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Friday, December 25, 2009

Determining a Diamond's Price

Want to know how to determine a diamond's price? Let's learn how an expert determine a diamonds price based on quality, grading factors and perception. Gemstone pricing is determined by the 4C's, namely, clarity, cut, color, and carat characteristics that are all wrapped up in a stone's grading report or certification. Let's touch upon a few of these points now.

4Cs of Diamond Price

A gemstone is graded based on the following factors in an effort to create a standard for quality:

Clarity & Color

Clarity and color have to do with the visual quality of the gemstone you are evaluating. Clarity is self apparent, it is a measure of the diamonds perfection. Generally, diamonds contain a number of small flaws or imperfections known as inclusions. Gemstone inclusions can often be seen with the naked eye, some cannot, and they generally look like small scratches or scuffs within the stone itself. The more inclusions a diamond contains the farther it is from perfect and the value decreases along with its price.

Color on the other hand has to do with naturally occurring color shades the stone may or may not contain. Pink diamonds, black diamonds, red shades, brown shades, all exist and have varying degrees of desirability. Pink diamonds for example are very rare to find in a small stone and are therefore priced accordingly. You will want to look for color to be uniform throughout the stone and a desirable shade.

Carat & Cut

Carat and cut refer to a diamonds size and the cut or shape of the stone that was created by the gemologist. Carat affects price based on rarity and desirability. Larger carat gemstones are rarer and therefore priced higher. The cut of a diamond on the other hand affects the brilliance of the stone, or its ability to capture and refract the light. A cut brings out the natural beauty of a diamond, and each cut shape has its advantages and disadvantages that can affect pricing and quality.

The 4C's of diamond pricing are all considered in your average stone grading report, but there is another factor that needs be considered. Never leave out, the perceived value of a diamond. What is the diamond worth to you, does the stone you are considering speak to you directly. Are you instinctively drawn to the particular diamond you are considering. Perfection aside, it is the emotional impact of your gemstone that you should never forget if you are going to buy the right diamond for you.

The Four C's - Diamond Clarity

A diamond's value is graded by the four C's. The four C's include: clarity, carat, cut, and color. Diamond clarity refers to internal characteristics of a diamond. These characteristics are inclusions and blemishes. While internal features of a diamond are called inclusions, external features are called blemishes. A perfect diamond without any blemishes or inclusions is rare. However, sometimes, these flaws and blemishes can affect the brillance since light is not able to pass through the diamond as easily.

There are several kinds of inclusions. These include: crystals, needles, pinpoints, clouds, twinning wisps, internal graining, grain centers, feathers, bearded girdles, bruises, knots, chips, cavities, indented naturals, laser drill-holes, and fracture-filled. Whereas some of these inclusions occur during the cutting or polishing process, others can occur while you are wearing it.

  • Crystals - A crystal is a mineral within a stone. If it is totally enclosed in the diamond, it is called an included crystal. They can occur colored or colorless and alone or in groups.
  • Needles - These are long, thin crystals.
  • Pinpoints - A very small crystal that looks like a dot.
  • Clouds - A cloud includes a cluster of many tightly grouped pinpoints. Under magnification, you can distinguish the pinpoints but otherwise, they resemble a cloud or a haze.
  • Twinning Wisps -Caused by a crystal deformation during growth.
  • Internal graining - This is a discoloration, either milky or faint lines due to irregular crystal growth.
  • Grain centers - This is a small are of concentrated crystal structure distortion.
  • Feathers - These are small cracks in the diamond's wall that look like feathers. They usually don't affect diamonds unless they reach the surface.
  • Bearded girdles - These are hairline cracks that occur around the girdle during cutting. The girdle is where the top and bottom of the stone meet.
  • Bruises - A bruise is a minor chip that creates a root-like appearance within the stone.
  • Knots - A knot is a crystal which reaches the surface of the diamond.
  • Chips - This is where part of a small part of the diamond chips. Sometimes, they can be removed by cutting the diamond or polishing it.
  • Cavities - A cavity is a tiny opening in the diamond when a crystal comes out during polishing.
  • Indented naturals - A natural is part of the original skin that was left on the diamond whereas an indented natural when the natural doesn't get polished because it dips below the surface of the diamond.

Ideas on What to Do With Your Old Gold Jewelry


When it comes to selling your old gold, it doesn't really matter what the gold was used for. It could be a wedding band from a failed marriage, broken or knotted gold chains, mismatched earrings, or even the fillings from your teeth! Scrap gold can be melted down and made into something new. It is the ultimate form of recycling since your scrap could become someone else's treasure.

The first step is to go through your jewelry box. If you have outdated, broken, or unwanted pieces that hold no sentimental value to you, you might as well consider getting rid of it. If you'd like a little money to perhaps buy something you'll love more, or to pay off extra bills, why not sell your old gold? Set the pieces you'd like to get rid of and head out to your local jeweler.

A local jeweler or gold broker will be able to help you determine the value of your unwanted gold. Many times, they will offer cash for gold or a trade - that is up to you. But, your main goal should be to get the pieces weighed and appraised. During this visit, the jeweler will be able to tell you if the gold is pure, what karat it is, and if it is mixed with any other metals. The more pure the gold is, the higher its value.

When it comes to selling your old gold, you may choose to sell to a local jeweler or gold dealer directly, sell it at auction, or even through a reputable buyer online. Depending on the buyer's overhead, interest, and your gold's worth, the prices you can get will vary. It is always a good idea to know the current price of gold so that you always come out on top of the negotiation.

Remember, the more you know about your product - in this case your old jewelry - the more money you stand to make. That means shopping around for different offers. It is a good idea to try two or three buyers to see who will give you the best price.

Though selling gold may bring in a little extra cash, it isn't the only thing you can do with your unwanted pieces. If you want to work with a jeweler to design a custom-made piece for you or a loved one, you could have your old gold melted down and made into a new piece of jewelry! Though this may end up costing you a bit more than your gold is worth, as you will need to cover the cost of the jeweler's time and labor.

Adopt the Style of Best Selling Swiss Watches

Swiss watches are among the hottest fashion accessories. Nothing can beat the heat of wearing a designer Swiss watch from one of the prominent watch manufacturers. It is wish of every fashion conscious person to adopt the style of best selling Swiss watches. Watches from Rolex, Tag Heuer, Panerai, Audemars Piguet, Omega, and other prominent Swiss watch brands are in everyone's wish list.

Some of The Most Popular Swiss Watches

Rolex Submariner - Rolex has been a synonym for premium wristwatches. Rolex launched the Submariner wristwatch in 1953. Since then, it has been a favorite of deep-sea divers. The popularity of the Rolex Submariner increased, when it was adopted by Sean Connery for their James Bond series movies. Their fans around the world started adopting the style and elegance of Rolex Submariner. The standards of engineering and distinctive designs of Rolex Submariner are beyond comparison.

Rolex Date-Just - Date-Just was the first Swiss watch featured with a facility of displaying dates. Almost every Date-Just comes with Cyclopes magnifying lens that helps in easy reading of dates. Date-Just have been a favorite of premium watch lovers all around the world. That is the reason, Date-Just is among the most popular and best selling watches for both men and women.

Omega Speedmaster - Omega has been instrumental in creating the finest watches. Omega Speedmaster is the only NASA certified watch. This is the only watch that astronauts are using in space missions out of crafts. Omega Speedmaster has witnessed several historical moments. Omega Speedmaster became the first and only watch worn on the moon. Omega Speedmaster Professional and Omega Speedmaster X-33 are the most popular variants of the Speedmaster series. People who want the best in everything prefer to have Speedmaster series of watches.

Aforementioned watches are among the most popular premium Swiss watches. Owning one of them is like owning a masterpiece in engineering. However, the costs of these watches are beyond the limit of common people. Average cost of Rolex Submariner comes around US$ 20000, Date-Just Men which is among the cheapest Date Just variant comes around US$ 5000, and Speedmaster series watches comes around US$ 3000.

These mechanical marvels representing the best artisanship are beyond reach of people on a limited budget. Therefore, they look forward to Swiss replica watches representing similar designs and style sense. They are the cheapest alternative of designer replica watches. People who are keen to adopt the style sense of best selling Swiss watches, but do not have enough money to buy them can go for replica designer Swiss watch options.

A Discussion on Men's Silver Jewelry

The Metro sexual Man has finally come of age. This can be seen from the fact that jewellery for men can finally be seen on the shelves along with popular women jewellery. Looking at the number of Hollywood stars who seem to be easily carrying off jewellery items, more and more urban men all over the world are experimenting with such adornments.

The Advent of International Brands

Such ornamental items, once synonymous with femininity are now used by the urban male all across the globe. Looking at the changing trends, more and more local as well as international brands catering to women's ornamental items are looking forward to making men's silver jewellery. Recently, a number of brands, in collaboration with famous Hollywood stars as well as other prominent personalities from the field of entertainment have come out with exquisite men's jewelry lines. These ornaments, however expensive, are preferred by the elite, over other conventional ornamental brands.

Men's Silver Jewelry for the Masses

Who says you have to shell out a few thousand dollars every time you want to change that old piece of ornament and buy a new one? Who says you have to buy jewels when some of the trendiest pieces of jewelry are available in materials like silver, wood and ceramic.There is a number online line as well as real-world stores that are catering to the needs of the middle-class metro sexual man.

There are pros and cons of buying such ornamental items from online stores:

Pros

The kind of variety you are going to find at an online store is unsurpassable. The same goes with the discounts.

Cons

You may find similar prices in a real-world market as well but in the real-world markets, you'll have the option of bargaining. Imagine getting something you found at an online store at $14.95 for $9.95 in a real-world store.

Statistics

If you think that men aren't as inclined towards looking good as much as women, you need to think again. Here are a few statistics to help you change your outlook.

1. More than $48.3 billion worth of jewellery was purchased by men, globally. That accounts for 12% of all the jewellery sold.

2. Most of that jewellery was purchased by them for wives and girlfriends.

What's important to know is that these trends are changing fast as an ever-rising number of men are buying jewellery for themselves rather than for the women in their lives.

What's Sought After?

Real men do wear zing! Bracelets aren't feminine any more. Quite like women, Men love to wear bracelets studded with jewels. The latest ones in the market are everything but feminine! A number of low-cost men's bracelets come with hard silver-plated steel and rubber to give them a rugged look. Besides bracelets, rings are also one of the most preferred. They are a great way for men to add a bit of punch to their lives.There's is more to men's jewellery! Please refer to online resources for more information.

Hot Trend 2010 - Unique Diamond Bracelet


To be cutting edge in 2010, check out the unique diamond bracelet hot trend. The hot trend in 2010 of the unique diamond bracelet is the result of raging gold prices, a sour economy, and fashion matching. We have polled the populace and gauged the pulse of style in the fashion jewelry industry and the jewelry piece of the year is going to be the bracelet.

The trends are revealing these surprising patterns. Unique diamonds are becoming very popular. What I mean by a unique diamond is a stone with a history. Inclusion, flaw included diamonds are not a problem as long as it has a unique identifying feature. Perhaps this very diamond was passed from generation to generation in your family to finally end up in your hands. The emotional value of the diamonds history will far outweigh its quality value.

Also, 2010 will see a rise in colored diamonds that are less common than the typical clear or colorless stones. Pink diamonds set in bracelets, pendants and earrings are becoming hugely popular. The chocolate diamond is gaining market share and various other colored gemstones are being used with increasing frequency in jewelry designs by famous designers. The more unique your diamond is, in color, history and discovery, the more valuable it will be in 2010.

When it comes to jewelry design, the bracelet will be the name of the game in 2010. The tennis bracelet or inline bracelet is being seen with increasing frequency on celebrities and fashion movers. A uniquely designed diamond bracelet that defies the classic trends in design are flying off the shelves. Black diamond tennis bracelets, unusual design patterns will be the gift of choice this coming year.

Quality and value will be increasingly important this coming year with a floundering economy, and people are looking for value outside of just a price factor. Unique custom jewelry can accessorize your style and express your character with cleverness trumping cost. In 2010, find a diamond bracelet that expresses your personality with elegance and style, and don't feel obligated to spend a ton to stay with the times.

Recycle Gold For Extra Cash


Many people are trying to save money right now and find ways to earn some extra cash. Most people are worried about the economy and the tough financial times that we are facing. The value of gold continues to rise and provide a safe cash investment. Gold prices are predicted to continue rising through out the global financial crisis. It is important that the average person understand the security that gold investments provide. You may also be interested in a recycle gold option as a way to get some extra money.

You may have the need for some extra cash to help support your family. One way that you can get some quick cash is to recycle gold. If you have any old jewellery lying around it is possible to turn it into cash. It is a safe option that allows you to earn more that you would get at a pawn shop. Many people do not realize how quick and easy it is to recycle gold. All you need to do is contact a buying and evaluate their prices. If you are able to agree on the price then you will be paid for your gold. This is a great option for struggling families or those that just want to get rid of unused gold items.

The process to recycle gold is very easy and safe. The process is simple and can be done securely online. Your privacy is protected and you will be assured of a prompt payment. This is less complicated then going out to your local pawn shop and you may end up with less cash. You can trust that most recycle gold companies are very trustworthy and pay higher than most pawn shops. If your old jewellery and other gold pieces are not being used then this option may be the perfect way to put some extra money into your pocket.

Many people are choosing to recycle gold as a way to get through hard times. If you were going to throw it away then it only makes sense to turn the garbage into money. Many people are deciding to recycle gold and are becoming repeat customers. They enjoy the ease and convenience of turning old jewellery into much needed cash. You may use the extra money you make to pay bills, travel, and entertainment or to purchase new jewellery. The possibilities are endless and this program is becoming very popular among people that need extra money.

Gold prices are on the rise and many companies are paying top dollar for gold pieces. Now is the perfect time to recycle gold jewellery that you don't think you need anymore. Don't let it sit and gather anymore dust. You can quickly turn it all into money and enjoy the financial reward.

How to Find an Affordable Engagement Ring

Let's face it, planning a proposal and finding an affordable engagement ring are two major challenges for any man. Here are some great tips on how you can find that perfect yet affordable engagement ring:

1. Consider Designing Your Own. This could be the most practical way to acquire an affordable engagement ring. Not only will you be able to choose the size of the gem you want but also the setting and the metal to be used. While pre-designed rings are easier to come by, designing your own can save you a lot of money.

2. Look for Used Rings. This is an easy way to find an affordable engagement ring. You can scour for auctions in the internet to see if there's something that suits your taste.

3. Choose Your Diamond Separately. While most people would think that a diamond does not equate to an affordable engagement ring, there are ways to still get a diamond ring without having to break the bank.

Select a diamond with high color and cut, but with slightly lower clarity. This is definitely one way to lower the cost of a diamond. Also, remember that while a 1 carat diamond is not the same as a.95 carat, you can hardly tell the difference when you look at both. The only time you'd know one from the other is when you check on the price tag. That fraction of a carat can really save you a lot of money.

4. Consider Other Stones. Other stones can be just as beautiful as diamonds and there are many stones that are not as expensive as diamonds.




5. Stay away from Big Jewelry Stores. These stores, just like any store in a mall, have pricey overhead expenses and they compensate for these expenses by putting a higher price tag on their merchandise. While you understand that this is just basically a rule for any business, you would not want to be a part of it. If you're in search of an affordable engagement ring, you should stay away from commercial jewelry stores.

It really pays to research. For all you know, this could be a win-win situation. Not only will you sweep your woman off her feet, you will also save a lot of money which can be put towards more important things, like the wedding!

Thursday, December 24, 2009

Using Swarovski Crystal Beads For Making Beaded Jewellery


Swarovski crystal beads add a new dimension of sparkle to any jewellery making project. Fun, simple to use and producing spectacular results for very little cost, these delicate glass crystals are specifically designed to shimmer and catch the light, transforming a simple design into something that dazzles with chic elegance. A simple multi-stranded necklace can be one of the easiest ways to transform an ordinary outfit into something spectacular, and you don't need any specialist equipment to do it - just a few, simple basic tools.

Swarovski crystal beads have been a staple in jewellery making for over 100 years and are still as popular today as they were in Edwardian times. They're ideal for brightening up a tired piece of jewellery by simply restringing an existing necklace and interspersing Swarovski crystals throughout the pattern. All you will need to do this is your original necklace, a new length of beading thread, a beading needle, a sharp pair of scissors and a new clasp and jump rings to complete the project. You will also need a pair of flat nosed jeweller's pliers to put the clasp and links onto the ends of the necklace and of course, a selection of Swarovski crystals. Using a little care (and a tray to catch any beads that fall from the original necklace, otherwise you could spend an inordinate amount of time on your hands and knees looking for that lost bead!), destring the original piece with care. Decide how you want to re-create the necklace, incorporating the Swarovski crystals into the design and choosing crystals that correspond in colour with your original beads. Swarovski crystal beads come in a rainbow of different colours, so there should be a colour to match any necklace.

Thread your beading needle with the new beading thread and tie a knot about four to six inches in and place an 'anchor bead' at the end of the new thread. This will prevent your beads slipping off the end as you place thread them onto the new necklace. At this point you can let your imagination take over. How you restring the necklace is entirely up to you, depending on the effect you wish to create. If you want to create a shorter, multi-stranded necklace out of a single strand of beads, remember to divide up your beads evenly before beginning. If you're not sure, try laying the design out first on a flat surface before committing the beads to your new thread. Once you have completed your first strand, remembering to intersperse your Swarovski crystals where appropriate, finish with a second anchor bead and tie off the thread.

Depending on how many beads you have available and what kind of effect you wish to create, repeat the process. Try making each strand a slightly different length from the first for a layered look to really capture the beauty of each individual bead. Once you have your re-threaded strands of beads, draw the ends of the thread through a crimp bead and make a multi-stranded loop, drawing the tail ends back through the crimp bead. Close the crimp bead to form a sealed end and trim any loose threads off with the scissors. Repeat the process with the other ends. This will give you a single, multi-stranded necklace. Attach your jump ring to one loop and the corresponding catch to the other and instantly you have a beautiful necklace recycled from an old piece of jewellery and transformed by the simple inclusion of sparkling, iridescent Swarovski crystals.

History of the Swarovski Brand


The Swarovski Company was founded in the late 19th Century when Daniel Swarovski invented an automatic cutting machine for crystal, and in 1895 established a crystal cutting factory in Austria. The birthplace of the factory was Wattens, which was chosen because local hydroelectricity made the energy-intensive process involved more cost-effective.

Today Wattens is home to the Swarovski museum which tells the story of the founder and the company's history and development right through to present day.The Swarovski range includes jewelry, couture, crystal sculptures and miniatures, home décor and chandeliers. They also create crystal beads and promote other designers including these in their work. In order to maximize refraction and to give Swarovski its magnificent sparkle, the crystal contains around 32% lead. Some of the crystals are also coated in order to refract a rainbow spectrum.

All Swarovski sculptures are marked with a logo, this was originally an edelweiss flower but was replaced by the current swan logo in 1988.Today all types of Swarovski crystal are hugely in demand as collectibles, and make a stunning display in any home, can be worn as vintage or contemporary jewelry or can be used as an investment piece as their popularity and value continues to rise.

Apart from beautiful crystals and stunning beads and jewelry Swarovski is also know for its range of binoculars and scopes. This may seem like quite a diverse range of products but what draws all parts of the company together is the engineering excellence which stems from the company's quest for precision and ever higher standards.

In 1935, Wilhelm Swarovski, the 17 year old son of the founder of Swarovski, was a keen astronomer and this led to his desire to build a much improved binocular than those available in the day. Wilhelm had ready access to the engineering in his Father's company and more importantly the glass production and finishing techniques that were so important in the production of Swarovski crystal. From these beginnings Swarovksi Optik was born and continues today to be a cutting edge leader in the industry.

Swarovski has a well deserved reputation for superior quality and thus Swarovski Optik binoculars and telescopes remain the preferred choice of many professional atronomers and nature watchers around the world.

What is a Jewelry Watch


After some quick investigating it seems that jewelry watches come in many forms. The first and most obvious explanation is that any luxury watch that features diamonds or other precious stones anywhere on it (the face, bezel or strap) makes it a jewelry watch. Now, if the watch is manufactured in gold, then that also places it in the "jewelry watch" category.


Jewelry watches are often given as gifts, since more than not, they do sparkle and shine in that same way that a diamond ring or pair of diamond earrings do. When it comes to women's watches there are loads that classify as jewelry watches. Practically all luxury jewelry companies also produce fine watches, so within collections of women's watches by Chopard, Cartier and Chanel, to name a few, you'll be sure to find many jewelry watches. Michele watches produces nothing but jewelry watches for women and Omega Watches has many collections for women that include such pieces.

One may assume that jewelry watches are more synonymous with women's watches than they are as men's watches, but that's not necessarily true. The watch does not have to be decked out in diamonds in order to be considered a jewelry watch; however this style of men's watch is becoming increasingly popular among (American) men. Men in the Middle East and Asia, those whose mega bucks are so mega that they really haven't felt a dwindling of dollars and can easily afford the hefty price tags that come with "blinged out" watches, have long bought jewelry watches.

If you are not all about a watch that commands you have your shades on in order to see what time it is, there are many jewelry watches for men that are more discrete in style. For example, the De Ville Collection by Omega Watches is one. One of the men's watches from this collection is called Platinum Ice, measures 41mm and has a mother-of-pearl dial and 24 baguette diamonds (4.8 carats total), but when you look at it, you're not blinded.

Movado is another company that creates jewelry watches for men. Movado is all about simplicity and elegance, so you won't find any super shiny watches here. The Faceto men's watch and the Juro Diamond men's watch are two nice examples.

So, as they say, "every day you learn something new." I did! I now have a much better understanding of just what a jewelry watch is and isn't, as well as some choices that I would like to have given to me as gift.

Man's Diamonds Watches


It is commonly accepted that diamonds are specially created for women. Well, that is not the case. Today more and more diamond watches are targeted at men. These watches are appealing to men for their finest quality as well as stunning look.

If you are looking for men's diamond watches, it is imperative that you should find a good one with diamonds decorated on it. Special consideration should be given first to the watch, then the diamonds.


While selecting the watch, try to find a timepiece that is of the finest quality. Special consideration should be taken to the quartz movement, scratch resistance as well as water resistant capabilities. In addition, these watches should also come with more than two years' warranty.

Then you should consider about the diamonds. Check carefully into the diamonds encrusted on the face of the watches. The size, color and clarity should be given top priority. Try to find a suitable timepiece according to your taste.

What's more, price is also an important criteria in choosing a men's diamond watch. These watches can cover the gamut from $100 or less to thousands of dollars depending on different models.

In the huge galaxy of men's diamond watches, you can always spot an ideal timepiece with such a myriad of choices. If you are looking for a splendid men's diamond watch for your beloved, then it is highly recommended that you should take something into consideration such as what is his personal taste? What size is his wrist? Does he prefer large diamond or small diamond?

Winter Jewelry Trends


Nowadays, when looking good is so important, you must keep in touch with the latest fashion trends. Looking good is not only about turning heads, but more importantly it is about feeling confident regarding your appearance. So, if your statement of style is outdated, while others at your office or at a party are looking chic, then you might well end up looking like a square peg in a round hole. Even the jewelry you wear has to be in sync with the times. So, read on to find out about the latest winter jewelry trends.

What's 'In'?
Winter jewelry trends are mainly reflecting bold asymmetrical designs with lots of texture. The color inspirations are mainly drawn from nature. For example, wood with grainy texture is being used to make beads while stones such as agate are in use for visual adornment. Thus although different components are being used, the focus is on color and texture.


Metal jewelry is in vogue too. Chunky and even hammered pieces are really hot this season. White metals are okay, but yellow metals take the cake as far as current trends are concerned.

To help you understand winter jewelry trends better, let's have a look at the different types of jewelry and what's hot in each segment.

Necklaces
The crowning glory of your appearance is your necklace. In order to pick a trendy necklace, you should know that layered necklaces have been replaced by more compact designs this winter. Although some of the necklaces worn by celebrities might seem a bit too heavy, you can be sure that they are 'in'. You can take a look at a stacked cube necklace style to get an idea of the type of designs that will rule this season.

Bracelets
Trends in bracelets and bangles generally are not very fickle, which means you don't have to buy wrist jewelry every season! Even this winter, bangles made from wood and resins continue to be popular. The ones embellished with beads, metals and other colorful components can also be a good investment for you. In fact, richly colored bracelets set with metals and faux gems fall into the 'must buy' category this season.

You might even notice that popular necklace styles are visible in bracelet trends too!

Earrings
The chandelier earrings are just right for parties and other events, where you have to 'dress-up', this winter. Delicate designs look good, without being a burden for your earlobes. Earring styles too have remained pretty much unchanged from past seasons and so most of the ones you own might be wearable this season too. Unless you are still stuck with some retro styles, you can wear your earrings without worry!

Plain diamond studs are in vogue as usual and you must own a pair if you are into fine jewelry. Also, do not forget the evergreen hoop-earrings! You can try out popular styles such as hammered hoops or other thin metal hoops.

Follow these winter-jewelry trends and you'll find that looking good was never so easy!

Fashion Jewelry



Budgets are tight these days, but that does not mean that you need to stop being fashion conscious. Jewelry is one of the best ways that you can stay current with today's trends without having to spend all of the money that you have in your savings account. To really get the most bang for your buck it is important that you know what the top trends and styles are going to be so that you can choose quality pieces that will update your style.

Statement jewelry is actually one of the largest trends right now. Pieces like this may not be the most expensive pieces in your wardrobe, but they will pack a lot of punch for the amount of money that you have spent on them. You will want to choose pieces that are a bit more outrageous than your every day jewelry. Explore fun shapes, rich colors, and lots of sparkle. The key to making this type of look work for yourself is to keep your statement down to one piece per outfit. You do not want to have a large statement ring paired with a chunky armful of bangles, and some chandelier earrings. Instead, choose to simply work either a large statement ring or some dangly earrings.

Speaking of earrings, chandelier earrings are back in the spotlight this year. They bring with them an instantly feminine and glamorous look to any outfit that you add them to. Typically, chandelier earrings have some sort of sparkle to them, and this makes them the perfect addition to any going out look. However, do not think that you can only wear chandelier earrings in the evening. They are actually really beautiful when paired with simple jeans, heels, and a T-shirt. They will give you a bit of glamour to add into your everyday life.

Colors are really important this year. The fashion focus with this year's colors are actually warm and rich shades. Jewel tones are very popular as long as they are rich and lush. Additionally, warm tones are very in style this year. That means that yellows, oranges, and reds are very popular. Additionally, yellow gold is also making a comeback. It did fall out of fashion a while ago, but now yellow gold is emerging as a new favorite this year. It looks especially great when paired with rich chocolate browns and denim.

Don't forget to incorporate the colors into your choice of sparkle as well. You can choose to incorporate gemstones into you collection that are very rich in hue. These do not need to be the most expensive stones either. You can choose amethysts or citrines to give your accessories that glitz and glam that you are looking for. Additionally, you might want to explore pieces that have multiple stones in multiple hues to add to your collection.

Your jewelry is a great way to help enhance your wardrobe as well as to integrate the top fashion trends into your wardrobe. With a little bit of effort and attention to detail you will find that you are turning heads in no time!

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Top Ten Most Expensive Pieces of Diamond Jewellery


Top Ten Most Expensive Pieces of Diamond Jewellery
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Michael_F_Stone]Michael F Stone

The world's most expensive piece of jewellery is believed to be the ultra-rare blue diamond ring in a white-gold band, crafted by Swiss master Chopard (pictured). The piece is valued to be a cool 9.86million, reported The Daily Mail newspaper.

In second place is the British jeweler Garrard's Heart Of The Kingdom Ruby, a 40.63-carat Burma ruby on a 155-carat diamond necklace, worth 8.48million.

An auction sale at Sotheby's once raised 4.84million for a Fancy Vivid Blue Diamond Ring in October 2007 and at the same Sotheby sale in Hong Kong, a sautoir (loose necklace) with a 47-carat green emerald, was sold for 1.6million.

When Beyoncé married rapper Jay-Z last year she wore an 18-carat emerald-shaped diamond in platinum band worth 3million by Lorraine Schwartz. Following closely in the sparkly stakes is the 24-carat emerald-cut diamond engagement ring given to socialite Paris Hilton by shipping heir Paris Latsis in 2005, worth 2.85million.

Black Eyed Peas singer Fergie, who got married in January, showed off a diamond-heavy gold Venus Necklace by H.Stern, worth 1.92million.

De Beers' Marie Antoinette Necklace takes sixth place in the line-up, according to the newspaper, with 2.24million worth of diamonds.

When actor Ben Affleck proposed to singer and actress Jennifer Lopez in 2002, he popped the big question with a 6.1-carat pink diamond ring from Harry Winston, valued at 727,000.

Rounding up the top ten most expensive pieces of jewellery are Jennifer Lopez's diamond earrings worn at the 2007 Oscars, from New Yorker Lorraine Schwartz, at a sparkly 170,000.

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The Platinum Diamond Wedding Ring


The Platinum Diamond Wedding Ring
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Low_Jeremy]Low Jeremy

A diamond ring is perhaps the most romantic gift that one can possibly give to a woman. The diamond ring for most people is a symbol of eternal and everlasting love, a love that will survive the hands of time. This is quite fitting as the diamond is the hardest element in the world.

Although the diamond ring did not come about until the turn of the 20th century because of the lack of supply, it has enjoyed considerable popularity among brides. In fact, a diamond wedding ring and a diamond engagement ring is considered as one of the essentials. Today, with the birth of new technology and the discovery of mining fields that supply diamonds, many can now afford the diamond ring for their loved ones.

Diamond rings come in all sorts of cuts and designs. One of the most popular is the princess cut and the brilliant cut, which can have more than 57 facets. One should also take into consideration the color of the diamond. The whiter the color, the more expensive it is. Another consideration is the clarity, which refers to the lack of imperfections in the stone.

With a lot of artisans and jewelry designers, there are perhaps a thousand styles to choose from, Victorian, Zen, Regency. One of the more modern styles is the one that uses the platinum as the setting. Unlike yellow gold and white gold, platinum has only gained ground in recent years. Brides are drawn to its unique color and luster. Platinum, in fact, is actually more expensive than gold.

This is because platinum is much harder to obtain and manufacture than gold or silver. In mining terms, it will take ten tons of ore to be able to produce an ounce of platinum. This is compared to the only three to four tons of ore that one needs to make an ounce of gold. In addition, there are also fewer platinum mines as compared to gold mines. In virtue of the laws of supply and demand, is it any wonder that the platinum diamond ring that you have been salivating for months now threaten to burn a hole in your pocket?

When selecting a platinum diamond wedding ring, it is important that you look for the signage or engraving that says PLAT or PT950. This means that the platinum is genuine and that it is 95 percent pure platinum. Without these, do not buy as you may be buying something that is not worth your money.

Low Jeremy has been freelancing as a writer for a number of years now. His articles on popular topics like educational toys, renovation design and product reviews can be found on various websites. His latest article published at http://www.outdoorswingsetshop.com where he share tips on buying an outdoor swing set for your children and other outdoor play systems.

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Best Diamond Wedding Ring



Best Diamond Wedding Ring
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=David_K_Fox]David K Fox

There have been many debates in recent years about who has the best diamond wedding ring. Some say Katie Holmes after Tom Cruise gave her a five carat white gold Cartier diamond ring. Yet others suggest Colleen McLoughlin's brand new diamond ring - a marquise cut diamond on top of 50 small diamonds - is now the best.

A notable gift
Either way, the western world is becoming wealthier and wealthier and many couples are spoiling each other more than ever before. Since the wedding ring is one of the most notable gifts that one person can give to their partner, it is this that can be bought for enormous prices. There are now so many options for people to buy the perfect diamond ring and expectations are getting higher and higher. But just because the diamond wedding ring is the most expensive does this make it the best?

The Most Expensive Diamond Wedding Ring Qualities
Well, taking it literally many can argue it does. The most expensive diamond wedding ring is the most expensive because it normally has the following characteristics in it;
• It has the largest carat in the world
• It is the most complex diamond in the world
• It is the most beautiful and elegant stone in the world

Definition of best
Many will argue however, that just because the diamond wedding ring is expensive it doesn't make it the best. To some, the best diamond wedding ring could be made up of other factors. One of these could be that the person they are giving it to thinks it's the best. After all, what is considered 'the best' is a matter of opinion? Tom Cruise may have been described as the best Hollywood actor at one point in his career, but this description would have only come from a segment of people. Those who prefer say Bruce Willis would certainly disagree. The same could be said for Wayne Rooney. Some could say he was the best 17 year old footballer ever, while others may disagree and claim Kaka better.

Wedding Ring Opinion
This opinion can be discussed further. There are so many different qualities a diamond wedding ring has that the best could be a combination of them all, or a combination of a majority of factors that changes depending on who is making the decision. Either way, what is considered the best diamond wedding ring comes down to opinion. Sure, the majority can overrule a minority when it comes to voting, polls and the like. But when it comes down to something so pure as a diamond wedding ring, it is a gift that comes from the heart and therefore it has been chosen for a reason. It has been chosen because the person buying it feels it is best for their partner.

Diamond Wedding Ring Conclusion
In conclusion, diamond wedding rings are chosen for a reason. The reason is because the person buying it feels it is best for their partner. After all, the whole point in buying a diamond wedding ring is to make your partner happy and if they are happy, then everybody wins!

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