What Make Your Beaded Jewelry Design Appealing

Four things make a good beaded jewelry design: uniqueness, design, functionality and quality. These four will make your porcelain beads jewelry design stand out among the best designs. But it must also have that special appeal to the buying customers, otherwise it will not sell. A beaded jewelry design to be considered successful should be distinctive enough to influence buyers into purchasing it.
Uniqueness
Uniqueness is an essential part of a good marketing campaign. Before you start promoting your product, see first if it is unique and innovative for anything else in the market. To assess this, you should consider how the beaded jewelry design works, how it is made and how it looks. You should not forget to note the approaches to marketing by successful competitors and the prices of similar designs. Uniqueness can contribute greatly to your sales. The more unique are your beaded jewelry designs, the more it is to catch the attention of your customers.
Design
Successful jewelry designers often set their prides aside, and take a look, rather a sensitive look, at the tastes and designs of others. A jewelry design will not succeed, unless this design coincides with what customers want to own and are willing to pay for. Yet, always remember that a practical item which has just been copied and do not have the design originality will have to face competition with the cheap and easy to acquire beaded jewelry as well as the mass-produced products.
Functionality
Many handcrafted and artistic items are created to be purely decorative while some are intended to be functional. If the piece that you designed has a combination of these two, it has a higher chance of selling. But when do you know if the unique and beautiful piece of wearable art is functional? You can easily see: if it is not too heavy, is long enough, is not too clunky, is not too chunky, and not too fragile. If the parts do not catch easily on things, not difficult to put on or off, does not easily fall off the wearer. You can then consider your beaded jewelry functional.
Quality
Your reputation as a jeweler should be based on the quality of your beaded products, whether it be made of alloy beads, porcelain beads or glass beads Many customers will make a quick inspection before buying your piece. Still others will make a careful inspection. Of course the design will be the first thing that will attract their attention, then they will continue to check the workmanship and the materials. Distinct quality of your beaded jewelry may not be noticed by the average customer. They are not aware of your skills; nor do they know about the extra little pains you have endured only to present a perfect creation. But this distinct quality you can use as a great selling point to let everyone know that your beaded jewelry design is made of high craftsmanship quality.

Leopard Carving

I don't know how I came by my first chunk of Mexican Leopardskin Jasper, but I know since I got it I was always impressed with it. It was such a beautiful, striking material, always bringing comment and requiring a second look. Of course, it was the perfect choice for a leopard carving. In fact, I kept telling people, "Someday I'm going to carve a leopard out of it", until I realized if I didn't get on it, I was just lying to people. Maybe it was a carving of a pig out of Leopardskin Jasper I had seen that became the catalyst. I looked on it with such disdain because the material seemed such an inappropriate choice for a pig. It was clear I must carve a leopard.
I looked the piece over. Leopardskin Jasper is entirely loaded with spots, but it also has the odd black and tan sheet going through it which shows on the surface as a stripe. I had to find an area free of that stripe. There seemed to be a pyramid-like shape in the piece that was just spots, so I cut the piece out as near as I could to the stripes, and got a nice chunk that would accommodate a leopard sitting on its haunches, looking back over its left shoulder. The tail could be wrapped around its rump. I started off looking for pictures of leopards in poses close to the position I was after. I found lots of material, but very few choices that would be of any help. It's easier today with the internet, but this was around 1991. The study of the leopard led to other things, like our company logo, jewelry (designed in the leopard motif), and my first silver casting of a leopard profile. Anyway, I managed to find one that was a help.
I drew outlines of the leopard onto the rock with permanent marker from all sides, then I clamped it into my 14" diamond chop saw. I put on a particulate mask and made successive cuts down to that contour, then with a flat screwdriver I broke off the rock still standing. This got rid of a lot of material right away. Then I took the piece to a 100 grit 8" diamond grinding wheel, and continued to grind down the shape. Further removal of the material in this way was done with diamond cutoff wheels and coarse diamond burrs in a clamped # 30 Foredom hand piece under a water drip. Soon, it was to the point where I could begin the smoothing with 220 grit 8"x 3" silicon carbide belt, and small pads made from 220 belts. Then 400 grit. Then 600 grit. Polishing was done with a 1200 mesh diamond compound and beefed up with extra 1200 powder, then 8000 mesh diamond on hard felt wheels, small sticks, and anything else that would hold the grit and get into small details.
The leopard now stood at about 3 ½ inches tall. My plan was to cut the eyes out of chrysoprase, and I was amazed at how small they had to be in order to be in proportion. I remember a carving of a house cat I had seen years before with chrysoprase eyes, and they looked like day-glow jelly beans. Recalling that fright I was determined the eyes should be exactly in proportion and the right shape. Nothing else would do!
I mounted the leopard on a highly polished slab of Mexican Peacock Obsidian, which had a strong green and purple sheen. I enjoyed doing it, and it drew a lot of attention. Years ago, at the show in Medicine Hat, a dealer thanked us for the amount of Leopardskin Jasper they had sold after people saw it.

Why Beaded Jewelry Makes A Perfect Gift

Lampwork beads jewelry, or any type of beaded jewelry, can be a perfect gift to present to your loved ones. You can either buy it for them or you can make it yourself. Jewelry that you created personally is more meaningful, because it shows the recipient how much she means to you. You devoted a valuable portion of your time and effort to create something for them to appreciate and enjoy. It also means that you can gift them with a jewelry that is not just a price tag. Personally made beaded jewelry is a symbol that you are giving a piece of you along with the gift.
But beaded jewelry as a gift does not mean you are free to just string lampwork beads or other beads and give them away. You should choose your materials very well and take into consideration the recipient's personality when matching the colors. If she is a jovial person, the best to give are colorful jewelry like glass beads. For more conservative types you take note of how they carry themselves and base your design on these. People will appreciate your gift and the gesture, because they know that you care about what they want to receive.
Designing personalized beaded jewelry to be given as a gift is not a smooth ride always. When you run out of design ideas, you can try some new tricks, and also old ones that you have not done for quite a time. But do not worry, because you can always revitalize your creativity. Just follow these suggestions.
- Mix and match colors randomly and find out what works,
- Look around you for design ideas and inspirations,
- Refresh your old designs; check out the older ornaments that you created, for inspiration,
- Look at other people's works,
- Experiment - do something different from what you used to do, and
- Find ideas and inspirations at the internet.
If you are not a do-it-yourself person but would like to give a beaded jewelry as a gift, you can always buy. There are many jewelry shops in your locality and around the internet. You can purchase beaded necklaces to your niece or sister. For your mother or best friend, beaded necklaces with pendant will help her show her elegance, her good taste and favorite color. The gift will be more appreciated if you can find a bead jewelry set that is complete with bracelet, a necklace and a pair of earrings. Now this really is a fabulous gift.
Beaded jewelry is almost always appropriate for different occasions. These accessories can be used from the day-to-day wear to more formal occasions. When intended to use in formal events, you choose a beaded jewelry with sterling silver strands and uniform, small beads If the recipient wears a beaded jewelry like this, her looks will be accented, but without stealing all attention. Even in parties, where it is always appropriate to wear noticeable ornaments, you can give beaded bracelets or any jewelry piece with jangling beads to allow the wearer to get noticed.

Let Out Your Inner Animal With Cartier Timepieces

Valentines Day may be over, but you can still love to turn people green with envy just in time for St. Patty's day. Cartier's latest designs bring out your inner animal with gorgeous diamond accents and dazzling designs. What design should you choose to have other drooling over your Cartier?
Take a look at the menagerie of animals on Cartier's watches and find which best suits you!
Luxurious Panther
Cartier's Panther collection wouldn't be complete without their Panthère Secrète de Cartier watch. The waving lines of the dial and tourmaline eyes of the jungle cat are will make you catch your breath. With a bejeweled panther purring above the watch face and round cut diamond accents, this watch displays all the luxurious grace of a cat with the all the people-pleasing features of a Cartier.
Gorgeous Gecko
Feeling glam? Why not try this gecko on for size? The Le Cirque Animalier De Cartier Collection captures all the wonder elements of wildlife of the animals you love best. With black enamel spots, mother-of-pearl accents, and emerald eyes, this piece is sure to turn your friends green with envy. Geckos are a symbol of luck and the cycle of life in Polynesia. It's a perfect find just in time for St. Patrick's day!
Busy Bumblebee
Do you prefer a brighter addition to your accessories? Why not try the Bee Décor watch from Cartier? Whether you're a busy bee or just prefer to laze in the sun, this watch will only generate the best buzz among your friends. With a warm yellow toile brossée strap and sparkling diamond accents, this timepiece is sure to be as bright as you are. What a fun addition to your busy lifestyle!
Confident Cockatiel
Cockatiels are beautiful birds native to Australia and are known for their distinctive crest, which responds to their emotions. This watch design incorporates the beautiful lines and plumage of a cockatiel with Cartier's trademark jeweled accents. The soft colors of the watch work beautifully with the striking figure of the cockatiel swooping over the watch face to create an image of bold, yet sophisticated beauty. The pale pink sapphires on the feathers are a standout feature of this piece and will have you whistling your own happy tune.
Cartier's animal timepieces will drive you wild with their balance of color, jewel, and gorgeous critters. Find the animal that best suits your personality, and let your watch speak-or roar-for itself.

Fashion Jewellery and Its Prominence in The Fashion Industry

Defining the term 'Fashion Jewellery' and its prominence in the fashion industry is often as difficult as it is to distinguish the difference between Fashion Jewellery and Fine Jewellery. Fashion Jewellery can be also referred to as 'Costume Jewellery' defined as a decorative item made from inexpensive metals and semi-precious stones manufactured to essentially compliment a fashion garment or overall fashion look.
Jewellery is one of the oldest inventions created and has played a number of different roles in society. Originally jewellery held an important role in society; it was used mainly as a method of showing wealth and status, as a means of currency and also used symbolically throughout many religions. Back then jewellery was made from precious metals and stones manufactured purely as a piece on its own, a keepsake, collectable and an investment.
It is thought that Coco Chanel, birth mother of the powerhouse fashion brand 'Chanel' first introduced 'Fashion Jewellery' and the concept that jewellery can worn to complete and compliment a particular outfit and/or look, often wearing her own jewellery in such a way. Coco Chanel partnered with Duke Fulco di Verdura, an influential jeweller, to launch the House of Chanel Line. The fashion conscious and wealthy loved the House of Chanel pieces which became very successful, although usually the wealthy were the only people who could afford such creations. Coco Chanel paved the way for jewellery to become accessible to the rest of society with the statement, "it's disgusting to walk around with millions around your neck because one happens to be rich. I only like fake jewellery because it's provocative."
Through Coco Chanel's influence and stance on jewellery as an accessory rather than a commodity as well as industrialisation, the ability to mass produce and the availability of cheaper materials jewellery has had the capacity to become more accessible to a larger demographic, more affordable and has been able to reflect and cater for many different styles, trends and tastes.
Fashion is a fast paced and ever changing industry with many insiders debating whether if at all 'Fashion Jewellery' is in fact considered or even a part of the fashion family. There is no question that there is a huge difference between the jewellery we wear to make a statement or to compliment an outfit and the fine jewellery often bought and worn for sentimental value, that is to last a lifetime. Fine jewellery is made from real gold and silver with precious stones and metals; a piece of fine jewellery can range from a simple gold chain to a stunning diamond necklace and typically these pieces are not considered fashionable or on trend. Fashion Jewellery allows accessories to compliment and to complete outfits to achieve and overall look, with a limited life span measure in seasonal trends. There is no real competition between the two, yes they are both worn as accessories adorned on our bodies but their relevance to fashion is as different as their price tags.
Nothing can compare to the excitement when receiving a gift in a little blue box with a Tiffany & Co bow, Fine jewellery from brands such as Tiffany & Co has a reputation, expectation and relevance within our society, people recognise and appreciate the significance of receiving and owning a piece of jewellery that is not only sentimental but is almost guaranteed to last a lifetime. Fashion Jewellery is just that 'fashion,' it is made to one day become 'unfashionable,' following the ever changing and evolving fashion industry. Fashion jewellery designers look to the catwalks of Paris, New York, London and Milan every year to gain inspiration and to see where fashion will take us next. Fashion jewellery is influenced and created solely for the purpose of fashion.

Handmade Silver Rings and Other Valuable Jewelry Pieces

Silver has remained as valuable as gold in making jewelry like handmade silver rings. If you're thinking of buying rings, here are some things you should know.
What is the value of silver?
Silver is a metallic element used throughout many eras. Various civilizations used these for trade, as ornaments. At some point, it became the basis for various monetary systems. This, in turn, made silver a popular and sought after precious metal.
In fact, the Roman currency's stability relied on silver bullion supply. Back then, the Romans mined it at an unparalleled scale before the supposed discovery of the New World. During those times, peak production reached 200 tons (t) annually.
Various historians gauged that silver was by then 10,000 t. This amount circulated well within the Roman economic system in the mid second century AD. A staggering quantity as this was five to ten times larger than amounts during medieval Europe and other ruling civilizations around 800 AD.
Today, silver still denotes a high value especially on antique items. Many people remain captivated by silverware cutlery or small wine flasks. Allusions to silver still exist, as we continue to use sayings like "born with a silver spoon" or "every cloud has a silver lining."
Handmade jewelry
Custom-made jewelry, like handmade silver rings, are popular pieces given distinct designs by various craft artists. People buying unique rings, necklace or earrings can have custom-made designs for a more personal touch.
Handmade jewelry is a collection of items formed by hand rather than machines. This means each piece received careful attention through skilled designers. They are usually artists in their own right, as these people design, draw and execute finely formed and distinct items.
Compared to mass-produced jewelry, these items have more character. Executed designs in these unique rings can also reflect personal styles and tastes. If jewelers accept personalized designs, this can make rings all the more valuable. Resale value can reach higher prices, too, if displayed on magazines, exhibits or worn by celebrities.
In a way, it also preserves art and artisanship as it encourages people who want to study this craft. This incorporates interest in the trade and makes it a feasible career. It also expands people's imagination as different artists can produce different designs. With each design produced, more people can develop enhanced or original designs in the future.
Can people use silver rings as wedding bands?
Yes, they can. While gold is traditional for this momentous occasion, there's no reason to exclude silver. You can also use these rings in many other events. It's also possible to wear them as daily accessory or for social celebrations requiring certain dress codes.
Handmade silver rings are available in many jewelry stores. If you like online shopping, buying through the Web is also possible. Just make sure to read client agreements for payment and privacy carefully to protect your interest.

Fascinating Faceting

Let me think now. How was it that it began? It was down in Larry Kidner's basement so long ago. I was just nosing around in lapidary at the time. I remember him, the seasoned faceter, showing my new bride and I his faceting machine and his dizzying array of cut gems. The astonishing precision and the in-depth knowledge that would have to be achieved was so intimidating that I couldn't imagine even beginning to be interested in actually setting out to learn it. I was enthralled by his stones but I left his house that day without an inkling that someday I would be faceting as well...
But real life is so much stranger than fiction. As I think back the images come floating by like dandelion seeds on the wind. I see the first little piece of amethyst I bought from Stan Pierson at Western Gem and Mineral and saying to him, " I've been thinking lately I'd like to get into faceting", and he saying, "You should!" and now I see him showing me a large free-form Topaz he had just cut. At that time I had never seen it done and could not fathom how it could be. That kind of repeatable precision, for me, was like the dark side of the moon and it scared me. It seemed that to be able to achieve it must be extraordinarily taxing. I can see that big box sitting there holding my brand new faceting machine. Day after day for a year it sat there before I finally got the courage to take it out of the box.
The light goes on. The diamond lap begins to turn. There is a piece of clear quartz descending for it's first kiss from the surface of the spinning disc and I am feeling like an astronaut on my first lift-off. I guess the first surprise was that the silly thing began grinding just like the book said it would instead of shattering as I imagined it would. Nerves are funny things.
While sitting in that office chair I began a flight through a dimension I had never encountered before; a journey through the microcosm that could be tedious and fascinating at the same time. It was a realm where one struggled like a miser gone mad to save precious material, where concerns were measured by tenths of a millimeter and the yield from those long hours were shown and fawned over again and again.
Today I have a Tanga Garnet I'm working at. I started it when I began this article. I've never seen or cut a Tanga garnet before so I'm very much interested in the result. It was very exciting when I got it as a rounded river worn pebble, a rosy warmth glowing deep within. I'll be reporting on it as we go along. Perhaps one day I'll be able to show it to you. It was like breaking free of the Earth's gravitational pull when we found a good supplier. His price lists were actual color photos of his goods taken in full sunlight and it wasn't just pale amethyst, washed out topaz and small dark garnets. It was glorious flashing hues of red and pink Tourmalines, lifesaver orange Mandarin Garnets and Aquamarine of practically unheard of deep blue. The lush jungle greens of Zambian Emeralds, Diopsides or Tsavorite Garnets. For purples there were dark Amethysts from Zambia and lately Nigeria so deep you could taste the concord grapes. Sapphires from the Umba Mountains in yellow and padparadshah, peach and orange, purple, pink, green and blue, many from there and from Songea having that rare ability to change color with the lighting. Tanzanites would often be available and with these I learned about heat-treating to change themfrom their often-drab natural state to that beautiful royal violet blue. They would go into the sand-filled pottery jar and then into the burnout oven looking sometimes like oddball high-grade Smoky Quartz and come out the next day an astonishing blue. Yield is what I'm after with this Tanga Garnet - Yield and plenty of it. Vargas tells me that 25% is acceptable recovery but I like to average quite a bit higher than that, say high 30% to 45%. My best was almost 53% but that only happened once. The "pavilion" (the pointy part) has gone beautifully. Not a hitch and polished perfectly. I had hoped to get a perfect 14 X 10 oval but it came in slightly smaller than that. No matter. It will still go into a 14 X 10 mounting. That is a bonus because if it is a nonstandard size and shape then I have to go to the gold bench and make a new setting or modify an existing commercial setting. All do-able but if I can save myself the bench-time I will.
And what a feeding frenzy there seemed to be when his lists went out, especially when the Mandarin Garnets were up for grabs. Ihad just gotten a list and the photos were liberally sprinkled with the bright orange gems. I was hearing busy signals but I just kept hitting the redial button. "Hello!" "Well hello there! You must be busy!" "Yes Allan, we sure are!" "Do you have any Mandarins left?" "Only three!" "Well I'll take them!" And that was how it was. I never knew when I called if there would be anything worthwhile left. I would choose the numbers I wanted but I always had a few backup choices ready. If I got each one I had chosen I would consider myself fortunate indeed. It happened that way once. When I called I was told I was the first to call from North America. I had beaten the Western Hemisphere! Cool!
The Tanga Garnet has been transferred to another stick now so that I can begin work on the "crown". The color is probably going to be a fuchsia from what I can see so far. Even now with the top still in the rough grind it is close to breathtaking. All of the facets are laid onto the top except for the table facet. I was a little concerned about a shiny line in the upper portion of the stone in case it should be a crack but I was able to cut below it as I was laying in the star facets - those just around the table. I have been asked why I didn't go to these countries myself to get rough gems. Well one reason is simply that I couldn't afford it but for another, even if I did have the money for such a venture, when I got there what would I be? I would be just another inexperienced tourist unable to speak the language of the country or the local dialect. I would have to make contacts with the right people and establish a trust with them and then, should such a miracle happen, I would have to do a volume of business with them which would persuade them to show me their best etc. etc. I believe it would be just as profitable for me to appear before the locals with a sign round my neck, written in their dialect of course, saying, " Hi, I am incredibly naïve. Bring me to your chief for I would make "speak speak" with him and he has probably never seen anyone in such need of a good fleecing as I am. Run along now, there's a good chap, and be quick about it. Opportunity like this does not come every day."
No thanks! My supplier has been doing this for over forty years and I consider it just good business to pay for his expertise. The stones come from the miner to him to me. Only one middleman. That's not bad. The Tanga Garnet has been finished now. I have a rose in my garden called a "Winnipeg Parks". It is an excellent hot pink, which is about the color of the Tanga. The cut is an easy one called a Lazy Oval and appears to be superlative for light return. The stone looks flawless to me. My recovery was over 43% coming in at 5.99 carats. I don't know what it is worth. I'm no gemologist; I just like to cut stones!

Give the Gift of a Citizen Watch This Valentine's Day

If you have decided to treat your sweetheart to a watch this Valentine's Day, then choose a watch with a documented history of success. Choose a Citizen watch - one of the largest watchmakers in the world and a definite industry leader.
The Citizen Watch Company, founded in 1930, came to life at a time when the wrist watch was all the rage. Everyone wanted one. Citizen, one of the first to target its wrist watches to the masses, thought the name said it all: a watch for the citizens.
More than 80 years later, Citizen Watch Company still offers something for everyone: functional, fashionable and affordable timepieces. And along the way, the company has racked up several firsts in the industry:
In 1956, Citizen made the first shock-resistant watch ever manufactured by a Japanese company and the first Japanese-manufactured water resistant watch
It created the very first professional dive watch that could electronically sense depths
It manufactured the slimmest LCD watch and the world's thinnest light-powered watch, the Stiletto
It created the first voice recognition watch
And Citizen still leads the industry in light-powered watches that run on natural and artificial light as power sources.
Citizen watches have plenty of choices for men and women.
Men's watches
Start with a classic like the Citizen Men's Classic Eco-Drive bracelet watch in silver-tone stainless steel. Because it has a quart movement and solar-powered battery, this watch will never need a new battery. The round case surrounds a white dial with bold, black Arabic numerals at all hour positions and a date window at 3:00. The luminous hour and minute hands keep you on time, day and night. The 8½-inch bracelet has a fold-over clasp. It is water resistant to 330 feet.
You will find the Citizen Men's Eco-Drive Quartz Diamond Accent Black Dial Two-tone Stainless Steel Bracelet Watch a bit dressier, but still a classic for any man. The first thing you notice is the two-tone silver and gold bracelet, set off by a gold-tone bezel set with diamond accents. The next thing you will notice is the striking black dial, with gold-tone markers at all hour positions and a date window at 3:00. It has luminous gold-tone hour and minute hands and a sweeping silver-tone second hand. This watch also comes with a solar-powered battery that charges under any form of light. The 8½-inch bracelet closes with a push button deployant. It, too, is water resistant to 330 feet.
Step it up with the Citizen Men's WR 100 Eco-Drive Quartz Chronograph watch. It is a heftier looking watch, with several more functions - all combined in a sleek gunmetal and gold-tone bracelet and case. The black dial features three subdials and a date window at 3:00. Around the dial are luminous gold-tone markers at each hour positions. It features luminous gold-tone hour and minute hands, as well as a second hand. This beauty is also solar-powered, using any form of light. The 8½-inch bracelet features a deployant clasp. It is water resistant to 330 feet.
Women's watches
They call this a sport watch, but the Citizen Women's Eco-Drive Silhouette Sport watch is as attractive as it is functional. Designed with a two-tone gold and silver stainless steel bracelet, it features a round stainless steel case with a gold-tone bezel. On the dial are gold-tone Arabic numerals at 12:00, 6:00 and 9:00, with markers at the remaining hours - except at 3:00 where you will find a date window. The solar-powered watch charges in any form of light. It comes with a generous 8½-inch bracelet and is water resistant to 330 feet.
For a sophisticated look, try the Citizen Women's Eco-Drive Diamond Accent watch. The brushed silver stainless steel bracelet and case are set off by a striking round, black dial with diamond index markers at all hour positions, except 3:00, where you will find the date window. It has luminous silver-tone hour and minute hands that shine brightly against the black dial. It too features a solar battery, meaning you will never need to buy a new battery for this beauty. The bracelet is 7½ inches. It is water resistant to 99 feet.
For a very different look, check out the Citizen Women's Eco-Drive Silhouette Quartz watch with its two-tone stainless steel bracelet. The slimline gold- and silver-tone link bracelet sets off the rectangular case, also created in gold- and silver-tone. You will find gold-tone Arabic numerals at the quarter hours and markers at the remaining positions. Everything about this solar-powered watch appears petite and elegant. The 7½-inch bracelet closes with a push button, foldover clasp. It is water resistant to 99 feet. No matter what your taste, there is a Citizen watch that is right for you.

Go Mod With a Rado Watch

Like many famous watchmakers, Rado began as a manufacturer of watch movements. These precise internal mechanisms are what powered all timepieces before the advent of electronic modules. The company was founded by three brothers in Switzerland in 1917. It soon became a top supplier of movements in a country that was known as the center of the watch world. But that was not enough for the founders of Rado. After four decades of producing watch movements, they decided to introduce a collection of high-end timepieces.
Released in 1962, the Rado Diastar was the first ever scratch-proof watch. Even more important than this achievement was the fact that the watch gave the company direction. They were no longer simply a maker of luxury watches; they used innovative techniques and new materials that had never been seen before in the trade. While other watchmakers were using familiar metals like gold and stainless steel, Rado was experimenting with tungsten, titanium carbide, lanthanum and ceramics.
Why did they focus so intensely on materials? Because luxury watches should be made of sterner stuff. They should be at home in almost any environment. Rado timepieces were designed for men with active lifestyles who didn't want to worry about their accessories. It is for this reason that they became the market leader in scratch-proof watches.
It is also important to note that Rado watches are quite expensive. They start at around $700 and go all the way up to about $28,000. Something that pricey should be built to last, since it is a substantial investment for almost anyone. Because they are highly scratch-resistant, most used timepieces from Rado look nearly new, which is why they are often passed to the next generation. When you buy one of their watches you are making an investment in a family heirloom that will likely tick on long after you are gone.
The company continued to push the boundaries of function and design even after the Quartz Revolution of the 1970s. The introduction of a new digital technology forced many luxury watchmakers to either fold up shop or change directions. But Rado refused to abandon the project that had come to define them. In fact, they doubled down on scratch-proof technology at a time when most of their peers were playing it safe.
Even though digital watches were all the rage, Rado released some of their most popular and innovative models in the 1980s. Their first scratch-proof watch with a bracelet that was made of incredibly hard and remarkably light ceramics was introduced in 1986. The ceramic bracelet became a popular option in many subsequent Rado models.
Another major milestone was reached in 1996, when Rado revealed their first ladies' watch. Though it had always been known and promoted as a brand for men, the use of new materials gave them the ability to design a strong and attractive watch for women. The DiaQueen combines gold, diamonds and ceramics in a stunning scratch-proof timepiece that has gained a loyal following.
As important as raw materials are, Rado also showed that it could create interesting and innovative new designs. Released in 1999, the Rado Cerix featured a modish spiral-shaped bracelet that was naturally paired with superior materials to usher in a new generation of luxury watches.
The company's most celebrated achievement occurred in 2004, when they unveiled the V10K. Named the hardest watch on earth by the Guinness Book of World Records, it was created by transforming carbon into a nano-crystalline diamond that earned an incredible hardness number of ten thousand! The timepiece was the tangible culmination of everything the company had been working for since its inception. But that didn't mean Rado was done. They continue to design unique timepieces for luxury watch lovers everywhere. Now known the world over, Rado is on the top tier of the luxury market along with manufacturers like clock and Breitling.
Though they are not as well-known as some of their competitors, Rado has received more than two dozen international design awards in a relatively short period of time. Remember, they have only been making watches for a little over half a century. Many of their peers have been around for twice, even three times as long.
Rado continues to raise eyebrows and push the limits of what a timepiece can do. Their newer models offer striking design features that were not present in their earlier watches. Instead of classic simplicity and elegance, these watches are modern, even futuristic. Some watch lovers adore them and others prefer earlier models. But at the end of the day, the important thing is that Rado continues to experiment with new styles, materials and designs.

Hamilton Watches: Fashion and Function

Looking to buy a new watch? You'll want to make sure it checks the "two F's" off the list: fashion and function. When it comes to purchasing a timepiece, the two go hand in hand. You don't want a watch that's purely fashionable, because you do need to be able to tell time - but you also don't want a watch that's purely functional, because let's face it, there's nothing cute about an obnoxious, ugly, clunky watch weighing down the rest of your outfit. How do you find the watch that perfectly toes the line between form and function? Enter Hamilton Watches, where fashion and function come together to create beautiful timepieces you'll love to wear. Known as the "American brand since 1892", Hamilton has long been creating chic, stylish timepieces for both men and women. The story begins over 100 years ago, with the birth of the Hamilton Watch Company in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. There, the company's first series of pocket watches, the Broadway Limited series, quickly became known as the Watch of Railroad Accuracy. By 1914, the brand had taken off, and was supplying watches to the US Armed Forces. In the 1930s, the brand became known as the official watch of many airlines, and halted production of consumer watches during World War II in order to provide US army forces with a total of one million watches throughout the war effort.
It's clear that the brand has a uniquely American story - they've long been supplying watches to pilots, soldiers, and consumers alike, and have continued to innovate along the way. In the late fifties, the brand introduced the world's first battery-powered watch, which they christened the Ventura. It quickly sold out across the globe, and was worn by superstar Elvis Presley in his film Blue Hawaii. These days, the brand is still going strong, combining their American roots of Lancaster with the latest innovations in Swiss movements and technology. The company churns out watch after watch, for both men and women - showcasing designs that are timeless, classic, and at once totally modern. Meanwhile, the relatively affordable price tag on the watches make them attainable for the average Joe, while offering the prestige and excitement that comes with saving up for an investment piece.
Looking to find a great watch for your man? Hamilton Watches, a uniquely American brand, offer a bevy of choices for your guy. A general favorite is the Hamilton Men's Thinomatic Swiss Automatic Black Dial Leather Strap Watch, which packs a powerful punch of style thanks to a marbled leather strap and black and silver-toned face. A round, stainless steel case and back encase a deep, shiny black dial upon which luminescent silver-tone Arabic numerals can be found, alongside hour markers. Meanwhile, a date window can be found at 3:00. This watch, powered by Swiss Automatic movement, is a great everyday piece. It's perfect for the office with a button down and khakis, but won't look overly casual with a three-piece suit. Wear it once, wear it twice, wear it every day - this Hamilton timepiece perfectly marries form and function.
Another great everyday option is the Hamilton Men's Timeless Classic Swiss Automatic Black Dial Leather Strap Watch. This timeless timepiece is simple but chic, and is a great option for a day on the golf course or a family vacation with the wife and kids. You'll find a stainless steel case and back with a simple but stylish leather strap that emphasizes the "function" over the "form." Inside the black face of the watch, silver-tone hour and minute hands are illuminated, and operate via Swiss Automatic movement, making this an easy watch to take care of.
Looking for something a bit more flashy? The Hamilton Men's Khaki Navy Below Zero Divers Swiss Automatic Brown Leather Strap Watch is a statement making piece that emphasizes both fashion and function equally. Powerful and strong, this hefty watch features a round rose gold-tone stainless steel case and back with a diving mask. A brown VD coated unidirectional rotating bezel features luminescent markers while a screw down crown puts the minutes at your fingertips. Stay in control and on time, and look totally chic while doing it - with this amazing watch from Hamilton. Rose gold is often seen as a women's metal, but it's actually a great option for men as well, especially when paired with a masculine deep brown shade. Think cigar smoke scented libraries laden with old books, and a good bottle of whiskey - that's the kind of life this watch evokes. Want to live it for yourself? You'll have to purchase the Below Zero Divers Watch, but rest assured, you won't regret your purchase. This is a watch that won't just stand the test of time, but will help you appear stylish, powerful, and in the know every time you wear it. If that's not fashion and function, what is?

Proper Care For Your Breitling Watches

When you're spending a fortune on a watch, it's not just a watch. It becomes an investment piece, a memento, an expenditure that may break the bank but will be worth it in the end. Plunking down a heft load of cash for a timepiece means you want to make it'll stand up to the elements - and pass the test of time. No one wants their beautiful Breitling watch to lose its sheen or stop operating within a few years time. If you take good care of your watch, it's sure to end up lasting years and years, so you can pass it on to your son at his college graduation, looking just as good as the day you first bought it.
Here's the thing with watches. Though small, they're exceptionally complicated and well though out - they're like teeny tiny machines, which means that they must be cleaned thoughtfully and carefully. A watch is an object of beauty, and should be treated as such. Generally, standard watch maintenance includes safeguarding the movement, protecting the watch from water damage or breakage, and cleaning the case and the band to help it stay in tiptop shape. If you're caring for a watch with manual mechanical movement, you've got a bit less to worry about. You'll want to ensure that you wind the watch at least once a day, at the same time each day, and stop winding it as soon as you feel a bit of resistance. This helps to keep the spring at maximum tension. Watches with automatic movement are even easier - they need only be wound once every two weeks, especially if you wear them daily (which most of us do).
The watches that require the most care are the ones with quartz movements, and not unluckily for you, Breitling watches fall into this category. Watches with quartz movement generally require that you remove worn out batteries every few years, replacing them with new ones, in order to ensure that your watch stays in full operating condition. Perhaps more importantly, however, whenever you wear your Breitling watch, you're going to want to avoid equipment that create a strong magnetic field, as well as extreme temperatures. What does this mean? It means you'll want to remove your watch before you walk through the metal detector at the airport, and that you'll want to take it off before you dive into the pool or hop into the shower. Hot tubs and saunas are also no fine place for your Breitling, as they can screw with the movement and mess with the casing. Think of your watch as something delicate - it can handle day to day wear, but you want to treat it well - and you should want to! You spent enough money on it, after all.
Many luxury watchmakers, including Breitling, advise that you send your watch in for a complete movement overhaul every five years in order to keep your watch performing in the best condition. In most cases, this requires taking your timepiece to an authorized dealer. While this might cost a bit of money, it's the best way to keep your Breitling watch in prime operating condition, and it's worth it, considering the investment you made in purchasing the watch itself.
One last thing to remember: your Breitling watch isn't made for regular water usage. Your watch doesn't want to go swimming. Make sure you check your watch for water resistance, as some watches are meant for water wear, while others aren't. Should you ever see bubbles of water under the surface of your watch face, take it to a professional immediately. When it comes to day to day care, clean your watch every so often with a soft cloth - the ones that come in jewelry cleaning kits are advisable. Anything rougher may scratch the surface of your watch, especially the crystal face, which is easily scratched.
So, ready to find your perfect Breitling? Breitling's known for their beautiful, dazzling designs, with Swiss Automatic movement. With stainless steel cases and matching linked bracelets, most Breitling watches feature unidirectional rotating bezels studded with diamonds for extra sheen. Gentlemen, you know what they say...diamonds are a girl's best friend. Get your lady a Breitling and you're off the hook, at least for a little while. Ladies, remember that your Breitling watch is an investment piece, so treat it with respect. Whether you clean and care for your Breitling watch yourself, or pay a little extra to have the professionals take care of things, a Breitling watch that's been paid proper attention is sure to outlast one that hasn't. If you're willing to spend a fortune on a great watch, you should be willing to take care of it as well. What are you waiting for? Get out that cleaning cloth!

Swatch Watches: The Comeback Kid of the Watch World

Looking for a great gift for an upcoming birthday? Why not embrace the comeback kid of the watch world? Swatch Watches were popular in the 1980s, and then fell out of popularity in the 1990s. However, now that the new millennium is upon us, Swatch Watches are back and better than ever. They're the watches everyone wants to wear - because they come with a longstanding, reliable brand behind them. Why does a Swatch watch make a great gift? Swatch watches offer high style for low prices - so you can get a great look without breaking the bank. While some are able to throw down plenty of money on an expensive clock or Breitling watch, most of us aren't able to sacrifice that much of our budget to accessories and clothing. The economy isn't doing too well, not just in America but across the globe, and for this reason, people are tightening their belts and pinching pennies wherever they can, whether it be cutting coupons or buying clothing from thrift stores. All of us are trying to find ways to save money, but that doesn't mean that people don't love a great gift every now and then.
Think of it this way - just because you're saving money doesn't mean you can't live a life you love, or buy the things you want. You simply have to spend in moderation, which is where Swatch comes in. Watches aren't exactly frivolous purchases to begin with; their functionality makes them a standout in the jewelry market. However, in a tight economy, there's no reason to splurge and spend hundreds on a watch when you can buy a stylish, chic, great timepiece from Swatch for under $200. Whether you're shopping for a middle-aged mom or a young daughter, a high-powered businessman or a teenage boy, you can find a great option from Swatch. So, let's set up some options, shall we?
If you're looking for a simple, but sophisticated option for your husband, look no further than the Swatch Men's Irony Quartz Chronograph Dark Gray Stainless Steel Bracelet Watch. A handsome timepiece done in polished gunmetal, this watch features a round plastic case and back encompassing a black chronograph dial that looks way more expensive than it actually is. A date window rests between 8:00 and 9:00, and the Swatch logo is prominently displayed at 12:00. Meanwhile, a superior Quartz movement keeps your watch moving. The dark gray stainless steel encasement and bracelet gives this watch a sophisticated look that he's sure to love. Chic but still casual, this is a watch that he can wear on the golf field or into an important meeting - either way, he's sure to earn the respect he deserves when he has this watch on.
What is the best thing about this particular watch? Your man can choose from a variety of color combinations, including a green color scheme that features a hunter green face and a light green linked chain bracelet, a light grey face with a bright silver bracelet, or a beautiful blue color scheme with a deep blue face and light blue bracelet and exterior case. Any and all of the above options are sure to exude a sense of responsibility and prominence.
Another great option for the man in your life is the Swatch Men's Black Dial and Stainless Steel Bracelet Watch. This bold and stylish watch features a stainless steel case that encompasses a black dial and black accented dial. If black is the color of sophistication, this watch has got sophistication down to a tee. This watch is shock resistant, so it's great for the man who isn't afraid to get his hands dirty - the contractor, the builder, or the guy who cracks the bat to the ball with his guys during the off-season. With three sub-dials and a date display box, this is a masculine watch that gets the job done, thanks to quartz movement that ensures functionality and a design that's as good as it gets.
Let's not forget about the ladies! Though Swatch is typically considered a men's brand, they offer many a great timepiece for women as well. A great example of this is the chic and streamlined Swatch Women's Irony Quartz Pink Leather Strap Watch. With a clean, modern design, this is a watch she's sure to love. Perfect for a birthday gift or anniversary gift, this watch features a round stainless steel case and back, which encompass a gray dial. Arabic numerals mark all hour positions, and the Swatch logo is displayed at 12:00. Meanwhile, quartz movement helps to ensure that the timepiece stays functional.
Stay on time, and look stylish while you do it - with the comeback kid of the watch world. Go ahead, get yourself a Swatch. You won't be sorry you did.

Diverse Reasons to Sell Your Jewelry for Cash

The article will explain to you some tips which would be useful when it comes to how to sell your gold jewelry for cash.
If one comes across a situation when you feel an urge to have a huge amount of money in a short span of time, it is time that you start considering the selling of unwanted gold jewelry which is no longer required. As we are aware of the fact that the price of gold is sky-scraping so, it is right time to sell your gold for a better amount of money. Selling your gold jewelry can really help you overcome your debt that you have been facing for over a period of time.
Why should you sell your jewelry?
There can be numerous reasons which contribute to the fact why you want to get rid of your gold jewelry. To begin with, one of the reasons can be the strong emotional and sentimental feelings that engrossed you in their grace when for the first time you were gifted by your special someone. In case, the pieces had come from someone who had relevance in your life more than anybody else on this massive planet, they can certainly bring an end to the feelings that you strongly had for your treasured one. They bring the curtain down in such a way that you don't have to feel anything about the relation that went sour.
Another reason can be that your jewelry is broken or damaged due to some reason or the other, and you are not using the same for a long period of time. Let's face the fact. Why would not keep it when you are not using it? If you feel like getting the broken jewelry fixed, it would involve a very high price that would burn a hole in your pocket without any reason. It is wise to sell the jewelry because you can use the money to purchase new items.
There are numerous sites available online that help you to sell your jewelry for instant cash. You need to be sure about a website or its services for safe and secure selling of your valuable items. Use your jewelry certifications and billing to be safe during such deals. Sites that offer complete value in return of your valuable possessions need to be trusted in this respect. One can use such sites for getting maximum returns for their valuable items.

How to Sell Your Gold Jewellery for Cash and Earn Maximum Return

During the fluctuations of dollar prices, one may find the gold prices fairly stable or may increase in value which is a good sign of earning a maximum return. Gold is a solid object and so it tends to be less related to the economic woes. It would not be wrong to say that it is a good idea to sell gold jewellery during tough economic times.
With reference to how to sell your gold jewellery for cash, one can acquire assistance of leading online firms that have been offering the best price with the best service. Through this article, the individuals will come to know how such firms assist the people in getting best value of their gold items.
Numerous reputable gold dealers or online firms are available who are known to inspect the gold, check out the quality and weigh the jewellery completely. The price offered by them to purchase gold is based on the weight of the gold and alloy percentage which is indicated by the value of karat as 0k, 14k, 18k, 22k or 24k. That price is not actually the posted traded value but it's a retail value of gold that includes a mark up for the firm or dealer.
It is essential to acquire the assistance of professional and reliable gold dealers or online firms as it is important to know the actual rates of gold in the market before selling it. The price of this metal fluctuates on daily basis and leading firms can offer best value for the metal.
Online firms that provide cash come with the experts who follow right methods and processes of determining the quality, purity and actual weight of gold to serve the clients with full satisfaction. Here, it can be said that the consumers can remain assured of getting their gold products fairly priced.
Considering the determination of gold, the dealers are known to use a scale to inspect gold before offering the cash. Adding to it, they do research through multiple sources to find out the current value of metal in the market.
If you want to sell your jewellery and want to get the best value for it, you should opt for the comparison of at least three online firms. This will assist you in analysing the features of different shops along with their working principles, professionalism and experience as well.
Follow smart methods of selecting the online firms and get best value if you're planning to sell your jewellery for cash.

The Formation of Fancy Color Diamonds

The fancy color diamond is the prince of diamonds. It is estimated that only one fancy color diamond can be found in every 100 thousand diamonds. Therefore, it isn't strange that its value is 200 times that of the common one. It is chased by many people because of its rarity and high value. Today I want to share with you some knowledge about how it forms.
1 Carbonado
Carbonado is formed when the diamond contains too many inclusions and impurities and the sunshine can't get through it. Most of the black diamonds are wrapped by a layer of gray or dark gray substance, so their surfaces are always covered with flaws. It is just these black sulfide substances which make it opaque. Now 600 tons of common diamonds have been mined and sold all over the world, but not one black diamond mine has been found.
2 The yellow diamond
It is also called the canary diamond. When nitrogen atoms replace some carbon atoms contained in the diamond, it will begin to absorb blur and purple rays and then it turns yellow gradually. It may be yellow, gold yellow or amber. The vivid yellow diamond is the rarest and the most precious. The yellow diamond is the most common one among all types of colored diamond.
3 The blue diamond
The blue diamond is clear and transparent. Its color varies from sky blue to deep blue. Among them, the deep blue diamond is the most valuable. It is different from other colored diamonds in that it contains the micro-element boron, so it has conductive property. If the crystal contains the nitrogen impurity, it will look a little bit blue-green.
4 The pink diamond
The formation of pink diamond is due to the deformation of crystal. The light pink diamond and the rose-colored diamond look very shiny and brilliant. They always conjure up images of romantic love. In 1958, Iran King Pahlavi held the wedding ceremony. He wore a splendid crown, on which a huge pink diamond weighing 60 carats was inlaid.
5 The green diamond
The natural green diamond is very rare because its formation requires very complicated conditions. It is acknowledged that the diamond is formed under the high temperature and high pressure environment, but the natural green diamond is usually formed when it exposes to atomic radiation. It isn't formed under high temperature. Even if it is formed under the high temperature, its formation time is short and the temperature is not so high, so its color can't be changed into green thoroughly. Most natural green diamonds contain much nitrogen, so it looks green or light green. However, the color is only on its surface so that it can't shine brilliantly. Therefore, the vivid green diamond is quite valuable.