Something amusing...

Tibetan Silver

Any one who knows me and my jewelry knows how much I love Tibetan silver.  The skill and craftsmanship that go into each piece, using age old techniques passed across the generations, is truly something to be treasured. 


Unfortunately, not only is the skill being lost as the younger generation is less interested, it is being copied and knocked-off using machines and stamping techniques that mimic the look but cannot replicate it.  The real deal pieces are exquisite and collectible.  When I get some of them, I make them available to my customers.  Right now I still have a few bracelets available online.  Some day these won't be available anymore.  Meanwhile, you can own one for yourself and enjoy the artisanship and design of these hand-made wonders.

Rubies are Red

The gleaming ruby should adorn,

All those who in July are born,

For thus they’ll be exempt and free,

From lover’s doubts and anxiety.

-Gregorian Birthstone Poem

Ruby and Gold Vermeil Earrings 

Happy Birthday July! It sure is hot out there—maybe a nice pool party would be just the right way to celebrate your birthday this year! It is almost too appropriate that your birthstone, Ruby, allegedly has an internal flame that can’t be extinguished in this seemingly never-ending heat. 

With its alleged internal flame, the ruby represents love and passion.  Just like all you July birthdays, the Ruby has been considered extra special throughout the ages! It was called “Rajnapura” or “King of Gems” by ancient Hindus and was thought to have magical powers.  Worn by ancient royalty as a talisman against evil, these royals believed that the Ruby would grow darker when the wearer was in danger and return to its original color when the danger had passed.  On a more violent note, Ancient tribes actually used Rubies as bullets for blowguns (what a waste of all those precious gems!).

Rubies also represent heat and power.  Folklore says that a pot of water will boil instantly if a Ruby is tossed into it.  When ground into a powder and placed on the tongue Ruby was also said to cure indigestion (not recommended!).  As a gift, Rubies symbolize everlasting love and make a gorgeous gift to someone really special.  Ancient legend even says that when worn on the left hand, the Ruby will bring good luck to its wearer.  


Happy birthday to July babies - Judith Altman included!

Happy Fourth!

Enjoy your holiday weekend, everyone!

Photo via Martha Stewart

Living Life

"Life is made up of moments, small pieces of glittering mica in a long stretch of gray cement.  It would be wonderful if they came to us unsummoned, but particularly in lives as busy as the ones most of us lead now, that won't happen.  We have to teach ourselves how to make room for them, to love them, and to live, really live."

"You are the only person alive who has sole custody of your life.  Not just your life at a desk, or your life on the bus, or in the car, or at the computer.  Not just the life of your mind, but the life of your heart. Not just your bank account, but your soul."


"People don't talk about the soul very much any more.  It is much easier to write a resume than to craft a spirit.  But a resume is a cold comfort on a winter night, or when you are sad, or broke..." 


These quotations are from a little book I recently came across, published in 2000, called "A Short Guide to a Happy Life" by Anna Quindlen.  I heard her speak last year and was so impressed, that I had to pick up this used book when I saw it.  And now it is a cherished little morsel of inspiration for me.  That is why I wanted to share some with you.