<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<rss version="2.0"
	xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
	xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/"
	xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
	xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
	xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/"
	xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/"
	>

<channel>
	<title>Hand Trades &#187; Insights</title>
	<atom:link href="http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/index.php/category/insights/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog</link>
	<description>Handcrafted Items</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Sun, 27 Nov 2011 21:00:32 +0000</lastBuildDate>
	<language>en</language>
	<sy:updatePeriod>hourly</sy:updatePeriod>
	<sy:updateFrequency>1</sy:updateFrequency>
	<generator>http://wordpress.org/?v=3.0.4</generator>
		<item>
		<title>How To Select Larimar Jewelry</title>
		<link>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/10/18/how-to-select-larimar-jewelry/</link>
		<comments>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/10/18/how-to-select-larimar-jewelry/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 18 Oct 2011 12:59:51 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Hand Trades</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Insights]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/?p=804</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[You might have heard about the Larimar stone. If you are not aware of this stone then you might require an introduction about it. This stone is one of the most beautiful stones that are available these days. This stone is not only beautiful but it is also quite rare. This stone originates in the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>You might have heard about the Larimar stone. If you are not aware of this stone then you might require an introduction about it. This stone is one of the most beautiful stones that are available these days. This stone is not only beautiful but it is also quite rare. </p>
<p>This stone originates in the Caribbean. The stones were discovered in the mid seventies. It needs to be mined from the deep volcanic mountains. It is usually mined with the help of the tools and the natives are responsible for mining the precious stone. </p>
<p>There are different kinds of Larimar products available in the market. But these stones are quite costly and this is the reason why lots of people cannot afford this product. Larimar jewelry has become very popular in the market these days. </p>
<p>The best use of the stone is with silver. You might be overwhelmed to see the external beauty of the stone but you must also learn about the other internal beauties present in the stone. This stone really has some healing properties. </p>
<p>The appearance of the stone is such that you will fall in love with it once you see it. There are certain other factors that you need to know about this kind of jewelry. It can help you decrease any kind of limitation you have. </p>
<p>It will help you provide a lot of peace in your mind. There are different kinds of jewelries that are created with the help of these stones. You can either get a pendant or a ring for yourself. The size of the stones varies from jewelry to the other. </p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/10/18/how-to-select-larimar-jewelry/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Tips for the care of beaded and chained Jewelry</title>
		<link>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/09/20/tips-for-the-care-of-beaded-and-chained-jewelry/</link>
		<comments>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/09/20/tips-for-the-care-of-beaded-and-chained-jewelry/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 20 Sep 2011 23:49:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Hand Trades</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Insights]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/?p=802</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Each time you remove your jewelry, wipe the chain off with a lint-free polishing cloth. If you’ve been wearing cologne or make-up, rinse the chain with water, pat dry and then use a polishing cloth. Cleaning off fingerprints, skin oils and surface dirt is a great day to day maintenance routine. Keep your jewelry in [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Each time you remove your jewelry, wipe the chain off with a lint-free polishing cloth. If you’ve been wearing cologne or make-up, rinse the chain with water, pat dry and then use a polishing cloth. Cleaning off fingerprints, skin oils and surface dirt is a great day to day maintenance routine. Keep your jewelry in an airtight Ziploc bag with an anti-tarnish strip. These strips absorb moisture and neutralize gases in the air that produce tarnish.    </p>
<p>Store each jewelry item separately to avoid scratching, a softer stone/pearl, with a harder stone or metal. Use a polishing cloth for gems, stones and pearls and clean them after each wear.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/09/20/tips-for-the-care-of-beaded-and-chained-jewelry/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>New Fall 2011 Sterling Silver Jewelry Designs Bring LOWER Prices and Trendy Looks</title>
		<link>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/09/18/new-fall-2011-sterling-silver-jewelry-designs-bring-lower-prices-and-trendy-looks/</link>
		<comments>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/09/18/new-fall-2011-sterling-silver-jewelry-designs-bring-lower-prices-and-trendy-looks/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 18 Sep 2011 12:47:19 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Hand Trades</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Insights]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/?p=796</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[New Fall 2011 Sterling Silver Jewelry Designs Bring Lower Prices and Trendy Looks Available for the first time by the end of September (be sure you&#8217;ve joined our email newsletter to learn exactly when). Below are some photos that are right off the shop floor of one of our jewelry artisans. The first impression I [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>New Fall 2011 Sterling Silver Jewelry Designs Bring Lower Prices and Trendy Looks <br/><br/>Available for the first time by the end of September (be sure you&#8217;ve joined our email newsletter to learn exactly when). <br/><br/>Below are some photos that are right off the shop floor of one of our jewelry artisans. The first impression I get is simply, &quot;WOW!&quot; <br/><br/>These pendants are made from natural gemstones, handcut and polished. The metal is made from pure 925 sterling silver with the 925 hallmark stamp applied. The design is enhanced with a golden layer of polished brass to bring in more depth and character. Our initial offer of these designs will be about 200 pieces from you to choose. With the different textures of gemstones that we like to use, each item will be photographed so you&#8217;ll be receiving the exact one as shown in the photo. <br/><br/>While these new sterling silver designs are simply great, there&#8217;s one more BIG announcement&#8230; <br/><br/>Price range for you is $10-$12!!! <br/><br/>Again, be sure you&#8217;ve joined our email newsletter for the big announcement during the next week. <br/><br/><img src="http://gilbertandfrech.com/56405.jpg" width="170" height="270"/><br/><br/><img src="http://gilbertandfrech.com/56415.jpg" width="147" height="313"/><br/><br/><img src="http://gilbertandfrech.com/56435.jpg" width="166" height="269"/></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/09/18/new-fall-2011-sterling-silver-jewelry-designs-bring-lower-prices-and-trendy-looks/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>What is Ruby Zoisite Gemstone? Where It Found?</title>
		<link>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/03/15/what-is-ruby-zoisite-gemstone-where-it-found/</link>
		<comments>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/03/15/what-is-ruby-zoisite-gemstone-where-it-found/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 15 Mar 2011 13:24:31 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Hand Trades</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Insights]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/?p=783</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[An ornamental material consisting of crystalline aggregates of green zoisite with non transparent ruby inclusions it is found in Tanzania and the general appearance is unmistakable. There isn&#8217;t another stone like it in the mineral world. The green zoisite is relatively soft, between 5.5 &#8211; 6.5 while the ruby inclusions are usually quite hard, 9 [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>An ornamental material consisting of crystalline aggregates of green zoisite with non transparent ruby inclusions it is found in Tanzania and the general appearance is unmistakable.  </p>
<p>There isn&#8217;t another stone like it in the mineral world.  The green zoisite is relatively soft, between 5.5 &#8211; 6.5 while the ruby inclusions are usually quite hard, 9 on the Mohs scale.  This can make the stone difficult to cut because of the differences in hardness and usually diamond tools will be used.</p>
<p>Zoisite has been known for nearly two centuries as an ornamental stone. The medium grade red ruby material is usually spread irregularly throughout the green zoisite. It is one of the most colorful of ornamental stones.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/03/15/what-is-ruby-zoisite-gemstone-where-it-found/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>What is the most flattering earring for any face type?</title>
		<link>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/03/01/what-is-the-most-flattering-earring-for-any-face-type/</link>
		<comments>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/03/01/what-is-the-most-flattering-earring-for-any-face-type/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 01 Mar 2011 13:23:04 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Hand Trades</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Insights]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/?p=779</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Suffice to say, it is a silver dangle earring. There are so many styles it is easy to find one for your face shape. To elongate the neck find one that is 1 1/2 -2 inches long make sure it does not touch your shoulder or collarbone. It should sway. The silver tone is very [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Suffice to say, it is a silver dangle earring. There are so many styles it is easy to find one for your face shape. To elongate the neck find one that is 1 1/2 -2 inches long make sure it does not touch your shoulder or collarbone. It should sway. The silver tone is very flattering to the face, it can brighten up a dark outfit or add glow if your having a day where your not at your best. Keep them proportioned to your height! If your shorter stay with the less elaborate 1- 1 1/2 dangles. Keep in mind that the ear rings can be simple &#038; refined for on the job or more elaborate for evening.</p>
<p>Our favorite is a geometric silver tone earring. It&#8217;s modern and ready for work plus it says &#8221; I like to have fun with fashion&#8221;. So you can wear it to the office and out on the town that evening. Fashion jewelry, with it&#8217;s lower ticket price, is ideal for experimenting with new styles you may want to try out. Express your self with fashion jewelry! Buy a few new pieces every year to reinvent your wardrobe. A stylish new pair of earrings can add a modern vibe any outfit. Remember, to many accessories can wreck your look! One or two showstoppers &#8211; spaced out, so say if you have dangle earrings on forget the necklace go for a bracelet, ring or a belt. Less can be more, use your editing eye to select a few. Carefully placed accessories can call attention to your most favorable features. No matter what your face type a silver dangle is the easiest and most flattering to wear. </p>
<p>Silver dangles come in sterling silver for those who want to spend more. If your into vintage look for a sterling silver dangle with marcasite and gemstone accents. Classy with a touch of extra sparkle. Read our guide on the vintage jewelry craze and how to mix and match with jeans and a tee. </p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/03/01/what-is-the-most-flattering-earring-for-any-face-type/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>What is FIX Gold?</title>
		<link>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/02/22/what-is-fix-gold/</link>
		<comments>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/02/22/what-is-fix-gold/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 22 Feb 2011 13:22:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Hand Trades</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Insights]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/?p=777</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[What is FIX GOld? I found that many Jewelry Items as Pin Brooches &#8211; Medals &#8211; Earrings &#8211; Bracelets &#8211; Pendants etc. Are marked FIX and as Gold Tone. At the time of its creation in 1823, FIX was the inventor of the laminated gold plated technic. The Company very quickly built up a solid [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>What is FIX GOld? I found that many Jewelry Items as Pin Brooches &#8211; Medals &#8211; Earrings &#8211; Bracelets &#8211; Pendants etc. Are marked FIX and as Gold Tone. </p>
<p>At the time of its creation in 1823, FIX was the inventor of the laminated gold plated technic. The Company very quickly built up a solid reputation among the public. It became a generic name that people use when speaking of the finest quality gold-plated products.</p>
<p>The Company later extended its collections to include solid silver jewellery lines. The &#8220;FIX&#8221; is today a symbol of excellent quality with an unknown manufacturing process kept secret over the years.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/02/22/what-is-fix-gold/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>2</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>How to Clean Copper and Brass Jewelry</title>
		<link>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/02/15/how-to-clean-copper-and-brass-jewelry/</link>
		<comments>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/02/15/how-to-clean-copper-and-brass-jewelry/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 15 Feb 2011 13:22:08 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Hand Trades</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Insights]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/?p=775</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Copper and brass jewelry also tarnishes as silver jewelry. You can buy chemicals in stores to clean brass and copper jewelry, but sometime they are not safe for gemstones. Copper and brass jewelry also tarnishes as silver jewelry. You can buy chemicals in stores to clean brass and copper jewelry, but sometime they are not [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Copper and brass jewelry also tarnishes as silver jewelry. You can buy chemicals in stores to clean brass and copper jewelry, but sometime they are not safe for gemstones. </p>
<p>Copper and brass jewelry also tarnishes as silver jewelry. You can buy chemicals in stores to clean brass and copper jewelry, but sometime they are not safe for gemstones.  </p>
<p>I have seen some people cleaning their brass and copper jewelry with vinegar and ketchup. I soak my jewelry about a minute in 2 oz lemon juice and 2 oz water with a tea spoon of  salt (increase the solution accordingly if the jewelry piece is larger) , then I use a piece of cotton cloth to buff the piece to bring the shine after rinsing it properly.<br />
Storing jewelry pieces in plastic bags or cloth bags, keeps it shiny and clean.  Proper cleaning and good care of jewelry keeps always new.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/02/15/how-to-clean-copper-and-brass-jewelry/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Wonderful.  It&#8217;s The Middle of Winter</title>
		<link>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/01/17/wonderful-its-the-middle-of-winter/</link>
		<comments>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/01/17/wonderful-its-the-middle-of-winter/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 17 Jan 2011 15:43:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Hand Trades</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Insights]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/?p=764</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Does it seem like the glistening white fallen snow has now changed into nothing but a complete road hazard? Do the cooler temperatures now feel so cold that it takes a heater, wool socks, and a blanket by your feet to keep warm. Does 6:30pm feel like midnight and you should have been in bed [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Does it seem like the glistening white fallen snow has now changed into nothing but a complete road hazard?</p>
<p>Do the cooler temperatures now feel so cold that it takes a heater, wool socks, and a blanket by your feet to keep warm.</p>
<p>Does 6:30pm feel like midnight and you should have been in bed long ago?</p>
<p>Would you now give a million dollars to tear off the 8 layers of clothes you have on for 90 degrees and a pair of shorts?</p>
<p>Is your most dreadful part of the day shutting off the warm shower?  Also, do you move the fastest during the day when moving from the shower to the towel rack?</p>
<p>The folks at Hand Trades understands.  ADD your comments here.</p>
<p>PS<br />
Alright, who still has their Christmas stuff up?</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/01/17/wonderful-its-the-middle-of-winter/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Simple Solutions for Jewelry Storage</title>
		<link>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/01/15/simple-solutions-for-jewelry-storage-2/</link>
		<comments>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/01/15/simple-solutions-for-jewelry-storage-2/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 15 Jan 2011 12:51:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Hand Trades</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Insights]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/?p=672</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Properly storing jewelry does not need to be expensive. Some jewelry comes in boxes or pouches which you can continue to use. You can find other reasonable solutions with a little creativity. • Since the idea is to isolate each jewel from one another, an easy and effective solution is to wrap each piece in [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Properly storing jewelry does not need to be expensive. Some jewelry comes in boxes or pouches which you can continue to use. You can find other reasonable solutions with a little creativity.</p>
<p>• Since the idea is to isolate each jewel from one another, an easy and effective solution is to wrap each piece in layers of acid-free tissue paper, untreated cotton, or raw silk. If you sew, you might try creating individual, acid-free bags for this purpose. If sewing isn&#8217;t one of your talents, then several ebay sellers regularly list pre-made drawstring bags which will work.</p>
<p>• Brooches, earrings and stickpins can be stuck onto a board or cushion. The board or cushion may then be placed into a soft, padded bag for storage.</p>
<p>• Neckchains may be stored on wooden or fabric-covered hooks, or draped across cushions and stored covered in a drawer. You can also use the long box or folder in which the neckchain or necklace was delivered by the jeweler. Bracelets and knotted (on string or silk thread) necklaces are best stored laid flat.</p>
<p>The disadvantage of storing in wraps or bags, is that the jewels are hidden from view. This isn&#8217;t always a bad thing (some stones and materials can fade with prolonged exposure to light). But as your collection grows larger, it is more convenient to locate items by sight. Some people also take great pleasure in arranging their gems, and even a small, neatly arranged, jewelry collection can be an impressive sight.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2011/01/15/simple-solutions-for-jewelry-storage-2/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>3</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>How Is Larimar Graded?</title>
		<link>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2010/12/07/how-is-larimar-graded-2/</link>
		<comments>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2010/12/07/how-is-larimar-graded-2/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 07 Dec 2010 14:39:38 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Hand Trades</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Insights]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/?p=729</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There are several factors typically used to grade the stone, with color and patterning being the primary ones: 1.Color – the deeper, &#8220;volcanic&#8221; blues are considered to be &#8220;best&#8221;. 2.Patterning – the richer, more interesting, the better. 3.Luster &#8211; is it glossy? 4.Luminosity &#8211; does it seem to &#8220;glow&#8221; or have an inner light? 5.Clarity [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>There are several factors typically used to grade the stone, with color and patterning being the primary ones:<br />
1.Color – the deeper, &#8220;volcanic&#8221; blues are considered to be &#8220;best&#8221;.<br />
2.Patterning – the richer, more interesting, the better.<br />
3.Luster &#8211; is it glossy?<br />
4.Luminosity &#8211; does it seem to &#8220;glow&#8221; or have an inner light?<br />
5.Clarity &#8211; is it free of obvious defects? (Pits, cracks, carbon deposits, etc.)<br />
6.Translucence &#8211; can light pass thru a portion of the stone?<br />
7.Chatoyance &#8211; a luminous band with a silky luster (like that typical of cat&#8217;s-eye).<br />
There is no one particular factor that determines the grade; it is a combination of factors. The depth of color alone may not &#8220;make or break&#8221; the grade; the pattern and luminosity may bring up the grade of a stone whose color may not be as deep as others.</p>
<p>With larimar, perhaps more than with any other gemstone, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Some prefer the very light blues of larimar, others prefer larimar stones that tend towards the green, and while others prefer larimar with mineral spots, some prefer larimar with no patterning at all.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://handtradescommunity.com/blog/2010/12/07/how-is-larimar-graded-2/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
	</channel>
</rss>

<!-- Dynamic Page Served (once) in 0.622 seconds -->

