Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Jewelry Repair

!±8± Jewelry Repair

Jewelry repair is one of those things that typically are self evident to the owner of a piece of jewelry. If a ring is too big or too small, it obviously needs to be adjusted or "sized" in jeweler's parlance. If a clasp no longer works on a chain or bracelet, it generally needs to be replaced. If an ear ring just falls out of ones ear, it probably needs a new back or if possible, to tighten the old one. In fact, anything that prevents the owner from worry free wear most likely falls under the inexhaustible category of jewelry repair. And believe me when I say after 33 years, I've seen most everything.....until the next thing comes along.

Most people operate under the age old adage that "if it ain't broke, don't fix it". Yet with jewelry that is a misconception that has cost countless thousands of people to loose countless millions of dollars; not to mention the sentimental value that has left a trail of tears and broken hearts. Remember the old guy on the beach with a metal detector? You think he is just looking for loose change?

When it comes to jewelry and jewelry repair, here is another wise saying that you would do well to remember, "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure". Virtually everyday someone comes in needing to replace a lost diamond, sapphire, ruby, emerald or other precious gem stone because they didn't take the time or really give any thought to the care and protection of their prized possession. On closer inspection it becomes painfully evident that the prongs that once held their valuable bauble had become worn and thin and finally just broke off. Just a quick sixty second inspection by a professional jeweler could have saved them , 0 or even 00 dollars of repair cost (not to mention the fact that Grandmas diamond is now lost forever.)

Historically, the jeweler, like most craftsmen, had to make everything from scratch even the tools they used. It was a painstaking process that took days and even weeks to complete. If a ring needed to be sized, the process could take over a week - just on that one ring. Most everyone has seen these magnificent necklaces, bracelets, rings and ear rings from ancient times with there attention to detail and sheer opulence. It could have taken well over a year or more just to make some of these wonderful pieces and heaven forbid they ever need repairing. And keep in mind that your average "working Joe" of that day could not even conceive of owning a splendid piece of gold jewelry.

The majority of families in America today not only can afford one but many, many pieces of jewelry. The gift of jewelry celebrates and punctuates most all significant occasions in today's modern world. And, it is no longer relegated to just special occasions, but is worn with great pleasure day in and day out. The vast amount of fine jewelry in the market place today is made from gold - not stainless steel. And, as such, needs to be regularly inspected, cleaned and even have routine or preventative maintenance performed in order to ensure the owner can confidently wear their special piece of family history.

Yet, in our fast paced drive-thru society, people just are not willing to wait very long, if at all, to have their jewelry repaired. Thankfully, cutting edge technology and new techniques have helped jewelers devise better ways of doing repairs faster, more efficiently and at a much reduced cost to the consumer. Just a few short years ago the repair of a broken prong on an emerald cluster would have been almost prohibitively expensive to get fixed. Yet with laser welders finding there way into your better jewelry repair shops and stores, the cost of the repair and the time it takes to repair it have become much more palatable for the consumer.

In short, prevention is the best repair for the contemporary wearer of jewelry. Whether an heirloom or a recent purchase, things happen in the real world. Rings are caught in doors, pockets and purses; chains and necklaces are caught in sweaters, pulled by children and grandchildren, and chewed up by the dog; and, bracelets just simply wear themselves out at the joints with daily wear. So, let me leave you with this final axiom, "if you want to see it tomorrow, you better take care of it today."

At Fast-Fix Jewelry & Watch Repairs in the Mall St. Matthews, we understand your lifestyle, your concerns, your family and most of all, your jewelry. After all, we have been taking care of families just like yours for over a quarter of a century. Louisville jewelry repair done right at Fast Fix.


Jewelry Repair

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Sunday, December 25, 2011

Michael Kors Uptown Astor Large Chain Satchel Bronze

!±8± Michael Kors Uptown Astor Large Chain Satchel Bronze

Brand : Michael Kors | Rate : | Price : $229.99
Post Date : Dec 25, 2011 10:09:35 | Usually ships in 24 hours


New (and already selling out!) from Michael Kors is the Uptown Astor collection including this incredible Large Leather Chain Satchel. Soft, incredible bronze leather with tons of stud detailing. Everything you want in a quality designer purse. The size is ideal for everyday wear and the gold hardware detailing adds a tasteful amount of drama to this classic styled bag. Soft, slouch satchel style with leather handles plus an over the shoulder leather and gold chain link strap. O rings hook into Michael Kors signature grommets. Zip top opens to MK signature fabric. Lots of center space plus four leather trimmed slip pockets and a leather trimmed zip compartment. Nice organizational features for a large bag. Gold tone MK hangtag. Overall bag measures 17"(w) x 12"(h) x 5"(d). A great designer purse choice; trendy, yet in a classic way. This bag will be in style for years-and the leather will get better with age.

More Specification..!!

Michael Kors Uptown Astor Large Chain Satchel Bronze

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Monday, December 5, 2011

Ostrich Leather Handbags

!±8± Ostrich Leather Handbags

Ostrich leather handbags are some of the softest, most refined and exquisite accessories in the world. Originally used to make ostrich leather boots, designers have adapted this beautiful textile for purses, wallets, belts and countless other apparel. Owning ostrich leather handbags carries with it a certain responsibility to maintain its quality and appearance, ensuring it stays gorgeous for years, if not generations to come. Understanding ostrich leather is essential to knowing how to care for it, as well as being able to recognize authentic and premium products when shopping.

The premium strain ostrich leather is called African Black, which originates from South Africa. The ostrich is indigenous to the savannahs of South Africa, Botswana and Namibia, although recent efforts to transplant ostrich farms to the United States have been successful. It was in its natural habitat that the first ostrich ranches were started, supplying a steady demand for the animal's feathers for use in well-to-do ladies' hats during the early 1900's. Supply was dramatically restricted through trade sanctions against South Africa during the Apartheid era, increasing the value of the animal's hide and feathers.

Processing starts with the careful skinning and fleshing of the ostrich hide.
Once the skin and fats have been removed, a thorough cleaning is completed to remove bacteria and blood from the surface.
Next, the skin is soaked in a highly saline salt brine that is intended to preserve and protect it from rotting during shipment to the tanneries.
The tanning of ostrich skins is a rare and highly specialized skill that, to date, is carried out exclusively by long-established tanneries in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
As a result, the quality of premium ostrich leather on the market is quite high. But due to the highly skilled labor invested in the processing stage, the cost matches the quality.
There are, however, low-grade and even imitation ostrich leathers on the market, so watch out for the following features when shopping for authentic ostrich leather handbags.
Full quill is the most desirable type of ostrich leather. This is when the bag is completely covered in the bird's quills, both front and back. It's acceptable for full quill ostrich leather handbags to have smooth leather on the trim and handles, so don't be alarmed if your bag doesn't have them in these parts.
A half quill purse is when the quill pattern is located only on the front of the bag and not on the back. Although the purse is still made with high quality ostrich leather, even from the same bird perhaps, the cost and value of the product will not be as high as a full quill. This is a good opportunity to buy a high quality handbag at a lower price than what the full quill would fetch.
The quill comes from a part of the ostrich known as the crown. This a raised area located on the back of the bird where the neck meets the body. It's characterized by its distinct quill pattern. Quills are feather follicles that held the giant bird's feathers in place.
On both sides of the crown, there's a very smooth section that is also used in the assembly of ostrich handbags. The quill, or crown, only accounts for approximately 30% of the total area of a single skin.
Since the crown is the most desirable part of the skin, and because there is so little of it available, it makes the quill leather that much more valuable.
The cost of full quill ostrich leather handbags starts in the thousands. Therefore, the first sign of authentic ostrich leather is price.
There are other things to consider when evaluating the quality of ostrich leather handbags. There are blemishes and imperfections that can reduce the purity, therefore the value, of an ostrich purse. These blemishes do not indicate authenticity. They're natural imperfections that were incurred during the bird's life.
Scratching and scarring can occur. Don't forget we're dealing with ostriches here. Large, flightless birds that are known for reaching extremely high rates of speed when running.
Tick bites are also common, as the animals live out on free range ranches.
Skin thickness and softness depend on the maturity of the bird during harvest. Older birds have a thicker skin, but a denser quill, while younger ones have a softer texture with a more dispersed quill pattern.
Discolorations in the leather are usually a reflection of the bird's nutrition during life. A healthy ostrich will have an even tone, full of natural oils and pliability.
If you're in the market for a high quality ostrich leather handbag, be sure to take a close look at the quill pattern. Watch for quill density, texture and discolorations. Also look for scarring or unusual spotting.
Remember the difference between full quill and half quill. Do the retailer's prices reflect the difference in value?
You're making a large financial investment. Take your time when shopping. Buy your ostrich leather handbags from reputable dealers who guarantee their products with open communication and risk-free shipping and return policies.


Ostrich Leather Handbags

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Friday, December 2, 2011

Who's Who in the World of Jewelry Designers for Engagement Rings?

!±8± Who's Who in the World of Jewelry Designers for Engagement Rings?

Tiffany & Co. was founded by Charles Lewis Tiffany in 1837 and is considered one of the world's finest jewelry companies. It is famous for its wide array of ultra high quality jewelry and its trademark little blue bag. The Tiffany & Co store on 57th avenue in New York City which appeared in the 1961 movie Breakfast at Tiffany's is quite popular with tourists. To be honest, I must admit that Tiffany & Co. makes my knees weak. I don't think I'm alone in this. There's something about getting one of those little blue bags that seems to set off a joyful chemical reaction in women's brains. I really can't explain it...it just happens.

Vera Wang got her start in the fashion industry working for fashion elite such as Vogue and Ralph Loren. She eventually went out on her own selling high-end, fashionable wedding dresses. However, she has expanded her business to include other items and more recently moved into designing engagement rings for Bailey Banks and Biddle.

Barry Verragio studied at the reknowned Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. He worked for several years in the jewelry industry prior to proposing to his current wife. In order to make her ring, he invented a new technique which suspended the diamond above the ring. The engaged couple received so many compliments on the rings, that Barry decided to start his own company based on the ring he designed for Tanya. Many years later, the couple as well as the Verragio jewelry company are still going strong.

Haig Tacori came to America in 1970 and has developed a reputation for exceptional platinum jewelry designs. Tacori rings have been featured on the popular television series, The Bachelor.

Scott Kay led the resurgance in popularity of platinum engagement rings. He is known as one of America's most popular bridal jewelers. His affordable designs are within the reach of most consumers.

Ritani engagement rings are all about style and comfort. I particularly like the look of the rings from the Endless Love Collection. With a host of classy styles and a range in pricing, Ritani is sure to win over many fans.


Who's Who in the World of Jewelry Designers for Engagement Rings?

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Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Michael Kors Jet Set Large Chain E/W Tote Python Dark Sand

!±8±Michael Kors Jet Set Large Chain E/W Tote Python Dark Sand

Brand : Michael Kors
Rate :
Price : $249.99
Post Date : Nov 29, 2011 22:00:06
Usually ships in 1-2 business days



The Michael Kors Jet Set Large Chain E/W Tote is a smart buy. In trendy and versatile python embossed leather. The East West shape is easy to carry; large enough to fit all you need but not bulky on your shoulder. The python embossed leather s incredibly versatile; ideal for everyday or any season. Very comfortable over the shoulder 11 inch strap drop. Roomy center with slip and zip pockets on each side. A place for everything. Gold tone hardware including Michael Kors logo grommets and gorgeous chain links at the base of the leather shoulder straps. Measures 16(w) x 11(h) x 6(d). These Michael Kors Jet Set bags sell fast, make sure you get one!

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Friday, November 25, 2011

Handmade Full Grain Genuine Leather Laptop Messenger Office Bag- Brown Color with Black Shading

!±8± Handmade Full Grain Genuine Leather Laptop Messenger Office Bag- Brown Color with Black Shading

Brand : Handmadezz | Rate : | Price :
Post Date : Nov 25, 2011 21:57:28 | N/A

This laptop bag is used as a messenger and a shoulder bag. This bag is 100% Handmade from 100% full grain leather and hand stitched with sturdy and stylish brass buttons. A stylistic flap on the top of the bag securely closes with two magnetic brass buttons below the flap as well as a long rugged slip pocket below the flap.The main compartment is in the middle with a zip on top. Inside of the bag has compartments for a PDA; smart phone or cell phone and also for pens and pencils. There is a handy zipped pocket against the back to store additional items to give you plenty of room to hold all your items. As a bonus there is an inbuilt padded laptop case that safely secures and protects your laptop.The back of the bag has a large slip pocket with a magnetic button. The full grain leather strap is fully adjustable. The handle is approximately 51" inches (130cm) long and sits comfortably on the waist.The material is top full grain hand crafted leather. This unique laptop bag is one of a kind and is guaranteed to last a long, long time.

  • Modern unisex style contour design messenger bag Front flap magnetic snaps close for added security
  • 100% Full Grain Hand Stitched Leather provides the highest quality and durability
  • Convenient zipper pocket underneath flap Built-in padded laptop section that protects laptops up to 14 inches in size
  • Media section for organizing devices
  • 100% Guaranteed No Questions Asked Refund Policy on this bag

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Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Women's Michael Kors Purs Handbag Medum Top Zip Shoulder

!±8± Women's Michael Kors Purs Handbag Medum Top Zip Shoulder

Brand : | Rate : | Price :
Post Date : Nov 22, 2011 08:58:59 | N/A


Women's Michael Kors Purs Handbag Medum Top Zip Shouldercolor: Black/Beige

More Specification..!!

Women's Michael Kors Purs Handbag Medum Top Zip Shoulder

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Monday, November 14, 2011

MICHAEL Michael Kors Saddle Bag Small Messenger (Luggage Leather)

!±8± MICHAEL Michael Kors Saddle Bag Small Messenger (Luggage Leather)

Brand : Michael Kors | Rate : | Price : $158.00
Post Date : Nov 14, 2011 13:00:22 | Usually ships in 24 hours


  • 6 1/2 Wide x 6 1/2 tall x 2 Deep Strap Length : 24 in
  • Gold hardware
  • Adjustable Crossbody Strap
  • Flap over with magnetic snap closure
  • Outside back slide pocket with magnetic snap closure

More Specification..!!

MICHAEL Michael Kors Saddle Bag Small Messenger (Luggage Leather)

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Thursday, November 3, 2011

"Home Shopping" Has New Meaning - Proactive Wardrobe Planning is Part of the Big Picture

!±8± "Home Shopping" Has New Meaning - Proactive Wardrobe Planning is Part of the Big Picture

The next time you decide to go shopping for new clothes visit your closet instead. I believe I had a spiritual experience Saturday. Instead of spending a ton of money online or at the mall, I decided to visit my closet.

Shopping online at favorite websites seemed like a fun way to spend Saturday morning. There was a ton of new clothes already in my shopping cart when I had to make a trip to my closet to get a trouser size. The shopping cart had James Perse T-shirts and cargo pants, Vince sweaters and Juicy Couture Bermuda shorts. I was having a ball as I usually do when I find a good sale or bargain.

I was going to buy a new pair of James Perse parachute cargo pants when I needed to verify my size. So, low-and-behold, I walked into my closet to see which size I bought last month. That's when I decided to take a closer look at the clothes hanging neatly in sections of pants, shorts, capris, blouses, dresses, T-shirts, jackets and coats. Actually, my closet looks like a well-organized section of a high-end department store. I'm in the designer handbag and purse business, so I make it a habit of collecting high-end fashion from every cool website and boutique possible.

My shoes are all neatly organized by Designer names and color-labeled on the outside of the box. My favorite sneaker collection is the Nike Rift in wild colors and patterns. Camper leather shoes are very comfortable so I have many neatly arranged red boxes on the shelves. Prada Sport shoes range from flat to platform, and they are all color marked and labeled. Hermes dress shoes get worn less, but nonetheless, they are neatly arranged on the shelf.

I have a soft-spot for boots, so my collection of Henry Cuir, Prada, Ann Demeulemeester, Mosquito, Robert Clergerie, Camper, Miu Miu, Diesel, Michael KORS, UGG, and Ralph Lauren are all neatly labeled and waiting to be worn. They range from ankle height to over-the-knee style, and I wear them with just about anything when I'm in the mood for boots. My favorites are a new gaucho style from Brazil. And, of course, you can't beat the light weight of Henry Cuir for warm weather.

My closet is really a fun place to visit and keep organized. All the Hermes designer purses are neatly stored in their orange boxes and labeled on the outside. Of course, my favorite of all the Hermes designer handbags are the impossible to source Birkin bags. The Hermes Market Bag is also a fun medium style and great to grab for daytime or evening wear.

As I stood looking for the James Perse cargo pant size, I realized I had several things I had not worn with tags still attached. So, I began pulling items and holding them next to each other. Then, without hesitation, I began coordinating outfits from the closet's contents. I found tops I forgot I had. I found double James Perse T-shirts in the same color and style! I was having the time of my life. All of a sudden I realized home shopping had a new meaning. Balenciaga and Dries Van Noten blouses were funkier than ever! Marc Jacobs, Yves Saint Laurent and Eskandar jackets were fashionable, timeless pieces. Robert Rodriguez skirts, crochet tops and gaucho pants had never looked so beautiful.

It was impossible to coordinate items without trying them on, and I don't buy clothes if they don't look good on my figure, so I knew it all fit. I just hadn't thought or taken the time to put certain things together. I tried on every outfit I coordinated. It was like buying new clothes. Robert Rodriguez met Marni for the first time, and they looked great together. Calvin Klein and Ya-Ya were a match made of 100% cotton! Dosa and Pinko are ready to wear to a party. As-is Gucci and Ann Demeulemeester. One of my favorite combinations is a green silk Bernard Willhelm dress worn over a pair of cotton Danang leggings.

Most of the time when I am getting ready to go out I walk into the closet and think there's nothing to wear. Who would have ever thought Bernard Willhelm and Danang would be a good match? I'm usually too much in a hurry to think creatively when I need to pull items together and end up wearing the same thing too many times. Now, the task is done. Proactive wardrobe planning is now an integral part of the big picture.

Many of the items matched as though they were destined to be worn together. I found an off-white silk Armani asymmetric tunic I purchased on sale at Neiman Marcus about three years ago had dry-cleaned and never wore. The Armani tunic is now hanging over a Gary Graham black, silk, long, straight, sheath dress - also never worn. The two items look as though they were made for each other. The look is updated, the style is current, and I never wore either items! I can't wait for a special occasion to wear the new outfit.

Shopping by instinct is a habit because I am a notorious bargain hunter. Shopping by need or any other motivation rarely produces good results. So, the colors, styles and designs in my closet all blend into one another creating a personal style. You know, probably just like many creative shopper-types.

The items I tend to buy nowadays are signature, classic, funky, pieces I know I'll wear or need someday! They range from Danang silk cargos to Rick Owens knitwear. Prices are usually all mark-downs because I don't believe in paying full price unless of course, the price is right! My entire small business was based on off-retail pricing, so I must walk my talk personally, too. I truly believe below-retail is the only way to shop.

Running a small Internet ecommerce website lends itself to simple, comfortable work clothes. Sitting at a computer all day is ideal for comfortable, funky, cottons and sweats. So, when I go out, I like to add a bit more style and accessories. Marni jewelry and Hermes silk scarves can really upscale a plain T-shirt or cotton skirt. For shoes, a pair of simple, Prada sandals or a pair of Kork Ease platforms are my favorite shoes to wear with just about anything. It's difficult to believe I've been in love with and wearing Kork Ease for over thirty years! Pulling it all together and making the look fashionable is easy when there's a closet full of almost forgotten Designer clothes, shoes and designer handbags.

Home shopping has a new meaning. The time I spent matching tops, bottoms, shoes and purses saved me loads of prep time for my next date, meeting, appointment, etc. Most of the quality time shopping at home was spent coordinating the items I rarely wear leaving everyday and very casual items to a more free-style mood selection process. I'm no longer worried about what to wear to dinner Monday night, or what I'll wear if/when he asks me out! It's all there, and it's been there just waiting for me to make the time to pull it all together. Do I feel relieved? Yes. Do I feel as though my time was well-spent? Yes. Do I need to buy more clothes? Of course, but not this weekend! I'll save that activity for next week, or maybe after I've had a chance to wear everything currently in my closet at least once!


"Home Shopping" Has New Meaning - Proactive Wardrobe Planning is Part of the Big Picture

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Monday, October 31, 2011

Michael Kors Handbags - Owning Luxury Bags Is Easier Than You Thought

!±8± Michael Kors Handbags - Owning Luxury Bags Is Easier Than You Thought

Do you own a Michael Kors handbag or wish you could? Some find that a huge set back that they have for purchasing an authentic Michael Kors handbag is to have to cough up the money for one. Not everyone has 0-00 just sitting around to splurge on a handbag. Therefore, finding these handbags for discounted prices is a great asset for the consumer to have.

Michael Kors handbags can now be found on many discounted sites for fractions of retail prices. That should bring a lot of smiles to many faces. You no longer have to wait for sales to buy Michael Kors handbags. No more driving to outlet malls in hopes of finding a great deal on an out-dated handbag. Michael Kors handbags are cheaper than you may have thought.

The best option for individuals wanting to own Michael Kors handbags is to shop at online discount stores. A great place to shop for these luxury bags is eBay. EBay is a great store that offers many different styles of Michael Kors handbags. With eBay you get a choice of shopping from the eBay store or from its online auctions.

People who have brand new or slightly used items and sell them for huge discounts form auctions. You can save tons of money by shopping through live auctions. Most importantly, you can choose what you want to pay and not have to go over budget. Just be sure to be a registered eBay user. It's a one-time thing that takes 5 minutes and it's FREE!

Discounted Michael Kors handbag sites are great places to go to get great deals on handbags and other Michael Kors products. There are many online stores that cater to the needs of individuals who enjoy searching for the best prices and who love to bargain hunt. Some stores will even drop their prices to match up with their competitors. That is really cool!

Shopping online is a great way to save lots of money and also allows you to find other bargains without ever having to leave your home. Online stores offer a vast selection of Kors products. The best thing about online shopping is the luxury of not having to fight face to face with other consumers who are after the same handbag that you are interested in.

Using online shopping though auctions allows you to compete for handbags, but not have to see whom you are competing against. It also helps to negotiate online because people usually give in so easily when they don't know whom they are dealing with. Which makes it easier for you to get what you were after.

Lets say you have wanted a Michael Kors Astor Satchel and you see it in stores for 8. You can get that same bag from a specific discounted Michael Kors handbags site for 0. Would you buy the store bag or the one you found online?

Finding and owning luxury items is much easier than you may have thought. Even for those who are on a budget, you can still treat yourself to a luxury item. You just have to know where to look. Believe and you shall receive!


Michael Kors Handbags - Owning Luxury Bags Is Easier Than You Thought

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