Monday, August 9, 2010

HOW TO CHOOSE A PERFECT GOLD ORNAMENT

History of gold:
            The metal gold was first discovered by a child as a small shiny rock in a creek which later became the love of many a woman. It was found in small yellow nuggets and it became the first metal known to man. As centuries passed, it became a part and parcel of almost every tradition of the world. It has attracted all the people of the world with its wonderful luster and beauty, especially when it is sculpted into a pretty ornament it adds to its beauty. In the civilization years, people even considered gold as godly and later on used them as currency. Many have also been so obsessed with gold that they have added collecting different pieces gold jewelry to their list of hobbies.

            Gold is now in demand in private investments, industries, fabrication of jewelry, and in banks. The common people also play a major part in the annual gold consumption. Moreover, they don’t even seem to be least bothered about the soaring prices of gold. This does not only count the women buying ornamental gold but the others investing in bullion. But many do not really know how to choose the quality of gold rather than just concentrating on the latest trends that are in.

            We need to first ponder over the fact that if the huge amounts of money we put into buying a gold ornament is really worth a buy. For this we need to know the nuances of choosing gold jewelry.

  • Select a jeweler who is trustworthy. Make sure if the jewelry has gained enough reputation among customers by leading in the field.
  • Gain knowledge about the karat quality marks. This helps you in buying the top quality gold in terms of purity.
  • Gold is a soft metal and is always mixed with other metals to ensure a better durability. Owing to all such factors, 24 karat gold is the purest form in which gold is the major constituent. In 22 carat gold, there are 22 parts of gold and the rest two parts constitute other metals. Similarly with 18, 12 and 10 karats of gold.
  • Always check for the trademark. The trademark is actually an authentic proof of the purity of the ornament.
  • If you are thinking of buying white gold, it is better for you to choose the one which is alloyed with palladium and not platinum or nickel. This may result in some kinds of allergic reactions on your skin.
  • To check if the gold is real, make use of an unglazed ceramic material to rub the gold against. If it is fake gold, there occurs a black streak and if the streak is golden yellow, it is a proof of real gold.
  • Avoid buying gold plated jewelry to cut costs, as it may wear off very soon and make it unusable.
  • Check if the amount you paid is inclusive of the gold price, craftsmanship involved and the design and demand a receipt for the same.
  • When opting for gold ornament studded with other stones or gems make sure they are pure as well. It is the duty of the jeweler to produce a certificate of purity for the gems separately.

Friday, August 6, 2010

Chameleon - the Rarest colored Diamond


Diamond has a unique place in making its presence valuable among other gem stones with its best features of purity and clarity with elegance to depict its appearance. The precious gem has natural dazzling colors available in yellows, blues, greens, reds, oranges, pinks, browns and in fascinating black colors which carries its own value and fame over a long period of time.

The Chameleon diamonds

            The chameleon diamonds’ are the most rarest of all the precious gem diamond available with exciting features of changing color with the exposure to a different kinds of light and temperature. The color change happens when moved from dark place to light focused one either be a natural or artificial light with a change of color from bright straw yellow to dark grayish-yellowish-green color. This chameleon diamond remains unchanged in grayish-yellowish-green color until it is in day light with out any prolonged darkness depending upon the environment. This unique diamond is faceted from natural diamond rough said mined from Australia.

Introduction of Chameleon Diamonds

            The first occurrence of chameleon diamonds were document reported at 1943 by ‘GIA diamond dictionary’. This rarest diamond is unique in features with special characteristics of color fluctuation which is impossible to be created in the laboratory. The famous Australia’s Argyle diamond mine having fame for fancy colored diamonds produces a Hydrogen rich diamond occasionally that exhibits ‘Chameleonlike’ color behavior in blue-violet-gray color or in gray-olive.

Identification procedures

            Chameleon diamonds are well proven by examination with steps of heating and observing with utmost care which may also cause changes with the permanent color of grayish-green if not found pure. Laboratory test is a well recommended deal to be checked under spectroscopic observation showing readings coupled with ultraviolet (UV) radiation reaction which effectively distinguishes the normal green gem stone from chameleon diamonds.

Diamond clarity grading
           
Diamonds are ranked with grades for quality in clarity and purity for its significance over the other existing valuable diamonds and gem stones. Grading measures are as follows for your reference…

Included (grades I1, I2 and I3): Diamonds are graded from I1 to I3 that describe about medium to large natural level of inclusions which are clear to unaided eye under normal light focus and are easy detectable.

Slightly Included (grades SI1, SI2 and SI3): Diamonds are graded from SI1 to SI3 describing the natural inclusion level to be less which is very difficult to be seen with normal eyes but detected with the magnification on around ten times into the diamonds.

Very slightly Included (grades VS1 and VS2): Diamonds graded with VS1 and VS2 are having very less natural inclusions which is impossible to view with unaided eyes and too difficult to view using ten times magnification.

Very, Very Slightly Included (grades VVS1 and VVS2): The diamond grades with VVS1 and VVS2 has very, very slight content of natural inclusion which is impossible to view under unaided eyes and very difficult for a skilled observer to view using ten times magnification.

Internally flawless (grade IF): Diamonds are described with grade IF which has no natural inclusions.

MOST FAMOUS DIAMONDS IN THE WORLD

The Koh-i-Noor:
            The Koh-i-noor, meaning, the mountain of light, was one of the longest diamonds has a place of its own in history. Weighing about 108.93 carats, it is now a part of the British Crown Jewels. It is said to have been studded on the Peacock Throne belonging to Emperor Shah Jehan. It was then looted by Nadir Shah of Persia after a battle defeat and found its way back to India after the breakdown of the Persian Empire. It was then acquired by the British rulers in India.

The Great Star of Africa or the Cullinan:
            The star Africa diamond is a pear shaped one weighing about 530.20 carats and is the largest cut diamond in the world. It has 74 facets and is set in the Royal Sceptor and is kept along with other Crown Jewels in Britain. Before being cut from the Cullinan, the largest uncut diamond discovered in Transvaal, South Africa in 1095, it weighed 3,106 carats. It took Joseph Asscher and Company of Amsterdam, six months to examine and divide the Cullinan and was finally cut into 9 major and 96 minor brilliantly cut stones.

The Idol’s Eye:
            This pear-shaped diamond is the size of a bantam’s egg weighing 70.20 carats. It was formerly set in the eye of an idol and was later stolen. History has it that the Sultan of Turkey had abducted princess Rasheetah of Kashmir and had demanded the Idol’s eye as a ransom for her release to the Sheik. Its authentic appearance was said to have been registered at a Christie’s sale in London in 1865 and was bought by a mysterious person who was later identified as the 34th Ottoman Sultan Abd al-Hamid II. It was then sold to a private buyer after a Dutch dealer, Harry Winston and the daughter of the co-founder of the Denver post possessed it.          

The Regent:
            The large stone with a light blue tinge originally weighed approximately 410 carats and was said to have been discovered by a slave in India. It was first owned by William Pitt, the British Prime Minister. He got the stone cut into its present cushion shape which took two years. It is now considered one of the most brilliantly cut diamonds of all. After being owned by many popular heads it is now placed at the Louvre in Paris.


The Blue Hope:
            Named after its purchaser Henry Thomas Hope is said to have brought bad luck to all its owners. It is believed to have been a part of the Blue Tavernier Diamond which was brought to Europe from India in the 17th century. King Louis XIV had it cut from 112 carats to 67.5 carats and after being owned by many, it is now on display at the Smithsonian Institute, Washington.



The Sancy:
            The Sancy is a pear-shaped stone weighing 55 carats and was first owned by the Duke of Burgundy, Charles and lost it in a battle. It was named after another owner, Seigneur de Sancy. It suddenly disappeared during the French Revolution and was later found and now kept for view at the Louvre.


The Premier Rose:
            It was a triangular shaped stone of 352.9 carats found in the Premier mine in South Africa. It was later cut into three and the largest called Premier Rose weighed 137.02 carats with189 facets dimensioned 43.4 x 23.2 x 18.93. It received a ‘D’ flawless rating from the Gemological Institute of America. The Premier Rose is now in the possession of Robert Mouawad.


The Taylor-Burton:
            It is a pear-shaped stone of 69.42 carats found in the Premier mine, South Africa. Richard Burton bought this stone for Elizabeth Taylor and hence its name. Ms.Taylor wore it first at a charity ball in Monaco and she later put it up for sale for charity reasons. This priceless diamond is said to have been last seen in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

THE BIGGEST DIAMONDS IN THE WORLD

The Cullinan or The Great Star of Africa:
            This stone was the largest uncut diamond discovered in 1905 in the Premier mine South Africa and weighing 3106.75 carats and was later cut into nine parts. They are all currently owned by Queen Elizabeth and are a part of the British Crown Jewels.
            The Cullinan I   : Pear shaped, 530.2 carats
            The Cullinan II  : Cushion shaped, 317.4 carats
            The Cullinan III : Pear shaped, 94.4 carats
            The Cullinan IV : Cushion shaped, 63.3 carats
            The Cullinan V  : Heart shaped, 18.8 carats
            The Cullinan VI : Marquise shaped, 11.5 carats
            The Cullinan VII: Marquise shaped, 8.8 carats
            The Cullinan VIII:Oblong Brilliant shaped, 6.8 carats
            The Cullinan IX  :  Pear shaped, 4.39 carats

The Golden Jubilee:
            It is rose cushion shaped and weighed roughly about 755 carats and 545.67 after being cut. It is the largest faceted diamond in the world and was previously named “Unnamed Brown” was considered the most unattractive diamond ever. It was presented to the King of Thailand in 1997 and is still in the possession of the Thailand government.

The Nameless:
            It is a rectangular shaped stone which weighed roughly about 1000 carats and 489.07 after cutting. It is said to have been probably discovered in Brazil or Central Africa. The story of emergence of this black diamond and who owns it at the moment is still a mystery.

The Excelsior I:
            Its rough weight was 995.20 and later 69.68. The original stone was cut into 21 gems. This pear shaped stone was found in the Jagersfontein mine and is currently owned by Robert Mouawad. The Excelsior I is known not only for its size but its quality as well.

The Star of Sierra Leone:
            It is the largest alluvial diamond ever found. Its rough weight was 969 carats and after the original stone was cut into 17 gems it weighed 53.96 carats. It was found in Diminco Mine in Sierra Leone in 1972. It is purely transparent and colorless and is presently in the hands of Harry Winston who purchased it for $2.5 million.


The President Vargas:
            It was found in Brazil near San Antonio river in1938 by two garimpeiros when it weighed 726.60 carats and 48.26 when divided into 29 gems. They are D-color diamonds are emerald shaped and are said to be chemically pure which are perfect in structure. Before being bought by an unknown buyer, it was owned by Harry Winston.

The Jonker:
            This is the fourth largest gem-quality diamond which was found in Elandsfontein near the Premier mine, South Africa. This 726 carat, emerald shaped stone was then cut into 13 gems and now has a weight of 125.35 carat. It gained its name from its discoverer Johannes Jacob Jonker. The parts of this diamond were owned by various famous people till an anonymous buyer bought it for $2,259,000 in 1977.

The Jubilee:
            Robert Mouawad owning the Jubilee at present, originally called The Reitz, weighed 650.80 carats and 245.35 carats after being cut. This is cushion shaped and was found in the Jagersfontein mine, South Africa. It has been graded an E-color diamond which means it is a grade away from the colorless diamonds.

The Sefadu:
            This is one of the largest diamonds which remains uncut at a weight of 620 carats. It was discovered in the Diminco mine in Sierra Leone and is owned by an American diamond company called Lazare Kaplan. It is after the discovery of the Sefadu that the major mining companies have started explorations in the Diminco mine.

The Kimberly Octahedron:
            It maintains a weight of 616 carats ever since it was found at the Dutiotspan Mine in South Africa in 1964 as it still is uncut. This is the largest natural octahedral diamond found. It is categorized under Type Ib owing to its intense shade of yellow and is owned by De Beers Consolidated Mines Ltd.

Sunday, August 1, 2010

FANCY JEWELRY AND WATCHES

Today the price of gold at the market is increasing day to day and it is at a height which cannot be reached by a middle class person. The purpose of jewels is to add extra grace to a human in any occasions. So keeping on mind the price of pure carat gold in the market nowadays people have turned their attention towards fancy jewels available in the local markets. These fancy jewels are replica of the traditional gold ornaments but with lesser reliability. In early days, people visit the jewelry shops whenever possible to purchase ornaments. But the situation is not like that. Purchasing of gold is being less at present. People purchase gold for marriage occasion and save them as Bridal jewelry sets.At present the jewelry trays to store the golden ornaments is filled by less number of golden ornaments and more number of the fancy jewels.

The other fancy product for which people are crazy about is the watches. There are many branded companies that manufacture and market watches for the consumers ranging over two extremes. But still people go craze with the fancy watches manufactured locally and this is mainly because of the design and the outlook of the watch. However people go crazy with the fancy products like jewels and watches they cannot rely on their durability. In case of jewelry the coating that gives shine as gold will not stay for long time. Similarly the watches are less durable and most of them are designed as use and throw watches.

The mind set automatically changes for the people and select the virtual leaving behind the original. This approach of people may save their pocket at that instant but for the need at the future they can’t utilize the virtual. Now the fancy products are like casual shoes that can be changed when life ends. The people must think that purchasing gold is the best investment where there is no loss. At times of emergency the golden ornaments will lend a hand while the others do nothing. So the people must think over it and must not hesitate in investing gold. As there is a proverb, “All glitters is not gold”, people must understand the nature and merit of possessing the gold jewels with them.

The people also look the watches with the same intention as with the jewels. Going craze with sleek design and shapes they fall with the local products. As in the case of branded watches more or less same design and shape is followed by the companies. The reliability and durability of the branded watches is no way near with those of local products. Getting new watches after old one fails doesn’t make profit for them. Like gold, people must bear the one time investment in purchasing a time piece and relax for entire working period. Knowing the craze of the people, companies started marketing watches of various designs that attracts people. Thus people should opt for the branded original products and rely on them.

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Baume and Mercier watches replica

What’s the best time to buy a watch? Shopping for fashion items can sometimes be brain draining. A lot of people love to shop but for some it’s not so easy. For some, just the thought of going out in public is too frightening to contemplate. That’s where the Baume and Mercier replica on the internet is just so fantastic.
You no longer have to feel threatened by those overwhelmingly pushy sales people coming across boldly throwing their wares at you. Telling you that this item or that item looks amazing on you and you feeling embarrassed and unsure as to whether they are really telling you the truth.
On the internet you no longer have to feel threatened. You have all the time in the world to research the watch styles and designs that are perfect for you in the comfort of your own home. And, the real beauty is that you don’t have to spend a fortune to buy a great watch. The Baume and Mercier replica watches are truly affordable and the options available for you to browse are endless. So take your time search around at your own leisure and enjoy the shopping experience with no pushy sales people and when you are ready buy the watch that suits your needs and one that you can truly afford.
The replica brand watches have a remarkable resemblance to the brand named Baume and Mercier watches but need we say the savings in buying a replica are extraordinary. It’s truly dreamy to search for watches online so be warned these watches get into your blood and can become very addictive over time. You might find buying one watch is just not enough and pretty soon you’ll have a whole range you could end up opening your own watch store online! But remember one thing just have fun looking.

Monday, July 12, 2010

Dazzle Your Friends With the Top Summer Trends

An introduction to the top fashion trends for men this summer. The article focuses in particular on ´must have´ accessories, as these are of a high importance this season, and illustrates the potential fashion pitfalls of each item in depth. There is also emphasis upon self expression and looking great in order to feel great

Brace yourselves, gentlemen. It may feel like it took forever and a day, but the sun, the fun and the summer are finally here. Fashion trends this season are poised to soar into new, undiscovered territory, with many labels pushing the boundaries through their overtly flamboyant and shamelessly ostentatious pieces. The ‘preppy’ look is back with a vengeance and this slicked-back, elegant style is the key for those who seek to dress to impress. However, as with all emerging fashion trends, there are numerous pitfalls that one needs to avoid at all costs this summer. By the same token, those seeking to truly dazzle their friends and revel in their admiration should certainly consider a few of the following white-hot fashion products.

During the summer months, it is essential that every fashion-conscious male invests in at least two pairs of flip flops. This item is, if you will, the bread and butter of summer dressing, around which all other clothes and accessories gravitate. After all, there’s no point in sporting a devilishly stylish pair of shorts if the shoes lurking beneath look absolutely ghastly. Don’t be afraid to opt for obscure or unconventional designs this season, as the previously popular surfing brands are considered in many social circles to be too commercialized and out-dated.

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Diamond Watches – Online Purchasing Options

For men and women alike, diamond watches are a beautiful way to accessorize both professionally and individually. The choices in women and men’s jewelry have grown significantly over the years, giving individuals a vast array of choices for watches that will suit any taste or personal style. If you are in the market for a new diamond watch for yourself or someone you love, be sure to take your time and explore all of the many choices out there so that you are sure to find the very best watch that suits your own personal taste or one that your loved one will cherish for years to come.

There are many different design types of watches for men, women and children today. From fashion watches to designer brand names, unisex watches and even sports and luxury watch options, you are sure to find anything you are looking for through many jewelry and watch manufacturers. Before beginning the hunt for your next watch purchase, you will want to determine what type and style of watch you are in the market for to help narrow down your search. By limiting the amount of brands and styles you need to search through, you are sure to find the perfect diamond watch accessory in no time at all.

One great way of searching and purchasing diamond watches is using the Internet. For those who have access to the World Wide Web, the choices are endless for watch and jewelry manufacturers and jewelry designers. No matter where you are located in the world, there is sure to be a diamond jewelry design manufacturer that can deliver your new watch purchase in no time at all. When browsing and purchasing diamond watches through an Internet manufacturer, you will need to ask important questions regarding your purchase, such as shipping costs, delivery times and if you need to purchase transportation insurance or if it is
included in your watch purchase.

Everyone would love to save money in all aspects of their lives. By searching and purchasing your next diamond jewelry design watch online through a local or international manufacturer you can save yourself precious time and money that can be spent elsewhere. Just think of all the time and energy you will save by shopping online at home rather than driving around from retail store to retail outlet seeking out the perfect diamond watch. Not only will you save gas money
or costs to park while you shop, but you can also save precious spare time that you could use elsewhere in your life, such as enjoying your family or friends.

Your next premier design jewelry options for men’s and ladies watches are only limited to your own imagination. There are many jewelry designers that are open to custom design jewelry for watches as well as other jewelry items. If you are in search of a great diamond watch but have not found the perfect item, try asking around and you may find a jewelry designer that is willing to help you custom design your own jewelry.

Thursday, February 25, 2010

Gemstones in Early European Jewellery

Many of the stones used in early European gemstone jewellery have flaws (technically named inclusions) which look simply dreadful to modern eyes; but until the end of the seventeenth century, when a jeweller discovered the brilliant cut which revealed the full beauty of the diamond, no one seems to have worried greatly about a gemstone’s clarity. Although stones which were relatively clear were naturally preferable, men value them for their magical power, their colour or their size, rather than their fineness. If a jeweller did decide to cut a stone, he probably restricted himself to simple table-cut: that is, he sliced off one side, and set the stone with the cut side uppermost. Very little was known about mineralogy in pre-Renaissance days, and still less about refraction and reflection of light, so attempts to cut a gemstone might well be disastrous.

Polishing a gemstone, however, with powder ground down from a gemstone harder than itself was a different matter. By doing this the jeweller could achieve a smooth surface, smooth edges and a uniform shape; whereas if he tried to cut it, he might shatter it into splinters. Polishing and engraving-another sure and tried technique which was unlikely to damage the stone-were much safer than cutting.

Thus the gemstones set in jewellery of the Carolingian period are polished or engraved stones, mined in Europe, the Middle East or India, believed to have magical or medicinal power, and with a depth of rich and glowing colour. There were rubies from India; garnets from Bohemi; lapis lazuli and sapphires (the latter’s name being applied to the former); emeralds, amethysts, beryl and aquamarine; amber, the fossilized resin of the ancient forests, which had been known and valued since the beginning of recorded time: turquoises and cornelians, both of which the Egyptians too had gathered; pearls and jet, for which the Romans had had a great liking: all of these were gems which were relatively easy to find, or which could be mined in fairly shallow workings.

In the main there were two styles of setting for the gemstones used in early jewellery: the box setting and the collet. In the former, the jeweller made a small metal box without a lid, placed the gemstone inside, and hammered the metal edges carefully down to hold it in place. A collet set is very similar, but the sides of the box were cut down so that more of the stone might be seem, and claws were sometimes incorporated for the sake of safety.

Unique earrings jewelry

Friday, November 20, 2009

Vintage Sherman Costume Jewelry

The allure and sparkle of vintage Sherman jewelry has resulted in collectors all over the world searching out special pieces. Sherman Jewelry was made in Canada from the late 40´s to the early 80´s. The creativity and sparkle of the masterful designs by Gustave Sherman drew in the purchaser and today many vintage jewelry collectors buy only Sherman.


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

There are many a time we think of treating ourselves with a genuine Breitling watch. The idea is always shushed away thinking of the hiking price tags the watch has. But don't be disappointed anymore. doublet timekeepers Breitling gives you an equal opportunity to buy the same brand value as the genuine Breitling. The only differentiated feature would be the lowered prices of SuperOcean duplicate.
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

Some Tips for Success


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

Earrings, Pendants, Rings, Bangles and more...

Commissioning some of the world's finest Aventurine jewelry designers, Mudit International offers a stunning array of carved Green Aventurine and Black Aventurine jewelry set in silver and gold. From traditional designs to modern contemporary styles, our selection of Aventurine necklaces, earrings, pendants, rings and bangles exhibit an exceptional attention to quality and detail that make our products some of the most sought after in the world.

Nephrite Aventurine

For thousands of years, cultures around the world have valued Nephrite venturine for its exquisite beauty, durability and spiritual quality. Ancient Greeks prized Nephrite Aventurine for its ability to heal kidney ailments and called it nephros (kidney) from which we get the name nephrite. Chinese Emperors had their artisans fashion indoor decorative items and sacred ceremonial rings and pendants from their sources along the Yangtze River. And for centuries, the Maoris of New Zealand considered Aventurine sacred, possessing mana (Iife-force), and transformed their South lsland Aventurine into weapons, ornaments and jewelry. Other cultures have valued its beauty and have used it extensively for both sacred and decorative purposes. The sarcophagus of Russian Czar AIexander lll was carved from nephrite Aventurine.

Today, Nephrite Aventurine continues to embody precious mystical properties, making it an enduring favorite for sculpture, jewelry, religious statuary and ornaments.

World's Finest Aventurine Becomes World's Finest Aventurine Jewelry

At Mudit International, our Aventurine comes from some of the world's most respected suppliers of Aventurine and Aventurine products; from the world's largest Nephrite Aventurine source in South Australia to the more traditional suppliers of New Zealand and Asia.

From such quality Aventurine, our highly skilled jewelry artisans are able to create remarkable jewelry pieces that are both durable and stunning. Used as a centerpiece to enhance one's spiritual connection or as an elegant addition to casual wear, our earrings, pendants, rings and bangles at Mudit International will complement and complete your unique style and "Iook."

Jewelry Gifts and Best Sellers

Mudit International Aventurine jewelry pieces make a stunning gift for any occasion; birthdays, anniversaries, holidays or when you just want to tell someone they're speciaI. Our extensive catalog offers a huge selection of exquisite Aventurine earrings, pendants and bangles set in silver and gold. We also have a special showcase of our best selling Aventurine necklaces.

Aventurine Jewelry Series

In addition, we have several stunning series of Aventurine jewelry pieces that have come from our skilled artisans. From Contemporary style to Pacific to one of our most popular Aventurine pieces, the Dolphin pendant, our Aventurine jewelry series offers you a selection to fit any style, any occasion.

Pledge of Quality

When you order from Mudit International, you can be assured of unparalleled service. We value you as our customer and will always strive to make your ordering experience with us worry-free. From our ability to ship anywhere in the world, our company stands by its promise to offer you the best.

Our Aventurine jewelry is the world's finest and we look forward to having you join our list of satisfied customers!

Monday, November 16, 2009

Tanzanite

Tanzanite was added to the official list of birthstones by the American Gem Trade Association in 2002, the first such addition since the early part of the twentieth century. This new December birthstone is found only at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro. It adds 20 million dollars annually to the income of the African state of Tanzania.

Tanzanite was designated an alternate birthstone for the month of December by the American Gem Trade Association in 2002, the first change in the official list in ninety years. It is the bluish purple variety of the mineral zoisite, and is found only in Tanzania, at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro. The mining of this gem brings in 20 million dollars annually to the African state of Tanzania. Most tanzanites on the market are heat treated, which does not lower the value. The best stones are flawless to the naked eye.

Legend has it that Masai cattle herders discovered tanzanite. At first there was confusion over its identity. The first person to identify it correctly was Ian McCloud, a Tanzanian government geologist. The discovery occurred in 1967. There has not been enough time for a body of myth and folklore to grow up around this stone. Crystal healers associate it with spiritual perception, truth and happiness.

The mining of tanzanite is fraught with difficulties. The crystals are widely dispersed in hard rock. A combination of picks and shovels, iron bars and jackhammers is used, which destroys some fine specimens. The crystals fracture easily. The mines are dangerous, poorly constructed, and subject to flooding.

Tanzanite was presented to the public by the Tiffany Company of New York, and was received with great enthusiasm. Today, tanzanite is among the top gemstones used in high end jewelry Good stones command extremely high prices.

Tanzanite was discovered in 1967 and added to the official list of birthstones by the American Gem Trade Association in 2002. This bluish purple zoisite is found only in Tanzania, at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro. Good stones can sell for one thousand dollars a carat or more.

Saturday, November 7, 2009

Introduction to Gemology: Getting to Know the Other Blue Gemstones

When it comes to blue gemstones, sapphire, lapis lazuli and blue diamond are the most commonly known. Blue gemstones make beautiful adornments and are used by some people for their calming properties. This article, however, doesn´t focus on the popular blue gems. Instead it lists and describes five lesser- known blue gemstones: agate, azurite, and benitoite.

Say blue gemstones and people would immediately think of sapphire and lapis lazuli
as these two are the most commonly known blue gemstones. Of course, there is
always the blue diamond crystal, which is one of the most coveted and expensive
gems in the world. Some other blue gemstones exist but are less popular because
they may be so rare or kept concealed from the public. Or, they may be of the cheaper
variety. Still, they are gems that can beautifully adorn any piece of jewelry.

The Lesser-Known Blue Gemstones


Among the blue gemstones that are not so well-known is the agate. It is essentially
crystalline quartz characterized by bands made of chalcedony layers that form in rock
crevices. The classification of agate varieties is based on appearance, characteristics,
or source. Agate can be found in abundance in many places. Its varieties include the
Botswana agate, Brecciated agate, agate-jasper, crazy lace agate, and blue lace
agate.

Agate had been in use since the Middle Ages and people then believed that this blue
gemstone could improve a person’s eyesight and character. According to an 1864
publication, The Book of Seven Leechndoms, the therapeutic benefits of agate include
protection from poison, drunkenness, thunder, sorcery, and demonic possession.

* Azurite

Another blue gemstone worthy of note is the azurite. It is often mistaken for lapis lazuli
or other kinds of blue gemstones. Azurite and green malachite are usually found
together because azurite turns into malachite due to weathering of the specimen surface into malachite.
Azurite is used occasionally as beads and as jewelry, and also as an ornamental stone. However, its softness and tendency to lose its deep blue color as it weathers limit such uses. Heating destroys azurite easily, so all mounting of azurite specimens must be done at room temperature.

* Benitoite
Benitoite is a rare blue gemstone, found in hydrothermally altered serpentinite. Benitoite fluoresces under short wave ultraviolet light, appearing light blue in color.
It was first described in 1907 by George D. Louderback, who named it benitoite, “as it occurs near the head waters of the San Benito River in San Benito County,” California.