It’s been harsh this year…..the winter weather, that is. The only thing that has kept me going is walking to the mailbox and retrieving those fashion magazines full of bright spring colors and trends. Here are the hottest trends for Spring 2011.
Color is bright but sophisticated.
Hemlines are longer and skirts are loose and full.
Tribal accents are used in clothing and accessories.
Safari dressing with khaki and olive tones.
‘70s retro look both Bohemian and Sophisticated includes halters, floppy hats, tunic tops, jumpsuits and platforms.
Lace here and there but not the Victorian era kind.
Garden Prints are everywhere.
Sporty stripes in primary colors.
The return of the Wide-Leg Trouser with the high waist.
The hot color is Persimmon or any shade of Orange.
Modern Metallic; not heavy looking but light and breezy.
Shoe styles go from sky-high sandals in jewel-tones; strappy, edgy booties to chunky platforms in lots of textures such as suede, wood, cork, or leather. Casual sandals show a playful mix of textures, like rope, chain, or embossed leather.
Tassel Trim is shown on purses or zipper-pulls.
Jewelry trends: Big Stones, Tassels & Fringe, simple Architectural pieces, Wide Cuff Bracelets, Pearls, Turquoise, enormous hoops and chandelier earrings, and pieces with inspirational messages.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Friday, January 7, 2011
Jade - A Symbol of Love
I’m working on a custom order for a necklace incorporating Jade. I did some research on this beautiful stone and here are some interesting facts.
Jade is a name that was applied to ornamental stones that were being brought to Europe from China and Central America. It wasn't until 1863 that it was realized that the name "Jade" was being applied to two different minerals, Jadeite and Nephrite. The two minerals are both exquisite and are hard to distinguish from each other.
Jadeite is almost never found in individual crystals and is composed of microscopic interlocking crystals that produce a very tough material. Nephrite is actually not a mineral, but a variety of the mineral actinolite.
The toughness of jade is remarkable. The strength of jade is greater than steel and was put to work by many early civilizations for axes, knives and weapons. It was later that jade became a symbolic stone used in ornaments and other religious artifacts during the eons.
Today jade is still valued for its beauty. Its many colors are appreciated, but it’s the emerald green color, that jadeite produces so well, that is highly sought after by artwork collectors. This emerald green jade called "Imperial Jade" is colored by chromium. Other colors are influenced by iron (green and brown) and manganese is thought to produce the violet colors. Lavender Jade is the most highly valued and the rarest form of the stone. Nephrite is usually only green and creamy white, while jadeite can have the full range of jade's colors.
Jadeite is from Myanmar, Japan, and USA (Alaska and California). Nephrite Jade is from Myanmar, Russia, China and USA (Wyoming).
Be aware that Serpentine is often sold as Jade. Here is a sample of misleading terms:
"Amazon Jade" and "Colorado Jade" is really Amazonite (green feldspar).
"American Jade" is really the Californite (green variety of idocrase).
"Imperial Mexican Jade" and "Mexican Jade" are really green-dyed calcite.
"Indian Jade" is really aventurine.
"Korea Jade" and "New Jade" are Serpentine.
In China, jade is regarded as a special stone. It is believed that when handled some of the secret virtue of the substance is absorbed into the body. Jade has been treasured in China as the royal gemstone, for 5,000 years. A butterfly carved from jade holds a special romantic significance. Ancient Chinese legend tells of a youth who wandered into the garden of a wealthy mandarin in pursuit of a multi-colored butterfly. Instead of being punished for trespassing, his visit led to marriage with the mandarin's daughter. Today, a jade butterfly symbolizes successful love.
Legends have it that the Spanish conquers of Central America wore amulets of Jadeite to prevent/cure hip and kidney complaints.
Jade is the Mystical Birthstone for March and the anniversary gemstone for the 12th, 30th and 35th year of marriage.
Jade is a name that was applied to ornamental stones that were being brought to Europe from China and Central America. It wasn't until 1863 that it was realized that the name "Jade" was being applied to two different minerals, Jadeite and Nephrite. The two minerals are both exquisite and are hard to distinguish from each other.
Jadeite is almost never found in individual crystals and is composed of microscopic interlocking crystals that produce a very tough material. Nephrite is actually not a mineral, but a variety of the mineral actinolite.
The toughness of jade is remarkable. The strength of jade is greater than steel and was put to work by many early civilizations for axes, knives and weapons. It was later that jade became a symbolic stone used in ornaments and other religious artifacts during the eons.
Today jade is still valued for its beauty. Its many colors are appreciated, but it’s the emerald green color, that jadeite produces so well, that is highly sought after by artwork collectors. This emerald green jade called "Imperial Jade" is colored by chromium. Other colors are influenced by iron (green and brown) and manganese is thought to produce the violet colors. Lavender Jade is the most highly valued and the rarest form of the stone. Nephrite is usually only green and creamy white, while jadeite can have the full range of jade's colors.
Jadeite is from Myanmar, Japan, and USA (Alaska and California). Nephrite Jade is from Myanmar, Russia, China and USA (Wyoming).
Be aware that Serpentine is often sold as Jade. Here is a sample of misleading terms:
"Amazon Jade" and "Colorado Jade" is really Amazonite (green feldspar).
"American Jade" is really the Californite (green variety of idocrase).
"Imperial Mexican Jade" and "Mexican Jade" are really green-dyed calcite.
"Indian Jade" is really aventurine.
"Korea Jade" and "New Jade" are Serpentine.
In China, jade is regarded as a special stone. It is believed that when handled some of the secret virtue of the substance is absorbed into the body. Jade has been treasured in China as the royal gemstone, for 5,000 years. A butterfly carved from jade holds a special romantic significance. Ancient Chinese legend tells of a youth who wandered into the garden of a wealthy mandarin in pursuit of a multi-colored butterfly. Instead of being punished for trespassing, his visit led to marriage with the mandarin's daughter. Today, a jade butterfly symbolizes successful love.
Legends have it that the Spanish conquers of Central America wore amulets of Jadeite to prevent/cure hip and kidney complaints.
Jade is the Mystical Birthstone for March and the anniversary gemstone for the 12th, 30th and 35th year of marriage.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
How to Make Ribbon Bracelets
Here's a fun, easy project on how to make ribbon bracelets. This is a fun project to do with kids. Get creative with different colored ribbons.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Two Little Words
Thank You (Grazie Tanto)
Two little words but they mean everything to me today as I reflect on the past year and look forward to a new beginning in the next one.
One can never pay in gratitude; one can only pay “in kind” somewhere else in life.
Thank you for your kindness, advice, compliments, encouragement and respect. Thank you for your patronage and referrals.
Grazie Tanto….no matter in what language they are expressed, the words mean the same as I try to extend them with a full heart and excitement for what the new year will bring.
Best wishes for a Happy New Year to you and your loved ones. I wish I could reach out personally to all my family, friends and colleages to embrace you and extend my well wishes. Until we meet again in 2011, I send you all my best regards.
Ciao,
Anna
Two little words but they mean everything to me today as I reflect on the past year and look forward to a new beginning in the next one.
One can never pay in gratitude; one can only pay “in kind” somewhere else in life.
Thank you for your kindness, advice, compliments, encouragement and respect. Thank you for your patronage and referrals.
Grazie Tanto….no matter in what language they are expressed, the words mean the same as I try to extend them with a full heart and excitement for what the new year will bring.
Best wishes for a Happy New Year to you and your loved ones. I wish I could reach out personally to all my family, friends and colleages to embrace you and extend my well wishes. Until we meet again in 2011, I send you all my best regards.
Ciao,
Anna
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Holiday 2010 Trends
Most of us are out shopping for holiday gifts and/or festive clothing this month (or letting our fingers do the walking in Cyberspace). Here’s a brief summary of the hot jewelry trends for this season.
Classic
One trend that continues to stand the test of time is traditionally elegant styles. Pearls and rhinestones with an antique feel give an heirloom look to jewelry styles. Update the look with satin or velvet ribbon, or even lace embellishments. The vintage feel of this lady-like jewelry captures the nostalgia of holiday times past. Lady-like purses are all the rage right now and so is the classic jewelry look.
Edgy
Another hot trend this year brings a somewhat dark and mysterious element to jewelry. Multiple or messy chains, gunmetal components and objects with a slightly macabre feel are all popular choices. Talons, daggers, black lace and velvet give an air of Edgar Allan Poe-like intrigue to holiday designs. This trend might incorporate marcasite, black onyx, antiqued metals and blood red garnet.
Glamorous
A holiday party is a great excuse to layer fabulous oversized sparkling jewelry. Give special occasions a festive feeling with rhinestone brooches, shoulder duster earrings, cocktail rings and sparkly cuff bracelets to set you in the holiday mood. Think crystal and cubic zirconia in jewel tones and sequin and crystal sew-on embellishments for affordable elegance in eye-catching designs. I use Swarovski Crystals whenever I can in my holiday jewelry designs……nothing sparkles like these except Diamonds…..of course.
The sweetest things in life are free…….it’s the upkeep that is expensive.
Classic
One trend that continues to stand the test of time is traditionally elegant styles. Pearls and rhinestones with an antique feel give an heirloom look to jewelry styles. Update the look with satin or velvet ribbon, or even lace embellishments. The vintage feel of this lady-like jewelry captures the nostalgia of holiday times past. Lady-like purses are all the rage right now and so is the classic jewelry look.
Edgy
Another hot trend this year brings a somewhat dark and mysterious element to jewelry. Multiple or messy chains, gunmetal components and objects with a slightly macabre feel are all popular choices. Talons, daggers, black lace and velvet give an air of Edgar Allan Poe-like intrigue to holiday designs. This trend might incorporate marcasite, black onyx, antiqued metals and blood red garnet.
Glamorous
A holiday party is a great excuse to layer fabulous oversized sparkling jewelry. Give special occasions a festive feeling with rhinestone brooches, shoulder duster earrings, cocktail rings and sparkly cuff bracelets to set you in the holiday mood. Think crystal and cubic zirconia in jewel tones and sequin and crystal sew-on embellishments for affordable elegance in eye-catching designs. I use Swarovski Crystals whenever I can in my holiday jewelry designs……nothing sparkles like these except Diamonds…..of course.
The sweetest things in life are free…….it’s the upkeep that is expensive.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Thick Hair and It's Benefits
Most of us find it difficult to name our best features or say what we like most about ourselves. I have always loved my thick hair. I often think that if I could, I would share some of it with all those poor souls that have thin, limp hair….like one of my favorite aunts.
I’m not bragging….just being thankful for having lots of hair and its thick texture. This week I found yet another reason why I’m thankful. It takes me a good 25-30 minutes to blow-dry all that hair. In those minutes that I’ve often cursed (who has an extra half hour to spend on their hair?), I discovered that I have some of my best ideas….both in a personal nature and business. Personally, I think about my chores for the day, or gift ideas for family members, or fun things I can do in my spare time (okay…not lately). Business-wise I come up with some great marketing ideas, strategies to try, ways I can help my customers, networking opportunities, new designs for my jewelry, jewelry-making classes I will take (okay….not lately).
I figure thinking about all the positive things in my life and making plans while I’m blow drying my hair is a lot safer than doing that while I’m driving and rushing to my next appointment. It’s also a good thing that I get totally immersed in my jewelry making, or who knows what crazy designs I’d come up with.
I’m not bragging….just being thankful for having lots of hair and its thick texture. This week I found yet another reason why I’m thankful. It takes me a good 25-30 minutes to blow-dry all that hair. In those minutes that I’ve often cursed (who has an extra half hour to spend on their hair?), I discovered that I have some of my best ideas….both in a personal nature and business. Personally, I think about my chores for the day, or gift ideas for family members, or fun things I can do in my spare time (okay…not lately). Business-wise I come up with some great marketing ideas, strategies to try, ways I can help my customers, networking opportunities, new designs for my jewelry, jewelry-making classes I will take (okay….not lately).
I figure thinking about all the positive things in my life and making plans while I’m blow drying my hair is a lot safer than doing that while I’m driving and rushing to my next appointment. It’s also a good thing that I get totally immersed in my jewelry making, or who knows what crazy designs I’d come up with.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Followup about my last post - Customer Service
I've been so crazy busy (all good) that I never posted the outcome of my dilemma to speak up or not about my experience at the spa. Here's what happened. I had my meeting but didn't say anything because we met in an open area where employees would have heard the conversation. It just wasn't an appropriate time or place to let the owner know what happened and how I felt. I did get the business....yeah...and will be setting up there next week. If in the future the occasion arises to say something I might or I'll just have to let it go. Thanks again for your thoughts and opinions.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Venting about one of my Pet Peeves
I experienced a situation concerning one of my pet peeves this week and I really need to vent about it. I’d also love some feedback on how you think I should handle the situation.
I had the pleasure of hearing Kim Richmond of Richmond Marketing & Communications speak at my Women Owned Business Network meeting. The topic was “The Power of a Personal Brand.” I got a lot out of the presentation, but one of the biggest points she made was how your brand represents you personally. She spoke about defining your brand message and asked, “what are the things that make you unique?” Of course, I feel my jewelry designs are unique, and I strive to give my customers good value for their money, but the thing I’m most proud of is my excellent customer service. My pet peeve is not getting this excellent customer service when I’m the customer.
So….here's what happened. I had two treatments at one of the spas in my area. As I was checking out, the total for my services was $19 more than I expected. I had received a coupon in an email from the spa, but I didn’t bring it with me. I explained this to the gal and she said she was sorry but that I had to bring the coupon in to receive the discount. I told her that I hadn’t been told that when I made my appointment and that I didn’t remember the email stating that I needed to print the coupon and present it. I told her she could look and see that I was on their mailing list. She said she could see that I was but that they track the coupons. She was very sorry but she couldn’t give me the discount without the coupon.
I think coupons are great and I’ve used them myself as a marketing tool. Rules are rules, and policies serve a purpose, but you know what? Sometimes rules and policies can and should be broken. In this case, to satisfy a customer and make her happy, I know what I would have done. If one of my customers is not happy with a piece, they can return it for a refund or pick out another piece. If I get a customer order to design something and it’s just not perfect, I will go back and rework it until it’s perfect for that particular customer. I will do just about anything to make the customer happy and feel that I gave them excellent customer service.
I didn’t want to make a fuss, partly because that’s my personality (after all, it was only $19) but also because I had planned to ask to speak to the owner about selling my jewelry in her spa. So I paid the bill. I did meet the owner, and we have an appointment next week. Now I’m trying to decide if I should tell her about the coupon situation. Today, I was getting ready for another appointment and had to actually stop blow drying my hair and come vent about it by posting this on my blog. I guess I am more upset about it than I thought and that’s what pet peeves are all about. They are situations that just don’t sit right with you.
I need to go to my appointment but I will think about this some more before I make my decision. What do you think about it? Should I discuss this with the shop owner or just let it go? I would love to get your feedback.
I had the pleasure of hearing Kim Richmond of Richmond Marketing & Communications speak at my Women Owned Business Network meeting. The topic was “The Power of a Personal Brand.” I got a lot out of the presentation, but one of the biggest points she made was how your brand represents you personally. She spoke about defining your brand message and asked, “what are the things that make you unique?” Of course, I feel my jewelry designs are unique, and I strive to give my customers good value for their money, but the thing I’m most proud of is my excellent customer service. My pet peeve is not getting this excellent customer service when I’m the customer.
So….here's what happened. I had two treatments at one of the spas in my area. As I was checking out, the total for my services was $19 more than I expected. I had received a coupon in an email from the spa, but I didn’t bring it with me. I explained this to the gal and she said she was sorry but that I had to bring the coupon in to receive the discount. I told her that I hadn’t been told that when I made my appointment and that I didn’t remember the email stating that I needed to print the coupon and present it. I told her she could look and see that I was on their mailing list. She said she could see that I was but that they track the coupons. She was very sorry but she couldn’t give me the discount without the coupon.
I think coupons are great and I’ve used them myself as a marketing tool. Rules are rules, and policies serve a purpose, but you know what? Sometimes rules and policies can and should be broken. In this case, to satisfy a customer and make her happy, I know what I would have done. If one of my customers is not happy with a piece, they can return it for a refund or pick out another piece. If I get a customer order to design something and it’s just not perfect, I will go back and rework it until it’s perfect for that particular customer. I will do just about anything to make the customer happy and feel that I gave them excellent customer service.
I didn’t want to make a fuss, partly because that’s my personality (after all, it was only $19) but also because I had planned to ask to speak to the owner about selling my jewelry in her spa. So I paid the bill. I did meet the owner, and we have an appointment next week. Now I’m trying to decide if I should tell her about the coupon situation. Today, I was getting ready for another appointment and had to actually stop blow drying my hair and come vent about it by posting this on my blog. I guess I am more upset about it than I thought and that’s what pet peeves are all about. They are situations that just don’t sit right with you.
I need to go to my appointment but I will think about this some more before I make my decision. What do you think about it? Should I discuss this with the shop owner or just let it go? I would love to get your feedback.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Recycling gift cards
We should all try to be as "green" as possible. With gift certificate season approaching, I found this article on recycling plastic gift cards very relevant. If you get the chance, please read how you can recycle yours: http://www.mnn.com/earth-matters/recycling/stories/recycling-plastic-gift-certificates
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
I'm Back from Italy
As some of you know, I've just returned from a trip to my hometown of Belmonte Mezzagno, Sicily. I had a wonderful time with my mother and oldest son, Michael. I've posted a photo journal on my facebook page if anyone is interested @ http:www.facebook.com/AnnaChinniciServati#!anna.servati.
It took me a while to get back on track with my Ciao Bella Mia Jewelry business.....that's always the case after an awesome trip, isn't it? Now, I'm heading into my busiest season.....my Fall Schedule is listed below. I hope to see past, present and future cutomers at these events.
If anyone is interested in hosting a homeshow, please contact me ASAP as my schedule is filling up quickly. I still have some prime dates to host a show and earn free jewelry.....and who doesn't love FREE?
October 9 – Nazareth Academy HS Craft Show, 4001 Grant Ave., Philadelphia; Sat 9am-4 pm
October 10 – Whitpain Parks & Rec 15th Annual Community Harvest Festival, (only if rained out on Sat, Oct 9); Wentz Run Park in Blue Bell, 11 am-5 pm
October 17 – Father Judge HS Fall Craft Fair, 3301 Solly Ave., Philadelphia; Sun 9:30 am-2:30 pm
October 30-November 28 – Victorian Boutique, 53 N. Main St, Telford, PA; Saturdays 10-5, Sundays 12-5, Mondays-Fridays 10-8, Closed Thanksgiving Day
November 6-7 – Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School Holiday Craft Fair, Doylestown PA; Saturday 10 am-4 pm, Sunday 10 am-4 pm
November 10 - The Event (open house) at Barb Cooper’s, 403 E. State St., Doylestown,PA 7 pm-?
November 14 – St Rose of Lima Christmas Bazaar, 428 S. Main St., North Wales, PA; Sunday 8:30 am-2 pm
November 17 – Corpus Christi Holiday Shopping Extravaganza, 900 Sumneytown Pike; Wednesday 5:30 pm-9 pm
November 18 – Gwynedd Mercy Academy Shopping Night, Sumneytown Pike, 6-9 pm
November 19 – Mary, Mother of the Redeemer Christmas Shopping Night; Upper State Rd, Montgomeryville, PA; Friday 7-10 pm
December 5 – La Salle High School Christmas Shopping Spectacular, 8605 Cheltenham Ave, Glenside, PA; Sunday 12-5 pm
It took me a while to get back on track with my Ciao Bella Mia Jewelry business.....that's always the case after an awesome trip, isn't it? Now, I'm heading into my busiest season.....my Fall Schedule is listed below. I hope to see past, present and future cutomers at these events.
If anyone is interested in hosting a homeshow, please contact me ASAP as my schedule is filling up quickly. I still have some prime dates to host a show and earn free jewelry.....and who doesn't love FREE?
October 9 – Nazareth Academy HS Craft Show, 4001 Grant Ave., Philadelphia; Sat 9am-4 pm
October 10 – Whitpain Parks & Rec 15th Annual Community Harvest Festival, (only if rained out on Sat, Oct 9); Wentz Run Park in Blue Bell, 11 am-5 pm
October 17 – Father Judge HS Fall Craft Fair, 3301 Solly Ave., Philadelphia; Sun 9:30 am-2:30 pm
October 30-November 28 – Victorian Boutique, 53 N. Main St, Telford, PA; Saturdays 10-5, Sundays 12-5, Mondays-Fridays 10-8, Closed Thanksgiving Day
November 6-7 – Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School Holiday Craft Fair, Doylestown PA; Saturday 10 am-4 pm, Sunday 10 am-4 pm
November 10 - The Event (open house) at Barb Cooper’s, 403 E. State St., Doylestown,PA 7 pm-?
November 14 – St Rose of Lima Christmas Bazaar, 428 S. Main St., North Wales, PA; Sunday 8:30 am-2 pm
November 17 – Corpus Christi Holiday Shopping Extravaganza, 900 Sumneytown Pike; Wednesday 5:30 pm-9 pm
November 18 – Gwynedd Mercy Academy Shopping Night, Sumneytown Pike, 6-9 pm
November 19 – Mary, Mother of the Redeemer Christmas Shopping Night; Upper State Rd, Montgomeryville, PA; Friday 7-10 pm
December 5 – La Salle High School Christmas Shopping Spectacular, 8605 Cheltenham Ave, Glenside, PA; Sunday 12-5 pm
Monday, August 30, 2010
Let's talk Shoes.....My Favorite Subject
With the Fall season just around the corner, shoes go from colorful to nude, edgy to Ladylike. Pointy-toe heels are still around although I've never been a big fan. Although I used to love the 3 inch heels, these days I prefer the shorter kitten heel.....much easier to walk in at my age. While shopping for shoes last week, I noticed that strappy is in high fashion along with platforms for extra comfort. The short booty is still around....I'm happy to see...along with higher boots that have buckles or other hardware for a tougher, edgy look. Nude hues complement the earthtone clothing colors of the Fall season along with black and grey. I'm leaving for a two week trip to Italy next week. I can't wait to see the Italian shoe fashions. I don't think I've ever gone to Italy without buying at least one pair of shoes.....I'll report my findings and spending at the end of the month, when I get back. Ciao
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Clickjacking Problems on Facebook
Facebook has recently won a court case against some hackers from what's called a "clickjacking" virus. It has come from several directions...Those notifications you get about a video or the flirting pages you get redirected to is the virus. The virus downloads into your Temp files when you open a window. So be careful not to click on the "like" buttons for those adds to the right on FB for now until it is resolved. Since the win for Facebook, the hackers have been all out full force trying to "clickjack" computers. You can read more about it on blog sites such as PCWorld, Social Media Examiner, and Mashable. I know people are blaming FB but it's not them causing the mess.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
I met with one of my great customers yesterday. I actually met her when I was having a test done at the hospital last year and now we have become friends. She bought some pieces to give as gifts and treated herself to a new bracelet. While we were chatting, she mentioned that she didn't think she could wear big, bold jewelry pieces (she's a tiny, petite thing). I told her that I used to feel that way too until I realized that you don't need to be of a particular physical stature to wear bigger statement pieces. You just need the right attitude and a smile, because people will turn to admire the eye-catcher you are wearing. When I started wearing bigger pieces, I found that people started complimenting me on them and now I feel more confident when I wear them. As long as there is a sense of balance and proportion (length is very important) then you can enjoy the big bold pieces that are so popular right now. Please leave a comment and let me know what you think.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Garnet is the official birthstone of January.
The deep, glossy red color of garnet resembles the juicy seeds of a pomegranate, which is perhaps why its name is derived from the Latin word for pomegranate seeds, granatum. In Greek mythology, a pomegranate was often given as a gift of passion and associated with eternal love. In ancient history, travelers wore garnet gemstones because they were believed to light up the night and provide protection from nightmares and accidents.
In the middle ages, garnet was commonly believed to guard against poison. Royals would often drop a garnet gemstone into a glass of wine to ensure they were not poisoned to death. Garnets were also worn by the crusaders as an aid to safely find their way home. Eastern European folktales speak of garnets being worn around the neck to guard against night-wandering vampires.
Garnets were also used in burial jewelry and carved signet rings to proclaim royalty during the Bronze Age (300 BC).
Garnet symbolizes a quick return to a separated love, fertility and feminine life force. Legend states that Hades gifted a pomegranate to Persephone before she left his domain to ensure a speedy and safe return. When she did return, the fruit transformed into a handful of the red gemstones.
A garnet stone is often gifted to a loved one before they embark on travel. Garnets are commonly believed to aid in the healing of broken bonds of love. Garnets are also known to aid in the treatment of melancholy and depression by acting as a heart and blood stimulant.
Garnet is thought to be extremely beneficial in the realm of business. The stone can attract people to the wearer, which can help provide personal and business success. It is especially beneficial to people wanting to start home businesses.
Garnets are found in metamorphic and igneous rocks. They form under extremely high temperatures and pressure. Garnet deposits are found in Africa, India, Russia, South America, Madagascar, Pakistan and the United States.
Clean garnet stones with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Rinse the stone well after washing it. Ultrasonic treatments may be used for most garnets, except the demantoid variety. Steam cleaning garnets may cause color changes from the heat.
Protect garnet from sharp blows, extreme temperature changes and harsh chemicals.
In the middle ages, garnet was commonly believed to guard against poison. Royals would often drop a garnet gemstone into a glass of wine to ensure they were not poisoned to death. Garnets were also worn by the crusaders as an aid to safely find their way home. Eastern European folktales speak of garnets being worn around the neck to guard against night-wandering vampires.
Garnets were also used in burial jewelry and carved signet rings to proclaim royalty during the Bronze Age (300 BC).
Garnet symbolizes a quick return to a separated love, fertility and feminine life force. Legend states that Hades gifted a pomegranate to Persephone before she left his domain to ensure a speedy and safe return. When she did return, the fruit transformed into a handful of the red gemstones.
A garnet stone is often gifted to a loved one before they embark on travel. Garnets are commonly believed to aid in the healing of broken bonds of love. Garnets are also known to aid in the treatment of melancholy and depression by acting as a heart and blood stimulant.
Garnet is thought to be extremely beneficial in the realm of business. The stone can attract people to the wearer, which can help provide personal and business success. It is especially beneficial to people wanting to start home businesses.
Garnets are found in metamorphic and igneous rocks. They form under extremely high temperatures and pressure. Garnet deposits are found in Africa, India, Russia, South America, Madagascar, Pakistan and the United States.
Clean garnet stones with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Rinse the stone well after washing it. Ultrasonic treatments may be used for most garnets, except the demantoid variety. Steam cleaning garnets may cause color changes from the heat.
Protect garnet from sharp blows, extreme temperature changes and harsh chemicals.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Come See my Lastest Designs
Here is an updated list of shows I am participating in. Come see my lastest designs and start your holiday shopping.
Nov 19 - Gwynedd Mercy Academy HS, 1345 Sumnetown Pike, 6-9pm
Nov 21 - private home show
Nov 22 - St Rose of Lima, 428 S Main St, North Wales, 8:30am - 3pm
Dec 4 - St. Stanislaus, 493 E Main St, Lansdale, 5:30-10 pm
Dec 5-6 - Epiphany of Our Lord, 3040 Walton Rd, Plymouth Mtg, Sat 9:30-4, Sunday, 8-2pm
Nov 19 - Gwynedd Mercy Academy HS, 1345 Sumnetown Pike, 6-9pm
Nov 21 - private home show
Nov 22 - St Rose of Lima, 428 S Main St, North Wales, 8:30am - 3pm
Dec 4 - St. Stanislaus, 493 E Main St, Lansdale, 5:30-10 pm
Dec 5-6 - Epiphany of Our Lord, 3040 Walton Rd, Plymouth Mtg, Sat 9:30-4, Sunday, 8-2pm
Monday, November 16, 2009
Do you know what makes crystals shine?
Wear Sparkling Crystal Jewelry for the Holidays
‘Tis the season to sparkle and shine. I love the look of crystal jewelry at this time of year. Although there are several nice crystals on the market, my favorite is Swarovski Crystals. I use Swarovski Crystals almost exclusively in my jewelry designs. Whether I spotlight one brilliant crystal bead as a focal or weave many into a design for maximum dazzle, a crystal jewelry piece is always a surefire way to enhance that holiday outfit.
Many Swarovski Crystal lovers believe that the raw material used in their manufacture occurs naturally, like rock crystal. However, Swarovski Crystals are not a natural crystal but are man made. They are made at the factory in Wattens, Austria, using a basic formula perfected by Daniel Swarovski and his three sons in the earlier part of this century
Do you know what makes crystals shine? When crystals are made, the more precisely the faceted edges meet, the more dazzling the crystals appear. Swarovski Crystals are fired using a combination of natural minerals and quartz sand, and then cooled slowly to avoid stress and inclusions. The factor that sets Swarovski Crystals apart is the superior quality of the cutting and polishing. Crystals are more expensive than glass because crystal quality is dependent on the production method and the processing of the raw material. Both factors play a major role in determining its brilliance and the measure of its value.
‘Tis the season to sparkle and shine. I love the look of crystal jewelry at this time of year. Although there are several nice crystals on the market, my favorite is Swarovski Crystals. I use Swarovski Crystals almost exclusively in my jewelry designs. Whether I spotlight one brilliant crystal bead as a focal or weave many into a design for maximum dazzle, a crystal jewelry piece is always a surefire way to enhance that holiday outfit.
Many Swarovski Crystal lovers believe that the raw material used in their manufacture occurs naturally, like rock crystal. However, Swarovski Crystals are not a natural crystal but are man made. They are made at the factory in Wattens, Austria, using a basic formula perfected by Daniel Swarovski and his three sons in the earlier part of this century
Do you know what makes crystals shine? When crystals are made, the more precisely the faceted edges meet, the more dazzling the crystals appear. Swarovski Crystals are fired using a combination of natural minerals and quartz sand, and then cooled slowly to avoid stress and inclusions. The factor that sets Swarovski Crystals apart is the superior quality of the cutting and polishing. Crystals are more expensive than glass because crystal quality is dependent on the production method and the processing of the raw material. Both factors play a major role in determining its brilliance and the measure of its value.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Busy Fall Schedule
I've been very bad about posting any new material here. But I do have a very good excuse. The Jewelry business has been keeping me very busy.....always a very good thing. Also, I've been working on my Fall Events Schedule. October is manageable but my November calendar is getting full. Here is a list of events I will be participating in. I hope to see lots of old friends and make lots of new ones.
September 19 - Copper Partridge (Sellersville) Anniversary Celebration
September 20 - Sellersville Gallery of the Arts, Downtown Sellersville, 12-5 p.m.
October 3-4 - Skippack Days, Downtown Skippack (tentative)
October 30 - J&J, Horsham
November 1 – Father Judge High School Fall Craft Show; 3301 Solly Ave., Philadelphia; Sunday 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
November 7-8 – Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School Holiday Craft Fair, Doylestown; Saturday, Nov 7th 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday, Nov 8th 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
November 13 - Mary, Mother of the Redeemer Christmas Shopping Night; Upper State Rd, Montgomeryville, Friday 7-10 p.m.
November 14-21 – Chalfont Holiday Craft Boutique, 181 Park Ave, Chalfont (off of Limekiln Pike); Weekdays 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Saturday & Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
November 19 - Gwynedd Mercy Academy Shopping Night, Sumneytown Pike, Gwynedd Valley, 6-9 p.m.
November 21 - Private Home Show
December 5-6 – Epiphany of our Lord Christmas Craft Show, 3040 Walton Rd., Plymouth Meeting; Saturday 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
September 19 - Copper Partridge (Sellersville) Anniversary Celebration
September 20 - Sellersville Gallery of the Arts, Downtown Sellersville, 12-5 p.m.
October 3-4 - Skippack Days, Downtown Skippack (tentative)
October 30 - J&J, Horsham
November 1 – Father Judge High School Fall Craft Show; 3301 Solly Ave., Philadelphia; Sunday 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
November 7-8 – Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School Holiday Craft Fair, Doylestown; Saturday, Nov 7th 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday, Nov 8th 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
November 13 - Mary, Mother of the Redeemer Christmas Shopping Night; Upper State Rd, Montgomeryville, Friday 7-10 p.m.
November 14-21 – Chalfont Holiday Craft Boutique, 181 Park Ave, Chalfont (off of Limekiln Pike); Weekdays 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Saturday & Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
November 19 - Gwynedd Mercy Academy Shopping Night, Sumneytown Pike, Gwynedd Valley, 6-9 p.m.
November 21 - Private Home Show
December 5-6 – Epiphany of our Lord Christmas Craft Show, 3040 Walton Rd., Plymouth Meeting; Saturday 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Back on Track
Sorry there was no new post in July. Most of the month was spent taking new pictures of my pieces and retyping inventory sheets and files that I lost because of my hard drive crash. Now that I am back on track and organized again, I will be posting some articles such as "How to take care of your Pearls" and "What is Stabilized Turquoise?" I hope you find these articles interesting and informative.
In the meantime, I am posting a picture of one of my new necklace designs that I call "Circle Madness." It's a fun piece done in silver plated chain with wooden, ceramic and Mother of Pearl beads. These long necklaces are so popular right now. Look in any fashion magazine, and you'll see them on movie stars and celebrities.
In the meantime, I am posting a picture of one of my new necklace designs that I call "Circle Madness." It's a fun piece done in silver plated chain with wooden, ceramic and Mother of Pearl beads. These long necklaces are so popular right now. Look in any fashion magazine, and you'll see them on movie stars and celebrities.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
HARD DRIVE CRASH
Sometimes, you just have to learn things the hard way. Two weeks ago, my computer hard drive started making a terrible crunching noise. Immediately, I knew this couldn't be good. Thank goodness I was too busy to panic. I was preparing for the next day's Aloha Event sponsored by the MCCC Women-Owned Business Network. The event was a huge success. I met some great people, had the pleasure of hearing Lynne Doyle speak, and made some jewelry sales. The main purpose for my participation as a vendor was to show my jewelry and help brand my Ciao Bella Jewelry name. The fact that I made some great sales along with some great networking contacts was an added bonus. The whole evening was so much fun.
However, the next day I was back facing my computer problem. For a $50 diagnosis, I got to hear those dreaded words from a computer geek......."your hard drive is corrupt and we're unable to retrieve any files." Just the week before, I thought to myself, "Gee, I really should backup all my files." Did I do it? Of course not. Like I said, "Sometimes, you just have to learn things the hard way."
I now have a new hard drive and a brand new external hard drive for backup. I was very lucky to have a friend's son help me out with the repair. I would have had to spend a lot more money to get a new computer and all new software. Although I now have to recreate all my inventory sheets, vendor files, and marketing materials, it's not the end of the world. I also have to take new pictures of my jewelry inventory. At least I have printed pictures of all my designs.
Take a tip from me.......BACK IT UP.
However, the next day I was back facing my computer problem. For a $50 diagnosis, I got to hear those dreaded words from a computer geek......."your hard drive is corrupt and we're unable to retrieve any files." Just the week before, I thought to myself, "Gee, I really should backup all my files." Did I do it? Of course not. Like I said, "Sometimes, you just have to learn things the hard way."
I now have a new hard drive and a brand new external hard drive for backup. I was very lucky to have a friend's son help me out with the repair. I would have had to spend a lot more money to get a new computer and all new software. Although I now have to recreate all my inventory sheets, vendor files, and marketing materials, it's not the end of the world. I also have to take new pictures of my jewelry inventory. At least I have printed pictures of all my designs.
Take a tip from me.......BACK IT UP.
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