Art Joolree

How to Buy Pearl Jewelry Online

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 02:42:00 +0000

Pearl jewelries have different standards of quality than other types of jewelry. Before you try to purchase pearls online, familiarize yourself with the different levels of quality and options available to you.

If you want your jewelry to make a statement, try a single strand of pearls, a pair of pearl earrings or a pearl bracelet. You can find great deals on pearls online if you know where to look. Follow these online pearl shopping tips so you can get the best quality for your price range.

1. Tahitian. Also known as black pearls, these are actually available in a variety of deep colors, ranging from gray to black to green—even blue or aubergine. They're formed by black-lipped oysters indigenous to the islands of French Polynesia. Black pearls carry a hefty price tag, as they're less abundant than some other pearl types.

2. Akoya. When you think of classic pearls, these are the ones that come to mind. They're relatively petite, wonderfully lustrous and typically white or cream—but can also be found in pastel and silvery shades. Akoya pearls, created by the smallest type of pearl oyster, are harvested in Japan and China.

3. Freshwater Pearls. Derived from freshwater mussels, these pearls are abundant—and more affordable. They come in a variety of shapes and in a rainbow of pale, pastel colors, so there's a freshwater pearl to suit everyone.

4. South Sea Pearls. These big, satiny pearls are grown in Australia, the Philippines and other Pacific countries. South Sea pearls come from large silver- or gold-lipped oysters, and their color ranges from white to gold. Because they're rare and sizable, they command premium prices.

Pearls for your Wedding Day

When it comes to wedding-day jewelry, you can't go wrong with a classic string of pearls. It pays to be prepared when you shop for that perfect strand of pearls for your wedding-day jewelry. Here are the basics you should know:

1. Cultured pearls are real pearls. The term "cultured" does not mean "man-made." It means your pearls have been produced by a pearl farmer as opposed to being formed naturally in oysters. About 99% of the pearls sold today are cultured.

2. Figure out what you're willing to spend on your wedding-day jewelry. There's a strand of pearls to suit every budget.

3. Have a sense of the style you'd like—a choker (14 to 16 inches long), a princess (17 to 19 inches), a stylish triple strand à la Jacqueline Kennedy, something fabulously long and ropey—and also consider how it will work with the neckline of your wedding dress.

Where to Shop for Pearls Online?

What are faux pearls? Are they the cheapest you can get? Faux, or "simulated," pearls are machine-made from a variety of products, including glass and plastic compounds. Many are downright cheap—we've seen them go for $3.50 at tag sales. But most jewelry designers no longer use imitation pearls, because they have poor luster. Instead, they choose freshwater pearls, which are of better quality and don't cost a fortune. If you're truly on a shoestring budget, you can find a fabulous freshwater pearl necklace for under $100. Below is the Top 10 online pearl jewelry stores based on price, quality, customer service and range of jewelry products. Check them out!

1. Mikimoto

Famous, international pearl retailer. Check out their pearl strands, necklaces and pendants, earrings, bracelets, brooches, pieces for men or browse their designer collections such as the Akoya or Elements of Life. Second-day delivery available.

2. American Pearl

Retailer of flawless pearls. White, black, and golden South Sea, freshwater, and Mabe pearls, or browse rings, bracelets, earrings, pendants, and necklaces. Also check out variable length pearls.

3. Pearl Paradise

Shop for saltwater pearls, exotic natural pearls, loose pearls, Golden South Sea, South Sea and Tahitian pearls, and freshwater pearls by category. Check out pearl guides-- pearl history, pearl quality, and pearl care -- for more information.

4. Pearl Outlet

Large selection of Tahitian pearls, Akoya pearls, and freshwater pearls in necklaces, earrings, bracelets, pendants, and rings. 30-day unconditional return policy. The company is family owned and operated. Pieces by famous jewelry designers.

5. Pure Pearls

Akoya, Tahitian, and freshwater pearls. Shop by category or check out their pearl jewelry sets or wedding jewelry. Buy custom pearl strands and create a family heirloom that will last for years to come. Join the free newsletter for articles and specials.

6. Pearls.com

"Your source to all things pearl." Pearl earrings, pendants, rings, and bracelets, with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Free shipping when order is picked up at a local jeweler. Visit the forums to find out what other pearl enthusiasts are buying.

7. Pearl Oasis

Online pearl retailer. Search for pearl necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings, and pendants, or design a custom necklace or bracelet. Check out a comparison of famous brands or find out the latest pearl fashion trends. Offers a 30-day return policy.

8. The Pearl People

Large selection of saltwater pearls, Tahitians, and freshwater pearls. Check out the pearl buying guide or browse the specials. Many selections for weddings, anniversaries and gift giving. A good place to find the tone and clarity of high quality pearls.

9. ice.com

Large selection of pearl jewelry, organized by pearl type, gold type, kind of jewelry, and price. Be sure to check out the beautiful and unique cultured chocolate Tahitian pearl with pink gold chain and setting for under $200.00.

10. Samantha Rose Designs

Your source for unique, handmade pearl necklaces, pearl earrings, pearl bracelets, bridal jewelries and limited edition pearl jewelry pieces. Sort by price or narrow by category. 30-day returns and free shipping on orders. Site offers a safe shopping guarantee. Get a free pouch with every purchase.

Quick Tips on Appraising Pearl Jewelries

To be a savvy shopper, consider these qualities when perusing pearls:

1. LUSTER. The more the pearl “glows” and shines, the better its quality. Low-luster pearls will appear chalky or dull.

2. SURFACE. A pearl with a cleaner, more flawless surface, without any blemishes, spots, cracks or bumps, is more desirable and will have a greater value.

3. SIZE. A pearl’s size is measured by its diameter in millimeters; the average measures between 7 and 7.5 mm. Generally, a larger pearl is rarer, and therefore will cost more than a smaller one.

4. SHAPE. Because pearls are formed naturally, they’re seldom perfectly spherical—although they may appear so at first glance—and if they are, they’re very pricey.

---- How to Buy Pearl Jewelry Online

The Jewelry Book pdf download

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 03:52:00 +0000

Novell Design Studio, an American wedding band manufacturer that specializes in wedding band customization, is proud to present the latest digital edition of The Jewelry Book. Both consumers and retailers can learn about a wide variety of jewelry manufacturers and designers that are either well established within or relatively new to the jewelry industry. The Jewelry Book also includes interesting articles about such topics as why platinum is a top seller for bridal jewelry, and the new “Jewelry Made in

America

” initiative.

Enjoy the digital edition of The Jewelry Book. Readers can also download a PDF version to print out images, articles and other information that may be helpful when shopping for jewelry.

Starting the “Jewelry Made in America” Initiative

The future of jewelry that is made in America is at a critical juncture! It is through our initiative, “Jewelry Made in America” that we can insure the continuation of the fine history of American design, craftsmanship, and service that should make us leaders in our industry worldwide for generation after generation.

During these challenging economic times, many companies have turned to relying on importing products fabricated from overseas vendors simply to lower their cost. In the process they have often sacrificed quality and service. Our customers -- the better chain stores and independent jewelers -- are ultimately paying the steepest price with inferior finished product, disappointing customer service and long and often costly delays.

There is a dire need for us to unite in one advertising voice promoting the pride and master craftsmanship of the American jewelry manufacturer. Although jewelry is generally thought of as being strictly a luxury item, according to TheWeddingReport.com approximately 2.2 million American couples need wedding bands and other bridal-related jewelry each year. Buying jewelry that is made in America can help bridge the gap to the stronger economic times that are down the road. However, keep in mind that the phrase “Made in America” alone is not enough of a deciding factor. As creators of fine jewelry, new levels of standards should be met and the definition of “Made in America” really should be that buying an American made product means buying the absolute best.

Why is “Made in America” Important?

During the month of June 2009, Google Adwords keyword tool shows that over 200,000 Internet searchers looked for information pertaining to the keywords “American made.” An additional 30 million consumers searched for the term “jewelry.” However, there currently is a little relevant or real information pertaining to jewelry that is made in America. This actually presents a great opportunity for companies to literally create a new category to help gain advantage against other competitors that can not say that their goods are American made. With a glut of information clogging the Internet, publications and airwaves, a “Jewelry Made in America” initiative can easily make your company stand out from others in your same category. It is, in fact, an additional and often overlooked selling point.

Criteria for Participation

To be involved with the “Jewelry Made in America” initiative, designers and manufacturers should be able to say that their promoted product line or merchandise is designed and assembled domestically by American-based craftsmen, and not imported from overseas or fashioned using labor from sources outside of the country. Products that are just finished in the United States do not qualify. While we understand that the raw materials may only be available from overseas resources, the emphasis of this project is about American workmanship and overall quality.

---The Jewelry Book pdf download

HOW TO IDENTIFY JADE JEWELRY (Jadeite & Nephrite)

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 01:46:00 +0000

Jade is an ornamental stone. The term jade is applied to two different metamorphic rocks that are made up of different silicate minerals. Jade refers to two different minerals—jadeite and nephrite.

Nephrite consists of a microcrystaline interlocking fibrous matrix of the calcium, magnesium-iron rich amphibole mineral series tremolite (calcium-magnesium)-ferroactinolite (calcium-magnesium-iron). The middle member of this series with an intermediate composition is called actinolite (the silky fibrous mineral form is one form of asbestos). The higher the iron content the greener the colour.

Jadeite is a sodium- and aluminium-rich pyroxene. The gem form of the mineral is a microcrystaline interlocking crystal matrix.

Both stones are rocks (aggregates) -- masses of tightly interlocking crystals. However, they have different chemical composition and properties. Jadeite is a little harder and denser, and as result can take a higher polish than nephrite. Neither stone is very hard, compared to diamond and ruby. However, both jades are unusually tough—resistant to breakage and chipping. Nephrite, however, is slightly stronger.

Jadeite is more valuable and rare than nephrite. When it’s very translucent and has a strong emerald-green color, it’s often called imperial jade. Jadeite is found in a variety of colors—lavender, white, gray, yellow, orange, brownish—red, black and many shades of green. Today, jadeite is usually the jade chosen for fine jewelry. Its intrinsic value is generally the basis for its price. Nephrite, on the other hand, is mainly valued for its antiquity and carving excellence.

Nephrite is plentiful and most of it is grayish green—typically forest green or olive green. It can also be white, gray, black, brown, yellow, or beige. Most nephrite is very affordable. For example, you can easily find nephrite costume jewelry ranging from $10 to $50. The antique value of old nephrite pieces often outweighs their intrinsic worth.

Many minerals are sold as jade. Some of these are: serpentine (also bowenite), carnelian, aventurine quartz, glass, grossularite, Vesuvianite, soapstone (and other steatites such as shoushan stone) and recently, Australian chrysoprase. "Korean jade," "Suzhou jade," "Styrian jade," "Olive jade", and "New jade" are all really serpentine; "Transvaal jade" or "African jade" is grossularite; "Peace jade" is a mixture of serpentine, stichtite, and quartz; "Mountain jade" is dyed dolomite marble.

Evaluation and Identification of Jade Jewelry: Fake or Genuine?

COLOR: An intense green with a medium-to-medium—dark tone is most valued. As the color becomes lighter, darker, more grayish or brownish or yellowish, the value decreases. Lavender is the next most valued hue, followed by red and yellow, white and black. Prior to the importation of Burmese jadeite into china, white nephrite was the most coveted jade.

Green nephrite is typically grayish, blackish, or brownish. The more it approaches a pure green, the more desirable it is.

COLOR UNIFORMITY: In top quality jade, the color is uniform throughout the stone. The more uneven or blotchy the color is, the lower the value. Multi-colored jade, however, can be very expensive if the colors are intense and distinct. The most desired color combinations are green and lavender, arrange and green, or white with strong green (moss-in-snow jade).

TRANSPARENCY: The best jade is near either transparent or highly translucent. As the transparency of jade decrease, so does its value, with opaque jade being worth the least.

CLARITY: Fine jade is free of flaws such as cracks, included foreign material, and spots which reduce beauty or durability. The number, size, color, position, and nature of flaws determine the clarity of stone. Cracks that break the surface or that are visible internally are particularly detrimental to the value.

TEXTURE: Since jade is composed of interwoven crystal, it can have texture that ranges from fine to coarse. The finer and more tightly interwoven the crystal components are, the better the jade.

SHAPE: The best jade is cut into cabochons. Ovals and rounds normally sell for more than rectangular, marquise and pear shapes. Smooth uncarved pieces are more valuable than carved ones. Carving allows the removal of flaws from inferior material.

CUT QUALITY: Moderately curved cabochons tend to be more valued than flat or very high ones. Symmetrically cabochons with balanced proportions are the most desired. Intricate, high-quality carving is naturally more valued than shoddy, quick carving.

SIZE: Since large, fine quality jadeite is rare, size plays a role in increasing its value. The thickness of good jadeite is also important. If a jadeite cabochon is thinner than 2 mm or smaller than 8 x 6 mm, there can be considerable deduction in its per-carat value.

POLISH & FINISH: The more brilliant the polish and the smoother the surface, the better the stone is.

Treatments of Jade Jewelry

Waxing: This is commonly done after the final polish to improve luster and hide pits and cracks. Heat and strong solvents will undo this treatment. Material will only a superficial waxing is often called A Jade and is well-accepted by the trade.

Dyeing: This is done to add green or lavender color to white or light-colored jade. Blueberry juice is a common dye for lavender jade. It looks good at first but it can fade in sunlight. Dyed jade is called C Jade and is not accepted as fine jade.

Heating: Dark green nephrite may be treated by this method to lighten the color of dark-green material. Red jade can be heated to increase redness, but the usual result is a dull brown, and transparency is reduced in the process.

Bleaching and polymer impregnation: This relatively new treatment removes brown from jade, making whiter colors whiter and green colors brighter. The jade is first soaked and bleached in chemicals. Then the bleached jade is impregnated with a wax or synthetic resin to fill voids created from the bleaching process. The resulting material is called B Jade. Sometimes dye is used before impregnation and other times it’s added to the filter. Don’t plan on handling bleached jade down to future generations; it has durability problems and will discolor with time.

Major sources: Myanmar has been the main source of jadeite since the late 18th century. Some jadeite is also mined in Russia, Japan, California; but the finest quality comes from Myanmar.

The oldest known source of nephrite is Xinjiang Province in China. Nephrite is also found in New Zealand, Taiwan, British, Columbia, Australia, Poland, Germany, India, Zimbabwe, Mexico, Alaska, California and Wyoming.

BEWARE: Sellers are supposed to disclose treatments but not all do. Therefore ask for treatment information, particularly when buying high-priced jadeite. If a store claims their jade is only waxed and otherwise untreated, have them write this on the receipt. If you’re buying quality jade jewelry, check if it has open back setting to let it light through the stone. Closed backs are typically a sign that the jade is of low value or that something is being hidden. For example, it might be hiding the back of a jadeite triplet—an assembled stone consisting of a thin hollow cabochon of translucent grayish-white jadeite that’s coated inside with a thin, green jelly-like substance and cemented to a piece of flat oval jade. When mounted it looks like an imperial jadeite cabochon. You’re much more likely to encounter dyed jade, than jadeite triplets.

Some common jade imitations are serpentine, chrysoprase, glossular garnet and dyed chalcedomy.

Care tips: Jade can be safely cleaned in soapy water, ultrasonics and steamers. It reacts slightly to warm acids. Since jade has a lower hardness than gems such as sapphire, emerald, and topaz, it can be scratched more easily. Jewelers can eliminate the scratches and restore the luster by polishing the jade.

Jade, however, is very durable. In fact, there is no other gem that’s as resistant to breakage and chipping as jade.

Enhancement of Jade Jewelry

Jade may be enhanced (sometimes called "stabilized"). Note that some merchants will refer to these as Grades, but it is important to bear in mind that degree of enhancement is different from colour and texture quality. In other words, Type A jadeite is not enhanced but can have poor colour and texture. There are three main methods of enhancement, sometimes referred to as the ABC Treatment System:

1) Type A jadeite has not been treated in any way except surface waxing.

2) Type B treatment involves exposing a promising but stained piece of jadeite to chemical bleaches and/or acids and impregnating it with a clear polymer resin. This results in a significant improvement of transparency and colour of the material. Currently, infrared spectroscopy is the most accurate test for the detection of polymer in jadeite.

3) Type C jade has been artificially stained or dyed. The red colour of Red jade can be enhanced with heat. The effects are somewhat uncontrollable and may result in a dull brown. In any case, translucency is usually lost.

4) B+C jade is a combination of B and C: it has been both artificially dyed AND impregnated.

5) Type D jade refers to a composite stone such as a doublet comprising a jade top with a plastic backing.

---how to identify jade jewelry (jadeite & nephrite)

Pearl Jewelry SALE this Holiday Season!

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 19:42:00 +0000

Fast FREE Shipping & 30-Day Money Back Guarantee. Get 15% OFF on all Items. Just use Coupon Code: “SANTA“. USA Based Merchant, Secure Website. Promo code valid until December 31, 2009. Shop now at http://www.samantharose.us.

Get all dolled-up with FREE gift wrapping or a free POUCH for your every purchase.

Designer Inspired Pearl Jewelry Sets

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 20:53:00 +0000

1) Pearl Jewelry Classic Set

Picture yourself in this stylish, sleek, and classy collection that is modern and versatile. This 62 inches strand can be knotted, doubled, or even tripled creating a very fashionable look, that can be paired with a contemporary geometric style bracelet, and white interchangeable earrings. The pearls on the bracelet will dance with delight around your wrist, while showcasing luminosity and class.

For more detailed information, please click on the following: (White Pearls Bracelet) BS15WCg, (Baroque Pearls 62 inches Strand) NS004MMe, & (Hanging Pearl Earrings) ES004WHCf

This elegant, hand-selected Classic set is yours for only $ 135.00. Items purchased separately total $ 147.50. Items in set cannot be substituted. Take a peek at http://www.samantharose.us/classic-pearl-jewelry-set.html

Fast FREE Shipping & 30-Day Money Back Guarantee. Get 15% OFF on all Items. Just use Coupon Code: "SANTA". USA Based Merchant, Secure Website. Promo code valid until December 31, 2009. Shop now at http://www.samantharose.us

Get all dolled-up with FREE gift wrapping or a free POUCH for your every purchase.

2) Sofia Pearl Jewelry Set

Young, chic, and trendy. The Sofia set conveys a sense of youthfulness, with a touch of uniqueness, and is sure to turn heads. You will get rave reviews while wearing the double row translucent pink round and white Biwa pearls that will adorn your neck. Don’t forget to wave as your wrist will be embellished with the same unique pearls that will glimmer and gleam. And finally the polished pink lever back dangle earrings are fashionable & fabulous. People will scream, “Oh Mama Mia she’s wearing Sofia.”

For more detailed information, please click on the following: (coin silver pearl bracelet) BS065MMb, (white biwa pearl necklace) NS046MMb, & (dangling pink pearl earrings) ES17PTf

This elegant, hand-selected Sofia set is yours for only $ 125.00. Items purchased separately total $ 137.50. Items in set cannot be substituted. Purchase this at http://www.samantharose.us/sofia-set-a.html

3) Bohemian Pearl Jewelry Set

Eccentric, trendy, an unconventional is what you get with this Bohemian set. This attractive necklace boosts golden dancing pearls paired with larger white baroque pearls, creating an ever so clever design. You can never have too much of a good thing so wear the matching bracelet to show your flare. Don’t forget the fashionable lever back earrings to complete this set. For the young, the hip, and young at heart, you never outgrow the look of boho.

For more detailed information, please click on the following: (gold dancing pearl bracelet) BG006WB, (gold dancing pearl necklace) NG002WB, & (dangling pearl earrings) ES16WTf

This elegant, hand-selected Bohemian set is yours for only $ 125.00. Items purchased separately total $ 137.50. Items in set cannot be substituted. Buy now at http://www.samantharose.us/bohemian-set-a.html

4) Pearl Jewelry Set for Brides

The perfect set for the perfect Bride. This exquisite and luxurious set will definitely bring out the best in you. Mold the chocker to fit just right, while the hidden front closure is out of sight. You wrist will sparkle from any angle, as you wear this single white pearl bangle. Complete your look with these elegant dangle egg-shaped pearl earrings that are fancy and grand. Forget about the string quartet, all eyes will be on You in this bridal set. All items are Rhodium coated sterling silver and have the added sparkle of genuine crystals.

For more detailed information, please click on the following: (radium coated bangle) BS005WRg, (rodium coated silver-choker with pearls and Swarovski crystals) CS010WRg, & (silver earrings with pearls) ES0069

This elegant, hand-selected Bridal set is yours for only $ 290.00. Items purchased separately will total $ 315.00. Items in set cannot be substituted. It will definitely look perfect on you. Get it at http://www.samantharose.us/pearl-jewelry-set-for-brides.html

---pearl jewelry sets

You SAVE More When You Purchase Pearl Jewelry Sets

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 05:37:00 +0000

Pearl Jewelry Set- The Sofia Set A

Young, chic, and trendy. The Sofia set conveys a sense of youthfulness, with a touch of uniqueness, and is sure to turn heads. You will get rave reviews while wearing the double row translucent pink round and white Biwa pearls that will adorn your neck. Don’t forget to wave as your wrist will be embellished with the same unique pearls that will glimmer and gleam. And finally the polished pink lever back dangle earrings are fashionable & fabulous. People will scream, “Oh Mama Mia she’s wearing Sofia.”

For more detailed information, please click on the following: (coin silver pearl bracelet) BS065MMb, (white biwa pearl necklace) NS046MMb, & (dangling pink pearl earrings) ES17PTf

This elegant, hand-selected Sofia set is yours for only $ 125.00. Items purchased separately total $ 137.50. Items in set cannot be substituted.

Pearl Jewelry Set- The Bohemian Set A

Eccentric, trendy, an unconventional is what you get with this Bohemian set. This attractive necklace boosts golden dancing pearls paired with larger white baroque pearls, creating an ever so clever design. You can never have too much of a good thing so wear the matching bracelet to show your flare. Don’t forget the fashionable lever back earrings to complete this set. For the young, the hip, and young at heart, you never outgrow the look of boho.

For more detailed information, please click on the following: (gold dancing pearl bracelet) BG006WB, (gold dancing pearl necklace) NG002WB, & (dangling pearl earrings) ES16WTf

This elegant, hand-selected Bohemian set is yours for only $ 125.00. Items purchased separately total $ 137.50. Items in set cannot be substituted.

Fast FREE Shipping & 30-Day Money Back Guarantee. Get 15% OFF on all Items. Just use Coupon Code: "SANTA". USA Based Merchant, Secure Website. Promo code valid until December 31, 2009. Shop now at http://www.samantharose.us

Get all dolled-up with FREE gift wrapping or a free POUCH for your every purchase.

--- Pearl Jewelry Sets

Black Friday Deals 2009 Pearl Jewelry Best Buy

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 02:08:00 +0000

Samantha Rose Pearl Jewelries: Premium Pearls and Exclusive Designs at Affordable Prices

Fast FREE Shipping & 30-Day Money Back Guarantee. Get 15% OFF on all Items. Just use Coupon Code: "SANTA". USA Based Merchant, Secure Website. Promo code valid until December 31, 2009. Shop now at www.samrose.com

Samantha Rose Designs is your source for unique, handmade pearl necklaces, pearl earrings, pearl bracelets, bridal jewelries and limited edition pearl jewelry pieces.

SAMANTHA ROSE DESIGNS is borne out of a convergence of design talent, of friends coming together and recognizing a common passion for jewelry and jewelry design.

We are a trusted American company that brings together fresh, inspired jewelry products and designs from around the world. Samantha Rose is dedicated to provide the high quality fine exclusive pearl jewelry for everyone.

Samantha Rose Jewelry features the best selling exclusively designed and celebrity inspired pearl jewelries. We sell pearl jewelries like pearl necklace, pearl earring, pearl bracelet, bridal jewelry, and custom-made pearl jewelry piece.
---Black Friday Deals 2009 Pearl Jewelry Best Buy

Jewelry Craftsmanship: Jewelry Care Tips

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 13:38:00 +0000

If you want your jewelry to last and to hold gems securely, pay attention to the mounting and setting. Here are some basic tips:

Jewelry Settings:

1.) Pearl jewelry should be protected from chemicals such as hair spray, nail polish remover, perfume and other toiletries or cleaning products.

2.) Determine if there’s enough metal holding the stone. Use a ten-power hand magnifier. For example, if prongs are missing, the stone is not secure.

3.) If possible, make sure the edge of the stone is flat against the seat (the groove in the metal which supports the stone). There shouldn’t be space between the prongs and the stone.

4.) Verify than you can see most of the stone. Gem shouldn’t be covered by so much metal you can hardly see them. No more than one third of the stone should be covered.

5.) For every-day prong style rings, get hand fabricated or die-struck (machine made) settings. They’re stronger than cast settings, which are more porous and brittle. Ideally, the settings will be made of platinum, because it’s stronger and wears better.

6.) Ask your jeweler to show you some examples of good quality setting so you’ll have a basis for comparison.

7.) Check jewelry for loose stone by shaking or tapping it lightly with your forefinger while holding it next to your ear. If you hear the stones rattle or click, there’s a problem.

8.) Make sure pearls are secured to jewelry with a metal post and not just glued to the mounting. Otherwise, they can easily be knocked out of the mounting. Ideally, the post should screw into the pearl even if the glue fails, the screw will still hold the pearl securely.

Jewelry Mountings:

1.) Use a chamois cloth to clean gold jewelry. A chamois cloth is a gentle, safe material for returning the luster to your jewelry. Soap and Water: A mild soap and water resolution used with a squashy brush is successful for many home jewelry care needs. Even the gentle chemicals of profitable jewelry cleaning products may harm certain gems. Even though soap and water is the finest option for most gems and jewelry, do not use soap and water with amber, coral, emerald, jade, kunzite, lapis lazuli, opal, or turquoise.

2.) Select sturdy mountings for everyday rings and bracelets.
Rings that are wire thin and bracelets that can bend and dent do not last long. Platinum mountings can normally be thinner and more delicate than those made of gold. This is because platinum is stronger and more dense than most gold alloys.

3.) Avoid hollow rings and chains. They provide a big look at a low price, but they’re hard to repair and they’re less durable than solid jewelry. Rings, bracelets, and chains need to be more durable than earrings, brooches and pendants, which are not subjected to as much wear and tear.

4.) Check to see if the piece is well-finished on the back and underneath. If it is, chances are its well constructed. If it’s rough, or has excess solder, holes and an illegible fineness stamp, this suggests the piece was done quickly without much care. It’s helpful to use a hand magnifier when checking a jewelry piece.

5.) Make sure the clasp works if there is one. It may be defective or hard to open. Ask the salesperson to show you how to open and close it. Then try it twice yourself. For bracelets, see if you can open and close them with one hand.

6.) Ask if the jewelry is well crafted and find out why it is or isn’t. Jewelers that sell well made pieces often like to explain why their mountings, settings, and finishes are better than those of competitors. You can learn a lot about workmanship by listening to them. Salesperson must understand jewelry craftsmanship in order to help you select a well—made piece.

Gemstone Treatments: Treatments Used to Enhance Gemstone Appearance

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 04:26:00 +0000

Product Name: Natural Red Ruby Product Type: Genuine Gemstone Weight: 0.75 CTSShape: Oval Cut Size: 7.5 mm X 5 mm Depth: 4 mmColor: Red Clarity: Transparent Luster: Good Hardness: 9 Treatment: Treated Origin: Africa

Why Some Treatments Are More Accepted Than Others

The fact is most gemstones used in jewelry have been treated to improve their appearance. Treated gemstones can be a good choice, because they should be more affordable than untreated stones that achieve their quality naturally. Do you know what the common treatments are? Some last forever, some don't.

Many gemstones are treated with various methods to improve color and clarity. Some of these methods are widely accepted in the trade today, while other methods are not. The accepted trade methods are the ones that will change the color of the gemstone permanently.

Some treatments bring out the stone's inherent qualities. Emeralds, for example, are routinely oiled to bring out their color. Such treatments do not camouflage flaws or harm the stone in any way. The jewelry retailer need not specifically mention treatments that are regarded as the usual way of dealing with that kind of gem.

Other treatments are done to stones of lower quality to make them appear more attractive. Although a trained gemologist can see, under a microscope, that the stone has been treated, the purchaser cannot. If the seller does not disclose such treatments, a customer would believe the gem to be of higher quality than it is and might be led to pay a higher price.

All ethical gem dealers will fully disclose gem treatments. But in our view it is also important to provide detailed information to the buyer so that he knows exactly what he is buying. Keep in mind that most colored gemstones are treated, and this is a perfectly legitimate practice as long as all facts are disclosed to the buyer. If you know the facts, then you can feel safe about buying a gemstone that you will enjoy for many years to come.

Procedures that Enhance Gemstone Appearance

Colored gemstones nearly always undergo some sort of appearance-enhancing treatment before they are used in jewelry. Some treatments are permanent, but others are not. Get the facts about gemstones enhancements before you shop for jewelry.

Not all treatments are regarded as equal. Consider these factors when determining the acceptability of a gemstone:

1) Is the treatment permanent?

2) Has the treatment added foreign material to the gemstone?

3) Has the internal character of the gemstone been changed by the treatment?

4) Does the treatment decrease durability?

5) Does the treated gem compete with a natural gem?

6) How available are attractive untreated gems of the same type?

PERMANENCE: Irradiated yellow sapphires may fade within minutes of being treated so they’re not accepted. However, the heat treatment of sapphires is accepted because a stable color is usually produced.

The color of irritated pearls is stable and does not rub off on your skin like dye of some dyed pearls. This is one reason irritated pearls are preferred over dyed pearls.

Laser drilling is more accepted diamond treatment than fracture filling because lasering produces permanent results. Fracture filling is subject to change if the filled diamonds come in contact with a jeweler’s torch or if they’re subjected to prolonged or multiple ultrasonic cleanings. Some fillings cloud or discolor when exposed to light for long periods.

ADDITIONS OF FOREIGN MATERIAL: Another reason why heating and irradiation may be preferred to other treatments is that no chemicals, oils, wax or synthetic substances are added to the stones, except when the stones are heated in borax. When the borax turns into glass and fills cracks or cavities, this is undesirable and can reduce the value of expensive rubies, for example.

INTERNAL CHANGE: Heat treatment done at 1600’C (2900’F) and above can melt inclusions, create tiny stress cracks, produce a hazy appearance and change the overall internal character of a gemstone. This is one reason why low-temperature heat treatment is preferred to high temperature heating.

DURABILITY: Treatments can have a negative effect on durability. According to Dr. Kurt Nassau (Gemstone Enhancement, page 43), “High temperature heat treatments may cause some materials to become more brittle and shows more wear.”

The GIA Gem Reference Guide notes on page 262 in the section on zircon, “Toughness: heat-treated stones-poor to fair; untreated stones-fair to good.”

According to Dr. Horst Krupp, a heat treater and physicist, high temperature can cause can cause rubies and sapphires to become brittle and abrade if they’re not properly cooled during the heat treatment process. This is another reason high temperature heating can have a negative impact on gem prices.

Burmese jade is sometimes soaked and bleached in chemicals to remove brown or yellow impurities. This weakens the jade. Occasionally treatment can improve durability. Most natural turquoise can crack or crumble. When it’s impregnated with a plastic material and it becomes more durable.

COMPETITION: Small Japanese pearls (akoya pearls) that have been darkened by irradiation and/or dyes are accepted by the trade because the treatments provide consumers with an option not available from natural-color akoya pearls.

Artificial colored South Sea pearls are not well accepted. In fact they’re banned in Tahiti because they compete with Tahiti’s naturally colored black pearls, and they confuse buyers.

There are strong objections to the new HPHT-treated diamonds because they compete with high-quality untreated diamonds and they complicate buying, selling and identification.

Most tanzanite is heat-treated to intensify the color and/or eliminate brown, gray or green. The low-temperature heat-treatment (600-700 degrees centigrade), which produces a stable color is well accepted and is used even on the finest stones. Tanzanite was unknown before the 1960’s so heat treated tanzanite has not competed with an existing market of untreated stones. Contrary to what is sometimes reported, there are attractive untreated tanzanites, but the percentage is negligible.

AVAILABILITY: Oiling emeralds is a well-accepted trade practice because emeralds typically have cracks and need to be fracture filled to improve their clarity. Therefore when buying expensive emeralds, assume they’ve been fracture-filled with oil or some other substance. Your main concern should be to what extent the treatment has affected the appearance. This information is now provided on many emeralds lad reports.

Unoiled rubies are readily available, so ruby oiling isn’t accepted though it’s often done when surface cracks are present.

Precautions to Take When Buying Expensive Gems

When you spend a few hundred dollars on a gem, the treatment status is normally not a major issue. In fact, you can just assume that the rubies, sapphires, aquamarines and tanzanite’s you see have been heat treated and the emeralds have been fracture filled. Enjoy wearing these gems and appreciate the fact that treatments allow you to buy more attractive stones at lower prices.

However, when you spend a few thousand dollars or more on a gemstone, the type and extent of the treatment is an important buying factor. Take these precautions:

1) Use caution when you shop on the web. The Federal Trade Commission has discovered a number of online jewelry retailers and auction sites that are not complying with disclosure requirements for colored gemstone treatments (among other things). Do not shop for price alone.

2) Deal with sellers who can explain treatments in frank simple language rather than with euphemisms and vague terms.

3) Deal with sellers who will tell you both the bad and good points about treatments.

4) Ask if and how stones gave been treated. The answer will give you insight into the seller’s ethics.

5) Have the salesperson include treatment information on the receipt. If the stone is untreated, have this written.

6) For expensive gems, get a report form a lab that automatically includes treatment on their documents.

If the retailer does not mention treatments, always ask whether the gem has been treated. (Read about the treatments common to the gems you are buying.) Treatments should be disclosed on the sales receipt and on the appraisal.

All treatments that are not accepted as part of the normal processing of a gem should always be specifically disclosed, both verbally and on the sales receipt.

How to Get this Elegant Piece of Pearl Jewelry for FREE

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 03:57:00 +0000

Join SamanthaRose.us Select your Own Jewelry Contest

To celebrate its new website make-over, SamanthaRose.us is sponsoring this awesome contest. The contest will run for one month until July 29, 2009. This is my first ever contest, please read on and join…!

Prizes:

First Prize:
a.) Any product of SamanthaRose.us of your choice. Worth can reach as high as US$ 184.00 depending on your product review choice (with FREE shipping).

b.) 3,000 worth of Entrecard credits. If you are not a member yet, you can join for
FREE at http://www.entrecard.com.

Second Prize:
a.) USD 50.00 (will be sent thru PayPal)

b.) 6,000 worth of Entrecard credits.

Third Prize:
a.) 125 x 125 banner AD (above the fold) on this blog (artjoolree.com) for five months and a guest post with a backlink to your site (The Pagerank of this blog is rising and the link will be valuable soon).

b.) 9,000 worth of Entrecard credits.

Who Can Join?

Anyone bloggers out there whether your blog have PageRank of 0 or 9 and on any blogging platform.

How to Join:

1.) Write a short positive review (about 70 words or more) on any product of SamanthaRose.us that you like. You can choose the most expensive one or the most elegant product you would like to wear on a dinner date with your husband or a boyfriend. This contest is not only for gals but also for guys too, if you win it would be a nice surprise gift to your wife, girlfriend, mother or a sister. Remember that the product you are going to review will be the prize you will receive if you win.

2.) Link to Samantha Rose Exclusive Jewelry Designs main site (http://www.samantharose.us/) and link to the product you reviewed using the product category as anchor text. (For example use pearl necklace, pearl lariat, pearl earrings, and pearl pendants)

3.) To help spread the word you should link back to this contest post at this URL: http://www.artjoolree.com/2009/06/how-to-get-this-elegant-piece-of-pearl.html.

4.) Notify me that you joined the contest by commenting on this blog post. Write your name or your blog title with your blog URL. The contest will run until September 9, 2009 Midnight Central Daylight Time, UTC/GMT -5 hours. And you’re done…!

5.) After the winner is drawn the contestants should not delete their product review. WHY? Because this will be a yearly event and your entry now will be your entry next season. Or you can join again to have a double entry and a more chance of winning.

How the Winners will be drawn:

1.) The winner will be assigned a number depending position of their comments on the promo contest post (the first commenter will be assigned number 1 and so on)

2.) Using the assigned number, a random number will be selected using http://www.random.org.

3.) The winners will be notified by email or on their blog. As a proof of winning, the first prize winner will be asked for a photo wearing the pearl jewelry she have won (if a guy, maybe a picture of the jewelry beside his laptop/desktop with his blog flashed on the screen).

The photo will be posted on this blog with the permission of the winner.

Please join it is fast and easy. Thanks! :-)

Sneaker, Jeans and T-shirt Basics You Know but You Forgot

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Mon, 11 May 2009 06:55:00 +0000

You wear these three items practically every single day. But if you keep experimenting with new shapes and styles, you’ll never get struck in jeans and T-shirt rut. There’s a pair of jeans that will flatter every figure, a comfortable T-shirt for everyday of the week, and a pair of sneakers that works with just about any outfit, so the possible combination are end-less, but some universal rules apply:

1. Consider the shrinkage factor when you’re buying cotton clothes. If a T-shirt is super-tight when you try it on in the store, how’s it going to fit once you wash it? Tissue-thin cotton T-shirts need to be hand-washed and hung to dry in order to keep their shape and size. You may want to buy a size up just in case.

2. Ignore size in favor of fit. Sizes vary from brand to brand. If you have to buy one size bigger or smaller than you usually wear, who cares? What’s important is that it fits and flatters your body.

3. When it comes to showing skin, don’t go overboard- cropped T-shirts that expose you belly are so 1999! Seriously, jeans that expose your underwear and T-shirts that expose your midriff aren’t very polished, or stylish, for that matter. If you want to show some skin, try showing off your shoulders or collarbone. It’s much more subtle and sophisticated.

4. For compulsive sneaker shoppers: Control yourself! Paris Hilton may have 50 pairs lined up in her closet, but that doesn’t mean you have to!

Gift Ideas for Mother's Day: Use promo code “MAMA” to receive 15% Discount

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Sun, 03 May 2009 16:35:00 +0000

Need a unique gift idea for Mom on Mother's Day? Moms deserve something special. Select the perfect gift on Mother's Day at SamanthaRose.us

One of the easiest ways to make a jewelry choice for Mom is to draw inspiration from what she already owns.

Does your special Mom prefer pearl necklace, pearl pendant or bracelet? Whatever Mom likes, there are lots of great options to choose from.

This year, on Mother's Day, make sure you remind your mother just how much your care. A gift from Samantha Rose pearl jewelries will create a memory of joy that will last a lifetime.

Shop Now at

http://www.samantharose.us/ ! Use coupon code “MAMA” to receive 15% discount on ALL purchases with FREE jewelry pouch.

Hello Kitty

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 10:51:00 +0000

Hello Kitty in Kimono

Bridal Jewelry @ SamanthaRose.us Pearl Jewelries

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 08:52:00 +0000

Premium Pearls with Elegant Designs.
Use Coupon Code "LAUNCH" to receive 10% discount on ALL items. Please visit http://www.samantharose.us for product details.

How to Differentiate between Synthetic and Imitation Gems?

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 12:16:00 +0000

A natural gemstone comes from the ground and is a product of nature, not of man.

The word synthetic is used to describe a gemstone made in a lab that has the same basic chemical composition as its natural counterpart. For example, synthetic ruby has the same chemical composition as natural ruby. It also has similar chemical, optical and physical properties.

Imitations, on the other hand, do not have the same chemical composition as the stones they resemble, and they may be made by nature or by man. Red glass, for example, can be a man-made imitation of ruby. Garnets used to mimic rubies would be natural imitations.

Since consumers tend to interpret the word “synthetic” differently than jewelers, people who sell synthetic stones usually prefer to describe them with terms such as created, lab-grown or man-made. Gemologist and natural stone dealers usually identify lab-grown stones as synthetic stones.

Cultured is sometimes used incorrectly as a synonym for “lab-grown.” The two terms however, are not equivalent. For example freshwater cultured pearls, culturing pearls is a more natural process than growing gems.

Synthetic gems are not just a recent phenomenon. Lab-grown ruby, the first synthetic, has been sold commercially since the early 1900’s; if your great grand mother has some ruby jewelry, the stones could very well have been made in a laboratory. Today, lab-grown stones are even more common especially in birthstone jewelry and class rings. Synthetic stones are also found in designer jewelry, set with diamonds in gold or platinum. Some of the stones that are synthetically produced and sold to consumers in jewelry are:

Synthetic alexandrite
Synthetic amethyst
Synthetic chrysoberyl
Synthetic diamond
Synthetic emerald
Synthetic opal
Synthetic ruby
Synthetic sapphire
Synthetic turquoise
Synthetic pearls

Some stones call imitation stones “synthetic.” For example, imitation tanzanite may be sold as “synthetic tanzanite” because “synthetic” sounds better than “imitation.” Green CZ (cubic zirconia) is often called synthetic emerald. Green CZ is a lab-grown stone, but it’s not synthetic emerald. It’s synthetic CZ, which is much cheaper than lab-grown emerald.

In most countries, it’s against the law to call a synthetic ruby, for example, simply a ruby. Not all countries, however, have laws like this and some stores don’t follow the law. Therefore when buying expensive gems abroad, have the store specify on the receipt if the stone is of natural origin. This is added protection for you. Technically synthetic ruby is ruby. Ethically, though, it should be called synthetic or lab-grown ruby.

5 Effective Hair Care Tips for Your Silky Hair

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 08:45:00 +0000

So you’ve got that perfect haircut that suits you and your personality. The next question would be: how do you properly take care of your hair so you won’t have to worry about going back to the salon sooner than your next expected visit? Here are few simple hair care tips for keeping that mane attraction from becoming a main distraction.

1. KEEP YOUR HAIR CLEAN. Comb the tangles out of your hair before you wet it so the hair will wash easily and the tangles will not worsen. Then wet your hair thoroughly under the shower. You can use either warm or cold water if you like, but for the best results, you can wet your hair with warm water to open the scale like cuticles of the hair and wash all the oil and dirt off. You can then rinse your hair with cold water afterwards to close the cuticles and add to the shine of your hair.

2. DILUTE SHAMPOO WITH WATER BEFORE APPLYING TO YOUR HAIR. Take note that you should put the shampoo on your scalp and not on the ends of your hair, as the shampoo will dry your hair’s ends and cause them to weaken and split. Also, do not “mix” your hair all over your head as you shampoo because it will get tangled. After this, rinse the shampoo off.

3. AIR DRY. Give your hair a much needed and let it air dry naturally. The first step for air drying is to use hair products for air drying instead of blow drying; a good absorbent towel is also a plus. An absorbent towel will suck up excess moisture and speed up drying time. A good leave-on conditioner will keep your hair from becoming frizzy. Use the absorbent towel to remove excess moisture then gently blot your hair dry. Do not rub your hair. Rubbing will damage the strands, and cause frizzy hair and split ends. You want to keep the hair shafts as smooth as possible.

4. CHANGE YOUR NATURAL PARTING every three months to avoid the thinning of that portion. Though there is not necessarily a good or a bay way to part you hair, what matters most is that you are comfortable and confident with the style you choose.

5. IF YOU HAVE UNDUE HAIR LOSS, DANDRUFF, or any other persistent hair-related problem, check with your doctor to see if you have a hormonal imbalance, scalp infection, disease, or are suffering from physical, emotional or environmental stress. Then follow the course of treatment the doctor prescribes.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Hairstylist

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 08:34:00 +0000

How to Choose the Right Hairstylist

Don’t pick a stylist out of the online Yellow Pages. Look for one who has given a friend a look you like (but if all your friends look as if they were cloned from the same picture, keep looking).

Read the women’s page of your local paper- hairstylists as well as other beauty/fashion experts are often interviewed, and their creations are photographed for the press.

The first time your new stylist sees you, don’t greet him clad in one of those shapeless salon wraps with your head dripping wet from shampoo. He should get a look at the way you look in “real life”; otherwise he can’t tell whether you need a styling to go with a free-flowing gypsy personality or a more controlled junior executive look. The stylist isn’t clairvoyant, either. You have to express any definite likes and dislikes you have, tell him problems you’ve had with different styles in the past and give him a good idea of the look you want. A picture may be helpful, but if the competent stylist says “It’s not for you,” respect his judgements.

The worst thing you can say to your hair cutter is, “Do with me what you will.” Given such, he will let his creativity (not to mention his scissors) fly and you may not be pleased with the results. So don’t go for a haircut until you have thought about you want.

Tell him just how much effort you intend to devote to upkeep. If you’ve got yardstick-straight hair, and don’t ever want to bother with electric rollers or a permanent, a curly or wavy look is not for you.

If the minimum upkeep of your hair is your goal, go in the direction of hair growth. Respecting natural parts, cowlicks, curliness, fine-hairness, and other quirks, rather than trying to plaster them into an unnatural shape, will mean an infinitely easier care job for you.

Watch your haircutter work:

1. Hair is usually best cut while wet.

2. Make sure your stylist gives you precision cut. Whether you’re getting a layered look or an all-one-length blunt cut, the competent stylist will follow a system, sectioning hair before cutting, and keeping hair not being worked on anchored out of the way with clips. The cutter who snips a fistful of hair here, there, and everywhere needs a refresher course.

Discuss the price of each service suggested in advance, so your total bill won’t exceed your total expectations.

While your hair is being cut, study the work of other salon specialists- the colorist, permanent-waver, and manicurist. As part of your total make-over, you may want to use their services at a later date.

Make sure you and the stylist are speaking the same language. You both speak English? That’s just the beginning! You both must define terms the same way. Your idea of a short cut, for example, may be one that comes out chin length; your stylist may think you want a look that just grazes your earlobes.

When you’re trying to decide on a style consider how your hair can be made to emphasize good points and detract attention from the less-than-perfect. On the night you’re washing your hair, step out of the shower, leave a little lather on your head and try molding your hair into different shapes (The lather makes hair pliable.) You’ll notice the following effects:

1. Hair piled on top of the head elongates a round face.

2. A narrow jaw line will look wider with hair massed in curls at either side.

3. A long, unending forehead falls into proportion when covered with bangs.

4. Chubby cheeks will look less rotund if hair is brought forward on the face to camouflage them.

5. The older woman will look younger when her face is surrounded by soft waves (harsh, angular cuts just aren’t as flattering when you reach what the French politely call “un certain age”).

When you do find a style that suits you, keep it up –that means a haircut when your style first starts struggling out of shape.

How to Beef-Up Your Thinning Hair

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 07:40:00 +0000

Hair is the one part of your body where fat is better than thin. But eating pounds of butter and fatty meat thrice-daily won’t fatten up skinny locks. The diameter of the hair shaft is genetically determined. You can, however, beef up the appearance of individual hairs by coating them with products that make hair fuller. Cheat Mother Nature in the following ways: Use protein body-builders and conditioners with balsam that envelop the hair shaft, imparting a bit of (temporary) width. Coloring your hair with an aniline tint will slightly enlarge the hair shaft by making the cuticle stand away from the cortex. A permanent wave is another body booster.

Note: Make sure your thin hair isn’t actually thinning hair due to a vitamin deficiency: the B-complex vitamins, along with vitamins E and C, are considered important for healthy hair.

Remember that thin hair has nothing to do with the number of hairs on your head. It refers to the width of each hair strand. Just because your hair is thin, and probably lacks the medulla or innermost layer, don’t think it’s unhealthy- you’re just unlucky. (Coarse hair, the other extreme, means the hair shaft has all three layers, and is thicker than normal.)

7 Simple Rules You Need to Know for Dressing Your Best and Enhancing Your Hidden Beauty

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 21:16:00 +0000

What’s the point in wishing you were built differently? There will always be curvy girls who want to be flatter, women with less on top who want more, tall people who want to be shorter, and petite people who long to be lanky. It is human nature to desire what you do not have. Why not realize that you are who you are and make the most of it? Here’s the truth: no body’s perfect.

Imagine the most perfect-looking person you can think of, and, chances are, she has a complaint or two about her body. No one ever really thinks she’s flawless, but that doesn’t keep her from smiling for the camera anyway.

Simple tricks like wearing fabrics that don’t cling to your curves and avoiding clothes that have bulky seams can make a huge difference.

You don’t need to be taller, shorter, more or less curvy to look stylishly turned out. You only need to know how to work it. Just think, if you feel more comfortable in your clothes every day, then maybe, just maybe, you’ll feel more comfortable with your body, too.

These alternative fashion tips may apply any Shopaholic stylista out there regardless of your body type:

1. Use color to your advantage. Brightly colored clothing makes parts stand out, while dark colors help them hide a little. If you’re curvy on top and you want to downplay that, wear a black T-shirt paired with white jeans or a pink skirt. If you’re curvy on the bottom and you’d rather highlight your top, wear a bright top and black pants or dark jeans.

2. Call attention to your parts you really like. If you think you have pretty arms, wear sleeveless tops and tanks, dresses with spaghetti straps, or slim-fitting long sleeves when it’s colder. Love your legs, but not your arms? Wear a loose-fitting top and slim-fitting jeans or a short skirt. Do you want to show off your slim waist? Try a wraparound T-shirt or dress that accentuates your middle.

The dress surely called attention to Megan Fox' proud breasts.

3. Horizontal equals wide, vertical equals long. This is a pretty simple rule to remember. Sideways stripes, like on a rugby shirt, make areas look wider. Up and down stripes, like pin stripes, make parts look longer and leaner. Pin-striped pants make sense if you want your legs to look longer. And if you have a long waist and shorter legs, stay away from vertical-striped shirts. Horizontal stripes make a big chest look even bigger.

4. The neater, the better. Slightly scuffed shoes may look cooler than brand-new ones, and frayed jeans have certain appeal. But filthy jeans and shoes that are falling apart are a different story entirely.

5. Stand up straight. It’s old news everything you wear look better. Slouching makes even the most amazing outfit look sloppy.

Kate Winslet know how important good posture is.

6. Cheap clothes reveal their price in the way they fit. It’s great to grab a bargain when you can, but for fit, it’s sometimes better to spend a little bit more. The seams of super-cheap pants aren’t sewn very well, so they can pull and bunch up and make you look bulkier than you are. The best bargains are loose-fitting, trendy clothes that aren’t built to last more than a few months anyway.

7. Dangly earrings. Wear hanging pearl earrings. It’s the fastest way to change up you look, and the first thing people notice when they talk to you. The wearing of pearl earrings dates from ancient times and is mentioned in the biblical book of Genesis. Pearl drops earrings were popular in the 17th and early 18th centuries, and it is still fashionable to this present generation.

What’s Your Alternative Fashion Style?

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 14:25:00 +0000

While you don’t have to settle on a single look, it’s important to understand your own taste and dress in a way that reflects who you are on the inside. Style is all about sorting out your likes and dislikes and presenting the best version of you to the world. Here’s how:

1. TAKE A LONG, HARD LOOK AT YOUR CLOSET. What do you see? Put together clues from your wardrobe to help solve your style mystery. Odds are, you’ll find you’re a combination of styles.

- Do you have a lot of skirts? If they’re full or pleaded, your style might be ladylike or kind of preppy (think of Anne Hathaway). If they’re long and hippie-ish, you may be a little bohemian.

- Do you have a lot of ruffles and floral prints? That means you may favor feminine, flirty clothes.

- Are you mostly a jeans or pants person? You may have a laid-back California style (like Jennifer Aniston).

- A little bit of everything in your closet? You’re more of a free spirit, and Lindsay Lohan may be your style twin.

2. THINK OF YOUR FAVORITE OUTFITS. You may need to look through a few photo albums for this section. Scan your snapshots, and then focus on your favorites. What do these pictures tell you?

- Do you love the outfit you’re wearing?
- What color it is?
- What’s the cut and style?
- Does it make you feel good about the way your body looks?
- Does it flatter the features you like most and draw less attention to the ones you’re still working on?

Take note of all the details- the hanging earrings you were wearing, a pearl necklace, and the jacket. These are the colors, shapes, and styles that make you look and feel your best, so shop for similarity flattering things.

3. WHAT WERE YOU WEARING THE LAST TIME SOMEONE PAID YOU A BIG COMPLIMENT? If someone tells you that you look great in what you’re wearing, you probably feel great in it, too. Remember your favorite outfits next time you’re out shopping, and look for anything that reminds you of them, whether it’s a similar color, cut, or attitude.

4. WHEN YOU SHOP, WHAT IS YOUR EYE DRAWN TO? Next time you’re “just browsing” at your favorite store, pay attention to where your eyes wander. What fabrics do you reach out to touch and feel? If you can’t tear you eyes away from crisp cotton shirts, maybe you love classic looks. If you’re always trying on big, slouchy, cowl-necked or off-the-shoulders tops, you’ve got a more bohemian edge. Do you love ripped jeans? You’ve got a little rebel inside you. If you like velvet more than corduroy, you’re more glamorous than sporty. If you can’t resist an outrageous pattern or out-there outfit, and couldn’t be bothered with a plain old T-shirt, you’re a true original.

5. WHOSE STYLE DO YOU ADMIRE THE MOST? Here’s where all of those hours you spend flipping through your favorite magazines really pay off. Think of your celebrity photos. What is it about their style that you’re drawn to? Do you love Keira Knightley knack for combining vintage clothes with new things? If you do, then why not shopping at a second-hand store? Do you love how Miley Cyrus tucks her pants into boots? Give it a shot. If you can identify your favorite style when you see it, you’re one step closer to making it own.

6. KEEP A FASHION SCRAPBOOK. Rip out the pictures you love from magazines or catalogs (or print out copies of your favorite online shots), then paste them into a notebook. Once the pages start filling up, you might start noticing a theme. If hanging pearl earrings keep showing up, you may be having a Megan Fox or Beyonce Knowles moment. If the ladylike looks from the red carpet are in there over and over again, try ditching your jeans every once in a while in favor of a skirt. As the pictures pile up, you’ll be able to keep track of how your taste is changing and see what is just a passing, trendy fad, and what, months later, is your true style.

HOW TO HAVE A STYLIST WEDDING FOR LESS: Your Low Budget Wedding Ideas

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 10:36:00 +0000

Inexpensive weddings? Sounds like an oxy-moron, doesn’t it? Well it’s the wave of the future. Spending your life savings on your big day wedding is crazy. You can have elegant, beautiful weddings without breaking the bank. Even low budget weddings can take a huge bite out of your savings and often end in huge debt obligations.

Wedding Reception

The reception alone will bust your wedding budget if you're not careful. Why there's the location rental, dinner, beverages, music, wedding cake, guest favors, and photography. Of course, the most obvious way to save money on the reception is to keep it small. Where you host this grand occasion could make or break your savings account.

Your low budget wedding remedy? Find a reception location that's free or low cost.
A free location may include your home, or a friend or family member's home. A low cost option might include the Church reception hall, the local fire department's reception room, club hall rentals, (town clubhouse, Moose Club, Knights of Columbus, etc.). Most will have a kitchen area for preparing and serving food.

If you are planning to host on a popular wedding reception venue, host your wedding mid-week for the best value. Friday nights and Sunday evenings are most times less expensive than Saturday night. Call around to venues to ask for pricing.

One of the most popular ways to cut wedding costs is destination weddings, package deals that generally cost a third of the price of a hometown wedding. Held in places such as Las Vegas or cruise ships, they include nearly all of the wedding necessities and involve a smaller guest list.

Photography

Use a less expensive kind of paper. For example, matte paper doesn’t cost as much as metallic paper but still yields nice photos. If you want professional photos, limit the photographer's services to a minimal package to include a few individual bride and groom, wedding party, and family shots.

With today's digital cameras and video recorders, do-it-yourself photography is always a great low budget wedding option.

Ask friends or family members to volunteer as photographers for casual photos at the wedding and reception.

Flowers

Avoid choosing off-seasonal flowers. Instead, choose flowers in bloom on the season. Also, avoid buying flowers during the holidays, when they’re more expensive.

Invitations

Shop on the internet or a local craft store to find do-it-yourself invitation kits. Etiquette tip: do not use printed address labels. Major faux pas. Use the scripted font that most resembles handwriting if you are going to use your printer to address. Best is to hand address. Get a bunch of friends, such as the bridal party, together and make a night of it.

Other ideas include:

a.) Create your own invitations.

b.) Use recycled paper.

c.) Consider using twine instead of ribbon.

Food and Wines

a.) Use food stations instead of served dinners.

b.) Having a mini-bottle of wine for each guest.

c.) Rather than trimming the people you want at your happy occasion, think about trimming say, two courses from your five-course meal. Then get rid of the fully stocked bar and offer a signature cocktail. Have a fabulous cosmopolitan or vodka bar, but don't have every single top-shelf liquor. This keeps costs down because you'll have less.

Wedding Dress

The wedding dress will likely be a large portion of your wedding budget. If you're not lucky enough to have one donated or passed down to you, you will find low budget wedding dresses at wedding bazaars or bridal shows. These include resources such as thrift stores, on-line auctions, consignment shops, retail clearance and closeout racks, on-line clearance and closeout suppliers. Be sure to check closeouts and clearance prices at all your local bridal shops.

Wedding Rings

Always opt for the plain wedding band for optimal savings. Most merchants will automatically show higher priced items first. Look for "clearance" or "budget" links. If none are available look for "wedding bands" rather than "wedding rings."

You can buy online. Online resources don't have the huge overhead expense of retail space rental and usually offer deep discount pricing.

Bridal Accessories

Jewelry is becoming an essential part of the wedding. Women have a strong passion for jewels. Since ancient times, jewels have been used to adore a bride. In the ancient times, jewels worn by the bride constitute heavy jewels.

Your wedding day is one of the most memorable believes of your life and you want everything to be perfect from the ceremony to the gown to the jewelry. Selecting the perfect wedding jewelry can not only make your wedding day more memorable something that you can treasure for the rest of your life and also has an annual to pass down to your children for their wedding day.

Pearls and diamonds have always been lady’s love. Art jewelry laced in number of beautiful patterns can be easily purchased from any leading store.

Pearls are truly a bride’s best friend. Pearls never go out of style, but this season they aren’t just in style, they are “hot”.

Not only are they “hot” they are very versatile. Pearls have been worn by fashionable women for ages. You can choose to spring for cultured pearl or purchase quality imitation pearls for a fraction of the cost.

As you begin your search for your wedding jewelry there are a few things you must keep in mind. The wedding jewelry must actually contrast your wedding dress, however ironic it may sound. If your wedding dress is fancy and gaudy try to stick to simple and understated jewelry.

The best way to choose earrings is to try them with your gown. The best styled earring will depend on the neckline of your gown, the type of necklace you are wearing, and how you will be wearing your hair. You want your earrings to be seen but you do not want them to be overpowering.

On the other hand if you're wedding attire is simple, try to liven it up with a bit of showy jewelry. The next thing, it must compliment the way you wear your hair. If you are wearing the hair in an up-do, then larger earrings will make you look a stunner with your dress. For those of you who prefer wearing their hair down, go for small studs or miniature hoops.

When buying pearls you will need to choose a strand length that enhances the neckline of your gown. The best size pearls to choose are in the 5 to 7 mm range. There are many length choices with pearls.

A pearl collar is usually made of 3 or more strands and measures 12-13 inches. A pearl collar will hug the middle of the neck so it works well with a v necks, plunged necks or off the shoulder gowns.

A choker measures 14-16 inches and is the most versatile length to own. It will work with any gown neckline. The 17-19 inch

Princess with either very high or very low necklines. There are longer lengths of pearls available however they are not very suitable for wedding gowns.

Wedding Cake

Down-sizing the wedding cake. Rather than one huge multi-tiered cake, use a modest tiered cake and then several (as many as you need for your guests) sheet cakes. Or, consider using a pre-cut cake with smaller-than-usual slices. Serving will go faster this way as well.

Guest List

Cut the guest list. I know, obvious tip, but, the fact is, the less people you invite the more money you save. Really, you should only invite those closest to you anyway so resist the urge to fill a room with second cousins and coworkers with whom you have no relationship.

Ultimate Cheapest Solution

The only way to avoid the costs is simply not to have a formal wedding. If you're footing the bill yourself and just can't see yourself starting your married life with a financial burden, you could always opt for a courthouse ceremony and intimate dinner.

Affordable but Elegant Gifts for Her on Valentine’s Day

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 06:16:00 +0000

You should treat yourself well or your loved ones this Valentine’s Day. Looking for Valentine gift ideas? Consider Samantha Rose Pearl Jewelries. SamanthaRose.us features the best selling exclusively designed and celebrity inspired pearl jewelries. You can choose from their elegant collections of pearl necklace, pearl earring, pearl bracelet, pearl lariat, pearl pendant and custom-made pearl jewelry piece.

Pearls never go out of style, but this season they aren’t just in style, they are “hot”. Not only are they “hot” they are very versatile. Pearls have been worn by fashionable women for ages.

Pearls are regarded as gems because they’re attractive, relatively rare, and can be worn as jewelry. Instead of being faceted, there are usually polished, carved, or drilled. Of all the gems produced by living organisms, pearls are the best known and most highly valued.

Shop now at Samantha Rose Pearl Jewelry and use this Discount Code: “CUPID” to received 15% discount on ALL items. The promotional discount code is valid only from February 9- 15, 2009.

Dallas Bridal Show Give-A-Way

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 10:11:00 +0000

Samantha Rose Designs, Inc. (www.samantharose.us) recently participated in Dallas Bridal Show, 20th Year Anniversary Show last January 24-25, 2009 at Dallas Market Hall. Dallas Bridal Show is the premier bridal event in Dallas and the third largest bridal show in the United States with over 350 wedding businesses, ranging from the first steps of planning your wedding to the honeymoon.

The show is the definitive bridal destination offering the latest fashions and trends in weddings. It featured the industry's top manufacturers of bridal gowns, both moderate and designer, bridesmaid’s gowns and mother of the bride, flower girl, jewelries, prom and special occasion resources.

The three-day bridal show was designed for one-stop shopping, with plenty of money-saving specials and prizes. Wedding cost can be reduced during economic recession without stripping all the beauty from one of life's most special ceremonies. In line with this theme, SamanthaRose.us showcased its latest affordable and yet elegant bridal line but also included a few other pieces, for example the Bohemian Line and Classic Line.

There was a lot of interest in all lines presented and the best seller was item number NS008WKg Translucent White Two-Strand 18. They also offer FREE jewelry pouch for bridal gifts.

To show their appreciation, they invited their booth visitors to complete an entry form for the bridal show give-a-way. For those who joined, please visit this link until February 7, 2009 for the winning entry. The lucky winners will get a 60” white pearl necklace.

Watch for them for the next Dallas Bridal Show. They will be participating this July 11-12, 2009, The Dallas Bridal Show, Dallas Market Hall, 2200 Stemmons Fwy. Dallas, Texas.

Quick Tips on Having Your Jewellery Custom Made

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 17:08:00 +0000

If you don’t find the type of fine jewelry or pearl jewelry you’re looking for, you may wish to have it custom made. Many Asian countries are noted for their fast service- often 1 to 2 days. They can be this quick because they have more jewelers per capita than countries such as the United States. A jeweler is Asia may have only one or two pieces to work on at a time, whereas one in the United States may be handling 30 or 40 jobs at once. When having jewelry custom made, follow the guidelines below:

1.) Try on jewelry pieces that resemble what you want. What looks good in a picture may not look or feel good on you.

2.) If possible, have good drawings, photos or models of the jewelry piece you want made. Never assume that the jeweler understands your verbal description of what you want. Be as specific as possible about how you want the jewelry to look.

3.) Don’t assume a piece of jewelry will look exactly as it does in a photo. It should, however, have a close resemblance. The best way to get exactly what you want is to have a model or sample.

4.) If you have a ring that fits well and has about the same band width as a custom ring you are ordering, show it to the salesperson or jeweler so they can choose the best ring size for you. The sample metal rings they have you try on can sometimes suggest the wrong size.

5.) Always tell a jeweler you need the ring earlier than you actually do, especially if it’s a complicated job. In Asia, you should allow 3 or 4 hours extra; and in countries such as the United States, at least 3 to 4 days. Either the jewelers may not finish on time, or alterations may be needed.

Work out an acceptable delivery date and have it put in writing. But still be prepared for delays. It’s best not to rush custom-made jewelry.

6.) If possible, avoid having jewelry custom made in December in countries that celebrate Christmas. Since jewelers are rushed and overworked at that time of the year, they might not do their best work then.

7.) Get a written estimate of the cost of the jewelry. If more stones are needed than estimated, the jeweler is not expected to give them to you free of charged. He should, however, get your permission before doing anything that would increase the estimated cost of the jewelry.

8.) If you supply the gemstones for custom-made jewelry, find out in advance who will be responsible if your stones are lost or damaged during setting or recutting. The jeweler is not always liable if something unfortunate happens to them. Reliable jewelers, however, will either feel morally obligated to replace damaged or lost stones or else will clearly warn you that your stones are at risk.

9.) Make sure that gold and platinum pieces are stamped with the fineness. A manufacturer’s trademark is also desirable.

10.) Know the refund policy of the jeweler. It is normal for jewelers to retain at least a portion of your deposit if you decide not to buy the ring you ordered, particularly if it’s a style that would be difficult to sell. Pay deposits with credit cards. If the stone does not deliver the job as promised, it will be easier to get your money back.

When you have a piece custom made, it often means more to you than the ready-made jewelry. The piece is unique, and you played a role in creating it. The experience of having jewelry made should be a positive one. Prevent it from turning into a negative one by taking the necessary precautions.

T-shirt Trickery: Create Your Own Recycled T-Shirt or Personalized T Shirt

artjoolree@yahoo.com (Aires Clemente) — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 02:24:00 +0000

Do you have a favorite shirt and don’t want to throw into the garbage ‘coz you wore it when you hand your first kiss? Or you wore it when you caught your boyfriend cheating on you and it will serve as a reminder that you will not fall in love again with same kind of good-looking and egocentric guy.

The good news! Here are the 7 ways to give it a second chance (not the guy but the T-shirt).

1. A tee that’s too small or faded to wear on its own makes a great layering piece. Thinner tees or camisoles can look so stylish when you pile one on top of another. Choose two shirts in coordinating colors and let the first layer peek out at the bottom.

2. Cut off the sleeves and make it a cute tank top. Give it a slightly military look sewing patches on the front and bunching the shoulders together and securing them with a gold or silver chain from the crafts store.

3. Change the color! Channel your inner hippie and break out the tie-dye. Or just dye it a few shades darker. This works even with old concert tees, or anything with writing on it.

4. Sew buttons of various sizes along the neckline for a necklace effect. Pick out buttons in coordinating colors or fun shapes, or for a slightly dressier look, try metal buttons with a silver or gold finish.

5. Take a T-shirt that’s slightly baggy at the waistline and cut four 2-inch vertical slits in the front and in the back, lace it with a ribbon and tie it as a belt.

6. Cut some small slits or holes into a shirt that can be layered over another tee or a tank top, letting the color of the undershirt show through a bit.

7. Try tracing a favorite design onto an old white T-shirt as a fun art project. (What’s the worst that could happen? You’d throw it away, which you were about to do anyway!) With computer transfer paper (available at the office-supply stores), you can print out your own pictures or sayings. You could even print out an inside joke that only a few friends know, and watch them crack up when they see you wearing it.