Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Garnet Birthstone Jewelry

Garnet birthstone jewelry has been known to have healing properties, due to the unique properties of the garnet stone. The red garnet have been known to improve blood circulation, reduce heart palpitations and remove toxins from the body, as a matter of fact there are still places in the world where people would wear garnet jewelry because of their belief in its healing properties. Antique garnet jewelry has also been associated to provide courage and stability to the wearer. Some ancient warriors would wear garnet gemstones whenever they would go to battle due to this particular belief. There are some who believe that garnet jewelry gives a calming effect and is known to protect the wearer from anger as the garnet would absorb the negative feelings. The same belief also says that danger may befall the wearer if the garnet would start to lose its luster.

garnet necklace

Garnet stones come in different shades - violet, orange, yellow, green, brown, black, red or colorless. Among all these shades, the most famous would be red. This is the reason why most garnet gemstone jewelry comes in this particular shade. The difference between a ruby and garnet can be determined by its color elements.

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There are a lot of websites where you can purchase garnet birthstone jewelry. These websites would be able to provide you the price as well as the design that you would be looking for. Garnet jewelry can be dramatic due to the color of the garnet stone. This is ideal when it comes to different settings. You would mostly find garnet rings, earrings and more with a mixture of diamonds and garnets, as the contrast can be most flattering to anyone who would wear it.

Antique garnet jewelry (even those that are faux antique and just styled to look vintage) is also very popular and stylish these days. In order to know that you are getting good quality garnet gemstones, it would always be wise to consult a professional prior to the purchase. This way, you would be able to know that you are getting the correct value for your money. Garnet birthstone jewelry is an excellent choice for those born in the month of January, and is a wonderful alternative to more common stones, offering a unique, vibrant and beautiful flair!

Garnet Birthstone Jewelry

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The Meaning And Significance of Birthstones by Month

Throughout the ages, people have revered gemstones as beautiful and even magical. In fact, some people used to believe that gemstones carried mystical powers and that each gemstone could bestow these powers to its wearer. For instance, a cool blue sapphire implies that the wearer is cool under pressure, while a red ruby implies that the wearer is passionate and fiery. Eventually people began to relate a given gemstone with a zodiac sign or month of the year. People born in that month of the year were thought of to possess qualities resembling that of the gemstone or "birthstone" linked to that month.

garnet ring

Over the years, a certain aura of confusion arose surrounding which birthstones were associated with which months. In fact, for some months, competing birthstones arose and competed for public acceptance.

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The Modern Birthstone list contains the official birthstone list from the American National Association of Jewelers, Jewelers of America. These gemstones were officially adopted in 1912. In the US, this is the accepted list.

Listed are the Birth Months and their respected Modern Birthstones:

January - Garnet

February - Amethyst

March - Aquamarine

April - Diamond

May - Emerald

June - Pearl

July - Ruby

August - Peridot

September - Sapphire

October - Opal

November - Yellow Topaz

December - Blue Topaz

Apart from the modern birthstones there are other birthstones like the traditional birthstones, mystical birthstones and ayurvedic birthstones.

The Traditional Birthstone are older birthstones and is sometimes combined with the modern birthstone list. These stones reflect societal birthstone traditions, heralding back to the 15th century. (Many jewelers have differing lists of traditional birthstones.)The Mystical Birthstone are of Tibetan origin from over a thousand years ago. The Ayurvedic Birthstone are from Ayurvedic Indian Medicine - a type of medicine used for over a thousand years.

The Star Sign stone chart below offers another slant on birthstones/planetary relationships.

Sun Sign and their respective birthstones

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)-Ruby,Agate, Garnet

Aquarius(Jan. 20-Feb. 18 )-Garnet, Moss Agate, Opal, Amethyst

Pisces(Feb. 19-Mar. 20)-Rock Crystal, Sapphire, Amethyst, Bloodstone

Aries(Mar. 21-Apr. 19)-Bloodstone, Diamond

Taurus(Apr. 20-May 20)-Sapphire, Turquoise, Amber, Blood Coral, Emerald

Gemini (May 21-Jun. 20)-Agate, Chrysoprase, Pearl

Cancer(Jun. 21-Jul. 22)-Emerald, Moonstone, Pearl, Ruby

Leo(Jul. 23-Aug. 22)-Tourmaline, Sardonyx, Onyx

Virgo(Aug. 23-Sep. 22)-Jasper, Carnelian, Jade, Sapphire

Libra (Sep. 23-Oct. 22)-Opal, Lapis Lazuli, Peridot

Scorpio(Oct. 23-Nov. 21)-Aquamarine, Topaz

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)-Sapphire, Amethyst, Turquoise, Topaz

Gemstones have a direct effect on our lives and this has been scientifically proven. Luck can mean fortune, force that operates for good or ill. There are many forces and vibrations flowing about us all the time, and gems which are nothing but minerals have a peculiar ability to concentrate these powers or forces on our lives. these forces can be both of the positive or the negative energy. So, choosing the correct stone can make the life force much more good luck friendly. This way we can influence the forces to be kinder to us.

Gemstones have living energy. Every gemstone has several attributes. Good luck is a part of the energy of many stones. There are times it may be more helpful to use more than one stone for the luck needed. As we change our way of life our vibrations change, that is why some gemstones will work differently on the same person at different times.

The best way to know what gemstones will be lucky for you is to hold it in your hand. The gemstones help change the life force around you and that is how gemstones can change your luck.

Every gemstone signifies or symbolizes a different meaning of its own, The stones may be precious or semiprecious stones thats is why what matters is that one chooses a personal gemstone of their own.

It is common today to have a personal stone. The personal stone may be a stone associated with a zodiac sign or a birth month. A personal stone may be a gem that has been passed down in a family. A personal stone could be a stone of a person's favorite color. A personal stone can be anything that a person wants it to be as long as the feeling for the stone is deep.

I hope this information can help you select a gemstone that has personal meaning to you and will give you much joy and pleasure.

The Meaning And Significance of Birthstones by Month

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Charm Gems and Jewelry

Are you fond of collecting different types of jewelry? Did you know that gems found in jewelry have different meanings associated with it? To know more about them, read this article.

garnet hill

For centuries, jewelry are not only associated with wealth, power and fame, but also correlated with good luck and love as well. When you browse through history, you can see that aside from the priceless material things like houses, cars, clothing or furniture, you can find that jewelry is the most preferred possession by women of all ages, status and ranks. It is not because they are expensive, but because it is durable and they value more the sentimentality and memories associated with it.

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You can find men giving diamond rings, gold necklaces with precious gems or bracelets with hanging trinkets to their friends and loved ones. You can also find that parents also love to give these ornaments to their children. For years, we gave and we received jewelry with precious gems, but have you ever wondered what these gems mean and what it connotes? For your information, these gems have their respective meanings and purpose like what good luck charms do to their bearer. For years, we do not even bother to know what it connotes because most of us believed that these are just ornaments that we can use to accessorize whatever clothes we wear, right? These items give more and hold more for its bearer. If you want to take advantage of its power, try reading the different gems and their meaning.

Famous gems found in jewelry:
Aquamarine - This gem is associated to Sea Goddesses because of its beautiful color. It is believed to give clarity of mind, tranquil mind and creative expression to those who wears them. It is associated with tranquility, clarity of mind and creative self-expression and ancient people used it to aid meditation.
Emerald - Ancient Greek civilization associated the gem with the Goddess of love and beauty, Aphrodite. More so, it is believed that it can bring wealth, mental clarity, self-knowledge, truth and love to those who wears the. It is said to lift depression, promote healing and enhance the immune system of the bearer.
Garnet - Among the beads, garnet is considered the most popular because of its warm red color and its ability to complement with different skin tones, clothing and other accessories. This gem goes well with silver and gold metals. Ancient Egyptians used garnet to protect them against thieves and burglars, to enhance the imagination and to purify the body. More so, they believed that this gem is also associated with loyalty, passion and love.
Pearls - Aside from symbolizing purity and innocence, it is believed to be the tears of the Gods. According to Western culture, this gem is linked to the moon and to water.
Ruby - For centuries, ruby is believed to assist the bearers of this gem in their spiritual endeavor. It is also used to generate passion, to protect the bearer from misfortune and to inspire courage. It is also correlated with sexual energy, power, joy and wealth.
Sapphire - It is considered the "Stone of Prosperity" because of its ability to help the bearer fulfill their dreams. Ancient Greeks used it to aid in prophecy and to suppress wicked thoughts. Moreover, the gem is associated with intuition, peace and joy.
Topaz - For centuries, scholars and intellectuals used this gem to aid in their higher thinking. It is known to promote empathy, kindness and compassion. It is also used to relieve tension, to enhance awareness and to promote the feeling of joy.

With the facts and ideas mentioned beforehand, you can choose what gem is suited for you.

Charm Gems and Jewelry

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Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Red Crystals and Gemstones - Healing Properties of Carnelian and Red Garnet

Carnelian Ancient Egyptian Source of Renewal

garnet bracelet

Known as the Artist's Stone it activates creativity, possibly unearthing hidden talent or latent gifts. It is an excellent stone for relieving depression, grounding, overall well-being; aids in focusing thoughts, intensify concentration, increase physical energy.

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Being a part of the Red Crystal and Gemstone family, it resonates with both the Root or Basic Chakra and the Sacral Chakra. Use this wonderful stone to cleanse and balance your Base Chakra, aligning yourself with feeling more secure and grounded.

Ancient Egyptians believed Carnelian to be a source of vitality, sustaining the cycle of re-birth and renewal. There are references to the use of Carnelian in the Egyptian Book of the Dead. High Priests used this beautiful stone material for their Chalice as it is has the unique quality of retaining the vibration of that which was placed within. Many Chalices contained or had Silver linings molded to it, representing the Moon's cycles of renewal and purity of its shimmering light in the night sky.

Working with Carnelian will encourage a sense of self-trust, enabling the wearer to better discern the many choices before them. Drinking Carnelian charged water will create a sense of empowered motivation in someone who may be a bit under-motivated. It will also aid relieving depression, increasing one's sense of self-esteem and self-empowerment.

It can be used as a focal point during meditation or placed on the Third Eye to cleanse, balance and align your inner sight with that of the physical realm.

*Angelic Realm Association: Archangel Raziel whose name means "Secret of God" will assist you, when asked, to remember who you truly are.

*Healing Properties: relieves depression, stone for overall well-being, heighten concentration, increase physical energy, absorb and repel negativity.

*Vibrational Frequency: high energy, vitality, stabilizes excess nervous energy.

*Spiritual Properties: assists the Soul on along its journey through the physical plane, assists with being in the present moment.

Being a personal favorite, it is one of the many crystal and gemstone bracelets I wear daily!

Red Garnet Good Luck Stone

The Pomegranate Seed is the inspiration for the naming of this precious stone. Its unique fiery red energy is unlike any other. In days gone by, the Garnet was used to ward off demons, protecting its wearers from phantoms in the darkness of night.

Resonating with the second or Sacral Chakra, the Garnet aligns the wearer with abundance and prosperity, protection, enhancing relationships in a variety of ways, on many levels.

The vibrational energy frequency of this magnificent gemstone is that of the Third Eye, clear, bright, intense, all seeing, all-knowing, piercing through cloudy shadows of dis-belief.

The color range is deep translucent red to a very deep almost red-black color. It is often given as a token of love and fidelity.

When placed on the Third Eye during meditation, it will cleanse negative energy, and with time enable you to see more clearly whether or not you are consciously aware of your Third Eye opening. It is more than possible for an Intuitive to access their inner sight regardless of their Third Eye being open. It is highly suggested, the Garnet be cleansed and charged in the sunlight before placing it on your Third Eye Chakra. You may choose to pass your stone through incense or over the flame of a red or white candle instead of placing it in the Sun's rays. Whichever method you choose, always take proper precautions when working with candles or incense.

*Angelic Realm Association: Archangel Jophiel whose name means "Beauty of God" seeing through eyes of love, enhancing all relationships especially those of the heart. Angel Israfil whose name means "The Burning One" is also associated with this gemstone, burning away imperfections, purifying the love between two people.

*Healing Properties: personal relationships, feelings of security, passion, creativity, regulate the metabolism, feelings of lack, healing fear of the unknown.

*Vibrational Frequency: intense, piercing, fiery purification.

*Spiritual Properties: Third Eye activation, compassion, dream recall

If you wish to recall a past life or incident in this life, Garnet may assist you in healing that which has come before, bringing you to where you are in this moment with compassion and love. Take heed before delving into the past; be sure you wish to re-visit an experience or situation. It may be best to allow a professional lead you through a regression.

Red Crystals and Gemstones - Healing Properties of Carnelian and Red Garnet

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Percale Sheets - Mostly Used in Hotels For Its Fine Quality

Percale sheets are a type of bed linen that is often used as hotel sheets in establishments all over the world. To be designated "percale" a sheet must be woven in a very tight pattern. These sheets usually consist of two hundred or more threads per square inch. They are considered to be high quality, which is why they are often used in the hospitality industry. Percale does not indicate what material a sheet set is made out of, rather it refers to the weaving pattern. Percale sheets may be woven from cotton, polyester, blends, and other fiber components. They can also come in many color and pattern variations and options. Another reason why percale is often used in hotels and other businesses is that the tight weave allows the fabric to last longer, through many washings and dryings. They don't tend to wrinkle, but rather stay smooth and crisp. These qualities allow the sheets to remain comfortable for the user throughout the seasons.

garnet hill towels

Percale sheets have a rich history. They have been made for hundreds of years, likely beginning in India in the seventeenth century.

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Percale can be purchased for home use as well. Most stores that offer bedding will have percale in stock. Garnet Hill offers Percale products from ten dollars and up. Overstock sells these sheets for .99, with the option of choosing from seven colors.

Percale sheets have a rich history, but they have progressed into the present due to their advantageous quality that makes them perfect for use as hotel sheets.

Percale Sheets - Mostly Used in Hotels For Its Fine Quality

GARNET HILL

Mineral Collecting in Maine (Part 2)

One of the unfortunate aspects of living near by a good mine is not being able to collect there. I can understand if the mine is still being worked by a company, but that is not always the case anymore. Now there are mines that are closed to collectors, because the land is owned by a private collector. This individual works the mine in their free time, hoarding any samples found in their basement. As much as I hate this, I would probably do the same thing if I had the money to do it. It still hard to think about all of those nice samples ending up in someone's basement collecting dust. Another reason that seems to becoming more and more common has to do with legal issues. Some owners of mines close them off to the public, because some bonehead sued them. In my mind if you go to a mine, fall and hurt yourself, you should live with it. Anyone in their right mind knows there is a certain amount of danger walking around mines that are no longer in operation. So, since people are afraid of being sued, they have closed off access to collectors. Irresponsible collecting methods is another reason why some mines have been closed off to the public. I contacted a land owner once for permission to collect on their land, and he granted me access. That is why it never hurts to ask, even if the mine is closed to collectors. They may be willing to consider a case by case basis. The reason he closed his mine to collecting is, is because some bonehead thought it would be appropriate to bring an excavator and some dynamite. The guy actually blasted on his land. That is enough to make any land owner bar collecting on his their land. Fortunately there are still those mine owners out there that recognize the importance of mineral collecting to the public. It is a fun, and exciting hobby that anyone can enjoy. They keep their mines open despite the prospect of being sued or morons showing up with dynamite. One such owner is the Perham family.

garnet hill dress

The Perham family owns four mines located in the Greenwood and West Paris region located in Oxford County. These mines are the Harvard, Nubble, Tamminen, and Waisanan mines. Before heading to any one of these locations I would recommend you stop at Perhams Jewlers and check out their shop. They have all sorts of equipment for sale such as rock hammers, chisels, and gold pans. Their Jewelry is good to, but by far the number one reason to spot their is their mineral exhibit. They have samples there that have been collected over the years from their mines. They have a monster sample of smokey quartz, beryl, and tourmaline there. One could spend a good hour just looking at these samples. I do not believe any of them are for sale, and if they were, I know I could not afford one.

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The Harvard Quarry is the best in my opinion followed by the Tamminen and Waisanan quarry. If memory serves me correctly than the Nubble Quarry has the least to offer. I didn't spend much time here as all I could seem to find was biotite and muscovite mica. The Harvard Quarry was the best. I found large chunks of schroll and garnet in green orthoclase feldspar. Pockets of lepidolite can be found here as well, along with large pockets of quartz. I have also heard of gem quality apatite crystals being found below in the talice pile. The apatite was purple with wite caps. A good variety of minerals can be found here. The Tamminen mine contains good samples of beryl. From what I saw there seemed to be more of a variety of minerals here. This would be a good place to use a screen to look for some gem quality samples. I spend most of my time in these two mines. I basically lump the Tamminen and Waisanan mines together since they are so close. The list of minerals that have been found in this area are:

Clevelandite, almandine garnet, beryl, biotite, muscovite, quartz, lepidolite, montmorillonite, spodumene, topaz, vesuvianite, tourmaline, and zircon.

These are the more well known and popular minerals. A whole host of other minerals, less common can be found here as well. I have only ever found tourmaline, garnet, lepidolite, quartz, muscovite, and biotite, in any kind of abundance. Black tourmaline and garnet are the most common at the Harvard mine. The Tamminan and Waisanan Quarries seem to offer more in the way of variety. I have only ever heard of the gem quality apatite being found at the Harvard site. The book I have also does not list apatite, it lists fluorapatite. Any collecting being done at the Harvard mine should be done with care, especially when climbing around on the talice pile down below. There are large chunks of clevelandite here that can be extremely sharp. I cut myself pretty good and did not even notice until I saw the blood dripping on the rocks. All of these mines are easy to locate, but if you get lost just stop into Perham's Jewelers where they have maps.

Driving from the directions of the junction of route 117 and 118 in Norway, go west on route 118 for 0.95 miles. Turn right onto the Greenwood road and drive north west 5.3 miles. Turn right onto Richardson Hollow road and continue 0.4 miles to parking area located on the right hand side of the road. The trail to the quarry is across the road from the parking area. (Maine Mineral Localities 3rd EDT. by W.B Thompson, D.L. Joyner, R.G. Woodman, V.T. King).

Anyone that makes there way to the University of Maine in Farmington's geology department can see some samples collected from this region by the geology club. They have a real fine mineral collection to view as well.

Mineral Collecting in Maine (Part 2)

GARNET HILL

Monday, August 29, 2011

Top 10 Earrings for Christmas Gifts Guide For Your Wife, Girlfriend Or Special Someone This 2008

Earrings are a staple of fashion choices. It is, after all, an accessory which has existed in as early as 2500 B.C. The very first pair is said to be used by Egyptian royalty. And this hasn't changed since then. Women still see earrings as an essential piece to complete a look. Thus, this Christmas season, what better gift is there than a pair of earrings? Can't make up your mind on which pair? Well, run through our list of Top 10 Earrings to help you get jewelry gift ideas for Christmas 2008.

garnet jewelry

1. Round Hoop Earrings - These funky pair of hoops are versatile enough to wear on casual day trips or during celebratory night outs. You may choose between a 14K gold/yellow gold and a white gold version.

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2. Boxed Stud Earring Set - Here's a gift idea that will guarantee the recipient a different look for every day of the week. There is variety in the choice of peridot, amethyst, garnet, blue topaz, and citrine stones. Each piece is set in sterling silver framing and comes with individual boxes for each pair.

3.Yellow and White Gold Hoop Earrings - This pair shows the perfect marriage sophistication and art. There is art in the craftsmanship shown in the intertwining of the 14K yellow gold and white gold pieces. The overall finish is the sophistication of its two-tone look.

4. Karat Heart Dangle Earrings - These Karat earrings bring about a wistfulness of young love with its dangling mini-hearts. Made from pure .585 PT Karat Platinum, this is a perfect gift for the young and the young at heart.

5. Tahitian Pearl Stud Earrings - Are you looking for something exotic yet elegant? Well, a pair of Tahitian pearls should be a fine choice. The black finish brings an edgy quality to the overall look. The Tahitian cultured pearls, on the other hand, are exquisite on their own accord. With this pair, you can be unique and elegant all at once. It comes inside a luxury-finished wood box.

6. Celtic Hook Earrings - From the intricate twists and loops to the pristine blue topaz, this piece would be great to wear during parties and nights at the bars. The pair is fun, ecclectic, and eye-catching and is perfect for those with converging tastes in fashion. The Celtic knotwork is from sterling silver and encases an oval blue topaz at each end.

7. Teardrop Earrings - Here's a pair that would give you a faint exotic touch. This pair features garnet teardrop-shaped stones, wrapped halfway in sterling silver marcasite. The pair is a great piece of accessory that can aptly complement a Bohemian-inspired outfit.
8. Garnet Hoop Earrings - This piece features five gem stones per earring, lined along the contours of every sterling silver frame. The garnet gemstone would look marvelous when worn to candlelit dinners, as it sparkles so similarly as red wine.

9. Butterfly Earrings - Cute and youthful; those are the words to describe this particular piece. Four gemstones consist the shape of a butterfly. Each piece is detailed, every "butterfly" even has a pair of anntenae (of sterling silver) to complete the shape of the winged creature.

10. Mesh Hoop Earrings - Classic pieces are called as such because they can go greatly with any look, occasion, and even other accessories. And this pair of mesh hoop earrings would be a worthy investment for those planning to collect classic pieces. This 14K yellow gold mesh hoop earrings would go well with any outfit. She can wear it with a flowing Grecian-style dress, a maxi dress ensemble, or with a tank top and jeans.

Top 10 Earrings for Christmas Gifts Guide For Your Wife, Girlfriend Or Special Someone This 2008

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