Customers looking for a new watch online are simply amazed at the prices they see compared to the traditional brick-and-mortar jewelry store. The inteet has enabled e-businesses to bring products to the consumers at jaw-dropping discounts. A watch is a fairly expensive purchase and you should do your homework before buying one online. First and foremost, make sure that the company is an "authorized retailer" for the watch brand you are interested in. When buying from an authorized retailer, you can be certain that your purchase will be new, factory sealed, and will come with the original manufacturers warranty. Authorized retailers must maintain the quality and customer service standards that are required to sell watches. The manufacturer (such as Citizen, Fossil, Rolex, etc) often require the retailer to have an actual storefront, have 24/7 customer service, have secure online ordering, they can only sell new products, and much more in order to maintain the dignity of the items sold. Buying from "unauthorized" retailers is NOT recommended.

Unauthorized retailers sell "grey market watches" because they cannot get the products directly from the manufacturer. They must instead get their supply from a third party or another country. Typically a manufacturer will take all of their watches that were overstock, were retued, were repaired, etc. and will sell them in markets overseas. Unauthorized retailers get their hands on these products and then try to sell them at a higher price back to you. They often don't come with original packaging, may be used or damaged, and are never guaranteed by the manufacturer. Many "grey market" watches are repaired with cheaper non OEM parts that were manufactured overseas for a fraction of the cost. This allows them to bring you some of the lowest prices available, however you really are getting what you paid for. Only buy from authorized retailers! Find the watch you want, find it online for a great price, make sure the retailer is authorized, and you will be satisfied with your purchase.

http://www.urbanwristwear.com - Authorized retailer for every watch we sell.

Once you have decided to make your dream purchase of diamond earrings it can be a difficult decision to decide on the right pair for you. Like everything, diamond earrings have fashions too and this can be an important factor to consider when buying for a loved one.

At the moment bling is in, the bigger the better! Jenifer Lopez favours the larged hoop style which can look both elegant and sexy on most women. While in high fashion at the moment, this is a look that is here to stay, and will never date.

Chandelier Diamond Earrings are the new black when it comes to diamond earrings fashion, and you just have to open a magazine to see celebrities sporting their favourite accessory. Nicole Kidman, Halle Berry, Kate Beckinsdale and Cameron Diaz are just a few of the famous faces that are wearing this new look. The diamond chandelier style earrings really do speak for themselves. They are truly magnificent and will set any women�s heart on fire! They are the perfect accessory to any outfit, and will completely transform what you are wearing into total Hollywood glamour. This fashion originates from the art deco period of the 1920�s and if you are looking for a truly unique pair of diamond earrings then an antique pair of art deco diamond chandeliers are the pair for you. Don�t worry if your budget won�t stretch that far though, as there are amazing reproductions available today at extremely reasonable prices. For that special occasion these are the earrings for you!

For everlasting elegance and timeless beauty the only style to wear are Diamond Stud Earrings. For a lady that is classic and sophisticated, diamond studs are the choice for you. This style is incredibly versatile as it translates from day to night beautifully and is always elegant. If you are unsure on the right pair then this is a choice that can�t go wrong. A pair of diamond stud earrings are every woman�s dream and once put in, they are almost never taken out. When choosing the diamonds for your stud earrings consider the colour carefully as it is important for the earrings to match completely. This is where the advice of a reputable jeweller will ensure that your diamonds are perfectly matched.

Also popular at the moment are the contemporary and mode style of diamond earrings such as the Rene Makintosh style. Sleek, minimal and unique, these are a guaranteed talking point and are a perfect present for someone who loves individuality and originality.

And let�s not forget the men! With David Beckham leading the way, fashion diamond earrings are most certainly non gender specific and are often seen on men more than women these days! Wo in the right way, earrings can lend a man a sense of mystery and can be sexy and alluring. So girls� for the man in your life, a pair of carat earrings can be that unique gift.

Another factor that must be considered is what colour gold to choose to enhance your diamonds.

White gold is certainly the winning colour at the moment, but with the influence of pop icons such as Madonna and Puff Diddy, gold, gold, and more gold is hip and trendy now. Whatever you choose the secret to true style is don�t mix! Look at the rest of the jewellery the person you are buying for is wearing and make sure your diamond earrings are the same colour gold.

It is really worth it to invest some time and research into the right pair for you, either classic earrings or fashion diamond earrings�after all diamonds are forever!

Gary Ingram is the owner of http://www.diamondearrings.co.uk an interent based online jewellers that sells all types of Diamond Earrings

While I was recently engrossed in some meditation, the lamp picked up a tiny sparkle in my diamond ring. "As I watched it, the spectrum of light changed from white to blue to green, even red and yellow. How could one tiny ray be all those colors of the rainbow?

Diamonds....a piece of ore found in the ground, formed by the workings of the earth's pressures upon the terrain. We, too are diamonds in the rough, formed by the pressures of living in an imperfect world. Friends and neighbors, co-workers, clerks in the business world, all rub shoulders with each of us. Each encounter could be an embracing one, but too often they are characterized by uncontrolled tempers, even downright meanness. Does our light shine during those moments? Or do we enter a mud-slinging foray with an unbridled reaction of some sort?

It's one thing to be dragged down fighting, but quite another to be rubbed the wrong way and come out shining. For often we let ourselves be lowered to someone else's standard which will not likely produce the gem that God desires us to be. We are all gems that virtually look plain as a rock until we're polished enough to reveal those hidden virtuous qualities that will promote peace.

Do you see, that like a diamond you have many facets of light in the prism of your soul? You can polish them by prayer and tending to others needs. The better you feel about yourself, the more fortitude you'll find to handle rude personalities, to let your light illuminate your day to day work. Ultimately, one's job extracts the gems of their own personality from the salt mines of living.

The edge of a diamond has been known to cut a trail on glass. The more beautiful one's soul becomes (the more precious) it can be as that diamond; tough and able to cut a path with shining goodness. Others may not know they are handling a 'gem' but they will somehow be affected by their encounter with that person. That's one of the facets of God's love. It passes through another's behavior. Standing in line for a service window, your patience can be a virtue of humility instead of the anxiety of aggravation.

A diamond ring becomes dulled by the film of soapy water while doing household chores. Periodically it must be cleaned with a stronger solution. The same is true of one's soul. It must often be cleansed by confessing some sin to another person, so that it may once again have the chance to sparkle with God's grace. Then being transformed into a warm, loving compassionate ray of sunshine instead of the sometimes cold, unfeeling 'rock' of indifference is really the pot at the end of the rainbow.

Lynn Moriarty Parman is a free-lance writer and author. Mushroom Marathon, Running Toward the Prize of Serenity was published in 2004. Her article Land of the Moing Calm, 50 Years Later was published by E-Zine Articles. Her website may be found at http://www.images-of-joy-literature.com

�The only real failure in life is one not leaed from.�
Anthony J. D'Angelo, The College Blue Book

Ah, graduation. A lot of hard work, time, talent, money and drive have led to this point: a milestone that will be celebrated, photographed and remembered forever. Whether from high school, college, law school, medical school, or what have you, graduation is a wonderful time of excitement and change.

How to mark the occasion? You can always write a check. (What new graduate doesn�t need money?) Before you whip out your wallet, however, remember that cash is practical, yet very impersonal. Because you�re reading this, it�s a good guess that the graduate is a special woman in your life, she worked hard to get where she is, and she deserves a graduation gift that is truly memorable.

How about something memorable, practical, meaningful and beautiful? Try pearls.

Pearl jewelry�whether pearl studs, a pearl pendant or a beautiful pearl strand�is a classic and wonderful addition to any woman�s jewelry box. Whether she�s heading off to college, interviewing for jobs, about to embark on a career, or planning a wedding, the recent graduate can wear pearl jewelry for instant polish. Added bonus: She�ll remember you every time she wears them.

Which pearls to choose
Pearls come in many beautiful styles, shapes and designs, but for graduation, a simple classic style that will stand the test of time is best. (They don�t call them staples for nothing.) Because classic pearls are so popular, there are a variety of options from which to choose. The following are classics she�ll reach for again and again.

� Pearl stud earrings: The great thing about pearl studs is that they go with everything. Round, white pearls with a ros� overtone flatter most skin types, and make a wonderful addition to any jewelry box. Some stores even carry pearl studs for non-pierced ears.
� 16 inch pearl strand: A matched pearl strand is a jewelry staple for a reason: it�s a classic�not to mention a no-brainer accessory that a woman can reach for to instantly add polish to an outfit. Shorter strands wo closer to the throat draw attention to the wearer�s face and skin; with their dewy complexions, young women look fantastic in pearl chokers. This style sits close to the throat and looks great with a business suit, v-neck sweater, tee-shirt or open-collared dress shirt.
� 18 inch pearl strand: This slightly more versatile, �princess� length necklace can be wo with most any neckline, and will serve the graduate well throughout her life. The princess length is a very popular choice for a great reason: it works well with everything from turtlenecks to sweaters, business suits, dress shirts, and more.
� pearl pendant: A pearl pendant necklace featuring a single, large pearl is a great option that can be wo with many different styles. Choose a thin sterling silver or white gold chain for a mode look.
� pearl bracelet: A perfect complement to a bold watch, and slightly more affordable than a pearl necklace, a pearl bracelet adds polish and class.
� pearl ring: A pearl ring can make quite a bold and sophisticated statement, especially when the ring features a single, large pearl. The only downside to buying a ring is that you need to know the graduate�s ring size. Classic pearl rings look fantastic with both white and yellow gold.

Many retailers and online stores sell classic pearl jewelry in sets. Not only is this great because you pay less for the set than if you purchased a necklace, earrings and bracelet separately, but buying a pearl jewelry set provides the added bonus that the pieces will match.

What to look for
No matter which style you choose, or whether you buy pearls from a local jewelry store, large retail chain or Inteet store (which should offer adequate descriptions of what you�re buying along with a money-back guarantee), keep in mind these tips when you�re shopping for pearls and you won�t go wrong:
� You�ll pay more for larger pearls. In general, a larger pearl takes longer to form, and the chances of finding a perfectly round, large pearl are slim. After the 7.5-8mm mark for freshwater cultured pearls and akoya cultured pearls, the most popular pearl types, prices rise dramatically. A 6.5mm strand is both lovely and affordable�and perfect for young women.
� Pay attention to luster and surface. Pearls should have a high luster, or surface sheen, meaning they reflect light well. They should also be free from large blemishes such as chips and pits, although small blemishes are acceptable. An absolutely perfect strand is likely faux. Pearls are, after all, a natural product, and small variations are to be expected and do not detract from the pearls� value.
� Round is the hands-down favorite shape. While baroque pearls are gorgeous, and button and coin pearls are mode and affordable, when it comes to classic pearls, round is still in. To check that pearls are uniformly round, ask the jeweler or read the Inteet description. If you can handle the strand, roll it on a table. Matched pearls will roll smoothly.
� Thickness is important. Most pearls sold today are cultured pearls, and the best ones are formed in oysters or mussels that have been implanted with small, mother-of-pearl beads and mantle tissue or mantle tissue only and left in the water long enough for a sufficient coating of nacre to form. Avoid pearls that have been implanted with large plastic or glass beads or harvested prematurely; they will flake and peel easily.
� Pay attention to uniformity. Make sure that pearls in a piece of jewelry are the same size, color, shape and luster.
� Beware: Some jewelry makers try to hide smaller or imperfect pearls near the clasp.
� Choose color carefully. Pearls look best if they flatter the skin tone of the wearer.

Follow these pearl-buying tips, choose wisely, and your graduate will have a jewelry staple she�ll treasure forever.

A graduate of the Gemological Institute of America�s Graduate Pearls program, Amy Drescher is a fashion writer and accessories buyer for www.moonriverpearls.com. She welcomes your questions. Reach her at adrescher@moonriverpearls.com.

Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com

A graduate of the Gemological Institute of America's Graduate Pearls program, Amy Drescher is a fashion writer and accessories buyer for Moon River Pearls, www.moonriverpearls.com. She welcomes your questions. Reach her at adrescher@moonriverpearls.com.

Diamonds are known for their sparkle and brilliance making them popular in jewelry as their shine is unmatched by any other gemstone. Symbolizing eteal love, diamonds are popular in engagement rings and wedding jewelry. Because of their hardness, diamonds are also used to cut and wear away other substances and are used for industrial purposes in drills, saws and engraving tools.

The jewelry and industrial uses for diamonds created a demand for the stones and also prompted the creation of imitations which mimic the qualities of a diamond with some differences. Cubic zirconia and moissanite are two of these that are popular in jewelry.

Both are diamond simulants meaning non-diamond materials are used to create them and simulate the properties of a real diamond. Both are less expensive than a diamond and have their advantages and drawbacks.

Cubic Zirconia vs. Diamonds

Cubic zirconia (or CZ) has been used in jewelry since the 1970�s. Cubic zirconias are more reflective than glass or crystal so they sparkle like diamonds. A CZ is not as hard as a diamond but weighs more, a fact that does not lessen cubic zirconias appeal since traditional carat sizes are small enough that their weight isn�t perceived as greater. The majority of diamonds have inclusions, or flaws (these are measured by the Clarity component of the four C�s of diamond buying.) CZs are optically flawless and they are colorless, another characteristics that is found in few diamonds as most diamonds have some yellow shading to them.

Moissanite vs. Diamonds

Moissanite is the jewelry name for silicon carbide and was introduced as a gemstone in the late 1990�s. Moissanites are more refractive than diamonds meaning they shine more brilliantly making this one of the easiest ways to tell it is not a diamond.

A moissanite is not as hard as a diamond but is harder than a cubic zirconia and it weighs less than a CZ. Moissanites do have inclusions like diamonds and may have green shading to them.

Both cubic zirconia and moissanite have a close visual resemblance to diamonds � they offer the luster and fire of diamonds while being mostly colorless and can be cut in the same shapes as diamonds. In jewelry making cubic zirconia and moissanite are not as popular so they are harder to find in specific cuts and are not regularly found in jewelry stores or traditional online jewelry sellers.

Jill Renee is the president of Danforth Diamond, an online jewelry seller specializing in diamond engagement rings. Lea more about at: http://www.danforthdiamond.com/education/index.htm

We are of the impression that the concept of exchanging of promise rings is a mode one. However, it should be known that the exchange of promise rings is, in reality, a tradition that has been around for quite some time. Promise rings have been and are still exchanged to seal a promise between two people. The promise can be anything from a promise made between two friends, a promise to abstain from sex until marriage or perhaps a promise of marriage between two people.

Promise rings come in various materials like titanium, gold, diamond and silver. Gold is a commodity that was once used as a monetary standard for many nations and is now popular for its value and beauty, which is the reason people like gold promise rings. Gold is a very strong metal that can be used to conduct heat and electricity. Since a promise ring is exchanged to signify the strength of the relationship between two people, gold promise rings can be best used to signify the strength existing between two people. It signifies the heat of the relationship between the couple that intends to marry in a short time. Of course, with the engagement, the promise ring is replaced with an engagement ring, and then this ring is replaced by a marriage ring.

When exchanging gold promise rings, it is very important for the meaning of the exchange of the rings to be clarified. This is because some people may think that the gold promise ring was exchanged with the intention of marriage to follow between the two people, when in reality, the exchange had been only with the feeling of friendship between the two. It is, therefore, important to state the reason for the exchange of the gold promise ring, to avoid any complications and misunderstandings in the future!

Promise Rings provides detailed information on Promise Rings, Diamond Promise Rings, Meaning Of Promise Rings, Titanium Promise Rings and more. Promise Rings is affiliated with Best Prom Dress.

Although it also applies to traditional brick and mortar jewelry retail stores, the surge of e-commerce through the advancing inteet infrastructure and a significant decrease in overhead costs enable many entrepreneurs to start their own businesses online. Combined with the exponentially increasing number of web users, online retail has become an attractive opportunity for people who want something for their own.

The online retail sales grossed about $110 billion in 2005 and jewelry category accounted for 5% of the total. Other major categories include books, apparel, computer related, electronics and drugs. The reason why jewelry is particularly attractive to a lot of entrepreneurs is that the startup capital could be small and the logistics is easy to control. The reason is that the spectrum of jewelry range from costume jewelry to silver jewelry to diamond luxury items, which offers a flexible startup capital requirement. Also, due to the nature of jewelry, it does not require a large storage space in the beginning and is relatively easily to package and ship.

For someone who is already convinced that jewelry store is a feasible online business, the next question would obviously be where to get the merchandize. To answer this question, we have to state the characteristics that one should look for when selecting a vendor. I know some of you are thinking �prices�. Sure, different vendors have different prices for similar items, is the one with the lowest prices odd to be the one we should work with?

Granted, your vendor�s pricing is crucial to the success of your business, this is all about money after all. Nonetheless, in order to be competitive in the market, there are many other facts you might want to get from a wholesaler before any decision is made.

Firstly, especially in jewelry and apparel industry, the vendor has to have the sense to the changing fashion trends. New styles come out every day and popular styles are changing every season, it makes a huge difference between your vendor selling styles that were hot last summer rather than styles that just got exposed in a French fashion show. You should do your own research, of course, but a vendor with the good connections and senses propels your business and saves you a lot of time.

Secondly, if you decide to carry some unique styles that can rarely be found anywhere else, do make sure you get them from a vendor who guarantees the availability of the stock. By doing this, you can maximize your effort for processing each item. Typical pre-processing of an item are photo-taking, editing, copywriting and data entry. If the vendor runs out of stock for most of the items you purchased, and not being able to perform back-ordering, the effort for maintaining the inventory will be dramatically increased.

Also, the reputation for a vendor is very important. The authenticity of goods is vital to building a successfully business. Ask for reference if possible and get multiple of them for the same vendor. Selling counterfeit or fake jewelry not only will harm your business, it is illegal. Watch out for fake gemstones such as diamonds and sapphires, treated gemstones for enhancing colors, incorrect purity of metals such as 14k, 18k gold and 925 silver not having the amount of metal as claimed.

Finally, like any business relationships, vendors with good customer services can help your business in many ways. For instance, custom jewelry manufacturing, resizing and repairing are typically services that a jewelry wholesaler might provide.

Greg Peterson got his MBA from MIT business school and is now working as marketing manager for jewelry businesses featuring hip hop jewelry wholesale and sterling silver manufacturing.