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Beaded Earrings for 6 E-Personalities Article

Beaded Earrings – Beaded Earrings for 6 E-Personalities!
by SWCreations



Handcrafted Candy Jade Beaded EarringsBeaded earrings are a wonderful gift for the elegant, eclectic, energetic, eccentric, earthy, or eloquent person in your life. There are many personality styles out there, and just as many earrings made out of beautiful beads! Elegant earrings are the first. Beautiful, gentle colors made in many dangling styles to suit even the most equally elegant outfit are available for purchase. These earrings are always designed in a large array of shapes and styles to match nearly any style outfit or level of elegance.

Beaded jewelry in the form of earrings is especially great for the eclectic earring collector. Some of the designs you can find among beaded earrings are incredibly unusual, and are perfect for that one person you know who tends to walk away from the beaten path! You know this friend. She is always wearing bright colors and making bold statements in her accessories. She probably adores artwork as well. The colors available in this type of handcrafted jewelry varies so much that you are sure to find the perfect item! An energetic person is always likely to wear quality handcrafted jewelry that is made out of dangly beads, because energetic people are always expressing themselves flamboyantly!

Beaded jewelry gifts are always in season, and even more so for the eccentric person you know. This quality handcrafted jewelry is also appreciated by the earthy friend or family member that you know. These people truly appreciate things that are handmade. The eloquent person in your life is sure to appreciate the fine quality of this type of handcrafted jewelry and express that back to you when they thank you for this gift. If you are getting beaded earrings for yourself, you are sure to find the colors, styles, shapes, and unique features attractive and never boring.

Beaded earrings are a great gift for yourself or someone you know who is of nearly any personality. This quality handcrafted jewelry is carefully created by loving hands of the jewel and artist, creating a unique set of earrings each and every time. Whether dangly, earthy, sophisticated, fancy, wacky, or fun, you will be sure to love this style of handcrafted jewelry. It never goes out of style, so you will have a set of earrings to weather all of the changes in fashion! Get a few color sets that match a multitude of colors, and you’ll have earrings to last a lifetime!



Attractive Jewelry Extenders Lengthen Beautiful Pieces Article

Jewelry Extenders – Attractive Jewelry Extenders Lengthen Beautiful Pieces
Author: SWCreations


handcrafteddolphinoceannecklacejewelryextender.jpgJewel extenders in the past have often been plain and without an attractive appeal. However, today’s extenders are perfect for fancy pieces of jewelry of all kinds.  The clasp style of these extenders varies greatly so that it will match any handcrafted jewelry you might own that is just not quite long enough to sit well on an outfit perfectly.  Sometimes when you receive beaded jewelry gifts, you might find that it’s not quite long enough, so adding an extender to the quality handcrafted jewelry makes it fit just right. Extenders are perfect for beaded jewelry of all kinds, but especially necklaces.

Today’s jewelry extenders are impressive and very highly attractive.  They are almost like beautiful beaded jewelry themselves, and add a little something special to that too short necklace you own.  Whether for every day wear or a special event, an extender that itself is a fine piece of quality handcrafted jewelry is best.  You can find extenders in a variety of beadwork, including freshwater pearls, glass beads, cubic zirconia, and Swarovski Austrian crystals.  These can make a fine addition to your beaded jewelry.  This is a very cost effective way to make your jewelry fit just right.

There are a surprising number of jewelry extenders you can get as well.  You can get just about any type of extender.  You can buy extenders for bracelets, which is great because everyone has seen a tiny bracelet that is simply too small for some wrists.  Another good type of extender is anklet extenders.  Anklets are so attractive, so it’s really disappointing when you have one that’s too small. Gold anklet and necklace extenders are also available at a very reasonable price.  Of course, necklace extenders are the most popular form, and are very helpful when you have a fine piece of quality handcrafted jewelry that isn’t quite long enough.

Jewelry extenders are a great option to lengthen just about any form of jewelry on a chain and using an extender of equally fine handcrafted jewelry quality is important.  Since you can get an extender for your necklace, anklet, or bracelet in just about any matching material, why wouldn’t you get that inexpensive extender and enhance your handcrafted jewelry and its appearance when you wear it?  Extenders are made of the same materials, whether it is beads, pearls, gold, or even find items such as cubic zirconia or Swarovski crystals!  Extenders make your beaded jewelry and non-beaded jewelry work well for you!



Beaded Anklets - Less Common Always Popular

Beaded Anklets – Beaded Anklets Great Gift for Others or Yourself!
Author: SWCreations


Handcrafted Beaded AnkletsOne very popular piece of jewelry that’s always popular and less common is the anklet.  It adds a little something special to the warm weather wardrobe that a necklace simply cannot do.  There are a lot of styles available to get when you are shopping for beaded anklets.  When choosing an anklet for purchase, you will need to consider several types, including designer anklets, beach anklets, and the various sizes of anklets.  These sizes are 8-9 inch, 9-10 inch, 10-11 inch, and 11-12 inch.  It not a bad idea to measure your ankle or the ankle of the person for whom you are buying the anklet prior to purchase.

When choosing beaded anklets for designer wear, consider the personality of the person who will wear this anklet.  Are they into art, or do they enjoy solid colors?  Do they like a huge variety of colors, or prefer monochromatic color schemes?  Choices vary greatly depending on these factors.  Some anklets are designed with cute little dangling charms while others are plainer.  Some of them even feature artistic-looking beads to enhance their beauty and charm.  Quality handcrafted jewelry such as this is hard to find, and you’ll want to give the very best if this is a gift item.

Another anklet type to choose is the beach anklet.  These are ideal for a day by the pool or ocean.  When lounging in the sun, these swivel and snap beaded anklets won’t fall off and will stay securely attached to the ankle.  Brass and nickel are ideal materials to make the swivels out of so that they withstand the environment that they will be in.  This type of beaded jewelry is very popular and makes great beaded jewelry gifts!  There are many color combinations to choose from, and the use of Swarovski crystals is an option on these.  No doubt anyone wearing an attractive beaded anklet at the beach will get a lot of attention when they have on the anklet that matches their personality well.

Giving the gift of quality handcrafted jewelry is easy when you choose beaded anklets!  Whether your recipient is more into designer choices or is more of a beach-lover, they are sure to love this item.  If it is for yourself, you are sure to love the quality and craftsmanship that go into each and every one.  Beaded jewelry is a jewelry trend that never dies.  It is one of those universal styles that are always in, so you’ll never have to worry about your piece going out of style. 



Fashion Trends for Spring and Summer 2010 Article

Fashion Forward for 2010
Author: Paul Buchanan


Sunset Jade Handcrafted Beaded EarringsWinter is ultimately an enjoyable season; cosy nights in with friends, mulled wine and wrapping up warm. When January comes around the sunny days may still seem like a far way off but get dreaming about all the new fashion bits and bobs you will need for the sunnier spring and summer days and any winter woes will melt away.

There are a number of different pieces and looks to see you through spring and summer in style and you can mix and match whatever you wish to create your own individual look.

Shorts are a continuing trend from 2009 with hotpants and boy shorts taking centre stage in 2010. These shorter than short styles are revealing so if there was ever a time to hit the gym, spring 2010 could be perfect! Team with tights to see you through any unexpected cold days and go bare legged when the temperature rises.

Things are certainly looking up for hemlines generally in 2010 - skirts are creeping up the thigh and bottom-revealing bloomers, also known as hotpantaloons, which first appeared in New York have since spread across the fashion cities with head spinning speed.

Sticking to the bottom half, patterned trousers are getting a look in. There is no need to stick to boring block colours on your lower half as a whole host of different trouser prints have made their way onto the spring runways. From floral and bold to striped and subdued you can take your pick from all that’s on offer.

Playsuits have made a comeback. Every so often, one-piece styles of clothing have a revival and the bodysuits and leotards so popular in 2009 have developed into jumpsuits and playsuits for 2010.

Another trend from 2009 that is still holding ground into 2010 is the “boyfriend” blazer. Having one of these in your wardrobe can cure many a fashion fracas and offers an easy way to look chic whether on a fresh spring day or mild summer's night.

The spring/summer story to steal womens fashion headlines is the obsession with nude hues and tones. The vast majority of catwalk shows opened with nude, ice-cream colours, turning the attention to the cut and drapery of the cloth as opposed to eye-popping colours.

The summer of 2009 featured lots of colour blocking whereas spring and summer 2010 focus on subtle tones like nude with peach or grey with icy blue.

White is always a trend for summer but 2010 is going all the way so expect it to be a washout – bleached cotton can be tailored for a masculine feel or ruffled for a more feminine look. Sheer fabric is another big style statement for 2010. Keep it sheer, nude, soft and feminine and you can’t go wrong.

With fashion styles picked out for the year ahead it's possible to start planning your wardrobe for the months ahead - whether that means hitting the sales or adjusting what you already have is up to you.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/clothing-articles/fashion-forward-for-2010-1669906.html



Bloodstone and Jasper - March Birthstone Gemstones Article

Mystical Birthstones – Bloodstone and Jasper
Author: Imran ali


Fancy Jasper Gemstone Beaded NecklaceAmong the mystical birthstones, bloodstone and jasper are associated with the months of February and October respectively. Both these gemstones are unique and beautiful. They have different healing powers and are also used in contemporary jewelry designs. Bloodstone is also known as green jasper but it comes with blood red spots or veins and hence the name bloodstone. It is not very expensive and therefore used in affordable jewelry articles including pendants, rings and earrings. This stone is particularly used in men’s rings in which it is combined with other gemstones to give an individual look. The beautiful green color looks lovely with gold, silver and platinum. 

Bloodstone is also considered a jewel of the month March in traditional and Ayurvedic astrology. As such it is believed to have certain healing powers associated with it like it cures hemorrhages and blood circulation problems. Powdered bloodstone is used as a medicine in India and many other parts of the world. This magical stone was used in ancient times in Egypt and some other civilizations as a supernatural object to defeat enemies. Bloodstone is commonly known to increase strength and power and also used as a healing stone for the cure of sports injuries and joint problems. 

The gemstone of February is also used in Ayurvedic healing. Ayurveda revolves around five elements of life – earth, water, fire, air and space. Bloodstone represents fire and earth and therefore considered a very powerful stone in Ayurvedic astrology. The stone gives an appearance of a red sun setting in the sea which looks beautiful. Bloodstone also has a calming effect on the nerves and can cure uneasiness and discomfort. Other popular Ayurvedic birthstones include agate, ruby, sapphire, topaz, diamond, garnet and amethyst. Among these ruby, diamond, and sapphire are also used in the king of planetary talismans – the navaratna. 

Jasper comes in different colors ranging from red to brown. This is also one of the popular birthstones in ancient times and was believed to have many mystical influences on the wearer. Black jasper is a beautiful variety of this gemstone and is often used in contemporary jewelry designs. These semi-precious stones are used as beads in beautiful jewelry articles including handmade bracelets, necklaces and rings. The beads are also sold on wholesale and come very inexpensive. They can be used for all kinds of jewelry making projects. Jasper is believed to heal stomach disorders and pregnancy-related complications. 

Jasper has many varieties including leopard skin jasper and poppy jasper. Leopard skin jasper is lovely and strong. It is connected with spiritual enrichment and religious values. Since jasper comes in many exciting colors, it can have a positive effect on our emotions and the way we think. Poppy jasper can help in relaxation. Both these birthstones have special mystical powers and can be worn as beautiful ornaments. They are affordable jewels and are often used as beads in colorful bracelets and chokers. If you also believe in the healing powers associated with various gemstones, check out these beautiful and mystical stones.  

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/jewelry-articles/mystical-birthstones-bloodstone-and-jasper-644378.html

About the Author: Please visit our site for full information like history, designs, types, buying tips, caring tips, cleaning tips, importance and all other important aspects of all Jewellery items and its different types and designs. You will find tons of articles on all popular jewellery designs and types like Birthstones.



Aquamarine - March Birthstone Gemstone Article

Aquamarine – March's Gemstone of Ocean Dreams
Author: Sarah Stephens

Handcrafted Aquamarine Crystal Beaded EarringsAquamarine is a semi-precious gemstone frequently incorporated into some of the most modern, beautiful handmade jewelry in the world. It is most often found in shades of clear ocean blue, and is widely recognized as the March Birthstone and the gemstone for the 18th anniversary. But beyond its modern-day uses and associations, aquamarine holds a decadent mythological, spiritual and etymological history that adds nostalgic value to its already strong aesthetic worth. Read on for more information that will help you fall in love with your aquamarine jewelry – or inspire you to buy some today!

The beautiful Aquamarine is semi-precious, a light greenish blue to a vibrant blue variety of the species beryl, which makes it a relative of the Emerald.  The name Aquamarine is derived from Latin, meaning seawater. "Aqua" translates to water and "marina" translates to sea. This seems especially appropriate for aquamarine's barely-there icy blue tones to intense greenish-blue tones, reminiscent of the sea. Also believed to embody the spirit of the sea, it has been regarded as a symbol of purification, ever-lasting youth, and happiness.

The sparkling tones and light blue hues are said to evoke feelings of trust, harmony and sympathy. The unique blues that the Aquamarine displays are said to represent eternity and life-giving properties, since it is, after all, the color of both the sea and the skies.  

Aquamarine gemstones look best as parts of formal evening jewelry when paired with Black Onyx, black pearls or dark blue sapphire. More casual combinations include lighter, bridal colored combinations with quartz, raw diamonds or pearls. To see a selection of handmade artisan jewelry featuring aquamarine, click here. Aquamarine is typically considered a sophisticated gemstone that works well with any outfit. In earrings, it works especially well to enhance the luster of blue or green eyes.

According to legend, Aquamarine originated in a treasure chest for mermaids. Throughout history, Roman fisherman have used aquamarine as protection from the water, as the gemstone is believed to lend strength and confidence. Aquamarine's powers are said to develop best if the stone is immersed in sun-drenched water. Carrying aquamarine is also believed to guarantee a happy marriage, making the owner not only happy, but wealthy as well.

Mostly mined in Brazil, China, and Pakistan, Aquamarine is the designated birthstone for the month of March. It is also the zodiac sign Pisces assigned gem, and for the18th anniversary.  This gem is often cut into faceted shapes, smooth cabochons, beads and carvings.

Mohs' Hardness score is based on a 10 point scale where 10 is the most resistant, like a diamond, and 1 is easily scratched, such as Talc. Aquamarine gets a score of 7.5-8, meaning that it is quite scratch resistant and therefore suitable as a component of jewelry. Aquamarine gemstones should be regularly cleaned by a professional or with a soft rag and mild soap and water or an ultra-sonic cleaner. Avoid solvents and harsh chemicals when cleaning your handcrafted jewelry as exposure to these elements can damage semi-precious and precious gemstones and pearls.

Learn more about all semi-precious gemstones, including amethyst, apatite, black onyx, blue topaz, carnelian, chalcedony, citrine, coral, garnet, white topaz, crystal, diamond, emerald, iolite, jade, Labradorite, moonstone, pearl, peridot, prehnite, rose quarz, ruby, sapphire, smokey topaz, tanzanite, tourmaline and tourquoise when you check out this gemstone chart.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/jewelry-articles/aquamarine-marchs-gemstone-of-ocean-dreams-270891.html



The Facts about Domestic Abuse Article

The Facts about Domestic Abuse
written for SWCreations by Lisa Vella


Belittling, humiliation, beating, stalking, rape—these are all tragedies that occur with domestic abuse. Isolation, injury, depression, and low self-esteem are the direct results. Domestic abuse, also known as spousal abuse, is a serious problem in the United States. According to the American Institute on Domestic Violence, 5.3 million women are abused each year in the US, every nine seconds a woman is beaten, and every year 1,232 women are killed by an intimate partner.

Domestic abuse occurs when one person in an intimate relationship or marriage tries to dominate over the other in some way. Men and women can both be abusers; however, women are five to eight times more likely to be the abused. Despite what some may think it does not happen due to a lack of control on behalf of the abuser. Domestic abuse is a choice the abuser makes based on his need to exert power and control over his partner. For example, he often considers and even plans out scenarios for the next abusive encounter. He chooses to hurt his partner in areas where others will not see the bruises. He stops abusing to appear completely in control in situations where he might be caught.

Most often, abuse occurs in cycles and being familiar with that cycle may help you or someone you know escape from a bad situation. The cycle always begins with abuse, which can be psychological, physical, sexual, or economic. After the abuse occurs, the abuser feels guilt, but not about what he has done to his partner. His main concern lies with being caught. He rationalizes or makes excuses for what he has done, often accusing his partner of pushing him to do it.

In order to regain control over the relationship and keep his partner from leaving, he then reverts to “normal behavior.” He may pretend that he did nothing at all, or he may treat his partner like gold—causing her to feel that there really is hope for a happy life together. This is often referred to as the honeymoon phase. Once normalcy is reestablished, the abuser begins to fantasize and plan out the next time he will abuse his partner. He creates a plan, a set-up, which his victim will fall into so that he has what he thinks is a legitimate excuse to abuse her again. Then the cycle starts all over again.

There are many signs to look for that indicate whether you or someone you know may be a victim of domestic abuse. There are those based on inner feelings and those based on the abusive partners behaviors.

Signs of abuse based on your own inner feelings:

· Fear of partner

· Fear of angering partner

· Feelings that you deserve to be mistreated

· Feelings of helplessness

· Feeling that you are the crazy one

Signs of abuse based on abusive partners behaviors:

· Partner humiliates and criticizes you frequently

· Ignores you or makes you feel like your input is not valuable

· Blames you for his own abusive behavior

· Threatens to leave you

· Threatens to commit suicide if you leave

· Threatens to take your children away

· Acts overly jealous or possessive

· Controls where you are going and who you are going with

· Limits your access to money, or transportation

· Constantly checks up on you

If you or someone you know is a victim of abuse, the cycle can and must be broken. Nobody deserves to be mistreated, and help is available. The only way to break the cycle is to leave. Many women think that is impossible, but it isn’t. There are a lot of government or privately funded agencies that will help find shelter for women and their children as well as protect them from a dangerous partner. Other sources are 24-hour hotlines, shelters, legal services, and counseling. These services are often free. Always remember that if you are in a dangerous situation you can dial 911.

Domestic abuse is a terrible thing, but it’s important to remember that nobody has to endure it—and nobody ever should. It’s a condition that is growing ever prevalent in the United States and no two cases are exactly the same. It comes in many forms and each is painful, scarring, and immobilizing in its own way. If you are a victim or you suspect you know someone who is, then reach out and break the cycle right away.



Work at Home Mom Article

Work at Home Mom - WAHM
by Stephanie A White

Working from home can be a very rewarding job. It is such a gift to be able to see your kids off to school and be there when they return home. There are more than 10 million Work at Home mothers ranging from your crafty mom to your data entry computer job mom. With gas prices still on the rise you might welcome not having the daily commute and shelling out all that money.

If you are currently looking for something to do from home you need to be on the alert for the Work at Home scams. Just remember that old saying, “If it looks too good to be true, it probably is.” If they are asking you for money to help you find a position this should be a red flag. Real opportunities do exist, but you will have to exercise discretion to determine if the position is real or a scam. This would be an excellent time to have your guard up and take the time to do the research. After all anyone, even scam artists, can build a presentable convincing website these days.

These are some good tips and words of caution:

  • If they are asking for money, NEVER send money; legitimate recruiters or employers will never ask you for money.
  • Check and see if the opportunity comes from a real website. If you are not familiar with the company do some additional research.
  • Look through websites to locate information about the company, such as; address, email, and telephone number. You may have to do a Whois.net search to see detailed contact information.
  • Filling out the forms could be a scam to get your email address, so be sure you thoroughly do your homework on every website, before giving out your personal information.
  • Watch out for the ‘Act Now!’ statements. Although you do not want to miss out on an opportunity, be patient no legitimate company will hire you on the spot.
  • If the income they promise seems too incredible or they promise you will only have to work a few hours a week, be very cautious. This is one of those ‘too good to be true’ red flags.

A good place to start is to determine what your areas of interest are. Also, what fields are you experienced in? The odds are if you like what you do you will probably enjoy doing it more. Someone once said “if you love what you do, the money will follow”, and I can attest to that statement. If you are starting your own business it can take 2-3 years to get the business off the ground. Starting an online business can be very rewarding but will still require work and research to climb to the top of the search engines. It is possible to create a successful internet business that requires less overhead.

 

If your Work at Home business does become successful you will have to learn how to balance working from home with managing your family. It is possible to use a content management system to build just about any type of online business. The content management software programs require a learning curve, but they are easier to manage on the day to day basis. In the beginning you will have more than enough time to expand your topics of interest although as your business grows you may find it is more than one person can handle. Unless your company is producing enough to hire outside help you will want to avoid spreading yourself too thin; after all there is only so much one person can do in one day and still have time for her family.

 
http://workathomesuccess.com/scamalert.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Work_at_home



Flowers And Jewelry - Crash Course For Guys
Flowers And Jewelry: Crash Course For Guys
 - by Adrian Adams -

flowerimage2.jpgEvery man knows that women love receiving flowers and jewelry, yet often they feel unequipped when it comes to purchasing these gifts. Knowing a bit about the symbolic meaning behind these items can come in handy when it is time to show off your romantic skills. There are appropriate times to give certain flowers and different flowers have different meanings. The next time you purchase flowers for the woman in your life, pick out one that truly expresses your feelings. Combine those flowers with a poem and you are sure to melt her heart. Likewise, it is understandably known that women love and appreciate jewelry at any time of the year. However, understanding the symbolism behind giving certain types of jewelry due to the year of an anniversary can make your gift a bit more special and dear to her heart. Also, choosing birthstones for your selected piece of jewelry also shows that you took the time to give the woman in your life a carefully selected and chosen piece. It is also important to realize that certain gemstones have been attributed certain characteristics for thousands of years; choosing to give jewelry gifts based upon gemstones characteristics is another wonderful idea.

Flowers and their Meanings

Here is a list of flowers and their symbolic meanings. You can use this list the next time your purchase a bouquet for the woman in your life. It is also a great idea to combine various flowers based upon their symbolism and create a unique personalized bouquet for the woman that you love. Simply choose the flowers then request them from your local or favorite florist.

Acacia- concealed love or pure friendship
Agapanthus- secret love or love letters
Amaryllis- splendid beauty or pride
Anemone- expectations or forsaken
Apple Blossoms- good fortune or prosperity
Aster- elegance and daintiness
Azalea-Chinese symbol for womanhood, first love, and temperance
Baby's Breath- innocence
Bachelor Button- single blessedness, hope
Begonia- fanciful nature, beware, caution
Bells of Ireland- good luck
Bird of Paradise Magnificent, splendor, majesty
Calla Lily- Majestic beauty
Red Carnation- my heart aches for you
Pink Carnation- Mother's love
White Carnation- adorable
Red Chrysanthemum- love
Daffodil- you are the only one
Dahlia- elegance
Daisy- innocence
Day Lily- Chinese symbol for mother
Fern- magic, fascination
Forget-Me-Not- memories, remembrance
Freesia- innocence
Gardenia- secret love
Hibiscus- delicate or fragile beauty
Iris- wisdom
Jasmine-sensuality, elegance
Lavender- devotion
Lily- purity
White Lily- virginity
Magnolia- lover of nature
Olive branch- peace
Orange blossom- innocence, eternal love
Orchid- rare or exotic beauty
Petunia- anger, resentment
Rose, love passion
Lavender Rose- love at first sight
Orange Rose- enthusiastic
Light pink rose-joyfulness
Peach Rose- Appreciation, sympathy
Pink Rose- friendship, admiration
Dark Pink Rose- thankfulness
Red Rose- love
Deep Red Rose-desire
Rosebud- youth
Tulip- love and passion
Red Tulip- love
Violet- faithfulness
Zinnia- missing absent friends

Flowers are also associated with wedding anniversaries. However, if you are celebrating years of dating, you can use these traditional flowers as well. Here is the list of flowers associated with anniversaries.

1st Anniversary- Pansy
2nd Anniversary- Cosmos
3rd Anniversary- Fuchsia
4th Anniversary- Geranium
5th Anniversary- Daisy
6th Anniversary- Calla Lily
7th Anniversary- Jack-in-the-Pulpit
8th Anniversary- Clematis
9th Anniversary- Poppy
10th Anniversary- Daffodil
 

Along with flowers, gemstones also have significant meaning. Understanding the symbolism behind certain gemstones will greatly enhance any jewelry gift that you purchase. Here is a listing of gemstones associated with birthstones, as well as a listing of gemstones meanings.

Birthstones

January- Garnet
Garnets are deep red and look beautiful with silver jewelry. They represent strength, health, and deep insight.

February- Amethyst
Amethyst ranges in color from pale violet to deep violet purple. Amethyst symbolizes peace, love, and happiness.

March- Aquamarine
Aquamarine varies in color from pale blue green to deep blue. Aquamarine is revered for symbolizing courage and peace.

April- Diamond
Colorless diamonds are the most popular choices, but diamonds can range in a variety of colors. Known for being a girl's best friend, diamonds also symbolize strength, courage, and good fortune.

May- Emerald
Traditionally Emeralds are pure green but they may also be in yellowish tinted varieties. Emeralds represent love, happiness in marriage, and loyalty.

June- Pearl
Fresh, saltwater, or cultured pearls vary in a variety of colors ranging from off white to black. Pearls symbolize faithfulness, purity, innocence, and charity.

July- Ruby
Rubies are known for their beautiful red hues and can range in colors that feature the red spectrum. They are known for symbolizing wisdom and a nurturing heart.

August- Peridot
Peridots range in colors but all have a greenish tint. They represent friendliness, relationships, and compassion.

September- Sapphire
Most recognizable for its blue color, sapphires may also be colorless, pink, or even orange. Sapphires symbolize joy, peace, and beauty.

October- Opal
Opals display a wide range of colors when deflecting light. Opals signify a creative spirit, new friendships, and healthy relationships.

November- Citrine
Citrine ranges in earthy tones from yellow to brown. It looks beautiful when paired with gold and signifies comfort, wealth, and a creative spirit.

December- Turquoise
Turquoise ranges in color from aqua to deep robin's egg blue. It looks best when paired with silver and it signifies valor, strength, and wisdom.



Why Buy Hand Crafted Jewelry vs Mass Produced Jewelry

Why Buy Hand Crafted Jewelry?
 - written for SWCreations by Lisa Vella -

ba04-crystalpearlfusion2a.jpgMass production is the producing of identical items in extremely large volume on a continuous basis. It is usually done on an assembly line by laborers who often use specialized machinery and have low skill levels. It’s popular because, of course, more products are made at a cheaper cost, thereby making the final product itself less expensive than hand crafted products. Ever since Henry Ford created the Ford Model T. in the early 20th Century, mass production has taken over the world at the expense of the small business owner, the outstanding customer service only a small business owner can give, and the hand crafted products they create.

Low cost? Sounds great, doesn’t it, but what about quality? When laborers produce jewelry on an assembly line, they aren’t putting the time or effort into making sure they are perfect and blemish free. They do exactly what their job is—no more, no less—because that’s really all they have time for and that’s what they get paid to do. An anklet might look pretty when purchased, but what good is it going to do you if you only get to wear it once and it snaps in two because inspections aren’t that thorough?

Crafters take pride in the quality of their products. When a crafter creates an item, you can be sure that time, talent, thought and energy go into its creation. Great effort has gone into each individual piece—making certain every one is lovely and of the highest quality.

How about originality? When you buy mass produced, you get what everyone else has. Sometimes that’s fine, but one reason many people wear jewelry is to stand out. We want to wear jewelry that’s as unique and individual as we are. We want it to represent us as such. Your local chain department store may have some attractive jewelry, but it’s not really symbolic of who we are as individuals because everyone is wearing the same thing.

Hand crafted jewelry is original. You can pick a one of a kind piece of jewelry that embodies your individual taste. If you like dainty things and specific color combinations, you might choose to wear sparkling Swarovski Crystal earrings in your favorite colors. If you have a bold personality, you might wear something bright and sassy that will really catch someone’s eye. If there is something you like, but cannot find, many crafters take pleasure in creating exactly what you ask for.

Of course, mass production has its advantages too, but the sad thing is that it doesn’t represent American pride, nor does it support the small business owner. Large chain retailers are wonderful for the general population. They make shopping easier and more affordable for middle class society, but many items you see at these stores are imported. Quality is poor and the small business owner struggles to support his family—often putting them out of business.

If you ask me the reasons to buy handcrafted jewelry far outweigh those of buying mass produced. Handcrafted jewelry is a superior, quality product, it is unique and original, and it supports the small business owner. I think I’ll splurge on the hand crafted jewelry. Which do you think is the better choice?