The Birthstone for April is

the stunning diamond...for both modern and traditional birthstones. 

Here are a few known facts about diamonds;.

* The tradition of presenting a diamond as a promise of marriage came from Archduke Maximilian of Austria in 1477.

* Ancient Greeks thought diamonds were splinters from stars that fell to earth.

* Ancient Greeks also thought diamonds were tears of the Gods & crystallized lightening.

* Diamonds have been used as cutting & engraving tools since early time.

* In 16th century England, diamonds were used by lovers to etch romantic vows into window panes.

* Diamonds are believed to bring their owners wealth, happiness & protection.

So there ya go! For all of you with April birthdays, now you know a bit more about your magnificent diamond birthstone.

I Made The Cover!!

I've been anticipating a package from `Bead Trends` all week, and it finally arrived today!  I submitted a pair of earrings last year for the April 2011 issue of Bead Trends, and to my surprise...not only are my earrings in the magazine, but they made the cover!!!  I'm SO excited!!!

Here they are!  "Sunkissed" created with Pink Amethyst briolettes and Citrine rondelles w/Sterling Silver.

A closer look inside the magazine.  I just love the way they photographed them!

 Another view of the entire page.

 I feel so blessed and happy to have my work recognized this way.  It's truly an honor!  I'll be like this -> :-D for the rest of the day...no, for the rest of the month!! LOL! :-D

"Many thanks to Bead Trends!"

*FYI -Click here -> Bead Trends is accepting designs for their October 2011 (deadline- April 25th) and November 2011 (deadline-May 25th) issues.  Give it a shot...you never know what can happen if you don't try.

News Flash on Artbeads.com Sweepstakes

The Artbeads Road to Tucson Sweepstakes is ending soon.  

 
This amazing prize includes round trip airfare for 2 to Tucson, Arizona to attend the Gem, Mineral and Fossil Showcase, 3 nights hotel accommodations and classes with renowned beading instructors.  Entries are being accepted for 1 more day, until March 16, 2011 @ 11:59pm Pacific Time.  I would love to see one of my wonderful blog readers win, so what are you waiting for?  You can't win if you don't play!  Just click on the photo above and/or the link above the photo.  Good Luck!