There is something about a cameo that it truly captivating. Be it the attention to fine detail, the elegance of the portraits, there is simply nothing quite as beautiful as a cameo, and they never go out of style.

Cameos can be made from variety of materials, such as abalone, wood, bone, coral, ivory, agate, glass, plastic, various shell types, and layered hard stone which comes in a variety of colors.

Molded cameos are usually made of glass. They usually consist of either one or two colors. Often the colors are swirled together. Glass cameos are usually quite shiny. Molded cameos are also molded from plastic. The wedgwood style cameos were made from plastic. Plastic makes a terrific imitation shell cameo.

Older cameos were often made with celluloid using two colors. Occasionally, but not very often, natural materials are molded. One way to tell if a cameo is molded is to look for a roundness in the detail and a lack of sharp and precise lines. To identify glass cameos look for the presence of mold marks and ridges or dimples on the back.

Shell cameos are carved from a single piece of shell. Shell is soft, so it is very easy to carve. Shell cameos are usually two colors. Shell cameos have a thin concave back, with the exception of abalone and mother of pearl which are usually flat on the back and somewhat thicker. Coral Cameos are usually a single color, and also have a flat back.

Agate cameos are carved with the same technique that shell cameos are carved. Agate has one main advantage, because the carver is able to see the layers of color from the side and knows that these layers will basically be flat.

Stone is much harder to carve. A good hard stone cameo is often under carved at the junction where the portrait meets the flat plaque. At a quick glance stone often looks like an applied cameo, however upon closer examination one can determine it to be stone.

Amber Cameos are rather new to the market place. Amber cameos are carved from natural amber with the reverse intaglios being hand carved.

Practice will make it easier to tell molded cameos from carved cameos: Usually natural materials are carved, while glass and plastic materials are normally molded but could be carved though not very likely. Molded cameos can be two colors by the simple device of pouring one color into the mold in a thin layer and then following with a thicker layer of another color.

If you are buying for value distinguishing the type of cameo could be very important. However, if you are buying because you simply “love” the piece, then determining the type of cameo and the value are not nearly as important.

We suggest if you are purchasing a cameo because you want to add it to your jewelry wardrobe then choose what your heart falls for, just be certain you are not overpaying for what you are getting.

Cameos make a wonderful fashion statement! And they never go out of style.

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/

The fragrance was as heady as life then, woody, mossy and etched with traces of gardenia, honeysuckle and magnolia. The cylinder can splashed with the colors of gray and slate blue was either discretely hidden away in a practical leather handbag during the day or shimmering silently in a beaded one at night. After spraying it on, it had the power to lift even the weariest of spirits.

Exotic sandalwood blended with roses, carnations, pepper, lily of the valley and cloves are housed inside of a tall elegant bottle with a stylish red cap. Perfuming the air, it draws the wearer into a languorous state of mind while promoting a sense of calmness and well-being. The fragrance was invented for those times whenever a mood needed an insightful elevation.

Mimosa, orange flower, moss, sandalwood and amber drift inside of a chunky art deco bottle that transports the wearer to one of the most romantic cities on the earth. The fragrance is upbeat and remindful of those haughty avenues along the river Seine.

Vanilla intensifies the cinematic experience usually associated with brooding characters and somber scenes. The fragrance beckons the wearer to explore their innermost feelings while trying to interpret the meaning the words upon the darkened movie theatre screen translating itself into an effective performance that is forever imprinted into the wearer’s
memory.

Sparkly, bubbly and sitting upright in buckets of ice, the fragrance places the wearer in the front row seat at the Follies Bergere. Filled with the essences of fresh fruit, grasses
and musk, the fragrance heightens the wearer’s sense of amusement. However,too much of it has the same effect as its drinkable counterpart.

Pouting, pink and captivating the world with its blonde and lusty character, the fragrance is filled with the essences of grapefruit, wild rose and ginger that charms the wearer into believing that they too will make their onscreen debut and become
a legend thereafter.

The essences of grapefruit, water lily and sandlewood are irresistible inside a tall gold bottle etched with a heart. The fragrance assures the wearer that there is hope for tomorrow as well as a promise of renewal.

For ten years, the author sold a variety of fragrances for a
direct selling company.

Buying Platinum jewelry can be fun, exciting and confusing. Whether you’re considering a gift of Platinum 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 Platinum jewelry for your money, whether you’re shopping in a traditional brick and mortar store or online.

Platinum is a precious metal that costs more than gold. It usually is mixed with other similar metals, known as the platinum group metals: iridium, palladium, ruthenium, rhodium and osmium.

Different markings are used on platinum jewelry as compared with gold jewelry, based on the amount of pure platinum in the piece. The quality markings for platinum are based on parts per thousand. For example, the marking 900 Platinum means that 900 out of 1000 are pure platinum, or in other words, the item is 90% platinum and 10% other metals. The abbreviations for platinum - Plat. or Pt. - also can be used in marking jewelry.

Items that contain at least 950 parts per thousand pure platinum can be marked simply platinum. Items that have at least 850 parts per thousand pure platinum can be marked with the amount of pure platinum and the word platinum or an abbreviation (for example, 950 platinum, 900 Plat. or 850 Pt.). Jewelry that contains less than 850 parts per thousand pure platinum, but has a total of 950 parts per thousand of platinum group metals (of which at least 500 parts is pure platinum), may be marked with both the amount of pure platinum and the amount of the other platinum group metals in the piece. For example, the marking 600 Plat. 350 Irid. means that the item has 600 parts per thousand (60%0 platinum, and 350 parts per thousand (35%) iridium, totaling 950 parts per thousand of platinum group metals, and 50 parts per thousand (5%) other metals.

For more information on jewelry and gemstones, we cordially invite you to visit http://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 http://www.morninglightjewelry.com

When you hear the name Braun you know the product is excellent. Braun has some of the most popular epilators on the market today and they just keep manufacturing new and exciting epilators that are easy to use.

The Braun Epil Softperfection 3370 Epilator is among one of the most popular. It will leave your skin hair free for up to 4 weeks. This unique Silk-Epil Epil Softperfection removes hair from the root to give you extra close and extra smooth skin. The SoftLift system will lift hair so you will be able to remove even the shortest and flay lying hairs from the root. This is a very gentle epilator with a 4 way moving pain softener that will minimize that ugly pulling sensation. The new design of the EfficiencyPro clip will have you removing hair in just one stroke and you can even use the OptiTrim attachment that will ensure the hair is the correct length for epilation. You can even purchase additional shaving heads that are perfect for underarms and the bikini line.

The next most popular Braun Epilator is the Braun Silk Epil EvrSoft BodySystem 2370 Epilator. This epilator is a 2-in-1 shaver that will remove hair very gently. One head will shave normally while the epilator head will head hair from the root and even has an attachment that will reduce pain. You will enjoy soft smooth skin for up to 4 weeks. This wonderful 2 head epilator was designed especially for underarms, legs, and your bikini line. The Eversoft system massages with a pulsating movement will stimulate and relax your skin before removing hair. It will even remove hair that is only 0.5mm long.

So, next time you hear the name Braun you will know that they design some of the best and most popular epilators on the market today, to keep your skin silky smooth and soft.

As a beauty consultant Nicola Kennedy is always evaluating new products. Visit her site at http://www.epilator.info for the Best Resources, Views and Information to help you choose the Best Braun Epilator.

Copyright © Epilator.info. All rights reserved. This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact.

It’s that time of year when we pack up our bags and head to the beach for the day to enjoy those warm sunrays and the refreshing sound of the lapping water.

So what constitutes a good beach wardrobe. Well there are certain essentials that none of us forget. On goes the swimsuit and bathing suit cover, flip flops on our feet. Beach bag has been packed with the essentials - sunglasses, floppy hat, towel and a good book. Great - got the basics covered but what about the rest.

So if we are so prepared for a day at the beach, why is it by the time we get home we look pretty worn. Here are some helpful tips to make your day at the beach fun and keep you looking fashion fresh all day and all the way home.

First before you leave home, if you’ve got long hair pull it into a high pony tail or fun knot. Use some funky hair accessories that will stay in place when you’re swimming. Try a fun colored bobble or some firm fastening clips in bright summer colors. If you pull your hair up your neck will stay cool and you’ll look fresh all day with your neat hairdo.

Second slather yourself in sunscreen before leaving the house, then toss the sunscreen in your bag so you can reapply after a swim or every few hours. A sunburn is not only unhealthy and painful, it’s unattractive, so don’t let yourself turn into the lobster of the day. Your sunscreen should be a SPF of 15. It doesn’t hurt to use a strong SPF on your face or your entire body if you burn easily.

Your beach bag should be large enough to hold your supplies for the day. Why not get something fun and fashionable to keep you looking fashion fresh. Make sure you’ve got all the daily essentials in your bag - sunglasses, sunscreen, a good book, a floppy hat, some lip gloss, and any other makeup touch ups you’ll want. If you plan to wear eye makeup make sure it’s waterproof. Stay away from heavy foundations. If you must apply something use a bronzer moisturizer. It’s also a good idea to bring lip balm with an SPF15 to protect your lips. It never hurts to put some moisturizer in the bag. Include a snack and plenty of fluids. It’s important not to get dehydrated.

Okay great we’ve got the basics covered now what about the wardrobe basics? If you’re planning to wear a swimsuit it’s usually easiest to put it on at home, that way you’re not chasing down change rooms. So great - first on goes the swimsuit. Now what to wear for a cover? Well you’ve got plenty of choices. A tank top and shorts, tank and skort, or a nice light cotton dress all work well over top. Choose something that’s easy to put on and take off, and choose fabrics that breathe to keep you cool. I also suggest including a long sleeved cotton blouse just incase you start to burn you can protect your shoulders and arms.

If you’re planning on heading out later in the day without returning home you might want to toss a pair of jeans or long skirt into your bag. If your outing is going to extend into the evening you’ll want to include a sweater for the cooler evening air. If you’re worried about your evening wear getting sandy or wet at the beach, then place them in a separate bag and leave them in the trunk of your car. That way you are guaranteed they’ll remain fresh.

My favorite beach look is this. And what’s perfect is it keeps me looking fashion fresh throughout the day and takes me right into the evening. First I like a swimsuit that’s got lots of support and is bright and cheerful. I throw a fitted tank on top and throw on a loose flouncy long skirt. The long skirt serves me through the evening and also works great to cover up if I’m starting to burn. I choose a lightweight material in a darker color with a pattern that accents the colors in my swimsuit. Flip flops are my footwear. Depending on where I’m heading after the beach I choose either a basic pair or one of my funky pair with rhinestones or crystals. Easy to walk in, feet breath, and terrific for an evening out. I keep a fitted light weight sweater in my car, and take a long sleeved cotton blouse down to the beach. I usually choose a long sleeved and long length blouse because it’s versatile. I can knot it to create a short blouse, wear it long as a beach cover, and put it on if I start to burn on my upper body. I usually choose white or a soft pastel depending on my other colors. I like white because it’s cool to wear and refreshing to look at. Every year I buy a fun new beach tote that’s big enough for the beach but not too big as to take it with me for an evening out. I like a fun bag that’s full of character.

Since I always feel naked without my jewelry I wear fashion jewelry to the beach. That way should I loose something I won’t be out a lot of money and I won’t feel so bad. I like to keep the earrings simple and elegant. I may or may not wear a necklace. Often I’ll toss a funky wood necklace in the bag to add to the evening outfit. I like to wear a couple of fashion rings just to add the finishing touches. Now if you’re fussy about tan lines you’ll probably want to forgo the rings. I toss my watch in the bottom of my bag so I can put it on later.

That’s it - simple is the key. Keep your beach wardrobe choices simple but fashionable. Think ahead so you can go from beach to an evening out without hassle. Remember to always make your fashion statement!

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/

These days, there is a call for more “metrosexuals,” or men who are conscious about their looks and clothing, so much that it is actually important for them to be not only presentable, but fashionable as well in civilized society. The television program “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy” has revolutionized makeovers for all of us, for it has shown that, yes, it is indeed possible for men to be pleasant to look at without being “girly” or “dandy.” Masculine jewelry, such as man earrings, are a big part of this metrosexuality trend.

Men who can boldly wear necklaces, bracelets and earrings to set off their hair or their eyes are men who have achieved the next level of metrosexuality: accessorizing. In the end, a tasteful selection of jewelry helps to make the man. Rings and necklaces, bracelets and cufflinks, all add to the image of the powerful, self-possessed male.

And man earrings are definitely “in”! Next to necklaces, earrings are the most popular men’s accessories. Quite a few big-name male stars, young idols especially, are making man earrings a fashion must. Think of Johnny Depp (who started off as a teen rebel heartthrob in the television show “21 Jumpstreet”) and David Gallagher (who plays Simon Camden in the TV drama “7th Heaven”).

Men’s jewelry is not just for clean-cut urbanites — in fact in the streets, earrings on men are considered symbols of toughness. Indeed, the man earring, in general, speaks boldly of the courage to have one’s own sense of fashion, to set one’s own trend. Mr. T has his own collection of earrings that make for his tough-guy look, and quite a few hiphop and R&B artists - such as Jay-Z and Usher — have all but trademarked their own jewelry ensembles.

Man earrings play up sexuality without sacrificing masculinity. Worn either on one earlobe or both, it makes a man look more snazzy and cool. Whether they be diamond, gold, silver, or platinum, earrings have become a necessary part of a man’s jewelry arsenal.

Sam Serio is an Internet Marketer, musician and a writer on the subject of jewelry and gemstones. For more information on jewelry and gemstones, we cordially invite you to visit http://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 http://www.morninglightjewelry.com

Wondering what these are? Here are one of the few brilliant creations of mankind. Introducing an extensive series of the enormously beautiful and the most attractive of the semi precious stones. The man made diamonds - Moissanite. These man made diamonds shine brighter than even diamonds themselves.

Moissanite stones stand out in the faux diamonds’ array due to their brilliance. Not many jewelers are able to differentiate moissanite from a diamond. These artificially made moissanite jewels are the best alternative to diamonds.

Exquisitely designed for the person who loves to be adorned in rich glitters but find it beyond their reach to turn that one endearing dream into reality. Astoundingly affordable prices and availability are a few of the many traits of these faux diamonds.

Looking for a non-sham substitute to the pricey precious stones? Look no further. We give you the best of the best alluring patina within your means. Wear moissanite jewelry on naked skin for that fabulous killer look. Or style it with a mix of junk. Whatever your taste, these man made diamonds never let you down.

Moissanite - The Man Made Diamonds That Win Hearts

Shaped to perfection to compliment your style and guise, moissanite stones are lovingly handcrafted. Be it your friend’s birthday or a token of love or memories for that special someone, moissanite makes a peerless gift for any occasion.

A meteorite showered moissanite stones upon Arizona about 50,000 years ago. These are now being created in the labs to cope with its increasing demand. We are not very far away from the day where the demand for moissanite jewels shall exceed that of diamonds.

Have an evening out? Not sure what jewelry goes well with your new dress? Do not worry, help’s here. When in doubt, do not think twice. Go for moissanite faux diamonds. To make your appearance strikingly different, these charms help you make your point. Be the trendsetter, explore the world of man made diamonds!

Find out more about Moissanite Stones as well as Moissanite Engagement Rings and other types of Moissanite rings at Peter’s website, The Magic of Moissanite.

This is one book that I would have cherished as a little girl.
The Bubblegum Babes’ Guide to Sixth Grade is the first in a
series designed for young people growing up in today’s
fast-paced and high-pressure world. Doreen Lewis wrote it
so that each chapter can be read as a complete story on its
own - perfect for pre-teens that like to read small sections at
a time. An award winning author and mother of two, Doreen
writes with clarity and energy and draws upon her life for
inspiration in her work. Her own personality is revealed
nicely in the Acknowledgement and About Author sections in
the book.

The main character, Kelly, takes the reader through
adventures with her three best friends. They dub
themselves the Bubblegum Babes after an evening of
giggles and make-up. The four girls experience and
discuss many things that aren’t easy to talk about in
everyday life. Excellent advice is interwoven into each tale
from how to maintain friendships, the mysteries of
menstruation and the complexity of discovering an interest
in boys.

Starting with their nervous beginnings in a new school year
right through to the graduation dance, The Bubblegum
Babes will have you wishing you were one of them.

ISBN#: 0976919303

Author: Doreen Lewis

Publisher: Helm Publishing

Lillian Brummet - Book Reviewer - Co-author of the book
Trash Talk, a guide for anyone concerned about his or her
impact on the environment - Author of Towards
Understanding, a collection of poetry.
(http://www.sunshinecable.com/~drumit)

You’ve finally had to throw out those cross-trainers. They’ve been your companions through miles of workouts and it breaks your heart to have to dump them. It’s been so long since you’ve had to purchase a new pair, you don’t know where to begin. Here’s a short guide to help you decide which pair to buy next.

When shopping for athletic shoes, you should already know what sport you will be using them for. Will you be using them to train for a marathon, or will you wearing them to basketball practice? Running shoes are designed differently than, say, tennis or cross-training shoes, and choosing the right shoe can help your performance and help you to avoid injuries.

Athletic shoes fall into different categories. For example, there are sneakers which are appropriate for running on a track or road, and they are those models which are designed to give you traction when trail running. Likewise, tennis shoes are designed to allow the wearer to get the best traction while running and making those quick turns on the court. Baseball and soccer shoes, or ‘cleats,’ are usually spiked to let you run in soft grass and mud.

Once you’ve decided on which type of shoes you want to buy, it’s time for you to try them on. It is important to try on the shoes, at the end of the day, when your feet are their largest. It may sound strange, but your feet swell during the course of the day, so if you want to get the best fit, you should try them on towards the end of the day. It is also very important to remember to bring the type of socks that you will be wearing with them, to guarantee a proper fit. When you have them on, walk around. This will give you a better idea as to whether they really will be comfortable or not. And remember, the shoe should not slip or slide on your foot when you are wearing them.

Purchasing your next pair of sports shoes should be fun and with a little bit of planning, they should last for a long time.

Jeff Lakie is the founder of Plastic Surgery Resources a website providing information on cosmetic surgery

Buying jewelry can be fun, exciting and confusing. Whether you’re considering a gift of 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 jewelry for your money, whether you’re shopping in a traditional brick and mortar store or online.

Top Ten Tips

1. When you’re in the market for a piece of jewelry for yourself or someone you love, shop around. Compare quality, price, and service. If you’re not familiar with any jewelers in your area, ask family members, friends, and co-workers for recommendations.

2. Ask for the store’s refund and return policy before you buy.

3. Check for the appropriate markings on metal jewelry.

4. Ask whether the pearls are natural. cultured, or imitation.

5. Ask whether the gemstones have been treated. Is the change permanent? Is special care required?

6. Make sure the jeweler writes on the sales receipt any information you relied on when making your purchase, such as the gem’s weight or size. Some jewelers also may supply a grading report form a gemological laboratory.

In addition, these tips apply when you’re shopping for jewelry online:

7. Shop with companies you know or do some homework before buying to make sure a company is legitimate before doing business with it.

8. Get the details about the product, as well as the merchant’s refund and return policies, before you buy.

9. Look for an address to write to or a phone number to call if you have a question, a problem or need help.

10. If you have a problem with the jewelry you purchased, first try to resolve it with the jeweler. If you are dissatisfied with the response, contact your local Better Business Bureau or local consumer protection agency.

For more information on jewelry and gemstones, we cordially invite you to visit http://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 http://www.morninglightjewelry.com