Kamis, 26 Juni 2008

Diamond

Diamond is the ultimate gemstone, having few weaknesses and many strengths. It is well known that Diamond is the hardest substance found in nature, but few people realize that Diamond is four times harder than the next hardest natural mineral, corundum (sapphire and ruby). But even as hard as it is, it is not impervious. Diamond has four directions of cleavage, meaning that if it receives a sharp blow in one of these directions it will cleave, or split. A skilled diamond setter and/or jeweler will prevent any of these directions from being in a position to be struck while mounted in a jewelry piece.

As a gemstone, Diamond's single flaw (perfect cleavage) is far outdistanced by the sum of its positive qualities. It has a broad color range, high refraction, high dispersion or fire, very low reactivity to chemicals, rarity, and of course, extreme hardness and durability. Diamond is the April Birthstone.

In terms of it's physical properties, diamond is the ultimate mineral in several ways:

* Hardness: Diamond is a perfect "10", defining the top of the hardness scale.
* Clarity: Diamond is transparent over a larger range of wavelengths (from the ultraviolet into the far infrared) than is any other solid or liquid substance - nothing else even comes close.
* Thermal Conductivity: Diamond conducts heat better than anything - five times better than the second best element, Silver!
* Melting Point: Diamond has the highest melting point (3820 degrees Kelvin)
* Lattice Density: The atoms of Diamond are packed closer together than are the atoms of any other substance

Diamond is a polymorph of the element carbon. Graphite is another polymorph. The two share the same chemistry, carbon, but have very different structures and properties. Diamond is hard, Graphite is soft (the "lead" of a pencil). Diamond is an excellent electrical insulator, Graphite is a good conductor of electricity. Diamond is the ultimate abrasive, Graphite is a very good lubricant. Diamond is transparent, Graphite is opaque. Diamond crystallizes in the Isometric system and graphite crystallizes in the hexagonal system. Somewhat of a surprise is that at surface temperatures and pressures, Graphite is the stable form of carbon. In fact, all diamonds at or near the surface of the Earth are currently undergoing a transformation into Graphite. This reaction, fortunately, is extremely slow.

Senin, 09 Juni 2008

Valuable Tips To Buy Diamond Bracelets

There are numerous ways to manifest love. One of the most common ways is to present diamond gifts. Sometimes it's expressed thru diamond rings; sometimes thru diamond necklace; sometimes thru diamond earrings and sometimes thru diamond bracelet.

A bracelet is an ornament worn wrapped around the wrist. It is an article of jewelry may be made of cloth, metal, gem stone, diamonds and sometimes of rocks, wood, or shells. The bracelets are also used for medical and identification purposes.

Nike and Lance Armstrong popularized the recent use of sports bracelets through the Yellow Livestrong band. The sports bracelets are also known as 'baller id bands', 'wristbands' or 'baller bands'.

The bracelets that is in solid form, usually made of some metal, is referred to as bangle bracelet. The bracelets made of gold and silver are known as gold bracelet and silver bracelet respectively. Azabache Bracelets are part of Latin culture having great significance.

The diamond bracelets are very popular in the world. The in-line thin diamond bracelet that features a symmetrical pattern of diamonds is called a tennis bracelet. There's an interesting anecdote associated to the tennis bracelet. Chris Evert, the former World No.1 woman tennis player was playing in the U.S. Open in 1987. She was wearing an elegant, light in-line diamond bracelet, which accidentally broke and the match was interrupted to allow Chris to recover her precious diamonds.

The tennis bracelet incident sparked a new name for the item and sparked a huge jewelry trend. Tennis bracelets continued to be worn by various tennis stars like Serena Williams and Gabriela Sabatini. The diamond tennis bracelets are quite in vogue today. The charm bracelet is another bracelet all the rage.

How To Find The Perfect Earrings To Complete Your Set

Accessorizing is about striking the correct balance, so when you choose a pair of earrings, the design should be influenced by the style of your outfit, the formality of the occasion, the shape of your face and of course your personal taste.

You could go for stunning diamond earrings Showcase that completely take the all the limelight or play down your ear jewelry and go for beaded earrings, either way your earring should not compete with the outfit your wearing.

A general rule of thumb is if your outfit is very detailed, the earring should be more subdued, however if your outfit is more simplistic it may be partnered with a more elaborate earring. This rule also can apply to earring-necklace combinations.

The size of the jewelry you wear on your ears should complement and be in proportion with your face. Because of the position of the earring it emphasizes the mid section of the face. A button and cluster earring, which are usually one solid unit, will accentuate a narrow face but this type of earring can add width and attention to a round face. And a small stud earring will flatter those with smaller faces.

A drop earring works best with a hairstyle that highlights the ears. Keeping your hair back off your face or if you like wearing it down, tuck your hair behind your ears to really emphasize your beautiful diamond earring. If you want to give the impression of having an elongated neckline than a diamond drop earring will work reallly well. Just as a chandelier earring would be as equally effective.

There ia alot of jewelry available for your ears on the market and knowing a little bit about the variety available is valuable information. Some of the different styles of adornment available for your ears are:

The princess cut diamond earring

The chandelier earring

The black pearl earring

The long drop earring

These styles are all very popular ones to go for and they all have their places. The princess cut, chandelier and black pearl earring are probably more of a black tie affair where as the drop earring, which is probably the more recent fad, is more versatile and your ears can wear them with almost anything.

Shopping for the perfect earring online takes the hassle of visiting all those jewelry shops and asking the assistant to pull out every earring in stock. After which you decide you don't like anything. The beauty of checking through our links is that you can have an array beautiful jewelry in font of you in the blink of an eye. As well as saving time, you can also save money with our online discounts.

Stylish Women of the Zodiac

Aries

These bold, arrogant and confident creatures are not afraid to flash a little leg or boast a low-cut top. When it comes to fashion, female Rams are self-styled leaders who love flashy, glamorous and sexy clothes. They are also the first to parade around in the latest trends.

They are also perfectionists who are hesitant to debut a new outfit until it has been outfitted with all the right accessories. They love expensive designer clothes but their thrifty side will settle for a decent imitation of Prada or Gucci. Plush velvets and vivid silks in colors such as red, yellow and gold suit the female ram's conception of herself as "royalty."

At work, the Ariesian female likes to stand out in a crowed by adding a pair of high-heels or sexy stocking to an otherwise straight looking skit. They love the style of the forties and details such as piping, kick-pleats and rounded collars. They also adore pea coats and long wool coats paired with a pair of high heel leather boots.

This demanding fire sign loves the flash of rubies and diamonds and is fond of wearing watches that display two time zones, even if they are not jetsetters.

Taurus

Female bulls are homebodies so they don't tend to splurge their family budget on family. Their closet is often packed with clothing that reflects their love of practical activities such as gardening, cooking and home renovation. They are fond of inexpensive and utilitarian clothing such as khakis, jeans and sweatshirts and by easy-to-care for fabrics that can just are thrown in the wash. As they spend a lot of time outdoors, their closets are usually jammed with ski-jackets, pack-pats and work-boots.

Taurus Females dress more casually than most people at the office and are the type to wear the same thing to work every day. A cozy sweater worn over a ruffled blouse with a knee-length skirt is a typical outfit. As they tend to be heavier than most women in the Zodiac, they tend to wear a lot of "slimming black".

They have simple tastes in lingerie and consider a long white cotton nightgown to be just a sexy as any item bought from Victoria's secret. For more elegant affairs, bulls look best in empire style gowns that emphasize their busts and conceal their tummies.

Taureans tend to dislike wearing a lot of jewelery, as it gets lost or dirty, however one item loyal Bulls will never take off is their wedding ring.

Gemini

These smart, sexy and cerebral women change their mind about what they want to wear every day. Their closets are well stocked with the appropriate outfits for any occasion. This curious sign faithfully studies fashion magazines and is always up on the latest trends in fashion. For casual wear, they prefer clothes with subtle, yet unusual touches - velvet cuffs on shirt, an unexpected ruffle or a bit of antique lace on a collar.

Gemini females have a keen sense of style, and when they are in business mode, they prefer to dress up as the office "queens" complete with power suit, pearls and expensive watch. Their favorite colors are navy blue, pink, lavender, silver and gold.

They love to dance so they prefer loose fluid clothing in silks, cottons and satins that flow with them as they move. They also like cheap street chic of a red vinyl mini-skirt or the surprise offered by the wearing of a bright yellow sari to a garden party.

Turquoises, rubies, pearls and citrines are their favorite stones. These free spirits also like natural jewelry are not beyond tucking a few blossoms behind their ears.

Cancer

Cancer females dress according to their mood. They can be very insecure when it comes to their bodies and often buy outfits on impulse that are never seen outside the change-room doors. As they are so driven by their emotions, Cancer females are not the most practical of shoppers. Although they maintain a people-pleasing conservative exterior most of the time they secretly lust for risqué lingerie, platform heels, plunging necklines and showers of chiffon and sequins. They also collect scores of designer shoes that they are too insecure to wear out in public,

These charming, but shy individuals like to play by the rules at work by wearing traditional suit with below the knee hemlines. They love the military works and prefer navy suits with gold buttons Many of the are secret fetishists who hide kinky costumes in their closets

Cancers are fond of loose comfortable casual wear and often hide their bodies behind overly large men's shirts and black tights. For fancy events, they tend to rely on that old stand-by such as the little black cocktail dress.

They love to collect costume jewelry and their ears, wrists and fingers will often boasts 'bling blings such as stacks of Indian bangles, large pearl rings, charm bracelets, and cubic zirconias.

Leo

This vain drama queens love to dress up for the purpose of being admired by all. They have exquisite and expensive tastes in clothing and lust after items created by Prada, Chanel, and Ungaro. Their desire to "not be a sheep" compels them to add a personal twist to an outfit to make it their own. It is a Lioness who dares to pair a diamond tiara with jeans and a T-shirt.

These unconventional, confident females often ignore dress codes and wear what they want to work. They spice up their power suits by shortening the hem or wearing fishnet stockings and high heels.

The sexy Leo often prefer mini-skirts to any kind of trousers. For more formal events they like to wear long flowing robes in colors such as of gold, silver red and orange that make them look like the resident goddesses. Their closets are often filled with designer sportswear, including the latest walking, golf and tennis shoes.

Being a very materialistic sign, a Tiger female considers diamonds to be a girl's best friend along with rubies, emeralds and sapphires set in sunny hunks of solid gold.

Virgo

Blessed with an excellent fashion sense, Virgos are adept at mixing individual pieces together to create a strong, attractive personal statement. Energetic Virgins tend to store their large wardrobe in perfectly organized closets that are full of classic items such as open-toed sling backs, patent leather kitten-heels, crisp white blouses, navy suits, black cocktail dresses, tennis skirts, khaki shorts, kilts, flowing gowns and well fitting jeans.

At work they prefer well-tailored, conservative suits in shades of silver, white, pink, grey or lavender Finicky Virgins would also never be caught dead with a missing button or a hole in their stocking. Although female Virgins are killer sharks when it comes to business, they like to soften the image of their power suits by adding delicate feminine touches such as a lace hankie, a flower or a chiffon scarf.

They also like to collect state of the art accessories such as tortoise shell clips for their hair, diamond earrings, pearl studs, black leather belts with distinctive buckles, silver conch belts, silver clutch purses, gold lame clutches and functional back-packs.

They consider displays of wealth to be tacky and tend to wear watches with thin gold straps, tiny chains and demure diamond tennis bracelets.

Libra

Venus rules sensual Libra natives, so they are very tactile. Their sense of touch has a lot to do with how they choose clothing, and they prefer silks and cottons to scratchy wools. Librans can be surprisingly finicky about clothing, and they are the first to visit a tailor if the cut of a suit or a dress is not quite right. This sign loves balance and beauty and believe that clothing should perfectly compliment the figure.

At work, power-dressing Librans will choose sleek, tailored suits in jewel-tones or slimming black. They are not much for frills or an excess of jewelery and prefer to sport gold hoops or simple pearl studs as earrings.

For relaxing, they prefer well-fitting casual clothing in their favorite colors, pink and black. Librans love Capri pants and similar items that are sexy as well as practical.

For an evening out, simplicity is the key to the Libran style. They either prefer tight clothing, such as the little black Lycra dress or they will dress in a theme that subtly reminds you of another era, such as the 1970s or the 1950s. Librans have a delicate sense of balance so they prefer flat heels to high heels. When it comes to looking fashionable, they definitely believe, like Jackie O, Katherine Hepburn and Audrey Hepburn that "less is more."

Scorpio

When it comes to style Scorpio women they are ruled by their moods. If they are depressed they are the sign voted most likely to dress head-toe in black to let others know their state of mind. However, despite the fact that their hearts often rule their heads, these females also believe that one should be poised at all time.

At the office they like to "dress to intimidate" in strong primary colors. Many of them will add a sexy touch to a conservative outfit, by unbuttoning a blouse to expose cleavage or a donning sexy high-heels.

Scorpio women live to socialize and their closets are stacked with scores of little black dresses, chiffon blouses, cashmere sweaters and sequined tops. They also love the sweeping drama of a velvet cape for formal occasions. Red and black leather is a favorite and many own stylish jackets; tight pants and long coats made from the finest bovines. As they are very sexual, they also like to dress provocatively, yet tastefully.

As the mystical matters entrance them they will often also adorn themselves with, healing gems and protective amulets such as ankhs, crucifixes and five-pointed stars.

Sagittarius

Fashion plays a role in the charming Archer’s plan to always present a youthful, and carefree appearance. Female Archers pick items that make them feel sexy and comfortable. They prefer loose clothing to tightly tailored outfits and the hunter inside them is also fond of real and faux fur.

At the office the Sagittarian is likely to be dresses a in her favorite shades of brown, dark blue red and emerald green. As they are usually very busy, they prefer a fuzzy sweater with a shirtdress or a pantsuit that features many pockets so they have many places to stash their "stuff".

For casual wear, easy-going Archers prefer versatile cotton pieces in bright colors that are as sunny as their positive disposition. Many of them are also very eccentric and love to collect vintage clothes such as Russian fur muffs, high-collared satin Mandarin jackets and retro-50s cocktail dresses. For more formal events they prefer sleek cocktail dresses and bias cut ball gowns that are reminiscent of the style of Audrey Hepburn.

They love precious gems, but are more inclined to wear a precious gift or a family memento as opposed to a flashy rock. They also emphasize their individuality by hosting a cupboard full of hats perfect for any occasion.

Capricorn

Capricorns are blessed them with natural good taste and an eye for quality and durability. They tend to purchase timeless individual pieces and prefer well-tailored, conservative items in colors such as rose, grey, navy blue, sky blue and camel. This sometimes self-conscious sing prefers long sleeves to short sleeves and high collars to plunging cleavages. They also like vintage clothing, as long as it is in pristine condition.

Capable Capricorns like to add delicate feminine touches to power suits such as diamond earrings or an antique pin.

Female Cappies, often boast perfectly organized closets filled with classic items such as open-toed slingbacks, patent leather purses, crisp white blouses, navy suits, black cocktail dresses and well fitting jeans. They also treasure hair accessories such as tortoise shell clips and satin bows.

They love gemstones, in all colors of the rainbow, but would most value a classic piece such as a diamond tennis bracelet, an antique cameo or a pendant that sports their initials

Aquarius

These graceful, thoughtful and sensitive creatures are very concerned about what others think of them. They tend to choose clothes that make a strong, expressive personal statement. They love brilliant tones of purple, gold, sky-blue, ruby-red and emerald green.

At work Aquarian females tend to dress slightly more eccentrically than their colleagues. They are fond of patterns, plaids and pinstripes as well as unusual fabrics such as herringbone, tweed, seersucker and poplin. They have a jaunty sense of style, and often perk up an outfit by sporting a beret, a bright hair band or a large and funky piece of costume jewelry.

They detest extravagance and love to shop for clothes at flea markets, vintage shops and retail outlets. They are attracted to one-of-a-kind items such as hand-knit sweaters and caps and crocheted ponchos and shawls. Yet, at the same time they love the feel and tight-fit of Lycra and futuristic polyester blends. Sometimes they can seem very "space-age" in their streamlined, zippered black suits. For a night out, a female Aquarian will choose unusual pieces, such as a white sequined skirt, purple cowboy or a top made of a glittering mesh of gold chains.

Aquarians love jewelry that has an antique or futuristic look and tend to purchase unusual or one of a kind pieces to compliment their eccentric outfits.

Pisces

These very feminine, delicate and sensitive creatures tend to choose sensuous items that appeal to their idealistic sense of romance. They love the "girlyness" of the pastel colors and the tactile allure of silk, velvet and satin fabrics.

At the office they will often sport higher hemlines and lower cut blouses. For casual wear, blouses boasting voluminous ruffles, tight-fitting shirts with lace trim and sensuous cashmere sweaters. They are also very athletic and like to go camping, fishing and hiking, so their closets often overflowing with sports gear, tennis shoes, golf shoes and equestrian wear. They also like long flowing chiffon gowns that make them appear like a goddess at formal events.

As the sea rules this sign they are partial to jewelry made from coral, seashell, pearl and mother-of-pearl. However, as they are very nostalgic and often religious, they are more likely to wear a gift from a lover or a family heirloom as a favored peace of jewelry. As Pisces is the sign that represents the 2000-year epoch of the rule of the Christians, they are also fond of wearing religious jewelry such as antique Roman coins, and medallions of the Saints.

How to Choose Wedding Day Jewellery

However quickly your wedding day might flash past, your memories of it (not to mention the photos) will last forever.

You will want to remember it as the perfect day, and you will want to look your very best. Preparations often seem to focus around the dress, but there are many other elements of your look to consider.

Most people build up a “look” or theme around one particular piece of their wedding day outfit. It might take a while to settle on a theme, and it may change several times before the big day, but at some point you will probably see a gorgeous pair of shoes, or an adorable bouquet of flowers that inspires the rest of your outfit, or even the whole wedding. Whatever your inspiration, it’s a good idea to try and get each piece of the outfit to sit harmoniously with everything else. Don’t feel that you have to colour match everything perfectly, but don’t buy things in isolation.

How to shop for Wedding Day Jewellery and Wedding Rings

Buying a wedding ring is not a purchase to be rushed. While wedding day jewellery is key to bringing together your look on the big day, you will wear your wedding ring forever. Many jewellers like H.Samuel ( http://www.hsamuel.co.uk )now have fantastic websites to complement their high street stores. This means that you can either research on the web and go into a store to buy your rings or vice versa. Websites are great for getting hold of unusually large or small sizes, and frequently offer delivery within a couple of days of your order. You can often find more information about jewellery around the site, and even view large photos of the pieces to be sure you are getting exactly what you want. The Blue Nile ( http://www.bluenile.com/ )website is also a good tool for investigating different styles of jewellery, especially engagement rings.

What jewellery should I wear on my wedding day?

What you wear on your wedding day will depend on the style of the occasion.

Classic Blushing Bride

If you are having a traditional, meringue-y wedding dress, then you can get away with big, eye-catching pieces. Try dazzling diamond earrings with a matching tennis bracelet and a delicate pendant. If you’re on a budget, you can get the same look for a fraction of the price with gorgeous cubic zirconia versions of classic jewellery pieces. To perfectly accessorize a strapless gown, try a loosely swept up-do to draw attention to your shoulders, along with some simple, elegant drop earrings that will move and twist and catch the light. Diamond earrings ( http://www.hsamuel.co.uk/webstore/browse/N/4294967245+63/ ) will frame and light up your face for all the photos to give you a radiant glow.

Cool, Contemporary Woman

It’s trickier to get the balance right when your dress is the sort of sleek, elegant creation that characterises the modern wedding. You might choose traditional jewellery to contrast with and soften the contemporary look of your dress. Pearls are a perennial favourite of blushing brides, even before they were worn by the stunning Grace Kelly at her wedding to Prince Rainier of Monaco in 1956. Pearls have a timeless elegance and they are available in a huge variety of shapes, colours and sizes. Make a statement with iridescent, blue-grey Tahitian pearls, or add a feminine touch with perfectly round pretty pink ones. Cultured pearls are readily available on the high street and are much more affordable wedding jewellery than natural pearls. Teardrop-shaped pearls are perfect for ladylike drop earrings or pendants, while a string of gorgeous pink pearls is a reliably feminine accessory.

Indie Chick

Not everyone goes for a traditional white wedding; some opt for genuine individuality and self-expression. Whether your unconventional wedding is planned around a medieval banquet style or a funky urban brunch, pearls and diamonds are unlikely to hit the spot. Jewellery stores (and websites) are full of pieces set with coloured stones, and you have the choice between genuine gems and simulated stones. Coloured cubic zirconia looks fabulous, and you’re bound to find just the right shade somewhere. To really make an impact, why not try accessorizing with funky, gothic-y, vintage-y jewellery? Marcasite jewellery or big black beads will add a striking accent to your wedding dress, whether it’s vintage Edwardian, elegant cream column, or a scarlet tea gown.

Celebrity Weddings

Celebrities through the ages have made their wedding days an occasion to make a style statement. Gwen Stefani, one of People magazine’s 50 Most Beautiful People of 2004, is famed for her unique but immensely successful style. When she married Bush frontman Gavin Rossdale, she wore a stunning white and pink John Galliano creation. To accessorize her unusual, asymmetric gown, Gwen wore an elegantly simple white gold and diamond cross, which looked fabulous. The couple recreated their London wedding two weeks later in Los Angeles, where Gwen’s individual style shone out – she wore the same dress, but instead of the discreet cross, she chose a striking heart pendant of pink tourmalines, peridots and diamonds. Madonna is another big star who chose a simple cross as an accent to her Stella McCartney gown, although not many of us could afford to emulate that particular 37 carat Harry Winston piece.

With this ring, I thee wed.

Of course the most important pieces of jewellery on the big day are your engagement and wedding rings. Most couples opt for simple, timeless wedding bands that will look stylish forever (remember you’ll be wearing it every day for the rest of your life) and will perfectly complement the bride’s sparkling engagement ring. It is traditional to wear your engagement ring on the right hand throughout the ceremony, to leave the third finger of your left hand free for the most symbolic piece of jewellery you’ll ever own, your wedding ring.

Diamond Earrings: Why Some Cost More Than Others

Diamond earrings are classy and tasteful earrings that every woman loves to wear. They can be so versatile, and come in many styles and colors as well. Earrings with diamonds in them never go out of style, and just a single pair of earrings added to your outfit makes you feel all dressed up and ready for a night on the town. While most diamond earrings might look the same to the naked eye, you are probably wondering why some of them will cost more than others do.

There are several reasons that one pair of diamond earrings may cost more than another. You see, the diamonds are sold by weight in Karats. When you have a diamond that is a higher karat than the other, the one with the higher karat weight will be more expensive. This is the reason you can have two different pairs of earring with diamonds in them, and they both look the same, but one might be more expensive because the karat weight is higher in one pair than the other one.

Another reason that one pair of diamond earrings might cost more than another is because of the diamond cut. There are so many different diamond cuts that you can have in a pair of earrings, and each and every one of them are unique in their own way. Some of the cuts are harder to get than others and make perfect. This would mean that particular cut would be more expensive as it is harder to achieve. All women have their favorite cuts that they love diamonds in, and the princess cut diamond is probably the most popular of them all.

Something else to think about that may increase the cost of a pair of diamond earrings is the setting that the diamonds are in. There are so many different settings to choose from when you are looking at earrings with diamonds, and some of them are a little harder to get. When you have a really complicated setting for the diamonds, you are looking at paying more per pair of earrings than you would just a single stud setting.

Diamond earrings are so beautiful, and come in many different metal settings that you can choose from. You will find that there is 18K Gold, 14K Gold, and 10K gold. This only covers the yellow gold that you can choose from. There is also white gold, and sterling silver that are ever so popular with earrings. However, you will also find that for those that are allergic to gold and silver, you will be able to get titanium earrings with diamonds in them. This is a great alternative for anyone that has allergies to the other metals, it is a little more expensive, and it is readily available in most jewelry stores.

As you can see, diamond earrings are any female's favorite. You can not go wrong when you surprise a girl with a pair. You now know why some earrings with diamonds in them may look the same but cost different. If you were to buy a pair of pair that had a really high diamond karat weight you would making an investment that would be cherished for many years. Diamond jewelry never goes out of style and you can wear it with anything to any occasion and look great.

Diamond