Amethyst is February's Birthstone

Sam Serio

If you're still young enough to remember your birthday, you probably also remember the special birthstone assigned to it. But at your age, we bet you don't really know the SIGNIFICANCE of your birthstone and what power the ancients felt would be bestowed about you by wearing it.
February's birthstone: Amethyst
Birthstone powers: Brings peace and calm to your life
Alternative Birthstone: Bloodstone
Amethyst is the birthstone for the month of February and the traditional anniversary gemstone for the sixth of marriage. Once considered more valuable than diamonds, this member of the quartz member occurs naturally as crystals within rocks. The stones are mined in Brazil, Uruguay, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Zambia, Australia and in the mountains of Russia
American amethysts are mined in Maine, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Montana and Colorado. Amethyst from Maine is usually dark with North Carolina amethyst having a bluish tint unique to that area. Amethyst can lighten if exposed to strong sunlight for a long time. When heated to 550-560 Centigrade, the color changes to dark yellow or reddish brown. (They are then called citrines. These are more richly colored and more expensive then natural citrines)
Ideally deep medium purple with rose-colored flashes, amethysts generally range in hue from pale lilac to nearly black purple. Since purple has always been the color of royalty, amethysts abound in the ornaments of in the British Crown Jewels and in the adornments of the ancient Greeks and Egyptians, as well. They have been found in ruins dating as far back as the ninth century, adorning royal jewelry, scepters, and crowns.
The intense violet hue of February's birthstone appealed to early monarchs, perhaps because they often wore this color-as a symbol of their elevated position. Purple dye was once scarce and expensive, so it was reserved for the garments of royalty, and the color came to symbolize power and status.
Sobering Thoughts with Amethyst
The Greeks believed that whoever wore an amethyst or drank from an amethyst cup would not become intoxicated. In fact, the word amethyst is derived from the Greek word "amethystos," meaning sober. In ancient Greece, the gemstone was associated with the god of wine, and it was common practice to serve this beverage from Amethyst goblets in the belief that this would prevent overindulgence. It was also claimed that amethyst had a sobering effect on those "drunk" on love's passion.
Even today, amethyst is considered a stabilizing force for those struggling to overcome addictive behaviors. In general, the gemstone is believed to be a calming, tranquil influence that symbolizes peace.
Amethyst and Prayer
Amethyst is symbolic of piety, spirituality, and a devotion to God. The rich purple gemstones are used worldwide to ornament churches and crosses used in religious ceremony, and they frequently found in the rings and on the rosaries worn by bishops and priests.
It is also believed that amethysts bring on pleasant dreams because they allow you to "channel" positive universal energy. As a result many people place an amethyst under their pillow before going to sleep at night to enjoy "sweet dreams" throughout the night.


For more information on jewelry and gemstones, we cordially invite you to visit www.morninglightjewelry.com to pick up your FREE copy of "How To Buy Jewelry And Gemstones Without Being Ripped Off." This concise, informative special report reveals almost everything you ever wanted to know about jewelry and gemstones, but were afraid to ask. Get your FREE report at www.morninglightjewelry.com.

Clean Slates And Fresh Starts
Brian Channell

If it is hard to find certain articles of clothing in your bedroom closet each morning, you probably need to work on your closet organization. There are a lot of tools and items that will make this task easier, whether it is a major overhaul or just a simple closet organization project.

For clothes that you don't wear very often, consider purchasing a wicker 5-drawer storage tower from Target. The tower is designed to easily fit into your closet and is an easy place to store off-season clothes, socks, and undergarments. This type of closet organization is helpful because it clears up some of your rod space, allowing you easier access to the clothing that you wear on a regular basis. Target also offers a shorter chest version of the same model and is available in a 3-drawer, 4-drawer, 5-drawer, or 6-drawer design. This form of closet organization is useful because of its less exaggerated height, allowing you to store even more items on top of the unit.

There are closet organization solutions available for bulky or special garments as well. The Space Bag is a revolutionary vacuum-sealed storage system that reduces volume and increases protection. At ContainerStore.com you can purchase hanging space bags? that improve your storage space by up to 75%. These bags are vacuum-sealed and are ideal for wedding dresses, occasional-use cocktail dresses, blankets, out-of-season suits, and sweaters. If you are running out of space on your closet rod, these bags are the perfect solution to your closet organization problem. Vacuum-sealed bags are easy to use and are guaranteed to keep your items dry and out of harm's way.

Another way to improve your closet rod space is to purchase multi-tier hangers. These types of hangers allow you to store multiple items of clothing on the same hanger and are available at ContainerStore.com. The Container Store offers multi-tier hangers for skirts, slacks, and shirts. Having enough space for all of your clothing items is a key element in closet organization, and these multi-tier hangers are perfect for smaller closets or for people that have a lot of clothing items.

Another idea is to double your hanging space with a closet rod doubler, also available at The Container Store. If your closet organization project isn't going as smoothly as you had hoped, this handy item is bound to give new life to your closet. The closet rod doubler adds an additional rod below your existing closet rod, giving your closet instant space with minimal effort.

tie rackWe can't talk about closet organization without mentioning how to organize things like ties, stockings, hats, and jewelry. A lot of people find that they have no idea how to store these items in an orderly fashion. The Container Store offers clear vinyl bags specifically for storing these types of accessories, and they are available in a few different sizes. These bags hang on your closet rod and clear up your existing clutter. An important factor in closet organization is being able to see where your items are located, which is why clear storage bags are the perfect solution.

Brian Channell is an entrepreneur and manages several businesses. Please visit http://www.closetorganizertips.com/ for more home organization tips and ideas.

History of Earrings

Sher Matsen

Earrings - I think of them as the finishing touch to your look. They complete your fashion statement. There are earrings for all occasions - the board room, work, casual outings, your wedding, a night on the town, or a day at the beach. They can bring out your softer feminine side, the sexy goddess, or present simple charm, sophistication and elegance
From Elizabeth Taylor to Meg Ryan to Dave Navarro to Usher - today earrings are a fashion statement for both men and women. The first pair of earrings has been dated back to 2500 BC. Only the wealth and those of royal lines could afford expensive jewelry back then.
There are all types of earrings - chandelier earrings, dangle earrings, hoop earrings, stud earrings, button earrings, and droplet earrings to name just a few. Earrings come in all types of materials and metals. Gold, silver, gemstones, plastics, bakelite, copper, diamonds, paste, pearls, faux stones, or glass. The list goes on and on. What ever your desires there is a pair of earrings out there waiting for you.
The oldest earrings ever unearthed by archaeologists were discovered in Iraq in the royal graves and date to about 2,500 BC. Back to 3000 BC there were two types of earrings: the hoop, and the more elaborate pendant. From 1559 B.C. to 1085 B in Egypt earplugs became very fashionable. These type of piercings and earrings are seen even on King Tutankhamen.
In the Dark Ages poverty prevailed and metal jewelry sharply declined although designs were preserved for later use. During the Roman Empire wealthy women used earrings to show off their rich status. By the 2nd century AD gemstones such as sapphires, emeralds, and aquamarines were used regularly.
During the Byzantine period which ran from330-1200 AD earrings took a back burner to more elaborate body ornamentation. In the Middle Ages earrings become almost non-existent because of the elaborate hair styles, and headdresses which were ever so popular.
During the 16th century in Italy high collars disappeared and hair was being worn up and away from the face, so earrings began to make a comeback. In other parts of the world such as England and France it would be another 100 years or so before the high collars disappeared. As time progressed the design of earrings became much more complex. Around 1660 the girandole earring made its appearance remaining very popular for the next couple of centuries. The girandole earrings were extremely large and heavy because of the metal content [gold or silver] and the amount of gems. Made of 3 pear shaped drops on a hook. The weight was known to cause elongated ear lobes.
In the latter part of the 18th century the pendeloque earrings became popular. They were longer than the girandole earrings but much lighter. They were the balance for the high hairdos and big wigs that were being worn.
During the early 1800, jewelers began to mount gemstones, on an open back claw setting. This allowed the light to pass through the gems enhancing their color and brilliance. By the 1850s, earrings had once again disappeared from the fashion scene. This was once again a result of changing hairstyles. The new styles that involved wearing the hair gathered in a knot at the back resulted in the ears being totally hidden. As well bonnets had arrived on the scene which also made wearing earrings rather difficult.
During the early 20th century screw backs were invented which meant women no longer had to pierce their ears. These became very popular. Some circles even began to believe piercing ones ears was rather barbaric.
After WWI shorter hairdos became very popular. Earrings were perfect for filling the space from short hair to shoulder and once again became a popular fashion statement.
During the 1920s art deco styles took hold, recognized by their straight or angled designs. Very long chandelier earrings were also quite popular during this time.
During the 1930s the clip on was invented. Because clip ons held the earring more snuggly than screw backs they became the number one choice for many years to come. Pierced ears faded into the background.
During the 1950s earrings were light and aerodynamic. By the 1960s earrings had become fun and innovative. Texture and color was very important. Prior to the 1960s earrings were dedicated to either evening wear or day wear with the evening wear earrings being more elegant. During the 1960s this all changed when the distinction between what was acceptable for evening or day faded away.
By the 1970s we had entered an "everything goes" style to earrings and pierced ears had made a comeback. Women were buying earrings in large quantities for every occasion. .
Today it's difficult to find someone who doesn't have pierced ears. Today men are as interested in earrings as women. Men often prefer studs or small hoops, they may wear one earring, two or more depending on the individual's tastes. Children now get their ears pierced often at a very young age, even sometimes as babies. Women may have anywhere from one set of holes to piercings right up the ear. The fashion of earrings has come a long way over the years and its here to stay! Whatever your style, there is certain to be a pair of earrings out there for you. Be sure to make your fashion statement!



© Copyright Sher Matsen, All Rights Reserved.

About the author:
Sher has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing affordable estate jewelry, and a wealth of information on jewelry, fashion, designers, and beauty with on staff industry professionals. Please visit us at Estate Jewelry International.


10 Easy Ways To Promote Your Website For Cheap Or Free
Jen Merkel

Please consider this article for your website or newsletter - printed or virtual. Permission to reprint if byline stays intact and links are activated on the Internet. You may make minor formatting changes or correct any typos. If you use it, please notify me and send a copy of your publication.

TITLE: 10 Easy Ways To Promote Your Website For Cheap Or Free
AUTHOR: Jen Merkel, Freelance Writer
WORD COUNT: 1,482
URL: http://jenmerkel.bravehost.com
Mailto: jen.merkel@cox.net

"10 Easy Ways To Promote Your Website For Cheap Or Free"
© 2004 Jen Merkel

You've built your website and you're quite proud of it. The graphics look nice, it has a few interesting pieces of information and it showcases your subject perfectly. But how do you draw people to it and get that hit counter climbing without breaking the bank? You've got your meta tags in place but you just can't afford to pay the humungous fee to be a featured advertiser on a mega-search engine. Here are a few easy and quick ways to publicize your website which are either cheap or free.

1. Link Exchanges

One of the most effective ways to get traffic moving into your site is to list it as a link on other sites of interest to your target market. If you don't already know of another site similar to yours, just do a Google search using a few appropriate keywords. By using Google to do a search on the words "link exchange" you will also find entire sites - some free, some with a fee - with directories of sites willing to exchange links. Once you find a site, see if they have a links page and scan it to make sure yours would be a good fit. Usually instructions on exchanging links are somewhere on the website, but if they're not simply e-mail the webmaster or site owner and ask if they have a link exchange program. Be sure your site does not compete with theirs. After all, you will have to reciprocate with a link to their site on your own. Corporate sites don't normally do link exchanges, you will have much better luck with a site owned by an individual or small business. If you don't have a banner, you can create one for free online. A very user-friendly site for this is www.addesigner.com, but there are several others out there as well.

2. Join a Web-Ring

Web-Rings are a way of driving traffic to your site from others similar to yours. You simply place a web-ring banner on your home page using specified HTML code and you're automatically part of the network. When a visitor clicks on the web-ring banner at one member's site, they are directed to the next site in the web-ring, potentially yours. There are some things to consider when joining a web-ring. For example, when one of your site's viewers clicks on your web-ring banner, they are being directed off your site onto someone else's. If you join a web-ring, find one matching the interests of your target market that doesn't have a large number of members competing with you. For example, if your site sells aquariums, join a site for tropical fish enthusiasts rather than one with for people who sell pet products.

3. Host a Contest

Everyone loves to win a contest, and if yours offers something of value to your target market you can spark a lot of interest. The prize doesn't have to be big - maybe a $10.00 gift certificate, a set of books, a pretty piece of jewelry you purchased on closeout, or of course one of your products. You may be able to get prize donations from your link partners or others in your network simply by offering them credit and a link on your site throughout the contest. It's also smart to offer extra entries to a contestant if they refer someone else - word of mouth (or e-mail) is extremely powerful!

4. Win an Award

This may take some legwork on your part, but it could be well worth it in the end. If your site is rich in content and appealing to the eye, you have a good chance of winning some sort of web award. Simply do your Google search on "website award" or "site of the day" and research the links for application procedures. If you win, the payoff will be the privilege of posting an award banner on your home page for all to see. The site hosting the award will literally be sending visitors to you by way of a link.

5. Put a Link in Your Signature Line

The easiest and quickest way to get publicity for your site is to put a link in your signature line. Every e-mail you send will announce your site, and including an enticing one-line ad such as "enter our contest to win a $10.00 gift certificate" will likely increase your traffic.

6. Join an E-mail Group

In case you aren't familiar with e-mail groups, they are basically networks of people with a common interest or purpose, using e-mail to communicate to each other. Using a single e-mail address, you can send a message to a whole group of people with interests similar to yours. Rest assured, no matter what your target market is, there is an e-mail group for it. It is important to keep in mind that most frown upon advertising and all ban spamming, however you are usually allowed to put a link in your signature line and make special announcements. Just be sure you actually contribute to the discussion - don't just assume you can use the list for free advertising or you will be shunned very quickly. Two of the most popular websites for e-mail groups are Yahoo Groups (http://groups.yahoo.com) and Topica (http://www.topica.com), both of which offer free memberships.

7. Publish a Newsletter

It can be sent daily, weekly, bi-weekly or monthly, but be sure you send it out on a regular basis. Mine is published weekly on Fridays without fail. My readers have learned to look for it and I'd never consider letting them down by missing a deadline. Aside from being consistent, it is a cardinal rule to offer something of value to your readership. Don't use it solely as a venue for advertising - there are plenty of places to put text links and banner ads within it. To maintain readers, you will need to include some helpful information as well. If you aren't much of a writer, there are articles available on the web that are free for publication, providing you include a link to the writer's website and a promotional paragraph. If you have a hard time finding these, consider posting a call for submissions on writers' websites offering $5.00 and free promotion via a byline. You will be pleasantly surprised how many people respond with fresh and well-written ideas.

8. Purchase Advertising

Think advertising is expensive? Think again. There are countless inexpensive opportunities for advertising on the Internet. Start by looking for sites which target the same market you do, providing they don't directly compete with yours. Chances are they have a link for people interested in advertising on their site. If you can't find it, simply e-mail the webmaster or site owner and inquire. Another option is to do a search on eBay. Many sites put banner ad placement on auction. You can find ad spots on eBay for as little as $5.99, but remember, it is an auction, and someone could easily beat you out. I recently saw a banner ad auction get up to $269.00. Don't forget however, because it's an auction, you have the power to limit the amount you will pay a your maximum bid. It is important to have a banner ready to go, since you will usually need to obtain permission from the website's owner before bidding on the auction. Always read the terms of the auction carefully, to make sure you understand the dates your banner will be up and exactly where it will be placed.

9. Promoting Your Business Using an Online Network

Just starting to catch on is a unique way to network with other small businesses by way of shared advertising. The basic idea is to swap business cards, flyers, or coupons (called "fillers") for your site with other small business owners. They will put your fillers in their customer orders and you will put their fillers in your orders. Many groups put together bags or packs with a compilation of member fillers along with other goodies the recipient will enjoy. These can be given out at area businesses, schools, day care centers, parties... the list is endless. If you have trouble finding a networking group think about starting one of your own.

10. Write an Article

With a little work and a free morning, you should be able to put together a couple of paragraphs for a "how-to" piece on your area of expertise. Just be certain it somehow relates to your website. Use your article in your own newsletter or search on writers' websites for sites or e-zines looking for articles that may be a good fit for your piece. Whether or not they pay for publication they will be an excellent way to get the word out about your site. Just be sure to keep your byline brief and don't reference your website within your article unless absolutely necessary.

Jen Merkel is a freelance writer living in Chandler, Arizona with her husband and two children. Working from her virtual office, Jen offers business writing services (press releases, proposals, etc.) as well as assistance with meeting and incentive planning. Please visit her website at http://jenmerkel.bravehost.com or send her an email at jen.merkel@cox.net.

Jen Merkel lives in Chandler, Arizona with her husband and two children. Working from her virtual office, she offers business writing services (such as press releases, reports and proposals) as well as meeting planning assistance. Please visit her website at http://jenmerkel.bravehost.com or email her at jen.merkel@cox.net.

Take Off the Rose-Colored Glasses When Dating

Susan Dunn, MA, certified Emotional Intelligence Coach

Robin was giving me an anatomy of her divorce. "There were signs," she said. "Plenty of them. I just ignored them."

"The counselor told me to ignore how he treated other people," said Manuela, "and concentrate on how he treated me. But one day I became 'other people.'"

It's typical to do this in the early stages of dating and falling in love because, first of all it's an exciting and complex process getting to know someone, and secondly, there are all those wonderful dreamy chemicals bathing our brains.

It's also a time when we're prone to be "optimistic," to assume everything's going to be marvelous. Nobody starts a new relationship hoping it will be a disaster. We invest a lot of time and energy into it, and we can begin to see what we want to see, not what's really going on.

This, by the way, is one of the catch points about Emotional Intelligence, and about learned optimism. It's recommended in many daily situations, particularly performance situations (like giving a speech or pitching an account), but it is never recommended in situations of great consequence. At those times, we need to take off the rose-colored glasses. Dating is surely one of those times.

While you're enjoying the chemical bath coming from the brain-stem and limbic brains, stay in touch with your neocortex - the thinking brain - and process just exactly what it is you're seeing and experiencing. Working with a coach, BTW, can help you with clarity.

"No hay casualidades," say the Spanish. Roughly translated it means, "nothing happens by accident" or "there are no coincidences."

Each of these things happened early on in someone's dating career and were ignored:

� We were sitting at the kitchen table at his folks' house and heard a mousetrap go off. Edward sprang to his feet, ran over to the trap, freed the mouse and then beat it to death with a fly swatter. Somehow I didn't think that related to anything else but the mouse, though it made me sick at the time.
� Stanton was a good doctor. He had taken a contract and was working from home and made plenty of money and that blinded me. Turns out he'd had a couple of partnerships that had failed because he was so demanding and impossible to work with. Boy did I find out about that later. It's very strange for a doctor to work out of his home. Somehow that never registered on me.
� Leo was always very relaxed with me, but whenever a waiter came around, or he talked about someone from his past, he was so critical, it was like he was examining them with a magnifying glass. Came the day I fell under the magnifying glass and was found to be 'wanting' just like everyone else, in tiny, little inconsequential, fly-speck ways.
� Eino always called his divorce "leaving home." I'd never heard a grown male talk that way, but I ignored the implications. My friends said he was like a kid, but I just couldn't see it until I became the surrogate "mom."
� "You know how those fraternity parties are," said Nita, referring to her college promiscuity as if it were common place. I had no idea what she meant, but I found out later on. She assumed casual sex with just about anyway was, 'well, you know how it is.'
� Though she was always on her best behavior when we were together, Dalida referred to her secretary, her maid, and her hairdresser as "the help," and demeaned them in front of me.
� Our dates were frugal, because I'm on a budget and Annie seemed to enjoy them. I missed that all her conversation was about how much things cost, and how she noted, as people passed by, the Gucci purse, or the Rolex watch, or the nasty "fake" jewelry.

Hard as it is, try and keep your head about you - that is, don't get "flooded" by those wonderful chemicals to the point where you aren't paying attention to the little things. That's all it is - little things. Watch how they treat all the other people in their life. The Spanish also say, "What goes around, comes around."

You will have learned, or will be learning, that it's best to nip things in the bud. Yes, people can change. And yes, at middle-age we've all had our 'learning experiences.'

Be mindful. Observe. Ask questions. It can save you from looking up one day and saying, "It was there all the time. Why didn't I see it?"

"Choose your life's mate carefully. From this one decision will come 90% of all your happiness or misery." ~ H. Jackson Brown, Jr., "Life's Little Instruction Book"

©Susan Dunn, MA Clinical Psychology, The EQ Coach�, http://www.susandunn.cc , helping people like you negotiate the turns of midlife transition. We bring the power of Emotional Intelligence to your life through coaching, distance learning, eBooks and Special Reports. Susan is the author of "How to Live Your Life with Emotional Intelligence" - http://www.webstrategies.cc/ebooklibrary.html . Mailto:sdunn@susandunn.cc for FREE eZine.

Denim Is In For Work and Play
Sher Matsen

For all you denim lovers, like myself, this is the season for you to shine. Denim is big this season. Denim has become a fashion statement of its own. No longer are we limited to boot cut, low rise, or relaxed fit jeans. It has come into its own - we can have denim hats, tops, belts, skirts, and even shoes. So wear denim with the attitude it deserves.

Many celebrities are really utilizing denim - they're dressing it up with embroidery, lace, fur, jewelry, accessories. What ever the heart desires. Dark denim, light denim, stone washed denim, colored denim - all good to go this season! So go crazy with the denim choices available. Dress it up or down. Denim can take you from the office to a night on the town.
The gals can dress it up with pearls, the guys with a tie. Crystal or rhinestone jewelry will make you dazzling! Add some long fun beads, a chunky necklace, or an armful of bangles. Don't forget to accessorize. Add a hat, a belt, or how about suspenders just for kicks. Add a fitted blazer to that denim skirt, add some heals to your favorite pair of jeans. Try a pair of the ever popular wedge shoes with any of your denim items.

For women with small waists and wider hips Joe's jeans has a new jean line called "Honey Jeans" They are designed so they don't gape at the waist. They accomplish this by making a two part waist band which give them more of a curve. Low rise jean that truly fits the feminine form. Check them out. They run around $148.00 a pair and can be found online.

Paper Denim has grown in popularity and offers great body fits - Super low rise, low rise, x-low slash pocket, and x-low flare. As well as the trouser and boot cut if your looking for something different.

Marc Jacobs has a form fitting dress that is ever so sexy. Add a light cardigan for those cooler evenings and you'll look sensational.

There are a host of denim designers and manufacturers offering jeans of various cuts, mini skirts, bustle skirts, form fitting dresses, flowing dresses, capri pants, denim shirts, vests, hats, denim belts, denim shoes, the list goes on and on.

If you want to get some great ideas of what you can do with your denim I recommend you visit Misssixty.com Very interesting and informative site!

Quite frankly, denim never goes out of style, but it's acceptance varies. Currently many companies are even allowing it at the work place if it has been dressed up. Dressing up denim is very easy to do. Add a formal top, some heels, or a nice blazer and you've got a very polished look.

Denim is durable, wearable, comfortable, and now more than ever fashionable. So enjoy your denim and dress it up or down to whatever the occasion. Be certain to accent it with your favorite jewelry and have fun! Make your fashion statement!

© Copyright Sher Matsen, All Rights Reserved.


© Copyright Sher Matsen, All Rights Reserved.

About the author:
Sher has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing affordable estate jewelry, and a wealth of information on jewelry, fashion, designers, and beauty with on staff industry professionals. Please visit us at Estate Jewelry International.

Women with body jewelry

Jacqueline Biles - New York Shopping Mall

Are women sexy who have body jewelry?
We offer body jewelry at http:newyorkshoppingmall.weblodge.net and I have received various responses to these products. What you opinion?
email me at nyfla123@hotmail.com


Retail owner of New York Shopping Mall

Expressions of Devotion: Buying Engagement Rings, Wedding Rings and Wedding Bands Online
Antigone Arthur

Ritual symbolism abounds in everything we do; this is particularly the case when an individual commits their love and devotion to another and offers a promise of marriage. The custom of offering and exchanging engagement rings and wedding bands is a time honored tradition rich in symbolism and meaning that has been carried on for centuries.

As time has changed so have consumer traditions and buying patterns. The rich tradition of exchanging vows as a symbol of love and devotion is still a traditional time honored ritual practiced in many cultures. Certain aspects of engagement and marriage have changed with time however. Whereas in times of old a couple might take several outings together in search of the perfect engagement rings or wedding bands, in modern times more and more couples are buying engagement rings, wedding rings and wedding bands online. Thanks to the internet and the resulting access to a global marketplace, couples are realizing they have more options available to them all from the comforts of their living room. Some couples are even going to the extreme, not only buying engagement rings, wedding rings and wedding bands online, but also purchasing wedding gowns, flowers and even participating in virtual marriages.

How have these changes come about? What can today's modern couple expect when planning a walk down the aisle?

The Engagement Ring

The practice of a groom offering his bride to be an engagement ring as a promise of love and affection began nearly 2 centuries ago in the United States; many associate the giving of engagement rings with a need to express implied commitment and understanding forever. The term "A Diamond is Forever" was in fact used as a means of reinforcing the notion that an engagement ring is a commitment from one fiancé to another to live a life together in marital harmony forever. The phrase is also a popular advertising catch phrase that reinforces the notion that love and devotion are part of everyday symbolisms that require an outlet for expression.

The use of engagement rings as a token of love and affection is a norm that instilled in the hearts and minds of most people, in part due to heavy marketing and advertising from diamond ring and other jewelry manufacturers, and in part based on the needs of mankind to project symbolism into everyday living.

Wedding Rings

Once a couple has decided to walk down the aisle together, the next step is often purchasing wedding rings together. Because there are so many different kinds to choose from, it helps to know what distinguishes one wedding band from another. There are several tips that you can follow to ensure that you purchase wedding bands that suit your individual preferences and budget.

First and foremost consumers should keep in mind that it certainly pays to do their homework. The best advice for wedding ring shoppers is patience. Couples should take the time to shop around and look at several different wedding bands, and have in mind an idea of what exactly they are looking for. Far too often customers compromise because they feel they can't find exactly what they are looking for; chances are you can find what you are looking for at a reasonable price, if you give yourself plenty of time to research wedding rings thoroughly before purchasing.

An article in Today's Summer Bride in Summer of 1989 suggested that consumers be patient and shop wisely, but also have faith that they will find what they are looking for. The article was referring to purchase of a wedding gown, but buying wedding rings follows the same logic. You probably didn't bump into your partner overnight, and likewise you should expect it to take some time to find the perfect wedding rings as symbols of your love and devotion to one another.

Marriage represents a commitment and shared love between two people. Wedding ceremonies are often shrouded in symbolism, among the most significant of which is the exchange of wedding rings between husband and wife.

Buying Engagement Rings, Wedding Rings and Wedding Bands Online

Society is ever changing, and with the advent of technology and access to a global marketplace, more and more consumers are buying engagement rings, wedding rings and wedding bands online rather than shopping for these ritual symbols of devotion in a traditional store. Buying online affords consumers the luxury of perusing the widest selection of rings available from the convenience of their home.

Some people have infused the process of buying engagement rings, wedding rings and wedding bands online with romanticism. New rituals and traditions are being built in the face of modern technology. In fact, some couples are planning entire wedding ceremonies through their computers. A virtual ceremony can be broadcast to friends and family members the world over!

What advice can we offer the couple interested in shopping for wedding accessories online? Here are some suggestions for a successful venture:

• 
  
• Keep an open mind. Know what type of engagement rings (diamond, gemstone, bands) or wedding rings you are looking for, but consider looking at many different varieties. You may change your mind about what type of ring best symbolizes your relationship and love.
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• Make shopping online romantic! Place some candles around the computer, turn on your song and have some wine! Buying engagement rings, wedding rings and wedding bands online can be just as fun and exciting as buying them in person... and even more fun when you create a loving and warm atmosphere.
• 
  
• Be prepared to spend a fair amount of time perusing different styles and makes. There are an incredible variety of engagement rings and wedding bands available: titanium, platinum, white gold, traditional gold, silver, gemstone, diamond... the list goes on and on. Once you have reviewed a fair number of styles be sure to compile a list of your favorites to narrow down your search.
• 
  
• Know your size! Nothing is more obnoxious than having to have a ring re-sized before you wear it. There are several websites that offer jewelry sizing online. Typically women wear between a size 5-9 and men between sizes 8-12. The average for men: a 10; the average for women: a 7.
• 
  

A Symbol of Your Love and Devotion

Ritual symbols such as the exchange of engagement rings and wedding rings are time honored traditions that will likely continue through the next two centuries. Though the manner in which people shop and commit themselves to one another is changing, the time honored tradition of exchanging vows and bands as a symbol of love and devotion will not likely change in the near future.

Take advantage of modern technology, and consider buying engagement rings, wedding rings and wedding bands online. You'd be surprised the variety available, and pleasantly surprised by how exciting it can be shopping from the comforts of your living room, office, or bedroom...

Antigone Arthur is an award-winning author and freelance writer providing consumer information on such topics as wedding rings, engagement ring design and diamond wedding rings.

Wedding Planning I - Scheduling

Nily Glaser

Article: "Wedding Planning I - Scheduling"
Nily Glaser
Copyright: © Nily Glaser 2004

"A-wedding Day" had many requests for information about the
chronology of steps for both the wedding ceremony
and reception. I hope that the following steps will help you
schedule the details involved with your wedding ceremony
and reception. It is important that you note that these are
general and the actual procedure for your personal
wedding may vary according to your preference and these
of your officiant as you incorporate your religion, heritage
and customs.
I have included steps for incorporating kids in re-marriages
and blending families.
Ceremony Steps:
The ushers seat guests as they arrive for the ceremony.
The mother of the bride is seated last, unless she accompanies
her daughter to the altar.
The musicians play background music.
At the scheduled start time, unless the officiant, the groom,
and the best man are in the processional, they take their
places at the altar (or ceremony place).
The musicians start to play the processional music.
Mothers light the tapers for the Unity candle ceremony that
will follow the bride and groom's kiss.

Procession - The most traditional order of the processional
is ushers and bridesmaids in pairs, followed by the maid of
honor, ring bearer, and flower girl. The bride enters last,
escorted by her father or by both parents.
The officiant greets the guests.
In a religious wedding, the officiant leads a brief opening
prayer.
Special readings, songs and or music follow.
The officiant's message.
The vows - Bride and groom.
In re-mariage the vows - blending family -vows from parents to
children.
The exchange of rings and the pronouncement "pronouncing you
husband and wife".
Bride and groom kiss.

In re-mariage giving each child a piece of jewelry and the
pronouncement " pronouncing you a new family".
Bride, groom and kids hug and kiss.
Unity candle ceremony (In remarriage, include the kids).
The officiant then introduces the bride and groom as
husband and wife.
In remarriage, the officiant then introduces the bride and groom
and their kids, preferably by names, as a new
family.
Exit procession: bride and groom, followed by the adult
attendants in pairs, followed by the ring bearer and flower
girl.
Take photos while the guests go to the reception.

Reception Steps

The reception starts with a receiving line that includes the
bride and groom, parents and attendants.
At the same time it is appropriate for waiters to circulate
with drinks and hors d'oeuvres while the receiving line is in
progress.
Background music played.
The bride and groom can open the dancing either before or
after food is served.
If you are planning a dinner and dancing reception, the
"bride and groom's first dance" occurs after dinner
followed by the bride dancing with her father
and the groom with his mother after which other guests are
allowed out on the floor.
Toasts should begin at the end of the meal.
The first toast is the best man's toast to the bride.
In re-marriage, the bride and groom introduce their children
before the first toast.
Other toasts.
Cake cutting ceremony.
The garter and bouquet tosses occur just before the couple
is ready to leave for the honeymoon.
The guests send the couple off for their honeymoon with a
shower of rice, rose petals, or bubbles, balloons, butterfly
release or doves release.

After the honeymoon, do not forget to write the thank-you notes.

This article is also available online in HTML format at:
http://www.2.a-weddingday.com/weddingplanning1.html
Find other articles to publish on your site at:
http://www.a-weddingday.com/archives/articles.html

Publishing Guidelines: Please feel free to post this Article as
is with no additions or deletions in your newsletter, on your
website, and forward it to your clients, customers, friends
and / or business associates. If you post or otherwise publish
this article, please ensure that the copyrights as well
as the author's entire bylines box remain intact.
We would highly appreciate a courtesy copy of your
publication and / or a website link. Please E-mail to:
http://www.a-weddingday.com/contacts.html

Thank you!
Nily



Nily Glaser is the CEO of A-wedding Day,
http://www.a-weddingday.com
a very popular Wedding Resource and Information Center,
and a discount shopping mall for wedding gifts, supplies
and bridal accessories. She is the publisher of the A-wedding Day
newsletter and creates personalized unity candles under Candles By Nily
http://www.candlesbynily.



Get Free Publicity by Pushing the Media's "Hot Buttons"
George McKenzie

Early in my TV career, a consultant from the Magid Company, the people who practically invented TV news research, told me something that helped me enormously through the years.

'There are no dull stories,' she said. 'Just dull approaches to interesting stories.'

It's true. And it's critical to remember if you want to get
free publicity from any working journalist in any medium.

All journalists want information that's 'newsworthy.' But just how do you 'make' a story newsworthy?

Here's an example.

One of my customers, James Wilson, recently sent me a draft
of a press release he'd written and asked me to critique it
for him.

He was hoping to generate some media interest in a
report he'd authored about writing copy for newspaper ads.

He said he wanted to strengthen the lead sentence in the
body of the copy, which read something like:

'Newspaper ads can be a powerful and productive part of
anyone's marketing campaign...'

That's definitely true, I pointed out...but it has ALWAYS
been true. An editor would be likely to ask, 'What's new
about that?'

Reporters, producers and editors are always looking for
'news value' in a press release. To get a positive
response, your release has to say 'I've got news
for you!'

So I suggested a slightly different approach.

Here's the revision I sent back to him:

(Headline) It all 'Ads' Up--Newspaper Classifieds Are Back

(Subheadline) Whether you're selling jewelry or jalopies,
classifieds are a potent promotional vehicle for small
business -- but only if they've got the 'write stuff.'

(Body) In the dash to board what looked like the 'new
economy' gravy train a few years ago, millions of business
owners switched advertising dollars away from traditional
ads in newspapers.

'A lot of them now wish they hadn't,' according to business
expert James Wilson.

'While many internet advertising initiatives never delivered
on expectations,' Wilson adds, 'the old tried-and-true
newspaper ad still seems to provide a good return on
investment.'

'But,' he continues, 'You've got to make sure the ad is well
written. Advertising budgets have become so stretched, you
can't afford sloppy copy that doesn't get the results you
need.' (end of revised release)

Now the copy is hitting a news 'hot button.'

'Hot buttons' are certain universal themes, story lines,
hooks, tie-ins and angles that make something 'newsworthy.'

There are dozens of them. Controversy, record-breakers,
milestones, celebrities, human interest stories, scandal,
conspiracy, government malfeasance, etc.

I call the hot button in this particular case 'myth-
busting.'

Myth-busting occurs when evidence surfaces disputing
conventional wisdom or accepted patterns of thought.

What's the myth in this case?

The idea that the internet is going to make newspaper ads
obsolete.

The report James wrote 'busts' that myth.

Editors, reporters, and producers love to bust myths. It's
a big hot button.

So when you're composing a release, remember--you have to
find a way to connect your release to a hot button.

Without it...your press release will never 'make the news.'

Instead, it will become 'history.'



During his 31 year broadcasting career, George's
TV Reports have appeared on ABC, NBC, CBS, ESPN
George offers a free 7-day mini course to
anyone who subscribes to his free weekly ezine,
Register at http://www.publicitygoldmine.com/ea

Shop Online And Save Money

Eric Madsen

With our days having fewer hours than we need, online shopping has become a way of life and a time saver. Now you can stay at home, sit in front of the fire, poolside or near your favorite window, enjoying a good cup of coffee or your favorite beverage, and shop till you drop. You can take as much time and compare prices and quality without having tired legs and sore feet.

As gas prices escalate you can use your gas savings money for selecting an extra item or two that capture your fancy. Online shopping will save you time in your busy day. You don't have to rush to the store for that gift you forgot about, hassle with the kids that want to be in the toy department and certainly not with you in the clothes, jewelry and other departments.

We know a woman whose husband thinks it is Christmas all year round! She shops online and gets packages delivered to her door about four times a week. He comes home from work and has a ball opening the packages. For him, it's like Christmas 52 weeks a year!

Not only can you shop online, but you can fine printable grocery coupons that are not available anywhere else but online. Another positive to online shopping is online coupons which the companies display on many shopping sites. These coupons are discounts given to you for shopping at their online stores.

These are just some of the benefits of online shopping. You can read information and tips about online shopping published by the US Federal Trade Commission at http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/online/cybrsmrt.htm and the Better Business Bureau at http://www.bbbonline.org/OnlineShopTips/ . Enjoy online Shopping!

Eric Madsen is the webmaster at http://www.glamorousshopper.com

This Season Has A Wonderful Mix of Cuts and Styles
Sher Matsen

Summer is here so it's time to freshen up that wardrobe and make your fashion statement for the season.
If you've had a look around the stores or boutiques you'll notice some of the pretties clothes and accessories are displaying fruit. Very upbeat and refreshing after the winter blah.
Well placed appliqu�s, amusing details, juicy colors make these articles of clothing girlish and flirty. The perfect look for weekends and casual days. We've got cherry print dresses, pineapple topped shirts, melon and kiwi print pants and host of other deliciously flavorable garments. If your wardrobe doesn't consist of a lot of fruit why not added some fruit jewelry, Lemons, grapes, cherries - what ever your favorite you'll be in style.
Some of our favorite designer fashion fruit picks this month are:
A cotton graphic T from J Crews selling for $28.00
Satin cropped fruited pants from D&G seliing for $365.00 available at Neiman Marcus stores
A Silk cherry print skirt by Beth Bowley selling for $170.00
A cotton cherry print dress by Moschino Jeanna selling for $430 at Sloan
Leather shoes with faux wood heal from Faryl-robin selling for $89.00
Rhinestone and Lucite lemon necklace from Alexis Bittar selling for $212
Straw hat with glass fruit charms from Hat Attack selling for $88 at Big Drop
Canvas cherry wallet with strap from Louis Vuitton selling for $300

Yes my picks are designer picks and a little bit on the pricey side, but you will find similar garments for affordable pricing at your local shops. You'll find affordable blouses, t tops, pants, skirts, and dresses that fit this seasons look. Affordable costume jewelry in the fruity theme can be found online at several different stores including us at Estate Jewelry International. The fruity jewelry dating from the 1950s is a wonderful new addition for this season

This season is a season of nostalgia because the last time we saw fruity patterns so popular was back in the 1950s. Fruity in moderation is the key to wearing these prints. Here's a good rule of thumb - if it looks good on a 5 or 6 year old then it's not for a grown women.
If your in your 20s-30s you can choose one item that is a big and bold fruit to make your outfit standout. Don't get carried away. One will make a statement.
If your in your 40s fruity sweetness can quickly sour. Avoid big and bold, rather opting for mini fruit motifs. Small delicate non overpowering fruit is the key here
If your 50+ then no more than a hint of fruit is for you. How about a cherry tote bag or a pineapple brooch pinned to your blouse, or some strawberries on your flip flops. Remember light is much tastier!

This season has a wonderful mix of cuts and styles, from tunics to fitted blouses, to convertible halter dresses. There are choices for all ages, shapes, and sizes. You'll find fruity prints from head to toe, so enjoy and wear what feels right and looks good. Remember to you can always accessorize with fruity jewelry, belts, and shoes. Make your fashion statement!

© Copyright Sher Matsen, All Rights Reserved.



© Copyright Sher Matsen, All Rights Reserved.

About the author:
Sher has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing affordable estate jewelry, and a wealth of information on jewelry, fashion, designers, and beauty with on staff industry professionals. Please visit us at Estate Jewelry International.

Baby Shower Gift for Dads

Randy Wilson

Gift for Dads:
The mom is always on the limelight when she is pregnant. Poor Dad! He is also excited as mom. It is his proudest moment too. After all it is his son or daughter too.. It would be nice to invite dad to the shower. If it is a ladies only shower, you could still get the proud Dad-to-be a gift. In this piece you will see some of the suggestions which could go as gifts for Dad.

It is the thought that counts:
The gift for dads need not be necessarily expensive. There are plenty of ideas for the perfect gift for dad to choose from. They would range from the inexpensive to the very expensive. It all depends on your budget and what you are willing to spend. Remember, it is the thought that counts, not so much the gift.

If you remember the gift that you got in the past, even the small inexpensive ones which came as a surprise were the memorable ones. They made you glad by reminding you that your friend or relative thought of you. Some of them you probably still have, like a figurine, or something more elaborate.

So the future Dad would feel just as good about getting the perfect gift for dads, especially if he wasn't expecting to get a gift. So a surprise gift would add to his pleasure even more.

An expensive gift for dad would be nice too, but most people cannot afford to buy them. You could however all get together and get the father-to-be one gift. Let him know it came from all of you. That way nobody would feel left out of the giving. You don't all have to give the same amount, just what you can afford.

A gift for Dad should be something which he likes or has a soft spot for. Some of the less expensive gifts could be cologne, after shave, a money clip, or gourmet coffee. If he writes letters, you could get him some manly looking stationary supplies. Or maybe something for his desk: A letter opener, paper weight, pen and pencil holder, drawer organizer, postage stamps - for the ugh! bills he has to send. Thank you notes would be the perfect gift for dads, he wouldn't have to get them himself to thank the guests for the gifts.

Want a unique gift for dad, try a Coffee Tasters Club from DistinctDeliveries. Coffee lovers enjoy coffee from around the world. You get to taste smooth Nicaraguan coffee or the exotic flavor of Malawi coffee. With each monthly shipment they send you two different 12 ounce bags of fresh roasted coffee from around the world. You can choose either ground or whole bean delivered to you.

Some gifts for the bedroom would be a small reading lamp, table for eating in bed, candy if he has a sweet tooth. Or maybe a bath robe, slippers, or a bath towel wrap. The perfect gift of this type is the "Time Out Gift Basket" by DistinctDeliveries. Dad will enjoy the treats of Assorted Milk Chocolate Sport Balls, Fruit Flavored Hard Candy, Hunter Nut Mix and Deluxe Mixed Nuts, and a tin of Assorted Imported Butter Cookies if he has a sweet tooth!

If he likes jewelry, then you gift him jewelry as well. Remember, not all men like to wear jewelry. You might want to ask the mother-to-be about Dad's tastes. An ID bracelet, necklace, earring if he wears them, or a nice ring.

If Dad works out at the YMCA or local gym, or just likes to jog he might appreciate a jogging suit, sports clothing, sport accessories, jogging shorts, ball cap, gloves for weight lifting, shirts for the gym, or maybe some sweatbands.

Golf balls or a golf club or set of clubs. Does he like racketball or tennis? Some tennis balls, a tennis racket or racketball racket for the worn out items he has now.

Does Dad like to go fishing? Pick him up some fishing lures, or a book on fishing. Maybe a gift for dad like a new reel, or rod, or rod and reel. A tackle box, some fishing accessories included, or just as is.

Hunting might be something Dad does. He would appreciate some gear related to hunting. A hunting jacket, orange cap, orange gloves, or some scents to attract the animals. A magazine subscription about one of the sports he likes.

A new watch to change his look or just to replace his old worn looking watch. Then add a billfold to make it complete.

Does he collect memorabilia? Get him memorabilia that he collects as the perfect gift for dad. Or just get him started collecting by buying him something. For example: boxing memorabilia, sports cards, or sports memorabilia.

An autographed ball, autographed jersey, or an authentic jersey of his favorite team would be good gifts for dad. There are so many sports; dad probably has a favorite sport he likes best.

If Dad likes to read, maybe he would like a magazine subscription, book or book gift basket. Lastly, a good gift for dads would be to get him a gift certificate for the local sports store, Wal-Mart, Kmart, Target, hardware store, or sports clothing store.

Again, ask his wife for help on this one. As hostess, give out some of these for a gift idea for dad in a list to the guests you are inviting.

© Copyright Randy Wilson, All Rights Reserved.

Randy is owner of Planning the Baby Shower where you can get more tips and ideas for your baby shower. You can also purchase and find free baby shower games. Randy owned and operated a very successful storefront/mailorder business from 1988 to 2003.

What Online Gifts Have Come To Mean To The Shopper
Gina Stathopoulos

Shoppers buying online gifts last year generated $301 billion revenue. Now that shopping on the internet isn't such a new thing as it once was, consumers feel very comfortable trusting both their credit card details and also that their recipient will receive their gift.
Shopping for online gifts rather than going to a store is very enticing-

We save money

In many cases by preferring to buy my gifts online, I've seen great savings. Many factors combine so that we shoppers win. The competition, the fact that merchants don't have the same overheads as offline, and of course, from which country you are shopping from and how strong your country's currency is.

We save time

These days we work longer hours. The time that we do have to ourselves is very precious. Buying online gifts saves me a lot of time. With all the birthdays I have to shop for and for special occasions it makes my life so much easier.

We have such a large variety of gifts

Where the shops in your area may store some items, online gifts you can find quantity, quality and variety. A good example is nautical jewelry. If you are a big fan like I am, you can find pieces created in such different designs that you won't run out of choices.
Looking for flowers? or Gift baskets? Same thing. Shop online and choose. The choice is there.

Designers unleash their creativity to give us more

The internet has made it possible for the little guy and girl to unleash their creativity and give us shoppers more of a choice in niche gift products. Many mum and dad business are popping on the internet because the internet gives them the opportunity to do so.
I, along with a heap of my friends, are animal lovers. What better than to give your cat lover friend for her birthday a set of gold cat earrings that look like they are just handing on to her ear lobes- what cuter!

Truth is, I haven't seen much of a variety in cat and dog jewelry until I started shopping online. Sure, you will get a few, but animal jewelry is a niche kind of gift so your variety offline will be limited. And another truth- I haven't seen such pieces as sold online that are so eye catching.

Easier to shop for friends and family overseas

Do you remember the days when you used to send cards overseas on special occasions? Those days are gone for me. A card is nice, a gift much nicer. If you want to buy something from your country and send it overseas, it's the postage that burns a hole in your pocket. Now with so many businesses getting online, choose a local site to the country you want to send you and your gift as well as your thoughts are on their way.

As you see, it's not difficult for the consumer to see the wide benefits of shopping online and these are my reasons for doing so. I have been sending online gifts for over five years now.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright © Gina Stathopoulos

Looking for a gift? Let Gina and Nick show you what we buy for friends/family and each other. At our site you will find popular gifts, gift information and stories from our readers. Come have a look http://www.we-recommend.com

None

How about selling products with a 500% Profit Margin ?

Mexico-Store.com

Would You Like to Resell Mexican Products for Great Profits ?
Would You like to feel what's it like to have excellent profit margins as a retail merchant or wholesale distributor ?

Mexican products have become big sellers in every country of the world. The total value of Mexican products that are imported into the US alone exceeds the billion dollar mark by far. Thanks to their low cost, quality and uniqueness, most Mexican products can be resold for high profits.

It's not uncommon for American and European traders dealing in Mexican art, paintings, silver or exotic leather to harvest handsome profit margins that in many cases easily exceed a 100% markup when they buy from the right suppliers.

Business Fact #1: There is no such thing as Free Lunch .-

Thanks to the Internet it might seem that finding low cost suppliers of profitable and fast moving Mexican products is an easy task, but it really isn't. The vast majority of the "suppliers" you find on the web are American companies or individuals that are basically reselling Mexican products at high margins. The truth is that with them as your sources you won't even get close to having the best possible wholesale prices.

To make fat JUICY profits in the reselling business you definitely MUST get in touch with the real - hard - to - find - low - cost - sources. There is simply no other way to make it BIG in this business. You NEED the Low cost SOURCES. Period. The cheaper you buy, the more competitive and profitable you get.

The problem is that discovering REAL low cost sources can be a difficult, time consuming and expensive mission. Some information providers on the web are charging $30 per manufacturer profile, while others can charge you more than $1000 per business directory, or even a subscription fee to access their trade leads database. But who do you think is listed on their databases? The Mexican manufacturers? or just another reseller eager to sell at a nice profit? Exactly!. Those trade leads databases are mainly filled with lists and lists of intermediaries and marketers that want to make money reselling the product for a heavy profit.

At Mexico-Store.com You can access these 3 valuable and updated sources of low cost suppliers:

1- The Mexican Rustic Handcrafts Manufacturers Directory

2- The Mexican Taxco Silver Jewelry Manufacturers Directory, and

3- The Mexican Leather Products Manufacturers Directory

These 3 trade directories are an excellent source for low cost products if you plan to resell silver jewelry, art, hand crafts or first class leather products on Ebay or start a wholesale or retail operation on the web and any where else.

It's all about the profits. YOUR Profits! at Mexico-Store.com .-

Don't get us wrong. We don't have any problem with being a reseller of Mexican products. It's totally legal and very PROFITABLE. But being a reseller your self, wouldn't it be better if you could cut the extra middleman and offer a better price to your customers ?

Access the updated Mexico Trade Manufacturers Directories today and start BARGAINING directly with AUTHENTIC manufacturers of thousands of Mexican products that sell incredibly well in the USA and other countries.

Our trade directories contain low cost Mexican manufacturers of beautiful rustic wrought iron, Taxco silver bracelets, earrings and more elegant jewelry, leather briefcases, folk art, leather clothing, blown crystal, luxurious leather furniture, Talavera pottery, textile and gift items, pewter d�cor, wood hand crafts, leather shoes and exotic boots, crocodile leather, swine, lamb and ostrich, oil paintings all made by skilled craftsmen and RELIABLE suppliers at incredible cheap prices.

Avoid those expensive resellers and get in touch with the real Mexican manufacturers today ! .- We provide you with all the necessary contact information including email in most cases.

Some of these silver jewelry, handcrafts and leather products manufacturers do have a website. But that doesn't mean you can easily find them on the search engines. As we all know, its very hard to make it to the top of the search engine rankings and it can take more than 6 months to even get a website listed with them. That and the fact that most Mexican artisans are not as computer savvy as "we all think" are the main reason why you won't find that many websites at all of Mexican manufacturers listed on Google or Yahoo. In many cases their websites are not even optimized for the search engines to list them.

Don't expect to get the best possible prices from those Mexican products "providers" that you can find on the web for free .-

Most of the guys and companies that are ranking at the top of the search engine results are basically American companies that are reselling Mexican products. So don't expect to get the best possible prices from them. Don't kid your self. Marketers and other middlemen exist to make a profit. Everybody knows that. It's impossible for an intermediary to sell you at a manufacturer's low price. It's against their business model.

The only way you are going to make BIG cash is by dealing direct with Mexican sources.

Get our updated Mexico trade directories and start getting incredible low prices per silver gram or per handcrafted product that you can easily resell twice as much or translate into GREATER profit margins for your self.

Low cost Mexican products that sell incredibly well world wide at Mexico-Store.com .-

With us You get fast access to this wealth of information, so that you can get in contact with the right suppliers as quick and convenient for you as possible.

Take a look at the kind of products you can start profiting from:

1- With our Mexican Silver Manufacturers Directory you will get great deals on silver rings for men and women in all sizes, earrings, necklaces, bangles, charms, chains and bracelets at super low prices per gram !

2- With the updated Mexican hand crafts and rustic furniture manufacturers directory you can get access to thousands of handcrafts that sell incredibly well in the USA and other countries. Our directory contains Mexican manufacturers of beautiful rustic wrought iron, folk art, blown crystal, talavera pottery, textile and gift items, pewter d�cor, wood hand crafts and oil paintings all made by skilled craftsmen at the lowest prices.

3- With the updated Mexican Leather products manufacturers directory you can access ultra low cost suppliers of exotic, luxurious and profitable leather products that sell like crazy at expensive prices in many parts of the world. We are talking about leather clothing, exotic boots and leather foot ware for men, woman and children, made of crocodile leather, ostrich, goat, swine, bovine and lamb, handbags, purses, elegant briefcases, soccer balls, wallets, leather cigar cases, laptop cases, sport and casual cloths among many more great products.

P.S: Bigger profits just around the corner. If you already sell silver jewelry, leather or Mexican handcrafts, imagine the savings and the immediate extra profits that you can generate by contacting cheaper reliable suppliers.

Take this opportunity and Visit us TODAY! at Mexico-Store.com

Helping you buy direct from Mexico at real cheap prices!

http://www.mexico-store.com



Mexico-Store.com helps entrepreneurs from every country in the world get access to low cost Mexican products with high resale value.

Pearl Talk
Sher Matsen

Pearls never go out of style - they are always a classy and traditional wardrobe accessory that will never disappoint you. But this year they are a "front and center" fashion statement! So with more people in the market for pearls now is a good time for some "pearl talk."

The pearl has always been a rather prim and proper piece of jewelry - classic and seeped in tradition. Well things they are a changing! The pearl is has had a very glamorous make over! Yes, the classic strand still exists as it always will. But we warned we are seeing some vary daring looks from the pearl this season. Extra long lengths, tasseled multi strands, pearls with semi precious stone accents, pearls on gold or silver chains. The pearl has been transformed into a fun and fashionable accessory.

So if you're going to be in the market for pearls this year here is what you should know.
� The glow or radiance of a pearl is the most important quality. Avoid pearls that are chalky or dull as they will be weak and may crack or peal.
� The surface of the pearl should be blemish free - no bumps or cracks. Inspect under a bright light. Baroque pearls are the exception to this rule - their charm is in their irregularities.
� Pearls are measured in millimeters. The larger the pearl the higher the cost. A 6 mm pearl is going to be much less than a 12 mm pearl
� The least expensive pearls are the freshwaters which mainly come from China. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Average size is around 7 mm
� The best way to care for your pearls is simply to wear them. The natural skin oils keep them moisturized. Do not put them on until you are done with your cosmetics. This includes hair, facial, and perfume. The residues from these products will ruin your pearls. Do not wear your pearls in the water - chlorinated and salt water will damage them. Polish with a soft cloth and never use jewelry cleaning products on your pearls.

Quality pearls are not cheap but they will last a lifetime. Freshwater pearls are becoming very affordable. Not all of us will be in the market for "Real Pearls" and lucky us there are plenty of options. Swarovski makes a crystal pearl that is of the finest quality and quite difficult to tell from a true pearl for a fraction of the cost and they are available in a variety of colors. There is an endless supply of imitation pearl or costume jewelry pearls on the market. These are offered in a wide variety of styles and colors. Great fun at affordable prices.

So you ask what's "In Style" this season? Well I'm glad you asked!
� Pearl rings get the green flag - from low settings to monster large solitaire pearls, they are all the rave. A pearl ring can go from romantic and simple to sleek and stunning.
� The Bib Necklace makes a very dramatic statement. A broad necklace that tapers towards the back just like a baby's bib [thus the name]. They range from extremely wide to as narrow as a �". This style works great with a simple black dress or strapless neckline.
� The multi-strand necklace is ever so preppy. They range from 12" to 18" and pearls are usually small to medium. The object of these necklaces is for every pearl to be in perfect placement. Very versatile and fashionable.
� The opera length necklace simply never disappears from the fashion scene. They measure 36" or longer and they can be worn as a long single lean line, doubled up, tied in a knot, wherever the moment takes you. These long strands are terrific for dressing up a pair of jeans or semi casual look.
� The tassel necklace from the footloose and fancy free1920s has made a come back, and rightly so! Today tassels are often made from tiny seed pearls or irregular baroques. They range in length fro short at 16" to navel length at 36". The tassel necklace swings and sways with your movement making it a must have for those night of dancing.
� This season for first time, we are seeing pearls mixed with colored gems such as amethyst, peridot, or topaz. They compliment each other nicely - pearls with their soft and subtle shades mixed with semi precious gems with their vibrant and bold color. Picture it - what a fashion statement!
� Pearls mixed with silver is also new this season. Long silver chain dangle earrings accented with pearls, or freshwater droplets set on silver.
� This season the pearl is all about the color. Pearls are available in many hues but this season the "hot spot" is "lavender" and the lavender family ranging from pale iris to plum.

If you already own a beautiful classic pearl necklace its very easy to transform it into something from this season. Try adding a group of charms or pendants, fastening a vintage brooch or clip[ on earring at the bottom. You could mix various lengths or sizes of pearls together or entwine a silver or gold chain. How about mixing your real pearls with your fake pearls? The options are as endless as your imagination.

Remember when you freshen your wardrobe for the spring, freshen your costume jewelry too and Make Your

© Copyright Sher Matsen, All Rights Reserved.

About the author:
Sher has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing affordable estate jewelry, and a wealth of information on jewelry, fashion, designers, and beauty with on staff industry professionals. Please visit us at Estate Jewelry International.

Help For Persistent Or Recurring Swelling

Dr. Rita Louise

Like the arteries, veins and capillaries that transport blood through our bodies, our bodies also contains an extensive drainage system that returns water and proteins from our tissues back to the bloodstream. Called the lymphatic system, it is part of our immune system and works to defend the body from diseases caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi.

The lymphatic system has two major functions. First, it works to regulate the amount of fluids within our bodies. Secondly, it is responsible for "taking out the trash", that is collecting waste products, such as dead blood cells and pathogens from the interstitial fluid (the fluid that fills the spaces around cells) and filters it before returning it to the bloodstream.

The lymphatic system is made up of lymph vessels that carry lymph, a protein-rich fluid that is transported through the lymph vessels, and lymph nodes which filter out germs and toxins. There are over 100 lymph nodes throughout the body, with the majority of them being located in the neck, groin and armpits. Lymphatic vessels contain valves that prevent the lymph from flowing backwards within the system. Within the lymphatic vessels, lymph is transported through the vessels and moves via the squeezing action of their neighboring skeletal muscles.

When the movement of lymph through the body becomes impaired, it will leak out of the lymphatic capillaries and cause the surrounding tissues to swell. This condition is called lymphedema. Lymphedema occurs when the amount of lymph fluid in the body exceeds the body's ability to transport it. This causes the lymph fluid to accumulate in the tissues, where it causes swelling, particularly of the arms and legs.

There are two types of lymphedema. Doctors don't know what causes Primary Lymphedema, but it can be present at birth, or can develop later on in life. Fortunately, this condition is rare. Secondary Lymphedema is a condition that is not often talked about, but often affects individuals who have undergone surgery, such as cancer surgery where lymph nodes are commonly removed. It can also affect individuals who have undergone radiation therapy, which can damage lymph nodes and cause scar tissue to form ultimately interfering with the flow of lymph. It can also be experienced by individuals who have experienced a severe trauma or infection.

In the initial stages of this chronic condition, Lymphedema often begins with swelling in a hand or foot, particularly the one closest to where the surgery has occurred or radiation therapy has taken place. If left unchecked, the protein-rich lymph can continue to accumulate, leading to increased swelling and a hardening of the tissues. This increases your risk of developing an infection or may interfere or impair the function of the limb.

Lymphedema can develop in any part of the body. If you experience persistent or recurring swelling anywhere in your body, it is important to seek medical advice. Early intervention with this disorder greatly improves the long term outcome of the disease's progression.

Recommendations For Wellness

�Avoid rigorous, repetitive movements or heavy lifting.

�Women, if your arm is affected, get rid of extra 50 lbs that you carry over your shoulder and trade it in for a purse that has hand straps.

�If your arm or leg starts to ache, lie down and elevate it.

�Wear loose fitting clothes, jewelry, socks and undergarments that may restrict lymphatic flow.

�Wear a compression sleeve or stocking on the affected limb.

�Keep your "at risk" limb clean and avoid activities that may irritate or damage the skin. Careful skin care may reduce the risk of lymphedema by helping you to avoid infection.

�Massage, particularly lymphatic massage has been shown to help increase lymph drainage. You can do this yourself or work with a qualified massage therapist who has been specially trained in how to perform manual lymph drainage techniques.

�Begin a gentle exercise program. Exercise and muscle movement can help drain lymph fluid. (Consult with your doctor prior to beginning any exercise program).

�Drink plenty of water. Water is critical for proper lymph drainage.

�Echinacea has a long history of improving lymph filtration and drainage.

�Garlic is known for being able to stimulate the lymph system to throw off waste materials.

�Oregon grape can be used to help reduce the inflammation of the lymphatic system and works to help cleanse the lymph.

�Poke Root has been known to help stimulate the body and aid its ability to remove waste materials that may be trapped in the tissues. It can also help improve the elasticity of tissues that may have experienced hardening due to congestion.

�Burdock, red clover and mullein are known to thin lymph fluid and enhance lymphatic drainage.

�Herbal combinations such as Nature's Sunshine's Lymphatic Drainage, Lymphomax or Lymphostim are designed to stimulate the immune system, fight infections and support the lymphatic system.


© Copyright Body, Mind & SoulHealer 2004. All rights reserved.
Dr. Rita Louise, PhD is a Naturopathic Physician and a 20-year veteran in the Human Potential Field. Author of the book "Avoiding the Cosmic 2x4", Dr. Rita Louise, Ph.D. a can help you identify what is really going on and provide you with straightforward guidance and advice. She can be reached by calling 972-475-3393 or visiting her website at http://www.soulhealer.com.


New Zealand GreenStone or Jade
David Finlay

Learn More about Jade / Greenstone

What Is Jade?
Well, to start with, there are two kinds of Jade: their geological names are Jadeite and Nephrite. The common names for Nephrite are Greenstone or in Maori - Pounamu.

Jadeite is found in an area around the northern Burnese border with China. Nephrite is found in New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Russia, Wyoming and in other small deposits around the world.

Jadeite is a silicate of sodium and aluminium. Nephrite is a silicate of calcium and magnesium.

Do they look different?
Yes, Jadeite is a rare mineral and the lighter brighter colours have the greatest value. Nephrite is richer in colour with interesting inclusions, rivers and other variations of colour. It can be either dark or light - from almost black-green, through greens, rust to light, - nearly white in colour.

Is one kind of Jade more valuable than the other?
No, the preference is personal. Some people like dark stone and some prefer light coloured stone. The preferences generally depend on where you come from - your ethnicity. There are two schools of thought to be aware of: the Maori school and the Asian school of Jade appreciation. The Maori school prefers their stone to be rich in colour, either dark or light, with interesting inclusions, rivers and other variations. The Asian school has developed over the last 5,000 years and prefers lighter brighter colours with clarity and purity.

Why is Jade called Greenstone in New Zealand?
This name came from the first European explorers who came to New Zealand in the eighteenth century and saw the Maori people wearing Jade tiki and other ornaments. They didn't realise it was Jade and called it Greenstone and the name has stayed.

What should I look out for when buying Jade?
Check for cracks. Hold the piece up to the light and study it carefully. If there are any cracks they will be a point of weakness and could cause your piece to break later on. Look for richness of colour. Some Jade can be muddy or dull in colour. Look for translucence. The beauty of Jade is seen in the way light reflects and moves through the stone.

Where does jade come from?
Many of you will be familiar with Chinese jade in the form of carvings and jewelry items such as bracelets and small carved pendants. You'll know that Chinese jade comes in varying shades - from almost white to bright green. Chinese jade is jadeite -a chemically distinct mineral from nephrite, the type of jade found in New Zealand. While jadeite is a silicate of sodium and aluminum, nephrite is a silicate of calcium and magnesium.

Jade from New Zealand
Commercial quantities of Nephrite jade are found in only a few countries in the world besides New Zealand - Australia, China, Russia and Canada. New Zealand has some of the finest nephrite jade in the world. In New Zealand, nephrite jade is named Pounamu, by Maori, the indigenous people of New Zealand, and is also referred to as greenstone, a name given to it by the early explorers and settlers to New Zealand who first came in the eighteenth century. Nephrite jade is very rich in colour. It is often marked with occlusions or darker colours running through it. The most prized nephrite jade in New Zealand is flower jade, jade with pale green or ochre clouds of colour. This distinctive patterning and colouring comes from the outside rim or 'rind' of the jade boulders or stones where the surface has oxidized. Maori appreciation of jade centres on these features: patterns that seem to evoke images of forests, rivers and clouds.

Jade from around the world
Jade is found in many countries around the world but commercial quantities are found in only a few. On any field where jade is found, whether it is in New Zealand Canada or China, only 5% of all jade mined will be AAA grade or what we know as "jewelry grade jade" - stone that can be used for fine carving or jewelry. This grade of jade is translucent, has perfect clarity and no fractures.

Each region has its own highly prized stone. In Australia, we look for jade that is a deep black colour. In Canada, highly sought after stone has bright green flecks through it. The best quality Russian jade can be very white with a root beer colour rind, or a very pale almost teal colour.

New Zealand Carvings
Pounamu has special significance for the Maori. The Maori believe that Pounamu absorbs the 'mana' or spiritual power of its wearer. The Maori also believe that a piece of Pounamu will always yearn to return to its source in the rivers and mountains of New Zealand.

New Zealand jade carving is unique in its designs and forms. We owe this to the Maori who have refined techniques of working with the stone over a long period of time. We can trace their use of Pounamu back to the twelfth century. Because of its extreme hardness, Pounamu was used by the Maori for weapons and tools. It was also prized by the Maori for ornaments - pendants and earrings.

Many of the designs you see today are contemporary interpretations of traditional designs, which have been carved for centuries such as the hei matua (fish hook), the tiki (representing man) and the manaia (serpent form).

It can be said that all jade carving has an organic dimension. New Zealand carving is dynamic and diverse - a fact evidenced by the increasing numbers of new and talented sculptors and carvers, each creating their own unique designs from their own particular sources of inspiration, whether that be Maori, Pacific, Asian or Celtic.

The Process of Jade Carving
Jade carving is a painstaking and exacting art form. A carver first needs to study the stone to see where its strengths and beauty lie, in terms of colour, clarity and patterning. Some carvers call this "the heart of the stone". The carver works to bring the heart of the stone to the fore. To do this, a rough shape is first cut out on a diamond bladed trim saw. Pre-forming, the grinding of edges of the rough shape follows. A high-speed grinder then shapes the piece into its final form. Still the surface needs to be polished - through a series of increasing finer grades of sand paper until the desired finish, from smooth and satin to a highly polished gloss, is achieved.

David Finlay is the co-founder of www.silverfernz.com an online shopping site delivering the best crafts and gifts from New Zealand.

Diamonds Are Forever

Charmain Stought

Diamonds are still a girl's best friend, right? We love the
shiny gems. They are the most popular rocks sold today. But
what exactly are they, anyway? Where do they come from? What
else are they used for?

Diamonds are a mineral in one of the two crystalline forms
of the element carbon. They are the hardest natural
substance man knows. Diamonds are sold as gems, and used
in industrial applications for smoothing, cutting, and
polishing hard materials.

Diamonds are most famous for crystallizing in the common
colorless form. They may also be tranlucent to transparent
white, yellow, green, blue, or brown. Diamonds have a high
refractive index which is why they are so brilliant and
sparkly after cutting. The familiar shape of the diamond is
the octahedron.

The most brilliant diamonds become gemstones for jewelry and
other uses. For those that don't make it to gems, there
are other options. There is bort, which is a more poorly
crystallized or undesirable color and in fragmentary
condition, and carbonados which is gray to black opaque.
Bort and carbonados are used as abrasives for the cutting of
diamonds and the cutting heads of industrial rock drills.

Diamonds are found in alluvial formations and in volcanic
pipes, filled for most of their length with blue ground or
kimberlite, and igneous rock consisting primarily of
serpentine. Diamond yielding earth is mined by both the
open-pit method and by underground mining. After removal to
the surface, the soil is crushed and concentrated. Passing
the concentrated material in a stream of water over greased
tables does the needed sorting. The diamond is largely water
repellent and sticks to the grease and the other minerals
retain a film of water, which prevents the sticking to
the grease. Then the diamonds are removed from the grease,
cleaned, and graded for sale and use.

The earliest sources of gem diamonds were India and Borneo.
Some famous diamonds are the Great Mogul, Regent, and Pitt.
Other famous diamonds include the Hope (blue), Dresden
(green) and Tiffany (yellow). In the early 18th century,
deposits similar to those in India were found in Brazil,
mainly of carbonados. In 1867 a stone found in South Africa
was recognized as a diamond. Within a few years began a wild
search for diamonds. In 1870-1871, dry diggings including
most of the celebrated mines were discovered.

Synthetic diamonds were successfully produced in 1955; a
number of small crystals were produced when pure
graphite mixed with a catalyst was subjected to pressure of
about 1 million lb per sq in. and temperature of the order
of 5,000-F (3,000-C). Synthetic diamonds now are extensively
used for industry, mainly due to the ease of obtaining and
lower cost for them. Diamonds are still very popular and
symbolize many things. Their popularity does not seem to be
dwindling any time in the near future.



Charmaine Stought is founder of All About Diamonds an excellent resource site dedicated to information about diamonds



Women's Guide: Fashion Trends For Summer 2005
Kenia Morales

If you are like me and many others the warm weather motivates you to do or try new things. It even inspires you to pay more attention to your overall appearance. But, before you go shopping I suggest you take a look at this list to see what is in style.

� Cropped pants - If you see pants that are too long to classify in the shorts category and too short to qualify as the regular long pants those are referred as cropped pants. They fit inches below the knee but, are placed above the ankle.

� Natural hair - Good news for ladies with curly or wavy hair. Curls are in; all you have to do is wash your hairs apply some gel or mousse and blow dry with a diffuser. For define curls utilize hair rollers.

� Color crazy- Bright colors are in for 2005. Some of the most common are kiwi, turquoise, coral, fuchsia, mango, yellow, aqua, melon, violet and many more� Do not ignore some of the regular pastel colors such as light pink. White should always be in your ward robe during the summer season.

� Knee length skirts- They come in all styles from pleated to form fitting.

� Cuffed pants- Many of the cuffed pants are also cropped.

� Tunics- They will not only give you a different look. You will also feel comfortable and cool.

� Prints, patterns and stripes, embroidered etc. are in this summer. So, do not be afraid to buy a blouse with floral print (any type of prints).

� About the fabric- Silk is definitely in style. Do not be surprise to see a lot of lace jewels, beads, rhinestones etc. on clothes.

� Accessorize- You will find anything from drop earrings to beaded and wooded jewelry. Other very popular accessories are brooches, variety of buckle belts, pendants, neck silk scarfs and many more. Just make sure that you do not over accessorize.

� Shoes- Comfort is also chic now. I have never seen such a variety of thong sandals. Mules, flip flops, flats, and moccasins are "a la mode" also. Wedges are good for the ladies that like to wear higher shoes; they are comfortable as long as you are able to sustain balance.

Kenia Morales is the publisher of online magazine http://kpatra.com "For Every Aspect of Today's Woman. Visit her site to find a variety of women related issues and topics" click here http://www.kpatra.com/keniascolumn.htm to find Kenia's little piece of heaven her inspirational column