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Lately, there's been a lot of buzz about custom Rolex components crafted by artisan jewelers, and a lot of that buzz is about custom Rolex bezels. Discriminating men and women commission jewelers to create custom bezels to increase the value of their Rolex watches; to display their senses of style and individuality, and to make bold fashion statements.

The most visible feature of a Rolex is the dial. However, the component that inspires the eye to linger on this legendary timepiece is undoubtedly the bezel. A Rolex bezel's primary function is a practical one: securing the crystal in place and protecting it from damage by accidental contact. The bezel's second function is ornamental. However, according to passionate Rolex owners, the bezel is essential: it allows them to personalize their Rolexes in ways that are as unique as the owners themselves.

If you've been thinking about having your Rolex bezel customized, you've likely conducted some research online to see what other Rolex owners have done with the bezels on their watches. It makes sense to do research, as you can get ideas and weigh your options. You can also view the workmanship and attention to detail required to craft a customized bezel for the world's most respected and admired watch brand.

Bezel Materials

Let's begin exploring your bezel options by considering the composition of the bezel. The bezel material will secure any gemstones that you have chosen, enhance their appearance, and add beauty and value to your Rolex.

The most popular choices are 18-karat white and yellow gold. Aesthetically, gold is hard to beat; its natural warmth and luster have been treasured for centuries. Gold grows in value over time and flatters any precious or semi-precious gems that the owner has chosen for jewelry. As a matter of practicality, gold is a logical choice; its malleability allows it to be fashioned into an infinite variety of shapes. Its ability to hold gems in place has also been proven over and over again.

Next in popularity is platinum, which also has quite a few desirable properties for watch bezels. Platinum is very resistant to wear, corrosion, and tarnishing; has a unique luster, and is also very reliable for securing gems in place. Platinum has long been associated with exclusivity and wealth, and people who choose platinum Rolex bezels tend to be fiercely independent individuals who ignore the fashion trends that wax and wane.

A relative newcomer to the custom Rolex bezel scene (but one that is slowly growing in popularity) is ceramic. Ceramic isn't ideal for those who want to set gems in their Rolex bezel, as it cannot reliably secure them. However, when buffed to a high gloss and engraved, ceramic can be inlaid with gold or another precious metal. This creates a unique and clean look with scratch-proof durability.

Bezel Gems

Your options for types and combinations of gems are limitless. As in most high-end luxury jewelry, diamonds reign supreme among Rolex owners. Many prefer a bezel adorned with diamonds all the way around. Others choose diamond accents at the three, six, nine, and twelve o'clock positions set alongside colored gemstones for contrast.

Following diamonds in popularity are rubies, emeralds, and sapphires. Each gem type has its own natural beauty and allure. Gem cut options are endless, too; however, most Rolex customers prefer traditional cuts, including brilliant, emerald, baguette, and square cuts.

Reputable Bezel Jewelers

Now that you've conducted research on your custom Rolex bezel, you'll need to find a jeweler who has the skills to craft and install one for you. Customizing Rolex bezels and other components is a hot trade right now, with no end in sight. Many jewelers are catering to exclusive clientele by specializing in this field. However, it will be very important that you exercise the same care when choosing your jeweler that you employed when choosing the material and gems for your bezel.

Look for a jeweler with a long and proven history in crafting custom Rolex bezels and other components, as well as certified memberships in professional jeweler organizations. More importantly, look for a jeweler who listens intently to what you want in a custom bezel, who answers any questions you may have, and who can show you a variety of finished bezels so that you may examine the quality of his or her work.

Take your time, weigh your options, and remember that customizing the bezel on your Rolex is as much fun as wearing the finished product!

In today's vernacular, the word 'hype' implies that something has gained status or attention it has not earned. When buying a product as consistently and exceptionally fine as a Rolex Yachtmaster II watch (or any other Rolex model), the only "hype" is the excitement you feel when owning one. Given the quality of materials and exquisite craftsmanship that go into making each Rolex, it is little wonder that discriminating, sophisticated buyers are choosing the Rolex Yachtmaster II in record numbers.

The Oyster Perpetual Rolex Yachtmaster II regatta chronograph is not just a watch; it's also an invaluable tool for people who race yachts competitively. Although some owners choose the Yachtmaster II for its handsome features and legendary durability, many buyers select this watch as a matter of practicality. It has been designed and engineered to withstand exposure to corrosive sea spray, variable atmospheric conditions, and inadvertent contact with ropes, sails, cleats, and all of the other rigging above and below the deck of a racing yacht.

Crew members of world-class racing vessels must move precisely and adjust to ever-changing conditions. These quick or trying movements create countless opportunities for shocks that would wreck the delicate inner components of other watches. With the Yachtmaster II, owners' concerns about damaging their watches while sailing are alleviated by the durability of its interior and exterior features, including:

The Yachtmaster II's composition-Equipped with the innovative, brand-new Rolex self-winding Caliber 4160, the Yachtmaster II consists of no fewer than 360 components that accurately keep time with 28,800 beats per hour. The PARACHROM hairspring with a Breguet overcoil is not sensitive to magnetic fields and is up to 10 times more resistant to shocks.

Water resistance-The Yachtmaster II is water-resistant to 100 meters. This feature gives wearers all the water protection they need for underwater hull inspections or repairs, as well as the occasional, leisurely post-regatta dip.

Triplock winding crown-The watch component most vulnerable to the intrusion of moisture, sand, and other substances is the crown. Rolex has virtually removed the possibility of harm with the triplock winding crown. This unique assembly includes a rubber o-ring gasket near the base and a finely threaded base that locks the crown in place in-between settings.

The Yachtmaster II has many other desirable attributes, including:

The Ring Command bezel and countdown timer-This bezel represents a leap forward for Rolex engineering and design. It must have been devilishly difficult to accomplish, too; it allows the owner to program the watch for yacht racing. A programmable digital watch would be unremarkable; however, since the Yachtmaster II is made of moving parts, it is a technical triumph. The Ring Command bezel rotates counter-clockwise to 90 degrees, allowing the owner to program a race countdown between one and ten minutes in length. This feature allows a skipper to see how much time he or she has to get the vessel in position for the staggered starts of the regatta race.

An invaluable tool for serious, competitive yacht racers, the programmable countdown feature can be started or stopped by the push button at the 2 o'clock position. The programming can be cleared by pressing the button at the 4 o'clock position. The fact that this programming is made possible by moving parts within the Yachtmaster II and not aided by a memory chip exemplifies Rolex's dedication to remaining at the forefront of watch making.

Composition materials-Available in 18-carat yellow gold or 18-carat white gold with a striking blue ceramic bezel, the Yachtmaster II is crafted with the same attention to detail that Rolex puts into every model. The Oyster bracelet is also made of solid white or yellow gold and fitted with an Oysterlock clasp featuring the customary polished edges.

The Oyster Perpetual Rolex Yachtmaster II regatta chronograph is a technical marvel built specifically to serve serious sailors all over the world. Whether owners buy it for its looks, functionality, durability, programmability, or a combination of all these virtues, it's easy to see that with the Yachtmaster II, there's no hype at all. As the late, great baseball pitcher Dizzy Dean once said, "It ain't bragging if you can do it.

Designer jewelry can be very expensive and not everyone can afford to make those purchases. However, women who love fashion and looking their best should not have to suffer because they cannot afford the top of the line. Therefore, why not look into buying some faux designer jewelry. If the correct piece of faux jewelry is purchased then no one will know the difference but you, and there is definitely no shame in that.

There are great options for finding faux jewelry and they are going to be shared with you right now. It is important to note that there are plenty of places that do sell designer jewelry fakes but, these are the best of the well the fakes. Therefore, take into consideration these helpful tips.

First, it is important to note Overstock Jewelry is a great option for people who are looking for some well made replica jewelry. The jewelry found online there is most definitely not cheap or tacky and is high quality knockoffs. They offer a large variety of styles, designers, and items. They also have jewelry for men and children. The items although could be called fake or imitation is better described as being inspired by the top designers. Such designers include Vera Wang, Heidi Klum, and Cartier.

Jewels Lovers is the second best options for finding that perfect piece of faux jewelry. Their specialty is definitely reproduction jewelry and again inspired by some very famous designers. They are committed to attention to detail as well as ensuring that their jewelry is made the best that it can. Reproduction pieces are their specialty and they take it seriously. They are so confident in their pieces of art that they offer a lifetime warranty. This warranty is available on all of their jewelry. So, just in case satisfaction was not met, then it can be exchanged or refunded. That is definitely hassle-free shopping.

Some advantages from wearing these replica pieces are that the cost was not overwhelming, but the look is. This allows the average consumer to look like the stars that are walking the red carpet or be able to give great but affordable engagement gifts. But it can be your little secret that you paid very little for this very high life appearance.

Trendy does not always have to break the bank. However, be careful. It is important to make sure that you are buying quality imitations. Some replica jewelry can be made very poorly and look cheap instead of classy. If the materials are not the best, they can even cause skin irritation and a rash is definitely not fashionable or presentable.

The usual finds for pearl jewelry are stud earrings, bracelets and strands or necklaces, but what do you do if you are tired of the typical pearl jewelry? Well, designer pearl jewelry may be just what you need to enhance your pearl jewelry collection. Fortunately, you do not need to travel overseas to find the best pearls and unique designs.

In fact, finding designer pearl jewelry is probably closer than you think. Now, if you have the opportunity to travel to Japan at some point, keep in mind that Japan is one place where you can find a multitude of pearl jewelry designs. But, for most not planning a trip to Japan, finding a quality pearl jewelry designer does not have to be a great challenge.

It really isn't, actually. Think about how unique you want the piece to be. This will help determine where you should focus your search. For example, if you are seeking a single carat diamond ring with small embedded pearls for an engagement ring, a custom design jeweler can certainly help you. It is important to have at least some knowledge about pearls before you meet with a jeweler so that you can be sure to get exactly what you want. The ability to have an educated discussion with the jeweler makes the entire process much easier for all parties involved.

Pearls are graded by size, color, luster and smoothness. The smoother and whiter the pearl is, the better grade but luster cannot be overlooked as it is the iridescence found on quality pearls. If it is flat and has no luster, it is, quite frankly, not a good quality pearl. Regardless of size, if it does not have shine initially, then it never will have the shine most seek in a pearl.

Further, cost and size are interrelated when it comes to quality pearl jewelry, but this does not imply that small pearls are of a poor quality. The pearl's size should enhance the main jewelry piece, not detract from the entire design. If you want a pearl to accent a single carat diamond engagement ring, you are likely not going to want a large pearl even though the larger pearls are more expensive. It is important to consider the entire jewelry piece to be designed.

Once you have found the right jewelry designer, you are one step closer to making your dreams come true and finding the perfect pearl jewelry design to add to your collection. In a few short weeks, the jeweler will be ready to hand the original design to you so you can begin wearing you unique piece and enjoy the known elegance and luxury of pearls but in your own special way. A simple strand of pearls can turn into a jewelry piece with flair never to be matched.

Many people find engagement ring shopping to be an extremely intimidating process. This is a big, meaningful purchase, after all. However, there are ways to save money and make the entire process a lot easier and less stressful, all at the same time!

First, here's something you probably already know: big diamonds are the most popular. This is one of the things that puts so much stress on ring shopping - we're afraid we'll have to spend more than we can afford. After all, larger diamonds come with a larger price tag.

There's good news too, though. There are a number of ways you can find larger diamonds for only a small fraction of what you initially thought you'd pay. It's all about getting the most out of your purchase.

Here's an example to show you what we mean.

Diamonds are graded using four major characteristics - cut, carat, clarity and color. We'll check out color to see how you can get a larger diamond for less.

Color grading is done on a scale ranging from D to Z - D is the best of the grades and Z is the worst. Color grades for each diamond are performed by inspecting the diamond under high magnification on a white background in a lab.

However, while there may be a big difference between a D diamond and an H diamond to the microscope, there's not a big difference in those four grades as far as you're concerned.

Unless you look at the diamonds beside one another, on a white background, and under close magnification, you'll never notice the difference. The naked eye just can't see that level of detail. You might spot a difference between D and I if you know what you're doing, but even grades I and J are hard to see a difference in.

So what's the point? Why pay more for diamonds graded higher when you can't tell the difference between them and one that's graded lower.

The price difference is a big one, too. It could be thousands of dollars. Of course, as can be expected, jewelry stores try to sell the highest graded diamonds for the most profit - you would, too. Unfortunately, most people don't take the time to educate themselves, and pay a lot more than they need to.

That's just one example of ways to save money on an engagement ring. Picking a diamond that has a lower color grading but doesn't look different to the naked eye will allow you to buy a much bigger diamond for the same amount of money. Learn about diamonds and how to buy, and you'll get a good deal.

For the couple making wedding plans, finding an engagement ring is a very special event, ranking high on the priority list with few other memories of a lifetime together. The process of shopping for and selecting the perfect ring will be filled with emotions that run the gamut from joy and pleasure to concern about cost. Placing an engagement ring on the finger of a woman is a symbol of what the man is actually promising, and it is very important that the couple makes the correct decision.

Couples that have reached this stage in their relationship have two basic choices: purchasing a ring from a top-quality jewelry store or locating a person that specializes in engagement ring design, to have a one-of-a-kind ring made. Since this choice is so important, the couple should take some time to discuss what type of ring is most desirable, then find several rings that are close to that design. Of course, the rarity of the ring and the overall design will be determined by the amount of time and money the couple has available for this purchase.

Some couples may be willing to wait for a custom engagement ring to be designed and made, while others may feel that the best engagement ring on display in an area store is perfect. A custom ring from a top designer adds several weeks to the purchase process, in addition to some added cost for the personal attention given by the designer.

However, there is an "in between" option. Some couples choose to work with such companies as Blue Nile and Spence Diamonds. These companies offer engagement rings that have already been designed and produced in various sizes. But a few of these companies make an extra effort to help the couple choose a particular ring from among the large inventory. As with most of the top jewelry sources, these companies understand the emotional and financial investment that the couple puts into this event.

Good jewelry sales people, in a local shop or with one of the companies mentioned earlier, are professionals who focus on the individuals they are working with. These experts will ask about price ranges, of course, but they will also try to learn about the two individuals involved. This is key in helping a couple find the correct style for their engagement ring. This personal involvement is critical in getting a ring of sufficient quality for the amount of money available.

Companies such as Spence Diamonds are a tremendous option for the engagement ring process. This reputable company offers a wide range of jewelry items, with engagement rings as a particular area of expertise. The company is known in the industry as a business that offers one of the most comprehensive ring protection plans in the field.

The guarantee includes: a satisfaction-guaranteed statement; loss protection; trade-up allowance for a lifetime; cleaning and examination; mounting-style change; cleaning/examination; and ring size adjustment.

Reputable jewelry companies will take a personal approach to selling jewelry, with some specializing in diamond items and engagement rings. These select businesses will offer only the finest in rings and other jewelry pieces, and the service will be second to none.

Most people choose to include music in their wedding ceremony. It has been a long standing tradition to have music for the arrival of the bridal party, and also to have a special song for the bride's last walk as a single women. There is always music that is played after the couple has been declared as married, and this music follows them from the church for their first moments as man and wife.

Wedding ceremony songs can be whatever you want, and you don't have to go with the traditionally used songs if you don't wish to do so.

Traditional, But, Less Popular Choice

When it came time for my husband and I to choose our wedding ceremony songs, I was sure I didn't want to use the usual "Here Comes The Bride" tune when I walked down the aisle. I had childhood memories of that song, which often included the addition of words that were not so flattering. I wanted something different. When it came time to choose our wedding ceremony songs, we decided to meet with the organist to choose some traditional songs there were fit for a wedding, but may not be as popular.

My future husband's reaction to all these was quite unexpected. Just like most of the men I know, he does not offer comments or show reaction about a lot of things. He just observes and keeps pretty much to himself. When organist played the repertoire of music we were to consider, she also naturally played "Here Comes The Bride".

What happened next was really unexpected as my fianc felt so bad about my decision not to use this song that he actually cried. He said that he had often envisioned the two of us finally marching down the isle while that song is being played. Of course, my heart went out to him and I had to give in.

If you are getting married any time soon, you will have to contend with the choosing of music which will be used in the ceremony. Decide on something that will go well with your taste or theme, regardless if is traditional or modern.

Take your time in making your decision and find something you both like. Just watch out for your groom, he may really surprise you. Make sure you make him part of the process as well.

Getting jewellery has always been generally expensive, even if you do manage to get it cheap it always seems more than can be afforded. With this new range of jewellery lines you will find it extremely affordable, what's more the choices are amazing.

There seems no other answer than yes when buying discount jewelry online. However does the cheap prices mean lesser quality? Well this isn't always the case but when shopping for discount jewelry online you should keep this in mind.

The Pros

If you buy discount jewelry online you will notice that there is a huge price difference between what's online and your local store. Buying online jewelry at these prices is probably a great draw to discount jewelry online.

A plus is that you can have the jewellery delivered. And if you don't have the time to go jewellery shopping then looking discount jewelry online will save you tons of time. It can ordered in advance of an occasion to be sure that it gets there on time. Does it all sounds perfect, so what's the catch?

Onlone Purchasing Downside

Buying discount jewelry online has a downside and it is that you can't try it on or feel it until the delivery. Sometimes this is a problem because it is not what you wanted when inspected up close or it doesn't suit the person th gift was intended for .

Another downside to buying discount jewelry online is that you can't inspect the quality of the product before purchase. You have to trust that the seller is being honest and has a commitment to making sure that all products sold are of the highest quality.

Online Precautions

One of the things that should be done before buying discount jewelry online is read the terms and conditions. Find out if it is possible to get a refund if you don't like the items when they arrive? Is there a clause somewhere that does not allow exchanges or returns? If this is the case you maw want to take your time.

If you are not sure how a piece of jewellery will look on you then you should try on similar pieces if possible. If you are buying a gift try and look at the pieces the person already has and find something in a similar style. There is nothing worse than buying a gift that clashes with a person's taste completely.

There are many kinds of diamonds to choose for your loved one, especially for an engagement ring. You can actually choose different designs, shapes, sizes and colors.

Colorless diamonds are popular choices for engagement rings. A man can choose to give his bride-to-be a pink or yellow diamond engagement ring; which is preferred by a lot of women. So giving a black diamond engagement ring is not really a popular choice.

Unlike traditional colors of diamond engagement rings, a black diamond engagement ring is "unique if not an eccentric kind of ring to choose for a loved one.

There a probably a few women who would have a taste or penchant for this very odd color of engagement ring because often the color of black is associated with evil, darkness or even witchcraft. So it would be surprising if not scary to be given a ring especially a black diamond engagement ring.

But unknown to people, black diamonds are popular stone choices for male jewelries especially for Europeans. Usually black diamonds are included in wedding rings and bracelets. They are often combined with more lustrous or more colorful diamonds and other precious stones to enhance the brilliance of the colored gems or highlight the black diamond itself.

Men who offer to give a black diamond engagement ring also choose rings that are set in platinum or titanium to enhance the color of the black diamond or combine it with stones the color of their choice and have the design custom made to make it extra special.

The appearance of black diamonds may be in hues of green, gray or midnight black. The color can range from being dense or translucent in hue.

When buying a black diamond engagement ring, you need to go to an accredited jeweler because some people trick sellers by adding color to fancy stones and make it appear a true black diamond. You can ask for papers proving that you are getting the real deal.

People propose marriage in many unique ways. It can be done at a candlelit dinner, a picnic on the beach, a sporting event or any other way you can think of. Each proposal is different, but, almost always, there's a diamond ring involved.

Understanding diamond rings and their symbolism and meanings is important, before you get one, though. After all, without understanding where diamond rings come from, how they are made and what they symbolize, you can't fully appreciate them.

First of all, let's examine the round shape of the band itself. The circular shape is said to be a symbol of a love that is unending. Some see it as a love with no beginning and no end, a constant state. By accepting an engagement ring, the wearer accepts the unending cycle of love that is being offered with it.

Since they are so bright, strong and clear, diamond rings last a long time. As a result, they are a very popular gift. In fact, as one of the strongest, most beautiful things on earth, they are given out every day in countries all over the world.

Strength, love and trust are qualities of a great marriage. Diamonds are so strong and beautiful that they are viewed as symbols of those qualities. In fact, a lot of people feel that a strong bond that cannot be broken is represented by a diamond.

There are many different diamond rings to choose from. They can be made unique, based on what sort of diamond is used. Also, different metals can be used for the band. So, no two are exactly alike.

Gold is, of course, the traditional choice for an engagement ring. It is bright, shiny and expensive. It seems to symbolize that the person giving the ring is willing to invest the time and money for a quality ring and, therefore, they will do the same for a quality relationship.

If you prefer a non-traditional approach, though, don't worry. Gold isn't the only option. Some other, less common, options include silver, platinum or titanium. A lot depends on what you think the person you are giving the ring to will like. If your loved one isn't very traditional, you might need a creative approach.

Of course, the band is the lesser of the two things to think about. The diamond is the main issue. When it comes to diamonds, you need to think about the size, which is measured in carats, the color, the cut and the clarity. In the diamond world, those are known as the four C's.

Selecting a diamond ring can be a difficult process. But, if you use this guide, the process will be a bit easier for you. With a little time and effort, you're sure to find the perfect ring for that perfect person in your life.