Monday, June 21, 2010

Real Estate Lead Generators; Business Building Ideas Are All Around You

When I first got licensed to sell real estate I was about as clueless as they come, but what I lacked in knowledge and ability I made up for in desire to learn and willingness to learn. So, I went to school after finishing real estate school.

No, not a school with a sit down classroom, but school in the sense that I started asking questions of veteran agents and watching what they did and said. I turned off my mouth after a while and opened up my eyes and ears and learned more doing that than I did while getting licensed.

For example, I learned that Real Estate Lead Generators abound, and everyday I was presented with opportunities that had I not been tuned in to pay attention to would have gone overlooked.

Here's a case in point with respect to business cards. I don't remember exactly how many business cards came with my first order, but I vaguely remember it being 500-1,000 cards. A year later I still had most of them. It was the craziest thing that I could have done!

Think about it! Instead of making it a point to give them away as fast as I could I was actually rationing them out like I didn't want to unload them.

Don't make that mistake! Business cards are great real estate lead generators and should be given out as freely as you would a glass of water to a thirsty person. And that's just what real estate prospects are. Thirsty to make real estate transactions with real estate agents sharp enough to recognize the opportunities.

Admittedly, I wasn't too sharp back then, but as I got smarter I realized the value of handing 3-4 business cards to everybody I came in contact with-and I mean everybody; my kids teachers, my doctor, your doctor, the school crossing card, my mechanic, dentist, etc.

And then there were the scores of counter tops that I encountered everyday. Grocery store counters, dry laundry counters, fast food pickup counters, counters where I paid the cable bill, bought computer stuff, book counters, etc.

Oh, and less I forget I must have passed by hundreds of billboards without placing one business card, real estate flyer or anything else on it. My stomach still knots up when I think of all the money those wasted opportunities cost me.

But like I said, I'm a lot smarter now (okay, so maybe I'm just older) and can pass on some pearls of wisdom to you so that you can avoid some of the mistakes I made. For example, some other real estate generating ideas include:

Real Estate Leads from Contractor and Home Builder Shows.
Real Estate Contractor and Home Building shows are becoming extremely popular among folks who are looking to build their home or are considering having one custom-built themselves. Getting Real Estate Leads from them is a great a strategy that's easy to implement.

Real Estate Closing Gifts; Small Gifts That Lead To More Referrals and Sales.
Many Real Estate Agents think of real estate closing gifts as something that should be given to the home buyer by his or her close family and friends. The gift serves as an accolade for the person's accomplishment. You can design them yourself if you're the creative type, or simply go out and buy one from your local shopping mall.

Free Website Content; Using Free Content To Generate Leads.
Everything you need to know to build a realtor web site and generate leads is available on the Internet, much of it free to little cost-including website content! In fact, some of the best real estate information I've read has been free, and although locating quality free content for publication and turning them into HTML to publish on your web site each week involves a great deal of time and effort it can be worth the effort.

I could go on and on, but it all comes back to the notion that real estate lead generating ideas are around us all day, everyday. If you pay attention to them you can work them to your advantage, but if you impose your will with them you can dominate your market like no other agent in your community.

Source: Free Articles

Sunday, June 20, 2010

Notes from a Novice: My Marketing Adventure

Well, here goes. I'm going to give this "writing" thing a shot, even though I'm not much of a writer. Right now, my graphic design site only gets a hundred or so hits a week -- and that's not even enough to show up as a blip on the radar when Google searches the Net.

I've tried writing search engine optimized articles in the past to sell my graphic design services and I've got to tell you -- it didn't do me much good. Search engine algorithms get smarter all the time, and keyword-stuffing doesn't work nearly as well as it used to. One of my clients (who will remain nameless) asked me to do a series of SEO pieces for his band's website -- and their site ranking actually went down as a result.

During a rare day of accelerated motivation, I was doing some Web research and came across the concept of article marketing. Fans of the practice claim that if you do it right, writing one or two articles a week about your business will drive traffic (and therefore money) right into your hands. So here's the experiment: I want to take the $5,000 per year I make now off my online efforts and turn it into $15,000. Ideally, articles like this one will help me get there!

The concept is simple: All I have to do is write one or two of these articles per week (provided I can keep up my motivation!) and when I distribute them to online content sites, I'll start getting links and improving my PageRank. That all sounds well and good, but I had no idea what I was getting myself into. Distributing articles to these sites is tedious!

It seems like every content site has totally different parameters: This one wants 75 characters per line, that one wants 70. This one accepts HTML coding, that one wants all plain text -- absolutely no HTML. By the time I had successfully submitted my latest article to three places, I was ready to uncork the chardonnay and call it a night! It took nearly four hours just to get my words out on three websites. I was ready to give up on the Internet for good after that.

After a little more reading, I discovered that I was not alone. In fact, there were so many other people like me that some enterprising Internet gurus had created systems that would negate the need for all the busy-work. I'm not sure yet whether I want to sign up for a paid subscription to one of these sites, so I'm going to do a little further research.

The first place I looked at was isnare. They offer a free article distribution service, but in order to reach their entire list of 40,000 sites you need to pay a fee -- something that is fairly commonplace in this industry. The fees work on a sliding scale depending upon how many articles you want to submit. It costs $10 to submit five pieces, right on up to $100 for 115 articles.

The next place I looked at was PhantomWriters. Cool name, right? I pictured myself wearing a leotard and a cape, flying from website to website distributing pearls of wisdom.

PhantomWriters has a snazzy website that is quite content-rich itself. In fact, I got pretty caught up reading some of their writing tips! This service is a little more expensive, ringing in at $35 per submission, or a volume discount of $200 for 10 articles. This one seemed a little steep for my budget, so I moved right along.

My next Internet search brought me to SubmitYourArticles. They charge a flat rate of $37 per month for four article submissions, which works out to just under $10 per article. They also offer HTML editing tools and a good directory of tips and tricks to get your work published.

Another service I found was Article Marketer. They work on a subscription system, and each level of subscriber can submit unlimited articles during the course of their subscription. The quarterly subscription is $74.99 right on up to a lifetime package for just under $500. Article Marketer submits to more than 66,000 sites. They also employ a team of editors who read each article to make sure it's publishable.

All four of these places have something unique to offer, and depending upon the volume of articles I submit, each of them could be a better value. In the end, it's all up to me -- and you!

Source: Free Articles

Saturday, June 19, 2010

Diamonds And Surface Imperfections

Besides carbon spots, another big defect that can happen in diamonds is cracks or open cleavages in the crystalline material. Sometimes if little breaks go across the grain they can create big imperfections. These imperfections can cause a serious misdirection of light, causing lack of luster. The larger cracks are called cracks, the lesser ones feathers, or flaws. Some stones have so many of these imperfections that they are called cracked ice, many jewelers will not handle them.

The smaller feathers are less noticeable and are still sold. The feathers can be caused by wear and tear of turbulent waters, the method in which they were recovered, and sometimes the unskillful handling during the cutting and polishing process.

Besides cracks and feathers, another defect in diamonds can be minute cavities either empty or filled with liquid. Some have thought of the liquid to be carbonic acid. These bubbles are serious defects if of any size, as stones containing them may burst owing to increase of pressure within on becoming warmed. The cutter can cut the diamonds so that none of these cavities are left remaining.

Another type of diamond imperfection is leaving unfinished places of the surface of the cut stone. Sometimes the cutter purposely leaves unfinished portions of the stone. They will usually leave the unfinished portions on the outer edges of the stone. This can make the stone larger, weigh more, have better contour. Larger stones are more valuable than smaller ones. The natural surface will often gather dirt easily making them harder to clean and the unfinished spot more visible.

Another type of surface imperfection which can be avoided is small nicks or chipped places. These chips and dents should not be present in newly cut stones, but at times setters are the reason why. Sometimes tools like chisels or files can cause these problems. Stones should be checked over after they have been set.

Some diamonds although free from all of the defects listed above can suffer from sub-microscopic irregularity of texture, or possibly they have within them a finely divided substance. A strong beam of light at any angle through the stone will appear milky.

There are many degrees of imperfections in diamonds. The slightest of all imperfections is often called v. v. s., or very, very, slight. These extremely slight imperfections can only be seen by a few experts, with the use of a good lens. These stones are often times sold to the public as perfect, and for the most part that is what they are. The public does not truly understand how rare it really is to find a perfect diamond, and along with the lack of that knowledge people are unwilling to pay the amount that a really good diamond is worth.

This condition has perhaps led to defensive measures on the part of the trade. Often times, dealers will feel justified to mark a stone perfect, when really it may have some microscopic defects. In the diamond trade perfect and white diamonds have meanings of variance with the true significance of the words.

A diamonds representation is at times taken too far. The purchaser must find a reputable dealer who will legitimately regard as a perfect diamond that has nothing in it that could be seen under a low-power lens. This dealer will also state if they have hidden diamond defects under clamps, and if they have come into an agreement on a fair price.

Source: Free Articles

Friday, June 18, 2010

Jewelry In Ancient Rome

Jewelry (joias) is a fascinating fashion accessory that has been popular from ancient times. It has played a variety of roles including political, religious and ornamental, and jewelry artefacts have helped modern historians shape pictures of the daily lives of ancient civilisations.

Jewelry in ancient Rome is no exception. There are literary accounts and pictorial depiction such as in the Regina tombstone, plus an abundance of other artefacts available that help us to understand the role jewelry played during this fascinating time.

Jewelry (joias) was worn by men and women though it was subject to conventions of the time; particularly with regards to the appearance of men. Male jewelry was typically practical in nature. Men usually wore a single ring. The ring would serve a functional purpose. Typically a signet ring, the male jewelry item was used to seal official documentation. The male signet ring was initially iron but was later produced in gold as it displayed status and wealth more clearly.

Other practical uses of the signet ring included the inlay being a type of key for a strong box. Literary evidence suggests that propriety regarding male jewelry (joias) was ignored by a minority of fashion fanatics, as with any other social group. Trends and attitudes also changed from the time of Emperor Augustus. The emperors were established with official state clothing during his reign which included jewelry as a display of status and power.

Jewelry also had a protective function in ancient Rome. Boys wore an item of jewelry known as a bullah. This was worn from being a baby. It was worn around the neck and was a form of chain with a pouch which contained an amulet. This was a jewelry item worn by most classes, but the rich upper class had bullahs made of gold. The amulet was often phallic in design, as boys were considered to be the stronger species and so needed protection. Another jewelry (joias) item worn by boys was a small gold ring which was again carved with a phallus for good luck

With regards to women, jewelry (joias) was first and foremost a display of wealth and status. Women had no obvious status distinction through their dress like Roman men. Therefore, hairstyles and jewelry were the only distinction possible. The importance of jewelry to the status of women is apparent through certain historical events. When the Oppian law was passed in 195BC curbing the use of jewelry and suggesting it be handed over for war materials, women demonstrated against this in the streets. During the campaigns of Marcus Curellius, women chose to donate their jewelry (joias) to get enough gold to send a huge gold vase as an offering to Delphi. Their behaviour was rewarded with speeches at funerals which had previously been only for men.

The type and amount of jewelry worn by women varied, but the richest women were the most flamboyant in terms of amount and style. Amber jewelry (joias) was only worn by lower class women and was thought vulgar by the wealthy who favoured gold jewelry. Other items used to make jewelry include pearls, coloured glass beads and polished stones. These would be inset in gold and would vary in size and style, depending upon status. It was possible to tell a lot about a woman in ancient rome by the jewelry she wore.

The types of jewelry worn include necklaces with adornments such as pendants, amulets. Fibula which are similar to safety pins were used as fasteners and so were often adorned to make them a piece of jewelry that was both function and beautiful. Earrings were popular and came in both hoop and drop styles. Rings were usually inset with stones or carvings.

Particularly popular jewelry (joias) items were engraved gems which were referred to as intaglio. These were gems such as carnelian, jasper and chalcedony that had a sunken or engraved image, created with the use of wheels and drills.

Tomb jewelry findings suggest that bracelets were usually worn in pairs with one on each arm. Some tombs have revealed up to 7 items of jewelry on each arm which shows how the conventions for men and women differed. Even gold thread hairnets have been discovered.

This article is under GNU FDL license and can be distributed without any previous authorization from the author. However the author's name and all the URLs (links) mentioned in the article and biography must be kept.

Source: Free Articles

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Diamond Illustrated Jewelry

Better a diamond with a flaw than a pebble without. The Chinese philosopher, Confucius explains an explicit expression of a diamond. Beauty, purity, durability and undying value, all elucidate the magnificent. Diamond studded jewelry express sentiments. Thus, diamond ornaments are considered hearty presents for special occasions.

When comprehending the origin of diamond, India reminds us about the valuable. Around three thousand years ago, when discovered, diamonds were believed to have magical powers. Talismans made of rough diamond were used to keep evil away and a defending force in battles. Also, they were believed to have medicinal powers in healing, curing illnesses. So that the mine workers did not smuggle diamonds, they were deemed as poisonous when consumed.

After the discovery of some famous species like the Kohinoor and the Blue Hope in India, appetite for the mystic beauty grew throughout the world. The Orange River beds, then Australia and then Lake Argyle are now contributing in supplying diamonds to the world. However, India continues to be famous in diamond polishing along with huge deposits of the rhombic crystalline.

The crystalline is the imperishable, known for its hardness, non abrasive, transparency and light dispersion attributes. A form of carbon, diamonds can bear high pressure and temperature. Since diamonds are a token of richness, many fear the consequences that may follow wearing the jewel.

Diamond cutters influence the value of diamonds with their talents. However, nature has its impact in its own way. Nature controls features such as the carat weight, color and clarity, which are consistent factors that make the stone look so beautiful.

One factor that unlocks the magnificence of the rough diamond or the crude mystical and that is the way the stone is cut. Usually the stone is chiseled with 58 facets. Some common shapes that diamonds resemble would be pear, heart, round brilliance, emerald, marquise, oval, square, circles and baguette and princess cuts.

Diamonds with maximum clarity rate the highest and with maximum impurities or inclusions are priced the lowest. Flawless diamonds with the best cut could be highly expensive. If a diamond is cut well but has impurities, the inclusions would block dispersion of light. Similarly, if a flawless diamond is not well chiseled, it will resemble an unappealing glass rock. Juvenal, a Roman satire poet says that many individuals have, like uncut diamonds, shining qualities beneath a rough exterior.

Diamonds are available in varied color fancies, white crystal clear being the common and in demand. Yellow, pink, brown, blue, champagne and green are other colors that assort the variety of diamonds available. The chemical content in the stones determine the various shades of the valuable. As the intensity of the color increases, so does the value.

For all the diamond fanatics, it will be interesting to know legends about some significant diamonds such as the Star of Africa, the Excelsior, the Great Mogul, the Kohinoor and the Blue Hope Diamond, the Centenary and the Regent.

It is believed that the Kohinoor brought misfortune to the male possessors who owned it or wore it but brought good luck to the female holder. After it was passed on to many rajas and sultans of India ultimately went in the hands of the British empresses. Now the diamond studded crown or the Crown of Jewels stays in the Tower of London. The Star of Africa also known as Cullinan I is studded on the Crown of Jewels.

Other than these famous diamonds evacuated, every diamond speaks its own individuality. Every diamond differs from one another. Diamonds are significantly valued for their extreme clarity. The name of this precious jewel itself signifies its unique personality. The named is derived from a Greek word adamas that means the unconquerable. The unbeatable radiance, brilliance, is noteworthy for evoking romantic fervor, undying love, admiring beauty, and display opulence.

Diamonds are though, cut in various shapes, and chiseled into various optical facets. But these diamonds are further studded in gold, white gold and platinum to make them wearable. There are various patterns that make the ornaments look so regal and striking. Floral, serpent, charms, swirls, nebula, starthread and many more are designed by artistic, skillful designers into bracelets, medallions, cufflinks, tags and pendants.

Diamond ornaments are also found associated with other gemstones like rubies, emeralds, topaz, sapphires and pearls. The designs are also made customized. Diamond ornaments are useful far and wide for gifting during various occasions. Thematic patterns are a common trend. For a romantic occasion, hearts, solitaires, and letters are generally gifted. Tags and large diamonds are commonly gifted to men. Cufflinks and watches are also studded with these gemstones worn by the elite class.

Weddings, birthdays, valentine day, anniversaries, inaugurations, and corporate occasions are the best time to gift these valuables.

Source: Free Articles

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

A gift for your Child

Around Christmas and the New Year is the time when nice and kind fairy-tales comes to every house as is normal at the end of the year. These fairy tales bring many presents and gifts; with children waiting with anticipation for such presents. They believe that Santa Claus does exist and he will give them the most long-awaited gifts they crave for. Christmas - is the time when all our cherished wishes, desires and dreams can come true. Let us create a fairy-tale for our children and give them our warmth, love and care!
Very often we have to choose what to give our children and this choice is not an easy one at all. On the one hand: children and parents must like the present, but, on the other hand- it must be at a reasonable price and value for money. We are here to try and help you in this difficult matter.
We suggest we divide children into three categories and then help to find a suitable gift for them:

1)Under 3 years old. The child does not have any requirements at this age as yet.
2)From 3 to 12 years old. The child at this age understands many things, he /she has her own material and spiritual values as well as interests.
3)Upwards 12 years. The most difficult age, but not impossible.

A gift for a child under 3 years old:

1. The gift predominantly must be safety. It should not contain any tiny parts and components, or have any sharp angles. It must not be frightening or ugly. Please remember the child at this age is often still very clumsy and may hurt themselves with the sharp details or swallow small parts.
2. A present should correlate the intellectual development of the child. If it is a baby - better give him or her nice brightly coloured and imaginative rattle.
3. A gift must help a child to develop mentally and physically. Nowadays there are a lot of toys that develop movement coordination, dexterity, logic etc.

Toys. Rattles and mobiles and all similar articles are right for babies under 1 year. You may wish to give wooden toys, cars and dolls to children that are elder than 1 year.
Book. A book is suitable present for the children upwards 2 years old. Bright and colourful pictures help a little one to open the rich world of colours, educate them towards animals and external worldly objects such as trains cars, planes -A book is the best gift for all ages.
Meccano. They develop logic and spatial thinking. Various wood and plastic bricks will bring a lot of joy for your little one.
Playing Set. There are a great number of playing sets for home, sand-boxes-are one and need careful deployment but bring hours of fascinating discovery.


A gift for a child from 3 to 12 years old:

At this age a child has his own interests and preferences. It would be better to get to know his or her interests: whether he or she has his favourite film or goes in for particular sport-You have to take into account his or her interests, let look at some ideas:


Toys. They are still relevant, only now you may give more complex and comprehensive toys.
Book. Must be chosen with the regard for the age and understanding with learning still well in the frame.
Table or computer games. Here you may find any game for any age, just read the inscriptions on the game box; the age is always indicated there.
A gift for an energetic child. In this case you may give all that is connected with the moving games: ball, bicycle, push-cycle, hockey stick, tennis set or badminton set etc.
Computer or add-on device. Only do not forget to control the pastime of your child in front of computer, because the long sitting in front of it harms the health.
Video cassette or DVD. You may give cartoons, movies as well as popular science films.

A gift for a child upwards 12.

When a child goes through the stage is more complicated to please them. There interests sharply change; toys are of little importance now. We thoroughly recommend you to take his interests into consideration, because teenagers are very sensitive.

Book. It is suitable for that category of children that like to read.
A gift for an energetic child. Here is more fitting to recommend such things as sports equipment and accessories to it like: dumb-bells, weights, tennis rackets, roller skates, skateboard, skates-
Jewelry for girls. Girls began to devote more time to their appearance. Earrings, bracelets or a chain will give great pleasure.
A gift for a music lover. Almost all young people are keen on music! CD of his/her favourite performer, new head-set, mp3 player will cater for their tastes.
A gift for a computer beginner. If your child goes mad on computer, then any computer device will be perfect as a present: a new ergonomic keyboard, modern wireless mouse, modem, a new video display card, flesh, handbag for CDs-
A personal vehicle. Teenagers dream of a mountain bicycle as it gives a great feeling of independence and freedom.
A mobile phone. Very useful thing and parents can contact any time with their children.

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and have a great Christmas shopping Experience!

Source: Free Articles

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Fashion Jewelry To Match Your Moods

If you are a person who wants to look good in everyway then this article will pacify your fashion instincts a bit. Find the best fashion jewelry to compliment your dress worn casually or at parties and ceremonies.

Is it like you always keep wondering to wear the perfect jewelry that goes with your dress, I may guide you what to wear with your favorite dresses.

Casual kind people should spice up their looks with light gemstone jewelry or custom gemstone beaded jewelry that is available at the most affordable rates in the market. Have a collection of this exquisite gemstone jewelry in different colors and designs in your wardrobe and you can wear these with your day-to-day clothes. You can add sparkle in your looks by adoring cool diamond studded earrings or diamond hoops that can be worn on all occasions or daily with every dress you prefer to wear.

People preferring to wear tiptop dresses should go for discount diamond jewelry or handcrafted cheap pearl jewelry. A spectacular shine of a diamond can work wonders for you to look stunningly beautiful. Diamonds-the most precious and most expensive are available in different varieties and shapes too. Take a pick from your nearest or online jewelry store where you can find wholesale discount diamond jewelry to match your costumes perfectly.

If you are want to look good in a shimmering silver jewelry then you should go for trendy wholesale fashion sterling silver jewelry. Jewelry to go with all dresses, silver jewelry is the favorite choice from the ancient times. You can find the best silver jewelry sets at the most reasonable rates in the market.

In evening functions and parties you must wear some eye-catching jewelry that glorifies your beauty in all ways. Always try to adore titanium amethyst jewelry, glittering gold jewelry, platinum jewelry, antique silver jewelry, black or white diamond jewelry or sparkling gemstones to relish your inner self-esteem wearing these outstanding designs.

Give your looks a boost of the day by complimenting your dress with the perfect wholesale jewelry and carry yourself lavishly in a cool and contended attitude


Source: Free Articles

Monday, June 14, 2010

Jewelry: Gold and Silver Basics

Now a days, with so many metals and precious stones around, it seems very difficult to decide which way to go. Being in the buyer end and in need to simplify my latest jewelry purchase, I decided to prepare myself. First, I did my research between the most common metals: Gold and Silver.

I learned the simple basics about these two metals: weight measurements, color, density and the most usual definitions. Here, I will share my findings with you. Hopefully, it will assist you on your next jewelry purchase adventure.

Gold

When looking for quality gold jewelry, the first thing you need to be aware of is how the metal gold is treated or cured. 24K gold means "pure gold". The "K" means karat which is a quality measurement for this metal. Do not confuse it with carat, with a "C", which is one of the 4 C's when looking for a Diamond.

To say that a piece of jewelry is 24K, is to say that that specific item is 100 or more of silver. Like gold, silver is also a very soft metal, that is why it also needs to be combined with a different metal, like copper, to make it harder.

The called Sterling Silver jewelry is the one kind of jewelry that contains more silver in one single piece of jewelry. If a piece contains less than 92.5% of silver, it is not as bright and shiny because silver is combined with other metals.

Always look for "92.5", "Sterling Silver", "925" markings on items that you are considering on buying, this will assure you that you are getting quality.

Now you also know the basics. The easiest way to get your piece of gold and/or silver jewelry is through the net. Browse the top retailers and find the one you like. Read the description of each item that caught your attention and decide which one is the one that best fits your needs.

Use your judgment. I always believe that if you are going to give jewelry as a present is because is for someone very special. Know the person's likings; observe what he or she mostly wares.

Now you know the basics. Shop around, take your time and have fun with it. I hope you enjoy your next jewelry purchase.

Enjoy!

Source: Free Articles

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Create a Perfect Gift With Italian Charms

If you enjoy collecting jewelry with personal significance or giving it as gifts, consider Italian charms! They are the most affordable way to create a personalized bracelets with unique meaning. And, there is an amazing variety to choose from.

Whether you love dogs, cats, or want something signifying your family or hobby, it's all there! And, unlike their classic dangling counterparts, Italian charms link together to form a flat bracelet; for a more sophisticated look enjoyed by women of all ages.

It's no surprise, then, that tens of thousands of women each year collect Italian charms and give them as gifts. How to get started?

Easy! Whenever buying for yourself or as a gift, the first thing you need to do is get a "starter bracelet" containing blank links. Then, get an additional 4-5 charms to start the bracelet. The recipient can easily replace blank links on the starter bracelets with the charms you give them -- and any others they get in the future -- to develop a unique bracelet over time.

The Secret to Selecting Quality Italian Charms

When looking to buy Italian charms, it's important to consider quality. Indeed, there are so many places selling these things that sometimes it's difficult to separate the good from the bad.

Here are some things to watch out for:

* Make sure they are made of stainless steel (the place where you buy them should say that.) If you really want to get technical, ask them what grade of stainless steel their charms are. They should know, especially if they claim to sell "direct", because on the manufacturing end stainless steel has exact grades. Usually, it's a number (like 304) followed by a letter. You'd see them labeled as 304L or 316.

* Charms marked with a logo or brand-name on the back are considered higher quality. You never know, but generally avoid links that are "blank" / have no logo on the back. What about charms that say "Stainless Steel" on the back? Well, I've seen a few that were definitely NOT stainless steel… so use caution.

* Make sure the site you're ordering from has a money-back guarantee and check any customer comments posted on there.

* It's important to order charms that are covered with protective epoxy. Otherwise they'll rub off! If the site doesn't state whether they are or not, ask them.

* You'll find that many site sell "18kt gold" Italian charms. Well, with very few exceptions, it's a gold-tone and not sold 18kt gold. Just make sure that if you're paying 18kt gold prices ($18+ per charm) that you indeed getting 18kt gold. Again, nearly all sites sell 18kt gold-tone (or gold accented) charms. Why pay $18 for the same product if you could get for under $3… and even for $2, and sometimes $1/charm?

* A note about care: Even stainless steel charms can change color when exposed to chemicals, cleaning solutions, and solvents. Avoid chlorine and any harsh chemicals.

What about the Chinese-Made Italian Charms?

Yes, a lot of people ask that question. Very few merchants admit it… but, nearly all Italian charms sold on the Internet are manufactured in China.

Now, what about charms that say "imported from Italy?" Well, that's nice, but did you know that many of these places simply buy Chinese-made Italian charms through an import company in Italy. So, yes, they're "imported from Italy" but if you think you're getting a handcrafted Italian product… think again! They're still manufactured in one of the three main factories in China.

Which Charms are Great For Gifts?

Well… really, all of them! Charms that are especially popular are, in no particular order: 1) Heart charms, 2) Ribbon (esp. pink ribbon) charms, 3) American flag, 4) Flowers, 5) Family and I love my kids-type charms, 6) Birthstones, 7) Various words and phrases… like "DREAM", "Family of 5", "Child of GOD", etc. 8) Religious charms, like crosses, etc.

As you can see, the possibilities are only limited by your imagination!

Source: Free Articles

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Handcrafted Jewelry – Fashion Redefined

Jewelry of any kind makes a fashion statement. But the fashion statement can be made more interesting by the choice of jewelry. Through ages, jewelry has been a symbol fashion and romance. Wearing a beautiful piece of jewelry is always an addition that seems to complete the dressing for any special occasion. The choice of jewelry varies from person to person. Some like wearing diamonds, while others might like simple and elegant chain and pendant. Different people have different tastes and to meet the demands of the wide market, there are varieties of products today – some with semi-precious stones while others, equally ravishing.

Everybody wants to own some piece of jewelry. But nobody likes wearing a common ornament. Imagine buying a new exquisite jewelry for some special occasion and finding out that the same thing is being worn by five others on the day. So along with exquisite styles, the demand for uniqueness is also growing. Unique and personalized jewelry are often more in demand than its counterparts. Uniqueness has its own value and hence the demand for trendy, stylish yet one of a kind jewelry is huge.

To meet this demand, handcrafted jewelry is probably the perfect choice. These jewelries are often personalized and unique. They have a wide variety of styles and are best to meet the demands of different individuals with varied tastes and preferences. Be it rings, earrings, necklaces, pendants or bracelets, handcrafted jewelry adds a different touch. The special ones are those which have personalized messages and romantic poems engraved on them. These personalizations make the handcrafted jewelries unique and reflect individual styles. Irrespective of an individual’s choice for elegance and specific color combinations or something bright and sassy that will really draw a lot of attention, these original and unique pieces of jewelry are probably the best choice for anyone who loves to be different.

Once considered funky and targeted to a limited market, the handcrafted jewelry has come a long way to become the latest buzz in the fashion mainstream. It has been re-invented as artisan jewelry and it appeals to a broader market of affluent buyers attracted to its uniqueness and limited availability. As an article of ostentation or for sending across a message of love and passion, personalized handcrafted jewelry has no substitutes. It can even be easily available through online stores, customized with one’s own message or poems and still highlight one’s style statement in a way that would not go unnoticed. The arrival of handcrafted jewelry trends with all these exclusive benefits has really redefined fashion in the present day.




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Monday, June 7, 2010

Fashion Jewelry To Match Your Moods

If you are a person who wants to look good in everyway then this article will pacify your fashion instincts a bit. Find the best fashion jewelry to compliment your dress worn casually or at parties and ceremonies.

Is it like you always keep wondering to wear the perfect jewelry that goes with your dress, I may guide you what to wear with your favorite dresses.

Casual kind people should spice up their looks with light gemstone jewelry or custom gemstone beaded jewelry that is available at the most affordable rates in the market. Have a collection of this exquisite gemstone jewelry in different colors and designs in your wardrobe and you can wear these with your day-to-day clothes. You can add sparkle in your looks by adoring cool diamond studded earrings or diamond hoops that can be worn on all occasions or daily with every dress you prefer to wear.

People preferring to wear tiptop dresses should go for discount diamond jewelry or handcrafted cheap pearl jewelry. A spectacular shine of a diamond can work wonders for you to look stunningly beautiful. Diamonds-the most precious and most expensive are available in different varieties and shapes too. Take a pick from your nearest or online jewelry store where you can find wholesale discount diamond jewelry to match your costumes perfectly.

If you are want to look good in a shimmering silver jewelry then you should go for trendy wholesale fashion sterling silver jewelry. Jewelry to go with all dresses, silver jewelry is the favorite choice from the ancient times. You can find the best silver jewelry sets at the most reasonable rates in the market.

In evening functions and parties you must wear some eye-catching jewelry that glorifies your beauty in all ways. Always try to adore titanium amethyst jewelry, glittering gold jewelry, platinum jewelry, antique silver jewelry, black or white diamond jewelry or sparkling gemstones to relish your inner self-esteem wearing these outstanding designs.

Give your looks a boost of the day by complimenting your dress with the perfect wholesale jewelry and carry yourself lavishly in a cool and contended attitude


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Sunday, June 6, 2010

The Thrill of Obtaining Collectibles

Almost all of us feel a strong urge to acquire collectibles. After finding a reliable source of essentials like food, water and clothing, after securing a mate and adequate shelter, mankind turns to satisfying less essential, but nevertheless important, goals. One of those goals is the acquisition of material goods.

Almost all of us feel a strong urge to surround ourselves with tangible items that are interesting, beautiful, rare or otherwise appealing - in other words, objects that are collectibles. It's almost as if it's part of our nature.

Collectibles are ...

Just about any type of object you could possibly imagine, including some that you would never think of as being collectible. Without a doubt, some of the items that intrigue you would not interest other people that you know. After all, "one man's trash is another man's treasure." But as we all know, something, somehow, somewhere, appeals to every one of us, and those things can form the basis of a large or small collection.

Items that relate to or somehow touch upon a topic that interests or appeals to people are, to those people, collectible. Put 100 people into a room, and because everyone's interests are so different, there probably won't be much duplication in what they collect. Collectors seek thousands of different types of items, everything from dolls to barbed wire, rare first-edition books to vinyl records, vintage clothing to movie memorabilia, matchbook covers to vintage postcards. Just pick whatever type of object or topic interests you.

The thrill of the hunt.

Many people are willing and even eager to expend a great deal of time, money and/or energy in order to obtain collectibles and collectible memorabilia, simply because the items relate to a favorite subject or theme. Some collectibles are very valuable, but others are inexpensive or evenfree. The main reason that most collectors seek out and acquire collectibles isn't because they are valuable (although some are) - it's because to the collector, collectibles and their subject are fascinating. The advent of the internet and online shopping has made the acquisition of collectibles even more exciting than in the past, expanding the scope of the hunt by opening up the entire world as a place to look for "that certain something."

Thousands upon thousands of items are collectible today. And many other items, including some that seem mundane and ordinary today, will become collectibles in the future. Collectors are very passionate - and very diligent - about their collections. And they are always "on the hunt" for collectibles that relate to their topic.

Sometimes a collector must spend quite a bit of money in order to add a very hard-to-find item to his or her collection. Other collectibles are relatively inexpensive, and obtaining these types of pieces may require more time and effort than money. But collectors happily invest their time, trying to find these types of collectibles, even though they may have very little monetary value. A collector will go to great lengths to track down and obtain an inexpensive piece that fills an important place in his or her collection. And jump for joy when that important, but inexpensive, collectible is finally located. For a collector, the "thrill of the hunt," and finally finding an elusive collectible, is an extremely satisfying feeling.

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Saturday, June 5, 2010

Bell Casting - How To Build A Heirloom

We have been manufacturing and selling The Bell Collection by Jewelry John since early 1998. All of our bells are made from Sterling Silver (we also make them on an individual basis in 14K gold). They are cast, assembled and finished individually with jewelers care, giving utmost attention to every detail from bail to clapper. The entire Bell Collection is manufactured in Austin, Texas USA.

The bells are made using the “lost wax method” which means, we make a rubber mold from an original carved wax, a wax copy is then made for each body, bail and clapper. The parts are then attached (sprued up) to a wax tree. A temperature resistant plaster of Paris type material (investment) is poured around each tree in a rubber cup (this step is called investing). When the material hardens, it is removed from the cup and put into a kiln, which reaches a temperature of 1350° F. The wax is vaporized leaving a plaster mold into which molten silver is poured, making the bells. They are removed, cut from the tree and go through numerous processes before the 3 pieces are assembled by hand, making a completed bell. Each bell is then given a final polish before being sent to our retailers.

We are currently sold in more than 800 stores in 45 states and the District of Columbia. The Bell Collection is sold in every kind of store from The National Cathedral in Washington D.C. to family owned stores in small rural towns. We have been truly blessed throughout our entire journey. With an incredible staff and great stores, we continue to come up with fresh new ideas while staying true to our mission statement.

It is the mission of the staff at Jewelry John to bring joy into the lives of others with our craft and to honor God in all our endeavors by always putting God and family first, by providing prompt and courteous customer service and by building our customer’s trust by creating heirloom quality hand crafted jewelry of remarkable artistry and craftsmanship with a message that will touch people’s lives.

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