Monday 31 January 2011

How to have a Stylish Pregnancy


I've picked up a few tips and tricks for navigating pregnancy as stylishly as possible over the past 8 months or so and I thought I'd share some of them with you today. Fortunately, there are now plenty of maternity clothes options on the market today so you have no excuse not to look your usual cute self (especially since now you'll have that pregnancy glow to go along with your gorgeous bump).


1. Pants/Jeans. Hands down I'd say Gap is the winner in this category for both style and price. Sure, you can throw down some serious cash for designer maternity denim (much of which is pretty useless once you get into the third trimester anyway as they're often cut too low and with too little support for late term pregnancy), but I honestly don't think any of the designer jeans I tried on compared to Gap's "Always Skinny" maternity jeans, which I've been living in since Thanksgiving. Similarly, Gap's perfect trousers have become my work week staple and are (blessedly) wash and wear.


2. Basic Tops. Basic tees and tank tops are essential during pregnancy. You can wear them alone, under open jackets and cardigans, or layer them under shorter (non-maternity) tops for more coverage. While not inexpensive, Isabella & Oliver's scoopneck ruched tees are lifesavers for me. They're comfortable, long enough (without running the risk of looking like a tunic -- a problem that seems to plague much maternity wear, even for this 6' tall gal), flattering and I wear them constantly. For tank tops, I actually prefer Classiques Entier's camisoles, which come in an array of colors and, while not technically maternity wear, are stretchy enough to look good from the beginning of pregnancy to the end. Even better, you can wear postpartum without feeling like you're still stuck in your maternity clothes.


3. Open Cardigans. Fortunately, open front cardigans are a big trend right now and can be found in abundance at all price points. I'm a big fan of Nordstroms' in-house brand Caslon for inexpensive cardigans in fun colors. Again, these have the added benefit of being wearable postpartum as well.


4. Comfortable Flats. Comfortable shoes are essential. I had to temporarily retire my heels a few months ago once my balance started to become affected by my bump. At first I was worried that my feet would grow so I avoided investing in well-made, comfortable flats. Big mistake. Buying a couple of cute, well designed flats will not only perk up a basic black maternity wardrobe, but it will keep your feet (and therefore your legs and back) happy. For my money, you can't get better than Gentle Souls. Just don't go buying a whole new shoe wardrobe until you're well past postpartum and are sure your feet have permanently spread (or not).


5. Proper Undergarments. Let's talk lingerie for a moment, ladies. The first new clothing you'll need to buy for your pregnancy are a few new bras. Make sure they've got plenty of support (I made sure mine had that third hook-and-eye closure and larger, more supportive straps). I would suggest not buying nursing bras immediately as you can never be sure what size you'll need by the time the baby arrives. My other suggestion is to get yourself a few Spanx maternity shaper and/or tights. Not only do they smooth you out, but they provide invaluable belly support as you grow. As for maternity underwear? Completely unnecessary unless you prefer high-waisted granny panties. I've had no trouble wearing my usual boyshorts/bikini underwear throughout pregnancy.


6. Some Fun Stuff. So now you've got the basics down, but fashion is also supposed to be about having some fun, right? For more playful maternity tops and cute dresses, I'd recommend the brands Olian, Maternity America and Moody Mamas. I've found they all fit well and easily transition from the second to third trimester. [Note: it's unlikely you'll need maternity clothes during your first trimester and, if you're taller or it's your first child, during much of the second either. So, if you're newly pregnant, don't rush out and buy a bunch of stuff just yet!] These brands regularly go on sale at Nordstrom and even on Gilt Group and Ideeli, so keep your eyes peeled for bargains. Still though, you really won't need more than a couple of cute maternity tops and dresses.

7. Accessories. Remember, jewelry and purses are one size fits all (well, except for rings of course!). Invest accordingly. Statement-making necklaces and earrings keep the attention up at your beautiful, glowing face and your enhanced decolletage.

So what about you? Do you have any tips and tricks for staying fashionable (and, of course, comfortable) during pregnancy?


Friday 28 January 2011

Eternity Band as the Ultimate Choice to Show Affection



The eternity rings are the rings completely circling the ring and used to symbolize the love to someone that is indicated by the circular gems embedded in the ring. These rings and eternity bands are a unique wedding gift too. The history behind these bands and rings is very old. It is considered that the ancient Egyptians were the first who manufactured and used these rings and bands having embedded stones. These rings were initially made of metal bands and the stones were placed in an order around the ring. These types of rings were attributed to the Egyptians and they believed that these rings indicate the eternal love that lasts life long. The latest and modern eternity bands are very different from the traditional bands. These are available in different varieties e.g. diamond decorated bands, cubic zirconia based bands, gold bands and silver bands.

It has been noticed that the diamond engagement rings and eternity rings have become one of the top selling items of jewelry. These bands can be gifted to the loved ones on the anniversary or birthday to be a symbol of commitment and everlasting love. You will ask about the myth of eternity band that what things make it eternity band, the answer is that the band or ring that is covered all around with diamonds or precious gemstones make it eternity band. The gems or stones are placed such that they make a perfect circle around the band or ring. Rounded shaped diamonds are mostly used for these bands but the colored and exotic stones can also be employed in this regard. The one of the greatest birthday gifts are the birthstone bands. You can make your own eternity band by selecting different gems to make it more attractive or gift it to some one which you love the most.

The metal used in eternity bands usually gold or silver but the new and trendy metal cubic zirconia can be used in place to make the band look more attractive and charming. It depends on your budget that how much you can afford to gift an eternity band to your dears.

Sterling Silver Bracelets: A Unique Piece of jewelry



Women have been fond of the jewelry since centuries and the jewelry trends are different across different parts of the world. For example in Middle East and South Asia the gold jewelry is still very popular and extensively used whereas in the western world the situation has been changed and the silver and cubic zirconia based jewelry is making its place. This due to the latest trends introduced in the Hollywood industry the younger generation is showing increased trend towards the jewelry other than the conventional gold jewelry. The bracelet is an essential part of the modern jewelry and even boys are using different bracelets as casual wear. Bracelets are available in the market of varying designs and prices, the most common sterling silver bracelets and cubic zirconia bracelets.

Silver jewelry is considered as the pure silver and can be used to make costly jewelry. Sterling silver bracelets are of different styles and great number of shapes. These bracelets are equally popular among the men and the women and they are known for enhancing the personality of the person if worn according to the right selection.

There many varieties ands styles of silver bracelet. The simple sterling silver bracelets are used on various casual occasions and these are available in the form of simple chains and the typical ropy style. These are used in the two basic types known as thin and thick chains. Cuff bracelets are in trend now a day and these are a bit heavy type of bracelets. These are used on both casual and formal occasions. These can be embedded with precious gems or pearls for adding more attraction to this jewelry item. The charm silver bracelets are used to symbolize something special in a relationship. These are gifted to show love, eternity and deep affection for some one. Many people attach various stones with the bracelets to become somewhat lucky. Friendship bracelets are also very popular and one of the hottest jewelry items. These bracelets have very unique and trendy designs having clasps to handle the bracelet easily. These may be available in the simpler form or very decorative friendship bracelets can be gifted.

Designs Fit For Your Valentine


The end of January and just around the corner is Valentine’s Day. We have new designs that are sweet delicious, bold and classy, sassy and trendy; give the gift of nature’s treasures. These new designs feature pendant hearts of glass, red coral, onyx, cloisonné beads, ivoryite and peppermint jasper and much more!

(Left:  Heart of Glass, Red Coral, Onyx Set)







Coral: Diplomacy, quieting emotions, visualization.
Onyx: Self-control, decision making, intuition, recognition of personal strengths.

Jaspers: Protection, nurturing, joy, awareness; balancing of physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual energies.
Smoky Quartz: Dissolving emotional blockage, clearing the mind, cooperation, personal pride, joy in living, attentiveness to the moment, protection.

(Right:  Peachy Jasper accented w/Silver, Smoky Quartz Set)





  
Shop often for the best selection, we are adding new designs weekly at Timeless Designs Ruby Lane!




 






(Above:  Artistic Jasper, Rasberry Quartz Set)
(Right:  Arizona Ivoryite, Peppermint Jasper Set)

Thursday 27 January 2011

Nursery Sneak Peek


The nursery is almost done! While the big reveal will have to wait until next week as I put the final touches on the room over the weekend, I thought I'd whet your appetite with a sneak peek of the window seat, complete with cushions and my DIY pillows and pelmet box (more on both next week). 

In other baby news, my shower is this weekend and I'm really looking forward to catching up with my favorite girlfriends, several of whom are coming down from Dallas for the event. Happy weekend!




you make me fine, when i feel bad
you make me happy, when i feel sad
you make me better
cz you're my 
*BEST FRIEND*




LVELY SISTER

Tucson World’s Largest Treasure Hunt

Well, at least in the United States it is the world’s largest treasure hunt and the much anticipated ‘Biggest Show’ is about to begin. Starting January 29 and running through February 13, 2011 is the Tucson Gem & Mineral Show.

For two weeks international buyers and sellers migrate across the globe to Tucson, Arizona for a feast of shows hosted across the small town; venues include convention centers, ball parks and empty lots, resorts, hotels and motels and multiple places along the frontage road that runs along east and west of Interstate 10. It accounts for more than 40 sites around the town to thousands of participants and attendees.

There is always something to tantalize the imagination; minerals, fossils, gemstones, jewelry, museum and private collections on display, and lots of beading materials. Many shows are open to the public, but be sure to check the show website for details because many of them are wholesale only and require business credentials to attend.






Check these websites for listings and information on shows:






We’ll be highlighting several shows over the next few weeks, as we trek our way across Tucson hunting for our next inventory of treasures for the coming season!


 
To see our artisan crafted creations from the treasures we find in Tucson, browse our collections online at Timeless Designs Ruby Lane!

Wednesday 26 January 2011

The Definition of a GOOD Woman

Women Who Dress Like Whores



This is my absolute FAVORITE VIDEO about women's clothing and the correlation of not getting a guy to take them seriously!!! Take notes

The Snakeskin of Serpentine

Named for the snakeskin it is said to resemble, serpentine has been used in jewelry for thousands of years; mainly because it is suitable for carving and polishes to an attractive gleam. It is sometimes confused with jadette or nephrite, because of its similar coloration, and is sometimes been known as “Korean jade” or “new jade’, although it is softer and scratches more easily than jade.

The term serpentine encompasses a group of related minerals that are distributed across the globe. It is a secondary mineral formed from minerals such as olivine (known as gem peridot) and orthophroxene. It occurs in igneous rocks containing these minerals but typically in serpentinites, which have been formed by the serpentine minerals, the antigorites and the chrysotiles.


Legend says that is was used by the ancient Romans as a protective stone against the powers of darkness. According to the legend, beakers made from serpentine would shatter if they came into contact with poison. In the Middle Ages, medicine was kept in serpentine containers because this increased its healing powers and made it last longer.

As in ancient civilizations of America, serpentine was considered a guardian of vital energy and a protector of the soul against invisible powers. The stone is said to even out mood swings and calms the wearer in stressful, hectic situations; it is a protective stone that is said to bring peace.



This new design features a large oblong serpentine pendant in deep rich green with slivers of silver. The bail contains hand twisted charms in metallic and clear faceted crystals; Arizona ivoryite, more crystals and sterling silver spacers and toggle complete the set.

 









Browse our artisan crafted jewelry, featuring some of nature’s finest treasures!


*Research from various websites, mineral-stone-crystal books.

Tuesday 25 January 2011

The Engagement Rings are an Eternal Gift to Show Love


The engagement rings can be seen in the finger of engaged women that are gifted by the men who want to marry them. These engagement rings are considered to be the promise rings that both are agreed to marry. Mostly these rings are offered by the men to their girl friends but now a day, the trend of offering engagement ring by the woman to the man is becoming popular in the U.S. whereas this trend is already common in other parts of the world like Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Germany. However, the men have to present another ring to the women at the time of wedding known as wedding ring these are also called the eternity rings. The most popular of the engagement rings is the diamond ring. Sterling silver rings are also popular in this trend. The men wearing two rings are a rare thing though.

History of the Engagement Rings:
The origin of the engagement ring dates back to the Pope Innocent III. In the year of 1215 the pope made it mandatory that there is should be some waiting period before wedding and the rings should be gifted to the women by the men as promise ring. With the passage of time, this trend flourished across many parts of the world and now we can see that almost every person is aware of the engagement ring and it is adopted by every culture.

Fourth Finger of the Left Hand:
It is seen that the engagement ring is worn on the fourth finger of the left hand. This thing also has a unique history because it was believed that this finger hosts the vein of love and hence the ring should be worn on the fourth finger of the left hand to make the love bond stronger.

Failed Engagements:
It has been seen that sometimes the engagements do not last long and failed. In this case the ring can be returned by the lady or she may keep it. Usually, if the failure is from man’s side, the lady has the full option to return or keep the ruing. The rings are eternity rings and are gifted to show deep love and affection. Usually, it is returned if the engagements are not successful.

Sterling silver rings – Advantages and utilities


In the first decade of the twenty first century almost all the countries in the world have suffered economically and the inflation has increased manifold. The prices of all the marketable goods have increased and the life has become more and more difficult. The jewelry which has obsessed an ordinary as well as an elite class woman is now very costly and the prices are unaffordable even for the well established families. But thanks to technology and the science who have come up with the solution in the form of silver sterling jewelry. Chemically this is an alloy. This is made by mixing different metals with different amounts of silver. These metals are very inexpensive as compared to the silver jewelry, gold and platinum. In this way the jewelry is made with low consumption cost and is offered in the market for sale. This is often called the fashion jewelry.

By fashion jewelry we usually mean the jewelry which is most trendy and is being worn by the celebrities. No doubt most of us look towards our favorite celebrities for the latest fashion and designs. It is true that the fashion jewelry is the trendy jewelry and is available in the latest designs in the market but it is not made up of the pure materials like gold, platinum or silver. But it is made up of cheap material which gives the same look as do these precious metals. There is a vast variety of silver sterling jewelry which is available in the market and the most common are the necklaces, Sterling silver rings, eternity rings, promise ring, friend ship bands and bracelets.

This list is far from being complete and you can every piece of jewelry in this material. sterling silver ring are very cheap and easily affordable for all income groups. Thus it has become an obsession of the woman of the present age to have the silver sterling jewelry. The quality of the material is so stunning that the difference can never be made unless told by the wearer. This material has solved a big problem of those who love each other and want to give gifts to show the warmth of their love and emotions to their beloved ones.

Object of Desire


I'm totally in love with this ottoman/stool (dubbed a chakki by Serena & Lily). Available in two finishes (white and a dark walnut) and 12 fabrics (including some fantastic prints), it's a truly versatile piece that would work in a bedroom, living room or den. Even better? The cushion is slip covered for easy washing; perfect if you've got small children or pets. The one downside? It's on the pricier side at $450. That said though, it could really make a room.

Sunday 23 January 2011

Eternity rings – A special message of everlasting love


The jewelry has been a fascination for the women since ancient times. The jewelry is mostly used to enhance the overlook of the personality. There was a time when the materials were very cheat and the jewelry was affordable for all and sundry. But nowadays the whole world is entrapped in the vicious cycle of poverty and inflation has resulted in increase of many items of basic necessities as well as the fashionable products or luxuries such as jewelry. People used to give very precious gifts of jewelry to their loved ones often. But now the high prices are a great hindrance in this regard. The rings which are considered the symbol of love, eternity and union such as promise ring and eternity rings are difficult to present as often as in the past.

The materials like diamond, gold, platinum and silver are too costly to purchase especially for the middle and upper middle class and the jewelry has become a status symbol. It is thought that only the elite class can afford such luxuries like diamond, gold and other precious gemstone jewelry.

The eternity rings are still considered the most special way of conveying your love and wishes of everlasting bond of love. This is mostly used by the people to present on the special milestones of their lives which may include the birthday of their life partner, the birth of a child and the wedding anniversaries. Some people like to celebrate the engagement and first encounter anniversaries also which shows their deep love for each other and the specialty of these occasions for them. The rings are mostly made of diamond with the gold band. These are very costly and not every one can afford them. But those belonging to middle income group can also buy the similar jewelry for their life partners to express the warmth of their love. This can be done by purchasing sterling silver rings. These rings are made by a material which is much cheaper than the pure silver, gold and diamond. This material is used to make all types of jewelry pieces with very much similar beauty and charm as the pure material jewelry possesses.

Advantages of cubic zirconia jewelry


Elegant in looks and exhibiting exemplary craftsmanship, Cubic zirconia jewelry is the fashion of the day. No matter what occasion it is, you will find each and every piece from bracelets, rings, earrings, Necklaces, nose rings, pendants to ankle bracelets made of CZ. The ability to have different color coatings on it makes it an imitation not only for the diamond but also for other precious gemstones. It is available in white or colorless material and serves as an imitation to the diamond. The brilliance of the cubic zirconia is sometimes more than the diamond itself. It is usually considered that the CZ can only be used as an alternate to the diamond. Let me make it clear that it is not true.

To explore it further, take a look at the different colors in which CZ is available and the gemstones for which these colors can be and are being used as exact replicas. A very famous and well known color of CZ is the pink one and it is also used as the replica of different pink color gemstones available in the market. Blue sapphire is very popular nowadays. The engagement of Prince William and Kate Middleton has made it even popular and it will be getting more and more as the marriage of the couple approaches near and near. The engagement ring of Kate contains a blue sapphire which is surrounded by fourteen diamonds.

The couple is intended to get married in early 2011. cubic zirconia available in blue color and white crystalline color is being used to make many replicas of this ring which has become a hot cake in the market. Either you are a fan of Kate or the late Diana; you will be looking for the same ring to express your love for them. CZ has made it possible to have a similar ring in your fingers at a very affordable price. Another very popular color with the CZ is green and it gives a look of green emerald. A very interesting color associated with CZ is the purple color which gives a look like purple amethyst. CZ has made it possible for everyone to wear diamonds and have all their jewelry desires fulfilled.

Friday 21 January 2011

Andean Opal Rare Stone of Color

Andean opal is a lovely blue-green translucent opal found in the Andes Mountains near San Patricio, Peru. It has been used by native South Americans for more than a thousand years and is well known in the semi-precious stone trade. Copper may be the essential trace element that causes its soft distinctive color. The pink opal derives its color from trace amounts of included organic compounds known as quinones. These opals range from opaque to translucent, and depending on how the stone is cut, the color will either be clear or show the stone’s matrix and inclusions. (Like agates, some Peruvian opals show the scenic fern-like dendritic inclusions.)


Peruvian opal is also known as Andean opal. Opal was formed many millions of years ago, when a combination of silica and water flowed into cracks and spaces in the ground. This then gradually hardened and solidified to become opal. Opals contain water, which makes them very sensitive to heat. They are soft and can be cracked or chipped easily.


Traditionally pink Peruvian opal is a stone of love and gentleness. It brings energies of gentle love and kindness to both romantic relationships and relationships of other kinds. As with other opals, it also brings inspiration, imagination and creativity. It can help release inhibitions and brings happy dreams. It also eases the process of change.


 
This new design features round pink Peruvian opals, some charmed at the base to form a bail over a beautiful Murano glass heart pendant in black and pink. The strands are crafted of onyx, pink faceted crystals and more pink opals.



Browse our collection of finely artisan crafted jewelry, available to purchase at our online shop!

Black Walls: A Lasting Trend?


More than a decade ago, my cousin painted her small living room black. At the time, I was skeptical, but now it's perfectly clear that she was truly ahead of her time; indeed, in retrospect, those black walls with her black and white toile sofa was super chic).

In any case, black walls have been a growing trend in the design world for several years now and they don't appear to be going anywhere in 2011. I've been a bit slow in embracing this trend (despite my love of darker wall colors like plum, navy and peacock blue), but I can say now that I've fully come around. While I'm not sure how and if I'll work it into my home, I do enjoy coveting some of the amazing rooms that designers have created featuring black walls.

The large bedroom above is an absolute favorite of mine. What I find particularly striking is how light the room feels, despite the dark walls. A good tip for those looking to test out black walls but scared of making a room too dark: keep your ceiling, trim and your floors light. The accents of red in the room, inspired by the black grounded shell motif fabric used throughout the space keep the room from being too monochromatic. Much as I love black and white, I find a total lack of an accent color to be too hard to live with.

Windsor Smith

Black walls really highlight the detailed molding in this small office. The graphic effect is mimicked in the iron windows and wrought iron lantern. I particularly love how Windsor painted the ceiling in a glossy pale blue. It adds a touch of lightness to the space. Oh yeah, and how awesome is that flame stitch office chair?


Atlanta Decorator's Show House

Black is an obvious choice for a study, library or den, where a cozier, darker environment is a welcome respite from a day's worth of work and chores.


If you want the graphic punch but are a bit afraid of feeling closed in, try just painting one wall. I'm not generally a fan of an accent wall, but I do think it works well in a bedroom (of course, you have to put your bed against said accent wall to pull this office!). Of course, the white bed frame and side tables against the dark wall makes the most of both. Remember: it's all about contrast!
Ruthie Sommers (via domino)

Tight spaces can sometimes really benefit from the black wall treatment. It may seem counter intuitive but dark walls can really create a feeling of more space as they recede in the background -- and can highlight other great features like a fun turquoise door or high ceilings.

Sherrill Canet

This dining room is an all-time favorite of mine. The black background of this gorgeous wallpaper modernizes classic Chinoiserie and the silver ceiling generate some serious drama. The more casual dining table and chairs keeps the room from feeling too stuffy. To paraphrase Mary Poppins: it's practically perfect in every way.

Image from Marie Claire Maison

A black bathroom, like a black kitchen, is a fun deviation from the standard white -- and I'd argue it's just as classic. Of course a black clawfoot tub is just the icing on the cake. One thing I don't like about this room though: those floors. That shade of green reminds me of the green marble that was oh so popular in the '80s. Yuck.

Jenna Lyons - Domino

Somehow, I feel like the Jenna Lyons spread in domino a few years ago was a major catalyst for the black wall craze that's been raging ever since. I'll admit that the black cast iron tub paired with the brass fixtures and herringbone wood floor still leaves me breathless.

Image via Metropolitan Home


I can describe this room in 3 words: Drama, drama, drama. This image appeared on Metropolitan Home's last book Glamour: Making it Modern and I can tell you that it was just about the sole reason I picked up a copy (yes, I did judge a book by its cover!).

Anne Coyle

Black walls are a great backdrop for artwork. Like white walls, they let the art do most of the talking, but unlike white walls, you won't feel like you're sleeping in a sterile art gallery.


While I love a white kitchen, black cabinetry is definitely growing on me. Shubel did a nice job here of keeping the look monochromatic and graphic. The flatweave rug is very chic. I also like how he selected two different countertops. The black marble on the island creates a ton of drama, but the white marble on the cabinets behind tone things down and blend in seamlessly with the creamy walls.

Image via Canadian House and Home


Another black kitchen, this time from the 2010 Canadian House and Home designer show house. The mix of materials is great and I love the crisp white beadboard ceiling. The stone floor and kitchen table and chairs add a French bistro touch that nicely balances all that black and stainless steel.

Rob Southern (via House Beautiful)

Entryways and hallways are great opportunities to experiment with black walls without really having to live with it. These walls are actually covered in vinyl wallpaper, which I'd imagine would be more cost-effective and long-lasting than lacquered walls.

Image via House Beautiful


I like how this den feels less buttoned up than most black rooms. Instead of dramatic, it feels cozy -- but it's still sophisticated (as evidenced by that fabulous KWID fabric).

Steven Gambrel

This den feels at once incredibly masculine and incredibly dramatic. The liquid leather armchairs combined with the glossy black walls (and glossy marigold yellow ceiling!) are admittedly pretty over the top. And yet Gambrel manages to balance them with smart striped curtains and a softer, more beat up leather sofa and armchair.

So what do you think, are black walls a new classic or still just a passing trend?

Wednesday 19 January 2011

Cubic Zirconia Necklaces


If you are going to wear a special costume for a special party or an auspicious day, give some more time to the selection of jewelry to make the outfits and jewelry perfect to each other. There are many pieces of jewelry a woman has to select but the most important are the Necklaces and earrings. The necklaces are made up of many materials like gold, diamond, platinum and pearls. But the trendiest are those made up of cubic zirconia. Although it is an imitation of the diamond but its shine and glare makes it much more than that. In this article we are going to discuss the advantages of CZ jewelry.
The first and foremost advantage of using the CZ jewelry is that it is cost effective and economical. The price of this jewelry is ten times less than that of diamond. it makes the CZ jewelry a darling of every woman.

The second advantage of CZ jewelry is its perfect looks which are most similar to diamond. Even the expert jewelers are unable to differentiate between the diamond and the CZ only by seeing it. Jewelers have to use certain techniques to differentiate the two.
Diamond is the hardest material on the planet earth. It hardness is the key towards its resistance against the scratches and keeps it shiny all the time. The CZ is also very hard as compared to other materials which are used as the imitators of the diamond jewelry.
Diamond is a colorless substance and same is the CZ but it can be easily coated with synthetic colors. Thus it looks more beautiful and shining with different colors.

CZ is a very tough material and is resistant to breakage just like diamond. When it comes to weight, the CZ is heavier than diamond to some extent. Different layers are so adjusted in the crystal that they disperse the light very well and cause the material to glitter and glow when exposed to light. Diamond gives only blue fluorescence but cubic zirconia gives different color fluorescence in the ultraviolet light. As far as the size of the CZ is concerned it is almost of the same size as a one carat diamond. All these advantages make it fit to use as an alternate to the diamond jewelry.

Cubic Zirconia – the best fashion jewelry


Among all types of imitation jewelry of diamond and other precious gemstones, the best is that of cubic zirconia. They are believed to be the next fashion trend in the jewelry. They have become most popular in recent years and everyone wants to purchase them because they bear very low price tags. Originally Cubic zirconia is a mineral of metal zircon. Not abundant in nature but this beautiful gemstone can be easily synthesized in the laboratories. It takes after diamond and has become the integral part of every woman’s jewelry collection. It is used in almost all pieces of jewelry including rings, earrings, bracelets, Necklaces and pendants. Originally discovered in 1892, this gemstone could not become commercially profitable because its occurrence in nature is very rare.

The most important part in making it available for all and sundry was played by some German and Soviet scientist who succeeded in making its crystals in the laboratory. This is a colorless compound but jewelers are using it in different colors by applying artificial dies and electroplating. It is crystalline and flawless material and most of the jewelers call it a D grade diamond as far as its color, glare and shine is concerned. The ability to disperse the light it shines brilliantly and no body can recognize it until the wearer tells himself about its material. It is harder than many other materials which are being used as replicas of diamond. Another quality of this material is that it has more weight as compared to diamond. To be precise, it is 0.65 times heavier than the diamond.

It is the artistic production and the innovative creations of the jewelers that they have come out with stunning designs of jewelry in this material. Form this material heart rings, celebrity engagement rings, promise rings, eternity rings and many more are being reproduced by the artistic hands of the jewelers. Although it is an imitation of the diamond yet its charm is not less than the diamond. You can easily afford a diamond ring or a diamond necklace which is made up of zirconia. Thanks to nature for creating such an amazing gemstone which has given opportunity to fulfill the dreams of everyone who wants to wear diamond jewelry.

Chic Stylish Designs in Shades of Red

A chic, trendy, elegant, and bold design….that is what’s new at our online shop in artisan crafted custom jewelry featuring the color RED!






Heart of mine in Murano glass deep red pendant with black marks; accented with lots of hand turned crystals of red and black.







Trendy stylish statement in red sponge coral pendant that is accented with cloisonné and lampwork beads, red coral (dyed) and extended with long chain.







Bold elegant red (dyed) coral with all faceted onyx in shapes of square and rounds.



Browse and shop our collections of artisan crafted jewelry, from natures earthy treasures!