Elfing It - The Elfster Blog

A Jaded Rat

kristine — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 03:52:29 +0000

Jade is a well-regarded gemstone in Asian culture. During Chinese New Year, one can find at many businesses jade money trees to ensure wealth (tree) and luck (jade).

Jade has lived a very long and prosperous life. This gemstone existed through many Chinese empires and was once so valued, artisans were only able to supply to the demands of emperors and their family members. Jade's significance in Asia can be compared to the Western view of gold and diamonds. Today, Jade is still respected, though not as difficult to obtain (unless it is an antique, which can auction for enormous amounts of money).

Jade symbolizes good and beauty. It was also described from ancient Chinese text to encompass benevolence, loyalty, wisdom, courage and integrity. This jade pendant necklace has the traditional pendant but nicely modernized with a silk cord. A no-brainer gift for someone born in the Year of the Rat (click here for zodiac sign chart).

Check this out. It's only $18. Unbelievable deal or what?

A Big Diamond You Can Afford

kristine — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 12:00:20 +0000

Ever since I've been better informed about the Diamond Cartel, I've become less inclined to buy or receive new diamonds. Here is a diamond alternative I find quite lovely, and incredibly humorous. It is made of mirrored Lucite, so it shines, just like diamond. (chuckle) This Diamond Necklace, however, will cost you only $40.

More Stunning Diamonds

kristine — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 12:00:15 +0000

Yet another alternative to real diamonds. This black and white "Stunning Diamond Necklace" will sure get a chuckle out of everyone, except maybe her... at first. Oh, she'll grow to love it eventually! Hand-made by artist Irina Blok, this Stunning Diamond Necklace is an even better deal at $25.

_{via ThisNext}

Small Things Diamond Necklace

kristine — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 12:00:12 +0000

A less flamboyant alternative, a silver pendant etched with the diamond symbol. From Small Things, Portland, Oregan, the necklace is $50.

The Unconventional Wedding Rings

kristine — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 12:00:10 +0000

Since we're on the topic of engagement rings, here is a set of unconventional rings that I would consider for myself... [if and] when I ever get married, that is. The ziptie is one of my favorite utilitarian products ever designed. I think it quite funny the relationship between ziptie and marriage... These Ziptie Rings can also be purchased individually. $180

Diamond Ring

kristine — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 12:00:10 +0000

You have to love all the wonderful designer alternatives to the real thing. This Diamond Pendant Ring is $45 and much more hip than a real diamond. However, a word of warning to you fellows out there... Do not, let me repeat, do not give this as an engagement ring. We don't care how good of an excuse you may have, you will be single immediately if you try to pull this one. (Buy a beautiful gemstone ring as an alternative).

In the Meantime...

kristine — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 12:00:05 +0000

Since I'm forever the bridesmaid and never the bride, I'll settle for this fabulous Unwedding Ring. Very clever design and funny as all heck. Since it'll have to be purchased by moi for moi, I'm very glad it's only $60.

(ps. Don't be sad for me about the bridesmaid/bride comment. I'm a very happy and content being single.)

Win a Sustainable Bamboo Bracelet

Elfster — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 05:54:06 +0000

Hey! There's still time to sign up for the public gift exchange Green Gifting at Elfster.com. You will feel good about doing good, and plus, you automatically enter to win one of twenty Sinu Tribe Bamboo Bracelets from Sahalie.com.

The goal of Green Gifting is simple...

Reuse -> Regift -> Regenerate -> Reduce Waste.

Regenerating interest and desire for a product will extend its life, which means we keep it out of a landfill somewhere. Such an easy change to our lifestyle can potentially trigger dramatic results. But it will require critical mass to make that trigger happen. So come join and help us with our effort to spread the word and influence change.