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Posts Tagged ‘jewelry’

When thinking of a diamond ring, particularly for a girl, you think that she is getting married or is married if she has this on her finger. Most people would assume her significant other gave her a diamond ring to commit to her for life and live happily ever after. Ever since as far as the 13th century, diamond rings have been used to secure a woman’s hand in marriage.

While that is still the case in today’s society, diamond rings are no longer used just for wedding jewelry. Rings now come in a variety of different themes, like cocktail rings, fashion rings, men’s rings, and bands. Diamonds are also not only found in one color either, since there are a variety of different color diamonds available so you can get very creative with your jewelry. Let’s talk about the different rings you can get.

Fashion rings:

These type of rings are identified by having a unique design like a flower, animal or something of the sort. There may be many types of colors of diamonds on it which make it stand out even more. This is definitely a statement piece.

Cocktail rings:

Wearing a cocktail ring is ideal if you want to be seen. Nothing will get attention more than a multi-color diamond cocktail ring.

Bands:

Wear a band full of diamonds to accompany another beautiful diamond ring. This brings more attention to the hand and makes the other ring seem even more opulent.

Men’s Rings:

You can see wonderful use of colored diamonds in rings for today’s man, such as the square faced ring topped with black and white diamonds. A ring like this shows that this man is of wealth and confidence. Another great ring for men is created in black and white diamonds and onyx, has an altogether different shape. The backdrop of the face is an octagon, lined with 18 round cut 1.35mm white diamonds.

When buying diamond rings you should try to care for the jewelry very well. This is not cheap to buy diamonds so you should strive to keep it clean. Take it to the jeweler you bought them from every few months for a cleaning.

Check out these gorgeous Diamond rings:

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To find out more information on where to find the best engagement rings in Los Angeles Check out this jewelry in Los Angeles

Chocolate diamonds are a type of brown diamonds, a particular variety of colored or fancy diamonds that have become extremely common. With their deep dark brown chocolate tones, they are appealing and gorgeous, stirring up a feeling of amazement and delight at the same time. Chocolate diamonds are a part of the family of brown diamonds. Brown diamonds can be found in several tones, such as cognac, honey and champagne, besides chocolate. The majority of people do not know it, but brown diamonds are very uncommon and highly priced. They are less than one tenth of a percent of the total diamonds mined.

How come there is an interest in chocolate or brown diamonds? The interest has been initiated by a massive branding and design campaign by a leading jeweler – Le Vian jewelers. As opposed to calling them by the uninteresting name of brown diamonds, Le Vian named them as chocolate diamonds, and set them in gorgeous cuts and styles created by the leading jewelry artists in the world today. If you like to skip ahead and read more, examine the national colored diamond association – chocolate diamonds online resource soon.

Chocolate diamond rings, earrings, bracelets and other jewelry items come in numerous distinct forms, both real and synthetic. Probably the most pricey are rings set with naturally chocolate diamonds. If you’re going to be making a huge purchase, contemplate purchasing diamond rings, necklaces and jewelry which are certified for conclusive proof that you are getting the real thing. Besides the naturally occurring colored diamonds, there are also white diamonds treated to turn out to be colored. Some are simulated or synthetic diamonds which are made from crystals and cubic zirconia to look really much like diamonds, but they are not naturally occurring brown diamonds. Which is not to say that they are not of good value. In reality, several offer a tremendous option for shoppers who might want to accessories of a particular look and design without breaking the budget. Quite a few of these pieces are extremely nicely styled and crafted also. As a buyer, we prefer to get great value for what we pay money for. That’s precisely why it is important to have an understanding of what variations of chocolate diamond jewelry are there to choose from. By all means ensure that you simply are getting good value for the money you invest.

Chocolate diamond rings and jewelry items can be bought from several locations, both on the internet and offline. Online, retailers like Blue Nile, Amazon and eBay are a number of the choices to contemplate. Locally, stores like Tiffany or Jared fine jewelry stores are spread across the nation. If this idea of chocolate diamond rings is intriguing to you, you can get more facts, look at the chocolate diamond ring solitaire write-up. If you’re needing to make a big ticket buy, there are benefits to purchasing from a local store, such as being able to touch and feel a jewelry item just before buy. Having an in-store guarantee is another plus.

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Among the exotic woods is Thuya Burl. It is only when you own a jewelry box made from this burl that you will be able to tell the difference. Tetraclicis Articulata is its botanical name. The tree sprouts independently and is found underground.

Morocco and the Atlas mountains are where Thuya burl is predominantly found. Thuya’ means sacrifice. Famous Moroccan jewelry boxes are made from Thuya burl. This wood is the favorite of old timers in the creation of a number of items.

Many of the early churches still use the oil extracted from this wood to burn incense. You will find it in religious ceremonies as well. Because of its natural fragrance, Thuya burl is also used to make furniture in a number of churches.

Some ancient churches also use jewelry chests made of Thuya burl wood to store their choir costumes. The oil distilled from it is utilized to burn incense. When you work with burl it emits a lovely fragrance as well as oil.

Its beautiful aroma is the reason why Greeks and Romans used this extensively to make their furniture. Artisans need to put in minimal effort with this since the grain is twisted and when carved, turned and polished, it becomes easily pliable. Another plus point with this burl is that it loses some of its orange tint when it is exposed to sunlight. The wood is first dug up from under the ground and then extracted.

The burl is found in the stump of the tree. Veneers are made from this with the lathe. Jewelry boxes from Thuya burl come in a number of patterns since they are not carved but come with a unique glossy look. These boxes are shaped into different patterns and sizes and skilled artisans work on them in a number of ways.

Marquetry also makes use of Thuya burl. Though a dense wood, compared to others, Thuya takes to brass inlay work much better than other hardwoods. You can select from a single elaborate box or a set of boxes made of Thuya burl.

To ensure that you have authentic boxes of burlwood, look for the original features of nicks and the grain of the wood. This will be quite useful and will give out a cedar-like aroma. Your dresser will look classy and will smell good too.

This article was written by Rachael Celia Berlie and Ruth D’Souza Prabhu of MarqART Gift Shop. Our jewelry boxes feature evocative wood art designs, created from unique wood grain patterns and colors. A fine addition to your dressing table or as a gift. Please visit http://www.marqartgiftshop.com to browse & buy exotic jewelry boxes that will give you a lifetime of pleasure!

Metal jewelry boxes have been in existence for more than 6000 years now. They were very popular and treasured by many for their exotic designs. Metal chests of this kind where used in shipping merchandise and to store valuable items.

Metal boxes were made in the USA in the 19th century, but the artisans of that time were not skilled in decorating them well. With the technological developments of the 20th century, designs began to look much better. Cast metal was primarily used and this was plated with gold, silver and copper.

Satin from Japan and China were used to line these metal boxes. Victorian styled designs were also popular. The base of the box was routinely made of cast resin metal, spelter, and antimonial lead. Alloys of all kinds were used.

Metals with low melting points or soft metals were routinely utilized. Metal jewelry boxes were all electroplated through a process called Ormolin. Some other metals like French bronze, Roman gold, Pompenian gold, and Parisian silver were used in plating.

When it came to plating, the base was usually done in copper and it was finished off with silver and gold. These boxes were constructed such that they would create a safe storage space for expensive jewelry and ornaments. This was the primary reason why people preferred metal jewelry boxes over wood.

In some, initials were engraved into the box and in other cases ceramic photo discs were used. Edwardian Sterling boxes were absolutely astounding!

Metal boxes were used by ancient Egyptians to hold their mummies or to keep jewelry in the tombs. Metal was preferred over wood since it tends to rot with weather changes. A typical Victorian box would be created from metal, lined with satin and finished off with swirls of flowers. These boxes were gorgeous and sought after.

For those who couldn’t afford a large jewelry box, even a small handkerchief or pin box would suffice. In general, metal boxes had embossing on the sides and the lids of the boxes. Also very popular were Arabic designs. Boxes also had unique carvings on their legs to make them all the more sophisticated. These were antique pieces and the artisans then were so skilled that most of the work cannot be repeated today.

Enamel, wood or marble boxes are not as strong and durable as metal ones. The only bad part is that these metal boxes are heavy and cannot easily be carried on trips. If they lose color, they can easily be fixed with a fresh coat of paint. Maintenance will be in the form of re-coating and re-plating.

Globally museums take a lot of care in preserving metal jewelry relics from ancient times. On your next visit to the museum, make sure you check out the section on metal objects. These are crafted so beautifully, that if by some divine chance you happen to own a similar one, you should consider yourself lucky.

This article was written by Rachael Celia Berlie and Ruth D’Souza Prabhu of MarqART Gift Shop. Our jewelry boxes feature evocative wood art designs, created from unique wood grain patterns and colors. A fine addition to your dressing table or as a gift. Please visit http://www.marqartgiftshop.com to browse & buy exotic jewelry boxes that will give you a lifetime of pleasure!

Marquetry is the wonderful art and craft of applying thin wood veneers designed to form decorative patterns. It was popularized in the 17th century. Artisans were quite skilled and their designs were exquisite. Products made from marquetry were very expensive and not all people could afford them.

There is a variety of veneers used in the creation of marquetry. They are classified according to the type of wood used and they are priced accordingly as well. Depending on the wood, veneers are cut and designed with different and exclusive patterns.

To decorate the veneers, materials like bone, ivory, turtle shells, brass, and mother of pearl are used. These materials are used as inlays to create magnificent patterns and designs. Beautiful inlay work is quite intricate that it takes time and effort to finish them.

Shades of veneers vary – light wood veneers, medium wood veneers, dark wood veneers, soft wood veneers, and hard wood veneers. The wood that they use is being classified as less valuable and valuable and they are priced accordingly. Marquetarians are very particular about the type of wood they work with and in some cases they choose only wood veneers that they particularly like.

The roster of valuable types of wood include mahogany, rose, burl walnut, fire side walnut, and circassian walnut. Since each of these types of wood has varying grains, they are sawed in different manners. The marquetry work done on them is quite elegant that’s why they are sold at higher prices.

Categorized as less valuable include elm, pine, oak, and spruce. Hard and soft wood veneers are being used in products more often. If a wood has straight grains, it is referred to as soft wood. Pine and the pale knotted wood are good examples.

Hard wood is usually dense and the grains are closer to each other. Examples are rose wood and maple wood. Grains are coarser in hard wood. This type of wood is mostly used in making furniture.

Tools utilized for marquetry include the fret saw, knives, scalpels, various types of blades, and more modern laser tools. With advanced technology, more modern tools are being used in creating marquetry art. Many traditional tools used before have also undergone major improvements.

It’s now common to use the double bevel marquetry technique. With a scroll saw, the table is tilted at a particular angle in order to achieve this technique. Another art, parquetry, uses straight lines and geometrical patterns. The Boulle technique involves cutting the elements of the pattern along with simultaneous creation of the background.

The classic technique is done with patterns created separately from the background. Wood used in creating these designs are carefully chosen. Burl wood is commonly used for this purpose.

In the past, to cut out veneers, the hammering veneering method is being used. The same tools were used for different types of wood but the way they are handled vary according to the desired designs.

Nowadays a technique called braided wood veneering is used. The veneer used can either be matt finished or laminated. The rarity of this type of marquetry work in veneers makes it very expensive.

If you love marquetry, there are lots of guides that can teach you how to create your designs. Tools can be purchased and you can take a look at some books for great ideas. Museums also display a lot of exquisite marquetry work.

Go ahead and embellish your wooden box with exotic marquetry designs or you can also buy one that’s already crafted.

This article was written by Rachael Celia Berlie and Oliver Ocampo of MarqART Gift Shop. Our wood designs are original works of art, no two creations are the same. Each wood shown has its own unique wood grain pattern and color. MarqART comes from combining the words marquetry (wood inlay) + Art (a creation of beauty) an apt name for our products. A fine addition to your dressing table or as a gift. Please visit http://www.marqartgiftshop.com to browse & buy marqart wood boxes that will give you a lifetime of pleasure!

There are several kinds of jewelry boxes for women but the prettiest ones are made with enamel. You get enamel when powdered glass is fused into a substrate through a process of firing done at extremely high temperatures. The molten powder then flows into a vitreous coating over metal making it smooth and gorgeous.

The word enamel can be vaguely traced back to two languages. It possibly could have come from the word ‘smelzan’ in the Old High German language which means to smelt. There is also a chance that it came from the Old French word ‘esmail’.

Enameling as we know it today has come down from civilizations like the Egyptian one where colored, cut glass was used to decoratively fill in gold cells known as cloisonné. From there, it is possible that the Greeks or the Celts took it a step further by melting the glass.

Several civilizations like the Chinese, Indian and Roman made use of this art form. In the 18th century, artisans of Battersea and Straffordshire in England improvised the use of enamel using it for beautiful boxes. These became a favorite among nobility for a number of purposes.

Nobility and royalty often gifted enamel boxes among themselves. People made use of these boxes to hold make up and jewelry as well as snuff at times. The royal class in fact still give these boxes away as gifts.

It is Peter Carl Faberg of Russia who can be credited with the creation of the most fabulous thing with enamel and that is the famous Fabergé eggs. Boxes in enamel can be complex to make depending on their design but here is an idea on how they are basically made.

Boxes are first made of pure metals such as copper, which is common and gold which is most expensive. They are formed into desired shapes. Enamel is sprayed on the box and this is then fired to get that smooth surface. Once this part is done, the surface becomes unbreakable and strong. Boxes like these can last for centuries.

The image to be added will be drawn or photographed before it is made into a template. This helps when the design has to be hand painted onto the surface of the box. After this, the design is fired again to fuse it to the enameled surface of the box.

There are a number of techniques used in enameling. All of them are different and every one of them has a unique style. Of the several techniques Cloisonné, Champlevé, Grisaille, Limoges enamel, specific to Limoges in France and Plique-à-jour are popular besides others. Every one of these techniques is still referred to by its French name and is distinctive in their looks.

So don’t wait to go to a museum to look at some enamel work. Get a box for a loved one or for yourself.

This article was written by Ruth D’Souza Prabhu of MarqART Gift Shop. Our jewelry boxes feature evocative wood art designs, created from unique wood grain patterns and colors. A fine addition to your dressing table or as a gift. Please visit http://www.marqartgiftshop.com to browse & buy exotic jewelry boxes that will give you a lifetime of pleasure!

A number of cultures have influenced jewelry boxes for women. The men and women of the African culture for example have a long history of wearing jewelry. Back then and now, there are a number of materials that are utilized in making African jewelry.

The folks of Western Africa used huge amounts of brass. It was gold for the people of Akan. African jewelry also made a lot of use of copper as well. There are a number of unique jewelry pieces that have been created.

The Senufo tribe’s ankle bracelets are one such specimen. Designed to look like boats, these were worn by men, women and children irrespective of age. But since the men were primarily farmers, it was often difficult for them to wear this jewelry.

Little bells were popular on women’s bracelets and were often found on the people of the Dan and We Tribes. Decorative bells such as these were especially used when people wanted to dance. Uniquely styled earrings were a specialty of the married women of Fulani. These were sticks of gold that were hammered into crescent shapes.

African jewelry for its women is quite extravagant these days more so with the Ashanti tribe. Feasts are held to showcase jewelry. Women put on a lot of jewelry and perform ritualistic dances when the king dies.

Christianity made an entry into Ethiopia in the 4th century. One form of jewelry that came about were ornate crosses that were put on a blue cotton cord and called mateb. These were made of silver as well as nickel alloys.

Africa is a huge resource of nature-based materials and jewelers made ample use of them. Coconut fragments were used to make coconut disc necklaces and these were popular in Nigeria and Guinea. It’s not that easy today to find an entire necklace made of coconut.

The women of Kenya are especially known for their love of bone-based jewelry. Chokers and necklaces were made by mixing together animal bone, gold and silver. Precious stones are used to further decorate them.

African men often make use of wooden jewelry boxes. A common African wood used in making these boxes was the Bubinga. Its scientific name is Guibourtia arnoldiana. This is found primarily in West African countries such as Gabon and Angola. Their beauty and durability are what made them so popular. They are resistant to wood-eating insects and that’s why they are the perfect case for jewelry.

Wooden boxes sometimes have their side panels made of Bubinga. African mahogany is also utilized to make valets for men. Pull out drawers are included in these boxes to hold men’s accessories and the boxes came with wenge accents.

There is something really special about African tribal jewelry. You could always use your partner’s jewelry box to hold your ornaments.

This article was written by Ruth D’Souza Prabhu of MarqART Gift Shop. Our jewelry boxes show unique wood grain patterns and colors assembled into beautiful designs of breathtaking beauty. A fine addition to your dressing table or as a gift. Please visit http://www.marqartgiftshop.com to browse & buy exotic jewelry boxes that will give you a lifetime of pleasure!

Stone jewelry boxes can be really heavy, but they will always be one of the most ornate objects you own. Jewelry boxes such as these serve to enhance the spot they are placed in. They are a gorgeous way of storing your jewelry pieces as well.

Jewelry boxes made of stone come in several shapes and sizes. There are also a number of stones from which they can be created. Several decorative techniques like carving and gem inlay work can be used to further decorate these stone boxes. The price of these boxes depends on how intricate the work on them is. Marble is amongst the most popular of stones used in making jewelry boxes.

Boxes of Indian origin have significant cultural importance attached to them. In Kashmir and Lucknow, brides are given their jewelry in large marble jewelry cases. North Indians also use such decorative marble boxes to hold religious books like the Ramayana and the Koran.

{In the making of these boxes, the marble is cut to the size needed and then polished to bring forth a natural sheen.|When making these boxes, they are cut down to the size required and then polished to bring out their natural sheen. The gem inlay inspired by Emperor Shahjahan and the artisans of the Taj Mahal is used to decorate jewelry boxes.

Beautiful floral patterns are created out of gemstones like carnelian, lapis lazuli, jasper as well as reconstituted turquoise. Small boxes can use up to 500 gemstones in the creation of a design. An integration of natural minerals and some coupling agents results in Incolay which comes from the words “in-layers-of color”.

When the several stratas of natural stones come together they form some really beautiful variegations. White artwork is then done to further enhance the beauty of these boxes. Scenery or floral based scenes are usually created. Designs can be like a windblown ship at sea or dolphins jumping in water or even a family of penguins.

Another popular style in India are boxes made of Gorara stone. This soap stone is taken from a metamorphic rock and used largely in the making of sculptures. Common in Indian architecture is perforated ornamental work known as ‘jali’ and this is used in decorating soapstone boxes. Some artisans choose their stones based on the kind of work they want done on it.

Some artisans choose the very fragile Huamanga stone for the creation of religious motifs. After the detailing, they are sanded over to get that natural finish. Another popular material is sandstone that is used in the making of jewelry boxes. They are available in a range of colors like Dholpur Beige or the Bansi Paharpur Pink and are popularly used in India. Karauli or the Agra Red and the Jaisalmer Yellow are other colors to look for.

Marble and onyx have a lot of gem inlay done on them but stone based boxes have another innovation and that is the use of crushed gemstones in inlay work. Gemstone nuggets are manually crushed to get a range of textures. Crevices that have been carved are then filled with these crushed gems. Commonly used stones are turquoise, malachite, coral among others. The texture vary from beach sand – fine to coarse flakes and even stone chips.

So don’t let anything hold you back from getting yourself or a loved one a thing of beauty. Go right ahead and get yourself one to enhance your collection or that of a loved one.

This article was written by Ruth D’Souza Prabhu of MarqART Gift Shop. Our jewelry boxes are original works of art, no two creations are the same. Each wood shown has its own unique wood grain pattern and color. MarqART comes from combining the words marquetry (wood inlay) + Art (a creation of beauty) an apt name for our products. A fine addition to your dressing table or as a gift. Please visit http://www.marqartgiftshop.com to browse & buy exotic jewelry boxes that will give you a lifetime of pleasure!

Women have an affinity to jewelry and love to own beautiful jewelry boxes to store them in. If you really like handicrafts then here is some information, from around the world, on jewelry boxes for women that you will find interesting. Before you buy a jewelry box make certain you know whether you want it as a show piece or to actually keep your valuables safe.

You can look at delicately carved jewelry boxes that come with brass embellishments all over them. The designs are so intricate that it is often difficult to tell how they were created. The latch too comes with some delicate work.

Thailand is quite popular for the art and craft done on its many items. Thai artisans are very skilled and have the latest machinery to help them improve on their skills. They prefer to make their boxes from cherry wood.

Craftsmen from Thailand often make use of precious stones and ivory to enhance the look of their boxes. They also use bone to carve out boxes. Animal bones are seasoned and then used to create some designs. Formaldehyde is the only chemical used to mask bad odours. Artisans are able to show off their skills as soon as this is done. Sandal wood boxes have a lovely aroma to them.

Ages ago, these boxes were used by kings and royalty as commoners were unable to afford it. They have exquisite carving done on them. Sandal wood chests that have been carved, have been popular in India for ages and those from the city of Mysore are especially beautiful. Authentic sandal wood boxes never lose their smell and so you should be sure of buying the real thing at the outset.

You also get wooden boxes that come with marble designs. The Arabic and Egyptian designs on marble are most famous. These designs make use of contrasting colors and have borders that are colored in gold or black. Marble, when designed in white is bordered with gold or black. Black boxes have designs done in white, gold or black and these are gorgeous combinations.
You will also find boxes with designs of lines and flowers. Stones are used along with floral designs adding to the beauty of the box.

This particular style of handicraft is called Shalibadra. These particular boxes cannot be used to store jewelry as they do not come with latches and cannot be locked. It, however, makes for a wonderful showpiece!

Ivory boxes, though famous can be extremely expensive. The work done on it is extraordinary and to own one would be quite prestigious. Ivory is quite elastic in nature and fibrous too. These characteristics make it ideal for carving compared to wood or stone. It can be used only in small quantities for the design alone.

You could get any design, thanks to skilled artisans, and according to your budget too. Since they are handcrafted, they also make wonderful gifts. So go right ahead and treat yourself or a loved one to a superbly designed jewelry box.

This article was written by Rachael Celia Berlie and Ruth D’Souza Prabhu of MarqART Gift Shop. Our jewelry boxes are original works of art, no two creations are the same. Each wood shown has its own unique wood grain pattern and color. MarqART comes from combining the words marquetry (wood inlay) + Art (a creation of beauty) an apt name for our products. A fine addition to your dressing table or as a gift. Please visit http://www.marqartgiftshop.com to browse & buy exotic jewelry boxes that will give you a lifetime of pleasure!

If you’re thinking of getting and buying a jewelry chest for a loved one or for your personal use, then you’ve come to the right place. Jewelry boxes are mostly available in a variety of shapes and sizes and they also come in different patterns, designs, and engravings on top. A woman’s jewelry chest is a perfect storage for her extensive jewelry collection and can also be admired for its intricate decoration.

A man’s jewelry box, on the other hand, is perfect in organizing and storing his accessories like his watch, chains, and other important items like his mobile phone. It can also be a perfect display case for antiques and family heirlooms.

You’ll be surprised at the number of shapes available today. They make them in shapes like square, oval, rectangle, star-shape, heart-shape, and even replicas of treasure chests and Victorian stands and shapes as well.

Different types of wood are also used to make different wooden chests. In America the common types of wood used in jewelry box making are cherry, birch, burl, mahogany, white ash, and maple. In exotic parts of the world, they use rosewood, olive wood, bocote, jatoba, kingwood, lacewood, and blodwood timber are commonplace.

And with the wide variety of materials available, you’ll be surprised at the different designs they create. Abstract shapes like heart, chess sets, and other intricate designs may be found there. There are also wood carvings related to animals, trees, people, and depictions of ancient civilizations and ancient art as well.

The art of marquetry is one of the more popular techniques in creating inlaid patterns on wood. These works of art are really magnificent and finely detailed to the last millimeter and you’ll surely love to add this to your growing collection. Aside from the traditional techniques in woodworking and engraving, more modern techniques are now being used like the Canadian Laser engravings.

You’ll also find popular engravings listed as New Zealand’s polished stainless steel engravings called Magrette timepieces, Rachel Reckitt’s wooden engravings of The Mill on the Floss, Pakistan’s specialized wooden engravings that depict their culture and religion made from copper and steel, and even bank note engravings that are indeed fascinating and interesting.

Aside from these, there are people who prefer attaching some precious stones and jewels in their jewelry chests to get that luxurious appeal. If you’re looking at getting an exclusive jewelry box, you can have one personalized with your own photograph alongside the engravings to make it really distinct. If you’re looking for a perfect chest for all your expensive jewelry, it’s always best to pick a handcrafted jewelry chest.

In terms of design and storage space, choose one that suits your preferences and something that you will cherish and treasure for the rest of your life.

This article was written by Mitali Kandhari and Oliver Ocampo of MarqART Gift Shop. Our jewelry boxes are original works of art, no two creations are the same. Each wood shown has its own unique wood grain pattern and color. MarqART comes from combining the words marquetry (wood inlay) + Art (a creation of beauty) an apt name for our products. A fine addition to your dressing table or as a gift. Please visit http://www.marqartgiftshop.com to browse & buy exotic jewelry boxes that will give you a lifetime of pleasure!

It is rather unique to make your own gifts. Not only is your present unique but it will also give you a sense of satisfaction. It is wrong to think that making your own wooden jewelry boxes is a difficult task.

Some experience in woodworking would be of real help before you start on your little project of a jewelry box. You will be able to get a sense of proportions and a general idea on where things need to be sawed and hammered in. Completing a few smaller projects before you begin on your gift will give you a feel of how to get things done.

Picturing how you want the box to look is the first step you take in starting your little project. Draw out the shape you want, the dimensions and all the features you plan to include. As soon as this is done, you will be able to get together all the things that you will need to complete the project.

Search the Internet for jewelry box plans that match closely to what you have in mind. With this, you will have a working blueprint to refer to. Other woodworking essentials you will need are tools like a saw, sandpaper, jig, hinges, screws, screw driver, utility knife, pencil, a small mirror as well as wood glue and some velvet cloth to line the inside of the box.

Next you have to decide on the kind of wood. One of the most expensive is Cherry wood, but it is the best for construction. Popular woods for jewelry boxes are oak, mahogany, maple and birch. Also used are walnut and white ash woods.

Now based on the proportions you have set you will need to saw your wood into 5 pieces to cover the base and the sides. Use your pencil to mark the wood at those points where you will be putting in joints to bring the box together.

Use sandpaper generously all over the pieces of wood to make sure they are smooth and then use wood glue to bring together the base of the box and the sides. Do this with a steady hand and neatly to ensure that you have a well balanced box. Let the box stand for a while for the glue to set.

This is when you saw the lid out for the box. Leave two teeth on one side to help you attach this to the box. Make holes in the teeth so that you can put in the hinges. Set them proportionately apart or the box will not close correctly.

With this part done, look over the box minutely and check for imperfections. Some of these you can sandpaper over and others you can cover up with some woodwork dough. The last job on the box is to fix in the velvet piece and a mirror on the inside of the lid.

For those who receive handmade gifts, appreciating the love and effort that has gone into its creation is not difficult. It is something that will be held dear for life.

This article was written by Ruth D’Souza Prabhu of MarqART Gift Shop. Our jewelry boxes show unique wood grain patterns and colors assembled into beautiful designs of breathtaking beauty. A fine addition to your dressing table or as a gift. Please visit http://www.marqartgiftshop.com to browse & buy exotic jewelry boxes that will give you a lifetime of pleasure!

Musical jewelry boxes hold a special place in the hearts of not just adults but also little girls. Have you tried opening a musical jewelry box and watched and listened in awe at the little ballerina dancing to the melodic tune? Have you ever thought of how these wonderful musical boxes came about?

The first musical box was seen during the 19th century in Switzerland. What’s exciting was that it was originally designed for men to carry in their pockets. Quite interesting, isn’t it?

Today, these boxes are designed for women. During those times, musical boxes were available in different shapes and sizes – from small ones that you can keep in your pocket to larger ones the size of bigger furniture. They were so expensive that only the rich and the affluent could afford them.

Today, thanks to automation and mass production, musical jewelry boxes can be acquired by anyone. You’ve probably wondered how such a small thing can produce music. It’s as if there were little musicians who play tiny musical instruments inside. So how does a musical box work?

The basic components of a musical box involves a mechanism with a metal cylinder made of brass, which has raised pins that are spaced to create melody, a steel comb with tuned teeth that produce the notes, and a spring mechanism attached to the cylinder that is wound in order for the mechanism to work. The cylinder produces the melody when the spring is wound making the cylinder turn with the teeth of the comb plucking the pins that makes music. The most popular music used in these boxes include classical music like Swan Lake and well-known children’s songs like the Disney themes and love songs.

The soothing sounds produced by a music box stir memories and emotions and can trigger different moods. Adults enjoy a musical box that evoke sentiments of longing as it brings back memories of days gone by. For young girls, they bring joy and delight; but whatever age it would be, musical jewelry boxes always bring a smile. Musical boxes are considered treasures and they need to be kept in good condition.

Here are a few tips to keep your musical jewelry box in excellent condition.

First, make sure to keep the box in horizontal position. Always carry and store the box horizontally and never vertical or upside down as this may be harmful to its internal components. While the music is playing, avoid winding the spring. This may destroy the teeth of the comb.

Always wait for the end of the tune before winding the box again. Keep the box in a dry place with moderate temperature avoiding direct sunlight. If you find any internal damage, take it to a professional for the necessary repairs. Don’t attempt to repair the box yourself. You might ruin other delicate parts.

Proper care of your musical jewelry box ensures that it’s always in good condition even for future generations.

This article was written by Rachel Manalo and Oliver Ocampo of MarqART Gift Shop. Our jewelry boxes show unique wood grain patterns and colors assembled into beautiful designs of breathtaking beauty. A fine addition to your dressing table or as a gift. Please visit http://www.marqartgiftshop.com to browse & buy exotic jewelry boxes that will give you a lifetime of pleasure!

Wooden jewelry boxes can be called works of art. Whether you are just an amateur woodworker or a seasoned artisan, creating such work of art is something that not everyone can achieve. Choosing the right wood and finish can spell the difference between a nice box and a possible heirloom.

Curly maple and walnut are some of the common exotic woods used when making jewelry boxes. Craftsmen choose curly maple because of its beautiful grain pattern and walnut because of its durability. To highlight the wood pattern of maple, choosing the right finish is important. The wood finishing will depend on the look you want to achieve.

Do you want to maintain the light, creamy shade of the wood or get a darker grain pattern? Do you want a polished sheen? Different finishes will have varied looks on wood. Some achieve a darker wood color. Others provide longer protection against moisture, wear and tear and other elements of nature.

With so many wood finishes to choose from, which is the most suitable for jewelry boxes made of curly maple and walnut? Many woodworkers opt for finishes that highlight the curly maple pattern. They do this by using some dye stains to raise the grain achieving a 3-D effect. Depending on the shade you want, you may choose from a light amber to a darker brown tint to highlight the pattern.

Oil is then rubbed into the wood to seal it. Apply enough oil with a soft rag to saturate the wood. Tung oil, Danish oil or boiled linseed oil are the most common types of oil used. Finishing with an oil sealer will give the wood a glossy sheen. For an even glossier finish, you ca add a good quality wax.

Another good finish is shellac. It is a natural resin that can reveal the richness of the curly maple grain bringing out a soft and natural finish as opposed to a plastic-coated one. It is easy to apply with the use of a brush, pad, sprayer or wiping cloth. Many love to work with shellac because it dries quickly and its color does not change over time. So if you want to maintain the light color of the wood, you should go for this finish.

Water-based polyurethane is a great option if you want a natural finish. It gives great durability and protection. It quickly dries and is easy to use.

When applying your wood finishing to your wooden jewelry box, remember to sand and prepare your wood well. Sand your wood until it is smooth and free of bumps. Wipe it clean with a soft rag.

If you opt to use stains, apply them before sealing with oil or varnish. Remove any excess dye and let it dry completely. Add an oil finish or polyurethane to seal wood.

The right finish is one of the most important things to consider because it can give your creation that polished and professional look.

This article was written by Rachel Manalo of MarqART Gift Shop. Our jewelry boxes show unique wood grain patterns and colors assembled into beautiful designs of breathtaking beauty. A fine addition to your dressing table or as a gift. Please visit http://www.marqartgiftshop.com to browse & buy exotic jewelry boxes that will give you a lifetime of pleasure!

You want to surprise your lady love with something special for your anniversary. However, finding gifts for women especially if they have very discerning tastes can pose a challenge. If you’ve always given her jewelry for important occasions, then maybe it’s time you gave her a special container for all her precious trinkets.

There are a wide array of choices when it comes to jewelry boxes. They can be made of different materials such as leather, fabric, glass or plastic. But if you’re looking for a fancier and truly exceptional box, a skillfully carved wooden box is a great choice.

There is just something about wood that is unlike other materials. The skill and artistry that goes into the construction of a wooden box makes it very personal. Not only is it used to store your trinkets, but it is a masterpiece in itself.

If you are looking for a wooden box that will leave a mark, one that has in-laid marquetry will definitely impress. Elaborate and detailed marquetry highlight the beauty of the box even more. Marquetarians meticulously put thin pieces of wood or veneers together to create a wonderfully eye-catching design.

These artisans often work with exotic burl woods such as thuya, walnut, oak, redwood, maple and many more. Burl wood is very attractive because of its interesting grain patterns that can be wavy, curly or may resemble ‘eyes’ or small black dots. What’s interesting is that burls are actually defects on trees.

Burls are abnormal growths found on some trees caused by a fungal attack or insect infestation. However, because of their unique shapes and ring patterns, they have become a highly prized and favorite choice of wood for many craftsmen. In fact, because they are so rare, they can be difficult to obtain.
The thuya burl, for instance, is a highly valued wood from Morocco.

It is sometimes even considered a national treasure. Woodworkers have been using it for centuries and in fact it is even been mentioned in the Bible as the ‘Thyine’ wood. Because of this, it is a favorite for carving religious items.

Artisans love to work with the thuya burl because it is easy to carve and polish. Its striking ‘bird’s eyes’ design is perfect for making boxes, furniture, trinkets, statues, plates and other types of wood work. However, due to overharvesting, the Moroccan government has banned the export of this wood.

In less skilled hands, working with burl wood can be a challenge because it is more fragile and delicate than other types of wood. It is harder to saw, cut or chisel without splitting because of its irregular pattern. Therefore, it takes a lot of skill and competence to be able to handle this kind of material.

Different types of marquetry designs made of natural burl wood can enhance a jewelry box. Just as a woman’s jewelry is a personal expression of her character and taste, so should the container that she keeps it in. An exquisite wooden jewelry organizer stays classic and timeless – just as your love is for her.

This article was written by Rachel Manalo of MarqART Gift Shop. Our jewelry boxes show unique wood grain patterns and colors assembled into beautiful designs of breathtaking beauty. A fine addition to your dressing table or as a gift. Please visit http://www.marqartgiftshop.com to browse & buy exotic jewelry boxes that will give you a lifetime of pleasure!

A jewelry box small as it can be, is a prized possession for any young lady and comes in several shapes and sizes to suit every personality. Such small jewelry boxes are generally used by jewelers to pack their wares, however, with time, they have come to be unique gifts in themselves. Just as bigger jewelry organizers are made of many materials, so too the small ones have many versions to choose from.

A small jewelry box is a favorite among women, young and old, to hold a few really precious items of adornment. Musical versions of these boxes are largely preferred. Though handmade boxes of the small kind are unique and expensive, they are also looked upon as a status symbol.

Such small jewelry boxes are used primarily to store delicate jewelry items inside a larger box. They prevent your precious trinkets from mixing up with costume jewelry pieces. This is also a great way of preventing delicate pieces of jewelry from getting scratched or grazed.

Jewelry boxes that are small are also called trinket boxes. They come decorated on the outside in several ways thus making them all the more dainty and beautiful enough to hold precious items in them. These boxes can be made of wood, porcelain, papier mache as well as stone.

Their surfaces can be highlighted with marquetry, etching as well as carving. If you want to gift a small jewelry box to someone you love, there are a few pointers you can keep in mind like, no matter what material or size the box is, it has to be lined with a soft material like velvet or satin. Boxes made of exotic wood are naturally more expensive than those that are commonly available.

Make sure that the box you choose is specifically meant to hold a particular piece of jewelry like rings, bangles or bracelets. Small trinket boxes that are made to hold rings come with ring slots or holders that can take two to three rings at one go. Those who collect bangles can choose a rectangular box that comes with a bangle holder in the center.

For those of you that have a mixed bag of jewelry items, a box that has multiple drawers or compartments is what you should be looking at as these can help you organize well. If you are looking for an expensive gift, then you can consider customizing a small jewelry box. There are numerous themes to choose from that can be carved, etched or created in different ways.

Some are hand painted adding to their charm and depending on what you think the recipient will like you can go anywhere from pirates to stone covered hearts. Small jewelry boxes add aesthetic appeal to wherever they are placed and if this is going to be within a jewelry box, try and match the materials and color schemes for better effect. If it is going to be on your dresser, match it to the look of the table and the other materials you have on it.

The best jewelry box of the small variety is the one that looks beautiful and does a great job of storing your trinkets.

This article was written by Ruth D’Souza Prabhu of MarqART Gift Shop. Our jewelry boxes feature evocative wood art designs, created from unique wood grain patterns and colors. A fine addition to your dressing table or as a gift. Please visit http://www.marqartgiftshop.com to browse & buy exotic jewelry boxes that will give you a lifetime of pleasure!

Are you searching for a pliers? Searching for jewelry pliers? Are you a jewelry maker and searching for a excellent jewelry pliers? This item will help you what kind of jewelry pliers that will suit for you.

What are jewelry pliers? Jewelry pliers are the jewelers fantasy for making jewels quick and easy for hours without experiencing any weakness. Jewelry pliers are made to handle delicate jobs than using pliers that you can purchase in a hardware storeroom and also they vary in shape and sizes.

As everyone says, you have to have the right tool designed for the right job. It makes the work simpler and less time consuming. With the right tool the end result will appear elegant and trendy.

The jewelry pliers have many styles and uses.

Bent Nose – The end part of the bent nose pliers is bent upwards. This is one of the exceptional jewelry pliers. The bent nose pliers makes it simple to manipulate fine cables into loops and coils that a straight pliers can’t do. This unique shape also makes it simple to reach the hard areas.

Chain Nose – The edges of the jaw of the chain nose pliers is beveled. This variety of jewelry plier will prevent the cable being disfigured. The chain nose plier is used to close bead tips and they are able to fold in tight spaces.

Crimping – There are 2 varieties of crimping pliers: silver and gold filled tubes. It is used first to curl and then flatten crimp beads.

Flat nose – This style of jewelry pliers are used to make right angles and razor-sharp bends in wire. They can also be used to grip flat stuff as well as flatten out the cable.

These are some of the varieties of jewelry pliers that are obtainable in the market today. So purchase one now!

Finding the right birthday gifts for mom can be the simplest way of saying thank you for being the wonderful person she is. The relationship between a mother and her child is so intimate that it is often difficult to express love in the form of words. Sometimes gifts, like jewelry or delicate jewelry boxes can begin to say what you have on your mind.

All mothers have a feminine side that would just love to be pampered. You will find a number of great pieces of jewelry that would make ideal gifts for her. The birthstone ring, though a common one, makes for a wonderful present.

It comes in myriad styles and can be personalized to hold the birthstone of you and your siblings. You can also get your mother some customized jewelry. You could have a ring, a bracelet, or even a pendant engraved with a word that means of lot to her.

Even better would be engraving the names of all her children on these items of jewelry. You could make a choice of pieces that all come together to form a set. Delicate earrings too are great gifts for mom.

These could be in her birthstone or in those of her kids. Either way, it is a gift she will completely appreciate. There are several kinds of jewelry that you can choose for your mother to make her feel special.

Each piece will need specialized care. Each of these items will need customized care. It is a fact that pearls and diamonds should not be placed along with costume jewelry as their surfaces can be scratched on contact.

Should your mom already have a lot of jewelry, buying her the right kind of jewelry box would be appropriate. Before you make a choice, look into the kind of jewelry your mom owns. Before you decide, take a look at the kind of jewelry your mother has in her collection.

Depending on this, you can choose a box that is designed to store them correctly. Based on this, you can decide on the kind of box that would store all of these the right way. Once you have chosen a box that has the right kind of storage space, you should look at how the box is decorated.

There are several materials that you can choose from. Wood is a favorite and can be decorated in a number of ways such as with inlay work, marquetry, engraving and the like. Marquetry makes use of small bits of veneer to create unique designs on a surface.

Since this is handmade, it is all the more appreciated. Because these are handmade, they have more sentimental value. Your mom goes out of her way to make sure your birthday is special, each and every year.

It doesn’t matter to her if you have outgrown birthday cakes and party hats. It never occurred to her that you may be too big for birthday cakes and party hats, your day has always been made special. Can there be a better way of telling her you love her than by giving her some unique jewelry and a beautiful case to hold them all in?

This article was written by Ruth D’Souza Prabhu of MarqART Gift Shop. Our jewelry boxes show unique wood grain patterns and colors assembled into beautiful designs of breathtaking beauty. A fine addition to your dressing table or as a gift. Please visit http://www.marqartgiftshop.com to browse & buy exotic jewelry boxes that will give you a lifetime of pleasure!

Searching for unique gifts for a loved one can sometimes be a challenge. What do you give the woman you love who practically has everything? Just any ordinary thing will not be enough for her.

You want to get her something that’s one of a kind, something that will show her how much you love her and how special you think she is. Women have had jewelry boxes since they were little girls.

Remember the first box your mom gave you, the one with the pretty ballerina? You would watch her spinning around and around as you stored your most precious trinkets inside. These boxes hold many special memories and as girls grow into women, it grows in sentimental value.

This is why jewelry boxes are gifts that are highly appreciated and valued. Finding one that is different and out of the ordinary makes it even more special. Nowadays, jewelry boxes are constantly being manufactured, mass-produced and sold at retail stores.

This is not the type you want to get. You want one that has been done meticulously with great attention to detail making hand carved wooden boxes the perfect gift choice. Wooden jewelry boxes are often constructed using different hardwoods from around the world.

They are painstakingly handmade by the artisan making sure each piece is carved to perfection. Add an elaborate marquetry design to the box and you have an even more extraordinary piece. Marquetry is the art of painstakingly putting thin slices of wood or veneers together to produce a lovely pattern.

It takes a lot of skill and effort to accomplish such a work of art. The process from designing to actual production takes quite a substantial amount of time. Different woods are selected taking into account grain pattern, color, and texture to give the best combination for each design.

Afterwards, each piece is joined together much like a puzzle making sure that they fit seamlessly to form a stunning masterpiece. Since not all woods are the same, no two jewelry boxes are alike even if they have similar designs. Since each sheet of wood is unlike the next in terms of shades and pattern, you always get a product that is unique and not like the rest.

The longer the box is kept, the more personality and character it gains making it more striking than it already is. Having an exquisitely handcrafted box that is both useful and stylish is great. It not only keeps your jewelry collection organized but it can add an elegance and charm to any room as well.

The knowledge that the hands of a talented craftsman have conceived such a breathtaking work of genius makes the jewelry box more personal. The thought, ingenuity and artistry that have been put into such remarkable craftsmanship makes it more precious. If you’re still stuck trying to figure out the perfect gift, you don’t have to look any further.

A wooden jewelry box with a beautiful and intricate marquetry design will be one priceless gift that the most important person in your life will love, value, and cherish for a lifetime.

This article was written by Rachel Manalo of MarqART Gift Shop. Our jewelry boxes are original works of art, no two creations are the same. Each wood shown has its own unique wood grain pattern and color. MarqART comes from combining the words marquetry (wood inlay) + Art (a creation of beauty) an apt name for our products. A fine addition to your dressing table or as a gift. Please visit http://www.marqartgiftshop.com to browse & buy exotic jewelry boxes that will give you a lifetime of pleasure!

Expert artisans and craftsmen have been creating handmade jewelry boxes for many years. Intricate designs and hand painting make them valuable items, sometimes even more than the precious treasures they are meant to hold. Sizes and styles vary depending on the items they keep – from small jewelry like rings and bracelets to bigger items like necklaces and lady’s gloves.

In the past, jewelry boxes made from precious materials like gold, silver and ivory were commonplace. Other materials like wood, silk and porcelain were also used in some parts of the world. These exquisite jewelry boxes have been considered as collectors’ items.

The range of materials used in making jewelry boxes today make them suited not just for women but men and children alike. Wooden jewelry boxes have since become popular among jewelry connoisseurs around the world. These boxes are available in an extensive range of wood types available today – cherry, oak, maple, etc.

The way these jewelry boxes are crafted highlights the natural beauty of wood. This is why they are perfect choices in making treasure chests, dressers, and cabinets to hold precious heirlooms and other valuable items. Artisans favor the use of maple, along with walnut and cherry, when creating wooden pieces like furniture and smaller trinket and jewelry boxes.

They are durable and the pieces show beautiful lines when properly stained and polished. Maple, in general, is great for making a variety of wood products. Maple burls are abnormalities in the tree caused by natural stress or injury from insect infestation or fungus infection. These burls attach themselves to the roots and climb all the way up to the trunk and form protrusions covered by bark.

Some maple trees have burls that grow and spread in great size that they sometimes cover the entire trunk. In woodworking, however, they are highly prized by craftsmen because of the spectacular patterns they produce that make the wood even richer in detail. Experienced craftsmen are careful when handling, cutting, and shaping masterpieces from maple burls since they are very delicate.

Artists, wood sculptors and expert furniture makers know the value of burls and the pattern they create on the surface of the wood. Maple burls are found mostly in Big Leaf maple trees native to the Pacific Coast region. The wood is primarily used in producing veneers and laminates for furniture, but they are also used in manufacturing musical instruments and interior panels as well.

In creating more expensive and highly valued pieces such as stringed instruments, furniture trimmings and finely crafted jewelry boxes, highly figured wood burls are used. Colors of maple burl tend to be darker compared to maple wood – ranging from yellow ochre to dark shades of brown. Finely crafted items made from the whorls and uneven patterns of maple burl make them more unique and valuable.

It’s no wonder that jewelry boxes made from highly figured maple burls make them not just great gift items but also precious keepsakes as well. Preserving your heirlooms with quality hand-crafted wooden jewelry boxes bring with them an Old World charm and they can be passed on to your children and grandchildren.

This article was written by Oliver Ocampo of MarqART Gift Shop. Our jewelry boxes are original works of art, no two creations are the same. Each wood shown has its own unique wood grain pattern and color. MarqART comes from combining the words marquetry (wood inlay) + Art (a creation of beauty) an apt name for our products. A fine addition to your dressing table or as a gift. Please visit http://www.marqartgiftshop.com to browse & buy exotic jewelry boxes that will give you a lifetime of pleasure!

The classic, elegant look of Mokume gane metalwork is something to see. {Not only is the handsome styling of Mokume gane arresting and attractive, it comes with a unique back-story which makes it a true discussion topic. ~ Additionally, the remarkable styling of the Mokume gane look provides an enthralling heritage, something that will always be a wonderful talking point

The Japanese term translates to English as “wood eye metal.” There are a few other historical names for the metalwork, which translate to “cloud metal” and “wood-grain metal.” The translations into English are apt, as the swirling patterns of the Mokume gane metal look quite similar to wood grains. Certainly, comparing Mokume gane to wood grain is fitting, but the variety of shapes created by experienced artists are as various as the clouds themselves.

It was 17th century Japanese katana makers who who developed the process for creating Mokume gane metal, which was used as sword fittings. When sword use diminished in Japan, the artists re-focused and uncovered a different market for their talents in the ornamental arts. ~ Changes in weaponry destroyed the business for katanas, and Mokume gane artisans instead (used their trade for ornamental items such as jewelry. They created their one-of-a-kind metalwork by liquefying soft metallic elements, which would form liquid phase diffusion bonds. This means the metal bonds together, but doesn’t totally dissolve. The patterns that result are dazzling.

Since there are a wide variety of metals available for use in the Mokume gane process, it results in an extremely diverse possibility of looks in the final product.

Those designers who create Mokume Gane Ringss are creating something that is one-of-a-kind every single time they create a piece. Because the process is a result of a series of twisting, rolling and forging, you’ll end up with a piece of jewelry that is unique and like no other.

Because the art of creating Mokume has only really been practiced in the the States since the 1970s, you won’t find many pieces of heirloom jewelry in this country. If you’re seeking a unique piece that has heirloom potential, Mokume gane is worth investigating further. For the finest Mokume designs and workmanship, visit The Chris Ploof Studio in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. Chris designs and creates, including also meteorite and damascus steel, that are very popular wedding bands for those seeking something out of the ordinary.

Silver clay? What the hell is that?
Silver clay, precious metal clay, art metal clay, and art clay silver are all different terms and types of “clay” that can be magically turned into gold and silver.

These innovative metal clays have been around since the 90′s. Jewelry enthusiasts can now mold and form precious metal as simply as clay.

Jewellery making of course is as old as time. The difference nowadays is that you now don’t have to bang or cast your metal to make jewellery if you don’t need to. Silver clay now makes it feasible to make real metal forms without these traditional techniques.

Here is how it works. Precious metal clays are made from fine metal particles suspended in an organic binder. This binder lets you mold and shape the clay as you would potter’s clay. Once you are pleased with the form, you let your project dry for at least 24 hours ( or even more ). You then fire it in a kiln or by employing a hand torch. The binder burns away, leaving the fused metal behind in the form you formed it.

Before you grab a pile of silver clay and go at it though, you will want to keep a few tenets under consideration. Silver clay is expensive, so you do not want to waste it.

Silver Clay Tips

Here are a number of tips for working with silver clay :

–>Metal clays shrink 10-30% when fired. Be certain to check your package for shrinkage levels particularly if you are making rings or other objects that need to be actual fits.
–>Not all metal clays can be hand torch fired. If you will not be using a kiln be sure to check that your brand of silver clay is “low fire”.
–>Only tiny pieces should be torch fired. Pieces bigger than 25g should be kiln fired.
Silver clay isn’t cheap. The gold version particularly is terribly costly. Be certain to shop thoroughly and follow instructions fastidiously so you don’t waste your cash futilely.

• Metal Clay simply takes on impressions of other objects ( and fingerprints too ). Experiment with different textures and objects to make imprints onto the wet clay.
• Playing cards make great “spacers” when rolling out clay to an even thickness. Just stack cards on both sides of the clay, then use your roller to roll out the clay between the cards.
• Gemstones that can resist the heat of firing can be set into the wet clay.

Now that you have some silver clay guidelines, I bet you are psyched. You wish to work with this leading edge material now! What will you make first?

Want to learn more about precious metal clay? Read more silver clay articles. http://shop.how-to-make-jewelry.com

It’s that time of year again, and you often attempt to top last year’s present. Obviously, we’re referring to the greatest birthday gift for Mother. Every 12 months you want it to be special, something that your mother will recall every single time she thinks of you. Last year you and your brothers and sisters chipped in and sent her on an Alaskan cruise for her 50th birthday, in which she ran into an old friend from high school, and they grew to be inseparable through the entire cruise. This present was the present to top just about all gifts, the one she will probably always remember, true, nonetheless it does not suggest that you won’t be able to give her some thing just as special every single other time. Mom’s appreciate every single little thing, it does not matter if it was a dandelion picked from your font yard inside a small glass of water. It’s the thought that is important, appropriate?

So exactly where do you start looking to uncover the ideal birthday gift for Mother? Unless you have some thing specific in your mind, or even if you do not, begin your search on the internet for the greatest selection of one of a kind gifts. Flowers are often nice and in a lot of instances might be delivered the exact same day. To make your mom feel pampered, choose luxurious pajamas, spa gift certificates, gold and silver jewelry, silk scarves, fragrance, and healthy skin care merchandise. Exclusive gift baskets containing all her favorites is really a good birthday gift for Mother. Pick from aromatic bath and body indulgences in all of her preferred scents, buy pearl jewelry for her, or a reward certificate to her preferred specialty store. If you are thinking about a spa birthday present for mom, she”ll absolutely love an aromatherapy massage or invigorating facial. She”ll come out feeling like a new woman all thanks to you.

Sandra Solivagant Samson has expertise in buy pearl jewelry and author of several informative handbooks.

Life should be as fun as animal bracelets. A variety of choices of design and styles make these wonderful bracelets a great gift for children. Some people do not know what they are, if you are one of those people, just ask a child. Most children have at least one of these items or are in the process of collecting them.

The bracelets are found at many different resources including on-line and in shops. They are unique, kids crave them, and even many adults find them a unique accessory for a drab workday. Different colors are an option, and they will bend and stretch in any direction. Best of all, the bracelets never lose their form, they can be accidentally left in a pants pocket and washed, but will not lose their color or form. The animal shapes are easy to recognize when the bracelets are off, but figuring out what is being worn is a fun travel game for children. Glow in the dark and neon animals have become very popular for kids over the last several months.

Many children and adults collect the different animal shapes and colors. This resembles the increase in value that other items have garnered in the past such as Elmo and Pink Pony. Children enjoy their bracelets and trade, collect and even sell them as they build their collection.

Because of the low price, these make great gifts for just about any occasion. Birthdays, holidays, or Halloween is a great opportunity to give a unique gift. An inventive way to use the bracelets are for themed birthdays or parties. By selecting the animals associated with the theme, a person can easily create affordable door prizes or handouts for attendees.

The bracelets are being worn around the wrists and ankles of fashion conscious kids who find that they easily fit. It is advisable to monitor where they place them because it could be a little to snug on the skin. A lot of kids use them on walls, in lockers, or attach them to key chains to create a unique look that reflects their personality and style.

Retail stores, and online wholesalers, find that keeping the popular bracelets in stock is a very difficult thing to do. They sell out quickly and collectibles are often out of stock. The animal category is one of the quickest selling line in pastels, neon, or glow-in-the-dark colors. Some retailers maintain a schedule and stock the bracelets so that they will be available to a wider market.

Zoos, open parks, and primary schools find that these are very effective marketing and funding tools. Zoos sell them in their gift shops, which finance the zoo. In addition, many charitable organizations incorporate the bracelets in their marketing strategies as part of their fund raising and advertising campaigns. Tactile learning is important to youngsters, so schools use them in different ways, to encourage learning shapes, and the names of different animals.

It does not matter if used as gifts, or aids for learning, or for benevolent causes the animal bracelets make an affordable and excellent way to leave an impression on the attendees or donors of an event. They make an excellent gift or are a great hand-out for kids who enjoy playing with them or wearing them.

Enjoy the unique look you can create with amazing animal bracelets. Animal rubber band bracelets make a fabulous door prize at parties, or a wonderful way to create a signature brand easy and fast!

www.uberarticles.com/articles/artsubmit/upreview.php?article_id=408240

Teachers, tutors, babysitters, and other people who work with children all deal, in one way or another, with behavior problems and discipline. They are always looking for new ways to encourage good behavior. One way that is used by many of them is the reward system.

There are many different kinds of school supplies or toys that can be purchased in bulk and used for rewards. You could use shaped rubber bands, plastic lizards, scented erasers, or countless other things. You'd be surprised how much kids will come to value these small items.

Here are some suggestions for keeping your rewards system effective.

1. Have some small things that are easy to earn, as incentive. This is where the tiny, affordable items that are bought in bulk can be especially useful. If it is not too hard for the kids to earn these things, they will quickly learn the satisfaction of being rewarded for their achievement or behavior. A lizard or a banana shaped eraser, for instance, makes a great reward for a day of good behavior or a high grade on a test.

2. Be conscious of each child's personal record, and reward them accordingly. It is important that the initial bar is set differently for each child, based on their past performance. A child should be rewarded for making improvements, even if their improvement does not reach the highest level of achievement. As their achievement increases, the bar is raised. Initially, reward them for a C if it is an improvement. Then, the next time, they will need to get a B to receive the reward.

3. Stay consistent. In order to keep the attention of the children and their trust in the reward system, make sure a reward is given each time it is earned.

4. Build up to bigger rewards. The snakes and lizards will work for small things, but it is a good idea to have some bigger ideas for greater achievements. For instance, when a child makes the honor roll or gets a good grade for behavior for an entire portion of the year, they could be given a larger reward. A pizza party for the group of children who have met the particular requirement, for instance, is one idea.

5. Provide some prizes that encourage them to develop their skills and consciousness. In between the small bulk rewards and the bigger, end of season rewards, you could give out books for steady achievement in the middle of the term. The field trip or pizza party could be done in conjunction with some community service work. These things can be fun for kids, and can be a welcome change from sitting in the classroom.

When children are rewarded for their positive behavior and increased achievement, they start to experience good feelings associated with these accomplishments. Eventually, they will learn to appreciate the feelings in themselves, even if a reward does not accompany them. The reward system will also make your classroom or any other environment more dynamic and pleasant. Animal shaped rubber bands and plastic lizards can work wonders!

Discipline and behavioral problems driving you up the walls? Looking for new ways to encourage positive behavior? Get the ultimate inside scoop now in our overview of rewards for discipline in the form of shaped rubber bands and animal bands .

Have you always wanted to have a jewelry box full of handmade jewelry but were not sure how to go about obtaining it? The good news is that there are lots of ways that a person can fill a box with hand crafted jewelry that does not involve spending lots of money. Most people tend to think that jewelry made by hand is very expensive but it is not. This is simply not true! There are plenty of ways to get that kind of jewelry without having to empty your bank account to get it. This article has several methods you can use to fill your jewelry box with hand made items.

Perhaps the very best way to get handmade jewelry for your collection is to learn how to make it for yourself. The easiest way to learn is to get someone to teach you how. You might also think about taking a class in making jewelry at a jewelry shop or your local community center. You might even be able to find a local jewelry artisan to give you one on one lessons. This is perhaps the very best way to learn how to make your own jewelry because being the only student makes it easier to learn. Craft Fairs and Art Fairs. Just about every town and city has craft and art fairs. They might not be held every often, but they are definitely worth checking out when they do. If you want one of a kind pieces, these fairs are fantastic. Perhaps the very best thing about jewelry at craft fairs is just how affordable it is. There are lots of artists who will usually charge lower prices at art fairs because they want to build a name for themselves. You always want to make sure that the artists you buy from at craft fairs have websites. It is usually there that you will find the more expensive pieces that the artist has to offer.

Handmade jewelry is also offered by jewelry stores both offline and online. Sometimes these handmade pieces of jewelry will be very expensive (like what you will usually pay in a jewelry store). Sometimes it will be at reasonable prices, like those you will find in a boutique. Many boutiques will buy jewelry from a local artist and sell it in the shop. The store gets part of the profit, the artist gets the other. This is the best way to get handmade jewelry without having to search for it online or wait for a craft fair.

Handmade jewelry is a wonderful addition to any accessory box or outfit. There are several reasons to select handcrafted jewelry. This type of jewelry is usually less expensive than jewelry you’ll find in the jewelry shops in your town or city. It is one of a kind (where as mass produced pieces never are). It is also out of the ordinary.

An attractive thing about having a jewelry that is handmade, is you won’t be paying the high price tag associated with buying jewelry that has been specifically commissioned.

Another great gift is painting a room in the house for them! You can learn more information on this site here on Edmonton House Painters or Edmonton Painter

With New Moon causing such a stir with devotees of the Twilight saga books and films, there’s a huge demand for New Moon merchandise this year, and NECA and Co have done a great job and come home with the goods. While there was only a few varieties of things that were available for enthusiasts of the first Twilight show, there’s a large amount additional now around for the second show in the Twilight movie line. Because of the abundance  of various items that are on offer in the series of New Moon toys, there are ideal things for either large or small presents.

A few of the best selling pieces of New Moon merchandise for Christmas include the official New Moon Calendar, the initial soundtrack to the New Moon film (as well as the sound track CD), Twilight replica jewelry, motion picture posters, New Moon stationery, action figures and abundant more.

The series of New Moon action figures is a brilliant example of how the Twilight merchandise range has grown. With the first show there was only a figure of Edward Cullen (as played in the movies by Robert Pattinson) and a restricted double-pack of Edward and Bella figures. Now available there is a series of individual action figures to decide on from, including Edward, Bella, Alice and Jacob. Each is articulated and arrives in New Moon themed packaging.

The reproduction jewellery is a marvellous plan for enthusiasts of the saga too. With those discreet jewelty items, fans can show off their commitment to the Twilight saga to alternative fans in the know, without being too blatant about it. One of the top examples of the reproduction jewelry as an example is the cool replica of Edward Cullen’s wristband, which is bound to search out an area in each follower’s range of New Moon collectibles.

Each and every one of the merchandise from the new film is of a very high standard. NECA and the associated firms that are manufacturing the official items are on top form right at the moment, and therefore the figure likenesses, artwork and photos are all of a very nice standard. Irrespective of whether or not you are on Team Jacob or Team Edward, there is a wide assortment of New Moon toys to test out for this Xmas, and something to suit every budget.

Welcome, Twilight fans!  I am here to tell you which the most wanted pieces of New Moon movie merchandise are for this Holidays season!  Now with the releasing of the second film in the Twilight saga, New Moon, there’s a enormous range of fantastic New Moon collectables and products that has been made available. 

So if you are trying to find gifts for the Twilight saga: New Moon fans amongst your friends and family, the things that follow are just some of the most wanted and best selling examples of New Moon merchandise for this xmas, and they are sure to be much coveted throughout the next year while those fans impatiently wait for The Twilight Saga : Eclipse to arrive!  So which are the top wanted items for New Moon merchandise? 

The official Twilight saga: New Moon calendar is proving to be a massive hit with fans all around the planet.  This great calendar features all new pictures from the new film of all of the Twilight stars!  With beautiful design and pictures, this leads to a great Christmas gift. 

The Twilight Saga: New Moon Official Movie Guide : The official guide to the making of the New Moon picture is a great gift for the avid Twilight fan this christmas.  Crammed with all types of information on the making of the movie, together with loads of backstage photos, this makes a great companion to their xmas reading! 

The Twilight Saga: New Moon duplicate jewellery : Twilight fans everywhere are on the lookout for Twilight and New Moon copy jewellery.  There’s a big selection to select from, covering the majority of the iconic Twilight characters.  These pieces are an excellent gift idea – they are subtle and may be worn each day! 

The Twilight Saga: New Moon Action Figures : a variety of fantastic action figures is also available based mostly on characters from the New Moon picture.  All the main characters are shown in well pseable and detailed action figures from NECA, who areone of the biggest and top film collectibles companies in the world! 

The Twilight Saga: New Moon Soundtrack CD : the tracks that may be heard in the New Moon film are an essential addition to each Twilight fan’s music library, and the official CD soundtrack is an ideal present idea!  With all of the greatest songs that are played in the movie together with beautiful images from the film, this is an excellent Twilight present. 

The above are just a few examples of the great New Moon product which is at present on the market, and actually amongst the most desired!