Fashion Jewelry

All about Palladium

Palladium is a chemical element with the chemical symbol Pd and an atomic number of 46. Palladium is a rare and lustrous silvery-white metal that was discovered in 1803 by William Hyde Wollaston, who named it after the asteroid Pallas. Palladium, along with platinum, rhodium, ruthenium, iridium and osmium form a group of elements referred to as the platinum group metals.

The unique properties of palladium and other platinum group metals account for their widespread use. One in four goods manufactured today either contain platinum group metals or had platinum group metals play a key role during their manufacturing process. Over half of the supply of palladium goes into catalytic converters, which convert up to 90% of harmful gases from auto exhaust into less harmful substances. Palladium is found in many electronics including computers, mobile phones, multi-layer ceramic capacitors, component plating, low voltage electrical contacts, and SED/OLED/LCD televisions. Palladium is also used in dentistry, medicine, hydrogen purification, chemical applications, and groundwater treatment. Palladium plays a key role in the technology used for fuel cells, which combines hydrogen and oxygen to produce electricity, heat and water.

Ore deposits of palladium and other platinum group metals are rare, and the most extensive deposits have been found in the norite belt of the Bushveld Igneous Complex in the Transvaal in South Africa, the Stillwater Complex in Montana, United States, the Sudbury District of Ontario, Canada, and the Norilsk Complex in Russia. In addition to mining, recycling is also a source of palladium, mostly from scrapped catalytic converters. The numerous applications and limited supply sources of palladium result in palladium drawing considerable investment interest.

Palladium itself has been used as a precious metal in jewelry since 1939, as an alternative to platinum or white gold. This is due to its naturally white properties, giving it no need for rhodium plating. It is much lighter than platinum. Similar to gold, palladium can be beaten into a thin leaf form as thin as 1/250,000 in. Like platinum, it will look a bit hazy over time. Palladium is one of the three most popular metals used to make white gold alloys.

When platinum was declared a strategic government resource during World War II, many jewelry bands were made out of palladium. As recently as September 2001, palladium was more expensive than platinum and rarely used in jewelry also due to the technical obstacle of casting. However the casting problem has been resolved and its use in jewelry has increased because of a large spike in the price of platinum and a drop in the price of palladium.

Prior to 2004, the principal use of palladium in jewelry was as an alloy in the manufacture of white gold jewelry, but, beginning early in 2004 when gold and platinum prices began to rise steeply, Chinese jewelers starting making a large amount of palladium jewelry. Johnson Matthey estimated that in 2004, with the introduction of palladium jewelry in China, demand for palladium for jewelry fabrication was 920,000 ounces, or approximately 14% of the total palladium demand for 2004. This means it increased almost 700,000 ounces from the previous year. This trend continued during 2005, with estimated worldwide jewelry demand for palladium of about 1.4 million ounces, or almost 21% of net palladium supply, again with most of the demand centered in China. The popularity of palladium jewelry is expected to continue to grow as the world’s biggest producers embark on a joint marketing effort to promote palladium jewelry worldwide. Do you own any Palladium jewelry?

Native American Jewelry

Native American jewelry is a rich and varied type of jewelry with many types from all over North America. Various Native American tribes have their own culture and traditions and this reflects in the styles of jewelry. This jewelry visually recorded tribal histories and captured their sense of oneness with nature. Lois Sherr Dubin wrote: ” (in) the absence of written languages, adornment became an important element of Indian communication, conveying many levels of information.” Later, jewelry and personal adornment “signaled resistance to assimilation. It remains a major statement of tribal and individual identity.”

While Native artists continued to incorporate new materials and techniques into their work, jewelry in the Americas has an ancient history. Olivella shell beads, dating from 6000 BCE, were found in Nevada; bone, antler, and possibly marine shell beads from 7000 BCE were found in Russell Cave in Alabama. Copper jewelry was traded from Lake Superior beginning in 3000 BCE. Stone beads were carved in Poverty Point in Louisiana in 1500 BCE. Heishe bead necklaces have been discovered in ancient ruins. Remnants of the seashells they used to make beads, were also found. Oyster shell, mother of pearl, abalone, conch and clam have been important trade items in the Southwest for over 1000 years.

Native beadwork was already extremely advanced in pre-Columbian era, including utilizing hand ground and filed turquoise, coral, and shell into smooth tiny beads to make heishe necklaces. They made carvings from wood or animal bone to make interesting beads, which they sewed into clothing or strung into necklaces. Turquoise is one of the dominant findings of Southwestern Native American jewelry. Thousands of pieces were found in the Chico Canyon. In the prehistoric times the Native Americans would mine the turquoise and then create the jewelry. Turquoise was found in southern Arizona that dates back to 200 B.C.

Pendants depicting animals are still favored by many tribes. Bear claws, birds, especially eagles, as well as turtles, and bird talons were set into crescent shaped pendants. The Iroquois ground stone combined decorative and utilitarian elements. Stone pendant shapes included ovals, rectangles and diamond shapes with serrated edges, arrows, triangles, animal figures and elongate polished pebbles with full grooves for suspension. Pendants and gorgets were sometimes engraved with hatched or zigzag lines, or shapes.

The Southwest is especially known for its silverwork. Southwest jewelry includes designs of channel inlay, cluster, mosaic, and petite point and materials of shell, gemstones and beads. Whereas the Navajo liked the squash blossom necklace, and they often combined turquoise, coral, and other semi-precious gemstones. They were set into silver scrolls, leaf patterns, and strung on cord for necklaces. Navajo people began working with silver in the 19th century.

Turquoise is closely associated with Navajo jewelry, but it was not until 1880 that the first turquoise was set in silver. Excepting for the turquoise wampum from earlier times, turquoise was very scarce and it was to be another thirty years or more before turquoise became readily available. This is why early Navajo jewelry had very few stones. They were soldered and surrounded by scrolls, beads and leaf patterns set in sterling silver. The Navajo silversmiths have made buckles, bridles, buttons, rings, round, hollow beads, earrings, crescent shaped pendants, bracelets, crosses, powder chargers, tobacco boxes, and disks used on belts. In 1903, Anthropologist, Uriah Hollister wrote about the Navajo. He said, “Belts and necklaces of silver are their pride… They are so skillful and patient in hammering and shaping that a fairly good-shaped teaspoon is often made of a silver dollar without melting and casting.”

The Apache tribe is perhaps best known for its amazing variety of jewelry designs. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries the Apache’s were renowned for mastery in silversmithing which they employed to create unique jewelry designs. Silver was the medium of choice for the Apache when it came to jewelry. They would incorporate the use of some exquisite precious stones such as lapis lazuli and jade to create a colorful piece of jewelry. Now, more than ever before, original Native American Jewelry and its styles are popular with people all over the world.

Silver Lips

From our Silver Collection, this sterling silver pendant is plated with an anti-tarnish matte finish.  The item measures 29mm by 31mm. Visit us at 925e.com – the experts in wholesale jewelry and silver jewelry wholesale. If you buy your jewelry wholesale or like silver wholesale jewelry, look for Item Code: 54-706-7894 at 925e.com.

All about Topaz

Topaz is a gem stone of many possible colors. You’ll find it in Clear (if no impurities), blue, brown, orange, gray, yellow, green, pink and reddish pink. Let’s learn a little more about this semi-precious gem stone.

Pure topaz is colorless and transparent but, like all gem stones, is usually tinted by impurities. Typical topaz is wine, yellow, pale gray or reddish-orange and blue brown. It can also be made white, pale green, blue, gold, pink, reddish-yellow or opaque to transparent/translucent. Orange topaz, also known as precious topaz, is the traditional November birthstone, the symbol of friendship, and the state gemstone for the US state of Utah.

Imperial topaz is yellow, pink or pink-orange. Brazilian Imperial Topaz can often have a bright yellow to deep golden brown hue, sometimes even violet. Many brown or pale topazes are treated to make them bright yellow, gold, pink or violet colored. Some imperial topaz stones can fade on exposure to sunlight for an extended period of time. Blue topaz is the US state Texas’ gemstone. Naturally occurring blue topaz is quite rare. Typically, colorless, gray or pale yellow and blue material is heat treated and irradiated to produce a more desired darker blue. Mystic topaz is colorless topaz which has been artificially coated giving it the desired rainbow effect.

Topaz is commonly associated with silicic igneous rocks of the granite and rhyolite type. It can also be found with fluorite and cassiterite in various areas including Ural and Ilmen mountains of Russia, in Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Czech Republic, Germany, Norway, Pakistan, Italy, Sweden, Japan, Brazil, Mexico, Flinders Island, Australia, Nigeria and the United States. Some clear topaz crystals from Brazilian pegmatites can reach boulder size and weigh hundreds of pounds. These won’t be found on a ring. Crystals of this size may be seen in museum collections.

The name ‘topaz’ comes from the ancient name of St. John’s Island in the Red Sea which was difficult to find and from which a yellow stone was mined in ancient times; topaz itself wasn’t really known about before the classical era. In the Middle Ages, the name topaz was used to refer to any yellow gemstone, but in modern times it denotes only the silicate described above. According to some, it is one of the gemstones which form the foundations of the twelve gates to the Holy City of the New Jerusalem. These so-called apocalyptic stones are intended to serve in protection against enemies and as a symbol of beauty and splendor. It cannot be proved conclusively whether the name of the topaz comes from the Sanskrit or the Greek, though the Greek name ‘topazos’ means ‘green gemstone’. The Romans dedicated the topaz to Jupiter.

The color in which the topaz is most commonly found is yellow. In the 18th century, it was mined in Germany during a period of over 60 years. However, most of the crystals were hardly a centimeter in diameter. You had to go to Siberia or Brazil to find crystals as large as your fist. The enormous and magnificent topaz from the Portuguese crown, the Braganza, was for a long time thought to be a diamond. It weighs 1680 ct.

In mysticism, the topaz is attributed with a cooling effect. It is said to dispel sadness, anger and nocturnal fears, to warn its wearer of poisons and protect him or her from sudden death. It is reputed to make men handsome and intelligent and sterile women fertile and happy. One should listen to these claims with caution, however. It was also claimed that you could immerse your hand in boiling water after a topaz had been thrown into it and retract it again unharmed. But Topaz, nevertheless, is still a magical stone.

Classy Glass Eyes

From our CZ  Collection, this sterling silver pendant with Rhodium plating, sports CZ in a pave setting and a beautiful blue glass eye in a bezel setting. The item measures 23mm by 31mm. Come take a look at 925e.com – the experts in wholesale jewelry and silver jewelry wholesale. If you buy your jewelry wholesale or like wholesale silver  jewelry, look for Item Code: 53-701-2997 at 925e.com – and keep and eye on the latest.

Winter Jewelry

Fall or Autumn is almost upon us. The weather is getting cooler in many parts of the world and soon winter will be here. It’s time to drag out some of the warmer clothing and to see what’s in vogue for winter jewelry this season. As always, it wouldn’t hurt to spruce up the old wardrobe a bit with some new gems. Blame it on winter.

Maybe it’s because of the poor economy, but fashion, in general, is taking it back to the basics. This season the current trend for jewelry is all about fashion fundamentals, with an emphasis on chunky. Chunky got in and is still in with no real signs of getting tired. Embrace it.

Statement necklaces have always been in, now they are bigger as of recent trends. Of all your accoutrements, they are still considered a must have as they generously give your entire wardrobe a boost. Huge chains and bib necklaces continue to be great looks to go after. These can really dress up the clean lines of a simple night time look, but don’t put them away during the day. Reinvent your white t-shirt and jeans by adding your favorite attention getter around your neck. When wearing a statement necklace, keep the rest of your outfit simple, sophisticated and subdued. If the rest of the outfit is too loud, your chunkies will get lost in the noise.

Bold earrings look great with that necklace. Long, jewel encrusted or oversized, earrings are gaining more acceptance. Just don’t get them too heavy. It hurts. As always, earth tones including reds are in season this season. Red accents are a classic look, especially when worn with black, gray and white. You may be wearing bold bits of scarlet or crimson with your bag or shoes, a necklace, bracelet or earrings would add another level of accent.

Classics like pearls are another basic that are popular now, but don’t go with the subdued or classy style. If the pearls aren’t chunky or bold, leave them at home. Wear them long and layered or a single massive, short choker. Try wearing a mix of different size chains in a variety of metals and colors for a look with maximum impact. When in doubt, go bold with gold. Metals and graphic elements play a big part in jewelry for this fall and winter season. Head to toe black is in. If you are heading out to a holiday party and would prefer to add some drama, then bedazzling rhinestones are always a choice. Look for clear or metallic colored crystals paired with dark metal. Take advantage of the black canvas and draw in some bold colors.

So remember, the fall and winter are the times to think big and bold when it comes to jewelry. This is not the time to be wearing tiny delicate earrings or pendants. Very small items of jewelry will get hidden under layers of heavy woolen sweaters and scarves. Therefore, for an item of fall and winter fashion jewelry to really show, it needs to be relatively large. A few accent pieces of jewelry in bright and vibrant shades can bring a touch of glamor to a winter wardrobe. Many winter clothes are dark or neutral in color. You can also add a splash of red or turquoise for a really stunning effect. There are many naturally colored gemstones that will look great for winter wear.

Finally, fall and winter fashion jewelry does extremely well with a bit of a sparkle. Even fairly small earrings or necklaces can stand out from a winter outfit if there is a sparkling stone or bead to catch the eye. Winter is the perfect time to wear stones with a special sparkle. A couple of accent pieces work best. Play dress-up this weekend and see what works. That way, you’ll be prepared when the snow comes.

Pearly Wonder

From our Pearl Line, this sterling silver pendant decorated with fresh water pearls in a prong and bond setting is lovely to wear. The item measures 22mm by 32mm. Stop on over at 925e.com – the experts in wholesale jewelry and silver jewelry wholesale. If you buy your jewelry wholesale or like wholesale silver jewelry, look for Item Code: 25-382-1039 at 925e.com – where the lovely reside.

Bloomin’ ring

This ring appears to bloom right in front of your eyes. It features solid sterling silver plated with 14K gold and rhodium. From our Vermeil Collection, this item has a top width of 26mm. You’ll find more  items blooming at 925e.com – the experts in wholesale jewelry and silver jewelry wholesale. If you buy your jewelry wholesale or like wholesale silver jewelry, look for Item Code: 111-986-880 at 925e.com where beauty blooms before your eyes.

Hi Tech Jewelry Choices

With technology advancing each day, we see its impact on every aspect of our lives. Although we don’t yet ride in flying cars and have personal robots, some of these advances are truly impressive. It won’t be long before more of us are using some of the items mentioned here.

One new piece of hi-tech jewelry is a wireless earpiece and ring in one. The ORB wireless earpiece finger ring was developed by Hybra Advance Technology, Inc. It’s a finger-worn ring that twists open to become a comfortable, secure and sophisticated Bluetooth headset for hands-free calling. The price will be approximately $129 USD for the base model with premium aluminum housing. The Deluxe edition Orbs with displays will be a bit more.

Since many cities don’t allow using a hand held phone use while driving, some new bluetooth devices hooked onto ears are all the rage because it means you can still communicate on phones without having to hold them. Now there is a new black Swarovski crystal blue tooth device that vaguely resembles a round earring. Going high tech doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style especially if you like bling. Known as the Breeze, it is available in either black or white from the Swarovski online store.

Another popular item is the fancy new USB drives made to look like jewelry instead of a piece of electronics. Since many people using computers today also use USB flash drives for additional storage and as data backups, manufacturers have woken up to the idea some people like more attractive versions. There are many such items at various price points. One example is the pretty crystal rose pendant 8G USB flash drive from Brando.com.

An interesting area for the use of hi-tech jewelry is the medical field. There are a number of and aging adults with medical conditions in the world.  Many depend on some form of technology to communicate different allergies whether to food or drugs. Some may have disorders like Alzheimer or dementia where a simple ID band of some sort could save someone’s life.  By wearing a medical alert bracelet can alleviate concerns in case of emergencies. These devices can help first responders determine a patients’ complete medical history and send responders to a secure website, a toll free number, or even a text message. This enables the care provider to obtain all the past medical conditions or any prescriptions currently taking so medics can proceed with caution. They not only have bracelets, but they also have necklaces or even a flash drive that can be hidden in a charm worn around the neck. The flash drive can be put right into a computer right in the ambulance and the medics can have all the information instantly.  If you are big in fashion Tiffany and Company even offers a gold medical bracelet.

Also, a company called Syba has just released an ultra-secure jewelry box that requires fingerprint authentication and a USB key.  Now you can store your diamond jewelry, gold earrings, and family heirlooms at home without having to worry. Look for more hi tech items coming in the future to make life easier and safer.

Something About Agate

Perhaps you’ve seen or heard of agate as it is used in jewelry. Let’s learn a bit more about it. Agate is a microcrystalline type of quartz or silica, chiefly chalcedony, with a fine grain and a bright color. It is one of the most common materials used in the art of hardstone carving, and has been recovered at a number of ancient sites. Although agates may be found in various kinds of rock, they are classically associated with volcanic rocks. The small town of Idar-Oberstein in Germany is known for the finest agate carving in the world.

Agate has a long history. The stone originally got its name from Theophrastus, a Greek philosopher and naturalist, who discovered the stone around 350 BC. Colorful agates and other chalcedonies were obtained over 3,000 years ago from the Achates River, now called Dirillo, in Sicily. Agate was highly valued as a talisman or amulet in ancient times. It was said to quench thirst and protect against fever. Persian magicians used agate to divert storms.

There are many types of agate. A Mexican agate, showing only a single eye, has received the name of cyclops agate. Included matter of a green, golden, red, black or other color or combinations embedded in the chalcedony and disposed in filaments and other forms suggestive of vegetable growth, gives rise to dendritic or moss agate. Dendritic agates have fern like patterns in them formed due to the presence of manganese and iron oxides. Turritella agate is formed from silicified fossil Elimia tenera shells. E. tenera are spiral marine gastropods having elongated, spiral shells composed of many whorls. Similarly, coral, petrified wood and other organic remains or porous rocks can also become agatized. Agatized coral is often referred to as Petoskey stone or agate. Greek agate is the pale white to tan colored agate found in Sicily back to 400 B.C. The Greeks used it for making jewelry and beads. Yet the stone had been around even centuries before that and was known to both the Sumerians and the Egyptians, who used the gem for decoration and religious ceremony.

Most agates occur as nodules in volcanic rocks or ancient lavas. They represent cavities created in the molten mass which were then filled, wholly or partially, by siliceous matter deposited in regular layers upon the walls. In the formation of agate, it is probable that waters containing silica in solution percolated through the rock and deposited a siliceous coating on the interior of the vapour-vesicles. Variations in the character of the solution or in the conditions of deposition may cause a corresponding variation in the successive layers, so that bands of chalcedony often alternate with layers of crystalline quartz.

Many agates are hollow, since deposition has not proceeded far enough to fill the cavity, and in such cases the last deposit commonly consists of quartz, often amethyst, having the apices of the crystals directed towards the free space so as to form a crystal-lined cavity, or geode.

Agate is used chiefly to make ornaments such as pins, brooches, paper knives, inkstands, marbles and seals. Because of its hardness and ability to resist acids. Because of the high polish possible with agate it has been used for centuries for leather burnishing tools. The sanctuary of a Presbyterian church in Yachats, Oregon, has six windows with panes made of agates collected from the local beaches.

Often tiny quartz crystals form within the stone and add to the beauty and uniqueness of individual stones. These crystals are called drusy. Lapidaries often cut just the drusy from an agate and jewelers use these drusy cabochons as the main stone or as an accent stone in their jewelry designs. Ask your jeweler about agate on your next visit and enjoy the many beautiful forms on offer.