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Jewelry From 3000 Bc Egypt To The 21st Century
By Search EzineArticles.com
Egypt The use of gold jewelry can be dated back to Egypt 3000 BC. Gold was the preferred metal for jewelry making during ancient times. It was rare, it was easy to work with, and it never tarnished. Magnificent bracelets, pendants, necklaces, rings, armlets, earrings, collars, and head ornaments were all produced in ancient Egypt, the land of the Pharaohs. In 1922 Howard Carter’s excavations led to the discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb and many gold artifacts, all showing the art work of ancient Egypt. Greece In ancient Greece, gold beads in the shape of shells, flowers and beetles were very common. In Northern Greece beautiful necklaces and earrings have been excavated from burial. By 300 BC the Greeks were using gems such as emeralds, garnets, amethysts and pearls. They also created colored glass stones and enamel stones. Carved agate cameos and gold filigree work were widely made. Italy The Italian Etruscans produced granulated textured gold work. They made very large, necklaces, bracelets and earrings. They were also known for producing hollow gold pendants that were filled with perfume. Even today the Italians are still known for the quality gold jewelry. Rome The Romans used 18 and 24 carat gold for their coins. Coinage gold was readily available so it was popular with craftsmen for decorative jewelry. Over 2000 years ago the Romans were using sapphires, emeralds, garnets, and amber in their jewelry. Europe. During the 13th century the Medieval Sumptuary Laws were enacted which put a cap on luxurious jewelry and clothing. The town folk of France, banned from wearing girdles made from pearls or any other gemstone. They were also banged from wearing gold or silver. Similar laws existed in England banning artisans from wearing gold and silver. These laws show how fine jewelry had spread beyond nobility to the town folk. For as long as mankind has existed gems and jewels have been used as token of ones love for another. While many pieces of jewelry existed adorned with fine gems and made from precious metals, there was also some very good fake jewelry. True gemstones and pearls originated in the east and they were bought mainly by the Italians. The Italian merchants then sold the jewelry to the Europeans. High quality glass imitations were often used and sold with the intent to deceive. These high quality glass stones were often used in the Royal funeral robes and in children's jewelry. Valued more than gemstones, were the flawless, round, natural white pearls. South India provided some of the finest pearls. The Italians were able to make quality imitation glass gems and pearls that could only be identified by a gemologist. There is historical proof that recipes for false pearls existed as far back as 1300. White powdered glass was mixed with albumen and snail slime to produce imitation pearls. Earrings and Dress Jewelry During the 17th century woman always wore earrings, whether they were dressed or undressed. It was very acceptable to wear faux pearls and paste gem earrings during the day saving fine jewelry and gem jewelry for evening attire. Dress ornamentation decreased in size. Sleeves or skirts were often decorated with matching brooches. During the 16th it was very fashionable to wear large quantities of pearls. Both jewelry to clothing accessories were adorned with pearls. During the 17th century Jaquin of Paris patented a method of making fake pearls. Hollow blown glass balls were coated with varnish mixed with iridescent ground fish scales. The hollow balls were then filled with wax to strengthen them. This discovery made Paris the main producer of faux pearls for well over 200 years. Paste is a compound of glass containing white lead oxide and potash. Paste jewelry was very common in the later part of the 17th century. The highest quality and most long lasting paste jewelry was produced after 1734 by Georges Strass. Paris lead the production of faux gems [paste] and faux pearls. Just about any kind of fake gem could be made, including fake opals. After 1760 the production of fake jewelery spread to London and to Birmingham. During the industrial revolution steel was produced in large quantities so it was easily available. It was ues for setting marcasite and jasper ware cameos. Glass and Wedgwood porcelain paste cameos were made in English factories and were also very popular. The fashion from this era also included ornate shoe buckles of paste, steel and tin, elaborate paste jewel buttons, as well as semi precious for day wear. Empire Jewelry In 1804 Napoleon emerged as Emperor of France, resulting in a revival of jewelry and fashion as a new court of pomp. 'Joailliers' worked fine jewelry and 'bijoutiers' used less precious materials. The members of the new French imperial family had the former French royal family gems re-set into the latest neo-classical style. The new trends soon found their way to Europe, particularly England. The main influence for design was the Greek and Roman. Parures and Cameos Parures were a matching suite of coordinating precious gems which could include a necklace, a comb, a tiara, a diadem, a bandeau, a pair of bracelets, pins, rings, drop earrings or and cluster stud earrings and possibly a belt clasp. A full parure consisted of a minimum of four pieces. A demi parure consisted of three or less pieces. Both Josephine and Napoleon's second wife had magnificent parures. Once Napoleon's cameo decorated coronation crown was seen, cameos became the rage. Cameos were carved from hard stone, conch shells and even from Wedgwood porcelain. Victorian Jewelry In 1837 when Queen Victoria came to the throne jewelry was romantic and nationalistic. It focused on European folk art, which later influenced the Arts and Crafts Movement. Until mid century most western jewelry came from Europe, with some jewelry being produced in North America and Australia. Mass production of mid Victorian jewelry in Birmingham, Germany and Providence, Rhode Island resulted in lower jewelry standards. Victorian women rebelled when they saw some the poor quality of much of this machine made jewelry. Woman rebelled by wearing no jewelry at all, or buying from the emerging artist craftsman. Some jewelers like Tiffany recognized a niche market and began to make fine jewelry
Certified and Crafted Jewelry: Perfectly fit your taste and budget
<FONT face=Verdana><FONT size=2>With the passage of time people are becoming more and more aware about the advantages of certified jewelry. Jewelry certification is the next important step after the purchase of any kind of jewelry made out of any stone. Though this certification process is extensively important, people many a time avoid getting their jewelry certified. And if they plan to do so, they prefer going for only diamond certification.<BR><BR>Diamond is one of the most expensive stone found in the lap of nature. The various processes involved with diamond are labour intensive, thus these stones command a high price in the market. Many people consider diamond as a major investment. This is the reason that with the course of time, diamond certification has found a lot of importance. <BR><BR>Jewelry certification is also important in case of hand crafted jewelry. With the passage of time jewelry started being made through big machines, like any other product. Just like any other manufacturing unit, jewelry is constructed on a large scale, with almost similar designs. <BR><BR>But hand crafted jewelry has its own charm. These pieces of jewelry are unique, and stylish. Since they are different and made after a lot of hard work, these jewelry pieces fetch a large amount in the market. Thus, getting crafted jewelry certified is also a beneficial step, which we mostly avoid taking.<BR><BR>Crafted jewelry is the one designed by big designers. One can even customize these jewelry pieces, making them suit their personalities and styles. These days many people prefer buying crafted engagement rings.<BR><BR>We all know that engagement is the most important phase of a person’s life. Wedding comes the second. This is the reason that people always prefer buying rings which are unique and carry value. Therefore, what can be best than gifting crafted engagement rings. These rings can be made of diamond of any other expensive stones. Crafted jewelry carries its own essence and value and certified jewelry carry as sense of security.<BR><BR>But remember one thing, jewelry is not just a gift you will present to your lover; it is also a mode of investment for him or her. So, sooner your get your crafted or non crafted jewelry certified the better it is. At least jewelry made out of expensive stones liked diamond should be certified the moment you buy it. <BR><BR>Now the next question is where to get the jewellery certified. One can get them certified from Gemological labs. These labs are independent labs. The most reliable labs are GIA and the AGS.<BR><BR>So next time you buy your favorite piece of jewelry. Do not forget getting it certified. Certified jewelry has its own charm.<BR><STRONG><FONT color=#ff00ff>Visit for Our Leading Unique Handcrafted Jewelry Resources !</FONT></STRONG></FONT></FONT>
Unique Handcrafted Jewelry
<FONT face=Verdana><FONT size=2>Jewelry complements beauty in a big way. Jewelry of any kind helps in making a fashion statement. But the fashion statement can be made more interesting by the type jewelry you wear. Through ages, jewelry has been a symbol of fashion and romance. Wearing an elegant piece of jewelry is always an addition that seems to complete the dressing for any special occasions. The choice of jewelry varies from person to person. Some love to wear diamonds; some may prefer <STRONG>unique handcrafted jewelry</STRONG> while others might like simple and elegant chain and pendant. Different people have different tastes and to meet the demands of the wide market, there are varieties of products available today - some studded with semi-precious stones while others, equally stunning.<BR><BR>It is quite true that everybody wants to own some piece of jewelry. But nobody likes wearing a simple and common ornament. Imagine buying a new exquisite jewelry for some special occasion and surprisingly you find that the same thing is being worn by five others on the day. How will you feel? Obviously, you will not feel good. The solution is: go for <STRONG>unique handcrafted jewelry</STRONG>. This is primarily the reason why along with exquisite styles, the demand for uniqueness is also growing. Unique and personalized jewelry are often more in demand than its counterparts. Uniqueness has its own charm and value and hence the demand for trendy, stylish yet one of a kind jewelry is growing.<BR><BR>If you are really interested in handcrafted jewelry, then the best places to look for some truly unique jewelry, especially the handcrafted ones, are antique stores, online jewelry stores or your grandma's collection. It might sound a weird notion initially, but these antique pieces hold the promise to set you apart from the rest. These marvelous pieces will enable you to grab the attention of all. Handcrafted jewelry is an artistic creation, where every jewelry item is individually crafted to lend the much-required uniqueness for which the product is valued. <STRONG>Handcrafted jewelry</STRONG> is designed as per the changing trends and lifestyles of the contemporary world. These valuable pieces come in a wide range of designs, catering to the tastes of the buyers who generally prefer to wear them with both formal and informal outfits. Earthy woods, textured brass, semi-precious gems, gold, silver, brilliant crystals, or unusual elements are used to craft some of the most amazing designs.<BR><BR>An essential point to remember while buying <STRONG>unique handcrafted jewelry</STRONG> is its theme and style. If you are a buyer who loves dressing formally, then colorful gemstones, precious or semi-precious stones would suit you the most. However, for the younger and the hip lot, trying out new chic styles would just do the trick. For instance, it would be a great idea to experiment with handcrafted Bohemian style jewelry. Use of simple materials with bold designs would definitely help to create a free-spirited funky appearance. Another <STRONG>unique handcrafted jewelry</STRONG> style is the poetry engraved jewelry, where beautiful poetic lines are engraved on gold and platinum items. These stunning handcrafted jewelry items are ideal for all ages and are especially preferable for informal costumes.<BR><BR><STRONG>Unique Handcrafted jewelry</STRONG> makes a beautiful gift for any occasion. If you are wondering about that perfect gift for your mother on Mother's Day, or a 'special' gift for someone 'special' in your life on Christmas, or just a simple gift to celebrate your friendship with someone, consider gifting a piece of <STRONG>unique handcrafted jewelry</STRONG>. Your choice will be appreciated by your special someone and the gift will be cherished for a very long time.<BR>So, take a plunge into the mesmerizing world of <STRONG>unique handcrafted jewelry</STRONG> and grab some of the finest creations in jewelry for yourself and your sweetheart.</FONT></FONT>
Diamond Pendants Which makes a very special gift
<FONT face=Verdana><FONT size=2><STRONG>Metals in Diamond Pendants</STRONG><BR>Diamond pendants are versatile. They can be set in any of the precious metals--gold, white gold, or platinum as per the taste and budget of its wearer. Nowadays, diamond pendants in combination with different attractive gemstones such as aquamarine, sapphire, and turquoise are also available in the market to cater people who love to alter their looks with some exotic jewelry pieces.<BR><BR>Diamond pendants are the one of the most prized possession of any woman. From a genuine feminine sign to striking jewelry accessory, it can definitely make you beautiful.<BR><BR><STRONG>Take care of your diamond Pendants</STRONG><BR>You should always take care of your diamond pendant, not just because of price but for the love that it carries to your sweetheart. The fact is that pendants get dirty simply from day to day wear, so you must clean them periodically. Even oils from the skin can affect your pendant. There are a few ways of taking care; one such method is like giving them a mild soap bath. Use a soft brush to wash the loose particles, but be careful to do this as far away from the sink as possible. It is a known fact that drains and jewelry are a bad mix and there are chances of losing your pendant.<BR><BR>Another good method of cleaning your diamond pendant is to soak it in a solution of ammonia and cold water. You should allow it to soak in the mixture for about half an hour. Then use a soft bristled brush to clean it, but remember there are chances of scratching diamonds, so be very careful while brushing it. Instead of mixing your own solution, you can easily find some fantastic cleaners in the market and also online, use one of them. While using these commercial solutions, all you have to do is follow the instructions carefully.<BR><BR>So, make love with the woman of your life with diamond pendants. Love is eternal and so is the diamond.</FONT></FONT>
Costume Jewelry: Handcrafted and Beaded Jewelry
<P><FONT face=Verdana size=2>Any outfit can be altered to have different looks when combined with the right costume jewelry. Costume jewelry plays an important part in enhancing the looks of a person. It could be bling for a casual evening out or a pair of simple teardrop earrings for a formal dinner. Too much bling can have disastrous effects. One needs to have to perfect balance of jewelry items for the right look. <BR>Costume jewelry, which is handmade, has its own charm. Wearing your own designs or gifting them to someone special also adds to the personal touch. Today, one can see branded stores that cater to beaded and handmade jewelry. Handcrafted jewelry has been gaining much importance due to the exquisite designs and the novelty it offers. We can see handcrafted necklaces, earrings, bracelets and anklets available on the market. They can even include semi precious jewels and swarovski crystals. If you browse online, you can even find a websites, which accept orders for custom made handcrafted jewelry. Handmade jewelry may not really be complex as it sounds or looks. You can create beaded jewelry within the confines of your own home. <BR><P align=justify><B>Here are some tips to create some stunning pieces of handmade jewelry. <BR></B><B>Handcrafted Beaded Earrings:<BR><BR></B>What you will need-<BR><BR>Head pins (2- These have a flat head at the bottom)<BR><BR>Ear Wires<BR><BR>Beads (Any kind)<BR><BR>Round nose pliers (These are needed to make loops)<BR><BR><B>How to make beaded earrings:<BR></B>Take your head pin and start putting some beads on the head pin. You can experiment with the size of the beads and even the color. Opt for two colors in the beginning. This would help to break the monotony. Now you will need to use the round nose pliers to bend the free edge of the pin. (Bend it at 90°) Now, bend the end of the pin into a loop to seal the free edge. All you need to do is add a wire to the loop and your earring is ready to be worn. Use some variations to create new designs.<B><BR>Handcrafted Beaded Necklace:<BR></B>Use these instructions to create a beautiful choker that will give an illusion of floating beads around the neck.<BR>You will need-<BR>Clasp<BR>Wire cutters<BR>Crimping pliers<BR>Tigertail (A thin, nylon coated steel cable which creates the illusion of floating beads).<BR>Crimp Beads (18- These are metal beads that are flattened onto the tigertail. Crimp beads help to keep a bead in place)<BR>4mm beads (8-Any kind)<BR><B>How to make a beaded necklace:<BR></B>First you need to cut the accurate length of the tigertail wire. Now slide a crimp bead and a part of the clasp on the tigertail. Next, you have to slide the tigertail back through the crimp bead. Once done, pull it tight. Now, you need to use the pliers to flatten the crimp bead. You should now trim the excess wire. <BR><BR>Once you decide upon the spacing between the beads, string them together and flatten the crimp bead, one at a time. Maintain the correct distance to space out the beads. Once you finish adding the beads, add the other part of the clasp to the second end. Voila! Your beaded necklace is ready!<BR><B>Handcrafted Beaded Anklet: </B><BR>You will need-<BR>Flat nose pliers<BR>Wire cutters<BR>Tigertail wire<BR>Clasp<BR>Crimps<BR>Beads (Around 4-6 mm)<BR><B>How to make beaded anklets:</B><BR>First hold your tigertail wire between your thumb and the forefinger. Now, slide the crimp bead onto the wire. Next, slide one half of the clasp. Now, using your other hand, take the 2-inch tail and pass it through the crimp bead. Do not push it too far; it should be enough, only to enable you to hold.<BR>Now you should use the pliers to flatten the crimp bead. You will need to utilize the wire cutters to cut off any extra wire that is jutting out. <BR>Now, you can slide your beads onto the wire. Keep the length in mind, as it should match the width of your ankle. Once done, slide another crimp from the other end. The other half of the clasp will go at this end. Push the crimps to the edge of the clasp and use the pliers to flatten the crimp. Your piece is ready to be worn! <BR>Handcrafted beaded jewelry offers you various options to brighten up your day; they also make beautiful gifts or they can be used as good hobby activity to explore creative skills. Use this craft to create gorgeous pieces that are one of a kind and truly original.<BR>By Kashmira Lad</FONT>
Custom Handcrafted Jewelry
<FONT face=Verdana size=2>Gone are the days when handcrafted jewelry was made only available to rich people who could afford the cost. The total scenario has changed completely nowadays. It no longer sticks to a particular class of society but they are now open for all.<BR><BR>You will find custom handcrafted jewelry available in the market and that too in an affordable price. You will find a stylish handcrafted ring in cheaper price which would have costs you thousands in the past. It can be said that the price differentiation between a traditional ring and handcrafted rings are really narrower.<BR><BR>In earlier times you need to order in advance to get the design but nowadays you can get different already designed custom handcrafted jewelry with great patterns. You can also get handcrafted wedding rings of different designs. These designs attract the eyes of the customers. <BR><BR>If you don’t like to go for shopping in the retail stores, you can shop handcrafted jewelry on the web too. There are number of websites where you can get a wide range of handcrafted jewelry. So choose from the variety of handcrafted jewelry and place your order online. You will get your order delivered to your doorstep in a day or two. So get the handcrafted jewelry and wear it to stand yourself tall in the crowd.<BR><BR>What is the one thing that you want the most when you find your wedding bells really near? Simple, a beautiful and stunning ring that a couple cherishes for their lifetime. So, the demand for different and exclusive rings is always high and you can really find some innovations in ring designs these days. Handcrafted wedding rings are a good option to choose your kinds of rings that is said to be costly and refer a distinctive class. <BR><BR>Earlier, handcrafted wedding rings are only available to rich people who can actually afford the cost but, now things have been changed drastically. With the expansion of jewelry market, handcrafted jewelries are not only limited to a particular class of society but it is now open for every one who desires to wear them. In fact, the price differentiation between a traditional ring and handcrafted rings are really narrower. You can get a stylist handcrafted ring in really cheaper price that costs you thousands in the past. So, market has been widened and things are available in variety with the same quality.<BR><BR>Today for accessing a custom handcrafted ring, you need not order in advance, there are lots of companies that render the service of designing such rings. Here, you can get different already designed handcrafted ring with great patterns. Otherwise, you can also visit your nearby jewelry store that provides exclusive range of such rings that displays an array of these rings affordable in price and excellent in looks. To put your ideas and thoughts in designing the ring, you can also order your ring that reflects your sense of style and fashion. Brief them (designers) about your desire and they will formulate into reality. Traditional handcrafted rings could be costly sometimes when they depict particular period and made with different precious metals and gems. You can also get a striking handcrafted ring through internet, which has a wider access throughout the globe. <BR><BR>Wedding ring is mere a symbol of your true love, dedication and commitment for your partner that defines your individuality and sense of carrying fashion so, choose anything that add the spark from your inner self. Handcrafted wedding ring is the perfect for those who, believe in their personal taste and fashion that distinguish them from others. It is fit for those who rule their life with their ideas and conditions to relish each and every moment of their life.
Blue Topaz Jewelry
<P align=justify><FONT face=Verdana size=2>For those who want to add a little splash of color to their jewelry collection, blue topaz jewelry is the perfect choice. With blue topaz jewelry, you can accentuate matching eyes, or wardrobe pieces; or, for added flair, wear with contrasting colors. The sparkle and shine of blue topaz is sure to set you apart.</FONT><BR><BR><P align=justify><FONT face=Verdana size=2>One of the most popular settings for blue topaz jewelry is sterling silver. The colors of the silver and topaz naturally complement each other, for a lovely look. Furthermore, blue topaz set against gold gives a bold statement of richness and color.<BR><BR></FONT><FONT face=Verdana><FONT size=2><B>Specialty Blue Topaz Jewelry<BR></B>If you know someone who is born in December, a blue topaz ring or necklace will be an invaluable gift. Known as the birthstone for December, blue topaz is unique in its deep blue color. Best of all, blue topaz can be worn with both casual and dressy outfits.</FONT></FONT><BR><BR><P align=justify><FONT size=2><FONT face=Verdana>If you're looking for affordable jewelry with flair, search no further. Blue topaz jewelry will offer you the class and style you've been seeking. Look online for particularly unique jewelry designs made with blue topaz.<BR></FONT><FONT face=Verdana>by Joy MacKay</FONT></FONT>
Silver Jewelry Wholesale
<FONT face=Verdana size=2>Silver jewelry wholesale is a real bargain since retail expenses do not have to be taken into account. By taking their internationally-made, affordable quality jewelry online, wholesale jewelry manufacturers are able to use the relatively inexpensive venue of websites to show consumers what is available in the way of fine jewelry. Silver jewelry is among the world's most sought-after looks.<BR><BR>Silver was one of the first metals to be used by human beings. Being soft and malleable, like gold, silver was easily worked and fashioned by hand. Pure silver is almost white--a glorious, lustrous whiteness that is dazzling. It is a metal that catches the light and enhances it for a magical effect that is unsurpassed in silver jewelry wholesale.<BR><BR><STRONG>The Trend in White Jewelry</STRONG><BR>White is definitely a most popular trend in jewelry. Silver has always been one of the premium looks, but white gold has gained in popularity since its development in World War II, and two-tone, yellow and white gold jewelry remains one of the hottest combinations. White-on-white--diamonds or cubic zirconia with silver or white gold--is a sophisticated, urbane union that is the height of elegance.<BR><BR>Most silver used today is derived not from its natural state, but from silver ores, which makes it no less valuable. Earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings, watches--these items and more are produced for silver jewelry wholesale. This glamorous metal has always been the preference of many jewelry lovers, as it glows beautifully in moonlight.</FONT><br>By Patricia Tunstall
White Gold
<P align=justify><FONT face=Verdana size=2>Traditionally, white gold consists of gold, nickel and zinc, giving it a color closer to silver or titanium than that of the yellow gold which most people think of simply as "gold." White gold as become increasingly popular in recent years as women who do not favor the color of yellow gold against their skin but still seek the value of gold have found it to be a perfect alternative. Also, many jewelers no longer use nickel or zinc in white gold (as a few people have a reaction to it), and instead have formulated alloys using silver or palladium.<BR>All pieces of jewelry that can be made in yellow gold can also be made in white gold. Earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and rings are often quite beautiful in white gold, particularly when white gold is used to offset precious stones such as diamonds, sapphires, amethysts, and other cool-colored stones.<BR><BR><STRONG>Essential Information Regarding the Care of White Gold Jewelry</STRONG><BR>When you purchase a white gold piece, ask if it is coated with a metal called Rhodium. Rhodium plating is used to make the white gold look whiter, or paler, as it is a very white and very hard metal and the natural color of white gold is actually a light gray. Rhodium plating will wear away eventually, however, so you will likely wish to re-plate the piece occasionally. Most local jewelers are able to perform rhodium plating.<BR><BR>If you have decided to find a white gold piece for yourself or someone else, you can begin searching the internet for possibilities. White gold is a unique and beautiful precious metal, and with the aid of online resources, you may find a white gold setting or piece which is exactly what you were hoping for. The prices will likely be in the same range as yellow gold, or a little bit higher, but much lower than platinum.<BR></FONT><FONT face=Verdana size=2>by Serena Berger</FONT>
Gold Jewelry
<P align=justify><FONT face=Verdana size=2>Gold jewelry is the most popular form of jewelry in the Western world. Considered by many to be the most beautiful and romantic of precious metals, gold has a long tradition of being valued and coveted. The Ancient Romans placed high value on gold, and the Incas, halfway around the world, referred to gold as the "sweat of the sun." (Typical connotations of sweat aside, this was an indication of its revered status, as it came from the gods.)<BR><BR>Many people are unaware that there are four colors of gold: yellow, white, green, and pink. Yellow gold jewelry at various karat weights consists of gold, copper, silver, nickel, and zinc. White gold consists of gold, nickel, and zinc. Pink gold is made of gold and copper, while green gold is comprised of gold and silver. Yellow and white gold are the most common colors used to make fine jewelry.<BR><BR><STRONG>Understanding the Karat weight of Gold Jewelry</STRONG><BR>The Karat weight refers to the purity of gold, and is measured on a scale of 24. Thus, 24K gold is pure gold, but pure gold is far too soft to be made into jewelry. 18K gold would be 75% gold, which is the maximum amount that can be used and have the metal strong and resilient enough to be shaped into fine jewelry. The lowest common karat weight is 10, which indicates 10 parts gold to 14 parts other metals, but is still legally considered real gold in the United States.<BR><BR>Gold jewelry makes a fine present for a loved one, in any of its forms. You can use the internet to find out more information about gold, and to research a particular manufacturer. With a little care, you will find something beautiful and perfect for the person to whom you wish to give a wonderful gift--maybe even a treat for yourself.<BR></FONT><FONT face=Verdana size=2>by Serena Berger</FONT>
Anniversary Rings
<A href="http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=DVjaike0Zlc&offerid=115563.84427324&type=2&subid=0"><FONT face=Verdana size=2><STRONG><EM>Blue Topaz and Diamond Earrings: 14K White Gold 1 1/10 Carat</EM></STRONG></FONT></A><FONT face=Verdana color=#0000ff size=2><STRONG><EM><IMG height=1 src="http://ad.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/show?id=DVjaike0Zlc&bids=115563.84427324&type=2&subid=0" width=1 border=0></EM></STRONG></FONT><BR><P align=justify><FONT face=Verdana size=2>What should you consider if you are currently looking at anniversary rings? First, anniversary rings are often more elaborate and dramatic than anniversary bands. While bands tend to be simpler without solitaire stones sent in them, anniversary rings can have large gem stones.<BR><BR><STRONG>Three Stone Anniversary Rings</STRONG><BR>The most popular anniversary rings are three stone diamond anniversary rings. Usually these rings feature one larger diamond in the center flanked by two slightly smaller diamonds, but in some cases the three diamonds are all the same size. The idea is that the three stones represent the past, present, and future.<BR><BR>When a ring of this size is given, typically the woman will wear it on another finger, or will wear it instead of her engagement ring. Sometimes, anniversary rings will be given because in the early days of the relationship, the couple could not afford their ideal diamond engagement ring. After many years of marriage they may have more money in their budget, however, and the woman is able to have the fantasy diamond she always imagined.<BR><BR>While three stone diamond anniversary rings are the most popular, that does not meant they are the only or best anniversary rings. Any ring that you find significant or beautiful can be given as an anniversary ring. You may want to search online for a variety of styles and options before making your selection.<BR>by Serena Berger<BR></FONT>
of a very high standard, opening shops in main European cities. Mourning Jewelry During the Victorian era mourning jewelry was very fashionable. The initial months of mourning were unadorned by jewelry of any kind. As the mourning rituals increased, mourning jewelry developed as a fashion item. Queen Victorian wore a great deal of jet mourning jewelry after Prince Albert’s death. Jet from Whitby, North of England was set into mourning pieces. All types of material that were black were used and almost all included a lock of the dead loved one's hair. Hair was also plaited, braided or twisted very tightly until it became hard and thread like. Arts and Crafts Jewelry During the 1870s the Arts and Crafts movement evolved as a reaction to mass produced shoddy goods and inferior machine made products which were a result of the industrial revolution. William Morris and John Ruskin were both leaders of the arts and crafts movement in England. They promoted simple Arts and Crafts of designs based on floral, primitive or Celtic forms worked as wallpapers, furniture and jewelry. The polished stones used in Arts and Crafts jewelry gave a medieval, simpler, gentler, tooled hand made look and feel to items. Art Nouveau The Art Nouveau followed the arts and crafts movement resulting in a new jewelry look. The movement began in Paris and its influence went throughout the Western world. Art nouveau jewelry had curves, sinuous organic lines of romantic and imaginary dreaminess. It was very ethereal turning into winged bird and flower forms. French, René Lalique was the master goldsmith of the era of Art Nouveau producing exquisite one off pieces. Today, the Art Nouveau style is still admired, sought after, and copied. Pearls Various combinations of pearl necklaces come in and out of fashion with regularity so pearls too are a must. Today pearls are still a wardrobe essential. Both faux pearls and cultured pearls are very affordable today. Since the opening of trade with China in the 1990s, many pearls are imported from China dropping the price to about 1/3 of what it was prior to China entering the market. The Japanese have suffered disease in their pearl beds as well as facing competition and are finding it hard to compete with China's prices. Pearl necklaces and pearl earrings can lift a complexion and bring light and radiance to the face taking years off a woman whatever her age. They have been a wardrobe staple for centuries, and a wedding attire tradition. Cultured pearls have become very affordable, and faux pearls are very cheap and the quality can be excellent. Currently Pearls are a very “hot” fashion statement and with the modern twist of being interspaced on gold wire or floating on special synthetic cord they are essential to the millennium look. Cocktail Jewelry During the 1920s Lalique mass produced and designed high quality glass jewelry. Fake, or costume jewellery was sometimes then called cocktail jewelry. Costume or Cocktail jewelry was greatly influenced by designers such as Coco Chanel, and Elsa Shiparelli as well as a host of other designers. These two designers were particularly known for encouraging clients to mix their fine jewelry and costume jewelry. Both designers offered imagination and fun and both often sported fabulous fakes. In the late 1930s Napier of the USA was at the forefront of manufacturing fake cocktail jewelry offer glamour and escapism. Today, Napier still produces excellent contemporary costume pieces. Hollywood Influence By the 1940s and 1950s American culture was very dominant in Europe. The influence of movie films and the prominence of film stars set the fashion stage for womens make-up, hair and wardrobe. People wanted copies of outfits and jewelry worn by the actresses. Women believed that the glamour of Hollywood would rub off on them if they dressed and looked like the glamorous Hollywood actresses. During the Second World War metals were rationed, halting the production of fine jewelry. Quality costume jewelry picked up the now defunct fine jewelry market. Costume jewelry flourished becoming an acceptable alternative to fine jewelry.1980's Television Influences Jewelry During the 1980s with the evolution of glitzy television soaps such as Dynasty and Dallas, costume jewelry once again became a “hot” fashion statement. With over 250 million viewers, it didn’t take long for costume jewelry to be reborn. Glitz and sparkle by day was not only acceptable, it became the norm. Earrings grew to an unbelievable size, as did other pieces of jewelry. By the 1990s this sparkly dazzling jewelry phenomena was dead, replace with tiny real studs or a fine stud pearls. 21st Century Jewelry For the 21st century women believe a mix is good. Fine jewelry combined with costume jewelry are wardrobe essentials. The sophisticated women of this century know what they want from their jewelry and how to wear it to make their fashion statement. They recognize that costume jewelry can liven up their wardrobe. The types and quality of costume jewelry has grown enormously. Today one can purchase what is classified as fine costume jewelry which is usually plated at least seven times with 10 22 ct gold. Swarovski crystal set in gold are common accessories, and cubic zirconium, man’s imitation diamond, can be purchased for a fraction of the cost of real diamonds allowing every women to add styled jewelry to their wardrobe. Ciro, Adrian Buckley, Butler and Wilson, Swarovski Crystal Jewelry Napier, Joan Rivers, Joan Collins, Christian Dior, California Crystal, Property of A Lady and of course Kenneth J Lane to name just a few continue to produce high quality fashion jewelry for today’s women. Costume jewelry can take you from the board room to a night out of dining and dancing to your most intimate evening. It can make you look your best for your wedding, or a day at the beach. You can make Your Fashion Statement With Costume Jewelry! Sher from Estate Jewelry International has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing fashion, jewelry, and wedding help. So stop by and visit us at http://www.estatejewelryinternational.com/We'll help you make your fashion statement! Remember looking good doesn't have to cost a fortune!
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