Beauty Tips Guides

In every wedding procedure, there are two difficult things that can be noted in this particular event and that would be to choose the date of the wedding and choosing the wedding ring to use. This can become difficult because of so many choices that are available and finding that perfect wedding ring is simply near to impossible.

Above anything else, you need to know your budget to your ring. You cannot start choosing any ring if you don’t know exactly how much you are wiling to spend in this symbolic item for your wedding. Perhaps you will need to take a step back and take a look at how much your two-month salary will be and choose the ring that costs the exact amount as this salary. Although it is a very big amount, thinking about this very special occasion with your special someone, you would surely think it will be worth it.

However if you are worried about the cost, you can find some alternatives like knowing if there are generations rings. These are rings that are being passed down from one generation to another. You can ask them from your fiancee’s family if there is really any. It could be the excellent solution to your wedding ring problem with the addition of sentimental value on the part of the ring.

If in any case that you want to buy a diamond, it also poses great difficulty because either you do not know what kind of diamond to buy or what kind of diamond your future wife wants. An alternative to this is to ask from family or friends on exactly what diamond to buy.

Another alternative would be to bring her to the jewelry store and let her choose the ring but please do tell her of the budget, otherwise she might choose a ring way far too expensive than your budget. Should you really decide to buy a diamond, you need to learn the basic of choosing one.

First, you need to look on diamond carat because this will really make up so much of the cost of the ring. The higher the carat is, the higher the cost will be. The next thing to remember would be to look for flaws. The more flaws present on a certain diamond, the cheaper it will be. Another one would be its color. If the diamond is white, the better it is but should really be more expensive. If you have the luxury of money to spend then go for pink diamonds. The last thing you need to know would be its cut. Choose what cut you want your ring to be because this will define its sparkle.

For the diamond shape, probably you will need the round ones because they cost so much cheaper. But the most important thing there is when choosing a wedding ring is the ring that will represent your love for one another. The ring is a symbol and your love is what makes it special in this occasion. After all, this is really what the ring symbolizes for, any other thing besides this really don’t matter that much.

James Brown writes about JewelryImpressions.com on-line coupons, ICE.com on-line coupons and shopdi.com on-line coupons

American Indian jewelry is a great example of Native life and culture. This exquisite style of jewelry is usually crafted by hand, giving it a unique quality unlike cheap fabricated jewelry. These days, Indian Tribes often make a living by selling their beautiful hand crafts, jewelry, and other intriguing works of art as a means of survival. Buying Indian jewelry gives you the opportunity to help them support their culture and continue living their traditions.

As with all Native American art work, each piece of jewelry comes from a Tribe of intriguing historical legend and unique traditions. For example, Native American jewelry made by the Tigua Indians, a Puebloan tribe, is truly remarkable due to the fact that around the 1930s, their Tribe was thought by some to be extinct. It wasn’t until they reunited and began to articulate themselves as a people, reclaiming the land that had been taken from them, that they were at last identified in 1968 by President Lyndon Johnson as a tribal nation. The signing of the law by the president made Ysleta Del Sur, their new land near El Paso, Texas, into a reservation where they still live today.

Like many Indian Tribes, the Tigua Indians make jewelry and hand crafts for a living. Their jewelry is similar to the jewelry created by the Navajo Tribe of the southwestern part of the United States, and is recognized for its great design and intricate detail. By incorporating natural elements, beads and glass, along with beautiful pieces of sterling silver, they make beautiful works of art that exemplify the best of American Indian culture and hand made Native American jewelry. Investing in a piece of Tigua jewelry provides you a true appreciation of their talented art work and a look into the Tigua way of life. Traditional craftsmanship is what makes these pieces unique, and a great buy for those who love Native culture and jewelry.

When purchasing American Indian jewelry, it is important to look around and not be deceived by cheap substitutes. Purchasing genuine items, hand crafted by Native Americans, will ensure the quality of your jewelry, and give you the assurance of knowing that your piece is the real thing. As you shop for American Indian jewelry, you will realize that it can be very expensive, as is most jewelry made by hand. Fortunately, with a little work, you can locate great pieces at low costs if you know where to look. Shopping online is one of the greatest ways to come across terrific deals as well as a great variety of jewelry available.

Authentic American Indian jewelry makes a great gift idea for jewelry collectors and for those who are fascinated by American Indian culture. From a wide range of bolo ties, bracelets, necklaces, watches, rings, and more, you won’t have trouble deciding on the perfect gift for young or old. Whether buying for yourself, a friend or loved one, remember that buying true pieces of Native jewelry is not only a great choice in fine jewelry, but also an investment in the American Indian culture. You will enjoy helping keep their customs alive while owning elegant pieces of American Indian jewelry.

Craig Chambers is the director of Mission Del Rey and author offering free information online about purchasing American Indian jewelry. For more information visit http://www.missiondelrey.com

When purchasing diamond jewelry in a jewelry store, antique store, online or elsewhere, some people may simply accept that the gemstone is what it is supposed to be and not really question how it was appraised or who was responsible for the appraisal. Individuals in the jewelry business have various titles associated with the roles in which they play. For the role of appraiser, it is a good thing to ask what qualifies the individual to be an appraiser of diamond jewelry and is a graduate gemologist qualified to appraise jewelry of this type.

What Is a Graduate Gemologist?

The first step to answering the posed question is defining what a graduate gemologist is. A graduate gemologist is an individual who has earned a diploma which has presented them with the knowledge of grading and identifying gemstones. One who has received their education and awarded a diploma naming them a graduate gemologist has learned how to identify and grade gemstones.

There are a variety of schools and institutes which offer gemological training. And individuals who become graduate gemologists after attending the Gemological Institute of America sometimes go on to engage in careers such as jewelry store owner, diamond and gemstone buyers, auction house jewelry specialist, diamond manufacturer and even appraiser.

Does This Knowledge Make a Graduate Gemologist Qualified to Appraise Jewelry?

Even though some individuals who receive a graduate gemologist diploma go on to become appraisers, the public may still question whether the true qualifications are there. In other words, does this knowledge gained in their various gemology courses make them truly qualified to accurately and efficiently grade and put a value on diamonds? The answer to this question is mixed.

Some individuals in the jewelry business feel as if those with a graduate gemologist diploma do have the requisite knowledge to enable them to accurately appraise jewelry. However, others who have been in the jewelry business for many years feel that simply possessing a diploma of this type does not make an individual inherently capable of appraising jewelry.

Should Additional Training in Appraisal Theory and Methodology Be Necessary?

Some may wonder whether or not additional training in appraisal theory and methodology is necessary in addition to being a graduate gemologist. It is important to view both sides of the argument in order to present an answer to this question. Additional training may be a good idea as many diploma programs for becoming a gemologist are general in nature.

As individuals with this type of diploma enter many different occupations within the jewelry field, the range of knowledge gained by a graduate gemologist is large and brief. By obtaining more appraisal theory and methodology information through additional courses and training, the individual will be better prepared to appraise jewelry in an efficient manner.

On the other hand, those who go through the graduate gemologist course are taught the necessary things in order to make their appraisal pursuits highly possible. In their course study, graduate gemologists in training learn how to identify and grade diamonds and colored stones, but not to put a value on them or determine the overall worth of gems and jewelry in general. Therefore, some may feel as if this is more than enough knowledge gained by the graduate gemologist to make his appraisal endeavors quite successful.

In other words, the answer to the question of whether simply being a graduate gemologist provides enough knowledge for the individual doing the appraisal will ultimately be determined by the individual whom you ask.

James Greene is a Graduate Gemologist and Master Gemologist Appraiser. James has been in the jewelry and appraisal business for over 25 years and specializes in Insurance and estate appraisals. http://www.diamondmarketwatch.com

Sapphire history in very interesting. The word sapphire is derived from the Latin word ” sapphirus”, meaning blue. The history of sapphire dates back to the seventh century B.C. The oldest sapphire mines are in Sri Lanka. Indeed Marco Polo described sapphires in his thirteenth century book detailing his visit to the island of Serendib (Sri Lanka). In medieval times, blue sapphire was much sought after by European royalty. In ancient times it was believed to ward off harm and envy as well as to make stupid men wise and ill tempered men good tempered! One of the most famous sapphire deposits in located in Kashmir. This deposit dates from the 1800’s and produced magnificent sapphires of a very intense pure blue color that is intensified by the presence of very fine silky inclusions.

Sapphires are mined all over the world, but the largest sapphire source in the world is Australia. In 1987 about 75% of the world’s supply came from there. Thailand is the next largest producer of gem quality sapphires. In the 1990’s a huge deposit of fine quality blue sapphire and fancy sapphires was discovered on the island nation of Madagascar. This deposit is still being mined and numerous other deposits have been discovered all over the island. The most valuable gems come from Sri Lanka, Burma and Kashmir, although the Kashmir production is almost non existent. Sri Lanka has been mining for sapphires since before the time of Buddha. Another major source of sapphires is the Yogo Gulch deposit in Montana. Other important high quality sources recently discovered are Burma and Tanzania.

In evaluating a sapphire, the most important considerations for the evaluation and valuation of a sapphire, both blue and fancy color is color, size, quality of the cutting and clarity. Sapphire gemstones, along with Ruby gemstones also are valued by the source of origin. A Burma or Kashmir sapphire gemstone will have a higher value than a Sri Lankan sapphire of equal quality. Source can be determined by gemological tests so this has become an important criterion in valuation of very fine, larger gem sapphires. The treatment of sapphires also plays an important factor. Natural, untreated sapphire gemstones will have a higher valuation than a similar quality heat treated sapphire as they are much rarer. Color is of course the most important consideration when buying a loose sapphire. If the sapphire appears dark in low light conditions or appears lifeless and dull, its value will be greatly diminished.

If you’re thinking of buying a blue sapphire or any other gemstone, find a reputable gemstone dealer in your area or online. Make sure that they have the knowledge and trained eye for color experience to know what if a sapphire worthy of your money. When buying a loose sapphire gemstone, only buy from someone who offers an unconditional 100% guarantee for any gemstone they sell. In the case of online gemstone dealers only purchase from someone who offers a trusted certificate with the gemstone, offers free shipping and in the case the stone must be returned, covers all shipping, insurance and return costs which can be very costly.

Marc Sarosi is the owner and creator of AfricaGems.com.
A well known and highly regarded expert in gemstones, he has been in business for 24 years. Marc lived, mined and bought gemstones from all over Africa for many years.

Jewelry reflects the personality, history and even special life moments of the wearer. For centuries, jewelry has represented a special keepsake of love, a treasured heirloom or simply an adornment of beauty. To extend the life of your jewelry, it’s important to take time to clean and care for your collection. A little “TLC” goes a long way.

Diamonds
Styling products, lotions and daily grime can, over time, leave a film on your diamond ring to keep it from looking its best. Waiting too long between cleanings, the adverse materials can create build up that makes the diamond appear dull and lifeless.

While diamonds are the hardest substance known, they shouldn’t be cleaned with just any type of cleaner. It’s important to take care when cleaning your diamond as harsh chemicals or scrubbing can be counterproductive. Use this effective and gentle method when cleaning your diamonds:

1. Soak the diamond in a formula of three parts water to one part ammonia and a tiny drop of mild liquid detergent such as Ivory.
2. To remove dirt, use a soft brush - avoid using a brush with stiff bristles that could scratch the ring’s metal setting.
3. Make a couple of swishes in the solution with your ring and follow with a thorough rinse in warm water.
4. Use a lint-free cloth to dry the diamond ring.

Avoid harmful solutions such as chlorine or abrasives. These can erode some of the metals often used in diamond settings. Sometimes an ultrasonic cleaner is necessary to remove encrusted dirt on diamonds. Ultrasonic cleaners use vibrating fluid to remove accumulated dirt and grime. However, the method can shake loose stones from their mounting, so this method should not be used on fragile settings. Regular cleaning will keep diamond jewelry in gleaming condition and ready to sparkle.

Diamonds should be stored in a fabric-lined jewel case, or a box with compartments or dividers. Or wrap each piece individually in tissue paper if you use an ordinary box. Avoid storing diamonds together or with other jewelry in a drawer or jewelry case, as this can result in scratching. And most importantly, don’t leave your ring on the rim of a sink where it can easily slip down the drain.

Pearls
Most of today’s pearls are cultured pearls. Their creation was initiated by humans who insert a bead or mantle issue into an oyster. During the process, the oyster coats the bead with nacre, the much-loved patina that gives the pearls their unique appearance. The level of nacre thickness dictates the quality and durability of the pearl.

Even with a thicker coating, cultured pearls are organic and more fragile than most other gemstones. To keep them in the best condition, they must be handled gently. Following are a few suggestions for pearl care:

1. Remove your pearl prior to applying hand or body creams.
2. Pearls stay cleaner if you put them on after applying makeup and perfume.
3. Use mild soap and water to clean a dirty pearl.
4. Avoid solutions that contain ammonia or harsh detergents for cleaning.
5. Avoid an ultrasonic cleaner for your pearls.
6. Rubbing a pearl with an abrasive cloth can result in a dull, plain looking bead.

Because pearls can scratch easily, avoid storing them with other pieces of jewelry. Choose a special place in your jewelry box for your pearls, or keep them in a soft bag made from chamois or another non-abrasive material. Pearl necklaces should be restrung periodically to ensure the silk or nylon cord holding them is in good shape.

Gemstones
Gemstones are among the most durable of substances. Still, they do require care and maintenance. To keep transparent crystalline gemstones clean, soak them in water with a touch of gentle soap. In necessary, use a soft toothbrush to scrub behind the stone.

Not all gemstones should be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner. If you’re in doubt, leave it out. Diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and other single-crystal gems may be cleaned with a touch of ammonia in water to remove film and add shine.

Never use an ultrasonic cleaner or ammonia to clean opaque gemstones such as lapis lazuli, turquoise or malachite. These gems can be gently wiped clean with a moist cloth. The porous makeup of these gems can absorb chemicals or soap, resulting in discoloration.

As with other pieces of jewelry, store your gems separately so that harder stones don’t scratch the softer ones. As most gemstones are harder than the metal it is set in, gems can scratch the finish on gold, silver or platinum.

Lewis Jewelers is proud to carry the full line of Pandora Jewelry. Pandora bracelets, Pandora charms and Pandora beads are only a part of the collection. For more information, contact Lewis Jewelers at 877-88-LEWIS or visit the website.

Since ancient times, silver has been used to make jewelry and decorative items. However, since the 18th century, more silver has been mined and used than in all prior centuries combined. Silver alone is a soft metal and therefore too soft to be used for jewelry and other items. To make it more durable, it is mixed with other metals, known as alloy, to create sterling silver. To be considered sterling silver, a product must contain at least 92.5 percent pure silver

Instructions:

Difficulty: Moderate

Steps

Step One

To keep sterling silver in pristine condition and to ensure longevity, think of caring for your sterling silver as preventative maintenance. Sterling silver contains copper, which adds hardness to silver. It also creates a tendency for silver jewelry to tarnish. Tarnish is a darkening that occurs when sterling silver reacts with every day substances. Therefore, avoid exposing sterling silver to harsh chemicals such as chlorine, cosmetics, hair spray, and perfume.

Step Two

When cleaning sterling silver, choose a phosphate-free detergent. Also, choose a low abrasive cleaner, designed for cleaning silver which can aid in removing tarnish. Jewelry experts advise against using toothpaste to clean sterling silver as it can be too abrasive and leave dulling scratches. Body oils help prevent tarnishing so sterling silver jewelry that is worn often won’t have to be cleaned as often.

Step Three

For a quick cleaning, wash your jewelry periodically with mild dish soap and warm water to prevent tarnishing. Make sure to rinse sterling silver jewelry well and dry completely with a soft cloth before storing. Or try the following homemade remedy for silver pieces without gemstones:

* Line the bottom of a glass or stoneware bowl with a piece of aluminum foil. Place the tarnished silver on the aluminum foil.
* Add 2 Tbsp baking soda and 2 cups warm water. The solution should be sufficient to cover the items. Soak for a few minutes.
* Pour out the items into a colander or strainer. Rinse, dry thoroughly and shine with a polishing cloth.

Step Four

Much beloved sterling silver pieces that are worn continually will probably develop a patina that adds to the jewelry’s beauty. This patina may also include some darkened areas. Some prefer this look for their jewelry. Others may prefer a brighter look for their sterling silver. If so, use polish to restore your sterling silver jewelry to its original shiny look. An occasional polishing will also protect sterling silver from tarnishing.

Step Five

Store sterling silver jewelry in tarnish prevention cloths or bags. These items are made with treated cloth that slows down the tarnishing process. It is also important to separate jewelry when being stored so it does not rub against harder jewelry that could scratch it. If you are not going to wear the piece for a long time, use small zip lock bags to keep it sealed and dry. Do not store the silver jewelry directly in contact with wood surfaces as wood usually contains acids that can damage the finish of the jewelry. Never wrap your jewelry in newspaper or aluminum foil.

Tips and Warnings

If you want to maintain the life of your jewelry do not wear while swimming, bathing, doing dishes or cleaning. Do not expose your bracelet or other jewelry to bleach, chlorine or extended time in water, as this can weaken the strength of your bracelet or jewelry.

Sterling silver jewelry that has tarnished will turn brown and eventually black. This type of tarnishing is difficult to remove and requires professional cleaning.

A good rule for all jewelry: Jewelry should be the last thing put on when getting dressed in the morning and the first thing taken off when preparing for bed.

Lewis Jewelers is proud to carry the full line of Pandora Jewelry. Pandora bracelets, Pandora charms and Pandora beads are only a part of the collection. For more information, Lewis Jewelers, 2000 West Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48103, 877-88-LEWIS or visit the website.