Crack the Clandestine Code of DiamondsWritten by M J Plaster
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Carat refers to weight. Because large diamonds are extremely rare, price rises exponentially rather than arithmetically according to carat weight. Each of four Cs affects price. Once you set a budget, determine attributes most important to you and select your diamond according to your preferences. Learn a few more simple terms, and you're well on your way to demystifying world of diamonds and carrying on a conversation with your jeweler that will turn heads of less astute shoppers. Shape also affects price, but only in terms of "shape appeal," how pleasing shape is to naked eye. By far, most popular shape is Round diamond, and it's most expensive as well. Fancy shapes such as Emerald, Marquis, Pear, Heart, Oval, Radiant and Princess, are less expensive than Round diamonds. Side by side, fancy diamonds look larger than Round diamonds of equal carat weight. If you want something out of ordinary, a fancy shape might be right for you. Facets refer to flat, polished surfaces of diamond. The round diamond checks in at 58 facets, most facets of all shapes. The most important facet is top or Table facet—the largest facet. Diamonds cut to perfection enable facets to refract light brilliantly. Settings should enhance brilliance and size of stones, not detract from them. The range of choices is stunning, from metal to prong display. Even more than shape, setting reflects your personal preference and style. Now that you understand clandestine vocabulary of diamonds, you can relax and have fun while selecting that one-of-a-kind, perfect diamond for you.

M J Plaster is a successful author who provides information on shopping online for http://www.jewelry-4-u.net/diamonds.htm, http://www.jewelry-4-u.net/engagement-rings.htm, and http://www.jewelry-4-u.net/gifts.htm. M J Plaster has been a commercial freelance writer for almost two decades, most recently specializing in home and garden, the low-carb lifestyle, investing, and anything that defines la dolce vita.
| | 4000 Year Old Secrets of Green TeaWritten by Gary Gresham
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It has also been shown that drinking green tea can give your body a greater ability to fight infection and kill bacteria. Green tea can even help prevent tooth decay. Its bacteria-destroying abilities kill bacteria that causes dental plaque and aids immune system with its antifungal properties by improving digestive function. You may be asking if other Chinese teas offer similar health benefits. But answer is no. Although green, oolong, and black teas all come from leaves of Camellia sinensis plant, way green tea is processed is what sets them apart. Green tea leaves are steamed, and that prevents EGCG compound from being oxidized. Black and oolong tea leaves are made from fermented leaves, which converts EGCG into other compounds. This process makes oolong and black teas much less effective in preventing and fighting various diseases. So how much green tea should you drink? There are as many answers to this question as there are researchers investigating health properties of green tea. While some companies selling green tea say that ten cups per day are necessary to reap maximum benefits, a University of California study on cancer-preventative qualities of green tea concluded that you could probably attain desired level of polyphenols by drinking two cups a day. The research of this ancient beverage continues, and it may take decades to unlock all of secrets it holds. Although green tea should not be considered to be a magic bullet, researchers agree positive health benefits are very promising. Copyright © 2004 Perfect Coffees.com. All Rights Reserved. ------------------------------------------- This article may be re-published "as is" (unedited) as long as author's bio paragraph (resource box) and copyright information is included. The URLs in resource box should be set as hyperlinks if used on a web page. -------------------------------------------

Gary Gresham is the webmaster for http://www.perfectcoffees.com where you can purchase quality coffee, tea, cups & mugs, coffee gifts and delicious desserts online. He offers a free monthly coffee newsletter at http://www.perfectcoffees.com/newsletter.html
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