March birthstones consist of a number of gems. Aquamarine is the modern choice, bloodstone the traditional, and jade the Mystical. In terms of astrology, the month of March overlaps two zodiac signs: Pisces and Aries. Pisces’s birthstones are amethyst, sapphire, rock crystal, and bloodstone; its planetary stone is aquamarine; and its lucky charm is amethyst. Aries’ birthstones, on the other hand, are bloodstone and diamond; its planetary stone is jasper; and all three stones are considered its lucky charms.

Aquamarine can be found in Brazil, Pakistan, India, Nigeria, Russia and the United States, especially in Colorado. It is usually made to undergo irradiation and heat treatment. Its color ranges from light blue to blue green and dark blue, depending on the amount of iron in the compound. With a hardness of 7.5 according to the Mohs Scale, its quality depends more on its transparency; the more transparent, the higher the quality (and also the more sparkle). Aquamarine rings are extremely popular nowadays and their usage as engagement rings is also on the rise among those of the younger generation. Aquamarine jewelry must be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a brush with soft bristles; home ultrasonic machines must not be used in doing so. The gems must be protected from scratches and blows and direct and prolonged exposure to the sun as the latter will cause the color to fade.

Because of the red spots from iron oxide deposits which is the reason for its being so-called, bloodstone is aptly associated in gemstone lore with blood, e.g. as the blood of Christ, making early Christians deem it a sacred stone; as filled with healing properties for bleeding and blood-related disorders. Also called heliotrope, it is often used in men’s jewelry as pendants and bead necklaces. The polish of the stone is generally removed if gotten wet. Bloodstone can be found in Australia, China, India, Brazil, and the United States, particularly Wyoming.

Jade is often turned into jewelry by carving the stone itself into pendants, earrings, bangles, bracelets, and even statues. It has two types: jadeite, which is the rarer one, found in Japan, Myanmar, and the United States, particularly California and Alaska, its highest quality known as the Imperial Jade; and nephrite, which is commonly used in Chinese carvings. Jade is believed to help achieve relaxation and gain visions of necessary tasks as well as the strength to do them. It is also believed to be the very essence of love in its concentrated form; some believe that a secret virtue of it is imbibed by the body when physical contact is made.

According to gemstone lore, any of the March birthstones when worn as a ring supposedly will allow the bearer to gaze at the gem and obtain its mystical powers (e.g. understanding and happiness from aquamarine). Of the March birthstones, aquamarine is the popular choice, believed to symbolize happiness and understanding. Bloodstone is a common pick because of its affordability more than anything else, while jade is a favorite among a handful of Asian cultures.

Technorati Tags: birthstones

We know that true happiness comes from within. Yet, often people say jewelry makes them happy. Is there any truth to this?

If you look into the French and Latin derivation of the word, jewel, it means “that which causes joy”. Historians are known to say that in prehistoric times jewelry was regarded as a symbol of happiness.

When birthstones were first created, they were to help you develop your strengths and lessen your weaknesses. As such, they have been used to create a more positive life.

For those that believe in gem therapy, many stones like poppy jasper and amber are used to help one be happier.

For us, jewelry is a reminder of the love from the person who gave it to us — which can even be the love from yourself. When thought of in this light, yes! Jewelry can make you happier by being a symbol of love.

See also:

• Using Jewelry To Help Your Goals

Charm Bracelet History

In ancient times, people wore charm bracelets or an amulet to drive away evil spirits or bad luck. In ancient Egypt, they believed that their gods could identify them when they died if they wore charms. Medieval knights wore charms to protect themselves in battle.

Queen Victoria wore charm bracelets and it started a fashion among the noble class in her time. Wearing charm bracelets is back in style again. After the movie Pirates of the Caribbean in 2006, charm bracelets using charms of swords, crosses, and skulls were dangling on many wrists. Since then, all types of charm bracelets are being worn and loved.

Types of Charm Bracelets

Traditional charm bracelets have become popular in both Europe and North America. This type of bracelet consists of a chain where you can add different beads or charms. The charms are gold, silver, or Murano glass and are interchangeable to allow the wearer to design her (or his) own look.

Italian charm bracelets, however, have flat links that hook together to form a bracelet. While traditional charms dangle, Italian charms feature individual pieces snapped flat onto the surface of the link. Italian charms use stainless steel backing with mostly flat design to on top for individuality. These charms don’t dangle and are less likely to get caught on things.

Many Styles – One Bracelet

One of the wonderful things about charm bracelets is that they are changeable, which make them versatile pieces of jewelry. They are popular and do not go out of style. As there are so many choices in charms, some people change their charms daily.

Tips for Choosing a Charm

Consider what you love. Do not just pick a kind of charm just because all others have it. Though it is not wrong to join a fad, be certain it something that truly speaks of your personality. In that way, you can carry it more confidently. Consider the occasion and the outfit you are going to wear. Try to be a trendsetter and find your own style. If you are planning to give one as a gift, consider the personality of the one who will wear it. Some women prefer to wear just a few simple charms; others prefer to have a wide variety chiming on their wrists. It is all a matter of taste.

Charms can be simple or fancy. Simple silver animal designs are very popular. If you love gold and diamonds you design a very elegant charm bracelet. Pick what suits you. Wearing charms can get you to smile if you add ones that represent activities you truly enjoy.

Technorati Tags: charm bracelet

Pisceans are very compassionate people. They are gentle in nature and very generous. Sometimes this generosity is abused by others. Yet, they don’t hold grudges against those who have harmed them. Generally they are some of the most beloved individuals because of their melodious personality. Pisces jewelry is created for these good natured individuals. Jewelries designed for them often emphasizes their uniqueness and creative personality. There’s an array of creative designs that you can choose from; watches, bracelets, necklaces, brooches, charms and rings. These jewelries are embossed with personalized designs and added with birthstones to signify its individuality.

Pisceans are romantic and they are inclined to being emotionally attached to someone they love. Their love for arts has emphasized their over romanticism. They are loyal and faithful to their loved ones. Because of their unwavering compassion for others, they have the tendency to carry the burdens for them just to alleviate them from their miseries. Pisceans are spiritual and that justifies their overwhelming kindness for others. Though sometimes used and abused they remain calm and placid.

These wonderful individuals deserve to be given back what they have shared and partaken to other people. Give them beautiful jewelry such as: watches and bracelets. Pisces jewelry is created uniquely for individuals according to their personality and nature. Zodiac gem stones of Pisces include Amethyst, Bloodstone, Rock Crystal and Sapphire. These precious gem stones are added accessories to enhance the beauty of the jewelry.

Though snow is covering many parts of the US, we know at some point of time it will stop. Flowers brighten one’s mood and one’s life. So sometimes, Flower jewelry can really brighten your day.

This week’s weekly favorite is a gorgeous Sterling Silver Gemstone Flower Ring that is sure to bring a smile to your face.

We love the wide band, the sparkling colors, and the affordable price! So bring a little cheer and delight that spring will be here sooner than you think.

Szul has a very nice sterling silver floating heart necklace that is just right for Valentine’s Day. It is affordable beauty.

3 Stone Ruby and Diamond Heart Pendant – $34 + FREE Shipping. The timing is great – but it is only on sale until February 8th.

So enjoy being love. A sweet heart awaits you.

As Valentine’s day is fast approaching, catching a fantastic Valentine’s Day jewelry deal is much appreciated.

Our favorite is: Ross-Simon’s Valentine’s Day Heart Jewelry. They have a beautiful heart charm bracelet on sale which is outstanding. Additionally, they are currently having a sitewide sale when you use jewelry coupon: SAVENOW.

We simply adore the gorgeous jewelry from Ross-Simons as it is very high quality from a name we trust. We are hoping you enjoy the sale too.

Technorati Tags: Valentine’s Day jewelry deal

If you were born in February, you know that Amethyst is the modern and the traditional birthstone. Though there are other birthstones, Amethyst is the most commonly accepted birthstone.

Amethysts are the violet variety of quartz, varying from a light pinkish violet hue to a deep purple. The name originates from the Ancient Greek “a-,” which means “not,” and “methustos,” which means “intoxicated,” in reference to the popular 15th-century Greek and Roman belief that wearing the stones and drinking wine from chalices and other drinking vessels made from amethysts prevent drunkenness. Greek mythology tells of the story of Dionysus, the god of wine and intoxication, who pursued Amethystos, a maiden who refused his affections and prayed to the gods to remain chaste. The goddess Artemis, hearing her request, granted it and transformed her into a white gem over which the wine god Dionysus, in awe of and humbled by the maiden’s commitment to chastity, poured wine as an offering, dyeing it purple in the process.

In reality the color of amethyst crystals can be attributed to ferric iron impurities, although it was previously believed to be because of the presence of manganese. When exposed to heat, the stones generally become yellow. Amethysts have traditionally been included in the most valuable or cardinal gemstones, but because of the discovery of extensive deposits in certain locations as Brazil their value has decreased. Of course, they are also found in many other places around the world including parts of the US as well.

So enjoy having a birthstone that is both beautiful and affordable. Amethyst jewelry is fantastic!

If you are thinking of giving a necklace as a gift, whether it’s a birthday present or a wedding gift to a friend or family member, picking a necklace that fits the style and taste of the person is crucial. You have to know what necklace works for this type of woman and what doesn’t. If you want her to wear it during special occasions or whenever she goes to school or work, you’re going to have to choose carefully depending on the person’s taste, preference, dress style, etc. In order to help you with your necklace shopping, this article discusses the four important steps in choosing the right necklace for yourself or as a gift for your family and friends.

Tips on How to Choose a Necklace:

• The first step is to decide how much you are going to spend for the necklace in question. If this is a necklace for everyday wear, then you can always keep the budget at a medium level. If it is meant to be worn for special occasions alone, then the budget’s going to have to go a little higher. Decide carefully since jewelry, particularly necklaces, can be expensive if you choose 14 kt gold or platinum.

• The next step is to figure out what necklace would fit the person’s sense of style. The necklace accentuates the person’s outfit, so you have to choose if the necklace is going to be a choker, a princess necklace, opera, uniform necklace, and the like. For example, collar necklaces are usually most suitable when wearing V-necks and off-shoulder tops. A woman who loves clothes with high necklines can wear princess necklaces.

• In relation to the previous tip, you can also choose based on the lifestyle of the person. If she’s, for example, a career woman doing executive work at a prestigious company, then you can get her a matinee necklace that will definitely enhance her appearance and boost her confidence. If the person you’re giving the necklace is planning on going to a formal dinner or gathering, you can get her an opera necklace that works with high necklines.

• Lastly, look into the craftsmanship of the necklace. Sure, posh necklaces with popular brands like Tiffany and Cartier are undoubtedly crafted well, but if you’re buying less expensive necklaces you have to make sure that the craftsmanship is good. You can tell by the strength of the necklace, if the locks don’t break easily, the links don’t open up (especially if they hold pendants), etc.

You don’t have to worry about where to find a good necklace or if there are necklaces that fit your criteria or expectations. Jewelers as well as ordinary sellers from all over the world are now venturing into e-commerce where they can find customers beyond their location and who are looking for jewelry and all kinds of precious accessories for different occasions. You’ll find those that concentrate on a certain theme, like religious or Celtic necklaces, or who cater to all styles and designs.

See also:

• How to choose a bracelet
• Tips for choosing earrings

As Valentine’s day is getting closer, it is helpful to save money when buying a gift. Getting a great gift at an affordable price is always appreciated.

Right now, you can save an Extra 30% Off Valentine’s Day Gifts making gifts very affordable. Many even have free shipping!

So splurge a little and get a reallynice gift at a wonderful price.