Create a Perfect Gift With Italian Charms

By Salieri

If you enjoy collecting jewelry with personal significance or giving it as gifts, consider Italian charms! They are the most affordable way to create a personalized bracelets with unique meaning. And, there is an amazing variety to choose from.

Whether you love dogs, cats, or want something signifying your family or hobby, it 's all there! And, unlike their classic dangling counterparts, Italian charms link together to form a flat bracelet; for a more sophisticated look enjoyed by women of all ages.

It 's no surprise, then, that tens of thousands of women each year collect Italian charms and give them as gifts. How to get started?

Easy! Whenever buying for yourself or as a gift, the first thing you need to do is get a "starter bracelet" containing blank links. Then, get an additional 4-5 charms to start the bracelet. The recipient can easily replace blank links on the starter bracelets with the charms you give them -- and any others they get in the future -- to develop a unique bracelet over time.

The Secret to Selecting Quality Italian Charms

When looking to buy Italian charms, it 's important to consider quality. Indeed, there are so many places selling these things that sometimes it 's difficult to separate the good from the bad.

Here are some things to watch out for:

* Make sure they are made of stainless steel (the place where you buy them should say that.) If you really want to get technical, ask them what grade of stainless steel their charms are. They should know, especially if they claim to sell "direct", because on the manufacturing end stainless steel has exact grades. Usually, it 's a number (like 304) followed by a letter. You'd see them labeled as 304L or 316.

* Charms marked with a logo or brand-name on the back are considered higher quality. You never know, but generally avoid links that are "blank" / have no logo on the back. What about charms that say "Stainless Steel" on the back? Well, I've seen a few that were definitely NOT stainless steelâ?¦ so use caution.

* Make sure the site you're ordering from has a money-back guarantee and check any customer comments posted on there.

* It 's important to order charms that are covered with protective epoxy. Otherwise they'll rub off! If the site doesn't state whether they are or not, ask them.

* You'll find that many site sell "18kt gold" Italian charms. Well, with very few exceptions, it 's a gold-tone and not sold 18kt gold. Just make sure that if you're paying 18kt gold prices ($18+ per charm) that you indeed getting 18kt gold. Again, nearly all sites sell 18kt gold-tone (or gold accented) charms. Why pay $18 for the same product if you could get for under $3â?¦ and even for $2, and sometimes $1/charm?

* A note about care: Even stainless steel charms can change color when exposed to chemicals, cleaning solutions, and solvents. Avoid chlorine and any harsh chemicals.

What about the Chinese-Made Italian Charms?

Yes, a lot of people ask that question. Very few merchants admit itâ?¦ but, nearly all Italian charms sold on the Internet are manufactured in China.

Now, what about charms that say "imported from Italy?" Well, that 's nice, but did you know that many of these places simply buy Chinese-made Italian charms through an import company in Italy. So, yes, they're "imported from Italy" but if you think you're getting a handcrafted Italian productâ?¦ think again! They're still manufactured in one of the three main factories in China.

Which Charms are Great For Gifts?

Wellâ?¦ really, all of them! Charms that are especially popular are, in no particular order: 1) Heart charms, 2) Ribbon (esp. pink ribbon) charms, 3) American flag, 4) Flowers, 5) Family and I love my kids-type charms, 6) Birthstones, 7) Various words and phrasesâ?¦ like "DREAM", "Family of 5", "Child of GOD", etc. 8) Religious charms, like crosses, etc.

As you can see, the possibilities are only limited by your imagination!

About the Author

Paul Giovanni is a customer manager and merchandising specialist in the area of discount jewelry and health & wellness products. For a wide selection of Italian charms and additional information visit our Italian charms store; or click here for Italian charm bracelets.

Visit http://www.butyoudontlooksick.com/ for great articles, message boards, and the web's best "Get Well Gifts" store.

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Selecting the Perfect Father 's Day Jewelry Gift

By Lulu Bells Treasures

When contemplating gifts to give Dad on Father 's Day, jewelry is usually not the first thing that comes to most sons' and daughters' minds. Even so, although few people are aware of it, the industry of men 's jewelry is growing fast, as uniquely masculine jewelry items are increasingly in demand. Best of all, those who are in on this secret have a unique shortcut to a wealth of gift ideas. While other sons and daughters are agonizing over which traditional, father-friendly gift to buy, you can be browsing any online jewelry store, exploring thousands of jewelry options that most fathers are sure to love.

While searching for Father 's Day jewelry gifts, the most important thing to remember is to personalize the gift as much as possible. To give a gift that is not perfectly suited to the recipient can come across and poorly thought-out and off the cuff. Carefully consider your father 's interests, and when browsing through your options, imagine which items you can see him actually wearing or using on a regular basis. If your father is the type who would be reluctant to wear jewelry, keep this in mind, and look for an item that has overtly masculine or personalized qualities. Or, even better, find an item that fulfills a completely utilitarian purpose.

Also, don't forget that jewelry is symbolic and meaningful, no matter who it is being given to. Just as wedding rings symbolize the permanent bond of love and marriage, jewelry gifts for fathers should express love and appreciation, even if this message is buried beneath other meanings.

Cuff links are one example of a jewelry item that fulfills a utilitarian purpose. Of course, they have always been a completely valid gift to give to Dad or any other male gift recipient, and this hasn't changed. If anything, the range of cufflink options has only expanded, with items ranging from the simple and inexpensive to finely shaped 14k gold. Quirky, personalized cufflinks are always popular, but for very special occasions, all fathers need at least one very fine set in gold or sterling silver.

Meanwhile, key chains are another type of jewelry that serve a real function, while also being fine and beautiful objects. A gold key chain will keep all of Dad 's keys organized, while also providing a constant reminder of how much he is loved and appreciated.

Money clips are another similar item. When we think of jewelry, most of us rarely think of money clips, but in fact, they come in 14k gold and sterling silver just like other items of jewelry. If your father loves money -- and many fathers do -- this is an option you should seriously consider.

As for more decorative jewelry items for fathers, bracelets are a great place to start. Sterling silver rolo bracelets can be a handsome addition to Dad 's wardrobe, and are great for both special occasions and everyday use. Or, 14k gold and rubber bracelets combine a traditional jewelry material with a material more often associated with masculine professions and lifestyles.

Additionally, you can find rings, necklaces, charms, and pendants that can both express your appreciation and reflect your father 's personality. Pendants and charms, in particular, come in thousands of designs, and can be used in a variety of ways. If your dad likes sports, cars, or fishing, for instance, there are charms and pendants that fit into all of these categories.

The key is to go online and browse through the men 's jewelry options that you can find. A brief search will reveal a surprisingly huge number of options. And of course, the best part is that, in all likelihood, Dad will feel surprised and refreshed upon receiving such an unexpected, but wonderful, gift.

About the Author

Lulu Bells Treasures has been offering high quality 14k gold, sterling silver, diamond and gemstone jewelry online since 2003. Visit them today at http://www.lulubells.com to view their large selection of 14k gold jewelry and gifts. Use coupon code AM0807 for $10 off orders over $150.

Lulu Bells Treasures is a registered trademark owned by Lulu Bells Treasures, Inc.

Watch Repair - Be Smart When Your Watch Needs To Be Fixed

By Corbin Newlyn
In today 's society with its hectic pace watches have become an integral part of how people function. Getting to work on time, making sure the kids arrive at school on time, making deadlines, and never being late to an appointment are all time oriented. Hence, every household needs a watch of some kind.

We have all been in the position of having our most used watch suddenly break down just when we needed it most. Perhaps you accidentally dropped your watch and the case came undone, and the first thought that came to mind is to get it to a watch repair outlet to get it functional again. Nevertheless, prior to you doing that, stop for a moment and take into consideration the following factors which will prove useful.

Elements to Take Into Consideration About Your Watch

The brand of the wrist watch is obviously highly significant, and since it is an expensive brand name watch it would not be in your best interest to take it to a basic repair store. The best course of action is to take it to a dealer that is authorized to work on these brands.

The primary reason for doing this is that the majority of designer brands will carry their specific parts, and if you allow someone other than an authorized dealer to open the watch your guarantee might become void and the work that is done on the watch may not be completed as hoped for in the end.

If your watch has some kind of precious gem incorporated into the case or the dial itself you clearly have to bring the watch to a jewelry watch repair store so that you can be certain that the gems inside the watch will not become damaged while the watch is being repaired.

As noted if your watch is in the guarantee time period, you should not bring it to a basic watch repair store but only the retail outlet you purchased it from. If it becomes tampered with by someone that is not the authorized dealer you will very likely forfeit the guarantee that it had.

Watches that are inexpensive (typically $20 or less) are typically constructed so that they are unable to be repaired. Watches such as these are normally a one shot deal, and if they are broken or cease to function for whatever reason then they will need to be discarded and another one will need to be purchased.

Hence, if you eventually need to bring it to a watch repair store, it is in your best interest to not to indulge in spending a small fortune to get it to work again if it becomes broken, but if the costs become more than the original price that you paid for it, you may as well get yourself a brand new watch.

Maintain Your Watch

So as to avoid the expense of having watch repair in the future, take some time every now and then to take care of your watch. For instance, if your watch is not water resistant, do not take it into the shower. Also, do you best not to drop it, and it is best if you do not sleep with your watch. Last but certainly not least, attempt at bringing your watch in for a service visit every couple of years and if it happens to be an expensive brand, then every year.

About the Author

Listen to Corbin Newlyn as he shares his insights as an expert author and an avid writer in the field of watch electronics. If you would like to learn more go to Nixon Watch advice and at Tissot Watch tips.

Finding the Perfect Diamond Earring Set

By Andy West

For many, a diamond earring set is fondly remembered as the first real piece of jewelry ever owned. Though it is a rather simple accessory, it is something that can give a lifetime of significance to the wearer. As it has been found, diamonds are not only jewelry but also an investment, an heirloom and treasured keepsake.

Because there are now so many venues in which to purchase these earrings, choosing a quality set means focusing on four basic elements. The basic scale used to rate the quality of a diamond is referred to as the Four C 's . When examining using the Four C 's , one is looking at the color, clarity, cut and carat.

When referring to color in a diamond, the aim is to get one with as little color as possible. A scale that ranks from A to Z helps determine color, with A being truly colorless. A stone that is ranked towards A, or colorless, will cost a great deal more than those ranked on the other end of the scale.

In general, a color ranking of G or H is considered to be very fitting for earrings. This is especially true if one opts for a typical carat size. However, if one is opting for a larger than average carat size, the color ranking should be as close to colorless as possible.

The element of clarity in a diamond refers to flaws such as cloudiness or microscopic cracks deep within the stone that cannot be seen with the naked eye. The scale of clarity goes from F for flawless to I3. Stones on the lowest end of the scale are considered to be seriously flawed.

Though most diamonds for earrings are ranked SI1, clarity is not always the most important element to consider unless and until considering a larger carat. It is also not as important because earrings generally do not see the same kind of wear and tear as other accessories. Not having to put a focus on clarity is what makes earrings one of the most affordable jewelry purchases there is.

Cut is another element to consider when purchasing diamond earrings and perhaps one of the most significant. Cut has much to do with how much light reflects off of the diamond. Common cuts such as round or princess are just some of a few popular options to choose from.

When cut is an issue, it is recommended that one choose a high grade in order to get the best sparkling qualities. With a good cut, there will be more facets or polished surfaces on the precious stone to reflect light. However, there are some that have fewer facets than others that are still attractive and desirable.

Last but not least, carat is yet another element to consider when purchasing. It is said that carat ranks as high in importance as cut during the selection process. When it comes to earrings, carat refers to the combined weight of the diamonds used.

Choosing a set of earrings that is smaller may be more affordable; however it is important that the setting does not overshadow the diamonds. Earrings of a large carat can simply be too overwhelming to offer any type of aesthetic value.

Other things to consider when buying diamond earrings are the setting, the shaft, the clasp and the metal used to create them. Whether choosing gold or silver, flaws in these aspects can seriously affect the overall quality of the earring. Many jewelers will offer to cover any unforeseen defects and its workmanship by offering some type of warranty.

About the Author

Andy West is a freelance writer for www.Itshot.com wholesale jewelry, which offers quality diamond earring sets and other jewelry.

Diamonds and Gemstones - Now On A Low Net Budget

By Derek Dashwood
Diamonds inspire greatness even in how they burst out of the earth in such a rich rare streak of greatness.

Diamonds came into our lives with the miracle of South Africa, with the unusual ancient rocks. Dynamic men amalgamated and created the mighty diamond monopolies over diamonds, which they held for over a century.

Now they have had to learn to share.In the past decade the diamond cartel omnipotence has been muted with so many of the finest diamond discoveries in a century, particular in Australia and Canada.

It took years for Canada and Australia to learn they had diamond pipes in their ancient rocks of the same age and strata as in South Africa. But several companies had other carbon in the far north of Canada, and they are finding this huge area is of the same age and type of rock as holds the diamond pipes in South Africa, which are now being mined thousands of feet down into the earth.

The incredible reality is that the depleting diamond deposits in a small area in South Africa are now being found across a vast section of Canada. Known as the Canadian Shield, this same ancient rock extends in vast frozen north portions of Canada yet uncharted.

That is changing rapidly. Aircraft with digital equipment hanging are flying in tight arcs back and forth across the frozen tundra, their eyes seeing what the human eye can not.

But for years back a decade ago, to create a new partnership with any of the existing corporations and individuals involved, agents for change hung out in the mysterious halls of Antwerp. What had to be proved was that these purest quality diamonds with a small polar bear on the bottom were not blood diamonds from Africa.

This story tells of the amazing progress in the diamond industry in the past decade. Since then Canada and Australia have broken into and opened up sales of diamond sales in the world. Huge changes have happened.

Now highest quality diamonds with polar bears on their bottom mingle while new diamond mines are being opened in a new more open market. Native peoples in the far north of Canada are learning skills from small groups of experts in all aspects of diamond assay, collection, through all the processes to market.

A huge area with few people are looking to a very diamond future, and other people who would prefer the deep mine heat of South Africa are going where the diamonds still are being found on the surface.

With a series of new diamond pipes going deep down to mine, these diamonds are of high quality and open up the diamond market anew. And for Canada and the north and us all it is a good thing. Now famous diamond buyers such as the famous department stores and jewelers in New York own a piece of the Canadian diamond action.

And that innovation has changed everything. It is in the interest of these powerful diamond buyers and us consumers to see a cartel broken, just as in oil.

These new partners with other giants helps break monopolies that have outlived their fair value. Now so many varieties of partnerships are breaking open new mines that it is a veritable feast in contrast to all those years of diamond control.

And think how important this is to you. Now the Net throws open Net Low Bid Auctions you could never find at the mall. Diamonds inspire greatness and are now an investment into a better future at more opportunities for bargains than ever before.

About the Author

Derek Dashwood enjoys news behind the news, seeing how small acts can lead to great opportunities, such as here at http://www.diamondsandgemstonesshop.com

Diamonds and Gemstones

Diamonds As Investments - Young Women Get It

By Derek Dashwood

The journals of Marco Polo, Christopher Columbus and Captain James Cook are inspiring, and speak of men of adventure in their blood and who must go over that mountain, or get into a boat and sail off and see if there really is an edge to the world, or diamonds and gemstones for riches and glory.

And of course there was always the need to find riches. Glory would not repay the king and those who had paid for your journey. Lucky us. Now if we want to look glorious we have learned to click on the net.

Now, rather than bundle up in rags and forty pair of ill fitting shoes, now our Lady Marco Polo can sit in the comfort of her favorite chair, invite her chums over, only the good ones, for a pajama net diamond hunt. My teen age grand daughters have shown this world to me, and it just amazes us elders how quickly generations outdistance their parents, let alone their grand parents.

And the difference between the boys and the girls on how they see the changes. The boys are fascinated with the massive action and huge machinery working the immense oil sands of Alberta. My 22 year old grandson is working there and is now a foreman and is driving a huge new truck and making big money. His 21 young old brother worked with me in construction and at my hotel and now is earning his construction ticket and I feel both lads have assured futures.

Very differently with my 18 and 16 year old grand daughters, who have read about the massive new diamond finds north of those oil fields, and while the boys find diamonds of less interest than driving a huge machine in the oil fields, the girls are learning they can make an investment at low bid prices on the net, now more than ever.

Now, as much as hang out at the mall, the grand daughters gather around their new computer, while the lads drive around in the new and very expensive and depreciating new truck. They all have received a computer, over the years.

Both grand daughters received their computers from a doting grand father for such good grades. Now, they have part time jobs and are taking more schooling. But in their spare time, they and their friends are giggling and huddled around the computer, no longer the television set, or out at the mall.

The girls find so many net sales sites and others and the ladies find they can have a ball, learning how to negotiate but it is easier with a computer, rather than an intimidating older person at a jewelry store counter saying you want to offer me WHAT for this diamond? She would run away, frightened.

Here, you even see it: one will look shocked as the other places an extreme low bid on some gorgeous diamond, as if that clerk was barking over their shoulder that you can not have that for that price. It is not possible.

And the girls find it is possible. They wear in when they browse past that jewelry store in the mall, when they bother. Katie gives that lady a wave with her diamond bracelet hand, with a big smile. It is a great way for a young lady to feel a sense of power and maturity. Makes my day.

Wonderful and amazing can only describe the affluence that seems to be available each year. We must take care that we apply our good brains to apply ourselves to our careers, and be of good fellowship to all.

But there can also be something very uplifting to allow oneself an occasional little treat. And the more it makes you smile and feel good, and also rich, is good.

We need to repeat to our grand children that most of all, do not waste hard earned money. But feel the excitement of placing a ridiculous low bid on an item that would make you glow.

And if you know, as you glow, you paid low, you will show humility and joy and deep satisfaction. That you take care of you, even on the tightest of budgets,is good for you. Always. And the new expensive and impressive truck will be worth half in a decade, while the safety deposit box for safe storage is already being thought about.Which will be the wise investment as seen a decade from now? I think my grand daughters know.

About the Author

Derek Dashwood enjoys news behind the news, seeing how small acts can lead to healthy changes we later take for granted at Diamonds and Gemstones

Getting in Vogue with Hip Hop Jewelry

By Andy West

History has produced and left behind many distinctive items that are magnificent cultural indicators of the times and hip hop jewelry is no different. In the early days of man, decorative pieces fashioned from bone, stone and seashell was worn on the wrists, around the neck and from the ears. Just as in modern times, the jewelry of man 's progenitors was meant to denote status and sometimes even affiliation with certain groups.

The earliest form of hip hop jewelry is said to have emerged sometime in the 1970 's . The trend stuck with a number of musicians, actors and athletes and moved on into the 80 's and 90 's . However, with each decade, this form of jewelry grew not only in popularity but size as well.

These days, it is not uncommon to flip on the television and see some of the brightest and most talented hip hop stars performing with distinct and eye catching pieces of jewelry. Sometimes the piece is simply a long chain and nothing else. Other times it is a number of pieces such as a thick chain with diamond-studded initials, several rings, a jewel encrusted wristwatch or flashy earrings.

Jewelry is an element that not only complements the performances of these artists but their lifestyles as well. Extravagant, attention grabbing and hard to miss, hip hop jewelry is larger than life. It is a celebration of hard work and an expression of the individual 's success both now and in the future.

While everyone may not be able to afford the high dollar jewelry of a successful multi platinum artist, hip hop jewelry is not totally out of reach for the everyday individual. Seeing that there was a demand for these types of accessories, a large number of quality jewelers have opened up to a whole new market. One can find exactly what they want and need in a high quality replica simply by going online.

Many of these replicas are anything but cheap dime store knockoffs. Typically, jewelers will use the same types of precious metals and gemstones used in the original piece. However, instead of solid gold a piece may be gold plated and the gemstones may be of a smaller carat. This is what allows one to not only emulate their favorite celebrity but also purchase the same high quality without the heavy price tag.

Along with pieces being designed for both men and women, hip hop jewelry comes in a number of designs that are perfect for all occasions. There are also pieces that are designed to go specifically with a certain outfit. These types of jewelry may be of any size and use a specific geometric design, gemstone color or both.

One of the most popular looks are the pieces that are referred to as iced out, or studded with diamonds. As diamonds are one of the most precious jewels to be had, owning an iced out piece of jewelry can be very costly. To keep the expense down, smaller diamonds, less diamonds or faux diamonds are always an option.

Faux diamonds are nearly impossible to tell from the real thing with the naked eye. This is especially true when items are of extremely good craftsmanship. Items using faux diamonds are a popular choice and are available for both men 's and women 's pieces.

While opting for understated pieces of jewelry is the common path for most people, this is generally because it is a purchase meant to enhance or round out a person 's appearance. Hip hop jewelry is all about making a statement and making it loud and clear. It has never been and never will be about modesty.

About the Author

Andy West is a freelance writer for http://www.itshot.com/ wholesale jewelry, which offers quality hip hop jewelry.

Elegance and Diamond Stud Earrings

By Andy West

Ask any fashionista and they will tell you diamond stud earrings are the number one staple of a properly stocked jewelry box. Simple and elegant, it is the accessory that goes with just about everything. Whether it 's a night on the town or merely a casual event, diamond earrings are the perfect way to flawlessly round off an ensemble.

While receiving this precious stone from a loved one is exhilarating, there is certainly no shame in treating oneself to such an essential piece of jewelry. The sparkle and the reputation of diamonds have permeated the history of man for thousands of years and have yet to lose any appeal. As many will agree, they are definitely one of Mother Nature 's best creations.

On top of being a wonderful accessory, these earrings can be worn by anyone of any age. A small carat size creates a very delicate look that is perfect for little girls and a larger carat creates a more lavish air for the mature woman. In fact, the diamond stud is now accepted as a unisex piece of jewelry worn by men as well.

Often a gift for birthdays and anniversaries, they are now bought to celebrate occasions such as the birth of a child, graduations and even long awaited job promotions. As is commonly known, diamonds are long lasting and have always been used as way to commemorate special events. Now they can carry deeply significant meanings to individuals for all life 's milestones whenever they are worn.

Though classic, they can come in a number of settings to suit the taste of nearly every individual. One can choose from traditional four prong settings to bezel settings in silver or even white or yellow gold. Diamonds can have a various number of cuts as well, such as the popular Princess cut.

While no one cut or setting is truly considered better than the other, there are many individuals who have their own opinion on the issue. The appeal of a setting or cut can be based on appearance or the preference of a certain type of precious metal. Others feel that a certain size always looks better with a certain cut and setting.

Regardless of whether one is male or female, younger or older, the wearing of diamonds represents refinement. While trends come and go at the tip of a hat, diamonds represent a timeless sophistication. It is ever so common for people look back at old photos of themselves and wince at the beehive hairdo or wide collared shirt; rarely does anyone cringe at the simplicity of this jewel.

While the stone will always be a precious commodity, they are no longer a fruit for the chosen few. Individuals from all walks of life now wear them. This makes the price range a vast spectrum where nearly anyone can find just what they want or need.

With availability bringing these precious stones to a much more reasonable price, one can now focus on characteristics to help determine price. The size, cut and certification of a diamond can all have an affect on what it will cost. Underlying issues such as market values can have an influence as well.

When opting for quality diamond stud earrings, it is important to always make the purchase with a reputable dealer. A reputable dealer is one that offers some type of warranty or guarantee on the diamonds they sell. The warranty should not only cover the stone, but also the stone 's setting and any other workmanship that went into creating the piece.

About the Author

Andy West is a freelance writer for http://www.itshot.com/ wholesale jewelry, which offers quality diamond stud earrings.

Making the Mark with a Diamond Dog Tag

By Andy West

The diamond dog tag is one of the hottest jewelry items to come along in years. This functional item is greatly revered for the purpose it serves and the dignity it symbolizes. From the simple to the extravagant, there are a wide variety of designs, styles and settings available to suit a wide variety of tastes.

Taking an item such as the dog tag and turning it into a well crafted piece of jewelry is not only creative but genius. It provides a perfect palette where jewelry designers can be as expressive as they see fit. This has resulted in some of the finest jewelry pieces ever created.

The diamond dog tag has also given men wanting a jewelry piece that is decorative but masculine a whole new option. In general, men have been relegated to standard pieces of unisex jewelry endowed with masculine aspects. A dog tag is an item that innately carries a strong masculine tone.

A dog tag can be decked out not only with diamonds but a number of different colored gemstones as well. When using something creative in a piece such as birthstones, it not only adds a stylish flair but attaches sentimental value. A man can wear a dog tag tastefully bejeweled with the birthstones of his children or spouse.

Along with being studded with diamonds, some dog tags leave room for initials and small messages to be engraved. Some jewelers even offer to delicately inscribe images meaningful to the wearer. Jewelry that can be personalized always has a wider appeal as it can serve as a reminder of a milestone or some other event of great importance.

A well crafted diamond dog tag even has the potential for becoming an heirloom item. Whether from father to firstborn son, commemorating a marriage or graduation, passing down a piece of well made jewelry is the most commonly practiced tradition in families. A classically adorned dog tag makes honoring such a tradition very easy.

There are a number of diamond dog tags available that are smaller and more delicate for the female wearer as well. These pieces typically have smaller cut diamonds and use slightly more feminine aspects in their design. They are well balanced both in form and aesthetic value so as not to overpower the femininity of the wearer.

Not to be left out, one also needs to consider the chain the dog tag will hang from. As the piece is worn from the neck and is of high quality, a chain of fine superiority will be required as well. Not only does the quality need to be considered, length will also be an issue of importance.

Because there are so many different designs and styles, there is a vast price range for diamond dog tags. Tags adorned with fewer diamonds will obviously cost less than those that are completely encrusted with stones. The metal used, cut of diamonds and the amount of craftsmanship required to make the piece will also have an influence on price.

In general, one can find a bejeweled dog tag for as little as three hundred dollars. However, a high quality piece can run anywhere from one thousand to five thousand. Distinctive, one of a kind pieces can start at ten thousand dollars and go on up from there.

As any seasoned veteran knows, purchasing a diamond dog tag is never just about acquiring a piece of simple ornamentation. It is an investment that requires thought and unfaltering discernment. It is an expression of refinement for the wearer that, when choosing quality over flash, can last for years on end.

About the Author

Andy West is a freelance writer for http://www.itshot.com/ wholesale jewelry, which offers quality diamond dog tags and other jewelry.

How IWC Have Made Watches For Over A Hundred Years

By Thomas Pretty

The International Watch Company or IWC has manufactured watches in Switzerland for over a century. They are based in Schaffhausen, Switzerland and notably the only manufacturer of fine watches in the east of the country. The company motto gives some idea of the work ethic behind the manufacturing process. In Latin the motto is 'Probus Scafusia' generally translated as 'good solid craftsmanship from Schaffhausen.

IWC was founded strangely by an American. Florentine Jones was an engineer and maker of fine watches in Boston. The company he directed was E.Howard and Co. who at the time they were the leading manufacturers of watches in America. His plan when founding IWC was to combine the sublime craftsmanship of Swiss watches with the modern engineering technologies pioneered in America.

On the ground he would create a masterful division of labour utilising movements from the American market. IWC would use this cheap import of materials and twin it with a wealth, and more importantly a surplus, of skilled watch makers in Switzerland. Normally the making of watches was carried out in homes, but Jones brought employees into the IWC factory and homogenised the process. Another financial incentive for Jones was that wages in Switzerland at the time were actually lower than those in the United States.

Schaffhausen at the time was still a rural idyll far removed from industrial Boston. Thanks to the work of another entrepreneur, J.H. Moser, who opened a hydroelectric plant in the town, Jones was able to open a factory premises within the township. IWC was then settled in the northeast of Switzerland and has remained there since, despite changing premises to accommodate expansion many times.

In 1885 thanks to the obtaining of a design patent from Austrian inventor named Pallweber the IWC started to manufacture the first ever digital watches. Without LCD displays however, IWC were restricted to producing watches with an analogue display.

In the late nineteenth century the IWC became electrically powered for the first time. Originally used for purely lighting working areas, IWC eventually used electricity in the galvanising process that created gold platted watches. In later years, power spread throughout the factory eventually running all the machinery.

IWC had a clear conscience for the plight of their workers. Shortly after the Great War the director, E.J.Homberger expanded the living quarters of workers and created a fund to care for the widows of workers from the factory. A social conscience was clearly something that could be combined with the making of fine watches.

After the Second World War IWC found themselves in a quandary, unfortunately the company 's main route for watches had been the German markets. As most of Germany was in ruins or behind the iron curtain the sale of watches was expanded into markets further a field such as America, Australia and the Far East.

During the latter half of the twentieth century the watch industry had to face a number of challenges in the manufacture and sale of watches. Firstly there were technological developments such as the use of batteries and the creation of the transistor. The hybrid nature of modern watches between mechanics and electronics made much of the IWC workforce obsolete although these problems were overcome.

Gold prices also affected the manufacture of watches worldwide. An astronomical rise in the seventies meant export prices for watches went up 250 percent. Added to an influx of cheap quartz watches from Japan during the eighties, many Swiss watch companies found it hard to survive.

Fortunately, IWC through shrewd financial planning and efficient resource management coped with the changes and have made it through to the present day. Today despite being bought out by a larger luxury goods company, IWC still makes fine watches for pilots and those with an eye for quality and style.

About the Author

Horology expert Thomas Pretty looks into to the ways in which IWC watches have been manufactured for over a century. To find out more please visit http://www.chronolux.com/catalog/iwc-c-60.html

The History of Jewel Accoutrement

By Roberto Sedycias

The jewelry of various forms and kinds has been used since long, around 3,000-5,000 years before. They have been used for a number of purposes like, largely for the adornment of body and no less than that as an amulet. Throughout history it can be seen that jewels were considered to be one of the greatest protections against supernatural evil and to welcome bless and prosperity in life. Jewelry was also used to distinguish different castes in a particular community.

The ostentatious display of jewelry and fashion was actually evolved by Napoleon; the Emperor of France who rejuvenated this notion as new incites of spectacle. Today, the purposes have not been changed utterly except that usage as a social tag in that sense. Even today jewelry effectively compliments the simplest of one`s outfits to give an overall complete appearance. From hair pin to toe ring, it embellishes the entire part of the body.

At primitive ages, people used to make jewelry with natural objects like stones, sea shells, teeth and bones of animals and etc. Later on, comparatively shiny objects were taken to add a little elegance and glamour to them.

Artistic innovation and creative reflection over the designs of stones and beads and other precious glittering objects have made the jewelry more striking and obligatory material to every individual since long before. In spite of the massive variations in novelty and modernization of designs, the jewels traditionally are placed into precious metals or metal alloys like, sliver, bronze, gold, platinum palladium etc.

From the historic era, gold was the best chosen metal for making ornaments and jewelry because of its malleable characteristic and everlasting glitter. History says it was the Egyptians who first used gold as a metal of ornament and also as a symbol of their economic status and social standing. The wonderful accessories like collars, head ornaments, earrings, necklaces, pendants and etc., were worn by the pharaohs.

According to experts, gold is too soft a metal to be used in its pure form and hence, in its alloy karat is used as a unit to determine the amount of gold present, and the K letter represents the word Karat. The 10K purity states 41.7% pure gold, 18K states 75% purity, 24K states 99.9% purity and so on. With the improvement of metallurgy various alloys of precious metals are coming out. One of which one is white gold, an alloy of gold and palladium or nickel like white metal, which is being used intensively by modern designers to mould rings, bangles or chains.

The gemstones can be classified into precious and semi-precious stones according to their availability and excellence of splendor. The diamonds, sapphires, opals, ruby, spinels, topaz, emeralds and pearls are considered to be the most precious stones till today.

During historical ages both the men and women used to ornament themselves with heavy jewelleries. The upper class women used to have parures, which were actually elegant suits with precious gems which could include a diadem, a necklace, a pair of bracelets, a comb and pins, a tiara, rings, earrings or even a belt clasp. These possessions were mark of grace and sophistication. The extensive use of pearls and diamonds in early 1900s bewilder even today`s designers and patrons. Queen Alexandra made and wore a high neck collar choker, called the `collier de chien` to hide the scar on her neck.

Later on, from 1940s or 1950s, the great influence of movies and TV shows and largely the prominence and glamour of actors and actresses started working on the general minds, and a gradual modernization of jewelry was gladly accepted by the generations for their dynamic creative and affordable fine designs.

The comparatively cheaper materials of jewelry, like sea shells, clay or imitation metals and colored stones attract mostly the young minds, giving a trendy dimension to their dress code and the lighter form of precious jewelry, thus mostly meeting the modern fashion statements.

About the Author

This article can also be accessed in portuguese language from the Article section of page www.polomercantil.com.br/joias.php , www.polomercantil.com.br/bijuterias.php

Roberto Sedycias works as IT consultant for PoloMercantil.