Aug

29

Silver Turquoise Jewelry – the Exquisite Blue Gemstone

Filed Under Silver Birthstone Rings | Leave a Comment

Turquoise is a lovely gemstone that looks so good in silver turquoise jewelry. Chemically it is a combination of phosphates and aluminum with some traces of copper oxide, from which arises its blue color, and manganese oxide, calcium, zinc and iron. The green color comes from the iron or aluminum and and zinc gives it a yellow color. The most common color is green for turquoise stones, and indeed blue stones very often change to green when exposed to sunlight for any length of time. Various blends of these elements give the gemstone its variety of colors, with the most highly prized being those with a deep blue color and yellow colored stones having the lowest value. The best quality stones, for instance Persian turquoise, usually don't change color and keep their lovely blue color for many years.

Some turquoise gems have a main color with colored lines in a spider web pattern marking the surface. The cause of this is uneven dispersal of the different elements that are present in the gemstone and the marks may be yellow, black or brown in many different patterns. However unmarked gems are more highly prized than those with a spider web matrix although turquoise stones of a deep blue color, even though they have a spider web matrix, are more valued than green or yellow unmarked stones. Untreated stones of a pure color, i.e. without a spider web matrix, are rare and are extremely highly valued.

Treating Turquoise

Around 10% of the turquoise used in jewelry is natural, finest quality gemstone. Above 90% is treated from soft, rough turquoise to make it hard enough for use in jewelry. This treatment also improves durability and boosts the color of the gems. Turquoise that comes from a few countries, China for example, is too soft and requires treatment. Nevertheless the treatment produces beautiful gems, which, although less prized than untreated stones, nevertheless make wonderful jewelry. These procedures enhance the gemstones color as well as making them harder which gives them a longer life. A treatment method that can be used  to develop the color involves injecting an epoxy resin containing a dye into the stone. The color is stabilised and will not fade. Turquoise from China is toughened by injecting the gemstones with a liquid plastic. An additional technique is to inject epoxy resin without a color to stabilise the stone without changing the color.

Simulated turquoise can be made from a base of liquid plastic with powdered turquoise. This type of turquoise is naturally very cheap. These fake stones may perhaps be sold as natural turquoise and may be coated in plastic or waxed.

Care of Turquoise Gems

Turquoise is both porous and soft so should be looked after carefully. It shouldn't be worn at times when scratching can be occur and must be protected from any kind of blow always. Never wear turquoise jewelry when you are gardening or washing up! Keep turquoise jewelry in its own softly lined box and do not store with other, harder stones which could damage the stones. Turquoise stones can absorb liquids so do not let them come into contact with hot water, oils, chemicals and even perfumes and cosmetics. These could be absorbed by the gem which may change color and lose it's lustre. You can clean turquoise using very mild soapy water and then drying gently with a soft cloth. Make certain it is completely dry before you store it away and never use ultrasonic jewelry cleaners which can result in cracking of the gem.

In Conclusion

Turquoise is a beautiful, attractive gem which is rare and sought after. Though there are some disadvantages in that it has to be taken great care of and a number of the blue stones can turn green over time, it makes wonderful silver turquoise jewelry as the attractive blue color complements perfectly the silver.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , ,

Aug

27

Tiffany Inspired Jewelries – Girl’s Bestfriend Forever

Filed Under Silver Birthstone Rings | Leave a Comment

Sounds familiar? Yes, diamonds used to be a girl's bestfriend but with the financial crisis enveloping us these days diamonds are way above most people can afford. But becoming fashionable should not always mean spending a lot. Of course not! We adjust, adapt and live within our capabilities. If a diamond is just way above you today, we can always have tiffany inspired jewelries. You will be amazed to know that these jewelries are so affordable they cost less than one ordinary night out with friends.

Don't be mistaken. Tiffany inspired jewelries are not the cheap-looking fake jewelries you usually find in the corner shops in the malls. These jewelries are crafted from genuine .925 sterling silver which in itself means quality and excellence. They don't fade, turn into a reddish brass tint or lose its luster in a few days. Sterling silver jewelries are durable and meant to last a lifetime. It also uses cubic zirconia in lieu of a diamond. It beams and glitters like a genuine diamond but only costs a small percentage of a diamond's price tag. This is because the cubic zirconia looks very much like a diamond even if you place them side by side, no one can really tell which is which.

Anyone, and I say anyone can afford to own stunning and fashionable looking jewelry with tiffany inspired jewelries. The price tag is so astonishingly low that you will in all probability be able to purchase yourself an entire set with decent sized stones. And matching it with the right dress you'll find that it will look exactly like the very expensive pieces that you see celebreties wear during some red carpet affair. Show off and flash it around like a Hollywood star and no one can tell the difference.

Women are naturally drawn to exquisite jewelries. It always makes them beautiful and glamorous. Giving in to the whim will now be easier on the pocket Spoil yourself with tiffany inspired jewelries and allow your beauty and style dazzle the people around you. Nowadays you can look like a celebrity, or strutt around like a fashion diva and even grace a formal occasion accompanied by jewelries that look like they stay inside a safe deposit box most of the time. With the splendor and affordability of sterling silver it's no wonder that these tiffany inspired jewelries are every practical girl's bestfriend.

Bestfriends let you shine and make you more confident about yourself, which is exactly what tiffany inspired jewelries do.  Visit http://www.overstocksilver.com/ and meet your new bestfriend.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , , ,

Aug

24

Personalized Inspirational Jewelry

Filed Under Silver Birthstone Rings | Leave a Comment

There are many different ways that people become inspired every day. Some people look towards scripture and religious passages to find inspiration while others have words of truth that they live by to give them hope and a positive outlook on life. Adding an inspirational message to a gift of jewelry is a wonderful way to let someone know that you care about them by providing a constant message of hope and affirmation. Each individual has his or her own words that evoke meaning and placing them on a piece of jewelry that they can have with them always can be very comforting.

With a touch of creativity, inspirational jewelry can include rings, and necklaces that carry your special message. The Bible is a common source of meaninful phrases. Rings and necklaces with inspirational messages are often seen as keepsakes and treasures and may become part of a family tradition of gift giving. Often sterling silver or gold are the most common metals found in spiritual jewelry however there are other metals such as copper, palladium, platinum and white gold that are also popular. Typically the choice of metal will depend on what type of jewelry the person wears on a regular basis. Most people have a preference for either silver or gold, however there are others that wear an equal amount of both.

Choosing the message you want to include in a piece of inspirational personalized jewelry is a very personal decision. You don't have to select a religious text or message, you can also choose from quotations from famous peacemakers, leaders and philosophers. Some positive and affirming messages such as "I love you" or "You are a friend" can also be inspiring and very meaningful as additions to personalized rings, necklaces, pendants and bracelets. Angels, mythical creatures, doves and symbols of love, peace and prosperity are also ideal additions to inspirational jewelry items. Crosses and hearts have long been seen as both inspiration and spiritual symbols used on a variety of types of jewelry from wedding bands to graduation rings and pendants.

Designing a unique inspirational piece of jewelry can start by browsing through online websites or even just looking through jewelry stores in your area. With the wide variety of online shopping options you may be able to find just want you want without having to design it yourself. You can also use these sites for inspiration yourself, choosing the features of different types of jewelry to develop just what you are hoping to achieve with your own design.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , ,

Aug

22

Truly Unique Wedding Rings: Custom and Personalized

Filed Under Silver Birthstone Rings | Leave a Comment

Personalized wedding rings provide unique, one-of-a-kind meaning to this very important piece of jewelry. There are so many people who end up with the same bands and engagement rings that they tend to all start to look alike. While some people may not mind this at all, there are many other people who can truly appreciate having custom wedding rings as a way to mark their special day. Showing each other how much you care and love one another can be accomplished through such personalized jewelry.

Having one of a kind rings are also a way of bringing a little bit of the individual personalities to the wedding. It is a way of truly expressing the love they have for each other in their own special words. Perhaps its a special phrase that has meaning to the bridal couple that is ingraved on the inside or outside of the rings. Either way, it is a special way to show affection to one another.

A traditional romantic phrase or statement of fidelity is always popular - "Forever," "Soulmate," "The One.". Including the wedding date (especially in Roman numerals) is a very popular choice for personalization. You can have the date written out or have it engraved as elegant Roman numerals.

Adding the names of the happy couple is another great way to put together the personalized wedding rings. It could be a nickname that is used, just a first name, or a first name with the middle name or middle initial. Either way, names are a fantastic and very popular way to express individuality in the custom wedding rings. A second wedding may have you trying a different way.

If the happy couple had a child or two together, the rings could be engraved with the names of their children making it all that much more special. Special savings or phrases are another popular way of expressing the undying love the couple has for one another. The words true love, soul mate, forever, and twin souls are just a few words that could be used for personalized wedding rings.

Once you have decided what type of words or sayings you want engraved in the rings, it is time to decide what language you want it in. While English is the most common language chosen, other languages choices can add an air of the exotic. If you want to take heritage into consideration then you may want to have your personalized wedding rings engraved with a language that represents who you are. Chinese symbols are also a great way to express your love for one another and leaving the message secret from other people.

In the end it is all about what the two of you want as a couple. What makes it special for you will be different then what makes it special for someone else. Stick with what you love and it will be the best way to show your love and passion for one another in your custom wedding rings.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , , ,

Aug

15

June Birthstone Jewelry – The Alexandrite

Filed Under Silver Birthstone Rings | Leave a Comment

Alexandrite, which is used in June birthstone jewelry, is among the rarest of gems to be found on the earth. It is known as the June birthstone and is the precious stone used to celebrate the 45th and 55th wedding anniversaries. It is a member of group and is formed from a mix of chromium, aluminium, titanium, iron and chrysoberyl mineral.

Alexandrite's Color Changing Properties

This June birthstone is highly admired because of it's ability to radically switch colors. Compared to other gemstone such as diamonds and sapphires, alexandrite is a comparatively new gem on the market, having only been  found close to 150 years ago. The Alexandrite gemstone was first discovered in the Russian Ural Mountains around 1830 and was named after the Russian Czar, Alexander II. This gemstone was given the name “magic gem” because of it's mystical display of colors.

Description of the June Birthstone Alexandrite

The color of this gem depends on the the wavelength of light and the chemical bonds that exist in the gem. In natural light alexandrite displays a bluey green moss like color but when positioned under incandescent light from a candle or lamp the color transforms to a warm raspberry hue. This transformation is referred to as the alexandrite effect. It's a result of the chemical mixing of chrysoberyl, which is a rare oxide mineral, and chromium. the lovely color of Alexandrite come from chromium.

The Quality of Alexandrite Gems

It is important to consider the strength of the color change when valuing an alexandrite. The gem is considered rare and of higher value if the color change is more complete and intense. Another aspect to consider is the cutting quality of the gem and it's clarity. Alexandrites found in Russia are believed to be of superior quality and color, thus making them more expensive. The majority of the alexandrites on sale are less than one carat since bigger sizes are unaffordable by most people.

Caring for Your Alexandrite Jewelry

it's best to keep alexandrites away from excessive heat exposure as this can impinge on their color change effect. When cleaning these gemstones soapy warm water may be used as well as alcohol or a commercial jewelry cleaning product. If steam and ultrasonic cleaning are needed suitably experienced jewelers should be used.

Sources of Alexandrite

The original source of alexandrite in Ural Mountains has now virtually run out, however the mines are still working and produce a small number of carats each year. Currently there are two chief sources of alexandrite gemstones, Brazil and Sri Lanka (Ceylon). In the 1990’s Alexandrite gems were also discovered in countries such as Madagascar, India, Burma and Zimbabwe. Unfortunately, none of these locations has produced as rich and vivid colors as the original gemstones from Russia. Gemstones from these sources have their own characteristics: such as the greyish hues of Ceylon stones and yellow tones in gems from Brazil.

Conclusion

In spite of the comparatively short history of this attractive gemstone it's already been ascribed with a mixture of magical and mystical properties. It is a rare and gorgeous gemstone and makes a wonderful June birthstone jewelry gift for a loved one with a June birthday.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , ,

Aug

14

Very Personal Jewelry

Filed Under Silver Birthstone Rings | Leave a Comment

There are many different ways to personalize your rings and jewelry to make them unique, highly fashionable and definitely yours. Some of the most popular styles for personalized rings include those with the giver or receivers name, a special message or even an important date inscribed or in relief on the band or as part of the design of the ring.

Some of the most popular ways to make a ring uniquely your own is to have your name engraved or displayed on the outside of the ring, either on a band or within a setting or center area of the ring. Mother's rings are the most common type of name rings. Monograms are a traditional choice for graduation gifts, especially for men. Ring styles for men include monogram rings and ring shapes of squares and horseshoes. Women's monogram or initial rings can be similar in style or may be more ornate with sculpted or stylized shapes and added details.

Name rings that actually include the whole name or the name of a loved one are also very popular as gift items. These rings can also include words such as Grandmother or Grandfather, Mom, Dad or even Best Friend. Word or name rings have very special meaning and are often considered as keepsakes that may even become an item that is passed down from generation to generation. Some rings can become family heirlooms. They may contain a family crest, name, or hometown.

Keep in mind that name and word rings can also be very formal and for special occasions. Adding a precious stone can turn a plain name ring into a more formal and flashy piece of jewelry. These rings aren't just for women, gemmed men's name or word rings are becoming increasingly popular and can be found in a wide range of metals including palladium, titanium and sterling silver. Gold is also a popular choice with white, rose and yellow gold options in a variety of different styles. Rings that span across two fingers have become popular as larger and bolder styles become trendy.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: ,

Aug

14

Where to get best Precious Diamond Jewels

Filed Under Silver Birthstone Rings | Leave a Comment

Are you looking for a stunning piece of jewelry? If you are, then you have your work cut out for you. There are so many different types of jewelry that feature precious diamond jewels. Naturally, it’s not hard to get something that you like the complexity is tapering it down to a part that you can give. For several people searching to purchase jewelry it’s particularly the cost that dictates what you end up purchasing. The great news is that there are resources for cheap precious diamond jewels.

With internet resources like Precious Diamond Jewels, you can actually find stunning pieces at affordable prices. For example if you are looking for an engagement ring, you might want to look at the 1.03 Carat Diamond Engagement Ring. This is really available for only 1K USD. It’s made of 14K white gold, and features a ½-carat princess cut center stone. However, that is not all. It actually has 10 princesses cut side stones surrounding that stunning center stone. The truth is that actual value of this ring is approximately $2300 so paying only $1200 is quite a bargain.

Or perhaps you are looking for cheap precious diamond jewels that are a little more simple and classic. If that is the case then you will have to check out the .96 Emerald Cut Engagement Ring. This ring has never been worn, and it features the stunning emerald cut diamond. The .96 carat diamond is set on 14K white gold, but if you prefer yellow gold, you can get that too. A diamond ring like this would conventionally retail for over $6K, but Precious Diamond Jewels has made this avail for under $1700.

For a child who needs a very different type of precious diamond jewels then you might desire to look at the 3 Stone Diamond Ring with Rubies. This ring has a round centre cut diamond that is a ½-carat stone. Surrounding that center diamond is two round cut rubies. All of these beautiful stones are set in a yellow gold band. A ring like this is truthfully different and unique. This ring would traditionally retail for over $3500, but with Precious Diamond Jewels, you can get it for around $3500 saving yourself nearly $1000!

If you are someone who likes sparkle and jewels or if you are shopping for someone like that you will definitely want to look at Precious Diamond Jewels. With their help, you can not only have the opportunity to look at one of the best selections of jewelry on the market today, but you can also be sure to save a lot of money. Finally, that sparkle that you are looking for fits into your budget!

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , ,

Aug

12

Origins of Modern Birthstone Jewelry

Filed Under Silver Birthstone Rings | Leave a Comment

Ever since the first century particular gems have been connected with the twelve signs of the zodiac and have been incorporated into birthstone jewelry. In the beginning birthstone schemes were based on the individual color of the gems. The origins of the practice are believed to be associated with the Breastplate of Aaron which incorporated gems representing the 12 tribes of Israel. Every stone had the name of the tribe inscribed on it and they were sewn into the breastplate in 4 rows of three. While the names of the stones on the breastplate are well known, the precise translation is arguable so the particular gems that were used are not known. This has led to various gems being associated with the different zodiac signs.

In later times birthstones became connected with the months of the year rather than the twelve signs of the zodiac and there's been some divergence in the month to which a gemstone is allocated. The most commonly used scheme today is the one which was initiated by the Association of Jewelers in America in 1912, and incorporates some substitutes for the higher-priced gemstones. There has been one addition since then. Tanzanite was assigned to December in 2002 although it is not accepted by everyone.

Some other schemes which connect individual gemstones with the month of birth include Ayurvedic birthstones and mystical birthstones. The mystical birthstones scheme is thought to originate over 1000 years ago and originated Tibet, the Ayurvedic system comes from ancient Indian medicine and dates back to around 1500 BC. However most people use the modern schemes initiated by the Association of Jewelers.

Contemporary System

  • January - emerald, garnet
  • February - amethyst
  • March - aquamarine
  • April - diamond
  • May - emerald
  • June - pearl, moonstone
  • July - ruby
  • August - peridot
  • September - sapphire
  • October - opal, tourmaline
  • November - citrine, topaz
  • December - blue topaz, tanzanite, turquiose

Consequently there are various alternatives to select from. If you do not like your birthstone from the modern scheme, choose one from the traditional list.There are beautiful examples of silver birthstone jewelry in the shops and they make wonderful birthday gifts for our loved ones, that demonstrate how much thought we put into picking a gift that is special to them. Read more at Birthstone Jewelry.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , , , ,

Aug

11

Peridot – The Gemstone for August Birthstone Jewelry

Filed Under Silver Birthstone Rings | Leave a Comment

Peridot is the contemporary birthstone for August, and in addition to being used in August birthstone jewelry is the precious stone selected to mark the 16th wedding anniversary. This particular gemstone is a type of olivine which is a mixture of 2 minerals, foylite and forsterite. It's still quite unclear where the word peridot originates from, whether it is from the French word which means unclear, peritot, or the word for gem in Arabic, faridat. Whichever is true the gem was called peridot firstly by the French around the 18th century. Before then the Peridot gemstone was simply known as topaz.

For more than four thousand years peridot has been mined as a gemstone and is even talked about in the Bible as the Hewbrew gem, pitdah. Peridot is the state jewel of Egypt and was used by the Egyptians from at least three thousand years ago. It was named the “gem of the sun” because early miners believed that it shone with a green light that made the gem easier to locate. This exquisite precious stone is becoming extremely fashionable perhaps because of the historical legend identifying it as the favorite jewel of Cleopatra.

Description of the Peridot Precious Stone

Throughout the years this precious August gem has often been mistaken for other gemstones. The peridot birthstone is usually described as a light olive green with tinges of yellow. The most commonly known gems confused with the peridot are apatite, zircon, garnets and emeralds, although these seldom possess the appealing component of yellow that compliments the peridot's green color.

The Quality of Peridot Gemstones

Peridots that contain less than 15% iron and the trace elements chromium and nickel are considered to be the finest. Peridot is mined in an island in the Red Sea called Zebirget , Pakistan Minas Gerais, Chihuahua, Mexico, Brazil, Eifel, Kohistan, Germany, Ethiopia, Australia, Peridot Mesa, Gila County, USA, Arizona and Salt Lake Crater. Historically the best quality peridot was found in Egypt but a number of significant crystals have been discovered in Pakistan that challenge this claim. The gems derived from Arizona are of lesser quality but are more plentiful, so making them more affordable for many people. About 85 – 95% of world production of peridot is from Arizona. The gemstones produced in Egypt and Pakistan are better quality and rarer and consequently are quite expensive.

Magical Powers of the Peridot

The  gorgeous August birthstone symbolizes dignity and it is also considered armor for for all the body as it keeps away negativity. It is also linked with stress reduction and relaxation. The Ancient Egyptians used this gem to heal and clean the heart. Various sicknesses such as asthma and fever were thought to be cured by placing crushed peridot beneath the tongue. A further belief is that setting the gemstone in gold will increase it's powers.

August Birthstone Jewelry

Peridot is a lovely jewel in its own right and is becoming very fashionable. Peridot  gemstones can be enjoyable items to collect and they make wonderful August birthstone jewelry gifts.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , , , , ,

Aug

10

Jewelry For Mothers: Celebrating Love

Filed Under Silver Birthstone Rings | Leave a Comment

Shopping for a "family" gift for Mom can be daunting. Everyone has different ideas of what's right for mom and their own personal tastes. One option to ensure that everyone is represented in a gift is to give a Mother's jewelry item that contains a representation from everyone in the family. One of a kind gifts such as family bracelet, necklaces, rings and even earrings make a perfect gift for the whole family to give to Mom on her birthday, anniversary or for Christmas or any other special event or day in her life.

Birthstone rings and engraved rings for Mother's custom jewelry ideas are some of the most popular. There are the traditional types of sets that include Mom's birthstone surrounded by the birthstones of all the family members in patterns such as center settings, crosses and in rectangular or square shapes. Other options include birthstones set into solid bands or set into filigree type bands for a very unique and classic style. Another option is for each family member to select his or her own favorite very thin band that is then given to Mom to wear as a stacking ring. Stacking rings can be made with a variety of options - gems, metal types and colors, engraving styles. With the computerized laser systems available to jewelers there is really no limit on the type of engraving that can be done on even very fine bands. The most popular choice seems to be name rings.

Pendants and necklaces that are designed to represent the members of the family is another great gift idea. Like stacking rings, stacking pendants that are added to a chain or a bracelet can allow each member of the family to pick out their own unique gift to Mom that then goes together as a set. Stacking pendants or rings can be worn in a variety of different patterns and orders to give a different look each time.

Necklaces with the word Mom, Mother or other term of endearment the family uses are ideal as a gift. These necklaces can also be matched with hoop earrings with the same word or even the same gems or metal for a matching set. Beads can be added to necklaces, bracelets and even earrings to create a one of a kind jewelry item for Mom with each family member represented by a favorite type of style of bead. Being creative will ensure that your gift is original and unique and will be highly treasured for years to come.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , ,

Aug

7

Endless Choices for Couples Jewelry

Filed Under Silver Birthstone Rings | Leave a Comment

A romantic and enduring way to symbolize the union of two people, personalized jewelry is a wonderful option to celebrate commitment to each other. The most commonly thought of personalized couples jewelry are wedding rings, but there are many more options available. New trends and customs have made other forms of couples jewelry almost as popular prior to the wedding.

Today, couples have many choices in rings to celebrate their commitment. Through time, promise rings symbolizing a commitment to engagement and marriage in the future, have been given to women by their intended. Newer and more equal traditions now provide couples the opportunity to give each other promise and engagement rings prior to the wedding, which can be casual or very formal and classical in appearance. One of the most common types of pre-wedding couples items are name rings that signify their commitment to each other. For couples not wanting rings, pendants or necklaces with their beloved partners names can also be a wonderful option that still allows options for wedding rings and engagement rings at a later date.

Couples jewelry can also include more than just each other's names on the rings in either relief or engraved fonts. Another option is to use initials in the design of the bands, rings or pendants, along with special dates for the couple or even a special symbol of their commitment. Hearts are one of the more common symbols of love and commitment but so are Celtic love knots, eternity symbols and even using matching gemstones in the rings or pendants.

There are a huge number of options for metals to use in couples jewelry items. The wide variety of precious metal options, including two tone combinations of metals, are suitable for both men and women. Gold offers a wide variety of color options including yellow, white, rose, and green with the added accent of colored and clear stones. Another option is natural silver that provides a dark background over time, making a striking presentation on either a ring or a necklace. While diamonds are often considered the most common couples gemstone, other precious or semi-precious stones can also be used, either in wedding sets, engagement or friendship rings or as accents on necklaces and pendants.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , , ,

Aug

5

The Egyptian Ankh – Origins, Charms and Symbolism

Filed Under Silver Birthstone Rings | Leave a Comment

The Egyptian ankh is a recognizable emblem seen as ankh charms, on decorative items, on clothing and scores of other places in today's world. It is looks a little like the cross of the Christian religion with a loop over the cross bar. The Symbol's origins are still ambiguous but it's significance is unmistakable. It is the Egyptian symbol for 'everlasting life' and is seen in ornamental designs and on domestic items left in their tombs, which were either created in the shape of an ankh or adorned with this symbol.

The Beginnings of the Ankh

There are various speculations about it's origins encompassing the idea that it was a bow used on ceremonial or religious clothes, a stylised sandal strap or as a sexual symbol. The most popular theory is that it represents an elaborate bow with the lower portion representing the ends of the bow, as it is usually comprised of two pieces. The ankh is seen in images of the Gods of Egypt and unmistakably stands for life in these images. It is often seen being offered to a king as a symbolic 'breath of life' and ankhs were frequently painted as chains, flowing from water containers symbolising the ankh's regenerative properties. Jugs used as water containers in religious ceremonies were time and again made in the shape of an ankh.

A Representation of Life

As a symbol of life it was also used as a symbol of fruitfulness, life in future generations. An alternative name for the ankh is the Key of the Nile where it represents the coming together of Osiris and Isis, which was thought to initiate the yearly flooding of the Nile, so essential to the Ancient Egyptians. Numerous Egyptian gods and goddesses were depicted with an ankh in their hands, frequently one in each hand crossed over the chest as seen in a sculpture of Osiris or a sceptre in one hand and an ankh in the other as Sobek, Tefnut, Hathor, Anibus and Isis and many more are often seen. The symbol also stands for life in the afterworld and the dead may be called ankhu and neb-ankh is the name for a sarcophagus.

Mirrors and many other household objects, were frequently made in the form of an ankh in fact it was also the word for mirror. A gilded mirror case was found in the tomb of Tutankhamun and sistrums (a type of musical instrument) and spoons have also been found in this form.

The Use of the Ankh in the Modern World

These days the ankh is widely used as a decorative sign, it's use ranging from American pop culture to an image showing spiritual beliefs. During the 1970's it was a common sign used by hippies as an affirmation of life and scorn for the materialism of the times. It is linked in Gothic world with vampirism and is seen in many films about vampires.

Whether you display an ankh for only it's decorative affect or for a deep, more spiritual meaning it is an established and prized emblem that can be seen in beautiful gold and silver charm jewelry, as earrings, necklaces or pendants and Egyptian ankh charms.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , , , , ,