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Dreams of Africa Diamond Earrings
A Unique Gift from Nature
Loose diamonds are both the most magical and versatile of Nature’s creations, and have fascinated mankind for over four thousand years. They reflect powerful values of love and commitment, and have contributed significantly to scientific and economic progress—from their use in industrial manufacturing and construction, to the development of intricate surgical instruments. Today, an estimated 10 million people globally are directly or indirectly supported by the diamond industry, many in developing economies such as Botswana and India. An estimated 5 million people globally have access to appropriate healthcare thanks to revenues from diamonds. Debswana, a mining company in Botswana, recently became the first mining company in the world to extend free anti-retroviral treatment to HIV positive employees, their life partners, their children, and former employees for life.
Diamond revenues enable every child in Botswana to receive free education up to age 13. In Namibia, the diamond mining industry is the largest employer after the government. In spite of the contribution diamonds continue to make to the wellbeing of millions, their high value makes them vulnerable to theft and abuse. This was highlighted in the 1990s when rebel organizations in Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Sierra Leone expropriated diamonds and used the revenues to perpetrate civil war and carry out atrocities against innocent civilians. Having been made aware of the urgency to act by two non-governmental organizations, (Global Witness and Partnership Africa Canada), the diamond industry acted swiftly to co-operate with NGOs, governments and the United Nations. It established the World Diamond Council, representing the entire industry from mining to retail. The World Diamond Council contributed significantly to the development of the UN mandated Kimberley Process Certification Scheme, which ensures that today more than 99 percent of diamonds are from conflict-free sources. Still, one diamond traded for conflict is one too many and that is why we continue to work, together with NGOs, governments and the UN, to eradicate this illegal trade entirely. There are now 74 governments that are members of the Kimberley Process.
The World Diamond Council encourages readers to challenge their jeweler to provide assurance that the diamonds in their jewelry have been purchased from reliable sources.
…10 million people globally are directly or indirectly supported by the diamond industry…
Mini Dreams of Africa Pendant
Dreams of Africa
One American jeweler determined to address Africa’s continued suffering has introduced a conflict-free diamond pendant. Debi Wexler, CEO of one of the largest online diamond retailers, Whiteflash.com, is dedicating all proceeds from her $4,400 conflict-free Diamonds of Africa diamond pendant to supporting children who have suffered under blood diamond conflicts and to creating awareness to combat illicit diamond trade. “Africa is earth’s most vivid mosaic of cultural and natural beauty. But for all her richness and life, this beautiful portrait is stained where unrest brings hunger and suffering to her children,” says Wexler, who holds these issues close to her heart.
“The Dreams of Africa pendant’s sparkling conflict-free diamonds symbolize innocence and its bold sapphires symbolize truth. The beautiful center stone represents Mother Africa and is Whiteflash’s branded diamond ‘A Cut Above’ ™. This is the most visually balanced diamond in the world ™. World Centers of Compassion for Children International, WCCCI, works to establish an initial learning center, headquartered in Italy, which will provide scholarships for children from Sierra Leone and other locations across Africa, and to instill values of peace and understanding during these children’s early education. Italy’s government donated the land where the center is located.
Green Love Sweepstakes
Green Love: Order any Whiteflash conflict-free diamond and be entered to win a Mini Dreams-of-Africa Pendant or a air of Dreams of Africa earrings.
Responsible Giving
Against the backdrop of a faltering economy, the diamond industry’s corporate social responsibility credentials are timelier than ever.
Diamond companies are talking about more than just carats and colors these days. As consumers demand more added value than ever, the industry is drawing attention to its commitment to improving the lives of the people who create diamonds and its broader philanthropic initiatives. In Botswana, approximately 25 percent of the labor force is linked to diamonds, according to the World Diamond Council. Many African countries do not have sufficient tax revenues to pay for public education. Botswana, with the help of diamond revenues, is one of the exceptions. In 2006, the Botswanan President said this: “Revenue from diamonds has enabled the government to fund virtually 100 percent of basic education, provide virtually free health care, build the infrastructure that has supported our economic activity, and to fund 80 percent of the anti-retroviral drugs that have given hope to our fellow citizens living with HIV/AIDS.”
Wedding Ring History: Questions Answered
It all started in 1477 when Archduke Maximilian of Austria handed Mary of Burgundy a diamond set gold ring and asked her to marry him. Soon royalty and all who could afford to adopted the tradition of offering a diamond as a symbol of everlasting love and commitment. The tradition of putting the ring on the left-hand ring finger is thought to have been popularized by the Egyptians who believed this finger contains the blood vessels directly connected to the heart. For over five centuries, men have given women diamonds in an effort to take their relationship to a whole new level. Despite the economy, jewelers report the engagement and bridal markets are still proving to be laden with gold.
Whiteflash 'A Cut Above' Hearts and Arrows Diamond
Raise your hand if you knew the tradition of wedding and diamond engagement rings started way back in 1477. And don’t lie.
Jewelers on the Web
Luxury jewelry brands have moved online with caution. Now an increasing number are leveraging the internet for ecommerce. Many fine jewelers have long believed that jewelry needed to be touched and felt before it was bought. Whiteflash.com now one of America’s largest online diamond retailers, has simplified the buying process of an engagement ring online and has helped change that outlook somewhat.
'Fine Line' Diamond Engagement Ring
Diamonds for the Holidays
While caution sums up the mood of the moment, imaginative diamond jewelry design at the highest levels this holiday shopping season shows no signs of slowing down. High jewelers are introducing elaborate new pieces this winter designed to inspire and impress. Despite much talk of doom of gloom this year, the show is still very much on in the world of high jewelry. Whiteflash.com has reported and increased demand for its classic and clean lined designs, especially for engagement rings.
Loose Diamonds are Going Green
The year 2009 is almost upon us and as with every year, a new day brings a new jewelry trend. Jewelry is going green this year and natural material will top the list of must haves. Conflict Free Diamonds and green materials will reign on the top of the jewelry list and wearing them will be all about drowning yourself in accessories.
The 2010 fashion trend for jewelry offers a sort of celebration for Mother Earth and this celebration is nothing less than huge. Large socially conscious jewelry pieces created from natural materials will don the necks, wrists and maybe even the waists of some of the most fashion forward people in the world. The point is to look smaller than your jewelry and 2010 fashion trend jewelry offers just that effect.
Petite Dreams of Africa Diamond Pendant
Gems are also moving toward the natural and thus the wild. The worldly nature of gem jewelry tends to focus more this year on bringing the 2009 fashion trend for jewelry out of America and into the world market. Traditional African styles are on the top of this list, on of the most popular is the Dreams of Africa ® Diamond Pendant by Whiteflash. Another bonus to purchasing jewelry items from Whiteflash.com can be found in their charity focused sub lines, Dreams of Africa and AWEAR: Jewelry for Conscious Kids. What is so unbelievably unique about these lines is that a substantial portion of the proceeds from sales, 100% profit from Dreams of Africa and 25% from AWEAR items, goes to support children in nations hit hard by the blood diamond trade. Gifting with a cause is another powerful trend that stretches hard earned dollars way beyond their face value. In a time when conscious spending is paramount, this perk makes you feel good about spending.
This holiday season Whiteflash is beginning an initiative to educate consumers about conflict diamonds and how to purchase socially conscious gifts for your loved ones this holiday. Whiteflash.com introduces “Green Love” this holiday season. As an online e-tailor we know that it is all about your peace of mind and your wallet. Right now if you order any Whiteflash conflict free diamond during the period of November 29th to January 25th you will be automatically entered to win your choice of Mini Dreams of Africa pendant or Dreams of Africa ® earrings made with Whiteflash A Cut Above ® melee diamonds in your choice of white or yellow gold. Two lucky winners will be selected.
Awear Charm Bracelet
For the younger crowd, charms and brilliant gems are still on top of the list. These all time favorites do not seem to be moving from the top for a long time in the future, either. It seems the younger generation has found something it likes in fashion jewelry trends and plans on sticking with it.
Ladies, 2010 is the year of our Mother Earth and the celebration will be large. The time has come to throw out those large silver hoops, leave the chain belts behind and scrap the layered metal necklaces. This year wearing natural materials such green jewelry and conflict free diamonds are what the in crowd will be wearing.
Cameron Diamond Engagement Ring
Dear Whiteflash Sales Team,
OK, so, I have no words – just squeals of excitement! It probably took me twice as long to get to work this morning because I was driving like 30mph staring at my ring the whole time! It is absolutely everything I imagined and dreamed for – I can not tell you how much I am in love with this diamond ring!! Thank you, thank you, thank you, for somehow getting inside my head and creating my most perfect ring! Please pass on my gratitude to all involved! AHHHHH! I LOVE IT!!!
Will take some pics over the weekend, it fits like a glove with my scattered band, just sitting perfectly high enough and flush against it – a perfect match!
Much love, Whiteflash!
Debra
I can not wait to show my husband and all my friends, my coworkers have been waiting to see and agree it is just beautiful and completely suits me.
Cameron Diamond Engagement Ring
Hate holiday shopping at the mall? So do we. Who wants to fight screaming mobs of people in frigid temperatures and wait in uber-long lines just to buy dad yet another tie? If you prefer shopping from the cozy comfort of your own home, office or cell phone, we’re your go-to source this holiday season.
For all the men on your list this year – young, old or young-at-heart – we’ve got you covered. This year, we’re offering the true mother-load of gifts ranging from personalized pub signs, barware and sports memorabilia to grilling, camping, hunting and tailgating gear – and much, much more. Take our advice, and skip those malls and save your sanity this year. If the men in your life want it, we’ve got it – and you can get it all online, right here.
Here’s just a sampling of some of our most popular holiday gifts for 2009 for TheManRegistry.com:
Personalized Gifts
Personalized Gifts
Personalized Custom Christmas Gifts
Want to impress the men, brothers, father’s, father-in-laws and friends on your list this year? What could be better than a personalized gift with with their own name or initials emblazoned on it? Not much, if you ask us. Explore our range of personalized gift items here: Pub Signs, Golf Kits, MLB Sports Sets, Coaster Sets, Beer Mugs, Bottle Openers, Koozies, Coolers, Leathermans, Grooming Kits, Zippos, Flash Drives, Money Clips, Watches, more
Home Bar Gifts
Home Bar Gifts
Christmas Gifts for the Home Bar
Cheers! There’s no better way to support your own drinking habits and ring in the new year – than by making sure your friends and family have the proper supplies to get their holiday drink on. Browse our selection of bar gifts here: Bar Stools, Books and Tools, Beer Boots, Beer Pong, Koozies, Cigars, Coasters, Coolers, Bar Signs, Drink Makers, Drinkware, Flasks, Pub Tables, Wine Glasses, Cork Skrews, more
Gifts for the Outdoorsman
Gifts for the Outdoorsman
Christmas Gifts for the Outdoorsman
Real men don’t get cold, right? If the men on your list are always outside – either hunting, camping, grilling or tailgating at a football game – when it’s only 20 degrees, these are the gifts for you. Check out our gifts for a wide range of outdoor activities: Backyard, Patio, Cabela’s Gift Cards, Camping Gear, Hiking Gear, Fishing Equipment, Hunting Equipment, Tailgating, Water Sports
Bonhams to auction world's second-largest pearl
What is believed to be the world’s second-largest documented pearl is being auctioned by Bonhams Auction House on December 6. Valued between $300,000 and $400,000, the five-pound gem found off the coast of the Philippines is a human-brain-shaped-pearl and is accompanied by the lower half of its original giant clamshell. Dubbed the “Palawan Princess,” the gem is next to the 14-pound “Pearl of Allah” in size. Known for its reputation for holding auctions of items in various categories, the auction house is also putting up a diverse array of objects d’art, unusual gemstones, and gold, gold nuggets and native metals for auction.
Shared Prong Hoop Diamond Earrings
According to a recent poll by the National Retail Federation, “53% of Americans say they will be spending less money this Holiday season.” Being in the throws of such challenging economic times, it’s hard to fathom that people are even thinking of shopping for the upcoming Holiday. Well think again! As the great musician Kerry King said, “The show must go on”— and so it will, just a little more fine tuned. This upcoming Holiday people are not totally swearing off of buying gifts for loved ones, but they are shopping with a strategy and are being more discriminating with their purchases. Quality over quantity and less is more will be the mantras controlling consumer’s wallets spelling good news for fine jewelry retailers.
Jean Chatzky, financial editor for NBC’s Today show, reported a key shopping trend during an October 21 appearance on NBC’s Today show. Chatzky stated that “Consumers will cut back on the overall number of gifts they buy but, will probably buy a higher quality gift for each person.” She also went on to make the point that consumers need to have a game plan and a budget in mind when shopping. Feeding off of this trend means encouraging sales forecasts for retailers of fine jewelry due to the lasting and personal sentiments attached to such gifts.
Dreams of Africa Diamond Pendant
In a sea of choices, where does one get the best bang for their buck when looking for quality “bling” on a shoestring? According to the online internet research website eMarketer.com, “This year online holiday sales(excluding travel) will total 32.1 billion, up 10.1% over 2007 and 49% of holiday gift spending among US Internet users will occur online, compared with 44% in stores.”
One such online resource WhiteFlash.com, a premier online diamond jewelry retailer, offers a plethora of items that put the personal touch back in gifting. Delivering unique and affordable gifts for any budget, this site is known for its impeccable service and high quality goods. Another bonus to purchasing jewelry items here can be found in their charity focused sub lines, Dreams of Africa and AWEAR: Jewelry for Conscious Kids. What is so unbelievably unique about these lines is that a substantial portion of the proceeds from sales, 100% profit from Dreams of Africa and 25% from AWEAR items, goes to support children in nations hit hard by the blood diamond trade. Gifting with a cause is another powerful trend that stretches hard earned dollars way beyond their face value. In a time when conscious spending is paramount, this perk makes you feel good about spending.
So regardless of your budget this Holiday, make your dollars count and remember that the most gratifying part of giving is the sentiment behind the gift.
Diamond Right Hand Ring by Whiteflash.com
It looks like luxury retail is getting ready for a comeback. Shoppers in enviable tax brackets are doing a better job of prying their wallets open, at least if you can believe their stock prices. Brick and mortar stores like Tiffany and Saks as well as online e-tailors like Whiteflash.com all show signs of progress heading into Black Friday, meaning that investors were willing to bet on the wealthy.
Dan Greenhaus, chief economic strategist at Miller Tabak, explained to USA Today, “We’re resting our (upbeat outlook) on the upper-income consumer, who seems to be holding up pretty well.” This group, he continued, “is where the vast majority of spending in this country is done.”
Research firm Penn Schoen Berland weighed in with agreement: “Well-to-do Americans are feeling much less of a crunch.” Households with incomes of greater than $70,000 a year, the firm found, planned to amp up their holiday spending by 27 percent this year. Those with incomes below $40,000 are cutting their holiday joy by 14 percent.
While the bargain hunters turn to the discount retailers, which are expected to do well this year, look for the higher-income consumers to spend more at places like Williams-Sonoma and other mid-range to upscale retail establishments.
So, with deeper pockets starting to open this year, it looks like the wealthy will turn last year’s holiday bust around. A good holiday season for Saks shows that those with the bucks are starting to open up, and recoveries start at the top.
Whiteflash A Cut Above Hearts and Arrows Diamond
What a great diamond buying experience from Whiteflash! Their employees are extremely helpful and run like clockwork. From my diamond buying assistance with Liza to their shipping department, every process was well documented by e-mail. Who ever thought buying a diamond online would be so easy!
At first I was skeptical of purchasing a diamond online, but with so many great reviews from diamond forums, I decided to give them a try. I would highly recommend their ACA brilliant rounds. They are such beautiful diamonds for a price much less than other premium branded Hearts and Arrow round diamonds that will not set your “Wallet on Fire.” You really can’t go wrong with a Whiteflash ACA diamond.
Thanks to the Whiteflash team for their time and kind assistance. I will certainly be doing business with you again in the future
Whiteflash "A Cut Above" Diamond
Whiteflash ACA Diamond
A Cut Above Hearts and Arrows Diamond
Princess Diamond Engagement Ring
Sure it’s a great diamond engagement ring, but is that rock certified?
A groom not buying certified diamonds is like buying a car without a title make sure to always ask for a certificate.
What is a Certificate?
A diamond certificate, also called a diamond grading report or diamond quality document, is a report created by a team of gemologists. A completed certificate includes an analysis of the diamond’s dimensions, clarity, color, polish, symmetry, and other characteristics. Also many round diamonds, due to their popularity and brilliance, will also include a cut grade on the report.
A diamond certificate is an expert third party opinion. . The diamond is evaluated, measured, and scrutinized using trained eyes, a jeweler’s loupe, a microscope, and other industry tools. It states the quality of the certified diamonds. Without the certificate you are left to trust the jeweler’s estimates. This can cause a potential conflict because the jeweler is the one trying to sell you the diamond.
Buying a certified diamond usually costs a little more because the stone had to go through a lab of certified gemologists that has graded every aspect of the diamond.
Emerald Cut Diamond
Whiteflash Diamonds are Certified
Every loose diamond sold by Whiteflash has been evaluated and assessed by either the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Society Laboratories (AGS). These two laboratories are among the most respected laboratories in the diamond industry, and are known for their consistency and unbiased diamond grading systems. Diamonds that are accompanied by these types of grading reports and certificates are the most highly valued to consumers.
The advantages of buying a diamond with a diamond certificate are:
1. You will know exactly what you are buying. Every important factor you need to know about the diamond is described in the certificate.
2. The seller knows exactly what he/she is selling to you so as to avoid any misunderstandings in the future.
3. If a diamond comes with a diamond certificate, you do not have to worry about the possibility that you might be purchasing a fracture-filled diamond. These are diamonds that have surface cracks that can be artificially filled to appear as much better diamonds than they actually are. These are in essence, very low quality diamonds that look great to naked eyes. GIA does not certificate these diamonds.
4. If a diamond comes with a certificate, you will not become a victim of buying a synthetic diamond. Yes, there are real man-made diamonds that hit the market in 1977. Currently, average jewelers have no way of telling if a diamond is natural or man-made (These are not diamond stimulants as CZs, but real diamonds that are man made).
5. Purchasing a GIA certified diamond will simply provide you with much more confidence and value.
Bulgari has dedicated its 125th Anniversary to a worthy cause. The luxury jeweler announced on November 18 its plans to auction off a collection of 11 one-of-a-kind jewels and 7 limited edition timepieces at Christie’s in New York on December 8. The collection’s proceeds, valued at approximately $4 million, will go to the Save the Children charity.
The offered jewels include a multi-colored sapphire and diamond necklace, consisting of 396.29 carats fancy colored sapphires and 66.45 carats of round cut diamonds, as well as a diamond “Lucea” choker necklace, a white gold necklace set with 33.82 carats of marquise cut diamonds, 7.16 carats of round cut diamonds and 38.67 carats pave set diamonds.
The proceeds of this auction will be in addition to a $14.85 million pledge that Bulgari made to the charity earlier this year, generated partially by the sales of a limited edition silver ring.
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