Image: Zales

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 from black to dark greys.

4. Black diamonds are the rarest among all diamonds.

5. Black diamonds originated on earth 3.5 billion years ago – that’s a mighty long time!

6. Translucent or semi-transparent black diamonds are very rare and naturally they command a very high price.

7. In ancient Italy, black diamonds were thought to represent reconciliation. They believed by touching a black diamond misunderstandings and quarrels can be patched up. However, in India they believe black diamonds were the sign of bad luck, even death!

8. Famous black diamonds include; the Pear Shaped Amsterdam Diamond weighing in at 55.85 carats. Then there’s the unpolished and rugged Black Diamond of Bahia which is 350 carats. But the most famous of them all is the Black Star of Africa which is the largest coloured diamond in the world weighing in at 202 carats and valued at 1.2 million US dollars. Whew!

9. Unlike the traditional diamonds, black diamonds are made up of carbon atoms and small amounts of hydrogen. This has led some people to believe black diamonds were formed in intersteller space! They theorize that there was an steller supernova explosion and an asteroid crashed into earth about 2.8 million years ago.

Now that you know all the fact, perhaps you’ll add a pair of black diamond earrings, like the 1 cttw studs pictured above, to your wish list this year?

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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 to fit within most any budget.  Buy yourself a terrific piece of fun jewelry and save up for the day you can make that big purchase.

Some sweet and simple earrings:

14k White Gold round emerald stud earrings, $114.98, and 14k white gold emerald and diamond earrings, $99.99

And a couple of necklaces:

14k white gold pear shaped necklace (that would go great with the pear shaped earrings above), $89.90.  And for something a little different, and that would go great with the stud earrings above, the sterling silver circle pendant is a great choice, $39.99.

To wear on your finger, how about this emerald shaped emerald and diamond ring.  It’s simple and elegant, and only $149.99.

Photo credit: Overstock.com

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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:

1. Go through every single clothes closet, pulling out everything that you haven’t worn in the last six months.
2. Take a look at your “haven’t worn” pile of clothes.  If you haven’t worn it because it’s not the right season, you can put it back.  Otherwise, deal with the separation anxiety and let it go.
3. Bag up all your clothing discards and take the a clothing bank, shelters, or consignment shop.
4. Launder everything that needs it.
5. Refold all your sweaters, jeans, whatever your fold up in your closet or drawers.  Neaten things up.
6. Look for drawers that don’t shut all the way, neaten it up and remove things that don’t belong there.
7. Match up socks, and discard anything that is missing a mate.
8. Reinforce loose buttons, buying new ones if you need
9. Take care of any mending or repairs that need to be made.
10. Polish your shoes.
11. Toss out worn shoes – and don’t forget those run down sneakers and athletic shoes.
12. Replace laces that are getting worn.
13. Re-sole or re-heel shoes that you love that are a little worn down around the edges.
14. Clean up boots and winter shoes and get them ready to put away for the season.
15. Get some decent hangers, and make sure everything is buttoned up and hanging nicely.
16. If it doesn’t fit now, chances are it’s not going to fit in a month from now.  Ask yourself, “do I really need this to take up space in my closet?”
17. Look in your jewelry box or drawer and untangle everything.
18. Consider individual bags or clear jewelry envelopes to store your jewelry in.  Keeps things neat and organized, and you can see what you have.
19. Lost one earring?  If it’s something inexpensive, toss it.  If it’s fine jewelry, consult a jewelry to see if it can be repurposed.
20. If you have keepsake jewelry that you don’t wear, consider having it repurposed so that you can enjoy it.  If you want to keep it intact to pass on to another generation, store it somewhere safe and away from your day to day jewelry.
21. Sort through your lingerie.  If it doesn’t fit, isn’t comfortable, has holes, tears, or sagging elastic — TOSS IT!
22. Toss bras that make you squirm, no matter how pretty they are, and go in  for a proper fitting.
23. Go through your makeup and toss anything that looks or smells funny.  If you don’t know when you bought it, chances are it’s past its prime.  Makeup isn’t like cheese – you can’t just scrape off the mold and use the rest.
24. If you haven’t worn that great color of shadow, lipstick, etc., consider giving it away (if it’s fresh and relatively unused), otherwise toss it.  You know you’re never going to wear it, and holding onto it takes up room and reminds you of a shopping mistake.  Let it go!
25. Wipe up messes caused by broken powder, foundation that has spilled, and crumbling shadows.
26. Lipsticks can be used with a lip brush if they’re broken, but put them somewhere where you’ll use them up before they get old.
27. Find something pretty to store your cosmetic items in.  A basket, container, or drawers.  Keep your every day items right at hand.
28. Go through all your cleansers, moisturizers and serums.  Do they still look and smell fresh.  If not, toss.
29. Do you have lots of little samples that you’ve picked up.  If you’re really truly going to try them out, find a pretty basket or vase to put them in and keep them nearby.  They’re just making a mess of the drawer or counter, so keep them together and use them up.
30. Promise yourself to use up any half empty jars/bottle/tubes of lotions, creams, shampoos, etc., before opening a new one.  It’s okay to have one or two that you alternate, but if you have 10 different body lotions open, you need to use them up before opening any more.
31. Reward yourself for your month of work by making a list of all the “holes” you’ve now created in your wardrobe.  Whether it’s a new piece of clothing, a new lipstick, pair of shoes, or piece of jewelry, you now know what you have and can plan purchases for the coming season.

Did I miss anything?  What are you going to start on first?

Photo credit: SXC

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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 years ago, and I always get lots of compliments on it.  These are all handmade pieces, meaning each one is unique – an original work of art that you can wear.

Here are four lovely choices to indulge both your passion for beautiful things and your social conscious at the same time.

"Hope" $125

"Yes" $125

"Candy Apple" $125

"Jade Tree Revisited" $125

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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 colored details.  The rubber band is infused with a light vanilla scents.  (I’ve had a Zodiac watch for a couple years and I can’t still smell the vanilla scent in my band.)  $150

Yellow – Juicy Couture Crystal Watch with Jelly Strap has Swarovski crystals trimming the face, yet keeps it casual with a rubber band.  $195

Green – TOYWATCH Plasteramic Collection Fluorescent Watch is eye-candy by day with glow-in-the-dark capability for night.  Magnified date window.  $195

Blue – Michael Kors Round Sport Watch has three chronographs and a date window, with a bracelet style band.  $195

Indigo – Adidas Candy Collection digital watch has a polyurethane band, three chronographs and date window. 

Violet – MARC by MARC JACOBS leather strap watch has a modern logo face in red and a purple leather band.  $125

Photo credits:  all from Nordstrom

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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, $49.92

Sterling Silver hoops from the Atlas Collection, a signature line that comes in a very special turquoise blue box.

Available from Tiffany’s, $275.

Extra large hoops are perfect for casual wear, but not everyone can get away with wearing them.  If you have longer hair, and a well shaped face, these would be perfect with sexy jeans and heels.

Available from Heavenly Treasures, $498

Beautiful one inch diamond hoops are inside out, with diamonds set in the front of the hoop as well as half way along the back, allowing diamonds to be see from all sides of the earrings.

On sale at Jewel Basket, $584

If you can’t afford the real gold and the real diamonds, there are lots of faux options until you can save up for the real thing!

Image credit:  Gap, Ann Taylor, Jewelry Advisor, Tiffany’s, Heavenly Treasures, Jewel Basket

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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 can tell that love and care is put into every piece. Payment processes are as reliable and honest as those on eBay, so you have no worries there, and it’s not set up as an “auction” – the price you see is what you pay. Take a look at some of the recent recycled accessories I’ve found there, and grab something for a last minute gift or stocking stuffer! Photos and details after the jump…

This vintage typewriter key necklace is perfect for your favorite “retro girl” (like me!). $12.99 available in various letters.

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Men love funky accessories too! This 9mm Brass Mens Straightline Belt Buckle is sure to be noticed, and no, he doesn’t have to be a police officer to appreciate it! $37.

Check out another great “recycled” post here at The List Maven: 11 Ways to Recycle Your Old Shoes

In the “Why didn’t I think of that?” category, there’s this adorable Zipper Swirl Pendant! Comes in a wide variety of colors, and I can just see my goddaughter wearing this thinking she’s just “so cool” for having something that none of her friends have. $20.

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I love leather cuffs. Pair this with an open white oxford over a black tank, jeans, and boots, and you’ve got a classic look that never goes out of style. This cuff leather bracelet is branded and hand burned from a recycled belt! $18.

Check out another great “recycled” post here at The List Maven: 35 Accessories Made from Recycled Materials

Know a gamer who loves a fun night of playing domino with friends? Get her this cute mini domino adjustable ring for good luck! It’s cute, one size fits all, and won’t break your pockets for $5.99.

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I don’t care how old or young you may be, Elvis was a hottie! Even if you aren’t a fan of his hip-thrusting, silk-scarf-wearing, convulsion-inducing, body-shake music (okay, OR his ballads), you can’t deny this man was beautiful! Put him on your arm with this Elvis Presley recycled record album tote! $59.99.

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Okay, I absolutely LOVE these! Like, they’re on my list, okay? Haha.. These wrist and arm warmers are made from recycled wool (which comes from wool sweaters that have been felted to take the “knit” look out and create one solid piece of wool), and feature a crocheted rose on top! They’re only $25, so buy them for me, okay? (That’s if I don’t buy them myself first!)

Check out another great “recycled” post here at The List Maven: 3 Green Fashion Finds

Here’s another great pair of recycled fingerless gloves, made from “upcycled” felted wool sweaters. I really love this idea, don’t you? Available in many stripes and solids. $20.

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This one’s just for the pattern, so you can make it yourself, but this one really got me! It’s a tote bag made from plastic grocery bags! How freakin’ neat is that!? The bags are cut into strips and made into “yarn” that’s then crocheted to make this adorable bag. Take THIS one with you back to the grocery store, or to the beach! $3.95.

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Please Note: I really love finding these kinds of one of a kinds, but be absolutely assured that it’s possible the specific items I featured here may disappear (ie. be sold) before you get to them. In that case, be sure to click on the artist’s profile and shop link to find more great items that are similar to the ones featured here.

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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 pendant measuring 1.75″, featuring a slightly shabby Barbie. Pendants are double varnished to ensure durability and a high quality finish.
$50 via VenusFlytrapJewels on Etsy

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Punk Rock Pendant
Electric blue eye-shadowed Barbie doll eye, black pigmented resin surround, entirely hand fabricated. 16″ oxidized diamond cut ball chain and lobster clasp. Pendant measures 1 3/4″ in diameter. Artist signature on back.
$170 via MargauxLange on Etsy

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Splash
The base of this pendant is a black plastic bottle cap. Inside hazel eyed Barbie has been immersed in resin. Covering the top of the pendant is a purple piece of plastic, found at a rummage sale.
$22.50 via gjarvisjewelryetc

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Barbie Pump Purple Earrings
Are you a lover of all things Barbie doll?? Then relive your childhood by wearing these super cute earrings, made with authentic barbie doll pumps. With three small beads (clear, pink, and lilac), this earring dangles about 3 inches long. The pump itself is 1 inch in length.
$4 via flamingofluffy

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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:

1. Braided Barrettes – This is an especially great project for tweens and teens.
2. Drop Earrings – Instructions for making the gorgeous earrings pictured here.
3. Sweater Bag – Rather than throw away your old sweater, make this adorable sweater bag.
4. Can Tab Belt – I know it sounds cheesy, but scroll down and you won’t be disappointed.
5. Multiple Wire/Bead Necklace – It’s a nice look that can work with both casual and dressy looks.

When it comes to making your own accessories, this list is a mere drop in the bucket. Don’t be afraid to try new things. And don’t be afraid to make your own clothes, accessories and more.

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