Cat's Eyes - Dzi Beads - Crystals

Crystals are great, we know that. They are wonderful aesthetically, as well as practically given the transformative properties inherent in them. However, is there something as too many crystals, or too much of it? A recent news piece on how Sachi Designs adds Swarovski crystals to everything from boots to phones brought my attention to this topic.

An excerpt:

IN an era of more -- more people, more color, more noise, more graphics -- you gotta admit, it's pretty hard for any individual to stand out from the crowd and the raucous backdrop of urban life.

There's nothing like a little sparkle to catch the eye and in contemporary thinking if a little is good, a lot is better.

So it's no wonder bling is big. Swarovski crystals or their imitations now grace products from jeans to handbags to T-shirts. And while the mother of crystal-encrusted minaudieres, Judith Leiber, creates charming and dazzling masterpieces that sell for $1,000 and up, artistic souls such as Deidre Garland of Sachi Designs have found a new calling in putting a shine on such everyday, tote-able totems as Razrs and iPods.

What do you think? Personally, I feel this level of "crystalization" is a bit much, both on the eye and on many pockets. But it is a striking approach to portray personal preferences and financial means. This "crystalization" also makes the items you crystalize far more valuable, and therefore, enhancing its timelessness. After all, will you dispose of your crystal-enhanced handphone for a more technologically advanced model?.

But more importantly, crystal companies will probably be looking at this as a growth market for the future. If crystalized consumer products actually manage to build a strong demand base, you can be sure that the big boys will join the fray.

Posted by at 9:09 AM | Permalink

Pearls have always been popular, especially among women. They served as key components to almost all of the most valuable jewelry in the past, from the crowns of kings to the necklaces of nobles. In fact, it would be an understatement to say that they are still popular today, with synthetic pearls created to help meet the heavy demand for natural pearls - albeit only as imperfect substitutes.

The use of pearls is diverse. As medicine, many believed that pearls helped ease digestive problems, reduce fevers, heal insomnia, and cure poisonings. Even today, low grade pearls are ground finely into powder to be used to prepare high quality pharmaceutical calcium.

Ecological changes (as well as the over-demand for pearls) at the end of the 12th century, disrupted the supply of pearls. It is at this time that the Chinese attempted to produce artificial pearls. At the threshold of the 20th century, the Japanese managed to produce quality cultured pearls. To date, the Japanese are considered the master growers of cultured pearls.

But whether we are talking about cultured or natural pearls, few understand the rich symbolism pearls have as a result of their origins. Almost all pearls originate from fresh water sources - such as rivers, lakes or seas. Given that water, whether a fresh water source or a bath or shower, is calming, a pearl therefore provides the same tranquility. Pearls help to bring peace and reduces over-sensitivity. It is also known as the stone of honesty - ensuring that truth is present in many situations.

Overall, pearls are clearly powerful jewels - whether aesthetically or practically. While there are no proven tangible rewards for owning a pearl, few would say no to a pearl - if they could afford it that is. The best of pearls are now priced exorbitantly, preventing all but the most wealthy from owning them. Most now have to satisfy themselves with either medium grade natural pearls, or artificial cultured pearls.

Posted by at 8:28 AM | Permalink

1. Base metal beads
   These beads are made of non-precious metals such as bronze, copper, aluminium and nickel. Like in conventional jewelry, these metals beads are cheap replacements for more expensive ones.
   
   
2. Precious metal beads
   Precious metal beads are mostly made of pure gold. These gold beads can come in two forms, 24K gold (100% gold, but is soft and very expensive) or 14K gold (58.3% gold, and is relatively stronger and less expensive). These type of beads are much less used compared to the rest due to the price and relative softness.
   
   
3. Plated beads
   Plated beads refer to beads that are created through electroplating. Again, this concept is similar to conventional jewelry, where more expensive metals - such as gold and silver - are layered over cheaper base metals such as copper. Plated beads are relatively cheap, but the plating can degrade over time.
   
   
4. Filled beads
   Generally refers to gold-filled beads. The name "gold-filled beads" is actually a misnomer, given that gold-filled beads are not filled with gold. Rather, the gold is on the outside, while a base metal is inside. The resulting bead not only looks like gold, but is very durable.
   
   
5. Sterling silver beads
   These beads are a mix of silver and a stronger metal (such as copper). Usually the mix is 92.5% silver and 7.5% of the stronger metal. One reason why sterling silver beads exist is the fact that pure silver is too soft a metal. Moreover, while sterling beads tarnish easily, they have the advantage of being less prone to triggering allergic reactions compared to other non-pure metal jewelry.
   
   
6. Vermeil
   A special type of plated bead, where sterling silver is electroplated with gold.
   
   

Posted by at 5:14 PM | Permalink

Generally, pendulums used for scrying come in the shape of tear drops. A sharp point will be facing downwards, with a string attached to the top of the crystal. These properties make crystal pendulums easy to recognize. But recognizing a crystal pendulum is rarely a problem.

Problems arise when we say that pendulums can be used for scrying. Many people just go into rejection mode when we try to explain the history and process of scrying. I wouldn't blame them given the reputation of scrying as an arcane art. While some say that Nostradamus - the famous (or rather, infamous) prophet - used basin scrying (through a pendulum) to produce his prophetic verses, most applications of scrying are far less mysterious. All scrying usually means is the use of pendulums to provide answers to simple questions, as well as for diagnosis purposes (in the case of physical problems).

On to the scrying itself, it is important that you are comfortable and calm when you are working with a pendulum, no matter which scrying method you use. There are actually several methods of scrying. But almost all of the scrying methods will involve asking the pendulum a question, and waiting for a response. Pendulums usually respond by moving in a specific manner (e.g. moving back and forth, circular movement, tapping against a container, etc.).

Now, any type of pendulum can be used for the purpose of scrying, but most people seem to prefer quartz crystals. In most cases, quartz pendulums are ideal choices, but different types of pendulums must be used when scrying is done with the intent to locate physical problems. This is because a quartz pendulum can easily absorb the energy of the patient - rendering the pendulum detrimental to the patient's health.

So, if you have no negative preconceptions against crystal scrying (or have been rid of it due to this article), get ready for my next post on a couple of crystal scrying methods.

Posted by at 3:15 PM | Permalink

Civilizations throughout the ages have utilised crystals and their remarkable power for a wide range of purposes. The oldest and arguably greatest of legends tell us about Atlantis - a civilization that harnessed the power of crystals to reach a level unheard of even now. Yet, the example of Atlantis also teaches us about the dangers that could arise from untrained use or abuse of crystal power. It is believed, after all, that Atlantis and other ancient civilizations like Lemuria were destroyed because of the abuse of the cosmic force of crystals.

One legendary function of these crystals is as a storage device, not unlike the computers we use today. These crystals, known as Teacher Crystals or Record Keepers, were capable of holding important information, but high sensitivity and awareness is required to access and implant such records into the crystals.

Over the many years that have passed since our ancestors understood and used the power of crystals, much has been forgotten. Only recently (or relatively recently), we have seen the New Age movement taking hold. Knowledge and awareness of crystals and their power have thus been resurfacing.

Crystals are said to radiate high frequency vibrations to all creations, whether plans, animals, humans or our very environment. Crystals can not only aid us in our daily life - with stimulation of perception, intelligence, and emotion as merely one of the many powers of crystals - but they can also nurture plants by energizing the soil and water around them.

With that said, it is high time we acknowledge the latent abilities of crystals and begin to take crystal power seriously. Yes, crystal power may not be something tangible like the electricity that powers our homes, but there is no harm learning of the power of crystals and all to gain. There will always be sceptics when it comes to the new or supernatural. If sceptics were allowed to rule, subjects we are proud of today, like physics, biology and astrology, would still be stuck in the stone age. 

Posted by at 8:31 AM | Permalink

A different perspective on our favourite jewellery is always good for the mind. Today, we look at what Bewitching Jewellery is all about. You will have to admit that many of the points raised in the article that follows are terribly fascinating.

Bewitching Jewelry -- Amulets, Talismans and Charms
   By: gemwriter

Throughout the ages, men and women have used gemstones and crystals in personal ornaments and body decorations as bewitching jewelry. Wearing them as charms, talismans or amulets, they were believed to possess the power to ward off evil spirits (or attract benevolent ones), keep one safe from harm, or to find love. To this day, many people of all ages and from all walks of life believe in the magical power of certain gems and make bewitching jewelry part of their everyday attire.

Take pearls, for instance. In the olden days, if a maiden wanted a man to fall in love with her, she would put pearls ground into a fine powder into a glass of wine and somehow get him to drink it. A pretty costly way to catch a man, that method. Nowadays, wearing pearls is believed to enhance one’s inner character and bring about peace and serenity. Gold is another example of bewitching jewelry. Since time immemorial, it has captured the fascination of all people, and is one of the cornerstones of the science of alchemy. Gold is used to enhance the power of other gemstones, hence its popular use as a setting. It is also believed to attract wealth and influence, because the wearer is perceived to be strong and powerful.

Bewitching jewelry is not confined to fashionable purposes. The Indian warriors of old used to have swords that were adorned with garnets, secure in the belief that this would bring them luck in battle. Today, garnet jewelry presented as a gift signifies the giver’s feelings of eternal love and commitment. It can also be worn as a charm to increase sensuality and sexuality. Similarly, diamonds are said to aid in the release of sexual tension and to help the wearer enjoy a fantastic sex life. I wonder what that says about girls who treat diamonds as their best friend?

Sapphires are benevolent examples of bewitching jewelry. Aside from preserving friendships and promoting loyalty, they are also believed to protect the wearer from capture. Turquoise is likewise popular as a talisman because of its alleged property of changing colors when the wearer is in peril. Plus, it is used in amulets in many cultures because it is believed to be a bringer of luck.

There are many, many other beliefs regarding the use of gemstones as bewitching jewelry. They may be worn as talismans, charms, amulets or simply as fashion accessories. But for many people today, as in the ancient times, jewels are chosen not only for their beauty, but for the perceived benefits that they will bring to the wearer as well.

About the Author

Sam Serio is an Internet Marketer, musician and a writer on the subject of jewelry and gemstones. For more information on jewelry and gemstones, we cordially invite you to visit www.morninglightjewelry.com to pick up your FREE copy of “How To Buy Jewelry And Gemstones Without Being Ripped Off.” This concise, informative special report reveals almost everything you ever wanted to know about jewelry and gemstones, but were afraid to ask. Get your FREE report at www.morninglightjewelry.com.

Personal Comments:

Well, many points raised (to me) tether on the bounds of fantasy, but they are interesting. I'd say that the demand for gemstones and crystals would increase substantially if most of our beliefs on Bewitching Jewellery were completely true.

Posted by at 10:33 PM | Permalink

Well, if there is anything that crystals and stones should be used for (cosmetically and aesthetically at least), it is this. The article that follows touches on the aesthetic aspects of this topic.

How to Choose Colors for Your Bridesmaids' Jewelry on Your Wedding Day
   by Penny Olson

When designing jewelry, the sky is the limit as far as color choices, stones, shapes and over-all design. But just like a cherry on a sundae or the star on the top of a Christmas tree, no outfit is complete without jewelry.

I would start with making a choice on your bridesmaids dresses. Take your Maid of Honor with you to help you make a decision because usually there are more choices of bridesmaid dresses than there are Wedding gowns in the boutiques. This will help you get some feedback as far as what will work for all of the girls and she can also try some of them on, since they normally look very different on a person than they do on the rack.

Once you have made a decision, make sure that you get a swatch of the fabric so that you have a true reference to the color of the gowns. I would not recommend trying to match the tones in the jewelry by memory, especially if you'd like to go with a similar color scheme. This simple, and not to mention free, tip will make life much easier in the long run.

The next thing you will need to consider is what sort of stones you'd like your girls to wear on the big day. There are quite a lot of choices when it comes to this subject, you can go with semi-precious stones, crystals, pearls or even just a simple pendant on a satin cord. The best place to start is with style of the dresses, taking into consideration the color and the cut of the dress itself.

Then you can decide if you'd like to go with one type and shape of stone for example, crystals or pearls, you can have a single strand or you can also go with a layered look of two or three stands of the same stone. I personally find this very effective and it's also nice because if you go with a necklace and bracelet that are of a simpler design, your girls will get much more use out of them in the future.

If you are having trouble finding something that will compliment your dresses closely, don't worry, I find that if you go with a mono-chromatic scheme and put several shades together that are in the same family it will give you a little more interest in the jewelry and you don't have to be so concerned with having a perfect match. You can view a sampling of Swarovski Crystal colors using this Swarovski Crystal color chart. Also, don't be afraid to consider other color options when working with hues in this manner. For example, you may find that with a pale green dress, shades of citrine or yellow topaz will look very nice, or even shades of blue. It all depends on the undertones in the fabric.

The last thing to consider is the shapes of the stones that you wish to use. You could go with a single size, like tiny pearls on layered strings for a very feminine and classic look. Or you may want to go with several shapes and sizes that when put together, will make a pattern and create some interest like the Swarovski Crystal Round and Bicone Necklace, this can be very dramatic or just slight variations in the shapes.

If you just can't find that perfect piece to compliment your wedding day, for you, your bridesmaids or even the mothers of the bride and groom, visit Brilliant-Wedding-Jewelry.com. We can custom make just about anything. You imagine it and we will make it a reality.

About the Author

Penny Olson is the owner and designer for Brilliant-Wedding-Jewelry.com.

Posted by at 5:37 PM | Permalink

We have long treated crystals and stones as mere jewellery, with only few recognizing the transformative power of stones and crystals. But the use of stones and crystals for its transformative properties is not truly new. The giving of such New Age gifts has a strong history dating far back to the most ancient of civilizations. Stones such as amethysts were highly prominent in Egyptian history, and even appears in the Old Testament of the Bible.

Of course, some Christians, like those at the Christian Apologetics & Research Ministry would point that, "The New Age Movement is merely a very broad, feel-good, movement that teaches inner-divinity, goddesses, the Christ consciousness, spiritual evolution, being one-with-nature, and anything else you want to believe - except Christianity". But this is an exception rather than the norm.

That's why the next time you are thinking of giving a gift, you may want to consider New Age gift stores as destinations for gift purchase. New Age gifts will not only help you break away from the banality of normal gifts, but could also increase your recepient's appreciation of your gift given the deep thought placed in selecting it. But it is important to know that different stones and crystals have different healing and transformative properties. A short guide on the various crystals and stones follows.

Agate improves your perception and can serve as a conduit for inspiration from the spiritual world.

Amethyst helps you find and maintain your spiritual center and achieve serenity. It therefore also helps with sadness and grief.

Celestite helps in chanelling and assists in bringing harmony to your energies and your chakras. In a more practical sense, it can also help in your communication skills.

Jet can help with various physical ailments, such as headaches, migraines and depression. It can also be good as protection against the negativity of others.

Aquamarine helps bring out the full extent of your intellectual abilities and assists your reasoning and spiritual awareness.

Calcite serves as a balancer and can also amplify your energy - helping in your astral work and channeling. Properties can also differ depending on the colour - whether green, pink or honey.

Labradorite can be used to heal mental confusion and indecision, and can help in eliminating fear and self-doubt.

Malachite can help you bring clarity to your emotions and reasoning, and helps smooth difficult transitions. It also aids sleep.

Hematite can help mental & manual dexterity. It also helps in your concentration and boosts confidence.

Pyrite has many protective qualities, and can help keep negative energies at bay. It also promotes physical, intellectual, and spiritual well-being.

Citrine can help you attract prosperity and release your anger.

Fluorite in general can bring spiritual peace and wholeness. More specifically, it can improve your discernment of matters of the heart.

Quartz is the key to harmony, and focuses and transforms energy. It can be used to strengthen your aura.

Selenite can increase your sense of self-awareness and to your surroundings and serves to open, align and clear the aura bodies. It can also attract prosperity. Also known as Gypsum and Alabaster.

Tigerseye can help create order and harmony. It helps in balancing your emotions and in bringing stability into your life.

Examples of situations in which a combination of these crystals could help include selenite for businessmen or jet for a ailing friend. Students could very well use aquamarine. But of course, those are merely suggestions. There are a variety of other situations that could use the help of the transformative properties of these crystals and stones. If used correctly, you will be surprised to find out how much these stones and crystals can brighten your life or that of others.

Posted by at 3:02 PM | Permalink

Well, from the long and probably convoluted title, it is rather clear what this blog will be about. Nevertheless, let us spell out what you might expect from this blog.

Posts will mainly concern these long-existing artifacts, i.e. cats eyes, dzi beads, that perhaps lack exposure. Of course, we will also be describing and detailing their more modern cousins, i.e. natural and Swarvoski crytslas, from time to time as well.

So, stay tuned for the content.

Posted by at 1:47 PM | Permalink