Better quality fine jewelry pieces will be held in place by lobster claw or box springs closure which offer better security when worn on the wrist. A child will have to learn how to use these quality features and since they treasure the jewelry so much, a parent will not have any arguments during this learning faze.

Source: http://www.classicarticles.com/Article/The-Quality-Of-Children-s-Jewelry/66042
Clothing guide

Comparison Points In Silver Jewelry

Since fine jewelry choices are so abundant, many families prefer to consider comparison points when buying silver jewelry. When buying fine jewelry made from gold there are comparison points to consider too. When shoppers reach the level of points to consider in platinum jewelry pieces, they consider price as one of the first points and explore all of features later. Silver jewelry has always been considered first for young children because it is the most affordably priced fine jewelry on the market today.

A quick comparison of choices in silver jewelry can be accomplished at any online jewelry retailer. Many ecommerce solutions provide cost comparison programs that customers can use to compare prices, metals, findings, clasps and which jewelry items feature stones considered precious and semi-precious. Those customers shopping for fine jewelry will be able to make certain that they are buying the best quality of jewelry at the best price through these shopping site comparison tools.

The comparison of price for items is simplified when silver jewelry is separated by category. Silver can be used to create many jewelry articles such as bracelets, rings for the hand and toes, necklaces, charms and pendants in many styles. The price could escalate to extreme levels if the silver jewelry is the creation of a famous fashion designer. The prices are self-evident to customers as they shop, but careful comparison should still be made to ensure the jewelry purchased contains superb features.

Some bargain prices can be found on jewelry that is sold in bulk and at auction houses on the internet. While the condition of the items might be used, some fine jewelry pieces will be sold as new. Careful shopping for the best prices might require a shopper to lower standards and choose something that was worn once and never again. In this instance, quality and price would be the factors to consider when comparison-shopping for fine jewelry on internet auction sites.

When comparing silver jewelry by category, a shopper might track pricing on bracelets based on the intricate design work featured on the solid silver portion of the bracelet, but the shopper might also deduct points if the bracelet is not solid silver. Lesser amounts of silver weaken a jewelry item and designers will use this technique in an effort to save on producing each piece. The caps used at the end of rigid bracelets could be 14-karat gold or better grades. These comparison points matter when buying silver jewelry at low prices.

To keep the comparison points fair, a seasoned jewelry shopper might place a certain value on the number of grams of silver a piece of silver jewelry weighs. Jewelry weights based on metal weight alone might seem to cheapen a bracelet until the shopper learns that the gemstone weight of the diamond justify such a high price tag. Some shoppers confuse white gold or platinum as silver and are astounded to see the high prices applied to the fine jewelry piece. The weight or grade of silver can be identified on a small tab that is placed on the clasp of necklaces and bracelets.

Source: http://www.classicarticles.com/Article/Comparison-Points-In-Silver-Jewelry/65664
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Diamond Minds, Diamond Eyes - The Sight of Europe From Sahara to Santa

Diamonds are entering the jewelry stores in New York in new ways. Often now, those most famous named stores have a piece of the new action. In this past decade with the extensive additional diamond finds in Australia, and most of all up near where Santa works, diamond mines galore. So now every other major store, it seems is a part owner of one of these new diamond syndicates. The old cartel scrambles to join in, and of course they have done.

But as with a new oil well, there is a scramble to production, and new investors were welcomed, and all good news for you and me, even and especially she. for you see, diamonds were getting more scarce, or more bloody from wars in Africa. God has been merciful, or mother earth as you please. What does please us all, is larger supplies mean more chance of a bargain before unforeseen. Would not be possible, unless you were one of those who knew someone who had a friend who dealt diamonds. Well, no more. Nowadays you have honest brokers on site, who give you the score. More and more. And we say encore.

But back to these diamond minds we have listened to, that with voices of Berlin and Paris and Stockholm, all talked to the Serb he would soon be in the Europe Club. Ivan the bear, sat with a glare, but the Serb smiled and said all you want are those two war criminals for fair trial? When they nodded, Ivan went pale, so as to compound his fright, they said they could see all the great sea, all of old Rome, all soon back in the club. And if these men, as it seemed, had all spoken in private and were all agreed, it was news to Russia at that table, to the Serb, and to me.

The three European gentlemen all seemed very wise to me, and I thought of the three wise men to Jesus, as these seemed to Serbia and me. They reminded his small corner, with Kosovo as well, was on the road to Istanbul. All will be accepted, all will agree. It is much richer to be inside Rome, then all out at sea. With no paddle, for he and for she. So while black ant Jew, back on a red ant Islamic hill, does not see the desert for the sand.

Alexander frightened his men when he left them to build new grander Athens at the sea, for produce down the Nile, to feed his Macedonian people in their winter storms, which never make it Egypt. He had placed corn, which the birds ate, so he placed stones to mark out his great new city. But they only knew that Alexander risked his life and wandered, not like Moses to the north east of the Nile, and wander for 40 years. Alexander found at an oasis in the Sahara, far to the west, a holy man alone, and content. The fruits dropped from the trees, he had all he did need.

Alexander said he and this holy discussed the one God, which few in 230 BCE did agree. He had no sword, but his faith had him from far east, and as Alexander knew, such men from great Buddha had also been to Greece. He blessed Alexander and Alexander blessed him. For in his wisdom, like others in the region, he came he was more chosen than all others. Like mad Romans much later, except for this diamond of divinity placed in him from Socrates to Aristotle. One diamond God of divinity would welcome kind people, but not those lumps of coal as those 30 who had him so opposed. Soon after they killed Socrates with his hemlock wine, all 30 were turned on, and from Athens all banned.

So, who was that holy man in the desert? If we could divert half the Nile far upstream, slave master Egypt could grant poor Jew that far desert, hot spot on earth, the Quattara Depression, where Jews, as we know, if they had only had a map along with those ten commandments, could create a true chosen land, where now no body stands. Oh, Moses, you read the map all wrong. Sinai sand in your eyes, you missed the turn off to Eden. Out to the west, at a blissful burning desert oasis, perhaps it was, or could be yet if you give your head a shake, and start to negotiate for a more appropriate, uninhabited black ant hill with no red ants nearby.

If you have a map handy, which I admit Moses did not, you can see it all as above, while Alexander crawled over sand dunes in 230 BCE. Your kin was far west, did not push into an area well populated then, as two thousand years later, with red ants. Welcome, you black ant Jew. Or as many of my family did, when Romans also tore down our wall. We do not wail of the past, but have gone to the new world, and made a new life. With no strife. Wall, are you listening? Sigh.

Derek Dashwood enjoys the combining of science into the humanities to measure politics and use and wise use of power and how it is shown at It's Her Diamond,Let Her Pick

Source: http://www.classicarticles.com/Article/Diamond-Minds--Diamond-Eyes---The--Sight-of-Europe-From-Sahara-to-Santa/65787
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The Myth and Lore of August's Birthstone, Peridot

If you are haunted by vague terrors in the night, those meandering demons, night hags and phantoms that wander bedside, between the arsenic hours of two and four when sleep is as illusive as hems from the moon's yellow skirt, peridot might be just the gem for you.

The sixteenth century writer, Marbod, suggests you string it on a piece of hair from an ass (a donkey's, not your lover's) and attach it securely to your left arm. (Kuntz p. 171) Also, if you happen to be a dabbler in necromancy, it's wise to choose peridot as your talisman.

The etymology of the word, peridot, the birthstone of August, can be traced only back to the French word, peritot. We do not know the original source beyond that.

It's first recorded as mined from St. John's Island, located off the coast of Egypt. Peridot on St. John's Island was so radiant that it could be found at night. Any trespasser caught stealing from these early mines was killed. Peridot was prized by the Pharaohs of Egypt and first referenced in papyri text that goes back to 1500BC. (Kuntz. p.170) Even today, St. John's Island is one of the main sources for Peridot.

Outside of this early lore, not a lot is mentioned about Peridot in European writings over the eons. A tenth century bishop, Andreaus of Caesarea, named the gem one of the foundation stones of the church, and associated it with the apostle Bartholomew, "since he was illustrious for his divine preaching and his store of virtues." (Kunth p. 170)

Some excellent pieces were brought back to the treasuries of the church and presented as emeralds during the crusades - a mis-labeling that exists even today.

To glean some understanding of what this gem might symbolize, we can first consider its actual shape. Peridot has a hexagonal shape which is formed by placing two triangles back to back. The shape represents balance and community. Six is also said to represent mankind's manifestation on earth. Solomon's seal had six points and was said to symbolize a means of arriving at resolution and balance after indecision.
Surely the main meaning of peridot, however, must be understood in references over thousands of years to the sun and to demons. Demons operate in the darkness, in myth and metaphorically as well. Consider the images from dreams which rise up from the underworld, of what today we call the unconscious.

These images are often difficult to understand even when brought to the light of day. It is a mysterious world of metaphor and shifting shapes.

To have a piece of peridot is to be anchored to a different perspective. Peridot is not a gem that guides you down into those dark realms. It has a strong association with the sun and would offer protection from those spirits. In the daylight, physically and metaphorically, you can see the outline and form of what is around you more clearly.

In the light, everything is clear. This in itself can be healing, especially for those who are haunted by their internal demons of the night. No wonder, also, that some early writers also spoke of how the gem brought clear sight.

The lovely green color of the gem is in itself associated with healing. Green is the color of verdant vitality, of the leafy growth of spring. Peridot's direction leads toward the heavens, the path of the sun, which gives the light, allowing everything on earth to thrive. Even today, peridot is viewed by some people as a stone that connects on to the "light" which brings a renewed sense of the self and one's purpose in life.

References: Most of the historical content, myth and lore referenced in this article came from two books, both of which are in print and available on line:

George Frederick Kunz, The Curious Lore of Precious Stones, New York; Dover Publications, Inc. 1913, 1971 edition.

Bruce Knuth, Gems In Myth, Legends And Lore; Parachute, Colorado, Jewelers Press, 2007.

Source: http://www.classicarticles.com/Article/The-Myth-and-Lore-of-August-s-Birthstone--Peridot/65756
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Blue Diamond Jewelry

What is Blue Diamond Jewelry?

Blue Diamond Jewelry is a stunning form of "fancy colored diamonds" that is recently gaining in popularity among diamond and jewelry enthusiasts.

Blue diamonds are natural, authentic white diamonds that have been heat and/or pressure treated to obtain their beautiful blue hue. So although blue diamond jewelry is treated, it is nevertheless a genuine diamond.

There are also naturally occuring blue diamonds, however, they are exceptionally rare. Blue diamond jewelry made by purely by nature, can cost as much as several hundred thousand dollars or more.

Treated blue diamonds, however, will cost significantly less and is a fashionable and unique alternative to a regular white diamond -- and they can cost less than white diamonds as well, at approximately half the price, for a quality colored diamond piece.

The reason blue diamond jewelry can cost less is because you do not need to start with a perfectly white diamond since you are going to be treating it anyway to change the color to blue. A fancy colored diamond producer, will start with a yellowish or low color grade diamond and treat it blue, therefore costing less than a high-end white diamond. Where the price differences come into play, however, are in the clarity and inclusion level of that diamond.

A popular form of colored diamonds, blue diamond rings , for example, will often be an I1 or I2 clarity diamond due to the fact that treating the diamond blue will mask most of the inclusions -- so a higher end diamond is often not needed, thereby reducing the cost of a colored fancy diamond in this way also. Some, however, will opt for an SI1-SI2 clarity blue diamond, which is more expensive, but often worth the upgrade, especially if purchasing the diamond for an engagement or wedding ring. Even so, the price will often still be less than a white diamond.

Source: http://www.classicarticles.com/Article/Blue-Diamond-Jewelry/64199
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The History Of Diamond Engagement Rings

Buying that special ring to pop the question to your partner can take much of your time, because you want things to be just perfect for them. The most popular choices in engagement rings are of course diamonds, most obviously a girl's best friend. Many women will not deny that obtaining a nice diamond ring will evoke feelings of oneness and satisfaction. This may seem superficial, but who can argue that a diamond ring for an engagement proposal is not the way to woman's heart?

The First Recorded Rings

Historically marriage and engagement rings have been a symbol of unity for many years and came in the form of a simple iron hoop. Some years later this was followed by gold band rings. The symbol of the ring and its eternal circular shape was the main significance of the engagement ring, corresponding to the unification of a couple for a lifelong period.

It is believed that the ancient Greeks had begun this trend for rings in marriage, as earlier studies have shown that marriages were arranged and drawn up from a contract, known as the dowry. However, whether the ring was used as a symbol of unity or bribe is yet to be proven. The Greeks had used the ring before marriage and was known as a betrothal ring. Nowadays this can be interpreted as a promise ring.

The Celtic culture may have used the hair as a symbol of marital unity, in which the hair was braided together after marriage. However, other historical recordings have discovered that this may have been in the form of hair bracelets braided together. The middle ages saw the creation of the 'gimmel', which were comprised of two or three hoops attached at the base of the ring. When placed together it gave the appearance of just one ring.

The ring did not become a symbol of marriage until the 12th century, by Pope Innocent III order( the same Pope had decreed that weddings be held in churches), who instigated and initiated that wedding rings be incorporated in wedding ceremonies. This followed a widespread trend of using rings in marriages.

The First Diamond Rings

Diamonds were not discovered until around 800BC in India, whereby this precious gem was believed to have possessed magical powers. Societies were more impressed by its strength and hardness; hence its name was derived from the Greek 'adamas' meaning unconquerable. This made it the best choice in engagement rings; however, they were not as widely available back then as they are now.

The first recorded engagement ring to be given to a woman was to Mary of Burgundy by the Archduke of Maximilian of Hamburg in 1477. Prior to this, it was relatively unheard of to give diamond rings as a symbol of engagement. The renaissance era had seen single set diamond rings in its natural form set on gold ring bands. It was not until the eighteenth century of when diamonds had made its way to Brazil, which made it more available.

The diamond ring became a fashion accessory with many of the wealthy elite wearing them in balls and dinners. The Victorian ages saw more widespread of diamond rings, upon the discovering diamond mines in Africa. Rings in the Victorian ages were much more romantic in style, decorated with flowers, birthstones, love letters and multiple diamonds set in rosettes.

The engagement ring very quickly became a subject of fashion, wealth and love. Those who were able to afford the diamond ring were usually regarded as well established upper class individuals. Many of the middle class generation kept to the tradition of using birthstones set on gold rings, diamonds were still a luxury and a privilege for many.

Throughout the years, as the diamond has become available worldwide, they have become larger and creative in style. Many of the contemporary Hollywood celebrities have been famously seen to be sporting 'bling' fest diamond encrusted rings. Most famous of them all is Elizabeth Taylor who is often seen with numerous diamond engagement rings, one of which weighing at nearly 30 carats.

On average, seventy-eight percent of engagement ring purchases are diamond, further proving this a strong and lucrative business even for today.

Source: http://www.classicarticles.com/Article/The-History-Of-Diamond-Engagement-Rings/64004
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