Watches and Jewelry

Diamond or Cubic Zirconia: Knowing the difference can save you money!

2010-12-18T09:29:00.000-08:00

So what is the difference between diamond and cubic zirconia? Why is cubic zirconia (CZ) quickly becoming more popular as a desirable substitute for diamond? Gemologists can agree that CZ comes closer than any other gem material to matching the characteristics of a diamond.

Most people, even trained gemologists, cannot tell the difference between diamond and CZ, with the naked eye. Moreover, to the untrained eye, CZ looks identical to a good quality diamond. However, under closer inspection, CZ appears to have slightly less brilliance (or sparkle) than a diamond, and more fire, or flashes of color.

CZs were originally developed by the Russians, for their space program. They were developed as an alternative to diamonds that were used in the optics of their lasers. CZs have a refractive index, dispersion and hardness so close to a diamond it's uncanny.

So what are some key features that can guide you in telling the difference between diamond and CZ? Do keep in mind, though, in order to accurately distinguish the two gems, gemological equipment such as microscope, or loupe, must be used for testing and verification.

To start, let’s take a look at the hardness factor: Did you know CZ ranges between 8.5 to 9.0 on the Mohs’ hardness scale whereas diamond, one of the hardest materials known to man, is rated 10, lying at the top of the hardness scale?

Furthermore, glass (or sand) is rated approximately 5 to 6 on the hardness scale, therefore, dust and dirt will not scratch CZ. Indeed, CZ can scratch glass just like regular diamonds, making it more resistant to chipping.

One great difference between diamond and CZ is weight. CZs are heavyweights in comparison to diamonds; a CZ will weigh approximately 1.75 times more than a diamond of equivalent size. So basically, a piece of CZ the same size as a one-carat diamond weighs about 1.75 carats. Well…isn’t that interesting?

Contemporary production of CZ is virtually flawless, whereas diamond usually contains impurities and inclusions, or have some sort of defect, be it a feather, included crystal, or perhaps a remnant of an original crystal face (e.g. trigons).

In regards to color—more precisely, the lack of color—only the rarest of diamonds are truly colorless, as most have a tinge of yellow or brown to some extent. By comparison, CZ in most cases can be made entirely colorless, equivalent to a perfect "D" on diamond's color grading scale.

Also, under close inspection with a loupe, the facet shapes of some CZs appear different from diamonds. Both gems disperse light a little differently. Dispersion is just a scientific term for the breaking up of light into its spectral colors. With a dispersive power greater than diamond (0.060 vs. 0.044), the more prismatic fire of CZ can be seen by even an untrained eye.

Dispersion occurs based on the gem’s refractive index. In this case, refractive index simply indicates how much a beam of light will bend, based on the direction in which it is traveling when it passes between two materials of different optical densities (such as between diamond and air; or between CZ and air). Being that CZ has a refractive index of 2.176, compared to a diamond's 2.417, diamonds are therefore said to be brighter than CZ.

Another difference between the two gems is that CZs are thermal insulators—meaning, they reduce the rate of heat transfer—whilst diamonds are among the most efficient thermal conductors—meaning, they allow heat to easily pass through them. Without testing the gems’ heat conductivity, it can be difficult to tell them apart.

Remember, it is a 50/50 guess to identify a gem by visual inspection; it is not a scientific method of authentication. That is why even certified and degreed gemologists use gemological equipment for testing and verification.

You will also be glad to know that CZs are not only durable and inexpensive, but just like diamonds, they come in any color of the rainbow, making them even more desirable.

There have been many instances to see if jewelers can tell the difference between diamond and cubic zirconia, just by examining the gems with the naked eye. Over and over again, it was inconclusive; jewelers could not tell the difference just by looking at the gems. So you can now understand why the difference between diamond and cubic zirconia rests in the price, and in the mind…

by: pennybest

History of Watches

2010-12-15T20:47:00.000-08:00

Watches evolved from portable spring driven clocks, which first appeared in the 15th century. Portable timepieces were made possible by the invention of the mainspring. Although some sources erroneously credit Nürnberg clockmaker Peter Henlein (or Henle or Hele) with inventing the mainspring around 1511, many references to 'clocks without weights' and two surviving examples show that spring powered clocks appeared in the 15th century. Henlein is also often credited with constructing the first pocket-watches, mostly because of a passage by Johann Cochläus in 1511

Peter Hele, still a young man, fashions works which even the most learned mathematicians admire. He shapes many-wheeled clocks out of small bits of iron, which run and chime the hours without weights for forty hours, whether carried at the breast or in a handbag and because he was popularized in a 19th century novel. However, many German clockmakers were creating miniature timepieces during this period, and there is no evidence Henlein was the first. Also, watches weren't widely worn in pockets until the 17th century.

1500–1600 Clock-watches

The first timepieces to be worn, made in 16th century Europe, were transitional in size between clocks and watches. These 'clock-watches' were fastened to clothing or worn on a chain around the neck. They were heavy drum shaped cylindrical brass boxes several inches in diameter, engraved and ornamented. They had only an hour hand. The face was not covered with glass, but usually had a hinged brass cover, often decoratively pierced with grillwork so the time could be read without opening. The movement was made of iron or steel and held together with tapered pins and wedges, until screws began to be used after 1550. Many of the movements included striking or alarm mechanisms. They usually had to be wound twice a day. The shape later evolved into a rounded form; these were called Nürnberg eggs. Still later in the century there was a trend for unusually shaped watches, and clock-watches shaped like books, animals, fruit, stars, flowers, insects, crosses, and even skulls (Death's head watches) were made.

It should not be thought that the reason for wearing these early clock-watches was to tell the time. The accuracy of their verge and foliot movements was so poor, perhaps several hours per day, that they were practically useless. They were made as jewelry and novelties for the nobility, valued for their fine ornamentation, unusual shape, or intriguing mechanism, and accurate timekeeping was of very minor importance.

1600–1657 Pocket-watches

Styles changed in the 17th century and men began to wear watches in pockets instead of as pendants (the woman's watch remained a pendant into the 20th century). This is said to have occurred in 1675 when Charles II of England introduced waistcoats. To fit in pockets, their shape evolved into the typical pocket-watch shape, rounded and flattened with no sharp edges. Glass was used to cover the face beginning around 1610. Watch fobs began to be used, the name originating from the German word fuppe, a small pocket. The watch was wound and also set by opening the back and fitting a key to a square arbor, and turning it.

The timekeeping mechanism in these early pocket-watches was the same one used in clocks, invented in the 13th century; the verge escapement which drove a foliot, a dumbbell shaped bar with weights on the ends, to oscillate back and forth. However, the mainspring introduced a source of error not present in weight-powered clocks. The force provided by a spring is not constant, but decreases as the spring unwinds. The rate of all timekeeping mechanisms is affected by changes in their drive force, but the primitive verge and foliot mechanism was especially sensitive to these changes, so early watches slowed down during their running period as the mainspring ran down. This problem, called lack of isochronism, plagued mechanical watches throughout their history.

Efforts to improve the accuracy of watches prior to 1657 focused on evening out the steep torque curve of the mainspring. Two devices to do this had appeared in the first clock-watches: the stackfreed and the fusee. The stackfreed, a spring-loaded cam on the mainspring shaft, added a lot of friction and was abandoned after about a century. The fusee was a much more lasting idea. A curving conical pulley with a chain wrapped around it attached to the mainspring barrel, it changed the leverage as the spring unwound, equalizing the drive force. Fusees became standard in all watches, and were used until the early 19th century. The foliot was also gradually replaced with the balance wheel, which had a higher moment of inertia for its size, allowing better timekeeping.

1657–1765 The balance spring

A great leap forward in accuracy occurred in 1657 with the addition of the balance spring to the balance wheel, an invention disputed both at the time and ever since between Robert Hooke and Christiaan Huygens. Prior to this, the only force limiting the back and forth motion of the balance wheel under the force of the escapement was the wheel's inertia. This caused the wheel's period to be very sensitive to the force of the mainspring. The balance spring made the balance wheel a harmonic oscillator, with a natural 'beat' resistant to disturbances. This increased watches' accuracy enormously, from perhaps several hours per day to perhaps 10 minutes per day, resulting in the addition of the minute hand to the face from around 1680 in Britain and 1700 in France. The increased accuracy of the balance wheel focused attention on errors caused by other parts of the movement, igniting a two century wave of watchmaking innovation. The first thing to be improved was the escapement. The verge escapement was replaced in quality watches by the cylinder escapement, invented by Thomas Tompion in 1695 and further developed by George Graham in the 1720s. In Britain a few quality watches went to the duplex escapement, invented by Jean Baptiste Dutertre in 1724. The advantage of these escapements was that they only gave the balance wheel a short push in the middle of its swing, leaving it 'detached' from the escapement to swing back and forth undisturbed during most of its cycle.

During the same period, improvements in manufacturing such as the tooth-cutting machine devised by Robert Hooke allowed some increase in the volume of watch production, although finishing and assembling was still done by hand until well into the 19th century.

1765–1800 Temperature compensation and chronometers

The Enlightenment view of watches as scientific instruments brought rapid advances to their mechanisms. The development during this period of accurate marine chronometers to determine longitude during sea voyages produced many technological advances that were later used in watches. It was found that a major cause of error in balance wheel timepieces was changes in elasticity of the balance spring with temperature changes. This problem was solved by the bimetallic temperature compensated balance wheel invented in 1765 by Pierre Le Roy and improved by Thomas Earnshaw. This type of balance wheel had two semicircular arms made of a bimetallic construction. If the temperature rose, the arms bent inward slightly, causing the balance wheel to rotate faster back and forth, compensating for the slowing due to the weaker balance spring. This system, which could reduce temperature induced error to a few seconds per day, gradually began to be used in watches over the next hundred years.

The going barrel invented in 1760 by Jean-Antoine Lépine provided a more constant drive force over the watch's running period, and its adoption in the 19th century made the fusee obsolete. Complicated pocket chronometers and astronomical watches with many hands and functions were made during this period.

1800–1850 Lever escapement

The lever escapement, invented by Thomas Mudge in 1759 and improved by Josiah Emery in 1785, gradually came into use from about 1800 onwards, chiefly in Britain; it was also adopted by Abraham-Louis Breguet, but Swiss watchmakers (who by now were the chief suppliers of watches to most of Europe) mostly adhered to the cylinder until the 1860s. By about 1900, however, the lever was used in almost every watch made. In this escapement the escape wheel pushed on a T shaped 'lever', which was unlocked as the balance wheel swung through its center position and gave the wheel a brief push before releasing it. The advantages of the lever was that it allowed the balance wheel to swing completely free during most of its cycle; due to 'locking' and 'draw' its action was very precise; and it was self-starting, so if the balance wheel was stopped by a jar it would start again. Jewel bearings, introduced in 1702 by Nicolas Fatio de Duillier, also came into use for quality watches during this period.

1850–1900 Mass production

At Vacheron Constantin, Geneva, Georges-Auguste Leschot (1800–1884), pioneered in the field of interchangeability in clockmaking by the invention of various machine tools. 1830 he designed an anchor escapement, which his student, Antoine Léchaud, later mass produced. 1839 he invented a pantograph allowing some degree of standardisation and interchangeability of parts on watches fitted with the same calibre.

Watch manufacturing really changed from assembly in watchmaking shops to mass production with interchangeable parts, as from 1854, pioneered by the Waltham Watch Company, in Waltham, Massachusetts. The railroads' stringent requirements for accurate watches to safely schedule trains drove improvements in accuracy. The engineer Webb C. Ball, established around 1891 the first precision standards and a reliable timepiece inspection system for Railroad chronometers. Temperature compensated balance wheels began to be widely used in watches during this period, and jewel bearings became almost universal. Techniques for adjusting the balance spring for isochronism and positional errors discovered by Abraham-Louis Breguet, M. Phillips, and L. Lossier were adopted. The first international watch precision contest took place in 1876, during the International Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia (the winning four top watches, which outclassed all competitors, had been randomly selected out of the mass production line), on display was also the first fully automatic screw making machine. By 1900, with these advances, the accuracy of quality watches, properly adjusted, topped out at a few seconds per day.

From about 1860, key winding was replaced by keyless winding, where the watch was wound by turning the crown. The pin pallet escapement, an inexpensive version of the lever escapement invented in 1876 by Georges Frederic Roskopf was used in cheap mass produced dollar watches, which allowed ordinary workers to own a watch for the first time; other cheap watches used a simplifed version of the duplex escapement, developed by Daniel Buck in the 1870s.

These improvements were mostly originated and applied in the United States, and as a result the American industry ousted that of Switzerland from its long-held position as worldwide leader in the low-to-middle-class market. The Swiss responded, towards the end of the century, by changing their emphasis from economy to quality.

1900–1920 Better materials

During the 20th century, the mechanical design of the watch became standardized, and advances were made in better materials, tighter tolerances, and improved production methods. The bimetallic temperature compensated balance wheel was made obsolete by the discovery of low temperature coefficient alloys invar and elinvar. A balance wheel of invar with a spring of elinvar was almost unaffected by temperature changes, so it replaced the complicated temperature compensated balance. The discovery in 1903 of a process to produce artificial sapphire made jewelling cheap. Bridge construction superseded 3/4 plate construction.

1920–1950 Wristwatches become popular

Patek Phillipe created the first wristwatch in 1868. In 1880 Constant Girard (Girard-Perregaux) develops a concept of wristwatches, made for German naval officers and ordered by Kaiser Wilhelm I of Germany. Two-thousand watches were produced, which represents the first important commercialization of wristwatches. For civilians the wristwatches did not yet become popular among men. At the beginning of the century wristwatches were mostly worn by women.

In 1904, Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos Dumont asked his friend Louis Cartier to come up with an alternative that would allow him to keep both hands on the controls while timing his performances during flight. Cartier and his master watchmaker, Edmond Jaeger soon came up with the first prototype for a man's wristwatch called the Santos wristwatch. The Santos first went on sale in 1911, the date of Cartier's first production of wristwatches.

During the First World War soldiers needed access to their watches while their hands were full. They were given wristwatches, called 'trench watches', which were made with pocket-watch movements, so they were large and bulky and had the crown at the 12 o'clock position like pocket-watches. After the war pocket-watches went out of fashion and by 1930 the ratio of wrist- to pocket-watches was 50 to 1. The first successful self-winding system was invented by John Harwood in 1923.

1950–1969 Electric watches

The second generation electric watches came out during this period. These kept time with a balance wheel powered by a solenoid, or in a few advanced watches that foreshadowed the quartz watch, by a steel tuning fork vibrating at 360 Hz, powered by a solenoid driven by a transistor oscillator circuit. The hands were still moved mechanically by a wheel train. In mechanical watches the self winding mechanism, shockproof balance pivots, and break resistant 'white metal' mainsprings became standard. The jewel craze caused 'jewel inflation' and watches with up to 100 jewels were produced.

1969–present Quartz watches

The introduction of the quartz watch in 1969 was a revolutionary improvement in watch technology. In place of a balance wheel which oscillated at 5 beats per second, it used a quartz crystal resonator which vibrated at 8,192 Hz, driven by a battery powered oscillator circuit. In place of a wheel train to add up the beats into seconds, minutes, and hours, it used digital counters. The higher Q factor of the resonator, along with quartz's low temperature coefficient, resulted in better accuracy than the best mechanical watches, while the elimination of all moving parts made the watch more shock-resistant and eliminated the need for periodic cleaning.

Accuracy increased with the frequency of the crystal used, but so did power consumption. So the first generation watches had low frequencies of a few kilohertz, limiting their accuracy. The power saving use of CMOS logic and LCD displays in the 2nd generation increased battery life and allowed the crystal frequency to be increased to 32,768 Hz resulting in accuracy of 5–10 seconds per month. By the 1980s, quartz watches had taken over most of the watch market from the mechanical watch industry.

Luxury Watches : An important accessory of your wardrobe

2010-12-06T04:16:00.000-08:00

Although the primary purpose of watches whether it be simple or luxury is to tell the time but more and more of today’s styles offer wonderful, additional benefits. There are watches that have magnetic compass displaying your position on earth using GPS technology, some serve as two-way radios and some even has small computers. While there are many watches that have increased their capabilities, to go above and beyond the latest technology to offer something more and they are the timekeepers that are built to last a lifetime. These premier watches are known as luxury watches that are not only functional but at the same time are also a wonderful addition to your wardrobe.

For quite a long time, luxury watches have been recognized as a symbol of a person’s status and standard of living. Branded watches like Rolex, Cartier, Patek Philippe, Movado, TAG Heuer, and also others seem to demand attention towards your wrist and then instant respect and admiration for the wearer. It could be said that owners of luxury watches feel proud of their authentic and sophisticated possession. You too an count yourself among them and experience the same feelings if you are fortunate enough financially to become an owner of such expensive watches that would add aura to your success and a precious jewel to your wardrobe.

Purchasing a luxury watch indeed requires a lot of investment, and so wise selection is required. Try to make out the difference between the different functionality, price and the brands available. For instance an automatic watch runs by the physical movement of the wearer’s wrist and will stop ticking if its usability is discontinued but comes back to life with shaking. They are also expensive. On the other hand a quartz watch runs on batteries and is usually less expensive than an automatic. Among the automatic watches a caliber automatic luxury watch is able to provide better precision than a standard automatic luxury watch. For instance during the continual wearing for one month a caliber36 automatic will be off by only 2 minutes where a standard automatic luxury watch will typically be off by 12 minutes. There is another point of distinction and that is a caliber 36 automatic will run for 50 days before it stops ticking whereas a standard automatic watch will run for 36 days. Price also plays an important role when selecting luxury watch. Higher the watch quality, the higher is the price. Brands no doubt play an important role and each brand tend to specialize in certain areas of timekeeping.

It can be very overwhelming trying to choose which will best meet your needs but take to choose a watch that fits your personality.

by : Cade123
from : http://articles.fjewelry.com
Tag : Watches Luxury

Truths About Tanzanite Gemstone

2010-11-29T02:23:00.000-08:00

1. Did you know that while other gemstones can be found naturally in more than one country, Tanzanite is mined only in Tanzania. This makes Tanzanite even more exclusive. More precious.

2. Although Tanzanite is a vivid blue gemstone which looks a lot like sapphire, aesthetically, it has an advantage over coveted sapphire. Tanzanite's strong trichoism properties makes this a very interesting gemstone. From some angles, it appears blue. From other angles, it appears purple or brownish yellow. The most prized tanzanite stones have a lilac hue overlaying the beautiful blue shade.

3. Tanzanite is a modern gemstone. The newest one in fact as it was discovered in 1967.

4. Tanzanite was made popular by Tiffany and Company. In fact, Henry Platt of the New York Jeweler, Tiffany gave Tanzanite its name. If you love Tiffany jewelry, tanzanite is a gemstone to get.

5. Tanzanite is a blue version of zoisite. It is not very hard, being 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale (diamonds are a 10 on the Mohs scale). Hence, tanzanite should be handled with care. Do not put clean it in an ultrasonic bath. Do not let it come into contact with acids.

6. Tanzanite has an beautiful aura of mystery, with its deep blue color and purplish (lilac to violet) hues that give it a mysterious aura. Both are very cool colors and look fabulous with black and silver and other cool shades. Unfortunately, the brownish yellow hue, the third color in the mix clashes with the other two and is considered undesirable. However that brownish shade can be made to disappear by heating the stone.

by : zooaha
Tag : tanzanite gemstone

Men's Watches - Utterly Useful, Vastly Virtual And Outragingly Occupying

2010-11-23T02:40:00.000-08:00

The basic purpose of watch is to tell the time and remind us to accomplish our work in the mentioned stipulated time. The vast majority of watches, especially those for men, are just plain even though they may be jazzed up with diamonds and such.

Unlike diamond studded watches, men's watches have the opportunity to stand out and make a statement being utterly useful, vastly virtual and outragingly occupying. Instead of being the member of the herd why don't you try to make your own image that is completely different. This will be difficult for and for those who would like to continue sticking to the same gold or silver watches or diamond-studded watches. You need to think out of the box and broaden your selection by targeting men's watches designed for purposes that is far beyond just telling time.

Men's designer watches are available now on online and offline market that are specifically designed to make a statement by suggesting to what you might be up to when you are outside your familiar environment, whether that be home or work. That is you another part of your character that is unknown to the people near you. So remember to purchase those watches that will enhance your temperament. Persuade buying designer watch that incorporated with special purpose such as those for aviators, or even better, check out dive watches next time for yourself or if you want to get one for presenting someone. Such watches will create an impression in the mind of the beholder that you are a bit daring, even a risk-taker who embraces challenges and things unexplored. The person wearing such watch will dictate another side of himself to the onlookers helping them to get a clear picture of that person reducing their curiosity about you activities. At least such watch will stop people to sort you into a particular position in a hierarchy or organization. Amazingly possessing such watch will give you a cool look and will keep the looker-on wondering.

So the next time you want a watch for yourself or want to get one for a guy, check out watches designed for diving, aviation, military, outdoors, sports, or other with special interests that will not only provide you with correct time but also will help you to make your own personal statement. You can also gift such designer watch that is sure to blow their mind. So buy one and feel the difference!

by: Christian123
from : http://articles.fjewelrystore.com/
Tag Watches

The Beneficent Secret of Stones

2010-11-21T05:27:00.000-08:00

Rocks, stones and crystals, precious or not have their own electromagnetic frequency. They contain a specyfic energy, express oneself by their color and inner structure. With all this, we don't like just all stones, but just those which enter into resonance with our enercetic field, sending us the energy that we need in that precise moment.

Gold, silver and copper

For the healing effect of the stones to be more intense, they must be carried into the right of energetics center that we have on our body, respectively, above ours heart or above ours neck, by all means direct on skin, because the energy and our heat amplifies the inner energy of the stone, and in the same time magnifying the efficiency.

The ear-rings with crystals balances the energy of our cerebral hemispheres, and the rings stimulates the power to the specific meridians to the hand that they are carried ( on the left hand they stimulates the reception of energy, and right hand the emission).

It is important to keep in mind that the recomanded metals for the stones mounting are silver, gold and copper, the others beeing energetic unstrung, reason for which they act as some power energetic vampires.

The compulsory purification

Before you use or carrie the stones, we recommend to purify them, in order to don't take over, negative power and his weak load, stored before they came into our possession.

For this it is enough to hold the stone a hour below strong water cold spurt, for choice of spring, or between 30 as far as 70 hours in brine. If you want a drastic purification, therefore either we keep 24 of hours the respective stone in bay salt either we bury it in earth on all of a lunar loop.

The flux of energy

Once we have purifyed is needfulness render our stone the positive energy.

Just expose it to the sun three day consecutive or exposit to the moon shine if is talking about opal.

Crystalotherapy

Crystalotherapy don't replace the pure medical methods of treatments but just potentiate and balance the power connections short cuted by the disease. Thus : Amethyst acts against the sleeplessness, of the anxiety and the fear and is recommended in diets, potentiate the debilitation in weight.

Aquamarine attenuates the sea sickness, the disturbances of urination and fool disposal.

The coral helps with us digestion, soothes the headaches and cures affections of the oral cavity.

The transparent quartz inducts get along with the life, and one light-tight silence and agreement.

The pink quartz reacts on the heart and the circulation and helps with the reconstruction after an affective traumata.

The diamond sweeps off the fogs and disclose the direction in life.

The jade inducts calm in moments of stress and emotive tension.

The pearls dissolves the hostilities and the bad continuations and strengthen the inner force and hope.

The emerald decreases the congestions and balance the internal energies.

Turquoise reacts on the lungs and the neck.

by : cojocariu
from : http://articles.fjewelry.com/
Tag : Jewelry

Rolex Ruling Models

2010-11-19T07:13:00.000-08:00

The Rolex models that ruled the watches history are:

Rolex Datejust 'Thunderbird' (model 1625) : The Datejust models were introduced with a coin edge bezel, which later were replaced by a new fluted bezel along with a larger crown. In the mid-50's, Rolex introduced the Datejust (model 6605) with the cyclops, or the magnifying bubble that is placed over the date on the watch's crystal. In 1956, Rolex released a Datejust model called the "Thunderbird" (model 1625). This watch featured a Turn-O-Graph gold Bezel.

Originally, Rolex offered the Datejust in 18kt yellow gold and after seeing much success, they were offered in stainless steel, white gold, or platinum. By1962 the two-tone Datejust models were in circulation. Also around this time, the Datejusts were offered with an option of a Jubilee bracelet, an Oyster bracelet, or a leather strap.

Additionally, Rolex replaced the original four-digit case reference number with a five digit number. Around this time, Rolex also introduced the Oyster date which is very similar to the Datejust, the only difference being 2mm smaller. By then, the Datejust offered the "midsize" which is 80% the size of the original.

Case Size: Mens: 36 mm, Midsize: 31 mm, Ladies: 26/29 mm
Lug Size: Mens: 20 mm, Midsize: 17 mm, Ladies: 13 mm

Submariner (model 6204) : Rolex underwent stringent experiments, testing the Submariner prototype in deep waters to a depth of 3,150 meters (10,336 ft). The watch withstood the hardest tests, having survived sub-zero temperatures, as well as the wear and tear of expeditions. Rolex launched the Submariner (model 6204) at the Basel Fair in 1954 although it is believed that it was actually released in late 1953 and was based on the Rolex Explorer. On the contrary, the name "Submariner" was not officially patented until around 1960. When introduced, the Submariner was powered by the A296 movement but was then replaced with the 1030 movement and Mercedes hands, which is more elongated than the modern day version. In 1955, model 6538 replaced 6204, and the 6205 by 6536 respectively. Model 6536 then became 6536/1, featuring a chronometer version of the 1030 movement. New Submariner models featured a new scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and an upgraded depth rating of 1,000 feet.

Case Size: (All models): 40 mm
Lug Size: (All models): 20 mm

Cosmograph Daytona (model 6239) : Rolex were forerunners in developing the Oyster and Perpetual. Thus, Rolex was not well known for pioneering chronographs. However the success of the Cosmograph impelled Rolex to be in the position of being the ultimate "sportsman's" watch. These watches soon adopted the name "Daytona" after being sought out by some of the biggest names in auto racing in one of the biggest racing communities of Daytona Beach, Florida. In the beginning, the Daytona's were available in two dials, either in black with silver registers or cream white with black registers. Soon, these dials adopted the name "Paul Newman" after he was seen wearing it in the movie "Winning".

Case Size: Men's (Early Models): 37 mm, Men's (Late Models): 40 mm, Men's (Late Models): 20 mm
Lug Size: Men's (Early Models): 20 mm

Rolex Day-Date (pink gold or rose gold) : The Basel fair, the new Day-Date model (model 6511) had a window at the 12 position spelling out the day of the week and the numbered date was shown at the 3 position. Initially introduced as a niche model, The first model (6511) lasted just over a year before it was replaced by 6611. This model featured the new and improved caliber 1055 movement with its free sprung Micro-Stella balance and was the first to be labeled "Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified". This statement guaranteed the watch to remain within + 3.0 seconds per day. With very little design changes over the years, the first modification to the Day-Date was the addition of the "hack" feature in 1972. This allowed the second hand to be stopped dead while the winding stem was completely pulled out, allowing the time to be synchronized with an accurate source. The Day-Date was available in 18kg gold or platinum.

Case Size: (All models): 36 mm
Lug Size: (All models): 20 mm

by : Melrose Jewelers
from : http://articles.fjewelrystore.com
Tag : Rolex Ruling

Diamond Earrings Can Be Matched To A Wide Variety Of Outfits

2010-11-18T17:31:00.000-08:00

As we all know that a diamond is forever and is also the hardest transparent substance that exists. Chemically it is the most unadulterated of all the gemstones composed of a single pure element. No wonder why diamond holds a dominant position in the market among the most valuable and expensive precious stones in existence and symbolizes strength, purity of spirit, and even physical chastity.

Diamond is used for making rings, bracelets, earrings and many other things. Ornaments made of diamonds enhance person's beauty and endurance. Among the different ornaments, earrings are the most important ornament that reveals thoughts of style, elegance and beauty of the wearer. The history of earrings has been around for nearly as long as when women and men started to groom themselves. Traditionally, a ring of gold, silver or other durable metals were worn through the earlobe by way of a piercing in the center of the lobe or by clipping but the popularity of earrings in this modern society especially diamond earrings has increase lately and is mostly preferred by the women. Diamond earrings are now considered as the best friend of a woman their ornament box looks incomplete in the absence of a variety of ear rings that are appropriate for different occasions. Women use earrings as fashion accessories, and they can be matched to a wide variety of outfits from formal evening attire, to more casual jeans or even a business suit. Whichever styles of you opt for diamond earrings, all of it represent classic style and elegance and also make a perfect gift for anyone near to your heart.

Diamond earrings are given different kinds and shapes like diamond hoop earrings, diamond heart earrings, drop diamond earrings and much more. Each of which are eye catcher. While shopping for diamond jewelry always make an effort to remember four C's that are mainly constructed for diamond and is applied when crafting the finest diamond ornaments. They are cut, color, and clarity and carat weight. Diamond earrings with all the four characteristics are considered the best that speak out the wearer's high-class taste and love for things of beauty. The more is the reflection of light from the surface of the diamond the more it sparkles which provides additional beauty to your whole get up. Even your ear will feel proud to possess such a beautiful diamond piece catching the attention of the onlookers otherwise who cares to look at your ears.

Nowadays, diamond earrings have been a symbol of classic taste and style and are the most desired jewels in the world, and are renowned for their dazzling light and luster and have proven itself to make the perfect stone to beautify the lobes of women all over the world.

by : Christian123
from : http://articles.fjewelrystore.com/
Tags : Diamond Earrings

Omega Watch : It Is Different !

2010-11-17T23:06:00.000-08:00

Throughout its 150-year history, Omega has consistently played the role of pioneer in the field of watch making and most amazingly their pioneering spirit stretches out to fields as varied as the exploration of the universe to the exploration of the ocean's depths. Their skillfulness is also called upon for timekeeping the world's most prestigious sporting events. With its unique design and immaculate exactness, Omega has maintained its popularity and appeal for generations.

Founded in 1848 by Louis Brandt, Omega was borne on principles sticking by technical artistry and precision timekeeping Omega's reputation for perfection in timekeeping has earned the brand international respect. There is no doubt that promotions by the famous and rich have aided to furnish Omega watches with the fame, which they still possess today. One of the most important endorsements came from the astronauts of the first mission to the moon where NASA chose Omega Speedmaster Professional Chronograph for the moon mission. It was uncertain originally how the mechanical movement watches would operate in zero gravity conditions and fortunately the Omega Speedmaster came through with flying colors and was selected for the wristwatch of choice on all future manned missions. Astronaut Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong was selected by NASA as an early astronaut was the first to set foot on the moon, wearing Omega Speedmaster and making it the first watch on the moon.

After undergoing exhaustive testing, the Speedmaster Professional aced the acid test and was recommended by NASA for all manned space missions. It is reliable in all atmospheric conditions and for its manual-winding c.1861 movement which functions in the weightlessness of space. It also features a chronograph that can measure accurately down to 1/5th of a second and a tachometric edge that surrounds the shock-resistant hesalite crystal and permits the accurate measurement of speed. Similarly Speedmaster X-33 was an excellent launching made by Omega, designed in coordination with American and European astronauts, Russian cosmonauts, and professional flight crews. It incorporates the cutting-edge technical functions required by the top specialists in manned space missions such as analog time, digital time, day/date, mission elapsed time, mission alarm, Greenwich Mean Time, GMT alarm, chronograph, countdown timer, rotating bezel, and ergonomic controls.

Both the watches launched by Omega is flight certified by NASA for the next 100 Space Shuttle missions and for the eventual manned mission to Mars. Both the watches are also referred by different name just for their reliability and for the events they witnessed and are related to. the Speedmaster Professional is referred to as the "Moon Watch", and the Speedmaster X-33 the "Mars Watch"

by : Christian123
from : http://articles.fjewelrystore.com/
Tags : Omega Watch

Tips on Taking Care of Your Cubic Zirconia Jeweley

2010-11-16T23:38:00.000-08:00

When cubic zirconia is set in gold or sterling silver, it can be worn everyday without any damaging effects. Of course the exceptions are as follows.

Make-up, face and body powder and lotions can also cause the shine of the cubic zirconia to dull. So remove your cubic zirconia jewelry before coming in contact with any of these products.

Polish your cubic zirconia jewelry with a soft cotton towel or a chamois skin cloth in between cleanings.

We all get business with various projects and responsibilities, so it is not uncommon for the cleaning of our jewelry to slip through the cracks. Have you caught yourself at the last minute of getting ready taking a couple of minutes to clean your jewelry before you put them on to go out for the evening? All jewelry requires regular cleaning and proper care to maintain their beauty. So, set aside one day a week, every two weeks, or every month to attend to the cleaning of all your jewelry. You will be amazed at the results, and you won't have to worry about what condition they will be in when you choose them to wear for a special occasion.

Cubic zirconia jewelry and diamonds jewelry

Since coming to the world's attention in the 1830s, diamonds in has been a favorite of stones for jewelry. Not everyone can afford to buy diamonds, so the search for the best man-made version has been battled for years. Cubic Zirconia is considered to be the best man-made diamond for jewelry on the market today.

There are other synthetic diamonds used in the market today to replace diamonds in jewelry settings. The moissanite is a mineral created by a laboratory as a good diamond replacement stone. It was introduced into the market in the 1990s. It has become the choice of some for their fine jewelry collection. There are those who prefer moissante to cubic zirconia. The moissante match diamond in the hardness of the mineral, but there is a downside. The cost is about $500 per carat and the moissante does not have the brilliance and fire of a diamond or the cubic zirconia.

The Russian cubic zirconias used in jewelry are hand picked from the highest quality raw stones, hand cut by master cutters and hand polished. The specifications used for each of the Russian cubic zirconias are the same as those set down by the Gemological Institute of America for diamonds.

For my money, I will take a cubic zirconia jewelry over the other synthetic diamond jewelry any day.

by : michel123
from : http://articles.fjewelrystore.com/
Tag : Zirconia Jeweley

Eye-Catching Watches : A Perfect Blend Of Design And Function

2010-11-16T19:17:00.000-08:00

A watch is use to see time but they have definitely changed over time. The whole function of watch representing time has at present one added function and that is it has also become a popular fashion statement.

The fashion industry now offers a watch sets with interchangeable bands and faces and this has appealed the consumers all over the world because you can have a watch that matches any outfit without having to purchase several of them. With a single watch you can do with different outfits just changing the band and the face. It is an easy way for both men and women to change their watch frequently to match their outfits. What can be easier way to accessorize your outfits in no time, look stylish, and also know what time it is by simply hanging the band and the face?

Watches are available in a wide spectrum of prices so if you really enjoy watches, you can buy several inexpensive ones to build up your collection quickly and if you are financially well build and desire to become a proud owner of at least one expensive designer watch then you go for those watches studded with precious stones that will surely make your wrist glow with more added functionality. Today’s jewelry watches extend much further no more confined to wrist but they are seen featured in rings, necklaces and even bracelet.

Watches can also be digital and it is easier for younger people to read the time. Some watches features the hour and minute only while others feature a second hand as well. Gradually with time, some new functions has been added to make the watch more useful and some more to be added in the near future. For instance there are watches that have a light on them so you can see your keyhole in the dark, even some feature an alarm in the case of a medical emergency or if you feel you are in danger. Even there are watches that are voice activated and tell the time were initially designed for those with vision impairments.

People of all ages use watches, even smaller children and it is one of the most important essentialness of life. Because we live in a very fast paced society where every work is to be accomplished in its stipulated time and for this we need watch to perform it successfully otherwise we would live topsy–turvily. Having a watch can really help with keeping a person on schedule for instance; children to pick up, dinner to make, errands, to run, going for jobs, etc. Therefore one could say that watches available in the market wit a perfect blend of design and function can make a watch eye-catchy.

by: Christian123
from : http://articles.fjewelrystore.com
Tags : Eye-Catching Watches

Waterproof Watches

2010-11-15T15:28:00.000-08:00

So you are looking to buy a watch, or more importantly a waterproof watch? There are many things to consider to determine what the best watch is. The most important thing that makes a water resistant is the lining used to make the airtight seal keeping water out of the watch. A sealant is also used on the outer edges as another barrier to keep the water out. Diving watches use thicker materials to help bear the pressure of lower depths. But there are other things to thin about when buying a watch.

The style of the watch can make a big difference. If you are buying the watch for ordinary use you may want to find something with a bit more flare. But the more fancy the watch the less water resistant it may be. If you are search for a watch for diving then the main concern is the water resistance.

The depth rating is the most important thing when buying a waterproof watch! Most digital watches have many more features such as timers and alarms. Non Digital watches can be harder to see underwater.

Other important things to think about when buying a water resistant watch is its depth rating. If you are buying an everyday watch and are worried about common splashes or showers 150m is a more than needed depth rating and can still handle swimming to some depths. If you are going diving with your watch you will need to look for a diver’s rating of 150m or higher.

Just like everything else, you must take care of your watch. A water resistant watch does not mean it is indestructible. Keep it out of hot water like hot tubs or hot showers. After you finish swimming in salt water rinse your watch off with fresh water.

These are just some of the things to consider when buying a watch. Make sure you look around for good prices and the best looks and keep in mind the tips you have learned here and I am sure you will find a watch that is just right for you !

Tags : Waterproof Watches

Diamonds jewelry | As special gift to someone

2010-11-15T03:29:00.000-08:00

Diamonds are so precious, eternal and timeless when someone wears it, they reflect a bond to special person who gifted the diamond jewelry. Diamonds is considered the most prized of all gemstones and are used for jewelry.

Jewelry can be timeless and could a perfect gifts for all ages and styles. It is a accessories that is love by everyone and could be the trend today. Jewelry can be a personal ornament such as necklaces, rings, bracelet , precious metal such as diamonds. Jewelry that was made of diamonds could be the best and suitable for everyone.

Diamond jewelry as a gift to his love one is one of the woman's dream one no matter expensive it is. It makes a perfect gift and as universal gift can be given to women by men during special occasions .Diamond jewelry is said to be the gift of all .

Diamonds can be explained by learning the 5c's which characterized and distinguish the different grades and quality. But if you are interested in buying diamond jewelry, you need to follow the 5C's

Carat measures the mass of diamond. One carat is defined as 200 milligrams , point unit is commonly used for diamonds of less than one carat. The price per carat does not increase smoothly with increasing size.

Clarity is a measure of internal defects of a diamond maybe crystal of foreign material or another diamond crystal. The number, size, color, orientation and visibility of inclusion can all affect the relative clarity of a diamond.

Color
A perfect diamond is perfectly transparent with no hue, or color. The color of the diamond may be affected by the chemical impurities or structural defects depending on the hue and density of diamond's coloration. Most diamond used a gemstones are basically transparent with little tint or white diamonds.

Cut
Diamond cutting is the art of creating a gem quality diamond out of mined rough. The diamond cut and ideal cut describes the manner in which a diamond has been shaped and polished from its beginning form as a rough stone to its final gem proportion.

Purchasing diamond jewelry requires more thought and time than a consumer thinks, but is definitely the purchase that will last you a lifetime.

It is that " Diamond" are a woman's best friend and perfect way to magnify the inner beauty. Since a diamond is much expensive but the price doesn't stop the people from buying it to adorn their love one.

In selecting jewelry, you need to ensure that is the right gift and suitable to the right person.

Increasingly, we are beginning to buy jewelry for themselves like diamond rings, diamond bracelets, necklaces, diamond watches and nevertheless , the diamond trend is starting to change and continue to improve. " There is a saying Diamonds are forever"

by: guia
from : http://articles.fjewelrystore.com/
Tags : Diamond

The Beauty of Amber Jewelry

2010-11-15T03:28:00.000-08:00

The simplest and at the same time most subjective evaluation of amber jewelry by a user of admirer is to say whether it is beautiful or not. Contemporary amber artifacts produced by artists initially tend to surprise us with their otherness, in the same manner as any other art does, for instance painting or sculpture, or jewelry ornamented with gemstones. But modernity means otherness.

The extremely exceptional so-called "amber in amber" may become dazzlingly beautiful in the hands of a skillful artist. To find or excavate amber with opalescent surfaces depends less on skills and more on luck. This, however, comes about very seldom.

Some people are interested only in amber as perfectly transparent as many other precious stones in which nothing is going on inside. In such a case a more opulent setting must compensate the lack of unique features.Raw amber for mass production started to be clarified and pressed as early as in the 19th century. Its color could be freely altered, often in order to make necklaces from beads in one shade of color and transparency.

The trend initiated at the end of the 1960s by the Fietkiewicz family in Gdynia was followed by other amber centers, resulting in a high standard of amber working in Poland today. The "gem of the north", the most splendid beauty of which is revealed by artist's mastery, is often left without any setting, like Neolithic and ancient artifacts. Some amber products, rich in amber shapes and varieties, like necklace beads, spherical or flat pendants, beads on leather strip or just hemp or cotton string, gain in additional value in this way. Nothing spoils the sheer beauty of amber; its mysterious interior is not rivaled by some alien even though most magnificent ornamentation of a setting.

One may never stop writing about amber and amber jewelry. The mineral's charm never fades away, owing to its beauty and to its history so remote and ancient and at the same time ever more close to us. Its legends and magic always feel our very own.

by : wyspa
from : http://articles.fjewelrystore.com/
Tags : Amber Jewelry

Buy Casual Watches

2010-11-14T02:08:00.000-08:00

If you are contemplating on giving a watch to a loved one, you want to make sure that the time piece you will choose is the perfect one for him or her. In fact, aside from the obvious utility of the watch to help you know the time of day, casual watches are great gift items. Whether you are looking for a male or a female, choosing a casual watch is an accessory that will long be cherished or appreciated by that person. The trick is to know the particular style of the person and his or her personality to choose only the most ideal from among a wide array of casual watches today.

After knowing the personality of the person you are buying for, you also want to know his or her needs. Bear in mind that there are many kinds of watches ranging from designer watches, to dive watches, novelty watches, and fashion watches. If you are buying a watch for a very fashionable gal, then casual watches is obviously not a great choice. If you think that the person loves to wear casual stuff, giving casual watches might greatly complement his or her style. Adjust your selections accordingly.

Many good watches can meet the demands of an active lifestyle and not just measure time. Although casual watches are not designed for rigorous use, a good quality casual watch can be used regularly for outdoor activities. If the receiver of the watch loves the outdoors as much as using casual wear, it is best to give a casual watch than sports watch. You may also consider looking for one that has a face that is easy to read and is highly resistant to the elements.

Aside from knowing the personality of the wearer, there are also other things to consider in buying watches. One is the price. Before shopping, make up your mind what is the price range that you can afford. Casual watches can greatly vary in price so you have to set a limit and stick to it. Another thing is to consider the grade of the watch. Swiss grade watches are more costly than Japanese grade watch although both of them have high quality and have the same utility in determining time.

You would also like to ask if your friend likes to have interchangeable parts to match his or her mood at certain times. Some casual watches have options to change the face plates and the band to give the impression that you have more watches when in fact it is the same old one. Casual metal watches also come in both gold and silver so knowing the taste of the wearer is a must.

If you are that close, you may have also noticed what watches your friend wore in the past. You want to make sure that the watch you are buying goes with his or her existing collections of watches. Everyone wants that their gifts are being used or at least, functional for the recipient. Otherwise, your gift will just sit in the jewelry box or on the night stand unworn and lonely.

All these things to consider sound complicated but if you truly know the person, you can just pick your choice without enumerating the things mentioned above. After all, giving a gift is display of appreciation and it usually implies you already know the person well.

Tags : Casual Watches

How to Clean Your Pocket Watch

2010-11-14T01:43:00.000-08:00

Mechanical pocket watches like your Colibri pocket watch need proper maintenance, including cleaning the tiny mechanical parts. After all, you depend on it and use it everyday. You’ll know you need to have your watch cleaned if you’ve been using it for three or five years already and it is no longer as shiny as the first day you bought it. If cleaning the watch is an issue because you don’t have any idea how to go about it, these tips will show you the way:

* If the product manual provides reader-friendly instructions, follow it to the letter. But if you feel you’d rather get professional service, do so. A professional should do the cleaning of the tiny mechanisms inside your Colibri pocket watch; they have the tools and the experience to do it.

* Don’t attempt to use any cleaning or lubricating solutions unless recommended by the watch manufacturer.

* Don’t attempt to clean the watch with a soft-bristled brush with soap and water, unless your pocket watch is water resistant up to 10, 15, or 20 BAR. If your watch is simply marked water resistant it simply means it can withstand splashes of water or raindrops only and shouldn’t be soaked at all.

* If it’s waterproofed, use a soft-bristle brush and gently brush the surface of the watch. Immediately but carefully, dry it with a lint-free cloth.

Cleaning Jobs

If you take your watch to the “cleaners”, ask about their cleaning methods. Proper cleaning involves disassembling the pocket watch, not just the dip and dry method. They charge less than $50 for disassembled cleaning. This won’t do good for your pocket watch, or for those antique engraved pocket watches.

The proper watchmaker or cleaner will disassemble your watch – remove the pivots, bearings, pinions, jewels, and teeth. These are carefully inspected for any irregularities before these are cleaned with an ultrasonic bath and passed through a three-stage rinse and heat dried. Sensitive parts are hand-cleaned with the correct solutions. After reassembly, the watch is lubricated and adjusted to the current time. This method will cost you about $100, but worth it.

Caring for Your Pocket Watch

Knowing how to protect your pocket watch from damage helps keep it going for years. Here’s how you can prolong the life of your pocket watch:

* When winding your watch, pull at the knobs carefully.

* Wind the clock at a regular established time.

* When storing it, wipe it with a clean dry cloth before encasing in its box.

* Keep it away from humid conditions.

* Keep it out of water.

* Follow the watch manual for proper care and maintenance.

* When mailing your watch to a professional watch service, enclose it in a bubble wrap before stuffing it into a boxed padded with Styrofoam or newspaper.

Your pocket watch shouldn’t be sidelined just because you don’t know how to clean it. Anyway, it will take another three or five years before the next visit to the “cleaners.” Until then, take good care of it.

Tags : Pocket Watch