#read: cubic zirconia

[wheelie-sick]

okay okay some people really really need to hear that when you're describing an image you're trying to get to the point of the image, not add as much detail as possible.

Case A (a real description), I want you to guess at what this is:

[ID : A screenshot of a Facebook (?) post by user Anna Jakubik Chenard in a thread/group called Weird (and Wonderful) Secondhand Finds That Just Need To Be Shared. Text reads "Searched multiple secondhand markets and found these vintage bracelets to create the perfect [descriptive word that gives this away] bangle stack". Two photos below the text show a closeup and a slightly further back shot of a wrist sporting 7 bracelets. From furthest up the arm ('bottom') to closest to the wrist ('top'), they are: A medium thick pale wood bracelet ; a thin dark bracelet with small shiny facets all along the circumference, but that overall gives the impression of being a textured dull brown or dark gray ; a slightly-rounded square-shaped warm yellow bracelet ; 3 stacked wavy-edged bracelets about the same size as the yellow that are, from bottom to top, ketchup red, mustard yellow, and light green (arguably lettuce-leaf green) ; a pale wood bracelet twice the thickness of the 'bottom' one, with shiny, clear plastic or cubic zirconia stones evenly spaced in off-set rows and the circumference.]

answer beneath the cut to prevent accidental cheating

if you guessed anything other than "a collection of bracelets that look like a hamburger when stacked together" you are wrong.

getting into too much detail often means skipping over the point. it's also just super obnoxious to listen to!!! I don't need to hear all that. get to the point.

"ID: A Facebook post with the text "Searched multiple secondhand markets and found these vintage bracelets to create the perfect hamburger bangle stack" two photos are attached of a bangle stack with a clear resemblance to a hamburger." is a much more effective description that is also a quarter of the length

longer is not better

[blond-yallternative]

TSC boys will be TSC boys (ft. Cody, my beloved nb)

Low-stakes fanfic in which 3 backliners (Cody, Lucas, and Jean [included against his will]) bet 3 strikers (Jeremy, Nabil, and Derrick) that if the backliners can keep the strikers from making any successful shots on goal during a team exercise, then Jeremy will get his ears pierced.

Of course Jean balls out and so do the other 2 so the strikers lose.

Jeremy is deathly afraid of needles (in my head), and Nabil can't join them because he's going home to eat dinner with his family, but Pat joins in last-minute.

Pls be kind this is my first ever fanfic (⁠╥⁠﹏⁠╥⁠)

By the time practice was over and they had all showered, changed, and dispersed to their cars, it was past six in the evening. The drive to their destination took less than fifteen minutes, and soon they were pulling into the parking lot of a low, dingy strip mall that looked like it had needed a fresh coat of paint about two years ago. The studio that Nabil had Googled for them was nestled in the far right corner under a large sign emblazoned Black Eye Tattoo. Between the second and third words, a large eye gazed out over the parking lot with a swirling design where its iris and pupil should’ve been. After they parked, Jeremy drummed his fingers on the steering wheel out of time with the pop song on the radio as he stared up at the sign. A few moments later, they spotted the rest of the boys and Cody heading towards them, and Jeremy twisted the key to kill the engine with a long-suffering sigh. He shooed Derrick off his car when he tried to strike a provocative pose on the hood, and Pat held the door of the place open for all of them as a doorbell chimed over their heads.

Jean was more than a little intimidated by the woman standing behind the counter inside. Her jet black hair hung in choppy bangs over her forehead but the rest was tucked behind her ears, making it easy to see the neon rings that stretched her earlobes to twice the normal size. Her haughty gaze didn’t change as the six of them filed through the door and crowded the small lobby space. Pat and Derrick flopped down on the low, bloodred velvet couch set against the far wall, so Jean and Jeremy leaned against the front windows. Cody and Lucas eagerly approached the front counter. The air felt near-frigid after the California heat outside, and Jean savored the sunshine warming his back.

“Aren’t you gonna go check out the options?” Derrick asked Jeremy, who cringed. “I’d rather not look at any of this until absolutely necessary,” he said, and Derrick smirked. At the counter, Lucas and Cody were explaining the situation to the indifferent-seeming woman. Jean squinted to read the cursive scrawl on her metal name tag. Cherie, with a little hand-drawn border of black flowers and vines. 

“All the stones here are available for lobe piercings, organized by size,” she said, dragging her finger in a line over one section of the glass counter that separated her from the lobby. Jean listened a little closer than he normally would, but her voice carried no hint of a French accent. “All our metals are surgical-grade steel, and they come in silver, gold, rose gold, or black finishes. No difference in price.”

“What’s the cheapest option?” Lucas asked. Cherie gave him an unimpressed look that said she was sick of servicing poor college students, but she tapped a black fingernail against the glass. “This one, three millimeter cubic zirconia. $65.”

“That’s quite the chunk of change for two little holes,” Pat muttered from the couch. Jean figured he hadn’t meant to be overheard, but Cherie said, “One.” 

The group looked at her. She clarified. “The $65 is for one piercing. And that doesn’t include tip,” she added, giving them a pointed look. When half the group made a sound of disbelief, Jeremy shushed them with a “Hey, guys.”

Lucas rounded on Cody. “So you’re loaded or something?” he asked, gesturing to their heavily-studded face. 

Cody grinned. “My friend’s aunt owns a tattoo shop. She does mine for free.” 

Lucas slapped his palms on the counter and sighed in dramatic relief. “Well, call her up then!” 

“Dude, she lives in Arizona.” 

Lucas sank to rest his head on his flattened hands in defeat. In the end it was decided that Jeremy would only be getting one ear pierced, but even when Cody and Lucas pooled the cash in their wallets they could only come up with $59.37. With a sigh, Pat chipped in a $20 bill to cover the rest plus tip, and Cherie swiped up the money to store it in the cash register. She surveyed all six of them now standing closer to her counter, and sighed. “You all want to come back, don’t you?” They nodded, and Jeremy said meekly, “Yes ma’am, if that’s okay.” She sighed again but tossed an impatient “Come on, then,” over her shoulder as she strode towards the back. She led them to what appeared to be the largest of the individual rooms of the main part of the studio, and bade Jeremy to sit on the black-cushioned chair in the center. There was one smaller plastic chair to the left of it, and Pat pushed Jean towards it before he could make a beeline for the back of the room. Jean sat as Cherie told the rest of them, “I’m going to need some space. Go stand in the corner over there.” The four of them obediently shuffled over and leaned against the graffiti-covered wall.

Cherie asked the room, “What’s the finish?” 

“Uhhhhh,” Lucas droned, and Jeremy looked to Jean, of all people. Cherie repeated the options to him. “Silver, gold, rose gold, or black.” Jean thought for a moment, studying Jeremy’s face. 

Well, it was not going to be black. But which of the other three? He narrowed his eyes, considering. Spray-painted daffodils, the Trojan statue from their first walk through campus, and a yellow cardboard dog flashed through his mind. “Gold,” he said decidedly, and Cherie nodded in agreement. Jeremy smiled at Jean, but the expression was a bit tight. 

“And which ear am I doing?” 

“Which one’s the gay ear?” Derrick asked, and Lucas snickered. Jeremy twisted in his chair to give them a look, but Patrick doubled down on it. “If the shoe fits, my friend,” he said with a shrug. “Cody, make them stop,” Jeremy complained, but Cody was too busy laughing along with Lucas. Jeremy sighed and faced forward again. “I’ll just do the right ear. I normally sleep on my left side.” After a beat he added, “Please don’t tell them whether or not that’s the gay ear,” and Lucas and Cody’s laughter rang out again.

He held still when Cherie commanded, and then inspected the purple dot she marked on his right ear with the handheld mirror she passed him. He turned and tucked a stray curl back so Jean could see it, too. It looked perfectly centered, so Jean nodded. 

Satisfied with her preparations, Cherie swiveled on her wheeled stool to rub hand sanitizer over her hands and pull on black latex gloves. At the snap they made against her wrists, Jeremy winced. “I like your nametag,” he said randomly, and Jean heard one of the boys snicker. Jeremy continued hurriedly, “You know, Jean here is French. You two might get along.” 

“Ooooh, parlez vous français?” Cody said in a ridiculous high-pitched voice. Lucas laughed maniacally as Derrick replied, “Oui oui, monsieur dumbass.” Jean looked around to see which of the instruments in the room he could use to put himself out of his misery as quickly as possible, but Cherie laughed, too. 

“I don’t speak French, actually. This is just what my grandpa used to call me. I don’t even pronounce it correctly, I know, but I still like it.” The entire room turned to look at Jean in anticipation. 

He gave Cody and Derrick a flat look. “I’m not going to say it.” Various sounds of protest arose from their corner, but Cherie started fixing the gold stud onto a long, sharp instrument and Jean saw Jeremy’s face go positively ashen. When she looked up, Cherie saw it too. 

“Are you afraid?” she asked bluntly, and Jeremy didn’t hesitate before nodding. The boys giggled from the corner. She kept her eyes on Jeremy, her expression unchanged. “That’s not a problem. It’s better if you look away, not close your eyes.” She dug her heels into the floor to wheel herself closer to Jeremy’s right side. “Would you prefer if I counted down, or just did it?” 

Jeremy swallowed. “A countdown, please.” 

Jean could practically feel the anxiety radiating off him with every breath. With a sigh, he shifted his chair to be parallel with Jeremy’s, and didn’t face him as he rested an elbow on Jeremy’s armrest. He cleared his throat. He could feel Cherie and Jeremy’s eyes on him but refused to look their way, and after another second he felt Jeremy’s hand curl under his arm to grip his bicep. His palm was warm and even sweatier than Jean expected, but Jean didn’t pull away. He ignored the whispered conversation happening in the back of the room. 

“Ready?” Jeremy nodded with a tense set to his jaw. Jean grimaced at the crushing grip his captain had on his arm but didn’t let himself move an inch. 

“Okay. Three, two, one,” Cherie said calmly, and Jean blinked in surprise. She had pushed the needle easily through Jeremy’s ear right after two. Jeremy blinked too, then loosed an exaggerated sigh of relief and said, “Dang, that actually wasn’t so bad! Do you do that trick with everyone?” His grip slackened, but he didn’t take his hand off Jean's arm.

“Only the wimps,” Cherie said matter-of-factly, and Jeremy laughed, a little giddy. The boys and Cody peeled off the wall to come admire the stud, and Jeremy only removed his hand from Jean when Cherie passed him the mirror again. Jean tried to be subtle about rubbing the now-sweaty inside of his arm against his shirt, but Jeremy was turning his head this way and that to see the piercing from different angles, completely oblivious. Cody gushed compliments, and Derrick said, “Yeah, gold was definitely the right choice.” Patrick clapped a hand on Jeremy's shoulder in approval.

Jeremy swung his legs over to hang them off the chair and face Jean with a beaming smile.

"What do you think?"

Jean considered the sparkle of the little earring in Jeremy’s lobe, bright against his flushed skin, and met Jeremy’s eyes. “It suits you,” he said simply. And it was true.

Somehow, Jeremy’s smile grew, and the stud twinkled like a miniature star as he kicked his feet.

As they all spilled back into the lobby a staggered chorus of “Thank you, Cherie!” arose from all five of the others. Pat already had his hand on the horizontal bar of the front door when Jean realized they had all turned to look expectantly at him again. He sighed and faced the counter. 

“Merci, ma chérie.” 

The sweet smile that curved Cherie’s lips seemed to soften her entire hardcore appearance, and she waved them all out amidst the chiming of the doorbell and the others’ whoops of triumph.

[seoksgrl]

happier than ever, 4. : knj namjoon x reader friends to strangers to lovers

tws: alcoholism, depression, suicidal thoughts, attempted suicide

note: this chapter was a hard one to write, and a hard one to read, please heed the warnings!

m.list prev | next

You’ve been staring at the shop window for twenty minutes now, and you know the only reason you haven’t been shooed away with a broom is because you know the owner. Mrs Ahn’s shrewd eyes watch you from behind the aged glass, her knowing gaze watching you with equal parts pity and weariness. You’re still dressed in the clothes you went out in last night, and you haven’t been back home to change - you stink of stale booze and cigarettes, but people pass you as if you’re not there. 

The necklace is still in the window, and you come to stare at it every so often when you’re feeling particularly sorry for yourself, when you want to remind yourself of the waste of breath you have become. The necklace only fetched a few won, being fake and all, but the night you’d pawned it, the few notes it got you was enough to buy three bottles of whiskey. 

Today, you’ve decided to punish yourself a little longer than usual, staring at your mother’s necklace on the other side of the glass, letting the cubic zirconia glint at you like a wicked wink, mocking you for being the worst human being on planet earth. It almost hurts a little, and that's all you allow yourself before you turn away, walking down the street like a coward. 

“Y/N, dear,” Mrs Ahn calls, and you stop for a second, pausing in your step because this moment has strayed from the usual routine. When you turn, the old woman is watching you with those same eyes that remind you of the liquor you’d bought after seeing her that night, and you look away, down at the pavement, “Did you need something?”

Mrs Ahn has never been a cruel woman, nosey, yeah, but never cruel, and you know she is only asking with the hopes that you might suddenly morph back into the old version of yourself, the one that's easier for everyone to digest. 

“I know today is a hard day for you,” She says, her voice on the icy breeze carrying that same sorrowful lilt that drives you insane, “it’s the first since she passed, isn’t it?”

She knows it is, so you’re not sure why she’s asking, and you’re not going to answer either. The slur in your voice almost seems permanent now, but for some reason you don’t want her to hear it, so you nod and turn away, ignoring the several other attempts Mrs Ahn makes to call your name. 

It’s been two days since Namjoon came to your house, kicking out some guy whose face you don’t even remember, let alone his name. Any normal person would’ve thanked him, but you didn’t, instead you kicked him out and smashed up the living room, making it more of a mess than it already was. At least now you don't have to clean up your own messes anymore - not that you have been lately, anyway. 

Everytime you see Namjoon, it feels like swallowing cement, like you’re rooted in place with nowhere to go. His eyes make it impossible to move when you’re in their sights. Perhaps that’s why your immediate reaction upon seeing him is always anger, to look away from him for fear of him seeing all your ugliness. There sure is a lot of that lately. 

The sun begins to set, and you let your hazy mind focus on the one thing you planned to do today. It’s not often you make plans anymore, not ones that don’t involve the bar anyway, but today is important. It may be the most important plan you’ve ever made, but first you have somewhere to be. 

Taking the brown-bag covered bottle of wine from your coat pocket, you take a swig, wiping your mouth with the back of your hand and walking across the street towards the cemetery. 

“Looking good, man,” Jooheon says, wiping his hair back off his forehead. 

The heaters in the lobby have managed to ward off the sudden icy weather that’s fallen over Yeocho. Namjoon’s almost positive that if he looked outside, snow would begin to fall, and he can’t deny he always loves watching the first snow of the year. He always used to sit with you, usually watching from your bedroom window, his head automatically turning so he could see your twinkly eyes staring out at the dark, nose twitching in anticipation. 

The memory is a sharp, swift kick to the gut at moments like this, especially after the last interaction the two of you had. He wants to make it right, to go see you, but he doesn’t want to smother you into accepting his presence again. You’re going through shit, terrible shit, and he knows most of how you’re feeling. 

When his mom died, you were there for him day in, day out, much to Seokjin’s annoyance. The older man never said anything, but Namjoon could tell at the time, even during your hushed phone conversations with him when Namjoon was sat by the fire, as you snuck off into the kitchen to make hot chocolate and call Seokjin to explain why you wouldn’t be coming over again. 

The house had always felt empty when you had to leave for work at the studio, and Namjoon can only imagine it’s a hundred times worse with you in the house alone every day. He feels ill at the thought of you curled up on that old sofa crying. 

“Namjoon?” Jooheon says again, shaking Namjoon from his own form of torture, “You good?”

“Uh…yeah,” He smiles weakly at Jooheon who stands over him, handing him a beer. Namjoon’s hand aches from pulling up floorboards all day, and he’s sure he’s gonna have a couple of calluses on his hands. Though, it’s almost nice to feel the hard days work in his whole body instead of the usual lower back pain he leaves the office with, “Thanks, man,”

“Still thinking about, Y/N?”

Namjoon almost startles a little like when he was a teenager. Oh, there were so many times he was asked questions about you, mostly by his mom. How’s Y/N, honey? Did you see Y/N today? Have you asked that girl out yet? Namjoon fights off a smile at his mother’s insistent voice replaying in his mind, glancing up at Jooheon as he sips at his beer, “Yeah, actually. Just worried about her,”

“Aren’t we all?” Jooheon blows out a whistle, “She shouldn’t be on her own in that house. If she sold that place, she would be able to buy back the studio in no time,” Jooheon snorts, “Or better yet, get outta this place,”

“Yeocho has it’s charm,” Namjoon says, feeling oddly defensive about his hometown, “Besides, Y/N would never sell that house. She loves it. Aside from that asshole ex of hers, it was probably the only thing holding her back. The house and her mom,” his voice grows wistful, “I should go see her,”

“I can come if you like? I mean…” Jooheon gives Namjoon a cheeky smile, “she still likes me,”

Namjoon rolls his eyes, almost missing the flicker of jealousy in his chest, “Thanks for the reminder,”

By the time Jooheon and Namjoon get to your house, Namjoon can already tell you’re not home. The lights are off, and there’s a stony silence that surrounds the property, it’s almost eerie, and it sends a chill running down his back. When he knocks on the door a second time with no answer, he starts looking around, trying to shake his memory. 

“What you looking for?” Jooheon asks, cupping his hands to look through the darkened window, he backs away just as Namjoon finds it - the spare key under the plant pot. There’s an odd sense of warmth that flows through him, another thing that hasn’t changed, “A spare key? I don’t know, man. Isn’t this breaking and entering?”

“Not with a key,” Namjoon says, not feeling totally thrilled by the idea, but he has to get this icky feeling off of him. Something feels wrong, “I just want to check,”

When the two men enter the home, it’s trashed, smashed glass in the kitchen, a mirror toppled in the hallway, sofa cushions ripped and tossed aside like garbage. The scent of alcohol drifts throughout the whole house, and when Namjoon steps in a puddle of liquor, he finds something that makes his blood run cold. 

“Is that a match?”

Jooheon’s perplexed voice rings loud in the silence house, and Namjoon bends to pick it up. The match is black at the nub, a signal it had burnt, and from the smell of it, recently too. “Yeah,” Namjoon says, his voice sounding very far away to his own ears, “she missed,”

“What?”

“She threw it to hit the booze,” He walks further into the house, the alcohol staining the dusty carpet in dark blooms, and suddenly Namjoon can’t breathe, “she…she meant to burn it down,” 

Jooheon is deathly silent beside Namjoon, and it’s only within a few seconds that he springs into action, a hand on Namjoon’s shoulder, “I’m gonna call the cops, you check upstairs and I’ll take another look around here. Try to stay calm,”

Namjoon is so beyond the point of calm that he feels as if he’s gone into shock. He can’t imagine what you were thinking, or maybe he can and just doesn’t want to admit it. His body moves independent of his brain, and he’s sure it's just pure adrenaline fuelling his actions as he drops the burnt match in the wastepaper bin by the stairs, gripping the hand rail as he takes the stairs two at a time. 

Your bathroom, his first choice to look, is clear. He chances a look in your mother’s room, his heart sinking and lifting within one breath as he finds it completely untouched, your mom’s hospital-grade bed still tilted upwards as if she had been sitting up. His eyes fall to the chair beside the bed, and he shakes his head, a lump rising in his throat. 

You shouldn’t have had to go through that alone, to watch your mom slowly pass away. Why the fuck wasn’t he here? His chest is heaving by the time he pushes open your door, and he’s not sure if it’s relief or panic that has his blood rushing in his ears. Your room is empty, save for the utter chaos that perfectly summarises your life. He smells alcohol and vomit, and he wants to retch, mostly because of the reality of how your life has been. If he didn’t realise it before, he does now, he can’t ignore it as the sight of clothes, bottles and grime lay scattered around your bedroom. His eyes glance up, muscle memory from the years he spent laying on your bed with you and looking at the freshly painted planets done by your mother, an artist just like you. 

He feels a tear leak from his eye, dribbling down his cheek to where his jaw tightens. He turns away from the room in shame, jogging down the steps just in time to see Jooheon race from the kitchen, his eyes wide and hopeless as he shakes his head. Even as Jooheon confirms it, Namjoon knows exactly where you are, and he doesn’t wait for his friend, racing out of the door and into the freezing night air. 

His breaths sweep around him in clouds of white smoke, his chest almost aching from how cold it’s gotten in the moments he spent searching your house, and he doesn’t have time to get out his phone for the flashlight before he’s taking that well-beaten patch, his feet slipping on a rock or two along the way. He’s pushing aside the grass, breathing hard as the tears cool on his face, this heavy dread sitting in his stomach, almost painful, enough to make him want to lean over and retch onto the waterlogged bank of the lake. 

He gets to the clearing, finding the pier, but you’re not on it like last time. He skids to a stop, almost slipping on a patch of black ice as he runs his hands through his hair, tugging at the strands. Jooheon must’ve followed him, because a pool of white light comes up beside him followed by his friend, panting. 

“Y/N!” Namjoon cups his hands, Jooheon standing close by as he swings the flashlight out to the lake, “Fuck!”

“The lake’s frozen,” Jooheon says, almost too quiet, his eyes narrowed as he continues shining the light out to the water’s surface. It’s on the second or third sweep that Namjoon grips his wrist, forcing the light towards a hunched, black shape on the water. “Jesus,”

Namjoon is panting, his eyes almost blurry from the adrenaline running through his system, and his lips are numb when he speaks, “The lake isn’t strong enough,”

Jooheon’s hands reach up to clutch at his hair as Namjoon speaks, realising the predicament. Namjoon tugs the flashlight out of his hands, the pool of light finding the back of your head as you begin to turn. 

You’re far away, but Namjoon can see your blotchy red cheeks, the bottle in your hand and the sway in your steps. You slip once, and Namjoon’s heart jumps into his throat, but when you right yourself, you stare at him with lifeless eyes. With a trembling lip, you raise your hand, doing something he never thought he would see you do again. 

It’s an old game the two of you used to play, spelling out letters on each other’s palms so the other could guess the word, but this time you’re not close enough to reach his palm, so you settle for spelling it in the air instead. The light on you is trembling as Namjoon fights to hold the torch steady, and you manage to spell out two words. 

I’m sorry

And then, Namjoon’s world ends as you stomp your foot once, breaking the ice and falling into the dark, cold water below. 

taglist: @maryseesthings @rkivesfilm @btsffreader92 @creolesoul2seoul @kissme-ornot

[boyslit-moving]

since my brain isn't letting me write new stuff, y'all wanna read the wip i had that sparked every path? it's kind of condensed brain-soup style but has key points and dialogue i wanted to include. :3 the doc name was just "ring"

---

(much, much later: a return to belobog for a week. Caelus catches up with old friends and old flames.)

koski came across a ring he's been holding onto for… no reason. reminded him of someone. more sentimental than valuable so he hasn't sold it. it's just cheap cubic zirconia, pretty as it is. he could probably have gotten someone to buy it at a high price thinking it's expensive orange topaz but… the thought of someone else having this sits wrong in his stomach. he's definitely not thinking about it lying in a box in his jacket pocket as he lies with Caelus after fucking. he holds his lover instead and pretends he's not leaving again in three days

catches a ride to the next stop with the express crew. swears he'll get off at the next stop, he's just wanting to make it off jarilo vi and into new markets. there's a whole wide world and new economies to learn to hustle after all. it doesn't hurt he can spend an extra day or two with Caelus.

when they disembark on a lively civship they still spend a couple days together before sampo realizes if he doesn't force himself to let go he's going to cling to Caelus forever

he secrets the ring into Caelus' pocket directly before they leave each other-it's a messy snoggy goodbye ofc. Sampo's off to find greener markets. Caelus is off finding side quests and people to help. eventually he digs in his pockets for money for lunch (some little hole in the wall Dan Heng knew about and only takes cash) and finds the ring. it's gunmetal finish with a brilliant yellow topaz. just like his eyes, even in a marquise cut like his diamond pupils. there's no way it was a coincidence. but why did sampo sneak it into his pocket?

it fits his ring finger perfectly. he feels warm and happy anyhow. it was nice to have something to remember him by since their work was taking them so far apart.

friends comment on ring later. c mentions he found it in his pocket earlier. m and dh exchange glances. "so he didn't propose with it, he just snuck it in your pocket? how cowardly."

"propose? propose what?"

"uh getting married? duh."

"well that doesn't sound like him anyway. is that what people do, ask someone to marry them with a ring?"

"yes????”

"March, he has even fewer memories than you."

"ooh, right. sorry"

cae studies the ring in his hand and thinks. "it's probably just a … a thing. something to remember him." later he snaps a picture of it on his hand and sends it.

c: [left me a surprise huh?]

[it's pretty. i like it]

[thanks <3]

he doesn't expect much in the way of a response but he did get a reply

s: [reminded me of you]

there's nothing else after that and Caelus feels a jolt of nervousness, wondering what's up. he tries to prod with humor

c: [careful, koski. you're getting dangerously close to sentimental~] a tilde to ensure the mood got through

it's a few minutes before he gets a reply. when calls reads it, he wonders if sampo has been writing and rewriting the text. it doesn't sound much like him

s: [i think i fell over that cliff a long time ago]

Caelus feels his breath catch in his throat- a heavy warm feeling collecting in his chest. they were never for talking about feelings. at least not honestly. sampo's dramatic declarations were mostly that- dramatics… but, maybe they hadn't been all bluster after all? Sampo's response hadn't been couched in poetic language. Even through text, it sounded like it had been muttered quietly, something he was terrified to admit out loud but unable to keep in any longer.

caelus swallows against the dread of the unknown and calls him instead. counts the rings. sampo picks up on the third ring.

“hey.”

“hi.” caelus wonders at the quiet, single syllable greeting. “you still on the Luofa?”

“mm. thought i’d get a …little drink before turning in for the night. skiff leaves in the morning.”

“is it any good?”

“finest plum wine on the entire Luofa~”

caelus chuckles. “that doesn’t tell me if it’s good.”

there’s a long moment of quiet. “i’ve been a bit… preoccupied. more interesting thoughts to hold my attention.”

“mm.” caelus leaned back on the bed and stared at the ceiling. “feel like sharing?” after a moment of quiet on the other side, he added, “anything to do with the ring you left me?”

“everything to do with it,” sampo whispered.

curled up in bed with the phone pressed to his ear, it felt like sampo was right next to him. caelus waited.

"my plans haven’t changed. you’ve got your work to do and i have mine. our paths are diverging.” sampo stares deeply into the crystal glass of plum wine without seeing it. “and it’s killing me to let go.” the slight break in sampo's voice nearly broke his heart. smooth-talking sampo koski didn't falter or stammer… unless the truth was that painful to tell.

“do we have to?” caelus whispered.

“we should.” that wasn’t a yes. that was the answer of a man who wanted anything but the path he was on.

“where are you?” caelus said suddenly. he pulled himself off the bed and shrugged on his jacket. “gilded frog by the jetty?” He saw the plum wine advertised when he and March and Dan Heng had wandered past that afternoon with snacks in hand.

“don’t,” sampo whispered, lowering his head to his hand. “that’s just going to make this so much harder.”

“you didn’t say we had to, just that we should,” caelus argued, taking off down the hall at a run now, dodging the night maid and skidding around the corner once outside. He waved apologetically at the person he dodged around and kept going. the frog wasn’t too far from their hotel after all and he was the second fastest of their little team. “i don’t want to let go either,” he said breathlessly. “wait for me.”

“cae-”

“please.”

the bartender’s head snapped up as someone burst into the little tavern, panting, phone still pressed to his ear. Sampo turned around, his own phone still at his ear, and locked eyes with Caelus. Caelus grinned and put the phone away, striding across the rest of the place towards the bar.

Sampo sighed, gave him a weary, tipsy smile, and put the phone away. This was only going to hurt a thousand times worse at the end, but seeing Caelus again now, that impending pain seemed light-years away. When they’d met, he would never have thought in a million years that this surly, grouchy-looking little punk harbored a smile like that.

It weakened his heart.

"Cae…" Caelus strode up to him, grabbed his face and pulled him into a deep kiss.

Just like that, whole again. Everything missing had returned. Sampo wound his arms around Caelus' waist and hugged him tightly.

[gremlinshatephilosophers]

Chapter 7: ZIRCONIUM - bat and sword earring sketch and monochrome bead kit with wires

I did a sketch of the bat and sword earrings I introduced in the previous chapter and how beading the wires might look.

And here’s a picture of what the bead trays look like (luckily I have an appropriately monochrome set along with the pink and blue one) and a closeup of the wires and hooks.

I know this chapter is called zirconium but let's be real, we've all seen plenty of cubic zirconia and I didn't feel the need to include any photos of it here.

If you haven't read chapter 7, read it here.

[ryqoshay]

Putting on Hairs: Post Production - Volare

Primary Pairing: ShikiMei Rating: G Words: 639 AU: Monsters Time Frame: sometime before the main story Prompt: Volare

---------

Summary: Shiki has created something new again

Author's Note: Bonus second entry for the 9th

---------

Mei startled as she grasped the knob on the door to the science clubroom. The texture was not what she expect… wait, had someone, no, had Shiki taped braille to the knob?

Up.

Mei slid her fingers up to the door itself. Sure enough, there was more braille.

Use caution upon entry. Mei read. Flying device experimentation in progress.

Interesting. Mei thought as she moved her hand back to the knob and opened the door.

Immediately, the sound of rapidly flapping wings met Mei’s ears. She couldn’t quite determine its location, so she stuck close to the door as she closed it behind her before letting her cat-like monuca ears out. It sounded like a bit like a cicada, although a bit deeper, as though larger, and undeniably mechanical in nature.

Did Shiki manage to finally figure out how to allow her crystal beetle, Latreille to fly?

Determining that the device was flying away from her, Mei took a few steps into the room. Her intent was finding her usual seat so she could begin her favorite afterschool routine of listening to Shiki tinker with experiments and relaxing in the science room’s refuge away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the school. However, as though sensing her movement, the flying contraption altered its course, straight toward her.

Mei couldn’t help tensing a bit but decided to trust Shiki’s design. Latreille had been programed, specifically, not to bite Mei. Surely, it would not cause her harm in other ways like ramming into her, right?

The mechanical bug landed gently on Mei’s shoulder.

“Mei.” Shiki spoke up. “It appears you have met Volare.”

Volare? “The philosopher?”

Mei could hear Shiki shake her head. “That’s Voltaire. And he was French.”

“Oh, so then English for electricity?”

“That is voltage.”

Mei scanned her memories. “Italian… for fly? Like the Dean Martin song, Volare?” Cantare. Oh oh oh oh. Let’s fly way up to the clouds. Away from the maddening crowds. Her mind couldn’t help continuing the lyrics. They were strangely fitting, considering the situation.

“Yes.” Shiki had said in the middle of Mei’s mind song.

“So you made a new bug? This isn’t Latreille?”

“Correct. Although again, Latreilla is not a bug, it is a beetle.”

“Right. Anyway, Volare does feel a bit lighter, now that I think about it.”

“Also correct. I made Volare with emerald instead of cubic zirconia. It is less dense, which appears to have made the difference I needed. However, the materials were a little more expensive.”

“I can imagine. But you still made your own emerald, right?’

“Correct. I am considering trying ruby next.”

“You still want to make more?” Mei couldn’t help asking, fully expecting an affirmative answer.

“I believe if I make enough and learn how to make them better mimic real beetles, I can eventually have them train my real beetles to not bite Mei.”

Mei smiled. “You’re still hung up on that, aren’t you.”

“I do not wish any harm to befall Mei.”

Mei chuckled. “I know. Still, I’m not sure if I’ll ever be fully comfortable around real beetles. But the ones Shiki makes,” she reached over to run her hand across the Volare’s carapace, taking in the differences between it and Latreilla’s, “I will always trust.”

“If only real insects were as programable as my automatons.”

Mei laughed again. “Isn’t there a superhero that controls insects or something? Maybe Shiki could make a device like theirs.”

Shiki took in quick breath. “Yes. That is what I will make next. Thank you, Mei. But first…” She set a finger on Mei’s shoulder near Volare “I need to work a bit more with this one.”

Mei hummed in response and found her favorite seat. From there, she spent the next hour listening to Shiki’s experiments with her new emerald bug.

---------

Author's Note Continued: Once again, I had to remind myself that if I am to write from the perspective of a blind Mei, it would be best to avoid visual descriptions.

On a different note, after a certain episode of s3 of Superstar, I really need to write more ShikiMei. And figure out the rest of the Liella shipping fleet arrangement.

Prior Prompts Used: Crystal Carapace Train Bug

[rcreveal]

The Trouble with a Keen Manager

A canon typical story set in the early 1990s just barely pre-Anti Christ S1 where Crowley loses most of his powers and needs help from new friends and old while he fights to regain his old power and autonomy...and just not to get discorporated! Banter, humor, drama, pining. Ch 1 of 22: This one is finished, so I won't leave you hanging, too long. Psst-Crowley in a kilt most of the story...

Chapter 1:

Aziraphale puttered about his bookshop dusting the stacks and looking over at the door from time to time. Drifting past his desk, he glanced at a book seller’s catalog laying open with colored ribbons marking his new purchases. Humming to himself happily, the angel’s fingers hovered over one of his most anticipated new selections.  Then he shook his head and set himself off to reorganize the Jane Austen.  Every time a new movie or television adaptation came out he had to guard his first editions from the depredations of the book buyers!

Oh he just couldn't wait!

Recently…

Crowley toyed with a self-addressed order postcard of the kind that might be “blown in” to a magazine or journal.  The kind of postcard that was an advert for double glazing, questionable self-care products, guaranteed cubic zirconia jewelry, and books not yet available in local shops.   They’d fall like raining frogs out of the magazine of the poor soul that just wanted to pilfer a little look at an article without buying the whole magazine AND they were each little temptations!  It’d been wicked fun suggesting ‘blow ins’ to the advertising blokes.  The little irritation to millions of people forced to wrestle with scooping up the pieces of paper or being inveigled to litter was a bonus for his reports.  Sometimes he’d sit across from a magazine stand just to watch it.  

Crowley had been sitting on a bench across from a magazine stand smiling to himself as the blow ins fluttered down, seeing the familiar crease between the brows and shuffled stooping and swatting for the little cards.  They even got away from people purchasing a magazine.  Littering thus tarnishing an otherwise upright citizen.  The rather excitable university student with the baggy jumper over baggy non-descript pants hadn’t noticed the card falling out when she’d stuffed the magazine into her bag.  From over the road it looked like she was taking home a deadly dry scientific journal of some sort.  During a lull in shoppers, Crowley had poured himself up from the bench and sauntered over to see what adverts had added to the litter on the city street, grinning to himself as he riffled the debris with his pointy toed shoe.  It was another bad day for double glazing!   Leaning over to see what sort of advert could possibly be in that dry old magazine, his fingers closed over the little bit of cardstock he’d marked falling from the student’s bag.

Flipping the little card over, he’d let out a ‘huh’ as he read the advertisement over the top of his sunglasses to better see the colored picture, looking more like a middle aged man who’d eschewed his readers than a debonair demon.  Pocketing the card, he wondered if he might just find a copy there…where had they moved now?  Oh, right, Carlton House Terrace, he turned to cross St James Park.  He could do with a brandy and they still had a clubroom there, surely.

Well that was a disappointment.

The tea room choices weren’t exactly what he’d remembered from the Royal Society, but the zip and tingle of all the thinking going on in the building was headier than most vintages as he meandered through the public exhibits.

“Pardon me, but would you carry this book?” Crowley asked the young man at the Royal Society book shop, flipping the card in front of his nose.

The fellow peered at the little card in Crowley’s hand and a smile broke over his face.  “Oh, I am so excited to see this one, sir!  Can’t wait to get my hands on it!”

“So, you don’t have a copy here?” drawled Crowley.

“Nooo, sir, that’s an American publication.  I don't know when we’ll get a copy.  You could ask your local bookseller to order one for you, if you don't want to wait,” the young fellow added helpfully.

A slight grimace on his face, Crowley pocketed the card again, “Thanks anyway,” waving a couple of fingers at the building,  “Like what you’ve done with the place,” Crowley sauntered away affecting nonchalance.

But the demon was thinking, ‘Yeah, he might, but…nah, not worth the risk.’ Crowley had rarely asked for anything from him outside the bounds of the Arrangement, and the business with the holy water made him even less likely to expose himself like that again even on a much smaller scale. Definitely not right now.  There were other ways.

The advert marred the perfect black austerity of Crowley’s huge desk.  It was a temptation, so that should be alright, plausible deniability and the like.  Pity Crowley was currently the focus of the temptation.  Worse, he could feel the laconic eye of the Pit on him more often these days.  Someone seemed to be going through a keen phase, so he’d been toeing the line more than he liked lately.  Made more difficult by some of the recent administrative changes.

Running his thin fingers over the address side of the card, Crowley pushed the card away and strove not to look at it.  Failing that, grumbling in the back of his throat, Crowley flipped the card over and let his eyes rangehungrily over the advert.  Holding the card up to eye level he looked at a red and yellow swirl on a deep black background and ground his teeth.  

A fruitless day of calling booksellers found that no one was planning on getting a copy of the book he wanted anytime soon.  Most had asked if he had inquired at the Royal Society.  

As he worked through the Book Sellers listed in the Yellow Pages from A to Zed (skipping the first shop listed under A, of course) some of the older shop owners started to offer ‘helpful’ suggestions.

“If it’s an unusual book that you’re after, you should check out A. Z. Fell’s in Soho.”

“You know, that Mr Fell gets books from across the pond pretty frequently,” another offered. 

“Mr Fell has connections for discerning patrons like yourself.  I can give you his number, if you like.”

After a few more exchanges like this, Crowley’s frustration was rising, as was his speculation that ‘Mr. Fell’ might not have always been entirely above board with his book collection.  With rising spirits, Crowley imagined the ‘dangerous’ ideas hidden in books and pamphlets banned over the years now lying in wait in the dusty corners of the book-hoarder’s shop to spring upon some unsuspecting mind.

Finally accepting that no bookseller in London was getting the book any time soon, he dialed the angel’s phone number by memory.  But he still had to figure out a way to get the book without letting his traditional adversary know it was for him.

***

Aziraphale strolled into St James park with interest piqued, just stopping to pick up a bag of breadcrumbs before making his way to the lean figure of Crowley who stood over by the pond with hands deep in pockets staring at the ducks.  Walking up to the duck pond some way away from the demon, Aziraphale started feeding the ducks and by pure happenstance, I assure you! drifted down to stand next to Crowley.

Without looking at him, Aziraphale murmured, “It’s been a while!  How’ve you been keeping?” politely, but a little cooly.  The angel had not cared for finding his home city surrounded by the dread sigil odegra.  Aziraphale didn’t much care for motorways in the first place, (too fast) but he suspected that Crowley might have had something to do with the M25 turning into an evil prayer wheel.

Making a sour face, Crowley replied, “Nnggh, gotta new manager.  Keen.”

“Really?  Keen how?” Aziraphale asked blandly.

Crowley grunted, “Some actual new ideas!” he said, sarcastically, “Memos requesting line item audits of miracles performed and how each upheld the glorious Great Plan for Satan’s supremacy.”

“Oh, that’s a blow,” Aziraphale replied solicitously.  “Home Office did that to me once.”

“You? Why?” Crowley replied, surprised.

“Said I’d made too many ‘frivolous’ miracles.” Aziraphale explained.

“Yeah?  Why would they say that?” Crowley replied with a little sarcastic smile, reminded of all the little restaurants and cafes the angel enjoyed.  Remembered rescuing Aziraphale from the Bastille when his miracles had been cut off.

Aziraphale hmmphed a little, turning to cast breadcrumbs in front of the demon, and noted the unaccustomed shabby look of Crowley’s clothing and his shaggy, tousled hair, it couldn’t be said to be a style (which wasn’t actually true, Kurt Cobain fans would have considered Crowley’s hair the height of fashion, except that they didn’t do high fashion).  That was odd.  Crowley kept his wardrobe pristine and took more care with his coiffure than Aziraphale.  

“Did they, ah,” Aziraphale inquired delicately, “‘Tighten the purse strings’ on you?”

After blowing out an expressive snort, Crowley slouched further, turning this way and that, “I’ve had to maintain clothing!  Do you have any idea how difficult it is to maintain silk while performing assignments in a rainy environment!?”

Raising his eyebrows and rolling his eyes to the side, Aziraphale smiled a tiny smile and said, “Well yes, dear boy, I do have some little facility in that department,” which the demon knew very well.  They’d had endless little disagreements about why Aziraphale kept his clothing fresh and tidy the human way and Crowley constantly cheated with miracles.  So, something was definitely amiss, but what?  “Why don’t you come by later and I can give you some tips.”

“Dunno.  It’s like someone’s staring at my back all the time!” 

So they would have to be extra cautious, “I’ve just gotten a new wine in from the New World, supposed to be rather special?”

“Mmmm,” Crowley wasn’t going to risk Hell’s new attention for a Pinot Noir.

“And a Scottish single malt.”

“MMmmm, yeah, alright,” Crowley acceded.  Risking Hell’s attention for whiskey was another matter.  The angel only drank that particular type of ‘demon drink’ with him.

“Well I’ll be off then,” Aziraphale said airily, passing just in front of Crowley as he walked purposefully out of the park.

Turning back to the ducks after the angel’s abrupt departure, Crowley looked down, only then noticing that Aziraphale had tucked the half empty bag of breadcrumbs into his pocket.

Shaking his head with a warmer smile on his lips, Crowley took out the bag and enjoyed feeding the ducks.

[justop-jewelry]

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[ask-a-goldsmith]

Hello my good people - I previously told you about different diamond simulants and their effectiveness in this post. However, I neglected to say anything about how to actually tell diamonds and diamond simulants apart. This post will be focused on how to tell simulants from genuine diamonds, rather than from each other, because that's generally what needs to be done.

I'll be trying to avoid repeating myself as much as possible here because posts about "what makes diamond simulants look like diamonds" and "how to tell diamonds and simulants apart" have quite a bit of overlap. I digress. (I digress a lot. Get used to it.)

First up - glass and plastic. Glass and plastic are made to sparkle, not fool anyone looking close. If a stone has rounded edges, It's plastic. You can also touch the stone to the back of your hand or your lips - if it's room temperature or warm, it's plastic.

Glass is slightly harder to tell, though most glass stones will have chips along the edges of the facets. If there are no chips, check for refractive index differences by looking into the stone through the large, flat top(known as the table). Slowly tilt the stone away from yourself. If you watch carefully, you should be able to see straight through glass stones at some angles. This trick should generally be used with others though - cubics and poorly cut diamonds also show this sometimes.

White sapphires are where it gets hard for amateurs to tell - the differences are mainly in the general look and feel of the stone and may require some practice. White sapphires will have a grayish, almost flat look to them, and no fire(colourful flashes). They will also be cut deeper than most diamonds, but that's near impossible to see in many settings. To check if a stone is a white sapphire, watch it while moving it around - if there are no colourful flashes, and the surface doesn't look like glass or plastic, it's probably a white sapphire.

I will note - these stones hardly ever exist in a vacuum. It's important to look at the quality of the jewelry that they're set in, and the other stones around them when determining if a diamond is genuine.

Cubic zirconias are where you will almost definitely need professional help - these bastards are hard to tell apart from diamonds, especially in settings. And yes, the bastard title is deserved. Several years in this industry has given me Opinions. Anyway. The easiest(non-destructive) way to tell a cubic from a diamond is to flip it upside down and look through the bottom facets, known as the pavilion. You know what? We need a diagram.

This trick is pretty easy with loose stones - take your tweezers, and move the stone(table down) across some printed lines. I usually use business cards, because they're right there and the line size works well. With a genuine diamond, you may see some darkening or a very faint line somewhere in the stone. With cubics, you'll be able to see right through. Generally not to the point of being able to read through it, but you can obviously see the line moving under the stone. ...I say obviously. Take anything I say is clear or obvious with a grain of salt. It's obvious to me, but probably not to the general public. Oops. This trick is MUCH harder with stones set in a ring - which is unfortunate because most stones are set in rings. If you can see the back of the stones, huzzah! You can sometimes do the same trick as with loose stones. If the stone backs aren't visible or the trick isn't working, as far as I know, you're kinda stuck with eyeballing it or the destructive method.

The other way to tell cubics and diamonds apart is to (maybe) destroy them! Yayyy! The grit used in sandpaper is harder than cubics, but softer than diamonds. This means that you can just sand the top of the stone a little, and if it's damaged, whoops! That was a cubic. The downside to this is it destroys the cubic, which usually results in angry people wanting their "diamond" replaced. Sigh.

The final diamond simulant I'll be talking about is moissanite. Moissanites are, as previously mentioned, my preferred diamond simulant. However, they are not the hardest to distinguish. Because of their double refractions, moissanite has a slightly fuzzy look up close. Up close being at like 5-10x magnification, but that's beside the point. You can also check if the stone has a higher-than-normal level of fire, though that needs to be done in comparison to a real diamond and is less effective than just checking for doubling.

There's absolutely no point talking about lab-grown diamonds, as they are actual diamonds. And therefore indistinguishable other than a laser-etched serial number. Some extremely fancy machines can tell the difference, but that is pretty irrelevant to the vast majority of people.

So! I hope I've answered all your(not asked lol) questions. If you have more or want elaboration on anything said here, let me know! I would love to talk about it!

[goldhartzjewelry]

The Original Vs. Simulant Face-Off: Decoding Gemstones - Diamond vs. Cubic Zirconia vs. Moissanite

Dive into the dazzling world of gemstones with our latest blog in our blog post in the series, Gold Hartz - Beginner's Guide:- "The Original Vs. Simulant Face-Off: Decoding Gemstones - Diamond vs. Cubic Zirconia vs. Moissanite". By unraveling the mysteries of diamonds, cubic zirconia, and moissanite, individuals can confidently navigate the gemstone market, ensuring that their jewelry choices reflect both personal style and informed decision-making. Click on the link to read more:

[georgiapeach30513]

My fav soba defender excuse that I’ve read recently is that she can’t promote her work because mean fans bully her. No seriously, there were actually discussions on other blogs where they claimed she wasn’t lazy and ungrateful, she was told not to promote her work so they wouldn’t harass her.

Yet….soba shows up to a appletv premiere and a GQ event and a Paris fashion show. Didn’t promote any work there either or other people’s work but did manage to look like a deadpan mannequin.

She was in PT the whole time and didn’t show up to her latest film festival Q&A. But is happy to show up to a more high profile event for a big men’s magazine promoting her “fashion” and cubic zirconia set from QVC.

Come on yall. Even if you Iike soba, can’t you see how transparent these noodles are???

(Sorry I hope this wasn’t too mean)

She’s not promoting her Portugal work. Don’t worry, when Mother Mary comes out, she’ll be all about that. Just wait.

At least she got an in season Miu Miu dress this time.

[dreamplanetuk]

Huitan Luxury Solitaire Engagement Rings AAA Pink Cubic

Huitan Luxury Solitaire Engagement Rings AAA Pink Cubic PRODUCT INFORMATION BRAND: HUITAN MODEL NUMBER: F726 Material: Brass, Cubic Zirconia SIZE: #6 7 8 9 10; WEIGHT: About 3.7g CONDITION: 100% Brand-new excellent craft PACKAGE CONTENT: 1pc ring, opp bag

If you have any questions please feel free to contact us. We will reply within 24 hours. JEWELERY MAINTENANCE: * If allergy exists, stop wearing.  This is a fashion jewelery, not real pure gold/silver * Keep this product out of reach of small children. * Reduce to touch sweat. * Take off the jewelry while bathing, washing. * Avoid the mixing with other jewelry or hard things. * Often clean it. * For example more sweat or bathing ....etc., will affect the colour change Color Mismatch: Differences in colour may be caused by some other reasons such as colour reflection in the monitor,lighting,background etc. Solitaire Engagement Rings

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[peachmindofficial]

Evil Eye Necklace: Meaning, Style Tips & Why You Need One

The evil eye is a symbol that has transcended cultures and generations. It is believed to ward off negativity and protect its wearer from harmful energy. Rooted in ancient traditions, the evil eye has been worn as an amulet for centuries, acting as a shield against ill intentions. Today, this timeless emblem is not only a protective charm but also a stylish addition to any jewelry collection.

At PEACHMIND, we have paired this iconic symbol with mother-of-pearl, known for its healing and protective properties, to create a meaningful and elegant piece. Our evil eye necklace is more than just a fashion statement—it’s a talisman of positivity and strength, crafted with exquisite materials to ensure beauty and durability.

The Exquisite Craftsmanship of PEACHMIND's Evil Eye Necklace

Every detail of our evil eye necklace has been meticulously crafted to ensure superior quality. Here's what makes our piece stand out:

Chain Length: Designed for versatility, the chain extends from 15" to 16", allowing you to style it at your preferred length.

Pendant Size: The pendant is delicate yet eye-catching, measuring L: 20 mm and H: 12 mm.

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Finest Cubic Zirconia: A stunning and ethical alternative to diamonds, the cubic gemstone adds a touch of brilliance to the piece.

Mother-of-Pearl: A timeless material known for its soft iridescence and spiritual significance.

At PM Studio, we enhance sterling silver by plating it onto an unpolished sterling silver base, ensuring a flawless surface. Then, we apply a super-thick layer of 18K Yellow Gold using advanced NT technology, adding a protective coating to extend the longevity of the vermeil. The result? A necklace that looks luxurious and stands the test of time read more.

[usercalculator]

Buy American Diamond Necklace Set Online – Elegance & Affordability Combined

Jewelry is a reflection of beauty, grace, and personality. A stunning necklace set can enhance any look, making it perfect for special occasions or everyday wear. If you're looking for the perfect blend of elegance and affordability, buying an American Diamond Necklace Set Online is the ideal choice. These exquisite pieces mimic the brilliance of real diamonds without the high price tag, making them a favorite among jewelry lovers.

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With so many options available, selecting the right AD necklace set can be overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you choose the best piece:

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At Sagun Ittu Jewel, we are committed to offering the finest selection of American Diamond Necklace Sets Online. Here’s why you should shop with us:

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Get the best deals without compromising on quality. We offer affordable luxury so that everyone can own stunning jewelry.

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[sterluvindia]

Sterling Silver Earrings for Valentine's Day: From Classic Studs to Statement Drops

Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to express love and affection through meaningful gifts. Jewelry, especially earrings, holds sentimental value and makes an unforgettable present. Sterling silver earrings are a fantastic choice as they offer a blend of elegance, affordability, and versatility. Whether you prefer classic studs or bold statement drops, there’s a perfect pair for everyone.

Why Sterling Silver for Valentine's Day?

Sterling silver is a go-to metal for jewelry lovers due to its affordability and luxurious appeal. Unlike cheaper alternatives, it doesn’t tarnish easily when cared for properly. It’s also hypoallergenic, making it a safe option for sensitive skin. Plus, its durability ensures that your gift will be cherished for years to come.

Classic Sterling Silver Stud Earrings

For those who appreciate simplicity, stud earrings are a timeless choice. They’re easy to wear daily and complement any outfit. Classic styles include round, square, and floral designs, often adorned with cubic zirconia or small diamonds for extra sparkle.

Charming Heart-Shaped Silver Earrings

Heart-shaped jewelry is synonymous with love, making it an ideal Valentine’s Day gift. These earrings come in various styles, including solid silver hearts, gemstone-studded hearts, and intricate filigree designs. They pair beautifully with romantic outfits like dresses and soft-toned tops.

Dainty Hoop Earrings: A Stylish Choice

Hoop earrings range from delicate, small loops to bold, oversized hoops. They’re incredibly versatile, suiting both casual and formal wear. If you’re planning a date night, opt for a medium-sized, gemstone-accented hoop to elevate your look.

Drop and Dangle Earrings for a Glamorous Look

Drop earrings add instant elegance and are perfect for special occasions. Whether featuring pearls, crystals, or silver motifs, these earrings enhance your overall appearance. They’re best paired with evening gowns and sophisticated attire.

Statement Sterling Silver Earrings

If your partner loves making a bold fashion statement, opt for large, intricate earrings. Abstract designs, geometric shapes, or gemstone-embedded pieces draw attention and make a stylish impact.

Gemstone-Embedded Silver Earrings

Adding colored gemstones like ruby, sapphire, or amethyst to silver earrings enhances their beauty. These vibrant stones hold different meanings, making them a sentimental addition to any Valentine’s Day gift.

Sterling Silver Earrings with Pearls

Pearls symbolize elegance and femininity, making them a romantic choice. Pearl-studded silver earrings complement both modern and vintage fashion styles.

Personalized Sterling Silver Earrings

For a unique touch, consider customized earrings with engraved initials, names, or birthstones. They add sentimental value and make for a truly personal gift.

Caring for Sterling Silver Earrings

To maintain their shine, clean earrings regularly with a soft cloth and store them in anti-tarnish pouches. Avoid exposure to moisture and harsh chemicals to prevent discoloration.

Matching Earrings with Valentine's Day Outfits

Choosing the right earrings depends on your outfit’s color and style. For formal dresses, opt for statement or drop earrings, while casual looks pair well with studs or hoops.

Where to Buy the Best Sterling Silver Earrings

Reputable jewelers like Tiffany & Co., Pandora, and online stores like Etsy offer high-quality sterling silver earrings. Compare prices and read reviews to find the best deals.

Gifting Sterling Silver Earrings

Presentation matters! Gift-wrap earrings in a velvet box and include a heartfelt note to make the moment even more special.

Conclusion

Sterling silver earrings are a perfect Valentine’s Day gift, offering elegance, durability, and timeless appeal. Whether you choose classic studs or glamorous drops, they are sure to make a lasting impression.

FAQs

Are sterling silver earrings good for sensitive ears? Yes! Sterling silver is hypoallergenic and a great choice for sensitive skin.

How do I keep my silver earrings from tarnishing? Store them in a dry place, avoid water exposure, and clean them regularly.

What is the best gemstone for Valentine’s Day earrings? Ruby, garnet, and amethyst are popular choices as they symbolize love and passion.

Can I wear sterling silver earrings daily? Absolutely! They are durable enough for everyday wear.

Where can I buy quality sterling silver earrings online? Trusted sites include Etsy, Amazon, and jewelry brand websites like Pandora.

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Product details ▪️ Item display length : 7.5 inches. ▪️ Material : Sterling Silver. ▪️ Metal type : Rhodium-plated-silver. ▪️ Clasp type : Lobster. ▪️ Chain type : Box. ▪️ Gem type : Moissanite.

About this item ▪️ The Fiery Brilliance of Moissanite: This necklace features a dazzling 2 carat moissanite, making it a brilliant and fiery alternative to a traditional diamond. Unlike other gems such as white sapphire and cubic zirconia, moissanite is nearly as hard as a diamond and more sparkly, making it virtually indistinguishable to the naked eye. This necklace is sure to impress your soulmate and be a stunning addition to any outfit. ▪️ Timeless and classic design: The 4 prong basket holding the moissanite at the front, with a heart-shaped design at the back, is a symbol of your eternal love and devotion. The 4 prongs represent the 4 cardinal directions, showing that your heart is always with her, no matter where she is. This elegant design is perfect for any occasion and will complement any outfit, making it the ideal gift for your soulmate's birthday, anniversary, Valentine's Day, Christmas, or simply to show your love. ▪️ Unique authenticity code: This necklace has a unique code issued by a Certified Testing Lab, ensuring the quality and authenticity of the Moissanite. The exclusive code making it a unique identifier for the necklace. When she wears it and sparkles with happiness, she will be reminded of the unbreakable bond you share, and the deep love you have for her. ▪️ Heartfelt message on a gift card: This necklace comes with a gift card that expresses your deepest feelings and the love you have for your soulmate. When she reads the message, she will be overwhelmed with emotion and feel truly loved and appreciated. This heartfelt gesture will make the necklace an even more special and meaningful gift for soulmate. An extra blank card is included, so you can write anything & address the gift to anyone. ▪️ Convenient gift wrapping included: The package includes a gift bag, wrapping paper, ribbon, double-sided tape, tissue paper, a gift card with a sentimental message, and a glittery card envelope. Everything you need to wrap the gift is included, or you can simply give the necklace in its fancy gift box. This convenient touch makes giving this beautiful necklace even more special.