Some people prefer making their own jewelry. By making their own, there are able to maintain a certain level of creativity and uniqueness on their designs.
One can rate custom made body jewelry from being exotic, unique, weird, shocking, extreme and even interesting. One benefit: one can brag about creating their own sets of rings, studs, etc.
In creating your own body jewelry set, it is important to choose your materials well. You won't like it if you create a masterpiece of design with maximum performance and great aesthetics but you fail to use the jewelry because it induces an allergic reaction when worn.
You need a strong, non-allergenic, non-corrosive material which you can use everyday. Thus, you really need the knowledge to guide you which material to be used for your body jewelry.
When looking at various materials, you should always consider the percentage of the nickel on the material to be used. It is nickel which causes the allergic reactions on people when wearing pierce earrings, rings, etc. Since nickel is not bio-compatible, once the metal touches the skin, it causes a lot of problems from mild itchiness to even severe irritations and infections.
Some materials that are low in nickel include sterling silver. However, even though it is silver part of its properties is made from a combination of alloys and metals, one of which is nickel.
Gold is another very valuable metal with very low concentration of nickel and when given to the hands of a jeweler it can be crafted into a great masterpiece. Just remember the bottom line: will the use of the materials cause irritations to the wearer.
There are materials that have better properties than silver and gold in terms of anti allergen properties. Among these materials include surgical stainless steel (SSS).
Even if it sounds foreign and scary, surgical stainless steel is perhaps the most popular metal used for body jewelry. Aside from its visible strength and almost flawless finish, SSS contains very little nickel which makes them ideal as body jewelry. Less reactions from the body, the more convenient the jewelry becomes.
If you have the money and could spare a lot, Niobium and titanium would be the best materials that one could use in their custom body jewelry. Niobium and titanium is non-reactive. Titanium alone contains less than .05% of nickel.
Moreover, one needs not to worry about damaging the jewelry made from Niobium and titanium, since scratches and dents from ordinary use are unheard off when it comes to these metals. They are very strong and hard. However, these last two materials are rather expensive and need some sophisticated equipment to be molded into jewelry of your type and design.
There are other ways where one can get customized body piercing jewelry. If one does not know how to make their own, they can always create original designs and ask experienced individuals or experts to make their drawings into real jewelry. This too could cost you a little fortune, but if you really need or have the urge to be unique then this is probably the best path that you can take.
Body jewelry is a means to express oneself. If you want to be the talk of the town, a head turner or a topic of conversation, then one of the best ways to get notice is have various body modifications conducted on your body and this including piercing. And if you really would like to stand out, then customizing your piercing jewelry is the next best step to take.
If you love the white metals and are drawn to white gold and/or platinum, then sterling silver is an affordable alternative that allows you to get the same look at a fraction of the cost. When you wear a piece of jewelry, it says something about you. Your personality. Your style. Your attention to detail. Truthfully, the jewelry that you choose is all about you and your taste in accessories. Below are five fun facts about your favorite sterling silver jewelry:
Rings can elongate your finger. If you choose a ring style that is longer than it is wide, it can actually make your fingers appear longer. If you have short fingers, perhaps you enjoy the look of an elongated and graceful hand. The length of a ring is measured from top to bottom or, visually, as it would appear from knuckle to knuckle. The width of a ring is measured from side to side or, visually, as it appears horizontally while sitting on your finger.
Colorful cubic zirconia jewelry offers a glimpse at wealth. Cubic zirconia is the world’s most popular simulated diamond, which instantly gives it a look that’s far beyond its cost. Because this stone is a created one, it’s much more affordable than a genuine diamond. Still, the naked eye cannot distinguish between the real thing and an imitation. It has been said that for every one colored diamond, there are 10,000 white diamonds. This means that a colored diamond is much more rare and, therefore, more expensive. Popular diamond colors include yellow, pink, red, blue, black, champagne, chocolate and even green. Cubic zirconia jewelry that imitates these colors give the wearer an instant ‘wow’ appeal.
Dangle earrings are taking a ‘swing’ at current trends. The popularity of today’s earring is centered around the jaw line and having a length that reaches it with ease. Movement in your sterling silver jewelry is always terrific, which is what you will get with a chandelier or chain design, but a large hoop or drop earring is also a smart pick in terms of drape.
Sterling silver is the perfect backdrop for cubic zirconia. Because sterling silver is a white metal, it compliments the flawless cubic zirconia perfectly. If you were to set genuine diamonds in sterling silver, they would have to be of very good quality and nearly eye clean in order to get the perfect look. If the diamonds were less than eye clean, their cloudiness would be obvious. With cubic zirconia, you don’t have to worry about inclusions or other imperfections, which is why they work beautifully with the white tone of sterling silver.
Sterling silver measures high on the hardness level. It is estimated that sterling silver ranges between 2.5 and 2.7 on the hardness level, which makes it stronger than some types of gold. When you wear a piece of jewelry, it’s important that it be sturdy enough to hold up for everyday wear. Whether it’s a ring, bracelet, earring or necklace, your jewelry should be able to withstand regular use.
Although at one time cubic zirconia was looked down upon as a "fake" diamond, today the simulated stones are appreciated for their own characteristics and beauty. Still, many people do not have a thorough understanding of these synthetic gems. Here are answers to some common questions.
What is Cubic Zirconia?
Loose cubic zirconia (also called CZ stones) are lab created gems. Cubic zirconia is found in nature, but it is extremely rare and the chemical properties of natural cubic zirconia are slightly different than those of synthetic gems. The simulated stones are made from a powder that is heated to a very high temperature, and then cooled in a controlled environment so that flawless crystals form.
How are Cubic Zirconia Stones Different from Diamonds?
There are several differences, the most notable of which is that diamonds are found in nature whereas cubic zirconia used for jewelry is man-made. Diamonds rate 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness (the highest rating), whereas cubic zirconia is generally rated at 8.5 on the hardness scale. CZ stones are denser and thus heavier than diamonds. When it comes to quality, however, these synthetic gems leap ahead of the pack. Whereas most diamonds have what are called inclusions (flaws), the best cubic zirconia stones are flawless. Similarly, colorless diamonds are very rare, whereas the lab created gems are perfectly colorless (although color can be added during the manufacturing process).
Are all Cubic Zirconia Stones the Same Quality?
Like diamonds, loose cubic zirconia stones are rated according to quality. Cubic zirconia AAAAA are the best quality simulated stones, while CZ AAA are next, followed by the A-grade cubic zirconia.
Are Cubic Zirconia Stones Available in the Same Cuts as Diamonds?
Cubic zirconia stones are cut so that they have the same facets and proportions as diamonds. The most classic cut of both diamonds and CZ stones is the round brilliant, with 58 facets and the ability to reflect light. Stones with a marquis cut are typically twice as long as they are wide and have a point on each end. A pear shaped cut resembles a teardrop combines the faceted brilliant cut of a round stone with the elongated look of a marquis stone. Similarly, the oval cut has the sparkle of a round brilliant, but is oval rather than round. The octagon cut, also known as the emerald cut, has stepping stone facets that reflect light more subtly. A square cut is sometimes called a princess cut, and has pointed corners.
How is Loose Cubic Zirconia Used?
Jewelry makers buy loose cubic zirconia at wholesale prices, and use a variety of materials to transform the synthetic gems into beautiful accessories. CZ stones are used in engagement rings, wedding rings, earrings, bracelets, pendants, necklaces, solitaire rings, and even ankle bracelets. Colored cubic zirconia is also used in a variety of fashion jewelry, including earrings and as side stones in rings. Settings are often made from 14-karat gold, 18-karat gold, sterling silver, or platinum.
With a new year now underway, it's time to shine and there's no better way to do so than with the help of beautiful jewelry. For 2008, trend watchers will see that shine is everywhere in terms of fashion accessories. From the purses that we carry to the clothes that we choose and even the shoes that we wear, the newest trend is all about shine from head to toe. With that being said, experts recommend wearing elements of shine that offer the perfect accent, as opposed to overpowering your entire ensemble.
If you're in the mood to add some glimmer to your wardrobe, consider doing so with the beautiful and affordable option of cubic zirconia jewelry. Unlike a pair of rhinestone jeans or a purse, jewelry is one accessory that will never go out of style and, when done in a precious metal, may last a lifetime with the proper care. The most versatile choice in cubic zirconia is that of the clear design, but jewelry lovers can find every color of the rainbow in this popular diamond simulant. From blue to yellow and even black, the shades of cubic zirconia are created to imitate the look of flawless gemstones.
Speaking of the various shades of cubic zirconia, one of the hottest fashion trends of 2008 will be that of the zebra print. What does this mean for jewelry lovers? In a word, everything. With the zebra print featuring two of the most classic colors in fashion, that being black and white, this color combination will also continue to be a leader among jewelry designs. Whether you choose to wear your favorite black and white cubic zirconia ring, earrings or necklace, you will be in style.
While on the subject of trends, it's worth nothing that neon colors will be making a big splash in the fashion pool for 2008. With yellow rumored to be one of the top picks for those in the know, the look of a yellow cubic zirconia is sure to be the perfect accent. When paired with a matching button-up shirt or a v-neck tee, jewelry that features this cheery hue is sure to keep you and those around you smiling this summer.
If you want to dress up your current fashion wardrobe with a little shine, you can add a cubic zirconia pin to the shoulder of your favorite turtleneck, to accent a scarf or to add a touch of shine to your preferred handbag. If you own a purse featuring a solid color, perhaps you would enjoy the glamour of a cubic zirconia pin strategically placed in the center or in one of the four corners of your purse. Whatever your pleasure, this one piece of jewelry can prove to be one of the most versatile pieces that you will own.
Now that you know what to look for in terms of making your new year a 'shiny' one, it's time to start shopping. If you're shopping online, look for a retailer who specializes in sterling silver and cubic zirconia designs for a large selection of jewelry pieces that are sure to dazzle.
Some of my friends think that I’m insane because I like cubic zirconia engagement rings. My husband started talking about rings when we I decided to get married. I told him that I didn’t need an expensive ring and our money would be better spent on something else. In my opinion, there is no need to spend your money on a piece of jewelry unless the cost of a diamond is just pocket change to you. It would be wise to wait and give it for five or ten year anniversaries if you can’t afford it.
I don’t mind that my ring was chosen from a selection of cubic zirconia engagement rings. Of course, I might get upset if someone tried to give me one and told me it was a real diamond. However, I decided that I didn’t need a real diamond right then, and maybe we could get one later down the road. Cubic zirconia engagement rings can look just as good as the diamond so it makes no sense to go into debt over it.
You are going to see what I’m talking about if you go out and look at cubic zirconia engagement rings. You can at least see that there are some beautiful rings out there, even if you may not agree with me. There is no need to buy them for engagements because they are beautiful on any finger on your hand. I have two cubic zirconia engagement rings and I wear whichever one I want, or whichever one strikes my fancy at any given moment.
You are probably a very practical person if you are of the same mind as I am. I am not saying that there is something wrong with wanting a diamond. I do hope to get one some day, but that doesn’t mean that I have to give up a house for it. I knew that the money we would have spent on a diamond was money we could put away towards our first house, when I chose among the cubic zirconia engagement rings in the store. Cubic zirconia engagement rings allow you to have a great looking ring on your finger without putting your financial situation in peril.
Whether you have just decided to get married and are shopping for cubic zirconia wedding rings or you're already married and have chosen to replace your former rings with something new, there's nothing quite like the flawless image of a sparkling simulated diamond accenting your hand. If you're in the market for a new set of cz wedding rings, below are five fascinating facts to keep in mind:
Cz eternity rings symbolize eternal love. A wedding band represents an unbroken line, which is said to represent everlasting love. Whether you choose a textured or high-polished design or you prefer something with gemstones, the unbroken circle of your rings will reflect the commitment that you have to your spouse.
Cubic zirconium is harder than most other gemstones. Because it measures an 8.5 on the scale of hardness, it has earned the distinction as being harder than all other gems with the exception of a diamond, ruby or sapphire. What does this mean? When it comes to cubic zirconia wedding rings, the hardness of the stone will add to the durability and longevity of the ring.
Diamond simulants shine more brightly than most other gemstones. A cubic zirconia is designed to imitate a flawless diamond, which means its ability to shine is one of its most important characteristics. A genuine diamond has a high reflective index of 2.41, whereas a cz is close behind with a reading of 2.15. In comparison, these numbers indicate that these simulated rings will come close to the brilliance of their diamond competitors in terms of light reflection and shine. As an added bonus, these rings offer the look of flawless eye clean diamonds.
Faux diamond wedding rings are ideal for newlyweds. Because of their affordable price, cubic zirconia wedding these rings are a wonderful way for couples to begin their lives together without being in debt. While some may choose to spend a lot of money on their wedding rings and either use their savings to pay cash or go into debt by using a credit card, others are opting for cubic zirconia rings and using the money saved toward life's essentials.
Cubic zirconium rings are ideal for travel. Whether you're out of town on business or pleasure, you will likely want to take your wedding rings along for the trip. If you were to wear genuine diamond rings, how much would you be losing if those rings were lost or stolen? With cubic zirconia wedding rings, you would be sad over the loss but you could still replace them without depleting your savings. Whether you currently have a diamond ring set that you just aren't comfortable traveling with or you want to start your married life with money in the bank, cubic zirconia simulated diamond rings may be the answer you're looking for.
A world's fair in Paris known as "L'Esposition De Arts Decoratifs" is where art deco jewelry was first seen. The 1920's was a decade of extravagance so it isn't any wonder that this is when these vintage designs reached their height of popularity. When the Great Depression hit there were needed changes made to art deco jewelry. The popularity of the these pieces stayed prevalent until World War two hit the world. The reason behind wanting one of these art deco rings as an engagement ring is more than stepping into history. It has to do with the contrast within the ring itself. Today people are going to art deco rings because they allow the couple to express themselves to each other and the antique engagement ring gives them a unique way to do this.
Art deco engagement rings were in style long before the modern day variations of diamond cut engagement rings. Those that like to be different will love the vintage engagement ring as an accessory to their wardrobe. The variety alone makes them a gorgeous piece to have in your jewelry box.
Both white and yellow gold and even platinum where used in making art deco rings. The key to the this type of ring was the assortment of stones and colors, lending contrast to the design. Rarely are these rings just one stone. A gem is set in the middle and surrounded by stones such as coral, rubies, emeralds and even turquoise to go with the diamonds found in them. Diamonds are not always the center of the ring. It can be any stone you choose, giving you far more choices.
Jewelers can now recreate the art deco engagement rings of the past according to the taste of the couple seeking them. Should you be fortunate enough to find a genuine vintage engagement ring then you should be prepared to pay a nice little sum for it. Even a reproduction of an antique engagement ring can be costly due to the quality of the stones and the personalization of the design.
Since the setting of the ring can be fragile and there is a danger of stones coming out during the cleaning, precautions must be taken. The guidelines for cleaning should be strictly followed and the stones in the art deco engagement ring should each be individually considered when cleaning.
Due to the fragility of the art deco engagement ring it should not be kept with the rest of your jewelry. You should have a special place set aside for these rings where they are not in danger of being damaged by other jewelry. When you engage in a great deal of activity it is best to take your vintage engagement rings off as they could get damaged.
An art deco engagement ring is more than a fashion statement, it is a piece of precious history that you want to preserve and protect.
Topaz is a semi-precious stone that is derived from the Sanskrit word 'tapas' which means fire. It comes in various earthly tones. Of the available hues it comes in, the most valuable would be the ones with pink or deep golden yellow hues. Topaz could also come in blue, after color enhancement is done through the process of irradiation.
Topaz has a kind of an orthorhombic crystal structure. It has a hardness of 8 on the Moh's scale. It also occasionally has several tear-shaped cavities that encompasses varies immiscible liquids or a gas bubble. There are some that come with diamond-shaped cross-section traits with striations running through the length of the semi-precious stone.
This gemstone also has several holistic qualities. It is believed to be a formidable healing stone which encourages well-being. It is known to have the power of attracting love, promoting self-expression and enhancing creativity. Topaz also has medical benefits in that it is said to ease insomnia, hemorrhages and asthma. It is also the birthstone of those born in November.
In folklore, ancient Greeks believed that it could make the person wearing it to become invisible if it is used during an emergency. It was also used in banishing enchantment as well as in aiding in the process of correcting eyesight. The stone's restorative and esoteric attributes were believed to be controlled by the moon's waxing and waning.
Topaz could be found on igneous rocks such as in granites, pegmatites and volcanic lava. It could be mined in various locations including the US, Brazil, Pakistan, Australia, Tasmania, Russia and Mexico.