Gems and Generosity: 11 Ways Jewelry Making Can Make a Positive Impact on the World



Gems are beautiful to behold. However, gems can also create a difference in many artisans’ lives and the lives of those in need, especially when jewelry making is promoted for a cause, supports a cause or creates jobs for those in need of support.
There are many other ways jewelry can be more than just a pretty accessory when jewelry makers use sustainable materials and resources from those in need. 
We’ve put together some of the different ways jewelry making can create a positive effect in the world. But first, some background on the importance of giving.
The Importance of Having a Philanthropic Mission
In what feels like an overly commercial world, it’s important for companies
to have a philanthropic mission so that their footprint doesn’t just focus on the bottom line but also provides the surrounding community with support or helps sustain the environment.
Threefold Returns
Dedicating part of what we do as a business to a charitable cause creates a threefold return for the investment we make.
First, the money donated or assistance provided to a charitable cause gives back to the community, which we are all a part of, thus improving all our lives.
Second, the act of giving feels and looks good to everyone involved simply because it is good.  This is especially so when it is done in a sustainable way by providing training or economic opportunities to disadvantaged groups. This concept builds on the importance of teaching someone to fish, rather than giving them fish, so they’re fed, and you are too.
The third way a philanthropic mission pays its worth back is that it is a deductible expense, which contributes to company marketing.
Companies must invest in marketing anyway, so why not make it philanthropic. 
Philanthropy is an all-round great way to participate
— especially in artistic positive energy ventures such as gemstones and jewelry.
Here are 11 of our favorite ways gems and jewelry engender generosity and a better world:

1.     
Creating Jobs for Artisans and Groups in Need
Artisans from sectors that are impoverished, poorly skilled or unable to find traditional work can be trained to perform some of the simpler jewelry making processes. This work can lead to entrepreneurial schemes for poverty-stricken communities by providing skills and regular work for low-skilled workers.
Non-profit organizations, similar to Akola
or Ten Thousand Villages
, have been created to facilitate work creation, training and administration of these schemes for disadvantaged groups to become jewelry makers.
Non-profits can connect under-developed communities with a market for their work and empower the communities to self-manage.

2.     
Raising Awareness of a Cause

“Awareness jewelry” can help promote a cause by the motif behind the jewelry.
For example, the familiar pink ribbon for breast cancer is well known. However, there is a large range of colors available for showing support for other causes, as well as other symbols that show support. 
Aside from awareness ribbons, many charitable causes and non-profits have emblems that can be incorporated into jewelry makers’ designs.

3.     
A Small Amount Can Go A Long Way
Donating even a small portion of every sale to a charitable cause can help create immense community benefits from creating jewelry.
The small amount generated from each sale goes a long way to help a needy cause. Additionally, customers recognize that the company cares, employees feel the company cares and it feels good to help the effort because it is a good one.
The revenue generated from helping a charitable cause is far more effective in marketing, and it creates a wider positive impact.

4.     
Providing Different Ways to Show Support
A piece of jewelry can offer the wearer different ways to show support by employing a color related to a symbol of a helpful organization or a charitable cause. This can include color combination choices, individual jewelry design or specific symbolism.

5.     
Partnering with a Cause
Jewelry makers that partner with artisans or groups in need for the supply of materials or products help support a cause. The partnership benefits individuals, groups and the wider society.
This partnership can happen in one of three ways: direct support, employment or business relationships.
Jewelry making may directly support a cause through a donation from proceeds, it may promote employment of disadvantaged groups or jewelry makers may purchase materials from groups in need or groups that support a cause. 
All three ways provide direct support for a cause through the art of jewelry making.

6.     
Inspiring Creativity
Jewelry making inspires creativity amongst both artisans and those who choose to wear the art. A beautiful piece of jewelry is an artistic masterpiece. Natural gemstones also inspire creativity by their natural beauty of form, color and combinations.
Creativity helps spread positivity and brightens our environment.

7.     
Fostering Individuality

Jewelry making can provide an individual statement through art, color and combination choices, or from the individual formation of natural gemstones and pearls. 
The individuality of jewelry provides a unique and elegant way to show support for a cause.
Many gemstones
and soft metal beads like copper
are handmade or hand finished, which provides uniqueness in every item and supports the artisanal approach.

8.     
Teaching Special Needs or Disadvantaged Groups Jewelry Making
Jewelry makers can offer free craft workshops for special needs and disadvantaged groups, which provide a positive impact on society.
Sharing the trade via creative workshops showcases a jewelry creator’s skill while assisting the community group in learning new skills, building self-esteem and enjoying a creative act.

9.     
Promoting Use of Natural Materials
A jewelry maker that promotes renewable natural resources will assist in improving environmental impact from their creations.
Supporting jewelry makers that use naturally renewable resources helps everyone feel better knowing that the impact of jewelry creation has a positive effect on the world around us.

10. 
Promoting Materials from Sustainable Sources
Jewelry makers who use materials from sustainable sources not only support local communities but can positively impact the environment.

11. 
Assisting Artisans with Support Networks
Jewelry makers in poorer communities can combine into co-ops where networks of artisans can help each other grow. Larger purchasing and distribution sectors can provide support for these initiatives by offering guidance with finances, promoting sustainable wages and offering advice on quality and production for artisans.
Conclusion
Jewelry makers can provide a positive global impact in many ways. When shopping for jewelry, support those that do. Look for jewelry companies, small and large, that support sustainable economic development, support charities, or give back to the community in other ways. Jewelry makers that do this not only look great on the outside but feel great on the inside too.

Brenda Kimble is a writer and stay-at-home mother of two daughters and a son, plus their beagle named Duke! She loves blogging, crafting, and spending time with her family. She also enjoys strolling the streets of her quaint neighborhood in Austin, Texas and finding the trendiest hotspots for fashion, food, and live music.



10 Gemstones That Could Be Right in Your Own Backyard

You might associate gemstones with far-off countries and exotic places, but you may be able to find gemstones closer than you think. With a little digging and a keen eye, you can turn up gemstones in your own backyard (or close to it). Here are some common gemstones that might be just a few feet away.

  1. Tourmaline

Tourmaline is a colorful gemstone that occurs in a variety of colors. Tourmaline actually refers to a group of related minerals, and prices for tourmaline vary depending on the color and size of the gemstone.

You can find multi-colored tourmaline as well, and the color of tourmaline may vary depending on the light and viewing angle. Black tourmaline is particularly distinctive, with a dark, opaque, shiny finish. Tourmaline can be used in bracelets and necklaces, and large stones can be carved into unique shapes. In the United States, tourmaline is most commonly found in California and Maine. It’s easy to confuse colored tourmaline with other gemstones, but you can have your find confirmed by a gemologist.

  1. Quartz

Quartz is one of the easiest materials to find. Amethyst, agate, carnelian, and citrine are some gemstone varieties of quartz. Pure quartz is colorless, and impurities in the quartz are what can give it the vibrant colors you find in gemstones. Quartz is typically affordable and can be cut into jewelry as well as formed into spheres and sculptures. Amethyst is a purple variety of quartz, and it’s considered the most valuable. You can find amethyst in Colorado, Arizona, Maine, North Carolina, and several other states.

Agate is a form of chalcedony, which is a variety of quartz. Agate isn’t the most attractive gemstone in its natural state. Once it’s polished, though, it is colorful and can be found in white, blue, red, purple, and more. Slabs of agate are sometimes used for decoration, and they are also perfect for beads and other jewelry pieces. You can find agate in Montana, South Dakota, New Mexico, Michigan, and other states.

  1. Topaz

Topaz is a hard gemstone that comes in a variety of colors. It’s relatively inexpensive and can be found in large crystals. It’s one of the hardest minerals and forms inside igneous rocks. It can be found in streams as well. Natural topaz is lightly colored, and colorless topaz is sometimes used as a diamond simulant. Topaz is used in everything from earrings to pendants. Topaz is most commonly found in the western United States and is the official gemstone of Utah.

  1. Jade

Jade is a stone that is most commonly green, although it can come in other colors like purple and white. Jade is actually two different minerals: nephrite and jadeite. Jade has been used since ancient times in jewelry and sculptures and is often used to make jewelry beads. It was also used as a tool in ancient times. In its rough form, it has a dull, greenish color. It’s typically found in metamorphic rocks and can be found in California, Washington, and Wyoming.

  1. Malachite

This is a dark green gemstone with rings, giving it a distinctive appearance. Although it isn’t the most durable gemstone, it is still popular and is considered by some to have healing properties. It usually forms within limestone. It is often used to make beads and is used to make ornate carvings and, until the 16th century, it was often used as a pigment for painting. In the United States, it is most commonly found in Arizona.

  1. Garnet

Garnet is another gemstone with ancient roots. It was popular in Ancient Rome and has been found in Egyptian burial sites. Garnets are actually a group of minerals. The color most commonly associated with garnets is dark red, but you can find garnets in orange, yellow, pink, and black.

Some common varieties of garnets include almandine, pyrope, and rhodolite. Almandine is the deep red color and is the type most often used in jewelry. Spessartite is an orange form of garnet. Garnets are relatively affordable and are popular in jewelry.

The hardness of garnets varies depending on the type of garnet, but it is hard enough to be considered a good abrasive, and it has several industrial uses, including cutting steel. They can be found in Arizona, North Carolina, California, Utah, Montana, Colorado, and Idaho.

  1. Obsidian

Obsidian is an igneous rock. It forms when molten rock cools and is technically a mineraloid. It has a glass-like appearance and is often found above the Earth’s surface. Obsidian is usually associated with the color black, but it can come in other colors as well, including green and brown. It was used by Stone Age cultures as a cutting tool.

Today, obsidian is sometimes used as a surgical cutting tool. It is also popular in jewelry and can be shaped into gemstone beads. It’s not the most durable stone, so it’s most often used in pendants and earrings. It can be found in Arizona, Nevada, California, Idaho, New Mexico, Washington, Oregon, and Wyoming.

  1. Turquoise

Turquoise has been used for thousands of years for jewelry, tools, and sculptures. Its distinctive color is one of the reasons for its popularity. It is most commonly found in the southwestern United States. It is often used to make beads and other small jewelry pieces.

It’s also very porous, so, if you do find it, don’t clean it with anything other than water. It is also sensitive to sunlight and should be properly stored. Turquoise in the rough has the same color as the finished gemstone.

  1. Opal

Opal is a form of silica, and precious opal has an iridescent quality that makes it appealing. Some rare opals can be more valuable than diamonds. It comes in a variety of colors, including white, black, purple, pink, brown, and green. Black opals are the most desired form of opal. White opals and fire opals are also popular. They are often used in jewelry, and common opals can also be used to carve figures.

Opals in the rough have an iridescent quality, making them relatively easy to find. It can be found in Idaho, California, Oregon, and Nevada, and it is the birthstone for those born in October.

  1. Peridot

Peridot is the gemstone version of the mineral olivine. It is usually found in variations of the color green, which occurs due to the amount of iron in the olivine. Olivine is usually found in igneous rocks. As a gemstone, peridot is relatively soft. It is easy to scratch and can burst under pressure. It’s relatively affordable and is popular in beads, necklaces, and bracelets. Peridot can be found in Arizona, Hawaii, and Colorado, and olivine in the rough has a distinctive green color.

 

Written by Joe Smith

 

All You Need to Know About Mining for Gemstones in the U.S.

There isn’t much that’s more gratifying than finding a gemstone. It might take hours, or you might get lucky right off the bat, but, if you look in the right place, you may just find a precious gem you can enjoy yourself or sell to someone else. There are numerous promising sites in the U.S. for gem hunting. With some information about the mining process, the equipment you need, and the best places to explore, you’ll be ready for a mining expedition of your own.

Types of Mining

There are numerous techniques used by professional and amateur miners to locate gemstones. One method used by professionals is open pit mining. This involves digging a large but relatively shallow pit. These mines can be quite wide, and, after they’re used, they can be rehabilitated into parks or recreational communities.

Underground mining may be what springs to mind when you hear the word “mining.” This type of mining is typically done by professionals and involves digging tunnels and shafts. The type of mining varies, depending on the gemstone being sought. Tunneling, for example, is used for emeralds and involves digging a tunnel down to the rock.

Amateurs or professionals can do river digging. Panning is a common technique which involves filling a pan with gravel and water and then shaking the pan. Light material washes away, and small rocks and potential gemstones are left behind.

If you’re a recreational miner, you have a few options for mining. Panning is one option. You can also ask for permission to dig in a mine that’s no longer being used. Some commercial mining operations will allow you to go through their mine tailings. These are leftover piles of gravel and dirt, and mining operations may let you dig for free.

Fee digs allow you to search a mine for a fee. Mine operators prepare a mine specifically for amateur miners. They may import tock or bring up material from underground. If being underground isn’t for you, you can try geology hunting. Gems can sometimes surface due to erosion and falling rocks. You can usually access them easily, and you can enjoy the outdoors at the same time.

Equipment Needed for Mining

The equipment you need for mining is relatively inexpensive. The exact equipment varies depending on the type of mining you plan to do. For all types of mining, wear comfortable clothes that are appropriate for the weather and which you don’t mind getting dirty.

For sluicing, which is similar to panning, most of your equipment will be provided by the mine operators. Bring a cushion to sit on, and wear gloves. For panning, you’ll be outside, so you’ll need sunscreen and insect repellant. The other equipment you need, like a shovel and a screen, can be rented from the mining operation, or you can bring your own. For digging, you will need a rock hammer, a shovel, and a bucket.

For all types of mining, bring collection bags to safely store your finds. Plastic baggies work well, and bring light paper to wrap your gems. Goggles are a good investment to keep your eyes safe, especially if you’re digging, and a magnifying glass can also be handy for closely examining your finds.

Types of Gems You Can Find in the U.S.

You can find a wide variety of gemstones throughout the United States. Arizona, for example, is the highest producer of gemstones. You can find turquoise, peridot, azurite, agate, and more in the state. The North Carolina mountains are home to hidden treasures, as well as sapphires, rubies, aquamarine, topaz, and more. Oregon is home to a unique gemstone called Oregon Sunstone. It is a feldspar that has copper throughout that reflects light.

There are other gemstones in the state, including geodes and opals. California, Utah, Tennessee, Montana, Colorado, Arkansas, Idaho, Maine, Louisiana, and Nevada all offer various gemstones. Idaho is actually known as “The Gem State.” Opal, star garnet, jade, and more have been found in the state.

Places to Mine in the U.S.

To explore the states that have gemstones, you have several options. Some mines are open to the public, and, if you are interested in mining on private property, you can contact the property owners for more information.

Emerald Hollow Mine, for example, is a North Carolina mine open to the public. In addition to hunting for emeralds, you can also find quartz, Hiddenite, and numerous other gems and minerals. There is also a lapidary on site that can transform your raw finds into shiny gemstones.

Gem Mountain is also in North Carolina. You can find rubies, moonstones, and aquamarines, and there are gemologists on site to help you identify your finds. There are two mines to explore and plenty of places to stay to enjoy the gems and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas allows you to explore a volcanic field for diamonds, and you can keep whatever you find. You can also find other gems and minerals in the park. The park offers tent sites and a play pool, so you can take the family with you on your excursion.

Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine is in Philipsburg, Montana. You can find sapphires as well as other gemstones, and the staff will help you identify promising finds. It’s a bit of a drive to this former mining town, but it’s a charming location with other shops to explore when you’re not sorting through your finds.

Nevada has two mines that are open to the public during the summer. Rainbow Ridge Opal Mine allows you to look for opals. You’ll need to bring your own equipment to explore the mine. Bonanza Opal Mine allows you to hunt for fire opals, which have vivid colors and make for striking gemstone beads and jewelry pieces.

Jade Cove Trail is in Big Sur, California. As the name indicates, you can find jade along the trail. Digging is restricted, though, as the trail is a part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, but you can pick up gems that are in plain sight.

Richmond, Virginia is home to Morefield Mine. The mine is 300 feet below ground and more than 2,000 feet long. You can find amazonite, as well as 80 other minerals and gems. You need to bring your own bucket or container to hold the rocks and other items you find.

Graves Mountain, in Lincolnton, Georgia, is opened to visitors periodically. You need to bring your own tools, but you may be able to find quartz, hematite, and lazulite.

 

Written by Joe Smith

The mystic world of runes

mixed agate runes

Mixed Agate Runes

Rune Stones are one of the mystical worlds true mysteries. Nobody can be truly sure exactly where they came from and when. There are many theories on the subject but it is believed by some that they were first used any time from 2000BC to 100AD by tribes such as The Goths and other Germanic Tribes. Over the following year the use of Runes Stones spread throughout Europe with tribes like the Angles and the Saxons using them in the west and the Norwegian, Danish and Swedish using them in Scandanavia (among others). 


 

carnelian rune setbloodstone rune setWe have a range of rune sets available here, in medium and large tumbled sizes, each with a luxury drawstring pouch.

 

Giving Birthstones As Jewellery Gifts

Written by Naomi Shawshutterstock_171937562.jpg

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

Popular, elegant, and unique, birthstones make a beautiful gift for just about any occasion. Part of a tradition that goes back to ancient times, birthstone gifts are reputed to bring luck, prosperity, and healing to the wearer. If you are giving a birthstone as a gift for the first time,  keep the following guide in mind as you shop.

Birthstones by Month

Standardized in 1912 by the American National Association of Jewelers, each month of the year has its own birthstone. Ranging in colors and properties, these stones all boast a plethora of unique attributes. The following is the current internationally accepted list of birthstones by month:

January: Garnet

February: Amethyst

March: Aquamarine

April: Diamond

May: Emerald

June: Pearl/Alexandrite

July: Ruby

August: Peridot

September: Sapphire

October: Tourmaline/Opal

November: Topaz/Citrine

December: Tanzanite/Zircon/Turquoise

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Image courtesy of Shutterstock

The History of Birthstones

Thought to date back to the 12 gemstones that once represented the 12 tribes of Israel, birthstones have a long and rich history. The book of Exodus describes the Breastplate of Aaron as a garment set with sardius, topaz,carbuncle, emerald, sapphire, diamond, ligure, agate, amethyst, beryl, onyx, and jasper. These 12 stones were later connected to the 12 signs of the zodiac, an idea that ultimately evolved into the concept of birthstones that we understand today. Although scholars attribute the origin of birthstones to Aaron’s breastplate, similar concepts have cropped up in cultures throughout history, with many societies considering certain stones to have properties that set them above and apart from other gems.

When to Give a Birthstone

Birthstones can be given on a wide variety of occasions, making great mother’s day, Christmas, anniversary, and birthday gifts alike. If you are on a tight budget and can’t afford a genuine gemstone, there are some great lab-created alternatives available. Aesthetically, your family member or significant other most likely won’t be able to tell the difference. If you want to give a birthstone as a gift, but aren’t a huge fan of the colour of the stone, don’t be afraid to branch out a little from tradition. A garnet, for example, does not necessarily have to be red. Garnets, like many other gemstones, come in a wide range of colours–including pink, green, orange, and black.

Unique Birthstone Gifts

There’s no limit to the number of unique ways in which a birthstone can be given. For parents, how about a personalized family ring? Crafted from gold, platinum, or silver, personalized family trees incorporate the birthstone of each included family member. Alternatively, handcrafted jewelry is always a great way to go–think an opal bracelet for an October baby, featuring 5 different opal varieties. Birthstones can also be set into watches, jewelry boxes, ceramics, and art.

No matter how you give a birthstone, it’s sure to be an appreciated and treasured gift. As you search for the perfect piece, try to keep in mind the personal preferences of your family member, friend, or significant other. Do they like natural stones, or treated ones? Do they have a favourite color? Are they a “bling” fan, or do they prefer subtle jewellery? If you aren’t sure what they like, just have fun with it!

New Natura Incense range available

With many fragrances to pick from

With many fragrances to pick from…..

We are pleased to introduce these premium incense from the well respected Stamford brand. Each pack of high-quality fragrances comes in a lovingly handcrafted gift box – making these a fine gift to loved ones also! Just holding them assaults the senses. Plus if you purchase now, they are available at 33% off the normal price (offer price £1 while promotion lasts).

Charities We Support

Charities

Charities We Support For as long as we can remember, we have been involved with charitable causes. We feel an innate connection to these causes personally, and will continue to do so. Along with those mentioned below, we also are assured that we are able to source items that are Fairtrade, and also some items that with our support, help sustain communities and some of the environmental features from where they are located. As we go forward, we seek to link to more hardworking charities, each of which we either deal with face to face, or reach out to from a distance. Our passions are mainly regarding the treatment of animals, and that of nature and habitat. So we wholeheartedly recommend those given below, and if you need any more advice and have any queries regarding these, we are more than happy to help. With your valued custom, we continuously make monthly contributions to the charities, and believe greatly that giving completes the circle and enhances our world and community spirit. Throughout the calendar year, we attend marches, meetings and AGMS so we try to take a proactive stance.


The Wildlife Trusts

We want to inspire people about the natural world so that they value it, understand their relationship with it and take action to protect and restore it.

The Wildlife Trusts want to help nature to recover from the decline that for decades has been the staple diet of scientific studies and news stories.  We believe passionately that wildlife and natural processes need to have space to thrive, beyond designated nature reserves and other protected sites.  To achieve this it is vital that the richest wildlife sites are protected and sustained as a starting point from which nature can spread back into our wider landscapes.  And at sea we must also protect areas now for a future when our marine wildlife can thrive more widely. Society needs this as much as our wildlife does. A healthy natural environment is the foundation for everything that is of value to people – food, water, shelter, flood prevention, health, happiness and creative inspiration.  It’s the source of our prosperity and our wellbeing. We want to inspire people about the natural world so that they value it, understand their relationship with it and take action to protect and restore it. Greenpeace We defend the natural world and promote peace by investigating, exposing and confronting environmental abuse, and championing environmentally responsible solutions

Stop climate change

Climate change isn’t inevitable. We have the knowledge, skills and technologies to get ourselves out of this difficult situation. All over the world people have woken up to the threat, and are working to reduce the use of fossil fuels, stop rainforest destruction and get power from clean energy. Still much more needs to be done.

Defend oceans

Our beautiful oceans are home to a staggering 80% of life on Earth. But destructive fishing, pollution and climate change are damaging them on a scale unimaginable to most people. Species are being driven towards extinction because of overfishing and habitat destruction. We are campaigning for marine reserves, and for an end to unsustainable fishing.

Protect forests

The Earth’s ancient forests form some of the most diverse ecosystems known to science and are vital in regulating the world’s climate. But eighty per cent of them have already been destroyed or degraded, and the remaining forests are under threat. Greenpeace is working to end illegal and destructive logging of the world’s ancient forests, and to protect the rights of the indigenous peoples and species that depend on them.

Work for peace and disarmament

40 years ago the international community got together and agreed to work towards eliminating nuclear weapons. But these terrifying weapons of mass destruction are still with us. Greenpeace believes that it’s time for the nine nuclear countries – including Britain – to start serious negotiations to reduce and eventually eliminate their nuclear arsenals, and focus instead on the real challenge facing the world – building a safer, greener future for us all. Daily workers at a denim washing factory in Xintang, China, search wastewater fo

Eliminating toxic chemicals

Toxics threaten our water, air, land, oceans – and our future. Synthetic chemicals put the global health of humanity and the environment at risk, as the world’s industries fail to research the potential impacts on our planet. Icebergs in Greenland

Save the Arctic

The fragile Arctic is under threat from both climate change and oil drilling. As climate change melts the Arctic ice, oil companies are moving in to extract more of the fossil fuels that caused the melt in the first place. But above the Arctic circle, freezing temperatures, a narrow drilling window and a remote location mean that an oil spill would be almost impossible to deal with. It’s a catastrophe waiting to happen. Greenpeace is working to halt climate change and to stop this new oil rush at the top of the world. Frack off - sign at fracking protest in Balcombe

Fracking

Fracking is the process of blasting water, sand and a cocktail of chemicals deep underground in order to get out the gas or oil. Yes, you read right, it’s not just gas,  it’s also oil they’re hunting for. And here are four main reasons why this is a really bad plan.

Our global campaigns

Greenpeace campaigns globally for a greener and more peaceful world, including for a GM-free future and the elimination of toxic chemicals. Find out more »


RSPCA

What we do

A unique animal welfare charity

We’re proud to be the oldest welfare charity around.   We were the first to introduce a law to protect animals and we work hard to ensure that all animals can live a life free from pain and suffering.

Speak up

Portrait of a Wiltshire horn sheep © Andrew Forsyth / RSPCA Photolibrary

Through our campaigns we raise standards of care and awareness of issues for the animals who have no voice. With your support we push for laws to be changed, improving the welfare of animals on farms, in research labs, in the wild, in paddocks or in our homes.

Stand up

Through investigations and prosecutions we stand up to those who deliberately harm animals to send out a clear message – we will not tolerate animal abuse. Our highly trained officers tackle neglect and cruelty at every level and are working hard to stamp out large-scale serious, organised and commercial animal cruelty.

Be counted

We believe every animal has the right to be counted as an individual.

Veterinary nurse Joanne Roberts holding dog patient. © Andrew Forsyth/RSPCA Photolibrary

Animals can rely on us to rescue them when they need us most. Torehabilitate them wherever possible, provide them with the very bestveterinary care and to find them new homes, either through rehomingor release.

Show your support

We are an animal welfare charity. We rely on the continuing support of animal lovers like you. Help us today so we can continue to be here for animals tomorrow.


Save The Rhino

What we do

We support a number of ongoing rhino conservation programmes by funding a range of activities with grants and in collaboration with our conservation partners. You can read more about these by clicking below.

The importance of Chakras

The wheels of life, chakras play a crucial role in our development

The wheels of life, chakras play a crucial role in our development

Do you feel your body and spirit are in tune? If you answer No to this question then one or all of your Chakra’s may be blocked or unbalanced.
Do you perhaps have trouble communicating or expressing yourself? – Your Throat Chakra could be blocked.
Do you feel you are lacking in physical energy? – Your Base Chakra maybe blocked or depleted.
Are you having creative difficulties? – Perhaps your Sacral Chakra is blocked.
Are you stressed or have you experienced a recent shock? – Your Solar Plexus Chakra may need balancing.
Perhaps you need help with spiritual power and clairvoyance? – Your Brow Chakra may not be in tune.
Or aid in meditation and spiritual potential? – Your Crown Chakra could be closed.
Would you like to open yourself to universal and individual love? – Your Heart Chakra could need opening.
Why not try our Chakra Oil? Each package comes with full information on the Chakra, and a careful blend of the correct oils which are in tune with that particular Chakra.
Once your Chakras are balanced you could try using a traditionally blended Chakra Balancing oil to help keep them that way.

 

 

Finding The Perfect Piece Of Jewelry To Express Yourself

When it comes to jewelry, there are a lot of choices, and while diamonds may have been Marilyn’s best friend, fashion jewelry for women includes so much more. How do you determine your own style, and what constitutes the perfect piece of jewelry for you? In order to answer this question, it’s important to look at who you are and how you want to present yourself to the world. You might be fairly consistent in your style, want to express your inner diversity or your ability to roll with the punches no matter what the occasion may be. Here’s some examples of popular styles of jewelry you’ll encounter and tips on deciding if wearing these pieces is right for you.

The Minimalist Style

Silver Collar Chain & Spike NecklaceThere is some jewelry that almost seems to blend into a woman’s skin or clothes. The piece may be pretty, but it isn’t something that is likely to attract attention from across the room. Minimalist jewelry is simple, delicate, and classic. It includes things such as simple pearl earrings, a gold chain necklace with a simple charm. Bangle bracelets are also popular choice for those who prefer to be a bit more subdued.

One of the nice things about minimalist jewelry is that it goes with just about everything from jeans and a t-shirt to a little black dress. If you want people to notice you, but you don’t need a parade, minimalist jewelry may be the way to go.

The Ultra-Glam Style

This is a jewelry style that is almost guaranteed to draw attention. Earrings with that chandelier look, necklaces and bracelets with lots of sparkling gems and crystals, or even jewelry that combines gems with flowers or feathers is an example of an ultra glam look. Often, a person with this taste will seek someone to custom design jewelry for them. If you have the personality to pull off this style, you can likely make it work regardless of what you’re wearing; however garments such as a sleek black sweater, or a glitzy metallic tunic are examples of typical apparel that can bring out the unique and elegant statement of this jewelry.

Bohemian Style

The term Bohemian implies a sense of freedom, an anything goes attitude, while conveying a connection to nature. When it comes to fashion jewelry for women, having a Bohemian style will surely display this side of you. This jewelry is filled with colorful semiprecious stones, and other natural materials. Examples can include a stone cuff with gemstones, or a one of a kind layered necklace handmade with novelty items such as seashells, mother of pearl, or various sizes of stones or glass beads. Like those who favor ultra glam style, those that are drawn to Bohemian jewelry aren’t likely to find what they are looking for in a typical department store, so an online boutique is more ideal.

Girly Princess Style

Necklace with Comblat Pearls and Teardrop BeadsIf you’ve fantasized a fairy godmother waving her wand sending you to the ball, you might be a girly girl. This jewelry will feature a lot of: pink, purple, and other pastels, tinted glass beads, ribbons, lace, silver and gold. If you’re committed to the role, you may be able to pull off a tiara. If not, beaded hair accessories are not out of the question.

Tomboy Jewelry

If you’re a tomboy at heart, you probably aren’t looking to sparkle, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy fashion jewelry for women. A coin necklace in gold or bronze, a leather bracelet, or even a masculine style watch are all good ways to accessorize while staying true to who you are.

When it comes to jewelry styles, one style does not fit all! A woman needs pieces in multiple styles in order to be ready with the right jewelry for the right occasion.

Featured images:
  •  License: Image author owned
  •  License: Image author owned

+Laura has a rare collection of fashion jewelry and accessories to dress up any outfit for every occasion for both men and women at styleoutsidethebox.com

The Healing Properties Of Turquoise

History

Turquoise and Orange Czech Glass and Antique Copper NecklaceNative Americans from the Southwest section of the United States are known for their turquoise and silver
jewelry. Spiritual healers used turquoise in ceremonies to dispel negativity and protect the wearer from various types of harm. They believed that the stone could be worn anywhere on the body and the person would be kept safe from any form of harm.

Healing Properties

Like all other precious gems and stones, healing properties have been attributed to turquoise and other stones that are similar to it.  A few of the healing properties associated with turquoise are:

  • Improves energy flow through and around the body – It is believed by Native Americans to connect both sea and sky. This gives it the power to strengthen a person’s energy so it can flow freely and unhindered. Improving the flow of a person’s energy, not only supports the immune system, but also clears a person’s mental and emotional being of any negativity.
  • Supports the immune system – As energy flow improves and the body begins to detoxify, the healing energy of turquoise begins to strengthen the immune system preventing illness and infection from setting in.
  • Has the ability to calm and relax the wearer – The soft, soothing blue color of turquoise is thought to represent both water and air by many Native American tribes. The blue hue and the soothing energies it represents have the ability to elicit feelings of calmness. Individuals who wear turquoise jewelry are thought to be more relaxed and grounded.
  • Gently detoxifies the body and spirit – One of turquoises’ most beneficial properties, is its ability to pull negativity from the body and mind. Individuals who work with chakras claim that laying turquoise stones over each chakra point will realign and balance it, removing negativity and establishing a healthy center of being.

Turquoise is found in several places across the world other than the Southwestern United States. Large quantities have been found in India, Chile and Australia, as well. Native cultures that are prominent where turquoise is found associate it with similar healing properties as that of the Native Americans of the Southwest. No matter where the turquoise is being used, its healing properties are thought to be extremely beneficial to good physical and mental health.

Additional Healing Remedy

A few cultures believe the stone to have pain relieving properties in addition to the ones listed previously.It is thought that soaking a piece of turquoise in water and letting it set overnight will infuse the water with healing process. By soaking bandages in the turquoise water and placing them over strained or pulled muscles, pain and swelling will be diminished.

The remedy also works if pieces of turquoise are soaked in a tub of bath water. When a person soaks in the tub, the healing energies of the stone are allowed to work through the body, relieving body aches and various other types of discomfort. By soaking the body in the healing water, it is also believed the healing properties will also help prevent viruses and bacteria from entering the body causing illness and disease.

Featured images:
  •  License: Image author owned

+Laura creates a stylish new look in accessories with her independent selection of women and mens homemade jewelry and other items to coordinate your outfits at styleoutsidetheboc.com