Italian Charm Bracelet

Every year it’s the same drill: the Christmas decorations go up ever closer to the Halloween decorations just barely coming down!

The next thing you know, it’s Thanksgiving.

Then it’s the time for good cheer, for gathering our family and friends together and for celebrating the many joys of the season.

That’s when the morning paper weighs a ton because of all the sale circulars for the mother of all shopping days, Black Friday.

Sure, there are good deals to be had, but oftentimes getting to those deals requires dragging yourself out of bed at oh-dark-thirty so you can join the rush for the much-desired loss leader at your local retailer when it opens before the birds even start chirping.

Of course, the Internet has changed all that. It’s now quite possible (and even feasible) to make it through your entire shopping list without leaving the comfort of your warm, toasty home. You can even find some excellent deals that way.

But there’s still one problem with this comfy scenario: what do you get for that person who seems to have everything? What do you buy, other than clothes, for that person who is into fashion? What do you get for someone that really loves something personal? All these, and more, are where Italian Charms come in quite perfectly.

Italian Charms make great gifts for moms, dads, friends, and more. There are literally thousands and thousands of designs to choose from – and with many priced under $10, you’re sure to find something to fit your budget (OR, you can afford to get a few!)

As far as styles, you can select one designed for the person that collects a particular theme, like elephants, cats, angels and many more. Even better yet, you can get a Custom Laser Italian Charm or a Custom Photo Italian Charm!

These custom Italian charms allow you to choose your own name, phrase, or picture and have it placed on an Italian Charm – what better way to give a fun, fashionable, and most importantly, a thoughtful gift!

Italian Charms?

Ok, here’s the “brief” in case you’re new to the Italian Charm craze. Charms and keepsakes have been around for thousands of years, but it was not until the 20th century that charms became decorative fashion jewelry.

In 2001, fashion industries made it popular once again to wear charm bracelets. Since then a huge flood of styles and brands have entered America and most all of them have been accepted with open arms. Walk thru a crowd of people and you are almost sure to see a few bracelets, most of which have precious memories captured inside.

While traditional charms dangle, Italian charms feature individual pieces soldered flat onto the surface of a charm link. These flat, modular pieces form an Italian charm bracelet when they are hooked together.

Here’s the best part: since Italian charms have standardized sizing, they are compatible across brands!!

Building a Bracelet

The standard sized Italian charm is 9mm, which is measured diagonally across the piece. However, Italian charms are also available in small (5mm), large (13mm) and mega (18mm) sizes. Usually it takes around 16-18 charms to build a full bracelet.

When looking into purchasing Italian charms, you will come across the term starter bracelet. You will need to begin with a starter bracelet, which consists of eighteen blank links. In order to create a personalized Italian charm bracelet, these blank links are replaced, one by one, with selected designs of Italian charms.

The best bet is to replace around 3-5 of the blank links with Italian Charms – this will make a nice-looking Italian Charm Bracelet. Or, just start with 1 or 2 as a gift, and you’ve given someone a new collectible hobby!

Getting Started – Choose a Theme!

Italian charm collecting is similar to creating a wardrobe that is thoughtfully put together to reflect your personality and taste. Before you begin purchasing individual charms it is a good to decide on how the pieces will work together. You will want to choose a theme for your bracelet. This theme could be anything – a list of family names, pictures from a vacation, animals, hobbies, or anything that you think fits!

You may want to focus on one color or even color combination. With so many choices available in charms, you can get as specific as you’d like with your theme. Another idea is to make a keepsake bracelet that tells your life story. With this kind of a theme, your charms can be selected or even custom made to commemorate achievements, and various aspects of your personality and life.

Where to Buy?

Purchasing Italian charms on eBay is exciting because there are thousands from which to choose. Often times you’ll find quick-selling auctions that start as low at $0.99, at the same time, finding some of the most beautiful and high-end Italian Charms on the market.

And with that, Happy Holidays and Happy Charm Shopping!

A gemstone variety of quartz, the amethyst is the birthstone of February. It is known as the gemstone of spirituality and contentment. The Amethyst is also known to endow its wearer with stability, strength and peace.

The gemstone’s purple color is associated with royalty and has been used around the world to adorn regal crowns and jewels. Since amethyst is considered to symbolize piety and encourage celibacy as well as to represent humility, it is often worn by clergy of the Catholic Church.

Amethysts in History

The earliest recognition of amethyst comes from Ancient Greece – where the gemstone gets its name. Derived from the Greek,”amethystos” meaning “not drunken”, the name reflects the belief that the stone protected its owner from drunkenness.

This legend is drawn from a Greek myth about the god of wine, Bacchus. The myth tells that Amethyst, a beautiful woman, was condemned to death by the hands of Bacchus.

When the goddess Diana turned Amethyst to crystal to protect her, Bacchus was remorseful and wept tears of wine onto the crystal. This stained Amethyst purple. In Ancient Greece, drinking from a cup fashioned from amethyst was thought to prevent drunkenness.

Historically, this gemstone has been used by royalty and is included in the British Crown Jewels. They were also a favorite of Catherine the Great as well as the royalty of Egypt.

Origins and Presentation

Mined primarily in Brazil, Uruguay, Bolivia and Argentina, amethysts are also found in African countries. Amethysts mined from South American countries are available in larger stones. Yet, African amethyst enjoys a reputation for deeper colors.

The gemstone ranges in color from pale, lilac-purple to a rich, deep color. The deeper, vibrant purple shades are considered more valuable. If it were not for the widespread availability of amethyst, the popular gemstone would be quite expensive.

This Amethyst Cross Ring is only $17!

This richly colored gemstone is known as a symbol of faith, consistency and truth. Mostly appearing in deep shades of red, the garnet actually displays the widest range of colors of all gemstones. Garnets can be found in every color of the spectrum except blue. The January birthstone takes its name from the Latin word for grain and is actually a family of gems rather than one specific gemstone.

Garnet in History

Jewelry featuring the garnet has been found dating back to 3000 BC, through the ruins of Ancient Greece and Egypt where garnets were used as talismans. Also, this gemstone was included in tombs of Ancient Egypt - meant to light the passage to the afterlife.

In Biblical history, Noah is depicted using a garnet to illuminate the way of the ark. The garnet is also one of twelve stones to adorn the Breastplate of Aaron, made by Moses for his brother. In the middle ages, the garnet was believed to hold medicinal value. The gemstone was said to offer protection from poisons and cures for other illness, especially those dealing with blood and infection.

Origins

Garnets today originate from African countries but are also mined in India, Russia, Central and South America. Usually cut into classic shapes, fancy cuts are becoming more common. Some members of the garnet family are exclusive to one part of the world. Many types, old and new, come from Africa.

The green Tsavorite garnet, named by Tiffany’s in New York, is found in Kenya and East Africa and imported by the United States.

There are many types of cross pendants out there. Whether your looking for an Ankh, a Celtic or Claddagh Cross, a Christian cross or something different, you are sure to find what your looking for on eBay.

Cross Pendants can be made out of any kind of material imaginable. Furthermore, each cross carries it’s own symbolism, so the type of cross you choose may reflect both your belief and your style.

Types of Crosses

There are hundreds of different types of crosses. This list provides some of the most common.

Ankh Cross

The Ankh is also known as the Looped Tau Cross, the Key of the Nile and the Ansated Cross. The Ankh cross was the Ancient Egyptian symbol of life.

Canterbury Cross

The Canterbury Cross is used in Anglican Churches. This cross has four arms, each of equal length. Each arm widens at the outer end forming a near circle at the edge. Each arm bears a triangular panel which symbolizes the Trinity. There is a small square at the center of the cross.

Christian Cross

The Christian Cross is also called the Latin cross. This is the most common symbol of Christianity, representing the crucifixion of Jesus.

Coptic Cross

The Coptic Cross is a small circle with four arms of equal length. The angled T shapes in the corner and cross-pieces outward of the Coptic Cross represent nails used in Jesus’ crucifixion.

Greek Cross

The Greek Cross, also known as the crux immissa quadrata, has arms of equal length.

Byzantine Orthodox Cross

The Byzantine Orthodox Cross is used in the Eastern Orthodox Church. This cross has the letters IC XC at the end of the main arms. These letters represent the name of Jesus Christ. The top line of this cross represents the headboard of the crucifix while the bottom, slanted line represents the footrest.

High Cross

The High Cross is also known as a Celtic Crosses. These are commonly worn in Ireland.

Papal Cross

In the Papal Cross, the three cross-bars represent the Roman Catholic Pope’s three duties as Bishop of Rome, Patriarch of the West, and successor of St. Peter.

Jerusalem Cross

The Jerusalem cross was the emblem of Templar Crusaders. The Jerusalem cross has four arms at equal distances, symbolizing the four directions, and the belief that Jerusalem was the spiritual center of the earth. It also represents the spread of Christ’s message through the four evangelists (Mathew, mark, Luke, and John), who are represented by the four additional “crosslets.”

Patriarchal Cross

The Patriarchal Cross is similar to a traditional Christian cross, but with an additional, smaller crossbar. This crossbar is meant to represent all the Orthodox Christian Archbishops and Patriarchs.

Lorraine Cross

The Lorraine Cross is similar to a patriarchal cross. The difference is, the Lorraine Cross usually has one bar near the bottom and one near the top.

Sun Cross

The Sun Cross is also known as the sunwheel, solar cross or Odin’s cross. The sun cross is a circle divided into four segments.

Tau Cross

The Tau Cross is also known as the Egyptian Cross and Saint Anthony’s Cross. The Tau Cross is shaped like the letter T.

Thieves’ Cross

The Thieves Cross is also known as the Furka Cross. The Thieves Cross is shaped like the letter Y.

Mariner’s Cross

The Mariner’s Cross, also known as St. Clements Cross is in the shape of an anchor.

Whatever cross you choose, make sure to choose one that you love! With so many crosses to choose from, you’re sure to find something you like.

Jewelry which is termed ‘vintage’ includes many decades or eras. Each era has many different designs. These eras include Georgian, Early Victorian, Mid-Victorian, Late Victorian, Arts and Crafts era, Art Nouveau, Edwardian, Art Deco and Retro.

Georgian Jewelry (1714-1837)
Georgian jewelry is handmade, making the quality of each piece variable. Needless to say, Georgian jewelry is very rare. Often featuring nature-inspired designs such as leaves and birds, Georgian jewelry frequently includes precious stones.

Early Victorian, Romantic Jewelry (1837-1850)
Like jewelry of the Georgian era, early Victorian jewelry features nature-inspired designs. Frequently, these designs would be delicately and intricately etched into gold. Lockets and brooches were popular everyday jewelry during the early Victorian era whereas colored gemstones and diamonds were worn during the evening.

Mid-Victorian, Grand Jewelry (1860-1880)
Because the Grand or Mid-Victorian era corresponded with the death of Queen Victoria’s husband, many jewelry pieces have solemn, grave designs. Known as mourning jewelry, the pieces feature heavy, dark stones. Jet, onyx, amethyst, and garnet are frequently found in jewelry from this period. The jewelry also became especially creative during this period. More colorful designs were born featuring shells, mosaics and colorful gemstones.

Late Victorian, Aesthetic Jewelry (1885-1900)
During the Late Victorian or Aesthetic period, jewelers used diamonds and feminine, bright gemstones such as sapphire, peridot, and spinel. Star and crescent designs as well as elaborate hat pins were also popular.

Arts and Crafts Jewelry (1894-1923)
Due to the Industrial Revolution, many jewelry designers rebelled during the Arts and Crafts era, returning to intricate jewelry designs and handmade craftsmanship. It was common for jewelry of this era to be simple in pattern, made of colorful, uncut stones.

Art Nouveau Jewelry (1895-1915)
Designed by Rene Jules Lalique in France and other jewelers in America, Art Nouveau jewelry features natural designs such as flowers and butterflies.

Edwardian Jewelry (1901-1910)
The Edwardian era was born when Queen Victoria died and her son Edward became king. During this period, expensive gemstones such as diamonds, emeralds and rubies and elaborate designs were the fashion.

Art Deco Jewelry (1920-1935)
Influenced by African, Egyptian and Japanese themes, Art Deco jewelry is famous for its geometric designs, sharp lines, and bright colors. Bakelite, celluloid, enamel and doublets were used frequently during this era. Necklaces were long and bracelets were worn many at a time. Amber, Venetian and glass beads, and amber were worn as well as chokers.

Retro Jewelry (1940s)
Inspired by Hollywood, Retro jewelry is colorful, bold and elaborate. Commonly worn were large cocktail rings, bracelets, watches, necklaces and charm bracelets.

Whatever vintage jewelry you choose, whatever era you prefer. Vintage jewelry is a great way to spice up your style and get creative!

On September 5, 2006 Pugster Inc. was featured on the front page of the Pasadena Star News. Co-Owners Vanessa Lee and Wen Chang were interviewed for the piece.

Specializing in Italian charms and Murano glass jewelry, Pugster also carries a full line of trendy fashion jewelry, including brooches, rings, pendants, watches, earrings, bracelets, and more. Pugster is consistently ahead of the trend, providing what’s hot now to fashion jewelry lovers nationwide.

Lee began selling Italian Charms online in 2000. They were a hit. In 2002, Pugster was officially founded. The company became so successful that Chang quit his job to work Pugster as well. Business has thrived. With over 10,000 Italian charms to choose from Pugster now has obtained contracts with corporations including Pepsi-Cola and Disney. Pugster even offers it’s own, one of a kind charms.

Pugster (eBay ID: pugster888) continuously ranks as the number recipient of positive feedback on eBay with over 1.2 Million positive reviews since June 2004, according to Novato Technology.

For more information about Pugster Inc., visit http://www.pugster.com/.

http://www.pasadenastarnews.com/entertainment/ci_4290562

Swarovski crystal is recognized as some of the most magnificent crystal made worldwide. Given the brilliance, variety and innovation of Swarovski crystal, its popularity is no surprise.

History of Swarovski Crystal

Swarovski crystal was born when Daniel Swarovski invented an automatic cutting machine in 1892. In this, Daniel Swarovski created a world of fashion fantasy as he began to cut sparkling facets into crystal.

It can be argued that Daniel Swarovski transformed fashion and beauty forever when he created sparkling Swarovski crystal jewelry.

The beauty of Swarovski crystal is unmatched. Unique cuts and a seemingly endless spectrum of colors set Swarovski crystal apart. Swarovski crystal jewelry enthusiasts can find Swarovski crystal bangles and bracelets, Swarovski crystal earrings, necklaces and pendants, pins, rings and even tiaras.

Discriminating crystal lovers value Swarovski crystal. With incomparable crystal purity the quality of Swarovski crystal is beyond compare.

Whatever Swarovski crystal jewelry you choose, you’re sure to love it!

The cubic zirconia is widely known as a diamond stimulant. It is actually a mineral rarely found in nature, but commonly created for this use. While its most common use is to simulate the diamond, cubic zirconia (CZ) is available in a wide variety of colors to represent most gemstones.
The cubic zirconia is inexpensive, durable and extremely clear with a flawless appearance. In fact, the cubic zirconia shows far more brilliance and clarity than a genuine diamond.

Cubic Zirconia and the Diamond

Due to its inexpensive nature and similarities in appearance, cubic zirconia has been the leading diamond imitator since the middle of the twentieth century. It is so close in appearance, in fact, that often it can only be distinguished by a trained eye. Basic guidelines in distinguishing CZ from diamonds include:

Click Here - Jewelry Coupons by Email

• Cubic zirconia has greater dispersion than the diamond. This simply means that the CZ reflects more light, offering extra sparkle.
• Cubic zirconia weighs nearly twice that of a diamond the same size.
• The diamond’s hardness is ranked a 10 compared to the CZ’s 8.5. This discrepancy is reflected in the CZ’s susceptibility to surface scratches.
• The appearance of the cubic zirconia is nearly flawless. Nearly all diamonds include some defect.

Colorless diamonds are extremely rare. By contrast, cubic zirconia is easily made colorless. Also, the shades achieved with colored CZ are distinct from the shades of fancy colored diamonds.

History of Cubic Zirconia

Cubic Zirconia in its natural state is extremely rare. In fact, it was discovered in the 1930’s by German mineralogists and has been found nowhere since! The discoverers did not name the substance, which explains why it is still known by its scientific name. In the 1970’s cubic zirconia crystals were grown in Soviet laboratory. CZ became widely popular in the 1980’s when it began to be produced by the Australian jeweler Swarovski & Co.

What is White Gold

White gold is an alloy of gold and other white metals including silver and palladium. Like yellow gold, white gold can be 18kt, 14kt, 9kt or any karat.

Just like 18kt yellow gold which is 75% gold mixed with 25% of other metals like copper and zinc, 18kt white gold is 75% gold mixed with 25% other metals such as silver and palladium.

What Constitutes White Gold

The properties of the white gold vary dependant metals and proportions used. As a result, white gold alloys can be used for different purposes. Whereas a white gold, nickel* alloy is hard, strong and great for rings and pins, white gold palladium alloys are soft, pliable and great for gemstone settings.

*Although nickel was traditionally used in white gold, it can cause skin reactions. Now white gold is commonly made with other white metals.

White Gold Jewelry

You can find all sorts of white gold jewelry. From pins and brooches to necklaces, chains, bracelets and rings, beautiful white gold jewelry is easy to find. White gold wedding bands and engagement rings are also becoming increasingly popular.

Taking Care of White Gold

White gold rings are coated with Rhodium. Rhodium is similar to platinum and shares many its properties including its white color. Because the natural color of white gold is light grey, rhodium plating makes white gold whiter. Since rhodium eventually wears away, white gold should be re-rhodium plated every 12 to 18 months.
Whatever white gold you choose, however you choose to buy it, white gold is beautiful. Get what you want and enjoy!

Millefiori, also known as ‘1000 flowers is a glass design characterized by a mosaic flowerlike pattern. The Millefiori technique is used to make pendants, beads, paperweights and other glass products. The most popular Millefiori item is a pendant

History of Millefiori Pendants

Millefiori Pendants are made using murrine, or slender, multicolored glass canes. Murrine are fused together to create Millefiori pendants. The use of murrine rods can be traded back to Ancient Rome, Phoenician and Alexandrine times though the Millefiori technique was developed in Murano, Italy in the 15th century.

The Millefiori technique was created by altering another glassmaking method. Until the 15th century, glassmakers were producing beads from Rosetta canes. Rosetta canes have a center hole. The technique involves layering six layers of glass (white, blue, white, brick red, white then blue) over a hollow cane creating patterns of 5 concentric stars with twelve points. Beads are created when Rosetta canes are chopped. Millefiori was born when glassmakers produced Rosetta using a cane with no hole. Millefiori is made using a seemingly endless amount of colors and layers.

Creating a Millefiori Pendant

To create a Millefiori pendant, glass rod is coated with layers of different colored glass. This creates the intricate Millefiori design. The rod is furnace heated to fuse the layers of glass. After re-heating, the rod is pulled very thin. The trick is to maintain the original Millefiori design. After cooling, the rod is sliced then placed in metal rings, creating the Millefiori pendant.

Creating a Millefiori pendant is an extensive process. Each Millefiori pendant is handmade one by one making every Millefiori pendant one of a kind. Millefiori pendants come in many styles and sizes. They’re beautiful!

Whichever Millefiori pendant you buy, you’re sure to love it!