Different gemstones you can consider to embellish your jewelry

While jewelry can be made from any material, it is predominantly made from precious metals and gemstones. Jewelry made from just metals can look plain and gemstones bring about the real look, making your jewelry pieces look even more stunning.

All gemstones share a common beauty, and each one is cherished for its own unique and distinguished look. Moreover, gemstones bring with them special color and are found in a particular region. Gathered from all around the world, gemstones are treasured since ancient periods and thus are widely used to embellish expensive metals. If you are wondering which are the gemstones that you can design your metal jewelry with, here are few that you should explore:

Diamond: ‘Diamonds are forever’ is the most famous statement when it comes to diamond. This precious stone is one of the most desired objects, especially among women. The hardest gem of all, these stones are found deep down in the surface beneath the earth and form after several years. Diamonds have been surrounded by several mythological stories and each story carries a different history lesson. The gemstone has also been lauded for having supernatural healing powers. Whether the amazing stories behind diamonds are true or not, they are the most beautiful stones to embellish the jewelry for both men and women. A symbol of eternal love, diamond jewelry is worn all around the world.

Emerald: The emerald gemstone flaunts a beautiful and warm green color. With the color of spring, emerald jewelry has always been on the mind of women who love color and nature. Symbolizing love, emerald gems are believed to aid fertility in women. So how do you know which is the most precious emerald stone? The gemstone is of great value if the color is deep and vivid. Emeralds are one of the rarest gemstones to be found and can enhance any metal such as gold, silver, and platinum.

Jade: Jade is the most treasured stone, especially in China. The stone is believed to protect the body of the emperor and is widely considered to work as a protective shield among the masses. Jade gemstones have a vivid green color which slightly looks like emeralds. However, they are found in yellow, pink, white and lavender as well. The stone has a sparkly shimmer and can be embedded in necklaces and rings.

Pearls: These are popular gemstones and have also been worshipped among mankind. Natural pearls are very rare to find and now are widely cultured using manmade techniques. Today, pearl jewelry is widely worn by women around the world and as it carries a classic, yet contemporary look.

Topaz: Topaz is another exceptional gemstone and is one that appeals to most masses. Often found in a golden hue, this stone is also found in pale pink and blush orange. Today, with advances in technology, topaz is found in various hues, especially blue. Topaz on jewelry can send down a spell that will amaze everyone around you.

Opal: Opal was known to be the mother of all gemstones as it encapsulates the vivid colors of all gemstones. Each opal gemstone is unique and the most beautiful one comes with colors of the rainbow. What is amazing is that opal jewelry can be worn with a range of ensembles.

What are you waiting for? Be it your special occasion or your best friend’s wedding, get yourself a gemstones jewelry piece. You can also treat yourself a piece of birthstone jewelry.

What is even amazing is that gemstones not only make your jewelry look glamorous, but also are a great investment. Depending upon the type of stone you opt for, you may be lucky to fetch a big amount on your precious gemstone jewelry. However, you should undertake a few tests and check for other standards before ahead with your purchase. Gemstones can be precious or semi-precious, and this can be derived from their origin and unique creation.

5 affordable jewelry sites that you must know

Do you think that to you have to spend a fortune on adorable jewelry? That without spending much there is no chance that you can get yourself or your loved ones a beautiful piece of jewelry?

If yes, then you are in for a big surprise. Not many people know that although the jewelry business is dominated by high-end, luxury brands, there are many small new brands that are like a breeze fresh air.

These underdogs are the brands that sell elegant, gorgeous pieces; the only difference is that they won’t create a big hole in your wallet.

Here are some budget-friendly brands that you must check out:

• Seaworthy

A Portland company, Seaworthy is a small brand that specializes in handmade jewelry. Seaworthy has its website where it sells its latest of collections to the customers. The site sells everything right from earrings, hoops, and necklaces to hair accessories.

This designer focuses on making jewelry which is a mix of both minimalistic and classic. All the pieces you will find here are unique, elegant, and, above all, in your budget.

Their craftsmanship and customer service is sure to make you return to this brand.

• Faris

Many of you might have already heard about this jewelry brand. Faris is popular among the jewelry fanatics for its minimalistic and at the same time symmetric designs.

Designed by Faris Du Graf in Seattle, this brand aims at making bold statements through their jewelry pieces which can be worn daily.

The necklace, earrings, pins, and bracelets you see here are refreshing, elegant, and something you won’t find on the streets.

• Bing Bang NYC

The New-York-based Bing Bang brand was started in 2002, and it has successfully created a niche for itself over the years. The jewelry on their website is edgy, modern, and, at the same time, classic and timeless.

The best thing about this brand is that it has so many different styles of jewelry that every person will find something for themselves when they browse through their website.

The website has categories like Sparkle, Minimal, and Statement, which makes it easy to buy jewelry which best suits your personal style.

• Stella and Bow

Have you wondered what jewelry Hollywood stars like Emma Stone or Chloe Grace Moretz wear? If yes, then you would be interested to know that these two celebrities and many famous Hollywood actress in the past have associated themselves with Stella and Bow.

Stella and Bow make stylish jewelry design that is perfect for women of all age to wear for special occasions as well as work. They sell necklaces, bracelet, earrings, and other jewelry items that are either modern, tropical, or classic.

For all the dog lovers out there, don’t forget to check out their Puppy Love collection, which consists of adorable necklaces with a pendant in the shape of a bone.

• Littionary

Are you planning to gift a customized necklace or bracelet to your loved ones but do not have a big budget to do so? Well, if yes, then now you don’t have to worry about. The brand Littionary is known for its personalized jewelry pieces. For those who love delicate, minimal pieces, this is the brand that you need to check out. Their engraved lockets with a message is a hit among their customers. In their earrings collection, they have unique diamond rings and hoops that are sure to give your attire an elegant look.

If you are someone who isn’t a big fan of chunky jewelry, you might love all their collections.

So, which is your favorite website for jewelry shopping?

Factors to consider before buying gold jewelry

Since ancient times, women loved to adorn themselves with gold jewelry to enhance their beauty. Gold jewelry is always the first choice for women of every age. This one kind of jewelry that continues to be a favorite among several women as it never goes out of style. Gold is beautiful and amazingly complements jewelry designs, making it one of the most wearer-friendly pieces. Gold jewelry is long lasting and is treasured as it retains its value over time. Thus, it makes for the best jewelry investment. Imagine, wearing gold jewelry and being able to pound it in fluctuating financial times, no wonder our ancestors loved gold jewelry so much.

If you are looking to buy gold jewelry, you may be absolutely amazed at the choice in design that you come across. Unlike a few years ago, you can now purchase dainty pieces that are great to wear even on casual days. Moreover, many jewelry brands provide drool-worthy gold jewelry pieces. You do invest high amounts of money in gold jewelry and thus, you should learn a few things before going ahead with your purchase. Here are few factors to consider before buying gold jewelry.

Gold purity: The purity of gold is measured by the karats that it is made up of. Karats are a system that is essentially used to describe the percentage of gold that is present in the jewelry piece. So, the higher the gold karats, the more is the amount of gold added. This means that a jewelry piece with 22k gold will retail at a much higher cost. 24K gold is the purest form of gold and cannot be used to make jewelry. 10K jewelry contains the least amount of gold and is mixed with other additional metals.

You should note, the higher the gold content, the better the value over years. Low karat gold is not likely to hold any value if you are purchasing jewelry as part of an investment.

Metals mixed with gold: Gold is a soft metal and is not practical for daily wear unless it is mixed with other metals. Gold alloys make for more durable jewelry that does not bend easily. Moreover, gold alloy lets makers produce more variety of gold jewelry in the form of rose gold or white gold. Gold is usually mixed with other metals such as nickel, copper, and silver. You should understand the type of alloy you are looking for before making your purchase.

Gold-plated jewelry: Gold plated jewelry is one of the popular forms of jewelry that a lot of women use. In this kind of jewelry, gold is coated onto a much cheaper metal such as silver or bronze. This reduces the cost of the jewelry piece. You must understand that if the layer of gold is thin, it can wear off soon. On the other hand, the thicker the layer of gold, the lesser chances of the metal underneath getting exposed over time. If you are planning on buying gold plated jewelry, then you should check the markings that indicate the amount of gold and the type that coats the less expensive metal.

Brand: When buying gold from a brand or a local jeweler, you should make sure that the store is reputed and is trust-worthy. The brand should build a strong and trustful relationship with you that will make you want to buy from them even in the future. Look for a reliable and authentic trader before going ahead with your transaction.

When gold jewelry is cared for, it becomes one of the most cherished pieces that can be passed on to generations.

Factors to understand before buying gemstone jewelry

Women have loved adorning their bodies with jewelry since ancient times. There can be nothing like gemstone jewelry that is beautiful yet versatile. When embedded in precious metals, gemstones bring to the jewelry pieces a glamorous look that is unmatched. Available in a variety of shapes, colors, and cuts, gems adorn necklaces, rings, and even bracelets.

Amazingly, gemstone jewelry has been used in the cultures of countries across the worlds and they continue to hold their relevance till day. Spanning a spectrum of taste and styles, gemstones magnify the luster of precious metals and are a popular choice among glamorous women. If you are seeking to enhance your ensemble or even adding to your jewelry-box collection, here are a few factors to keep in mind:

Thorough research: More knowledge is less when it comes to understanding the types of gemstone jewelry available in the market. It is a good idea to gain some knowledge through friends and family, go through guides and online sites before beginning your search. These guides will help you understand things like grading of the gemstones, the cut and clarity and most importantly the difference between precious gemstones and semi-precious ones.

Go to reputed sources: Gemstone jewelry comes at an exorbitant price and you don’t want to realize later that you have been duped. Thus, you must start looking through reputed jewelry stores that will ensure that your gemstones are sourced from reliable sources. Also, there may be discounts that can dazzle your vision, but you must understand that not all that glitters is gold.

Keep a budget: The budget will solely depend upon your choice between precious and semi-precious stones. The former comes at a much higher price as they are rare to find. Also, if you are low on budget, you can go in for cultivated stones. Keep your budget and only budge in case of an exception.

Evaluate the gemstones: While the metal contained in the jewelry is evaluated separately, there are a few factors that jewelers and gemologists use to determine the value of a gemstone. Gemstones are evaluated based on four features that include cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. When gemstones are found, they are coarse and rough, thus, requiring them to be cut into a specific shape. The way a gemstone is cut determines its value. One that is trimmed imperfectly reduces the desirability and in turn impacts the value. Gemstones are purchased for their purity and brilliance. When there are imperfections that impede the clarity, the stone looks flawed, and this leads to a drop-in value. The color of the gemstone too should be deep and vivid. The intensity of the color greatly determines its value. And the last factor, the weight, and size of the stone are essential. The larger the stone, the higher it’s value.

Examine the jewelry piece: Before making the purchase, you must thoroughly examine the gemstone jewelry piece. Ensure that the gemstones are securely mounted to the metal or there is a huge risk of them falling off. Also, do not shy away from using a magnifying glass to check the jewelry for any damaged stone and chipped facets.

Understand the warranty policy: Gemstone jewelry is a big investment and must make sure that the piece is accompanied by warranty card. Even better, look for jewelers that provide post-sale services. This includes checking for any loose gemstones or polishing.

Buying gemstone jewelry is a beautiful experience and is something that will stay close to your heart for years to come. Armed with the right knowledge and information, you will be able to find the best quality gemstone jewelry piece for yourself.

An essential guide to travel accessories for men

Who said that travel packing for men is easy? All male travelers out there would agree and understand the struggles men face when it comes to organizing their luggage for a trip. Although most people believe that women are heavy packers, the truth is that if men pack without planning they too can classify as heavy packers.

So, how can men ensure that they remain light packers and have an organized suitcase on every trip they plan?

It is simple. They need to indulge in new-age, smart travel accessories that will help them make their whole travel experience smooth.

Read this article to know more about some of the best travel accessories men can invest in along with their suitcases.

• Scottevest QUEST Vest

For those who are done with carrying bags and are up for something new, you should check out the Scottevest QUEST Vest. Think again before assuming this to be your regular vest; it is far from it. With around 42 built-in compartments or pockets, this jacket can store as much as any regular small-size travel bag would.

It is comfortable to wear, can be layered on top of other garments, and is designed to be water and stain proof. If you want more, then you can always team it up with the same brand’s hidden cargo pants that are, again, water resistant and come with eight pockets.

• Seyvr Power Saver Wallet

The Seyvr Power Saver wallet is one of the most useful travel accessories you can own. This sleek wallet might look like your regular wallet, but it isn’t. This premium leather wallet has a built-in 1400mAh battery with an in-built cable that will help you charge your phone when you are traveling.

The best thing about this travel accessory is that it is compact and easy to carry around.

• Solar-Powered Anti-Theft Backpack

This weather-resistant bag is a must for all the travel freaks out there who cannot be bothered to worry about the safety of their luggage. One of the best features of this bag is its solar bank which can charge your phone almost 12 times if you fully charge it. To charge the solar bank, you must do nothing but simply walk with the bag on your shoulder under broad daylight. This backpack comes with an integrated lock where you can lock the zippers of the backpack as well as lock the bag to something if you are sitting somewhere. There are four hidden compartments in this sleek bag, where you can hide all your valuables.

It also comes with a built-in Bluetooth speaker that makes sure that you are never short of entertainment.

• AmazonBasics RFID Travel Organizer

As the name suggests, this product is a blessing for those who find it difficult to pack in an organized way. This easy-to-carry travel organizer is best if you want a bag to keep your cards, bills, passports, and all your essential travel documents.

What makes this travel bag stand out among other similar travel bags is its RFID blocking material, which ensures that whatever documents and private cards you keep inside the purse is protected from the unnecessary scanning you go through while traveling.

• Tech Dopp Kit 2

This is a stylish leather travel organizer that will put your regular travel accessories to shame. The organizer comes with a zipper and is said to have designed keeping in mind the 20th-century traditional Dopp kit. When you open the organizer, you will find leather straps where you can hook your USB cords, earplugs, and other wires. These straps can even hold your passport and other cards. At the bottom right, there is a zip compartment where you can keep smaller items and your valuables. With Tech Dopp Kit 2, you can never be unorganized.

So, which of the above travel accessories caught your eye?

Statement pieces that make for jewelry-box essentials

Every woman has a fetish for jewelry, and why wouldn’t she? After all, it brings out the best of one’s clothing wear. Jewelry does let you pull an outfit together by giving it a finishing touch. If you have ever forgotten to wear your earrings, you would understand the incomplete feeling that you go through after leaving home.

If you are looking to build a strong jewelry wardrobe, then you should get a good mix of different types of jewelry pieces that will complement your fashion style. When picking jewelry, you should pick pieces that stand out in terms of design and color. Here are few jewelry pieces that you should absolutely add to your wardrobe:

Statement/Cocktail rings: Rings have to make it to your sharp jewelry collection. These rings have three rings that are attached together and makes for the perfect accessory no matter what the occasion. It lets you find the perfect balance between delicate and bold. If you are looking to add some drama, you could slip on two or more of these ring sets onto different fingers. The cocktail ring also evokes the innate elegance of a woman. Also, consider buying stackable rings as they have been in trend for quite some time.

Hoop earrings: Hoop earrings are a staple jewelry essential for every woman. The simple yet captivating design can make absolutely any outfit stand out. Hoop earrings are available in various color, but nothing can beat the classic silver and gold metallic hoops. Now, there are several variations in these hoop earrings, and you can either stick to a simple pair or go for more elaborate and fancy ones.

Gold chain: A gold chain has made its way through every generation. Embellished or not, gold chains are preferably worn as a daily wear adornment. You can also go on to style gold chains in a layered and mismatched way if you wish to add a bohemian touch. No matter how you style your gold chain, it is one piece that will always make your attire look elegant.

Pearl earrings: This is yet another timeless classic that you can never go wrong with. Whether it is a pair of cherished pearl earrings gifted to you by your grandmother or one that you gifted yourself last Christmas, this pair of earrings is something that you can pair with casual or formal clothing. If you are looking to buy a new pair of earrings, you can also opt in for one that is a combination of pearls and diamonds as it gives the pair an even beautiful touch.

Charm bracelet: Most women wish to own a charm bracelet. With a significant idea behind them, charm bracelets allow you to create a personal trinket that signifies a special milestone in your life. Although the original design is one that is cumbersome and not suitable to be worn every day, there are a few brands that now offer the bracelet in a tweaked smaller design. Look for one in a meaningful design that will suit your requirements.

Metallic bangle: A metallic bangle is one of the easy-to-wear jewelry pieces that has made way to every woman’s jewelry box. Designed in gold or silver, it is one of the most beautiful pieces as its beauty lies in its simplicity. Today, there are bangles that are also available in the rose gold material and look even more stunning. Whether you pair it with your everyday look or with your ballroom gown, this piece of jewelry will always make the cut.

The above-mentioned jewelry pieces can be purchased online or through jewelry stores. So, which of the jewelry essentials do you plan on getting for yourself?

Five new age travel bags that will make you swoon

When it came to suitcase shopping in the past, all that you had a say in was the color and size. But that is not the case today. Today, travelers have a variety of options to choose from when it comes to buying travel accessories.

Suitcases and travel bags no longer serve the purpose of just storing our clothes and stuff. In today’s era, like smartphones, travel bags have become smart and come with different inbuilt features. These features can be something as simple as smart wheels that will make your travel easy to an inbuilt charger in the suitcase to ensure that you are always connected to the world from wherever you are.

In this article, you will get to learn about the five new age travel bags that you can consider investing in.

• Duffle Suitcase

This premium bag is designed to be one of the most organized travel accessories you will ever stumble upon. Made in four leather color options of Olive, Jet Black, Navy, and Oak, this duffle bag is sure to make your life easy. The duffle suitcase comes with two removable walls that you can use if you want to ensure that the clothes remain in the same position and don’t get wrinkly once you zip your bag. It comes with laptop pockets, book pockets, attachable toiletry kit, two built-in shoe bags, and many such features that make organizing your luggage easy.

The best thing about the Duffle Suitcase is that it can be used as carry-on luggage in all airlines, which means that you can be well prepared for your flight hours.

• Rolo

The Rolo travel bag is one of the best travel accessories for adventure lovers out there. This travel bag is designed for all the minimalist travelers out there who are looking for a compact, easy-to-carry travel bag. All you got to do here is fold your clothes, pack them in the Rolo bag, roll the Rolo bad up, and strap it to your shoulder. This bag has mesh pockets or compartments, making it easy to find your clothes, and you do not waste time when you are searching for an outfit. Along with the strap, you get a hanger that you can use to hang your bag wherever you want.

• Shelfpack

Shelfpack is another premium smart bag that you can invest in. As you can make out from the name, this suitcase can be transformed into a shelf. All you’ve got to do is unzip, raise the support, and lift the shelves. Other than the four built-in suitcase shelves, the bag has a retractable trolley handle, easy glide wheels, and three outer pocket compartments.

Shelfpack is one of those travel accessories that will make you stand out among the other fellow travelers.

• Thermalstrike

You will be surprised to know what makes Thermalstrike so different from the rest of the contemporary travel accessories. Don’t know what it is?

It is its unique feature of being effective for bed bug killing. It has a built-in heating system that heats the inside of the suitcase and creates an environment that is lethal for bed bugs.

All you’ve got to do is plug in the suitcase and the cable attached and set a timer for the heater.

• Modobag

Modobag is one of the revolutionary travel accessories that will take your traveling experience to the next level. This bag has a built-in, 200-watt electric motor, foot pegs and handlebars, allowing you to ride the luggage at a speed of your choice. The bag also comes with a smartphone app that has advanced features like GPS tracking, proximity alerts, and many such exciting travel features.

Other than that, the suitcase comes with a built-in charging station for all your electronic gadgets and a crushproof laptop compartment.

So, when are you going on a bag-shopping spree?