Saturday, May 16, 2009

Jewelry is a Fashion Necessity

Designer fashion jewelry is no longer just a trend. It just definitely become one of the hottest and most desired elements of fashion for women. There is a problem with popularity though. When designer jewelry becomes really popular, and it is somewhat costly, that is when the jewelry and designs start to become developed by these knock off companies.

It is important to pay attention to detail and quality and reputable companies if you want to purchase the designer fashion jewelry. The knock off companies are often using less valuable materials and may not have the same level of workmanship.

Stores and retailers that sell designer fashion jewelry will have a well established reputation and therefore the consumer will know that they can be trusted. For instance, if looking for a piece of Monet, then you will want to shop with a place like Dillard's or Kohl's, or perhaps another local department store.

It is less likely that these well known department stores will be selling knock off materials. These stores run on good service and quality merchandise. It is also recommended that when purchasing designer jewelry that the item is inspected for the correct designer label. If there is no label, then it is probably not from the designer you are wishing to purchase.

It is a good idea to shop at the local jeweler or bead crafter's shop. These small shops are less likely to use imitation products because they are a small business and are trying to develop into something larger or they have a steady clientele and need to keep that client base. It is recommended that perhaps you shy away from discount retailers and stores. This is because they often do not have any accountability for their products. It would be quite a shame to purchase a piece of jewelry that you thought was glass beads and it turned out to be coasted plastic.

Then there is of course online shopping. For those who like to shop in the convenience of their own home, it is important to make sure that the website is reputable. There are some questionable salespeople that do sneak through though, so still be careful. Designer fashion jewelry is a great way to enjoy accessorizing and personalizing your wardrobe, but make sure that you are spending money on items that are what they claim to be, the original.

By Elvin Retinz

Saturday, May 09, 2009

Gemstones - Special Variety of Semi Precious Stones

Gemstones are very special kind of semi-precious stones. These gems, when cut and polished are used for making jewelry and other ornaments. They are also used for adorning fashionable clothing items. These stones are widely worn with rings, used in pendants and used as birthstones. Their applications are numerous. But, their primary objective is one , i.e., decoration or adornment. According to the gemologists, the properties of gemstones differ according to their chemical composition. Let's know more about the various varieties of this fabulous semi-precious stone.

If some astrologers are to be believed, the gemstones are not only adornment items, but they considerably influence the human intellect and fate. Apart from this, various scientific studies have also revealed the fact that these gems exert influence on human psychology and bodily processes. However, there are hundreds of varieties of gemstones available at present, but the most popular types are as mentioned under:

1) Agate Stone: Agate is a fibrous variety of the silica, chiefly chalcedony. It is distinguished by its fine-grains and bright color. Its popular types include blue, green, Indian, Kentucky and moss. This stone is believed to cure insomnia, augment strength, protect against potential dangers and provide a healthy life.

2) Amethyst Stone: It is a violet variety of quartz, commonly used in jewelry. Its main characteristics include its purple color and multiple shades like Rose France, Siberian, etc. Amethyst stone is mostly used for adorning expensive jewelry. The features of this gem may vary from region to region. In other words, the amethyst stone found in one place is not necessarily alike in all respect to that found in some other place.

3) Gold Stone: These semi-precious stones are found in colors like blue, pink, green, white and so. But, the most common color of this gem is reddish-brown. There is absolutely no cleft on the surface of gold stones. The primary characteristics of this gem are its ductility and malleability. They are mainly found in South Africa, Canada, U.S., Australia and in some African lands.

4) Moonstone: It is a very popular type of gemstone. In scientific language it is called potassium aluminum silicate. Its name is derived from its quality of reflecting the light internally which creates a visual effect that resembles the surface of the moon. This gem comes in a wide array of colors.

5) Quartz Stone: Quartz is found in almost all types of geological environment. Some of its common varieties include onyx, carnelian, flint, jasper and bloodstone. The unique chemical structure of quartz provides it with extra stability and striation.

6) Turquoise Stone: Turquoise is known to eliminate the negativity. Basically, it is a bluish-green mineral of aluminum and copper. It is one of the oldest known gems. According to the ancient Persian and Indian manuscripts, turquoise can put a favorable effect on the health of a person and his destiny. It is mainly found in Iran, the United States, Africa, Australia, Siberia, China, Tibet and Europe.

By Vivek Kumar Gupta
http://www.semi-precious-stone.com/

Tuesday, May 05, 2009

Gemstones and Their Meanings

You might want to buy yourself a gemstone or gift it to someone you love. These stones are a pricey investment and it would be a great idea to combine your purchase with some knowledge about the meanings of these stones.

You can then justify your purchase and a valuable gift to that special someone. In reality, gemstones are pieces of attractive mineral that are cut, polished and set into metal to make items of jewelry. You might find some stones that are actually rocks and not minerals like lapis lazuli for example.

The color of a gemstone is usually its most attractive features. You will find these stones in all conceivable hues and shades. While you choose one that is to your liking, you should also understand that these colors symbolize certain qualities for their intended wearers. Here are some of the common gemstones and their meanings.

Amethyst and aquamarine usually symbolize deep love and happiness. The beryl symbolizes everlasting youth and hope. These are ideal gifts for young people. You could also gift a young adult a garnet as it symbolizes strength and faith.

The stone is supposed to endow cheerfulness and sincerity on it wearer. For those who seem to be going through a rough patch, a carnelian is a good choice as it encourages peace and joy. The stone disperses sorrow from the wearer's life.

Coral is usually chosen as an amulet to ward off disease and accidents. It also represents attachment and is usually gifted to older persons. Emerald symbolizes hope and rejuvenation. This would make a good gift for someone who is recuperating.

A cat's eye means long life and warns its wearer of impending danger. Bloodstone is supposed to endow the wearer with courage and wisdom. It symbolizes brilliance and generosity. A carbuncle also symbolizes vitality and strength. A simple crystal represents purity, while a diamond means brilliance and constancy.

By Paul Kramer
http://www.SarahGifts.com