#high lustre pearl

[pearlsgirls]

Mother Of Pearl Baroque Fireball Pearl Necklace,Large Baroque Pearl Necklace,Single Natural Pearl Necklace,Chunky Chain Pearl Necklace DESCRIPTION: CHUNKY CHAIN BAROQUE PEARL PENDANT DETAILS: ❤️HIGH LUSTRE CHUNKY BAROQUE PEARL: 2.5cm X 1.5cm / 1.inchx0.6 inches ❤️ CHUNKY CHAIN : 60cm /24 inches ♥️HONESTLY HANDCRFATED ! All of the jewellry is handcrafted by myself in my little PEARLS&GIRLS studio and not just bought and re-saled :) ♥️PACKED IN BEAUTIFUL BOX🎁 All items will be sent in a beautiful sturdy box with Pearls&Girls logo:) ♥️COMES WITH A GIFT Beautiful jewellery gift with every order! ♥️DISPATCH & DELIVERY TIMES All items are made to order. It usually takes 2-3 working days to prepare and ship an order. ♥️SHIPPING INFORMATION ALL ORDERS SHIP WORLDWIDE FOR FREE ! EUROPE -5 -7working days USA- approx. 7 working days REST OF THE WORLD - Usually arrives in 5-12 business days *Please, upgrade your delivery option if you need tracking for your parcel.* ♥️CONTACT Thank you so much for visiting! please feel free to drop me a message should you have any questions:) ♥️SOCIAL MEDIA For more jewelry and to join my newsletter you can find me on my website www.pearlsandgirls.com ♥️REFUNDS & EXCHANGES I always happy to assist and try my best to make my clients smile! I am offering hassle free refunds & exchanges in case of damaged items

[p0orbaby]

Born to Love You Back

summary: a very important question is on the horizon

warnings: none

a/n: some rich!reader for you all

word count: 1.7k

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The jeweller’s salon is tucked into a narrow street in the 1st arrondissement, down a street so narrow you almost missed it, the kind of place that doesn’t need signage because everyone who matters already knows where it is. The building itself is unassuming but pristine, a five-storey townhouse with cream-coloured stone, wrought-iron balconies, a double door painted a deep charcoal with brass fixtures that gleam in the waning afternoon sun. Outside, a delivery van idles, spilling faint notes of Edith Piaf from its radio as a man unloads crates of flowers: cyclamen, lilies, eucalyptus branches arranged in bursts of green and white. They’ll likely find their way to the salon’s interior within the hour, arranged with almost mathematical precision to evoke a studied nonchalance.

Inside, it’s quiet—museum-like but less sterile, hushed but alive. There’s a balance between the soft hum of conversation from another room and the faint, barely perceptible scent of lilies and leather. The floors are a herringbone parquet, polished to an impossible sheen, and the walls are panelled in dove grey. Everything about the space is designed to whisper money. Even the receptionist, stationed behind a desk lacquered to such a high gloss that it might double as a mirror. She’s mid-twenties, probably just out of university—Sciences Po, perhaps, or one of the Grandes Écoles—wearing a black crepe shift dress that hits just above the knee. Chanel, you’d bet, though it’s hard to tell from here. Her hair is sleek and straight, parted sharply in the middle, her nails painted in Rouge Noir, a colour so iconic it’s practically shorthand for Parisian sophistication. She greets you in French first, then switches to English the moment she hears your accent, though her tone remains precisely the same—warm but not too warm, deferential but not subservient.

Aurélie is waiting for you on the stairs. She’s maybe late thirties, tall, with that certain froideur that women in her line of work cultivate like a second skin. Her blazer is Saint Laurent—black, sharply tailored, peak lapels—and her silk blouse is an ivory so fine it catches the light in a way cotton never could. Her trousers skim the tops of her Louboutin heels—black patent leather, red soles so subtle they barely register. Her jewellery is minimal but deliberate: a single strand of Mikimoto pearls, their lustre so perfect they almost look artificial, and a pair of matching studs. She smiles when she greets you, her lips painted a nude so neutral it could have come from any number of Tom Ford palettes, but you’d guess Casablanca.

“This way, please,” she says, gesturing towards the stairs with a hand that’s manicured in a soft ballet pink, not a chip in sight. You follow her up, noting the faint scent of her perfume—Chanel No. 19, not a popular choice but a discerning one, with its crisp notes of galbanum and iris that feel both professional and unapologetically feminine.

On the landing, there’s a painting—a still life, maybe Cézanne, maybe a very good imitation. You don’t stop to look, but it catches your eye enough to linger in your mind as Aurélie opens a door to the second-floor where Its quieter, darker. The walls are a deep navy—Farrow & Ball, maybe Hague Blue—and the rug beneath the central display case is thick enough to swallow the sound of your footsteps. The case itself is glass-topped and backlit, the kind of lighting that renders diamonds almost supernatural in their brilliance. The rings are arranged by cut and carat, each one nestled in its own velvet slot, the symmetry of the display both calming and slightly overwhelming.

Aurélie steps aside, giving you space but remaining close enough to anticipate your needs. She stands with her hands loosely clasped in front of her, her posture immaculate.

“Take your time,” she says, standing back with the same attentive grace she’s shown since you arrived.

You nod, your gaze already falling to the rings. You’ve thought about this for weeks, maybe months, but standing here, it feels more real, the weight of the decision settling in your chest. Not because you’re uncertain—you’re not—but because this is a moment you’ll remember, whether you want to or not.

The first ring is a cushion-cut diamond, two carats, set in a band of pave diamonds. Platinum, naturally. The proportions are flawless, the craftsmanship impeccable, but as you turn it in the light, you know immediately it’s wrong. Too ornate. Too eager. Alexia would hate it. You imagine her wearing it for a moment, and the thought feels so ridiculous you almost laugh. She doesn’t like excess, at least not in the obvious sense. Her taste is clean, modern, unfussy.

The second ring is pear-shaped, slightly smaller, but with a brilliance that draws your eye. The stone feels alive under the light, its facets catching every subtle movement of your hand. For a moment, you hesitate, thinking about how it would look on her hand, but then you remember something she said once, flipping through a magazine in bed: “Pear cuts are too delicate. They look like they’re trying too hard.”

You sigh, not quite aloud, but enough for Aurélie to notice. She steps closer, just enough to offer a quiet suggestion. “Does she have a preference?” she asks, her tone light, neutral. “For the setting, or the cut?”

“She likes things simple,” you say, the words coming out more clipped than you mean them to. It’s not her fault, this unease you feel. “Classic, but not boring”

Aurélie nods, her expression unchanged, and steps back again. You wonder if she can sense the weight of what you’re doing—if she’s seen enough of this to know the signs. The third ring catches your eye before you reach for it. A round brilliant diamond, 1.8 carats, set in a plain platinum band. No pave, no halo, no embellishments. It’s striking in its simplicity, the kind of ring that doesn’t need to assert itself because it knows what it is. You pick it up, holding it to the light, and as you turn it, something settles in you. This is the one. You don’t need to overthink it.

Aurélie smiles faintly, as though she already knew. “Shall I prepare it for you?” she asks.

You nod, handing it back, and she takes it with both hands, disappearing into a back room.

While she’s gone, you pull out your phone. You shouldn’t call her—she’s probably still at training, her mind on drills and tactics—but you do it anyway. She answers on the third ring, her voice steady but soft, with that familiar cadence you’ve missed more than you’d care to admit.

“Hey,” she says, her voice clear, grounded, with just the faintest lilt of distraction. In the background, there’s a low murmur of voices, the familiar thud of a ball meeting turf, maybe a coach shouting something that’s swallowed up by the wind. You imagine the sun slicing through the Catalan sky, the kind of relentless brightness that makes the whole city shimmer.

“Hey,” you reply, smoothing nonexistent creases from your blazer out of habit, though no one is watching. Your reflection in the polished glass of the display case looks composed, disinterested, but the sound of her voice pulls something taut inside you. “How’s training?”

“Same as always,” she says, and there’s a pause—just long enough for you to hear her exhale softly, almost imperceptibly. You know she’s stepped aside, moved to some quieter corner of the training complex where no one will overhear. She’s careful like that, never careless, always aware of her surroundings.

“Still exhausting?” you ask, and she laughs under her breath—a low, warm sound that lingers longer than it should.

“Mhm,” she hums, the sound of it makes you smile despite yourself. “But it’s a good kind of exhausting. You know how it is”

“Not sure I do,” you tease, leaning against the edge of the display case, its surface cool against your hand. “I can’t say I’ve run laps around a pitch lately. Unless you count running several businesses as exercise”

“Of course,” she says, dry but affectionate, “such an athlete. Truly inspiring”

The corner of your mouth twitches upward. “I aim to impress”

There’s a faint rustle of movement on her end—maybe she’s leaning against a wall, maybe adjusting the strap of her training bib. You picture her in that effortless way she carries herself: shorts sitting just right, socks perfectly rolled down, hair tied back in that half-loose, half-styled way that only someone like her can pull off.

“Where are you?” she asks, not because she doesn’t know, but because it’s the kind of question you ask when you want the conversation to last a little longer.

“Near Rue de la Paix,” you say, keeping it vague. “Finishing up a meeting”

“You’re always finishing up a meeting,” she says, and there’s a lightness to her tone, but it doesn’t quite hide the subtext.

“You’re always training,” you counter, matching her tone, and you hear her chuckle, soft but genuine.

“Buen punto”

There’s a brief pause. In the background, someone calls her name, a voice you don’t recognise, and she responds with a quick, sharp “Un momento.” The way she switches languages so fluidly—it’s seamless—and yet it reminds you, in a small but certain way, that her world is different from yours. Barcelona, with its golden afternoons and relentless sun, its terracotta rooftops and restless streets, feels a thousand miles away from the polished stillness of this Parisian jewellers.

“You should,” you encouraged knowing full well she’ll make no move to end the call herself.

“I’ll see you tonight?” she asks, and it’s a question, but not really.

“Of course,” you say, without hesitation this time.

There’s another silence after that, but it’s not uncomfortable. It’s the kind of silence you could live in, one where nothing needs to be said because the words are already understood. Finally, she says, “Te quiero,” and you hear the faint click as she ends the call.

Aurélie returns with the ring, now nestled in a velvet box so pristine it looks almost untouched by human hands. You slip it into your pocket, the weight of it grounding you, and leave the salon with a nod of thanks.

Outside, Paris feels sharper, brighter. The air smells faintly of rain and burnt sugar from a nearby crepe stand, and the light is just beginning to soften as dusk approaches. For the first time all day, you feel steady.

[withoutyouimsaskia]

Sometimes It's Fated (Sandman Short Story Part 6)

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 7 | Part 8

GIF: Originally posted by @harleytudinous

Pairing: Morpheus/Dream of the Endless x AFAB reader

Summary: Reader Self-Insert. After restoring the Dreaming and locating the missing dreams and nightmares, Morpheus turns his attention to finding you, the human he believes fate has chosen for him. (Title inspired by Placebo's "This Picture".)

Warnings: Minors DNI. Dark!Morpheus. Soulmates. Angst. Obsessive and possessive behaviour. Nudity. Language. Mentions of sex.

Word Count: 2.8k

A/N: Hello there! We're back in Morpheus' POV for this chapter. I've really enjoyed exploring the softer side of Morpheus with the aftercare but still keeping those foreboding undertones. Hope you like it too. Let me know what you think! All my love, Saskia xx

Sandman Masterlist

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Morpheus can see he has pushed your body to breaking point.

The only movements you are able to make are those that are involuntary. The intake of breath, sharp and shallow. The blink of eyelids, slow and drowsy. And the aftershocks feathering along the walls that still hug his softening cock.

The rapture of his own high vibrates in every cell, the humanoid form he takes being the epicentre, with waves of it expanding out across the expanse of the Dreaming, bathing it all in euphoria. He smiles faintly - anyone asleep during your union would have been privy to it in some aspect. Flashes of noises and sensations perhaps, or images of you entangled with him.

With a tender gaze, he looks at your exhausted form. He takes time to notice the details that others might have overlooked. The gradient of the dip of your navel. The vellus hair gracing your skin. The delicate lines on your face brought on by years of smiles. Every inch of you is perfection, the starshine streaming down enhancing your already incandescent air. Soulmate or not, you are the most remarkable person he has met.

There is no denying that you are to be his muse. Now that he has introduced you to his world he can resume work on creating new dreams, and your temperament and features are inspiring him already. His dreamers will be spoiled once the concepts are given life and sent forth into the Dreaming.

He is pulled away from observing your body by the sudden overflowing of silent tears. In the glow of the room, as they track down your cheeks, their lustre is like pearls washed up on a lonely seashore.

He's searching your expression for an indication to the source before they get close to wetting the sheets, cupping your face instinctually as feverous fear infects him. Is pain afflicting you?

His initial assessment gleans that they are falling despite there being no tangible signs of pain or sorrow, anger nor disgust. Further investigation is required.

He drops his register to the mellowest he can manage, whispering your name first, next asking, "Are you alright?"

You dip your chin in a solitary nod. A truthful nod.

You then take a deep breath, voice hoarse as you speak, "I just -"

Words fail you and you look down at your chest in lieu of finding the desired descriptors, hoping that he would catch on.

Your soul.

You make a little high-pitched sound in the back of your throat as he places a palm over its housing. Still very sensitive. With good reason.

Those last layers of defences that had been protecting you from the intensity of the soul bond had been steadfast in their resistance. Of course, they were never going to prevail over him, being the Endless that he is, yet the challenge could not be denied.

And now the conquest was over. He had you exactly where he wanted; physical form in the Dreaming, the Fates' prophecy fulfilled, soul tie complete.

He zeros in on your soul, using his aptitude for the metaphysical to see it in its actual form. The ball of light, two centimetres in diameter, that not too long ago was shattered, now criss-crossed with threads of rich blue, reminiscent of Kintsugi pottery. A mark of the small amount of his power - power that he'd quite literally fucked into you, that was slowly spreading out from your soul through your body, altering as it went. Only time would tell as to what enhancements it would bring if any.

His own soul was cleaved open at the end too, now infused with your essence; twines of seafoam green that he can feel rebalancing the constitution left so weary and depleted by his imprisonment.

It also appears that your mortality has been removed in the process; you are as eternal as he is now. He's against broaching this with you presently, feeling it would be misguided to do so. At this point in time you deserve the most diligent and gentle aftercare. It was your first time; you had trusted him with your wellbeing and that meant the moments after as well.

He will make his touches and movements so very delicate from here, continuing to keep his focus on your facial expressions and body language as much as possible.

Beginning with how he rises out of the position he had held over your body, giving him the ability to ease your crossed ankles out of the firm grip around his waist. Reluctantly, he withdraws himself from the warmth of your core, more trembles breaking free from the fluidity of the movement.

It makes you whimper loudly, the unintended stimulation and the way he guides your legs down to the mattress, as the recognition of how locked up your thigh and calf muscles are bark in your nerve endings.

"Would you allow me to clean you?" He asks, gesturing to the fluids that are now leaking from your cunt.

You seem surprised yet you agree nonetheless.

He conjures a bowl of water and a linen cloth, setting the former to the side of your right hip. The display has you propping yourself up on your forearms, fascinated by the shaping of form that comes so naturally to him. He moistens the fabric, pitter patters emanating erratically as he squeezes out the excess.

"I will stop if it is too much." A promise made while holding eye contact before beginning a gentle yet meticulous cleanse, re-dunking the cloth when needed.

Aside from a couple of flinches early on when he brushes over your clit, you cope with the touches very well, and Morpheus shows he acknowledges this in the murmured praises he looses with the completion of each swipe.

A stumble in your breathing has him stopping immediately though, drawing his attention to your startled face, eyes wide as you take in the pinkish tinge of colour in the water.

"Shit. I'm so sorry. I can finish taking care of it," your voice is warbled as you try and fail to close your trembling legs.

He puts a steady hand on your knee. "You have no reason to apologise."

A little dimple forms between your eyebrows, lips pulled thin by a grimace; evidently you are unconvinced.

"I want to take care of your needs. Please let me," he says with gentle candidness.

You blow out an unsteady breath as you struggle to look at him, attention darting all around the room, actively choosing to go anywhere but towards him.

These hallmarks of humiliation, vulnerability, they unreservedly rile him. Who had made you feel like this was unacceptable? No doubt your world's societal norms. Though Morpheus has seen improvements in them in recent years, there are lingering, foolish ideals on what was decorous when it came to the human body.

He relays his thoughts on the matter, "It is a natural occurrence, as natural as any other bleeding from broken skin. There is nothing to be ashamed of, Y/N."

He lets the reassurance settle in as he rubs his free hand up and down the outside of your left thigh.

"You know I speak the truth," he adds when you still remain silent.

Eventually you let your head slump back. "You're right."

His chest swells with pride at his successful reframing. "May I continue?"

You make a noise of affirmation.

Once he is done, the bowl and cloth de-materialise along with the patches of fluid that had been glistening on the sheets.

He leaves the space between your splayed legs, pausing as he kneels next you. You look like a ragdoll that has been dropped from a great height, limbs askew and head limp. He wishes to scoop you into his arms and re-arrange you, cocooning your beautiful body in the most luxurious fabrics his mind can create. So he does just that.

With a hand flat between your shoulder blades and another under your knees, he moves you to lay further up the bed, fashioning a sumptuous silk sheet to settle over you, a twin of the one tucked over the mattress. A knitted cashmere throw weighs down the sheet to seal in warmth. The last step is a plump pillow; he cradles your head carefully as he positions it.

"Thank you," you say shyly as he puts his head on an identical pillow, laying on his side so he can watch you.

"You are most welcome, my soulmate."

A beat. "Is there something I can do for you, Morpheus?"

He feels a thrill go through him, lust rising once more. Hearing his name on your lips is everything. Undoubtedly it always will be. He's instantly grappling with the urge to fuck you again and it is by sheer force of will he just manages to leash his lust.

"All I require is proximity to you," his words sounding much more gallant than he feels.

With visible effort, you roll onto your side, intent on providing him with delightful closeness despite the aches. Face to face, he decides now is time for a debrief.

"Is there anything you wish to discuss about the acts we performed together?"

You fiddle with your fingers, tentatively asking, "Did I do okay?"

The question is so endearing, it makes his chest tighten.

"Yes. You were, are perfection."

He catches the bashful glance your throw towards him and he draws even closer.

You had done so very well, taking everything in your stride since he found you in the waking world. Gone through a myriad of emotions, dealt with intense, sometimes painful physical reactions. And the sex... Well.

He runs a hand from your temple to jaw a few times to distract from the ever-mounting desires, thankfully taking the edge off with the affections.

"It is true. You are so trusting, communicative, generous. Receptive."

You huff out a noise of amusement. "How do you know that I wouldn't respond like that to everyone?"

Possessive jealousy drives a dagger into his heart, stiffening every part of his being, hackles rising as the sickening idea of anyone else touching you takes form in his expert imagination. Your question had been teasing - obvious from the impish quality in your eyes yet he cannot stop the rage that flares at the idea.

He extinguishes his temper, pushing it into the usual spot deep within, speaking with a level and authoritative cadence.

"You were not meant to be touched by anyone but me."

He holds your gaze resolutely, fascinated by how your pupils dilate from the covetous statement, fingers digging into the softness of your behind to add further weight to his claim.

"You derive pleasure from hearing me say that."

"Yes," you confirm, a telling half-smile appearing. "Though it would appear I am not the only one."

You nudge against the growing erection hidden by the sheets with your knuckles. The simple touch is a catalyst, his restraint almost breaking, eyes shifting to match the backdrop of the night sky above you both.

"Not right now," you assert.

His answering glare makes you raise your eyebrows. But you do not back down.

"Very well. I will keep myself contained. For the time being."

You press a sweet, quick kiss to his cheek. "I appreciate you enduring such hardship."

You laugh a little at the end of the teasing sentence. It is an effervescent sound, one that makes him feel so alive. When was the last time he truly felt like that?

He would do anything to keep you laughing like that, make you happy.

Inspired by that sentiment, he drapes an arm over your body and pulls you closer. You sigh in contentment, smiling warmly at him.

A crescent moon rises to accompany the stars in the ceiling sky. The slip of light it reflects is as peace-giving as your skin against his. Quiet descends.

Finally - after the frenzied events of the past couple of hours, the delirium that had ensnared the both of you in body and mind, spurring him to reveal the truth to you and initiate the binding of your souls - finally everything stills.

And in this stillness, after a considerable number of minutes, Morpheus begins to register the results of the soul bond between you; a direct line broadcasting your every emotion to him even though you are awake.

They are not particularly stable right now, kaleidoscopic in how quickly they evolve from one to the next. He is accustomed to knowing humanity's emotions, exposed to every facet of them for millennia yet this is different. With the dreamers there is a certain level of detachment. Being his soulmate, the impartiality is gone.

He is peering around the curtain.

And the emotions you are feeling are about him, directly influenced by him.

Exhilaration, fondness, trepidation, pensiveness.

His eyelids flutter at the intimacy, mouth dropping open with a shaky sigh.

"What is it?" You ask immediately as worry enters the mix. How adorable that your reflex was concern for him.

"Our soul bond is strengthening. I can feel your emotions."

You blink, stimulated by the notion first, then disappointed. "I can't feel anything coming from you."

"Give it time," he reassures.

"How much time?"

A little smile quirks his lips from your charming impatience.

"A few hours. Perhaps more."

Curiosity dances in your eyes as well as your mind; you study him closely, teeth nibbling on your bottom lip. "What's it like?"

"It is quite diverting."

In fact, it is the sort of thing that has potential to consume his every thought. He will have to be cautious of how much time he is dialled into the bond. As long as he makes the rules now then he will be okay. No over-use. No over-reliance.

A brush of fingers across the back of his hand, the inside of his wrist. "Tell me what you're feeling, Morpheus," you whisper.

He pulls himself from the compelling information flowing from you and takes a reading of his own internal state.

It's tempting to lay it all on the table. To tell you of the powerful emotional reactions happening. But he won't. The emotions must be compressed into something more regulated. He chooses the words carefully:

"I am wholly contented."

Joy and relief swirl from you and you kiss him. The softness of your lips help soothe the fierce feelings and when you part, Morpheus is fully reigned in.

He notes that your eyes are drifting now, glassy with oncoming sleep.

He rubs a thumb across your cheekbone.

"It is okay if you want to fall asleep," he murmurs. "My only request is that you permit me to hold you, so I may monitor how things progress."

There is much acclimation to be made. The scalding heat that had been rampant under his own skin has only just dropped to a simmer, let alone all the things to come. He must not leave your side until your body has adjusted to the energy within you.

"I wouldn't say no to sleep," you say with a lethargic smile.

He eases you into a nearer proximity. An arm slung across your middle. Legs tangling together. You nuzzle against the skin of his neck, inhaling deeply as if his scent could knock you right out.

"Good night, soulmate."

He kisses the top of your head, replying with the same.

You place a palm over his soul. "Thank you, Morpheus. For answering all my questions and being so patient with me."

"It is the least I can do, Y/N."

Morpheus keeps still as you sink into subconsciousness. Not a hard feat for him; he mastered that art long ago. Crossing the threshold into sleep is smooth for you, exhaustion efficiently picking the lock.

As soon as you are fully under he peers at you, cheeks already rosy from the warmth of the sheets and his body, lips parted. You appear serene on the surface - he decides to lean into that link one last time for tonight.

Yes. There it is. Evidence that you feel safe and happy. He has done his job well. Now to maintain this level of performance. For your sake as well as his own.

Your presence is the first rain after a drought. A lighthouse on a treacherous stormy night. You are an antidote to a poison that he hadn't realised he was choking on. You are healing him, just as he knew you would.

And there are measures that must be taken to keep it that way.

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Tag list: @herfantasyworldd @kpopgirlbtssvt @littleblackcatinwonderland @1950schick @lollipopsandlandmines

"Controlling my feelings for too long. Forcing our darkest souls to unfold. Pushing us into self destruction. They make me, make me dream your dreams."

[red-dia]

Twitter user @/inspirashamul dug up an old Ichikawa interview from 2015. I don't think there's anything earthshattering, but it's still pretty cool (and I think it's the only time she's directly acknowledged the 7 treasures ? unless i'm mistaken)

Transcription under the cut :

"Throughout history gems have decorated every aspect of our lives - and afterlives as well. Buddhist sutras describe the Land of Bliss as a realm of dazzling splendour covered in precious gems and metals.

Furthermore, in Shariputra, the world know as the Land of Bliss, there are lotus ponds, all made of seven precious substances, namely, gold. silver, emerald, rockcrystal, red pearl, sapphire, and mother of pearl as the seventh. [...] The bottom of each pond is covered with golden sand. [...] These stairways are colourful, elegant, and made of four precious substances, namely, gold, silver, emerald, and rock crystal. "

Japanese manga author Haruko Ichikawa was inspired by this description to transform the gems into characters in her series, Houseki no Kuni (The Kingdom of Gems). In the distant future, Gem Warriors battle with the Moon People who mount raids from above to kidnap the living gems to use as for decorations.

Gem warriors look human but shatter upon impact. Their broken surfaces reflect light with a brilliant lustre. The moment of destruction is shockingly beautiful, yet they never truly die and can regain human form if their shards are put back together.

In the course of the story, we learn that the rival Gem Warriors and Moon People share the same origin-they were both once human. Bone became gemstone and the soul became the Moon People. The setup makes The Kingdom of Gems a story of humanity told through gems. Current Obsession conducted an e-mail interview with Haruko Ichikawa to find out what's behind the story and what she wants to say with her gem-laden allegory,

Background and Aesthetic

Many Japanese manga artists did not start as manga artists. Haruko Ichikawa is no exception. She was an editorial designer before she broke into manga.

'I enjoyed drawing when I was a little girl and that's why choose a high school that had an art course. Then, my interest moved from art to design, and in university, I majored in visual image design. After graduation, I worked as an editorial designer at a design company. I think the experience taught me how to design panels, how to make panels flow and how to balance black and white-basically, effective layouts that smoothly lead the eye of the reader. I'm also able to design my own books thanks to the techniques that I developed as an editorial designer.'

Usually design studios handle book design, but Ichikawa does it herself. Her brightly coloured covers glitter with lamé to suggest the world of gems waiting inside, while her minimalist two-dimensional style makes each panel stand as a pleasing piece of graphic design. The brilliance of the Gems stands out among the strong contrast of black and white pages. They look most beautiful when they shatter. The human-like appearance of the Gems makes this moment shocking, but also bewitching.

'I'm most attracted to the beauty within the horrific. Imagine the thrill of peeking at the secret hidden under a veil - an unexpected shock, or a macabre scene you can't turn away from. That's what I hope to recreate on the page.'

Her aesthetic is evident in the unique design of the characters. If the Gems are beautiful, then the bizarre Moon People are simply otherworldly. How did Ichikawa create these characters?

Character Design

There are two main groups of characters. While the colour and brilliance of gems are expressed as a Gem fighter's hair, Moon People are covered with ornate Buddhist decorations, such as multiple layers of delicate, heavenly garments and jewellery.

'When I design Gem Warriors, I try to get a specimen of the stone and base the design on its physical properties such as colour, hardness, strength, crystal shape and scarcity. On the other hand, I try to show Moon People as soft eerie beings with a hint of grace in order to make them look bizarre.'

Nearly every real world property is reflected in a Gem warrior's personality. Phosphophyllite (Phos), the main character with the "beautiful colour of shallow water on a western beach', lacks hardness and breaks as easily as actual phosphophyllite. Twin crystal amethyst is literally transformed into captivating twins, while the red-haired Cinnabar is knowledgeable, though cast as a lone wolf because her body is filled with a toxin. Real life cinnabar is known as the philosopher's stone and contains mercury. Alexandrite is usually a green-haired Moon People researcher, but she turns into a violent redhead in front actual Moon People, Her personality is in line with real alexandrite that changes colour depending on the type of light it reflects.

These properties come out as comical conversations between gems. For example, Morganite references the Mohs hardness scale when Phos grabs her. 'Hey! That was close! If you touch us directly, you're the one who's gonna shatter, three-and-a-half! Phos responds 'I am well aware, my dear seven.'

When speaking with Ichikawa it becomes apparent that her rich knowledge of stones and scientific viewpoint comes from her passion as a collector.

'My biggest pleasure is the surprise of discovery. Recently I'm most interested in how good intentions can lead to misfortune. This phenomenon happens quite often in science, which is why I like the field. I have around 300 stones in my collection. I've beest interested in stones since I was a little girl, so I've forgotten how I started to collect them: I' attracted to their simple chemical formula, near infiniteness, uniqueness, as well as the wonderful colour, texture and shape. I think every stone has its own appeal, be it a pebble on the beach or the most beautiful gem.'

Her choice of gems in the manga backs up the statement.

The Gem Warriors include valuable precious stones, such as diamond, as well as semi precious stones that are usually acknowledged as inforiors to gems. In her story, Gems vary in terms of fighting ability but are essentially treated as equals.

Inspiration

In The Kingdom of Gems, gems walk, talk and feel emotions just like us. How did Ichikawa come up with a unique idea of turning a gem into a human-shaped character?

'I had the idea that maybe minerals lived on a different time axis as ours - we just didn't realize it.'

And how did a passage from a Buddhist sutra, "the land of the Perfect Bliss is made of gems', contribute to the story?

'In the sutra gems are an accessible way to describe the beauty and majesty of the Land of Bliss. They are native to the Land of Bliss, not stolen from elsewhere. When I first read the sutra it occurred to me that Buddhism didn't consider these ornamental gems as eligible for salvation. It's not that the sutra made me feel disappointed in Buddhism or want to liberate gems myself. The sutra provides a simple message for the masses by comparing objects of unparalleled beauty to gems. It made me realize that there's a limit to our shared imagination. There's a line somewhere. So where does that put inorganic compounds? They can't speak for themselves. It's pretty convenient to ignore this and assume them to be subservient. It's hard to put my feelings into words, but I felt a very human danger - and attraction - in the vivid examples that assigned gems value and the matter-of-fact manner that passes over these same objects for salvation.

People emphasize with objects that appear human. So I followed this lite of thought - how would we react to a being that was totally unlike a human except in its appearance? Would we want to help them, or feel guilt for persecuting them? What would cause us to feel compassion? This is my experiment find out. It boils down to having empathy for others, be they organic or otherwise.

I'm also interested in what part of our nature is human, and what is animal - both the good and bad. Just as we struggle with the unknowable animal nature within us, life forms in the future will struggle with the untamed nature leftover from humans. At least, that's my hypothesis for what I write.'

This kind of humanity is strongly depicted in the conversation between Phos and Ventricosus, the ruler of the sea.

Ventricosus understands that the Moon People mean to reclaim their flesh and bones to return to their human form, but since they divided from humans so long ago there is no way back. Knowing that the character is not human makes the following dialogue all the more impressive.

'The Moon People, despite lacking natural enemies, love war and are never satisfied. I get the feeling that this undirected anxiety is leftover from when they were human.'

Unique Use of Ornamentation

All sorts of decorations will catch your eye as you read through the pages. For instance, the Moon People are defined by their lavish outfits. From their opulent fabrics to elegans curved ornamentation it's hard to imagine they are capable of such aggression.

The highly decorative quality of the Moon People and the way they steal gems to decorate their homeland makes ornamentation an allegory for earthly desires. However, Ichikawa's statement from the previous wection reveals her unique attitude to wards ornamentation. She uses gems, a typical decoration, to show how the reader feels toward the materials we use for decotation. Yet she has a positive view of the subject. For example, the Gem Warriors fashion reveals clothing lined with flower patterns and special costumes worn during hibernation. Ichikawa obviously enjoys drawing these scenes. Her pages overflow with fun.

'I appreciate sophisticated adornment, Bizarre, extravagant adornment is also atractive. I'm rather interested in the reason behind such decoration. People must have reasons to (or not to) decorate For example, some people decorate them selves to feel confident or be popular, while others don't because they have different priorities.

It's interesting to see what people place importance on.

As for the Gem Warrior outfits, materials are scarce in their world so I try to make the most of simplicity. I also wanted to show how the Gems take pleasure from fashion.

People will decorate. Some for personal reasons, and some out of a desire to get close to something greater than themselves. It is a very human behaviour we should love and be proud of.

I like decorations, I like jewellery. Even more so I like people who decorate themselves and our nature that drives us to. I'm sure many readers understand this sentiment.

However, like all human practices, the act and desire to decorate hides our vulnerabilities.'

Haruko Ichikawa points this out through characters that are living decorations themselves. She does not view this negatively. For in her world, everything is beautiful, even our weaknesses.

[sashaforthewin]

hi!! i love pearls they r my birthstone, would you mind explaining your job a little more? It sounds rly interesting!!

Congrats, your birthstone is the only one made by a creature instead of the earth!

I work for a specialist company. It's like a regular boring office job except that I'm staring at pearls under a bright light instead of doing whatever it is other people do in offices. I match size, shape, color, and lustre, put them into size order, and knot or restring. Most of the work I do is for other jewelers because the wide range of pearls makes doing pearl necklaces in-house very expensive. You gotta have a lot of pearls to be able to match a lot of pearls, it's cheaper to have a specialist do it.

The way pearl necklaces differ from other gemstones and such is that traditionally you build them over time. High quality pearls are very expensive, so you start with one or a few string onto a chain. Then you add new ones, typically at milestone events like birthday or good grades or whatever, and you get it restrung with the new pearls added and have the length of the chain shortened. So gradually over time your necklace stays the same length (or gets longer if that's your thing) and it gains more pearls and less chain until complete. We use silk thread which does need to be restrung every once in a while, probably at least once every ten years if you wear it often, so adding pearls also takes care of the restringing.

It makes a very expensive necklace more affordable by building it over time and the finished product is elegant and can be passed down. But this is also completely customizable, you can do different sizes of pearls together, lengths, you can stick to one or just a few pearls. There's really no rules and you can make it what you want it. It's actually pretty freaking cool how creative some people get. I like when they have a complex idea that can only be explained by a lil hand drawn diagram.

If you have pearls from family, heads up there are very old and very convincing fake pearls out there, people have been making fake pearls for hundreds of years. If you're not sure you can get them checked by an appraisal. Other tells are to look along the hole, typically the film wrapped glass beads peel around the holes. Real pearls are a bit translucent in bright light and they're a bit sandy inside, not hollow or plastic-y. Natural pearls tend to be smaller and more valuable, cultured tend to be bigger and rounder, and freshwater tend to be lumpy. Worth getting someone to take a look if you have some you think might be real. Pearls are natural so don't ever put them in anything acidic, you can dissolve them.

[mr-silkpyjamas]

Derek Rose Brindisi 40 Men’s Silk Pyjamas

I am pretty sure everyone who has the slightest interest in silk or satin pyjamas has seen this picture:

The infamous Brindisi 40, which haunts our pinterest boards with its striking boldness and lustrous beauty still to this day, and taunting us with its unattainability. Ever since the first time I laid eyes on them I had longed them, even though the style was out of print when I first discovered of its its existence. I went as far as to contact the Derek Rose customer service who told me they no longer had this style in their warehouse, and the two remaining retailers that had them in stock did not have my size. I thought I had lost all hope was lost until I randomly stumbled across a pair, in my size, on American ebay. So yeah, this pair is definitely special to me, like finally getting with my crush through my sheer determination.

But enough about my aggressive obsession with the Brindisi 40, you’d get plenty of that later.

The UK market for men’s satin or silk pyjamas, I daresay, is shit. You get a limited scope on offer, whether it be mass produced crap from Amazon (which I still sometimes buy, simply out of curiosity for the hope that I strike gold on some high quality cheap pairs) or luxury high-end designer brands with flashy designs and an even flashier price tag. And one of the oldest and most reputable companies in this high end market is Derek Rose. 

I have actually wanted a pair of pyjamas from Derek Rose ever since I was a kid. I always thought of getting a pair as some end game for my quest for finding the perfect set of pyjamas, even though I now realised my thirst of more is excessive as I have boxes filled with sets of pyjamas that I will never again wear. So naturally I chose a pair which I will never ever get bored of, and I pray to god that I don’t.

Review

Look

I guess I should start with the look. The satin finish was very nice, and although I do not believe my home’s lighting does my pictures much justice, the opulence of the design is apparent. The lustre is not overbearing, but is rather unpretentious but still sharp even in the brightest lighting. If I was caught by house guests wearing these I will not be embarrassed.

The mother of pearl buttons are present as they are for every set in the Brindisi collection and they accessorise the shirt rather well, each giving their own lustrous qualities to the shirt and providing an ironic sense of formality to it. I know its kind of trending for some guys to wear pyjama shirts with an informal two piece suit nowadays but hell if I knew anything about fashion outside of the bedroom! I didn’t actually know this set came with a top button when I bought it, so I was pleasantly surprised. Aesthetically, top buttons of pyjamas are a bit too cumbersome for me but it does not hinder the set at all, but rather gives more options for those who enjoy a more traditional feel to their nightwear. 

Usually it is the norm for pyjamas in the Brindisi collection to feature a self seeking magnetic fly but the Brindisi 40 is one of the older products in the collection and so it has a simple button-up fly. No biggie. I did also notice some design changes since for the more current Brindisi men’s collection where they no longer opted for 3 pockets but maintained the classic breast pocket (as seen in the Brindisi 88), of which I honestly prefer the latter.

There isn’t really much else to say for the look that I have not said to be honest. Personally the bold stripes and satin finish were what drew me to this set and I really don’t think newer striped pyjamas in the collection really gives off the same regal air that the Brindisi 40 possesses. I feel like it really combined all the things people loved about Derek Rose’s classic striped pyjamas with the contemporary style through the fit, as well as the luxury of silk that made this pair the one I wanted as my first from this esteemed company. I am definitely fanboy-ing a bit too hard here!

Feel

I’ve actually been fortunate to have the privilege of owning several pairs of silk pyjamas but this is the first time I have owned and worn mulberry silk. The quality between this pair and the pair I recieved from LilySilk was night and day. But of course, it has to be expected as they have drastically different price tags. The Brindisi 40′s silk is far less coarse against my skin than the silk from the 22 momme pair I got from LilySilk. I might have to revisit this post but I have actually ordered another pair of Mulberry silk pyjamas from a relatively new company and maybe I can give a more fair judgement of the difference in quality of Derek Rose’s pyjamas to their competitors that way. Also I cannot really judge the whole catalogue of LilySilk’s pyjamas through just this one experience so maybe I might invest in another pair in the future!

Despite not being very thick at all they are surprisingly warm. My biggest gripe with them is that, like all silk, they tend to crease quite easily and it really pains me to actually sleep in these as I will ruin their pristine look, but they are just so god damn comfy that I cannot help myself. I may have to learn how to iron silk properly just to save myself the trouble of dry-cleaning.

Overall I do think this pair has lived up to my expectations, which is pretty rare considering I have not actually been that impressed by silk pyjamas thus far. I don’t think I will get another pair from the Brindisi collection for the sake of my finances but maybe another set will encapsulate my mind like this set has one day. It has been such a long time since I have posted on here so this entry may have seemed rather long-winded and rant-y but I really hope it gets me back into the swing of sharing my passion of pyjamas with others and giving others a better informed decision when making a purchase on men’s nightwear. Do keep in mind I am a very picky person so if you are happy with the Tony & Candice pair you got from Amazon then power to you! I think I’ll leave the pictures for my Instagram.

[dreadfutures]

oh there are lab grown pearls but i thought it meant the pearls are grown without a mollusk :^(

There are pearls you can get without an animal involved, fortunately! And some are still good quality! But they're still not lab grown, and I'm being pedantic because the reason we can't make fully synthetic pearls is pretty cool actually!

Fake pearls are not *grown* at all, and not made in labs the way some gemstones are. As a shorthand, some companies call them lab grown, but they are always "manufactured pearls" or "imitation pearls." They're mass produced in factories out of other materials.

Lab grown gemstones are really really cool, but this isn't that process, and no lab is involved. In theory, you could take the materials a pearl is made out of and coax it into growing...something. But that mineral would end up being crystalline (trying to grow it slowly into its natural form) or flat (trying to grow it in deposited layers).

The cool thing about pearls is that they get their shape, lustre, and physical properties from the way the calcium carbonate is layered up in a sphere from around the initial nucleation site! Even their unique colors have to do with the microstructures and what's incorporated into the material as it grows. It's so far completely impossible to make them synthetically. You *have* to use a natural material (mollusk shell) or fake it (glass, plastic).

SEM images at different angles of observation on a cultured pearl curved surface region showing aragonite mesolayers and polygonal tile edges. Magnification markers are 4 and 2 microns, respectively. Murr, L.E., Ramirez, D.A. The Microstructure of the Cultured Freshwater Pearl. JOM 64, 469–474 (2012).

We haven't spent as much time trying to come up with a way to lab-grow (genuinely grow) pearls. They don't have as many uses as, say, sapphire (which we lab grow a lot, perfectly!). BUT.

A LOT of research has been done on another cool thing about bivalves...

Muscle foot glue! There are a ton of applications and inspiration we can use muscle foot protein for, like using this glue instead of stitches or rods for shoulder surgeries, or for underwater adhesive applications for structures, boats, pipes, etc.

Bivalves have a lot of their coastal territories in danger because of climate change and development. They clean water and actively sequester carbon and they're super super high in protein so they are all around super cool creatures that don't get enough love!

[rheaitis]

[excerpt from] "The Song to Rain Clouds" by Kōtai-Āṇṭāḷ

8.1

Clouds spread like blue cloth across the vast sky Has Tirumal my beautiful lord of Venkatam, where cool streams leap come with you? Tears gather and spill between my breasts like waterfalls. He has destroyed my womanhood. How does this bring him pride?

8.2

Clouds that spill lovely pearls what message has the dark-hued lord of Venkatam sent through you? The fire of desire has invaded my body I suffer. I lie awake here in the thick of night, a helpless target for the cool southern breeze.

8.3

So easily they left me my lustre, my bangles, thought, sleep I am destroyed. Compassionate clouds I sing of Govinda’s virtues lord of Venkatam, where cool waterfalls leap. How long can this alone guard my life?

8.4

Clouds bright with lightning tell the lord of Venkatam upon whose lovely chest Sri resides that my supple young breasts yearn everyday for his resplendent body.

8.5

Great clouds rising into the sky climb high, rain hard on Venkatam scatter flowers brimming with honey. Ask the one who tore the body of Hiranya with his long nails flecked with blood to return the conch bangles he took from me.

8.6

Cool clouds heavy with water rise high and pour down on Venkatam, home of the one who took the world from Mahabali. Tell that Narana he entered me, consumed me, stole my well-being like a worm that feasts on a wood-apple Tell him of my terrible disease.

8.7

Cool clouds place the plea of this servant at the feet of the one with beautiful lotus eyes him who churned the ocean filled with conch. Beseech him to enter me for a single day to wipe away the vermilion smeared upon my breasts only then can I survive.

8.8

Dark clouds ready for the season of rains chant the name of the lord of Venkatam who is valiant in battle. Tell him, like the lovely leaves that fall in the season of rains I waste away through the long endless years waiting for the day when he finally sends word.

8.9

Rain clouds rising like great war-elephants over Venkatam what word has that one who sleeps upon the serpent sent for me? The world will say: ‘heedless that he was her only refuge he killed this young girl.’ What honour is there in this?

8.10

Kotai of the king of Puduvai, the peerless city, desired the one reclining upon the serpent and sent the clouds as her messengers to the king of Venkatam Those who place in their hearts these verses of Tamil sung by her of luminous forehead those who sing these words of Tamil will be with him forever.

[Venkatesan, The Secret Garland: Andal’s Tiruppavai and Nacciyar Tirumoli. New Delhi: Harper Collins, 2016]

[kubervaultsau]

Safe Jewellery Storage: Secure Your Treasures

Introduction

Jewellery has captured the human mind for thousands of years. It is a symbol of beauty and grace, but it is also often the harbinger of memories and milestones and a line connected to past relationships. Yet the responsibility for the safety of these treasures is quite daunting. Be it a small collection or a vault of heirlooms, the need to keep them safe and long-lasting demands careful thought. This blog delves into the importance of Jewellery storage and how current storage facilities, such as Kuber Vaults, bring the best peace of mind.

Why Jewellery Storage Matters

Jewellery is something that serves both as a fashion and an investment. The monetary value that precious metals, such as gold or platinum, and gemstones, such as diamonds or rubies, carry is pretty high. Besides the monetary value of Jewellery, family traditions, anniversaries, weddings, and many more events give high emotional value to the ornaments. For reasons of both physical and emotional importance, proper protection of Jewellery is critical.

Poor storage can lead to scratching tarnishing and even breakage. If some careless storage in full boxes or improper environments is done with Jewellery, then its shine and lustre are lost over time. Moreover, homeowners holding unsecured valuables risk theft or misplacement. Protective Jewellery storage is a convenient answer that maintains the form of your precious items while protecting them from any unforeseen accidents.

Knowing what is in your collection before selecting the proper storage also starts the process. Some things, like pearl necklaces, need to be stored in soft pouches to prevent scratching. Gold and silver will tarnish over time but can be protected with anti-tarnish treatments or controlled environments. Many of us choose home safes for storing our Jewellery collection, but these units usually don't offer the latest in the world of security features or environmental controls that would give ideal storage conditions.

Some of the latest storage facilities, for example, Kuber Vaults, have purpose-built solutions tailored to Jewellery storage combined with the latest security but with sensitive care of your ownership. Such facilities may provide services such as 24/7 monitoring, climate control, and private access to keep your precious items safer from environmental damage and potential theft.

Advanced Jewellery Storage Security

The problem that mostly concerns Jewellery is security. Home sales are very convenient but usually cannot compete with modern techniques of burglary. Specialized storage facilities are equipped with the latest technology that prevents illegal access.

For instance, Kuber Vaults uses highly advanced biometric systems such as fingerprint and retinal scans to only let authorized access in the storage units. There are high-definition surveillance cameras put strategically on the premises day and night with no blind spots at all. Multi-layered security protocols, such as steel-reinforced vaults and alarm systems, ensure comprehensive protection.

Once you have decided on professional Jewellery storage, you are assured that your valuables will be in safe hands even when you go on vacation or business trips.

Keeping Your Jewellery at Its Best

Your Jewellery is very susceptible to environmental factors that drastically alter the quality of the pieces. For instance, the rate of oxidation that the different metals undergo is enhanced by humidity while high temperature reduces a gemstone's framework. Proper storage helps mitigate such risks.

Kuber Vaults is a professional storage facility that deals with delicate valuables and is climate-controlled, with regulated humidity and temperature levels that would protect against corrosion, discolouration, and other forms of degradation. Care like this is specifically necessary for antique pieces because they require more delicate handling.

Secure Jewellery storage investments not only guarantee safety but also aesthetic and financial value to your collection for generations to come.

Peace of Mind for Jewellery Owners

The peace that a professional Jewellery storage service gives is such that one enjoys the fruits of the labourer. With knowledge and assurance that you have saved your valuables, you can forget other things and carry on with life without constant worry.

Most homeowners underestimate the stress of having high-priced items at home. Burglary, natural disasters, or even simple forgetfulness could result in tremendous losses. Professional storage facilities eliminate such worries by providing comprehensive insurance protection and disaster-resistant construction.

Moving ahead of the curve, Kuber Vaults offers customized storage solutions to every person's distinct needs. Whether you might hold a single-family heirloom or numerous pieces, their customized answers guarantee that your Jewellery gets the ultimate care and security.

Insurance in Jewellery Storage

Even though professionally run storage facilities are secure, comprehensive insurance actually gives your precious Jewellery an additional layer of protection. Jewellery insurance policies pay for losses resulting from theft, accident damages and even loss during transit.

Many professional storage companies join forces with the insurance industry to provide clients with a specific policy tailored to their requirements. At Kuber Vaults, the company works with clients to ensure that collections are covered at all times.

Safe jewellery storage combined with an appropriate insurance scheme will ensure total peace of mind. You can then enjoy your treasures without fear of any unforeseen mishaps.

Accessibility and Convenience

Accessibility is a vital consideration when deciding on the best Jewellery storage available. Even if your home safe may seem convenient, it lacks versatility and the other advanced features of professional storage facilities.

Modern facilities like the Kuber Vaults focus on the benefit of the customer. So, clients can view their valuables some extended hours; they also make provisions for emergency viewing in case it is needed. During retrieval, biometric authentication ensures your jewellery is not going anywhere. In addition, private viewing rooms ensure viewing or selecting the pieces discreetly.

Secure Jewellery storage is designed not only to be secure but to provide frictionless access, making it perfect for busy professionals and families.

Professional Storage Adds Longevity to Your Collection

Jewellery, especially antique or intricate pieces, needs special care to maintain its brilliance and structural integrity. While frequent cleaning and maintenance are important, proper storage is equally important in the longevity of your collection.

Professional storage facilities provide absolutely dust-free, moisture-free, and pure spaces. In addition to the above, the environment ensures that metals such as silver, which commonly oxidize and change colour, do not undergo this process. Therefore, when you place your valuables in the hands of professionals, they ensure that they remain in their prime condition for much longer.

Investment in high-quality Jewellery storage is an investment in handing down the beauty and value of your treasures to the next generations.

Why Kuber Vaults for Jewellery Storage?

Kuber Vaults can be seen as one of the leading companies providing safe Jewellery and other valuables storage services. Located in Australia, the facility is a top provider for incorporating high-tech security with personalized service to meet divergent needs across its clients.

Their commitment to client satisfaction is reflected in the variety of storage options that can cater to every requirement. From small lockers for a few individual items to larger units for extensive collections, Kuber Vaults caters to all requirements. Additionally, the facility provides consultation services to guide the client in choosing the most appropriate storage solution for his needs.

A reputation of excellence: Kuber Vaults stands as your trusted name in Jewellery storage, guaranteed to deliver unparalleled security, convenience, and peace of mind. Your collection of Jewellery represents something that goes beyond the monetary value that it has; it is a record of your personal history and priceless memories. 

Conclusion

What such valuables require is protection that is more than a safe place to stay; rather, it is something that combines security, preservation, and convenience. Professional storage houses, such as Kuber Vaults, really do provide an ideal solution to the challenges related to jewellery storage, ensuring that your valuables remain secure, pristine, and accessible. So, choose this kind of service for yourself and, thus, enjoy peace of mind while keeping your collection beautiful and significant over the years.

Be it the preservation of family heritage or the preparation to leave a testament, investment in secure Jewellery storage is one that will repose itself with payback in protection and peace of mind.

[manekratna]

Artificial Moti Jewellery

Artificial moti mala, or imitation pearl garlands, offer an affordable alternative to genuine pearls. These necklaces are crafted using high-quality synthetic pearls that closely resemble the natural ones. From single-strand delicate designs to elaborate multi-layered ones, moti necklaces cater to a wide range of tastes and occasions. The natural iridescence of pearls complements various necklines, making them a favorite choice for both formal and casual ensembles. We're obsessed with the new alphabet collection in particular, sold individually so that you can personalise your earrings and necklaces - beaded necklace online.

Moti, or pearl stone, is a naturally occurring gemstone produced within the soft tissue of a living mollusk, primarily oysters and mussels. Formed as a reaction to an irritant, layers of nacre are deposited, resulting in the creation of this lustrous, smooth gem. Moti is one of the unique gemstones which are formed naturally underwater rather than mined from the Earth’s core, hence the standards that affect its quality are a little different. Aspects like shape, lustre, size, colour, and treatment process affect the quality & price of the pearls. Surprisingly, the entire concept of selling or buying jewellery online was not we thought we could do - beaded necklaces choker.

In the world of gemstones, the original moti stands out as a symbol of timeless elegance. Whether you’re intrigued by the allure of moti rings or contemplating the purchase of a moti stone, this guide serves as your comprehensive resource. You can easily make and decorate this rangoli anywhere, and you can remove it at any time and keep it. Debuted on the brand's first ever runway, the essence collection takes inspiration from the natural world, combining organic silhouettes with precious metals and pearls. Often imbued with deep sentiment, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, rings and so on are true investment pieces that can be kept for generations due to their long-lasting materials and value. For more information, please visit our site https://www.manekratna.com/

[pearlsgirls]

Mother Of Pearl Baroque Pearl Gold Necklace Pendant,Chunky Mother of Pearl Necklace,Chunky Baroque Pearl Necklace,Pearldrop Chunky Necklace Mother Of Pearl Baroque Pearl Gold Necklace Pendant,Chunky Mother of Pearl Necklace,Chunky Baroque Pearl Necklace,Pearldrop Chunky Necklace DETAILS: ❤️HIGH LUSTRE BAROQUE FIREBALL PEARL : 2.5cm X 1.5cm 1.0 inchesX0.6 inches ❤️ CHUNKY CHAIN : 60cm 24 inches ABSOLUTELY HANDMADE! ❤️All of the jewellry is handcrafted by myself in my little PEARLS&GIRLS studio and not just bought and re-saled :) BEAUTIFULLY PACKAGED! ❤️All items will be sent in a beautiful sturdy box with Pearls&Girls logo:) COMES WITH THE GIFT ! ❤️ I always add a little jewellery gift to make you smile even more! The necklaces , earrings ir bracelets ..The treasure hunt is real! :) CARE ADVICE -All jewellry I am selling is top notch quality so it shouldn't tarnish however it is always a good idea to take some precautions! :) Here are some of my tips: - Avoid exposure to perfumes, lotions and other chemicals other than that your good to go and can swim and bath as s - Remove before bathing, swimming and exercising - Do not wear while sleeping - Store in a dry and cool place DISPATCH & DELIVERY TIMES All items are made to order. It usually takes 2-3 working days to prepare and ship an order. SHIPPING INFORMATION ALL ORDERS SHIP WORLDWIDE FOR FREE ! I am sending those by PRIORITY LETTER by Nationa Mail- from my studio based in CRACOW, POLAND The approximate arrival times are as follows: EUROPE -5 -7working days USA- approx. 7 working days REST OF THE WORLD - Usually arrives in 5-12 business days *Please, upgrade your delivery option if you need tracking for your parcel.* CONTACT Thank you so much for visiting! please feel free to drop me a message should you have any questions:) SOCIAL MEDIA For more jewelry and to join my newsletter you can find me on my website www.pearlsandgirls.com REFUNDS & EXCHANGES I am always happy to assist and try my best to make my clients smile! I am offering hassle free refunds in case of damaged items All the love , Agathe from PEARLS&GIRLS

[hyakqatar]

How to Evaluate the Quality of Pearls: A Guide for Buyers in Qatar

For centuries, pearls have been symbols of wealth, luxury, and timeless beauty. Whether natural or cultured, pearls are highly valued in Qatar, not just for their beauty but also for their cultural significance. However, determining the quality of a pearl can be tricky if you're unfamiliar with the industry. In this guide, we'll explore how buyers in Qatar can evaluate the quality of pearls to ensure they make informed and valuable purchases.

Understanding the Types of Pearls

Before delving into quality factors, it's essential to understand the different types of pearls:

Natural Pearls: These pearls are formed naturally without human intervention, making them rare and highly prized. They are often the most expensive due to their scarcity.

Cultured Pearls: These are grown with human intervention, where a tiny bead is inserted into an oyster or mollusc. The oyster then coats the bead with layers of nacre to form a pearl. While more common than natural pearls, cultured pearls can still be of high quality.

Freshwater Pearls: Grown in freshwater mussels, these pearls are generally more affordable than saltwater pearls but can still exhibit excellent quality.

Saltwater Pearls: These are typically more expensive than freshwater pearls. They include Akoya, Tahitian, and South Sea pearls, each with its unique characteristics.

Factors Affecting Pearl Quality

Several key factors influence the quality and price of pearls. Buyers in Qatar should consider these criteria to ensure they are getting the best value for their investment.

Luster

Luster is one of the most critical indicators of pearl quality. It refers to how well a pearl reflects light. High-quality pearls have a sharp, mirror-like reflection, and their surface will appear bright and glowing. Low-luster pearls will appear dull and chalky.

Tip for buyers: Hold the pearl under direct light and see how clearly you can see your reflection. The sharper the reflection, the better the lustre.

Surface Quality

Pearls are natural products, so it's common to find imperfections such as blemishes or spots. However, the fewer the blemishes, the more valuable the pearl. A high-quality pearl will have a smooth surface with minimal flaws.

Buyer tip: Inspect the pearl under a magnifying glass. While minor imperfections are acceptable, avoid pearls with large or numerous blemishes, as these can reduce their value.

Shape

The rounder the pearl, the more valuable it typically is. Perfectly round pearls are rare and highly prized, especially in the cultured pearl market. However, non-round pearls, such as elaborate shapes, can also be valuable due to their unique and artistic appearance.

Tip for buyers: While round pearls are often considered the best, baroque pearls offer an affordable and unique alternative, particularly if you're looking for something distinctive.

Colour

Pearl colour is subjective and depends on personal preference. However, specific colours are rarer and more valuable, such as deep black Tahitian pearls or golden South Sea pearls. The colour of a pearl includes both its body colour and the overtone—a subtle sheen that appears on the surface.

Tip for buyers: Choose a colour that complements your skin tone or matches your style. While rare colours like black or gold can be more expensive, classic white pearls are timeless and versatile.

Size

Larger pearls are generally more valuable, but size should always be considered in combination with other quality factors. Pearls are measured in millimetres, with most pearls ranging from 6mm to 15mm. The larger the pearl, the rarer and more expensive it tends to be.

Buyer tip: When choosing pearl size, consider the occasion and style of jewellery. Larger pearls make bold statements, while smaller pearls offer subtle elegance.

Matching

Matching is essential whether you're buying a strand of pearls or a pair of earrings. High-quality pearls in a necklace or earring set should have uniform size, shape, colour, and lustre. Mismatched pearls can reduce the overall value of the jewellery.

Tip for buyers: Lay the pearl strand flat and observe if the pearls are consistent in appearance. Inconsistencies can be distracting and may indicate lower-quality craftsmanship.

Certification and Authenticity

In Qatar, it is essential to buy pearls from reputable jewellers who can provide certification for the pearls' authenticity. Certificates from reputable gemological institutions, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), can offer peace of mind regarding the pearl's quality, type, and origin.

Tip for buyers: Always ask for a certificate of authenticity when purchasing pearls, especially if you're investing in high-end pieces. Certified pearls will maintain their value better over time.

Where to Buy Pearls in Qatar

Qatar has a rich history of pearl diving, and the market offers a variety of high-quality pearls. To ensure you're getting a fair price and authentic pearls, consider shopping at reputable jewellers or luxury boutiques in Qatar. Some of the best places include:

Gold Souq: Located in the heart of Doha, the Gold Souq is home to several jewellers specializing in high-quality pearls.

Luxury Boutiques: High-end stores in The Pearl-Qatar and Villaggio Mall often carry premium pearls, including rare natural and cultured varieties.

Online Retailers: Make sure to only purchase from well-established online sellers with positive reviews and clear certification policies.

Conclusion

Buying pearls in Qatar can be an exciting and rewarding experience, especially when you know how to evaluate their quality. By focusing on critical factors like lustre, surface quality, shape, colour, size, and matching, buyers can make informed decisions and select pearls that will not only hold their value but also provide timeless beauty. Always purchase from reputable sources and ask for certification to guarantee authenticity and quality. Whether you're investing in a single pearl or an entire strand, the knowledge you've gained from this guide will help you choose pearls that meet your expectations and style.

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Diwali Offers on Luxury Furniture at Luxury Handicrafts: Elevate Your Festive Décor.

Diwali, the festival of lights, is a time to illuminate not just our homes but also our lives with joy, prosperity, and elegance. This Diwali, Luxury Handicrafts brings you a special opportunity to enhance your home’s aesthetic with exquisite luxury furniture, featuring timeless pieces like bone inlay, mother of pearl, brass, and silver furniture. Whether you are redecorating your living room, upgrading your dining area, or adding a touch of grandeur to your bedroom, our Diwali offers on luxury furniture will help you do it in style.

Bone Inlay Furniture: Craftsmanship Meets Elegance

Bone inlay furniture with exquisite decoration and craftsmanship is highly prized. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans who inlay tiny pieces of bone into the wood to create lovely patterns. This type of furniture adds a creative touch to any environment, making it perfect for Diwali.

At Luxury Handicrafts, we offer a wide variety of bone inlay furniture, from ornate coffee tables to statement cabinets. With our Diwali specials, you may own a piece of this timeless artwork for a significantly lower price. There is something for every taste in our collection, which includes patterns in classic black and white as well as vibrant hues.

Mother of Pearl Furniture: Sophistication and Luxury

Mother-of-pearl furnishings are known for their elegance and sophistication. The natural shell's iridescent lustre produces a stunning impact that quickly improves the atmosphere of any area. Mother of pearl furniture is elegant and practical, making it ideal for anybody wishing to add a touch of grandeur to their house.

Take advantage of our exclusive deals on mother-of-pearl sideboards, tables, mirrors, and more during Diwali. These pieces are a perfect fit for your holiday décor because they not only offer beauty but also represent prosperity. Mother of pearl furniture adds a glittering elegance to any space, and it's on sale for a great price during Diwali.

Brass and Silver Furniture: Timeless Glamour

Our brass and silver furniture line is likely to please individuals who like regal designs and metallic hues. While silver furniture's sleek surface lends a hint of modern splendour, brass furniture gives warmth and an ancient vibe to any space.

A vast selection of brass and silver furniture, such as elaborate bed frames, sophisticated dining tables, and exquisitely crafted chairs, are available during our Diwali sale. If you want to make a statement in your living area, these opulent items are ideal. The metallic sheen of brass and silver accentuates the traditional Diwali lighting, making them ideal additions to your house during this joyous occasion.

Why Choose Luxury Handicrafts?

At Luxury Handicrafts, we take great satisfaction in providing the highest calibre luxury furniture, handcrafted by knowledgeable artisans with age-old methods. The elegant and practical designs of each piece guarantee that your investment in luxury furniture will continue to improve your house for many years to come.

We are providing special discounts on all of our high-end furniture, including pieces with silver, brass, mother-of-pearl inlay, and bone inlay, for Diwali. The ideal furniture is available at Luxury Handicrafts, whether you want to overhaul your living area or just add a single statement piece.

Conclusion

Don’t miss out on the chance to elevate your home with Luxury Handicrafts’ Diwali offers. Celebrate the festival of lights in style by bringing home exquisite bone inlay, mother of pearl, brass, and silver furniture at unbeatable prices. Visit our store or explore our collection online to find the perfect luxury furniture to make your Diwali celebrations truly spectacular.

This festive season, let your home shine with the timeless beauty of handcrafted luxury furniture from Luxury Handicrafts!

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Tem Tem Perla Diamond 925 Sterling Silver and Pearl Earrings

The Perla collection is made of 925 sterling silver pearl earrings, plated with high quality rhodium or rose gold to ensure long lasting lustre. It comes adorned with guilt-free Lab-Grown Diamonds that offer the same sparkle as natural diamonds. Wearing Tem Tem is a conscious choice that has a positive impact on the world without compromising on quality and shine.

This exquisite piece combines timeless design with ethical luxury. Key features include:

- 925 sterling silver with rhodium or rose gold plating - High quality lab diamonds - Genuine fresh water pearls - Packaged in Tem Tem gift box

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Bridal Bliss: Finding the Perfect Wedding Jewellery Singapore

Introduction

Your wedding day is one of the most significant events of your life, and finding the perfect wedding jewellery is crucial to complete your bridal look. Singapore, renowned for its exquisite jewellery scene, offers a plethora of options to cater to every bride's taste and style. From timeless classics to contemporary pieces, the right jewellery not only enhances your beauty but also adds a personal touch to your special day.

The Benefits of Finding the Perfect Wedding Jewellery

Enhances Bridal Attire: The right jewellery complements your wedding dress, bringing out its elegance and enhancing your overall look. The interplay of sparkling gemstones and finely crafted metals can transform even the simplest gown into a stunning ensemble.

Creates Lasting Memories: Wedding jewellery often becomes a cherished heirloom, passed down through generations, making your big day even more memorable. Each piece carries the story of your love, creating a tangible link to your special day that can be cherished for years to come.

Investment Value: Quality jewellery Singapore can be a valuable investment, appreciating over time. High-quality pieces made from precious metals and gemstones can hold significant financial value, providing both sentimental and monetary benefits.

Customization and Personal Touch: Customized pieces reflect your personal style and story, making your wedding jewellery truly unique. Customization allows for special engravings, unique designs, and personal touches that standard jewellery cannot provide.

Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing Wedding Jewellery Singapore

Understanding Your Style and Preferences

Traditional vs. Contemporary Designs: Decide if you prefer classic, timeless pieces or modern, trendy designs. Traditional designs often feature intricate craftsmanship and classic gemstones like diamonds and pearls, while contemporary pieces may incorporate unconventional materials and bold, innovative styles.

Matching with Dress and Theme: Ensure your jewellery matches the style and theme of your wedding dress and overall wedding decor. For instance, a vintage-themed wedding may call for antique-inspired pieces, whereas a minimalist modern wedding may be complemented by sleek, simple designs.

Researching Jewellery Stores

Reputable Stores and Brands: Look for well-known stores such as Lustre Jewellery and Timeless Moonstones, known for their exquisite collections and quality. These stores have established reputations for offering high-quality, beautifully crafted jewellery.

Online vs. In-Store Shopping: Consider the convenience of online shopping versus the personal experience of in-store visits. Online shopping offers a wider range of options and the ease of browsing from home, while in-store visits allow you to see and feel the jewellery in person and receive personalized advice from experts.

Exploring Types of Wedding Jewellery

Necklaces, Earrings, Bracelets, Rings: Identify the types of jewellery you need to complete your bridal look. Each piece should complement not only your dress but also each other, creating a harmonious and elegant ensemble.

Lustre Jewellery: Known for unique designs and bespoke services, Lustre offers a range of bridal jewellery that can be customized to your taste. Their pieces often feature intricate detailing and high-quality gemstones, perfect for adding a touch of luxury to your bridal attire.

Timeless Moonstones: Offers vintage-inspired and modern moonstone pieces, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your wedding attire. Moonstones, with their ethereal glow, add a unique and romantic element to your jewellery collection.

Considering Quality and Craftsmanship

Materials: Choose from gold, platinum, diamonds, and other gemstones based on your preference and budget. Each material has its own unique properties and appeal. Gold, for example, is timeless and versatile, while platinum is known for its durability and lustrous finish.

Hallmarks and Certifications: Ensure the jewellery comes with proper certifications and hallmarks indicating its authenticity and quality. Certified pieces provide assurance of the value and quality of the materials used.

Setting a Budget

Prioritizing Pieces: Decide which pieces are most important to you and allocate your budget accordingly. For example, if you plan to wear a statement necklace, you might opt for simpler earrings to balance the look.

Balancing Quality and Cost: Aim to find a balance between high quality and a reasonable price. While it’s important to stay within budget, remember that high-quality jewellery is an investment that can last a lifetime.

Personalization and Customization

Custom-Made Pieces: Consider having custom-made pieces to ensure your jewellery is one-of-a-kind. Custom designs can incorporate elements that are significant to you and your partner, making your jewellery truly special.

Engravings and Bespoke Designs: Personalize your jewellery with engravings or bespoke designs that hold special meaning for you and your partner. Whether it’s a special date, initials, or a meaningful symbol, these details add a personal touch.

Timing Your Purchase

Ideal Timeframes: Start shopping for your wedding jewellery at least 3-6 months before the wedding to allow time for customization and adjustments. This timeline ensures you have ample time to explore options, make decisions, and handle any necessary alterations.

Allowing for Adjustments and Fittings: Make sure there is enough time for any necessary adjustments or fittings closer to the wedding date. Regular fittings ensure that your jewellery fits perfectly and comfortably on your big day.

Examples of Stunning Wedding Jewellery

Lustre Jewellery

Unique Designs and Bespoke Services: Lustre Jewellery offers a wide range of unique designs and bespoke services, allowing you to create pieces that reflect your personal style. Their expert craftsmen work closely with clients to bring their visions to life.

Real-Life Examples: Many brides have chosen Lustre for its personalized touch and exceptional quality, adding a special charm to their wedding day. Testimonials often highlight the beauty and uniqueness of their custom pieces.

Timeless Moonstones

Vintage-Inspired and Modern Pieces: Timeless Moonstones specializes in moonstone jewellery, offering both vintage-inspired and contemporary designs that add a touch of elegance and sophistication. Their pieces often feature intricate detailing and a soft, luminous quality.

Success Stories: Brides who chose moonstone pieces from Timeless Moonstones often rave about the unique beauty and charm these pieces brought to their wedding look. The ethereal glow of moonstones adds a magical touch to bridal attire.

Other Notable Jewellery Stores in Singapore

Reviews and Experiences: Consider visiting other reputable stores such as Covenant Jewellery and Choo Yilin, known for their quality craftsmanship and excellent customer service. Covenant Jewellery is known for its classic elegance and bespoke services, while Choo Yilin offers a blend of traditional and contemporary designs with a focus on Asian heritage.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect wedding jewellery Singapore is an exciting journey that requires careful planning and consideration. By understanding your style, researching reputable stores, and prioritizing quality and craftsmanship, you can find jewellery that enhances your bridal look and creates lasting memories. Start your search early and take the time to explore various options to ensure you find the pieces that truly reflect your personal style and make your wedding day even more special.

Call-to-Action

Visit recommended stores like Lustre Jewellery and Timeless Moonstones to start your journey towards finding the perfect wedding jewellery. Book a consultation today and let their experts guide you in creating pieces that will make your wedding day unforgettable.

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Exploring Pearl Jewellery for Women UK and Online Shopping Tips

Pearls have long been cherished for their luminous beauty and understated elegance, making them a favoured choice for women's jewellery in the UK. This guide not only explores the allure of Pearl Jewellery for Women UK but also provides insights into the convenience and variety available when you choose to Buy Women Jewellery Online UK. With pearls being a staple in jewellery collections, understanding how to select and purchase them online can enhance your buying experience.

The Sophistication of Pearl Jewellery for Women UK

Pearls offer a timeless appeal that transcends fashion trends, making Pearl Jewellery for Women UK a must-have in any wardrobe. Whether it's the classic elegance of a simple pearl necklace or the modern twist of pearl earrings set in contemporary designs, pearl jewellery adds a touch of class to any outfit. When choosing pearl jewellery, consider the type of pearls—such as freshwater, Akoya, or South Sea—and their unique lustres, shapes, and colours, which can range from traditional white to more exotic shades like black, gold, or pink.

Pearls: A Symbol of Sophistication Across Ages

The history of pearls as adornments is rich and varied, often seen as symbols of purity and luxury. Historically, pearls were a cornerstone of royal and aristocratic wardrobes, and today, they continue to be a popular gift for significant occasions such as weddings, anniversaries, and graduations. Their versatility also allows for a range of styles from vintage to modern, ensuring that pearl jewellery remains a favoured choice across generations.

Navigating Online Jewellery Shopping

Buying jewellery online offers convenience and a broader selection than what might be available in traditional stores. When planning to Buy Women Jewellery Online UK, it's important to shop at reputable websites, read customer reviews, and understand return policies. Online shopping allows you to compare prices and designs at your leisure, making it easier to find unique pieces or the best deals available.

Best Practices to Buy Women Jewellery Online UK

While the convenience of online shopping is undeniable, it's important to be diligent when you Buy Women Jewellery Online UK. Ensure the authenticity of the website, check for certifications and warranties on precious items, and use secure payment methods. For pearl jewellery, specifically, look for detailed descriptions of pearl type, size, and grade. Good online retailers will also provide high-quality images and might offer a video viewing option to get a better feel for the piece before making a purchase.

Conclusion:

Whether you're enchanted by the classic beauty of Pearl Jewellery for Women UK or looking to Buy Women Jewellery Online UK, lookv2.co.uk is your ideal destination. With a commitment to quality, authenticity, and customer satisfaction, LookV2 offers an exquisite collection of pearl jewellery that suits all tastes and occasions. Browse their selection today to find that perfect piece of pearl jewellery that combines luxury with affordability, all from the comfort of your home.