Freshwater Pearls are Hot Items

Even though they are also known as the “casual pearl” fresh water pearls add an instance touch of class to any piece of jewelry that contains other stones. They look good with any type of bead including diamond cut beads, Swarovksi crystals, cat’s eyes, alphabet beads, Californian glass beads, Czech and glass beads.
The first thing that you have to realize is that a freshwater pearl is not a man made pearl nor is it a precious gem like a cultured pearl. It is categorized as a natural pearl.
As the name suggests freshwater mussels that live in lakes, rivers, streams and other bodies of water form pearls. Most freshwater cultured pearls sold today come from China. By contrast, saltwater pearls grow in oysters that live in the ocean, usually in protected lagoons.
The fact that freshwater pearls are so versatile could explain why we are seeing them so much as part of everything from hippie necklaces to baby bracelets. Another reason they are everywhere is because they have dropped in price. Pearls, even manmade ones, used to be expensive. Now a handful of pearls can practically be had for pennies.
Fresh water pearls are known for their brilliant colors and interesting shapes. There are many different types including the potato shaped, coined shape, keshi shaped and rice shaped varieties. We even sell the unusual firecracker coin shaped fresh water pearl which almost resembles a small flat key.
Currently fresh water pearls come in so many different colors that you can practically match a strand of them to any outfit. Freshwater pearls can be found in white, silvery white, pink, red, copper, bronze, brown, purple, green, blue, cream, and yellow.
The different colors are a function of genetics and the water quality that the mussels that produce them bathe in. These pearls are farmed so that the different shapes and colors are achieved on purpose.
What is nice about freshwater pearls is that they are a natural product. They are also light, easy to handle and easy to string. They have a shine to them that is also very pleasant
Despite the fact that they are produced by real shellfish they are much more affordable than real pearls. Unlike shell pearls or manmade pearls no two fresh water pearls are alike which makes them treasures in themselves!
Freshwater pearls are natural pearls and are nearly 100% nacre. The drawback to this is that an all natural pearl is rarely round in shape. Most are rice, nugget or coin shaped. Round shaped natural pearls are very uncommon.
Quality natural pearls are very rare jewels. Actual value of a natural pearl is determined in the same way that other “precious” gems are determined. Natural pearls are evaluated size, shape and quality of surface, orient, and luster.
Spectacular single natural pearls are often sold as a collector item, or set as centerpieces in unique jewelry. Very few matched strands of natural pearls exist, and those that do often sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars.

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The Cool Trilliant Cut Diamond

The trilliant cut diamond is also known as the trilliant cut or the trillium or trillion cut. It is one of the hippest and most sought after cuts for stones in rings and pendants nowadays – even if the stone is fake. It is very au courant to have a trilliant cut diamond.
As the name suggests the trillion is a triangular shape and it is considered to be a brilliant cut. The cut is popular because it looks great cut big or small – as a single pendant, a ring or as a sparkling oversize gem on a bracelet cuff.
Technically this shape is also considered to be a variation of the classic round shape. Some jewelers cut the triangle shape with curved angles and some cut them in straight angles.
Another reason this is such a popular cut is because it creates a lot of flash. Some trilliant cuts have as many as fifty facets when they are cut.
This is not a new design for stones. They were first seen in the sixties but they were not popular until recently. The cut has been seen for year in the form of accent stones because they look like petals or leaves. The cut actually looks best if it is balanced out with other trilliants or round cut stones.
However a true trilliant will have a one to one ratio between its length and its width. This does not always happen as many jewelers will make either the width or the length bigger to make it look good.
One of the challenges of choosing the trilliant cut is that it does not work well with stones of a low quality. This is because the angles and many facets can actually highlight the flaws of certain stones. The wrong cut can actually draw attention to flaws and inclusions in the rocks. Sometimes a cushion cut which is rounded at the sides and top can be used to draw attention away from flaws in the rocks.

The stone also looks best if it has prongs. Prongs help protect the delicate points of stone. Angular points are more prone to chipping.
Split shanks which look like V’s are part of the fashionable look of mounting a stone on a ring. Another way of protecting this stone is with a bezel setting which looks particularly attractive in a man’s ring.
As it is a triangular shape the trilliant cut diamond looks most attractive with one of the points of the trilliant being allgned at the length of the finger.
Baguette, emerald and other brilliants offset the unusual shape well. Many semi-precious stones also look good as a trilliant cut too – especially rubies and sapphires.
You can have just a single solo cut stone as part of this ring as well. Trilliant cut stones make an exceptional looking cocktail ring if mounted solo on top of a high prong created from gold or silver. The effect is very strong and sleek and heavy – a bit reminiscent of a brass knuckle.

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The Fashionable Wine Gift Basket

The wine gift basket is a very traditional gift but it is also very fashionable at the moment. That is because wine tasting is such a hot past time lately. This is thanks to all of the movies that glamorize wine tasting that have been in the theaters and video stores lately. A good example is the movie “SideKick” starring Thomas Hayden Church and Sandra Oh. It has served to bring wine culture back to the fore.
The Wine Gift Basket is also usually very much appreciated. The great thing about it is appropriate to give to both friends and business associates. It is also suited to many different holidays including weddings, birthdays and special occasion such as Valentine’s Day, Christmas and Thanksgiving.
The only time that the wine gift basket is not a suitable gift in the case where the person has a medical condition or an addiction that prevents them from drinking alcohol. This is a personal detail that you should find out if you are planning to give a wine gift basket to a business associate or a client. Let’s face it; the wine gift basket is not for everyone – especially an alcoholic.
The wine gift basket is going to be very fashion forward as a gift for this holiday season. The typical contents of a traditional wine gift basket are bottles of wine (either red or white or both), crackers, cheese, pate, caviar, chocolates, cheese, cookies and wine glasses. Sometimes the wine gift basket can also include a corkscrew or items such as cheese slicers or decorative wine stoppers. You can have one put together for you or put it together yourself. The ones that have a personal touch tend to be the nicest ones.
If you know that the person you are giving the wine gift basket to is very snotty about wine then you should be selective and get some advice about what to put in the basket. You might also want to get some advice about what kind of food goes best with a gourmet wine. There are some rules of taste that do govern this type of gift.
For instance chocolate is goes better with red wines rather than white wines. Fresh fruit belongs more in a wine gift basket that has white wine. For a different type of wine gift basket try giving gourmet wine such as Ice Wine or Port and add unusual crackers or cookies. Cherries, grapes, peaches, apples and other fruit also compliment ice wine and other dessert wines.
Although it is not exactly wine, the gift basket that contains champagne fits into the wine gift basket category. Champagne goes great with anything exotic including truffle spread and crackers, avocadoes, whipped cream caviar, pate, strawberries, raspberries and chocolate. It is one of the nicest gifts you can give to celebrate an occasion such as the announcement of an engagement, baby’s birth or career promotion.

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Body Piercing is Cool, But Is It Safe?

Is body piercing dangerous? The success of it depends on what part of your body is being decorated. People are piercing everything these days – from their labia to their tongues to the webbing between their fingers. However being irresponsible about where you get pierced or how you get pierced can be a huge mistake. You could seriously jeopardize your health and become a true fashion victim.
Although having your tongue pierced is very hip it can also damage tooth enamel and even break teeth. This can cause the need for thousands of dollars worth of dental work in the future. Still, thanks to the gangster baling craze for shiny gems on the tooth many people insist on ruining their teeth to become more interesting in terms of being fashionable.
Piercing the tongue seems like the hippest thing but it is a touch that can easily turn you into some kind o fashion victim. If anything goes wrong you can get nerve damage, bleeding, blood poisoning, infections and toxic shock. Tetanus, allergic reactions, hepatitis B, HIV transmission and tetanus are also a big risk. The reason it is so risky is because it actually takes quite a large needle and hole to create a tongue piercing.
Contracting Hepatitis B is one of the worst things that can happen as the result of body piercing. It causes the liver to swell up and stop working. The main culprit for causing hepatitis is dirty needles.
Almost eight percent of all people who get hepatitis also get liver cancer. People who get hepatitis also get cirrhosis which is a scarring of liver tissue that prevents the organ from regenerating itself.
Yet another sometimes-fatal consequence of body piercing is an HIV infection (AIDS). These diseases are b contracted through a dirty tattooing or piercing needle. AIDS is ultimately deficiency of the body’s immunes system that makes it difficult to fight off infection. It can take ten years or more for the HIV virus to develop into full-blown AIDS which makes the person more at risk dying from a very simple infection like the common cold or a bladder infection. Don’t think you are not a risk for catching HIV. The sad statistics are that one out of 250 Americans is currently HIV positive and does not know it.
The main way to avoid HIV and Hepatitis B is to get your body piercing done at a professional salon that is pristine. It should only use needles that are completely sterile.
Piercing your own cheek, lip, tongue, eyebrow, naval, tongue or ears is NOT recommended for anybody in this day and age so please put that old bar of soap and that needle away! And if you do get pierced make sure it is from a reputable place where they use an auto sterilizer to keep equipment clean.
If you have children or teenagers who are thinking of getting a body piercing you need to keep an eye on them. They could impulsively make a mistake that could cause them to develop a chronic health problem for the rest of their life.

Love Attracting Jewelry

It is very fashionable to wear gemstones that serve some kind of purpose nowadays. There are even whole lines of jewelry on the market now that are specifically designed to attract love.
There are many precious gems that have symbolized love for eons. One of the oldest of these is the sapphire which is also a stone that protects against lust and violence.
The diamond is also a big love drawing stone so if you are single consider wearing one to attract a new partner. If you are already attached it can strengthen your existing relationship.
The emerald is one of the oldest love charms that exists. It is also said to reunite lovers who may be separated by distance or by the sea. That sparkling green is the Asian and Indian equivalent to the energy found in the heart chakra on the body.
The ruby, which is red like blood, also symbolizes the heart. In ancient Indian and Chinese cultures it was combined with gold to attract love and affection. The ruby is also a stone of prosperity so it can definitely do dual duty. It is also a protective stone. When you wear a ruby you do not have to fear misfortune.
There are also many different types of semi-precious stones that can help us draw love. The Rose Quartz is a stone that helps us draw perfect love and understanding to us. Wear rose quartz if you are looking for unconditional love. Just having this stone on your person can help enhance feelings of love.
The amethyst is also a love stone. The rumor around this purple gem is that it can help you maintain stamina for lovemaking even if you are drunk or stoned.
The Garnet is also a serious love drawing stone. It is similar to the ruby and less expensive. It symbolizes love devotion and commitment.
If you want your man to stay faithful then try buying him cufflinks or a tie clip that has an agate stone it. This stone is an age old symbol of fidelity.
If jealousy or possessiveness is a problem then try wearing a carnelian necklace, ring or earrings. This is a very mellow stone that gets rid of negative emotions.
To strengthen your attractiveness to men try wearing chunk of Lapis lazuli. This beautiful stone increases intuition, awareness, cures depression and attracts love.
Pearls are also age old love drawing gems. Everything that a pearl symbolizes is quite positive including innocence, faith, charity, spiritual guidance, psychic powers, and fertility.
If you want to be popular try carrying a peridot. This stone brings you prosperity. It also serves the dual purpose of bringing you a lover as well.
If you are feeling resentful or like you cannot heal from the past then try carrying a smoky quartz. Carry clear quartz for general protection and to help balance your energy and restore your sense of inner harmony.

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Feng Shui Principles and Fashion?

Can the principles of feng shui be applied to fashion? . In essence the art of feng shui is about arranging objects so that they bring you the most possible good fortune so there is no reason why these ancient Chinese laws could not also apply to your clothing.
One of the biggest laws of wellness and prosperity in Feng Shui is to keep things clutter free. You should never wear clothing that is too fussy or dirty clothing. Make sure it smells fresh. You should also never wear clothing that is stained. Sweat stains also bring bad luck because they never go away.
Nothing should ever be in disrepair or you could bring negative chi into your life. As far as your clothing goes this means you should not wear torn or ripped clothing. There should also be nothing wrong with the lining of your clothing as well. Clothing that has missing belts, belt loops or buttons might restrict your ability to attract money.
Dangling hems or threads can mean problems with relationships. This is because all things that dangle loosely in Feng Shui are said to stir up bad energy . If you have a loose thread on your person you could cause yourself to have an accident.
If you want to follow the laws of Feng Shui Fashion you should also never wear anything that is second hand. These items are said to harbor the bad energy of their previous owners. Second hand or estate jewelry is also a big no no. You want to make sure that you only wear things that are brand new or uniquely your own.
Cluttering up an outfit with jewelry is also a bad idea. Too many chains interfere with the circulation of prosperity around your body. You should keep your body as free as possible of any dangling jeweler. Button earrings are a much better choice than dangling earrings as things that dangle from the body are seen as obstructions to good energy.
In terms of color you should avoid the color white. This color signifies death in the Chinese culture. The best color for you to wear if you want to make money is bright fire engine red. The second best colors to wear are purple and green. Brown shoes are better to wear than black ones as black ones could be too heavy.
You should also avoid wearing clothing that has sharp details such as heavily padded shoulders. This is because the pointy edges of the fabric attract negative energy. You should also avoid clothing that has a lot of darts in it and instead choose outfits that are looser and flowering.
Pointy toed shoes are also frowned on in Feng Shui. Wear shoes with rounded toes whenever possible. Even the sharp toes of shoes are said to bring bad luck if you want to believe the dress laws associated with this ancient and superstitious science.

Chinese Feng Shui Chic

The Olympics in Beijing have revived an interest in all things Chinese. It is very trendy this year to decorate or wear clothing in Asian styles.

Many of the gifts in Chinese culture are related to the fine art of Feng Shui. There hundreds of lucky charms, statues and good luck objects that are given to symbolize your wish for your friend to have good fortune.

If you know a single woman who is looking for a partner try giving her a pair of ducks, a pair of horses or an image of any animal in pairs. The traditional gift to bring love in the Chinese culture is a picture of a pair of cranes or ducks. Paintings or posters of blossoming peonies also brings love.

Sentimental objects such as round snow shakers and glass globes filled with water and sparkles can also enhance love in the bedroom. A bubbling fountain constructed from stone and filled with river pebbles keeps the love chi alive in the bedroom. The same goes for lava lamps particularly if one is set on either side of the bed and if they are in the colors of red or pink.

If you wish for your friend to be more prosperous then try giving them a poster of eight lucky fish or eight lucky horses. Both horses and fish bring money to a home. Even better give your friend an aquarium with eight gold fish in it and tell him or her to put it in the southeastern corner of the home.

Yet another symbol of prosperity and respect is the peacock. You can buy fans made out of peacock feathers or linen or paper fans that also have the motif of a peacock.

Yet another money bringing charm is the money toad or money frog. This is a three-legged frog that comes in red, green or orange plastic. The more valuable ones are carved from crystal or jade. These tiny statues have red or white stones for eyes and a slot in their mouth into which you can stick a coin. The frog or toad is then placed in the prosperity areas of your home such as by the front door in the southwest corner of your office in order to make sure that cash is always flowing into your home.

If you have a friend who is recovering from ill health then the classic gift is an iron or ceramic teapot with tiny cups. The ultimate collector’s item is a teapot made of stone. Hanging gourds is also a Feng Shui remedy for bad health.

If you simply want to express your love for someone then it is classic to give him or a small round sphere of rose quartz. These are usually mounted on three-legged silver or metal stands. Round clear quartz balls are for meditation and clarity. Agate balls in greens and blues can be used to attract prosperity.

Gifts for Zodiac Signs II - Virgo to Pisces

In the last blog we looked at the right gifts to please the Zodiac signs from Aries to Libra. In this blog we are looking at what trendy and fashionable gifts please the other signs.

LIBRA:

Libra is ruled by the planet Venus and the goddess of the same name is ruled by the element of copper. Copper bowls, bracelets or sculptures are a perfect gift for this gentle and sensitive sign. Libras also appreciate gifts of perfumes, balms or creams and clothing made out of sensuous fabrics such as silk or cotton. Organic balms and lotions of all kinds also appeal to this sign, which loves to be pampered.

SCORPIO:

This sign is known for its prowess in bed so any seductive tools such as scented candles, incense and silk clothing or sheets are greatly appreciated. Scorpions also have a need to be grounded so hematite, onyx or tiger-eye spheres or jewelry keep their thoughts focused and their emotions under control. Anything shiny and made out of black patent leather also pleases this sign as does clothing in bright siren red colors.

SAGITTARIUS:

This jolly sign enjoys novelty gifts. Bright strings of light, colored bangles, and small ceramic statues of animals are good choices for the Archer. Sagittarians also like to travel so small globes, especially the ones that double as lamps and maps or photographs of exotic places make good gifts for them. The Sagittarian appreciates a good pair of walking boots. They are also dandies so a nice hat or walking stick is also appealing to them.

AQUARIUS:

The Aquarian is a progressive sign that appreciates the symbols of the subconscious. Posters or painting of Mandalay, yantras or ancient Gods or Godesses suit this sign. They also adore the color purple and the metal silver. Unusual jewelry set with semi-precious stones appeals to their unique and sometimes quirky sense of style. A gown or housecoat made of long flowing silk also suits this elegant and sexy Zodiac sign.

PISCES:

A fountain suits this water sign well as do any symbols of Christianity or ancient Egypt. An ankh, om symbol or Zen symbol charm also suits them well as they like things to be in balance. A table fountain made of river rocks or copper can help soothe the easily frayed nerves of a Pisces native. Pisces also like blue and green stones such as emeralds, green garnets and beryls. If it is green a Pisces will like it. They also like aquariums full of fish as the sign is associated with the sea.

Remember that the above is just a rough guide to what each sign likes. Put some into what the person really likes when you buy a gift because some times it is actually the least trendy gift that is more appealing to your friend.

Gifts for Zodiac Signs

Here are some fashionable ideas for gifts for each member of the zodiac going through the first six signs – Aries to Virgo. We will discuss trendy yet perfect gifts for the other six signs in the next blog.

ARIES:

Aries belongs to the fire element so they are pleased with any gift that lights up. This includes candles, incense and strings of Chinese Lanterns. Aries natives are also very fond of hot colors such as red or gold. The fire of a diamond or a chunk of bright white quartz appeals to their flashy sense of fashion. A shiny vinyl red belt or purse would be a good choice.

TAURUS:

Bulls are homebodies and appreciate practical gifts such as plants for their gardens, little boxes to put their treasures in and good luck charms that symbolize fertility and prosperity. Taurus individuals are very sensitive to negative energy so they would appreciate the gift of sage bundles for purify the energy in their space. They also like ecologically minded gifts for the home.

GEMINI:

These creative and musical members of the zodiac are ruled by the element of air. Good gifts for them are any kinds of chimes. Many Geminis are also writers and freelancers so giving them a gift of bamboo which gives luck to both is a good idea. Fans, feathers and lava lamps also fascinate this sign, which is fascinated by gimmicks. They love to talk so an iPhone is also a fashionable gift for these chatterboxes. Any kind of musical instrument is also a cherished gift for them.

CANCER:

Cancers are ruled by the water element and love things from the ocean or sea such as river stones, seashells and bits of washed glass. A great gift for a Cancer is a live fish in an aquarium. They also like fancy little boxes that are inlaid with precious wood or stone so they can keep their treasures in it. Seashells are also a good gift for this sign.

LEO:

The sun rules this sign so anything with a sun motif on it appeals to them. They also suit bright yellow gold and ruby jewelry the best. These passionate creatures also like candles and in particular salt rock candles, which can give their bedrooms a sensuous glow. They like lava lamps too because they are so fiery!

VIRGO:

Virgos like practical gifts that can help the organize things and are fond of bookends, pencil holders and unique shelving. They also like things like antique coins and art. Small sculptures of Buddhas or Chinese animals would appeal to the Virgo native as would posters or paintings that had a Feng Shui purpose such as bringing prosperity. A poster of eight fishes or eight horses for the Virgo to hang in his or her office would be a good idea.