South Sea Pearl

Alexandrite, which is used in June birthstone jewelry, is among the uncommonest of gems to be found on the earth. It is recognized as the June birthstone and is the precious stone used to mark both the 45th and 55th wedding anniversaries. It is a member of group and is made from a mix of chromium, aluminium, titanium, iron and chrysoberyl mineral.

Color Changing Properties of Alexandrite

This June birthstone is very much admired because of it’s capacity to drastically switch colors. Compared to other gem for example diamonds and sapphires, alexandrite is a relatively new gem to the market, having only been  discovered close to 150 years ago. The Alexandrite gemstone was first discovered in the Russian Ural Mountains during the early part of the nineteenth century and was named after the Emperor of the Russian Empire, Czar Alexander II. This gemstone was dubbed with the name “magic gem” because of it’s mystical display of colors.

Description of the June Birthstone Alexandrite

The color of this precious stone depends on the lighting wavelength and the chemical bonds that exist in the gem. In natural light alexandrite reveals a bluish green colors like moss but when positioned under incandescent light from a candle or lamp the color changes to a lovely raspberry tone. This transformation is referred to as the alexandrite effect. It’s a result of the chemical combination of of chromium with the rare mineral chrysoberyl. Alexandrite gets it’s colors from chromium.

Alexandrite Gem Quality

It is critical to take into account the intensity of the color change when evaluating an alexandrite. The gemstone is thought to be rare and of higher value if the color change is complete and deep. A further thing to bear in mind is the cutting quality of the gem and it’s clarity. Alexandrites that are found in Russia are alleged to be of better color and quality, thus making them more valuable. The majority of the alexandrites on the market are below 1 carat because larger sizes are too expensive by nearly everyone.

Looking after Your Alexandrite Jewelry

it is necessary to keep alexandrites away from excessive heat exposure because this can have an effect on their ability to change color. When cleaning these gems warm, soapy water can be used or alcohol or a specially made jewelry cleaning solution. If ultrasonic and steam are required suitably skilled jewelers ought to be used.

Sources of Alexandrite

The initial source of alexandrite in the Ural Mountains of Russia has now virtually been mined out, however the mines are still open and turn out a small number of tiny stones every year. These days there are 2 main sources of alexandrite gems, Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon) and Brazil. In the 1990’s Alexandrite gemstones were also found in countries such as India, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Myanmar (Burma) and Madagascar. Sadly, none of these locations has produced as intense colors as the gemstones produced in Russia. Gemstones from these sources have their own characteristics: for example the greyish hues of gemstones from Ceylon and Brazil stones having yellow tones on the green color.

Conclusion

Despite the comparatively short history of this attractive gemstone it’s already been attributed with a range of mystical and magical properties. It is a rare and beautiful gemstone and makes a fantastic June birthstone jewelry gift for a loved one who has a June birthday.

The precious stone used in December birthstone jewelry is the turquoise, a blue green stone which is a phosphate of aluminum and copper. It is a rare gem that has been used in ornamental work and jewelry for thousands of years and was used from around 6000 B.C. by the Egyptians. It was a valued stone worn by the kings of the Aztecs and the Pharaohs. It was also used in stunning ornamental and decorative pieces by the Native Americans and Persians. Most specimens unearthed are extremely small, often so tiny that they can only be seen using a microscope. High quality turquoise is mined in Afghanistan, Australia, Iran, Arizona and New Mexico in the US.

The name turquoise is believed to come from the French word that means Turkey as it was wrongly believed that the gemstones originated in that country as they were sold in the markets to Venetian merchants. In reality they almost certainly came from Persia (now Iran) or the Sinai Peninsula. It may possibly also have come from the French word pierre turquin, meaning dark, blue stone. It’s frequently found in copper deposits generally in dessert or very dry conditions.

Before turquoise was discovered in the USA the highest quality gemstones, with a deep blue color, came from Persia and ‘Persian Turquoise’ is still used in the present day to signify the best quality gems. In the latter years of the nineteenth century turquoise was discovered in the United States with deposits that matched the quality of the Persian gems. Today the United States is the biggest producer of this lovely gem.

The Use of Turquoise by the Aztecs

Turquoise was used extensively by the Aztecs, frequently with gold and several other minerals such as jade, quartz, jet and malachite as well as corals and shells. They used it in masks, mosaics, knives and shields. Some fabulous mosaics that survived destruction by the Spanish Invaders can be seen at the British Museum.

How the Native Americans Used Turquoise

The Apache, Pueblo and Navajo tribes used turquoise as an amulet often believing it had power to perfect the aim of archers. The original turquoise jewelry fashioned by Native Americans included carvings, beads and mosaics and only from the late 1800’s was the typical jewelry made from silver produced. Navajo artisans began making this type of jewelry from silver coins for trade with white men.

Taking Care of Turquoise Jewelry

Turquoise is rather soft and must be looked after with care to prevent it from being damaged. It can lose it’s lustre if heated, or if it is exposed to to sunlight or weak acids so you should take care to remove any turquoise jewelry before using hot water or household chemicals.

December Birthstone Jewelry

Turquoise is the gem for December in the modern birthstone jewelry system. In traditional systems the birthstones are ruby and zircon. Jewelry set with turquoise would make a gorgeous present whether set in earrings, necklaces, pendants or rings. You can read more at December Birthstone Jewelry.

Everyone has a story about their mother. Mothers are as different as their unique personalities. Some are patient and kind. Some are loud and obnoxious. Others are very opinionated. In spite of these characteristic differences in a mother’s personality, they do the best that they can, as there is no wrong way to love their child.

Being a mother is both the most challenging and the most rewarding experience a woman can have. Through all of the stages their children go through, a mother’s love is unconditional; it is constant; it never ends. Just as a child’s development goes through different stages, a mother’s love goes through stages, as well.

My mother is celebrating her eightieth birthday in a couple months. She is one of those women who needs nothing, and who finds happiness in the simplest things. I decided to pay tribute to her life, and especially her motherhood, buy selecting an assortment of Italian charms that would each have special meaning to her. Each charm reflects a certain period of her life as a wife, a mother and a grandmother. I’m sure it will bring tears for her, but I’m sure it will also remind her of many happy times with more to anticipate.

For the mother who just gave birth to a red-faced, wrinkly skinned, squalling infant with no hair, no teeth, and no idea of who this woman is, her first comment is “Isn’t my baby the most beautiful thing you’ve ever seen in your life?!” A new mother’s love is blind.

A mother’s love for her toddler is patient, as she tirelessly teaches this youngster what society expects of them. Temper tantrums thrown in frustration are dealt with. Lessons in potty training and communication are constant. Though this stage is short-lived, it takes a lot of energy to keep up with a rambunctious child of this age. The mother’s love grows with each accomplishment.

The love for the school-aged child can best be described as consistent, as the mother learns to let her child develop an individual personality. She allows her child to socialize; enables her child to experience life; challenges her child to become independent; supports her child through trials and triumphs, alike. Through all of these stages of development, her love is unwavering.

The mother of the teen-ager experiences a love which is forgiving. Adolescents often test their boundaries; challenge the rules; bend the truth. Even though they are trying to be independent, they lack the maturity to do so. Often, mistakes are made. All a mother can do is encourage the child to learn from their mistakes; to take responsibility for their actions; to face the consequences. By doing so, she is enabling the child to grow into a self-reliant adult.

The love a mother has for her adult child is full of pride, for she has the satisfaction of a job well done in raising her child. Her efforts have been successful. Her love has overcome all of the obstacles and stages in life. This love is reciprocated because the adult child realizes and appreciates the love their mother has shown them throughout their life.

There is a special bond formed by mother and daughter once the daughter becomes a mother. The mother’s ever-changing role is now defined by the name “Grandmother”, and she understands…she knows…she empathizes and sympathizes with what her daughter will need to be as a mother. For, there is no stronger love than that of a mother; and no love more rewarding than becoming a grandmother!

The Ankh is a familiar symbol seen as ankh charms, on ornamental objects, on T shirts and scores of other places in today’s world. It is similar in appearance to the Christian cross but has a loop above the transverse bar. The Symbol’s origins are even now obscure but it’s significance is unmistakable. It is the Egyptian hieroglyph for ‘eternal life’ and is seen in ornamental pieces and on domestic items that were left in their tombs, which were either fashioned as an ankh or decorated with this symbol.

The Origins of the Ankh

There are several theories regarding it’s origins encompassing the idea that it was a knot used on ritual or religious clothes, a a stylised strap of a sandal. The most prevalent theory is that it represents a complex knot with the lower segment representing the ends of the bow, as it is often made up of two parts. The ankh is often seen in illustrations of Egyptian gods and undoubtedly stands for life in these depictions. It’s frequently shown being offered to a king as a figurative ‘breath of life’ and ankhs were frequently shown as flowing in chains from libation containers also as a symbol it’s life giving ability. Jugs used in ceremonies for holding water were regularly fashioned in the form of an ankh.

A Representation of Life

As a representation of life it was also used as a representation of fertility, life in the generations to come. An alternative name used for the ankh is the Key of the Nile as it represents the joining together of Isis and Osiris, which was thought to start the annual Nile flooding, so important to the Ancient Egyptians. Many Egyptian gods were depicted carrying an ankh, frequently in both hands crossed over the upper body as seen in a sculpture of Osiris or holding both sceptre and ankh as Isis, Sobek, Tefnut, Hathor and several more are frequently seen. The symbol also embodies life in the afterworld and the dead may be referred to as ankhu and neb-ankh is the name for a sarcophagus.

Mirrors especially, but also other household objects, were often made in the shape of an ankh in fact it was also the word for mirror. A gilded mirror casing was found in the tomb of Tutankhamun and musical instruments such as sistrums and spoons were also made in this form.

How the Ankh is used in Today’s World

Nowadays the ankh is extensively used as a decorative sign, it’s use ranging from pop culture in the US to a symbol showing spiritual beliefs. In the 1960′ to 1970’s it was a common sign worn by hippies as an affirmation of life and scorn for the materialism of the times. It is associated in the Goth subculture with vampires and has appeared in countless vampire films.

Whether you wear an ankh for only it’s decorative affect or for a deep, more spiritual significance it is a well known and prized emblem that is found in exquisite charm jewelry, as earrings, pendants, anklets, necklaces and Egyptian ankh charms.

Making the jump to purchase an engagement ring is a big step for anyone and should not be rushed into. it is helpful to gain some basic knowledge and background information on rings with diamonds or even solitaires. Even if you have some previous knowledge on diamonds, it will benefit you to examine all of the choices from the resellers where you are looking at purchasing your perfect engagement ring. 
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Exploring all of the options jewelers have can help you make that choice for affordable engagement ring. Many places will make sure to educate you before making your final purchase to ensure that you are choosing the one that is right for you and your mate. If you are dealing with a jeweler that does not proactively try to educate you on engagement ring options, you may want to find a different place to shop . Many ring companies have websites that will provide tips and information necessary to make a ring purchase so be sure to use all of the resources available to you, especially if you are not keen on spending a large amount of time in the store becoming more educated before making your purchase. Knowing about cut, clarity, setting and even budget limitations can all help narrow down your search for the perfect engagement ring . 

Firstly, if your girl has given you any indication of her likes and dislikes, keep notes! Off-handed mentions of other women’s rings may be a clue as to what she would like or what to avoid. By shopping together, she can choose a number of options that she prefers and you can make your final decision based on those choices. Another way to find out exactly what your girl would like is to look at the jewelry that she already owns and wears regularly . You will not want to purchase an engagement ring that will not blend with what she currently has. If she loves yellow gold and multiple stones you will not be browsing platinum solitaire engagement rings . 

Some women will not have a preference for their engagement rings to the wedding bands, while others feel that it is imperative that they match. Take stock of her belongings and how she organizes her belongings. If all of her towels in her linen closet match or she has an exact set of coordinating serving dishes with matching spoons, she is most likely the type of woman who would prefer an engagement ring that belongs to a set. These can be purchased together or separately depending on where you are shopping, while other engagement rings can be put with a number of wedding bands quite well. A simple solitaire diamond engagement ring will go with practically any wedding band, so if you are unsure, this may be the best choice for your purchase.

Generally, the wedding band or wedding rings are worn on the left ring finger. They are symbolic of the matrimonial commitment of fidelity. Down through the years, Europeans have made it traditional to engrave the date of the marriage as well as the spouse’s name along the inside surface of them. Wearing of rings symbolizes the couple’s eternal love for each other.  It has also become a matter of tradition and etiquette for couples to wear them beyond the ceremony of marriage.

 More than Gold Bands

Traditionally, men’s gold rings were the only type of bands available for men who are getting married. The only option available for them was the choice of yellow gold or white gold. Still, it was gold. The world is evolving and now you will find many options from which you can choose while shopping for men’s rings.  Today a husband can wear just as an attractive ring as his blushing bride. Fashion jewelry has now caught up with the men folk of the world. Grooms can now choose from a wide variety of options such as diamond rings or bands braided in gold or finished in satin polish.  Now grooms can find just the right one to suit his personality and fashion sense

 The primary focus of the present day is on the hard metals such as tungsten-carbide although there are still those who prefer softer metals such as gold or silver.  For added comfort, wedding rings must have rounded edges or arced surfaces. The most popular metals for men’s rings include:

 • Tungsten Carbide – It is the hardest metal to be used in jewelry. It is stronger than titanium and has a very masculine feel.  Tungsten rings are built to last a lifetime; the only rings that will last as long as your love. No cobalt binders included in tungsten carbide rings and they are top quality.

 • Titanium – Titanium is lightweight yet sturdy and considerably lighter than tungsten. Titanium rings are very durable and a very much comfortable to wear than tungsten carbide or stainless steel rings.  They also wear much better than gold.

 • Stainless steel – Most stainless steel rings are made of surgical steel and are comfortable to wear on the finger. They are suited for active mean and wear much better than soft metals like gold.

 • Platinum – Platinum is a metal that is more precious than gold. It was once considered to be a metal fit for a king.  It is one of the most popular choices for men’s wedding rings.

 • Palladium – It is a naturally occurring precious metal that is more rare than gold.  It is hypo-allergenic, nickel-free and does not need rhodium plating.This is a popular choice for anyone who has allergies to other types of metal.

 • Silver – Silver is one of the most popular soft metal rings. It is comfortable to wear and less expensive than is gold and various other trendy material for men.

 • Gold – It used to be the only type of metal. Even with the proliferation of other precious metals, gold remains the leader for the most popular type to wear.

 Precious metals seem not enough for men’s rings. a new groom may choose wedding rings that incorporate the use of diamonds in the design to add some sparkle.  Men no longer have to be contented with plain. There are lots of diamond options, which come in so many designs to complement the unique personality of the man wearing it.

With Mother’s Day just around the corner, you know that there is no time like the present to show your mother what she means to you. Getting the right present can be quite difficult, and if you are looking to top yourself every year, it can seem downright impossible!.

When you’re a kid, Mother’s Day is easy to do; make up a few favor coupons or draw Mom a nice picture and call it a day. When we get older, we have other people to please—our wives and girlfriends, our Mothers, our friends who are Mothers.

Consider the fact that Mother’s Day jewelry may just be the solution to all of your Mother’s Day gifting woes. More specifically, diamond pendants may just be the way to go.

Around the Mother’s Day holiday, most jewelers offer specials on things like diamond pendants. These specials can be taken advantage of both on the World Wide Web and in your local mall. Mother’s Day jewelry is a hot button for the jewelry industry, and those who really want to please Mom shouldn’t find it hard to do so.

Many retailers even have great diamond pendants and other Mother’s Day jewelry for less than $100, making it easy and inexpensive to please the special woman in your life every time. You don’t have to do something huge to please the special woman in your life. Everybody loves pendants, and when it comes to Mother’s Day jewelry is an especially well appreciated gift.

After years of paper coupons and drawings, each and every mom could learn to love a nice diamond pendant. Now that you’re an adult, consider the fact that it is time to graduate to a more thoughtful and sophisticated gift. Heart pendants, lockets, and anything gold or silver will do, but they don’t say that ‘diamonds are a girl’s best friend’ for no reason

When you want to knock the socks off the mom in your life, consider what diamond pendants she might lo to wear. It really won’t take a fortune to get her something that she will treasure forever.

Sales are going on all the time but Mother’s Day is an especially opportune time to get a great deal. See if you can take advantage of a sale and bring home a Mother’s Day diamond pendant today.

Clarity, color, cut and caret are the factors that helps determine value of a diamond. Obviously, a diamond that is considered as flawless and perfect will have perfect diamond clarity as well. However, diamonds are not always flawless and many will in fact have a few minor flaws and in fact there are two such types of flaws that you need to be wary about.

Diamond Clarity – Inclusions And Blemishes

The first type of flaw to lookout for is inclusion while the other flaw is what is known as blemishes.  Inclusions are flaws that have to do with the very characteristic of the diamond and among inclusions there are number of flaws that mar the diamond clarity and these include internal graining, cleavage, bearding, knots and feathers/clouds and cavities.

On the other hand, the diamond clarity can also be marred by blemishes which typically involve the surface of the diamond being such that diamond clarity has been lost. Things such as chipping, pits, grain boundaries,scratches, nicks and in addition polish lines are typical examples of imperfect diamond clarity.

Diamonds can be categorized as being flawless, very slightly included, flawed on the inside, slightly included as well as included and each of these categories are further divided into several grades. Furthermore, the diamond is also graded on other considerations including its color and nature, position and size as well as number.

Jewelers consider diamond clarityas being the complete look of the diamond along with the characteristics of the diamond. Therefore flawless diamonds are the superior diamond clarity because a flawed diamond or one with rating of 13 is occasionally cloudy in its effect and it will also have certain needless spots on it.

It is hard to truly distinguish diamond clarity with the naked eye and so a magnifying glass needs to be used though a diamond with rating S12 will appear almost flawless to the naked eye and it is only professionals that can distinguish a flawless diamond from a diamond rated S12.

Buyers obviously would like to diamonds that are flawless or as close to being flawless. However, the cost of such diamonds is very high and so not everybody can afford to buy such diamonds though a diamond with rating of S12 or better will prove to be a good purchase.

It is also worthwhile understanding what clarity enhanced diamonds are and whether they are worth purchasing. As far as diamond clarity is concerned, if a diamond has flaws in its clarity it will not make a difference whether the size of the diamond is large or small; it will have lost its beauty and so you should look for better diamonds to find one that has acceptable clarity.

Caduceus charms are a popular gift for graduating physicians, nurses and veterinary students but are you aware of how this emblem came to be used by medical personnel? The Rod of Asclepius is a more suitable emblem for medicine and medical organisations, so why is the caduceus used even though, unlike the Rod, it does not have any medical meaning? Actually, quite the contrary as the symbol is linked with Hermes, god of commerce and boundaries and of the slyness of liars, and who is usually linked to misbehavior and trickery. He was also the escort of souls to the afterlife, so the use of his emblem for medicine is especially out of place.

The Rod of Asclepius

The more correct symbol is the Rod of Asclepius which is a staff intertwined by a snake. Asclepius was the god of medicine in Greek myths and he had six daughters, Hygieia, Aglea,  Aceso, Laso, Meditrina, and Panacea who stand for healing, medicine and cleanliness. Panacea means literally ‘all healing’ and is a recognizable word in present day English. Asclepius was the son of Apollo and Coronis and was raised by Chiron, a centaur, when his mother was executed for disloyalty. Chiron trained Asclepius in medicine.

Around 300 BC, in Ancient Greece the cult of Asclepius was common and temples dedicated to him were called Asclepieia. Snakes were often used in the healing rituals and non-poisonous serpents freely crawled about the temples. In the beginning the Oath of Hippocrates opened with these words ‘I swear by Apollo the Physician and by Asclepius and by Hygieia and Panacea and by all the gods …”

The Caduceus

The caduceus is customarily shown as a herald’s staff with a pair of intertwined snakes and usually a pair of wings. Originally the staff was borne by Iris who was the messenger of Hera. Only in later myths was it carried by Hermes. It might be the basis for the astrological image for Mercury, who was the Roman counterpart of the Greek Hermes. It’s often used as a symbol for medicine especially in North America. Why is there confusion between the Rod of Asclepius, a fitting sign for medicine and the caduceus which is unsuitable, connected as it is with Hermes, supporter of thieves and tricksters and escort of the dead to the underworld?

History of The Use of the Caduceus by Medical Personnel

It seems that it was used incorrectly as an alternative to the Rod of Asclepius in the nineteenth century. It was first used as a medical badge around 1856 in the US on the uniforms of military hospital workers and was worn by medical officers from about 1902. The Surgeon General was aware of the error a few years after this but didn’t replace it. The Caduceus was used by the Navy Hospital Corps and the Army Medical Department following the first World War. Though the AMA used the caduceus for some time, it was replaced by the proper symbol for medicine, the Rod of Asclepius, in 1912.

How Caduceus Jewelry is Used Today

Currently caduceus jewelry is trendy, particularly among nurses. Caduceus charms for bracelets are particularly admired and can be purchased in silver, gold or crusted with diamonds. A medical caduceus is an admired gift for graduating students whether physicians, nurses or veterinary students.

If you are planning your next deep sea dive and you think you might dive down to 3,900 metres (2.4 miles) below the surface and you want to wear your mechanical watch, the most well known maker of Swiss watches, Rolex watches have made the first watch in the world that can withstand the pressure. It should be noted that the world record for a scuba diving deep dive is 330 metres so the new Rolex Sea-Dweller Deepsea model released last year can withstand a dive more than 10 times the world record depth.

Rolex has a long history of producing water resistant watches and was in fact the first watch manufacturer to produce a water resistant watch when in 1926 it released the Oyster. Many variations of the Oyster model are highly valued on today’s used watches market. Then in 1953, Rolex presented the world with the Submariner, a divers’ watch that was water resistant to 100 metres. Rolex continued to develop the Submariner and in 1971 launched the precursor to today’s Deepsea called the Sea Dweller, which featured a helium release valve and could be submerged to 610 metres.

Making a watch strong enough withstand the pressure of a deep sea dive has traditionally meant that the watch becomes very bulky and is not a watch that can be worn comfortably on a daily basis. Rolex wanted to design a watch that was wearable on a daily basis so it took a different approach to the design of the Sea Dweller Deepsea. The case is a new and patented design that features a ‘Ring Lock System’ that utilizes three components to absorb pressure.

The first component is the crystal made of sapphire and 5.5 millimetres thick. The caseback is made of Grade 5 titanium and is the second component. Grade 5 titanium is an alloy with vanadium and aluminium and is four times stronger than the 904L steel case of the watch. The final component of the ‘Ring Lock System’ sits in between the crystal and the caseback for extra support and is a ring made of BioDur 108 steel. Being very high in its nitrogen content, BioDur 108 steel is very corrosion-resistant (which is useful if you are using it in salt water) and is three times stronger than the steel that makes up the case of the watch.

Choosing to use the combination of 904L steel, Grade 5 titanium and BioDur 108 steel to manufacture the Sea Dweller has resulted in a watch that can withstand the enormous pressures of being submerged to such great depths. But not only can it withstand the pressure, its dimensions of a case diameter of 43 millimetres and 18 millimetres deep is still very wearable by today’s standards. And if 3,900 metres sounds like an impressive number, Rolex are actually being conservative in their claims as they have successfully tested the watch to an almost unbelieveable 4,900 metres!