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News, stories and ideas from The Family Jewels

 

Ayala Bar Jewellery - Timeless Treasures Waiting To Be Discovered

Born and raised in Israel, Ayala Bar graduated from art school and subsequently worked in many artistic areas, from theatre to interior design. Her breakthrough as a prominent Israeli jeweler came in the early 1990’s

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The Treasures of the Earth - Discover The Healing Qualities Of Gemstones

A gemstone is a precious stone. It is formed from a piece of mineral crystal cut and polished to make jeweler and other adornments. Gemstones need not be minerals only. There are certain rocks such as lapis lazuli and opal which are considered gemstones.

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Sterling Silver Jewellery and Its Dirty Little Secrets - How To Keep Your Silver Jewellery Sparkling For Longer

Sterling silver jewellery is adorned for its luster, brilliance and versatility. It is popular for any jeweler collection. However, sometimes sterling silver can be frustrating especially when it begins to tarnish because of the contact between silver and oxygen. 

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A Guide to Birthstones - Birthstones by Month & Their Powerful Properties

Birthstones are associated with every month of the year often indicating the astrological sign of a person’s birth. There are a myriad of myths and legends concerning birthstones, some even suggesting that wearing a gemstone during its assigned month heightened its powers.

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9 Perfect Occasions for Jewellery Gifts (and where to get them)

Life is full of occasions where we celebrate by giving gifts. Gifts are a symbol of love and value conferred to those who are gifted. However, choosing a gift can be overwhelming. You have to consider the occasion, the personality of the person you are giving the gift, the usefulness of the gift, its uniqueness and include a personal touch!

Fortunately, jewellery is always a go-to for gifts for any occasion. Here are a few occasion guidelines where jewellery makes a great gift.

1. Birthdays

Birthdays are one of the most important occasions for anyone. It is the beginning of another year for whomever you are gifting. Birthdays should not just be about cake!  A piece of silver jewellery such as a silver necklace, brooch or earrings would be perfect.

2. Anniversaries

Every anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate milestones in your relationships. Celebrating milestones is important in any relationship. A silver bracelet, necklace or earrings would be appropriate for such an occasion. Furthermore, if you are gifting your partner, a relationship anniversary could be your perfect chance to propose with a beautiful diamond ring!

3. Weddings

Weddings are wonderful ceremonies for people to get together and enjoy each other’s company and celebrate a new beginning for two people in love. For such occasions, a jewellery piece could be a gift. Furthermore, you could add a handmade or custom made jewellery box just to give a personal touch.

4. Congratulations

It is important to celebrate your loved ones when they make progress to the next stage in life. These could be after a special occasion such as getting a dream job, moving to a new city or getting a baby. Jewellery would be appropriate as a congratulatory gift.

5. Graduation

The culmination of hard work should be celebrated! A graduation marks a transition from one level of education to another. One life stage to another. Any jewellery item would fit as a gift in such an occasion to celebrate their efforts.

6. Holidays

There are special occasions and holidays every year that give us perfect gifting opportunities. Holidays like Christmas and New Years Day are perfect opportunities to gift others. Look for a gift to suit the holiday theme, colouring, or perhaps something special to showcase the personality of the recipient. A birth stone would make an ideal gift with that personal touch.

7. Appreciation

There are times when people do something special for you. Most likely you did not expect it but they went above and beyond to help you or to do something extraordinary in your life. A thoughtful gift with a sparkle would go a long way to show your appreciation and gratefulness for what the person did for you.

8. Employee Gifts

One of the best ways to appreciate employees and encourage a positive attitude is to gift them. A small, modest piece could be used as a gift in such occasions but perhaps consider a gift card to stay both professional and appreciative.

9. Thinking of You

Gifts don’t need to be given on specific occasions only. Sometimes, the spontaneous gifts mean more than gifts given out of necessity. When you find yourself thinking about someone, let them know! Life is too short to hold back.

Jewellery can be the perfect gift for many occasions. Never go empty handed to an event or special occasion. Jewellery gifts are there to help you out. Use them.

Browse our full range of hand-crafted jewellery to find the perfect gift for any occasion.



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7 Therapeutic Properties of Gemstones For Improved Quality of Life

When we hear about gemstones, the first thought that crosses our mind is of the jewels around our necks or beautiful diamond rings on our fingers. Our idea of gemstones is to show a kind of pedigree and class. However, have you ever imagined that gemstones could be more than just stones you wear on your neck or finger? Did you know that gemstones have a vast amount of therapeutic properties?

Here are seven therapeutic properties of gemstones that you probably never knew about. 

1. Calmness

Gemstones have a calming and relaxation effect, even cooling down emotions like anger. Examples: amazonite, apatite, aquamarine, aragonite etc. These gemstones are useful in treating mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Furthermore, gemstones like amethyst are effective in treating neurosis.

2. Clarity

Gemstones can aid your mental focus, discernment and wise decision making. They help you ground confusion and see the best of who you are and where best to use your energy. Examples:  azurite, charoite, diamond etc.

3. Empowerment

Gemstones help you find a place of power within yourself and to know where you are as a person. They give you awareness and wisdom. Examples: alexandrite, ruby, diamond etc. Gemstones help get rid of fears and phobias by initiating a believe-in-self attitude.

4. Inner Work

Inner work is about examining habits and patterns. It goes beyond your emotions or wounds. Gemstones help navigate dark waters in your life so that you uncover the deeper story of your life and find purpose. Moreover, they keep you connected to your heart and goodness. Navigating through these dark waters help you uncover the underlying issues that may cause your lack of well-being. Examples: amazonite, apache tears, lapis lazuli, tanzanite etc.

5. Abundance

Gemstones can help you become aware of the bounty of the universe (abundance) around you. They encourage you to open your heart to receive and shift your mind focus to the fact that the universe wants you to be happy and succeed. Examples: alexandrite, amber, aventurine, emerald, jade, pearl and peridot. Gemstones create an appetite for passionate pursuits and exhilarating energy to chase after your ambitions. Positive vibes are all you need for quick healing in therapy.

6. Positivity

Gemstones have a way of getting rid of all negativity contained in the mind. Life can be overwhelming and negative thoughts begin to creep in. Gemstones bring instant happiness especially when placed close to the heart. Sometimes, doing away with all negativity is enough healing in itself. Gemstones also create positive thoughts towards closure, major life changes and a higher consciousness. If you find yourself feeling anxious, uptight and harboring negativity, consider placing amethyst under your pillow and see the difference in the morning.

7. Tranquility

Even when used as an ornament, gemstones emanate a feeling of peace. Lack of peace is detrimental to both your physical and mental health. Gemstones wash away fear, anxiety and negativity, leaving peace and tranquility behind. If you struggle with fear and insecurity, gemstones are there to help you find some peace.

Gemstones have countless therapeutic properties that increase positivity and quality of life. Use them as a necklace or other jewel, or under your pillow. The method does not matter as much as their benefits do.

Here at The Family Jewels, we have an array of carefully selected, hand-crafted gemstones. Browse our gemstone collection online to find the perfect one for you or a loved one: https://www.thefamilyjewels.com.au/collections/gemstones



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5 Brilliant & Thoughtful Sterling Silver Gift Ideas

Everyone loves a thoughtful and meaningful gift. They are a beautiful way of showing appreciation and letting someone know how much you value their being in your life. Sterling silver gifts are perfect to show just how much you value your friends, siblings, partners or parents. They can be used as gifts for weddings, anniversaries, baby showers, housewarming and most any other occasion! A sterling silver gift distinguishes your gift from any others. It showcases your personal touch and refined taste. Sterling silver gifts make you shine just as well as the recipient!  What’s not to love!?

Here are a few ideas to help you choose the best sterling silver gift:

1.) Sterling Silver Bracelets

Sterling silver bracelets can be given as a single classic piece or personalised with a stack of layered bangles. Whichever the case, they are exceptionally crafted for a lifetime of value. Whether an understated single bracelet or a stack, sterling silver bracelets offer gorgeous ways to share your fashion savvy and exquisite taste. Simple single classic pieces are more relevant for a baby shower while a stack of layered bangles is more appropriate for a larger celebratory or wedding gift. Or perhaps you are after a unique and stylish group gift. Get together a group and purchase complimenting bracelets that can, when gifted, be worn as a beautiful and meaningful collection. There are a variety of bracelets all which are unique and beautiful. Whether a single fine bracelet or a beautiful set of stacking bangles these make beautiful gifts for both everyday wear and special occasions.

2.) Sterling Silver Necklaces

Sterling silver necklaces are elegant and brilliant gifts.  Furthermore, necklaces with a pendant look even moreso! A stunning silver necklace stand outs on any woman’s neck. Necklaces come in various styles all of which demystify your sense of fashion and elegance. When looking for an anniversary gift, look no further. A sterling silver necklace will be magic. Consider favourite colours and/or birthstones details when making your selection.

3.) Sterling Silver Brooches

Many women ignore the importance of brooches and disregard them. However, a brooch brings a whole new element to your clothing! If this is done by just a simple brooch, how much more would a gorgeous silver brooch make your outfit shine! Sterling silver brooches are unique and exquisite giving a whole new aspect to your garment. Adding personality and flair to your clothing can transform even the most simple item into something uniquely styled. However, brooches are not just for garments but may be utilised as an ornamental jewellery as well! With a sterling silver brooch gift, you give your loved choices to use it as an ornament or to add beauty to their clothing. Do not just buy any brooch, buy a gorgeous sterling silver brooch. This will do the trick and is a genuinely unique option!

4.) Sterling Silver Rings

Rings are not just symbols of engagement or marriage but also of commitment and value. Rings leave a long lasting impression on your loved one. They are an indication of just how much value you confer on an individual. Sterling silver rings can all be described as ‘out of this world’. The most beautiful sterling rings are unique, elegant and exquisite. Even in their simplest form, sterling silver rings still have an indelible effect. They are perfect for wedding or anniversary gifts!

5.) Sterling Silver Earrings

Classic understated sterling silver studs or beautifully designed statement pieces can both brighten an outfit and showcase personality. A confident woman in love with her earrings is a sight to behold! Sterling silver earrings are gorgeous and make amazing gifts. They are unique jewellery pieces that give impression of exceptional fashion sense and a touch of excellence. Moreover, depending on the design, earrings can be used for gifting in almost any occasion.

Sterling silver gifts come in a range of designs and makes. Some cost a little more than others. However, you can never go wrong with a sterling silver gift.

 

Browse our entire Sterling Silver range

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A Guide to Birth Stones

Please find below a quick and easy chart to find birthstones by birthday month. This chart is an amalgamation of traditional and modern birthstones with a separate chart for stones of the zodiac.

 

Birthstones by Month

Month Birthstones
January Garnet
February  Amethyst
March Aquamarine
April Quartz, Diamond
May Emerald, Chrysophrase
June Pearl, Moonstone
July Ruby, Carnelion
August Peridot, Onyx
September Lapis Lazuli, Sapphire
October Tourmaline, Opal
November Citrine, Topaz
December Turquoise, Tanzanite

 

Birthstones by Signs of the Zodiac

Sign Birthstone
Aquarius (21 Jan - 21 Feb) Garnet
Pisces (22 Feb - 21 Mar) Amethyst
Aries (22 Mar - 20 Apr) Chalcedony
Taurus (21 Apr - 21 May) Sapphire
Gemini (22 May - 21 June) Agate
Cancer (21 June - 22 July) Emerald
Leo (23 Jul - 22 Aug) Onyx
Virgo (23 Aug - 22 Sep) Carnelian
Libra (23 Sep - 23 Oct) Chrysophrase
Scorpio (24 Oct - 21 Nov) Aquamarine
Sagittarius (22 Nov -  21Dec) Topaz
Capricorn (22 Dec - 21 jan) Ruby

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Family Jewels August 16, 2013 0 tags (show) Add a comment

The Crystal Healer - Physical, emotional and mental wellbeing through the power of gems.

The Age Old Power of Gems

For thousands of years many cultures have recognised the power of minerals (crystals and gemstones) to affect the physical, emotional and metal state of individuals and communities. The native American peoples use turquoise to aid in healing and general vitality while Hindu people have long associated gems with the seven Chakras represented as Ruby (crown), Carnelian (brow), Citrine (throat), emerald (heart), sapphire (solar plexus), indicolite (sacral or spleen and amethyst (root). Even in our modern western society, one simply has to see the effect a gem on any newly engaged woman's finger has to her overall demeanour to appreciate the power of gemstones on our feelings of wellbeing.

 

So what are some gems that can be used to enhance our physical, emotional and mental wellbeing in everyday life?

Here are a few 'super gems' that have been known to have positive affects on on various aspects of the physical, emotional and mental spheres. This is by no means and exhaustive list but rather a good starting point of some of the most widely accepted gems available:-

 

  Gem Physical Mental Emotional
 

Aquamarine

(Click to see)

Known to positively affect the glands, eyes, kidneys and liver. Calms the nerves and provides clear thinking. Will bring a creative boost to problem solving. Grief may be reduced by wearing Aquamarine.

Carnelian

(Click to see)
Reduced toxicity in the body, aiding the blood system. Stimulates greater concentration and motivation to achieve one's goals. Dispels envious thoughts and anger, focusing  the being on contented feelings.

Citrine

(Click to see)

Assisted the repair of the kidneys and liver. Brings muscular relaxation. Encourages rational, grounded thinking. Helps closed individuals open up and embrace closer, more fulfilling  relationships with others.
 

Garnet

(Click to see)

Strengthens the heart and bones. Balances sex drive.  Lifts creativity and helps finds new ideas. Eases depressions and encourages positive thought.
 

 Kunzite

(Click to see)

Reduces headaches. Helps even eating disorders.   Encourages grounding and tolerance of others. Enhances self esteem. Wards off negative energies of others.
 

 Peridot

(Click to see)

 Assists intestinal system and muscles.  Balances and provides confidence. Aids in restful sleep.  Reduces hostility and depression.
 

Rhodochrosite

(Click to see) 

Affects the heart.  Great for breaking bad habits and establishing new patterns. Aids in mending heart break and moving on from loss.
 

 Sugilite

(Click to see)

 Aids glandular system and purifies the body. Connects logical thoughts and initiative feelings more effectively.   Balances emotions and heightens spiritual awareness. 

 

Embrace the Journey!

Beyond considering the traditional uses listing above, its important when selecting a gem for you that you trust your instincts and attraction to certain types of gems and to even individual pieces. It's a journey of discovery and like all other such journeys sometimes you just have to trust your gut!

 

 

Reference Material

'Crystals: It's your turn to heal' by Bryan Gardiner (1993)

'Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem and Metal Magic' by Scott Cunninham (2002)

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Ayala Bar - An Artist's Vision

A rose-tinted flower peeking out of a crack in a pavement... a glint of sunlight on a rusty can... a pebble marking gentle waves in a rain shower's puddle... wherever Ayala Bar goes,her surroundings inspire her. For this creative artist, the universe is indeed in the details. Insights and ideas are collected from sights and sites that to the average person seem mundane.

Nothing is routine to Ayala. The materials she works with - simple metals, glass beads, mineral stones and crystal rhinestones are used to translate her creative perceptions into intricate patterns with a thousand messages.Many have tried to define Ayala's style. It has been called Art Deco meets the Middle East, for example. But the truth is that Ayala's style cannot be categorized. That is why every woman finds her own special radiance and very  personal signature in the Ayala Bar jewelry she has chosen.

Ayala's creations draw on over ten years of experience as a costume jeweler,  and an eclectic career in theater and interior design. Today,  Ayala is a mature designer, cognizant of the trends in the fashion world, but always true to her inner vision. This precious integrity creates the radiance that is Ayala's own signature.

The Family Jewels is proud to stock a wide range of pieces from Ayala Bar. To view those available online CLICK HERE.

 

[above material sourced from www.ayalabar.com]

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