Men's Fashion Rings

 Mens opal rings have worn rings for more years than people presume, and not merely a simple wedding band. A combination of a wider metal spectrum, changing sensibilities and tastes, and a wider design spectrum, one can refer to men's fashion rings and not be thought daft.


Gold and silver have long been joined by titanium, tungsten steel, tungsten carbide, ceramic, palladium, and simple steel as ringmaking materials, and men's rings are not exempt. These rings are well-fitted for such stones as diamond, emerald, ruby, topaz, onyx, turquoise, opal, cubic zirconia, and more, and the colour versatility augments the design variety.


Most men's rings still come in gold or silver because of their affordability-the standard price range is between $20 and $200, depending on the stone inlay-but gold is seen as somewhat traditional while, lately, silver and steel alloys are seen as even more affordable.


According to Justmen'sRings.com, tungsten, titanium, stainless, and palladium are becoming more popular men's ring choices. Tungsten in particular is popular for its durability-the site says tungsten rings are the hardest jewelry ever hand-made and difficult to impossible to scratch or nick, not to mention that you can polish them back to their original shine readily enough. They are also amenable to two-toning between yellow and white, whether in wedding band styles or general fashion styles.




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What is the Best Opal in the World?

 "Potch" is what we call worthless opal earrings. It is actually opal but is has dull and lifeless grey black , white or unappealing ranges of color.


These days people tend to think that opal is found in Australia. Well it certainly is and there are two predominant types: black opal and white opal. Black opal comes from the Lightning Ridge region in the state of NSW and white opal comes from the Coober Pedy region in the state of South Australia.


Australian black opal is recognized as being the best quality gemstone opal in the world. You really need to think about that for a while. Obviously there is beautiful opal found in not just Coober Pedy but in different parts of the world.


Opal is found in all corners of the earth and has been known for many hundreds of years before it was found in Australia. Louis Leakey, an anthropologist in Kenya, found opal which had been worked by early artisans as long ago as 6,000 years.


Today there are still deposits of opal found in Hungary, Germany, Russia and other European countries as well as North and South America and Africa.


Many African states are finding deposits of opal. There is opal found in most continents and many countries but the deposits are small and the quality of opal is not good. In Australia the quantity is huge and the quality is magnificent at the top end.


I guess what experts mean is that if you are looking for the very best gemstone opal then you will most likely be talking about the black opal.


I have seen a million dollars worth of gemstone black opal held in the palm of a miner's hand. But I have also seen truckloads of worthless opal.




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Why Australian Opals Are the Best in the World

 Australian opals are blessed with an unusual, iridescent beauty and none more so than those found in Australia. As the primary source of this sumptuous gemstone where around 95 percent of the worlds bounty is found, the Australian outback provides the perfect harsh, dry conditions in which opals thrive. While there are many mining towns throughout the country, the four main ones are Andamooka, Coober Pedy, Lightning Ridge and White Cliffs.


Not only are the finest opals found in Australia, but the best cutters are also located here; an essential factor in calculating their quality and ultimate worth. Other ingredients which go into determining the value of the stone are the colour play, brilliance, body tone, faults and the class of opal. Single opals are considerably more expensive than doublets or triplets which are an assembled stone which are only a small part natural opal.


Body tone refers to the shade of the opal which ranges from black through to white. The darker hues are more sought after and consequently dearer because the colour play of opals shows up better against these backgrounds. Black opals are the rarest of all, making them even more precious.


This "play of colour" is what makes opals so appealing and the better this appears the more valuable the stone tends to be. It is caused by diffraction of light through the different shaped spheres of silica, of which the opal is made up. For example light passing through the larger spheres may appear red, while that passing along the smaller spheres could seem blue or green.




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Opal Jewelry Information

The earliest known black opal jewelry artifacts uncovered in a cave in Kenya by famous anthropologist Louis Leakey were said to have dated back to about 4000 B.C., and were most likely originated from Ethiopia. History shows that the discovery and cultivation of the opal stone was important to the prestige and power of several ancient civilizations. As early humans continued to unearth various new and rare gemstones from the caves and crevices in which they were deposited hundreds of years before, they soon learned how to work them into decorative shapes. Once the craft of shaping opal jewelry was mastered, these mysteriously illuminating gems were rendered priceless, and revered for symbolizing great power and wealth.


What is Opal?


The modern name for the opal gem is derived from the Latin word "Opalus," meaning: "to see a color change." Scientifically, opal is an amorphous mineraloid comprised of water and a rich mix of silica composites. Opal jewelry may range anywhere in color from white or grey, to black. Black opals are the most valuable and widely known type of opal, because the rainbow of colors that the opal stone omits appears much more vibrant when standing-out against the backdrop of a darker stone. Black opals are unique and very expensive. This is because they can only be found in one location in all of the world. The place is called Lightning Ridge, and it is in Northern New South Wales. This miners' dream is home to hundreds of millions of dollars worth of precious black opal stones--stone's whose net worth value can be priced at such exponential rates as up to $15,000 per carat.




Shop Now: https://australianopaldirect.com/rings/black-opal-rings/

Opal Jewelry Information

The earliest known fire opal jewelry artifacts uncovered in a cave in Kenya by famous anthropologist Louis Leakey were said to have dated back to about 4000 B.C., and were most likely originated from Ethiopia. History shows that the discovery and cultivation of the opal stone was important to the prestige and power of several ancient civilizations. As early humans continued to unearth various new and rare gemstones from the caves and crevices in which they were deposited hundreds of years before, they soon learned how to work them into decorative shapes. Once the craft of shaping opal jewelry was mastered, these mysteriously illuminating gems were rendered priceless, and revered for symbolizing great power and wealth.


What is Opal?


The modern name for the opal gem is derived from the Latin word "Opalus," meaning: "to see a color change." Scientifically, opal is an amorphous mineraloid comprised of water and a rich mix of silica composites. Opal jewelry may range anywhere in color from white or grey, to black. Black opals are the most valuable and widely known type of opal, because the rainbow of colors that the opal stone omits appears much more vibrant when standing-out against the backdrop of a darker stone. Black opals are unique and very expensive. This is because they can only be found in one location in all of the world. The place is called Lightning Ridge, and it is in Northern New South Wales. This miners' dream is home to hundreds of millions of dollars worth of precious black opal stones--stone's whose net worth value can be priced at such exponential rates as up to $15,000 per carat.


Where does Opal come from?


Since the late 19th Century, Australia has been the number one country in opal export and production, contributing more than ninety percent of the global output. Opal of differing qualities occurs in over twenty other countries, and is particularly indigenous to Zambia, Ethiopia, Peru, Indonesia, New South Wales, New Zealand, Brazil, and Mexico.




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Opal Engagement Rings - Is an Opal Ring Perfect For You?

Black opal wedding rings is some of the most exotic and eye catching jewelry you can wear. Opals flash with the colors of the rainbow trapped within a silica gemstone. The most valuable black opals appear as angry storm clouds passing behind a rain washed rainbow. No two opals are the same. The color play of each is totally unique. They are beautiful, porous, fragile, highly prized and steeped in myth and legend. They make stunning engagement rings. But is an opal engagement ring right for you?


After all, opals are unlucky unless they are your birthstone, right?


Not at all! Opals are the birthstone of October and the zodiac stone of Libra, and yet they are enjoyed, admired and worn by people with birthdays throughout the year without any apparent extra bad luck befalling them! So how did this myth arise?


Like all good stories, it started a long time ago, and in Europe.


Opals have been prized throughout time for their beauty and rarity and the late 19th century Europeans were no exception! The European opal market at that time was supplied by Hungary, although some also came from further afield in India and the Middle East. But all that changed in 1890 when a new supply of significantly better opals was discovered. These were Australian opals and the like of their fiery opalescence had never been seen before! To protect their market, the Hungarians claimed the new opals were fakes.


Sir Walter Scott, like all good writers, drew on the confused panic of the day. He wrote in a novel that opals brought bad luck to people not born in October. The cursed myth was born, and the European opal market spiraled into near destruction. Near disaster was only averted when Queen Victoria herself intervened by giving gifts of opal jewelry at a Royal wedding!


Today the cursed myth may have passed into legend, but the beauty of Australian opals remains for all to see. Black opals and the best white opals have significant fire and enough play of color to hold their own even when set alongside diamonds.




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Opal Jewelry - What is a Boulder Opal?

 Australian Opal jewelry is some of the most sought after gemstone jewelry in the world, being fifth after diamonds, sapphires, rubies and emeralds. This is because opals are some of the most beautiful gemstones available. And whilst most people have probably heard of black, white and fire opals, boulder opals are probably less well known. So why are they becoming so popular?

The body colors of these gemstones are derived from the host rock in which they formed and are categorised as black, gray, white, fire, crystal or jelly. Despite this, opals actually exhibit a wide variety of colors, including pink, fiery orange, tropical blue and others. However, they are most prized for their internal play of color and fiery opalescence. In a good gemstone, the effect is like the rainbow display on the surface of a soap bubble.

Opals have a unique physical structure. They are comprised of silicon dioxide, which is also the major component of sand. However, in opal, the silicon dioxide forms minute spheres which aggregate into a pyramid shaped grid. And tiny droplets of water become trapped within this grid as the opal forms. The pay of color seen within an opal comes from fractures and faults within this pyramid structure. And whilst this is the same for all opals, not all opals are the same.

So what exactly is a boulder opal?

Like 95% of opals used in jewelry worldwide, boulder opals are found in Australia. However, rather than being mined in the conventional way, these specific opals are found thinly spread over a extensive region of Australian Ironstone, also known as boulder country. In the natural state, the gemstone forms to fill in the cracks and crevices of the Ironstone boulders.

Unlike black, fire, white and grey opals which are readily cut from their host rock, opals in ironstone boulders are so closely associated with it, and sometimes for such thin tracks as they fill in the crack in the rocks that they cannot easily be cut from their host rock. This was initially a stumbling block which prevented these gorgeous gems from taking their rightful place in opal jewelry.

However, these days, the gemstone is always cut from the boulder in such as way as to include some of the brown host Ironstone rock, which makes for very beautiful and highly unusual pieces, perfect for fine jewelry! Today these opals are extremely popular and jewelry containing it is in high demand. Because the opal veins often form in a freeform way, the resultant boulder opals are often in an irregular baroque shape, perfect for earrings or pendants.




Be Mystified With a Black Opal Ring!

 In a nut shell, the black opal earrings is a symbol of elegance and mystique. There are a lot of things that have caught the attention of a lot people when it comes to these stones. One is that the beautiful colors that can be seen in each opal. Beneath its dark exterior lies a beauty like no other, and only a true jewel lover can appreciate these features. And for any occasion, even for an engagement ring, these precious stones can be the best gift choice.


You have to admit, black opals are very interesting jewelry pieces. Its enigmatic form and soft texture makes for a great ring centerpiece. A black stone with a bedazzling array of colors beneath the shiny exterior and you'll only keep wondering what these black opals are exactly. And where better to put these objects than on a ring right? These days, black opal rings have become very popular when it comes to gift choices, particularly for engagements.


So if you're deciding on what ring to go with on your engagement, why not try a black opal ring? Diamonds are great, but this can be a lot better. Rather than going with the conventional rings that people go for, why not go with these black beauties? Not only is it a unique choice, these rings are also quite cheaper than your typical diamond rings.


And think about the message that you'll be sending to your loved one with these extraordinary jewelry pieces. It isn't everyday that this type of ring gets to be given away for engagements. The stone on this ring will represent that love that, like the colors found in each stone, grows deeper and deeper. It's the perfect engagement ring!




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Why Australian Opals Are the Best in the World

 Australian opal rings are blessed with an unusual, iridescent beauty and none more so than those found in Australia. As the primary source of this sumptuous gemstone where around 95 percent of the worlds bounty is found, the Australian outback provides the perfect harsh, dry conditions in which opals thrive. While there are many mining towns throughout the country, the four main ones are Andamooka, Coober Pedy, Lightning Ridge and White Cliffs.


Not only are the finest opals found in Australia, but the best cutters are also located here; an essential factor in calculating their quality and ultimate worth. Other ingredients which go into determining the value of the stone are the colour play, brilliance, body tone, faults and the class of opal. Single opals are considerably more expensive than doublets or triplets which are an assembled stone which are only a small part natural opal.


Body tone refers to the shade of the opal which ranges from black through to white. The darker hues are more sought after and consequently dearer because the colour play of opals shows up better against these backgrounds. Black opals are the rarest of all, making them even more precious.


This "play of colour" is what makes opals so appealing and the better this appears the more valuable the stone tends to be. It is caused by diffraction of light through the different shaped spheres of silica, of which the opal is made up. For example light passing through the larger spheres may appear red, while that passing along the smaller spheres could seem blue or green.




Shop Now: https://australianopaldirect.com/rings/all-opal-rings/

Opal Jewelry Information

 The earliest known opal jewelry artifacts uncovered in a cave in Kenya by famous anthropologist Louis Leakey were said to have dated back to about 4000 B.C., and were most likely originated from Ethiopia. History shows that the discovery and cultivation of the opal stone was important to the prestige and power of several ancient civilizations. As early humans continued to unearth various new and rare gemstones from the caves and crevices in which they were deposited hundreds of years before, they soon learned how to work them into decorative shapes. Once the craft of shaping opal jewelry was mastered, these mysteriously illuminating gems were rendered priceless, and revered for symbolizing great power and wealth.


What is Opal?


The modern name for the opal gem is derived from the Latin word "Opalus," meaning: "to see a color change." Scientifically, opal is an amorphous mineraloid comprised of water and a rich mix of silica composites. Opal jewelry may range anywhere in color from white or grey, to black. Black opals are the most valuable and widely known type of opal, because the rainbow of colors that the opal stone omits appears much more vibrant when standing-out against the backdrop of a darker stone. Black opals are unique and very expensive. This is because they can only be found in one location in all of the world. The place is called Lightning Ridge, and it is in Northern New South Wales. This miners' dream is home to hundreds of millions of dollars worth of precious black opal stones--stone's whose net worth value can be priced at such exponential rates as up to $15,000 per carat.


Where does Opal come from?


Since the late 19th Century, Australia has been the number one country in opal export and production, contributing more than ninety percent of the global output. Opal of differing qualities occurs in over twenty other countries, and is particularly indigenous to Zambia, Ethiopia, Peru, Indonesia, New South Wales, New Zealand, Brazil, and Mexico.


What makes Opal Jewelry so Special?


Opal, whose colors changed with every shift of light, was rarer than pearls and diamonds, and destined to be the most common gem to be associated with the reflection of one's innermost desires and dreams. Early races believed that the opal stone possessed mystical energies that would enable its wearer to see the future. Opal jewelry is said to carry within it an innate sense of magic, and obtain the powers of prophetic insight and understanding for its wearer. Opal's beautifully reflecting and ever-changing spectral hues were believed to be a powerful and potent charm which allowed one to let go of their inhibitions and encouraged spontaneity. Opal jewelry is also rumored to aid in obtaining clarity. The opal, which looks different at every angle from which the stone is viewed, is said to have the power to amplify and mirror internal feelings, buried emotions, and desires. According to ancient Arabian folklore, the opal stone descended from heaven in powerful flashes of lightning. To the Romans, opal was considered to be a token of hope and one of purity.


Colors of Opal Jewelry


The truly unique thing about opal is that it displays all the colors of the color spectrum in a so-called "play of color," that results from the diffraction of light when passing through the tiny silica spheres that exist deep within the infrastructure of the opal. This means that the rainbow colors on the surface of the stone will move and change dramatically when you shift and rotate the stone in the palm of your hand. The value of each individual opal varies greatly in accordance with several different factors which determine its worth: such as body tone (or backdrop color), play of color, colors present, brilliance, pattern, shape, size, and cut of stone. Generally, black opal jewelry is the most highly coveted form of opal. The lighter gray and whiter body tones are more abundant in nature, and slightly less thrilling to the naked eye.


The Opal and Magic


In the middle ages, the opal was known as the "eye stone," because it was believed to have a magical power which would help its wearer have sharper eyesight. Blonde women were known to collect as many pieces of opal jewelry as they could muster, because the opal was believed to contain within it the power to magically keep blonde hair from losing its luster and bright golden color.


Some cultures thought that the elaborate and illuminating colors of the opal, when reflected directly into a persons eyes, would render them invisible to that person. Thus, it was believed that an opal charm, when used properly, could give its owner mystical disappearing powers.


The Opal and Desire


Legend has it that one ancient Roman emperor offered to trade an entire third of his vast empire for a single opal. Cleopatra's famous lover Mark Antony loved opal. Legend says that he so deeply coveted an opal owned by Roman Senator Nonius for his beloved Cleopatra, that he had the Senator banished after he refused to sell his precious almond-sized stone, which was valued at over $80,000.


Some Legendary Opals


The "Aurora Australis"


Found in 1938 at Lightning Ridge, the "Aurora Australis" is the world's most valuable black opal. With its dominant red, green, and deep blue hues, this 3' by 1.8' inch 180 carat stone is more than just a pleasure to look at. Dug out from an old seabed encrusted deep within the ocean core, this rare beauty sports a distinct impression of a starfish fossil on its underside. Just last year, this prize opal gem was valued at $1,000,000. It is named after the northern lights.


The "Fire Queen"


Discovered in 1906 by a man named Chalie Dunstan, the 900 carat "Fire Queen" is the largest opal to date. This fiery red-hued giant opal was given to the Chicago Museum in 1928, and then in the 1940's, was sold to the highly acclaimed heir to an oil fortune, J.D. Rockefeller wished for it to be a part of his prestigious family collection. As for Charlie Dunstan, rumor has it that right after he sold the "Fire Queen," he got drunk and 'lost' two of its big-sized sister stones. In 1910, shortly after the stones had been lost, Dunstan was found dead. It was said that he committed suicide after the loss of his precious stones.




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How to Find the Best Deals on Unique Opal Rings Online

Red opal rings of course is the most valuable but often times opals of other colors can have features that render them unique in their own right. If you know your opals then you surly know that synthetic opals are now being manufactured and marketed. They are commonly referred to as "imitation" or "synthetic" and the fact is that they can look fantastic.


The problem is that you can bet your last dollar that synthetic opals are being marketed as real opals by someone online right now and this is a person that you don't want to do business with. Since determining what it is that makes a unique opal ring unique in the first place can have so many variables it is suggested that you do a lot of looking around online before you do any buying.


Beware of any deals that sound too good to be true and if you find a someone that seems stupid and doesn't know what they are doing watch out. This is because, after the deal is done, it often times will turn out that you were the one that was stupid and didn't know what they were doing.


One idea is to visit jewelry related chat rooms and talk to like minded shoppers that may be able to point you in the right direction. Also, bear in mind that your first priority should be to find reputable people to buy from. Running around looking franticly for a good "steal" will most often lead to the type of steal that you don't want.




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How to Choose the Perfect Opal Rings

Black Opal Rings are one of the most flamboyant forms of opal jewelry. They have been prized down the ages for their breathtaking opalescence and dramatic range of color flashes. They have been considered lucky charms capable of bestowing many powers on the wearer including beauty, success and happiness as well as the powers of prophecy and foresight. And they symbolize hope and purity too. But it is their beauty, which makes opal rings perfect gifts.


When looking for the best opal ring you first need to focus on finding the ideal gemstone for the centerpiece. This can be quite difficult because there are a wide range of gemstone types but whether you choose a black, white, boulder, fire, jelly or any other opal, the most important thing to look for is the brilliance of the internal fire.


Like diamonds, opals are graded four ways according to their pattern, colors, shape and clarity. Apart from clarity, which must be good, these gradings are essentially descriptive classifications which can be interpreted subjectively. After all everyone will pick a different shape stone with different colors and patterns of opalescence for their favorite! But the best opals all have strong and striking plays of color. Gemstones with poor clarity and weak color plays do not make attractive rings.


Some opals exhibit a wide range of colors including blues, greens, purples and flashes of orange red and pink. And although many people believe that the best gemstones have the widest range of color play, this is again very subjective. It is the strength and vibrancy of the colors that makes a good opal. This means that you might prefer a gemstone with a bold blue and green color play to one which has a lot of colors but no life to it.


And if you are choosing an opal ring for someone else, say for an engagement ring, try to choose a gemstone which incorporates their favourite colors in its color play.


The best opal rings have high domed cabochon gemstones at their centers to maximise the color and make the most of its clarity. Superb clarity is important because any included sand particles can ruin the opalescence of the gemstone and with it, the appearance of the ring.


Once you have found your perfect opal, make sure it is set beautifully into a quality precious metal setting. The ring will look best if you choose a metal color matching the gemstone base color. Black opal rings always look best when made from white gold, silver or platinum but white and boulder opals can look wonderful in white or yellow metal depending upon the color plays within the gemstone itself.




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Fire Opal - A Cool Stone With Lots of Heat

 All fire opal jewelry are made of silicon dioxide and water. The amount of water varies and determines the fragility of the individual stone. This gemstone is formed when silicon dioxide becomes wet and turns to a gel. This gel substance then works its way into the open spaces between rocks and caves. As it sets, an opal is formed.


Typically, the gemstone retains about 10% water content which makes it quite soft and delicate. They also come in a variety of colors-shades of blue, green, pink, black, white, red, yellow and orange. This stone is coveted for its play of color which is the dazzling display of color as light bounces off the spheres of silica.


The fire opal is one gemstone that is less desired for its play of color as it is for its actual color. As the name implies, this stone is afire with reds, yellows and oranges. Finding a fire opal pendant with hot shades as well as play of color offers the best of both worlds.


Where do they come from?


This fiery stone typically comes from Mexico. In fact, it is the country's official gemstone. Ancient Mayans and Aztecs used the fire opal in their mosaic creations and also in special ceremonies. While most of the gemstones on the market likely came from Mexico, there are other mines located in the United States, South America and Australia among others. Most recently, significant deposits were found in Brazil and the stones were of considerable size.




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Why Every Woman Should Have a Black Opal Ring

 If you are one of those women who are into beautiful accessories and know that every outfit needs them, then you should definitely add a  black opal ring to your collection. This ring will not only give your attire a sophisticated look, but it is also very elegant and beautiful to look at. If you are one of those women who wear a lot of black, the black Opal ring will match your wardrobes perfectly.


In order to find the perfect ring that suits your taste, you will have to know a little bit about opal rings and their attributes. When making your purchase, take into consideration the attributes of patterns, color, shape, and clarity. While there are so many things to choose from, you have a wide range of choices that will best fit you. You will find that even some of the rings have other colors that swirl hiding in the stone, but look amazing before the light.




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How to Get Customer Reviews

 Third-party validation, in the form of customer reviews, can carry a persuasive power that advertising and marketing simply cannot match. According to the marketing site HubSpot, 52 percent of surveyed consumers say positive reviews make them more likely to consider a business (as compared to 28 percent who consider only location and price).


Obtaining customer reviews can be part of your overall web marketing strategy. Fortunately, the reach of the Internet opens up lots of opportunity to connect with your customers.


Engaging Customers for Reviews

Ask nicely. There's nothing wrong with contacting your best customers and simply asking them to write their impression of your business. Ask them to describe their success stories, or detail how a problem got solved, with the help of your business. But by the same token...


Don't overdo it. Aggressively soliciting for reviews compromises your credibility and can even make you look a little desperate.


Interview them. Some customers may hesitate to submit reviews or testimonials because they're not confident in their writing ability. If you suspect this, ask if you may interview your customer. Ask him to speak off the cuff while you take the notes. Then, after the customer has approved the text, you may edit it into a review.


Post some reviews yourself. Not reviews of your own company, of course - but you can review related businesses. Identifying yourself as a business owner yourself can position you as an engaged member of the community and remind people about your company.


Hold a contest. You don't want to offer free services or other giveaways for reviews- that suggests compensation in exchange for endorsement, which is unethical. But you can create a grand prize drawing for all customers and prospects, with no strings attached. The more happy customers and prospects you generate, the better the chances for customer reviews later.


Thank them. In any interactive forum, whether Facebook comments or a website's testimonial page, include your own responses and thanks for reviews - even the less-than-glowing ones.


Response Tactics and Media

Go to video. If you have the time and resources, a short video to post on YouTube, Vimeo or your own site adds sound, movement and engagement to the typical customer testimonial.



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Fire Opal - A Cool Stone With Lots of Heat

 All blue opal rings are made of silicon dioxide and water. The amount of water varies and determines the fragility of the individual stone. This gemstone is formed when silicon dioxide becomes wet and turns to a gel. This gel substance then works its way into the open spaces between rocks and caves. As it sets, an opal is formed.


Typically, the gemstone retains about 10% water content which makes it quite soft and delicate. They also come in a variety of colors-shades of blue, green, pink, black, white, red, yellow and orange. This stone is coveted for its play of color which is the dazzling display of color as light bounces off the spheres of silica.


The fire opal is one gemstone that is less desired for its play of color as it is for its actual color. As the name implies, this stone is afire with reds, yellows and oranges. Finding a fire opal pendant with hot shades as well as play of color offers the best of both worlds.


Where do they come from?


This fiery stone typically comes from Mexico. In fact, it is the country's official gemstone. Ancient Mayans and Aztecs used the fire opal in their mosaic creations and also in special ceremonies. While most of the gemstones on the market likely came from Mexico, there are other mines located in the United States, South America and Australia among others. Most recently, significant deposits were found in Brazil and the stones were of considerable size.


Special days for a special stone


The opal is the birthstone for October. This is a great time to surprise a birthday girl with the bold hot shades of a fire opal bracelet instead of the more commonly known pastel iridescent gemstones. Just looking at it will lift her spirits and energize her. Another special day reserved for this stone is the 14th wedding anniversary. After all these years, the love is still burning strong. What better way to show this than with a smoldering hot fire opal.




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Opal Essence - Know How Did They Evolve

 Australian opal rings jewelry is truly unique. No two stones are the same and they have such complex bursts of color that it is often difficult to describe them.


Where do they come from?


Most of the pieces on the market come from Australia. The first mine White Cliffs started operating in the late 1800s. Other notable Australian mines are Andamooka, Lightening Ridge and Coober Peddy. More recently, deposits have been discovered in Central and South America, but Australia is still the most significant supplier.


Why is it so delicate?


These gems are known for their delicate nature. The reason for this is their chemical make-up. The stone in an (opal ring) is sedimentary. As silicate filled water passes through, it deposits the silicate and the gems grow from that in the nooks and crevices of river beds and caves.


The spheres of silicates are what cause the glorious diffraction of light in each stone. However, the water is what makes it so delicate. These jewelry-grade gems contain between 6 and 10% water while others may have as much as 20%. This makes them extremely soft.


How to care and clean them


As mentioned above, the stones in an (opal bracelet) are very delicate so care should be taken when wearing it. On the Mohs scale, these stones average about a 6 which means they can be chipped, scratched and broken quite easily. Instead of soaking, because it will absorb the liquid, simply wipe down the stones with a soft wet cloth. For storage, protect them from harder stones and make sure they have sufficient moisture in the air to prevent drying.


Varieties to choose from


There are stones that exhibit bold fiery colors like the black variety created in volcanic ash. Others are cool and calm like the white ones. Some varieties are created using layers of opal and another clear stone to create texture and more dramatic play of light. Still yet, some gems are removed with their host rock as a background. These are kept in asymmetrical shapes for unique pieces of jewelry.


Special occasions


The (opal birthstone) celebrates the month of October. It is also commemorative of the 14th wedding anniversary. Because of its unique and delicate qualities, this gem also makes a wonderful family heirloom. A wedding present passed from mother to daughter, a sweet sixteen gift or simply as a gift from an estate. If properly cared for, this jewelry can last through the ages and be enjoyed by generations.




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Opal Engagement Rings - Is an Opal Ring Perfect For You?

Black opal ring jewelry is some of the most exotic and eye catching jewelry you can wear. Opals flash with the colors of the rainbow trapped within a silica gemstone. The most valuable black opals appear as angry storm clouds passing behind a rain washed rainbow. No two opals are the same. The color play of each is totally unique. They are beautiful, porous, fragile, highly prized and steeped in myth and legend. They make stunning engagement rings. But is an opal engagement ring right for you?


After all, opals are unlucky unless they are your birthstone, right?


Not at all! Opals are the birthstone of October and the zodiac stone of Libra, and yet they are enjoyed, admired and worn by people with birthdays throughout the year without any apparent extra bad luck befalling them! So how did this myth arise?


Like all good stories, it started a long time ago, and in Europe.


Opals have been prized throughout time for their beauty and rarity and the late 19th century Europeans were no exception! The European opal market at that time was supplied by Hungary, although some also came from further afield in India and the Middle East. But all that changed in 1890 when a new supply of significantly better opals was discovered. These were Australian opals and the like of their fiery opalescence had never been seen before! To protect their market, the Hungarians claimed the new opals were fakes.


Sir Walter Scott, like all good writers, drew on the confused panic of the day. He wrote in a novel that opals brought bad luck to people not born in October. The cursed myth was born, and the European opal market spiraled into near destruction. Near disaster was only averted when Queen Victoria herself intervened by giving gifts of opal jewelry at a Royal wedding!


Today the cursed myth may have passed into legend, but the beauty of Australian opals remains for all to see. Black opals and the best white opals have significant fire and enough play of color to hold their own even when set alongside diamonds.


Opals are much softer than diamonds though, and so they should set so that the gemstone is protected from chips and scratches. Bezel settings are popular for this reason. They should be cleaned gently in plain water, and definitely not in the harsh chemical cleaners suited to diamonds!


Opals make sensational jewelry. And if you are looking for a staggeringly beautiful and totally unique engagement ring with a mythical antique feel, an opal ring could be perfect for you.




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Fire Opal - A Cool Stone With Lots of Heat

 All fire opal jewelrys are made of silicon dioxide and water. The amount of water varies and determines the fragility of the individual stone. This gemstone is formed when silicon dioxide becomes wet and turns to a gel. This gel substance then works its way into the open spaces between rocks and caves. As it sets, an opal is formed.


Typically, the gemstone retains about 10% water content which makes it quite soft and delicate. They also come in a variety of colors-shades of blue, green, pink, black, white, red, yellow and orange. This stone is coveted for its play of color which is the dazzling display of color as light bounces off the spheres of silica.


The fire opal is one gemstone that is less desired for its play of color as it is for its actual color. As the name implies, this stone is afire with reds, yellows and oranges. Finding a fire opal pendant with hot shades as well as play of color offers the best of both worlds.


Where do they come from?


This fiery stone typically comes from Mexico. In fact, it is the country's official gemstone. Ancient Mayans and Aztecs used the fire opal in their mosaic creations and also in special ceremonies. While most of the gemstones on the market likely came from Mexico, there are other mines located in the United States, South America and Australia among others. Most recently, significant deposits were found in Brazil and the stones were of considerable size.


Special days for a special stone


The opal is the birthstone for October. This is a great time to surprise a birthday girl with the bold hot shades of a fire opal bracelet instead of the more commonly known pastel iridescent gemstones. Just looking at it will lift her spirits and energize her. Another special day reserved for this stone is the 14th wedding anniversary. After all these years, the love is still burning strong. What better way to show this than with a smoldering hot fire opal.




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How to Choose the Perfect Opal Rings

Blue opal rings are one of the most flamboyant forms of opal jewelry. They have been prized down the ages for their breathtaking opalescence and dramatic range of color flashes. They have been considered lucky charms capable of bestowing many powers on the wearer including beauty, success and happiness as well as the powers of prophecy and foresight. And they symbolize hope and purity too. But it is their beauty, which makes opal rings perfect gifts.


When looking for the best opal ring you first need to focus on finding the ideal gemstone for the centerpiece. This can be quite difficult because there are a wide range of gemstone types but whether you choose a black, white, boulder, fire, jelly or any other opal, the most important thing to look for is the brilliance of the internal fire.


Like diamonds, opals are graded four ways according to their pattern, colors, shape and clarity. Apart from clarity, which must be good, these gradings are essentially descriptive classifications which can be interpreted subjectively. After all everyone will pick a different shape stone with different colors and patterns of opalescence for their favorite! But the best opals all have strong and striking plays of color. Gemstones with poor clarity and weak color plays do not make attractive rings.




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What's New on the Revised Amazon's Customer Review Guidelines?

When it comes to people who either write and/or publish Kindle books on the Amazon Marketplace, it's always a good idea to stay abreast of how self-publishing your work may need to change depending on any new, revised or expired guidelines. One of these in particular that has been in the news recently with the Amazon Marketplace is the different ways as to how Verified Customer Reviews can now be handled.


Ultimately, these guidelines are being used to give the average reader a fair and unbiased look at what exactly is available in a book as well as whether or not it is well-written or of a general high quality.


Amazon has recently removed hundreds of reviews from writers in the same niche. While asking fellow writers for reviews is still an option, just keep in mind that if the writer has published in the same niche as your book, their review might not be published.


Another key portion of these new review guidelines you should pay special attention to concerns how the usage of promotional content in reviews is no longer accepted on the Amazon Marketplace whatsoever. This is arguably the most critical portion of all in that many Kindle book authors relied on their publishers to create positive reviews for them. This particular portion of the new rules can even include when authors linked with one publisher offer reviews of books by authors also associated with that very same publisher.


In layman's terms, Amazon is no longer allowing anyone at all to make reviews solely for promotional purposes.This ultimately makes it so there's now a much fairer, old-fashioned sense of competition between competing Kindle book authors and publishers on the Amazon Marketplace.


In summary, the new Amazon Marketplace rules have specifically been adjusted so as to ensure that the only people who can (and subsequently are) actually leaving reviews on the site are those who've actually bought, read and finished the product in question - and all through the Amazon Marketplace itself. In addition, verified purchase reviews will clearly marked as such, and should they be positive, will understandably be much more beneficial to you as a Kindle book writer or publisher.


These verified purchase reviews are actually so important that they're almost always given precedence over other existing reviews. This obviously has a plus and down side in that if said review isn't very complimentary, it will obviously hurt you that much more.


All in all, while the new guidelines now in place over at the Amazon Marketplace may be a bit of a chore to follow, it's making the Amazon Marketplace a much better - not to mention easier - place to sell and market your Kindle books than ever before. And for that, surely, we can all be thankful!




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Silver Opal Rings: The Stunning Look for Less

 In fashion, to show true beauty lies on how stunning your dress is and how elegant your jewelry are. Silver opal reviews are the perfect accessory to reveal a unique and more noticeable you. There are also opal earrings, necklaces and bracelets but right now my job is to convince you why the opal rings are a must in your jewelry collection.


First, opals have certain features that are long lasting. Plus, its uniqueness is very special and natural. So perhaps, you can say that they are authentic. This is an October birthstone and they are of different colors such as gray, white and of course, my personal favorite which is blue. Another favorite of mine is the red opal which symbolizes burning passion and love.


The manufacturers of these fine jewelry are using precious gemstones to attract wearers particularly women. Every ring that is made with silver and opal can guarantee a diverse and worthwhile experience because of its rarity. This ring gives me with so much delight every time I use it because I am drawing attention from the crowd. Standing out never seems to tire me so I relish wearing my ring.


Because there are many types of opal rings, you have so many options to think about. If you want to look more dramatic then perhaps the black one is right for you. If you are practical, plain and simple then I say go for the white. We all have our favorites; thankfully, there's a wide array of opals that we can choose as centerpiece. Each unique, but sure to dazzle


Whenever I am in the mood to look mystical yet elegant then I pair my lovely dress with this exquisite silver opal ring. People then never fail to turn their eyes on me as the ring adds more glamour to my appearance and the good thing is the color matches almost any of my outfits. So if you are thinking of opal rings, choose silver colored metal settings.


You can find many online stores offering jewelry of impeccable quality. Plus, their websites are rather user-friendly so browsing for pictures or information should be a breeze. Make sure though that you check customer reviews and compare their prices with other online sellers. Even if these rings are rather affordable, you should ensure that you are getting your money's worth.




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Black Opal Pendant - Rare And Beautiful

 The black opal pendant is the rarest stone which is found on the earth, the black opal pendant are very costly, and they are used to make pendent and other forms of jewelry. This gemstone looks very beautiful with all the glittering and royalty. A person who wears this jewelry looks more posh. These precious stones are found in Australia. The Black Opal Pendant is the wide choice of many customers around the world; these stones have the characteristics of color changing. When we look at these stones from different angles, these stones can change the color.


You may wonder how an opal is formed; these are formed by silica gel many million years back. The Black Opal Pendant is the most common preferred jewelry around the world, the black opal pendent suits with all types of attire. The most amazing fact about this precious stone is that, it is made of vast water a particle which makes these stones rare. These stones are obtained by mining. There are many mining companies in Australia, who are in the business of mining for these stones.


These substances are not very soft like the diamonds. The opal jewelry is usually worn with the chain, usually women wear these pendants. The stones are easy to melt and can be fitted with any pendants of various shapes. The rice range of these stones starts from $ 50 and goes up to $3000 depending up on the weight. The Black Opal Pendants have many characteristics, when compared with other precious stones. This pendant is made with silver or gold and is in the form of a chain which has many colors that can reflect through the stones. There are many websites from where you can purchasethis Black Opal Pendants, you can read about the testimonies online.


The designs are breathtaking, which is handcrafted by skilled craftsmen. Some people wear this Black Opal Pendant as per the instruction of an astrologer or for style. There are numerous designs available in the store, and you can buy or order your own Black Opal Pendant as per you specification. There are websites, which have auctions, all you need to do is to register and bid for your favorite. The color of the stones is very soothing to you eyes. The Black Opal Pendant can be worn with all traditional and western dress styles.


The most amazing offer for the customers is 30-day money back offer, which is provided by the dealers. This stunning gemstone pendants can also be given as a gift to your loved ones. These pendants sparkle in nature; these stones can also be worn for treatment of certain skin problems. The best way to preserve your jewelry is to keep clean. To clean it is to wipe with tissue paper or by using a silk cloth. It is not recommended to use chemicals another solutions.You can even clean these stones with the help of warm water.




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All This Because of a Dog! A Book Review of Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo

 India opal reviews Buloni went to the store to buy a box of macaroni and cheese, rice, and two tomatoes. But she never expected to come back with a new dog that would change her life. Find out what things happened to her in Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo.


Because of Winn-Dixie, there was a big ruckus in the store. Employees were running around, waving their arms. The store manager was screaming mad. And then a big, ugly, scraggly dog came running around the corner.


"He skidded to a stop and smiled right at me. I had never before in my life seen a dog smile, but that is what he did. He pulled back his lips and showed me all his teeth."


Before you know it, India said it was her dog. She couldn't help herself. She didn't want it to go to the pound.


She named him Winn-Dixie, after the store they were in. Then the two of them walked home.


India and her father, the preacher, had just moved to town, so she had no friends. Because of Winn-Dixie, she met Miss Franny Block at the library and got to listen to her story about the bear.


Because of Winn-Dixie, she ended up working in the pet shop, where she met Otis. He had a knack for playing the guitar real pretty, and all the animals would stop to listen.


Because of that dog, she ended up in the yard of the neighborhood witch, Gloria Dump. She told her everything about her life and how she was feeling, and Gloria Dump had a special way to make her feel all better.


Because of Winn-Dixie, she ended up next to pinch-faced Amanda Wilkinson. Both of them found out about an old candy that tasted sweet and sad at the same time.


And because of that dog, the party that India planned with Gloria Dump, which they decorated for, and made egg salad sandwiches for, and invited everyone to, was almost ruined. But it wasn't Winn-Dixie's fault. Not really, anyway. Because can it be your fault if what you did was just part of your character, and not something you were trying to do?


Kids will enjoy the way India and her dog make friends and enemies in the town, and the way things come together to make surprises all around. Children who love animals, or dogs especially, will be able to relate to the special bond you have with a pet, especially when you are feeling lonely and friendless.




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Invest in a Customer Review Software to Boost Your Business

 In business, decisions and time customer reviews money. Not having sufficient information about or not keeping in touch with customers can cause you to make disastrous choices. For example, every time a business starts a new marketing campaign, it is always important to understand whether the techniques used in the campaign are bringing the desired benefits. This is where effective review software for website comes in. Research shows that customer reviews are essential in business and marketing.


Here are some of the benefits of investing in customer review software for marketing purposes:


1. Cost effective

The primary concern for any business running a marketing campaign is usually whether or not the campaign is worth the money going into it. But just think of it. Investing a few dollars into customer review software helps you not only keep in touch with your customers but also helps you collecting customer reviews and feedback. By providing you with the knowledge of what your customers are looking for, helps you make wiser decisions. It also helps you strategize on how you can improve and deliver what your customers are asking for, resulting in happy customers. And what is that to a business? It's priceless.


2. Easy to interpret the message

Marketing campaigns strive to put across a message that the target market can easily understand and identify with. review software not only help you gather reviews but also help you actively ask your customers for their feedback. This in turn helps you strategize and improve your business to keep your clients satisfied. For example, it's no accident that more people buy your product after reading positive reviews written by other clients.


3. Flexible

Today, businesses are searching for customer bases across a wide range of demographics. To realize this goal, they must use their marketing strategies in various platforms. For instance, a realtor will want to advertise to say people between 28-40 who tend to have established a good bank account and are ready to buy. This is one of the areas where reviews come in handy. So look for a good, flexible customer review website that you can use to help you achieve this.


4. Great for networking and making connections

One of the key aspects of marketing which reviews provide is by helping you connect your products with your target market. Reviews and comments left by previous clients provide you with far-reaching results.

So implementing reviews into your marketing campaign can translate into incredible growth for your business. For best results, use the best review and commenting systems and learn how to use it to your benefit.




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Silver Opal Rings: The Stunning Look for Less

 In fashion, to show true beauty lies on how stunning your dress is and how elegant your jewelry are. Silver opal reviews are the perfect accessory to reveal a unique and more noticeable you. There are also opal earrings, necklaces and bracelets but right now my job is to convince you why the opal rings are a must in your jewelry collection.


First, opals have certain features that are long lasting. Plus, its uniqueness is very special and natural. So perhaps, you can say that they are authentic. This is an October birthstone and they are of different colors such as gray, white and of course, my personal favorite which is blue. Another favorite of mine is the red opal which symbolizes burning passion and love.


The manufacturers of these fine jewelry are using precious gemstones to attract wearers particularly women. Every ring that is made with silver and opal can guarantee a diverse and worthwhile experience because of its rarity. This ring gives me with so much delight every time I use it because I am drawing attention from the crowd. Standing out never seems to tire me so I relish wearing my ring.


Because there are many types of opal rings, you have so many options to think about. If you want to look more dramatic then perhaps the black one is right for you. If you are practical, plain and simple then I say go for the white. We all have our favorites; thankfully, there's a wide array of opals that we can choose as centerpiece. Each unique, but sure to dazzle


Whenever I am in the mood to look mystical yet elegant then I pair my lovely dress with this exquisite silver opal ring. People then never fail to turn their eyes on me as the ring adds more glamour to my appearance and the good thing is the color matches almost any of my outfits. So if you are thinking of opal rings, choose silver colored metal settings.


You can find many online stores offering jewelry of impeccable quality. Plus, their websites are rather user-friendly so browsing for pictures or information should be a breeze. Make sure though that you check customer reviews and compare their prices with other online sellers. Even if these rings are rather affordable, you should ensure that you are getting your money's worth.




Shop Now: https://australianopaldirect.com/australian-opal-direct-customer-reviews/

How To Get Good Customer Reviews

 Most people aren't going to give reviews unless they're angry, they're over-the-moon happy, or you asked for the review. It's better, of course, to get the last two over the first one, and thankfully there are ways to generate positive customer reviews.


Make Your Customers Happy


This is the very first thing you need to do if you want good reviews. Create amazing products or services and deliver them in an impeccable way. Follow up with your customers to ask if they need anything, and spoil them so they know they're valuable - especially if it's a high-ticket item.


Ask Your Customers for a Review


Set up your autoresponder so that within a follow-up series after the purchase is made, you ask for the customer to leave a review for you after a couple days. A little hint is to say, "Please leave a positive review, it's fast and easy, link here." If you put their mind "positive", then it will inform their writing as they do it even if they don't realize it.


Spread Positive Brand Awareness


Outside of the review process, work on spreading positive brand awareness by being a positive influence on social media, on your own blog, and even by writing reviews for others that are positive.


Respond to Bad Reviews as soon as Possible


When you see a bad review, it can be tempting to freak out and even cry. But the best thing you can do is take a moment, then respond in the most positive way possible to the bad review.


Reach Out to Unhappy Customers Personally


This is an imperative because you don't want the unhappy customer running around and talking about you everywhere, which people who are unhappy tend to do. Call them and ask them straight out how you can make it good.


Make Asking for a Review Part of Your Process


Remember that you should ask for reviews on every channel from every single customer every single day. The more you ask, the more likely you are to get more positive reviews.



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Fire Opal - A Cool Stone With Lots of Heat

 All opals are made of silicon dioxide and water. The amount of water varies and determines the fragility of the individual stone. This gemstone is formed when silicon dioxide becomes wet and turns to a gel. This gel substance then works its way into the open spaces between rocks and caves. As it sets, an Fire Opal Earrings is formed.


Typically, the gemstone retains about 10% water content which makes it quite soft and delicate. They also come in a variety of colors-shades of blue, green, pink, black, white, red, yellow and orange. This stone is coveted for its play of color which is the dazzling display of color as light bounces off the spheres of silica.


The fire opal is one gemstone that is less desired for its play of color as it is for its actual color. As the name implies, this stone is afire with reds, yellows and oranges. Finding a fire opal pendant with hot shades as well as play of color offers the best of both worlds.


Where do they come from?


This fiery stone typically comes from Mexico. In fact, it is the country's official gemstone. Ancient Mayans and Aztecs used the fire opal in their mosaic creations and also in special ceremonies. While most of the gemstones on the market likely came from Mexico, there are other mines located in the United States, South America and Australia among others. Most recently, significant deposits were found in Brazil and the stones were of considerable size.


Special days for a special stone


The opal is the birthstone for October. This is a great time to surprise a birthday girl with the bold hot shades of a fire opal bracelet instead of the more commonly known pastel iridescent gemstones. Just looking at it will lift her spirits and energize her. Another special day reserved for this stone is the 14th wedding anniversary. After all these years, the love is still burning strong. What better way to show this than with a smoldering hot fire opal.


Cleaning and caring for jewelry


Because of the water content, this stone is very delicate with a ranking between 5.5 and 6.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Because of this, protect pieces from scratches and chips by storing them in a soft jewelry bag away from other harder pieces of jewelry.


Fire opals and other varieties should be protected from sudden and extreme temperature changes as well as arid conditions that can dry the stones out. To clean them, use a very soft cloth and gentle soap with tepid water to remove any residue. Because this gem is not durable enough for everyday wear, saving it for special events means less cleaning as well. The polished look can eventually wear away and may require re-polishing.



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The Black Opals of Lightning Ridge

 Australia's Governor General, the Honourable Bill Hayden AC, named the Black Opal as Australia's national gemstone on 27th July 1993. Of all Australia's opal, black opal is the most exotic, treasured and looked for. Around 95% of world's supply come from Lightning Ridge in New South Wales or "The Ridge" as it is known locally.


I first travelled to "The Ridge" in 1999, it was a year of good rains and even in the summer the countryside appeared to have a green tinge. The road and surrounding plains are relentlessly flat marked occasionally with a distant farmhouse or shed. A contrast to later visits following eight years of drought meant that some children and dogs had grown up never knowing rain. Located 8 hours drive North West of Sydney near New South Wales border with Queensland, Lightning Ridge is less a ridge than an ever so slight rise of ground swelling out of Australia's wide brown plains. Sparsely vegetated with scruffy eucalyptus and native grasses, the entire area's covered with houses, camp sites and shanties. At night roaring portable generators power all the dwellings that are beyond the reach of the towns electricity supply.

The town is a decent size with paved roads and smart houses that decay at the fringes to the shanty town of the surrounding mine sites. The population officially is around 1,000 people although the membership at a local bowls club boasts more than 2,400. No one can really say how many souls inhabit the local area but the black opal attracts people from all over the world to live and dig for the luminescent gems.

In my many visits I have met an aging ex showgirl from Paris, investment bankers, politicians and even the make-up artist who looked after Elizabeth Taylor in some of her biggest films like Ben Hur and Cleopatra. Fortune has favoured many black opal seekers, others have found solace and friendship in the outback community and have never left. This town in many ways is still a frontier of sorts, hellishly hot in summer and subject to flooding of the nearby river at times. The swarms of flood mosquitoes can on occasions be so intense it is almost impossible to see and breathe if you venture outdoors unprotected.

There are many rather unique sights and places to visit in "The Ridge." One of the pastimes of visitors is to sift through some piles of dirt that miners have left aside in their diggings. This is known as "noodling" and a number of famous black opals have been found this way. What better way to relax after a day of sifting through the dirt and dust than to swim in the bath water hot Artesian Bores. These bores are from Australia's Artesian Basin, when rain falls upon the inland side of the Great Dividing Range, the water seeps underground and a million or so years later bubbles above ground into artificial pools. A nifty local way to keep cool in summer is to wear a light shirt into the water, when you step out into the hot wind the evaporative effect is so cooling it takes your breath away!

Another unusual way to look around the camp sites is to take the self drive "Car Door Tour," the painted doors of cars have been hung in trees. This way you can take the red door tour or green and so on guided by tree bound car doors. It is a great way to find your way around the maze of opal diggings without needing your GPS to get home. This is worth doing just to get a glimpse of outback architecture such as the Astronomers Monument and Amigo's Castle along with other unique building styles. In town there is the house built of bottles, numerous opal mine tours and a number of shops where you can buy the precious black opal gems. One of the more unusual things you are ever likely to do is pub crawl through the bush taking a swig at "The Glengarry Hilton," "The Sheepyard Inn" and "The Club in the Scrub."

Below ground is of course where most of the action lies for miners of black opal. Visitors are not excluded from the cool tunnels, tours undertake to show sculptures and even a cinema underground. There are many eccentricities about Lightning Ridge and the people who live in the black opal country. Overall, like many places of the world, the heart of Lightning Ridge lies in its community, it's why I keep returning.



Opal Jewelry -- Your Own Personal Piece of Rainbow

 White Opal Necklace is a magnificent gemstone whose shades encompass virtually every hue in the color spectrum. The play of color is different on every stone, and its shimmering hues gave rise to the word 'opalescent.' Because it is such an entrancing and unique gemstone, it is no wonder that opal jewelry is very popular among collectors and fashion enthusiasts.


Opal is the birthstone for October and its history is peppered with superstitions and beliefs that it caused both good luck and bad luck. In Europe, it used to be thought of as the 'official' stone of thieves and robbers. One of the greatest contributors to the myth that opal jewelry causes misfortune is a misreading of its depiction in Sir Walter Scott's 19th-century novel 'Anne of Geierstein.'


However, many cultures associate the opal with white magic and good fortune. The ancient Romans used opal jewelry as talismans and for them, it symbolized purity and hope. The ancient Greeks, on the other hand, believed that it gave the wearer the abilities to prophesy or foretell the future. It was also thought to bring luck to the wearer.


The popularity of opal jewelry is on the rise. Although it is classified as a semi-precious stone, the black opal can cost as much as a diamond. Opals can also range in price, depending on their color. Generally, red opals are the most expensive while blue opals are the least. Also, doublet or triplet opal jewelry, or a piece of opal that is sandwiched between two other materials is less expensive than solid opal pieces. Set in gold or silver, or embellished with other gemstones, there is a wide variety of opal jewelry to choose from.


Men and women throughout time have been fascinated and captured by the iridescent colors of opal jewelry. Bad or good luck notwithstanding, these multi-colored gems are worthy additions to any wardrobe. A person cannot be blamed for thinking that wearing an opal necklace, earrings, bracelet or ring is somehow just like having a piece of the rainbow close to the skin.



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Opal Jewelry - Why is It So Special?

Mens opal necklace can be made into so many different items of jewellery. Sure, we all know that there are opal pendants, opal rings, opal earrings and so on, but opals, as opposed to other stones like diamonds and rubies etc, can be made into special kinds of jewelry.


There is an opal variety from Australia called Koroit and this is an unattractive type of stone when we compare it to an Australian Black Opal. It is mostly a reddish, dark brown lump of ironstone with slashes of opal running randomly through it. A jeweler cannot do much with that you might think, but simply drill a hole through it and attach a hefty chain or a cheap leather thread and it makes a gorgeous chunky necklace and it looks great on men as well as women.


Then there is boulder opal which often comes as a piece of opal connected naturally to a piece of ironstone or sandstone. The opal stone is undulating and may not have any of the fire associated with gem quality opal but when we look at it closely it has a pattern that might look like a seascape or a view of a mountain range or all kinds of other things. It might be the kind of thing you just like to stare at and imagine seeing all kinds of things in. Try doing that to a diamond! The beauty of a piece like this is that it is not gem quality and is very inexpensive.


I love jewelry like that because not only is it cheap to purchase but when you wear it people ask questions about it and they want to have a close up inspection of it. It is a great conversation starter. You never get people asking you if they can they have a look at your topaz ring. They never say: "Oh, where did you get that ring?" But with a $40 necklace of cheap Koroit or Boulder Opal you will get strangers asking what sort of stone it is and where did it come from.


Then there is one of my favorites Opal Inlay Jewelry. Beautiful pieces of crystal opal are set into the metal of rings, earrings and pendants. The opal is finished off flush with the surrounding metal. We often see this with boring stones such as Onyx and other lame looking minerals with very little color. But, when you make inlay opal jewelry normally you would use high quality opal and the results are fantastic.


You can put nearly any other gemstone next to opal it and it will enhance the piece of jewelry. Opals with diamond accents will always look stunning. Conversely, you can have a pink topaz or emerald main stone with inlay opals on each side and you have a brilliant item of jewelry then.


Opals can be inlayed, prong set or bezel set. They can be glued in place where as other stones will not appear attractive this way.


One comforting aspect of opal jewelry is that the stone will be mined by lonely men or husband and wife teams living in harsh conditions in outback Australia. There are no big companies involved and there is no forced labor here. It is a labor of love. Think about the cutting of rubies and other stones which is often done by children who should be at school. I am an opal cutter and although it is labor intensive I enjoy doing it and I have never met an opal cutter who is not passionate about opals so there is a kind of love attached to these stones all the way through from the man underground in the middle of nowhere to the wife or enthusiast carefully cutting and polishing the stone.




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Choosing Earrings That Are Hip Yet Casual

 Gold Opal Earrings are one of the easiest types of accessories to wear. Most women shy away from big, funky jewelry because they're afraid to drawing too much attention to themselves, but earrings appeal to women of all shapes, sizes, ages and styles. Anyone can pull off a pair of earrings, whether big or small. You can choose small diamond studs if you're conservative, and rock large hot pink feather earrings a la Gwyneth Paltrow if you're looking to stand out in the crowd.


No matter which earrings you choose, you're sure to end up with a pair that complements your look and your outfit. Earrings are never overly ostentatious, and unlike bracelets, they don't get in the way of you doing your work. Choosing earrings that are hip but still casual can be a tough order of business. You're looking for earrings that aren't too buttoned up (you don't necessarily want something that your mom would wear), but you also don't want to look too crazy.


How do you find a pair of earrings that strike that perfect balance, hip enough to look like you pay attention to trends but also casual enough to go from the office to a dinner at your favorite Mexican restaurant to a night out dancing with the girls? This article is here to help you make the right choice when it comes to choosing earrings that are hip, yet casual.


Sometimes, simple is best - like when you're looking for basic diamond studs. But sometimes, you want simple with a little bit of extra oomph. Enter a pair of triple strand hoop earrings in rose gold. Hoops are a basic earring shape, and hence, perfectly fit the "hip yet casual" mold. That being said, the added bonus of rose gold (a beautiful pinky gold that's way more exciting than basic and boring gold or silver), and the triple strands elevate these earrings to seriously fashionable. They're basic enough for a white t-shirt and jeans, but they'd look just as good with a little black dress out on the town. A great purchase, as you can easily rationalize the price by thinking about how often you'll be able to wear them - with just about anything!


Speaking of hoops, colorful gemstone hoops are also a great hip yet casual option. Hoops are by nature quite casual - the larger they are, the more casual they get. But sometimes it's fun to trade in the gold and silver for a bit of color. Gemstones are very in vogue right now, so why not meld the two trends together and snag a pair of gemstone hoops? Colorful and playful, these hip earrings are crafted in sterling silver and feature 20 round brilliant cut gemstones in a vibrant turquoise hue. They'd look gorgeous against tanned skin, and even better with a long white maxi dress.


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Why Are Colored Stone Rings So Popular?

 Colored Gold Opal Rings For Sale have become a rage, especially due to their sparkle and elegance. Traditionally, colored stone rings were worn for their healing powers and for their association with the various suns signs. However, modern women are experimenting with colored stone rings of different colors to match their style, occasion and attire. Gemstones of various colors can be placed in ring bands made of various metals, especially gold, platinum and sterling silver. Figures show that diamond studded jewelry continues to be the major contributor of jewelry sales in the US. According to Instoremag.com, several US stores witnessed a sharp recovery in diamond jewelry sales in May 2011, which contributed 51% of the total store revenues for the month.


The Importance of and Demand for Colored Stone Rings


Colored stone rings are increasingly being bought as a symbol of one's feelings, especially love. These rings make an ideal gift for your family, beloved or friends. Although precious gemstones like rubies, sapphires and diamonds are the most commonly stones used to make rings, semi precious stones like amethyst, pearls, garnet, opal, peridot, rhodolite and topaz are also popular today.


Colored stone rings are popular because of their elegance and brightness. Stones of different colors and shades are in demand among fashion conscious people and those who wish to make a style statement. The color of a stone plays a key role in its selection for fitting in a ring. Not only this, you will also find different shades of color, such as tones of green, blue, orange, violet, indigo, yellow or red gemstones. While some may prefer a light blue sapphire, another might like a peacock blue shade. One can also buy colored stone rings in which you can change the stone according to the color of your dress. Different colored rings allow you to look different each day. These pieces allow you to display your personality and style without too much of effort. The choice of color of the gemstone could depend on your liking for a color, your personality and the healing or other powers associated with it.


Another benefit of these colored gemstones is that they can be worn on a daily basis to your office or a casual evening out. The cost of colored stone rings depends on the quality of the stone used, its origin and other features. The best source of buying colored stone rings is to approach a reputed jeweler who will not only update you about the gemstone used in the ring but also provide a certificate of quality.




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Elegant Earrings for a Night Out in the City

 There is nothing quite like an exciting night out to raise your spirits and cut loose. You spend the entire week in anticipation of that day when you can finally relax and have a little fun with your friends or your significant other.


Adding a little extra flavor to your look can make a normal night out into an extra special event. Sure, a gorgeous new dress is always a terrific way to celebrate and feel good about yourself, but sometimes a little more subtlety can be just as effective.


A fine pair of elegant earrings can make an old outfit feel exciting and new again. With the proper accessory choices, you can make your next night out something truly memorable. These enticing earring selections are ideal for your next journey into the city.


14K White or Yellow Gold 2.00ct DEW Moissanite Gold Opal Earrings


Picking out the right pair of earrings for a night out is entirely dependant on the events you will be attending. Obviously you would wear something entirely different to a dance club than you would to a quiet dinner party.


Let's say, for example, you are on your way to a black-tie, gala event. Maybe the opera is opening their new season or you are heading out to an important party with business clients. For an occasion like this you will have to bring out your very best ensemble.


These Moissanite stud earrings are absolutely ideal for making an impression. Moissanite is a gorgeous sparkling stone that is virtually indistinguishable from a diamond. Each of these Moissanite stones are round cut and measure 6.5mm across. They weigh a total of 2.00ct and are mounted basket style with prongs.


Each of these earrings measure about ¼" long by ¼" wide and secure to your ear with a backing. Be the belle of the ball in these dazzling Moissanite stud earrings.


Sweet Romance™ Gold-tone 1960's Inspired Aurora Style Earrings


With the success of hit television shows like AMC's "Mad Men," 1960s style is coming back in a big way. Half the excitement of watching the show is seeing the amazing wardrobe that each of the characters wears.


If you are on your way to a classy cocktail party and want to show off your sense of vintage style, these earrings by Sweet Romance are perfect to pair with a retro dress.


These earrings showcase two 1.5mm round blue crystals, two 1.5mm round buttercup crystals, two 1.5mm round light purple crystals, two 1.5mm round aqua crystals, two 10 by 6mm pear-shaped aqua crystals, two 10 by 6mm pear-shaped light purple crystals, two 8 by 4.8mm pear-shaped light green crystals, and two 7.3mm baguette-shaped light green crystals.




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Boulder Opal Ring

It seems like you're interested in a boulder opal ring . If you're looking to purchase one, you can explore various options both onl...