During the holiday season, you may be tempted to give someone or get yourself diamond jewelry. While know all about the lovely and classic white diamonds there is also another diamond that is equally intriguing and just as glamorous – black diamonds. Black diamonds are quickly becoming a mainstream gemstone.
Here are some little known facts about black diamonds.
1. Black diamonds are also called Carbonado. A name coined by Portuguese because of the diamonds resemblance to porous charcoal.
2. They are found in the Central Afric and Brazil, with Brazil being the major source.
3. The natural colour of a black diamond ranges …read more

Looking for a birthday present for your favorite May birthday gal?  Or maybe just a special present to yourself?  Emeralds are not an out of reach purchase if you’re willing to make a few trade offs.
First of all, real emeralds are precious gems, and can be costly.  If you’re in the market for this time of gem purchase, find a reputable jewelry by asking around for referrals, and save up for the best gem that you can.
But if you’re looking for a fun purchase, more costume jewelry than precious gems, Overstock.com offers some great created-emeralds where you can find something …read more

Did you take good care of yourself during February?  Did you find time to take good care of yourself, making an otherwise dreary time of year a month of indulgent pampering?
With March just a deep breath away, you’re going to need all that energy to tackle some Beauty & Style spring housekeeping and maintenance.
So roll up your sleeves, put on your favorite music, and get to work on these 31 spring housekeeping suggestions:

Go through every single clothes closet, pulling out everything that you haven’t worn in the last six months.
Take a look at your “haven’t worn” pile of clothes.  If …read more

If shopping was healthy, wouldn’t you do it every day?  That’s how I feel about shopping at Spoon Fed Art, the brainchild and creative outlet for Los Angeles designer Karin Collins.
Karin began making jewelry during treatment for an eating disorder, using spoons as the base upon which to build her beautiful designs.  Karin continues to support the recovery from eating disorders, and the business is a member of NEDA, the National Eating Disorder Association.  Which means that my shopping there helps make the lives of others healthier!  (How’s that for rationalization?)
I purchased a spoon titled “Purple Rose of Cairo” several …read more

Looking good and being fashionably on-time will be easy this spring and summer with bold colored fashion watches in every color of the rainbow – one for every day of the week.
Red – Michael Kors Chronograph Resin Band Watch.  It’s really pink, but that’s close to red so I’m counting it.  Besides, I LOVE THIS WATCH!  The large round face is surrounded by Swarovski crystals.  Modern looking with three chronographs and a date window.  LOVE IT!  Sale priced now at $134.90.
 
 
Orange – Zodiac Seadragon Rubber Band Watch – Sporty watch with scalloped edges around the case, and contrasting …read more

Hoop earrings are great basic earrings.  Make them bigger or with added design and they’re casual.  Add diamonds, and. . . well, they’re simply stunning.
Here are six great choices:
 
 
Steel beaded hoops, add a little sparkle while still keeping it simple.  Perfect with jeans or for when you dress up.
On sale at the Gap, $4.99
 
 
 
 
 
Large double hoop gold earrings, one textured and one smooth, giving some personality to a classic.
On sale at Ann Taylor, $19.44.
 
 
 

 
A pair of small hoop earrings is perfect for every day wear, weather that for business or just kicking around town. 
Available from Jewelry Advisor, …read more

It seems that lately, one of a kind, recycled accessories are a big hit. There are literally thousands of crafty jewelry and accessory makers out there making original artwork out of such random oddities that are not only different, but really great looking!
A lot of people gravitate towards eBay when they’re looking for handmade stuff. It’s great, because eBay’s been around for-freaking-ever, and it’s a trusted way to purchase online, however I tend to hunt around Etsy when I’m looking for original, handcrafted, high quality gifts. The artisans there really do have a huge respect for their crafts, and you …read more

I found one of these artists originally from fellow b5 blog Layers Upon Layers (Barbie Lovers Beware), but it inspired me to find a list of one-of-a-kind Barbie based jewelry.
Images are from the product sale pages on Etsy, and belong to their respective artists/jewelry makers.
What shoes should I wear? Red E for the Prom
Genuine barbie shoes. Red strappy heels with silver glitter on the straps. Shoes hung on silver french ear wires. Total length is 1.5″.
$10.00 via SAEE on Etsy
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Seen Better Days Barbie Necklace
Silver-plated fine chain necklace approx. 20″ with 12mm B&W striped Czech glass beads. Red, handmade decoupage …read more

It is said the only thing that separates man from beast is our ability to accessorize. While I’m sure there are several more ways to tell us apart, I can’t argue the importance of the right accessories. Here are some great accessory ideas you can make yourself:

Braided Barrettes – This is an especially great project for tweens and teens.
Drop Earrings – Instructions for making the gorgeous earrings pictured here.
Sweater Bag – Rather than throw away your old sweater, make this adorable sweater bag.
Can Tab Belt – I know it sounds cheesy, but scroll down and you won’t be disappointed.
Multiple Wire/Bead …read more