Citrine Pictures
by Mark
Citrine Pictures
Citrine Pictures
Jade pendant buying guide
Jade pendant buying guide
by Seema Susheel
The easiest way to go about buying jade pendant is to look in to websites on the net and make a decision and order through card. For first time buyers you need to go for little time taking procedure of surfing many websites offering the same service and then deciding on one that has many design varieties, reasonable price ranges, good customer support and reliable delivery. You need to select the one that suites your budget and comfort level. There are many information sites on the net giving you all the information on the gemstone, its origin and the price categories too.
The word jade reminds you of princely treasures and exotic locales. The beauty of the gemstone jade has inspired many people to keep names like Jade gardens to their lush properties. Jade gardens would invoke in a person the feeling of peace and comfort and this is exactly what jade the gemstone is supposed to give its wearer; peace and harmony with oneself.
About the jade gemstone
The jade typically is imagined to be forever green in color but this particular gemstone is naturally available in many other colors like white, red, yellow, lilac, orange, pink, blue, black and brown. Hence to buy real jade of a good quality is a difficult task and you should meticulously go about making the purchase from a reputed jeweler as anybody can cheat you to believe a moonstone for a white jade. The high quality jade is known as Imperial jade and is rare. There are two types of jade’s nephrite which is mostly found in China and Russia and jadeite which is found in Japan and USA. Both these varieties have a hardness of around 7 to 6 mm. The gemstone jade apart from being made into beautiful jewelry is also carved into many traditional artifacts and is used for spiritual or decoration purposes.
Jade pendant – beauty with a purpose
You want to go for a jade pendant because you found it very appealing or you believe in the powers of jade and wish it brings you luck. Whatever maybe the reason to buy a jade pendant, its surly is a beauty you would be proud to behold. You could go for a varied range of jade pendants carved or plain, green or the transparent white, on a silver or platinum or gold chain. The design style of the jade pendant could be contemporary, sleek and stylish or traditional. The olive green jade is pretty popular and looks good in an ornate setting of oxidized silver, even white jade in a simple setting of silver would suite any casual or formal occasion. Typically jade pendant comes in shapes like circle, oval, and rectangle. There are pendants which are carved in to beautiful motifs. There are jade pendants from China which come in elaborate oriental designs. Jade luckily has many varieties of colors to choose from, you could have many jade pendants to match with every different dress and occasion. As you want to buy a pendant you could have a variety of different color pendants for the same neck chain, this won’t be very exorbitant and if you have the passion for jade, buying pendant of every color available won’t be heavy on the pocket too.
Jade is popular from ancient times
The hardness of jade is amazing and the stone is strong because of its hardness this makes it durable and sturdy. Jade in ancient times was also used in weapons because of its hardness, only later it started getting used in ornaments and decoration items. Jade is a popular gemstone in ancient Chinese culture and even in the present day China jade is widely used. The Chinese artisans even have carved spiritual people on jade and that is used as a pendant believed to protect the wearer and impart wisdom. According to Chinese astrology, the zodiac animal symbols are carved on jade and worn as pendants to bring luck. According to Feng shui the jade artifacts are kept at home as well as in the car for good luck. From China and Central America jade was exported to Europe and the Royal fraternity took a passion to wear jade as jewelry, and jade became popular worldwide because of the color green which looked like emerald, the stones hardness and the light refraction capability.
Jade’s mystical properties
From ancient times worldwide jade is considered to bring peace and open the wearer’s eyes and heart to love and positive energy within himself and in the material world around him. It’s been considered a sacred stone and is used in sacred spiritual practices. There’s also a belief that jade promotes longevity and balances the emotional ups and downs in the wearer to give him a fruitful and prosperous life. Jade is believed to help the wearer overcome his fears and move forward with self confidence and power to succeed. The stone also protects the wearer from negative forces and brings in harmony and positive energy. This stone is also believed to enhance the love between couples and hence is popular gift among lovers.
How to go about buying a jade pendant
The easiest way to go about buying jade pendant is to look in to websites on the net and make a decision and order through card. For first time buyers you need to go for little time taking procedure of surfing many websites offering the same service and then deciding on one that has many design varieties, reasonable price ranges, good customer support and reliable delivery. You need to select the one that suites your budget and comfort level. There are many information sites on the net giving you all the information on the gemstone, its origin and the price categories too. If someone in your friends or family circle has bought some jewelry on the net then take a lead from them. There are websites available on the net selling just the gemstone, you can buy the gemstone and make it into the pendant of your liking from you jeweler. This will cut the cost and you will get your customized jade pendant. There are jewelers owning shops dealing with the export import of gemstones who will sell jade pendants. You can personally go and choose and buy the jade pendant from a jewelry shop. For this you don’t have to be a novice and let the jeweler fool you. You can go prepared by surfing through many information sites on the net on jade the gemstone. You have all the information on jade, no one can take you for a ride and sell you a fake, with your new found gemstone knowledge you can keep the jeweler on his toes and get the right value for your money and time.
Alexandrite Jewelry
Alexandrite Jewelry
by Binashaji
Buying Alexandrite Jewellery can be a daunting task. Simply because, authentic stones are very rare and highly priced. There are plenty of imitations of this eye-catching stone and spotting a genuine gem requires skill and knowledge about Alexandrites.
If you want to feel like Royalty, invest in some genuine Alexandrite Jewellery. This enchanting stone, was discovered in the Russian Ural mountains, was named after Alexander. It is a unique co-incidence the stone was discovered almost at the same time as his ascension to the throne at a young age. The colors of the Alexandrite are Red and Green, which were also the colors of the Russian Royalty in the 18th century. This captivating color-changing stone takes on a Greenish-Blue shade in the daylight and a Reddish- purple color under artificial light. The Russian Empress Catherine, on discovering these gems were being sold to other countries, is said to have slain the culprits who dared sell the Royal stone outside of the Royal Family. For this reason, a major part of the Russian Alexandrite could not be readily found in the market. Although now many pieces from the Royal collection have found their way into collector’s coffers.
Many Gemstones exhibit a color change, but it is very weak and sometimes an untrained eye can miss the color transformation, but this is not the case with Alexandrite. This wondrous gem has a strong color change with exquisite shades of Red, Green, Blue and Purple. An Alexandrite of high quality is a pleasure to watch.
Buying Alexandrite Jewellery can be a daunting task. Simply because, authentic stones are very rare and highly priced. There are plenty of imitations of this eye-catching stone and spotting a genuine gem requires skill and knowledge about Alexandrites. If you wish to own an entire Alexandrite ensemble, you would have to spend a small fortune or even a large fortune depending on the quality of the stones. Like with all gemstones, color change is the most important aspect that will decide the superiority of the gem. A strong color change from reddish-purple to blue-green in daylight will command a higher price than a stone with a weak color-change. Secondly, the origin of the stone is also important. Alexandrites from Russia will be more valuable, since Russian stones are very rare and of superior quality. Alexandrite deposits have also been found in Sri Lanka, India, parts of Africa and Brazil.
Making a statement about your personal confidence and panache was never so easy. A large Alexandrite ring with matching single stone large earrings can speak a million words. Catching the eye, with a glint of green or red, Alexandrites can add to your style quotient. Large signet Alexandrite Rings are also a popular choice amongst men who dare to be different.
If you are buying expensive Alexandrite Jewellery, always ask for a Certificate of Authenticity from a reputed Gem Laboratory. Most reputed stores selling Alexandrite always sell the Jewellery with a Certificate. The most popular Jewellery created from Alexandrite is Rings. Large stones are set as cabochons (single stones) in Gold or Platinum. Since the price per carat of the Alexandrite is high, large uncut stones are more expensive because some of the stone is wasted when it is cut to bring out its best facets. Smaller stones are set in necklaces and bracelets too.
Some people consider buying Alexandrite Jewellery as an investment since Alexandrite deposits are not readily found and there is always a scarcity of good quality stones, both these factors increase the price of this gem considerably. Owning an Alexandrite can be a good omen. It is said to have healing properties and has positive vibrations to aid the nervous system. The stone is also said to boost a person’s self-esteem and confidence.
Although Alexandrite is a semi-precious stone, it commands a very high price almost equivalent with the four most expensive gemstones Sapphires, Rubies, Emeralds and Diamonds. The Alexandrite is a chrysoberyl – stones which change color with change in the light source. Most chrysoberyls have a very small color change and the highest quality chrysoberyls with a distinct color change are termed as Alexandrites.
With a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, Alexandrite is durable and perfect for Jewellery. It does not need too much care, but be sure to protect it from harsh chemicals, scratches, hard knocks and extremes of climate which could blemish the beauty of this gem. Washing in soap and warm water will suffice for cleaning an Alexandrite.
Synthetic Alexandrite stones are most often treated low quality Sapphires. Low quality Alexandrite stones are also treated to improve the gemstone’s appearance by filling the fissures on the surface with colorless oil or wax or other substances. It is also possible to be fooled with glass and plastic imitations, although it is easy to spot a cheap imitation because it will not have the required color change. Low quality stones will have a weak color change and may retain either a greenish tinge or a brown color even after the light source is changed from daylight to fluorescent.
Rings or Earrings, these exquisite gems are considered to be collector’s items and many connoisseurs are always on the prowl for high quality Alexandrite Jewellery to be worn at special events as conversation pieces.
If you wish to feel Royal and feel a connection with King Alexander, invest in some Alexandrite for its changing colors and scarce availability and links with the Russian Royalty.
Jade Buying Guide
Jade Buying Guide
by Madhubanti Rudra
It is important to know that in case of Jade, the individual piece is important than the mere carat-weight of the stone. The value of each piece of stone is judged in terms of color. In addition to color, the clearness and smoothness of the stone are also taken into consideration. Another important value factor in Jade is cutting and carving. The smooth texture of this stone allows different innovative styles of curving that renders it a variety of shapes and patterns.
Jade; a thing of beauty
A green Jade always carries with it a refreshing air that greets you every time you behold a piece of this gemstone. Nothing can quite compete with the beauty of this opaque stone except an equally bright piece of green emerald. The green color is believed to produce a rejuvenating impact on the human souls. That is why, since time immemorial jade had been highly prized for being a huge source of positive energy. Once an integral part of history and culture of China, Jade today is the part of every fashionable woman worldwide.
Myth
For thousands of years, the legends and myths surrounding jade evoked curiosity and passion among men. The historical existence of this exotic gemstone can be traced to the legends of Mayan and Aztec civilizations of Central America. Birthstone for the Zodiac signs of Libra, Aries, Gemini and Taurus, jade has always been coveted for its wonderful healing properties. In oriental countries, jade used to be regarded as the preserver of dead body. In their aspiration to attain immortality after death, the rich and mighty emperors of China used to build their tombs with rarest and most precious of Jades. In ancient India, Jade was called a ‘Divine Stone’ and used extensively for the treatments in such diseases as asthma, gravel, epilepsy and heartburn. In course of history, Jade traveled to Europe with the Portuguese settlers who were the strong believers in its miraculous curative properties for the kidney related diseases.
Throughout Asia, especially in China, jade is a prized stone for resuming love in the lives of the married couples. It is also believed to bring peace and harmony and calmness of mind.
Basically jade is regarded as a balancing stone. According to the oriental philosophy, Jade is the energy stabilizer; It strikes balance between male and female power, it provides balance to the emotional manifestations, and most importantly, it creates balance between positive and negative forces. It also invokes wisdom and spiritual qualities in human beings.
The Characteristic Features of Jade
Worldwide Jades are available in two broad categories. They are Nephrite and Jadeite. Although they broadly differ in their physical characteristics, they are similar to each other in multiple aspects. Both of them occur in large boulders to small pebbles in nature. They are so hard that they cannot be carved in the usual ways. Both jadeite and nephrite are tough and durable, although jadeite is slightly harder than nephrite due to its microcrystalline structure.
Among these two varieties, Nephrite is the commonest form of jade; it is also the softer version of the two. It has a complicated chemical structure consisting of magnesium or iron silicate crystals, formed into an interlocking fibrous mass. Nephrite is also known as ‘kidney stone’, because it is believed to work magically as a healer of kidney diseases. This Nephrite variety of Jade, which ranks 6.5 on the Mohs’ scale, comes in many other colors as white, light brown or yellow. But, the most common color in Nephrite is dark spinach green. The intensity of color however, is not very high. Nephrite is mined in Canada, Australia, the United States, and Taiwan.
In the present international market, jadeite jade commands much higher prices than nephrite. In fact, these days, jadeite jade is considered to be more authentic. Not only the color is much more vivid in Jadeite, the stone appears much more translucent too. Jadeite is actually a sodium aluminum silicate which consists of translucent granular crystals. It is a tough stone ranking 7 on the Mohs’ scale. Jadeite displays a fine range of green shades. However, green in jadeite is lighter than those found in nephrite. Jadeites are also found in black, blue, lilac, pink, purple, red, violet and white. Although Burma or Myanmar is the highest producer of Jadeite Jade, small quantities can be found also in Guatemala.
Value Factor of Jade
Jade is among some of the toughest gemstones that do not splinter easily. That is why, it is ideal for crafting jewelleries. In fact, its prodigal hardness made it the favorite material of the primitive men of Neolithic days for making their tools and instruments. All through the Chinese history, this stone had been extensively used to produce all kinds of beautiful artifacts and that tradition continues till date.
It is important to know that in case of Jade, the individual piece is important than the mere carat-weight of the stone. The value of each piece of stone is judged in terms of color. In addition to color, the clearness and smoothness of the stone are also taken into consideration. Another important value factor in Jade is cutting and carving. The smooth texture of this stone allows different innovative styles of curving that renders it a variety of shapes and patterns. Among different popular patterns, “moss in snow” pattern is particularly high valued.
Jade looks great with cabochons cut that renders it a dome like shape. This cut highlights on the smoothness of this stone. However in China, jades are given the shape, resembling a donut. These flat discs of jades are called, “Pi”. They are worn as necklaces in China.
Among all the varieties, the most prized variety is the ‘Imperial Jade’. In Chinese version, it is famous as the ‘Old Mine Jade’. This variety of Jade is not only rarest, but also the costliest, because of its extraordinary transparency. They are so clear that it is possible to read through them. The pure white jades also contain high value.
However there is another variety of Jade, called, ‘Grave jade’, that are collected by the grave-robbers. They are highly valued as a shield against harm.
The best quality jades are those which depict translucent and vivid medium green color. These top quality Jades are characterized with a total absence of inclusions and uniformity of color.
Precautions
These days markets are flooded with imitation Jades made of plastic and glass. However the fake Jades are distinguished from the original ones by the presence of entrapped minuscule air bubbles in them. It is highly recommended that on your travel to the oriental countries, do not get tempted to collect Jades from the local agents, buy Jade only from the authentic gem-traders who provide a buy-back guaranty for your gem.
Facts About Onyx
Facts About Onyx
by Madhubanti Rudra
The myth that onyx originated from the body part of Venus, known for alluring beauty, justifies the stone’s fine texture and lustrous black colour. Originally onyx is chalcedony quartz, which falls in the microcrystalline category. It is formed in the gas cavities of lava.
Facts About Onyx
The Greek mythological literature is full of fascinating tales which even in this age of computer attracts the young and old alike. It is just mind boggling to revel through the pages of such legends and folklores, depicting the antics of cupids and demons, the accomplishments of the handsome Gods and goddesses and so on. One such interesting story explains the appearance of Onyx on this earth. This story is associated with the Greek icon, Venus. The legend goes like this- one day Venus was asleep when a mischievous cupid cut her fingernails and flew away leaving the finger clips scattered on the ground. Latter by the design of the god, these fingernails were transformed into stone that came to be known to the world as onyx. The name draws its origin from the word, onyx which in Greek language means fingernails. In latter course of history, this stone became famous in the hands of Romans, who crafted beautiful seals out of onyx.
The patterns were cut into negative reliefs which were famously called intaglios. The myth that for this gemstone originated from the body part of Venus, known for alluring beauty, justifies the stone’s fine texture and lustrous black color. Originally onyx is chalcedony quartz, which falls in the microcrystalline category. It is formed in the gas cavities of lava. This gemstone is basically a multilayered stone like agates and depending on the different colored layers, onyx can be divided into a few separate categories. Generally, when the stone has a black base and a white upper layer, it is called Onyx. Some onyx displays white and lighter reddish bands or ribbons of silicon di-oxide against a brown background, this variety is known as Sardonyx. When the onyx has a red base, it is known as Cornelian-onyx.
The black onyx, the most popular among all the varieties of onyx actually is grey chalcedony. The rich black color is the result of profuse chemical treatment. In order to bring out the black, the grey stone is saturated with a solution of cobalt chlorate and chlorammonium. Immersion of the stone for a prolonged period in a sugar solution and then heating in sulphuric acid to carbonize the sugar also leave the stone with a brilliant black color. This stone has a moderate hardness ranking 6.5 – 7 on the mhos scale. Its texture makes it ideal for carving and is choice for material lapidary artists.
Although onyx is found worldwide, the most important place of its mining is Brazil. Brazil supplies the best multi-colored untreated chalcedony. In addition to that it also occurs in India, California, U.S.A, Uruguay and Madagascar. Gray chalcedony is found in India and China. If international trends are something to go by, the emphasis on spiritual or mystical aspects of the gemstones have become the latest rage across the globe. The belief is getting increasing strong that chemical structure of the stones have the power to attract different energetic vibration, which can positively affect the mind and body of the wearer. This stone is believed to have many such mystic powers.
These beliefs about the mystic power of onyx vary from country to country. In Middle East, it is associated with the lives and ways of the sorcerers. In India it is believed to calm the ardors of love. The Romans associated it with courage and it is thought to be useful when one is defending him or herself against unfair criticism. In many countries black signifies regeneration and new beginning. So onyx is often prescribed as a healing agent for old emotional wounds and moving ahead by forgetting the past experiences of bad relationship. It is believed to fill the wearer with a gift of eloquence in the time of expressing his or her love for the new romantic interest in life. This is also believed to cure bad habits of the individuals. For absent minded people onyx prove to be very helpful in increasing the concentration level and calming down the mind in the chaotic situations of life. It is also regarded as a helpful tool for growing fingernails hair and skin. Onyx is mystical birth stone for the month of December. It is also the birth stone for the zodiac sign of Leo. It is the alternate birth stone for February and anniversary gemstone for 16th wedding anniversary.
The colored gemstones are in high demand in the international fashion circuit. The colorful jewelries made with multi-colored gemstones have become the hot favorite of the season. Amidst the cluster of bright-colored gems, onyx stands out with its black beauty. Black being one of the basic colors, this stone is hugely used along with light colored gems to bring out the contrasting effect. The richness of the black in onyx is best displayed when teamed with dollops of pearl. Apart from that, necklaces made with onyx beads, or onyx rings surrounded by dazzling diamonds, or simple drops of onyx in earrings are common to make rounds in the leading jewelry stores across the globe. In addition to its beauty, it is the affordable price of the stone, that made it popular among the jewelry lovers around the world.
Onyx rings
Onyx rings
by Madhubanti Rudra
Onyx is the shear beauty of illustrious black, that from antiquity, men had been drawn to. A derivative from Greek word, onux, meaning fingernail, onyx displays fine nails-like white or reddish silicon dioxide bands, thus justifying its naming. A stone famous for its texture that is ideal for curving, creates astonishing impact when mounted on a ring.
The background as onyx as a gemstone
From time immemorial gems and jewelleries have been perceived as the powerful statement of position and vanity of the wearer. But when associated with mythical accolades, they attain a deep spiritual significance. The ancient Greeks, known for their astute socio-political foresights, rightly viewed the importance of myth and intelligently spread the legends surrounding divine figures, whose presence on the earth were symbolized by worldly materials found in the environment. In this process, many gemstones came to incorporate divine vibrations which were believed to offer protection and charm of luck to its wearer. Onyx is one of the classical gemstones, having a rich legendary background. Believed to be born out of scattered fingernails of Venus, onyx has multifaceted healing and mystic properties. A traditional healing agent for curing emotional wounds emanating from unsuccessful relations of the past, onyx also help new romantic relations to bloom in life by improving expressive abilities in the lovers. It also works wonderfully for those worried by a constant hair loss by helping to grow hairs on their heads. Onyx has a calming effect on the minds of wearer by sorting out the chaos of life.
Onyx ring: a statement of simplicity
But these are not all the reasons why one should invest on an onyx ring. It is the shear beauty of illustrious black, that from antiquity, men had been drawn to. A derivative from Greek word, onux, meaning fingernail, onyx displays fine nails-like white or reddish silicon dioxide bands, thus justifying its naming. A stone famous for its texture that is ideal for curving, creates astonishing impact when mounted on a ring. Again, design of jewellery, in all ages like the other forms of applied art, has been influenced by the discovery of new materials and more importantly, by the demands of fashion. The twenty first century fashion trends moves round the cluster of multi-coloured gemstones. When the eyes get tired among the crowds of bright reds, blues and greens, the timelessness of black in onyx brings freshness of relief. Then, black always spells class and sophistication. The chief philosophy behind contemporary jewellery being the wearablity, onyx jewelleries offer a typical multipurpose appeal. An onyx ring is in no way unsuitable to an office suit, when you wear this very piece with your black evening grown it becomes the ultimate show stopper. The affordability of this stone makes it even more attractive to the buyers.
Know about onyx
If you plan to buy some stone jewllery, it is mandatory that before parting with your cash know about the basic traits of the gemstone in question. Onyx, which is microcrystalline quartz, belongs to chalcedony family. It comes in brown, grey and black varieties. When the brown chalcedony is found with thin white or reddish brown silicon dioxide stripes or band, they are called sard-onyx. All t5hese varieties of onyx have moderate hardness. It record 7 in the mohs scale of hardness. As long as onyx is concerned, treatments within the limits of trade accepted norms are common practice. Dying, heating and chemical doctoring are the common methods applied to enhance colour in onyx. These treatments have a permanent effect on the stone which has nothing to do with the longivity of the stone. So, the pricing of the stone in no way gets affected by these treatments. Onyx is a layered stone like any other stone belonging to agate family. Please take notice of the fact that treated agates, which are much cheaper, are often sold in the name of black onyx. However, there is a simple way to distinguish onyx from agate. While onyx has straight bands of brown, white or black, agate has curved lines of many colours.
Buying onyx rings
The ring is regarded as the oldest form of ornament, used for the adornment of body. It also symbolized bonding; bonding between man and woman, bonding between two friends, bonding between a master and slave and so on. So, in course of history of jewellery there appeared many kinds of rings like wedding rings, engagement rings, even promise rings. Before buying an onyx ring, first think of the purpose for which you are going to buy one; whether you are going to wear it daily or occasionally-answer to all these questions will determine the design of the ring, the size of the stoner and the choice of the metal. For female rings smaller stones are recommended, while male rings look with a bigger size onyx. He fitting of the ring is very important for the comfort of the wearer. So it will be a wise decision to buy a good quality onyx first, and the get it mounted on a ring of the choice of your design and the size of your finger. Among all the jewlleries ring is most exposed to external abrasion. And since onyx with a moderate hardness is prone to chipping and scratching, special care should be taken at the time of making an onyx ring. The stone should be set inside the bezels or guarded by heavy prongs as much as possible. In order to receive the positive forces of the stone, set in a way that the stone stays in contact of your body and the light passes through the stone to your body. Next important thing is the choice of the metal. The use of white metal like white gold, platinum or even silver can produce a wonderful contrasting effect. Someone who likes an unusual like can go for an onyx ring crafted in mat finished yellow gold. The traditional yellow gold either does not look bad with onyx. After all, the black being a basic colour, onyx can be teamed with anything and everything.
Design options
Onyx, a very popular gemstone among the early Greeks and Romans, who used to craft beautiful seals out of this black beauty has become in course of fashion evolution, a staple stone in the hands of designers of abstractist schools of twenty first century. The imaginative designers combine it with pearls, mother of pearls and sometime with diamonds. Being cost effective, at the same time fashionable-looking the onyx jewelleries have become common items occupying the shelves of leading jewllery stores all round the world. If you want to make a simplistic, minimulistic yet fashionable style statement, an onyx ring is the right choice for you.
Jade Earrings
Jade Earrings
by Ms Nandita Ray
Jade earrings can be disc shaped or oval, dangling, hoop type, tear drop shaped. Any form looks attractive. A solitaire Jade set in filigree encasing of gold or silver looks very attractive. Green looks bright against the gold or silver and is very appropriate for office wear.
Earring is the most common form of adornment of the human body. It is now unisex. Anybody can flaunt a small stud to a swinging chandelier. The choice is yours. Among the host of precious and semi precious gems that are found on the planet, Jadeite or Jade to the layman, is quite a popular gemstone. Jade and Nephrite are considered Jade, the only difference is their chemical makeup. These are ornamental stones and are two forms of silicate. Jadeite is pyroxene while Nephrite is a form of amphibole.
courtesy: http://jadegifts.com/jearring.html
Jade or Yu in Chinese is a very popular gemstone in Asia. It is hugely popular in China and its popularity is getting world wide recognition. It stimulates creativity and mental agility. Though Jade is rare and considered more precious than its cousin the Nephrite. In both the minerals, the color distribution is uneven. Veins and streaks run through them. Nephrite is usually dark green or grey green. It can also be white, yellowish or red in color. Jadeite sports colors from pink, violet, brown and green.
Jade is usually collected as an antique. Figurines are also popular. However, innovation and imagination has made this gem a much wanted piece of jewelry. It can be set in a very modern form or in the traditional way. Though the value of Jade depends on its color and clarity, all types are welcomed.
Jade earrings can be disc shaped or oval, dangling, hoop type, tear drop shaped. Any form looks attractive. A solitaire Jade set in filigree encasing of gold or silver looks very attractive. Green looks bright against the gold or silver and is very appropriate for office wear. A pair of Jade studs is smart and simple. It can be made in pinks, violets or black Jade. Oval, round, square of rectangular shapes are easily made and found.
Heart shaped jade, especially a pink one is the perfect gift for your Valentine. It becomes a statement when surrounded with diamonds. The diamonds also add to its worth. It can also be circled by seed pearls. This too looks pretty. The creamy white of the pearls offsets the pink and violet and even green of the Jade. With black Jade the contrast is absolutely stunning and makes a perfect wear for the evening.
A cluster of Jadeite beds of various colors can make a striking pair of danglers. Beads of various colors can be threaded with gold or silver and this adds to the value of the earring. Hanging like a bunch of grapes or a cluster of buds or just a long dangler is the fashion today. Pink, violet intermixed with spinach green makes a good combination. Carved Jade earrings are also in. Carved in various forma, flowers, hearts, dragons, bells also make interesting earrings. Lavender Lady Drop Earring is also quite attractive.
Jade earrings are also fashioned into Chinese characters to bring luck or symbols of good fortune. Double carp fish, Money turtle, Jade Lucky frog, Jade Lucky Knot, Jade Buddha, Money Chilly, are all fashioned into earrings. Jade Zodiac signs are also made into earrings. They can be fashioned into studs, clip on, drops or hoops. Using 14 karat gold these earrings are stylish and affordable.
Jade earrings are an asset and an investment. Good Jade is rare and expensive and is a fine substitute for emerald. If you want to be well attired and have a well groomed appearance, Jade earrings of various colors and shapes will always prove to be an asset in your wardrobe.
Onyx pendants buying guide
Onyx pendants buying guide
by Madhubanti Rudra
The wardrobes of today’s women consist of two types of jewelleries. The first category displays the dressy kinds of ornaments which are worn rarely on selective occasions. The second and more important category comprises of those kinds of jewelleries which you just put on everyday with everything. The selection of the jewelleries of the second type is tougher because, they have to appear classy and elegant, and at the same time, bear a universal appeal – looking not too gorgeous or too funky. When matching all these parameters at one go becomes a real brain-teaser, you may find a mind-blowing solution to your dilemma in wonderful onyx jewelleries.
Why looking for an onyx?
Beauty is the manifestation of the solace of your mind. Self-adornment with precious gems and jewels enhances this beauty. But there is a difference in looking beautiful and looking elegant. Elegance does not mean being noticed. Elegance in true sense of the term means being remembered. Looking elegant also means being confident and only the right kind of dressing, complete with right kinds of accessories can provide you with that level of confidence which is a prerequisite for a successful woman of twenty first century. The most important of all accessories is the right selection of jewelleries. The wardrobes of today’s women consist of two types of jewelleries.The first category displays the dressy kinds of ornaments which are worn rarely on selective occasions. The second and more important category comprises of those kinds of jewelleries which you just put on everyday with everything. The selection of the jewelleries of the second type is tougher because, they have to appear classy and elegant, and at the same time, bear a universal appeal – looking not too gorgeous or too funky. When matching all these parameters at one go becomes a real brain-teaser, you may find a mind-blowing solution to your dilemma in wonderful onyx jewelleries. The high polished opaque black in onyx has a vintage charm which reminds you of the days of Victorian aristocracy. But at the same time, this highly cost effective stone can become a good accompaniment to any of your dresses featuring any color or pattern.
Tryst with an onyx pendant
If you are a genuine perfectionist, you can never do without a pendant. A pendant is a very expressive medium to add a special feminine touch to your whole persona. It is said that there is no limit to a lady’s collection of pendants. The addition of an onyx pendant will make your collection even more enviable. An onyx pendant is a must-have for every wardrobe because no other gemstone can give you such an unlimited scope of mix and matching at such an affordable price.
A black onyx pendant makes a good accessory with almost all your dresses means; it will be subject to extensive use. Therefore before buying an onyx pendant, you should proceed carefully taking certain basic points in consideration.
First of all, it will be a grand idea to get your onyx pendant custom designed instead of buying a readymade one from any store. You can buy the parts of the pendant separately and then get it assembled. The process of assembling follows a basic kind of construction. Two main pieces are required to carry out the process- 1st is the basket like base of the pendant that has prongs to support the stone and connect it properly to the whatever metal has been used and 2nd is the stone itself. This process of assembling ensures some basic quality parameters. First of all, it ensures the accuracy of the setting of the stone. Then, the overall appropriateness of the piece is maintained by matching the right size of pendant base with the right size of the stone. Then you can select the chain with right thickness for the pendant. You can also decide whether the metal looks right to stone ratio.
The mounting should be very skillfully done. Make sure that the stone stands squarely and securely. For the setting, 18ct gold or platinum are highly recommended. However, the choice of metal should be influenced by whichever metal you use most in bangles, in earrings and other accessories.
Choosing between prongs or bezel [a thin frame of metal that holds the stone] is a matter of personal choice. However, a bezel set pendant is always a choice of class that looks good on everyone. A bezel set pendant looks best when accompanied by a gauge chain. However, a simple curb chain having interlocking oval links is not altogether a bad choice for carrying your onyx necklace. The length, quality and the material of the chain is very important, because the chain is supposed to bring out the beauty of the pendant and complement its brilliance. The basic rule for buying a chain is that, the metal of the chain, should match with the metal of the pendant.
The length is also very important because, the pendant should be displayed in a prominent position of your neck. According to the international standard, sixteen inches chain is perfect for a lady with average height. With this length the pendant will occupy the space near the hollow of your throat, and it is sure to steal the attention of everybody. However, if the neckline of your dress is not that good, you can make up this shortcoming, by choosing a longer chain. That way the pendant will be suspended in an attractive v-shape.
An Overview of the Onyx Stone
Before buying any stone jewellery, one should take notice of the basic traits of the stone. Among the 4 mighty Cs [cut, color, clarity, carat weight], dominating the price of the stone, some become more important than the others, in case of some particular stones .As for onyx, the color is the most important price determining factor. Onyx is basically a multilayered stone like agates and depending on the different colored layers, onyx can be divided into a few separate categories. In ancient days, all the categories of this stone were called by the same title as onyx. But over the ages, they came to be categorized according to their different colours and today, the black variety of this stone is labeled as onyx. While the brown variety with the white and light reddish stripes is known as sard-onyx, the stone with a red base goes by the name of cornelian-onyx. But till date, the black onyx is most popular among the designers and customers alike and naturally more expensive than the other varieties.
However, onyx is a medium soft variety of gemstone and if subject to knock and pressure, it develops cracks very easily. But this stone is ideal for making carvings and as such, it always inspired the artistic designers to make innovations and experimentations with this stone. So far as the cuttings are concerned, onyx is as fit for receiving the traditional cushion or cabochon cuts as the modern innovative cuts. In the hands of modern designers, onyx gets the shapes as varied as frog to a conventional cross.
The most interesting point about an onyx is its legendary and historical background that definitely counts on its value. This stone is also believed to be a traditional healer of emotional wounds, resulting from past relations. A birth stone for the zodiac sign of Leo, onyx makes a perfect anniversary gift for 16th wedding anniversary.
Finally, all being said, never get skeptical about buying an onyx pendant, because, your indulgence on an onyx pendant, will always highlight on the cerebral side of your persona. Sporty, elegant, corporate or casual- any look you want can be rightly accompanied by your onyx pendant.
Onyx bracelet buying guide
Onyx bracelet buying guide
by Madhubanti Rudra
Catching up with the international fashion trend, onyx jewelleries have become quite popular nowadays. The prolific use of onyx in rings, necklaces, earrings and bracelets are simply meant for those women who have minds of their own. Because onyx is among those few gemstones which are cost effective and aesthetically pleasing.
The changing moods of fashion
With the development of civilization history is being written a new every day. Everyday a new world is born, which is the messenger of fresh ideas of, a world that is the harbinger of new philosophy, a world, which is the mother of new innovations. All these conjure up silent revolutions that can even change the overall cultural topography of a nation affecting the psychological sides of its citizens. They are reflected through the transformed esthetic sensibilities of men. Fashion is an area where like any other forms of art, these transformations are most conspicuously felt. This is a world where the terms, experimentation and innovation are used in the highest pragmatic sense. Introduction and mingling of new kinds of metals and gem stones by the jewellery designers add altogether a new meaning to the philosophy of dressing and styling. The guiding force behind the twenty first century styling is the passion for right accessories and as such sporting right kinds of jewllery with right kinds of attire has become an important criteria for looking fashionable. Then, all the jewlleries and other accessories should be in right tune with each other. As such, side by side of colourful items the basic appeal of black and white seems to remain a constant factor with every wardrobe.
The arrival of onyx
Catching up with the international fashion trend, onyx jewelleries have become quite popular nowadays. The prolific use of onyx in rings, necklaces, earrings and bracelets are simply meant for those women who have minds of their own. Because onyx is among those few gemstones which are cost effective and aesthetically pleasing. Then, because of the quality of colour of this gem, both vintage and contemporary designs look beautiful in onyx jewlleries. And most importantly, you can match your onyx jewellery with dresses of almost every colour. Hence, onyx jewelleries are just ideal for multi-cultural multi-faceted life style of today’s women, for whom jewelleries translate into wearability, not showing off with wealth.
Essentials of onyx
While the jewelleries are made to complement the physical beauty in a woman, some of them are meant to accentuate those interior elements, which are essentially feminine and bracelets are most expressive among them all. With every movement of your hands, the combined glitter of metal and gemstones in your bracelet can create quite a romantic impact. But the choice of an onyx bracelet definitely reflects the thoughtful side of your personality. It speaks of an intelligent mind that can rightly combine the aesthetics with affordability.
Before buying any stone jewellery, one should know a little bit about the grammar of the stone. One should check out for the rules of 4Cs that are applicable for all gemstones. These 4Cs are colour, cut, clarity, and carat weight and all these 4 factors together are responsible for creating the value of the stone.
As long as onyx is concerned, much of its value is attributed to its fine opaque colour. In the ancient age, when Greeks and Romans used to craft wonderful seals out of onyx, all the varieties of stones went under the same level as onyx regardless of their colour variations. But today the name onyx is reserved for the black variety of chalcedony quartz.
However, onyx being a multi-coloured liked agate is found with different coloured bases like brown or red. While white or light reddish ribbons or bands appear against a brown background, it is called sard-onyx. When the base displays a reddish tone, it is called cornelian-onyx. When onyx is used for creating a bracelet, it is important to mount it in a way that its lustrous black colour is displayed in its fullest effect. An ideal stone for curving, onyx is often given cushion and cabochon cuts to bring out the stark black impact.
However the stones that are found nature are in the form of grey chalcedony. They are given a through heating and chemical; treatment to attain such bright black colour. These treatments give the stone uniformity and permanence of colour. Synthetic agates are often confused as onyx. An easy way of distinguishing one from the other is by looking at the types of the ribbons on the stones. While onyx has straight bands of brown and white, agate has curved lines of many colours. So, for making an onyx bracelet, buy some loose onyx stones from a reliable jewellery shop and then set them on a piece according to the design of your choice.
Facts about bracelets
The most important criteria for choosing a bracelet are its fitting. A well-fitted is supposed to drape your wrist in a soft coil neither too snug to put pressure on your skin, nor too lose to be slit down on to your hands. For onyx bracelets, a simple display of the stones in a circular row will be the best design option. For making a major statement and as an accompaniment with evening wear choose a bracelet set with larger stones. For a casual look, small stones are appropriate. Then to make it more eye catching, team it with a gem stone of other light colour. Using white is a good idea for bringing out a superb contrasting effect. As such using mother of pearl with onyx has become a common practice. But a dash of diamond will be a signature of class and elegance. Next important aspect of choosing an onyx bracelet is looking carefully for the devices that help to wear it or take it off. Onyx is a gem stone that does not have a great hardness that easily get chipped and scratched. However a clasp or a spring ring can be good idea for holding an onyx bracelet, as these devices allow no obstruction at the time of putting on or taking off the bracelet.
Onyx Bracelet Care
The right kind of care and treatment is very important for onyx bracelets, because with every movement of your hands they are exposed to the risk of bumping on something or the other. So get the stones of your bracelet guarded by heavy prongs. It ensured that stones do not come out as a result of pressure or knocks. At a regular interval taking out the bracelets and washing the stones with soft brush and warm jewellery cleaners will give them extra shine and greater longivity.
Black Onyx
Black Onyx
by Yuman Hussain
Most of the black onyx which is produced commercially is heated and permanently dyed to enhance the depth of the black color making it exotic.
Black Onyx- Facts and Buying guide
An anniversary gemstone for the 10th year of marriage black onyx looks elegant as a piece of jewelry. Onyx is one of the banded varieties of Chalcedony or Agate. It is known as ‘nail of a finger or claw’ in Greek mythology. The attributes ranges from translucent to opaque in some stones and strongly white or black banded. Coming in varieties of colors including brown, white, grey and black the one which looks most stunning is the black Onyx. It is basically Agate which is dyed to get the black color. Used traditionally for carving cameos, you will often find it as shiny background for any jewelry due to its fine texture and smoothness. Sardonyx is onyx with white bands or ribbons on black or brown background and is different from black colored onyx.
Black onyx is most commonly available stone world over. This stone is mined in many countries including Brazil, Mexico, England, Pakistan, Uruguay, India and California. A type of microcrystalline Silicon dioxide it is used extensively for carving and no doubt in great demand with lapidary artists due to its hardness which is 7 on Mohs scale. The specific gravity ranges from 2.65 to 2.66.The Refractive index or R.I is 1.543-1.552 to 1.545- 1.554.The optical sign is positive with uni axial optical character.
Right from the antiquity Onyx as a stone is dyed to improve the color and texture. Dyeing is a process to alter the color of a gem by dipping it in a solution to allow the dye penetrates through fractures present in the stone. Black onyx was first made some 4000 years back in Harappan civilization. In fact one can make black onyx by keeping banded agate into the solution of honey and sugar water over low heat for couple of days. The porous bands will absorb the liquid and when heated the sugar will caramelize producing deep brown color. If these stones are further put into Sulfuric acid the sugar will carbonize producing black color onyx. This method is in use since ages and said to produce permanent result. Most of the black onyx which is produced commercially is heated and permanently dyed to enhance the depth of the black color making it exotic. The natural onyx is extremely rare to be found. The dye used in the process is stable and one should be careful while cleaning to avoid removing or dulling this stone. Irradiation is another process which is used for producing different colors.
Black Onyx chip or get scratches easily if not handled carefully though it is easy to clean the stone with any commercial jewelry polish. After polish the piece should be washed with hot water and dried with soft cloth. A drop of Olive oil can produce beautiful shine to the stone. A plain water rinse can also clean the dirt but never soak the stone as it can fade the dye. Do not keep two stones together to avoiding touching. It is best to avoid excessive heat, light, heavy chemicals, steam cleaners or any heavy duty cleaning aids to prolong the durability of the stone.
It is widely believed that black onyx can change your erratic habits for good if used with faith. It is considered as one of the powerful protection stones as it absorbs negative energy relieving people of mental stress and promotes emotional well-being. Black onyx is associated with planet Saturn and it said to bring positive vibes for those with a strong Saturn in their birth charts. In Indian traditions it is said to help people forego their past relationships bringing the person in harmony with the present. It is common to find rosaries made of black onyx as it is believed to have medicinal benefits.
Black onyx is an affordable stone and available in various sizes. While buying, check for smooth marble like surface. The stone should not have any scratches or dents. Sometimes black onyx is confused with black jade, black Chalcedony, black diamond, glass or plastic. The black onyx jewelry looks really beautiful when put together with stones like pearls. If you want to look mystical then go for black onyx.