Carribean Topaz(part2)

Typically, the yellow topaz is the birthstone for the month of November. But, it could be said that any topaz qualifies as the birthstone. For the girl who likes to be different, a Caribbean topaz bracelet makes for a unique and stunning birthday present. But, this vibrantly colored gemstone makes a great gift for any occasion. Instead of a plain diamond necklace for an anniversary, give a Caribbean topaz and diamond pendant. The sparkling glamour of the piece will knock her socks off!

Significant meanings
Like all gemstones, Caribbean topaz jewelry holds its own mystical properties and meanings. Some of the magical properties associated with the topaz is the power of invisibility and instills courage in the wearer. Some believe it serves as a life guide, helping the wearer chart the course of his life. Medically speaking, it was believed to improve eyesight and aid in alleviating upper respiratory problems like asthma. To use as a medicine, the stone would be ground up and served in wine. Another property of the Caribbean topaz is that it is supposed to expose poison, saving the wearer from ingesting it.

How to clean Caribbean topaz
Caribbean topaz is made of fluorine aluminum silicate which ranks an 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that it is a very durable gemstone, at least the top is. Normally, a topaz could be cleaned just like a diamond, ruby or sapphire, but because of the titanium coating, more care must be taken when cleaning it. The layer could be damaged if harsh chemicals are used or if the coating gets scratched. Scratches will totally through off the refractive light properties that the Caribbean topaz is known for. So, use a very mild soap and warm water to clean them. If necessary, GENTLY brush the gem with a soft brush to remove other debris.

Natural topaz is relatively strong so, daily wear of a Caribbean topaz and diamond bracelet is fine. But, because they are durable, that doesn't mean they can't be chipped. Even diamonds can be broken if hit hard enough.

Along with other designer gemstone pieces, Caribbean topaz jewelry is finding a huge following among jewelry lovers. Though most people think of a yellow or blue stone when they think of topaz, this multi-colored designer gem is becoming a favorite among collectors. Because of the colorful variety, a Caribbean topaz necklace or any other piece looks lovely set in gold or silver. Each metal brings out different aspects of the gem: silver highlights the cooler colors while gold accents the warmer shades. Pristine colors in blues, greens and violets make for a very unique gemstone that truly impresses everyone that see it.

Carribean Topaz(part1)

These designer topaz come in clear, pink, blue, yellow, brown, orange and even black. Also known as mystic fire topaz, a Caribbean topaz piece is a must-have addition to any jewelry collection.

The name merely epitomizes the deep blues and greens of the ocean and island trees of the Carribean, though gem aren't really produced from any of the Carribean Islands. Caribbean topaz starts out as a white natural topaz. Azotic Coating Technology, Inc.  patented the process in 1998 that created even more colorful designer versions of the gemstone.

How it is made
The special process includes a thin layer of titanium added to it. The titanium changes the refraction of the light as it passes through the gem and gives it a rainbow of colors that seems to change with movement. This gemstone is also known as mystic fire topaz and Bermuda topaz, but their properties are the same. It doesn`t diminish the value of the stone because it does not change any of the physical properties. The stone is all natural, it just has a thin layer of titanium added to it.

Where can it be found
Although, the blue variety is only found in its natural state in England, Pakistan, Afhganistan, Myanmar, Japan, Russia, Sri Lanka and China. Australia, the United States and Mexico also have deposits of this versatile but precious gem. Namibia and Nigeria also contain topaz mines.
Once the white topaz, is mined out, some are set aside for titanium treatment. Some topaz are also heat-treated and irradiated to bring out shades of other colors, like blue. Treatments like this are actually a very common practice in the jewelry industry to get the most appealing shades and colors you can get.

Your Very Own Jewelry Wardrobe

Image via Wikipedia

How do you develop that style when you're making your jewelry wardrobe from scratch? 

Developing your own style means knowing what you like and dislike. Whether you're accessorizing for work or play, having the right jewelry can go a long way in helping you project an image of confidence and individual style.

To determine this, ask yourself "What am I attracted to?", "What are my key interests?" Decide if that means contemporary or classic jewelry styles; streamlined or detailed; colored stones or white diamonds.

Also, listen to style-related comments from others. What outfits or accessories do people compliment you on? This will give you important clues about the kind of jewelry that looks best on you.

Next, make sure what you've selected fits your personality and lifestyle. For instance, if you spend a lot of time doing activities outdoors, consider simple earrings that won't dangle too far and get in the way. Comfort is a must. If something is either physically or psychologically uncomfortable to wear, you'll have trouble projecting the kind of confidence and competence integral to developing a personal style.

When it comes to jewelry, stick with the basics in the beginning. The rule of thumb is to always buy the best-quality basics you can afford, so you can add matching pieces later. In gold jewelry, such basics should include a gold chain necklace, classic hoop or button earrings, and a link bracelet. Additions could include slide-on pendants or drops to create different looks with your necklace and earrings. In diamond jewelry, classic stud earrings or a solitaire pendant should be among your first purchases.

Experts advise that you begin with classic shapes that look appropriate with a variety of outfits, and then add pieces that offer versatility of wear or a fashion touch, such as different colors or finishes.

Don't forget the significance of selecting jewelry that's suitable for your body type. For instance, your height and bone structure play a major role in determining the kind of jewelry that looks best on you. A smaller, petite woman would be better served with necklace lengths that fall below the breast but above the waist to elongate her figure. Meanwhile, a tall, thin woman may want to select a choker that cuts the line of the neck and in turn, de-emphasizes her height. Full-figured women should stay away from jewelry that's too small or delicate.

Face shapes are equally important to your style as well . Lets round up the four basic shapes: oval, round, rectangular and heart-shaped. If your face is oval, triangular-shaped earrings are especially flattering. A round shape should seek elongated, dangling styles that draw the eyes down, rather than around. For a rectangular face, try jewelry that adds width, to camouflage the length of the face. And for heart-shaped faces, look for earrings that are wider at the bottom, because style can soften a pointed chin look.

Lastly, don't forget to consider your hand type when purchasing rings. If you're long-fingered, wider bands will look especially good on you. If you happen to be short-fingered, thinner bands and stone shapes such as marquise or pear that elongate the hand would be a good choice.