Blingology

Valentine's Day Fantasies

It's Valentines Day and I'm sitting at my desk, blogging away, intent on writing the best post any blogger has ever written. There's a knock at the door, and when I open it, there is the Fed Ex Man with a special delivery just for me. I sign for it, and after I've closed the door I open the box and see to my delight, another box, from that store where Audrey Hepburn had breakfast. A card attached says it's from a secret admirer. I slip the top off and see the most beautiful suite of diamonds ever made.

I squeal with delight. Squeal? That's not like me. I don't squeal. Then I realize it's my telephone doing the squealing and suddenly I don't see  Audrey's box anymore. It was never there, of course. It was just my Valentine's Day Fantasy.

Valentine's Day brings out the best in the imaginations of many women. But, alas, most of us will never get to live out our fantasies. We're lucky, though, because there are affordable alternatives out there. Here are just a few ideas:

If a suite of diamonds isn't in your husband's or boyfriend's budget, pass a hint along to him about this 5-Piece Spark of Brilliance Cubic Zirconia Pendant, Rings and Earrings Set.  I like this set because it includes two rings, one a solitaire and the other, a channel set design. I also think that, with its 5 pieces, this set is a great introduction to the quality and affordability of Holsted Jewelry.

Women who are drawn to classic, sophisticated looks will enjoy a Sterling Silver and Cubic Zirconia Heart Necklace. It's a modern take on the classic heart pendant.  I've seen this look out there in real diamonds, so you can rest assured that by wearing this necklace you'll be on trend.

Finally, if you want something more personalized, consider a Birthday Wish Genuine Birthstone and Diamond Heart Pendant. On one one side of the heart: the gemstone of your choice. On the other:  a genuine diamond. The good people at Holsted tell me this one is limited, ladies. So act fast if you're interested.

Still need more ideas? Click here.

Happy Valentine's Day! 

Amethyst: The February Birthstone

What do the British Crown Jewels, Catherine The Great and Egyptian Royalty have in common? A purple gemstone called amethyst. Known as the royal gemstone, it was worn by both Catherine and the Egyptians and today it can be found in the Crown Jewels.

Amethyst is a form of quartz, one of the earth's most abundant minerals. It's found in many places in the earth, in a variety of sizes, shapes and colors.

In ancient times, wine goblets were made from amethyst because it was considered to aid against drunkenness. In fact, the word "amethyst" is derived from the Greek "amethystos," which translates loosely to "not drunken."   The gemstone was also thought to encourage celibacy, so it was used by churches in the Middle Ages. Amethyst is still worn by some bishops today.

Amethyst rates a 7 on the Mohs Hardness Scale. (Diamonds are a 10.) It's durable enough for everyday wear, but try not to expose it to excessive sunlight or its color could fade.

Need some amethyst ideas? Click here to see what Holsted Jewelers has to offer.

Next month: Aquamarine

Sources: Jewelry.com and Jewelry Central

A Gift For You

Question for you: Have you visited Holsted Jewelers yet? If you haven't, now is the perfect time. If you're a new customer you'll receive a pink 6-piece manicure set with your first order.

 

The gifts don't stop there. If your order is over $75 you'll receive free shipping. So go ahead and have a look. Your hands just might thank you!

Update, 1/22/08: Alas, the manicure sets are no more. Find out what the new free gift with your first purchase is by clicking here.

How To Look Good Plus Sized

So how many commercials for diets and "weight-loss programs" have you seen so far this new year?  If I see one more I'll be tempted to throw a scale at the TV.

It's not that I'm opposed to losing weight for health reasons. I'm just part of an ever-growing segment of the population that's getting tired of society's view of what a real woman should look like.  It looks as if the media is becoming aware of this issue as well.  A really great example just might be the new Lifetime TV show, How To Look Good Naked.

Garnet: The January Birthstone

Happy New Year! Now that 2008 is here, it's time to start a regular feature here on the blog. Each month I'll be sharing what I know about a particular birthstone. This month, of course, it's all about garnets.

Depending on what you read, the word garnet was derived either from the Latin word granatus, meaning like a grain, or from the word pomegranate, a fruit whose color resembles the stone. There are many different varieties of garnet, but the most common variety is almandine, a dark red to brownish red colored stone. In ancient times, garnet was thought to protect the wearer from ailments, evil spirits and nightmares. Supposedly, Noah used a garnet lantern to navigate the Ark during those 40 days and 40 nights of rain.

On the Mohs Hardness Scale garnet ranks around a 7 out of a possible 10. (Diamonds are ranked at 10.) This means you should be careful with your garnet jewelry, because there is a slight possibility for nicks and cracks to occur. To clean your garnet jewelry, simply use warm soapy water and a soft brush.

Is garnet your birthstone? If it is, happy birthday! But even if you're not a January baby, a piece of rich, red garnet jewelry can still contribute to a great look.  Want some garnet ideas? Click here.

Next month: Amethyst.

Sources: Jewelry.com, Jewelry Central