Buying Sterling Silver Jewelry Without Being Ripped-Off

Sam Serio

Buying sterling silver jewelry can be fun, exciting and confusing. Whether you're considering a gift of sterling silver jewelry for someone special or as a treat for yourself, take some time to learn the terms used in the industry. Here's some information to help you get the best quality sterling silver jewelry for your money, whether you're shopping in a traditional brick and mortar store or online.

Sterling silver jewelry is enjoying an unprecedented popularity with today's fashion conscious public. You know how beautiful sterling silver jewelry is and how brilliantly it shines. Now here is the rest of the story.

Silver has been used since ancient times, but has not survived as well as ancient gold because it tarnishes and decomposes. There have been times, however, when silver was "in"; we are going through such a vogue today.

Silver is the commonest of the precious metals. Fine silver is pure silver, which is seldom used for jewelry because it is too soft. Sterling silver is 925 parts silver to 75 of copper, the alloy most often used. Silver weighs about half as much as gold, has greater flexibility, but is not as malleable, it has always been less expensive as well. A comparable piece of gold jewelry might cost four or five times that of a piece of sterling silver jewelry.

The current fashion trend toward black clothing has made silver jewelry more popular than ever. Silver likes to be worn; it stays cleaner & shinier through movement and friction. So sterling silver is a perfect accessory for today's fast paced lifestyles. Much like gold, sterling silver needs to be cleaned.



The Authors of the above Article, Sam and Tami Serio have been passionately involved with Jewelry and Gemstones for over fifteen-years. You are cordially invited to visit http://www.morninglightjewelry.com for a wealth of information about the fascinating world of Jewelry and Gemstones. Together they also shelter 20 abandoned and abused dogs & cats. A portion of their profits goes to the care and feeding of the animals.

Real Or Simulated Diamonds - Can You Tell The Difference
Lee Dobbins

When you buy a diamond, how do you really know if it is real?

Of course, if you deal with a reputable jeweler who has a reputation to uphold, your chances are pretty good that you will get the real thing. But if you come across a deal from a relatively unknown source and it seems too good to be true - it just may be!

You might think a fake is a fake, but just like anything else there are different qualities of simulated diamonds. Some are very inexpensive and easy to spot. A cheap cubic zirconia ring in a plated setting will probably look nice for a while but will soon lose it's luster and any jewelry would be able to tell right off the bat that it is not an expensive gem. That's not to say that these are no good - on the contrary - you can buy a very nice ring for around $20.00 and have it look gorgeous to the causal observer. It might last a year if you take care of it and that's not bad for the price!

Other simulated diamonds can be quite expensive. Some are very high quality and set in platinum or 14K rings. These will cost you, but not as much as a real diamond in the same setting. These rings will last a long time and are a good value if you want the look but don't want to spend the money. Most jewelers can tell the difference between a real diamond and even these high quality look alikes, but a new method has been developed that creates a diamond in the lab which is of such high quality that most jewelers will not be able to distinguish it from a natural diamond. These diamonds that will soon hit the market place will set you back about half the cost of the same size of a natural diamond.

So how do you tell the difference?
Since you need specialized equipment and training, the average person cannot tell the difference between a real and simulated diamond, unless it is of terrible quality. The best way to protect yourself when buying diamonds is to buy from someone you trust. The other thing is to educate yourself about the 4 C's of buying a diamond so you will know what to look for when you do go shopping.

These 4 C's - color, clarity, cut and carat weight are what determine the value of the diamond. You may pay less for a large diamond that does not have good clarity, cut or color then you will for a smaller diamond of better clarity, cut and color but is it really worth it? The answer is mostly a matter of personal preference but if you deal with a jewelry you can trust, he or she can guide you as to the best value for the money whether you decide to buy a real or simulated diamond.


Lee Dobbins is owner and editor of Artisan Jewelry Online where you can learn more about the 4c's of buying a diamond.

Feel free to reprint and distribute this article as you like but please do not change the article and you must include the resource box with all it's active links.

Shopping Cart Abandonment Solved!

Mike Banks Valentine

Imagine yourself at the local Sears carrying a shopping basket
down the isles looking for the perfect gift for your spouse
when you come to a great looking watch in the jewelry department.
You know she'll love the design, but also know she has a curious
allergy to white gold and call over a salesperson to ask them
what the bevel surround is made of. She reassures you that it's
made of platinum so you cheerfully purchase the watch, smiling
as you wander over to have it gift-wrapped.

Take the same scenario online and imagine you have the same
simple question to ask someone. Now what? You most likely just
abandon the shopping cart and leave the store because you can't
imagine spending that amount of money without knowing whether
your sweetie will break out in hives because the white gold
allergy affects her wrists so badly.

Abandonment of shopping carts online is blamed on everything
from fear of using credit cards on the web to privacy concerns.

My theory is as follows: If you have any questions about any
product or service you are purchasing online, ecommerce sites
expect you to either look up the answer in their FAQ's
(frequently asked questions page) or just search out their
800 number from the site somewhere and call them yourself to
find out. This can be a ridiculous process on some sites as
they simply don't want to be bothered with expensive phone
calls and leave their number off of the shopping cart pages.

They don't want to devote customer service reps to those fickle
shoppers that abandon online shopping carts at rates as high
as 90% at some ecommerce sites. I'd propose that most online
shoppers abandon those carts because they need to know something
that could never be considered for those FAQ pages like the term
of the product guarantees or how long the battery life is. If
there were a simple way to have your questions answered, I'd
like to suggest that those shopping carts would rarely ever
be abandoned.

I've found the solution and can't believe the brilliance of
the idea behind the answer to this thorny question. Customer
clicks a button labled "CallButton" and gets a pop-up screen
asking for their name and phone number so a representative
can call them at their convenience to answer any questions
and/or concerns!

They fill int their name and phone number and receive a polite
response page custom designed to reassure them that they will
be contacted how and when they would like to be by a person that
can actually answer their question! No nasty telephone trees or
automated callbacks, but a person from the jewelry department
that knows platinum from white gold.

You now have the name and phone number of a prime valuable
customer ready to buy who WANTS to hear from you.

>From the customers viewpoint, this is simple, responsive and
satisfying. From the sellers position it is one of the most
powerful ecommerce tools to be announced on the web this year!
This idea and the powerful software behind that simple button
were announced at a press event titled "Showstoppers" during
the Spring 2001 InternetWorld conference and show in the City
of Angels (Los Angeles) March 15th.

This tool receives my vote as a better ecommerce solution than
any seen at the huge eCRM (Customer Relationship Management) show
held concurrently with the I-World show at the LA convention
center this month. The powerful tracking and reporting functions
that come as part of the package with this incredibly simple
little button could turn around the fortunes of major e-tailers
like many of those we've seen sink in the economic downturn.

Priced at a very low per-call rate starting at about $1.50
per customer contact, you can have calls routed anywhere from
your cell phone to your home office and be assured of making
the sale to that customer that very likely would have walked
(or clicked) right out of your e-store without that personal
contact from a caring customer representative. Most so-called
CRM solutions are simply automated-database-tracking-purchase-
recording-preference-listing-sub-routine-predictive-expensive-
file-them-here-contact-them-then-follow-up-with-them-next
types of robotic de-personalizers.

CallButton offers the reporting and tracking tools available
in those complex CRM solutions with two major differences. Your
customer gets their questions answered and you make the sale!
It's installed on your page with a short line of HTML code and
you don't invest the tens of thousands of dollars required of
major corporations for their robotic de-personalizer software.

You make the sale, your customer is satisfied. Now comes the
bonus. The upsell while the customer is on the phone with you.
This prospect has requested your contact, has an interest in more
of what you sell and has qualified themselves for your services.
If you don't upsell them now, you might consider doing something
else with your time.

I've signed up for the service and can't imagine how I got along
without it. It's priced for the small business and handily solves a
difficult issue for both business owners and their customers.

http://callbutton.com/


Mike Banks Valentine
WebSite101 "Reading List" Weekly Netrepreneur Tip Sheet
Weekly Ezine emphasizing small business on the Internet
Subscribe address mailto:WebSite101-subscribe@listbot.com
articles available: http://website101.com/freecontent.html

Looking Fab at The Beach!
Sher Matsen

It's that time of year when we pack up our bags and head to the beach for the day to enjoy those warm sunrays and the refreshing sound of the lapping water.

So what constitutes a good beach wardrobe. Well there are certain essentials that none of us forget. On goes the swimsuit and bathing suit cover, flip flops on our feet. Beach bag has been packed with the essentials - sunglasses, floppy hat, towel and a good book. Great - got the basics covered but what about the rest.

So if we are so prepared for a day at the beach, why is it by the time we get home we look pretty worn. Here are some helpful tips to make your day at the beach fun and keep you looking fashion fresh all day and all the way home.

First before you leave home, if you've got long hair pull it into a high pony tail or fun knot. Use some funky hair accessories that will stay in place when you're swimming. Try a fun colored bobble or some firm fastening clips in bright summer colors. If you pull your hair up your neck will stay cool and you'll look fresh all day with your neat hairdo.

Second slather yourself in sunscreen before leaving the house, then toss the sunscreen in your bag so you can reapply after a swim or every few hours. A sunburn is not only unhealthy and painful, it's unattractive, so don't let yourself turn into the lobster of the day. Your sunscreen should be a SPF of 15. It doesn't hurt to use a strong SPF on your face or your entire body if you burn easily.

Your beach bag should be large enough to hold your supplies for the day. Why not get something fun and fashionable to keep you looking fashion fresh. Make sure you've got all the daily essentials in your bag - sunglasses, sunscreen, a good book, a floppy hat, some lip gloss, and any other makeup touch ups you'll want. If you plan to wear eye makeup make sure it's waterproof. Stay away from heavy foundations. If you must apply something use a bronzer moisturizer. It's also a good idea to bring lip balm with an SPF15 to protect your lips. It never hurts to put some moisturizer in the bag. Include a snack and plenty of fluids. It's important not to get dehydrated.

Okay great we've got the basics covered now what about the wardrobe basics? If you're planning to wear a swimsuit it's usually easiest to put it on at home, that way you're not chasing down change rooms. So great - first on goes the swimsuit. Now what to wear for a cover? Well you've got plenty of choices. A tank top and shorts, tank and skort, or a nice light cotton dress all work well over top. Choose something that's easy to put on and take off, and choose fabrics that breathe to keep you cool. I also suggest including a long sleeved cotton blouse just incase you start to burn you can protect your shoulders and arms.

If you're planning on heading out later in the day without returning home you might want to toss a pair of jeans or long skirt into your bag. If your outing is going to extend into the evening you'll want to include a sweater for the cooler evening air. If you're worried about your evening wear getting sandy or wet at the beach, then place them in a separate bag and leave them in the trunk of your car. That way you are guaranteed they'll remain fresh.

My favorite beach look is this. And what's perfect is it keeps me looking fashion fresh throughout the day and takes me right into the evening. First I like a swimsuit that's got lots of support and is bright and cheerful. I throw a fitted tank on top and throw on a loose flouncy long skirt. The long skirt serves me through the evening and also works great to cover up if I'm starting to burn. I choose a lightweight material in a darker color with a pattern that accents the colors in my swimsuit. Flip flops are my footwear. Depending on where I'm heading after the beach I choose either a basic pair or one of my funky pair with rhinestones or crystals. Easy to walk in, feet breath, and terrific for an evening out. I keep a fitted light weight sweater in my car, and take a long sleeved cotton blouse down to the beach. I usually choose a long sleeved and long length blouse because it's versatile. I can knot it to create a short blouse, wear it long as a beach cover, and put it on if I start to burn on my upper body. I usually choose white or a soft pastel depending on my other colors. I like white because it's cool to wear and refreshing to look at. Every year I buy a fun new beach tote that's big enough for the beach but not too big as to take it with me for an evening out. I like a fun bag that's full of character.

Since I always feel naked without my jewelry I wear fashion jewelry to the beach. That way should I loose something I won't be out a lot of money and I won't feel so bad. I like to keep the earrings simple and elegant. I may or may not wear a necklace. Often I'll toss a funky wood necklace in the bag to add to the evening outfit. I like to wear a couple of fashion rings just to add the finishing touches. Now if you're fussy about tan lines you'll probably want to forgo the rings. I toss my watch in the bottom of my bag so I can put it on later.

That's it - simple is the key. Keep your beach wardrobe choices simple but fashionable. Think ahead so you can go from beach to an evening out without hassle. Remember to always make your fashion statement!


Sher from Estate Jewelry International has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing fashion, jewelry,and wedding help. Please visit us at http://www.estatejewelryinternational.com/

SWAP MEETS - A FUN WAY TO MAKE MONEY ON THE WEEKENDS

Darren Hendricks

SWAP MEETS - A FUN WAY TO MAKE MONEY ON THE WEEKENDS
By Darren Hendricks

Looking for a way to make extra money, meet lots of interesting people, spend quality time with your family, enjoy the great outdoors ... and do it all without missing a day of work? Or maybe your goal is to make two or three-day weekends the only working days of the week. You may be able to do all of that and more as a Swap Meet/Flea Market marketer!
You can find regularly scheduled Swap Meets and Flea Markets in cities and towns of all sizes across the nation, each attracting many hundreds, even thousands of bargain hunters. They may be held at the local drive-in theatre, in large parking lots, warehouses, parks, and community centers - just about anywhere there's enough room to put up some booths and bring in a crowd. The majority of the time these meets are held on weekends, although in some locations you can find them starting on Thursdays and running four consecutive days. Swap meets and flea markets are fun, profitable, and can be a great launching pad for your business. Many people who began with Swap Meet sales have gone on to open Gift Shops, or run sizeable Mail Order businesses.
A SWAP MEET BY ANY OTHER NAME-

According to our FAR HORIZONS Business Coaching staff, there are actually three distinct types of Swap Meets.

Note: (In the interest of simplicity, from here on in when we say "Swap Meets," we're also referring to flea markets, craft fairs, and similar events as noted below).

1.Outdoor Swap Meets

These usually run the gamut in terms of merchandise. Here, you can find anything from high end stereo systems to fashion jewelry to families clearing out Auntie Emma's garage of old tools, toys, and various parts and pieces from who-knows-what. Ordinarily these events attract folks looking for some bigtime discounts and bargains.

2.Indoor "Malls"

These usually attract a more professional class of marketer. The displays tend to be more organized in appearance, and the merchandise is generally of a consistently higher quality throughout the meet. Rather than tables there may be booths, and each marketer tends to specialize in specific product categories.

3.Craft Fairs

These may be held indoors or outside; you'll find them in parks, or as part of a local carnival, fund-raiser, county fair, or other similar event. Usually the marketers show their wares from booths, and the offerings can vary from homemade to high-ticket, (or homemade and high-ticket) depending on the location.

WHEN YOU PACK FOR THE SWAP MEET, DON'T FORGET THIS


We've heard from scores of successful Swap Meet sellers over the years, and they tell us that the two most important things you can bring with you are:

1. A friendly, upbeat attitude.

2. Willingness to barter and "play the game."


As one member puts it, "People come to shop at Swap Meets looking for a bargain, and they come because it's fun. So I keep a smile on my face and I'm always ready to enter into the bargaining game. I have my 'bottom line' price in mind, and I don't go below it - but I'm always willing to give a little on the original asking price. That way my customer feels good about the purchase, and I still make a nice profit. We both come out winners."

Whatever type of Swap Meet you choose to begin with, there are some simple, basic steps you'll need to take before the event, during the event, and after the event.

Let's start with ... well, the beginning!


A FEW THINGS TO DO BEFORE YOU CAN START

1. First, find out where the local Swap Meets are, if you don't already know. This shouldn't be too hard; they normally advertise in local newspapers, and in giveaway magazines you can find in convenience store racks. Smaller meets may not advertise, but if you check with the local drive-ins, or let your fingers do some walking through the phone directory, you should find some.

2. Next, scout the meet yourself. Take a look around, observing the tables and booths with a marketer's eye. What are the vendors carrying? More importantly, what aren't they carrying? What are they charging?

3. Reserve a table (or booth, as the case may be). Do this by contacting the meet manager, who will provide you with pricing, along with a list of rules and regulations you must follow when marketing at the meet. The cost for renting space at a Swap Meet varies widely, from a few dollars a day to much more, depending on the meet. Try to begin at an inexpensive yet well-attended meet, so you can keep your initial cash outlay as low as possible.

4. Select your merchandise. FAR HORIZONS' Business Coaching staff generally recommends you begin with $450-$750 worth of merchandise (meaning your actual cost).

5. Get your other supplies ready.



Depending on the meet, you may need to bring all or some of the following:

1. At least one folding table.

2. A cash box, with some small bills and change.

3. Folding chairs.

4. A clean tablecloth.

5. A large umbrella, tarp, or other type of canopy to protect your customers (and you) from the sun.

6. Some clear plastic to protect your merchandise if it rains (obviously, this applies to outdoor meets).

7. Plenty of business cards.

8. Some catalogs, brochures, New Arrivals fliers, or other giveaways to help promote further sales.

9. Your Yellow Price List, so you know your bottom line when it's time to haggle.

10. An order book, so you can write receipts and capture names, addresses, and phone numbers of all your customers.

11. A calculator.

12. A rubber stamp for endorsing checks.


! IMPORTANT

Do everything you can to capture as much information about each customer as possible. Along with the name, address and phone, try to get an email address, (if you have email capability), a fax number, or even (especially) a credit card number, assuming you have a merchant account

THE BIG DAY ARRIVES ...

If you're well prepared, the day of the meet should go pretty smoothly. Sure, you'll have some work to do, but it'll be a lot of fun, too - especially when you start making some sales and putting some cash in your pocket!
Here's what you have to do on your first swap meet day:

1. Turn off the alarm, get up, shower and get going (well, we told you this was a step-by-step guide, right?)

2. When you arrive at the meet, find your space and set up. Rehearse your set-up at home, so you can plan the most attractive display before you're actually at the meet. Your program video offers some examples of display do's and don'ts

3. Decide on your "bottom line;" that is, the lowest price you'll accept for each item. Our Business Coaching staff recommends one & a half times your cost as a good guideline.

4. Be prepared to take checks. Many of your customers will prefer to pay this way, and sellers report only a very small incidence of "bad" checks. Verify that the address and phone number is current, and it helps to write a driver's license or ID number on the check.

5. Remember to record the name, address, phone number, fax number, and email (as many of these as possible) of every customer.

6. You might want a partner along to help manage the cashbox while you handle the sales.


HAVE FUN!


WHILE YOU'RE COUNTING YOUR MONEY ...

There are a couple of important things to do after one Swap Meet ends, and before another begins.


1. Build your mailing list - Add all the customer names you collected to your customer mailing list. Over time, these will be an important part of your follow-up marketing efforts.

2. Plan/Implement mailings - Depending on the size of your list, you'll want to start sending your customers some follow-up mailings.


That pretty much covers the basics of Swap Meet Marketing. But the main thing is, have a good time. Many sellers like to involve the family, (including the kids!) and turn weekends into quality time, with everyone working together toward a common cause. Swap Meet marketing is enjoyable, highly profitable, and can be done successfully by devoting just a few hours a week. A number of sellers combine business with pleasure, and travel the country from Swap Meet to Swap Meet. They use the revenues from each weekend to pay for their trip, and for more merchandise to sell at the next meet!


Darren Hendricks has been involved in marketing in one form or another since 1979. He has owned or co-owned 3 successful companies. He is currently owner of Far Horizons Home Based Business Program

Diamond Jewelry - The Ultimate Classic Adornment
Angela S Davis

Diamond jewelry is the ultimate adornment for a woman or even a man. It is something which takes us beyond the realm of time. Diamond jewelry is a timeless classic adornment, which can never go out of style and will always be looked up amongst all kinds of jewelry.

In buying diamond jewelry it is important to keep some factors in mind. The diamond history, diamond shape (Diamonds come in more shapes than any other gem. Diamond jewelry with spectacular center pieces are available in round, emerald cut, heart, marquise, oval, pear, princess, radiant, and trillion. Diamonds as accents are usually found in small round shapes and baguettes. Popular earrings are usually round or princess cut, though some may come in fancier shapes),

Diamond settings (such as bar, bezel, channel, chevron, invisible, pave, and prongs), diamond carats (The unit used to measure the size and weight of loose diamonds), diamond clarity (Clarity is the clearness of a diamond. The most valued diamonds are the clearest. When shopping for a diamond, look for diamonds with grades from FL to SI2. Stones from VS1 to S2 are the best value because they are lower in price without too many inclusions.)

Diamond color (Diamonds that are colorless or near colorless are the most prized.) And diamond cut (The diamond cut determines the brilliance of the diamonds. If a diamond is poorly cut, the light is lost through the sides and bottom of the diamond and there will be no radiance)

Diamonds are more commonly found in certain shapes; baguette, emerald, heart, marquise, oval, pear, princess, radiant, round and trillion. The most popular diamond shape has been the round brilliant because people believed it to be an "ideal cut" that displayed the most brilliance and sparkle in a diamond. The design also allows it to hide flaws and imperfections. However, new technology has made other shapes just as brilliant, such as the princess cut and trilliant cut. Today, there is no such thing as an "ideal cut" when it comes to diamond jewelry.

In diamond jewelry, the diamonds are set in different kinds of settings. Some of these kinds of settings commonly used in diamond jewelry are-

- Bar: Metal bars hold the loose diamonds in a channel-like setting.

- Bezel: The metal is formed to fit around the diamond, cupping it into place.

- Channel: A row of small diamond stones are set in a groove in the diamond rings.

- Chevron: V-shaped prongs that usually hold a marquise or princess-cut diamond for solitaire style rings.

- Invisible: Diamond set in a groove without visible prongs.

- Pave: Tiny stones are embedded to look like the piece is paved with loose diamonds.

- Prong: Several prongs hold the diamonds to let light pass through without interference.

Though diamond jewelry is made of diamonds, which is one of strongest materials on earth, a hard blow can cause the diamond to chip. If proper care is taken then the diamond jewelry can last a lifetime. To clean diamond jewelry, use water and a little bit of ammonia with a gentle brush while being careful of the metal. Also keep it away from lotion, perspiration and other household cleaners. These items can dull the surface of the stones. Store your diamond jewelry separated with paper or bags, so they do not scratch or dull each other. It's also wise to keep the diamond jewelry in its original velvet box.

Looking for information about Diamonds?
Go to: http://www.diamondtrack.com
'Diamond Track' is published by Angela Davis -
The Complete A to Z Of Diamond Resources
Check out more Diamond articles at: http://www.diamondtrack.com/articles

The History of Costume Jewelry

Sher Matsen

There is virtually no difference between costume jewelry and antique jewelry. Costume Jewelry dates back to the 1930s. By the definition of antique that would also make it antique jewelry. However, most jewelry experts have come to agree that antique jewelry predates the 1930s.
Costume Jewelry came into being in the 1930s as a cheap disposable jewelry meant to be worn with a specific outfit, but not meant to be handed down through generations. It was intended to be fashionable for a short period of time, out date itself, and then be repurchased to fit with a new outfit purchase, or with a new fashion style. It became available in large quantities during the 30s.
Cheap jewelry also existed prior to the 1930s. Paste or glass jewelry as far back as the 1700s. The rich had their fine jewelry duplicated for a variety of reasons, using paste or glass stones. By the mid 1800s with the growth of the middle class there were now different levels of jewelry being manufactured using fine, semi-precious and base materials. Fine jewelry of gold, diamonds, fine gems such as emeralds and saphires continued to be made. Jewelry from rolled gold, which is a thin layer of gold attached to a base metal, entered the market for the middle class. This jewelry was often set with semi-precious gems such as amethyst, coral or pearls, and was much more affordable. And then there was jewelry that most anyone could afford, consisting of glass stones and base metals made to look like gold. All three types were intended to be passed down to future generations.
There are usually clues that can help one identify what era a piece of jewelry is from. Style, material, the type of piece. For example dress clips came in in the 1930s and were out of style by the 1950s. Jewelry reflects styles, designs, colors and stones of the era. For example from 1910 to 1930 silver was the favorite color for metal, so jewelry was found in platinum, white gold, silver or a base metal colored to look like silver. By World War II, gold was popular again but in short supply, since it was vital to the war effort. What gold was available was made into very thin sheets and usually bonded to silver (called vermeil) before being turned into jewelry. By the 1930s rhinestones popularity was ever increasing in Europe. It was not available to the Americans until the 1940s. As a result, many of the pieces from this period tend to feature lots of metal and a single stone or a small cluster of tiny rhinestones. .
Today is certainly not much different from past times. We still have fine jewelry, semi precious jewelry, and of course costume jewelry available to us. Costume jewelry can add the finishing touch and show your fashion sense. Costume Jewelry styles of past years are now becoming very fashionable and many are being reproduced. Even with costume jewelry there is a difference in quality. Many of the new pieces do not have the vibrance in the stones or the weight of the older pieces.
Antique and vintage costume jewelry are both fun to collect and fun to wear. No longer is costume jewelry simply "collectable." It is "in style, and " "fashionable," and a terrific conversation starter. Dress to impress!



© Copyright Sher Matsen, All Rights Reserved.
Sher from Estate Jewelry International has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing fashion, jewelry,and wedding help. Please visit us at http://www.estatejewelryinternational.com/

How to build an Italian Charm Bracelet for a friend!
Rhonda Percell

Italian charm bracelets make great gift ideas for all your family, friends, and co-workers. First, choose either an all silver starter bracelet or a gold trim starter bracelet. Next, choose a few italian charms that describe the gift recipient. Finally, give the completed bracelet as a gift in a nice gift box.

There are a number of different styles of Italian starter bracelets to choose from. Most starter bracelets come with 18 stainless steel italian links. The most popular style is the matte silver bracelet. The matte links don't show the scratches as much while the owner is in the process of building the bracelet. The next popular style is the matte gold-trim bracelet. A shiny version is also available in either the silver or gold trimmed styles. The type of starter bracelet is really just your personal preference. ( To see examples of these starter bracelets go to http://www.mogollonworks.com/italianstarterbracelets.html)

Next, you will want to choose a few Italian charms to place on the starter bracelet. Many people start with the
person's birth stone or zodiac sign. You can also put the person's initials or name on the bracelet using gold letters. If the person is interested in sports or has a hobby, those are also great charms to choose. The possibilities are endless when it comes to designing a special bracelet as a gift.

After you design the bracelet for that special someone, give it as a gift in a nice jewelry gift box. Anyone would love to get an Italian charm bracelet designed just for them. What a great
way to make them feel special on their birthday or any other occasion.

Rhonda Percell is the owner of JRK Enterprises in Payson, Arizona.
She sells italian charms, bracelets, and offers online charm parties at http://www.mogollonworks.com/italiancharms.html
If you would like more information she can be contacted at
jrkenter@cybertrails.com Sign up for her Italian Charm newsletter
at italiancharms@aweber.com and receive a free report on
How to Build Italian Charm Theme Bracelets!

Buying Quality Gold, Platinum and Titanium Jewelry Online

Antigone Arthur

Everything You Need to Know About Buying Quality Jewelry Online

Gold, platinum and titanium are among the most coveted precious metals in the world. Jewelry crafted out of these pure substances is often highly valued and sought out by savvy consumers the world over. Learn everything you need to know about selecting quality pieces right here!

Gold Jewelry

Gold jewelry is perhaps the most traditional form of quality jewelry worn by men and women alike in every culture and society of the world. Gold has been used to fashion attractive pieces for centuries. Many historians believe that gold was used as far back as pre-historic times by man as a tool. Later gold jewelry was first discovered dating to around 3000 BC. Gold first became widely used by the Egyptians, who combined gold with other precious metals to achieve varying looks, colors and durability.

So what do you need to know about buying gold? Let's start with the basics. Most gold is assessed via its weight or karats.

14k Gold - 14k gold jewelry is made up of 58.5% gold mixed with copper and nickel among other things. It is the most popular karat of gold purchased the world over, and is known for its affordability and durability.

18k Gold - 18k gold jewelry is popular particularly in Europe. Most 18k gold jewelry is made from 75% pure gold. Most premium jewelry is made with 18 k, which is only slightly more expensive than 14 k gold.

22-24k Gold - 22 and 24 karat gold jewelry is usually considered the most valuable, and is very popular among elite gold shoppers. This form of gold is the most pure, consisting of almost 199% gold. Generally 22 and 24 karat gold products have a richer color than other gold jewelry.

Is one better than the other? The more pure the gold, the softer the jewelry will be and the more likely to scratch. Fine scratches are easily minimized however with proper care and cleaning over time. Quality is more related to craftsmanship than the actual percentage of gold in a particular piece of jewelry. When deciding on a piece that's right for you - you'll want to look for things like symmetry, overall appearance and finishing.

One of the best things about gold jewelry is it is available in both yellow and white. White gold is becoming increasingly popular though it is only available in 14 or 18 k styles. White gold jewelry is often plated with a platinum metal to help give its unique color.

Black Hills Gold

Black Hills gold is extremely popular among gold enthusiasts. Black Hills Gold is named not only after the style but also location the gold jewelry is fashioned in. Legend has it that a French goldsmith became lost during the gold rush of the mid 1870s in the Black Hills of South Dakota. During a dream, he believed he had seen a mountain stream with grape vines; upon awakening, he walked over to find the very scene he dreamed about, and in gratitude decided to devote his life to creating gold jewelry in the shape of grape leaves and clusters fashioned out of gold.

Black Hills Gold jewelry is a particular style of jewelry that must be manufactured in the Black Hills of South Dakota. This gold jewelry is often combined with silver and copper to create green and rose leaved color combinations. Most Black Hills Gold is available in 10, 12 and 14k versions. This makes Black Hills gold extremely popular among jewelry fans looking for attractive yet very affordable gold jewelry.

Platinum & Titanium Jewelry

Platinum and titanium jewelry are among the most expensive jewelry items, in part because they are crafted of precious white metals. Platinum jewelry is often very heavy and dense as is most titanium jewelry. Both platinum jewelry and titanium jewelry are much heavier than gold jewelry because of the density of the metal used to craft it. Platinum jewelry and titanium jewelry are also naturally white or silver, thus do not have to be combined with other metals to achieve a brilliant whitish sheen.

Most platinum jewelry is 90% pure or more, thus platinum jewelry is an exceptional selection for consumers who are allergic or who have sensitive skin. Gold jewelry might cause allergic reactions in people in part because it is mixed with other substances such as nickel, which can be irritating for some people.

Platinum and titanium jewelry usually will hold up well over time and require little maintenance, other than regular cleanings using a mild soap or cleaning agent. Titanium jewelry is in fact considered one of the most durable jewelry selections available, showing few if any signs of wear and tear over the years.

Both platinum and titanium jewelry can be fashioned with gold or silver inlays or adorned with stones. Platinum jewelry is often a popular choice for wedding and engagement bands. Titanium jewelry is slowly becoming more popular as its appeal and durability is more widely known. You can find platinum jewelry and titanium jewelry that is affordable. Most unadorned bands generally can range anywhere from $60 on up. Remember that in general, intricate and ornate platinum or titanium pieces are more expensive than their gold counterparts, and it isn't uncommon to see pieces that cost up to several thousand dollars.

You can find virtually any type of jewelry in platinum and titanium that you can in gold. Most people select one or the other based on style or budgetary considerations. Gold can actually be combined with platinum or titanium to produce unique custom pieces. The most popular platinum and titanium pieces remain rings for the most part; gold jewelry is still the reigning king and favorite it seems among jewelry wearers looking for a combination of rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces. That may change with time however, as more and more consumers realize the appeal and durability of other precious metals including platinum and titanium.

Antigone Arthur is an award-winning author providing consumer information on such topics as Black Hills Gold jewelry, platinum engagement rings, and titanium wedding rings.

The Sterling Silver Story
Sam Serio

Silver is the most common of the Precious Metals. It's working qualities are very similar to gold. Pure silver, which is seldom used for jewelry because it is too soft. Silver weighs about half as much as gold and has greater flexibility. Though silver is not as malleable as gold it can achieve a more brilliant polish. In fact, silver shines above all other metals in this respect.
Silver has been used for many centuries, going back to ancient times, but because it tarnishes and decomposes; it has not survived as well as gold. Periodically, however, silver enjoys great popularity as it does currently.
As far as the price goes, silver generally lags behind gold by about four or five times.
The price of silver jewelry follows the price of gold jewelry, however, so as gold rises, silver inevitably does too.
The words silver or sterling silver describe a product that contains 92.5% silver.
Silver products sometimes may be marked 925, which means that 925 parts per thousand are pure silver. Some jewelry may be described as silver plate: a layer of silver is bonded to a base metal. The mark coin silver is used for compounds that contain 90% silver.

The fashion trend toward Black clothing has made Sterling silver more popular the ever
but it looks best when it is clean and has a brilliant shine.

Care and Cleaning of Sterling Silver

Silver likes to be worn! It stays cleaner and shinier through the friction of movement. This makes it the perfect accessory for today's fast-paced lifestyles.
Nevertheless, it still needs to be cleaned.
Here's how.

Thoroughly rub sterling silver with a good silver polish



The Authors of the above Article, Sam and Tami Serio have been passionately involved with Jewelry and Gemstones for over fifteen-years. You are cordially invited to visit http://www.morninglightjewelry.com for a wealth of information about the fascinating world of Jewelry and Gemstones. Together they also shelter 20 abandoned and abused dogs & cats. A portion of their profits goes to the care and feeding of the animals.

Crystal Healing

Samantha Stevens

Ask and you shall receive!! Persuaded by popular demand, I have created a comprehensive list of the magical, healing and vibrational uses of popular crystals and stones. Below I have listed some of the more common and accessible "rocks" out there (let's face it we all can't afford that diamond, emerald or sapphire) that can be bought unpolished or tumbled in New Age or natural science stores. Just carrying one of these rocks in your pocket, placing it in a prominent place in your home or wearing it as a piece of jewelry can help raise your vibration to achieve a desired effect. Rock on!!!
Agate: strengthens the sight, promotes fidelity, increases perceptions, awakens hidden talents
Amber: absorbs negative energy and transforms it into positive energy, calms nerves, healing
Amethyst: balances emotions, prevents psychic attack, calming, good for nerves, stops addiction
Aquamarine: balances the thyroid, helps teeth, increases intelligence, activates memory of past lives
Bloodstone: purifies blood, liver and kidneys, rapid healing, courage, living in the "here and now"
Carnelian: dispels laziness, rage, jealousy, envy and fear, good for acting, writing and creativity
Citrine: money drawing, cheering, clears the aura
Coral: heals bones, quiets the emotions, stimulates imagination and connection to spirit guides
Cat's Eye: happiness, luck, serenity, protection, relieves headaches, improves night vision
Fluorite: brings order to chaos, helps to see reality behind illusion, protects from infections and viruses
Garnet: love, devotion, commitment, gets rid of feelings of abandonment, disorders of spine
Hematite: improves intellect, protection, transforms negative energy to the positive, attracts love
Jade: fidelity, devotion, love-drawing, lucid dreaming, intuition,
beautifies skin and hair
Lapis Lazuli: esoteric mysteries, channeling, awareness, intuition, cures depression, love attracting
Mica: visions, mysticism, self-reflection, reduces hunger, insomnia, beauty for eyes and hair.
Moonstone: new beginnings, hoping, wishing, tenderness, compassion, protection traveling, mercy
Obsidian: grounding, protection, dispels negative thoughts, obsessions, raises self esteem
Onyx: banishes grief, increases self-control, making wise choices, bone marrow, gums, teeth
Opal: brings out the best in you, acting from the heart, invoking visions, dreams, for diabetes
Pearl: faith, charity, innocence integrity, spiritual guidance, digestive disorders, increases fertility
Peridot; attracts friends, cleanses heart, happiness, relieves ulcers, strengthens eyesight
Pyrite: psychic protection, attracts love, friendship, lung disorders, protects healers from clients
Quartz (clear): balances energy field, restores harmony, intuition, and restores balance to body
Quartz (rose): attracts love, heals emotional wounds, opens heart center, and clears skin
Quartz (smoky): dissolves negative energies, resentment, enhances self-esteem, and attracts business
Sandstone: creativity, building solidarity, social life, clarity, improves fingernails, hair, and bones
Topaz: true love, success, joy, attraction, manifestation, healing of wounds and skin
Tourmaline: harmony, unconditional love, intuition, healing, lungs, brain, thymus, thyroid
Turquoise: improves communication, intuition, creativity, protection, wisdom, master healer
Zircon: strength, virtue, integration of body and mind, treats dizziness, vertigo and nervous system.

Samantha Steven's articles have been published in many high-standing
newspapers and she has published several books. If you wish to buy
Samantha's books about metaphysics click here
http://www.insomniacpress.com/author.php?id=110
You can meet Samantha Stevens at http://www.psychicrealm.com where she
works as a professional psychic. You can also read more of her articles at
http://www.newagenotebook.com

Wedding Day Hair Styles - A Top Ten Checklist
Mike Jones

The big day is fast approaching, and the energy of the
moment sweeps you up. But does it carry your hair along
too? Use the following checklist to ensure your wedding day
hair is everything you dream it will be:

1. Which stylist? Make bookings for consultations with more
than one stylist well in advance and decide on the one you
feel most comfortable with. You should be able to express
your likes and dislikes without feeling awkward.

2. Long hair, shoulder length, or short hair? It is
important to consult with your stylist well in advance and
make a decision. Long hair obviously gives the stylist much
freedom for creativity but a skilled stylist can also work
well with medium and short styles. Be sure to choose a
length that fits with your personality and style.

3. Have your hair compliment your wedding dress. This can
be done by both style and accessories. Smooth, straight hair
and pinned up curls are often paired up with smooth satin
gowns, whereas a tulle dress often goes well with soft
curls.

4. Take into consideration your silhouette. If it's along
horizontal lines such as with a wide dress, you'll want to
stick with that look for your hair as well. The same goes
for a vertical profile.

5. You'll be spending a lot of time at the salon picking out
the perfect hairstyle, so it's best to be prepared. Be sure
to wash your hair the night before your consultation, and
try to have some pictures of styles you'd like to try out.

6. Take a picture of your wedding dress along to your
stylist. This will greatly help the process along. Also take
your veil with you, and let the stylist know what kind of
wedding you are having: formal, informal, evening, daytime.
Alternatively, consult with your stylist before deciding on
your headpiece.

7. If you are interested in a new cut or color to your hair,
don't wait until right before your wedding. Make the changes
during the initial consultation with the stylist, so that
you don't have any unpleasant surprises down the road.

8. After you have decided on your style, make sure you walk
around with it. Your wedding day will be a long one and you
certainly don't want an uncomfortable hair do causing
irritation!

9. Your veil length will have some influence on your choice
of hairstyle. Normally, the veil is longer than the hair. It
is often secured in back swept hair (for up dos) and it's
important to make sure the style can hold the veil in place.

10. What accessories are you going to wear? You will already
(hopefully!) have your headpiece picked out. Flowers, pins,
and beads can be used to add an extra sparkle to your hair,
and you can and should coordinate them with the rest of
your jewelry.

It may sound like choosing a bridal hair style is a
strenuous activity, but the care and preparation is simply
to make sure your wedding day is the best it can be.

Following this ten point checklist will ensure your wedding
day hair style is a delight, not a disaster!


Credit: Mike Jones of BodyFAQ.com. Click here for
information on how to get great hair with lustre and sheen
within 3-4 weeks:

target="_blank">http://www.bodyfaq.com/WeddingHair

Wire Jewelry With Gold Filled, Sterling Silver, Gemstone Pendants

Bright Builders

"Wire Jewelry" with gold filled and sterling silver; cabochons, cameos and faceted stones including bracelets, pendants, necklaces and earrings custom handcrafted. Fashion Jewelry uniquely designed for that one-of-a-kind look, durability and satisfaction. Intricate wire sculptured designs in latest contemporary, vintage or traditional styles. graceful and intriguing for that lasting impression. Each piece is carefully put together in my home to essentuate your character and style. No Mass Produced Machine-Made Jewelry only beautiful pieces you won't find anywhere else... or see on anyone else.

Sculpted Wire Jewelry-Glass Dichroic Pendants

Shop from home for the most extensive and affordable selection of appealing unique wire sculpted designs to keep or give.

14K Gold or Sterling Silver;Birthstone, cameo, Cabochon, Dichroic or Gemstone Pendants sculpted for that one-of-a-kind look that suits you and your wardrobe perfectly. Nobody else will have anything like it!

Handcrafted Jewelry designed using Cameos, Glass Dichroics, Faceted Gemstone, Osmena Pearl, Turquoise, Onyx, �Birthstones and many other brilliant stones. Choose from Wire Jewelry sculptured into beautiful faceted gemstone pendants, Cameo pendants, Dichroic glass pendants, Birthstone necklaces, earrings and bracelets all hand sculpted in 14k gold filled and Sterling Silver.

Whether your taste is traditional, contemporary, vintage, antique or high-fashion you have arrived at an art gallery that's as distinctive and unique as you are...Search the entire list of handcrafted designer creations for that special "one of a kind" art that your friends and family will love.

Gemstone And Cameos

The designs you see has been conceived and executed with artistic ideas created into dazzling reality with timeless beauty and enduring value. Gold Jewelry lovers or Sterling Silver; all designs are artistically hand sculptured designed work of art.

Handmade jewelry, the designer jewelry that no one owns by you, is the only kind of jewelry I sell.
I've got so many extraordinary pieces of handcrafted jewelry to show you? Each has been built strand by strand of gold and silver wire into a singular work of art. There's no soldering, no gluing, and no welding. Just the alchemy that I use to transform precious metal and gemstones into more precious pieces of breathtaking handmade jewelry.

Choosing A Direct Sales Company
Caryn FitzGerald

Choosing a Direct Sales Company

In this hustle and bustle world of direct sales the goal remains the same. How do I build my business successfully and make enough to achieve what I have set forth to do? Many have a mentor or someone in their company who helps them along by offering training and direction, however who trains the trainer? Most direct sales companies have a training manual and offer "support" at the home office, but is this really working? How many times have you seen an email from someone who has "retired" from one company only to join another. How does a person really choose which direct sales company is for them? Is it the product? the company name? the price of the products offered? commission structure? Believe it or not, there is a method to choosing which company is right for you. It's the same method that one would take when deciding if a neighborhood is where they want to live or if a certain car is the one they want to drive. It's called taking the time to research the company and talk with others involved. Make informed decisions, don't jump because a consultant does an amazing presentation at an event and you want part of it. That is the role of a good consultant, to make you desire more. Before choosing a direct sales company, here are a few questions to ask yourself and others:

1. What do I think of the products? Not just the ones I bought today, but the ones I have been using for weeks, months or years? Obviously if you are using the products for months or years than it is probably safe to say you are enjoying the products.

2. What is the price range of these products? Do I know people (as we always start with selling to those we know) that can and will want to purchase these products?

3. How often will the products need to be reordered? Will I have returning customers each month because the products are consumable? (make-up, food, cards are examples of consumable products), (jewelry, books, clothing are non-consumables).

4. What is the discount or commission structure? Do I have minimums or quotas each month? What do I have to do to receive my monthly discount or bonus check?

5. Is there a yearly renewal fee for my membership? If so, how much?

6. How can I advertise this business? Many companies are not internet friendly and therefore if you plan to advertise on the internet you may be at a serious disadvantage by not being able to have a website with products on it. However if you are not planning to advertise on the internet, then this issue does not need to be a large concern when making the decision. Ask about use of the company name - can you put a link in your email, sign on your car? Think about what you plan to do and ask if this is something you can do with this particular company.

7. Talk with other representatives and not only the ones in your local area. Ask friends and family members if they know of the products and if so, what do they know. You may find information that will help you in making a more informed decision.��

8. Ask yourself how much do I want to invest in this business? Even though you are working for yourself, this is still a business and you are the business owner, self promotion is key. There is work involved. You will have to decide how much time you want to spend at events, home parties, expos, marketing your business to others and of course, how comfortable are you on the phone? Telephone skills are very important in direct sales. Following up with customers and potential customers is crucial. Keep in touch with those you have met. Just say hello, a friendly reminder that you are there is sometimes all it takes to receive a new order from someone you may have met at an event. Make sure you are available, answering machines are a must in this day and age. No one likes to call somewhere and receive a busy signal or get no answer. Make sure your customers can reach you.

9. Check out the local area reps to see what goes on in terms of meetings and updates. Most companies have a policy that once a consultant reaches a certain level in the company they are required to hold meetings to pass on new information to other consultants. Find out what is in your area. Are there 3 other consultants in your area or 30,000? Having too many or too few is not necessarily a positive or negative to base a decision on, but something to give you a guideline of what type of networking environment is available to you.��

10. Most importantly remember that direct sales is not the type of business where you can hang a shingle and say "okay I'm here, come buy from me." This is a very interactive tough type of business to be involved in. Depending on the area and time of year, things will slow down. The main point is that if you are happy with the products you are offering and able to communicate well with others you will succeed. Don't let slow days get you down. Remember to smile on the phone with others, talk about your products and share with everyone. Don't prejudge what the answer is going to be and therefore not talk to someone about what you have to offer. Let them know what you have to share and remind people by the constant use of your products in your home, car, office and wherever else they can be used. Talk it up and your customer base will grow. Most of all - keep a positive mental attitude and remember you can and will succeed!

**Written by Caryn FitzGerald, owner of VendorCentralUSA.com** Contact: caryn@vendorcentralusa.com.
Reprinting of this article is encouraged - please remember to include author credit.

Caryn FitzGerald is a retired LPC, and the owner of VendorCentralUSA.com. She holds a Masters in Counseling and has worked as a therapist for many years prior to becoming a work-for-herself parent.

Precious Stones V.S. Semi-Precious Stones

Sam Serio

Stones have been worn by both women and men since prehistoric times. Just as in the jewelry of modern times, beautiful stones, rare and colorful, are most often the dominant feature of a piece with a metallic setting for ornamentation.

The stones used in the crafting of fine jewelry are generally divided into two classes- precious stones and semi-precious stones.

These terms are used heavily in the commercial world of jewelry when considering variety and value. While artistic merits are only a matter of opinion, the value of a stone is what it will bring in the marketplace. It should also be mentioned that many people, collectors and general consumers alike, prefer the rare to the beautiful.

These stones are simply rocks (minerals) taken from the earth, and after they have been enhanced by the artisans cutting and polishing, the finest and rarest of them are what we call gems.

Precious Stones

The most precious stones are the diamonds, emeralds, rubies and sapphires. The pearl is oftentimes classed with precious stones. Although strictly speaking while it is not a stone it holds an esteemed place in jewelry.

Semi-Precious Stones

A large number of stones used in jewelry are known as semi-precious; the most important ones are as follow: amethyst, lapis-lazuli, turquoise, aquamarine, topaz, moonstone, peridot, opal, tourmaline, zircon, chrysoberyl, alexandrite. Others of less importance although much used are: chrysoprase, jade, garnet, agate, azurite, malachite, bloodstone, coral, carnelian and many others. These stones while comparatively common and inexpensive are indispensable to the worker in jewelry. The variety of colors to be had in these stones make it possible to produce unusual designs of artistic merit and to adapt them to the personality and costume of the wearer. For more detailed information regarding gem stones the reader is referred to "Gem Stones" by G.F. Herbert Smith, also "The Curious Lore of Precious Stones," by George Frederick Kunz.


The Authors of the above Article, Sam and Tami Serio have been passionately involved with Jewelry and Gemstones for over fifteen-years. You are cordially invited to visit http://www.morninglightjewelry.com for a wealth of information about the fascinating world of Jewelry and Gemstones. Together they also shelter 20 abandoned and abused dogs & cats. A portion of their profits goes to the care and feeding of the animals.

Breeze Through Airport Security
Jed Clark

During the shake up a few years ago of the airport security system, things got a little crazy and airport security went a little overboard confiscating toenail clippers and hair mousse. Thankfully those days of an overzealous security system are behind us and a cautious, careful and reasonable security system has take its place. With a little commonsense and preparation, you can reduce the hassle and the time it takes you to get through airport security and get your flight off to a great start.

Like most things in life, a little preparation goes a long way. Preparation is especially helpful for a smooth move through airport security. Before you even pack your swim suit, do a little planning to make sure that items are packed appropriately for that little visit with security. A little commonsense applies. If you are traveling with anything that is a weapon or could be used as a weapon, pack it in your checked luggage.

Sharp-pointed metal scissors, pack 'em in a checked bag. Curved-tipped scissors are okay for carry-on. Despite some stories you may have heard from friends, the following items are allowed in your carry-on luggage: knitting needles, toenail clippers, corkscrews, nail files, blunt-tipped scissors and safety razors. The most common personal item that is not allowed in checked or carry-on bags is a lighter. If you are a smoker, pack a few books of safety matches in your carry-on bag instead.

If you are traveling with a laptop, it must be inspected outside of your carry-on bag. So, you may want to label your laptop separately by taping a business card or other identifier to the bottom.

Pack all of your valuables, laptop, camera and camcorder equipment in your carry-on bags. Camera film and equipment may be damaged by the checked-luggage screening and you want to keep your valuables in your personal care at all times.

Remember that checked luggage must be unlocked or locked with a TSA-recognized lock (a lock designed with a special code that security may use to inspect the contents of your bags). If you are packing gifts, don't wrap them until you get to your destination as security may have to inspect them.

Now that you're packed, it's time to dress for the airport. Avoid wearing a lot of jewelry or metal items. Try to wear a pair of tennis shoes or other comfortable shoes that doesn't have a metal support in the sole construction (many thick-soled dress shoes and high-heeled women's shoes use these). If you pack your keys, cell phone or PDA in your pocket, prepare an empty pocket in your carry-on where you can easily place these items before you get to the security checkpoint.

When you're at the airport and about to go through security, the most important thing you can do is to be prepared for the next step in the process. Before you enter the security line, verify that there is not a shorter line at another gateway that you can use. As you enter the line, have your boarding pass and driver's license or passport ready for inspection. Keep these items easily accessible as many airports require you to show them more than once.

As you approach the security checkpoint, remove all metal items, keys, PDAs and cell phones from your person and place them in your specially prepared carry-on pocket. You may also want to remove your jacket and carry it over your arm until you get to the check point.

At the security checkpoint, take your laptop out of your carry-on. Place your laptop and jacket in the provided containers. Place your carry-on bag on the conveyor. As your items enter the scanner, it's time for you to breeze on through the checkpoint.

Be sure to follow the instructions of the security screeners. Remember they are there to ensure your security. If you are pulled aside for a random screening, be courteous to the security personnel. They are there to do a job and being pleasant makes things a little nicer for both them and you.

A little commonsense and preparation can ease your way through airport security and get your flight off to a great start.

Jed Clark is a travel writer, photographer and long-time San Francisco resident. For more travel tips and information about San Francisco destinations, attractions and neighborhoods, visit http://www.zurdogo.com/ - a destination guide to San Francisco.

Rafferty Rose Fine Jewelry

Rose Hayes

We bring the very best jewelry, watches, miscellaneous items, and antiques (or as I'd prefer to call them heirlooms and collectibles) to all price ranges and to all age groups. We have decided to fill a niche group by offering a variety of price ranges to fit everyone's needs and desires. Some of our items are our of the ordinary, ornate and estate items. Truly amazing!

We started in November, 2001, on a wing and a prayer in the hopes that our business would make it. With the help of my daughter, Shana, she helped me with road shows, and people came liked our items, we we decided to give it our very best shot on the web.

Amber is a beautiful gift from mother nature. It comes in many different colors - yellow, orange, red, white, brown, green, blue and almost black. It may be transparent or clouded. Transparent tones range from pale to dark yellow, to yellow light brown. Cloudy amber comes in many colors.

Amber is fossilized resin of ancient trees that grew in "amber forests". Through various physical and chemical changes the resin becomes Amber. Amber is unique because it is able to preserve the organic tissues in it. It is very common to find pieces of plants and insects, trapped in amber making it extremely valuable to both collectors and the scientists. A beautiful and fascinating gem!

Amber is found in various parts of the world. The largest amber deposits are off the shores of the Baltic Sea. Baltic Amber is the most sought after and valuable for making amber jewelry.
Baltic Amber has been used for decorative items since prehistoric times. A Baltic amber amulet has even been found in Egyptian tombs . Amber was also very popular in ancient Rome during the reign of Neron when: jewelry, ornaments, amulets, and even dice were made from amber. During the Middle Ages, amber prayer beads were exported. From the 16th century into the 18th century item made from amber included jewelry, dishes, buttons, pipe mouth pieces, chess sets and a host of other fine products.

The majority of Baltic amber comes from a 400-square-mile area - the Samland Peninsula, now known as the Kaliningrad region. The Kaliningrad amber mine supplies 99% of the Baltic amber. Up until the 19th century amber was retrieved manually from the sea. During the latter part of the 19th century operations became much more sophisticated as they began dredging and mining for amber. Since then millions of pounds of Baltic amber have been mined.. A small town in the Kaliningrad region has the world's largest amber mine.
Amber has a special beauty in its ability for each piece to be truly original in nature and content. The downfall to amber is like anything organic it does not last forever. Baltic amber is known to have the longest life expectancy. Taking proper care of your amber will result in enjoyment for many years, sometimes thousands of years as seen with the recovery of jewels from the past.

Some important tips for caring for your amber:

Never store amber where it may rub against hard surfaces such as metal or other jewelry.
Do not expose amber to harsh chemicals such as soap, jewelry cleaners, perfumes, hair products.
Do not expose amber to direct sunshine or heat.
To clean your amber wash in lukewarm water. Use a soft cloth to wash and dry. To restore the shine polish with pure olive oil.
Treat your amber like any fine gem

Where amber with pride, add it to your jewelry wardrobe and be sure to make your fashion statement!

© Copyright Sher Matsen, All Rights Reserved.