Christian Wedding Rings

To many people the notion of getting married is a beautiful and religious experience that they want to accentuate with symbols to show their faith and their love for each other. Religion is a big part of many people’s lives and they carry that religious faith into the symbols they use to express their undying love for each other. In some cases these symbols carry over to create Christian wedding rings and there are several things that separate Christian wedding bands from any other kind of wedding rings out there. Being able to identify a Christian wedding ring is simple but understanding its importance is essential.



Religion is the cornerstone of many people’s lives and when they decide that they want to enter into the sacrament of marriage they decide to do so with all of the symbolism that befits their religion. For people that practice the Christian faith there are many stories and long traditions that enter into their wedding ceremony and if they choose they can also carry those traditions and customs over to their wedding rings as well. If you were to ask ten different people what their idea of a Christian wedding ring is you would get ten different answers but what it boils down to is the couple’s preference on how they are going to show their undying love for each other and how they are going to work their religion into that ceremony. For some it is enough to have the symbol of the cross engraved on the wedding rings to show their commitment to their faith. This simple symbol has been adapted by Christians into a universal sign of their faith and many people consider having the cross engraved on the outside of their wedding rings to be the creation of Christian wedding rings. Some people require a little more and some people look at their wedding rings as religious symbols and prefer to put their faith on their finger when they get married.

Some people do not stop at having a cross engraved on the outside of their wedding rings to create their Christian wedding rings. Some people will choose an appropriate verse from the version of The Bible that they read and will have that verse inscribed on the inside of their rings. Some will get the same verse on both rings and some will get two different verses on the two separate rings. However they choose to do it this is how these people create their Christian wedding rings. Sometimes they will get a verse name from The Bible inscribed on the outside of the ring so that they can reference the verse whenever they want. The book of the Corinthians is a popular book to quote verses from at a wedding and you will sometimes see Christian wedding rings with the names of verses from Corinthians inscribed on the outside of the ring instead of a cross.



Creating a Christian wedding ring is usually at the discretion of the couple that will be wearing them. However they choose to wear their faith as a part of their wedding vows is up to them. To many couples having Christian wedding rings adds something special to the ceremony especially after the rings have been blessed prior to the wedding. Sometimes the couple will seek out the highest ranking authority in their local church to get the rings blessed. However they do it they do it because they want their faith to be a part of their marriage.

Black Pearl Rings

When it comes to buying pearl jewelry, not only women look for elegance and exquisiteness but also the pearl jewelry must be of excellent quality and above all affordable. Among gold, silver, diamond or platinum jewelry, pearl jewelry made with selective lustrous high quality pearls handcrafted to its finality is equally appealing and truly gives value for the money. Often quality pearl jewelry has been a precious family heirloom possession handed down from generation to generation. Pearls natural iridescence and gracious appearance around the neck when worn as a necklace with any attire truly enhances women's beauty and style.



Add truly elegant style to any ensemble with this beautiful black pearl ring. The 14K White Gold band features a filigree-like design at the front on either side of the large Black Cultured Pearl.

Cultured Pearl Rings

Pearls emanate certain warmth and glow not found in other gems, due to their unique formation inside oysters’ body. Unlike akoya pearls, freshwater pearls grow in pond, lakes and rivers. Freshwater cultured pearls are more than just jewels. Pearls are the natural gem product of living organism



Add some subtle sophistication to your wardrobe with this beautiful pearl and diamond ring. A large, round, white Cultured Pearl is set at the top of this ring. Round Diamonds are set at intervals in the White Gold shank to add shine. You're sure to sparkle in this modern, yet marvelous piece.

Tahitian Pearl Rings

Whether you are interested in Black Tahitian Pearls, Button Pearls, Coin Pearls, Cultured Pearls, Freshwater Pearls, Natural Pearls or South Sea Pearls, our collection of Pearl Rings will surely excite you.



Diamond value is judged by cut, color, clarity and carat - popularly known as Four-Cs but Pearls are evaluated by the nacre, size, shape and type of pearls. Luster is the hallmark for any pearl. Each pearl type comes with different grading

Celebrities Like Their Pearls

Pearls never go out of style – they are always a classy and traditional wardrobe accessory that will never disappoint you. But this year they are a “front and center” fashion statement! Just ask celebrities like Sandra Bullok, Jennifer Anistan, or Courtney Cox.

So with more people in the market for pearls now is a good time for some “pearl talk.”

The pearl has always been a rather prim and proper piece of jewelry – classic and seeped in tradition. Well things they are a changing! The pearl is has had a very glamorous make over!

Yes, the classic strand still exists as it always will. But we warned we are seeing some vary daring looks from the pearl this season. Extra long lengths, tasseled multi strands, pearls with semi precious stone accents, pearls on gold or silver chains. The pearl has been transformed into a fun and fashionable accessory.

So if you’re going to be in the market for pearls this year here is what the Celebrities say you should know.

• The glow or radiance of a pearl is the most important quality. Avoid pearls that are chalky or dull as they will be weak and may crack or peal.

• The surface of the pearl should be blemish free – no bumps or cracks. Inspect under a bright light. Baroque pearls are the exception to this rule – their charm is in their irregularities.

• Pearls are measured in millimeters. The larger the pearl the higher the cost. A 6 mm pearl is going to be much less than a 12 mm pearl

• The least expensive pearls are the freshwaters which mainly come from China. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Average size is around 7 mm

• The best way to care for your pearls is simply to wear them. The natural skin oils keep them moisturized. Do not put them on until you are done with your cosmetics. This includes hair, facial, and perfume. The residues from these products will ruin your pearls. Do not wear your pearls in the water – chlorinated and salt water will damage them. Polish with a soft cloth and never use jewelry cleaning products on your pearls.

Quality pearls are not cheap but they will last a lifetime. Freshwater pearls are becoming very affordable. Not all of us will be in the market for “Real Pearls” and lucky us there are plenty of options. Swarovski makes a crystal pearl that is of the finest quality and quite difficult to tell from a true pearl for a fraction of the cost and they are available in a variety of colors.

There is an endless supply of imitation pearl or costume jewelry pearls on the market. These are offered in a wide variety of styles and colors. Great fun at affordable prices. Do you think Jennifer Garner wears the real thing for bumming around?

So you ask what’s “In Style” this season? Well I’m glad you asked!

• Pearl rings get the green flag – from low settings to monster large solitaire pearls, they are all the rave. A pearl ring can go from romantic and simple to sleek and stunning.

• The Bib Necklace makes a very dramatic statement. A broad necklace that tapers towards the back just like a baby’s bib [thus the name]. They range from extremely wide to as narrow as a ½”. This style works great with a simple black dress or strapless neckline.

• The multi-strand necklace is ever so preppy. They range from 12” to 18” and pearls are usually small to medium. The object of these necklaces is for every pearl to be in perfect placement. Very versatile and fashionable.

• The opera length necklace simply never disappears from the fashion scene. They measure 36” or longer and they can be worn as a long single lean line, doubled up, tied in a knot, wherever the moment takes you. These long strands are terrific for dressing up a pair of jeans or semi casual look.

• The tassel necklace from the footloose and fancy free1920s has made a come back, and rightly so! Today tassels are often made from tiny seed pearls or irregular baroques. They range in length fro short at 16” to navel length at 36”. The tassel necklace swings and sways with your movement making it a must have for those night of dancing.

• This season for first time, we are seeing pearls mixed with colored gems such as amethyst, peridot, or topaz. They compliment each other nicely – pearls with their soft and subtle shades mixed with semi precious gems with their vibrant and bold color. Picture it – what a fashion statement!

• Pearls mixed with silver is also new this season. Long silver chain dangle earrings accented with pearls, or freshwater droplets set on silver.

• This season the pearl is all about the color. Pearls are available in many hues but this season the “hot spot” is “lavender” and the lavender family ranging from pale iris to plum.

If you already own a beautiful classic pearl necklace its very easy to transform it into something from this season. Try adding a group of charms or pendants, fastening a vintage brooch or clip[ on earring at the bottom. You could mix various lengths or sizes of pearls together or entwine a silver or gold chain. How about mixing your real pearls with your fake pearls? The options are as endless as your imagination.

Remember when you freshen your wardrobe for the spring, freshen your costume jewelry too and Make Your Fashion Statement!

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.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com Sher Matsen

Unique Wedding Rings

You’re in the market for your wedding rings. You've put alot of thought into them, and you don't want the plain bands everyone else is wearing. You want something different, more unique. Here’s some ideas to toss around.



You can have custom bands done by a jeweler. You could pick a theme that’s important to both of you. Or you could just choose a style and design you both like. When you choose your jeweler make certain he is creating a one of a kind set for you and then disposing of the mold. Otherwise, your unique bands won’t be unique for long. Choose a design and style that fits your likes and lifestyle. It will give a hint of your personality and make your fashion statement!



You can choose a different mix of metals. Titanium has become very popular, as has stainless. You might find something a little different in these metals. They won’t be truly unique, but they won’t be common either. You can also choose from white gold rings, platinum, gold, sterling, and a host of mixes.

Celtic bands have become very popular, offering a host of various celtic knots. Dragon bands have also gained popularity. There are some very unique and unusual Celtic rings on the market. They are works of art with plenty of history tied to the designs.



Engraving on the bands has become very popular. In the past one might engrave something on the inside of the band, but these days inscriptions are being engraved on the exterior as well. Today bands are being engraved, on the inside, outside, center, where ever you wish. Engraving has become an art form onto itself.

Wanting to engrave them, but don’t want them to say the same old thing you always see like your wedding date, or I love you. Then come up with your original saying or inscription. Something that is important to you.

Here are a few more unusual inscriptions you might want to consider. Amor VIncit Omia [latin – love conquers all], Now & Forever, From This Moment On, Mon Coeur est a vous [French – my heart is yours],

If your looking for something funnier try – Nonrefundable, All sales final, Or I can’t return him/her I lost the manual. Something simpler, try your wedding date with your initials, how about the title of your wedding song, or the title of your favorite song, My best friend, Love is Eternal. Symbols work nicely also.

Some of the more common engravings are - all my love, my love forever, with all my heart, the date of your wedding with your names, just your names, or just the date.

Author: Sher Matsen

African Culture - Neck Stretching

It's interesting that many people immediately equate neck stretching, earlobe elongation, carved tattoos and more with African culture. Actually, most of these come from other cultures.

Neck Stretching
This is one of the first body modifications that people seem to attribute to the Africans. Neck stretching is the practice of women putting series of golden rings around their neck in order to make their neck appear longer. This is not African at all - it is from Burma, which is near India.

Branding
You probably could say the African culture DID bring branding to popular culture, but perhaps not in the way you might imagine. Branding cattle has been a traditional way of marking ownership for thousands of years. Sadly, this is how many slaves brought to the US were marked. In recent years, branding has served as a way for African-Americans to "make it their own" and remind themselves of what their ancestors had to endure.

Of course, there ARE tribes in Africa that participate in many of these customs, and we discuss those separately. However, when you see a documentary involving "primitive customs" on the Discovery channel, it's important to not necessarily assume it is Africa that is being discussed! There are many fascinating cultures in the world, and Africa is just one of the beautiful variety we can explore...