The Other April Birthstone: Diamonds in Crystal Ice Jewelry

Natural diamonds, like all gems, begin as crystals deep within the earth. Historians date these crystals as far back as 400 B.C. and they've held the same significant value and intrigue, as they do today. However, it wasn't until the 15th century that diamonds truly flourished.

Most women desire to own a diamond and this gorgeous gem has captured our hearts deeming it the "King of all Birthstones" and also making it the ideal choice for an April birthday gift. Diamonds really are a girls best friend!

The wearing of ones birthstone, as a charm of good luck, in their birth month dates back to biblical times. By 1912, the American National Association of Jewelers created a list, associating different gems to various months which has become the most recognized and utilized birthstone list today.

Did you know?
A perfect (flawless) diamond of 100 carats or more is referred to as a paragon.

There are crystals, then there are Swarovski Crystals. Regarded as the highest quality machine cut and polished crystal beads in the world, Swarovski Crystals come in a myriad of cuts and colors.

One of those colors happens to be the clear crystal with a luminous aurora borealis (AB) coating that gives it a rainbow effect. This amazing AB coating produces an elegant crystal that rivals a real diamond. When these crystals are used in handcrafted jewelry design, it makes them the perfect faux diamond for those born in the month of April.

~ How to Tell if Your Swarovski Crystals are Genuine ~

We may be a little biased here, but, here are some reasons why we feel our Crystal Ice Jewelry pieces are the best investment and addition to your jewelry wardrobe. These handmade diamond crystal birthstone jewelry pieces...

• Sparkle like diamonds (but without the cost)!
• Make great April Birthstone gifts!
• Are perfect to wear to parties and holiday events!
• Add just the right amount of glam to your everyday blue jeans and tshirts!

Check them out for yourself:

Diamonds (in Crystal!) are Mom's best friend too! Give Mom what her heart desires this Mother's Day -Crystal Ice Jewelry Collection by Crystal Allure.

------
References:
https://www.americangemsociety.org

Go Red with Handmade Crystal Red Heart Jewelry

Source: GoRedforWomen.org

Fact: 1 in 3 women die of heart disease and stroke each year.

How can you help save women's live? Go Red for Women!

The American Heart Association's Go Red for Women campaign has designated February 6, 2015 as National Wear Red Day. It's a day to raise awareness about heart disease and the fact that it's the No. 1 killer of women.

Why is red the color of this awareness cause?
-Red is the color of our hearts;
-Red stands out;
-Red is shows confidence;
-Red is a powerful color.

I urge you to become familiar with Go Red for Women, especially the signs of a heart attack. It could save your life or someone you know.

I plan to Go Red! Here's how:
-I will wear red;
-I will make my Twitter and Facebook profiles Go Red;
-I will offer that 100% of the net proceeds of the following two pieces of handmade red heart jewelry will be donated towards education about heart disease and stroke. This offer will end at 12:00 midnight, EST, February 6, 2015.

Crystal Allure Sacred Red Heart Crystal Charm Bracelet (B018-D2)

Handcrafted beaded bracelet features both aurora borealis (AB) and red Swarovski Crystals, .925 Bali spacers, sterling silver and a red sacred heart Swarovski Crystal heart charm. Finished with our signature jewelry tag and measures 7-3/4".

Be My Valentine Red Crystal Bordeaux Heart Necklace (N031)

The giving of ones heart on Valentine's day is represented through heart-shaped boxes of chocolates. This year, be different. Be unique. Steal her heart with this handmade beaded necklace featuring a generous 28mm Swarovski Strass Bordeaux Heart pendant suspended from a fully beaded strand of nearly 120 sparkling aurora borealis (AB) Swarovski Crystals. The length is PRINCESS at 18".

Shark Week Inspired Jewelry Designs That Are Nothing To Be Afraid of!

Although the official Shark Week 2014 has ended, for shark enthusiasts the frenzy (pun intended!) continues long after. I'll be the first to admit I'm completely fascinated with sharks. Scared as heck by them, but totally fascinated. Which is a good (and very logical reason) why I won't swim any where I can't see the bottom! LOL

It shouldn't be too far-fetched then to see where the inspiration came from for a few of my beaded jewelry creations. Inspired by the crystal blue ocean water, the deep sea and what lies beneath. The focal of the Blue Artisan Lampwork Crystal Necklace (N124-B) is a mesmerizing handmade glass button pendant of swirling blue colors. It reminds of the ocean, swirling waves and...sharks! Complementing the artisan pendant are two different blue Swarovski Crystals, sterling silver, Bali beads and silver-lined seed beads that sparkle like the surface of the water and waves on a sunny day.

Pair with this beach inspired necklace the Deep Blue Circle Crystal Beaded Earrings (E261), see below for purchase information. A stylish and contemporary pair of handmade beaded earrings featuring a blue ombre' effect. The sterling silver circles are meant to mimic the bubbles in the water while the blue Swarovski Crystals lead from a crystal clear blue surface to the deep blue ocean floor.

If you love this set, you might want to check out the Green Artisan Lampwork Crystal Necklace (N124-G) too. It's a beautiful sea green in Swarovski Crystals and a handmade one of a kind original.

---

Deep Blue Circle Crystal Beaded Earrings (E261)

A stylish and contemporary pair of handmade beaded earrings featuring a blue sapphire ombre' effect. Like bubbles in water, sterling silver circle rings showcase a light sapphire, to sapphire to deep sapphire diamond shaped trio of sparkling Swarovski Crystals. Finished with sterling silver french hook ear wires. Length is 1" from the bottom of the ear wire.

Work in Style! NEW Beaded Lanyards

With the close of the last jewelry show of 2012, I spend a great deal of time updating the website with all the lovely new beaded jewelry that has been screaming to be posted. There's still more to be listed and that will come soon but....right now, I'm super excited to introduce the newest beaded gifts to grace the Crystal Allure Jewelry website.

It still baffles me why it took so long to start creating beaded lanyards since it's been on the "bucket list", so to speak, for as long as I can remember. Well, a recent event finally pushed them to the front of the studio desk. I happen to work a full time job where I am suppose to wear a badge. Most companies, these days, require workers to wear badges. As a rule, I tend not to wear it everyday but I always have it with me, just in case.

Of course, the other day I get called, last minute, to an important meeting with the CEO and CFO. I grab my stuff and head off....only to discover I forgot my badge! It was at the very moment I realized, DUH!, if I had a laynard, I'd be wearing my badge all day, all the time!

That very night, I started creating and within days, I had ten new handmade beaded lanyards (I kept one for myself, of course) and a half dozen more are in the works. This was one of those 'slap your forehead' kind of moments because really, beaded ID badge holders are a necessity in today's business world. And, if you're anything like me, those pre-stamped cloth lanyards are boring.

~ View each lanyard above using the links below ~

Since that day, I have not forgotten my badge once because I now wear it everyday, with my stylish new beaded lanyard! I love how my work outfit feels complete, stylish and versatile by simply adding one of these ID badge holders to the look.

These are now my newest obsessions and so many more will be coming soon. I hope for now, you enjoy (and pick one up for yourself) the current selections that offer styles for everyday wear, Christmas, holidays, autumn and even spring.

With the upcoming holidays, don't forget, these beautiful beaded lanyards make great gifts for coworkers, nurses, doctors, hospital staff, teachers, or anyone who has a need to wear a badge or carry important keys with them.

~ Midnight Garden Teaberry Sapphire Crystal Beaded Lanyard (L105)
~ Amethyst Crackle Black Diamond Crystal Beaded Lanyard (L102)
~ Blue Stained Glass Crystal Beaded ID Lanyard (L107)

View the full handmade Beaded Lanyard Collection.

Autumn is rich with crystal gold jewelry!

Happy Fall 2011!!

We are now in the fall equinox and I couldn't be happier! After a dry, parched, sticky summer, I'm really looking forward to autumn's changing leaves. When the leaves start to change, especially on an oak tree, the first color you tend to see is a rich golden yellow. Inspired by this beautiful sight, I've put together a beaded jewelry board of my favorite gold and Swarovski Crystal beaded jewelry for you.
Featured in this fall beaded jewelry collage are (from left to right):
Autumn Harvest Swarovski Crystal Leaf Charm Beaded Bracelet (B164)
Lacey Oak Leaf Swarovski Crystal Earrings (E135)
Autumn Sun Swarovski Crystal Earrings (E049)
Autumn Honey Carnelian Crystal Necklace (N039)

Island Treasures Wedding: Jewelry Inspiration Board

It should come as no surprise that I'm completely mesmerized by our new Island Treasures Summer Jewelry Collection featuring Crystallized^TM Swarovski Elements Starfish.

Although originally designed for everyday summer fashions, I quickly realized that all three crystal colors would also pair perfectly with a summer wedding. So I got to work building a jewelry inspiration board that would make any bride weep with joy.

Island Treasures Wedding by crystalallure featuring Cocobelle sandals

Although I was a winter bride and loved my winter wedding (held just three days before Christmas). Just about a month before our wedding we took a trip to Sanibel Island. IF for some reason, my winter wedding was not doable, I definitely would have considered a beach wedding, right on Sanibel Island.

The pieces of jewelry shown above are the Blue Crystal Starfish Charm Floating Circles Bracelet (B178-IN) and MOP Shell Circles Blue Starfish Crystal Necklace (N100).

The layers of the wedding dress featured, by Brides.com, reminded me of waves on the ocean, rolling towards the beach.

Ironically, just a few weeks ago, I purchased a pair of bronze jewel encrusted sandals from Dress Barn (love 'em!).

After wearing them I thought, 'gee...these would be perfect for a beach wedding' (in white of course!). So if you're having a beach wedding or destination wedding, why bother with the formality of a wedding shoe -wear a wedding sandal!

Featured in the set above are a pair of women's starfish beaded sandals by Cocobelle.

Subtle Ways to Update Moms Style

I hope everyone had a FABULOUS mother's day, and a belated Happy Mother's Day to all you moms out there!

Mothers day might be behind us, but it's never too late to update your style. In fact, the most popular times to update ones style is during the season changes. We're still in spring but closing in on summer -fast!

An article by Bobbie Thomas, TODAY style editor, suggested adding a bit of Feminine Flair to your outfit (which is what Crystal Allure is all about!). This is the perfect option for the lady who can't stand the idea of putting on a skirt, but still wants to feel feminine. The easiest way to to do is with a notice-me-now necklace.

Onyx Indian Agate Gemstone Beaded Necklace (N092)

Bold Feminine Flair
If you love to wear black, try this festive black Onyx Indian Agate Gemstone Beaded Necklace (N092). It's a bold style that will add a burst of festive color to moms wardrobe.

The unique "watermelon slice" shaped black onyx pendant is the focal of this stunning beaded necklace and because it is handmade, it makes the necklace even more special.

With the various colors of Indian Agate gemstone it offers a variety of opportunities to coordinate with outfits.

Sandy Beaches Golden Pink Crystal Necklace (N017)

Delicate Feminine Flair
Looking for a lighter style that still offers that same notice-me-now look but with a little shimmer? Slip on the Sandy Beaches Golden Pink Crystal Necklace (N017) in delicate colors of pink and pale gold that mimic the sparkling crystals on sun-drenched beaches.

A 14 karat gold fill circle link chain allows for a front closing clasp in this beautiful Y style necklace.

Haven't quite found that you piece of jewelry at Crystal Allure? Contact me to have a custom design created, just for you!

Hill Tribe Heart Leaf Pendant Beaded Necklace

Fourteen Days of Hearts and Love
Part 13 of 14

I've decided to showcase the newest heart necklace tomorrow, on Valentine's Day. But the Crystal Allure Jewelry collection is not without other heart jewelry! When I first started these blog posts I thought I wouldn't have enough heart jewelry, but silly ole' me, what was I thinking! And of course, a hand full of other jewelry was designed as I sat in my studio preparing each of these articles. In fact, I even found a necklace I had designed weeks ago, meant to get a picture of it and just happened to uncover it on my studio table as I was "cleaning". Where in my case, in my studio, "cleaning" means shuffling things from one corner to another. Yup, my studio is the only room that looks like a hurricane hit it. Based on the type of person I am, I certainly don't understand it but I just go with it. I have always been a firm believer (and my mother will confirm this) that everything has a place and every place has a thing for it. Organize, organize, organize. Yet, in my bead studio....that rule just doesn't seem to work. An empty table, for me, seems to stiffle my creativity. Strange I know. But, I just go with it (which is probably why you'll never likely see pictures of my studio). :-)

But, alas I digressed. Heart Jewelry. Got it. Back on track.

On this thirteenth day of Hearts and Love, I wanted to highlight the Green Grossular Garnet Gemstone Heart Leaf Pendant Beaded Necklace (N085). Just as every element of nature comes together, so too did the elements of this necklace. The green garnet gemstone is simply beautiful, beyond words and complements perfectly with the wood beads for a truly nature inspired beaded necklace.

And as ironically as my confession above about a messy studio....well, I just spend a half-hour looking for the remaining green garnet gemstones to get a close up picture of them so that you could truly appreciate what I'm trying to convey in their beauty. But, as suspected I just can't find them. Note to self: clean table. (right).

The heart shaped leaf pendant was handmade by the Karen Hill Tribe in northern Thailand. Using techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation and a higher silver content allows them to easily shape their metal into very different styles. As a result, no two pieces are exactly alike. So even if I ever decided to make a similar style necklace, the heart leaf pendant will be uniquely different than the one shown here.

You simply can't go wrong with this beaded necklace because green and brown are the new "black" of the fashion world!

Unchain My Heart For Eternity Freshwater Pearl Earrings

Fourteen Days of Hearts and Love
Part 12 of 14

Okay, okay, I have to admit, I did have a whole other new piece of jewelry to introduce today. BUT, as these things go sometimes, the pictures just were not up to my standards. So I've had to postpone that introduction until either tomorrow or Sunday (the last day of these Valentine Hearts and Love postings).

Indeed, I had already introduced these lovely heart earrings in January, but of all the heart earrings, I find these are my favorite. They have a little sass, a little sweetness and they are oh so beautiful! Although available in both Rose Quartz and Jade, the Unchain My Heart Gemstone Beaded Earrings (E256) are even more unique because there is only one pair available in each gemstone.

If you're anything like me, somedays you feel a little sexy, other days a little sweet. I definately like a variety of jewelry to choose from each day. Most women dress based on how they are feeling that particular day.

New to Crystal Allure are two very different but very beautiful pairs of beaded earrings. Both showcase the beauty and elegance of pearls.

For those days when you're feeling a little sexy there are the For Eternity Freshwater Pearl Berryvine Beaded Earrings (E100-D2), shown below, featuring a rich cranberry pearl.

Feeling a little sweet and angelic? Pick yourself up a pair of the Swarovski Pearl Bali Stack Beaded Earrings (E251).

I have always found my simple stack beaded earrings to be particularly popular, versatile and perfect for a day at the office, carting around the kids or a romantic dinner out.

For Eternity Freshwater Pearl Beaded Earrings (E100-D2)

These sexy handcrafted beaded earrings feature a trio of rich cranberry freshwater pearls accented with 14 karat gold fill bead caps and meticulously wire wrapped for all of eternity. Gold fill 14 karat leverback ear wires. Length is 1-3/4" from the bottom of the ear wire.

Window Heart Earrings Grounded in Tradition

Fourteen Days of Hearts and Love
Part 10 of 14

While preparing today's post, I had wondered what does the old wedding custom of "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue" really mean/represent? So I did some research. It turns out the old saying in full reads:

Something old, something new
Something borrowed, something blue
And a silver sixpence in her shoe.

Each item represents a good-luck token, that if given to the bride and carried/worn on her wedding day, her marriage will be happy. "Something old" represents a bride's connection with her family and the past; "Something new" symbolizes optimism and hope for the bride's new life ahead; "Something borrowed" is usually an item from a happily married family member or friend, whose good fortune in marriage is suppose to carry over to the bride's new marriage; and a sixpense in the bride's shoe represents wealth and financial security.

It is the "something blue" that carries a bit of history with it. The color blue has been connected to weddings for centuries. The brides of ancient Rome wore blue to symbolize love, modesty and fidelity. In the Christian faith, the Virgin Mary was dressed in blue, associating the color with purity. And although it would be hard to believe now, with all the choices a bride has for wedding gowns, before the late 19th century, blue was the most popular color for wedding gowns (hence, the proverb, "Marry in blue, lover be true").

When I saw these heart beads (below), three words came to mind: princess, castle, wedding. I pictured them designed with some soft blue Swarovski Crystals and immediately thought of a princess -we all want to be a princess on our wedding day (and everyday if the truth be told!); and the beautiful frosted window heart beads reminded me of regal castle style windows -you know the ones told in fairy tales...where only princesses' and queens live.

Crystal Blue Frosted Heart Beaded Earrings (E200)

Beautiful frosted window heart beads are accented by romantic light blue Swarovski Crystals and sterling silver in this pair of handmade beaded earrings. Finished with sterling silver french hook earwires. Length is 1-1/4" from the bottom of the earwire.

The finished design of the Crystal Blue Frosted Heart Beaded Earrings (E200) reminds me of a beautiful bride with a classic wedding style -fit for a princess!

These enchanting pair of earrings are perfect for the Bride-to-be, an anniversary gift or...just because.

Are you looking for a coordinating bracelet or necklace for a complete jewelry set? Simply contact me for availability and to discuss your request.

Does Your Heart Belong To Your Pet?

Fourteen Days of Hearts and Love
Part 9 of 14

According to a recent poll by Reuters/Ipsos, 1 in 5 adults prefer to spend Valentine's Day with their pet, than with their partner. Who could blame them right? Pets give us unconditional love, they're faithful, snuggly, lovable and oh so adorable.

Would I trade Valentine's Day with my husband for my pet...eh...maybe not? If I was single, I think I would definitely be one of those "1 in 5" people. But, I'm blessed because I can be with both. You can definitely see I am an animal lover and supporter. Which is evident in the beaded lanyard, shown below, as well as, the Animal Awareness Jewelry offered.

Blue Heart Spay Neuter Awareness Beaded Lanyard (L04)

Designed with two beautiful satin blue lampwork glass heart beads, Swarovski Crystals, Bali beads and an adorable sterling silver paw charm.

This lanyard is not only chic enough for work but the colors are neutral and go with everything.

The light blue color is also the support color for spaying/neutering your pet! You can attach your work keys to the key ring or to the hook.

Most badges can easily slip onto the hook, but if you need a converter, please let me know.

Love You....and won't you Be Mine?

It's been tough getting back into the groove after the holidays, but I'm getting there. During my holiday down-time, I did manage to get organized and now there is a whole slew of new beaded jewelry to get pictured for the website...so stay tuned.

Is it just me or do you love Valentine's Day too? Yeah, yeah, it is all commercial -but for us romantics....it's a day to celebrate love and all the specialness that comes with being in love (and well, I think I speak for most ladies when I say, some sparklies don't hurt either!). Remember too those fun little candy conversation hearts we gave in our grade school Valentine's celebrations? It was so fun to read the messages and the colorful hearts were pretty tasty too.

Love You Heart Charm Crystal Pearl Bracelet Set (BES5)

So, with Valentine's Day just around the corner, now is the perfect time to start thinking about your sweethearts' gift. If you are longing to say, I "Love You" but want it to be memorable, give your sweetheart the Love You Heart Charm Crystal Pearl Bracelet Set (BES5). This unique one-of-a-kind design incorporates a woman's desire for a more sophisticated piece of jewelry that sparkles, in a classic pearl and crystal bracelet with a playful conversation heart that reads, "Love You".

Be Mine Heart Charm Crystal Pearl Bracelet Set (BES4)

Not quite at that point in your relationship? Or simply have a special friend you wish to express how you feel? How about the Be Mine Heart Charm Crystal Pearl Bracelet Set (BES4). This unique one-of-a-kind beaded bracelet is similar to the "Love You" style except it showcases a pink crystal instead of a red crystal.

With both bracelets you get a matching pair of sterling silver, pearl and crystal earrings.

No matter which you choose, you can't go wrong. Not only do you express your love, and give a sparkling gift, you also give her something to treasure for years to come. But hurry, to ensure your sweethearts' gift arrives in time for Valentine's Day, you'll need to place your order no later than February 8, 2010.

As my gift to you, from now until February 8, 2010 you can save 10% on either bracelet set and you'll receive a delicious chocolate truffle in your shipment. No coupons needed.

Holiday Gift Guide 2009

Christmas is now officially 3 weeks away, but if you're like me and ordering your gifts online, the time is much shorter. That being said, I completely understand the pressure of (1) finding the right gift and (2) getting it in time. And I'm all for ways to make my shopping easier!!

So I've complied a Crystal Allure Holiday Gift Guide to assist in narrowing down gift options so you choose just the right one. Included, new, in this years gift guide is a quick list of all the new beaded jewelry that is perfect for the upcoming holiday. Got a special company holiday party to attend and want to shine just enough to suit your individuality? Like to have a little fun and wear some jewelry with a hint of holiday color? Well, it's all right there in the Crystal Allure Holiday Gift Guide.

You'll find our most popular stocking stuffer options with a variety of choices under each. These great little gifts are perfect to give as secret santa gifts or even to the ladies in your office. Each come packaged in a lovely organza bag and ready for gift giving -or to drop in the stocking!

And for that hard to buy for person is the quintessential, can't go wrong, jewelry gift certificate. Available in $25, $50, $75 and $100 you're sure to find an amount that will fit your shopping budget. The Crystal Allure Jewelry Gift Certificate is a virtual certificate which means you will receive an email with the details of how to use the gift certificate and the code. However, if you really would like a paper gift certificate, just let me know.

So don't fret about shopping, grab a cup of coffee, sit back and shop with ease until your hearts content!

2009 Fall Jewelry and Colors Trend Report

Happy Autumn to everyone!

Our goal at Crystal Allure is to strike a balance with our jewelry designs that will easily transition from day into night. This is why you'll find our mixing of opaque and semi precious stones with hints of crystal works so well in our designs. We design pieces that have longevity and versatility for a look of classic femininity with a dash of color.

If you ask 10 different people what the "hot" colors and fashions of the fall season will be, you will get 10 different answers. Although we do not follow the latest trends and fashions, per se, to make it easy for you to coordinate your wardrobe with accessories, we have researched and compiled what we feel will be the colors of the upcoming fall and winter seasons. Look for some of these colors in the new beaded jewelry designs list.

We start the season with classic autumnal colors and then transition during the season into winter with vibrant jewel tone colors. These jewel tone colors will carry you into the winter season with the blues ruling the fall/winter season!

JEWELRY MUST HAVES
Statement Necklaces make a great focal for any outfit. The statement necklace below features a filigree "snowflake" metal pendant accented with black jet Swarovski crystals and blue lapis gemstones.

Blue Lapis Gemstone Crystal Filigree Snowflake Pendant Necklace (N069)

Cuff Bracelets whether beaded, wire-wrapped or memory wire bracelets, you'll definitely want to get at least one cuff bracelet in your jewelry collection this season. Check out the Autumn Splendor Czech Leaf Charm Cuff Beaded Bracelet (B121) for an abundance of autumnal color with oak leaf charms uniquely designed as a cuff bracelet using memory wire.

Autumn Honey Topaz Carnelian Gemstone Beaded Necklace (N039)

Closer to the holidays, chandelier earrings, in jewel tone colors will be the "it" accessory to have in your collection. Prefer the classic look? You can still enjoy chandelier earrings but instead, opt for designs with crystal shimmer -think of Crystal Ice Jewelry by by Crystal Allure!

FASHION ON A BUDGET
I think we all agree, we are on a perpetual quest to be fashionable but on a budget. That being said, how do you incorporate the colors of the season into your wardrobe without breaking the bank?

Choose pants, jackets and sweaters in neutral shades (black, brown, grey, etc) and add seasonal color to your basics with blouses, jewelry and accessories.

FEATURED Savings

Time flies when you're busy! Between filling orders, re-decorating the house and life in general, there just isn't enough time in the day. So I must apologize for the lag between studio postings on the blog. I have been able to get a few new jewelry pieces posted on the website.

The first of the new fall jewelry pieces is the Autumn Splendor Czech Leaf Charm Cuff Beaded Bracelet (B121) which is back in stock, but there is only one (1) available. The other one is the Autumn Harvest Leaf Charm Topaz Crystal Beaded Bracelet (B164). The latter beaded bracelet pairs perfectly with the Autumn Honey Topaz Carnelian Gemstone Beaded Necklace (N039), listed below.

I hope everyone had a fabulous holiday weekend. I spent four days painting. Yes, painting. I had a whole list of things I wanted to accomplish and it just didn't happen. We have a 'small-ish' room that is essentially shaded by the roof of our wrap around porch. Well, a fews years after purchasing our house, I had a wonderful idea to paint the room brown. I really wanted a chocolate color, but got walnut. On top of it, with the existing walnut trim, well....it didn't look so great! But years passed and I tried to work with it but just finally decided to dive in and paint. Not that I don't love to paint -okay I don't love to paint -I just love the look after it's all done! The room is now a beautiful warm, muted shade of yellow/mustard yellow. Brightens the whole room! So, after two coats of primer and two coats of paint -many sore muscles -I never got around to getting pictures of the new jewelry yet to be posted on the website. But, it's coming, I promise.

Before the holiday weekend started I did get a chance to set two lovely beaded necklaces, perfect complements for your autumn wardrobe, as FEATURED pieces. The best part is that you can save up to 20% on each necklace until September 22, 2009! Each necklace is a one-of-a-kind. You will find all featured and highlighted jewelry pieces on the Crystal Allure website.

Or you can click on beaded necklace titles below:

Red Aventurine Gemstone Freshwater Pearl Beaded Necklace (N040)

Autumn Honey Topaz Carnelian Gemstone Beaded Necklace (N039)

Pssst -Stay tuned for an upcoming Fall Jewelry and Colors Trend Report!

2008 Fall Jewelry Collection

With today appropriately being the first official day of Autumn, it was fitting to announce the new Fall Beaded Jewelry pieces have begun to be added. Whether you lean towards the trendy or traditional side, you'll find the perfect accessories to complement your fall wardrobe at Crystal Allure Jewelry.

For you fashion forward gals, you'll find handmade beaded jewelry in this seasons hottest colors like burnt orange and Caribbean blue. Both of the following one of a kind beaded necklaces are the perfect complement to your fall wardrobe.

Autumn Honey Topaz Carnelian Gemstone Beaded Necklace (N039)

Just because it's Fall doesn't mean you can wear a blue reminiscent of summer! This next necklace is a warm blue, so it'll fit right in with your fall/winter wardrobe.

Indigo Blue Crystal Embossed Mother of Pearl Beaded Necklace (N059)

If you are more the traditionalist, you'll find elegant beaded jewelry in the traditional rich autumn shades of red, brown and gold.

Autumn Splendor Czech Leaf Charm Cuff Beaded Bracelet (B121)

No matter your preference, the one color that will always be in style and remains the color for Fall 2008 is purple!

Amethyst Twist Black Crystal Choker Necklace Set (NES1)

Find all of these pieces and more Fall Beaded Jewelry at Crystal Allure.

Healthy Lung Month

Crystal Allure Celebrates Healthy Lung Month

Everyday we take for granted our ability to breathe -but it's not that easy for millions of people with lung diseases. October is Healthy Lung Month and a great time to learn more about the lung diseases that affect more than 30 million Americans.

Cystic fibrosis, lung cancer, asthma, and chronic bronchitis are just some of the lung diseases you may have heard of. Being short of breath can make everyday activities seem like a chore rather than an enjoyment. Consider this: have you ever gone outside on an extremely cold, frigid, windy, winter day and the wind just slaps you in the face with such force and shock that you actually feel like you've lost your breath and you can't breathe? This is how some affected by a lung disease feel -everyday.

So how can you keep your lungs healthy? What can you do to help raise awareness of these lung diseases? Well, if you smoke the first place to start is to STOP SMOKING and/or avoid secondhand smoke. More than 87 percent of lung cancer cases as well as most cases of emphysema and chronic bronchitis are caused by tobacco smoke. And for those with cystic fibrosis, smoke and secondhand smoke further compromises their lungs. I hope this does not sound like an anti-smoking message. But the evidence speaks for itself. Smoking is BAD.

Of course, exercise is an excellent way to keep your lungs healthy -give them a good workout!! If your lungs are already compromised don't despair! There are still exercises you can do -just consult with your physician first before starting any exercise program or routine.

You can also make a difference by raising awareness. One lung disease of special interest to me is cystic fibrosis (CF). This is one disease I'd like to see disappear! Yet, you'd be surprised not many people have heard of CF. Sadly, I've even come across some physicians that didn't know what it was or how to test for it! Those with CF can and should still exercise but ultimately they will need a lung transplant to survive. So how can you help? An excellent resource for cystic fibrosis information and awareness activities is the Lungs for Life Foundation. I urge you to check them out.

Another great way to get involved this month is to purchase your cystic fibrosis awareness, organ donation awareness, transplant awareness, survivor and co-survivor jewelry from Crystal Allure Creations. Remember, your purchase of my designer awareness jewelry will benefit the charity identified in the product description. What better way to get involved than to show your support AND look fabulous!!!

*******************
Resources
To learn more about cystic fibrosis, visit the Lungs for Life Foundation website. http://www.lungsforlife.info/

Sources
American Lung Association

National Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month

May is National Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) affects approximately 30,000 children and young adults in the United States. CF causes a sticky, thick mucus to line the lungs, small intestines, sweat glands and pancreas. This results in the deterioration of lung tissue making it difficult to breathe. It also prevents necessary nutrient absorption in the small intestine and blocks pancreatic ducts from releasing digestive enzymes. 1 in every 23 Americans are symptomless carriers of the CF gene.


Purple Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Ribbons Bracelet (B033-CF-D1)
SOLD

Crystal Allure Creations is a proud supporter of the Lungs for Life.

LFL provides assistance and services to those living with cystic fibrosis and their families. Crystal Allure made significant strides in raising awareness of this hereditary disease since 2004 with the sales from our Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Bracelets. For every bracelet sold a portion of the proceeds gets donated to Lungs for Life.

As one who was personally affected with cystic fibrosis in my family I know all to well the struggles one faces daily with trying to live life and manage their health. My brother and muse passed away in 1998 after fighting cystic fibrosis for 33 years. It was after seeing his daily struggles that I founded and continue to support the Lungs for Life.

Be a part of making a difference in the life of someone with cystic fibrosis with your purchase of any cystic fibrosis awareness product. Remember, a portion of the proceeds will be donated directly to LFL.

Thank you in advance for your support and generosity!