Aziza Jewelry

Making a Custom Name Necklace

2021-01-28T21:19:00.002-08:00

Fun fact: The name Sophie (Sofia, Sophie, Sophia) was the most popular name from 2000-2017 within the US. Here are a few pictures from my studio today where I made the custom name necklace “Sophie”. It is hammered with a small hammer on some connection points.

Made from 14k gold filled wire and delicate 14k gold filled chain.

For your own custom name necklace, you can order one from: www.AzizaJewelry.com

Trending for Summer 2020: Colorful Hoop Earrings

2020-05-10T14:51:00.000-07:00

With the end of Quarantine currently underway, bold(er) fashion is trending as we boldly enter into Summer 2020. Allow me to introduce you to your new summer wardrobe staple: bold hoop earrings.

Hoop Earring Trends for Summer 2020

These 14k Gold Heart Hoop Earrings are available in gold filled or solid gold. They measure about 2.5 inches long, are lightweight, feature a secure angled latch, and with their simple design, are sure to be your new 2020 summer wardrobe staple.

These Multi Color Tourmaline Hoops are made from sterling silver wire with tourmaline gemstones that are individually wire wrapped in colors ranging from dark pink to light pink to light green to dark green. They measure 2.5 inches in diameter. Available here

Similar to the Tourmaline Hoops, these multi colored rainbow gemstone hoops are made from various gemstones in every color of the rainbow, including garnet, ruby, tourmaline, turquoise, amethyst and more. They measure about 2.25 inches in diameter.

Happy Summer 2020!

xoxo

Aziza

Mother's Day Gifts via Amazon Prime that will REALLY arrive on time

2020-04-27T10:23:00.001-07:00

If you've shopped online recently via Amazon Prime, you may have noticed that many items that you could normally order *guaranteed* to arrive within 2 days can now take up to 1 week or longer to arrive.

During these unprecedented Corona Times we are now in ... many gift items that you could previously order through Amazon Prime can no longer be guaranteed to arrive in time with their 2 day promise because of social distancing rules that are being enforced at factories, warehouses, suppliers, production companies and shipping companies.

But thats not the case over here at Aziza Jewelry! And in case you didn't know, many of my pieces are now Amazon Prime eligible. Woohoo!! 🎉 ...which is especially timely with Mother's Day coming up.

Below, I've listed a few of my most popular jewelry pieces that ship (within the US) from the East Coast all the way to the West Coast and everywhere in between with the 2 Day Shipping Guarantee... so they will arrive by Mother's Day...

of course, if you need it faster, just upgrade your shipping on Amazon...but even if you're not ordering through Amazon Prime, all of my items ship 100% Free right now.

Here are a couple of my most popular pieces specifically for Mother's Day. Shop Now!

14k Yellow Gold Mother-Daughter Heart Earring Set: https://amzn.to/3aBmcbT

14k Rose Gold Mother-Daughter Heart Earring Set https://amzn.to/2KpXTTV

14k White Gold Mother-Daughter Heart Earring Set https://amzn.to/3ax6rmg

14k Yellow Gold Spiral Stud Earrings: https://amzn.to/35fEX3S

14k Rose Gold Spiral Stud Earrings: https://amzn.to/3bGVsIB

14k White Gold Spiral Stud Earrings: https://amzn.to/2S8jmou

14k Yellow Gold XO Earrings: https://amzn.to/2zrbKH8

14k White Gold XO Earrings: https://amzn.to/2zyGTbU

14k White Gold X♡ Earrings: https://amzn.to/2W26VMg

14k White Gold Heart Stud Earrings: https://amzn.to/2KEq1ml

14k Yellow Gold Heart Stud Earrings: https://amzn.to/3eTWdA1

14k Yellow Gold Large 2.5 inch Heart Hoops: https://amzn.to/3bIWQKU

14k Yellow Gold Medium Heart Hoops: https://amzn.to/3538qh6

14k Rose Gold Medium Heart Hoops: https://amzn.to/3cGhlHY

14k White Gold Medium Heart Hoops: https://amzn.to/2yJTU1E

****The Caveat:
Since 99% of the things in my shop are custom orders, you must place your order by Tuesday, May 5th, to allow me 1 production day to make your custom order and ship it by 5pm the next day.****

Happy Amazon Prime Shopping!

Quarantine Mother's Day 2020 Gift Guide (I Surveyed Real Moms)

2020-04-23T11:32:00.001-07:00

With Mother's Day coming up in a few weeks, I asked a few moms that I know, what they wanted to receive for Mother's Day (Quarantined Edition) and the following were the top gifts they requested... sprinkled in with one of my own gift suggestions:

1. Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker - Starts at $104+:

Ice cream has been one of the lowest items in stock at almost all grocery stores lately. Get your own ice cream maker and you can enjoy ice cream whenever you want. You can also use healthier ingredients. Use fresh fruit, frozen fruit, alternative sweeteners, alternative milks, liqueur, use whatever you want!

2. Rope Hammock - Starts at $115+:

I have a hammock and I LOVE IT!! Best. Decision. Ever. Especially during this time when we all have to stay home. Its such a chill activity and a way to relax while being outside in nature but also still at home.

3. Raised Garden Bed - Starts at $165+:

4. Karaoke Machine - USA Karaoke Machine - Starts at $97+:

Bring out family fun in this gift idea as it makes a great way for mom and the whole crew to unwind, sing, dance, etc.

5. Aziza Jewelry via Amazon Prime - Mother-Daughter Earrings in 14k White, Yellow, Pink Solid Gold- Starts at $230:

in 14k White Gold:

in 14k Solid Yellow Gold:

in 14k Solid Pink Gold:

14k Solid Gold Mommy Necklace:

14k Solid Gold Heart Hoop Earrings:

*Budget Friendly Edition*: The following gifts will cost you little to no money:

6. Breakfast in Bed: Not just for mom, but for the whole family. Use whats already in your kitchen/cupboard. Bonus points for making it look visually appealing. Check out Pinterest for Ideas. I personally love some of these Breakfast Mood boards:

*Pro tip: Remember to wash the dishes after ;)

7. Massage- even if you don't know how to give a good massage, you can always do a little research on youtube or through google.

So thats it! I hope you've enjoyed my Gift Guide for a Quarantined Mother's Day.

Prefer to watch this in a video instead? Watch the video version here:

Whether you live with her, nearby or nowhere near Mom, Leave me a comment below and let me know what you're planning to do for mom on Mother's Day. I'm curious to know!

xo
Aziza

The Complete Aziza Jewelry Care Guide (Very Detailed for All Metals)

2020-04-17T11:34:00.001-07:00

This Detailed Guide will show you how to care for Aziza Jewelry in each specific metal- especially your new wire jewelry pieces.

For General Cleaning of 14k Solid Gold, Sterling Silver, Copper and Brass Metal: I recommend The Sunshine Polishing Cloth . I use it to polish my sterling silver and solid gold jewelry as it has left the best shine and luster out of the many different kinds of polishing cloths I have tried. (My recommendation for a 14k Gold Filled Polishing Cloth is the blue cloth further down below)

Seriously, I love the Sunshine Cloth SO MUCH that I even did a video tutorial to show you guys the Detailed ways I use it to clean my silver wire jewelry in this video here:

Below, I break down how to care for each metal by section: 14k Solid Gold, 14k Gold Filled, Sterling Silver, Copper and Brass Jewelry. As always, if you have any questions, I am here to help- just message me!

14k Solid Gold Chains:

Your new 14k Solid White Gold, Yellow Gold or Rose Gold Chain will maintain it's luster and shine naturally and require very little polishing. However, if the occasional dirt, oil build-up or dead skin build-up starts to accrue on your chain bracelet or necklace, gently wipe it off with a soft polishing cloth designed specifically for solid gold jewelry.

Avoid dulling of the luster of your 14k solid gold jewelry by avoiding wearing it in the shower, pool, hot tub, sauna, etc. While wearing it in water will not turn the color of your 14k solid yellow or rose gold necklace/chain, it can gradually remove the top rhodium plating on 14k white gold over time (many years) to reveal the yellow gold underneath. Wearing solid gold in treated water sources can also corrode metal over time.

I also do not recommend steam cleaning 14k white gold as the pressure of the steam cleaning combined with hot water temps will remove the rhodium plating cover on 14k white gold pieces over time.

Avoid wearing your necklace 24/7 because jewelry, like clothes, needs a chance to breathe! It will last much longer and be in better shape for the long haul. :)

To prevent chains from tangling while not in use, store in the clear poly bag that came with your purchase. If you need more than one polybag, they are available here:

14k Solid Gold Earrings:

Your new 14k yellow gold, rose gold or white gold earrings will maintain natural luster with minimal polishing, however, if they do require the occasional polish, I recommend using the sunshine cloth. Avoid wearing 14k solid gold earrings in the shower, pool, hot tub, etc because even with a snug earring back, water can loosen earrings from your ear hole and make it easier for them to loosen and fall off, slipping down an empty drain.

However, if you choose to ignore this advice and must wear them in the shower/pool/hot tub, etc, dont worry, they will not change color but the luster may fade over time. This is easily corrected with a quick gentle polish. The hardness of the metal may also change over time because of the hardness or softeess of your water supply.

Avoid wearing your earrings 24/7 because oil and dead skin cells build up quicker on earrings than any other piece of jewelry and constant wear will wear down jewelry quicker and cause it to accumulate more oil and dirt buildup than any other piece of jewelry. Jewelry needs a chance to breathe just like clothing or any other thing you wear all the time.

Avoid losing 14k Solid Gold earrings by storing them in the same location (a jewelry box or tray is highly recommended) within a poly bag (to prevent tarnish or excess exposure to the elements) or in a cloth or organza pouch (like the ones below that are included with each order)

If you plan to travel with jewelry in your luggage or plan to take jewelry on and off multiple times at a location besides your home (for instance while out clothes shopping), carrying poly bags or a cloth muslin/organza storage pouch will help keep your jewelry all in one place to help prevent losing them.

While wearing dangle earrings, or hoop earrings, be sure to use the clear rubber ear backs included with your order, to ensure the earrings stay on your ear. If you have long or curly hair, or a complex hairstyle, its easy to snag long dangle earrings and for them to accidentally pop out of your ear. Wearing the clear rubber ear stoppers that came with your order will help prevent this.

You can order more poly bags and rubber ear stoppers for dangle earrings if you need them.

14k Gold Filled Chains:

You can prevent your gold filled chains from darkening quickly by not spraying perfume, chemicals or oils on to your body while wearing jewelry. Apply all perfume, hair spray, oils, etc, on your body before putting jewelry on.

Avoiding wearing it in the shower, pool, hot tub, etc. to prevent any chemical reaction of the metal from treated water. However, if you must wear this necklace in the shower/pool/hot tub, etc, the chemical reactions of hard water or chemically treated water exposure will lead to frequent tarnishing and it will need regular polishing.

Avoid tangling of chains by storing them in the clear poly bags that come with every purchase. Order more here: Poly bags. Gold filled is more prone to tarnish and if you have a delicate, feminine chain, it will darken more quickly if worn continuously and exposed to bodily oils, sweat, dead skin, hard water, etc. Jewelry needs time to breathe, just like your clothing does.

Gently polish on occasion with a soft polishing cloth. This gentle polishing cloth is what I recommend to gently buff gold filled jewelry. Only the outer blue layers of the polishing cloth should be used to polish gold filled. Another option for polishing is to use fabric from an soft old t-shirt.

Gently polish on occasion with a soft polishing cloth. I really like the Mayfield brand. This gentle polishing cloth is what I recommend to gently buff gold filled jewelry. Only the outer blue layers of the polishing cloth should be used to polish gold filled specifically. Alternately, you can also use an old thin soft t-shirt to gently buff gold filled, but results may not be as good.

14k Gold Filled Earrings:

Prevent gold filled earrings from darkening or tarnishing quickly by storing them in poly bags when not in use and lightly polishing with the outer blue layers of the polishing cloth recommended above or a very soft old t-shirt.

Avoid spraying perfumes, chemicals or oils on to your body while wearing jewelry. Apply all perfume, hair spray, oils, etc, on your body before putting gold filled jewelry on. This will prevent tarnish and product buildup on your jewelry.

If you plan to travel with jewelry in your luggage or plan to take jewelry on and off multiple times at a location besides your home (for instance while out clothes shopping), carrying poly bags or a cloth muslin/organza storage pouch will help keep your jewelry all in one place to help prevent losing them.

Avoid wearing earrings in the shower, hot tub, pool as the water can loosen jewelry from your earlobes and make it easier for them to slip down a drain. This will also prevent any chemical reaction of the metal from treated water.

Sterling Silver Chains:

Sterling Silver chains tends to tarnish pretty quickly unless polished and regularly stored in a poly bag. I recommend frequently and gently polishing with the sunshine cloth. Avoid wearing these chains 24/7 because they need a chance to breathe like your clothing does.

Avoid tangling of chains by storing in poly bags when not in use. If you wish to wear these necklaces together in layers, avoid tangling by wearing chains with different patterns.

Avoiding wearing it in the shower, pool, hot tub, etc. to prevent any chemical reaction of the metal from treated water. However, if you must wear this necklace in the shower/pool/hot tub, etc, the chemical reactions of hard water or chemically treated water exposure will lead to frequent tarnishing and it will need regular cleaning and/or polishing.

Avoid spraying perfumes, chemicals or oils on to your body while wearing jewelry. Apply all perfume, hair spray, oils, etc, on your body before putting jewelry on. This will prevent tarnish and product buildup on your jewelry.

Sterling Silver Earrings:

Avoid wearing earrings in the shower, pool, hot tub, etc because even with a snug earring back, water can loosen earrings from your ear hole and make it easier for them to loosen and fall off, slipping down an empty drain.

Avoid losing Sterling Silver earrings by storing them in the same location (a jewelry box or tray is highly recommended) and use a poly bag or a cloth or organza pouch (like the ones below that are included with each order) . Use the clear rubber ear stoppers that came with your purchase to prevent long dangly earrings from falling out of ears. If you need to order more they are available here

Avoid spraying perfumes, chemicals or oils on to your body while wearing jewelry. Apply all perfume, hair spray, oils, etc, on your body before putting jewelry on. This will prevent tarnish and product buildup on your jewelry.

Cleaning Sterling Silver:

If it gets very tarnished and needs to be cleaned, use a store bought jewelry cleaner designed specifically for sterling silver. I recommend this one.

However, if you want to $ave money and have time on your hands, I created a video showing you how to clean sterling silver jewelry with common household items at home...you probably already have them all on hand already. Check out the video here

Follow up with gentle polishing using the Sunshine polishing cloth

Sterling Silver Cleaning Don'ts:

I do not recommend using toothpaste or a toothbrush to clean sterling silver jewelry. Sterling silver is a softer metal and toothpaste is sooo abrasive that it will scratch this metal, leaving small pits and making it like a magnet to easily attract even more tarnish, dirt and oil. This also makes it more difficult to keep it clean and tarnish free in the future.

Avoid using a toothbrush, because the abrasive and vigorous motion of the toothbrush can scratch this soft metal as well as loosen and remove gemstones from settings.

Copper and Brass:

Follow all recommendations for Sterling Silver care above.

Jewelry with Gemstones:

Some crystals and gemstones are heat treated and dyed. In order to prevent the color changing with cleaning your gemstones, spot test gemstones with cleaning products before cleaning the entire gemstones to see if they will change color. Then proceed from there.

*Special Note for Pearls:

Do not use chemicals to clean jewelry which has pearls, as this may remove the natural nacre and any artificial dyes added to colored freshwater pearls.

If you have any questions, feel free to message me!

xoxo!
~Aziza

Prevent Getting the CoronaVirus COVID-19 (How I have avoided getting the flu/cold)

2020-03-30T07:00:00.000-07:00

I haven't gotten a cold or the flu in over 5 years.

With the current pandemic going on, a lot of people are scared of getting the CoronaVirus, so in this blog post, I am sharing how I've avoided getting sick for the past 5 years.

Every day first thing in the morning, I drink a small amount of water (1/2 cup or so) along with 1 Tsp or Tblsp of apple cider vinegar. I prefer Braggs ACV with the Mother brand. Then I follow up with a little more water just to clear the taste from my mouth.

I take a daily multi vitamin and a daily probiotic. I prefer New Chapter Every Woman's One Daily multi vitamin

and this Garden of Life probiotic. I've noticed a change in energy, immune support and overall health when I'm taking these vs. when I am not.

If I am ever feeling worn down, or like I may feel the beginning symptoms of something or may be getting slightly sick, I immediately drink a small cup of water and a tsp of acv, and repeat this every hour or so until I feel better. I also boost my immunity by having a few of these 365 brand vitamin C packets in a little water.

I also use a few drops of tea tree oil essential oil to massage into my scalp and hair every day. Tea Tree oil has anti viral and anti bacterial properties. I use this as a preventative measure. If I ever get blemishes on my face or the beginnings of an acne breakout, I also use tea tree oil directly on the blemish and it goes away very quickly due to the anti-bacterial properties.

I also use a Essential Oil diffuser every night while I sleep (I prefer this brand) and I put in several drops of Eucalyptus Oil which helps to open up nasal passages, acts as an anti inflammatory, and helps to rejuvinate you. It also has many other healing properties and is one of the main ingredients used in Vicks Vapor Rub.

Lots of people are washing their hands like crazy lately. I have found that washing my hands AND using a nail brush helps me to clean my hands more thoroughly. This is especially useful if you have long fingernails which unknowingly hide lots of germs that you may be unaware of. I personally recommend this nail brush.

In addition to taking these precautions, I am also getting lots of rest, taking naps when I need to and I avoid stress as much as possible. I avoid stress by not watching the news (unless necessary and even then, limiting my intake), and limiting or avoiding interaction with toxic people, places and circumstances. Currently, I am quarantining and staying a home as much as possible so this hasn't been difficult. I pretty much only leave my house to go grocery shopping, deliver jewelry packages to the post office and to exercise.

Speaking of exercise...I exercise regularly to keep my immunity up and sweat out any excess toxins. You don't really N E E D any special equipment to exercise, and since gyms are all closed now anyway, now is a good time to reconnect with nature. I personally love hiking in the woods, but you may enjoy a brisk walk or run in your neighborhood or at your local park.

I know hand sanitizer is in short supply almost everywhere lately, but just in case you have some on hand or are crafty and decide to DIY make your own (there are lots of tutorials online), I recommend keeping some in your car along with flushable wipes or paper towels and using some every time you get back in your car after visiting a public or communal space.

I use it after I pump gas at the gas station, after I visit the grocery store, post office or any public place that I visit where I get back in my car afterwards. I use hand sanitizer while I am out and about any where washing my hands isn't an option. I keep it in the nook of the door of my car. In hotter temps, you may want to avoid keeping it in your car for prolonged periods of time, since if the alcohol in it evaporates in hotter temps, it can dilute the effectiveness of the hand sanitizer.

What steps are you taking to prevent getting the CoronaVirus COV-ID19??

Stay well everyone!
xoxo!
Aziza

Unexpected Ways to Save on Black Friday

2019-11-26T07:53:00.003-08:00

1. Shop online at home: you'll save money on gas, on other travel costs, avoid lines at stores and avoid wasting time in traffic.

2. Buy coupons to your favorite stores on ebay. Contact the seller of the coupons first to make sure they will work with you, but many times, once you purchase the coupons (only purchase the ones with a Buy It Now Option) the seller will email you the coupon code right away instead of mailing it to you so you can use it immediately.

3. Shop at your favorite retailers including amazon, ebay, sephora through Rakuten and get cash back!
Use my affilite link to sign up and automatically receive $10 added to your account. So far I've earned $58+ in cash back from purchases. I shop most often at Amazon and Anthropologie through Rakuten but there are sooo many more stores where you can get large % cash back and save big! Starting right now, you can even earn double cash back!

4. Only shop with a rewards credit card and get cash back. I personally love using my Capital One card because I love the gift cards that I'm able to earn and I can gift them to friends and family for the holidays. You can also use the cash back rewards to get a physical check in the mail or earn miles. Depending on the rewards card you choose, your purchases may be protected with insurance including travel insurance. Do your research and choose the best one for you!

5. Amazon prime: If you have an amazon prime membership, you can save 2% when you reload an amazon gift card using your checking account. You'll actually get 2% automatically added to your gift card balance once you reload it, so for instance if you reload $500, your total balance on the gift card will be $510.

6. If you value unique handmade or even personalized gifts, lots of etsy shops are having sales including mine. I'm having a pre-Black Friday/Cyber Monday sale of 20% off in my shop starting Now from 11-26-19 til 12-4-19. This applies to all items in my shop that are $10 or more. And, *Bonus*, the discount is automatically applied at checkout ;)

Happy Shopping!
xo
Aziza

5 Gift Ideas for Wine Lovers

2019-11-20T04:00:00.000-08:00

With the holidays quickly approaching, I decided to put together this list of some really cool wine themed gifts I recently found online.

These hand poured wine scented/ themed candles, and I love how the container looks like the bottom half a wine bottle... https://www.etsy.com/listing/640505576/3-piece-wine-bottle-candle-set-beautiful

These custom made wine bottle and wine glass carriers. I love the way they look like rustic tool bins that were converted to wine bottle carriers. You can get them personlaized here: https://www.personalcreations.com/product/-30209241

This list just wouldnt be complete if I didnt mention my very own wine lovers earrings. Available on my site: www.AzizaJewelry.com

This is pretty cool if you like collecting your corks as I kind of memory board. Available here: https://www.amazon.com/Wine-Enthusiast-Decorative-Catcher-Clock/dp/B074DXVKBR

A cute wine barrel lazy susan tray. Available for purchase here: https://www.amazon.com/Wine-Barrel-Lazy-Susan-Pinot/dp/B0194K76ZS

Thats it! I hope you've enjoyed my list and be sure to "follow" my posts if you want to keep in touch!

xo!

Aziza

Wine Pairings for Wine Lovers Jewelry

2019-11-19T06:00:00.000-08:00

My love affair with wine began in college- I was lucky enough to attend a college located amongst the many wine trails of the Catskills in upstate NY...some could say that as soon as I turned 21, I really had no choice but to LOVE wine. Lol.

Making wine themed jewelry is just my way of celebrating the fun of the wine culture and feeling fancy at the same time :)

A collection of wine and corresponding wine themed jewelry from the Aziza Jewelry wine lovers collection! Bonus: these pairings make a great gift combo. Trust me, they are any true wine lovers/ wine sommeliers' dream...

Padrillos Malbec - red currant fruit flavors, sweet spices, licorice and mouth coating velvety richness

this pairs nicely with my gunmetal wine earrings with *Bonus* moving grape

Alpha Omega Chardonnay - a nice buttery chardonnay featuring notes of ripe pear, fig, honeysuckle and honeydew melon.

to pair nicely with my simple buttery yellow gold filled wine earrings

This Riondo Pink Prosecco (one of my personal favorites)- fruity, floral notes, light refreshing and slightly bubbly

pairs nicely with my Rosé wine earrings

Chocolate Rouge- a decadent rich chocolate red wine

pairs nicely with my ever decadent rose gold and garnet red wine earrings

Pol Roger Champagne, rumored to be a favorite of the royals including Harry and Megan and Will and Kate, has notes of berries and citrus while still being crisp

pairs nicely with my champagne lovers earrings with genuine citrine

Thats all for my wine, champagne and rosé pairing recommendations for now. I hope you have enjoyed my recommendations and if you try these pairings, please do let me know... I'm curious as to how they will be enjoyed by their recipient. :)

Happy Wine-ing!

xo!

Aziza

p.s. if you want to follow me on Instagram, that'd be cool: instagram.com/azizajewelry

How To Stop Losing Earrings (4 Easy Tips to Avoid Losing Earrings)

2019-11-18T04:30:00.000-08:00

How To Never Lose Earrings Again:

I often get requests from customers to remake 1/2 pair of earrings they have lost. And because I have not lost an earring in many years, I wanted to share a few tips I've been using to prevent earring loss in the first place.

1. Always store your jewelry in the same place. A jewelry box or small tray designated for your jewelry always kept in the same location, such as by a nightstand or on top of a dresser, is a great place to store it to ensure you always know where it is.

*Places NOT to store Earrings:*
A. Bathroom: Avoid storing jewelry in the bathroom, on or near your vanity because... drains! A sink or bathtub along with watery, slippery surfaces make for a bad combo. Also another thing to note: consistent moisture that resides in a bathroom setting easily tarnishes and turns (rusts) jewelry that isn't solid gold or otherwise tarnish free over time.

B. Necklace Rack: Avoid storing earrings (or necklaces or bracelets) on a necklace rack with hooks because the strain from gravity can distort and even tangle earrings unknowingly. Side note; Gravity strains on the point of contact where your necklace or bracelet lies on the hook weakening that point of your necklace over time and can lead to chain kinks and tangles down the line.

2. Use Clear Rubber Ear stoppers on the backs of dangle earrings to hold them in place on your ears.

3. When going clothes shopping or going somewhere that you will be removing clothing over your head or changing your clothes frequently, store your earrings in a transportive polybags or a jewelry pouch like this one.

4. When possible, avoid wearing earrings to bed, as it is easy to distort them while tossing and turning during sleep. Also try to avoid wearing earrings while exercising or doing intense physical labor, as they can easily slip and fall off without you even noticing. Also avoid wearing earrings in the shower, pool or hot tub or any sitting water environment as running water can lead to them slipping off and falling down a drain.

If you'd like to see a shortened version of this guide in a video format, check it out on my youtube channel here: youtube.com/AzizaJewelry

So, these are all of the tips I have for you today. If you guys have any questions, please feel free to leave them below.

See you next time!
xo!
Aziza

More jewelry available over at: www.AzizaJewelry.com

TOP 3 Reasons to Shop Online for Black Friday

2019-11-17T06:00:00.000-08:00

Now that I live in the mountains of Asheville, North Carolina, I have to drive to the (very small with a limited selection) mall during the bitter cold winter months if I want to stock up on my fave designer clothes, replace my fancy dept store brand makeup and restock my favorite perfume...

If like me, you loathe cold winter temps and live in a somewhat small-ish town, but still need to shop, what do you do?

Shop Online, of course!

Here are my Top 3 Reasons to Shop Online for Black Friday:

1. You'll Avoid Long Lines: You can avoid wasting time driving in traffic, avoid exhaustion from waiting in long lines in stores, and *bonus* avoid getting into a fight with the little old lady who cut the line right in front of you just after she swiped in and stole your spot in the parking lot earlier.

2. You'll Save Money: on gas driving to and from, on money for the bus, train or subway. Save money on food and drinks, because all of that walking and driving (and fighting little old ladies) can get exhausting and you'll inevitably need to refuel.

But if I shop online... what about the shipping fees, you may ask? Many retailers offer free shipping with minimum purchases. I myself have a small $35 minimum purchase fee in my shop for my free shipping guarantee right now. But even without Free Shipping, try to look at a shipping fee like a small convenience fee. Shopping online and getting your packages delivered to your door is really a huge convenience!

3. Shop Online and Earn Money! When you shop at your favorite stores online (including Amazon, Ebay, Saks, Kate Spade, The GAP, and More) through Rakuten.com (formerly known as Ebates), you can literally earn money every time you shop! AND, Bonus! My affiliate link gets you an automatic $10 just for joining.
https://go.ebat.es/AZIZA118

So far I've earned $58+ as you can see in the top right corner of the screen and I JUST joined.

You can opt to receive the money earned via PayPal, or have it applied as an account balance at one of your favorite online retailers or opt to receive a physical check in the mail. Honestly, at first I was skeptical, but I've already received a check in the mail and thats all it took to make me a believer!

There are many many stores to shop through Rakuten. Some of my current favorites are Sephora, Amazon, and Ebay.

Happy Shopping!

xo
Aziza

Will Gold Filled Jewelry Turn My Skin Green?

2018-11-01T17:56:00.000-07:00

I get asked this question all the time: "Will gold filled jewelry turn my skin green?"

As someone who wears my own 14k gold filled jewelry, my honest answer is Absolutely NOT! Unlike gold plated jewelry, 14k gold filled jewelry will not turn on your skin. This is because gold filled is comprised of many many many more layers of real gold than gold plated metal. Gold plated jewelry has the reputation of turning on skin because it is made from a thin layer of gold which is electroplated to alloy metals. With gold filled metal, however, there are many thousands of solid gold layers which are heat bonded to the alloy metals, making a much more solid bond.

I honestly have not gotten one single email or message from a customer complaining that their gold filled jewelry turned their skin green or any other color or that it stained their clothes. You will also notice that this is why generally gold filled jewelry is more expensive than its gold plated counterpart.

So... why is 14k gold filled so much cheaper than 14k solid gold then?
The straight answer is because even though it will not turn on your skin, it will tarnish over time. It may take years or decades but if its not stored properly and not lightly polished instead of vigorously polished, it will tarnish a lot quicker. Gold filled is also cheaper because unlike with solid gold, it is not intended for wear everywhere all the time. It is not intended for daily wear at the gym, while playing sports, in the shower or pool.

14k solid gold on the other hand can withstand hard polishing, being worn in the shower and pool and it can withstand wearing while playing sports, although I DO NOT recommend doing any of these while wearing jewelry. While you can wear 14k solid gold in harsh environments, jewelry can still loosen over time and accidentally slip down a shower drain or down a sink drain or pool drain. While playing sports, or doing any kind of rough activity while wearing jewelry, chain links, clasps and catches can easily break or become damaged. This is even more true for delicate chains or fine jewelry set with prongs or in tension settings, etc.

All jewelry needs a chance to breathe and I never recommend any piece of jewelry be worn 24/7 as this will lead to the breakdown of the jewelry item much quicker. Even if just taking it off overnight, your jewelry will get a break from the natural oils produced by your skin and from friction caused by tossing and turning at night.

So, whats better...gold filled or solid gold? Well, the color of the metal is usually the same for both, but the benefit of gold filled is that its cheaper but will tarnish over time and solid gold is much more expensive but will pass the test of time and generally not tarnish as quickly. Solid gold also will not corrode but it will patina over time which will make it a slightly darker or richer gold color.

I hope this article was helpful in your jewelry buying decision. And, as always, you can purchase my 14k gold filled jewelry and 14k solid gold jewelry in my shop here

Happy Shopping!

xo!

Aziza

Peridot to Attract Love and Wealth

2018-08-07T16:28:00.002-07:00

Peridot, the birthstone for August is also said to attract love and wealth. Other healing properties of this gemstone include:

-enhances growth, change, confidence
-helpful in resolving matters of the heart
-boosts motivation
-increases vitality

Maybe you're shopping for someone who has a Birthday in August, or just loves the gemstone and its properties. Either way, here are some new pieces in my shop featuring this brilliant gemstone.

A custom gemstone name necklace in sterling silver:

A custom loved bracelet in 14k gold filled surrounded by peridot:

Lovely worn as stacking bracelets in two's:

Or threes...

This wine glass necklace features a peridot grape cluster

A fun pair of emerald, chalcedony, peridot mixed gemstone earrings

This is just a portion of whats available in my shop and, as usual, I am always open to custom requests. Happy Shopping! :)

Aziza

Jewelry Repair Service Q+A

2018-02-02T16:54:00.000-08:00

Hi All!

Did you know I offer jewelry repair? Yes, I do! Many customers have either delivered their cherished jewelry to me over the years or mailed it in to me for repair. I can help with both options!

To help streamline this process, or if you're just thinking about having me repair something for you, I created a FAQ below. If you have any questions that haven't been answered below, feel free to email me

Q. What kind of jewelry repair do you offer?
A. Restringing, wire wrapping, re-glueing, changing a clasp, adding a clasp, adding charms, changing an elastic band to a regular cord, re-knotting pearls, malas, repurposing old jewelry and I am open to work with you to create a custom design from something that was broken, damaged, etc.
I restring semi-precious gemstones, pearls, metal beads, glass, wood beads, plastic, etc. I repair earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and ankle bracelets. I also offer a polishing, cleaning and detangling service. Although, please be forewarned, detangling can get quite expensive as I charge by the hour for this one! If you want more information on how to prevent chains from tangling, check out this blog post that I wrote a while back or this short video
**Also a quick note about polishing; certain metals should not be polished professionally such as silver plated, gold plated, or gold filled. Why, you ask? Because the top layer(s) can quickly erode or be polished right off, leaving the base metal exposed and ruining your gorgeous jewelry. Instead, I suggest a light gentle polish with a soft cloth at home and proper storage to prevent these specific metals from tarnishing. More info about that is available here in this short video I made recently. :)

Q. What kinds of jewelry repair do you NOT offer?
A. I do not solder metal or work with fine gemstones such as diamonds, rubies, emeralds, etc. in prong or band settings. Generally speaking, I usually do not repair or re-size rings, as this usually requires cutting and soldering (metalsmithing). If you have a thicker chain like a snake chain or wheat chain where the chain is soldered directly and the clasp needs to be re-soldered, I cannot repair it for you.

Q. I lost an earring and am wondering if you can make the other half, even though you didn't design these earrings. Can you help me?
A. Hmmm... thats a tricky one, but definitely email me and I'll see if I can help :) It will depend on how it was made and if I carry the materials in my inventory or have access to them. Unique hand cut gemstones will be extremely difficult for me to try and match. Be ready to send a clear picture taken in natural daylight of the 1/2 you have on hand.

Q. Where are you located?
A. I live in the US, in Coastal North Carolina on a small island, called Topsail Island.

Q. How can I get my jewelry to you?
A. If you live in the area, we can arrange for drop off and pickup, however if you live farther away, you can mail your jewelry to me and once I repair it, I will mail it back. You will need to pay for return shipping including insurance in addition to the cost of the repair.

Q. How much do you charge?
A. Restringing for small jobs starts at $5 and up.
Q. Seriously?
A. Yes, seriously!! :) However, this is not including the cost of the cord or elastic, string or wire I will use. Thats a very modest estimate, btw. :) Email me, for more info about your specific piece or project. Re-designing, re-knotting and other custom jobs are more expensive and I can give you a more detailed estimate once we've talked a bit more about your specific project.

Q. Can you re-create something that another designer made?
A. Out of artistic integrity, I try not to copy another designers work, however, if you have 1/2 of a lost pair of earrings or something else thats incomplete because you lost part of it, I am open to working with you to complete a project or re-create that missing half.

Q. How can we streamline the process so its super easy for you to quickly repair something for me?
A. Please have access to email, be able to check email regularly and have access to a camera or camera phone if you have something specific you would like me to repair. Please be aware that once we have agreed that you will send me items to be repaired, I will expect payment to be made online via PayPal, VenMo or Cash App. I cannot accept cash or checks in the mail as we will finalize the cost once the item(s) have arrived and are in my possession. Payments will be expected before work has begun.

Q. Do you offer refunds?
A. Once I have started working on your repair or re-design, I cannot offer a refund. If however I have not begun working on it, I can definitely issue a refund. If you decide that you no longer want something repaired after you have sent it to me and before I have started working on it, I can send it back to you and you will not be responsible for any cost except return shipping which will always be via USPS Priority Mail unless you prefer UPS, Fed Ex, or a similar insured carrier.
Q. What if I get the item you repaired back in the mail and hate it?
A. I'm sorry, I still cannot offer a refund.

Q. What if I still want to get something repaired but I'm not sure I want to mail it to you? Or if I live internationally, can you still help me.
A. Feel free to do a google search for a local jeweler in your area that can help you :) International packages take longer to be delivered unless you use an international shipping service like UPS, FedEx or DHL and I require insurance be added onto your package in case anything happens to it during transit. However, if you live outside of the US, I strongly recommend you find a local jeweler to help with your jewelry repair to save cost, time and efficiency.

Q. You did an AMAZING job repairing my jewelry and I want to leave a tip? How can I?
A. You can tip me via this link: paypal.me/azizajewelry oh and a Big THANK YOU in advance!

Any other questions, please email me here :)

xo!
Aziza

Birthstone Metaphysical Properties and New Fall Jewelry

2017-11-01T17:05:00.000-07:00

Hello Fall! This year for Fall, I'm featuring more subtle and warmer toned gemstones.

This month I'm featuring Citrine, one of November's most beautiful birthstones; with new earrings and bracelets pictured below.

Citrine is said to bring abundance and open the higher mind to bring joy into one's life. And if you've ever wondered what the metaphysical properties of other gemstones and birthstones are as well, keep reading to the bottom of the page where I've detailed the birthstones I carry in my shop and their meaning...

Besides Citrine, check out other new Fall cozy colored gemstone earrings and necklaces like these watermelon tourmaline earrings and necklaces:

The list below is of some traditional and alternative birthstones that I carry in my shop and their properties:

In addition, some of my jewelry combines many gemstones together. Combining the gemstones, as you can see in the round gold gemstone hoops above, amplifies their power.

A few of these rainbow hoops, other earrings, necklaces and bracelets are below:

Happy Fall!

~Aziza

p.s. for styling tips and to see behind the scenes, follow my story on instagram here: instagram.com/azizajewelry

Peridot for August

2017-08-07T07:30:00.000-07:00

Happy August! Peridot is the official birthstone for August and what a beauty it is! The lime green gemstone is said to promote joy, renewal and love. It is also said to help you move forward and release the past.

Check out the newest peridot bracelets, necklaces and bracelet sets pieces I have just added to the shop below...

Sterling silver wine goblet with peridot grapes cluster necklace

Stacking gemstone word bracelets

Peridot bar necklace

and of course theres a few others to check out over at: www.AzizaJewelry.com

Happy Shopping!

Aziza

Aziza Jewelry Retail Stores List for 2017

2017-07-25T12:11:00.001-07:00

Aziza Jewelry is now located in Wilmington, NC!!

If you would like to find out where to purchase at local shows please be sure to follow this blog or join my mailing list for an update on local shows here: http://eepurl.com/gLcTn

The following is an updated Retail Stores list for Summer 2017 where you can purchase Aziza Jewelry locally here in Wilmington, NC, throughout the US and now in Melbourne, Australia:

Alabama
Domaine South, 110 Cleveland Ave NW, Huntsville, AL 35801

California
Folio Press and Paperie, 301 Motor Way, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Haven A Boutique, 414 First St, Woodland, CA 95695
Pigment, 3801 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104

Kansas
The Dresser, 152 S Penn St, Oberlin, KS 67749

Kentucky
Cork & Barrel Bourbon Store, located inside Blue Grass Airport, 4000 Terminal Dr. Ste. 206, Lexington, KY 40510

New York
Brooklyn Historical Society, Dumbo Annex, 55 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201

North Carolina
Crescent Moon, 24 N Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401

South Carolina
Four Green Fields Gallery and Gifts, 117-A Central Ave, Summerville, SC 29483

Texas
Little Eclectic House, 15507 Mueschke Rd, Cypress, TX 77433

Virginia
Stone Tower Winery, 19925 Hogback Mtn Rd, Leesburg, VA 20175

Questions? Email me here

Memorial Day Quickie Sale

2017-05-28T08:48:00.000-07:00

Celebrate Memorial Day with me!

SHOP NOW

Also, a few newbies just added to the shop...

Aquamarine Sterling Silver Hoop Earrings

Rosé Wine Lovers Earrings

Sterling Silver Wine Goblet Necklace in Red or White Wine

Sterling Silver 2.5mm Dot Stud Post Earrings

Happy Memorial Day and Happy Shopping!

xo!

Aziza

5 Gift Ideas for Brooklyn Mamas

2017-05-22T14:53:00.000-07:00

1. Matching mom and baby no sleep til Brooklyn Tee and Onesie:

https://www.etsy.com/listing/91043120/no-sleep-til-brooklyn-baby-one-piece

https://www.etsy.com/listing/108920892/no-sleep-til-brooklyn-heathered-slouchy

2. Brooklyn Mama necklace available for sale at: The Brooklyn Historical Society in Brooklyn, NY, in gold and rose gold. The gold, rose gold AND sterling silver Brooklyn Mama necklace can be ordered here: www.AzizaJewelry.com

https://www.etsy.com/listing/512251296/brooklyn-mama-necklace-rose-gold

https://www.etsy.com/listing/511804940/brooklyn-mama-necklace-sterling-silver

3. A date trip to brooklyn winery or homemade cocktails made from brooklyn winery rosé

http://bkwinery.com

4. Perfect for the mom with younger kids- stroller and buggy board companion- lascal buggy board maxi. Moms little helper can ride on the back of the stroller and make moving through the bustling city a bit easier for mom. Plus its fun for your growing tot!

5. For the creative mom, a glass blowing class at Urban Glass. You can purchase a gift certificate in any amount for any type of glass class, whether its mosaic, glass blowing or bead making. Its an awesome facility with lots of options for classes- I should know- I used to teach glass bead making there many moons ago there, so definitely tell them I sent you!

Aziza Jewelry in Retail Stores for Mother's Day

2017-04-21T12:08:00.002-07:00

Mother's Day is coming up in just a few weeks! Are you ready?
Here are a few new pieces in my shop just in time for Mom's special day on May 14th, 2017:

All of the above pieces are available at: www.AzizaJewelry.com.
If you'd like to shop my collection in person, check it out at these retail stores in the US:

California
Pigment: 3801 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104
Folio Press and Paperie: 301 Motor Way, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Kansas
The Dresser, located at: 152 S. Penn, Oberlin, KS 67749

New York
Brooklyn Historical Society: 128 Pierrepont St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
hip-kid: 77 S. Greeley Ave., Chappaqua, NY, 10514

North Carolina
Crescent Moon: 24 N Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401

South Carolina
Four Green Fields Gallery: 117 Central Ave, Summerville, SC 29483

Texas
Little Eclectic House: 15507 Mueschke Rd, Cypress, TX 77433

Virginia
Stone Tower Winery: 19925 Hogback Mountain Rd, Leesburg, VA 20175

my pieces on display at Folio Press and Paperie in Santa Barbara, CA

If you have a favorite local retailer that you would like to see Aziza Jewelry sold at, please let me know! I'd love to make that happen!

Happy Shopping! And please be sure and tell them I sent you!
xo
~Aziza

Valentine's Day Jewelry for 2017

2017-02-14T04:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day 2017! This year for Valentine's Day, I've designed some new love related pieces to wear or to gift to that special friend, girlfriend, sister, wife or grandmother.

New XO necklace in gold

New Sterling Silver Name Necklace with a Heart Charm

New Rose Gold Love you more Necklace

New Gold Name Necklace with Small Hammered Heart Charm

New Rose Gold Name Necklace with a Swirly Heart Charm

Dangling Sterling Silver Heart Charm Necklace with Pink Swarovski Crystal

These aren't that new (they were introduced to my shop in November) but I think they're an awesome V-Day gift: Mother-Daughter Sterling Silver and Gold Heart Studs and Pendant Gift Set

A twist on my XO post earrings: New X<3 a="" earrings="" eart="" gold="" in="" studs="">

And the same X<3 a="" earrings="" eart="" in="" silver="" sterling="" stud="">

My Sterling Silver Loved Necklace isn't new, but it goes very well with these X<3 a="" studs="">

Happy Shopping!

~Aziza

Last Minute Christmas Shopper? I've Got You Covered!

2016-12-16T07:30:00.000-08:00

Time is running out, so lets get right to it!

You've still got 3 days to shop with me for the Holidays over at AzizaJewelry.com.

I'm still taking orders for Christmas delivery until December 19th (at midnight EST)

AND to make things a little easier for you, I'm having a One Day Free Shipping SALE.

Just enter coupon code: FREESHIP at checkout and everything in my shop that you order today will ship for FREE!

And it will STILL arrive in time for Christmas!

Its my way of letting you know I got you covered if you're a last minute shopper like me! :)

But hurry, this code is only valid today!

Happy Shopping!

xo
Aziza

p.s. Prefer to Shop My Jewelry in a Local Store instead?

Check out this List of Local Stores that carries Aziza Jewelry (and its been updated for Christmas 2016)

Black Friday/Cyber Monday Starts Now!

2016-11-25T00:26:00.000-08:00

***Update for Cyber Monday: Take an ADDITIONAL 15% off EVERYTHING with code: CYBERMONDAY at checkout***

It's the day after Thanksgiving in the states and I hope everyone had an amazing Thanksgiving (if you celebrate)! This year I enjoyed attending a rather large Friendsgiving (Thanksgiving amongst friends) and ate to my hearts content.

Normally I don't offer any huge sale for Black Friday or Cyber Monday, but for 2016, right now is a perfect opportunity for me to say THANK YOU to you my wonderful customers for all of the support over the years with the following bundle deals below with these items more than 20% off while encouraging you to shop early for the Holidays.

My 14k Gold Filled and Sterling Silver Mother/Daughter Heart Necklace Set w/ Matching Heart Studs:

Normally sold separately, these would total $98 but today, Black Friday through Cyber Monday, this set is just $78

Purchased separately, this Sterling Silver Initial Necklace and Matching Initial Studs Set would total $57, but packaged together, for this bundle deal, they are just $45

And the same Initial Set in 14k Gold Filled which would normally be $69, is now $55

This Custom Gold Name Necklace and Initial Studs Set is reduced from $80 to $58 and is available here:

And the Custom Silver Name Necklace and Initial Studs Set is reduced from $68 to $54 and is available here:

Happy Shopping! Have a Great Weekend and Talk to you soon...

Have questions? Message me here.

Aziza

What Do You Wear to a Wine Tasting?

2016-10-13T22:18:00.001-07:00

Are you planning an outing to your local Winery soon? If so, check out this wine tasting outfit inspired by rose quartz, one of the pantone colors of the year. I've combined this airy light rose quartz color with taupe and burgundy to pull together a fall look while still feeling light and airy. I hope this inspires you to create your own classy, stylish Fall look for your Wine tasting/Winery outing. Be sure to check out the outfit details below.

Wine Tasting Outfit for Fall by azizabrowne featuring Rose Wine Earrings by Aziza Jewelry

Tee shirt / Chicwish open front cardigan / Hollister Co. denim jeans / Jeffrey Campbell open toe booties, / Coach tote handbag, / Michael Kors chronograph watch, / Ray-Ban mirror sunglasses, / Nordstrom pink scarve / Le Nom fedora hat / Wine Bottle and Cork Screw Earrings. Rose Gold by AzizaJewelry

Tropical Beach Resort Outfit

2016-08-03T10:15:00.000-07:00

Thinking about taking a last minute getaway trip to a tropical resort before the end of the summer? Below is everything you need for that last minute beach resort getaway. Scroll to the bottom for all of the details of where to get all of these gorgeous Tropical Beach Resort-Ready items.

Melissa Odabash White Tunic / Lazul Swim Top / Lazul Swimsuit Bottom / Coach Gracie Swagger Sandal / Luxe Beach Bracelet by Aziza Jewelry / Eric Javits White Floppy Sun Hat / Linda Farrow Mirrored Aviator Sunglasses

Happy Shopping!
xo
Aziza