Diamonds are often described and valued by their gemological characteristics: The Four C’s (carat, color, cut and clarity). Although Diamonds are used in many types of fine jewelry, they are traditionally associated with engagement and wedding rings. Most people think diamonds are white or colorless. In fact, yellow and brown Diamonds are the most common. Any Diamond with a hue other than brown or yellow is considered a colored Diamond. Colorless Diamonds are pure or nearly pure. The color scale for colorless diamonds goes from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow).

Diamonds look best as parts of formal evening jewelry when paired with Black Onyx, dark amethyst or cool blue sapphire. More casual combinations include lighter, bridal colored blends with aquamarine, pearls and carnelian. To see a selection of handmade artisan jewelry featuring raw diamonds, visit http://www.dashaboutique.com/shopbygemstone. Diamond is typically considered a sophisticated gemstone that works well with any outfit. In earrings, it works especially well to enhance the luster of blue or green eyes.

Almost half of all Diamonds come from mines in central and southern Africa. The other half comes from mines in Canada, India, Russia, Brazil and Australia. Today, the jewelry industry is buzzing about high-quality or lab-created diamonds. These synthetic diamonds possess the same molecular structure as natural diamonds. With public concerns about the mining industry, these man-made beauties offer a compelling alternative to the real thing.

Mohs’ Hardness score is based on a 10 point scale where 10 is the most resistant, like a diamond, and 1 is easily scratched, such as Talc. Diamonds are often proved real by the fact that they can scratch glass. Because they are such scratch resistant stones, diamonds are extremelty suitable as a component of oft-worn jewelry. Diamonds should be regularly cleaned by a professional or with a soft rag and mild soap and water. Avoid ultra-sonic cleaners, solvents and harsh chemicals when cleaning your handcrafted jewelry as exposure to these elements can damage semi-precious and precious gemstones and pearls.

Learn more about all semi-precious and precious gemstones, including amethyst, apatite, aquamarine, black onyx, blue topaz, carnelian, chalcedony, citrine, coral, garnet, white topaz, crystal, diamond, emerald, iolite, jade, Labradorite, moonstone, pearl, peridot, prehnite, rose quarz, ruby, sapphire, smokey topaz, tanzanite, tourmaline and tourquoise when you check out this gemstone chart: http://www.dashaboutique.com/gemstone chart.html.

One of the most popular fabrics used to make lingerie is silk. It begins cool to the touch but warms the body, keeping the wearer nice and snug. Of course, for those who don’t have the extra money and time that silk demands, satin is a related fabric. It is also smooth. And soft. But it is slightly less expensive then silk. But it is not as sturdy, due to the construction differences between the two fabrics. Other popular fabrics for UK lingerie are mesh and lace. Cotton is a newer option that promises comfort. Velvet and leather are popular fabrics for erotic lingerie. Lycra, a body-hugging material rather like spandex, is becoming a success for those wanting a sporty and slimming effect.

The kind of lingerie consumers look for depends on their purpose for the clothing. Those whose primary goal is to gather the attention of a lover will find success with leather teddies or a sheer camisole set. For a romantic lead, lace and satin negligees or a simple chemise might do the trick. For comfortable eveningwear, cotton gowns afford warmth and comfort. And then there are those styles of lingerie that can serve a multitude of purposes. Bras, bustiers and corsets can lend support and can also serve as a turn on. The baby doll, a style of lingerie that became popular in the 1950s, is a versatile piece that usually covers (but not always) the torso and ends at the hips. It normally comes with matching panties. Sheer material is often used to heighten a man’s libido.

Traditionally, UK lingerie is produced for mass consumption. Therefore, the primary colors of lingerie are black, white, and red. Black denotes mystery and allure. At the other end of the spectrum, white represents purity and innocence. A lot of women like to play on that irony during sexual encounters. And red has always been a symbol of boldness and sexuality. Which color buyers choose to buy depends on these facts and some knowledge of skin tone and color compatibility. Fair-haired women look best in pastel shades. Brunettes look good in bold colors, like purple and red. Red-heads impress with earth tones and other Earth-inspired colors, like greens and blues.