Jewelry Sizing: Make sure your Jewelry Order fits!
It can sometimes be difficult to buy jewelry online because we are never sure exactly how the jewelry will fit us. The jewelry descriptions might have lengths listed, or a fancy name noted, which is supposed to let us know how long the necklace is. However, most of us are unable to imagine how the jewelry will display on our necks or wrists.
This article is written to serve as a guide to buying jewelry online when you only have an image or description to evaluate. If you are a frequent handmade jewelry client for online jewelry businesses, I would recommend cutting some string or having a measuring tape (for sewing use) on hand. These are simple ways to measure around your neck or wrist to see where the jewelry will fall. If you are still unsure if the jewelry will fit you, take some measurement from your neck and wrists and let your online jewelry designer know what length you would like the necklace to be. Don't do a complete redesign, but if the necklace is 17.5 inches and you want is to fall at 18 inches, you could ask about adding a couple of links to the necklace. While this may be a complimentary service from some jewelry designers, some may charge a small fee, but it's worth the extra money for your handmade jewelry purchase to fit you perfectly.
Necklaces
We'll start with necklace lengths. Standard Necklace lengths are 16", 18", 20", 22" and 24". There are more sizes, both smaller and larger, but those are standards. You can usually buy chains in these standard length. If you go smaller you are entering collar or choker territory. The collar necklace, which is 12-13 inches, fits snugly around the middle of the neck. These necklaces are often made of fabric, or woven beads, so the necklace will lay flat against the neck rather than irritating the neck with large beads, especially mis-shapen beads. The choker, which is 14-16 inches, falls perfectly around the base of the neck. This length is very popular and classic, and it works with most necklines.
Next we have the Princess necklace, which is 17-19 inches. The princess necklace falls just below the throat and is usually worn with lower necklines. You'll find that necklaces with large pendants or y-necklaces tend to be 17-19 inches in length before the pendant or the drop. The princess necklace length makes for a more natural drop from the weight of the pendant or for the V of the Y-necklace.
The Matinee necklace is 20-24 inches, which falls a few inches below the collarbone, or at (or above) the neckline. Many women wear this style necklace over a blouse or high collar top. You'll see the Matinee necklace in the workplace or on older women who don't like to wear necklaces too tight or close to their neckline. If you are wearing a necklace with a whimsical pendant or of a locket of some kind, and you frequently enjoy looking at it while you wear it, the Matinee necklace is perfect due to the longer length. The same goes for our next necklace, the Opera necklace.
The Opera necklace ranges from 26-34 inches in length. The trend right now is to wear multiple opera length necklaces at their longest length. These necklace are extremely versatile, and depending on the length, the opera necklace can be doubled up to make a double strand necklace. This style of necklace can easily be transformed from day to evening wear.
The longest necklace style is the Rope necklace, which can be over 45 inches in length. This is perhaps the most versatile necklace style there is, as it can be worn day or night and transformed into a multi-strand necklace or even bracelet. Some people even refer the rope necklace as a necklace scarf or beaded scarf. They can be worn in any number of ways, be as creative as your fashion sense will take you. You can even wear these around your waist as a decorative belt.
Bracelets
There aren't any fancy names for bracelets, but there is a size chart. To ensure that your bracelet will fit you when it arrives, make a note of your wrist size in the comments box on checkout, I would imagine that most jewelry artists will verify that the bracelet will fit you before shipping your order. Don't forget to add 1-1.25 inches to your bracelet measurement, you don't want to bracelet too tight. If the bracelet is a gift and you don't know their wrist size, refer to the chart below and estimate. The average person is 7.25-7.5 inches.
Bracelet Size Chart:
Extra Small: 6-6.5 inches
Small: 6.5-7 inches
Medium: 7-7.5 inches (Standard)
Large: 7.5-8 inches
Extra Large: 8-8.5 inches and up.
If you are still clueless, buy a small or medium bracelet with an extension. A bracelet extension not only adds versatility to the length, but it's also a nice decorative touch. At Kincaidesigns Handmade Jewelry, many of the bracelets have extensions which adds anywhere from 1" to 2.5 inches to the length of the bracelet. This guarantees your bracelet will fit.
There you have it, refer to this article when you are buying from an online jewelry designer. And remember that when you buy from a handmade jewelry designer, you have more control over the specifics of your jewelry. If you would like links added or removed, just ask your online jewelry designer and they will let you know what can be done. When you shop at Kincaidesigns Handmade Jewelry, we want to make sure that your jewelry fits the way you want it to. Please add notes to the comments box when you checkout with your wrist size and necklace preferences. We will make sure your jewelry fits you before your order is shipped.
Host a Jewelry Home Party
Host a Jewelry Home Party
Do you want to throw a party, earn Free Handmade Jewelry and find unique artisan crafted gifts all at the same time? Host a Kincaidesigns Jewelry Home Party and shop at home with your friends and family. Avoid crowded shopping malls, save time, avoid traffic, and have fun! You'll find unique, one of a kind, artisan crafted gifts for yourself and your family and friends. When you host a jewelry home party you automatically earn $25.00 towards handmade jewelry. PLUS you'll earn 10% of total sales towards more handmade jewelry for yourself. You've got nothing to lose, only unique handmade jewelry to gain for your accessory collection.
To shop for jewelry from Kincaidesigns, visit the Handmade Jewelry and Glass Art Boutique. You'll find artisan crafted, unique handmade jewelry.
Jewelry Home Party FAQ's
Where are you located? Kansas City, Missouri. I can easily do jewelry home parties in the Kansas City area and I'm willing to travel within a few hours outside the city for a party scheduled on a Saturday or Sunday. If you would like to host a party somewhere else in the US, contact me for special consideration and availability, or ask about online jewelry parties. Frequently travelled cities include: Portland, Oregon; Los Angeles, California; Seattle, Washington. Please contact me if you are interested in throwing a jewelry home party in these areas and I'll let you know when I'll be in town again.
Do you supply the Invitations? Yes, when you book a jewelry home party simply let me know how many invitations you would like to mail out. I'll have them printed and mailed to you.
When do you arrive at our home? To setup the jewelry party I'll need about 1.5 - 2 hours. I will arrive 2 hours prior to the jewelry party for setup unless directed otherwise by the host. Taking down the party takes less time, approximately 45 minutes to an hour.
Do you take Credit Cards at the Jewelry Home Party? Yes, at Kincaidesigns we accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover. We also accept cash and checks during the jewelry home parties.
Do you have special jewelry home party pricing? Sometimes, I usually have some pieces on clearance, multiple purchase discounts, free gifts or a drawing of some kind at jewelry home parties. It depends if we are nearing a holiday or if I am having a special at the time.
What is your price range? The handmade jewelry and lampwork glass beads have a wide price range. Our glass beads start as low as $10 and our three strand necklaces are $240. There will definately be something for everyone, no matter what their price range.
For more information on throwing a jewelry home party, see Jewelry Home Parties at our website at www.kincaidesigns.com.
Do you want to throw a party, earn Free Handmade Jewelry and find unique artisan crafted gifts all at the same time? Host a Kincaidesigns Jewelry Home Party and shop at home with your friends and family. Avoid crowded shopping malls, save time, avoid traffic, and have fun! You'll find unique, one of a kind, artisan crafted gifts for yourself and your family and friends. When you host a jewelry home party you automatically earn $25.00 towards handmade jewelry. PLUS you'll earn 10% of total sales towards more handmade jewelry for yourself. You've got nothing to lose, only unique handmade jewelry to gain for your accessory collection.
To shop for jewelry from Kincaidesigns, visit the Handmade Jewelry and Glass Art Boutique. You'll find artisan crafted, unique handmade jewelry.
Jewelry Home Party FAQ's
Where are you located? Kansas City, Missouri. I can easily do jewelry home parties in the Kansas City area and I'm willing to travel within a few hours outside the city for a party scheduled on a Saturday or Sunday. If you would like to host a party somewhere else in the US, contact me for special consideration and availability, or ask about online jewelry parties. Frequently travelled cities include: Portland, Oregon; Los Angeles, California; Seattle, Washington. Please contact me if you are interested in throwing a jewelry home party in these areas and I'll let you know when I'll be in town again.
Do you supply the Invitations? Yes, when you book a jewelry home party simply let me know how many invitations you would like to mail out. I'll have them printed and mailed to you.
When do you arrive at our home? To setup the jewelry party I'll need about 1.5 - 2 hours. I will arrive 2 hours prior to the jewelry party for setup unless directed otherwise by the host. Taking down the party takes less time, approximately 45 minutes to an hour.
Do you take Credit Cards at the Jewelry Home Party? Yes, at Kincaidesigns we accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover. We also accept cash and checks during the jewelry home parties.
Do you have special jewelry home party pricing? Sometimes, I usually have some pieces on clearance, multiple purchase discounts, free gifts or a drawing of some kind at jewelry home parties. It depends if we are nearing a holiday or if I am having a special at the time.
What is your price range? The handmade jewelry and lampwork glass beads have a wide price range. Our glass beads start as low as $10 and our three strand necklaces are $240. There will definately be something for everyone, no matter what their price range.
For more information on throwing a jewelry home party, see Jewelry Home Parties at our website at www.kincaidesigns.com.
Lucky December Birthstones
Lucky December Birthstones
Why are there so many December birthstones? They must have gotten to the 12th month of the year and had so many gemstones left over that they gave them all to December. Who knows why or when they were distributed to December, but whoever was born during this festive month has plenty of gemstones to choose from. First we'll start with the traditional birthstones, Lapis Lazuli and Zircon.
Lapis Lazuli
A semiprecious gemstone. Lapiz Lazuli is a deep blue gemstone mineral which is often speckled with sparkling pyrite inclusions. Lapis Lazuli has been used for jewelry for thousands of years with many ancient cultures treasuring it. The main component in Lapis Lazuli is Lazurite and accounts for the intense blue color. The best quality lapis lazuli is an intense dark blue with minor deposits of white calcite and brassy yellow pyrite. It is extremely rare and commonly found in forms of crystalline limestone. Ancient references to "sapphire," the "sapphirus" of the Romans, usually refers to lapis lazuli. Its modern name originates in the Persian word "lazhuward," meaning "blue," and the Arabis word "lazaward," meaining "heavan" or "sky." Currently, much of the Lapis Lazuli on the market is mined in Afghanistan.
Zircon
A semiprecious gemstone. Zircon is one of the few stones to resemble the diamond in fire and brilliancy is zircon. It's colorless stones have been intentionally and mistakenly substituted for the diamond. The natural color of zircon varies between colorless, yellow-golden, red, brown, and green. Unlike the Diamond, Zircon exhibits double refraction and bottom facets seen through the top of a cut stone will appear double, diamond doesn't share this property. Zircon is also significantly softer than diamond and cut stones will show wear on the edges of the facets. The name Zircon is from the Arabic "zargun," derived in turn from Persian zar, meaning "gold," and the Arabic "gun," meaning "color."
Now that you know and understand the traditional birthstones, you can begin to explore the modern birthstones of Tuquoise, Topaz and Tanzanite. What a set of three beautiful gemstones.
Turquoise
A semiprecious gemstone. Turquoise is an azure or greenish soft mineral that derives it's color from copper. Turquoise is very soft and porous, and it's high water content makes it vulnerable to destruction by drying, and absorbing impurities. Turquoise is often stabilized with a resin to preserve it's color, protect it from environmental pollutants and drying. Turquoise was one of the first gemstones to be mined and some turquoise beads found in Mesopotamia, (present day Iraq), date back to around 5000 BC. It varies in color from sky-blue to green, depending on the amount of iron and copper it contains. Turquoise from several sources was first transported through Turkey, probably accounting for its name, which is French for "Turkish." Turquoise is mined in Iran, Tibet, northern Africa, Australia, Siberia, England, Belgium, France, Poland, Ethiopia, Mexico, Chile, and China.
Topaz
A semiprecious gemstone. Topaz is a very hard and lovely mineral that has been known and valued both in ancient and modern times. Topaz is found in a wide range of colors, the sherry-yellow being particularly valuable and the pink topaz (natural pink topaz) being the most valuable and rare. The yellow topaz becomes pink on exposure to a moderate heat, and most pink topaz today is heat treated yellow topaz. Other colors of topaz include blue, which is sometime indistinguishable from aquamarine, brown topaz, and white (which has been mistaken for diamond.) Ancient legends associated topaz with several different 'sungods', dispelling of enchantments, and improving eyesight, as well as crediting it with the ability to change colors in the presence of poisons. Topaz is one of the sources of the island Zebirget in the Red Sea. This island has had a few previous names, one of which was Topazios. The word Topaz is also thought to derive from "tapaz", the Sanskrit name for "fire." Many authorities believe that the stone called topaz today was unknown to the ancients and that the name topazos referred to olivine (peridot), which is known to be found on the island of Topazios (Zebirget) as well.
Tanzanite
A semiprecious gemstone. Tanzanite is a gem variety of the mineral Zoisite and it comes from a small area in Tanzania. Nearly all tanzanite on the market has been heat treated to generate it's lovely blue violet color. When first mined, tanzanite is usually a muted green color. Tanzanite is similar in final color to iolite, though iolite is usually of weaker intensity and has less fire. The sapphire-blue variety of Zoisite, Tanzanite is the most valuable of it's kind. Other colors zoisite comes in are yellowish-green, green, white, green-brown or gray. Tanzanite is found in the veins of quartz and pegmatites. They are commonly mistaken for sapphires and they are often color treated to remove any browns to enhance its color. They may appear more violet in incandescent lights.
You thought we were done, didn't you. Well there is yet, another birthstones that comes from the Mystical December birthstones. Onyx is our final December birthstone.
Onyx
A semiprecious gemstone. Onyx is a variety of chalcedony or microcrystalline quartz with a hardness rating of 7. Very similar to agate, and treated agate is often sold as black onyx. Onyx may be brown, white, grey, or black.
Onyx is the striped, semiprecious variety of agate with white and black alternating bands. It's a rare stone that can be artificially reproduced by dying pale, layered agate. The name come from the Greek "onux", meaning "nail" or "claw", referring to the mineral's color. The name onyx is properly applied to the agate variety only. Other varieties include carnelian onyx (with white and red bands), and sardonyx (with white and brown bands.) Natural onyx comes from India and South America and is commonly used for cutting cameos and intaglios because its layers show a color contrast.
There you have it, the long list and decriptions of the December birthstones. You can find out more about other birthstones at www.kincaidesigns.com. We have an extensive birthstones chart, anniversary gift traditions chart, and much more information on gemstones and other jewelry components. While you're there, don't foget the shop online a the Handmade Jewelry Boutique. We have handmade jewelry, handcrafted glass ornaments, unique gifts and much more. Visit www.kincaidesigns.com for all your jewelry shopping and informational needs.
Why are there so many December birthstones? They must have gotten to the 12th month of the year and had so many gemstones left over that they gave them all to December. Who knows why or when they were distributed to December, but whoever was born during this festive month has plenty of gemstones to choose from. First we'll start with the traditional birthstones, Lapis Lazuli and Zircon.
Lapis Lazuli
A semiprecious gemstone. Lapiz Lazuli is a deep blue gemstone mineral which is often speckled with sparkling pyrite inclusions. Lapis Lazuli has been used for jewelry for thousands of years with many ancient cultures treasuring it. The main component in Lapis Lazuli is Lazurite and accounts for the intense blue color. The best quality lapis lazuli is an intense dark blue with minor deposits of white calcite and brassy yellow pyrite. It is extremely rare and commonly found in forms of crystalline limestone. Ancient references to "sapphire," the "sapphirus" of the Romans, usually refers to lapis lazuli. Its modern name originates in the Persian word "lazhuward," meaning "blue," and the Arabis word "lazaward," meaining "heavan" or "sky." Currently, much of the Lapis Lazuli on the market is mined in Afghanistan.
Zircon
A semiprecious gemstone. Zircon is one of the few stones to resemble the diamond in fire and brilliancy is zircon. It's colorless stones have been intentionally and mistakenly substituted for the diamond. The natural color of zircon varies between colorless, yellow-golden, red, brown, and green. Unlike the Diamond, Zircon exhibits double refraction and bottom facets seen through the top of a cut stone will appear double, diamond doesn't share this property. Zircon is also significantly softer than diamond and cut stones will show wear on the edges of the facets. The name Zircon is from the Arabic "zargun," derived in turn from Persian zar, meaning "gold," and the Arabic "gun," meaning "color."
Now that you know and understand the traditional birthstones, you can begin to explore the modern birthstones of Tuquoise, Topaz and Tanzanite. What a set of three beautiful gemstones.
Turquoise
A semiprecious gemstone. Turquoise is an azure or greenish soft mineral that derives it's color from copper. Turquoise is very soft and porous, and it's high water content makes it vulnerable to destruction by drying, and absorbing impurities. Turquoise is often stabilized with a resin to preserve it's color, protect it from environmental pollutants and drying. Turquoise was one of the first gemstones to be mined and some turquoise beads found in Mesopotamia, (present day Iraq), date back to around 5000 BC. It varies in color from sky-blue to green, depending on the amount of iron and copper it contains. Turquoise from several sources was first transported through Turkey, probably accounting for its name, which is French for "Turkish." Turquoise is mined in Iran, Tibet, northern Africa, Australia, Siberia, England, Belgium, France, Poland, Ethiopia, Mexico, Chile, and China.
Topaz
A semiprecious gemstone. Topaz is a very hard and lovely mineral that has been known and valued both in ancient and modern times. Topaz is found in a wide range of colors, the sherry-yellow being particularly valuable and the pink topaz (natural pink topaz) being the most valuable and rare. The yellow topaz becomes pink on exposure to a moderate heat, and most pink topaz today is heat treated yellow topaz. Other colors of topaz include blue, which is sometime indistinguishable from aquamarine, brown topaz, and white (which has been mistaken for diamond.) Ancient legends associated topaz with several different 'sungods', dispelling of enchantments, and improving eyesight, as well as crediting it with the ability to change colors in the presence of poisons. Topaz is one of the sources of the island Zebirget in the Red Sea. This island has had a few previous names, one of which was Topazios. The word Topaz is also thought to derive from "tapaz", the Sanskrit name for "fire." Many authorities believe that the stone called topaz today was unknown to the ancients and that the name topazos referred to olivine (peridot), which is known to be found on the island of Topazios (Zebirget) as well.
Tanzanite
A semiprecious gemstone. Tanzanite is a gem variety of the mineral Zoisite and it comes from a small area in Tanzania. Nearly all tanzanite on the market has been heat treated to generate it's lovely blue violet color. When first mined, tanzanite is usually a muted green color. Tanzanite is similar in final color to iolite, though iolite is usually of weaker intensity and has less fire. The sapphire-blue variety of Zoisite, Tanzanite is the most valuable of it's kind. Other colors zoisite comes in are yellowish-green, green, white, green-brown or gray. Tanzanite is found in the veins of quartz and pegmatites. They are commonly mistaken for sapphires and they are often color treated to remove any browns to enhance its color. They may appear more violet in incandescent lights.
You thought we were done, didn't you. Well there is yet, another birthstones that comes from the Mystical December birthstones. Onyx is our final December birthstone.
Onyx
A semiprecious gemstone. Onyx is a variety of chalcedony or microcrystalline quartz with a hardness rating of 7. Very similar to agate, and treated agate is often sold as black onyx. Onyx may be brown, white, grey, or black.
Onyx is the striped, semiprecious variety of agate with white and black alternating bands. It's a rare stone that can be artificially reproduced by dying pale, layered agate. The name come from the Greek "onux", meaning "nail" or "claw", referring to the mineral's color. The name onyx is properly applied to the agate variety only. Other varieties include carnelian onyx (with white and red bands), and sardonyx (with white and brown bands.) Natural onyx comes from India and South America and is commonly used for cutting cameos and intaglios because its layers show a color contrast.
There you have it, the long list and decriptions of the December birthstones. You can find out more about other birthstones at www.kincaidesigns.com. We have an extensive birthstones chart, anniversary gift traditions chart, and much more information on gemstones and other jewelry components. While you're there, don't foget the shop online a the Handmade Jewelry Boutique. We have handmade jewelry, handcrafted glass ornaments, unique gifts and much more. Visit www.kincaidesigns.com for all your jewelry shopping and informational needs.
November Birthstones, Topaz, Yellow Citrine, Citring and Pearl
November Birthstones: Topaz, Citrine, Yellow Citrine and Pearl
In honor of the month of November I am writing about the modern, traditional and mystical birthstones. Citrine, being the modern birthstone, Topaz, being the traditional birthstone, and pearl, being the mystical birthstone. Kincaidesigns Handmade Jewelry is proud to use semiprecious stone such as topaz, citrine and peals in their unique handmade jewelry. Visit the Kincaidesigns Handmade Jewelry Shop for your own semiprecious stone embellished, handmade jewelry.
Most of the following information comes from the book "Rock and Gem" The Difinitive Guide to Rocks, Minerals, Gems and Fossils put out by the Smithsonian Project Coordinators. For a great source of information, history and meanings of gemstone, I would suggest the book sourced from this information.
Citrine and Yellow Citrine Citrine is yellowish to brownish quartz and resembles yellow topaz. It is colored by hydrous oxide, and is found in the same hexagonal crystals as the other varieties of crystalline quartz. Natural citrine is much less common than amethyst or smokey quartz, both of which can be heat-treated to turn their color into that of citrine. Most citrine that is available today is the heat-treated amethyst. Gem-quality citrine is found on the Isle of Arran, Scotland; in the Ural Mountains of Russia; near Hyderabad, India; in Dauphine, France; in Minas Gerais, Brazil; in the Salamanca Province of Spain; and in North Carolina.
Topaz Topaz is one of the sources of the island Zebirget in the Red Sea. This island has had a few previous names, one of which was Topazios. The word Topaz is also thought to derive from "tapaz", the Sanskrit name for "fire." Many authorities believe that the stone called topaz today was unknown to the ancients and that the name topazos referred to olivine (peridot), which is known to be found on the island of Topazios (Zebirget) as well. Topaz is found in a wide range of colors, the sherry-yellow being particularly valuable and the pink topaz (natural pink topaz) being the most valuable and rare. The yellow topaz becomes pink on exposure to a moderate heat, and most pink topaz today is heat treated yellow topaz. Other colors of topaz include blue, which is sometime indistinguishable from aquamarine, brown topaz, and white (which has been mistaken for diamond.) Topaz was known as a cure for all ailments and it brought health. It used to be put in wine and used as a cure for asthma, insomnia, burns and hemorrhage. It was regarded at the stone of fruitfulness and faithfulness and it brought cheer to the wearer. It also gave its owner faith and charity and symbolized tru friendship, lasting love, intelligence and beauty.
Pearl Pearl is a concretion formed by a mollusk and cosisting of the same material as the mollusk's shell, which is the mineral aragonite (calcium carbonate). In addition to aragonite, the shell contains small amounts of conchiolin, a hornlike organic substance; together these are called nacre, or mother of pearl. The finest pearls are those produced by mollusks whose shells are lines with mother of pearl. These mollusks are limited to a certain species of saltwater oysters and freshwater clams. The mollusks body tissue is called the mantle, and when a foreign particle enters the mantle, the cells build up more or less concentric layers of pearl around it to protect the mantle. Irregular shaped pearls have grown in the muscular tissue and blister pearls (flat on one side) grow adjacent to the shell. Pearls are valued by their translucence, luster, surface color and shape. To read more about pearls, read my previous post "What is a Pearl?"
Carats Vs Karats: What is the difference?
Carats Vs Karats: What is the difference?
If you are in the business of using, buying or even wearing gemstones and precious metals, you should be aware that these two words mean very different things. Shopping for jewelry, findings and materials should make much more sense after you read this article about Carats vs Karats.
Carat
A Carat is a weight measurement in reference to precious gemstones such as Diamonds, Sapphires, Rubies, etc. Many people think a carat is referring to the size of the gemstones, however, it is a measurement of weight. While the weight does effect the size of the gemstones, a carat is not a measurement of length, mass or volume. The Carat, along with the purity of the gemstone is what determines the price of the precious stones.
Karat
A Karat is the measurement of the purity of gold. Gold itself is very soft, and like silver, it needs to be alloyed with other metals to make it stronger and less expensive. 24 karat gold is considered pure gold, or 100% gold. While many people think 24 karat gold is the best quality you can buy, the soft metal is less durable and it can scratch or damage easily. To prevent this, gold is alloyed with metals such as silver, copper and zinc. When producing white gold alloys, nickel, copper and zinc are used. So, the karat is measured by the ratio of gold to the alloyed metal. 18 karat gold is 3/4 gold or 0.750 gold, 14 karat gold is 14/24 gold or 0.583 gold, etc.
Although the karat does determine the value of the gold, it does not tell us the price we are paying for gold. After you have determined the karat of gold you would like, the final step in determining the price of your gold is it's weight, how much gold are you purchasing? Precious metals are measured in Troy Ounces, one Troy Ounce is equal to about 31.1 grams. There are 12 ounces per Troy pound. Oh yea, and did I mention that the price of precious metals is variable?
Visit www.kitco.com/market/ to find out the current prices of precious metals. Or you can visit http://goldprice.org for the current gold pricing information.
KINCAIDESIGNS is proud to use 14 karat gold filled materials and sterling silver material in their Unique Handmade Jewelry. What is Gold Fill? Gold-filled, or gold overlay, is made by heat and pressure-bonding a thin layer of gold to a brass core. The gold covers the brass surface, making it tarnish resistant. The value of gold-filled is greater than gold-plated because gold-filled has an actual layer of gold, not just a microscopic film. All the 14kt gold-filled materials used by KINCAIDESIGNS handmade jewelry meets federal standards for quality and content.
If you are in the business of using, buying or even wearing gemstones and precious metals, you should be aware that these two words mean very different things. Shopping for jewelry, findings and materials should make much more sense after you read this article about Carats vs Karats.
Carat
A Carat is a weight measurement in reference to precious gemstones such as Diamonds, Sapphires, Rubies, etc. Many people think a carat is referring to the size of the gemstones, however, it is a measurement of weight. While the weight does effect the size of the gemstones, a carat is not a measurement of length, mass or volume. The Carat, along with the purity of the gemstone is what determines the price of the precious stones.
Karat
A Karat is the measurement of the purity of gold. Gold itself is very soft, and like silver, it needs to be alloyed with other metals to make it stronger and less expensive. 24 karat gold is considered pure gold, or 100% gold. While many people think 24 karat gold is the best quality you can buy, the soft metal is less durable and it can scratch or damage easily. To prevent this, gold is alloyed with metals such as silver, copper and zinc. When producing white gold alloys, nickel, copper and zinc are used. So, the karat is measured by the ratio of gold to the alloyed metal. 18 karat gold is 3/4 gold or 0.750 gold, 14 karat gold is 14/24 gold or 0.583 gold, etc.
Although the karat does determine the value of the gold, it does not tell us the price we are paying for gold. After you have determined the karat of gold you would like, the final step in determining the price of your gold is it's weight, how much gold are you purchasing? Precious metals are measured in Troy Ounces, one Troy Ounce is equal to about 31.1 grams. There are 12 ounces per Troy pound. Oh yea, and did I mention that the price of precious metals is variable?
Visit www.kitco.com/market/ to find out the current prices of precious metals. Or you can visit http://goldprice.org for the current gold pricing information.
KINCAIDESIGNS is proud to use 14 karat gold filled materials and sterling silver material in their Unique Handmade Jewelry. What is Gold Fill? Gold-filled, or gold overlay, is made by heat and pressure-bonding a thin layer of gold to a brass core. The gold covers the brass surface, making it tarnish resistant. The value of gold-filled is greater than gold-plated because gold-filled has an actual layer of gold, not just a microscopic film. All the 14kt gold-filled materials used by KINCAIDESIGNS handmade jewelry meets federal standards for quality and content.
Go Shopping for Unique Handmade Jewelry using Sterling Silver and 14kt Gold Fill: Handmade Necklaces • Handmade Bracelets • Handmade Earrings • Handmade Rings • Handmade Pendants • Handmade Bridal Jewelry • Handmade Seasonal Jewelry • Handmade Baby Jewelry • Handmade Jewelry Gift Certificates • Visit the Online Handmade Jewelry Boutique...
What is a Pearl?
Pearls have been valued for their beauty and rarity for thousands of years. They are considered biological based gemstones and have records in ancient cultures for much longer than any other gemstones. Unlike other your stereotypical gemstones, pearls do not have to be cut and polished, they are ready to wear in their natural form. Pearls can be used and worn in a variety of ways. While the most traditional way to wear pearls are strung together on one strand, many jewelry designers are using them as accents and unique elements in their unique jewelry designs. (Top Left: Kincaidesigns Handmade Jewelry Photo: Handmade Bracelet with Pearls, Swarovski Crystals, Blue Topaz and Sterling Silver.)How is a Pearl formed?
Pearl is a concretion formed by a mollusk and consisting of the same material as the mollusk's shell, which is the mineral aragonite (calcium carbonate). In addition to aragonite, the shell contains small amounts of conchiolin, a hornlike organic substance; together these are called nacre, or mother of pearl. The finest pearls are those produced by mollusks whose shells are lines with mother of pearl. These mollusks are limited to a certain species of saltwater oysters and freshwater clams. The mollusks body tissue is called the mantle, and when a foreign particle enters the mantle, the cells build up more or less concentric layers of pearl around it to protect the mantle. Pearls are valued by their translucence, luster, surface color and shape. Since most natural pearls are irregularly shaped, the round or spherical pearl are highly prized.
It is very uncommon for an oyster to produce a natural pearl. Of the small percentage of those oyster that do produce a natural pearl, only a few of those will develop a desirable pearl in shape, color and size. Only about one in ten thousand oysters will naturally produce a gem quality pearl. As pearls have been valued and desired by so many people, the need has lead to the production of cultured pearls. Actually, the cultured pearl industry has far surpassed the natural pearl industry. Natural pearls are becoming harder to find, and the demand for pearls is too great.
Are cultured pearls fake pearls?
No, a cultured pearl is an artificially created pearl, but they are still real pearls. Instead of the foreign substance entering the mollusk naturally, the foreign object is manually inserted into the mollusk and returned to the sea, allowing the pearl to develop naturally. This method not only allows pearls to develop naturally, but their shape can be easily targeted by the placement of the foreign substance.
The method for cultured pearls is used for many, if not all types of pearls.
Above: Kincaidesigns Handmade Jewelry Photo:Handmade Necklace with Pearls, Swarovski Crystals and Sterling Silver.
What determines the shape of pearl?
Since pearls form naturally, pearls can come in many unique and interesting shapes. Although we associate pearls to be round, it is actually very uncommon and rare to find a perfectly round pearl. The shape of a pearl is determines by a number of variable factors, including the shape of the nucleus the pearl is formed in and the placement of the developing pearl in the mollusk. A pearl usually takes the same shape of the nucleus, so if the nucleus isn't perfectly round, the pearl won't be either. It will take on the irregular shape of the nucleus. The placement of the developing pearl will also effect its shape, for example: If the pearl is positioned against the shell of the mollusk, the pearl will be flat on one side. There are three basic categories for pearl shapes, Spherical (or perfectly round), Symmetrical (balanced and regular, but not round), and Baroque (irregular and abstract, there is no symmetry to these pearls.) There are many pearl shape variations within these categories as well. The shape of a pearls is one of many factors in determining a pearls quality and value. The round pearl being the most valuable, followed by symmetrical shapes and finally baroque. However, the unique shapes to baroque pearls are increasingly desirable, as these pearls are one of a kind.
Above: Kincaidesigns Handmade Jewelry Photo:Handmade Bridal Necklace with Glass Beads, Swarovski Crystals, Frosted Crystal Quartz and Mother of Pearl Flower Pendant
There are two types of genuine pearls, natural and cultured pearls. A fake pearl can be simulated, faux, plastic, resin, glass or artificial. There are some tests you can do to pearls to see if they are real or fake, however, the best test is to bring them to a certified professional. It's not always easy to tell these pearls apart.
Have you ever seen someone pick up a strand of pearls and bite them? They were making sure they were buying real pearls. Since a real pearls are made up of layers of nacre, the surface will be gritty against your teeth. A fake pearl is usually smooth. However, this method isn't as reliable as it used to be, some fake pearl manufacturers are adding a coating to their pearls to simulate the gritty feeling on your teeth. In addition, pearls are all so different and unique, you might even find some pearls to be more smooth than others, even through they are real.
If you have a strand of pearls, take them outside into natural daylight. Real pearls will not all be same color under the sun, unless they are very expensive. You should be able to see slight variations in their iridescence and color. If they are perfectly matched, they probably aren't real.
You can magnify your pearls as you would a diamond at a jewelry store. You should be able to see the ridges and irregularities of a pearl. If the surface is smooth or lack irregularities, your pearls may be fake.
Real pearls also tend to be more dense than plastic, resin or hollow pearls. Good glass pearls might have the same density and you may not want to rely on this method of testing. But you should be able to tell right away if the pearls are plastic, resin or hollow.
Look at the holes drilled in your pearls. The nacre of fake pearls tends to flake away in the area where the holes were drilled. While the nacre could possible flake away on a cultured pearl, even though it's real, it will not flake away on a natural pearl.
Finally, you could have the pearls tested by a certified professional. They will not only look at your pearls under magnification, but they will x-ray your pearls as well. An x-ray will show you what is inside of your pearls. This includes the density variations, the presence or absence of a parasite or "foreign object" that caused the formation of the pearl in the first place, and the shapes of drilled holes, if there are holes in your pearls. There are a few other tests and tricks to judge your pearls as real or fake, such as the treatment in your jewelry, the settings, the other materials used in your jewelry, etc. However, bringing your jewelry to a professional is the most reliable test.
Caring for your pearls
Pearls are softer and more delicate than other gemstones and precious metals. They can be easily scratched, cracked and damaged. In addition, substances such as hairspray, perfume, cosmetics and body oils can dull your pearls. It's a good idea to apply perfume, hair spray and other cosmetics before wearing your pearls. You want to minimize the contact your pearl will have with these substances. After wearing your pearls, wipe them with a soft cloth to remove any traces of cosmetics or body oils. You can wash your pearls with a mild soap and a soft cloth to remove build up, but don't do this every day.
Your pearls should be stored away from other jewelry in a padded hard case or a soft cloth pouch in your jewelry box. This will prevent scratches from your other jewelry.
If you pearls are strung, you can have your pearls re-strung every few years to prevent your necklace from breaking when you least expect it. The last thing you want are all your pearls on the floor of the grocery store or restaurant. If your pearls have a knot between each pearl, this will prevent all your pearls from falling off the strand if your necklace were to break. This also prevents your pearls from rubbing against each other and causing damage. For more information on jewelry care, visit Frequently Asked Questions at Kincaidesign Handmade Jewelry. www.kincaidesigns.com
Pearl Glossary
Saltwater Pearls: Pearls formed within oysters which live in the sea. Saltwater pearls tend to be more lustrous, which means they have more reflective quality ont he surface of the pearl nacre, than freshwater pearls, which increased their value. Most Saltwater pearls today are cultured saltwater pearls.
Freshwater Pearls: Pearls formed in mollusks that live in freshwater lakes and rivers. Freshwater pearls tend to appear in a wide variety of shapes and colors, and they tend to be less expensive than saltwater pearls. They are very durable and they resisit chipping, wear and degeneration.
Mother of Pearl: Mother of Pearl is the basic substance which is secreted by and oyster and/or mollusk to form the inside of their shells. This is the same substance which forms pearls.
Tahitian Pearls: Black Tahitian pearls are produced by the black-lippid oyster in the islands of French Polynesia. The oyster is very large and are sometimes 12 inches across and as much as 10 pounds. This results in larger than normal pearls. They are unique because of their dark colors of gray, silver, charcoal, etc. Truly black pearls are extremely rare.
To buy your own pearl embellished jewelry, visit Kincaidesigns Handmade Jewelry at www.kincaidesigns.com. You'll find: Handmade Necklaces • Handmade Bracelets • Handmade Earrings • Handmade Rings • Handmade Pendants • Handmade Bridal Jewelry • Handmade Baby Jewelry • Handmade Seasonal Jewelry • More Unique Handmade Gifts...
Why buy from an Online Jewelry Designer?
Why buy from an Online Jewelry Designer?Why should you buy your jewelry from an online jewelry retailer instead of shopping at your local jewelry shop where you can touch, feel, and try on the jewelry? You might think it's a no brainer, however, I would encourage you to give your online jewelry retailer a chance. You just might be pleasantly surprised at the unique jewelry designs and consistent high quality you'll find online, not to mention better pricing.
Handcrafted vs. Mass Produced
Most of the jewelry you'll find at your local fashion retailer has been mass produced and the jewelry you'll find from online jewelry designer is usually handcrafted. While some people don't appreciate the quality and value of a unique handmade piece of jewelry, other thrive on it. There are many reasons to shop online for handcrafted jewelry verses mass produced jewelry at your local fashion retailer. For example, when a jewelry product is mass produced, the biggest concern for the manufacturer is their bottom line. How much money will each piece cost them and low can they get their costs? This could mean the compromise of quality materials and assembly, which means you need to ask yourself if the metal is sterling silver or nickel, or, are the pearls on this necklace real? However, when a designer is constructing their jewelry designs by hand, they have complete control over each piece, it's quality and materials, and each piece is approved by the designer because it was crafted by their own hands. All the jewelry at www.kincaidesigns.com is handcrafted by the artist, Holly Kincaid, and uses only quality materials and precious metals. To shop for your own unique handmade jewelry online visit www.kincaidesigns.com.
How does buying more expensive handcrafted jewelry online mean greater savings?
When you buy from your online jewelry designer you are paying for the jewelry and for a very small percentage of their overhead costs. An online jewelry designer doesn't have nearly as much overhead as your local fashion retailer. Your online jewelry retailer has to pay for their website store front, advertising fees and materials to make their jewelry. Most online jewelry retailers work from their home, so they are using their home utilities and they don't have to pay for studio space. It's true that as an online jewelry retailer grows, so does the need for more space, however, studio space vs. store front space is a huge difference in rent.
A local jewelry retailer with a store front has to pay rent for their location, which is usually the most expensive of their overhead costs, salaries for their employers, advertising costs, licensing fees, utilities, wholesale merchandise and much more. In addition to these overhead costs, the merchandise itself is passed through many hands before it reaches the retailer. The manufacturer has sold their merchandise to a wholesaler, who then sells the merchandise to the retailer, who then displays the merchandise to sell to you, the customer. In many cases, the prices are doubled at each stage, starting from the manufacturer.
So, as for your savings...When you buy your jewelry from your online jewelry retailer, you are technically buying straight from the manufacturer, also known as the designer. You will find that materials and assembly aren't compromised and the amount of money you are paying for your jewelry is much closer to the actual cost of making the jewelry. Yes, your online jewelry retailer is making a profit because it is their business. However, they aren't selling their jewelry to anyone before it reaches you. You might be paying more for handcrafted jewelry, but you are paying for your handcrafted jewelry instead of price inflation, your local fashion retailer's rent and advertising costs on an add you never even saw. Therefore you are getting the quality of jewelry that you are paying for. In addition, since each piece is originally handcrafted, you are guaranteed a truly unique piece of jewelry that will serve as a keepsake for years to come. To shop for your own unique handcrafted jewelry, visit www.kincaidesigns.com.
Small Business vs. Big Business
When you buy from a small online jewelry business you are going to receive the personal attention you deserve as a customer. In many cases you may hear directly from the designer when you place an order and you wont feel like a number in a huge array of orders. Unlike a large business or department store, a small online business can offer great customer service, which will result in a higher customer satisfaction. When you are buying unique handmade jewelry that will serve as a one-of-a-kind accessory in your collection, you want the personal attention that a small business can give you. In addition, you will probably find out about the designers background, or exactly how each piece of jewelry was made, which adds character and greater personal value to your purchase. Custom orders are a common service through online jewelry retailers. If they don't offer custom orders on their website, send them an email. You might be pleasantly surprised at what they can offer you. To see what www.kincaidesigns.com can offer, visit the Unique Handmade Jewelry website.Online Shopping Tips
There isn't a better place to buy unique handmade jewelry than directly from the jewelry designer. You will find the quality and value you are looking for in addition to a truly unique piece of jewelry for your collection. Below are some tips for buying jewelry from your online jewelry retailer.
• Check out their return policy: If you can't return the jewelry you might not want to order from them. Many return policies have restrictions, such as keeping all tags on the jewelry or returning the jewelry in the original packaging. These policies are to protect the designer from a customer purchasing the jewelry for one occasion and returning the jewelry once the occasion is over. This is an understandable return policy because most online retailers aren't loaning jewelry out, they are a business and they are selling their jewelry.
• Have the designer insure your package. This may cost you more in shipping, but it's worth the extra to guarantee your package will arrive to you safely or it can be easily replaced. Simply request insurance in the comments or special instructions upon checkout. An additional cost may be added to your order for insurance, if you would like to be notified of the extra cost of insurance before your credit card is charge, note that in the comments or special instructions upon checkout as well.
• Never send your credit card information over email. Always use the online retailer checkout process and check for the security pad lock in your browser window when you check out. This ensures that your information is being sent over a secure server. This pad lock may only show up when you check out, it's not on all the pages of their website. This is fine, only the pages that you are entering your sensitive information is necessary. You can find out more information about Payment and Privacy Policies on most e-commerce websites. This information should be available to you. If you can't find it, request that information or shop elsewhere.
• If there is a guarantee on their website, print it out. All return policies, warranties and guarantees are subject to change. If you print out the return policy, warranties and guarantees when you make your purchase, the online retailer should honor those documented policies.
• Remember, if you have any questions about anything on an e-commerce website, you should be able to contact them easily. If you can't find a method of contact you probably shouldn't be dealing with them. Every reliable online retailer should allow their customers to contact them. Many online retailers don't want to receive phone calls because their phone would ring off the hook, but you should always be able to email the designer or an associate.
Kincaidesigns is a unique online jewelry boutique for handmade jewelry for bridal, formal and casual everyday wear. If you would like to shop for your own Unique Handmade Jewelry, visit www.kincaidesigns.com. All the jewelry at www.kincaidesigns.com is handmade using lampwork beads, handcrafted by the artist, Holly Kincaid, Swarovski Crystals, Semiprecious stones, pearls, sterling silver and gold fill materials. You'll find unique gifts for yourself and family and friends. Easy online ordering, gift certificates available, FREE shipping available.
Buy Unique Handmade Jewelry: Handmade Necklace • Handmade Bracelet • Handmade Earrings • Handmade Rings • Handmade Pendants • Handmade Bridal Jewelry • Handmade Seasonal Jewelry • Handmade Glass Beads • Handmade Glass Art • Visit the Online Handmade Jewelry Boutique...
Sterling Silver
What is Sterling Silver?
Sterling silver is one of the three precious metals, the other two being gold and platinum. Sterling silver is an alloy (mix) of 92.5% silver and 7.5% of another metal, usually copper. This sterling silver standard of 925 was set by the British by 1300 ad. when the term "sterling silver" was established. This is why you see 925, 925/1000, or "sterling" stamped into your sterling silver. This ensures that your silver jewelry or other silver items are sterling.
Copper us usually used and has been proven through trial and error to be the best metal to alloy with silver. It provides strength, durability, and it enhances silvers bright natural sheen. However, other metals may be used. Some of the more common replacements for copper are zinc, platinum, geranium and a variety of other additives including silicon and boron. These metals are used in place of copper to improve various properties of the sterling alloy such as reducing casting porosity, eliminating fire scale and increasing resistance to tarnish. At this time there is no industry standard formula for tarnish resistant sterling silver, therefore the competition is high between the manufacturers offering tarnish resistant sterling silver.
What is Pure Silver?
Silver itself is an element and can be found on the periodic table. Fine silver, which is 99.9% silver, is usually too soft for producing any functional objects or jewelry. Although you can find jewelry or elements of jewelry using fine silver. This is why copper or other metals are alloyed with silver. These alloys give silver strength and durability while preserving the precious metal content.
Where did the name sterling silver come from?
There are a few theories of the origin of the term "sterling silver."
Theory 1
The term emerged in England by the 13th century. The 1971 Oxford English Dictionary states that the early middle English name sterling was presumably descriptive of small stars that were visible on early Norman pennies. (Referring to the old English term "steorling.")
Theory II
Sterling silver was first known as "Easterling silver", which was used in reference to the grade of silver originally used as the local currency in an area of Germany, known as the "Easterling."
King Henry II set to adopt the alloy as the standard for English currency. He imported metal refiners from the Easterling and put them to work making silver coins for England. The silver these refiners produced came into use as the currency by 1158 in the form of what are known as Tealby Pennies. These Tealby Pennies were eventually adopted as a standard alloy throughout England and the original term "Easterling Silver" was abbreviated to "Sterling Silver."
Most silver coins today are 90% silver and 10% copper. This standard was established in the 1820's.
Why does Sterling Silver tarnish?
Sterling silver tarnish build up is the dulling that naturally occurs when sterling silver reacts with sulfer or hydrogen sulfide in the air. Chemically, silver itself does not react with oxygen or water at ordinary temperatures, so it does not easily form a silver oxide. However, other metals in the alloy, usually copper, may react with oxygen in the air.
How can tarnish be prevented?
Sterling silver tarnish can be prevented by storing your sterling silver jewelry in air tight and tarnish-free containers. Air tight plastic bags work well for keeping your sterling silver jewelry tarnish free. You can also use tarnish free jewelry storage bags or jewelry boxes. Wearing your sterling silver jewelry is another preventative way to keep your jewelry tarnish free. If your sterling silver jewelry is already tarnished, you can use a polish formulated specifically to remove tarnish. Rinse with clear water and pat dry. Only use a soft cloth when removing tarnish from your sterling silver, other materials may scratch the soft metal. Do not use toothpaste or other abbrasives to clean your sterling silver. Do not wear your sterling silver jewelry in chlorinated water or expose it to household chemicals such as bleach or ammonia.
box. This will prevent To protect your jewelry from scratches and other damage, store your jewelry away from other pieces in your jewelryjewelry from rubbing against your sterling silver, pearls or other vulnerable elements.
Sterling Silver vs. Silver Plated
Silver plated is usually a sterling silver overlay or plate over a base, non-precious metal. Since the sterling silver is layered over a base metal, it cannot bear the 925 mark of sterling silver. Silver plate has no intrinsic silver value.
Sterling silver will last forever if you want to use it and care for it properly. Silver plate will last about 20 years or less depending on the use and the proper care.
What is Vermeil?
Vermeil is a 22kt gold plate or overlay over sterling silver. This is an increased trend making gold more affordable while keeping the precious metal value. It bridges the gap between gold fill, which is a base metal rolled in gold, and solid gold, which is expensive and increasing regularly. All three choices, gold fill, vermeil, and gold hold more value than gold plate. Read more about gold fill.
What metals does Kincaidesigns use in their handmade jewelry?
Kincaidesigns uses precious metals of sterling silver and gold fill. Gold-filled, or gold overlay, is made by heat and pressure-bonding a thin layer of gold to a brass core. The gold covers the brass surface, making it tarnish resistant. The value of gold-fill is greater than gold-plated because gold-fill has an actual layer of gold, not just a microscopic film. All the 14kt gold-filled materials used by Kincaidesigns handmade jewelry meets federal standards for quality and content.
To shop for your own unique sterling silver or gold fill handmade jewelry, go to the Glass Art and Handmade Jewelry Shop at www.kincaidesigns.com.
Sterling silver is one of the three precious metals, the other two being gold and platinum. Sterling silver is an alloy (mix) of 92.5% silver and 7.5% of another metal, usually copper. This sterling silver standard of 925 was set by the British by 1300 ad. when the term "sterling silver" was established. This is why you see 925, 925/1000, or "sterling" stamped into your sterling silver. This ensures that your silver jewelry or other silver items are sterling.
Copper us usually used and has been proven through trial and error to be the best metal to alloy with silver. It provides strength, durability, and it enhances silvers bright natural sheen. However, other metals may be used. Some of the more common replacements for copper are zinc, platinum, geranium and a variety of other additives including silicon and boron. These metals are used in place of copper to improve various properties of the sterling alloy such as reducing casting porosity, eliminating fire scale and increasing resistance to tarnish. At this time there is no industry standard formula for tarnish resistant sterling silver, therefore the competition is high between the manufacturers offering tarnish resistant sterling silver.
What is Pure Silver?
Silver itself is an element and can be found on the periodic table. Fine silver, which is 99.9% silver, is usually too soft for producing any functional objects or jewelry. Although you can find jewelry or elements of jewelry using fine silver. This is why copper or other metals are alloyed with silver. These alloys give silver strength and durability while preserving the precious metal content.
Where did the name sterling silver come from?
There are a few theories of the origin of the term "sterling silver."
Theory 1
The term emerged in England by the 13th century. The 1971 Oxford English Dictionary states that the early middle English name sterling was presumably descriptive of small stars that were visible on early Norman pennies. (Referring to the old English term "steorling.")
Theory II
Sterling silver was first known as "Easterling silver", which was used in reference to the grade of silver originally used as the local currency in an area of Germany, known as the "Easterling."
King Henry II set to adopt the alloy as the standard for English currency. He imported metal refiners from the Easterling and put them to work making silver coins for England. The silver these refiners produced came into use as the currency by 1158 in the form of what are known as Tealby Pennies. These Tealby Pennies were eventually adopted as a standard alloy throughout England and the original term "Easterling Silver" was abbreviated to "Sterling Silver."
Most silver coins today are 90% silver and 10% copper. This standard was established in the 1820's.
Why does Sterling Silver tarnish?
Sterling silver tarnish build up is the dulling that naturally occurs when sterling silver reacts with sulfer or hydrogen sulfide in the air. Chemically, silver itself does not react with oxygen or water at ordinary temperatures, so it does not easily form a silver oxide. However, other metals in the alloy, usually copper, may react with oxygen in the air.
How can tarnish be prevented?
Sterling silver tarnish can be prevented by storing your sterling silver jewelry in air tight and tarnish-free containers. Air tight plastic bags work well for keeping your sterling silver jewelry tarnish free. You can also use tarnish free jewelry storage bags or jewelry boxes. Wearing your sterling silver jewelry is another preventative way to keep your jewelry tarnish free. If your sterling silver jewelry is already tarnished, you can use a polish formulated specifically to remove tarnish. Rinse with clear water and pat dry. Only use a soft cloth when removing tarnish from your sterling silver, other materials may scratch the soft metal. Do not use toothpaste or other abbrasives to clean your sterling silver. Do not wear your sterling silver jewelry in chlorinated water or expose it to household chemicals such as bleach or ammonia.
box. This will prevent To protect your jewelry from scratches and other damage, store your jewelry away from other pieces in your jewelryjewelry from rubbing against your sterling silver, pearls or other vulnerable elements.
Sterling Silver vs. Silver Plated
Silver plated is usually a sterling silver overlay or plate over a base, non-precious metal. Since the sterling silver is layered over a base metal, it cannot bear the 925 mark of sterling silver. Silver plate has no intrinsic silver value.
Sterling silver will last forever if you want to use it and care for it properly. Silver plate will last about 20 years or less depending on the use and the proper care.
What is Vermeil?
Vermeil is a 22kt gold plate or overlay over sterling silver. This is an increased trend making gold more affordable while keeping the precious metal value. It bridges the gap between gold fill, which is a base metal rolled in gold, and solid gold, which is expensive and increasing regularly. All three choices, gold fill, vermeil, and gold hold more value than gold plate. Read more about gold fill.
What metals does Kincaidesigns use in their handmade jewelry?
Kincaidesigns uses precious metals of sterling silver and gold fill. Gold-filled, or gold overlay, is made by heat and pressure-bonding a thin layer of gold to a brass core. The gold covers the brass surface, making it tarnish resistant. The value of gold-fill is greater than gold-plated because gold-fill has an actual layer of gold, not just a microscopic film. All the 14kt gold-filled materials used by Kincaidesigns handmade jewelry meets federal standards for quality and content.
To shop for your own unique sterling silver or gold fill handmade jewelry, go to the Glass Art and Handmade Jewelry Shop at www.kincaidesigns.com.
The History of Lampworking and Glassblowing
When did Glassworking begin?
While the age of lampworking is unknown, it was developed well before the invention of any torch, burner, or furnace. Glassworking was rumored to have been discovered by someone accidentally dropping glass into a campfire. From there they used a "small fire" for any form of glasswork and developed small beehive shaped furnaces in the ground. These small furnaces have been recorded in many ancient civilizations and they seem to have dominated glassmaking before the birth of Christ. These glasswork techniques spread throughout the ancient world from Japan to North Africa.
The Romans were known to have used these beehive furnaces or kilns, and are responsible for making some significant changes to their design. They were the first to add more exhaust vents and more options for side access to these kilns. More tools were experimented with and refined.
Just before the birth of Christ, someone thought of using a hollow pipe to extract glass instead of glass rods. It caused a bubble of gathered glass. While glass beads were still used the old way with rods, glass blowing dominated the glass forming technique for the next thousand years. Italians achieved the highest technical achievement around the world. In 1921, the Italians were sent to Murano (An island off the mainland of Venice, Italy), due to the fire hazards of Glasswork.
As Europe entered the Renaissance, a new use for glass was developed. Angelo Barovier, working in Murano, invented Crystallo, a clear soda glass in 1450 AD. There was a new need for clear durable vessels as chemical science was developing. This was the best glass for the job. The pipe glassblowing technique wasn't suitable for making these small objects. It was discovered that forcing a small narrow stream of air into a flame from an oil lamp created sufficient heat to work with the small pieces of glass. By the beginning of the fifteenth century this technique was spread throughout Europe and Lampworking was born.
Although the tools continued to become more sophisticated, the basic material, glass, has remained essentially the same as when Crystallo invented it. This glass is commonly referred to today at Moretti Glass, or Effetre.
In 1921, a scientist from the glass factory in Corning, New York, invented a new glass more resilient when heated and cooled, called Pyrex. It was 15 percent lighter and much stronger than soda glass. However, it required a much higher and more powerful heat source to work with the glass.
It was found that adding oxygen and natural gas produced the heat and power needed for pyrex and the traditional oil lamps were replaced with new oxygen and natural gas burners which clamped to the lampworkers workbench.
Today, equipment and tools have continued to become more sophisticated and new tools are experimented, however, many of the original tools from Murano are widely used and are still the most effective.
All the glass beads at Kincaidesigns are handcrafted by the artist, Holly Kincaid, using the lampwork techniques described in this article. She then uses her handcrafted glass beads in her unique handmade jewelry designs. To shop for your own handmade glass beaded jewelry, go to the Glass Art and Handmade Jewelry Shop.
Swarovski Crystals
What is a Swarovski Crystal?
Swarovski Crystal is the brand name for the range of precision cut crystal glass produced by companies owned by Swarovski AG of Feldmeilen, near Zurich, Switzerland. Austrian glass cutter and jeweller, Daniel Swarovski (1862-1956), began cutting multi-faceted crystals at the end of the 19th century creating new opportunities for jewelry makers everywhere. In 1892 he invented the automatic cutting machine creating new dimensions to raw crystals. Then in 1895, Daniel Swarovski established a crystal cutting factory in Wattens, which marks the beginning of the Swarovski Company.
How are Swarovski Crystals Made?
Swarovski Crystal is manufactured from a man made raw material and does not occur naturally. The formula for these man made crystals was perfected by Daniel Swarovski and his three sons. The crystals contain 32% lead to maximize refraction, which categorized Swarovski crystals as a "fully leaded crystal." Although lead can be a toxic substance, wearing leaded crystal jewelry does not pose a health risk.
When these raw materials are produced, they are cut and polished using the superior techniques invented by Daniel Swarovski. Swarovski Crystals are unmatched in quality and brilliance. No competitor has come close to the sharp facet angels, symmetry and exceptional sparkle of the Swarovski Crystal. They are considered the "Diamond of the Crystal Market."
How are Swarovski Crystals used?
Swarovski Crystals are used in crystal sculptures and miniatures, jewelry and couture, home decor, chandeliers, beads and rhinestones. They are the most popular element and crystals used in jewelry today. Their increasing demand has lead to the hundreds of shapes, colors, sizes and finishes. The Swarovski company has been able to replicate the colors of semiprecious and precious gemstones such as Amethyst, Alexandrite, Aquamarine, Citrine, Emerald, Garnet, Ruby, Sapphire, Tanzanite, Topaz and many more. The abundance in selection available from Swarovski Crystals has paved the way for unique handmade creations and jewelry everywhere.
Kincaidesigns is proud to use Swarovski Crystals in their unique handmade jewelry designs. The Swarovski Crystal is a valuable and unique accent to the glass beads, semiprecious stones and pearls we use in our jewelry designs. We invite you to shop at the Glass Art and Handmade Jewelry Shop at Kincaidesigns for your Unique Swarovski Crystal embellished handmade jewelry.
Go Shopping for Unique Handmade Jewelry using Swarovski Crystals: Handmade Necklaces • Handmade Bracelets • Handmade Earrings • Handmade Rings • Handmade Pendants • Handmade Bridal Jewelry • Handmade Seasonal Jewelry • Handmade Baby Jewelry • Handmade Jewelry Gift Certificates • Visit the Online Handmade Jewelry Boutique...
Handcrafted Glass Beads
What is lampworking and how is a glass bead created?
Glass rods are melted and wound on a mandrel using either Moretti (Effetre) or Bullseye glass, there are other brands of glass, however these are the two types of art glass used in Kincaidesigns Handmade Jewelry. This glass comes in long rods and their diameters range, not usually exceeding a quarter inch for bead making. The glass begins to move at around 1200 degrees Fahrenheit, and the glass is workable (it can be shaped or molded) at 2000 degrees Fahrenheit. There are many different tools used in flameworking, usually made of stainless steel or graphite. Graphite tools are used because they don't stick to the hot glass. Stainless steel tools will stick to hot glass while in the flame or when its at it's hottest temperatures, however, they are very effective in shaping glass when properly used. Each of the glass beads are individually flameworked (torch-blown) and properly kiln-annealed overnight.
By annealing the glass beads, they are guaranteed hard as rocks, durable enough for everyday wear with long lasting heirloom quality. When a glass bead is finished, the hot bead (while still on the mandrel), is placed in a kiln heated at 960°F. The annealing process releases the stress from the glass and slowly cools the beads down to room temperature. Cooling the glass beads too quickly will cause them to crack.
All the handmade jewelry at Kincaidesigns is made using lampwork glass beads, which are handcrafted by the artist, Holly Kincaid. Also used in the handmade jewelry are Swarovski crystals, pearls, semiprecious stones, sterling silver and gold fill materials, which will be covered in posts to come.
To shop for your own unique handmade jewelry, visit www.kincaidesigns.com.
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