Deco Belle Inc.'s Jewelry Blog

Card Writing Help - Examples and Suggestions For Our Jewelry Gift Cards

2012-01-25T12:10:00.000-08:00

Recently in posting our new handmade Valentine's Day cards for jewelry gift purchases, a friend of mine mentioned that the cards are all good and great, but what to write for such a nice card. He asked if I had suggestions, and immediately I thought if this ever so witty friend is having a hard time putting pen to paper, then perhaps others might appreciate some suggestions. A special thanks to CS for inspiring this blog.

We at Deco Belle Jewelry will hand write your personalized message (up to 300 characters for the larger A7 cards, and up to 125 characters for the smaller cards, character length noted on each card page), included with handmade card purchase. Our cards feature embossing which give the stamped image a raised surface, we also accent the Valentine and Thinking of You cards with a pearl.

When the paper is in red, fuchsia pink, or purple color, we will hand write the message in white ink, so that the message will stand out against such dark paper.

Paper color in aqua blue (as shown to the right), or other light colors, will be hand written in black or blue ink. Please write your personalized message in the gift wrapping/message field in the shipping section of the shopping cart checkout wrapper when finalizing your jewellery gift purchases.

Suggestions for card messages:

For Birthday cards:

What a wonderful day to celebrate you! Happy birthday!
Happy birthday! Thank you for your wonderful friendship throughout the year, what a lovely way to celebrate you today!
Wishing you a very happy birthday, an even better year, and happiness always.
Through the miles I wish you a lovely birthday, and wanted to let you know that I am thinking of you on your birthday!
All the very best on your Birthday. May the coming year be filled with love and smiles.
Don't think of it as getting older, think of it as becoming a classic.
A simple celebration, a gathering of friends; here is wishing you great happiness, a joy that never ends.

For Mother's Day cards: (new Mother's Day card designs to debut late April 2012)

You are a loving mother, Who is nice in every way. My wishes are full of love, for you on Mother's Day!
Mom (or for our UK, Australia, and NZ friends, Mum), You are the first to give encouragement and support, unconditional love, yet you are the last to look for praise. Thank you for your love!
Thank you for all you do, with lots of love for you! Happy Mother's Day!
I wish you a very happy Mother's Day! And hope that it blooms with happiness!
Happy Mother's Day! You are a constant inspiration to me, and you have always believed in me, offering me unconditional love and support.

For Thank You cards:

Thank you so much for the lovely gift. What a wonderful surprise! It was very thoughtful of you and much appreciated.
Thank you isn't enough, you are the best!
Thank you so much for _____. It means a lot to me, and made me feel so special that you are so thoughtful toward me.
Thank you for ______. I was really touched that you _____.
(As houseguests): Thank you for welcoming me into your home. I really enjoying spending time with you. You made me feel so welcome and at home.

For Thinking of You cards:

(Anniversary): Love and friendship fill our days together, growing together, sharing experiences, and making new memories are what I love the most about sharing a life with you. Happy anniversary!
You brighten up my life and make me want to be the best that I can be for you. I love and appreciate you.
I am so privileged to go through life with you. Just wanted to let you know how much you are loved.

For Valentine Day cards: (please also see "Thinking of You", above)

With you it's Valentine's Day 365.25 days a year!
Love is a symbol of eternity. It wipes out all sense of time, destroying all memory of a beginning and all fear of an end. Happy Valentine's Day!
Many are the starrs I see, but in my eye no starr like thee. (from an English saying used on poesy rings)
Oh, if it be to choose and call thee mine, love, thou art every day my Valentine! -Thomas Hood
For you see, each day I love you more. Today more than yesterday and less than tomorrow. -Rosemonde Gerard
Be my Valentine, because you are most certainly my Valentine!
A special heart (assuming heart jewelry is purchased) for the woman with the most special heart in the world. Happy Valentine's Day!
Gravitation is not responsible for people falling in love. -Albert Einstein

We hope that you find the perfect words to express your sentiment, adding a personalized gift card makes a wonderful jewelry present even more special. All of our orders include free gift wrapping.

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Venetian Millefiori Murano Glass Pendant by Gene Kosoy Photography

2011-11-24T21:47:00.000-08:00

Our friends at Gene Kosoy photography were kind enough to photograph a special gift, on a most spectacular beach in the Dominican Republic. Listed below are these wonderful photos of our Millefiori Murano glass heart pendant, and 4mm bezel Grade 'A' CZ necklace, courtesy of GKweddings.com

More beautiful photos can also be seen at GeneKosoy.com. The brown chocolate jewelry box and complimenting teal gift ribbon are part of our free gift wrapping, that is included in every order. We also offer free shipping for qualifying orders within the USA, and offer worldwide shipping.

As with all content and images from our website, these photos are copyright protected.

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Fall 2011 Jewelry Fashion Trends - Oversize Pendants

2011-09-24T16:59:00.000-07:00

We're noticing three prominent trends for Fall 2011 jewelry, and Deco Belle global jewelry has been ahead of the curve, having more budget conscious choices to meet these up to the minute looks.

Oversize pendants: Statement pieces that are balanced by their equally eye catching chains, in the Lanvin necklace to the left that means a large open link chain. Available for $1,850 at Barney's.

At right, Deco Belle necklace from the Paris collection, handmade in France is ornately handcrafted with faceted round Swarovski Austrian crystals in clear and smoke crystal colors. The large 14kt gold plated pendant is hand-pained with white enamel. Available for $150 at DecoBelle.com

Another beautifully ornate pendant from the same Catherine Popesco designed collection is the copper sun Deco necklace featuring more hand-painted enamel that is staggered to create a 3D effect, and brown Swarovski Austrian crystals, set in 925 sterling silver plate. Available for $80 at DecoBelle.com

Chokers: Both of the above necklaces can be adjusted by their clasps to be either chokers or long necklaces. The cluster lustre necklace can be double layered or be worn quite long, the Art Deco inspired brown necklace can be adjusted from 14" to 42" long.

Jewel tone colors: Ocean blue, coral, hot pink, deep regal purples, vivid greens, and cobalt blue are paired beautifully with traditional fall colors of grey, brown, and gold.
Earrings from top: Teal blue Azure Swarovski Austrian crystal round earrings with teardrop Swarovski hanging crystals, Garnet and Quartz Himalaya handcrafted long earrings in hot pink, and wedding earrings in French blue hand-painted enamel and 14kt gold plating, handmade in Paris.

On trend styles, everyday at Deco Belle. We offer international worldwide shipping, and offer free shipping within the US on orders of $30 or more. As with each order, regardless of destination, we package every order with free gift wrapping, a nice presentation for a gift recipient or yourself!

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World's Best Top 50 Restaurants San Pellegrino

2011-04-23T22:42:00.000-07:00

Here at Deco Belle Inc., we love jewelry, accessories, traveling, exploring, and food! Food the world over, delicacies that are not easily replicated across the globe, yes, we love that. This week, the San Pellegrino sponsored 50 (and 100) Best Restaurants in the World list has been published. We have not yet been to the top three, but did do a bit of research to prepare ourselves for when we find ourselves in the neighborhood, and for our blog followers to enjoy as well:

#1 - Noma in Copenhegen, Denmark has not only taken the top ranking of Best Restaurant in the World (according to Restaurant Magazine, sponsored by San Pellegrino) for 2011, but has also earned this prestigious position last year as well. Run by acclaimed chef René Redzepi, the restaurant boasts two Michelin stars.

Known for its reinvention and interpretation of the Nordic cuisine, the name is an acronym of the two Danish words "nordisk" (Nordic) + "mad" (food) = noma. A modern take on Nordic cuisine, the restaurant itself is located in an old warehouse on the waterfront in the Christianshavn neighbourhood of the Danish capital, near the Greenlandic Trading Square (Danish: Grønlandske Handels Plads). The square itself references Greenland, but only because this square was for 200 years the hub of trade to and from the Faroe Islands, Finnmark, Iceland, and in particular, Greenland. The goods were stored in the warehouse here, before being traded off to European markets.

From reviews that we have read on various blogs and travel websites, the standard here is 12 courses, one reviewer noted that the meal lasted 3.5 hours. An interesting course was a clay garden pot filled with edible soil (made with malt). Way to think out of the box.

One comment read "Worth every Øre (penny)", and another noted that it is worth adding yourself to the waiting list as that is how they earned a seat in this award winning establishment.

#2 - El Celler de Can Roca in Girona, Catalonia, Spain. This family restaurant is founded and operated by three brothers specializing in traditional Catalan meals, with the eldest brother, Joan Roca as head chef, middle brother Josep Roca being the sommelier, and the youngest brother Jordi Roca in charge of the desserts. The three Michelin star restaurant has steadily risen in the Best Restaurants in the World ranking, starting in 2009 at 5th best in the world, then in 2010 moving up one spot, to 4th best, and now making it to second best in 2011. (El Celler de Can Roca images courtesy of gastronomyblog.com)

Prix fixe courses are set for the Feast Menu (9 courses and 2 desserts, €145), Tasting Menu (5 courses and 2 desserts, €115), and Signature Dishes Menu (3 courses and 1 dessert €95), and one can add on complimenting wine selections at €45 for a flight of wines.

(Image: A plank of wood with anchovy bones embedded into rice tempura)

It is a 1.5 hour train ride through the countryside from Barcelona, and from what we read, well worth it. Also, the earliest booking is at 9pm, with meal times at traditional Spanish hours.

#3 - Mugaritz in San Sebastián, Spain, in a sleepy village to the south of town. A remote part of the city more like it, in a beautiful setting of the basque countryside, up windy roads and narrow streets.

This Spanish restaurant, like El Celler de Can Roca has also ascended to it's current position. In 2007, Mugaritz ranked as 7th best in the world, in 2008, it moved up to 4th best, now it has moved up to 3rd best in the world.

A tour of the kitchen is granted for inquiring guests. The clay potatoes pictured right, are mean to look like zen pebbles.

The complete 50 Best Restaurants in the World list:

1. Noma, Denmark

2. El Celler De Can Roca, Spain (+2)

3. Mugaritz, Spain (+2)

4. Osteria Francescana, Italy (+2)

5. The Fat Duck, UK (-2)

6. Alinea, USA (+1)

7. D.O.M, Brazil (+11)

8. Arzak, Spain (+1)

9. Le Chateaubriand, France (+2)

10. Per Se, USA

11. Daniel, USA (-3)

12. Les Creations de Narisawa, Japan (+12)

13. L’Astrance, France (+3)

14. L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon Paris, France (+15)

15. Hof van Cleve, Belgium (+2)

16. Pierre Gagnaire, France (-3)

17. Oud Sluis, Netherlands (+2)

18. Le Bernardin, USA (-3)

19. L’Arpege, France

20. Nihonryori RyuGin, Japan (+28)

21. Vendome, Germany (+1)

22. Steirereck, Austria (-1)

23. Schloss Schauenstein, Switzerland (+7)

24. Eleven Madison Park, USA (+26)

25. Aqua, Germany (+9)

26. Quay, Australia

27. Iggy’s, Singapore (+1)

28. Combal Zero, Italy (+7)

29. Martin Berasategui, Spain (+4)

30. Bras, France

31. Biko, Mexico (+15)

32. Le Calandre, Italy (-12)

33. Cracco, Italy

34. The Ledbury, UK (new)

35. Chez Dominique, Finland (-12)

36. Le Quartier Francais, South Africa (-5)

37. Amber, China (new)

38. Dal Pescatore, Italy (-2)

39. Il Canto, Italy (+1)

40. Momofuku Ssam Bar, USA (-14)

41. St John, UK (+2)

42. Astrid Y Gaston, Peru (new)

43. Hibiscus, UK (+6)

44. La Maison Troisgros, France

45. Alain Ducasse Au Plaza Athenee, France (-4)

46. De Librije, Netherlands (-9)

47. Restaurant de l’Hotel De Ville, Switzerland (-33)

48. Varvary, Russia (new)

49. Pujol, Mexico (new)

50. Asador Etxebarri, Spain

The 51-100 Best Restaurants in the World list:

51. Quique Dacosta, Spain

52. Mathias Dahlgren,Sweden

53. Attica, Australia

54. De Karmeliet, Belgium

55. Les Amis, Singapore

56. The French Laundry, USA

57. Frantzen/Lindeberg, Sweden

58. Tetsuya’s, Australia

59. Fasano, Brazil

60. Hakkasan, UK

61. Rust en Vrede, South Africa

62. Jean Georges, USA

63. Oaxen Krog, Sweden

64. Bo Innovation, Hong Kong

65. Momofuku Ko, USA

66. Zuma, UK

67. Maison Pic, France

68. Mirazur, France

69. Manresa, USA

70. Marque, Australia

71. Fäviken, Sweden

72. L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, Hong Kong

73. Die Schwarzwaldstube, Germany

74. Mani, Brazil

75. Coi, USA

76. Caprice, Hong Kong

77. Nahm, UK

78. La Grenouillère, France

79. Vila Joya, Portugal

80. Tantris, Germany

81. WD~50, USA

82. La Colombe, South Africa

83. Semifreddo, Russia

84. Le Gavroche, UK

85. The Bazaar, USA

86. La Pergola, Italy

87. Malabar, Peru

88. Gäste Haus Klaus Erfort, Germany

89. Bar Boulud, England

90. Kitcho Arashiyama, Japan

91. Blue Hill at Stone Barns, USA

92. Wasabi, India

93. Sant Pau, Spain

94. Akelare, Spain

95. Masa, USA

96. Marcus Wareing at The Berkeley, UK

97. Le Meurice, France

98. L’Arnsbourg, France

99. Chaika, Moscow

100. Andre, Singapore

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Jewelry Gift Wrapping International Shipping

2011-02-19T23:25:00.001-08:00

Dear Deco Belle,

I have just ordered my Millacreli glass heart pendant, please can I have the heart safely packaged (maybe bubble wrap??) as I would hate for it to get damaged on its international journey to the UK. Thanks for your help!! I'll look forward to receiving my Millacreli heart.

Sincerely,

Samantha R. - Forest of Dean Gloucestershire U.K.

(posted with author's permission, of course)

Hello Samantha,

Thank you for your prompt international invoice payment. I can assure you that in the 5 years that we have been shipping overseas, we have not had a single incident of the Millefiori Murano glass jewelry breaking, probably for the sole reason of our packaging standards.

The jewellery is placed in a sealed plastic bag that contains some air, providing a bit of cushion, and further protected by a cotton pad within the jewelry box. Our decorative teal colored satin bow is not just for presentation, but actually serves to tie the box and keep it tightly bound so that it does not open in transit.

The box is then placed in a bubble wrap mailer envelope for its final journey, all of these elements combined are to protect our jewelry, and offer a beautiful presentation for yourself or your gift recipient.

I have attached an image of our gift box that goes into the bubble mailer. We look forward to you receiving your pendant, and hope that you are most happy with your lovely Millacreli heart pendant purchase.

Please contact us if you have any questions.
Sincerely,

Deco Belle

We offer the same exact free gift wrapping for our own domestic USA customers, and offer free shipping on orders of $30 within the USA. We ship to all corners of the globe.

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Iskin Jewelry Interview in Buenos Aires Argentina

2010-11-27T19:22:00.000-08:00

We at Deco Belle Global Jewelry were honored to sit down with jewelry designer Gabriela Iskin of Iskin Jewelry (pictured below, right, Sales Manager Karina Iskin is pictured below, left) in her Buenos Aires, Argentina showroom to ask her how as an artist, she came to design and create such beautiful jewelry. Her responses are in Spanish, the English translation is in blue:

DB: Por qué joyería?
Why jewelry?

GI: Porque me encanta. Porque es una forma efectiva que encontré de transmitir mis ideas.
Because it captivates me. Because it is an effective form that I found to transmit my ideas.

DB: Qué le inspiró para diseñar su primera colección?
What inspired you to design your first jewelry collection?

GI: Mi pasión por el diseño y la simpleza de las cosas bien hechas.
My passion for design and the simplicity of things well made.

DB: Por qué materiales reutilizables?
And what led you to create jewelry from recyclable materials.

GI: Porque el valor reside en el diseño y en las ideas que transmitimos con el producto. Los materiales que utilizamos son coherentes con ese concepto.
Because the value resides in the design and the ideas that we transmitted with the product. The materials that we used are coherent with that concept.

DB: De dónde se inspira?
Where do you draw your inspiration for your contemporary jewelry collection?

GI: De todas partes! De una hoja, de un movimiento artístico, de una frase, de un mecanismo, pero por sobre todo, del juego de un niño, esa pureza e inocencia de jugar por jugar.
All around! From a leaf, an artistic movement, a phrase, a mechanism, but mainly, from child's play, that purity and innocence to play for the sake of playing.

Iskin contemporary jewellery can be found in our Latin America page, where 100% Argentina leather bracelets, necklaces, and earrings can be found, as well as eco-friendly aluminum rings.

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Iskin Contemporary Jewelry at Deco Belle Inc.

2010-11-27T17:47:00.000-08:00

Iskin contemporary jewelry is made in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and is an excellent example of the avant garde designs emanating from this trendy South American capital that makes great use of innovative materials, many of which are eco-friendly and recyclable.

We at Deco Belle Inc. had the pleasure of visiting the designer and her group in their Buenos Aires showroom to see their entire collection and talk with the artist-designer about what inspires her and how her collections came about, available in our Iskin Jewelry interview blog.

Iskin jewellery uses interchangeable colors, and magnets so that the customer may create their own art every time they wear the jewelry. A good example of this is the "customizable dots leather necklace" (Third necklace from the left in the above image, and also illustrated below.).
This aluminum and 100% Argentine leather necklace kit includes six interchangeable colors: white, purple, orange, red, blue, and green, which are all included (image shows green, blue, and white colors). This allows for a number of color combinations with the small, medium, and large round leather pieces to compliment any outfit. Create your own art necklace, mix and match.

Designer Gabriela Iskin creates these lovely contemporary jewelry pieces with 100% Argentinean leather, aluminum, and acrylic. The leather is painted in gold and silver to create a luxe look, while being extremely lightweight, this is especially divine for the extra large earrings, or grand necklaces, they look ornate and noble, while weighing very little. The Argentine leather is also available in white, red, black, and a very limited edition of snakeskin pattern. The above image illustrates victorian inspired leather jewelry, we also carry the "Victoria leaves bracelet" in Gold as pictured above.

These earrings, bracelets, necklaces, rings, and sets, can all be found in the Latin American section of our website (left tab, under "regions"). Each comes packaged in its own custom Iskin packaging of a free storage/travel felt case, or flower design box (earrings).

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Catherine Popesco La Vie Parisienne Jewelry Editorial

2010-11-15T22:51:00.000-08:00

Deco Belle Inc. jewelry is featured once more in an editorial photo shoot. Our magazine debut over a year ago, featured Paris handmade jewelry as well with brilliant Swarovski Austrian crystal, pearl, and hand-painted enamel jewelry that is from our Catherine Popesco collection, made in France.

The editorial images, feature Rock Crystal necklace, Rock Crystal faceted earrings, and Elegant Crystal bracelet, that is available in both crystal clear and champagne. These Swarovski Austrian crystal earrings are also featured on our magazine debut, cover no less!

The photos include only Deco Belle Inc. jewelry, and were photographed by our friend Gene Kosoy of gkweddings.com, and are published on our blog with permission.

Our Catherine Popesco jewelry includes a certificate of authenticity, custom organza gift bag, and story card detailing how the intricate jewelry is handmade. As with all of our Deco Belle shipments, the order is gift wrapped in our chocolate brown jewelry boxes and tied with our teale gift ribbon, perfect for gift giving, or a gift for the self.

Free shipping on all USA orders of $30 or more, international orders incur shipping charges respective to the destination country. We have many satisfied customers all around the world.

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Shiva Eye Paris Jewelry Editorial Shoot

2010-11-15T21:40:00.000-08:00

Our latest editorial photo shoot features Paris handmade jewelry with hand-painted enamel jewelry that is from our Catherine Popesco collection, made in France. Also pictured are Shiva Eye double-sided, completely intact, pendants.

Photographs courtesy Gene Kosoy of gkweddings.com, used with permission.

Our Shiva Eye shell jewelry as illustrated below features only intact, double-sided shells. Natural Shiva Eyes are like genuine pearls as they are made up of calcium carbonate and care should be taken not to clean this jewelry in an ultra-sonic jewelry cleaner, nor using a treated jewelry cloth on the surface of the Shiva Eye (nor pearl) shell as the chemicals in the jewelry cloth could react with the calcium carbonate. For more jewelry care tips, please see our articles on the subject.

This Shiva Eye pendant can be worn with the spiral front, or the clouded back, both are beautiful, and the significance of this can be read on our description of how the Shiva Eye is formed in the shell. The image above also features our hand-painted enamel and 14kt Gold plated Catherine Popesco of La Vie Parisienne earrings.

All of our Catherine Popesco jewellery is gift wrapped with certificate of authenticity, custom organza gift bag, and story card of how the intricate jewelry is handcrafted.
As with all of our Deco Belle shipments, the order is gift wrapped in our chocolate brown jewelry boxes and tied with our teale gift ribbon, perfect for gift giving, or a gift for the self.

Free shipping on all USA orders of $30 or more, international orders incur shipping charges respective to the destination country. See what our international and USA customers say about us.

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Maria Felix Cartier Exotic Snake and Crocodile Jewelry

2010-04-25T21:06:00.001-07:00

Maria Félix, the most famous star of the golden age of Mexican cinema commissioned two of the most famous Cartier jewelry pieces and is known for her daring and exotic jewelry collection.

At left is an infamous example of an inspiration (the Cartier La Doña de Cartier Watch was developed in 2006 as a tribute to her) that probably shocked even the Cartier Paris salespersons whom attended to her in 1975.

Ms. Félix was known to love her exotic pets while living in Paris. Having had other pieces commissioned and appreciating the fine craftsmanship from Cartier, she walked into the Paris shop one fine afternoon, and brought a baby crocodile in a jar, asking to have a necklace made to feature the likeness of the crocodile. It is reportedly said that she commented that they should hurry, before the crocodile gets any bigger. And that the designers did, her exquisite jewelry was crafted but a couple of months later.

It is believed that Maria Felix chose the crocodile to be her amulet as it is a death and rebirth of dynastic beginnings symbol as represented in the Aztec calendar, known as Cipactli. It is also a sacred creature in Egypt, named Sobek and often referred to as Neith, represented by a woman nursing a baby crocodile.

The resulting design was that of two crocodiles, which would be worn together to create a necklace, or separate to be two bracelets. The bodies of the crocodiles contain 524.9 grams of Gold, and are set with:

1,023 fancy yellow diamonds
1,060 circular-cut emeralds

Another famous design commissioned by the actress was the famous snake necklace in 1968. This serpent design is made of platinum and white gold, and set with 178.21 diamond carats (2,473 diamonds total). Elongated diamonds are perfectly tapered to fit into the head of the serpent.

The fine craftsmanship allows for hinge movements throughout the entire necklace and it is said that it has the slithery feel and weight of a real snake of that size. The underside is enameled to allow comfort for the wearer of this gorgeous necklace.

The Cartier in America exhibit featuring this and more (especially Art Deco) jewelry at the San Francisco Legion of Honor through May 9th 2010 (extended from its original showing).

At DecoBelle.com we enjoy exotic animal jewelry as well, from snakeskin patterned 100% Argentinean leather, frog, owl, dolphin, butterfly, bird, dragonfly, bee, to ladybug jewellery and more.

We offer free shipping in the USA on all orders of $30.00 or more, plus free gift wrap on all orders. We ship to all corners of the globe, please see our international mailing rates for more information.

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Silhouette Jewelry From Buenos Aires - Argentina

2010-01-19T17:13:00.000-08:00

It is our pleasure to introduce laser-cut silhouette designs from Pebeta Teta, a cool, conversation starting, and earthy mix of eye-catching jewelry.

This collection now available at DecoBelle.com includes such poetic nature scenes such as an ant bitten leaf necklace with matching earrings, garden scene, perched birds, colorful birds, caged birds, and more!

Also included in our debut of these Argentine designs are a throwback to the 1980's with a Ms. Pacman inspired mirror finish brooch. More pins are available in this collection such as the big rose and bee brooch.

We met designer Sol Maria Zwierzynski Sudak at her showroom and got a behind the scenes peek into what motivates the designer and drives the flow of the art form for her. We asked how the silhouettes in nature came about and the solid color of black resin for these designs. In her own words:

"Los colores de los collares son todos negros porque al tener tanta forma, cada uno de los modelos parecia que era bueno mantener una tranquilidad, una sobriedad de cada modelo para que se vea bien la forma, y que es lo que cuenta, el collar, la historia de el collar, mas que mezclar lo con colores y hacerlo como algo demasiado colorido."

English translation: "The colors of the necklaces are all black because upon featuring each shape/form, each one of the models showed that it was good to maintain a tranquility, a moderation for each model so that the form would be showcased better, and that is what counts, the necklace, the story of the necklace, more than to mix it with colors and which would be too many colors together".

Our Pebeta Teta designs can be found in our website under the Region "Latin America", more Argentina designers to be featured by mid February. As always, our New Items section features the latest additions to our collections from around the world.

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Purple Reign - 2010 Golden Globe® Fashion

2010-01-19T16:15:00.000-08:00

From sweet, soft lavender as worn by Fergie from the Black Eyed Peas, to intense, regal plum as showcased by winner Sandra Bullock, this winter friendly color has been the standout hue for 2010 Golden Globe® fashion.

Image: Fergie, left: AP Photo/Katy Winn, right: REUTERS/Danny Moloshok

Image: Leona Lewis, REUTERS/Gus Ruelas

Image: Best Actress winner Sandra Bullock for The Blind Side, left: REUTERS/Mario Anzuon, right: AFP/Timothy A. Clary

Image: Jane Krakowski, REUTERS/Danny Moloshok

Since ancient times, purple has been associated with royalty, on account of the dye used to produce this rich color being extracted from mollusks and therefore expensive. Deep versions of this hue still emit a luxurious elegance.

Our jewelry collections from around the world feature amethyst gemstone, cubic zirconia (CZ), Murano handcrafted glass, and more. Keywords within our website, by using the search box at the top right of any page at DecoBelle.com, are purple, amethyst, aubergine, and eggplant.

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Travel Quotes 01: Patagonia by Bruce Chatwin

2009-11-30T23:29:00.000-08:00

At Deco Belle Global Jewelry, we enjoy traveling, and discovering new jewelry, cultures, landscapes, sights, sounds, and also, expressions from adventurers and explorers. To quote the famous Bruce Chatwin:

"The word 'Patagonia', like Mandalay or Timbuctoo, lodged itself in the Western imagination as a metaphor for The Ultimate, the point beyond which one could not go. Indeed in the opening chapter of Moby Dick, Melville uses 'Patagonian' as an adjective for the outlandish, the monstrous and fatally attractive;
(photo: Torres del Paine National Park, Chile)

Then the Wild and distant seas where he rolled his island bulk; the undeliverable, nameless perils of the whale: these, with all the attending marvels of a thousand Patagonian sights and sounds, helped sway me to my wish

...Patagonia was also a land of strange beasts and birds. 'Pen-gwyn' is thought to be a Welsh expression for 'flightless bird'; the Elizabethan sailors had a superstition that jack*$% penguins were the souls of their drowned comrades..." -Bruce Chatwin, Nowhere Is A Place, Travels in Patagonia, 1985

The end of the earth indeed, also the jumping off point to the Great White Continent, Antarctica.
(photo: two penguins at center getting perilously close to three sea lions seen on the extreme left, Antarctica)

Let Us Be Clear- Difference Between Diamonds and Imitators

2009-11-27T01:33:00.000-08:00

What is the difference between Cubic Zirconia, Moissanite, Crystal, Glass, and Rhinestone?

(This is the original article, edited version appears in Bride 9 and Mocha Bride Fall 2009 Magazines)

In these recessionista times, shiny, budget friendly alternatives are being sought out in lieu of traditional diamonds for necklaces, earrings, pendants, bracelets, and even rings, but what exactly is the difference? Diamonds, the standard in clear, brilliant quality, and luxe jewelery is the bar for all other simulations.

Cubic zirconia (CZ), is the cubic crystalline form of zirconium, a metal. Since only the finest and rarest of diamonds are truly colorless, most having a tinge of yellow or brown, cubic zirconia is a good alternative in clarity as in most cases it can be made entirely colorless, equivalent to a perfect "D" on the Diamond Color grading scale.

The synthesized material is hard, optically flawless and usually colorless, but may be made in a variety of different colors to simulate gemstones. Due to its low cost, durability, and close visual likeness to diamonds, synthetic cubic zirconia has remained the most economically important competitor for diamonds since 1976 when commercial production first began.

In 1973, Soviet scientists perfected the technique of creating a CZ gem, which they named the jewel Fianit, but the name was not used outside of the USSR and the Soviets published their findings. Once commercial production began in 1976, annual global production grew to 50 million carats (10 tonnes) by 1980. Contemporary production of cubic zirconia is virtually flawless, whereas most diamonds have some sort of defect. Deco Belle.com carries a wide selection of clear, and simulated gemstone Grade A quality CZ jewelry in our China section.

CZ’s main competition as a synthetic gemstone is the more recently cultivated material, synthetic moissanite (named after its Nobel Prize winning discoverer). When first discovered while examining rock samples from a meteor crater located in Canyon Diablo, Arizona in 1893, moissanite was mistaken for diamonds. Its double facet edges (as opposed to single facet edges of a diamond) and its nearly colorless with a grade range of I-J-K on the Diamond Color Grading scale make it difficult to distinguish from diamonds by the untrained eye. Its impressive properties include comparable index of refraction and better than twice the fire of diamond. It is only slightly less expensive than diamonds due to the difficulty in growing the crystals.

Speaking of crystals, all crystals are glass, but not all glass is crystal. What separates the two? Lead. The significance of lead lies in how the refractive index of the finished product increases, straight out shine! In addition to lead, special cutting and polishing processes are used to give crystal glass even more sparkle.

Crystals are often heavier, more delicate, and more expensive than glass, with the ultimate standard in crystal jewelry being Swarovski Austrian. This brand has more fire and brilliance (by adding 32 percent lead creating a high refraction rate) than any other crystal jewelry on the market. In addition different chemical coatings are added to the crystal surface to enhance color and sparkle. The difference is quite remarkable and affordably priced, much less expensive than jewelry made from precious stones. These lovely crystals can be found in our Paris section at DecoBelle.com

Glass in its most basic form is molten sand that is combined with various additives and cooled with such celerity that crystal structures have no time to form. There is not much brilliance, or fire on the surface of glass jewelry. The best and highest quality glass is handmade Murano glass from the island of Murano, in Venice, Italy. At DecoBelle.com we have a wide selection of handcrafted Murano glass jewelry.

Glass goes even farther with some rhinestones being made of glass. Other rhinestones (so named as originally the rock crystals were gathered from the river Rhine) are synthetically made of crystal or acrylic. The difference between the crystals and rhinestones is not that clear-cut. Rhinestone has a metal or foil backing to reflect light and make the stone glitter. Crystal, on the other hand, requires no backing and is always made of glass and lead that give the stones extra sparkle and brilliance. For dazzling craft projects, rhinestones are fine, but crystals fare better in jewelry presentation and quality.

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Jewelry Care-General

2009-11-27T01:21:00.000-08:00

Jewelry Care (as published in Bride 9 and Mocha Bride Magazines)

To protect jewelry from scratching or tarnishing, we recommend storing jewelry items in either airtight plastic bags or soft jewelry boxes, armoires, or travel rolls (pictured left as closed). Airtight plastic jewelry (included free in every item order at DecoBelle.com) bags also prevent jewelry from scratching together or becoming entangled.

Platinum, gold, rhodium plated, and silver jewelry have anti-tarnishing qualities directly related to their metallic make-up. The higher platinum percentage allows for a higher tarnish resistance, the same is true for silver, especially when silver is marked “nickel-free”, which provides another degree of non-tarnishing qualities. In gold, the higher the carat count, the less tarnishing will occur. Rhodium is the rarest and most expensive of all precious metals, therefore most rhodium jewelry is only rhodium plated, this providing the ultimate in an anti-tarnish finish.

Etiquete-Gifts For The Bridal Party

2009-11-27T00:58:00.000-08:00

Etiquette: Gifts for the Bridal Party

To thank her bridal party for all of their support and participation in her dream wedding, a bride may want to consider the following gifts: jewelry, jewelry cases, and personalized stationary.

The bride chose the colors, style of dress, and overall theme for her bridal party, thus a nice thank you gift is in order. The groom cannot go wrong with engraved anything for his party, flasks, glasses, multi-purpose knives, cufflinks, money clips, and the ever popular pen set.

Jewelry is the most popular gift for a bridal party. Preferably the gift can be presented before the wedding to be used in both the main event and beyond. Formality of dress is the key factor, as well as colors and styles. Many brides choose jewelry (necklaces, earrings, or bracelets) in different colors and designs of a similar style, customized for every bridesmaid in her party whom all are wearing the same color dresses.

If the entire wedding party is wearing the same dress style, jewelry may follow suit, though this does not allow for a personalized (if albeit glamorous) gift. To customize for each bridesmaid, tailor each jewelry item with consideration to formality, does this bridesmaid like bold and eye-catching designs, colors, large versus small sizes, or a more subdued classic preference. Also which item would each bridesmaid wear most, someone with non-pierced ears would better appreciate a necklace or a bracelet, or some ladies may prefer necklaces over bracelets and the like.

Another hot trend in bridal party gift giving is jewelry and cosmetics cases. These items can be both useful while traveling and in the comfort of home. This is not as personal a gift as jewelry itself, but colors, and styles may be customized for each party. Many of these cases can even be monogrammed to personalize the gift.

In our times of electronic communication domination, heartfelt written notes are a lovely touch. Personalized stationary is a very thoughtful gift and definitely customizable to each bridesmaid in the bridal party. It may be enough to turn the most die hard texter/e-mailer into a letter writer.

Fall 2009 wedding jewelry trends

2009-08-09T18:37:00.000-07:00

Since ruffles, tulle, and flowers are the Fall 2009 wedding trends (our bestseller page features the latest popular items), lace filigree jewelry is a perfect pairing to complete this look. Lace provides a delicate, vintage feel.

When elegant beading and intricate dress decoration take center stage in this rustic charm trend, jewelry should be simple, and on a small scale to balance the entire look.

Browns, creams, grays, gold, crimson, and deeply rich aubergine shades can give a pop of color in the form of colored gemstones, CZ, or crystal jewelry. Pearls are also a hot trend as the lovely off-white color is perfect for fall.

Have any questions or seeking jewelry advice from Deco Belle? Send us an e-mail with your "Ask Deco Belle" questions, and it may be featured in a blog.

Tips for navigating our website

2009-08-09T17:28:00.000-07:00

Jewelry from all over the world, rings, pendants, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and more, it can be overwhelming (in a good way!). To that end, we've developed a guide with several different ways of navigating through our global jewelry website. We are more than happy to list ways to help you find your perfect gift. Of course, you may always contact us should you require assistance.

Browse by region: On the left hand frame, The "Regions" section is listed in the middle, all jewelry is broken down by the region of origin (ie Afghanistan, Paris, Venice, USA, etc.).
Browse by jewelry type: On the left hand frame, The "Shop by Type" is listed in the top, all jewelry is broken down by the type (ie rings, earrings, pendants).
Browse via our Gift Finder pages: Browse by overall style such as Modern Elegance, Vintage Inspired, Tribal / Ethnic, and more. Please note that these are only suggestions as they do not contain our entire collection, we add so many new items that it's difficult to update each section.
Breadcrumbs: On any item page, the top section will have "breadcrumbs" so that you may find your way back to the point of origin. An example is: This Coral Lapis Himalayan handcrafted pendant: "Home > Gift Finder > Tribal / Ethnic > Coral Lapis Turquoise pendant". If you would like to return to the "pendants" page in this section, just click on that word along the breadcrumb to take you back to the respective page.
Our "Home" page can always be reached by clicking on the DecoBelle logo at the top left of any page.
Bestsellers: Our top sellers. Please note that unique, one-of-a-kind items are moved directly to the out of stock pages once they are sold and completely skip the Bestsellers page.
New Items: The latest arrivals are posted here. These items are also identified with the word "new" left of their title descriptions.
Sale page: Close out items and soon to be discontinued jewelry are listed here.
Shop by Price: Sort by price range.
Search box: At the top right hand side of every page, you may type a search term in the white box and click on "Go". Common search terms within our store are "heart, butterfly, pink, ladybug, star, drop".
You May Also Like: Listed toward the middle of any item page, suggestions of similar jewelry.

We hope that these suggestions aid in your navigation through the Deco Belle Inc. website, it's fun and easy to peruse.

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Breast Cancer Research Fund donation June 2009

2009-07-04T00:49:00.000-07:00

We would like to thank our customers who purchased Venice jewelry during the month of May. This included sales of Murano glass Millefiori, Millacreli, Designo, and plain silver Italian jewelry.

Part of these proceeds allowed Deco Belle Inc. Global Jewelry to donated $115 to the Breast Cancer Research Fund. This is an organization which aims to achieve prevention and a cure for breast cancer in our lifetime by providing critical funding for innovative clinical and translational research.

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women in the United States (other than skin cancer), no matter of race or ethnicity. Each year, more than 182,460 American women learn they have this disease. For more links about breast cancer awareness, please reference our October 1st newsletter which contained a cache of information and resources.

Our magazine debut!

2009-07-01T23:40:00.001-07:00

Our very first magazine debut! Deco Belle Inc. is represented on both the cover of this summer's Mocha Bride Magazine, throughout the magazine pictorials, and in our original article: Summer Trends

Our Paris Gold collection of earrings were mostly represented throughout the photo shoots. Namely the Rock Crystal faceted, Duchess Victorian bow Pearl, Jenevieve Art Deco inspired, and Aubrey Pearl long earrings.
The entirety of our Summer 2009 trends article can be found below in our jewelry blog. We are writing new articles for the Fall 2009 issue, stay tuned for updates.

Summer 2009 jewelry trends

2009-07-01T22:47:00.000-07:00

Original article as submitted by Deco Belle for Mocha Bride Magazine Summer 2009:

As Eartha Kitt sang 1962, “Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend”. But today, crystals and pearls are too! Bring on the bling in clear crystal, or colored gemstones, and cubic zirconia (CZ). Save a considerable sum while being in style for a summer wedding. Rhinestones are out of style, as Swarovski crystals offer fire and brilliance at a low price, with a luxe look.

Vibrant colors are hot on the catwalks for this season. These intense hues of aqua, lapis, coral, lemon, peach and hot pink are rainbow bright now! Intense blue and aqua jewelry can definitely take care of the adage: Something Old, New, Borrowed, and Blue. Colorful crystals and CZ set in gold or silver offer a dramatic statement for modern gowns, and a striking accent for strapless or skinny-strap dresses.

Dramatic upswept hair lends very well to another hot trend this year, the demure stud earring.

Studs, or button earrings, are feminine and traditional, and are always in good taste. Larger stud earrings have a vintage charm. The 2009 Oscars showcased this trend as well as the other IT shape for this year: the drop earring. From Michelle Obama (the First Lady is also a major stud earring trendsetter, since official portrait to European visit) to Angelina Jolie, drop earrings, are all the rage.

A dramatic turn from these trends is lace filigree; it’s the new, old thing. Lace is delicate, darling, and delightful, and makes any dress complete with that traditional, romantic look.

Also, collar or statement necklaces are in right now; be sure to pair with small earrings that grant the focus to the grand necklace.

Bridesmaids are generally allowed more color, and more drama with both dress choices and accessories. Our global jewelry store at Deco Belle Inc. has often honored requests to send duplicates of certain jewelry items for a bridal party, as the bride often gifts her bridesmaids jewelry that they can use in the wedding, and if it’s fabulous enough, to be worn at various occasions.

Whether you want to accessorize glamour, romance, or modern, there are various ways to implement the spring and summer 2009 trends in your wedding. Wishing you the best on your special day, I hope that these tips will help you stay stylish, without breaking the bank.

-Deco Belle
Deco Belle Inc. Global Jewelry

Testimonial

2009-04-29T00:22:00.000-07:00

We are honored to post customer testimonials, as we appreciate the time spent to write comments to, and send to us. At Deco Belle Inc., we see it as a compliment to receive such kind words from our customers from around the world. These comments are posted in the testimonials page only once we have the permission from the respective author. Single comments are also visible at the end of each page. (Image courtesy of PDISearch.com)

A very special testimonial that we received last week immediately became our next blog post as we are moved by the sincerity and thoughtfulness of the author, one of our favorite customers.

"I'm not a cyberspace student or an internet blogger but I felt it necessary and appropriate to share this anecdote with all who visit this website.

Last October (2008) I went on a scuba diving trip to the Cayman Islands. During my stay visited a small jewelry store near the resort and found what I felt was a beautiful and unique bracelet to bring home as a gift to my wife. It was, I was told, made of Murano art glass in a Millefiori pattern in a Millacreli design by designer Alan K. My wife loved the bracelet and I scored many points for the gift.

After several unsuccessful attempts to contact the jewelry store to see if there were any accessories to the bracelet, my son suggested that I try searching online. I was quite surprised to find some websites that carried the Millacreli style. Of the few that I found, Deco Belle Inc. was by far the best in both price and selection.

I found matching earrings and a pendant; but best of all there was a number I could call and a real person that I could talk to on the telephone who provided a level of service you would expect to receive if you were a life-long client of Tiffany's.

Every woman who sees this style of drop dead gorgeous, reasonably- priced jewelry that my wife is wearing wants a set of the same. As a result, I have become a repeat valued customer of Deco Belle who is 110% satisfied with the value and service they have been able to provide.

Regards,
Myron H. Southampton, New York."

Thank you for making Deco Belle Inc. your source for jewelry from around the world. We appreciate our longstanding customers and look forward to working with new customers. Please don't hesitate to contact us should you have any questions.

Rhodium Jewelry Part II

2009-04-20T21:57:00.000-07:00

The rarest and most expensive of all precious metals.

A note as to why we would not recommend altering or resizing any rhodium plated jewelry (rings, pendant bails, etc.). In the past, we've been asked by our customers if we suggest resizing rhodium plated jewelry, as we carry an extensive collection of nickel-free, rhodium plated, 925 sterling silver in our Venice Millacreli, Millefiori, Designo, plain silver, and China Cubic Zirconia (CZ, cubic crystalline form of zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) to be exact). In short, no.

Our original blog article on Rhodium, the metal, provides a background as to the reasons why this is highly prized in jewelry.

Despite being a part of the Platinum family of metals, Rhodium does not tarnish, or oxidize, and has a very high reflectance, optimal qualities in the jewelry market. It is the rarest and most expensive of all precious metals, giving each piece a lustrous, white gold appearance. For this reason, when a piece of jewelry is coated with this (rhodium plating, rhodium finishing, rhodium flashing) it can be thought of as having a seal, or a shell.

Heating the metal to expand it would break this "shell" and the newly exposed metal skin would not be rhodium plated; therefore, suceptible to tarnishing. The recommended way to enlarge jewelry would be to add metal, not heat it and stretch it. In this case, that new metal would then need to be nickel-free, and rhodium plated as well once the jewelry has been re-sized to the desired size to avoid tarnishing in the portions of the metal that are not rhodium finished.

Have a jewelry question for Deco Belle? Let us know and we'll do our best to provide insightful information on jewelry care to keep your jewels shining brightly and gleaming. Deco Belle Global Jewelry carries a large selection of rhodium plated jewelry, giving the ultimate in brilliance at an affordable price.

Spa Week April 13 to April 19 2009

2009-04-13T01:20:00.000-07:00

Spa Week is upon us, and this brings massages, facials, body polishes, pedicures and manicures, dermabrasion, and waxing down to $50 at participating spas. Many of these treatments normally retail for up to three times this amount, a recessionista deal indeed! This special treat takes place for one week in both the spring and fall.

This spring's savings on spas is 04/13/09 - 04/18/09 and includes spas from both the USA and Canada, with 25 cities participating, including New York City, New Jersey, Philadelphia, Boston, Washington D.C., Virginia, Baltimore, Atlanta, Detroit, Chicago, Dallas, Miami, Oregon, Denver, Minnesota, Seattle, Arizona, Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco and Toronto.

Overheard: For these spa specials, is there a limit to the number of $50 Spa Treatments one can try?

In researching this topic: -No. You may select as many treatments as you like, however keep in mind that your body does have limits. Facials and microdermabrasions should be limited to a time frame recommended by your aesthetician, to allow the skin to heal. Also, for massages, the muscles should recuperate and rest (though one could argue that they are at ultimate rest in the hands of a qualified masseuse).

The Spa Week website has great tips on spa etiquette, new developments in skin care and treatments, eco-friendly green spa guide, and more.

No California Sales Tax

2009-04-01T14:19:00.000-07:00

No sales tax across 50 states! Deco Belle Inc. will foot the bill for California sales tax for the month of April 2009.

Tax free in California, really? Well, technically of course, Californians will pay the sales tax (including the 1% increase that began today, April 1, 2009), but Deco Belle Inc. will pay for the cost difference. This combined with our SALE items, free shipping across the USA, and free gift wrap, is quite a deal!

Non-California residents, and deliveries made outside of the state of California are not subject to sales tax, therefore the other 49 states and our international customers have enjoyed tax free purchases from our store.

Beginning 04/01/09, California residents, and those purchases delivered to the state of California, will have a 1% increase to current sales tax rates. To offset the migration of out of state sales, we are are doing our part to help keep tax revenue in our state by offering tax free sales in California. Technically of course, sales tax will be paid, as when taxes are due, they are due and there is no way of getting around it, the law is the law. So how can we offer no California sales tax to our residents? We lower the purchase price of each item at our expense so that when sales tax is added, the final total is the same final price that our out of the state and out of the country friends enjoy.

For example: Buying a $10.00 jewelry item will cost $10.00 total for anyone buying outside of California, or having it delivered to any of the other 49 states or country that we ship to. For California residents or shipments sent to California (from a buyer outside of the state) that purchase would normally cost $10.00 plus $0.98 in sales tax, bringing the total to $10.98.

For the month of April, Deco Belle Inc. Global Jewelry will lower the sales price at our own expense to California residents of deliveries to the state of California. In this example of $10.00, the sales price would be lowered to $9.11, we of course will add the sales tax as we are liable for turning this revenue directly over to the state, adding $0.89 for sales tax, bringing the final total to $10.00. Deco Belle Inc. will in fact pay the $0.89 ourselves. Why are we doing this?, to help keep revenue within our state and do our part to boost the local economy.

Are California residents and shipments to Californians (ie customer is purchasing from out of state, but shipping to a California address as a gift) getting a better deal than all of our out of state and out of the country customers, no, as the final sales price is the same for Californians, out of state, and out of the country. Deco Belle Inc. is paying the difference.

Shop Deco Belle Inc. for beautiful jewelry from around the world, from Venetian Murano hand blown glass, Paris hand-painted enamel, Himalayan gemstone artisan handcrafted, Baltic Amber one-of-a-kind, Oceania shell, CZ high wattage bling at a low price, Art Deco inspired, to USA designed and handmade Gold and 925 Sterling Silver jewelry and more!

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