Bangle bracelet designs

Bangle bracelet designs

by Mark

Bangle bracelet designs

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Multicolor Cuff Bracelet from mikimotoamerica.com, made of Black South Sea cultured pearls and 3.28cts of diamonds and white gold

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Possession bracelet in 18K white gold, set with 20 brilliant-cut diamonds from piaget.com

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Circles of pink, yellow
and white gold, trinity bangle bracelet from Cartier

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Tiffany’s 18k gold bangles, some of the designs copyrighted by Paloma Picasso.

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Louis Vuitton’s white gold, yellow gold, and cocktail bracelet bangle designs.

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Buccellati’s yellow gold classica designs.

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Buccellati diamond studded yellow gold bracelet bangle.

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Chanel’s ultra gold bracelt bangle deisgns

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Gucci’s 18kt white gold, 220 diamonds total 4.65 carats, bracelet.

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Diamonds and gold, a grid-like two-tone statement bracelet from Tacori.

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Cable buckle bracelet, sterling sliver with 18k gold wraps.

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18 karat yellow gold Cable bracelet bangle.

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14K gold bangle bracelet.

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Mens Stainless Steel and Black Ion-Plated Bangle.

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Sterling silver.

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Diamond Cut Bangle Bracelet.


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925 Sterling silver

925 Sterling silver

by Ardamun

Sterling Silver is 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper. It melts at 1640 degrees Fahrenheit. Sterling Silver is one of the most popular metals in the jewelry trade. People with allergies to other metals can safely use this metal.

The Timeless Elegance of Sterling Silver

Silver in its natural state is 99% pure, too soft and malleable to be used effectively for any practical purposes. A multi-faceted metal, it is used extensively for coins, utensils, storage containers, jewelry and other decorative pieces. It is alloyed with copper or zinc to toughen up. Sterling Silver is 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper. It melts at 1640 degrees Fahrenheit. Sterling Silver is one of the most popular metals in the jewelry trade. People with allergies to other metals can safely use this metal.

Sterling Silver is incorrectly referred to as solid silver, which it is not. The United States Stamping Act of 1906 has set a standard of 925 parts of pure silver with 75 parts of added metal, preferably copper. As per this Act, any article stamped ‘sterling’ is assured of a particular quality standard. Sterling Silver is durable and long lasting and so is a popular metal for rings, necklaces, bracelets, cuff links, belt buckles, body jewelry and much more.

Origin of Sterling Silver

The reference to Sterling Silver was first made in England, in the 13th century, with regard to .925 grade of silver. There are different theories as to the origin of the word ‘Sterling’. By one school of thought, it emerged from the Old French word ‘esterlin’ and transformed to ‘stiere’. ‘Stiere’ means strong, firm and immovable in Old English.

Another school of thought mentions an area in Germany known as ‘The Easterling’ According to them Sterling Silver was first known as Easterling Silver and was used as a local currency. The towns in the Easterling area started trading with England around the 12th century and paid for the English cattle and grain with their local currency, which was in the form of 92.5% silver coins. Of a reliable high quality and hardness, these coins came to be known as ‘the coins of the Easterlings’ in England.

To set similar standards for English coins, King Henry II invited metal refiners from the Easterling to make silver coins for England. The silver produced by these refiners were later adopted as standard alloy throughout England and the term ‘Easterling Silver’ was thought to have abbreviated to ‘Sterling Silver’.

According to another theory, mint marks on Sterling Silver had included a star and hence it is a corruption of the term ‘Starling’ silver.

Sterling Silver as Dining Regalia

The century between 1840 and 1940 was the time when it was fashionable to use Sterling Silver flatware to set the table. During the height of its popularity from 1870 to 1920, flatware included up to a 100 pieces. From the usual three courses, the dinning experience went up to ten courses, and sometimes more! The courses included:

* A soup course
* A salad course
* A fruit course
* A cheese course
* An antipasto course
* A fish course
* The main course
* A pastry or dessert course

There was an implement for every kind of food. Etiquettes dictated during the Victorian period that no food be touched by hand while eating. One could not use the same spoon, fork or knife for different courses and foods. There were teaspoons, coffee spoons, demitasse spoons, bouillon spoons, gumbo soup spoons, iced tea spoons, dinner forks, place forks, salad forks, pastry forks, shrimp or cocktail forks, terrapin forks and dinner knifes, place knifes, butter spreaders, fruit knifes, cheese knifes. These were elaborately decorated silverware. Sterling Silver serving pieces included carving knives and forks, salad knives and forks, cold meat forks, punch ladles, soup ladles, gravy ladles, casserole serving spoons, berry spoons, lasagna servers, macaroni servers, asparagus servers, cucumber servers, tomato servers, olive spoons, cheese scoops, fish knives and forks, pastry servers, petit four servers, cake knifes, bon bon spoons, sugar sifters or casters and crumb removers with brush. There were various pieces for tea services like teapots, trays and salvers, goblets and a variety of cups.

The popularity of Sterling silver was so high that it spilled to the business world with its paper pins and clips to calling card boxes to cigarette cases.

The use of Sterling Silver as dining regalia reduced after the World War II. It was increasingly becoming difficult to maintain a large staff required for fancy dining, such as a ten-course meal.

The Tarnishing of Sterling Silver

Though Sterling Silver is highly popular for designing jewelry it gets tarnished easily. Chemically speaking, silver does not react with oxygen or water at ordinary temperatures. The copper content of Sterling Silver does react with oxygen. Silver reacts with sulfur and the tarnish is black silver sulfide on its surface. Silver blackens faster with the higher levels of airborne sulfur pollutants.

Tarnishing can be removed from Sterling Silver in many ways:

* Serious collectors of Sterling Silver prefer the hand polishing method of removing tarnish. It brings out the beautiful luster of silver without marring its patina. Use well-known products as inferior products may cause scratches. Ensure the piece to be cleaned is free from dust and grease before applying the polishing product. Use a soft cloth to hand polish. After polishing, use dishwashing liquid to remove excess polish. Rinse in hot water and buff with a soft cloth.
* If the tarnish is in extreme, you may need to take your silver piece to a jeweler. Using the jeweler’s wheel to remove tarnish may also remove the patina, which gives antique silver its glow. Serious collectors do not prefer this method.
* People use products, containing thiourea, in which they dip their Sterling Silver pieces. The piece attains its brightness by conversion of silver sulfide to a white substance. This is also not a preferred method.

Recently, experiments have been made to replace copper with germanium to give a high resistance to tarnish.

Care of Sterling Silver

Sterling Silver items require great care. The metal is soft and can easily get dented if hit against a hard surface. In case of teapots or similar items, care should be taken that hinges do not get mishandled. Never use a hard brush to clean your Sterling Silver items as it can leave unwanted scratches on the surface.

Sterling Silver products that are regularly polished will retain their sheen and patina and never lose its timeless elegance.

Anklets buying guide

Anklets buying guide

by RITIKA CHANGRANI

Worn around the ankle, found in many designs and styles, material and types, shapes and sizes, the anklet is an ornament sure to catch anyone’s eye! An anklet is also known as an ankle chain or ankle bracelet that is worn around the ankle. They display a radiant sheen, and look elegant, trendy and ethnic at the same time. They add grace to the wearer and complement traditional clothes and outfits very well. The anklet is a versatile piece of jewelry worn around the ankle. Historically, anklets have been worn for centuries by women in India. In the United States both casual and more formal styles of anklets became a fashion statement only around the late twentieth century

Western popular culture sees both men and women wearing casual leather anklets, and the more formal anklets in silver and gold, beads or chains are fairly exclusive to women’s fashion.

ankletsAnklets come in myriad designs, thousands of patterns, many different types, all sizes and are a creative person’s delight, for the variations you can do with this ornament are plenty. You can get anklets made in silver, gold, and many other less precious metals. If you like a slightly different look, then try leather, plastic or nylon. Of courses the material you can use ranges from paper to iron so the sky is the limit. The styles range from the classical Indian designs to the very modern contemporary designs that have a message to give.

Plastic is one material which is cheap and you can get anklets made of plastic almost anywhere. They are good for college or casual outings and you can buy a few to match most outfits. They make a nice style statement and you can get them in many colours, with beads, without beads, and any design you desire. They can be made up at home also. The creative can get creative with making anklets for friends and family and themselves also. You can use thread to weave a colorful anklet and put in some beads to give it that exclusive look. Strands of jute are yet another option for you to get creative with.

When crafting silver anklets, the designers experiment with many different looks and textures, different settings and designs where geometric shapes are incorporated along with different kinds of metal and they finish it with diamonds and precious stones. The unmatched beauty of the anklets and the extrinsic craftsmanship that goes in to their making also makes anklets an ideal gift.

Silver is used in many different types like pure silver, sterling silver and German silver. The designs are available in an antique finish, a rustic finish, a hammered finish and various other styles where the finish gives it that really ethic look. The designs can be complemented using a large variety of semi precious stones, precious stones and gems like the amethyst, rubies, emeralds, aquamarines and sapphires. You have such a range of patterns and styles that you will be lost for choice.

Anklets are differentiated from ordinary jewelry by the silvery hue and an exotic design that is its signature look. If made of expensive material then it also becomes a prized possession. Generally because of its brilliant white metallic sheen and luster, silver is ideally suited to make anklets that stand out as a distinct fashion jewelry item. Accomplished craftsmen around the world have been in the business of creating beautiful silver anklets that have found acceptance all over and by practically all age groups worldwide.

Metal anklets come in two types; flexible and inflexible. The flexible ones are made by tying links in a chain, they are also known as pajeb or jhanjhar in India. You can attach little bells that make a sweet tinkling sound when attached to the chain. Chains are the base for all the designs that one wants to incorporate in to the anklet. Inflexible are flat and stiff to wear. Some people prefer this type although the use is totally dependant on you and your personal style statement.

How to Buy

Log on to the net and you will find that there are sites for every type of anklets and at various price ranges too. There are silver anklets, anklet jewelry, Indian anklets, anklets made of unconventional material to name a few. Then you will get names of anklets manufacturers and their retail outlets or their online shopping sites. You also have silver anklets exporters who specialize in silver anklets manufacturer and export.

If you want to buy anklets then first do your research on the net. There are a lot of things to be kept in mind when buying jewelry or anklets. You must know if you are allergic to any material. If you are allergic to silver, for example, then using an item made of sliver may give you itching or a rash. So go in for anklets made of other materials. Then there are people who are allergic to leather or plastic, even nylon. Take a look at the design that you have liked. Ideally it should not have any sharp points that may snag on your clothes or even cut you skin. Ensure that the design you select is comfortable and safe.

Look for colours and designs which you feel will suit most of your clothes and your dress sense. Look for formal and casual styles if you are in the habit of wearing anklets all the time. Remember the ones with bells make tinkling sounds when walking so ensure that you have silent anklet for places where quiet is required. You can go in for anklets which are loaded with bells for marriages and other functions.

So if you are thinking anklets then think different and let your creative imagination loose – You will come up with a fashion statement of your own. Scout around the market or look up the internet, peek in to the jewelers or copy a design in the magazine, the sky’s the limit. Go for it… today!

White Gold

White Gold

by Mathew Abraham

“White gold” is the name given to the alloy formed when gold is mixed with metals like silver, nickel and palladium. It became fashionable during the 1920s as a substitute for the more expensive platinum. It is usually of 9, 14 or 18 carats, but it can come in other grades also. While 18 carat yellow gold comprises of 75% gold and 25% copper or zinc, 18 carat white gold comprises of 75% gold and 25% silver, nickel or palladium. Hence lower carats would indicate a lesser quantity of gold in the alloy.

If you are on the lookout for ornaments in white gold, there are some facts that you should be aware of in order to get the best value for your money. Pure 24 carat gold in its original form has a deep yellow color, and since it is very yielding and flexible, it has to be mixed with suitable other metals to make it a more stable and usable alloy. The gold content varies in each case from 33.3% (8 carats) to 91.6% (22 carats), and, depending on the metal used to form the alloy, the resultant colors range from yellow, pale yellow, deep yellow, pink (or rose) yellow, reddish yellow, greenish yellow, purple gold – which is quite rare – and white gold. Each has its own physical and chemical properties.

White gold

White Gold is the name given to the alloy formed when gold is mixed with metals like silver, nickel and palladium. It became fashionable during the 1920s as a substitute for the more expensive platinum. It is usually of 9, 14 or 18 carats, but it can come in other grades also. While 18 carat yellow gold comprises of 75% gold and 25% copper or zinc, 18 carat white gold comprises of 75% gold and 25% silver, nickel or palladium. Hence lower carats would indicate a lesser quantity of gold in the alloy.

Since there is no clear cut definition of how white the white gold alloy should be, ornaments come in different shades and quality. All white metals – like palladium, platinum, nickel, silver, zinc, etc. – form a white colored alloy when added to gold. While the first three have a strong whitening effect, the second two have a milder outcome. Other whitening metals have very little impact. In the final analysis there are two main categories of white gold: the Nickel whites and the Palladium whites. 9-carat white gold has 37.5% gold content and is very white and reasonably flexible. This grade is very popular among jewelers. The range continues up to 21 carats. Make a careful study of the carats, the composition and the prices before finalizing your choice.

Nickel White gold

Nickel White gold alloys are quite hard and strong, but jewelry craftsmen find it quite complex to work with, especially because of the phenomenon called ‘firecracking’. The commercial variety comprises of a gold-nickel-silver-zinc alloy. Sometimes copper is added to make it more flexible, but this tends to darken the color. Rhodium plating will overcome this problem. The following table will give you an idea of the composition of some standard nickel white gold alloys:

Gold,
% wt
Copper,
% wt
Nickel,
% wt
Zinc,
% wt
Hardness
Hv
Liquidus
°C
18ct 752.217.35.5220960
758.513.53.0200955
7513.08.53.5150950
14ct58.522.012.07.4150995
10ct 41.732.817.18.41451085
9ct 37.540.010.512.01301040

Since nickel is known to cause allergic reactions in around 20% of white gold users, especially women, manufacturers of the alloy are avoiding the metal and show a marked preference for silver and palladium. In January 2000 EU countries initiated legislative measures imposing restrictions on the use of nickel in jewelry. In the USA manufacturers are required to specify whether or not their products contain nickel. You must enquire whether the white gold ornaments you are buying contain nickel or not.

Palladium white gold

Palladium white gold is more expensive than the nickel variety because the metal itself is more costly – in fact costlier than gold. The heavy palladium is also denser and this means the jewelry will require a higher gold content and will consequently be heavier – adding to the cost even further. Since melting temperatures are considerably higher, the manufacturing process itself is more complicated. Craftsmen add between 10 to 12% palladium to the alloy to give a quality white color to jewelry. But most commercial varieties contain only between 6 to 8 % palladium, with silver, zinc and copper added proportionately. Some grades of palladium white gold contain nickel.

The palladium variety of white gold jewelry is available in up to 21 carats. It has a tendency to be more yielding and flexible in comparison to nickel white gold. The following table will give you an indication of some of the standard palladium white gold compositions:

G P S C Z N Hardn
Hv
Liq,
°C
18ct752051001350
7515101001300
751015801250
751010.53.50.10.9951150
756.49.95.13.51.11401040
75153.07.01801150
14ct 58.320614.511601095
58.5532.5311001100
10ct41.7288.420.51.41601095
9ct37.5524.94.21.485940

G-gold, P-palladium, S-silver, C-copper, Z-zinc, N-nickel. [In wt %]

Other varieties of white gold

Other Varieties have been developed as the demand for cheaper substitutes for the expensive nickel-free palladium whites is increasing. This is most evident in the EU countries. Most of the new alloys being introduced in the jewelry sector use manganese as the whitening agent. Most have a very low palladium content and some even have no palladium at all. Chromium and iron also are used as whitening agents, but these products are hard and are not easy to process.

Most of these alternates to nickel and palladium whites are of comparatively inferior quality. They need to be plated with rhodium, as the white color is not good. They have a tendency to tarnish quickly and also to develop cracks.

Whether you buy palladium, nickel or other varieties of white gold, in order to give the grayish colored ornaments a lighter hue, they are generally coated with rhodium, which bears a strong resemblance to platinum in color and other properties. (Platinum is heavier, denser and far more enduring than gold. It is also a lot more expensive.) The white colored rhodium coating wears out with use and you need to have your ornaments re-plated as and when necessary. Most local jewelry stores will be able to do the job for you at reasonable rates. And be sure you make your purchases from a reliable jeweler

White Gold Jewelry

White Gold Jewelry

by Ardamun

White gold is the alloy of pure gold, and nickel, silver or palladium – the white metals. The alloy with these metals is in fact grayish and is plated with rhodium to give it a whiter look.

White Gold Jewelry – The Jewelry for the 21st Century!

Gold is one of the most common types of metal used in jewelry. It has a place of pride among all the other metals and is the most coveted. Since 3000 BC, from the times of the Sumerian Civilization, it has inspired craftsmen to create unmatched jewelry. Pure gold is 24K (Karat) gold and is too soft and malleable to be used for jewelry. An ounce of pure gold can be beaten to make a 300 square feet sheet! A proportion of other metals is mixed with 24K gold for jewelry. 14k gold refers to 14 parts out of 24 of pure gold and the rest some other metal. Similarly, 18k gold is 18 parts out of 24 of pure gold plus some other metal.

Gold jewelry is an alloy of gold and other metals, such as silver, copper, nickel and zinc. Pure gold is yellow in color and the metal used in the alloy determines the color of the gold. White gold is the alloy of pure gold, and nickel, silver or palladium – the white metals. The alloy with these metals is in fact grayish and is plated with rhodium to give it a whiter look. Due to its allergic reactions, many do not prefer the alloy of gold and nickel. The color of white gold is determined by:

  • The type of metals used in it – silver, palladium, or nickel
  • The percentage of each metal in the alloy

History of White Gold Jewelry

In the beginning of the 20th century, jewelers were using platinum with diamonds to turn out jewelry. Platinum was then relatively unknown and very expensive. In the 1920s, white gold alloys were developed as a substitute to platinum. To meet the demand for white jewelry, many combinations of gold-palladium-nickel were used for jewelry. By the World War II, palladium based white gold was the only choice, as nickel and platinum were prohibited for non-war use. Palladium based white gold was expensive and after the war, the less expensive nickel based white gold once again became a popular choice.

Once started as a substitute for platinum based jewelry, white gold jewelry, today, has earned its own niche. It is a fashionable and desirable choice for all, especially the younger age group. White gold jewelry is available up to 21K and is often used to enhance diamonds and other precious gemstones. Bridal jewelry, in the form of white gold jewelry is fast becoming popular.

The Making of White Gold Jewelry

The addition of any metal, other than copper, to a gold alloy tends to whiten it. Nickel and palladium are strong ‘bleachers’ of gold and are widely used for making white gold jewelry. This has given rise to two basic types of white gold jewelry: the Nickel whites and the Palladium whites. The nickel whites have a colder white color, whereas the palladium whites tend to have a warmer white. The normal Karat age of white gold jewelry is 14K, 18K and 21K. 21K white gold jewelry is available in palladium based white gold. You cannot get 22K white gold jewelry.

There is no legal way to define ‘white’ for white gold jewelry and many white golds for commercial use are not ‘good’ whites. To improve the whiteness in the white gold jewelry, the normal practice is to provide a plating of Rhodium to the white gold, to enhance its whiteness. Rhodium belongs to the platinum family of metals and has a good metallic white color with high reflectivity. It is hard and has good wear properties, and so is durable. To improve the whiteness of the nickel or palladium white gold, a thin coating of rhodium is electroplated onto the alloy.

Rhodium electroplating on white gold jewelry is legally allowed. This coating has a life of around three years, before it wears out to reveal the original white gold underneath. The white gold jewelry is electroplated again to bring it back to its pristine condition. Many users consider the color of rhodium as the normal color of white gold jewelry, as they are used to seeing this.

Buying White Gold Jewelry

You need to take care while buying white gold jewelry. Many women, around 12% to 15%, are allergic to nickel in their white gold jewelry. It causes skin rash and irritation. Rhodium plating may help avoid allergic reactions to some extent, but the plating does wear away after time. While buying white gold jewelry, ask your jeweler if the white gold contains nickel. Nickel free white gold jewelry is becoming more and more popular and people are turning towards palladium based white gold jewelry.

In many European countries, nickel based white gold jewelry is being replaced by palladium based jewelry. The United States is taking a different approach and requires jewelers to label nickel based white gold jewelry as ‘nickel containing’. White gold jewelry is now advertised and sold as ‘non-allergenic’ or ‘nickel-free’. This makes sense as some palladium based white gold jewelry may contain a percentage of nickel in it. A typical palladium based 18K white gold jewelry may contain nickel from 0.9% to 7%. The higher content of nickel in the white gold increases the hardness of the metal.

In many countries, jewelers are not legally required to tell if the jewelry is rhodium plated or not. You will not know how white is the gold alloy underneath. Though good quality white gold jewelry may not require rhodium plating, many jewelers do so to meet consumers’ expectations of the whiteness!

Alternative White Gold Jewelry

Palladium based white gold jewelry being expensive, there is a demand for less expensive alternatives that are nickel free. White gold alloys with magnesium addition as a main whitener is fast catching up. These magnesium based white gold jewelry are palladium free or have very low palladium content. Some white gold jewelry has chromium and iron as whiteners, though they tend to be hard. Even so, these alloys need to be rhodium plated to enhance whiteness.

Titanium Jewelry

Titanium Jewelry

by Yuman Hussain

Titanium is a natural element which is extensively used to create exotic jewelry for both men and women. Its properties include coloration process, light weight, durability and hypoallergenic to human body making it popular among jewelry world.

Titanium Jewelry

Titanium is a metallic element used to create lightweight resistant alloys with symbol Ti in the periodic table .It is light weight, strong and corrosion resistant natural metal. With silvery white appearance it gives very lustrous look .It occurs in minerals such as rutile and ilmenite .One major feature of titanium is that it is very strong but light weight. Chemically and physically its properties are similar to zirconium. Discovered by William Gregor in 1791 it was rediscovered by German chemist Martin Heinrich Klaproth in 1795 and given the Latin name Titan meaning ‘earth’. Its commercial production started as late as 1950s when William Justin Kroll produced it by treating titanium tetrachloride with magnesium. The Kroll process is still used extensively. Titanium is found on the earth’s crust in most of the igneous rocks and minerals such as brookite, ilmenite and tianite and iron ores. Huge deposits are found in South Africa, Australia, Malaysia and America. Small deposits are also found in Scandinavia.

Titanium in Jewelry

Titanium is used extensively in aerospace industry and industrial products like paints, plastics and paper etc. These days Jewelry created from Titanium is increasingly attracting people to its fold. Exquisite rings, beautiful necklaces, stunning bracelets and men’s style statements like cufflinks and tie pins are exclusively designed from Titanium. Consumerism and booming economies has created demand for jewelry made in precious metals especially in Asian countries where wedding and other occasions see purchases made by people. However this has led to soaring prices of gold and platinum forcing the jewelry industry to look for alternative metals to fill this demand gap. Many up market jewelers are also actively promoting it as an alternative to the gold and Platinum. It is still trying to carve out a niche place for itself in the jewelry world.

Titanium jewelry is crafted in different sizes and unique styles. It makes a great fashion statement as jewelry created from white metals is in great demand all over the world. The fine wedding bands made from lightweight titanium is desired by couples. You can choose from different options like pieces crafted from pure titanium and its alloys or jewelry created using precious metals like gold or silver presenting stunning contrast. The hard work and labor involved makes it expensive and exclusive. The aircraft grade titanium is generally used for making jewelry whereas Ti -6/6/2 alloy offers excellent resistance to daily wear and tears of a piece.

Titanium is affordable than other metals and looks sophisticated and great at the same time. The hypo allergic features makes it suitable for the wearers. As some people develop allergy to certain metals like gold and silver they develop skin rashes or extreme reactions like uticaria. For such people titanium offers soothing alternative with style. It is virtually nickel free thus making it highly compatible with human body. It is also used for body piercing and implants by fashion lovers because it is considered comparatively safer than other metals.

Titanium has both strength and durability which helps it to undertake lot of wear and tear. Titanium is harder than other precious metals. It is much stronger than gold and platinum . It is 8 to 10 times harder than gold and 5 times harder than stainless steel. Sometimes jewelry get stuck at most unusual places like in clothes, hair and simply bends or breaks but titanium can withstand rough treatment comparatively more than the other precious metals. It is fashionable and look unusual at the same time. You will not find many stores selling titanium jewelry thus making it exclusive and original. Titanium has acquired popularity with both the sexes as it has universal appeal . Jewelry created from gold or silver does not always look good on men but titanium jewelry created in style can match the personality of the wearer.

Being a versatile metal it can undergo different finishes including heat and electricity to bring beautiful colors . Jewelers use anodizing processes to bring unusual colors to the jewelry. Since it a refractory in nature it can reacts with oxygen producing changes on the metal’s surface .When a electric current is passed through the surface it forces oxygen to produce thick oxide layer and diffused white light produces stunning colors. In fact a reportaire of colors like blue, pink, purple, turquoise and green are created using controlled electrical exposure. However it is very time consuming and laborious activity pushing up the cost of the jewelry. This coloration process allows craftsmen to experiment with designs in ladies jewelry which is both unique and trendy. For rings, titanium is often inlaid with different metals and set with precious stones like diamond to create brilliant masterpieces.

The price of jewelry depend upon many factors like weight and width of the piece. If it has more metal then it will be priced high. The single piece without any precious gemstones will be priced lower than which has precious stones as embellishments .The quality of titanium used in jewelry is another important factor determining the price .Titanium mixed with gold and platinum or black titanium are valuable and priced much higher.

Care for Titanium jewelry

  • Titanium jewelry can be worn roughly so polish it regularly to keep it sparkling new.
  • Do not scratch the surface of the piece. Clean it with soft cloth.
  • Jewelry may fade or become dull over a period of time. To restore the beautiful colors and shine you simply have to wash it with soap and warm water and pat dry with soft towel or tissue paper.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals or alcohol to clean the surface.
  • Adhere to the advice given by the jeweler to maintain your piece.

How to buy Titanium jewelry

  • Buy from a reputed jewelry store which offers buy back or return policy.
  • Buy only marked jewelry to get highest quality.
  • Do not forget to check the craftsmanship piece should look smooth and good from both the sides without any rough edges.

Conclusion

Titanium has many wonderful attributes making it suitable for jewelry. It is durable, strong with lustrous looks to ensure its popularity among the jewelry lovers.

If you are looking for something which is stunning and different then give a try to Titanium jewelry.

Imitation Jewelry

Imitation Jewelry

by Madubanti Rudra

Want to look stunningly stylish, but on a tight budget? Never mind, you can also give the Hollywood starts a run for their money with your sense of dressing! No, for that you don’t have to burn a hole in your pocket; it is possible to create magic with inexpensive imitation jewelries! Only you have to learn how to use them to their best effects. The guide below reveals the tricks.

A Brief Guide to Imitation Jewelry

Roam around in the streets of Milan or have a stroll on the beautiful Paris promenades, or walk around in the corners of New York— no matter which part of the world you are in, you will come to notice an unmistakable fetish for jewelries among the womenfolk all over the world. But these fashion conscious twenty first century women like to interpret the concept of jewelry from a stand point much different from their previous generations. For today’s women, jewelries are no longer synonymous with the assets that can be bought once in a five or six years only to be kept at the bank vaults in anticipation for a big occasion.

imitation jewelryFor today’s generation of independent women, jewelries are one of the major day to day accessories that complete your looks and perfectly reflect your personality. Then from the perspective of style, the perfect coordination—between different accessories and between accessories and apparels—- has become utmost important. And this is where the relevance of imitation jewelries lies. Everyday in all walks of your lives—starting from the corporate battle ground to the disco at the end of the day—you run the pressure of appearing just perfect and only one or two classic pieces of jewelries can not render that perfection. You have to mix and match continuously to get into different get ups suitable for the particular occasions. And the imitation jewelries come to your great help in your endeavor of constant experimentation with your look and field. So it is only natural that the craving for imitation jewelries has spread like wildfire among the women all over the world transcending the barriers of age or nationalities.

What is Imitation Jewelry

Before analyzing the reasons behind this rage, let’s first try to explain what is actually meant by the term, imitation jewelry. In any discussion about the imitation jewelries we often unconsciously use the word ‘fake jewelries’ But this is somewhat an over simplified account; a wrong expression. It will be just to define imitation jewelries as the inexpensive versions of the real pieces that use valuable metals and gemstones.The imitation jewelries retain the appeal of real jewelries sans its exuberant price tag. For example in place of platinum, it may use some other inexpensive white metal, or can use laboratory produced gemstones in place of the natural ones. Another case in the point is the immense popularity of the American diamonds that are actually glass, but cut and polished in a way to give you the illusion of real diamond, and you get this sheen and shine in half the price of the real diamond.

Thus the imitation jewelries become the flawless replicas of those exquisite pieces of Tiffany or Cartier that give a definitive lift to your all round persona, but you don’t have to break the bank to get that killer look.

Well, it is a well accepted fact, that imitation jewelry can not become your best friend in the sense, the traditional high value jewelries can. Yet millions of women all over the world are embracing imitation jewelries as their first choice. Why? There are myriad reasons behind this phenomenon.

Imitation Jewelries: Cost Effective!

For the twenty first century fashionistas, imitation Jewelries are the most cost efficient solution to keep pace with the latest fashion trends. Who does not know that fashion is created just to be replaced by some other trend in the next season! If you are not a Julia Roberts or Catherine Zeta Zones, it will be perhaps difficult for you to keep your jewelry wardrobe continuously updated with very expensive real jewelries from the big fashion Houses. But the imitation jewelries add variety and volume to your collection without requiring you to break your bank. These replicated jewelries fulfill your dream of adorning your neckline with an exquisite Louis Vuitton necklace or help you set the party on fire with a very feminine Chanel piece.

The real jewelries have somewhat limited usage in a world, where women have to spend most of their time in the professional circuit. Because of the exorbitant price, you can not buy a lot of them to match your every apparel. On the other hand the range of color and design of imitation jewelry is limited only by your own imagination; a littler bit of colored strings, a few beads, some pieces of glass and bric bacs like these can open up a vista of beautiful trinkets to enhance your feminine charm as well as to help you look trendy.

What is hot designs / brands?

A glamorous Paris Hilton style or a simple but nice look of Jenifer Aniston or is it the sophistication- coated nice looks that is the signature style of Angelina Jolie that swipe you off your feet? Well, if you thought you have that spark to appear even more gorgeous than these glam divas….well you are absolutely right! Only you have to be a bit of strategist to mix and match your imitation jewelries. After all, a piece of jewelry makes the final statement that can actually make or break your looks. So you have to be careful about what you are picking up.

Lariats

All of us secretly envy the Hollywood glam dolls when they walk on to the stage flaunting their nice neckline adorned with exquisite lariats. Its value lies in its versatility: let them dangle down or tie them round twice or thrice to turn into a choker…lariats offer you the most elegant accessory to complement sophisticated daytime apparel or a chic evening wear.

Drop Earrings

While shopping for your imitation jewelries, keep in mind chandelier earrings are passé; the long drop earrings or stiletto earrings are the in things. Be it your skirt suits or be it casual jeans…these simple ear accessories add a new dimension to your sense of dressing.

Bracelets

Keep it simple through sleek wrist chains. For more fun, flaunt charm bracelets with colorful charms. You can even layer your charm or link bracelets with other bangles for a bolder effect.

Buying tips for imitation jewelry

No matter whether you want to go traditional way or want to opt for online shopping, you have to keep in mind certain point before buying your imitation jewelries.* Always compare the price before making any sort of commitments. If you want to buy your trinkets from your local market, do some window shopping to learn about the current jewelry trends.
* It is even better if you decide to make your purchase online; in addition to Amazon or e-bay, you can find plenty of other websites selling fashion jewelries. Go to your favorite search engine, type the keyword, ‘imitation jewelry manufacturers’ and you will get to find directories listing thousands of imitation jewelry manufacturers all round the globe.
* However, while shopping online make sure of the reliability of the seller. Never make any deal with such sellers who do not provide you with contact information. Also check with the refund or return policies and shipment policy.
* Do not compromise on quality for price; make sure of the type of the metal used in it so that it does not cause allergy or irritation.

So achieve the red carpet style of the glamorous celebrities this coming spring by building up your enormous collection of imitation jewelries. Nothing can offer you this fabulous combination of style, wear ability and durability for such an affordable price.

Titanium Jewellery buying guide

Titanium Jewellery buying guide

by Shalina Khemlani

Titanium, a natural element featuring a silver-grayish-white color is used for several purposes! Unintentionally discovered in the year 1791, this metal is extensively used to make durable goods such as aircraft, and some of the sporting goods which would mainly consist of golf clubs, automobile parts, watches, and certainly adorable selection of rings. Deriving from the Titans of Greek mythology, titanium is one of the metals that is in particular known for its tremendous strength. Even though it competes amongst some of the most enticing metals such as gold and platinum, it has still taken its own stand and has been a preferences for hordes of people!

Titanium, a natural element featuring a silver-grayish-white color is used for several purposes! Unintentionally discovered in the year 1791, this metal is extensively used to make durable goods such as aircraft, and some of the sporting goods which would mainly consist of golf clubs, automobile parts, watches, and certainly adorable selection of rings. Deriving from the Titans of Greek mythology, titanium is one of the metals that is in particular known for its tremendous strength. Even though it competes amongst some of the most enticing metals such as gold and platinum, it has still taken its own stand and has been a preferences for hordes of people!

Titanium JewelleryTitanium is one of the most biocompatible metals that does not cause any sort of pain, rashes or discolorations to the human skin. Moreover it is also appreciated for not rusting or getting moldy and rotting after a few years down the line. It has positively proved its qualities of being an exceptional and perfect metal for jewellery for over years now. Titanium metal unlike other does not lose its color for years together. The Titanium jewellery available is quite feasible and economical as it is not one of the precious metals.

When it comes to the titanium rings it may not be as popular as the gold or platinum ones. It’s quite apparent because of the advantage that gold and platinum possess. However on the other hand, Titanium rings attains features such as durable, lightweight, sturdy, produce no allergic reactions, and extremely reasonably priced. Much lighter than metals such as gold or platinum, titanium rings also have an extremely comfortable feel after you put them on. Titanium is particularly known for its sturdiness, in point of fact it is much stronger than steel and hence maintains its shape as far as rings are concerned. These days’ men seem to be going over-enthusiastic about buying titanium rings as it reveals an extra masculine feel to it. The best thing is that it comes in colors like black which is one of the standard colors for men!

Getting into the technical aspects, titanium is segregated on the basis of diverse grades. The aircraft grade is a very strong and durable sort of titanium. There is also unadulterated commercial titanium, which contains a lesser amount of sturdiness and is used to produce several other products. People generally invest in jewellery so that it can be worn lifelong and keeping in mind this thought, most manufacturers generally opt for the higher grades of titanium.

Titanium is also known for offering an out of the ordinary selection of colors which other metals simply cannot match! From blue, purple, blue moon, to night sky and black rainbow colors are some of the most desired among the lot. Titanium jewellery mainly encompasses of titanium rings, jewellery for men and women that is exclusively created out of aircraft grade titanium. In order to take care of your precious and priceless titanium jewellery avoid rubbing against the surface, since the color is an visual phenomenon, and after it getting scratched against any surface it might lose its shine and appear dull or faded. What you could simply do is wash down the pieces in temperate soapy water or alcohol and dry with a very soft paper towel. Presenting the most inimitable and distinctive blends of exquisiteness, strength, light weight and bio-compatibility; titanium jewellery is certainly one of the most sought after metal. Titanium is now growing at a rapid speed in the category of jewellery. It has ventured into domains such as the sports section where it is extensively used to make parts of bicycles, tennis rackets, and golf clubs. Apart from the jewellery and sports equipments it has also successfully managed to make a special mark in the marine hardware, and computer cases territory! Titanium metal is now coming to represent a new standard for excellence. It is considered to have a highest standard of fineness and quality.

Titanium jewellery offers matchless and unsurpassed trendy rich grey tones that are in general provided by platinum except that titanium offers it at a more striking price. The latest research conducted concluded that Titanium has set its foot as the forefront in the designer jewellery group of people. It is a proven fact that by far no metal has been able to capture the market so swiftly and create such a remarkable rise in regard as titanium.

Titanium is a multi faceted substance that has already locked its future in a progressively soaring market. Where other materials have not yet managed to make the grade, Titanium is by now proved itself as one of the real solutions. At the outset, titanium was absolutely used in aerospace; but in the present era it has captured a wide range of applications.

AMBER EARRING BUYING GUIDE

by Binashaji

Amber is the stone of choice if you love large stones. Amber is very light and even big stones will not burden your ears. Amber is a honey-coloured stone created naturally. This resin has been found in all parts of the world – Africa, Poland, Russia to name a few.

Danglers or studs. Small one or large ones. With silver or gold. Triangular or Round. Earrings bring out the special beauty in every woman – delicately small or large contemporary ones, your earrings can convey a million words. Whether you love earrings only in your earlobes or all along the length of your ears. Earrings make you look attractive. To change your look, all you have to do is change your earrings. If you wear studs all the time, try wearing danglers to attract some attention. At home or outside, earrings are an essential in every woman’s life.

Amber is the stone of choice if you love large stones. Amber is very light and even big stones will not burden your ears. Amber is a honey-coloured stone created naturally. This resin has been found in all parts of the world – Africa, Poland, Russia to name a few. Found in the ocean, inside earth and on trees, this resin has fascinated people even in the 17th century and in the 21st century, amber is being used not just for Jewellery but for Aromatherapy, Anti-bacterial products, Perfumes and even in Medicines.

Long gold earrings with amber stones are perfect foil for tall women and can be worn with any hairstyle – whether a upswept hairdo or long, loose hair. Long Amber earrings can the catch the eye, moving delicately with a tilt of the head. Amber contains succinite acid, which has anti-bacterial properties and finally science has acknowledged what our ancestors thousands of years ago knew. That Amber is a healing stone. The warmth of Amber can help calm nerves, and even baby-teethers made of amber have been found. Amber is a soft stone and has a hardness of only 2.5 on the mohs scale. This property means that Amber is very light, even floating on salt water. Because it is so light, the amber from the ocean is often found washed up on seashores.

Amber in the ocean has a natural polish given by the waves and amber found in the earth has a coating, which needs to be removed. A thin golden hoop with a single amber drop or even a thick band with amber embedded along the circumference, amber looks great. Amber earrings can form part of an entire ensemble or just use a pair to make a difference in your appearance just like your hairstyle. With earrings adorning the length of the ear and not just the earlobes, tiny amber drops can be used as studs along the length of the ear with bigger stones at the lobes. So, you can have Amber earrings in a range of sizes – small to large to danglers with stones at the end or even small amber stones put together to make an amber dangler. There are a million different variations and choosing amber earrings, which are perfect can be a fun experience.

Imitations of Amber are plenty and if you do not know how the differentiate Amber, it can be easy to pick up imitation amber. Amber is a light stone and floats on sea water, this is a very easy way to check if the amber is authentic. You can also rub the amber, warm amber smells of fresh pine trees and also attracts small pieces of paper due to static electricity.

If you are buying an expensive pair of earrings, insist on a Certificate of Authenticity for the stone from the jeweler. Most jewelers will oblige. Always buy from a trusted source, unless you want to earrings to complement your pair of blue jeans – in that case, you can pick up a several different earrings different shapes and sizes for a couple of dollars.

Store your Amber earrings separately away from other Jewellery. Amber is a soft resin and breaks easily. Across centuries, all races and peoples have believed in the power of Amber and held onto Amber as a lucky charm. This delicate resin which has captured a sliver of sunshine, millions of years ago can add positive energy in your life.

PEARL EARRINGS

by Seema Susheel

The pearl is been a popular gem from ancient times and is the symbol of peace and purity. The kings and queens have adorned pearl and many kingdoms became richer with acquisition of pearls from another. The pearls are used in its natural form and it’s not mined or cut and polished but has beautified many people throughout the world with its gleam.

It’s a dream to own a pearl jewelry be it earrings, bracelet or a locket. The purity and shine of a pearl is spell bounding and a cherished possession, so to gift a loved one a pearl jewelry will bring joy to any special moment. World over pearl is a precious gem which is most popular and admired. The natural form in which it’s formed is an interesting fact. Developing in the heart of a sea shell, it doesn’t need any cutting or polishing, its rare, lustrous, beautiful and possession of a lifetime.

Pearl earring style
Pearl EarringsYou have chosen to buy a pearl earring for yourself or as a gift for someone special you need to have some information before you make the pearl beauty your own. A pearl earring buying guide would make things easy for you.
First of all choosing to buy a pearl earring you need to decide on which style or design of earring will suite the best. The pearl studs set in gold, white gold, silver or platinum is the best bet when your buy is a surprise gift. The pearl studs big or small suits every individual dark or fair and suits every outfit, formal attire to an evening wear or a trekking outfit. The studs will never go out of fashion. You can also go for elaborate pearl hangings. There are many choices and designs to suit every person’s character and lifestyle.

Choosing the right pearl
Once you have decided the earring style you have to choose the pearl. There are many varieties available like the natural sea water pearl, fresh water pearl, cultured pearl etc. The sea water pearls are the costliest but in any case pearls are not as costly as a diamond so it’s affordable jewelry for all. The pearls are cream or white in color but are also available in pink, grey and black colors. The usual shape of the pearl is round like a sphere that is the natural and best shape of the pearl. The perfectly round pearl is rare and hence is priced high. The most important factor you must consider while buying pearl is its surface quality. The pearls surface quality should be smooth and fine with no granules or dents in the body. The fine textured perfectly round pearl is of the finest quality. The pearls are also found in other irregular shapes. Chosen to buy an earring you should go for a round shape as that’s the best to enhance the beauty of the person who wears it. The pearl will stand out best on a yellow gold setting. The shape and size of the pair of earring should be similar. As in buying diamond we take care of size, cut, color, carat etc. While buying pearl you will have to take care of the size, shape, color and the surface quality.

Pearl is popular from the ancient times
The pearl is been a popular gem from ancient times and is the symbol of peace and purity. The kings and queens have adorned pearl and many kingdoms became richer with acquisition of pearls from another. The pearls are used in its natural form and it’s not mined or cut and polished but has beautified many people throughout the world with its gleam. There is a forever growing demand for pearls and hence it’s been cultured and grown in many countries. There are different varieties with different prizes available to suite every buying category. To own a gem of such grandeur is a proud moment and to make this moment comfortable you have to choose the right place to buy the pearl earrings.

Where to go shopping
You could buy the pearl earring in the many websites available on the net. There are many options and vast information available on the net that will make your purchase comfortable and easy. You choose the style compare the prizes and place an order. In a matter of days your purchase will reach your address. This saves time and many times money as you could get a good bargain for a good quality item. For a more personal experience you could walk in to a jewelry shop, taking care to choose a genuine gems dealer. The jeweler who specializes in making pearl jewelry. Here you would get hands on experience of the pearl jewelry you are buying. You can make a choice with the wide range the shop offers or if nothing suites your style could place an order to make the ear ring. You can ask the jeweler the background of the pearl – questions like where it is from, different ranges and how much they cost. Choose the pearl variety, the size and the kind of setting required, the entire design and the total cost. The cost of the pearl, the cost of the gold and the making charges. Once you have bought the earring you should be satisfied by the cost and the quality of the jewel. The pearl earring is a valuable gift to be cherished and admired a lifetime and passed on generation to generation, hence the quality should not be compromised.

Pearl is pretty, precious and an everlasting fashion statement.
According to ancient times the pearl is supposed to bring peace to the wearer and has been extensively used in all kinds of jewelry from ages. The pearl is the most sought after gem after diamond. Hence it’s every woman’s dream to own pearl jewelry. You are gifting the exquisite pearl earrings to your loved one and she will remember you and this special day whenever she will wear the pearl earrings. The pearl earring can be gifted on any special day like anniversary, valentines or birthday. The lady will almost always wear the earrings even if she has not put on her necklace or bracelet, hence your gift will not be an occasional wear and put away in the locker. The aura associated with a pearl makes this gift a joy for the one who gives and an exhilarating experience for the one who gets it.