Some semi-precious stones are also birthstones, which correspond to people’s birth months. Some people believe that wearing stones that correspond with one’s birth month increases one’s inner strength. This special trait makes jewelry made of certain semi-precious birthstones especially useful as gifts. Examples of such birthstones are garnet (January) and aquamarine (March).

Another popular belief is that certain stones have their own unique “powers.” For example, wearing garnet is said to help ease the pain of a bad breakup, or cause jealousy between lovers. Amethyst is said to protect its wearer against the ill effects of alcohol, slow down intoxication and prevent hangovers. Turquoise is said to give emotional strength. Jade has always had enormous importance in Asian civilization; it is said to have the mystical power to protect its wearer against nightmares and other psychic attacks.

Quartz is said to be among the most important of the semi-precious stones, because it calls upon the power of love — especially the rare rose quartz. Wearing rose quartz is said to increase one’s chances of finding or maintaining a good romantic relationship.

Some pieces of bead jewelry are also made of semi-precious stones. The stones are threaded together with cords, making fine webs and accentuating intricate designs. Jewelry made of semi-precious stones is always popular, partly because of the beliefs associated with the stones — but mostly because they’re so pretty and can go well with anything one wears.

Jewelry of Semi-Precious Stones: Stylish Things of Beauty is a post from: Fashion And Woman

The Hamsa origin is believed to predate Islam. The symbol was previously used in Punic religion, where it was associated with Tanit. In Israel and in Jewish culture it is most commonly known as “Hamsa”, without any Islamic heritage connotations. Some sources link the significance of the five fingers to the five books of the Torah or to the five pillars of Islam.

Star of David
The symbol was used in Israel in Roman times, but it seems to have become associated with Judaism in particular only in later centuries. In the 17th century it became a popular practice to put the Star of David on the outside of synagogues, to identify them as Jewish houses of worship; however, it is not clear why this symbol was selected for this.
Today, the Star of David is a universally recognized symbol of Jews. It appears on the flag of the state of Israel, and the Israeli equivalent of the Red Cross is known as the Magen David Adom.

The name David in ancient Hebrew is made up of three letters “Dalet”, “Vav” and “Dalet”. The letter Dalet in ancient Hebrew is actually a triangle. King David used the six pointed star as his signature. The six-points symbolize that God rules over the universe and protects us from all six directions: North, South, East, West, Up and Down. King David used this symbol in the battlefield on his shield as an omen from God.

Chai
This Chai symbol is simply the Hebrew word Chai (literally meaning living), with the two Hebrew letters Chet and Yod attached to each other. The word refers to the Living G-d. Judaism is very focused on life, and the word Chai has great significance. There have been various mystical numerological speculations about the fact that according to the gematrian system, the letters of Chai add up to 18.

Mezuzah
Mezuzah is a small case affixed to the doorposts and gates of Jewish homes, synagogues, and businesses. The case generally features the Hebrew letter shin inscribed on it, which protects a piece of parchment scroll, on which is inscribed two passages from the Hebrew Bible: the Shema Israel and V’havta.

Every time you pass through a door with a mezuzah on it, you touch the mezuzah and then kiss the fingers that touched it, expressing love and respect for G-d.

Menorah
The menorah, one of Judaism’s oldest symbols, is a seven-branched candelabrum or oil lamp. It has been said that the menorah is a symbol of the nation of Israel. The design for the seven-candle menorah is given in the Torah. The menorah in the Temple had straight branches, not rounded as is often depicted. While the menorah is traditionally used to burn candles, the Temple menorah originally burned olive oil.

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Whether youre a novice about to enter the jewelry making field for the first time or whether youve been doing this for some time now, there are always several basic factors to consider. First, its important to have an adequate amount of space where you can work unbothered for a certain length of time each day and where you can store your jewelry making materials and tools. It doesnt have to be a large space, just a corner or room where you can concentrate on bringing your ideas to life and be free from undue distractions.

Second, if you havent already, decide on the kind of jewelry you are going to make. If youre just getting your feet wet in the jewelry making arena, start out with something simple. Think about what type of jewelry youd enjoy and feel comfortable wearing and go on from there. Whatever materials you might need are readily available either on the Internet or in a physical retail store. Then, as you become more adept at what youre doing, you can start exploring other, more complex jewelry making techniques. Remember, there is a plethora of information resources to help you make money from your hobby: books, specialty magazines, the Internet, and other jewelry makers.

After youve made a number of jewelry items, there are steps you can take to get other people interested in them. Be a walking advertisement for your jewelry making business. Wear some of your creations whenever you go out: wear them to work, when you go to the supermarket, or when you attend parties. Word of mouth is also a great way to let other people know about your jewelry making endeavor. Show some of your finished pieces to family and friends, and encourage them to spread the word.

The important thing to remember is that you continue to enjoy making jewelry and to take pride in your creations. Your love for jewelry making will be the key factor in maintaining your creativity level and it will help you come up with the designs that appreciative customers will buy. Never forget the fun factor in jewelry making, as this will be reflected in your work, and the profit factor will follow.

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How to Clean Gold Jewelry

Gold is tarnish-resistant, although it can get smudged and grimy. Lotions, powders, soaps, even natural skin oils can cover your jewelry and cut down on its brilliance. Jewelry cleaning removes this residue and restores the original luster of your jewelry.

Even though many commercial products are available to clean gold jewelry, a basic solution of detergent and water goes a long way to restore the radiance of gold, and a soft brush helps to gently clean intricate filigree designs and stones. Every now and again it can be helpful to soak the gold jewelry in a mixure of 1 portion ammonia and 6 parts water for about a minute. Make sure to dry and polish your gold jewelry with a soft cloth or chamois afterwards.

Professional jewelry polishing cloths are an efficacious and inexpensive way of keeping your gold collection glittering and radiant. These treated cotton cloths help to dislodge tarnish and to buff jewelry to a brilliant shine.

Never wear jewelry in the swimming pool or while doing chores. Though gold is said to be non-reactive, the fact is that contact with chemicals such as chlorine in pools or household cleaners will discolor or even damage your gold jewelry mountings.

When you are not wearing your jewelry, proper storage is essential. Be careful that pieces don’t tumble together in a crowded jewel box if you want to avoid scratching and loss of radiance. Ideally, store your jewelry in a fabric-lined jewel case, or even a compartmentalized box so that every piece of jewelry resides in an individual soft cloth pouch. In damp climates, storing jewelry in small resealable plastic bags can extend intervals between cleaning, especially for silver.

It’s important to check the stone settings of your jewelry sometimes for any damage to the bezels or prongs. Immersing the jewelry in rubbing alcohol for a couple seconds will restore the gorgeous sparkle to cloudy stones. It’s critical to dry the jewelry thoroughly after cleaning prior to wearing or even storing. Pave set (glued in stones) jewelry should never be soaked in water while cleaning gold jewelry, as these glues, especially those used in older jewelry, are often not waterproof.

Special Gems

Diamonds, sapphires and rubies are relatively hard, though the later two can still sustain scratches. However, pearls, emeralds and opals are softer and need a gentler touch. Emeralds and opals contain water in their matrix and may crack if they are allowed to dry out. Regular application of cod liver oil from the drugstore every few months is recommended by antique jewely dealers. Pearls should be worn frequently to expose them to skin oils. If they dry out, their luster will diminish, so don’t clean them with alcohol or detergents . Avoid exposing pearls to vinegar and other acids, as they will dissolve. To clean pearls, simply wipe them with a soft damp cloth.

Ultasonic Jewelry Cleaners

Do not use them on pearls and opals — they will be damaged.

Silver Cleaner

Line a broad flat dish with tinfoil, then place your silver jewelry in the dish spaced out so they pieces do not touch. Mix together 4 cups of hot water with 4 tablespoons of baking soda. Pour this over the silver and leave for a few minutes until tarnish is dissoved, then rinse and polish with a soft cloth.

Make sure you remove the silver as soon as it is clean, and don’t let it soak for hours as the electrolytic reaction will continue.

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Sparkling and glittering are two words that would describe diamonds. Browse through the World Wide Web and youll see a plethora of online stores that showcase jewelry Christmas gifts. Imagine a womans pleasure at the shimmering sight of diamond snowflake dangling earrings or a glittering diamond bracelet adorned with traditional symbols associated with Christmas. Men, on the other hand, will surely appreciate flashing yet tasteful diamond cuff links. Other gemstones make wonderful jewelry Christmas gifts. Sapphires or rubies set in gold, sterling silver or platinum will gleam subtly from rings or necklaces.

Not all jewelry Christmas gifts that glitter need to be expensive, though. Whimsical and unique designs at an affordable price for the holiday season abound. For instance, brightly colored, rhinestone encrusted pins shaped like Christmas trees are widely available. For young recipients, bracelets, necklaces or anklets made from gold- or silver-plated metals, engraved with their names for a personal touch, will fit snugly in any Christmas stocking. Stores or web sites that specialize in vintage and antique items also offer bright jewelry Christmas gifts. Take your pick from pieces such as brilliant poinsettia-shaped hairpins or nativity-inspired pendants dotted with Swarovski crystals.

For many centuries, men, women and children have been eagerly counting the days until Christmas morning, when everyone would rush to the Christmas tree to open their presents. The giving of gifts is a time honored tradition, and the selection of presents that will be appreciated and enjoyed by those whom we love is no trivial task. Scintillating jewelry Christmas gifts have always been part of that tradition and they continue to contribute to the glow that the holiday season brings.

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Marvelous Medallions

Medallions will be on the top of shoppers’ lists. Look for versions with floral motifs, intricate carvings, filigree work or personal engravings. Grand-scale medallions pair well with long thick chain-link necklaces in gold, platinum or sterling silver. More petite medallions look fresh suspended from brightly colored gemstone necklaces, chains set with diamonds, “diamonds by the yard” or a strand of pearls la Chanel.

One, Two, Three’s a Charm

Charms are back. Women may choose sweet subtle trinkets in lieu of bracelets chock-full of hearts and stars. New styles include tiny treasures hung from hoop earrings; charms clustered on top of rings; stationed charm necklaces with unmatched charms; and very long chain-link necklaces with one, two or three charms that fall far into the dcolletage.

Earring Extravaganza

A sprawling array of important earrings graced the red carpet this season. For spring, the earring evolution has come full circle featuring chandeliers, long linears, drops, “threaders” and ear-hugging versions. Although all of these variations will have a place amidst the fashions this season, the newest style on the ear frontier is the embellished hoop with charms.

Grab for the Ring

The fascination with cocktail rings continues, focusing on cabochon-cut or seemingly uncut gemstones. Designers are using antique-looking or organic gemstones, rose-cut diamonds (or gemstones) and crystallike formations. More traditional styles still look fabulous when they feature richly saturated gemstones and special metalsmithing techniques. Also look for colored gemstones in pink and green including pink sapphire, pink and green tourmaline, peridot and tsavorite (green garnet).

Off the Cuff

In warmer weather, sleeves get cropped and skin is exposed, leaving room for cuffs to be stacked up the arm. Some standout styles include bracelets that expose some skin; use organic materials like wood, mother-of-pearl, shell and moonstone; have strong details like grommets in gold; feature feminine flower carvings; or use special materials like platinum and diamonds, which are ideal for glitzy occasions.

Allyre Jewelry’s 18-karat yellow- gold triple medallion necklace set with diamonds.

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First, the jewelry appraiser can identify your jewelry as to the material, quality, workmanship, condition and other characteristics that influence the items value. For example, diamonds that appear similar to the eye can vary in terms of color, clarity, cut, fluorescence, measurements and durability. These are all factors that uniquely identify one diamond from another and can cause the value of one stone to be more than double that of another even if they are identical to the unaided eye.

Second, the jewelry appraiser can estimate the value of the jewelry item. The definition of value can vary depending on the purpose of the appraisal. For example, an appraisal value could be quite different if the purpose is 1) selling the item, 2) purchasing an item from a retailer, 3) insuring the item after purchase, 4) settling an estate, 5) distributing property in a divorce, or as an expert witness in a lawsuit.

Third, the jewelry appraiser is a witness to the existence of the property. This is important in the process of filing an insurance claim for the loss of an item where proof might be required that the jewelry existed at a certain point in time and was in a certain condition. This is why an appraiser should insist on examining the jewelry item when updating an insurance appraisal.

Fourth, the jewelry appraiser can provide advice as to the durability, wearability, and repair of jewelry items. Jewelry made of metal and gemstones can vary greatly in their hardness, toughness, and resistance to heat or chemicals. Because the appraiser has professional training (i.e. Graduate Gemologist) and is not involved in the sale of the item, they can provide unbiased recommendations based on their experience.

When selecting a jewelry appraiser, understand why you are seeking the jewelry appraisers services so you can choose the best provider of those services. Professional jewelry appraisers set their fees based on an hourly rate or a per item basis, never as a percentage of appraised value. Appraisers who are efficient and highly computerized can often provide lower prices for services than those performing the same task but take twice as long to perform them.

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Gothic jewelry, or darkside jewelry, as opposed to light, evokes images of the macabre and the preternatural: vampires, the dead and undead, spirits, black magic and the black arts. As such, artisans craft items that would appeal to a persons dark or gothic side. There is an abundance of e-commerce websites and specialty stores whose emphasis is on jewelry and the darkside. In these places, a person will be able to find gothic jewelry such as pentacle pendants, gothic cross necklaces, spider-and-web piercings, and more.

Also known as pagan jewelry, gothic body ornaments are made from many types of materials, but they are typically available in gold, sterling silver and pewter. They may come plain or be encrusted with jewels. Many pieces of gothic jewelry have their roots in esoteric sources, such as signs and symbols used in ancient Egyptian lore or those employed in Celtic rituals. Other pieces of gothic jewelry are timeless icons representing the eerie: coffin-shaped rings, heavily ornate cross brooches, earrings shaped like the heads of howling wolves.

Slave bracelets, also known as handflowers or maille bracelets, are also popular examples of gothic jewelry. These look like chain mail, or pieces of woven metal. They are different from conventional bracelets in that they are worn not just on the wrist, but on practically the whole hand, and their intricate patterns are sure to attract attention. Bib and choker necklaces are also popular gothic accessories. Catalogues of gothic jewelry oftentimes include so-called poison rings or bracelets. These items have a small compartment where the wearer can presumably keep very small or fine materials, such as powder. Maille, chandelier or dangling earrings are also available to complete ones overall look of mystery.

Gothic jewelry is easy to wear and can be used to dress up or dress down. They are easily available and the variety offered is endless. Because they depict arcane symbols and figures, gothic jewelry imparts a sense of mystery and secrecy. Popular among both the young and not-so-young, gothic jewelry may be dark, but not dreary; ornate, but not tawdry. In fact, it is just the opposite: jewelry and the darkside a hauntingly beautiful combination.

Jewelry and the Darkside: Fashionable Gothic Jewelry is a post from: Fashion And Woman

Historically, men and women have gone mad over gold and diamonds which can be tracked easily by tracking wars. Today, jewelry has many occasions and parts to adorn your body, thanks to innovative and revolutionary designing and manufacturing aided by sophisticated computers.

Jewelry Making
Common precious metals used in jewelry making are gold, silver and platinum. It is generally gold alloy which is used and the purity thus varies from 10K to 22K. While for platinum it is 900K to 950K. Silver ornaments are made from sterling silver.

Gemstones boost up the beauty and value of jewelry. All stones, diamonds, sapphires, rubies and the whole host of them are very popularly used all over the world with same fervor. Synthesized stones and semi precious stones are also equally popular as these provide unbeatably appealing looks.

Jewelry designing is a big industry which still has retained the same charm as olden times even with the onslaught of technology driven young kids. Jewelry design software makes things look so easy that with a few clicks you can design or redesign and preview your jewelry.

Where Do You Want To Wear Them
You have ornaments for whole body and occasions; so the question is where you dont want to wear. Jewelry is available for head to toes to genitals and occasions like marriage to prayer to mourning; some are piercing types and some are just wearable. But the big question is whether all these are genuine; where and how to buy jewelry?

How to Buy

Buying jewelry can be safe if you are vigilant. Here are some tips.

1. Buy from reputed jewelers.
2. Prices vary every minute and as per designs, purity, number of facets and 4Cs (for gems).
3. Insist on invoice with accurate weight, carats and warrantee.
4. For gold jewelry, check for gold hall mark.
5. For gems look for manufacturers microscopic signature and insist on certificate issued by Gemological Laboratories.

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Before we get into what and how to where jewelry there are some no-nos that you should be aware of. Relax these are too tough to follow!

Dont overdo it with jewelry. Keep it simple. Wear no more than one big piece such as earrings or necklace.

Dont wear an ankle bracelet or toe ring with a dressy outfit. It can look trashy.

Limit the number of rings. Wear chunky rings alone.

For after hours events, replace your basic day jewelry with more festive pieces.

Now for the good stuff. Heres what you can do with jewelry.

Its takes a confident person to wear bold jewelry. Going bold is great and screams Im okay with standing out in the crowd and I want everyone to know it! What it shouldnt do is over-accessorize the wrong outfit. Dont wear prints with big and bold jewelry. Sleek all black or all white are perfect with colorful jewelry.

Learn to mix metals. Its not taboo to gold with gold and silver. Just remember to keep the style of jewelry the same. Stacking square or round bangles in different shades of gold and silver is fine. You can even layer gold and silver necklaces for a modern look.

Wear the right length necklace. Wearing the wrong necklace can through any outfit out of kilter. Here are some simple guidelines for getting it right. V-neck, boat-neck and off the shoulder tops look great with collar necklaces. Chokers are great with strapless or plunging necklines. The most common length is between 17-19 inches. This can be worn with most necklines except high ones. Plunging necklines look great with a necklace length of 20-24 inches. Very high necklines are perfect for 28-34 inch necklace. This length can also be doubled for a multi-strand look.

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