Platinum is another precious metal used extensively in jewelry and is actually more expensive than gold. It is usually mixed with similar metals like palladium, or iridium. Quality markings for platinum are different than that for gold. For platinum it is based on parts per thousand. For example, marking 900 Platinum means that 900 parts out of 1000 are pure platinum. The abbreviations for platinum--Plat. or Pt. can also be used in marking jewelry.

The words silver or sterling silver describe a product that contains at least 92.5% silver. Silver products are sometimes marked 925 which means that 925 parts per thousand are pure silver. According to federal law, quality-marked silver also must bear name or a U.S. registered trademark of company or person that will stand behind mark. Some jewelry or silver items may be marked "silverplate": a layer of silver bonded to a base metal. Vermeil is a special type of gold plated product, consists or a base of sterling silver that is coated or plated with gold.

Pewter items may be described and marked as such if they contain at least 90% tin.

When you're in market for a piece of jewelry for yourself or someone you love, shop around. Whether it is online, in catalogs or at a traditional store make comparisons. Compare quality, price, and service. Ask about refund and return policies before you buy. And make sure you get a sales receipt containing any information you relied on when making your purchase.

Best wishes for an enjoyable and rewarding shopping experience!

All right then, how about third-date sex?

You may really be ripe for action, but I still advocate waiting. You can learn a lot more about a man (without clouding your judgment) if you keep sex out of equation until time is right. And waiting builds passion!

You're less likely to have bad sex with a man you've taken your time with than with some clown you hit sheets with too soon.

Of course, you risk being dumped if you don't hop into bed right away with certain guys. But think about it: Wouldn't you rather be dumped than be saddled with someone who's so utterly superficial and self-involved?

You deserve better.