Rafferty Rose Fine Jewelry

Rose Hayes

We bring the very best jewelry, watches, miscellaneous items, and antiques (or as I'd prefer to call them heirlooms and collectibles) to all price ranges and to all age groups. We have decided to fill a niche group by offering a variety of price ranges to fit everyone's needs and desires. Some of our items are our of the ordinary, ornate and estate items. Truly amazing!

We started in November, 2001, on a wing and a prayer in the hopes that our business would make it. With the help of my daughter, Shana, she helped me with road shows, and people came liked our items, we we decided to give it our very best shot on the web.

How To Choose Diamond Earrings
Arthur Tschopp

Diamond beauty versus cost: What is the best combination?
Better quality diamonds are more brilliant and beautiful, but they command higher prices as well. This article explains how to find the best value in diamond stud earrings: the brightest diamond for the lowest cost.
For those who can afford it, we recommend an excellent cut diamond of G-H color and "eye-clean" clarity. This is a moderately priced diamond, but earrings of this quality will produce the same dazzling shower of light as those costing thousands of dollars more.
There are three simple reasons: first, it is the excellent cut that breathes life and sparkle into a diamond. Second, most experts agree that a G-H color appears colorless when mounted, so spending more for D-E-F color diamonds isn't necessary. Third,a diamond of SI2 clarity is "eye-clean", meaning it has no flaws visible to the naked eye, but costs a lot less than the higher clarity grades.
Excellent bargains with only a slight compromise in beauty can be found in the I1 Clarity range as well, as long as the cut is good and the color is in the G-H range.

For those who are on a budget, don't feel embarrassed to buy diamonds of a lower quality. All diamond earrings sparkle when they are worn on a woman's ear, and let's face it: for the same price, many women would rather wear 1 carat studs of a lower quality than 1/2 carat studs of a higher quality.

Fast Fact: there are many good websites to purchase diamond stud earrings. Our top recommendation, however goes to a specialty site www.diamondstudsonly.com. They sell the same color, clarity and cut grades for about 25% less than the typical "sale" price in a retail jewelry store (and other internet stores), and they back it up with a price comparison tool that allows you to view prices for earrings of the same quality on many other major internet jewelry sites. You will also have the security of their free insurance against loss of any kind for a full year.

Choosing the right Color:
The finest diamonds are colorless, rare and expensive. On the GIA grading scale, D-F are considered colorless, G-I near colorless and any grade J or below shows an increasingly yellowish tinge. Beyond the preference for a whiter stone, however, the color of a diamond does not affect its brightness or sparkle.
Fast Fact: Most experts agree that, when mounted, diamonds in the "G-H" range appear colorless, and represent a much better value than "D-F" stones which command significantly higher prices.

Choosing the right Clarity:
Diamonds with fewer flaws (inclusions) are rare and therefore more highly prized. In many cases, these flaws don't detract from the beauty of the diamond because they are invisible to the naked eye.
Fast Fact: Any grade "SI2" or above has inclusions that are "eye clean", not visible to the naked eye. An "I1" grade can be an excellent value, particularly if the inclusion is on the outer edge. "I2" grades can still exhibit a fair degree of fire and light. "I3" grade diamonds are noticeably more opaque or dark to the naked eye.

Choosing the right Cut:<</strong>
More than any other attribute, it is the Cut that makes a diamond brilliant and beautiful. A diamond that is well cut reflects light internally and displays a dazzling shower of light back through the top of the stone.
Fast Fact: When viewing a diamond, look directly into the center: if there are dark facets in the center or a dark ring around the center, or if the diamond appears opaque, it is probably due to poor cut.

Brilliance, Dispersion and Scintillation:
The secret of a diamond that is properly cut is that it returns a measurably greater amount of light, which is displayed as brilliance, dispersion and scintillation. This is the true measure of a diamond's beauty.
Brilliance: The total amount of white light, both external and internal, returned from the diamond to the eye of the observer.
Dispersion: Flashes of color, or fire, particularly when viewing a diamond in strong, direct light.
Scintillation: Reflections and flashes of white light from the diamond's surface as the diamond, observer or light source moves.

Click here to view photos along with the above presentation

Mr. Tschopp is a graduate of the Gemological Institute of America and has over 15 years of experience in the diamond marketplace.

How To Clean Your Jewelry

Sher Matsen

To keep your jewelry sparkling you've got to take care of it! Cleaning your jewelry is an important part of its care. No matter how careful you are with your jewelry daily life will take its toll on it - grime and dirt, hair spray residue, soap film - they all cause a residue to build up on your jewelry making it dull and unimpressive.

Cleaning your jewelry should be done with a little caution. Some stones such as turquoise, pearls, or opals, do not fair well with harsher cleaners. Use only warm soapy water and a Q-tip to gently clean these stones or gems. Rinse and polish. Toothpaste also works well. Place a small amount on a soft bristle brush, scrub, rinse well, then polish with a soft cloth.

Sterling silver jewelry is beautiful. However, overtime it will tarnish and not look so beautiful. It is important to clean your sterling jewelry regularly. There are many silver cleaner dips on the market which can be used for jewelry that has no stones or gems.

However, I don't recommend using silver cleaners on jewelry that has stones or gems set in it. In these cases I recommend using a Q-tip to apply the cleaner directly to the just the silver, then rinse completely and polish with a soft cloth. If you wish, you can use a blow dryer on the setting to make sure there is no water residue left.
Do not let your jewelry soak for long periods of time in cleaner.

The moisture can damage some jewelry.
Moisture can damage a piece of jewelry over time, so if you do put your jewels into a wet jewelry solution, or rinse in water, make sure you dry it thoroughly. Use a soft towel to get the moisture out of all the cracks and crevices. You may want to use the blow dryer as mentioned above.



© Copyright Sher Matsen, All Rights Reserved.
Sher from Estate Jewelry International has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing fashion, jewelry,and wedding help. Please visit us at http://www.estatejewelryinternational.com/

How to care for pearls
Yan Berry

Pearls are delicate and soft gems compared with other gemstones. They need extra gentle care. Here is a guide to pearl care.

� Clean - wipe pearls regularly and gently with a soft cloth moistened with water. Pearls can absorb perfume, skin oils and dirt easily. Do not clean pearls with detergents and don't soak pearls in water.

� Protect - avoid temperature extremes and chemicals such as vinegar, alcohol and hair spray. They can damage pearl surfaces.

� Wear - put on pearls after you have applied makeup and hair spray.

� Store - pearls can be scratched easily. They should be stored in a soft place such as a velvet box or a satin pouch. Avoid putting pearls next to diamond or gemstones jewelry.

� Restring - for a frequently worn pearl necklace, it is recommended to restring the necklace once every one or two years since silk thread may get weakened over time.



Mrs. Berry is a pearl expert. She is also the founder of Premium Pearl, a leading online provider of high quality pearl jewelry.

Forgotten Dreams: At the end...Part I

James Smith

Forgotten Dreams: At the end...Part I

Treasures of a lifetime...

At the end of your life will you be able to stand at your grave and say I lived and amazing life, I have lived what many
didn't even know they could dream. I have loved, I have cried, and I have experienced all that I could find to experience.

At the end of your life who will you be?

So, often we run from death and morn for what has been lost when another dies. In the book "Tuesdays with Morie," Morie ends
up celebrating his death, by choice, while he was still alive.

How you embrace death is how you will embrace life!

This is a story of a little box. It is a box that is almost as old as Sally. You see Sally decided when she was about five
years of age that this particular box, a shoe box, would be perfect to keep her treasures.

Today at the age of 95 Sally has passed away and her shoe box of treasures, although buried under years of clutter and dust, has survived the journey with her. Sally kept her treasures with her for 90 years. The box quite warn bearing the scars of 90 years of wear and tear was still in tack. Hidden within the box where many of Sally's most treasured memories.

At the age of five Sally decided that her very first treasure would be a flower. It was a small and delicate white flower
filled with purple hues and the softest of scents. It was a flower that filled Sally with great memories and provided her with many smiles over the last 90 years.

Sally use to enjoy laying amongst the tall grass in a near by field while enjoying the company of her grandfather. Sally's
grandfather would sit beside her, resting on an old tree stump, while whittling away at a piece of wood.

On those special mornings Sally would watch the butterflies as they danced around the flowers, giggling as she listened to
grandfather and playing with the occasional ladybug. You see Sally's grandfather loved to tell stories as he whittled away
and the stories were always filled with adventure.

The stories,in one moment, would have Sally anxiously gazing into her grandfather's eyes as she waited to hear what was next, and in the next moment, she would be rolling in the tall grass filled with laughter.

It was at five that Sally's grandfather passed away. As Sally sat upon her grandfather's old tree stump there in the middle
of the tall grass stood a single flower. On this day no other flower could be seen. As Sally gazed upon the flower the
memories came to view and it was then that she knew, the flower was a treasure for her to hold.

The years would come and go, and Sally was always doing something to her treasure box. Her designs including the early
crayon markings, included little paper hearts and wonderful little paintings, all accented with special stones and broken
pieces of jewelry.

Sally was always placing a memory or two into her box of treasure.

Sally was a playful and rambunctious tomboy, and at the age of thirteen was asked to start handling the chores. No longer
could she leave the house at sunrise and return in the late afternoon after a day filed with adventure and sport.

You see Sally could run, jump, and climb with the best of the boys. She could throw and hit a ball with a stick just as well
as any of the boys. Often Sally's play was inspired by the stories her grandfather once told.

With Sally spending the better part of her day tending to her chores. Her only reward was the end of the day, and the
time she was able to spend with her faithful dog, Patches, up in the old tree house.

Life seemed to stop, for Sally, while she was up in the tree house. It was in the tree house that Sally started to write of
her life and the adventures she only dreamed of living.

Sally's diary and stories now where a big part of her treasure box, and the memories she once collected would now lay hidden
and forgotten under the pages of her writing.

Each day was a mystery for Sally as she began to write. As her pencil touched the paper her words would begin to flow. She
would write and write until there was no more to write.

It was around Sally's 16 birthday that her dog Patches passed away. Her companion and loyal friend. Patches, was with her
all the time. As Sally placed Patches' collar into her treasure box, she began to look at the treasures she hadn't viewed in
many years.

A small hand mirror, one her grandma gave to her little princess. Horse hair, from her favorite horse. The skin shed from the biggest king snake she had ever seen. The perfect stone for skipping across the water. The treasures were many, a child's lifetime in memories. Buried underneath it all was Sally's first treasure and the memory of her grandfather.

How life had changed.

Join me in 7 days for part 2 of "Forgotten Dreams:
At the end..." Forgotten treasures...

Copyright © James Smith, All Rights Reserved

Please Note: The author of this article has
authorized its distribution with the requirement
that it be published in its entirety, without
changes, including the author's resource box.

Please notify the Author with a copy of your
publication.

mailto:article0030003@alifeofpossibility.com


James shows you how to design and build the life of your dreams and through the process, "enjoy the success" you've always wanted. Download his "9 Key Strategies To Building The Life Of Your Dreams" and start taking action, today! mailto:9Keys0030003@alifeofpossibility.com

Protect Your Eyes with a Wide Variety of Sunglasses Available Online
Valerie Giles

Besides being a wonderful complement to your wardrobe, sunglasses (including discount sunglasses and designer styles), also play an important function in protecting your eyes from the sun's harmful rays. Protecting your eyes with sun glasses is just as important as protecting your skin. UV (ultraviolet) light consists of three bands of light to include UVA, UVB and UVC. UVA light hasn't been proven to lead to any eye disorders but the eyes should still be protected from it. UVB is the most damaging of the three as it will burn skin and damage the eyes, possibly leading to cataracts and UVC is said to be of little worry. When purchasing sunglasses it is important to find a pair of sun glasses that has at least ninety eight percent UVA and UVB protection to ensure your eyes are getting the best protection.

Never have there been so many sunglasses designs, styles and colors to choose from whether you are shopping for discount sunglasses, children's sunglasses, designer sunglasses, replica sunglasses, prescription sunglasses or sports sunglasses the choices are endless. Whatever sunglasses you do have in your collection you'll want to be sure they are good quality eye wear that protect your eyes while looking great.

Purchasing sunglasses can be an exciting and overwhelming experience given the vast array of styles, designs and colors of sunglasses frames and lenses to choose from. Some of the popular trends in sunglasses today can include; preppy look sunglasses with semi-rimless styles made with metal and zyl; sports optics sunglasses with special lenses to filter out blue and red light while allowing green light excellent for enhancing a golfers vision on the green; vintage look plastics with metal trims, visible studs and openwork designs, available in sunglasses styles that are large, square or with rounded corners; sunglasses with jewelry touches, rhinestones and facets and magnetic sunglasses clip-ons for prescription wearers.

You'll want to start early when it comes to protecting your children's eyes from UV (ultraviolet) damage, especially as they are more than likely to spend a lot of time playing out in direct sunlight. There is a wide variety of sunglasses styles to choose from with plenty of designs similar to the sunglasses worn by adults. With popular designs to include oval sunglasses, rectangular sun glasses, round sunglasses, cat eye sunglasses and geometric sunglasses shapes along with plastic frames styled like the popular adult sunglasses. It's always a good idea to let your children choose their own sunglasses as they will be more likely to wear them.

Another popular trend in sunglasses is that of designer sunglasses, with most clothing designers having a line of sunglasses designs. Whatever look you may prefer; whether it be feminine, urban, simple or conservative, there is sure to be fashion sunglasses to complement your lifestyle. For anyone who appreciates the look of the designer sunglasses but cannot afford the price that goes along with them, there is a wonderful selection of designer replica sunglasses that offer a much more affordable alternative.

For prescription eyewear users who usually wear clip-on sunglasses there are many prescription sunglasses choices today. Clip-ons are wonderful sunglasses accessories but can be easily misplaced, whereas prescription sunglasses can be worn outdoors anytime without having to look for and keep handy your clip-ons. It is now possible to find basic to high prescription sunglasses, bifocal sunglasses, presbyopic sunglasses and progressive sunglasses lenses. The prescription sunglasses are also available in most of the trendy designs, styles and frame colors as regular sunglasses with the exception of some of the wraparound sports sunglasses that have a severe curve in the lenses. Sunglasses lenses can be made in many materials to include high index, polycarbonate and regular plastic with glass lenses rarely being used.

Polarized sunglasses are another popular choice when it comes to selecting the right sunglasses. Polarized sunglasses are ideal for water and winter sports where water and snow can increase the reflective glare. Polarized sunglasses are excellent for boating, fishing, water skiing, snow boarding, driving, golfing, cycling, motorcycling and jogging available in sunglasses and goggles styles. With polarized sunglasses absorbing approximately ninety eight percent of reflective glare they offer glare free vision. The polarized sunglasses are available in a wide variety of designs, styles and colors to complement whatever sport of activity you might be participating in.

The selection of sports sunglasses and performance sunglasses have never been better with sunglasses to not only protect your eyes from the sun's harmful rays, but sunglasses to enhance your sports performance. Sport optics sunglasses with special lenses are available to filter out blue and red light while allowing green light to come through, thus increasing the contrast on the golf green allowing golfers to see the subtle lines and breaks in the green without squinting. There are also sports sunglasses with specially tinted lenses for tennis which allow you to better see the tennis ball. You can find sports sunglasses in an excellent variety of designs, styles and colors also available in goggle designs great for skiing or snow boarding. Sports sunglasses are made of impact resistant polycarbonate substrate and the lenses are usually made with an antireflective, UV and glare reduction coating on the back of the lenses for added safety and protection.

With so many wonderful discount sunglasses to choose from your sure to have at least a few pairs in your collection. When shopping for sunglasses it helps to know in advance what sunglasses frames look best on you. Whether you need there are sunglasses to complement every face shape, lifestyle and preference.

Valerie Giles owns and operates Eyewear-4U http://www.eyewear-4u.com, an eyewear site featuring fashion eyewear, sports eyewear, prescription eyewear, discount sunglasses, contact lenses and accessories. The accompanying article is copyrighted. It may be reproduced only if the hyperlinks here are left intact.

Everything You Need to Know About a Secured Loan

John Mussi

If you're not familiar with the term, a secured loan is a loan which requires a security deposit of some kind (also known as collateral) to protect the lender against nonpayment. The secured loan is the preferred type of loan for lenders who deal with people with bad credit, but is also used when purchasing certain types of property (such as an automobile or real estate.) Interest rates tend to be lower with a secured loan than with an unsecured loan (which doesn't require collateral, but charges higher interest rates to cover the additional risk.)

Types of collateral
Just about any property with value can be used as collateral for a secured loan, though some types are more common than others. Jewelry and rare coin collections can be used as collateral for some loans, though they are usually held by the lender to help protect them from theft or loss. Automobiles and real estate are popular forms of collateral, and lenders usually allow you to keep them while you repay the loan- you simply turn over the deed or title and the lender is given a legal claim to the car or house in case you should default on you secured loan (which is a fancy way of saying that you don't pay it back.) Car financing and mortgages are both forms of secured loans, in which the automobile or real estate that you're buying with the loan serves as the collateral for the lender.

How a secured loan works
When you get a secured loan, the lender will either take your collateral or process your collateral so that they have a legal claim to it. You will receive the money for the loan, which is often somewhat less than the value of the collateral- that way if you should default on your secured loan then the lender will still be able to get their money back. When you repay your loan then the lender will either return the property that you submitted as collateral or they will present you with a release- which means that they no longer have any legal claim to the property and you can prove it. Should you default on your loan, however, then after attempting to collect the debt the lender will be free to repossess and sell your collateral in order to get their money back.

Shopping for a secured loan
Before deciding on a secured loan, you should shop around and compare your options. Look for the lender that offers the lowest interest rates and borrow only the minimum amount that you need to get by. After all, the less you borrow with a secured loan then the less you have to pay back- and the lower your chances of losing your collateral.

You may freely reprint this article provided the following author's biography (including the live URL link) remains intact:


John Mussi is the founder of Direct Online Loans who help homeowners find the best available loans via the www.directonlineloans.co.uk website.


The Pearl Necklace -- A Timeless Beauty
Sam Serio

It has been said that of all the pieces of jewelry in the world, a pearl necklace is the only thing that a woman should not be without. And that's no wonder, for a pearl necklace is the embodiment of classic sophistication and timeless elegance. It goes with a variety of outfits, from casual day wear to formal evening attire. And depending on the type of pearl and color, there are various pearl necklace styles suitable for the very young, those enjoying their golden years, and almost everyone else in the middle.

The price of a pearl necklace depends on the quality of its pearls. Saltwater pearls are generally more expensive than freshwater ones, which are cultured. The sheen and the thickness of the pearls' nacre also affect the price, as well as the size and roundness of the pearls themselves. Pearl necklaces of various colors are available on the market. Smaller pearls in light hues of blue or pink are usually more suitable for young children, while the creamier, ivory-toned pearls are preferred by older women. Jewelry pieces made from black pearls are very, very expensive, since these pearls are so rare.

According to Chinese folklore, pearls are the tears of a dragon. In Roman mythology, they are the tears of Venus. Jewelry designers, in their tireless efforts to do justice to the legendary beauty of these gems, have been adding their own twists to the pearl necklace. Aside from the classic strand, the pearls used in necklaces are sometimes set in gold, silver or platinum. Some designers also mix pearls with other gems to create a unique effect. Extra ornaments, such as charms or a brooch, can also be attached to a pearl necklace to give it a personalized flair.

Caring for a pearl necklace does not involve a lot of fuss. The most advisable thing to do is to wear it often, because if it's stored away for long periods of time, it will dry up and lose its sheen. The body's natural oils will keep the pearls looking lustrous and fresh. It's also important to avoid having the pearls come in contact with substances such as hair spray or body lotion, since these can also adversely affect the pearls' condition.

The popularity of the pearl necklace has never waned both among ordinary people and society's elite. The quintessential fashion plate, Jackie Kennedy, had a passion for pearls; so does actress Maria Berenson. Other celebrities often photographed wearing pearl necklaces are Michelle Pfeiffer, Sophia Loren, Jennifer Lopez and Paris Hilton. The versatility of pearls is such that fashion experts are even predicting an increase in the number of men who will start wearing pearl-accented dress accessories. For now, however, there is very little to surpass the elegance of the sight of a pearl necklace gracing the neckline of a woman, whether she's a celebrity or not.



For more information on jewelry and gemstones, we cordially invite you to visit www.morninglightjewelry.com to pick up your FREE copy of "How To Buy Jewelry And Gemstones Without Being Ripped Off." This concise, informative special report reveals almost everything you ever wanted to know about jewelry and gemstones, but were afraid to ask. Get your FREE report at www.morninglightjewelry.com.

Jewelry Christmas Gifts That Sparkle and Shine

Sam Serio

The joyous season of Christmas is steeped in tradition, and gift giving is one ritual that is inseparable from this holiday. Who hasn't had difficulty at one time or another in choosing a suitable present for a beloved family member or a dear friend? Fortunately, jewelry Christmas gifts are widely available and there is an endless variety of styles from which to choose. Twinkling and shining, they reflect the nature of that season to be jolly.

Sparkling and glittering are two words that would describe diamonds. Browse through the World Wide Web and you'll see a plethora of online stores that showcase jewelry Christmas gifts. Imagine a woman's pleasure at the shimmering sight of diamond snowflake dangling earrings or a glittering diamond bracelet adorned with traditional symbols associated with Christmas. Men, on the other hand, will surely appreciate flashing yet tasteful diamond cuff links. Other gemstones make wonderful jewelry Christmas gifts. Sapphires or rubies set in gold, sterling silver or platinum will gleam subtly from rings or necklaces.

Not all jewelry Christmas gifts that glitter need to be expensive, though. Whimsical and unique designs at an affordable price for the holiday season abound. For instance, brightly colored, rhinestone encrusted pins shaped like Christmas trees are widely available. For young recipients, bracelets, necklaces or anklets made from gold- or silver-plated metals, engraved with their names for a personal touch, will fit snugly in any Christmas stocking. Stores or web sites that specialize in vintage and antique items also offer bright jewelry Christmas gifts. Take your pick from pieces such as brilliant poinsettia-shaped hairpins or nativity-inspired pendants dotted with Swarovski crystals.

For many centuries, men, women and children have been eagerly counting the days until Christmas morning, when everyone would rush to the Christmas tree to open their presents. The giving of gifts is a time honored tradition, and the selection of presents that will be appreciated and enjoyed by those whom we love is no trivial task. Scintillating jewelry Christmas gifts have always been part of that tradition and they continue to contribute to the glow that the holiday season brings.


For more information on jewelry and gemstones, we cordially invite you to visit www.morninglightjewelry.com to pick up your FREE copy of "How To Buy Jewelry And Gemstones Without Being Ripped Off." This concise, informative special report reveals almost everything you ever wanted to know about jewelry and gemstones, but were afraid to ask. Get your FREE report at www.morninglightjewelry.com.

Does It Matter What You Wear?
Susan Dunn, MA, Personal and Professional Development Coach

Of course it does! We want to be appropriately and comfortably dressed so it isn't distracting.

How can you court your honey when your shirt collar is choking you? your waistband is too tight? How can you represent your client if the judge doesn't allow women lawyers to appear in court in pants? How can you enjoy touring the Turtle Farm on Barbados when it's 95 degrees and you've got on polyester slacks? How can you work the Trade Show when your feet are killing you?

CLOTHING AS NONVERBAL COMMUNICATION
Clothing can show:

� How much money you have
� How you spend your money
� Your values
� How you take care of things
� How organized you are
� How creative you are
� What profession or industry you're in
� Whether you're a copy-cat or an original

ANALYZE THIS

It's easy to do -- clothing is all around us -- so spend some time analyzing. This is something you need to master.

It's been said "dress for the position you next want," so take a look around your office. Where are the lines drawn. How do you fit in?

Be mindful. Are you representing what you want to, and what you intend to? I'm thinking of the mother at our children's 8th grade outdoor morning graduation ceremony in spangles, cleavage, boa and dangly earrings. What look was she after, I wondered. She had achieved the "appearing nightly" look.

FIND OUT WHAT'S APPROPRIATE

The emotionally intelligent person plans ahead. When planning to travel on business, call a coach in the area you're going to.

Male lawyers in San Antonio, TX USA wear suspenders, while when my sister first started practicing law in D. C., judges did not permit women lawyers to wear pantsuits in court.

In San Antonio, TX there isn't much use for a coat rack. I had no idea when I got to the Chicago Art Museum that I could check my coat and boots. There were lockers. How nice! But neither was I prepared for how hot they keep their buildings. People who come to San Antonio are never prepared for how icy we keep our buildings in the summer.

DOES IT REALLY MATTER?

Of course it does, because you want to be able to concentrate on what's really important.

You'll probably have a sense of what areas of the country are different, and in which areas dress matters more than in others.

I had no idea for instance what to wear for a professional trip to Seattle, Washington (USA). Don't laugh, but all I'd seen in photos was lumber jackets and jeans. Of course YOU are not your CLOTHES, but the more comfortable I am, the better I can do my job, and the more I'll enjoy myself.

As my friend who didn't listen to me and took her bright floral patterned dresses to D. C. found out, there are good ways to stand out, and there are bad ways to stand out. In the room of 300 people all wearing solid colors, she might as well have had a bone in her nose. She found it hard to get it out of her mind. That can take the edge off what you're about!

FORGETTING

Where I live it is 98 for a good part of the year, and then plummets all the way to, oh maybe freezing once in a while. It is said to snow once every ten years, but it's been longer than that since last it did. Therefore, I forget what "cold" means. I know cold, I went to college in Minnesota but I forget the feel of it.

When I arrived in Duluth, MN in February and it was 40 below - honest degrees, not windchill - I was appalled. When you check with that coach, don't settle for "it's cold up here" or "it could be 40 below," ask them "what's should I bring?" and, as I did before going to Russia, "please tell me what it feesl like when it's 70 degrees with 100 percent humidity and wind blowing at X mph."

If you're female, ask that coach about jewelry. I was so grateful to the mentor who told me when I attended my first XX conference that the women in that profession in that town would be "draped in jewelry, rings, bracelets, necklaces earrings, toe rings, naval rings -" Of course I would like to know the opposite, too. Why? Well, it's not cool to sit down to a business dinner in Seattle and ask for iced tea. If you know what I mean. Oh, you haven't done that? Let me tell you what happens. Everyone's head jerks toward you. Then they look away. The waiter stammers and shifts from foot to foot. You realize immediately there is no iced tea in this town. But the waiter won't let it go. "I'll brew some tea," he says, "and bring you a glass of ice." "Or just shoot me," I'm thinking. Then he adds, "Is that what iced tea is like?" Everyone is still looking at the ceiling.

ASK THE COACH

Your answers are only as good as your questions. Here's a good question to ask that coach: "What will I wish I'd brought with me that I won't think of." That will trigger the "tourist" mindset in your resource person. Oh the things I've wished I'd brought.

�A well broken in pair of sandals for my Caribbean cruise
�A bathing suit for my December trip to Chicago. Of course the hotel had a hot tub. They all do.
�A pair of comfortable heels each time I've given a presentation. Why do I fool myself?
�Slacks with elastic waistline for cruises
�Something Tencel for long trips
�The black Pashmina shawl that works with everything. Why do I leave it in the back of my closet?
�Something for the rain. It rains when you go somewhere else. You can go to the dollar store and buy what amounts to disposable ponchos and head covers. (Great for touring Russia in the summer or Seattle nearly any time).
�Something really cute for vacations. You think you want to go funky, but then you see someone in a smashing linen matching outfit, and there you are, buying something cute in the hotel store with a price tag that isn't cute at all.
�An evening bag. With an evening bag you can get by with that same black Tencel skirt - you know what I mean.
�Jeans. Dry cleaned and starched.
�Sensible shoes. Oh was I mad when they wouldn't let me rent a motorbike on Grand Cayman with my thong sandals, and the heels back in my room wouldn't have made the cut either.
�That thing that's hanging on the back of your chair if you're in an office right now. You know what I mean. Bring it along for when you get cold which could be anywhere, any time.

Find out what you need to know and master the fundamentals so you don't have to think about what you've got on!

©Susan Dunn, MA, The EQ Coach, http://www.susandunn.cc . Coaching, distance learning, and ebooks around emotional intelligence for your continued personal and professional development. I train and certify EQ coaches. Get in this field, dubbed "white hot" by the press, now, before it's crowded, and offer your clients something of real value. Start tomorrow, no residence requirement. Mailto:sdunn@susandunn.cc for free ezine.

10 Easy Ways To Promote Your Website For Cheap Or Free

Jen Merkel

Please consider this article for your website or newsletter - printed or virtual. Permission to reprint if byline stays intact and links are activated on the Internet. You may make minor formatting changes or correct any typos. If you use it, please notify me and send a copy of your publication.

TITLE: 10 Easy Ways To Promote Your Website For Cheap Or Free
AUTHOR: Jen Merkel, Freelance Writer
WORD COUNT: 1,482
URL: http://jenmerkel.bravehost.com
Mailto: jen.merkel@cox.net

"10 Easy Ways To Promote Your Website For Cheap Or Free"
© 2004 Jen Merkel

You've built your website and you're quite proud of it. The graphics look nice, it has a few interesting pieces of information and it showcases your subject perfectly. But how do you draw people to it and get that hit counter climbing without breaking the bank? You've got your meta tags in place but you just can't afford to pay the humungous fee to be a featured advertiser on a mega-search engine. Here are a few easy and quick ways to publicize your website which are either cheap or free.

1. Link Exchanges

One of the most effective ways to get traffic moving into your site is to list it as a link on other sites of interest to your target market. If you don't already know of another site similar to yours, just do a Google search using a few appropriate keywords. By using Google to do a search on the words "link exchange" you will also find entire sites - some free, some with a fee - with directories of sites willing to exchange links. Once you find a site, see if they have a links page and scan it to make sure yours would be a good fit. Usually instructions on exchanging links are somewhere on the website, but if they're not simply e-mail the webmaster or site owner and ask if they have a link exchange program. Be sure your site does not compete with theirs. After all, you will have to reciprocate with a link to their site on your own. Corporate sites don't normally do link exchanges, you will have much better luck with a site owned by an individual or small business. If you don't have a banner, you can create one for free online. A very user-friendly site for this is www.addesigner.com, but there are several others out there as well.

2. Join a Web-Ring

Web-Rings are a way of driving traffic to your site from others similar to yours. You simply place a web-ring banner on your home page using specified HTML code and you're automatically part of the network. When a visitor clicks on the web-ring banner at one member's site, they are directed to the next site in the web-ring, potentially yours. There are some things to consider when joining a web-ring. For example, when one of your site's viewers clicks on your web-ring banner, they are being directed off your site onto someone else's. If you join a web-ring, find one matching the interests of your target market that doesn't have a large number of members competing with you. For example, if your site sells aquariums, join a site for tropical fish enthusiasts rather than one with for people who sell pet products.

3. Host a Contest

Everyone loves to win a contest, and if yours offers something of value to your target market you can spark a lot of interest. The prize doesn't have to be big - maybe a $10.00 gift certificate, a set of books, a pretty piece of jewelry you purchased on closeout, or of course one of your products. You may be able to get prize donations from your link partners or others in your network simply by offering them credit and a link on your site throughout the contest. It's also smart to offer extra entries to a contestant if they refer someone else - word of mouth (or e-mail) is extremely powerful!

4. Win an Award

This may take some legwork on your part, but it could be well worth it in the end. If your site is rich in content and appealing to the eye, you have a good chance of winning some sort of web award. Simply do your Google search on "website award" or "site of the day" and research the links for application procedures. If you win, the payoff will be the privilege of posting an award banner on your home page for all to see. The site hosting the award will literally be sending visitors to you by way of a link.

5. Put a Link in Your Signature Line

The easiest and quickest way to get publicity for your site is to put a link in your signature line. Every e-mail you send will announce your site, and including an enticing one-line ad such as "enter our contest to win a $10.00 gift certificate" will likely increase your traffic.

6. Join an E-mail Group

In case you aren't familiar with e-mail groups, they are basically networks of people with a common interest or purpose, using e-mail to communicate to each other. Using a single e-mail address, you can send a message to a whole group of people with interests similar to yours. Rest assured, no matter what your target market is, there is an e-mail group for it. It is important to keep in mind that most frown upon advertising and all ban spamming, however you are usually allowed to put a link in your signature line and make special announcements. Just be sure you actually contribute to the discussion - don't just assume you can use the list for free advertising or you will be shunned very quickly. Two of the most popular websites for e-mail groups are Yahoo Groups (http://groups.yahoo.com) and Topica (http://www.topica.com), both of which offer free memberships.

7. Publish a Newsletter

It can be sent daily, weekly, bi-weekly or monthly, but be sure you send it out on a regular basis. Mine is published weekly on Fridays without fail. My readers have learned to look for it and I'd never consider letting them down by missing a deadline. Aside from being consistent, it is a cardinal rule to offer something of value to your readership. Don't use it solely as a venue for advertising - there are plenty of places to put text links and banner ads within it. To maintain readers, you will need to include some helpful information as well. If you aren't much of a writer, there are articles available on the web that are free for publication, providing you include a link to the writer's website and a promotional paragraph. If you have a hard time finding these, consider posting a call for submissions on writers' websites offering $5.00 and free promotion via a byline. You will be pleasantly surprised how many people respond with fresh and well-written ideas.

8. Purchase Advertising

Think advertising is expensive? Think again. There are countless inexpensive opportunities for advertising on the Internet. Start by looking for sites which target the same market you do, providing they don't directly compete with yours. Chances are they have a link for people interested in advertising on their site. If you can't find it, simply e-mail the webmaster or site owner and inquire. Another option is to do a search on eBay. Many sites put banner ad placement on auction. You can find ad spots on eBay for as little as $5.99, but remember, it is an auction, and someone could easily beat you out. I recently saw a banner ad auction get up to $269.00. Don't forget however, because it's an auction, you have the power to limit the amount you will pay a your maximum bid. It is important to have a banner ready to go, since you will usually need to obtain permission from the website's owner before bidding on the auction. Always read the terms of the auction carefully, to make sure you understand the dates your banner will be up and exactly where it will be placed.

9. Promoting Your Business Using an Online Network

Just starting to catch on is a unique way to network with other small businesses by way of shared advertising. The basic idea is to swap business cards, flyers, or coupons (called "fillers") for your site with other small business owners. They will put your fillers in their customer orders and you will put their fillers in your orders. Many groups put together bags or packs with a compilation of member fillers along with other goodies the recipient will enjoy. These can be given out at area businesses, schools, day care centers, parties... the list is endless. If you have trouble finding a networking group think about starting one of your own.

10. Write an Article

With a little work and a free morning, you should be able to put together a couple of paragraphs for a "how-to" piece on your area of expertise. Just be certain it somehow relates to your website. Use your article in your own newsletter or search on writers' websites for sites or e-zines looking for articles that may be a good fit for your piece. Whether or not they pay for publication they will be an excellent way to get the word out about your site. Just be sure to keep your byline brief and don't reference your website within your article unless absolutely necessary.

Jen Merkel is a freelance writer living in Chandler, Arizona with her husband and two children. Working from her virtual office, Jen offers business writing services (press releases, proposals, etc.) as well as assistance with meeting and incentive planning. Please visit her website at http://jenmerkel.bravehost.com or send her an email at jen.merkel@cox.net.

Jen Merkel lives in Chandler, Arizona with her husband and two children. Working from her virtual office, she offers business writing services (such as press releases, reports and proposals) as well as meeting planning assistance. Please visit her website at http://jenmerkel.bravehost.com or email her at jen.merkel@cox.net.

Successful Online Gift Shop Marketing - Part 2
Shannan Hearne

7. Organize

To a great extent, we've been covering this all along. But it can't be
emphasized enough. Don't make me, the shopper, search high and low on
your site for a statue that perfectly matches my wizard logo. Combine
the wizard, sorcery, magical, knights of the roundtable products
together. Think of every way that someone like me - or any other
shopper - might go looking for them. And make them easy to find by
organizing.

8. Monopolize

Many merchants worry that this is a taboo form of marketing. Not at
all.

Would it have been taboo to sell flags on 9/11/01? Perhaps. But every
day since then they have been selling like hotcakes. And if you offer
American patriotism in the form of products on your gift site, then you
need to monopolize on the new American patriotism. For years merchants
have monopolized on Christmas, Mother's Day, and every other gift giving
occasion. Let's face it, Hallmark and American Greetings would go belly
up if this year we all decided to boycot our moms on Mother's Day.

So how do you do this? Jog your memory by looking at everything we've
covered. Specialization and categorization. Organization.
Preplanning. They all come into play.

You don't need a crystal ball to see what trends are coming along in
consumerism. And if you see them, you need to monopolize on them if you
want to run a successful gift sales business.

Look at what eToys.com, Walmart.com, BlueLight.com, etc. did this year.
A rather unstable economy kept people from spending quite as freely as
they have in years past. Rather than give up all together, merchants
increased their specials and discounts. And didn't we all buy at least
one thing this past holiday season not because we or our gift recipient
needed it, but rather because it was too inexpensive not to buy?

9. Design Your Site Carefully

This could be an entire article on its own. But let's look at the
general mechanics of a site that would rank high in the search engines.

Quality and quantity keywords and meta tags are imperative if you want
the right kind of traffic. Speed of loading and ease of navigation are
required to get visitors where you want them to end up - the order
page. Aesthetically pleasing visuals make shoppers happy and turn them
into buyers. And finally, the more payment methods you are able to
accept, the more buyers you will receive.

Invite a friend, preferably an internet newbie, to shop from your site.
Perhaps even offer a free gift as the incentive. See how long it takes
them to find what they are looking for and order it. Do they get
frustrated? Do they smile or frown? Re-think your gift site design
accordingly.

10. Market Every Day

What no holidays or Sundays off? That's right. You should always be
prepared to hand out a business card or zap off an email when you see a
marketing opportunity. And you can be marketing even when you aren't
marketing. Your signature text in your emails should ALWAYS contain a
link to your business site. Every thing you ship should have your URL
printed everywhere. When you leave a pen at the bank, it should have
your business contact printed on it. If you stop at a yard sale and see
that someone obviously likes Teddy Bears, you should tell them how to
get to your Teddy Bear Site.

What about getting other people to market for you?

Groups like http:/www.mompack.com are all about having other people help
promote your business for free. When you ship a product, always include
at least THREE of your business cards, one for the recipient to keep and
two to give away. Affiliate programs are a great way to get people to
sell for you. Don't overlook any option.

And when you are running a special, don't forget to advertise on sites
that compile savings information. My favorite is
http://www.clearancecrazy.com But there are tons of them.

11. Utilize Every Contact as a Potential Marketing Contact

One category of products that I sell is gourmet coffee, tea, and
snacks. It has absolutally nothing to do with my primary business,
http://www.SuccessPromotions.com. However, it is very successful in its
own right. Http://www.coffeeteaetc.com gets more hits regularly than
Success Promotions. Why? Because I tell everyone about it. For
example, every time I get a free cup of coffee somewhere, I leave a
couple business cards and web cards. (see www.mothersdayout.com/ for
web cards) I participate in marketing material exchanges through the
Mom Pack mentioned earlier. When I meet someone who sells any type of
home party product whether it be food/kitchen oriented like TupperWare
or completely different like PartyLite Candles or House of Lloyd, I tell
them about my business. It is easy to recruit for and easy to promote.
Almost everyone I know drinks coffee or tea. I give away samples. I
invite neighbors over for gourmet coffee. Everyone I talk to is a
suspected buyer or reseller until they prove themselves otherwise.

You should assume the same.

Wear the clothes that you sell or the jewelry. Drive the car that you
sell. Drink the coffee that you sell. And be prepared to share them
with anyone who even casually asks.

Along the same lines, encourage your own customers to do the same.

I have purchased many shirts from Sirr Max, http://www.sirrmax.com
Their positive logoed apparel fits my personality and I enjoy sharing
their messages of hope with anyone who takes the time to read my
clothing. At least twice a day, when wearing Sirr Max apparel, someone
will comment on how much they like my shirt or admire the message on my
tote bag. I'm always prepared to give a business card to them.
Ordering from this online giftwear site is easy. But potential
customers have to get to the site to order. So I help Pamela Jordan of
Sirr Max by advertising for her every time I wear her clothing.

If you sell anything besides underwear, then your customers' friends are
going to eventually see it. Make sure they are prepared to tell their
friends how they can get some too.

12. Network

The dreaded "N" word. This has nothing to do with multi level
marketing. It is all about who you know and what you know.

When you network, you invariably make potential business/client
contacts. So do it wholeheartedly. Don't just join a group like
Digital Women http://www.digital-woman.com or The Network for Women
http://www.thenetworkforwomen.com, but participate in them. Join the
email lists. Advertise. Donate time, products, services, etc. Make
yourself visible enough within the group that your networking is
accomplishing something. The contacts will be invaluable. And you neve
know who you will meet who either is just now looking for gifts like you
sell or knows someone who is.

Its a new year and all of is are ready for a fresh, new start. Make an
effort to utilize these suggestions in the way most appropriate for your
business. Sell more gifts by working to sell more gifts.

And remember, Success Promotions, http://www.successpromotions.com is
always just a quick browser surf away with tons more tips, tools, and
tricks.

Shannan Hearne
President and Wizard
Success Promotions
http://www.successpromotions.com
Building Your E-Business Better

Multilevel Marketing

Helen Peshkova

Basic Idea

Multilevel marketing (MLM), also known as "Network" marketing, are a way of selling goods or services through self-employed independent distributors. As a networker (independent distributor) you receive commissions - for both your sales of the company's goods or services and those of other people you recruit to join the distributors. Multilevel marketing plans usually pay commissions through two or more levels of recruits, known as the distributor's "downline."

Downline is the distributors recruited by you, and you receive commissions on their sales and the sales of the distributors they recruit.

Upline is the distributors who are above you in the MLM hierarchy and who receive commissions (overrides) from your sales.

To be avoided are MLM plans that are actually pyramid schemes (so called "naked pyramid scheme") in disguise - that is, plans that focus only recruiting more and more distributors, but have no substantive product at the bottom of the pyramid. New participants pay a fee to participate and hope to profit by recruiting others into the system. Chain letters are an example.

State laws against pyramiding say that an MLM plan should only pay commissions for retail sales of goods or services, not for recruiting new distributors. However, MLM companies typically structure their payment plan so that recruiting is more profitable.

Before you start working in particular MLM, get familiar with the following mainstream websites and web magazines.

You can find top Sites about Network Marketing at www.RichTrack.com.

Typical mistakes to avoid

1. The most important part of MLM is the education system of MLM company, but not "magic plan" nor "magic leader" who will help you to get rich quick. The most successful companies usually have the most advanced educational programs which cover people management, negotiations, sales, leadership, money management, and many more. Do not get cheated by "progressive plans" and "world leaders". Marketing plan is just the part of MLM business. The small part.

2. Taking part in naked pyramid scheme. Check if your MLM Company runs a pyramid. Avoid any plan that includes commissions for recruiting additional distributors. It may be an illegal pyramid.

3. Easy Money. Network distributors who are successful know their products, their customers, the company's vision, and are ready to do that which is necessary "hard work". A distributor whose mind-set is on laying a "foundation" rather than looking for easy money will be around a lot longer.

4. Be cautious of plans that claim you will make money through continued growth of your "downline" -- the commissions on sales made by new distributors you recruit -- rather than through sales of products you make yourself.

5. Don't pay or sign any contracts in an "opportunity meeting" or any other high-pressure situation. Insist on taking your time to think over a decision to join. Talk it over with your spouse, a knowledgeable friend, an accountant or lawyer.

6. Do your homework! Check with your local Better Business Bureau and state Attorney General about any plan you're considering -- especially when the claims about the product or your potential earnings seem too good to be true.

Top MLM Companies

1. Amway Corporation - A Global Leader in Multilevel Marketing
2. Dorling Kindersley Opportunity selling children's books.
3. The Body Shop Offers skin and hair care products with information covering campaigns, values and company.
4. Golden Neo-Life Diamite International A multi-level marketing company selling nutritional products and water filtration systems.
5. Nu Skin Enterprises Corporate site. Direct selling company with three divisions, Big Planet, Nu Skin and Pharmanex.
6. Big Planet An internetworking company offering a financial opportunity to a vast network of sales representatives.
7. Herbalife International Corporate site. Independent distributor offer selling personal care and nutritional products.
8. Avon Products, Inc. Corporate site. Representative opportunity selling cosmetics, clothing, toys, perfume, jewelry, books, and videos.
9. Tupperware Official U.S. web site with products available for sale, and information on parties. Work at home career opportunities.
10. Seasilver USA Offering nutritional supplements. Includes distributor information.



Written by Helen Peshkova, RichTrack.com.

http://www.RichTrack.com is one of the first business oriented education portals. It's the leading online business information network for millionaires. The goal of RichTrack.com is to present business content in a professional, helpful and practical format that helps you getting rich.

Buying Gemstones Without Being Ripped-Off
Sam Serio

Buying gemstone jewelry can be fun, exciting and confusing. Whether you're considering a gift of gemstone jewelry for someone special or as a treat for yourself, take some time to learn the terms used in the industry. Here's some information to help you get the best quality gemstone jewelry for your money, whether you're shopping in a traditional brick and mortar store or online.

Gemstones
Natural gemstones are found in nature. Laboratory-created stones, as the name implies, are made in a laboratory. These stones, which also are referred to as laboratory-grown, {name of manufacturer} - created, or synthetic, have essentially the same chemical, physical and visual properties as natural gemstones. Laboratory-created stones do not have the rarity of naturally colored stones and they are less expensive than naturally mined stones. By contrast, imitation stones look like natural stones in appearance only, and may be glass, plastic, or less costly stones. Laboratory-created and imitation stones should be clearly identified as such.

Gemstones may be measured by weight, size, or both. The basic unit for weighing gemstones is the carat, which is equal to one-fifth 91/5th) of a gram. Carats are divided into 100 units, called points. For example, a half-carat gemstone would weigh .50 carats or 50 points. When gemstones are measured by dimensions, the size is expressed in millimeters (for example,
7x5 millimeters).

Gemstone treatments or enhancements refer to the way some gems are treated to improve their appearance or durability, or even change their color. Many gemstones are treated in some way. The effects of some treatments may lessen or change over time and some treated stones may require special care. Some enhancements also affect the value of a stone, when measured against a comparable untreated stone.

Jewelers should tell you whether the gemstone you're considering has been treated when: the treatment is not permanent; the treated stone requires special care; or the treatment significantly affects the value of the gemstone.

Some common treatments that you may be told about and their effects include:
� Heating can lighten, darken or change the color of some gems, or improve a gemstone's clarity.
� Irradiation can add more color to colored diamonds, certain other gemstones and pearls.
� Impregnating some gems with colorless oils, wax or resins makes a variety of imperfections less visible and can improve the gemstones' clarity and appearance.
� Fracture filling hides cracks or fractures in gems by injecting colorless plastic or glass into the cracks and improves the gemstones' appearance and durability.
� Diffusion treatment adds color to the surface of colorless gems; the center of the stone remains colorless.
� Dyeing adds color and improves color uniformity in some gemstones and pearls.
� Bleaching lightens and whitens some gems, including jade and pearls.


The Authors of the above Article, Sam and Tami Serio have been passionately involved with Jewelry and Gemstones for over fifteen-years. You are cordially invited to visit http://www.morninglightjewelry.com for a wealth of information about the fascinating world of Jewelry and Gemstones. Together they also shelter 20 abandoned and abused dogs & cats. A portion of their profits goes to the care and feeding of the animals.

The Informal Normal In A Black-Tie-Affair World

Stanley J. Leffew

Have you noticed the trend?

You ever notice how on programs like "The Bachelor" most of their dating episodes are via limousine escort?

They travel to lavish destinations amid scenic splendor. The sunsets are so beautiful you can almost hear nature singing its own rendition of, "Love Is A Many Splendid Thing".

You rarely ever even see a rainy day.

In "Sleepless In Seattle", the audience was left "Speechless in New York" atop the Empire State Building. The climactic romantic interlude that followed is one that will be etched in the memory of movie-lovers for a long time to come.

In "Sabrina", the audience feels the eloquent charm and ambience of Paris.

"You've Got Mail" spammed us with the scenic elegance and grandeur of all that's good in and around "The Big Apple".

If you really want to be depressed, sit and watch some of the work out programs that abound. Watch as brisk morning breezes enrapture the velvety clouds tracing the horizon from the backdrops of scenic vistas and ocean views. Who couldn't be motivated to work out?

We easily become captivated by "Lifestyles of The Rich and Famous", "Cribs", and the latest craze of "Extreme Make Over-Home Edition", dreaming if only...

Watch a few of the music videos that abound at VH1, MTV and BET. You will see more money, lavish diamonds, fancy fashions, flashy gold jewelry, expensive limousines and other fine automobiles watching these music video programs for one hour than most people will see in the average lifetime.

All commercials seem to have the same goal in mind to make us feel that their product is the missing link to our imminent happiness.

We live in a Black Tie Affair World!

No wonder so many people struggle with comparisons.

When one becomes enamored by the glitz and the glamour so prevalent in our culture, it is easy to feel relationally shortchanged and cheated in life.

This Black-Tie-Affair mindset causes many couples to strive to keep up with the Joneses to the point of being maxed out to the hilt in financial demise from debt. Money issues are cited as one of the biggest reasons for the breakdown in the family leading to divorce.

Are you struggling with the fantasy?

Are you confused with all the hoopla?

Is this life reality?

Is this relational reality?

Is it reality?

If it is, I must be missing something. I must have made a wrong turn in the road somewhere. Most of the families I know must have made the wrong turn with me.

Although my wife and I love each other very much, much of our relationship life is spent, well, INFORMALLY NORMAL.

A day in the life for most couples is spent:

* Punching the old inevitable time clock.

* Doing the dishes and the laundry.

* Cooking.

* Paying bills.

* Fighting colds, headaches and fatigue.

* Changing diapers.

* Bathing the kids and getting them ready for bed.

* Getting up the next day and doing it all over again.


Most of the world struggles with getting up, getting old, getting fat, getting sick or simply getting by.

So, do yourself a favor. Stop buying in to all the hoopla and falsehood.

If you get caught in this web of deceit, you just may miss out on what really matters - faith, family, character and integrity.

The last time I checked, love wasn't defined by the word MONEY.

For words that better define love you may want to consider: commitment, sacrifice, support, unselfishness, home building, encouragement, forgiveness, planning and working together.

Maybe a bit informal and normal...maybe not as flashy as dollar signs...but ironically, a lot richer!

(C)Copyright 2004 advice-for-lifetime-relationships.com by Stanley J. Leffew ALL RIGHTS RESERVED!


Stanley J. Leffew is the author of, "How To Be Wanted For a Lifetime of Nights and Not Just a Night of a Lifetime". His Website is based on this same theme. His Site's unique Newsletter takes its readers into "The Coffee Shop of Make-Believe" for life and relationship empowerment. The Coffee Shop is OPEN at, http://advice-for-lifetime-relationships.com.

The Engagement Ring Bling
Donna Monday

How much should you spend on a diamond engagement ring?

$100?

$1000?

How about a whopping $1 million?

That's what Donald Trump just spent on an engagement ring for his lovely new wife, Melania Knauss. Can you imagine what it must be like to wear any ring worth that much on a daily basis?

The Donald must hire beefy security guards with names like Wolfgang and Spike just to watch over Melania every time her and her delicate ring finger step out the door.

Buying expensive diamond jewelry for their significant others seem to be a Trump family trait. Well, you've gotta do something with all that money besides invest in real estate deals.

Trump's son, Donald Jr. has just proposed to his fianc�e, Vanessa Haydon, with a very impressive four-carat emerald cut diamond ring with a diamond-encrusted platinum band. However, Vanessa's ring can be considered a real bargain at a cost of only $100,000.

While most regular folks will not be able to come close to spending that kind of money on an engagement ring for their sweethearts, there are still many very wonderful options if you're looking to buy a diamond engagement ring, wedding ring, or wedding band online.

You should be able to find the perfect ring online to fit into your budget. You can even buy a custom engagement ring or wedding ring for a very reasonable price.

So take comfort in the fact that you don't have to be rich like the Trumps to present your loved one with a truly beautiful engagement ring that will make everyone feel very rich indeed.


Copyright 2005
Donna Monday
One special moment. One special ring.
http://www.1-love-rings.com

The Uniqueness of Missoni

Sher Matsen

To Uniqueness of Angela Missoni stands her alone and away from any other designer. A garment designed by Angela easily is picked out of a line of impressive fashions.

Even though Angela Missoni had been involved in the family fashion business she was determined not to follow in the footsteps of her parent.

After having several career from managing a children's playground to raising organic chickens, she was drawn back to her natural roots and began designing jewelry. Her father offered her a position in the company claiming that the diversity could keep her working in her own department out of the daily reaches of her parents.

Angela soon began designing fashion collections. Her collections were varied. One collection saw accessories added, another some knits, as she always battled to be unique and different.

One day her mother said she felt Angela's lines should be what Missoni should be about.

Her desire is fueled by her uniqueness. She never wanted to be like any other designer. Angela prides herself in knowing that nothing else in the fashion world looks quite like a Missoni design.

From it's inception in 1953 Missoni was very experimental. Sometime during the 1980s it lost its way and became intrenched in the more classic looks and styles. With the help of Angela it has found its way back to its roots.

The designs are once again bold, funky, younger looking. So watch for the new face or shall we say old face of the well known Missoni family with Angela now leading the way.

Angela's designs have been worn by many famous stars such as Sandra Bullock, Eva Mendes, Rachel Blanchard, Debra Messing and Sheryl Crow.

It's going to be an exciting season with Angela's imagination running wild what we will see on the runway this season can only be left to the imagination. Keep your eyes wide open!


Sher from Estate Jewelry International have been serving customers for over 20 years, providing affordable estate jewelry, and a wealth of information on jewelry, fashion, designers, and beauty with on staff industry professionals. Please visit us at Estate Jewelry International.

Now You're Engaged, How Do You Choose A Mens Wedding Ring?
Peter Crump

So, you've just got engaged.

Whether you are a man or a woman you have an important decision to make (amongst the myriad of other decisions) about mens wedding rings. It's this. Will the man in your relationship wear one?

Maybe that's you, maybe not. But you both need to think about it.

You see it's only since the second world war that modern men have started to publicly display their marital status by the wearing of a man wedding ring.

Prior to that it was rare for a man to wear a ring when he married. Men were able to hide their marital status behind the tradition that required a woman to wear a wedding ring, but not a man.

However during the war many US soldiers chose to wear mens wedding rings as a public symbol of their marital status whilst away at war and that has started a tradition for the modern man. Now it's very common for a man to wear a mens wedding ring, perhaps the norm.

So, what decisions need to be made? Well the first is this. Will he wear one? That's probably the hardest decision in the process.

For a woman there's no decision. She's engaged, she wants the ring. For her she needs an engagement ring as well as a wedding ring, and an expensive engagement ring at that. But for a man it's not so straight forward.

So a very important part of the process is for both of you to talk about it. Do you both have strong feelings about the man wearing a man wedding ring, either one way or the other? Does the woman feel that if she is to publicly display her marital status then it's only fair that he do the same? Does he have any reservations about wearing a ring and if so what are they? You both need to talk over your feelings about the wearing of a man wedding ring. Establish the groundwork.

Once and if you have made a decision that he will wear a ring then that's just the start. It's perfectly possible to buy a his and hers matching wedding ring set. These are rings designed as matching sets for you both so that both your wedding rings go well together. So are you going to look for matching rings, or just buy him a ring and focus on hers separately?

Next you have to decide what type of ring. There's a whole world of designs for mens wedding rings out there. An enormous range of styles and materials. A man makes a statement about himself in selecting the ring he will wear for his wife, and she is a part of that statement if she is actively involved in the decision.

Think about his personality. Is he outgoing or shy? Is he outrageous or conservative? Is he flamboyant? Understated? When he buys clothes what does he select? Does he buy colourful flamboyant ties or ties which fit in with the style of the suit? Would he wear clothes which make him stand out from the crowd or does he prefer to meld in?

His men's wedding ring needs to fit his personality. All these characteristics, as well as many others, bear on your choice of ring. A man with a strong flamboyant personality would be much more likely to prefer a ring which stands out. Which sets him apart from the crowd, which says "look at me". On the other hand a man with a more conservative type of personality would probably prefer to say "I'm married but I'm not going to shout it from the rooftop" with his ring.

Similarly, think about his stature. Is he short or tall? Is he large or small? Does he have long slender fingers or short stubby fingers? These characteristics also bear on the style of ring selected.

So size up the man before making a decision on the style of ring for him.

One of the most common form of mens wedding ring is the simple band style. Often in gold or white gold, it is plain and unadorned. A simple statement of marital status and nothing else. But even amongst simple bands there are decisions to make. How wide? What colour? What type of material? New materials such as Titanium or Platinum have broadened the choices hugely. Mens black Titanium rings really catch the eye.

Or amongst the more traditional materials sterling silver men's wedding rings look stunning. Or brushed mens white gold wedding rings. The range of choices now is enormous.

And it's not necessary to decide on a single material. Mens two toned gold wedding rings, utilising white and yellow gold, are popular. Perhaps match the ring material with gemstones such as rubies or sapphires or even diamonds to create a stunning effect.

It's perfectly possible to get custom made rings or even design them yourself. The internet offers a big range of choices and also offers rings and other jewelry dramatically cheaper than your traditional bricks and mortar stores. Several online jewellers offer a design your own mens wedding ring service so that you can design a ring that's unique to you.

And if you want something really different why not consider celtic mens wedding bands?

The range of choices is endless, enough to satisfy even the most discriminating couple.

And remember that for a man this ring may be the only jewelry he will ever wear. The choice of man ring that you both make is a big one.

So, now you're engaged, spend a little time thinking about what you are going to do about a men's wedding ring. Start talking about it with your partner. The more time you spend on it the happier you will be with your final choice.



Find out more about Mens Wedding Rings as well as Custom Men's Wedding Rings and Platinum, Gold,
Silver, Diamond, and inexpensive Mens Wedding Rings.
© 2005 Peter Crump.

Six Ways of Making Money on the Internet Without Quitting Your Day Job

There is no need to waste money on fancy jewelry cleaning solutions. You can save money by cleaning your jewelry at home using things you'll find in any kitchen or bathroom.

Cleaning Your Silver Jewelry

Use a soft bristle toothbrush with mild soap and warm water to restore the shine and brilliance of silver jewelry. Avoid immersing your sterling silver jewelry into jewelry cleaning dips, they should be cleaned by hand. Use a soft cloth to buff your silver jewelry for a nice, clean shine.

Cleaning Your Diamond Rings & Jewelry

Use a solution of six parts water and one part ammonia. Use a soft bristle toothbrush or toothpick to remove any dirt or particles from any crevices. Rinse well in water and buff dry with a soft cloth.

Cleaning Gold, Platinum and other Gemstone Jewelry

Use a solution of mild dishwashing liquid, like Ivory. Soak jewelry in this solution for a few minutes, then lightly brush away any dirt with a soft brush. Rinse with lukewarm water and air dry or buff with a soft cloth. Be sure not to soak any soft stones like turquoise, amber or lapis, as soaking can damage their polish. For particularly dirty gold jewelry, soak in alcohol or ammonia before cleaning.

Cleaning Pearls

A mild soap and water solution works well for cleaning pearls. Then wipe dry with a soft cloth.

Cleaning Costume Jewelry & Rhinestones

Use a soft brush to sweep away any dirt and dust. Use window cleaner, like Windex, sprayed on a soft, lint free cloth to clean the stones surface. Also try alcohol on a q-tip to get in between small spaces.

With just a few minutes of care, your jewelry will be sparkling like new!
Jewelry Cleaning - The Cheap and Easy Way
Ricky Alberta

There is no need to waste money on fancy jewelry cleaning solutions. You can save money by cleaning your jewelry at home using things you'll find in any kitchen or bathroom.

Cleaning Your Silver Jewelry

Use a soft bristle toothbrush with mild soap and warm water to restore the shine and brilliance of silver jewelry. Avoid immersing your sterling silver jewelry into jewelry cleaning dips, they should be cleaned by hand. Use a soft cloth to buff your silver jewelry for a nice, clean shine.

Cleaning Your Diamond Rings & Jewelry

Use a solution of six parts water and one part ammonia. Use a soft bristle toothbrush or toothpick to remove any dirt or particles from any crevices. Rinse well in water and buff dry with a soft cloth.

Cleaning Gold, Platinum and other Gemstone Jewelry

Use a solution of mild dishwashing liquid, like Ivory. Soak jewelry in this solution for a few minutes, then lightly brush away any dirt with a soft brush. Rinse with lukewarm water and air dry or buff with a soft cloth. Be sure not to soak any soft stones like turquoise, amber or lapis, as soaking can damage their polish. For particularly dirty gold jewelry, soak in alcohol or ammonia before cleaning.

Cleaning Pearls

A mild soap and water solution works well for cleaning pearls. Then wipe dry with a soft cloth.

Cleaning Costume Jewelry & Rhinestones

Use a soft brush to sweep away any dirt and dust. Use window cleaner, like Windex, sprayed on a soft, lint free cloth to clean the stones surface. Also try alcohol on a q-tip to get in between small spaces.

With just a few minutes of care, your jewelry will be sparkling like new!

Always Treasured Vintage Costume Jewelry
Offering vintage costume jewelry, porcelain and pottery, men's vintage jewelry, vintage glass and glassware, fine vintage jewelry and vintage jewelry boxes.