Although you probably don’t give much thought to that timepiece on your wrist, watches date back to 15th century Italy. Wristwatches gained popularity in the first part of the 20th century, and by the late 1900s, they became less about timekeeping and more about fashion. Here’s a fun A-Z directory of all things watch-related.

Analog - A standard watch with dials, hands, and a 12-hour time span.

Bezel - The ring surrounding the dial of a watch that holds the crystal in place.

Chronograph - Another name for a stopwatch.

Digital - A watch that displays the time in numbers, rather than by a dial.

Escapement - Responsible for timekeeping accuracy, it is a mechanism in a mechanical watch.

Fob - The watch chain that attaches to a vest or belt at one end and a pocket watch on the other.

Gold Plating - A method used to give a watch the appearance of being gold, but at a fraction of the price.

Hands - The rotating pointer on a watch indicating hours, minutes, and seconds

Integrated Bracelet - A watchband that is part of the case and, therefore, not detachable.

Jewels - Small gemstones that are used in the moving parts of some mechanical watches.

K - The abbreviation for karat, a unit of measurement for gold used in watches and other fine jewelry; 24k is pure gold.

Luminous - The glowing paint used on the hands of the watch.

Mechanical Watch - A watch that operates through a set of gears powered by a spring, which must be wound.

Nurse’s Watch - A stainless steel watch with a red second hand.

Oscillation -

Pocket Watch - A timepiece kept in the pocket that is usually attached to a vest or belt by a watch fob.

Quartz - A crystal used in quartz analog or digital watches that vibrates at a high frequency for accurate timekeeping.

Rectangular - The shape of the face on a ladies’ baguette watch.

Self-Winding - Watches that wind themselves when the wrist is in motion.

Titanium - Watches that are corrosion-resistant, hypoallergenic, and that can tolerate extreme temperatures.

Unparalleled - The quality of Swiss watches, which will always have the “Swiss Made” designation inscribed on them.

Vibration - The movement of a timepiece’s pendulum, usually about five to ten per second in a mechanical watch.

Water Resistant - Watches that are unaffected by moisture up to a depth of 100 feet.

Xpensive - The nature of platinum watches, which have a luxurious white luster.

Yellow Gold - The metal traditionally used in combination with other metals or stainless steel for watch casings.

Zone - One of 24 longitudinal divisions of the Earth’s surface, which are found on the bezels of watches with world timers.

Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web.
Visit this Jewelry Website and Majon’s Jewelry directory.

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Are you usually labeled as a person who is just too discriminating in his tastes? Do you take hours to choose presents for your loved ones and yourself and even after choosing a gift, feel a tinge of dissatisfaction? Don’t feel disheartened. Being individualistic in your sense of style is no crime, especially when sellers now acknowledge the need to design most things according to the specifications of the customers.

A custom-made design is a reflection of your individual taste and style and, therefore, carries with it something that is much more valuable than its monetary value: your personal touch. With more and more people wishing to stand out in a crowd and be known as trendsetters rather than blind fashion followers, custom jewelry is gaining in popularity every day.

Jewels are a passion for most people and to be able to get a custom-made engagement ring crafted for the most special woman in your life could be any man’s fancy. It will remain with her as a symbol of your true love and sentiments. And if our ancestors in the Middle Ages could indulge in the luxury of getting their jewelry specially crafted, how can we lag behind?

Most of the jewelers will display countless designs to help you select the features that you would like to incorporate in your piece of jewelry. They will not only help to form a concrete picture of the design that you have in mind, but also help you choose the right gems, stones and metal that not only suits your design but also your budget. You may be able to get an estimate of your chosen design by providing a vivid description of it to the jeweler. A group of gem experts and master craftsmen will then add life to your vision. The result will make you a proud owner of your own creation.

Jewelry provides detailed information about jewelry, fashion jewelry, fine jewelry, religious jewelry and more. Jewelry is the sister site of Titanium Rings Web.

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Rubies have long been thought to have healing properties in treating both the blood and matters of the heart. When you say the word ruby you immediately visualize the colorful images of this stone, as well as an emotional response of passion, romance, and power. Yes that’s the power and the beauty of a ruby! The deep rich color of the ruby ranges from fiery orange red to deep purple red. This rare gem is one of the most expensive gems and one of the most sought after.

The ruby has a history steeped in mystery and medicine. For centuries it has been used to cure and protect. Ancient cultures believed the ruby could cure ailments of the digestive system, energize the blood, and treat the heart. Warriors wore the ruby into battle because of its protective qualities.

The ruby as a gemstone for jewelry has a very interesting history. The crown of Charles IV of Luxembourg from the 1300s held a gem quality ruby that was a whopping 250 carats. The Smithsonian is home to a 137 carat cabochon star ruby. The most expensive ruby ever sold at auction was a 15.97 carat stone that sold for $3.63 million in 1988. No matter their size or value all can agree that the ruby is a powerfully beautiful gem.

If you are in the market to buy a ruby [rubies] you should buy the best quality gem you can afford. Don’t go for size go for quality. You’ll not be disappointed. Rubies are treated with heat to enhance their color. Look for rubies that are a deep fiery red with not too much purple hue. The more visible purple the less the value.

Almost all quality rubies have inclusions, although they will not be visible to the naked eye, so you’ll need to examine under a loope. When purchasing your ruby look for a clear stone with few inclusions. If you have to choose between good color and more inclusions or poor color and few inclusions go for the “best color. The cut of the ruby is important. A good cut will make the ruby look like it is glowing with a deep fire. Inspect the stone under good lighting to ensure there are no chips or scratches.

The different geographical sources of the ruby each produce specific characteristics, colors, and qualities. Burma is famous for producing the greatest amount of top quality rubies in a fine, clear, deep red. Burma is the most important source of rubies today. Thailand is known for dark red to brownish rubies. Ceylon [Sri Lanka] is known for medium to light rubies. Africa is known for small purplish red stones.

The ruby is steeped in history. Ruby is July’s birthstone and is named the King of Gems. It’s history is recorded as far back as the Bible and ancient Sanskrit writings. The name ruby is derived from the Latin word for red - rubrum. It is the sister to the sapphire from the corundum family which is a crystal structure composed of aluminum oxide. Red corundum is called ruby. All other colors are part of the sapphire family. Ruby is the most valuable member of the corundum family. In fact large rubies have been known to bring more at auction than the most flawless diamonds. This is because of the rarity of gem quality ruby stone.

If you are in the market for a ruby be certain to follow the guidelines provided in this article. Rubies are also being grown in a laboratory and are becoming available in the market in limited quantities. These grown rubies are of identical composition, hardness, and brilliance to natural rubies. Synthetic rubies are also available for a fraction of the cost. So for those of us with more limited pocket books we may have to look at purchasing a synthetic or lab grown ruby. No one can dispute the beauty and mystery of the beautiful ruby gem stone!

Sher from Estate Jewelry International have been serving customers for over 20 years, providing affordable estate jewelry, and a wealth of information on jewelry, fashion, designers, and beauty with on staff industry professionals. Please visit us at Estate Jewelry International.

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Advantages and Disadvantages of Purchasing American Indian Art Online

Today’s society is one in which individuals look for the easiest ways to do things. This is most often seen with online shopping. A large number of individuals do not have time to spend the day shopping at their local mall; therefore, they shop online instead. Online shopping is a great way to obtain certain items, but what about American Indian art?

The presence of American Indian art is felt widely in the United States, but it is also popular in other areas of the world. This is why American Indian art is sold all around the world. There a large number of stores that sells American Indian art on and offline. If given the opportunity, many individuals would prefer to shop for American Indian art at a storefront location, but not all are able to do so.

Online American Indian art stores and gift shops have made it possible for individuals to purchase art online. Many online shoppers shop online to save time, but a large number do so because they do not have local access to an American Indian art store or gift shop. While shopping online for American Indian art can have advantages, it has disadvantages as well.

Perhaps the greatest benefit of shopping online for American Indian art is the selection. Most storefront American Indian art stores and gift shops are limited on the amount of space that they have. This means that when an individuals shop at an American Indian art store or gift shop there are only viewing a small percentage of the artwork available. Online stores do not always have this problem; therefore, they are able to have more art for sale.

Another benefit of shopping for American Indian art online is the money that can be saved. With online shopping, it is easy for an internet user to quickly compare prices. This has led many online stores to offer American Indian art at a lower price. The low price helps an online store stay in competition with other retailers. Individuals shopping for American Indian art online can take advantage of this by purchasing beautiful American Indian art for a discounted price.

While there are advantages of shopping online for American Indian art, there are disadvantages as well. One of the biggest disadvantages is the possibly of damaged items. When an item is ordered from an online store, the item can be damaged during shipping. It is advised that all online shoppers insure their products for shipping. It may also be a good idea to ask an online retailer about their shipping policies and packaging standards. Most online retailers will properly package your order, but why take the change with an expensive piece of American Indian art?

Another problem commonly found with online shopping is the authenticity of an item. The internet is amazing, but it has allowed a large number of individuals to open their own online stores. Just because someone claims an item is authentic American Indian art, does not really mean that it is. Purchasing American Indian art from an online auction website is how many individuals get scammed into purchasing American Indian art that is fake.

It is important to note that just about everything you do or purchase will have advantages and disadvantages. It is advised that you do not let disadvantages persuade you from purchasing American Indian art online. Taking the time to verify an online retailer’s reputation is a surefire way to make online shopping disadvantage-free.

Edward Charkow is the administrator for American Indian History. For more information please visit http://www.americanindian-history.com

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It is really nice to be in love and share that precious feeling that we hid for that someone special who changed our outlook and thinking drastically. Diamonds with their spectacular and dramatic view are always a preferred stone to mark that foundation of the life called engagement, where you actually made commitment, a celebration of that particular feeling with a sparkling and shining diamond ring that says the story of one of the best times of your life.

Tiffany engagement ring is nothing but a glowing diamond ring having bases in platinum or gold with a six prong arrangement that elevates the stone to get more exposure of light into it to get ultimate radiance that looks simply marvelous. So, it is the perfect expression of one’s love and dedication that lasts really long and ever.

Due to its specialty and internal flame, tiffany engagement rings are getting its place in the hearts of its wearers and admirers. They are just mind blowing and look extremely superb in their design. More and more couples are moving towards this tiffany engagement ring for their pre-wedding celebrations. Not only this, special tiffany diamond wedding rings are also available in the market.

Normally, people evaluate engagement ring on the basis of its weight or carats but a tiffany engagement ring is measured on its internal as well as external worth. Gemologists remove the flaws on diamonds to give them ultimate shine and shape that takes away the heart of its wearer. Tiffany engagement rings are also perfect in their quality. Normally, flawless diamonds are used to make these rings that can be seen through the naked eyes. The best quality of tiffany diamonds is their originality that is never over heated or improved.

Different metal bases like platinum and gold gives a different edge to the engagement ring that create a smashing effect on the mind of its wearers. Coming in different patterns and designs, these rings are mostly available in 14 carat white & yellow gold, 18 carat gold bands in platinum and gold that looks really charming and compliments the persona of its carrier. Thus, tiffany engagement rings are a true symbol of your respect and distinctive class which separates you from others. So, don’t think much, if you have any engagement plans on your mind gifting a beautiful and stunning tiffany diamond ring to your beloved can be a great option.

For more information on tiffany engagement rings visit http://www.1a-jewelry.com

Author is an experienced jewelry business expert.

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The practice of ear piercing dates back to thousands of years ago. From jungle tribes to desert nomads to royalty, pierced ears were indicators of both beauty and social standing. Ear piercing is just as popular today, with both men and women having one or both earlobes pierced. Certain preventive and maintenance procedures need to be observed in order to avoid and treat pierced ear problems either on the lobe or on the cartilage.

A sizable percentage of individuals experience minor problems in the period following piercing. You’ve heard the saying ‘cleanliness is next to godliness.’ Here, it is suitable to say ‘cleanliness is key to avoiding pierced ear problems.’ It’s important for the person performing the piercing to operate in clean surroundings, use sterile equipment and employ a sanitary piercing technique. Ideally, piercing should be done in a clinical setting, but many jewelry stores in malls offer the service and this is acceptable only if the conditions are sanitary and the staff knowledgeable so that the risk of pierced ear problems is minimized.

Another problem arising from ear piercing is an allergic reaction to the metal from which the earring is made, especially nickel. The studs to be used should be hypoallergenic and totally nickel-free; ideally, stainless, surgical steel or 14-karat gold should be used for first piercings. However, remember that even 14-karat gold can contain nickel and may cause irritation in some people. Using surgical steel is still the safest bet to avoid pierced ear problems of this type.

Redness and inflammation, two other common pierced ear problems, can be prevented or treated if proper hygiene is practiced. After the prescribed healing time, the earrings should be removed and the holes washed with soap and water daily. Additionally, the holes should be cleaned with rubbing alcohol, and an antibacterial ointment may also be applied to the holes before the earrings are reinserted in order to prevent infection. If infection does occur, a physician may prescribe antibiotics to treat the problem.

Pierced ears are always fashionable, and the process is almost always safe, quick and convenient. It isn’t at all difficult to care for newly pierced ears. However, it never hurts to be extra cautious and err on the side of caution rather than experience painful and inconvenient pierced ear problems.

Sam Serio is an Internet Marketer, musician and a writer on the subject of jewelry and gemstones. For more information on jewelry and gemstones, we cordially invite you to visit www.morninglightjewelry.com to pick up your FREE copy of “How To Buy Jewelry And Gemstones Without Being Ripped Off.” This concise, informative special report reveals almost everything you ever wanted to know about jewelry and gemstones, but were afraid to ask. Get your FREE report at www.morninglightjewelry.com.

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Charms are also known as amulets and pendants. They are as popular today as they have been throughout recorded history. Ancient Egyptians wore bracelets with charms or amulets. They were used to protect against bad luck and evil forces. They began with religious symbols and became a part of everyday dressing.

Charms/jewelry were made of almost any material of value to people in their time. Many were made of precious metal. Others were made with gemstones inlaid in them or mounted with precious metals in the form of necklaces, crowns, staffs, and bracelets. Queen Victoria gets the credit for popularizing jewelry charms throughout Europe by wearing lockets or charms on her royal bracelets

America became enchante with Charms around the time frame of World War II. Soldiers returning from duty station brought with them various types of charms or pendants. Today popular charms are maded from Gold and Sterling silver. Other materials are still used in the making of charms.

Sterling Silver Charms today represent as many things as there are interests and personalities. Some charms or pendants represent the religious leanings of the wearer. They also represent the interest of the wearer such a musical instrument for a music lover, a pair of sneakers for a jogger, or ballet slippers for a ballerina. Imagination is the only limit for what a charm can represent. Silver charms are also used to commerate life events such as births, weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, or graduations.

Silver is a soft metal and its usage has been favored for centuries. It is used to make charms often related to religious worship. Silver has been a symbol of comfortable living. Sterling silver is much stronger than pure silver which is harder to work with when making pendants or charms. Sterling silver is approximately ninety percent silver. The last ten percent or so can be any one of the following: copper, zinc, or nickel and is more durable than pure silver but it still retains its inherent beauty.

Charms whether made of sterling silver or some other materials are often used to represent the person who wears or carries the charm. As has been mentioned however, they often represent the interests and personality of the wearer. During war particular items are given to the soldiers who are going off to fight. When a young teen-aged couple ‘goes steady’ the young man generally gives the girl his ring or something of particular value to him. The girls might also do the same.
Charms have also been said to represent the particular spirituality of the wearer. Many people wear plain simple crosses while still others will wear the cross with the corpus - the body of Christ on it. Others wear saints medals. Lockets are worn with images of loved ones inside. Once used to ward against evil spirits, for good luck, and for protection in times of trouble charms have come to be an adornment for the wearer. Charm bracelets are gifts that keep on giving. A charm is often given for birthdays, graduations, a dance recital, or sports victory. They make wonderful gifts for young girls that will grow with them. There are charm necklaces as well.

About the Author
Martin Smith is a successful freelance writer providing advice for consumers on purchasing a variety of products which includes
Wedding Ring and and more! His numerous articles provide a wonderfully researched resource of interesting and relevant information.

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Upper jewelry, consisting of earrings, necklaces, brooches and even rings and bracelets receive plenty of attention because of its placement on the individual-but what about anklets? It’s an ornament that may lack the attention of its upper counterparts but is still a flattering accessory on the individual.

Anklets for the season

Perhaps it is the summer or spring time, when a woman can show off her anklet. In a summer dress or in a swimsuit, a woman’s anklet will be one of the many accessories to complement her apparel. In a swimsuit, a woman’s anklet can be as playful as a multi-colored neon thread anklet, or an anklet made of straw holding colorful beads, to an anklet made only of beads! The possibilities can be as creative as can be.

For a special occasion, include an anklet to accommodate your upper jewelry such as a matching bracelet or necklace. The overall appearance of your formal attire (especially if you’re in a skirt or dress that’s above the knees) will finish off your entire package of a fabulous look.

When to wear anklets

This may be a no-brainer, but anklets should be worn when they are in view. Wearing jeans or pants or even long skirts are the only time when anklets are hidden. In this case, opt instead to wear your capris (if weather permits) and enable your anklet to be displayed. Of course, the seasons and temperatures may not be appropriate for you to wear your summer clothes that include shorts, skirts, or dresses, all-year around. However, you can always keep your anklet on, regardless of it being shown and flaunt your lower jewelry whenever you get a chance. Anklets are complemented well with open-toed heels, sandals or flip-flops. This is wear you can also show your toe rings and your pedicure toes!

What makes an anklet so unique?

There are a lot of things that make an anklet so unique. Of all the upper jewelry there is, the anklet distinguishes itself as the lone accessory. Toe rings have evolved into a popular trend with women, but anklets have been around for a long time. This traditional accessory should be included in your collection of jewelry to wear on those special occasions.

Anklets are fun when worn on their own but they can also be a perfect accent when worn in combination with a coordinating bracelet or necklace.

Visit Harris Michael Jewelry for a great selection of quality jewelry.

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Gold is still the most popular choice for men’s wedding rings. Pure gold is a deep yellow color, soft, very malleable and is of 24 carats. The only things to consider when buying a gold wedding ring are the gold carat and gold color or the combination of gold colors available.

Typical men’s wedding bands contain 9ct, 14ct and 18ct gold. The higher the proportion of gold used indicates the cost and the value of the metal. All these mentioned carat wedding rings are hard and durable metals and are suitable for daily usage.

In the present market, gold is available in a wide range of different colors. However, the most popular is still yellow gold, followed by white gold and rose gold. Other gold colors such as bronze, peach, red and lime gold are also sometimes available. Each gold color contains the same proportion of pure gold, so all the gold colors having the same carat will have the same Vickers score. White gold is usually more expensive than yellow gold and rose gold.

When buying wedding bands, men should consider the metals’ performance in daily usage and the difference in price and color. Studies show that an 18-carat ring holds up to everyday wear compared to a 9-carat and 14 carat. Also, 18 carat gold ages better than 9ct and 14ct and so looks better with daily usage. So, 18ct is the superior metal for men’s wedding rings provided that the ring is not a lightweight construction even though it is more expensive than 14 carat and 9 carat.

One major advantage with a gold wedding ring is that a simple gold wedding ring can normally be resized in the future by a local jeweler. However, a gold ring with ribbed edges, a wave or woven pattern or engraving might be a bit more difficult to resize without affecting the ring pattern.

Mens Wedding Bands provides detailed information about men’s wedding bands, men’s diamond wedding bands, men’s gold wedding bands and more. Mens Wedding Bands is affiliated with Moissanite Rings.

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When we think of silver, the first thing that comes to mind is sterling silver jewelry. Yet, the history of silver and the uses for silver are rich and varied. According to The Silver Institute, a worldwide association of silver miners, refiners, fabricators, and manufacturers, the area today known as Turkey was the first location where silver was mined. That was around 4000 B.C. Around 1200 B.C., the center of silver mining moved to an area near Athens. According to The Silver Institute, during the height of production, the mines near Athens produced about one million troy ounces each year.

Over the first millennium A.D., Spain became a prominent producer of silver, which was vital to the Asian spice trade. From 1500 through 1800 A.D., Peru, Mexico, and Bolivia produced most of the world’s silver. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, the discovery of silver deposits in Nevada, Colorado, and Utah caused production to explode. According to the Silver Institute, “Production over the last quarter of the 19th century quadrupled over the average of the first 75 years to a total of nearly 120 million troy ounces annually.”

Today, the vast majority of silver is used in industrial applications ranging from the medical use of silver sulfadiazine to treat burn victims to solar energy’s use of silver paste in crystalline silicon photovoltaic cells. Still, over 250 million ounces of silver are used each year to make silverware and silver jewelry. Your silver chain, silver bracelet, locket, silver earring, and wedding ring are all part of a rich history of silver.

Sterling silver jewelry comes in a variety of forms. One of the most popular uses of sterling silver jewelry is in silver chain. Silver chain is made in a number of different styles, including curb, cable, figaro, rope, box, snake, and herringbone. Some artisans use custom styling and may make silver chain in shapes like the rolled anchor, figure eight, alternating short- and long-link, diamond cut, and double rope. Silver chain provides the perfect backdrop for a locket or charm bracelet. A simple sterling silver necklace, bracelet, or ankle bracelet can also be worn on its own for understated elegance.

The craftsmanship of sterling silver jewelry is apparent in the glint of a silver earring or the selection of a once in a lifetime wedding band. Used as the setting for any number of pieces, today’s most popular sterling silver jewelry items include Celtic designs, pentagram and pentacle designs, handcrafted glass bead designs, and Bali designs.

Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web.
Visit this Jewelry Website and Majon’s Jewelry directory.

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