Friday, November 20, 2009
Vintage Sherman Costume Jewelry
Sherman jewelry was and is known for its sparkle. The company used only the best quality Swarovski crystals. The most popular cut stones used in Sherman pieces are the long marquise and the navettes. Most Sherman pieces include one or both of these cut shapes. The stones were always prong-set, rather than glued. This speaks further of the quality of workmanship and design.
The underside plating was heavy and polished to a fine finish. The plating was either rhodium, gold-plated or japanned metal. The Sherman signature on the underside of each piece is unmistakable. The older pieces had a sweeping and slightly slanted S before the other letters.
The most sought after pieces by collectors are the big bold brooches, bracelets and necklaces in bright colors. Collectors love the aurora borealis pieces, but brooches with deep Siam reds are highly sought after. These pieces can fetch hundreds of dollars. In October, 2008, a three-piece set in Siam red sold for nearly $800 in an ebay auction. The bigger and bolder the piece, the more valuable. Sherman pieces with colored stones are collected more than those with clear stones.
If buying and collecting any vintage rhinestone costume jewelry, invest in rare pieces and learn as much as you can about the design company. Other things to consider are color and quality of design. These are the things that determine value.
Make a showy statement this winter and wear a big, bright and bold Sherman brooch on your dark winter coat. Sherman brooches sparkle like diamonds in the snow.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Replica watches Breitling
The famous brand was initiated by Louis Breitling in 1884 in Switzerland. He wanted to satisfy the need of supplying timepieces to the aviation industry. In this regard he had done a great job. In 1923, the brand outshined with the first wristwatch chronograph. It kept on inventing and developing new things specifically for the need of pilots. By 1936, his efforts were highly praised and these watches became the official supplier of Royal Air Forces, US air Force and American Armed Forces. In 1942 Chronomat, in 1952 Navitimer wrist watch and in 1962 Cosmunaute with a 24 hr chronograph were released
In 1979, the company lost its founder and it was also shaken by the presence of Quartz in the industry. It was later on bought by Ernest Schneider who changed the look of Breitling to some extent. He kept on making watches for the pilots but also creating timepieces for other professions. Some of his innovative designs are known as Chronomat, Aerospace, Emergency and B-1. Today the new collection consists of Breitling Navitimer, Breitling Windrider, Breitling Professional, Breitling Aeromarine, Breitling Bentley, Breitling Hercules etc.
Replica watches Breitling are prestigious and luxurious watches which give you a boost and make you happy without spending a fortune. These replica watches Breitling are set at such reasonable prices that you wound not want to miss the chance of embellishing your wrist with such valuable brand at such a reasonable tag.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Sell Your Beaded Jewelry Online
Be sure to take great pictures of the jewelry you have for sale. No one wants to buy a pig in a poke, so reassure your would be buyers with top quality photographs. When taking digital photos of your jewelry be sure that the background looks professional - a hastily cleared kitchen table is not a suitable venue for fine jewelry. Invest a couple of dollars in a black velvet backdrop and perhaps a jewelry modeling mannequin - you will be glad you did.
Also be sure that the descriptions given are accurate and that all applicable measurements appear somewhere in the ad. Even the best digital photographs can be a bit misleading in terms of scale, so be sure your buyers know what to expect by providing accurate measurements. Be sure that your buyers know how long that necklace is, what size those rings are and how far those earrings will dangle. Providing accurate descriptions will increase customer satisfaction while reducing the time, money and hassle spent dealing with returned products.
After your business is up and running you may want to institute some kind of loyalty reward program. Repeat customers are key to the success of any business, so why not reward your best buyers with free products, discounts and other rewards? You may also want to start some kind of referral program, Starting such a program is a great way to make the most of your current customer base while expanding your visibility and the value of your products. Simply asking your existing customers to refer their family members and friends is a great way to get new customers while giving your loyal buyers a reward. When those new customers sign up and make a purchase the customers who referred them can receive a special coupon, free shipping promotion or even some free products. Offline businesses have been using loyalty rewards for years - now your business can too.
List Of Hobbies Graffiti Styles
Aventurine Jewelry
Monday, November 16, 2009
Tanzanite
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Introduction to Gemology: Getting to Know the Other Blue Gemstones
Curiosities: Unusual Gemstones
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Reaching Success In Jewelry Making
Years go by and you keep working. Adding the hooks does not take hours anymore, so you start adding little embellishments, maybe a spiral loop. During these years, you learn the hard way all the ways you can make mistakes in this business. A few times along the way you decide you won’t make it anymore and maybe ramble with other arts, but pliers and wire always call you back and you find yourself awake at 5 AM because you suddenly woke up with that necklace design in your head. But it’s not easy. It makes you mad to think “why others can?” while you can’t seem to make it. Your artist ego is frustrated. You are tired of going nowhere. Things like marketing, advertising and promoting sound like from another world. A scary world. You’re an artist, you’re not a salesperson. But maybe you can’t quit your day job because you wouldn’t bay your bills selling jewelry.
But then, one day, you start working patiently and silently. Do not argue anymore about your doomed fate and overcome yourself by working seriously, making a business plan that works and give good results soon. You find ways to promote yourself that are easy and enjoyable and learn the right way to work a business. A real one that grows and grows in many directions.
What happened to you?
Well, you just lost your ego. Your amazing power to make each of your dreams come true can now arise and materialize. Obviously you don’t need this article at all but if you feel still included in the second paragraph, maybe you should keep on reading this
7 Tips to Be a Better Jeweler: The Ego Issue
According to both Buddhism and Psychology, your ego is a small angry child that never grew up. Instead of thinking rationally, we humans tend to act forced by that little child that, of course, cannot manage with an adult’s issues and just cries and moans and get completely paralyzed in fear of the unknown. Surprising, ah? If you ask yourself too much things like “Why do I never have luck?” or “Why does this always happen to me?”, maybe you’re letting that little child control your life.
The key to personal (and world) happiness is putting that child to rest letting it flow through creative activities, love and self – acceptation, but making choices with a higher conscience. Good choices bring happiness to us and good energy to the Universe, that will flow back to us through opportunities helping us achieve our full potential. As artists, we are even more inclined than many other people to reach a higher state of consciousness, so it should be easier for us to understand this facts.
1: You can always make it better.
Ego says: “I’m very very good” but really, how good you are? This is a very competitive world and you must be objective about the quality of your work. How can your jewels be improved? Can they be safer? Have you double-checked everything before you package it? Are you selling something that may eventually break or fall off?
Remember that the kind of customer that you will die for is one that looks for quality and durability. A very good question to ask yourself is “Would I pay that money for this jewel?”
2: You can always treat your customers better.
Ego says “Making that custom gift box is really hard work, and for free!” Please, be more respectful with your customers! Some of the money they pay for a (never forget that) completely unnnecessary item you sell is very hard-earned! From all the jewelers around they’ve chosen YOU! There is always time to add and extra gift for a good customer. As artisans we need customers that come back again and again, and that always think of you first when they need a special jewel for their social events or gifts. We need a customer that speaks wonderfully of our work and bring new customers with them so, what do people find when they meet you, whether if the meeting is at your studio or at your booth? Treat them all the same, whether if they make big of small buyings. Know them as much as you can and try to put all your best efforts to make them feel at home with you.
3. Work hard to find your own style.
Ego says “Oh, my style is truly unique!” but the truth is that there is almost no such thing in jewelry business, or in any art business. Finding your own way includes a
4. Give and Teach as much as you take and learn from others.
Ego says “oh, if I share my techniques everyone will make copys of my work and sell more than me for sure” Really, have you heard how childish that sounds? Change your view about yourself and ask yourself if someone could envision you as a master in your particular style.
Sharing your techniques, whether as downloadable files for small prices (tutorials are usually very cheap) or simply for free like I’m doing now, will not only improve your business karma wonderfully, but also will make you get a lot of respect from learners and professionals alike. Building a good reputation will mean a good percentage of your sales one day, but you have to start now.
5: Forget about inspiration
Ego says: “I’m an artist, I can’t work if I’m uninspired”…well, and Pablo Picasso said inspiration exists, but it has to find you working. Who do you believe? I chose to believe Master Pablo, of course. Inspired or not, work everyday. I’m sure there are a lot of “office issues” like web updating, taking better pictures of your items, making tags or whatever that you have pending, as we all have, that you can make it on your uninspired time. My husband is an electrician company director and he goes to work everyday, whether if he’s inspired or not! Why should I have that privilege?
6. You can make your own ways to sell and promote your work
Ego says “I’m an artist, I can’t deal with sales and publicity. That’s not what an artist is supposed to be.” Something I really hear a lot. I truly believe that, as artists, we are even more able to sell ourselves than other professionals because creativity is the real key to publicity success. The true instinct to find beauty is inside every true artist. Though I think is essential to read a good quantity of marketing articles, we have an ability to create that is a natural advantage. Again, change your point of view about yourself and create new ways to promote your work.
7. Don’t take critiques personally
Ego says “Oh, that person I don’t know at all thinks my jewelry is awful…I am a complete failure!” Well, you don’t like everything, so don’t expect your jewelry to be loved by everyone. What a person says about your work may be influenced by many things that do not have to do with your work at all. Be always ready to follow positive advice inmediatly, but don’t let other people’s feelings reflect on you self image. Remember, maybe that person is also talking through her/his little angry child!
Epilogue
Learning the business takes time and effort. There is no instant success and if there is, it will pass soon leaving you wondering what you did wrong… and making you learn another good lesson – which should always be seen as a valuable thing. I am personally guilty and all crimes said above and in many, many more that have turned into a deeper knowledge of myself, my work as an artist and the world around me. I am very proud of all my mistakes, in fact!
We all are on an endless road of personal growing, with no finish line. There is always someone wiser than us and someone that may need our advice as well. I really hope this article helps you in your way to reach complete success; knowing that you’ve found your way is one of the highest feelings a person can have… and you deserve to have it too.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Crash Course In Pearl Selection
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Freshwater Pearl Jewelry
Freshwater cultured pearls are pearls that are grown in mollusks that live in freshwater ponds, lakes and rivers rather than in the ocean and are produced in mussels. Cultured pearls mean that this freshwater pearl growth process was deliberately started by man. They look so natural that the best specimens of freshwater cultured pearls could be compared with the saltwater pearls—the Akoya pearl, the Tahitian pearl and the South Sea pearl in beauty and quality.
Freshwater cultured pearls are produced in mussels that are nucleated, or implanted, with mantle tissue only, which is taken from a donor mussel since they do not contain a starter “bead."
They are characterized by beautiful luster and a durable surface that will not easily flake or peel to reveal the inner bead whereas pearls that are bead-nucleated and prematurely harvested are prone to flaking and chipping. The most notable characteristic feature of freshwater pearls is their striking arrangement of beautiful, natural pastel colors. Pastels like cream; white, yellow, orange, and pink are common with freshwater cultured pearls. Apart from this the color pink which symbolizes romance and a pink pearl jewelry is an ideal gift for your valentine. Even lavender pearls are enjoying a rush in popularity today universally. Remember that pearls should be taken care to keep their luster for long time because once damaged their shininess could not be recovered. Therefore care should be taken that they are gently wiped with a damp cloth that has been dipped in a mild soap and water solution and air dried before wearing them again. Avoid contact with your hairspray, perfumes makeup and other chemicals. Store your pearl jewelry in the separate box to save it from getting scratched by other gems.
Freshwater pearl jewelry could be found everywhere today, from the red carpet to the boardroom and beyond. The reliable reason cited behind the popularity of freshwater pearls is their availability in abundance in wide variety of pastel colors and of course the prices that are within the reach of most consumers.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Pearl Gemstone: Symbolizes love, success and happiness
Pearls is a classic piece of jewelry that is formed in shellfish and that could be found from the Red Sea,
Pearls is referred to us as "Queen of the Gems". From the ancient Greek, they believed that wearing pearl necklace would promote marital bliss. Pearls could belong to the moon and the zodiac sign "Cancer". Pearl gemstone have inspired the scientist to provide with a large number of cultured pearls. Pearl gemstone has decreased its price in the market and has acquired popularity in the society.
Pearls could be the nicest gifts one can give and help improved self worth. They often symbolizes happy marriage and in many countries are used as a wedding gift. It pacifies passion and mental inconsistency and strengthens the heart. It brings luster brightness on the human face.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Shiva eye
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Warning: Tricky Jewellers Are On The Loose
When you are on a quest to buy that perfect diamond ring, you must be extra careful. Open your eyes and dont be a victim of the controversial diamond scam. Some jewellers even appear harmless but within their innocence lies a vicious person who simply want to get money from you.
Avoiding Diamond Scams
Beware of jewellers who don't tell you honestly about the stone. Some will bedazzled the buyers by giving details about the carats but it isn't the carats alone that matters. You should also ask for the weight of each stone when separated from the center diamond. They ought to know this if they want to give their customers the most honest information.
Some jewellers will offer an affordable diamond ring and advertise it. But if you ask them about it, they will offer you something else most probably more expensive. This is a scam that is prevalent even with other types of products and services. To avoid this scam, don't give in to their persuasions. Just request for the ring that they have advertised and if they can't give you that, it only follows that it is just a tricky ad.
Some jewellers display their diamond rings under bright lights. This makes the diamonds look so sparkling. But if you try to get them off the bright lights and look at them under sunlight, the sparks are gone. Don't be fooled by this type of trick; otherwise, you may end up buying a fake diamond.
Protect Yourself From Jeweller's Tricks
It pays off to read about diamonds yourself. When you know what genuine diamonds are, you will be able to easily distinguish the real from the fakes. It will also be easy for you to judge the quality of the diamond in the ring.
Some jewellers will find ways to earn more money even at your expense. Don't let them do this to you. Beat them at their own game. Now that you know their common tricks, it will be easier for you to beat them.
Friday, July 31, 2009
How To Make Her Say Yes During Your Wedding Proposal
The traditional 'will you marry me?' wedding proposal while having dinner is overused. If you want to impress your girlfriend and ensure that she says 'yes' to your proposal, these romantic proposal tips will come in handy:
Invite your girl in your favourite pub or bar. Request for your theme song (the song that you both love and you feel represent your relationship). As she enters the pub or bar, the song will be aired and you can hand your flowers and of course the engagement ring. You can also talk to the DJ and propose on air.
In the window of her room, write your proposal in the dust. When she opens her window curtain, that is the first thing that she'll see. This is very romantic, just make sure the dust is still there and nobody has cleaned the window yet before she wakes up.
You can make your proposal public. In a concert event, you can go up the stage and propose. Just make sure you ask permission from the performers. Or you can advertise full page in your local newspaper or her favourite magazine.
Take her to the beach. Talk to someone who can spell the words 'will you marry me?' on the sand. This will surprise her.
Give her a gift with the engagement ring. The engagement ring can be simple but if you have the budget, you can opt to buy an elegant diamond ring as your engagement ring. Surely, your girlfriend can't say no. This is the style where you let the engagement ring speak for the proposal.
Wedding proposals should be made unique as possible. You should prepare everything before you actually propose. Don't forget the engagement ring. Shop around for your engagement ring weeks before your proposal. This is to ensure that you get the best engagement ring for you partner.
These wedding proposal tips mentioned here will make the moment very romantic. They will sweep your partner off her feet and she can decide right away to give you her sweetest 'yes'. Surely, romantic proposals pay off.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Planning Your Wedding Jewelry
It’s not as difficult to choose the bridal jewelry as it may seem at first. The second thing is to decide whether you want to wear your bridal jewelry after the wedding day. If so, opt for something neutral, the jewelry you can combine with your evening gowns or office clothes if work takes most of your time.
In case you really want to have a big day where you play the part of the queen and are ready to pay for that, don’t agree for less than jewelry masterpieces, better if they are made exclusively for you by jewelry designers.
Don’t forget the second style basics. Less is really more!! If you’ve decided on long dangling earrings don’t put a necklace on, otherwise it will look too heavy. Vice versa, in case you have a statement-like necklace, opt for small stud earrings. Your hair style is to take into consideration as well. First, make an appointment with your hairstylist and discuss what you want for the wedding day, and only then shop for your bridal jewelry sets.
Make the most of what you have!
Friday, July 17, 2009
Gold Jewelry
Gold is measured in units called karats. 10K, 14K and 18K signifies fine jewelry: the higher the karat, the greater the gold content. Watch out for words like real gold or real silver in advertisements. Often, businesses will use these words to dupe the buyer. Costume and fashion jewelry contain very small amounts of real gold. Beware of the word overlay even if it is precedes the 10, 14 or 18K designation. This refers to a process of bonding and it designates costume or fashion jewelry.
Silver costs less than gold but it tarnishes easily. When searching for silver jewelry, you’ll want to know the difference between fine or sterling silver and silver-plated. Sterling silver has a content of 92.5 percent silver and 7.5 percent copper and will be stamped or labeled "925" or "Steer." Jewelry that is not tagged Sterling Silver, is most likely cast in brass or zinc then
hand-dipped in silver. Sterling Silver pieces are more costly and considered fine jewelry.
Fashion Jewelry contains real gold and silver electroplated over brass or Sterling Silver. The measurement of gold, in terms of quality, is defined by the amount of mils, a unit of measurement referencing the quantity of precious metal in the number of layers that is used in the overlay; the higher the mils, the higher the quality and the price. The jewels used in fashion jewelry are semi-precious stones, lab created gemstones, crystals and rhinestones, and they all have quality and cost classifications of their own. Like fine jewelry, the same terminology applies: facet, referring to the cut; clarity, referring to the brilliance; and fire, referring to the kaleidoscope of colors. Austrian Swarovski crystals, higher in quality than plain crystals, are considered superior to rhinestones because they are more intricately faceted and have higher light diffraction or fire.
in both retail and wholesale markets. Gold plated and electroplated are not the same.
Jewelry adornments such as belly button studs, brow and nose rings have become trendy and are in high demand, particularly with the younger crowd. When piercing the body, the higher quality jewelry is often the better choice. Many people have allergic reactions to metals so it is important to know the metal content of any jewelry you purchase.
for discount and wholesale dealers in your area.
Bridal Jewelry: Common Mistakes
The Engagement Ring
Shopping for the perfect engagement ring can be very exciting, yet thought provoking. For most couples, an engagement ring is intended to serve as a permanent fixture in their relationship. With this said, it is important for the couple not to select a diamond engagement ring that is too trendy. Selecting bridal jewelry that is too up-to-the-minute may cause the bride to grow out of her ring in a couple of years. The best engagement ring is one that is timeless.
Bridal Accessories
The average bride will choose a bridal jewelry set to wear with her wedding gown. However, it is important that the bride refrain from choosing bridal jewelry before she has selected her wedding dress. Hence, bridal accessories are supposed to enhance the dress--not the other way around. This important factor follows the age-old question--What comes first, the chicken or the egg?
Something Borrowed
Inheriting a family treasure from mother, grandmother, or even great-grandmother is a kind gesture--especially when it can be worn on the bride's wedding day. Although wearing a family heirloom for bridal jewelry is sentimental, it may not be a practical choice. As mentioned earlier, the purpose of accessories is to enhance the overall appearance of the wedding dress. If grandmother's antique pearls conflicts with the style of the wedding gown, it may be best not to wear the heirloom. In this case, it may be a good idea to agree to wear the borrowed jewelry to the engagement party, rehearsal dinner, or on the honeymoon.
Something Old
This could easily apply to something that you received from your mother, grandmother, etc.. but it can also be something that brings back pleasant early memories. How long did you know your future husband? Maybe your bridal jewelry is a reflection of the first present he gave you (visit to a fabulous beach). How about beach themed jewelry for you and your bridesmaids.
Something New
Even if you choose to make an heirloom as the center of your bridal jewelry, complement it with some of the elegance of modern Swarovski crystal accessories or the latest designs in pearls.
Bridal jewelry is a significant element in preparing for marriage. As a symbol of everlasting love and an enhancement for the bride's wedding attire, it's important to avoid common mistakes that many brides have made in the past. When it comes to selecting the perfect bridal jewelry, the bride should choose wisely!
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Buying Wholesale Jewelry Online
Wholesale jewelry establishes a unique relationship between artist and consumer. It makes it possible for everyone to afford good quality jewelry since it is reasonably priced. Once a design is created and approved, the mold is reused to produce several copies. Wholesale jewelry has a large audience since it can be sold in a variety of ways including online.
This mass-produced jewelry is also quite beneficial for the artist, since their designs reach a larger audience. The artist must first come up with a creative design. Wholesale jewelry is capable of producing some beautiful pieces, using many varieties of materials. Often, people forget that the initial design of a mass produced item does have to have a talented, cleaver artist at the beginning creating the piece. In fact, the very first edition done by the artist of the piece is highly valued and priced. Subsequent orders for the same design will use the same mould and therefore be sold at a lower price.
The craftsmanship of a piece may vary, from good to bad, which is influenced by the market price point. Wholesale 925 silver jewelry, for example, is produced by a mechanized process but it is possible to provide good hand finishing in the final production phase and improve the quality of the jewelry. Since this adds to the price tag, it is therefore avoided in most cases. Wholesale jewelry made with gemstones like aquamarine, tourmaline, ruby and sapphire get to be quite expensive and have a limited market.
In this day and age it is also quite common to try and duplicate pieces that have been made famous by celebrities. Celebrity culture produces people who collect replicas of things such as Jennifer Lopez’s canary yellow diamond ring from her engagement to Ben Affleck. Such a ring would be impossible to afford for the majority of the population. Yet wholesale jewellery makes it possible to live out that fantasy. While the ring is reproduced in less expensive, economical materials, the sentimentality of the piece remains.
The internet and other sources give access to a lot of wholesale jewelry companies that can purchase jewelry at very competitive prices. Though, one should be aware that there is a difference between online jewelry stores and online wholesale companies. Online jewelry stores sell jewelry mostly at retail prices, even though the price may be slightly discounted, so caution should be taken.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Om or Aum
Om or Aum is of paramount importance in Hinduism. This symbol (as seen in the image on the right) is a sacred syllable representing Brahman, the impersonal Absolute of Hinduism — omnipotent, omnipresent, and the source of all manifest existence. Brahman, in itself, is incomprehensible; so a symbol becomes mandatory to help us realize the Unknowable. Om, therefore, represents both the unmanifest (nirguna) and manifest (saguna) aspects of God. That is why it is called pranava, to mean that it pervades life and runs through our prana or breath.
Om in Daily Life
Although Om symbolizes the most profound concepts of Hindu belief, it is in use daily. The Hindus begin their day or any work or a journey by uttering Om. The sacred symbol is often found at the head of letters, at the beginning of examination papers and so on. Many Hindus, as an expression of spiritual perfection, wear the sign of Om as a pendant. This symbol is enshrined in every Hindu temple premise or in some form or another on family shrines.It is interesting to note that a newly born child is ushered into the world with this holy sign. After birth, the child is ritually cleansed and the sacred syllable Om is written on its tongue with honey. Thus right at the time of birth the syllable Om is initiated into the life of a Hindu and ever remains with him as the symbol of piety. Om is also a popular symbol used in contemporary body art and tattoos.
The Eternal Syllable
According to the Mandukya Upanishad, "Om is the one eternal syllable of which all that exists is but the development. The past, the present, and the future are all included in this one sound, and all that exists beyond the three forms of time is also implied in it".
The Music of Om
Om is not a word but rather an intonation, which, like music, transcends the barriers of age, race, culture and even species. It is made up of three Sanskrit letters, aa, au and ma which, when combined together, make the sound Aum or Om. It is believed to be the basic sound of the world and to contain all other sounds. It is a mantra or prayer in itself. If repeated with the correct intonation, it can resonate throughout the body so that the sound penetrates to the centre of one's being, the atman or soul.There is harmony, peace and bliss in this simple but deeply philosophical sound. By vibrating the sacred syllable Om, the supreme combination of letters, if one thinks of the Ultimate Personality of Godhead and quits his body, he will certainly reach the highest state of "stateless" eternity, states the Bhagavad Gita.
The Vision of Om
Om provides a dualistic viewpoint. On one hand, it projects the mind beyond the immediate to what is abstract and inexpressible. On the other hand, it makes the absolute more tangible and comprehensive. It encompasses all potentialities and possibilities; it is everything that was, is, or can yet be. It is omnipotent and likewise remains undefined.
The Power of Om
During meditation, when we chant Om, we create within ourselves a vibration that attunes sympathy with the cosmic vibration and we start thinking universally. The momentary silence between each chant becomes palpable. Mind moves between the opposites of sound and silence until, at last, it ceases the sound. In the silence, the single thought—Om—is quenched; there is no thought. This is the state of trance, where the mind and the intellect are transcended as the individual self merges with the Infinite Self in the pious moment of realization. It is a moment when the petty worldly affairs are lost in the desire for the universal. Such is the immeasurable power of Om.Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Crash Course In Pearl Selection
What could be more beautiful, more traditional, more right than watching your bride walk down the aisle adorned in pearls? But buying fine jewelry for the woman of your dreams may seem to be a daunting task. Let me make it easy for you. There is nothing more beautiful to complement a wedding dress than a stunning strand of pearls.
Since pearls come in a variety of shapes, colors and overtones they are the versatile, perfect choice to support any wedding theme. Among the various types of pearls there is nothing more classic than a Bride in a white flowing gown, her neck draped with dazzling Akoya pearls known for their brilliant luster, elegance and infinite versatility. With uniformly round shapes, exceptional luster, shimmering orient, and an array of natural colors such as peach, lavender and white Cultured Freshwater Pearls are sure to charm and surprise your beautiful bride who's looking for a more modern and contemporary wedding. And if you're looking for something truly one of a kind then Tahitian Pearls in a tantalizing array of bold colors such as peacock, pistachio green and silver are perfect for an exotic wedding. Even White or Golden South Sea is sure to enhance the beauty of your bride.
Pearls are available in different grades and the buyer must bear some knowledge while selecting perfect pearl for your bride. Choose the right grade for your brides pearl jewelry. There are various grades that categorize pearls into different qualities.
1. A/A+: "A" quality is the lowest quality that is commercially available with wrinkles, small cracks, white or brownish spots, dimples and other nasty blemishes on their surface. They will be off-shape and only moderately matched.
2. AA: This quality pearls are near round in shape will have fair to good luster and the matching is done well.
3. AA+: Pearls of this quality are found perfectly round and well matched. The luster will be slightly sharper than the AA pearl and can be determined if can see your reflection in the pearl and some background detail.
4. AAA: Pearls of this quality are said to be 'gem-quality' pearl as it has less than 5% inclusions over its surface, and also can be completely free of inclusions with luster that sharper than AA+ quality. They have a glowing surface that is slightly translucent. There is little to no variation in shapes and matching of a strand.
5. HANADAMA: The term Hanadama is synonymous with rose color and vendors call them the flower pearls because of their rose colors, which lend proof to the fact that Hanadama is simply an identifying characteristic of color assuming the pearls have good luster and nacre. These are the absolute best Akoya pearls that you can buy.
It an be concluded that with a little crash course in pearl selection, you are ready to select the best pearl jewelry that she will treasure for a lifetime!
Reaching Success In Jewelry Making
One day, you buy your first plier and some rolls of wire and make your first loop. Disastrous, of course. You add one bead and painstakingly get to add the hook and you feel like the Queen of Jewelry Land. You actually get it to make a pair. Double feeling of being the queen.
Years go by and you keep working. Adding the hooks does not take hours anymore, so you start adding little embellishments, maybe a spiral loop. During these years, you learn the hard way all the ways you can make mistakes in this business. A few times along the way you decide you won't make it anymore and maybe ramble with other arts, but pliers and wire always call you back and you find yourself awake at 5 AM because you suddenly woke up with that necklace design in your head. But it's not easy. It makes you mad to think "why others can?" while you can't seem to make it. Your artist ego is frustrated. You are tired of going nowhere. Things like marketing, advertising and promoting sound like from another world. A scary world. You're an artist, you're not a salesperson. But maybe you can't quit your day job because you wouldn't bay your bills selling jewelry.
But then, one day, you start working patiently and silently. Do not argue anymore about your doomed fate and overcome yourself by working seriously, making a business plan that works and give good results soon. You find ways to promote yourself that are easy and enjoyable and learn the right way to work a business. A real one that grows and grows in many directions.
What happened to you?
Well, you just lost your ego. Your amazing power to make each of your dreams come true can now arise and materialize. Obviously you don't need this article at all but if you feel still included in the second paragraph, maybe you should keep on reading this
7 Tips to Be a Better Jeweler: The Ego Issue
According to both Buddhism and Psychology, your ego is a small angry child that never grew up. Instead of thinking rationally, we humans tend to act forced by that little child that, of course, cannot manage with an adult's issues and just cries and moans and get completely paralyzed in fear of the unknown. Surprising, ah? If you ask yourself too much things like "Why do I never have luck?" or "Why does this always happen to me?", maybe you're letting that little child control your life.
The key to personal (and world) happiness is putting that child to rest letting it flow through creative activities, love and self – acceptation, but making choices with a higher conscience. Good choices bring happiness to us and good energy to the Universe, that will flow back to us through opportunities helping us achieve our full potential. As artists, we are even more inclined than many other people to reach a higher state of consciousness, so it should be easier for us to understand this facts.
1: You can always make it better.
Ego says: "I'm very very good" but really, how good you are? This is a very competitive world and you must be objective about the quality of your work. How can your jewels be improved? Can they be safer? Have you double-checked everything before you package it? Are you selling something that may eventually break or fall off?
Remember that the kind of customer that you will die for is one that looks for quality and durability. A very good question to ask yourself is "Would I pay that money for this jewel?"
2: You can always treat your customers better.
Ego says "Making that custom gift box is really hard work, and for free!" Please, be more respectful with your customers! Some of the money they pay for a (never forget that) completely unnnecessary item you sell is very hard-earned! From all the jewelers around they've chosen YOU! There is always time to add and extra gift for a good customer. As artisans we need customers that come back again and again, and that always think of you first when they need a special jewel for their social events or gifts. We need a customer that speaks wonderfully of our work and bring new customers with them so, what do people find when they meet you, whether if the meeting is at your studio or at your booth? Treat them all the same, whether if they make big of small buyings. Know them as much as you can and try to put all your best efforts to make them feel at home with you.
3. Work hard to find your own style.
Ego says "Oh, my style is truly unique!" but the truth is that there is almost no such thing in jewelry business, or in any art business. Finding your own way includes a LOT of constant learning and humility. Strive to make the jewel you really dream of and do not feel pressured by what you can sell or whom you can sell to. If your pieces breath uniqueness they will sell out.
4. Give and Teach as much as you take and learn from others.
Ego says "oh, if I share my techniques everyone will make copys of my work and sell more than me for sure" Really, have you heard how childish that sounds? Change your view about yourself and ask yourself if someone could envision you as a master in your particular style.
Sharing your techniques, whether as downloadable files for small prices (tutorials are usually very cheap) or simply for free like I'm doing now, will not only improve your business karma wonderfully, but also will make you get a lot of respect from learners and professionals alike. Building a good reputation will mean a good percentage of your sales one day, but you have to start now.
5: Forget about inspiration
Ego says: "I'm an artist, I can't work if I'm uninspired"…well, and Pablo Picasso said inspiration exists, but it has to find you working. Who do you believe? I chose to believe Master Pablo, of course. Inspired or not, work everyday. I'm sure there are a lot of "office issues" like web updating, taking better pictures of your items, making tags or whatever that you have pending, as we all have, that you can make it on your uninspired time. My husband is an electrician company director and he goes to work everyday, whether if he's inspired or not! Why should I have that privilege?
6. You can make your own ways to sell and promote your work
Ego says "I'm an artist, I can't deal with sales and publicity. That's not what an artist is supposed to be." Something I really hear a lot. I truly believe that, as artists, we are even more able to sell ourselves than other professionals because creativity is the real key to publicity success. The true instinct to find beauty is inside every true artist. Though I think is essential to read a good quantity of marketing articles, we have an ability to create that is a natural advantage. Again, change your point of view about yourself and create new ways to promote your work.
7. Don't take critiques personally
Ego says "Oh, that person I don't know at all thinks my jewelry is awful…I am a complete failure!" Well, you don't like everything, so don't expect your jewelry to be loved by everyone. What a person says about your work may be influenced by many things that do not have to do with your work at all. Be always ready to follow positive advice inmediatly, but don't let other people's feelings reflect on you self image. Remember, maybe that person is also talking through her/his little angry child!
Epilogue
Learning the business takes time and effort. There is no instant success and if there is, it will pass soon leaving you wondering what you did wrong… and making you learn another good lesson – which should always be seen as a valuable thing. I am personally guilty and all crimes said above and in many, many more that have turned into a deeper knowledge of myself, my work as an artist and the world around me. I am very proud of all my mistakes, in fact!
We all are on an endless road of personal growing, with no finish line. There is always someone wiser than us and someone that may need our advice as well. I really hope this article helps you in your way to reach complete success; knowing that you've found your way is one of the highest feelings a person can have… and you deserve to have it too.
Starting a Jewelry Business? 10 Things to Start Making NOW
When I started making jewelry it was just fun. Friend's inquiries about pendants or earrings really made the dream start to take shape, as it may be happening to many of you. You have started wondering if you could make jewelry for a living. Well, the answer is as simple as YES. Every jewelry artist has started somewhere, and the lucky ones that today show their pieces on jewelry magazine covers started with little or no money and no clues about where the jewelry experience was going to take them.
Making jewelry is therapeutic and profitable, you can make it at home, be your own boss, work at the hours when you feel best and, above all, is a wonderful profession in which you add beauty to people's lifes through your jewels. Making jewelry is fun!
But why is it that so many jewelry makers, some very talented, fall along the way and never reach their full potential? Mainly, for reasons that do not have to do at all with Jewelry Making, and the most common four are lack of commitment, procrastination, lack of confidence and of course, lack of knowledge about business and marketing techniques.
It is said that it takes 21 days to leave or start a habit. Changing from procrastinator to effective jewelry maker takes less, I think, but many of the things that will start showing its benefits in the (near) future must start being done today!!! Making a big decision like leaving your "proper" job really need a strong commitment to avoid ending up to your nose with debts and wondering " What did I do wrong?" If you really want to success in this business, here are 10 tips that will help you start avoiding the more common beginner mistakes:
1. This is your trip, not anybody's: be very careful with the advice you follow and try to stay always within your own limits and desires. Focus on learning the business and stop listening to what people would do if they were you. Read jewelry websites, marketing and sales articles and never stop learning new things.
2. If you don't have a studio, set up one. Yes, as small business owners we must sacrifice home spaces to our business. Cluttering the dining room or using a small corner will affect directly into your productivity and creativity. You need space, organization, light, and a door you can close whenever you decide your work has finished for today.
3. Organize your time effectively: work as many hours a day as in a "proper" job…well, the truth is that you will find that you will need more than proper job hours to get everything done! As in point 2, we must also sacrifice time.
4. Set up a blog/website. There are many free webs and blogs to choose from. Avoid repetitive descriptions and talk a little about yourself in every post. Take your time to write a good biography and take a good picture of yourself. Read other websites for examples and study the texts – which ones are more appealing to you, and why? Promote yourself in any way you find.
5. Dare to dream – do not underestimate yourself and try every crazy idea that comes to you mind... all of the biggest jewelry artists of the world were somewhere you are now. They made it because they were bold and trusted their own abilities. That business card design or new packaging boiling in your head deserves, at least, a try. What would you lose?
6. Don't be scared of asking for favours to relative and friends when you're starting, and always reward them in any way you can. A favour any female member in your family will love to do to you is wearing your gorgeous jewelry on parties and special events, and of course without having to buy it! They will return it to you after showing your jewelry to many people; of course you should provide them with business cards!
7. Learn to make good pics of your work, or you will never sell online. You can make a simple lightbox and digital camera and tripod are necessary. Learn to use the macro and light sensitivity settings of your camera and experiments with backgrounds and displays. Do as above: research and work!
8. Being a jeweler is not only about making jewelry! You can have other incomes coming from the same source. Teach classes or workshops, sell tutorials online, kits, become a gem seller…and if you have html knowledge you could even offer to make websites to jewelers!
9. Don't wait until everything is perfect to start, because it will never be perfect. If you're just a beginner, don't overprice your products. Be honest and humble with your own work, but don't miss opportunities to show your work in every way you find.
10. Be very patient. There are no fast success stories in jewelry making. You will have to prove you are really commited to your work If you don't start now, it will never come!
Where You Can Find Jewelry Making Patterns
Jewelry making is by far one of the most popular and well known hobbies in the world today, and if you are interested in jewelry making then you should know that there are many different things that you are going to have to take into consideration here.
When you want to begin something like jewelry making, one of the first things that you are going to have to get is jewelry making patterns.
With jewelry making patterns you are going to be able to find different types of jewelry that you can make, and because you have actual jewelry making patterns, you will be able to follow the patterns step by step, making the entire process much easier on you.
More About Jewelry Making Patterns
If you are interested in getting jewelry making patterns then you should know that there are many different places that you can go to in order to get them. One of the first places that you should check out is your local arts and crafts store, where you should be able to find a great selection of jewelry patterns.
However there are many other places that you can go to as well, and for instance, you can go on the Internet, and his is a really great idea because the speed and efficiency of the Internet allows you to be able to quickly and easily find exactly what it is that you are looking for.
Your options are really endless here, and so regardless of what type of jewelry making patterns you are interested in, you are surely going to be able to find something that works perfectly.
Browse through as many different jewelry supply stores as you can, so that you can have the most options, and thus end up being the most satisfied in the end. Just make sure that you set out a budget for yourself beforehand so that you can calculate out how many patterns you can purchase and thus you will not end up going overboard and spending more than you should.
Taking your time is incredibly important here, and so you want to make sure that you do this so that you pick out patterns that you are going to be able to complete without trouble and that you are going to have fun while you are making the jewelry as well.
Jewelry Making Findings Can Make Or Break A Jewelry Project
Jewelry making findings are the essential pieces which make the bead and wire a piece of jewelry. Jewelry making findings are simply the components of any piece of jewelry; the findings consist of clasps, head pins, ear clutches, jump rings and any other manufactured or hand made component. Separate headings of 'Findings" are listed in all jewelry making supply catalogs or websites. A craft or hobby store will have the header listed in their jewelry supply area. Jewelry making findings is a major revenue business all by itself.
Ear Wire
Ear wires are the jewelry making findings that are used to connect a beautiful earring body to the wearer's ear. Ear wires are essential when making earrings; they are generally silver, gold and copper. There is also silver and gold plated, as well as, gold filled. The 22 gauge is the size which is most used in ear wires.
The ear wires are inexpensive to manufacture and are sold in bulk. Ear wires can also be made by hand, and this could be a way to distinguish your work from a manufactured earring. There are many books and websites which contain instructions for different patterns of ear wires.
Zip Lock Bags
Small zip lock bags are also considered jewelry making findings. Plastic zip lock bags or small fabric pouches are items which must be considered when selling your jewelry or keeping it safe. Oils and everyday pollution will harm your jewelry making findings and, therefore, must be kept in containers before and after they are made into jewelry.
Sizes of these bags depend upon your necklace, bracelet and earring projects. But jewelry making findings must always include small bags of some capacity.
Clasps
Toggle clasps, jump rings, lobster clasps, S clasps and magnetic clasps are all examples of jewelry making findings. These are all necessary components to make any necklace or bracelet work. Your beads or crystals, wire or chains and clasps is all that it takes to make a spectacular necklace or bracelet. But your findings are absolutely essential in the making of these necklaces and bracelets.
There are many more examples, but the ones that are listed above are the essential pieces. When researching for jewelry making findings, look for quality first. In jewelry making findings you really do get more 'bang for your buck'.
Spend a little more for your findings and your customers will turn into repeat customers and you won't turn into a jewelry repair business. When all is said and done, jewelry making findings can literally make or break your jewelry making projects.
Unique Gift Ideas for Mother's Day
Celebrated every year, Mother's Day is an occasion when you express your affection and respect for your mother. It's time to pamper her for all she has done for us over the years. On Mother's Day you can tell your Mom that she will always be important to you all and that you will continue to love her for ever. Many other countries celebrate their Mother's Day at different times throughout the year.
About Mother's Day - Many different countries civilizations recognized and honored the work done by mothers in a variety of different ways in the past. Reaching as far back as times of the ancient Greeks, honoring mothers was already a concept of great importance as the god of Rhea and Cybele represented the Mother of gods. In United States of America, Anna Jarvis of Grafton West Virginia pushed for the national recognition of all mothers after her mother had passed away on May 10th, 1908. Finally successful in 1914, Woodrow Wilson declared Mother's Day as a national holiday and reserved the second Sunday in the month of May to honor them.
Mother's Day is the time to give back to our mom, the love and care which she showered on us, all her life. This is the time to tell your mother that she is the most devoted, kind-hearted, understanding and most lovable person in your life. No gifts can match your love towards her; still they do signify meaning and importance to the occasion in your own small way. Gift hampers, flowers, chocolates, cakes, jewelry, apparels and other such gifts make the day more memorable. These unique gifts help us to make her feel extra special. Below are some gift ideas and suggestions:
Gifts Basket: A perfect gift basket for your mother will be the one that contains things that she likes. Gift Basket covers chocolates, cake, cookies, teddy bears and other goodies that are truly unique and fantastic.
Jewelry: This traditional gift never goes out of style and it is always a wonderful idea. The vast majority of women like jewelry and your mother is one of them; you will not go wrong by buying jewelry for her on Mother's Day. Try a bracelet or necklace with charms with the baby's birthstone for a gift she'll treasure for years.
Fresh Flowers: There is no better than fresh flowers. Flowers are the perfect gifts for centuries, and Mom still enjoys receiving flowers today also! A beautiful bouquet of flowers or an exotic flowers vase will make many a woman thrilled on Mother's Day and so as your mother.
Personalized Gifts: To give your mom something different and special on Mother's Day, personalized gifts is perhaps the most thoughtful way to go. One can always personalize almost everything that can be imagined. Creativity does not need to be expensive. Personalized jewelry, as the name implies, is a very personalized gift. When Mom receives this gift, she will know that you put some thought into it - you did not just got to the store and buy the first thing that you saw there.
Mothers Day will be here soon on second Sunday of May! So, on this Mother's Day please don't forget the special lady in your life – your mother. Use our recommendations to buy the perfect Mother's Day gift that your Mother will love.
Mother's Day Gift a Perfect Gift to your Mom
The Ancient Greek and Roman cultures can be said to be the discoverers of the tradition of honoring our mothers. The first Mother's Day ceremonial was a church service in 1908 requested by Anna Jarvis, of Philadelphia, to honor her deceased mother, Jarvis, at an early age, had heard her mother express hope that a day to honor all mothers would be established. So, in 1914, Congress passed legislation designating the second Sunday in May as Mother's Day.
There is also some evidence of a festival prevailing in the British Isles and Celtic Europe where a festival called the "Spring Mother's Day" was celebrated in honor of Goddess Brigid. However, these festivals are totally different from the present Mother's Day in that they celebrated the concept of motherhood rather than giving honor and respect to the immediate mothers.
Mother's Day is attributed to this day as a celebration of womanhood, when we celebrate not only the involvement that a mother makes within her family by nurturing her children but also the contribution she makes to the society at large. Because of our mother only today we are perfectly grown-up. Mother takes us under her protection right from the day we are born. She feeds us, gives us medicines, looks after our growth and teaches us to walk and play.
We always thank our friends, co-workers or every body who helps us. What about our mother? When shall we thank her for bringing us up, for the sleepless nights she had because of us, for cleaning us during our childhood, for giving us birth? A mother deserves much more than a single Mother's Day. She should be sent a "Thank You Gifts" everyday. No thank can ever repay mother's debt, but at least we will make her happy by sending her gift on Mother's Day. Below are some gift ideas and suggestions.
Flowers: An esteemed symbol of love, loyalty, gratitude & so many other different emotions and flowers also has a special connotation for Mother's Day. Gifting flowers is one of the most admired ways of saying 'I love you and I care' to your loved ones. Your mother has nurtured you like her most precious flower in the world. It is time for you to express your feelings to your mother by gifting some beautiful flowers that speak your language.
Jewelry: If you are looking for a special gift for your mother on Mother's Day, then jewelry is the best option. If you can afford it, then a fine piece of jewelry for your mother on Mother's Day will speak more than a thousand words. It will make her feel really pampered. You could also gift her with a personalized piece of jewelry.
Chocolates: Women and chocolate just go together. In fact, it would not be strengthening to say that the chocolate industry largely survives because of women. It also understood by many to release feel-good chemicals in the brain. No wonder it is perhaps well-liked present for every occasion, especially in Mother's Day.
Whatever may be the gift you give to your mother, the best gift you will be giving her this Mother's Day is the feeling that you thought of her and made an effort to make her feel really special in its own way.