What You Need to Know About Gem Settings

By Gloria Dutton

A gemstone usually isn't meant to be worn or displayed loosely, as it must be set into jewelry like a ring, chain, or pendant. Not all gem settings are appropriate for all gemstones. Choosing a gem setting is not only a matter of personal taste but also an issue of how appropriately the setting and the gemstone's material and shape match. Here are some of the most common gemstone settings used in modern jewelry design:

· Prong setting: Also known as the "claw" setting, the prong setting is the most prevalent and also least expensive type of gem setting. The prong setting consists of between four to six prongs or "claws" made of precious metal that provide a set for the gemstone and then are shaped so that they grab onto the gem. Prong settings are most often used for hard gems like diamond and are not recommended for softer stones such as opals.

· Bezel setting: Most widely used to secure softer gems like emeralds, the bezel setting wraps the stone in an encasing made of precious metal. It is one of the oldest settings used to mount gems. Because more of the gem's sides are out of view, the bezel setting protects the middle and the bottom of the gemstone from scratches and damage. Bezel settings are more expensive than prong settings and can come in the traditional solid bezel or modern half bezel mount that has two sections.

· Channel setting: In a channel setting, gems with straight sides are lined up in a row called a "channel." This setting requires a special gem cut and is perfect for eternity or anniversary rings. Channel settings provide the ultimate protection for gems as no surfaces of the gemstones are exposed. The channel setting gives the impression that the stones are "floating."

· Bead setting: In this elegant yet time consuming mount, small stones such as diamonds are set very close to each other, separated and held still by a few tiny metal beads. The gemstones are inserted into drilled holes, giving the illusion that the surface is paved or continuous. This setting is very expensive and takes a lot of work to complete.

· Flush setting: An ideal setting for larger stones, the flush setting sinks the gemstone into a mounting until the gem is level with the surface, providing a subtle base.

Inlay setting: In this setting, part of the metal is hollowed out so that the gem can be installed directly into the hole. The inlay setting provides excellent gemstone protection as the gem is inlaid completely in the metal.

Gloria is a fashion-focused urbanite always on the lookout for affordable fashion. She has a particular passion for jewelry, specifically gem necklaces and gemstone bracelets.

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Designer Fashions For Spring 2012

By Mark Etinger

It always seems like we have to start looking ahead to designer fashions so early in the year. Despite it being winter, the spring 2012 fashion trends have already hit the runaway. What can we expect this spring? A definite 180 from last year. 2011, for women, was all about borrowing from their male counterpart's wardrobe. Boyfriend jeans, military inspired gear, and grungy clothing were all the rage. I guess women were tired of dressing more like men than women. Thankfully, the designer fashions this year will be a return to femininity.

Spring fashions are inspired by florals and the tropics -expect a lot of pastels, from baby pink to light blue and pale yellow. You can see the inspiration in dresses, a pair of pants, and skirts. The colors can range from very pale pastels to shocking neon. On the runway we saw a lot of sequins, silks, and cottons.

However, fashion accessories will be kept to a minimum, but will still be in line with accentuating the feminine. Earrings have always been a staple of the feminine, so expect that to be the one accessory every women will need to have. In terms of designer shoes for women, say goodbye to aggressive combat boots and thick-soled wedges. Instead, enjoy classic pumps and anything delicate.

With the Olympics this year, you can also expect some sportier fashions to pop up. There was a bit of a sports theme in some of the spring/summer previews. Alexander Wang is one such designer that decided to hop on the athletic trend. And considering his large influence, many retailers will snatch this look as well. But don't expect track suits to be a typical style. Instead, look for cute anoraks, hooded jackets, and a good amount of nylon.

The best way to approach the upcoming designer fashions is to pick one simple element and one visual element to incorporate into it. It's not about being ornate next season. It's about simplicity. For example, pair a floral blouse with skinny jeans or match a pastel blazer with a summer dress. The fashion crime would be an attempt to mix and match every look from the runway together. That should never be the way to approach fashion trends. It's about finding which pieces look great on you and sticking to one theme per outfit.

Spring designer fashions should be popping up shortly so make room in your closet. Push the military look to the back and prepare for beautiful florals and pastels as we make a triumphant return to dressing like a lady!

Fashion58.com is your best online source for designer fashion accessories from Ed Hardy apparel and other top brands!

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A Popular Style of 1930's Suit

By Aubrey Russel

A zoot suit is a popular style of 1930's suit. This suit has a unique look, which will surely catch your attention. This suit can only be worn at special occasions with the appropriate accessories like felt hat and pointy French shoes.

The most dominant fashion trend in the 1930's in North America till the conclusion of World War II was mostly dealing with the shoulder. From banjo sleeves to butterfly sleeves and overstated shoulder pads these became extremely popular by the 1940's. This period also witnessed the extensive application and utilization of manmade threads that included rayon and synthetic. The 1930s suit was more flexible and softer in construction than suits of previous times.

The main feature of the 1930s men suit was the extra fabric at the shoulder. Whether it was a light padding or fuller sleeves the cut of the suit was sure to enhance your look. This new style of suit was adopted by celebrities too very enthusiastically. For summer evening men would wear waist length jackets with a cummerbund instead of a waist coat. For an evening dinner this would be followed by a single or double breasted dinner jacket. A white dinner jacket is generally worn with black trousers and bow ties.

One of the most popular styles of 1930s suit is the zoot suits. It played an integral role in the urban dance and music scene during this period. This type of a suit has a high waist with tight cuffed, wide pegged trousers. It comes with a long coat and padded shoulders, and wide lapels. The oversized suit indicated a revolutionary style statement. Zoot suits were used for special occasions. It is now considered as a luxury item since the amount of material required is quite huge. Most young men now wear a moderate version of these suits. You can style your zoot suit with a felt hat that comes with long feather. A pointy French style shoes can surely look great with your suit.

Everybody wants to know the meaning of the word 'zoot' but nobody is quite sure of it. According to the Oxford Dictionary zoot comes from the word suit only. It was first coined by the Mexican Americans. What makes these 1930's suit different from a regular modern day suit is its baggy look. Instead of the basic colors like brown, grey and blue you can choose bright colors like purple, red, aqua and pink. This type of suits lost its popularity after this period. However, it has again come back in style and is surely one of the hottest styles of clothes that can be worn by young men.

If you are searching for the most stylish 1930's suit then a zoot suit with wool touch fabric will be absolutely ideal. It is soft to touch and features an all American cut. The design is hand tailored and finished. The suits come in different colors from which you can choose. You will not be able to find these suits anywhere cheaper than at an online retail store. The discounts and package deals offered at the stores lets you avail these suits at an affordable price. So, log onto the Internet and find out a suitable store from where you can make your purchase.

Aubrey is presently working on the site Black suits. He has written many articles on various topics like Mens suits. For more information visit our site Zoot Suit.

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Tailoring A Wardrobe With Fashion Jewelry For Women

By Mark Etinger

Although we try to live by the "don't judge a book by its cover" statute, we actually can learn a lot about people by the way they reflect their personality physically. Clothing and accessories are therefore two of the most evident signifiers of one's personality.

Wardrobe may be expressed in nuance or in brashness. The characteristics of the articles accentuate vital personality tendencies, or at least cast to others the traits that people wish to be perceived. Therefore, when you assemble your suiting for the day or night, you must carefully pick the elements, taking note of the dominant features versus the subtle ones.

Target your audience and the occasion. Those gorgeous chandelier earrings you store in your jewelry box may be appropriate for that fancy dinner date, but they may be a tad pretentious for your casual get-together with friends. People are many-faceted beings. Emphasize the most important feature you possess. After all, with the variety of fashion jewelry for women there is no reason to settle for a less than ideal marriage of accessory and clothing.

So, a rather burning question is, "What pieces reflect what aspect of my personality?" While there is no cut and dry answer to this question there are stylistic tendencies that help guide you along. For the most part, pendants, bangle bracelets, and hanging earrings are audacious. Cocktail rings, stud diamond earrings, and gemstone rings are traditional. Items such as suede or antique silver cuffs, beads, and woven bracelets are free-spirited.

Your decisions should be based thematically rather than emotionally. Sometimes combing components works, sometimes it does not. Use your better judgment rather than creating a mish-mosh look. You may really love those clip earrings, but if their gemstone details do not complement your top, it is best to move on and find a compelling alternative.

That is not to say you cannot base your selection around a singular novelty. If you have a sincere attraction to a certain piece then simply flesh out your concept using the minutiae present in the item as inspiration. Colors, materials, and design all act as a guide for a well-thought out creation. Pinpoint the most distinct idiosyncrasies and expound upon them. This is your time to enjoy creativity.

Quirks are just as endearing in material objects as they are in people, as long as you know how to work them. Take into account your intent and proceed with an open mind.

Thomas Laine features designer bridal jewelry and fashion jewelry for women online. Their expansive collections have some of the most alluring pieces by top designers. You can view their repertoire and get fashion tips at the blog: http://www.thomaslaineblog.com/

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Choose the Perfect Seasonal Handbags for Fall 2011

By Connie Isidora

As we all know, handcrafted purses are the quintessential accessory for the fall. And this year's fashion week has brought us a bevy of bold prints, flashy colors and tons of luxury. So how can you get your hands on the perfect seasonal handbag? Follow these trends and you'll fall in love with this season's top styles.

Go Wild with Animal Prints

Forget what they say about wearing too much animal print. It looks great on a stylish handbag, and this fall has the pick of the litter. This season, make a bold statement with metallic snake skin bags, marble croc in bold colors, and leopard print accented with leather. With these fashionable prints you won't be anywhere near the fine line between gorgeous and gaudy.

Fur the Love of Purses

If your style is a bit tamer than the adventurous animal print, opt for a handcrafted handbag made from fur. Purses made from real furs, like fox or rabbit, offer a subtle luxury and warmth to any fall wardrobe. Though they certainly make their appearance in the celebrity world, you can still tip the fashion scales with a faux fur purse.

Shimmer Like a Star

Look like a million bucks - or at the very least like you're holding a million bucks - with luxurious, shimmery purses. From expensive hobo bags to large leather tote bags, it seems everyone is looking to add glamour with a shiny, colorful purse. Add some shine to your earthy fall wardrobe for a fashion boost.

Quilted Fabric for Comfort

Not only do quilted purses have extra padding to secure your Smart Phone, they're usually made from soft fabrics. You'll find tons of quilted tote bags, diaper bags and handmade fabric handbags to keep you comfortable and organized this fall. Think bold and beautiful with bright reds, blues, eggplants and oranges.

Color Block Party

Drab earth-tones are a thing of the past! Instead, color block clutches, messenger bags, and totes are the perfect fashion accessory this fall. Bright, bold, colorful purses speak for themselves in a variety of combinations. However, neutral tones are still available in leather or fabric as well.

Though these aren't all the fashions that graced the runway for fall 2011, many of these fashions are big sellers and highly adorned by women everywhere. So which one will you choose? If you're flirty and sexy then an animal print is just your style. Want a bit more glamour? Then try a shimmery fabric handbag with metal buckles. Or maybe you want something a bit more versatile; go for a color block tote bag as a great carryall. Whatever your personal style, you'll find the "IT" purse by choosing any of these fine designs!

Every Isidora handbag is individually handmade, making each bag special and unique. Visit IsidoraDesigns website to create your very own handmade handbag and custom handbags. Customize your bags to your own style now!

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Kids Fashion Trend

Like adults kids are also very conscious in the fashion.they want to buy new clothes according to their own choice.That why kids fashion become most popular in all over the world.the trend of white shirt with blue costume is now totally changed.In modern age now parents are also take interest in kids clothes.They are fed up from old trends. they want something new  for kids fashion.

winter Fashion

Everyone likes changes in their life.For this purpose they follow new trends of fashion. in winter people wants to keep warm themselves. when cold winds blow and winter season comes, people like to buy  warm  cloth,hat,gloves,long shoes,coat,sweater,leather jacket and jeans of new trends. new generation of pakistani boys like to wear p-cap for the  protection of cold and for new fashion. in winter your's clothes are incomplete without coat and jackets because you will be freeze without them. jackets and coats are available in different kinds of colours and style in the local markets. woollen jacket is in fashion, it protect you from winter and also gives you stylish look. in winter season woollen sweater is a popular dress. many companies makes woollen sweaters in different colours and styles but the most famous company is bonanza. this company's woollen sweaters are light in weight but warm. it protects you from snow and cold and gives you different stylish look too.