Costume Jewelry Resources: 2008

Wednesday, June 18, 2008

All that Glitters Something Old, Something New...

Brides through the ages have accessorized with wedding jewelry to add a finishing touch to their bridal attire; however, many brides who don't wear jewelry in everyday life jump at the chance to wear it on their wedding day. Is it the special occasion or the chance to play dress-up that prompts these brides to don the unthinkablejewelry?

Those brides too practical to care about jewelry in real life use it on their wedding day to check off all the "somethings" that bring good lucksomething old, something new, something borrowed, something blue. Whatever your reason for wearing jewelry on your wedding day, it should complement the overall theme of the wedding, including the formality of the occasion, the design of the wedding dress, and the bridal color scheme if your jewelry includes color.

The traditional bridal jewelry ensemble consists of pearl and/or diamond earrings and necklace, often heirloom pieces (something old, something borrowed). Pearls top the list as the most popular bridal jewelry. Originally worn as a symbol of purity, pearls are understated, elegant and timeless. If you listen closely and put your ear to the ground, you can almost hear that chorus of all the Mothers of the Brides from here to Timbuktu: "Dear, you cannot go wrong with pearls." For once, Mother's mantra hits the mark.

The same holds true for diamonds. You can't go wrong with real diamonds. A rare bride can afford to be gaudy and showy with diamonds, and those who can know better. It's the blinding array of affordable simulated diamonds that leads to trouble. On your wedding day, less is always more unless you're Elizabeth Taylor. There's a fine line between a fairy tale look and gaudy. If you're not sure whether you're crossing the line, ask for help from a trusted friend or relative with an air of elegance.

If you want to wear pearls and a little flash of diamonds, the "Sweetheart" Swarovski line combines the two (something new), and offers you a choice of colors in pendants and spacers, as well as your choice of metals. Swarovski crystals and glass pearls are the finest in quality from the Czech Republic, world renowned for their crystals and semi-precious gems. Each handmade piece is customized to match the colors in your wedding. Their line also includes glass fresh water pearls. If you want to introduce a little color into your wedding jewelry, pick up a color in the bridesmaids' dresses (something blue).

Guidelines for Bridal Jewelry

Semi-formal or formal attire guidelines apply to wedding attirethe simpler the dress, the more elaborate the jewelry. You can't highlight everything, and you don't want your jewelry to compete with your gown. Intricate bridal gowns with elaborate beadwork or hand-sewn lace call for simple, elegant jewelry while unadorned bridal gowns can support jewelry with more glitter, glitz and drama.

You may hear that a white bridal gown requires silver jewelry and that an ivory bridal gown requires gold jewelry. Unless you specifically selected your bridal gown to match your engagement and wedding rings, select gold or silver jewelry according to your personal preference. You're going to find that almost everyone with whom you discuss your wedding plans has an opinion on nearly everything, usually stated as a rule.

When you select your wedding jewelry, ask yourself the following questions:

Does the jewelry fit the occasion? Is it too formal or too casual? Does the jewelry compete with your wedding dress? Does the necklace follow the curve of the neckline? For example, if your wedding gown has a round neckline, a choker follows the neckline. If your gown has a V-neck, a longer necklace follows the neckline. Does your jewelry accentuate your best features, or does it attract attention to the wrong area of your face or neckline?

Earring Options

Whether you choose studs, or dangling earrings, pearls or diamonds, the key words are delicate and elegant. If your bridal bouquet and floral displays are predominantly pastel, you can select one of the pastels for your jewelry ensemble. Pale pink pearls are stunning with a bouquet of pastel roses. Out with the rules: wear whatever makes you look and feel good.

Neckwear Options

High necklines are the only necklines that generally cannot support neckwear. The neckline is the neckwear! If you're wearing a severe neckline such as a bateau, you can wear a more dramatic necklace: a larger, dramatic pendant or a longer strand of pearls. When in doubt, a simple pearl choker complements most necklines without overpowering the gown.

Tiaras

If you elect to wear a tiara, limit the rest of your jewelry to simple stud or button earrings and understated neckwear. You chose the tiara to make a statement; let it do just that. In fact, you may want to forego a necklace when wearing a tiara so that the eye wanders up to the tiara.

When selecting your jewelry, determine which asset you want to emphasize, and use jewelry to draw attention to that asset.

M J Plaster is a successful author who provides information on shopping online for jewelry and engagement rings. M J Plaster has been a commercial freelance writer for almost two decades, most recently specializing in home and garden, the low-carb lifestyle, investing, and anything that defines la dolce vita.

Sterling Silver Jewelry Today

Sterling silver jewelry: silver and gemstone rings, sterling silver earrings, bracelets and pendants are some of the hottest fashion accessories today! Sterling silver jewelry is enjoying an unprecedented popularity with today's fashion conscious public. You know how beautifully sterling silver jewelry complements fashionable clothing and how it sparkles and shines; now here is the rest of the story.

Silver has been used since ancient times, but has not survived as well as ancient gold because it tarnished and decomposes. There have been times, however, when silver was "in"; we are going through such a vogue today.

Silver is the most common of the precious metals. Fine silver is pure silver, which is seldom used for jewelry because it is too soft. Sterling silver is 925 parts silver to 75 of copper, the alloy most often used. Silver weighs about half as much as gold, has greater flexibility, but is not as malleable, it has always been less expensive as well. A comparable piece of gold jewelry might cost four or five times that of a piece of sterling silver jewelry.

The current fashion trend toward black clothing has made silver jewelry more popular than ever. Silver likes to be worn; it stays cleaner & shinier through movement and friction. So sterling silver is a perfect accessory for today's fast paced lifestyles. Much like gold, sterling silver needs to be cleaned.

Care and Cleaning of your Sterling Silver Jewelry

1.) For daily cleaning it is recommended to use a simple jewelry polishing cloth that is impregnated with special jewelry cleaner. These are widely available and are very easy to use. Store your cloth in a plastic zip-lock bag, and keeping your jewelry drawer or armoire. It is a good idea to have one cleaning cloth for gold and one for silver.

2.) For a slightly more "in-depth" cleaning you may want to use a liquid jewelry cleaner.

3.) For cleaning badly tarnished silver, here's a neat little trick

a) Cover the inside bottom of a heatproof glass dish on bowl with a piece of aluminum foil, shiny side up.

b) Place the tarnished silver in the bottom of the dish, contacting the aluminum foil.

c) Add 1 heaping tablespoon of baking soda, and then slowly pour boiling water to cover the piece. The tarnish will gradually collect on the aluminum foil.

d) Remove your silver, rinse thoroughly, and polish.

Here are Some Tips for Greater Enjoyment of your Sterling Silver Jewelry

1.) Are your silver chains all tied-up in knots? If so, here's a nifty little trick for straightening them out. Dust your chain with a little talcum powder and then try to unknot it. If the knot is stubborn, place a small drop of baby oil on a sheet of wax paper. Lay the knot in the oil and work it out with two pins; then clean the chain as instructed below.

2.) Always apply make-up, perfumes, oils or colognes before you put on your jewelry.

We hope you have enjoyed this special report. Please feel free to share it with your friends!

For more information on jewelry and gemstones, we cordially invite you to visit http://www.morninglightjewelry.com to pick up your FREE copy of How To Buy Jewelry And Gemstones Without Being Ripped Off. This concise, informative special report reveals almost everything you ever wanted to know about jewelry and gemstones, but were afraid to ask. Get your FREE report at http://www.morninglightjewelry.com

Choosing Estate Jewelry

Choosing estate jewelry can be a little scary at first but what you need to remember is buying estate jewely is no different than choosing your wardrobe.

The most important thing is to buy jewelry you like and that works with your personality and wardrobe to make your fashion style. You need to watch for quality and reputable sellers. Online is the perfect place to buy estate jewelry.

It also never hurts to try something different and buy jewelry that's a little different than what you would normally buy. Change is good! What's most important is that your jewelry adds the finishing touches to your outfit. Make your fashion statement count and get noticed!

You need to determine what you want your jewelry to do. Do you want it front and center stage? Do you want it to compliment? Do you want it subtle? The occasion or event you'll be wearing your jewelry to is also important - make certain it is fitting. A sexy oversized choker might be perfect for a night on the town but may not be fitting for the boardroom.

Although you may have a favorite designer. There's really no need to stick with just one designer. In fact there's no need for the pieces to actually be designer. There are plenty of wonderful pieces on the market that are unsigned but certainly make a fashion statement. Mix and match your jewelry to give it character and a little pizzaz!

Costume Jewelry, both signed and unsigned, is an affordable way to complete your look. Costume Jewelry can be bought for a low price and has plenty of life. Heck we see costume jewelry back to the 1920s still in excellent condition. What's great with costume jewelry is you can use it, get tired of it, put it away or give it away and have still gotten good value for your money. Designer pieces tend to cost a little more, last a little longer, and they usually follow more traditional lines so you can wear them for more than one or two seasons.

Sterling Silver is affordable and very versatile. If you don't want to spend the money for sterling, then purchase some silver plate pieces. Silver is a must have to any wardrobe! You can go from dainty and delicate to large and noticeable. It can be dressed up or down and is acceptable for any event or occasion.

We always recommend have some gold plate or gold tone pieces in your wardrobe basics also. 10-14k gold may be a bit too pricey for many but gold plated jewelry is quite affordable and will give you good value for the cost. Gold like silver can be dressed up or dressed down and is perfect for a very classy look.

When purchasing rings you can have great fun - again the choices are endless from large and overwhelming to dainty and feminine. The length and size of your fingers plays an important role in what will look good. For example long skinny fingers don't look good with huge oversized rings, yet a woman that has long thicker fingers they look exquisite. Long nails? Short nails? it all makes a difference. Play and see what you like what looks good. Also determine where you will be wearing these rings. For example if your working around fine fabrics you'll not want any rins that have sharp edges that could snag. Your rings are also part of your total statement.

When purchasing necklaces be certain you know your neck size so that you get a good fit. This is very important when purchasing on line as you don't get a chance to try. If your neck is average in size then a 16" necklace will look great, however if you have a somewhat larger than average neck then a 16" necklace could be too tight. Measure the length of some of your favourite necklaces you already own. This will give you a good indication of what length you prefer. Opera necklaces which are over 30" are terrific. They can be double wrapped, knotted, or whatever else your imagination comes up with. When choosing colored necklaces make sure its a color that compliments your skin tone. It may match your outfit fabulously but if it doesn't match or compliment your skin tone your look could be lost.

When purchasing bracelets you'll need to decide where you're going to wear them, and how noticeable you want them to be. The availability of size and shape is endless - you can go from large bangle bracelets to dainy gem bracelets. If it is a slip on bracelet be sure that it will fit over your hand. Make certain to measure your wrist as the fit of a bracelet is very important. To large and it will look sloppy and may even slide off. Too small can constrict your wrist movement.

When purchasing earrings - the shapes and styles are endless - from dangles to chandeliers to hoops to studs to buttons. From enamel to beads to gems to metal to wood. Size of the earrings is very important to the statement your making. The larger the earring the more noticeable and the more incorporated they become into your total look. Large earrings aren't for everyone - depending on your face size and shape they may actually detract rather than attract. Experiment and find what looks best on you.

Your jewelry choices are endless - no matter what your tastes, your likes, your dislikes. You'll be able to complete your look just the way you want it with little effort. So be sure to make your fashion statement!

Sher from Estate Jewelry International have been serving customers for over 20 years, providing affordable estate jewelry, and a wealth of information on jewelry, fashion, designers, and beauty with on staff industry professionals. Please visit us at Estate Jewelry International.

Taking Care Of and Cleaning Jewelry

First, how susceptible is your jewelry to scratches and chemical products? Hardness is based on a gem-trade standard called the Mohs scale. The higher the Mohs scale number, the harder the stone is. The highest Mohs scale rating is 10 (diamonds). Anything with a Mohs scale rating of less than 7 is easily scratched (such as coral, lapis lazuli, opal, pearl, and turquoise). Gold, silver, and platinum are only Mohs 2-1/2 to 4.

Because a diamond can scratch gold or pearls it is always important to store all jewelry pieces separately. Gold jewelry will last you a lifetime if it is taken care of. Gold can be scratched and dented if you are not careful. Because of where they are worn, gold rings and bracelets will get the most damage, much more so than earrings or necklaces. Chemicals also can cause damage to gold. One of the worst is chlorine. Constant exposure to chlorinated cleaning products will make the gold weak and prone to breaking. Don't wear your gold in the swimming pool or Jacuzzi. Take your jewelry off around the house when cleaning but if you prefer to wear rings and bracelets wear rubber gloves for protection. Even makeup, perfume, hairspray, and perspiration can cause gold jewelry to lose its luster. Clean your jewelry regularly using a good jewelry cleaner. A quick clean can be done with a baby tooth brush and mild soap and a small amount of ammonia. (Never clean in the sink as the jewelry might fall down the drain, always clean in a bowl away from a drain pipe) Grease can be removed from karat gold jewelry by dipping into plain rubbing alcohol. Always rinse thoroughly and dry after cleaning. Keep it wrapped separately in a soft cloth, jewelry box divider or plastic baggie. Keep your eye on prongs that could break and cause the loss of a stone. An occasional visit to a professional jeweler is the best idea.

Platinum is one of the rarest and most durable precious metals. It does not tarnish or get discolored from chlorine. Even though it is very tough you still need to take good care of your platinum jewelry. Store it separately because platinum can be scratched. Platinum can be cleaned in the same manner as other fine jewelry.

You will probably be surprised that sunlight can cause many colored gemstones to fade, change color or become pale. Common stones that are damaged in sunlight (there may be more): Amethyst, Ametrine, Apatite, Aquamarine, Aventurine, Beryl, Celestite, Chrysoprase, Citrine, Fluorite, Kunzite, Rose Quartz, and Smokey Quartz. Pearls are organic stones and quickly react to any form of chemicals like perfumes, hand lotions, hair spray, etc. Chemicals directly attack the nacre, ruining the luster, which causes patches on your pearl. Put your pearl jewelry on last after you have applied your perfumes, lotions, etc. They should not be worn along with any other jewelry items such as chains or even watches. Clean pearls only with lukewarm water. Never brush them in any way. You can then wipe it with a regular cotton cloth. The silk is delicate and gets stretched after a period of time. Always store bead necklaces (such as lapis, pearls, etc) flat as that will keep the silk from stretching. It could break when the strand is worn on a regular basis. You should have them checked, to see if they need to be re-strung, every 3 years if you wear them regularly. Opals are water-based stones. Sudden temperature changes cause them to crack in multiples (known as Crazing). They should thus be cleaned only in room temperature water (68F - 75F) and then wiped with a soft cotton cloth. Emeralds, naturally coming out of the ground have several surface breaking inclusions in them. Almost all of them are treated through oiling to hide these inclusions. They cannot be immersed in ultrasonic cleaners or steam machines for this reason. The oiling will either discolor or come out during the cleaning process. Thus they can only be cleaned with room temperature water (68F - 75F) and a cotton cloth.

Your silver jewelry tarnishes when exposed to air. This occurs more quickly in damp and foggy weather and even sunshine, but is inevitable in any climate. Tarnish first appears as a golden hue on your sterling silver then turns to black. Always store in treated paper or cloth, or plastic zip lock bags made of Mylar (turkey cooking bags) or polyethylene. Some plastic contains sulfur compounds which can cause tarnish faster. Never use polyvinyl plastic bags. Tiny zip-lock bags work great for each individual piece. Don't store sterling silver jewelry on wood surfaces as wood usually contains acids that can mar the finish. Also avoid storing silver with other metals like pennies and rubber. Don't wear rubber gloves when washing or polishing silver because rubber promotes tarnish. Dry and polish silver with a soft cloth, not paper towels. You can use a baby tooth brush or a horsehair silver brush but stays away from paper, polyester and course fabrics that contain wood fibers as this can scratch your silver. Ordinary toothpaste is a good, quick cleaner but is mainly recommended for gold, not silver. If you don't want to rub the silver (or you're uncomfortable working with acid), make a dip using baking soda, aluminum foil and hot water. Place a 2' length of aluminum foil into a plastic bucket, and pour 1/2 gallon of hot water over it. Then pour a cup of fresh baking soda into the water (if the soda is fresh, it will begin foaming). Submerge a piece of silver in the water, and allow it to sit for 30 minutes. Then pull out the silver, rinse it, and allow it to dry.

For a more of a heavy duty cleaner get a pickle jar and combine one inch of cleaning detergent (like Top Job or Mr. Clean), one inch of dish washing liquid and one inch of ammonia. Fill the rest of the container with water. Shake well, heat in microwave and pour into an old pot and simmer on stove. Put your silver or gold into the solution and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Remove from solution and rinse with water. Dry well.

About the Author:

Elizabeth Ann Scaling Tucker is a retired grandmother of 5. She retired after 35 1/2 years with the Department of Defense. In her retirement years, she is a grandchild sitter and an assistant webmaster for family websites. You can see one of the websites at http://www.diamondengagementweddingrings.com/

Rhinestones Have A Glittering Past

Rhinestones have a glittering past. Originally rhinestones where referred to Czechoslovakian or Bohemian glass dating as far back as the 13th century in Bohemia and the Czech Republic. Both have a history steeped in beautiful hand blown glass as well as molded and cut glass.

By 1918 glass was no longer limited to functional items. Czechoslovakian glass began to make its appearance in dazzling and brilliant jewelry. This Czech glass became known as rhinestones.

Rhinestones were manmade gems from highly refined glass. By using various metals the glass was colored to the desired shade. It was then pressed into molds. Each stone was then ground and polished by machine, resulting in a brilliant glass stone. Often the stones were foiled on the back which increased their brilliance.

Today, the same refining process is still used. You will often here rhinestones referred to as paste. Originally paste was referred to a glass stone that made of ground glass which was molded and then melted, producing an opaque dense glass frosted stone. Paste had many air bubbles and swirl marks. The high lead content glass was then polished and faceted, and set on either copper or silver resulting in a brilliant stone. Today the term paste usually refers to rhinestones. In Europe rhinestones are often referred to as paste, strass, and diamante.

Prior to this invention it would take a very long time for each stone to be hand cut and finished. Swarovskis background in glass making, combined with his glass cutting machine soon found him producing rhinestones with a lead content of over 30%. The brilliance of these rhinestones was superior to anything seen on the market. Swarovski wasnt content with his invention and the best rhinestones ever seen.

His next invention was once again transforming to the jewelry industry. He created a vacuum plating for the backs of the stones with silver and gold, reducing the need for hand labor. Still today Swarovski rhinestones are recognized as the highest quality in the industry. Over 80% of rhinestone jewelry manufactured in America use Swarovski rhinestones.

Rhinestones have played an important role in costume jewelry for hundreds of years. It is used to enhance and accent, and sometimes rhinestones will provide the entire design. During the Victorian period common motifs for jewelry included snakes, flowers, and hands most often adorned with rhinestones.

The 1890s were a time for extravagant jewelry heavily adorned with rhinestones. As time moved forward designs became simpler with figural shapes once again making their fashion statement. However this time they were small and more elegant with small rhinestone accents.

During the Edwardian period extravagance had made a comeback with diamonds and pearls being the focal point. Once again rhinestones were in heavy use, often used to imitate the real thing.

During the 1920s fashions were rapidly changing. Dresses had gone from fitted to a looser more comfortable style. Two distinct styles occurred during this era the feminine style and the androgynous style. Jewelry from the 1920s drew on the art deco period. The majority of rhinestone jewelry was made with clear rhinestones.

As the 1920s moved jewelry once again became bolder. Dramatic color was in style. Designer Coco Chanel was an integral figure in the setting the stage for jewelry of this era. During the 1930s during the depression labor intensive fashion was no longer feasible.

While the world was in turmoil, jewelry represented an affordable comfort to many women. Inexpensive costume jewelry could be used to revitalize an old outfit. The industry began to produce bright colored enamel pieces accented with rhinestones. Dogs, birds, or cats with a rhinestone eye were common place.

The jewelry during the 1940s once again became big and bold with rhinestones being produced in every imaginable color, large stones set on large bold settings was the norm. By the 1950s there were two very distinct looks elegant and sophisticated for the more mature woman, and casual and fun for the younger woman. The 1950s saw jewelry made completely from rhinestones. For the younger woman were flirty pieces, for the older woman sophisticated elegance. Rhinestone parures became extremely popular.

In 1953 the aurora borealis rhinestone was introduced to the market with its fabulous array of color. It was an instant hit! By 1960s women were wearing very functional clothing. By the late 1960s the hippie fashions were extremely popular with their roots tied to Mother Nature. Tie dyed shirts, long flowing skirts, frayed jeans were everywhere. This generation had no interest in rhinestone jewelry.

By the mid 1970s the punk look had been born and the rhinestone was revitalized. It was the disco movement brought the rhinestone back to center stage. The disco movement turned into the club movement during the 1980s and rhinestone jewelry continued to gain popularity.

Since the 1970s rhinestone have remained main stream in the jewelry world. They continue to gain popularity and today there is a style to suit almost every ones needs. There is rhinestone jewelry which is perfect for a bride, rhinestone jewelry for a prom girl, rhinestone jewelry for the young and fun crowd, the business woman, the sophisticated woman, and the mature woman. Beautiful pieces of rhinestone jewelry adorn almost every womans accessories.

If trends are an indication of the rhinestones future, it appears to have a vibrant healthy life ahead of it. Pleasing for most woman with a fashion sense who instantly recognize the value and beauty of rhinestones!

About the author: Sher has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing affordable estate jewelry, and a wealth of information on jewelry, fashion, designers, and beauty with on staff industry professionals. Please visit us at Estate Jewelry International.

Celtic & Claddagh Jewelry

The History of Symbolism, Legend & Lore

History of Claddagh Jewelry

Claddagh jewelry is modeled after the claddagh ring, which first surfaced in Ireland more than 400 years ago. The claddagh ring has a rich history; if you aren't familiar already, the claddagh ring is shaped to resemble two hands grasping a heart with a crown on top. Legend & lore has several explanations for the creation of this unique and popular pattern.

One legend is that a man named Richard Joyce while on a voyage to the Mediterranean was captured by Armenian pirates, and spend years in captivity as a result. While held captive he learned the skills necessary to become an artificer of precious metals. Joyce eventually was returned to his homeland, despite protests from his owner, who had wished he would marry his daughter. Joyce pursued a career in crafting gold and silver jewelry.

Many myths abound as to how Joyce came up with the symbolism he used in his claddagh jewelry, but the true origins are not known.

Yet another legend follows a similar story; it tells the tale of Richard, a young man who was kidnapped by Spanish pirates one day while fishing with other men in his family. Richard and his family were sold into slavery off the North Coast of Africa. Just before being captured Richard had met his true love, and lived in fear that he would never see her again. Richard longed for his beloved, and each day to remember her he stole a minute amount of gold from the slave masters shop where he worked. After years had passed he was able to create a ring with the gold he gathered. Richard's hope was that one day, if freed, he could present the day to his love. One day Richard was able to return to Ireland, and found his beloved awaiting him. He offered her the claddagh ring for her devotion and patience.

The second story regarding the origin of this style ring and other claddagh jewelry is much more highly regarded, because among other things claddagh jewelry has come to symbolize love and devotion.

Claddagh jewelry has become very popular in Ireland over the centuries, and many of the pieces fashioned after this style are often kept as heirlooms among family members. At the time of Joyce there was a Claddagh village, which remained as a self contained community until about 70 years ago. Jewelry fashioned in the claddagh style is considered part of Irish legend & lore, and remains an important part of Irish history. Today claddagh jewelry is worn as a symbol of Irish heritage, friendship, unity and love among people in all cultures.

Tradition has it that if a claddagh ring is worn on the right hand, with the crown turned inward the wearer is still searching for love; if the crown is worn facing outward love is in the air. For those that wear the ring on the left of course, a person is said to be spoken for.

Celtic Jewelry Traditions

Celtic jewelry, like claddagh jewelry is rich in history and tradition. The term "Celtic" typically refers to people who are descendants of different provinces of western Europe, who lived during the time around the birth of Christ. Most Celtic history, legend & lore have been passed down from generation to generation via word of mouth, or through artwork and symbolism. Much celtic jewelry displays symbolism that represents life, death, the change of seasons, love and human spirit. Celtic jewelry is often embedded with many symbols that have been passed down from as early as the 8th century B.C.

Each of the symbols used in celtic jewelry have different meanings. Some were created by artisans, whereas others were created by tribal members.

Knotwork Designs

Celtic knotwork designs are perhaps the most well known celtic symbols; crafted by artisans these designs are woven into rings, bracelets, earrings, pendants and wedding bands. Symbols may reflect power and unity, and more commonly spiritual belief and kinship among people and eternity.

Other common designs crafted by Celtic craftsmen included:

Triskeles - The Triskele represented the importance of the number three, which symbolized the Threefold Sister Goddess worshiped by the Druids.
Spirals - This symbol was often found on Dolmans and gravesites; the true meaning of the symbol isn't quite known though many believe it represents the outer soul or higher spirit forms, the idea of growth and expansion and higher energy. A double spiral represents equinoxes.
Animal Motifs - Animal motifs represent a variety of different traditions; Birds were thought to represent death transitions; Boars symbolized masculine power; Bulls represent virility and wealth; Cats represented guardians; Cranes suggested punishment or deception; Deer represented profound changes in life; Dragons represent magic and power; Eagles were linked to God; Serpents the cycle of life, particularly when it shed its skin.
Crosses - The cross evolved in the British Isles, with the earliest form dating from the 9th century. Legend has it that St. Patrick created the first Celtic cross by drawing a circle over a traditional Latin cross. The circle is thought to represent eternity and God's love which is endless. The four arms of the cross have been used by other cultures to denote the four elements and the four parts of man (mind, body, soul and heart).
Chevrons - These symbols, resembling arrowheads linked together, represent power.

The oldest and most recognized of these symbols is the single spiral. Growth, expansion, cosmic energy, all of these ideas could be represented by the single spiral. The tightly wound symbol has been used by many other cultures since the time of the Celts. Many believe a spiral spinning in a counter clockwise direction is representative of the larger summer sun.

Celtic knots are considered the most ornamental pattern associated with the Celtic people. Celtic knotwork patterns were discovered all over Ireland in early settlements and at burial grounds. The idea that life is never ending, and that people are re-born at death is incorporated into the idea of loops or knots with no beginning and no end. One of the more well known celtic knots is the Trinity Knot, which is actually a combination of Celtic and spiritual heritage.

Whether purchasing claddagh jewelry or celitc jewelry, you can be assured that you are investing in gems that are rich in symbolism and tradition. Celtic and claddagh jewelry have been around for centuries, and will continue to be popular in many cultures and regions of the world.

About The Author:

With more than 10 years professional experience, freelance writer Antigone Arthur has completed a number of informative articles providing valuable insight for consumers on such topics as celtic jewelry, antique celtic engagement rings, and celtic wedding rings.

Jewelry Making for Fun and Profit

There is an old adage that says work isnt really work if you enjoy what youre doing. If one of your hobbies is jewelry making, why not turn this activity into a source of income? Youre already having fun anyway, and it wouldnt take a whole lot more to share your jewelry creations with people who would appreciate them and be more than happy to pay for them. With a bit of extra effort, time management and discipline, jewelry making is a great way to have fun and make a bit of extra money on the side.

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.

Sam Serio is an Internet Marketer, musician and a writer on the subject of jewelry and gemstones. For more information on jewelry and gemstones, we cordially invite you to visit http://www.morninglightjewelry.com to pick up your FREE copy of How To Buy Jewelry And Gemstones Without Being Ripped Off. This concise, informative special report reveals almost everything you ever wanted to know about jewelry and gemstones, but were afraid to ask. Get your FREE report at http://www.morninglightjewelry.com

Guide To Buy Jewelry Online

According to Goldman Sachs, Harris Interactive, and Nielsen/NetRatings, Christmas online jewelry sales more than doubled, hitting a new record of $1.89 billion, up from $888 million last year. The jewelry sector becomes the highest riser in todays booming online shipping. If you type jewelry or diamond rings on Google, a few hundred of jewelry retail websites comes out. To do research online before purchasing is very important.

Three things consumers look for are quality, price and customer service. Good websites always states everything clearly. Blue Nile clearly states out the color, clarity, numbers of diamonds, total diamond weight, setting type, metal, and width in their diamond ring pages. There are websites stating their diamond color is F/H and clarity is VVS/VS. F color, VVS1 clarity stones are very different and much more expensive than H color and VS2 stones. How can consumers be clear with the quality they are getting?

We can see that most websites have good returning policy, and the big ones offer up to 30 days returning policy. This is the most important service for online jewelry stores. Good returning policy shows the website confident with their quality and service. It covers a lot of potential risk of online jewelry shopping. Mondera, Ice and Diamond.com all provide very good customer service. Unless you are very confident and familiar with the jewelry website, purchasing from any one with poor returning policy is risky.

One of the major reasons consumers purchase jewelries online, especially high end diamond pieces, is because of the price. With sufficient amount of research, you truly can purchase some high quality jewelries at 30%-60% off the retail market price. We should first understand these jewelry websites business model. Many of the sites are run by previous retail jewelers. They have many years experience and connections in the industry. They memo jewelry pieces and diamonds from wholesale vendors in New York or Los Angeles, add a margin and resell them out. Some jewelry sites are run by students fresh out of college. They create great websites, and get their vendors drop shipping directly to their consumers. Because they dont have to pay high rent in expensive location, they dont have the same high mark up as local jewelry stores. They highly threaten traditional jewelry stores, and with financial experts prediction, 1/3 of the traditional jewelry stores will either disappear or go on line in the next 5 years. Recently, I have found few companies take it to a new step. Like Dell, they manufacture jewelries and sell them directly through their website. Their prices are surprisingly low. http://www.nicerings.com is one of them. For the same high quality diamond jewelry pieces, their prices are almost 1/3 of the retail market price and of other jewelry websites price. With 30 days return guarantee and Free FedEx overnight, their existence speeds up the existing competitive jewelry industry. It is not surprising if we are going to see more and more jewelry wholesalers and manufacturers coming online in the next few years.

Jewelry educational and price comparison sites are very helpful for online jewelry shoppers. Out of them, http://www.pricescope.com offers a very profound education about diamonds; and you can find very good answers to your jewelry questions in their forums.

How to Clean Gold Jewelry

Gold jewelry to a woman is priceless. Although gold jewelry comes in many different styles and colors, the care and cleaning procedure for all golden treasures remain the same. Good common sense is your best guide, and these important tips on how to clean gold jewelry will help you keep your exquisite pieces lustrous and shining.

Gold is tarnish-resistant, but it can get dirty or smudged. Lotions, powders, soaps, even natural skin oils that we use regularly can cover your jewelry and cut down their brilliance. Jewelry cleaning removes any such build-up or residue and restores the original sparkle and shine to make your precious jewelries last a lifetime.

Although numerous commercial products are available to clean gold jewelry, most often water and a mild detergent is sufficient to restore the radiance, and a soft brush helps to gently clean intricate filigree designs and stones. Sometimes it can be helpful to soak the gold jewelry in a solution of one part ammonia and six parts water for up to sixty seconds. It is imperative to dry and polish your gold jewelry with a chamois or soft cloth after cleaning.

Jewelry polishing cloths are an effective and inexpensive way of keeping your bits of gold glittering and radiant. These essential cotton cloths help to remove tarnish and to buff jewelry to look as good as new. Avoid wearing jewelry while in contact with household chemicals, such as chlorine bleach as this can discolor or damage your gold jewelry mountings.

Proper storage of jewelry when not in use is essential to keep your golden treasures clean and new. When storing your jewelry, be careful that pieces do not tumble against each other to avoid scratching and loss of radiance. Ideally, store your jewelry in a fabric-lined jewel case, or a box with compartments or dividers or store each piece in individual soft cloth pouches.

It is important to check the stone settings of your jewelry periodically for any damage to the gold prongs or bezels. Immersing the jewelry in rubbing alcohol for a few seconds will restore the gorgeous sparkle to cloudy stones. It is very important to dry the jewelry thoroughly after cleaning before wearing or storing. Remember that Pave set (glued in stones) jewelry should never be immersed in water while cleaning gold jewelry.

Ben Sather is the publisher of http://www.a2-gold-jewelry.com/ - A gold jewelry information resource. You can publish this article if the author's byline is included and all links are hyperlinked.

Teen Jewelry Fashion Exposed

Teenagers are a fickle bunch. At that stage of physical and psychological growth, they are constantly experimenting with things to improve their image and their look. Teen jewelry fashion plays a major part in the development of their identity and efforts to either blend in with the crowd or establish their own unique persona. Any parental endorsement of fashion accessories is akin to the kiss of death, and adolescents look to other influences when it comes to teen jewelry fashion.

The celebrities that teenagers see in music videos, television programs or movie screens are largely responsible for dictating trends in teen jewelry fashion. The oversized, ostentatious accoutrements favored by rap musicians have spawned the hip-hop jewelry trend, and teenagers have been patronizing lower-priced but accurate replicas of celebrity bling bling. Instead of the diamonds and other precious gems used in celebrity jewelry, cheaper zirconia and base metals are used for duplicates. Body jewelry (both the pierced and non-pierced types) that is unusually designed and made with inexpensive materials has also seen an increase in teenage patrons.

Beaded jewelry and woven friendship bracelets and rings are some of the other hot trends in teen jewelry fashion. Many teenagers make these dress accessories themselves and give them to friends as gifts. These are personalized with beads that have the letters of the recipients name on them are incorporated into the woven fibers. Many teenagers also wear certain types of jewelry to identify them as part of a clique or group. These may take the form of uniquely designed pendants, rings or charms that have spiritual or mystical overtones.

Feminine teen jewelry fashion styles are also influenced largely by young celebrities today. Items worn by teen stars, such as Hilary Duffs slave bracelets, are copied by her non-celebrity counterparts. However, whimsical designs are still hugely popular among this set of young consumers. Gold- or silver-plated jewelry and jewelry that has gemstones has not lost its following among teenagers.

Some masculine teen jewelry fashion trends, on the other hand, tend to lean more toward beadwork, silverwork, leatherwork, and unusual stones. Teenage guys seem to think that sporty-looking accessories, such as so-called surfer-dude necklaces and arm bands made from bone, wood, or shell beads on a rubber or leather cord are cool. Stainless steel jewelry is popular with them, too.

Jewelry has been used by all people throughout history as marks of beauty or to denote social status. Adolescents are not immune to these patterns; in fact they are probably even more susceptible to them because of their need to simultaneously conform and stand out. Teenage jewelry fashion is part of their social arsenal and a tool in the development process.

Hip-hop Jewelry and Todays Stars

Watch any of the major movie, television, and music award shows on television today and one of the first things youll notice about the celebrities on the red carpet, aside from their extravagant (and sometimes outlandish) attire, are the amount and size of the jewelry they are wearing. Hip-hop jewelry, more commonly known as bling-bling, is definitely not understated fashion. The bigger and the flashier it is, the better. Preferred by many of todays celebrities, hip-hop jewelry adorns the fingers, necks, arms, even the teeth of many stars.

Oversized studs and chains are the trademarks of hip-hop jewelry and are preferred by celebrities such as Sean Combs, or P. Diddy. At the 2004 MTV Video Music Awards, he sported a diamond ring, bracelet, and watch from Jacob and Company. Rapper 50 Cent is another celebrity who is hardly ever seen without his hip-hop jewelry. On his web site, 50 Cent offers more affordable, though just as flashy, bling-bling for those of us who do not earn the megabucks that he and his fellow celebrities rake in. There are also many other web sites that offer low-priced hip-hop jewelry inspired by popular rap artists.

Hip-hop jewelry comes in many shapes and sizes, all of them meant to catch the eye and attract attention. Heavy chains of silver or gold (or both) can oftentimes be seen on celebrities such as LL Cool J and Ja Rule in their music videos. Hip-hop jewelry web sites offer fully iced-out bling-bling, or watches, rings, bracelets and earrings that are heavily decorated with real or faux diamonds. So-called spinner watches and rings are big best sellers in the hip-hop jewelry category. Also available are customized, removable gold, silver and platinum teeth which may be studded with jewels and gemstones, so even the pearly whites can have their share of hip-hop jewelry.

Women celebrities are keeping pace with their male counterparts when it comes to wearing hip-hop jewelry. Stars such as Beyonce, Lil Kim, Ashanti and Missy Elliott are regularly seen in pictures wearing large diamond jewelry items of various colors. Even young female celebrities are getting on the bling-bling bandwagon. Teen stars like Jo Jo and Hilary Duff are said to be avid hip-hop jewelry enthusiasts and count themselves among the large number of bejeweled stars today.

Large, ostentatious pieces of jewelry did not start becoming popular only because of the hip-hop cultural phenomenon (think Elvis Presley and Tom Jones), but hip-hop has altered the jewelry market in a big way. Fans see what their favorite celebrities are wearing, and there are numerous options for them to emulate their idols at least in terms of fashion. Jewelry has always been a part of popular culture, and todays hip-hop jewelry and the celebrities who wear them are even more so in this age of instant information.

Designing Jewelry for Teenagers - A Profitable Market Niche

Teenage jewelry is an important and lucrative market niche. Todays 12- to 19-year-old crowd shops for fashions more than any other age group.

Fashion market analysts say that American teens currently spend $33 billion a year on fashion and beauty, with over 90% of them shopping for clothes and accessories at least once a month.

For many teenagers, fashion is an important part of establishing their identity. Jewelry, clothes, shoes, and hairstyles can set young adults apart or make them fit in. In this age group more than any other, what you wear symbolizes what you believe, who you are (or want to be), and what group you belong to. Teens also have fun experimenting with fashion and color as their own personal style evolves.

You may want to consider having at least a small section of your jewelry business cater to the teenage market. A considerable amount of jewelry is bought by and for teenagers - both girls and boys - for four main reasons:

1. This age group is always looking for something new; a typical teenage fashion trend lasts only six to twelve months. In my own experience, it's very rare for a teen to pass my booth at a show without stopping to look carefully at nearly everything in my display.

2. Jewelry is a popular gift for adults to give to teens. Especially around gift-giving occasions, I often have adult customers asking me, "Do you have any jewelry for teenagers?"

3. Many teens love to shop, and many also have a sizeable amount of spending money. Their income tends to be stable since it comes from multiple sources (parents, part-time jobs, babysitting, gifts) - and most of their income is disposable.

4. The teenage population is growing, and this demographic is expected to continue for several years. That means that spending among this group will most likely increase.

Tips for Designing Jewelry for the Teenage Market:

* The entertainment industry is the most significant influence on teen fashion and beauty trends. Watch what's being worn by young celebrities, pop stars, alternative bands, etc. Check in on MTV occasionally, and thumb through teen-oriented magazines.

* Ask a few teenagers you know for jewelry ideas and feedback. You may be surprised by their insights.

* Visit a Hot Topic store, if your local mall has one.

* Keep in mind that teenagers generally don't want to wear anything their parents would wear - so whether *you* would wear a particular piece of jewelry is not the best barometer of its marketability to teenagers (unless you're a teenager yourself, of course).

* Spirituality is an important issue for teenagers. Young adults are exploring their beliefs and tend to like symbols of philosophies they want to be identified with. Spiritual jewelry tends to appeal to a significant portion of teens.

(Examples of spiritual elements that can be incorporated into teen jewelry include crystals and healing stones, crosses / fish / WWJD, star of David, and other symbols of major religions. And don't forget about the appeal of alternative spirituality, symbolized by elements such as Buddhas, chakra-rainbow jewelry, ankhs, Quan Yin, etc. You might want to choose just one or two religious directions to represent in your teen jewelry line.)

* Stock some tempting impulse-purchase items. Teens have a low resistance to impulse buys, and a price point of $15 or less can make a tempting piece of jewelry irresistible.

* Body jewelry is hugely popular among teens. Remember it doesn't always have to be pierced styles - nonpierced body jewelry is widely worn among this deomgraphic. In warm weather, teens will be susceptible to tempting displays of affordable ankle bracelets, toe rings, barefoot sandals, and other styles that can't be seen under winter clothes.

* Young ladies aren't the only ones who wear jewelry. Young men are wearing more of it now than ever before. In general, masculine teen jewelry has a rugged look, with materials such as leather, hemp, rubber, pewter or silver, and beads.

* The majority of teenagers shy away from jewelry styles that are too far over the top. Teen designs need to balance "cool" with "wearable".

Writer and jewelry artist Rena Klingenberg shares thousands of tips for selling your handcrafted jewelry in her http://www.home-jewelry-business-success-tips.com website. She also publishes jewelry marketing secrets several times a week in http://www.jewelry-business-blog.com.

Antique Jewelry: A Timeless and Elegant Adornment

Antique jewelry is a timeless classic adornment which can never go out of fashion. It is the epitome of ethereal charm, delicate grace and a gentle reminder of a bygone era. It is that jewelry which has been made during and before the early 1900's.

The jewelry has its own unique character which cannot be copied or imitated. In most cases antique jewelry is handcrafted. It has exquisite craftsmanship and a very special whimsical aura surrounding it, which sets it apart from all other jewelry, however beautiful or expensive they maybe. There is an understated classic elegance inherent in the design and styling. Though widely looked upon as being something worn by only those who are older; perceptions are gradually changing. It is now also seen as a very fashionable ornament which is quite in vogue and is worn by almost anyone, irrespective of their age group.

This kind of jewelry is not available in just any departmental store or some other normal jewelry shop, it can most often be found in niche show rooms, exclusive boutiques, and big auction houses and in antique dealer stores. These are the more reliable places from where you can acquire antique jewelry. Though there are many websites online and other shops which sell this kind of jewelry; it is best to be cautious. The reason being that in many cases the antique jewelry being sold is not actually an original . Also you could charged an exorbitant price for a piece which is not actually that expensive. Unless you have a trained eye and know the difference, it is easy to be fooled.

In many cases antique jewelry has also been handed down from one generation to another and is a part of the family heirlooms. Some antique jewelry can actually be quite expensive and a real collectors item.

Just a simple piece of antique jewelry can greatly enhance your over all appearance, add to your appeal and lend a sophisticated charm to your entire persona. Being the beautiful pieces that they are, this jewelry can easily attract attention and can become the focal point of any conversation. However not every one can carry off antique jewelry, you have to have a certain inner beauty and dignity to wear it.

One of the best things about antique jewelry is that its value only appreciates with time. In fact some of the pieces are valuable collector's item and can fetch huge sums of money. They can in the long run, actually prove to be good investments.

Antique jewelry is a wonderful thing to buy for yourself, a delightful possession and also a great thing to gift to some one special in your life. Whether it is your daughter, mother, wife, girlfriend or sister; antique jewelry is that gift which lets the other person know how much they mean to you. Also this jewelry is not just restricted to women; there are beautiful intricate pieces which are there for men too.

So go ahead indulge yourself and relive the beauty of a bygone era.

Looking for information about Jewelry? Go to: http://www.merryjewelry.com 'Merry Jewelry' is published by Angela Davis - The Complete Jewelry Resource Directory Check out more Jewelry articles at: http://www.merryjewelry.com/archive

How to Buy Jewelry

It's hard to find a woman who doesn't love jewelry of some sort. Jewelry helps to create an image, a personal style, and the type of jewelry a woman wears says a lot about her personal taste. Some women prefer classic jewelry, gems, traditional styles. Others prefer more contemporary jewelry styles, perhaps ethnically influenced or created by a modern designer. Whatever she chooses, a woman knows that the jewelry she wears will accentuate her look and turn heads.

When buying jewelry, some of the terms used by the dealer can be confusing. Don't let this deter you from your purchase. A simple lesson can help you read through the jargon.

Are you shopping for a ring? These jewelry settings are common when it comes to diamonds or other gemstones:

1. Baguette: rectangular-shaped

2. Barion cut: traditional step-cut

3. Bezel: the jewelry's rim holds and completely surrounds the stone

4. Brilliant cut: reflect the most light from the stone; can be round, heart-shaped, oval, marquise, or pear-shaped

5. Cluster setting: this jewelry contains a large center stone surrounded by smaller stones

6. Emerald: rectangular- or square-shaped with cut corners

7. Marquise: double-pointed, boat-shaped stone

8. Pear: stones in the shape of a pear

9. Princess cut: square- or rectangular-shaped brilliant-cut stone

Jewelry comes in all shapes and also in sizes. When you are buying a gift of jewelry, it may help to take along an already-owned piece to compare sizes. For necklaces and bracelets, a jewelry dealer can give size or length suggestions depending on the style you choose.

One need not spend a whole lot of money on jewelry. Jewelry wholesalers offer quality items at lower cost. Even some costume jewelry is quite beautiful and far less expensive than the real thing. The important thing about jewelry is making sure it suits the wearer's taste. Accessories don't do much good if they just sit in the jewelry box.

Another thing to consider before buying jewelry for someone is whether she tends to wear more silver or gold-toned pieces. Some women combine the two; most prefer one or the other. Finally, think about her lifestyle. Would she prefer simple jewelry or more elegant, dangling pieces?

Regardless of what jewelry you choose, this is a gift she will never forget. After all, no woman can have enough jewelry.

Jeff Lakie is the founder of jewelry Information a website providing information on jewelry.

The History Of Jewelry

By 1918 glass was no longer limited to functional items. Czechoslovakian glass began to make its appearance in dazzling and brilliant jewelry. This Czech glass became known as rhinestones.

Austria is another area with a history in rhinestone production. In 1891 Daniel Swarovski created a new glass cutting machine which quite literally revolutionized the jewelry business. This machine could cut faceted glass, producing finely finished product in a very short time. Prior to this invention it would take a very long time for each stone to be hand cut and finished. Swarovskis background in glass making, combined with his glass cutting machine soon found him producing rhinestones with a lead content of over 30%. The brilliance of these rhinestones was superior to anything seen on the market. Swarovski wasnt content with his invention and the best rhinestones ever seen. His next invention was once again transforming to the jewelry industry. He created a vacuum plating for the backs of the stones with silver and gold, reducing the need for hand labor. Still today Swarovski rhinestones are recognized as the highest quality in the industry. Over 80% of rhinestone jewelry manufactured in America use Swarovski rhinestones.

During the Edwardian period extravagance had made a comeback with diamonds and pearls being the focal point. Once again rhinestones were in heavy use, often used to imitate the real thing.

As the 1920s moved jewelry once again became bolder. Dramatic color was in style. Designer Coco Chanel was an integral figure in the setting the stage for jewelry of this era.

During the 1930s during the depression labor intensive fashion was no longer feasible. While the world was in turmoil, jewelry represented an affordable comfort to many women. Inexpensive costume jewelry could be used to revitalize an old outfit. The industry began to produce bright colored enamel pieces accented with rhinestones. Dogs, birds, or cats with a rhinestone eye were common place.

The jewelry during the 1940s once again became big and bold with rhinestones being produced in every imaginable color, large stones set on large bold settings was the norm.

By the 1950s there were two very distinct looks elegant and sophisticated for the more mature woman, and casual and fun for the younger woman. The 1950s saw jewelry made completely from rhinestones. For the younger woman were flirty pieces, for the older woman sophisticated elegance. Rhinestone parures became extremely popular.

In 1953 the aurora borealis rhinestone was introduced to the market with its fabulous array of color. It was an instant hit!

By 1960s women were wearing very functional clothing. By the late 1960s the hippie fashions were extremely popular with their roots tied to Mother Nature. Tie dyed shirts, long flowing skirts, frayed jeans were everywhere. This generation had no interest in rhinestone jewelry.

Copyright Sher Matsen, All Rights Reserved. Sher from Estate Jewelry International has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing fashion, jewelry,and wedding help. Please visit us at http://www.estatejewelryinternational.com/

A Brief History in Religious Jewelry

Jewelry is a broad term that describes any ornamental adornment on the body. It includes toe rings to tiaras and everything in between. Jewelry has been used in every culture throughout history and in many different ways. While in our culture today jewelry serves mostly an aesthetic purpose, jewelry can serve other functions as well. Jewelry is used to represent social or official rank, age, marital status, and tribal affinity. In addition, jewelry serves as emblems of religious, social, and political affiliation. In fact, one of the very first uses of jewelry was to show religious affiliation. The following are the main cultures that began the use of religious jewelry and the common symbols and uses of their jewelry.

Egyptian Religious Jewelry

Religious jewelry in Ancient Egypt was very symbolic. Some common symbols in Ancient Egyptian religious jewelry include the scarab (beetle), lotus, serpent, falcon, and the eye. The scarab is a symbol for good luck and resurrection while the Eye of the Horus represents healing. A common symbol of the time called the Ankh is meant to represent eternal life. Religious jewelry was extravagant, consisting of gold and semi-precious stones and were worn by men and women alike. When the Roman Era arrived, Egyptian religious jewelry was made of cheaper materials and more Christian symbols were used. When Islam arrived in Egypt men were forbidden to wear gold jewelry. At this time silver jewelry became more popular in religious jewelry in Egypt. Religious jewelry is still widely used in Egypt, but does not have the same extravagance as the Ancient Egyptian religious jewelry.

Roman Christianity and Religious Jewelry

Art and architecture thrived when St. Constantine Christianized the Roman Empire. At this time several popular symbols were created that are still used in Christian art and jewelry. These symbols include the cross, the rosary, and the Christian fish charm. The cross is a symbol of Gods love and a reminder of Christs suffering. Rosary beads are prayer beads that began in the Roman Christian world but are now used predominately by the Catholic Church (officially accepted by the Catholic Church during the rosary approbation in 1520). Rosary beads are also used in the Islam and Buddhist faith. The Christian fish charm came about when early Christians would make an acronym with the Greek word for fish, ichthys, Iesous Christos Theou Yios Soter (Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior). This symbol attracted less attention to the persecuted Christians. The Christian charm remains very popular today.

Native American Jewelry

Native American religious jewelry was a symbol for nature, played a role in religious ceremonies, and represented status. Natural materials were used in their jewelry including feathers along with minerals such as turquoise and metals like silver. These natural materials were a reminder of the Earth around them. During healing ceremonies and harvest rituals, the people would take care to wear specific kinds of religious jewelry that were the right color, made of the right materials, and representing the right symbol for that event. The jewelry that is worn by a person is representative of the different stages of life an individual has entered into. In several tribes adolescents are initiated into adulthood when they receive the spiritual totem consisting of shells, beads, or symbols from nature. Native American religious jewelry was also given to women after there first menses and to newly married couples. Religious jewelry has played a significant role in Native American culture.

Because our culture today uses jewelry mostly for decorative purposes we often forget the roots of jewelry and how, to some cultures, it can have a deeper spiritual meaning. Recognizing the importance of this religious jewelry in other cultures allows us to see the greater symbolic uses that jewelry can be used for.

Kaitlin Carruth is a client account specialist with - More Visitors. More Buyers. More Revenue. To learn more about religious jewelry, visit Harris Michael Jewelry.

Mens Jewelry: Its Not Just for Women Anymore

Find out what mens jewelry is in, what to buy for a loved one and more!

People often associate the term "jewelry" with something a woman possesses and covets. Yet for centuries mens jewelry has been fashionable and popular among elite and average men alike. Kings and Pharaohs in ancient times wore jewelry as a symbol of power and prestige. Whether a member of a tribe, team, work group or family many men wore rings as a symbol of their belonging or achievement.

Jewels and jewelry have been coveted since the beginning of time, as symbols of power, richness, beauty, commitment and even pride. Just as princesses and Queen's of old fell under the spell of sparkling gems, so too have men fallen under the tempting promise a precious metal offers.

History shows that men have worn jewels and rings for a variety of reasons. Most jewelry serves as an aesthetically pleasing accompaniment to a wardrobe or fashionable figure. Yet mens jewelry has also served functional purposes, including describing a male's social status, place in society and of course, marital status.

Men's Wedding Bands

Mens wedding bands are among the most common form of mens jewelry purchased. The tradition of offering a double ring or mens wedding bands at a wedding ceremony can be traced back to the mid 1940s in the United States. At this time jewelry manufacturers popularized the idea of offering a groom's wedding band as the perfect accompaniment to the ladies wedding ring. The idea of a groom's ring however, existed long before advertisers popularized it. In fact, consumers had already bought into the idea that a groom's ring symbolized much more than marriage, but also male prosperity and stability.

Among the more common and popular forms of mens jewelry on the market today is the mens diamond wedding band. Many gentlemen prefer to purchase a dual wedding set featuring a mens diamond wedding band and ladies diamond wedding ring. Mens wedding bands are often much thicker than women's. Though many men prefer jewelry that is subtle and less adorned, others prefer mens wedding bands that are ornate and intricate.

Accessories

There is no end to the jewelry accessories available to today's modern man. Mens jewelry often comes with complementary mens jewelry boxes made to hold a collection of cherished pieces. In fact, many men have so many necklaces, rings and bracelets one might consider mens jewelry boxes the ideal gift.

Other more common accessories offered in the mens jewelry category include the following:

Cufflinks
Bracelets
Money Clips
Rings
Watches
Earrings
Chains

There is virtually nothing one can buy a woman that they can't buy a man when it comes to fashionable and tasteful mens jewelry. Don't be surprised to find many women out shopping for mens jewelry, a trend that is increasingly more popular as men continue to grow in their love of jewels and precious accessories. Why not? Who doesn't want to adorn their bodies with precious gems and sparkling gifts that say, I'm strong, I'm powerful, I'm handsome.

Finding Quality Men's Jewelry

Finding quality mens jewelry isn't difficult at all. More and more consumers are turning to the internet, buying mens jewelry online rather than in traditional department stores. The benefits of buying mens jewelry online are obvious. A consumer can browse thousands of unique and detailed selections, from mens wedding bands, bracelets, watches and more. Why not shop from the comfort of your home?

Consumers should be looking for several things when shopping online, particularly if buying a mens diamond wedding band. When it comes to diamonds, there are several important indicators of quality including cut, color, clarity and carat. Cut refers to the shape of the diamond; there are several different cuts available including:

Round
Oval
Pear
Marquis
Emerald

Color of course refers to the color of the stone; not all diamonds are clear. In fact, most are a definitive color such as yellow, blue or green. All diamonds have hints of some color in them. When a mens diamond wedding ring shows little evidence of flaws, the clarity is good. The weight of the stone of course is the carat, and price often reflects this valuable assessment.

Other signs of quality in mens jewelry include price, craftsmanship and originality. Antique jewelry is an oft popular option for men looking for something unique or one of a kind. Most antique jewelry offers quality that is time tested and trustworthy.

Tips for Maintaining Men's Jewelry

Once you've found the perfect piece of jewelry, you have to care for it properly so that it lasts a lifetime. The best way to do this is to clean the jewelry frequently to remove built up dirt. The best substances to clean a mens wedding band with are jewelry cleaning solutions or alcohol. These same products can be used on other pieces, such as cufflinks, clips and bracelets. You can clean most mens jewelry with a soft bristled toothbrush. Also remember to bring the jewelry in to a jeweler on occasion, particularly if you have purchased a mens diamond wedding band. The jeweler will be able to inspect the jewelry for loose prongs or damage to the ring. Lastly, mens jewelry should always be kept in a mens jewelry box. The kitchen counter or dresser top is no place for valuable gems!

A Final Word on Men's Jewelry

When buying mens jewelry, be sure you take enough time to look at the wide selection available. Take your time. Remember that shopping for jewelry can be fun. Find the right piece, and you can pass it down from generation to generation. You even have the option of customizing jewelry to match your own unique personality and style preferences. When it comes to mens jewelry, the options are limitless. Masculinity, femininity, pride and personality... all have the potential to shine with the help of a jewel or two.

About The Author:

Antigone Arthur is a successful freelance writer with 10 years of professional experience providing consumers with informative articles on such topics as online jewelry stores, mens jewelry, and mens wedding bands.

The Truths About Beaded, Costume, and Cubic Zirconia Jewelry!

Shopping for Inexpensive Yet Brilliant Pieces

History of Beaded Jewelry

Beads have been used to create jewelry and adorn costumes since the dawn of time. If you were to look back on the Ice Age you would discover small objects crafted of natural "beads" including animal bones and teeth, seashells and colorful stones. These items were usually attached to clothing or plant fibers to form the most primitive forms of beaded jewelry.

Beaded jewelry symbolizes many different things for different people; different cultures have associated beads with varying spiritual beliefs, cultural customs and social traditions. Beads, like many other jewelry items, have been used throughout time to adorn the bodies of men and women alike, signifying power, beauty and the human spirit.

The very first actual "beads" that have been discovered date back to approximately 38,000 BC. Made by cavemen, these beads were crafted from animal parts. In later times, beads were crafted as symbols of fertility and animal spirits.

During the stone age, beads were crafted primarily as a means of adorning the body; they were also used for trading on occasion however. A couple thousand years later, beads were crafted out of coral and other "precious" substances. In ancient Greece there is evidence that carnelian beads and beads made of lapis lazuli were worn by wealthy members of society. The use of semi-precious stone beads began to become more popular about 2800 BC among the Syrians, who fashioned beads of materials like agate and serpentine.

Since that time beaded jewelry has become more and more valuable and popular. Gold and other semi-precious stones are often used to craft beaded jewelry.

Perhaps the most popular form of beaded jewelry is glass jewelry. Evidence of the first glass beads suggests that glassmaking was common in Mesopotamia around 2180 BC. Glass beads were popular then and are popular now in part because of their durability and inexpensive pricing. The Egyptian and Phoenician cultures are well known for their use of glass to make beaded jewelry. Beaded jewelry was commonly found buried with wealthy pharaohs in the ancient tombs of Egypt, though it was not uncommon for glass beads to be buried with poor families as well.

In modern times beaded jewelry is popular because of its versatility and diversity. Beads can be crafted from almost any material including the following:

Coral/seashells
Gemstones
Glass
Rock Crystal
Gold
Silver
Stone
Pearls

Beads can even be crafted out of plastic (though this is of course less lovely than some other more traditional options). Though in times of old beads served as symbols of status, wealth and heritage, today beaded jewelry is more much representative of a persons unique style preferences and personality. Beaded jewelry can be custom made in almost any style, using any type of chain and any type/combination of beads.

Beaded jewelry is just as popular today, if not more popular than it was in ancient Egyptian and Mesopotamian times. Buying online is easy, and perhaps the best option for bead savvy and not so savvy consumers alike. Buying online eliminates the hassle of traveling from store to store, which can take days or more to find the right beads or beaded jewelry. By shopping online, you have literally tens of thousands of unique selections to choose from. Though no longer traded for food, modern jewelry enthusiasts often engage in bead trading for fun and camaraderie.

Costume Jewelry

Costume jewelry is sometimes referred to as "fake jewelry" by some well meaning but unknowing individuals. Costume jewelry is crafted from among other items, rhinestones, glass stones and gold plated metal or sterling silver. Costume jewelry first surfaced in the United States around the early twenties; it was very popular among European immigrants that settled into the states during this time. Movie stars and common folk alike wore costume jewelry that was carefully crafted and ornamentally designed.

Costume jewelry, particularly antique pieces, are well worth their weight in gold. Many hand crafted pieces can fetch thousands of dollars on the open market. There are some designers that are more well known than others in the world of costume jewelry:

Napier
Nettie Rosenstein
Ciner
Hattie Carnegie
Miriam Haskell

Even celebrities currently invest thousands of dollars on costume jewelry every year. Because unique pieces are harder to come buy and rarely mass produced anymore, some pieces created in the early 30s to late 40s can be hard to find. More common are pieces that were created in the 1960s or later. Costume jewelry is fun in part because the wearer is at liberty to make a bold statement. Not modest, most costume jewelry shouts out "here I am, look at me!" An excellent choice for the bold and daring, costume jewelry can be a wonderful accessory to just about any wardrobe.

Costume jewelry collecting has even become a favorite pastime among many jewelry enthusiasts, much like beaded jewelry trading and collecting. The appeal of both of these styles is their uniqueness and diversity. Though in some instances hard to find, costume jewelry can be easily explored via online shopping. When buying online, be sure to have in mind a price range and style before shopping. The selection available online might leave you a bit overwhelmed.

If you collect costume jewelry, you might be wondering just how much it is worth. Just as there are popular designers for look and feel, some designers work is more valuable than others, including:

Ciner
Marel Boucher
Eisenberg
Hobe
Kramer
Vogue
Hollycraft
Monet
Coro
Kenneth J. Lane

These precious gems are often marked when crafted.

Cubic Zirconia Jewelry

Cubic zirconia jewelry has to be among the most popular inexpensive "knock off" jewelry items to buy. Part of the appeal of cubic zirconia jewelry is its remarkable ability to look exactly like real diamond jewelry. Most cubic zirconia is hard to distinguish from its natural cousins.

The widespread use of cubic zirconia became popularized around the 1980s, when it first became mass produced. It is created through a chemical process that combines zirconium oxide and yttrium oxide, which when melted together form a radiant and shiny crystal resembling a natural diamond.

Most cubic zirconia jewelry is very durable, brilliant and long lasting. Some people have to look at a cubic zirconia under a powerful magnifying glass to distinguish it from a real diamond, a testament to its quality and aesthetic appeal. If you are looking for a clear, brilliant and inexpensive option to traditional diamond jewelry, don't hesitate to shop a wide selection of cubic zirconia jewelry. Buying online provides the most advantages, because there is a wider selection and you have the ability to customize your pieces with the click of a button.

About The Author:
Successful freelance writer, Antigone Arthur has completed a number of informative articles providing valuable insight for consumers on such topics as beaded jewelry, costume & vintage jewelry, and cubic zirconia jewelry.

Buying Quality Gold, Platinum, and Titanium Jewelry Online

Everything You Need to Know About Buying Quality Jewelry Online

Gold, platinum and titanium are among the most coveted precious metals in the world. Jewelry crafted out of these pure substances is often highly valued and sought out by savvy consumers the world over. Learn everything you need to know about selecting quality pieces right here!

Gold Jewelry

Gold jewelry is perhaps the most traditional form of quality jewelry worn by men and women alike in every culture and society of the world. Gold has been used to fashion attractive pieces for centuries. Many historians believe that gold was used as far back as pre-historic times by man as a tool. Later gold jewelry was first discovered dating to around 3000 BC. Gold first became widely used by the Egyptians, who combined gold with other precious metals to achieve varying looks, colors and durability.

So what do you need to know about buying gold? Let's start with the basics. Most gold is assessed via its weight or karats.

14k Gold - 14k gold jewelry is made up of 58.5% gold mixed with copper and nickel among other things. It is the most popular karat of gold purchased the world over, and is known for its affordability and durability.

18k Gold - 18k gold jewelry is popular particularly in Europe. Most 18k gold jewelry is made from 75% pure gold. Most premium jewelry is made with 18 k, which is only slightly more expensive than 14 k gold.

22-24k Gold - 22 and 24 karat gold jewelry is usually considered the most valuable, and is very popular among elite gold shoppers. This form of gold is the most pure, consisting of almost 199% gold. Generally 22 and 24 karat gold products have a richer color than other gold jewelry.

Is one better than the other? The more pure the gold, the softer the jewelry will be and the more likely to scratch. Fine scratches are easily minimized however with proper care and cleaning over time. Quality is more related to craftsmanship than the actual percentage of gold in a particular piece of jewelry. When deciding on a piece that's right for you - you'll want to look for things like symmetry, overall appearance and finishing.

One of the best things about gold jewelry is it is available in both yellow and white. White gold is becoming increasingly popular though it is only available in 14 or 18 k styles. White gold jewelry is often plated with a platinum metal to help give its unique color.

Black Hills Gold

Black Hills gold is extremely popular among gold enthusiasts. Black Hills Gold is named not only after the style but also location the gold jewelry is fashioned in. Legend has it that a French goldsmith became lost during the gold rush of the mid 1870s in the Black Hills of South Dakota. During a dream, he believed he had seen a mountain stream with grape vines; upon awakening, he walked over to find the very scene he dreamed about, and in gratitude decided to devote his life to creating gold jewelry in the shape of grape leaves and clusters fashioned out of gold.

Black Hills Gold jewelry is a particular style of jewelry that must be manufactured in the Black Hills of South Dakota. This gold jewelry is often combined with silver and copper to create green and rose leaved color combinations. Most Black Hills Gold is available in 10, 12 and 14k versions. This makes Black Hills gold extremely popular among jewelry fans looking for attractive yet very affordable gold jewelry.

Platinum & Titanium Jewelry

Platinum and titanium jewelry are among the most expensive jewelry items, in part because they are crafted of white metals. Platinum jewelry is often very heavy and dense as is most titanium jewelry. Platinum jewelry is much heavier than gold jewelry because of the density of the metal used to craft it. Titanium is actually really light. It's only 60% heavier than aluminum and 45% lighter than steel! Platinum jewelry and titanium jewelry are also naturally white or silver, thus do not have to be combined with other metals to achieve a brilliant whitish sheen.

Most platinum jewelry is 90% pure or more, thus platinum jewelry is an exceptional selection for consumers who are allergic or who have sensitive skin. Gold jewelry might cause allergic reactions in people in part because it is mixed with other substances such as nickel, which can be irritating for some people.

Platinum and titanium jewelry usually will hold up well over time and require little maintenance, other than regular cleanings using a mild soap or cleaning agent. Titanium jewelry is in fact considered one of the most durable jewelry selections available, showing few if any signs of wear and tear over the years.

Both platinum and titanium jewelry can be fashioned with gold or silver inlays or adorned with stones. Platinum jewelry is often a popular choice for wedding and engagement bands. Titanium jewelry is slowly becoming more popular as its appeal and durability is more widely known. You can find platinum jewelry and titanium jewelry that is affordable. Most unadorned bands generally can range anywhere from $60 on up. Remember that in general, intricate and ornate platinum or titanium pieces are more expensive than their gold counterparts, and it isn't uncommon to see pieces that cost up to several thousand dollars.

You can find virtually any type of jewelry in platinum and titanium that you can in gold. Most people select one or the other based on style or budgetary considerations. Gold can actually be combined with platinum or titanium to produce unique custom pieces. The most popular platinum and titanium pieces remain rings for the most part; gold jewelry is still the reigning king and favorite it seems among jewelry wearers looking for a combination of rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces. That may change with time however, as more and more consumers realize the appeal and durability of other precious metals including platinum and titanium.

About The Author:

Successful freelance writer, Antigone Arthur has completed a number of informative articles providing valuable insight for consumers on such topics as Black Hills Gold jewelry, platinum engagement rings, and titanium wedding rings.

Wednesday, June 18, 2008

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