Sunday, May 27, 2007

New Site Navigation

Hello all,

I'm just checking in to let you know that the site navigation has been changed to a sleeker, cleaner design. So if you see a copper-red bar at the top, please refresh your browser to see the new navigation.

If that doesn't work, please clear your cookies.

The flash feature allows you to navigate to our Featured Products, Bridal Collection, Father's Day Collection, Promotions, Newsletter Subscription, Leather Collection and Copper Collection.

Tuesday, May 22, 2007

Squeezing for All It's Worth

We're starting a series of eco-friendly tips, because we realize that going green is as easy as making minor changes to your daily routine, and because we love innovative ideas that will also reduce waste and un-clutter the earth.

Tip: Use ALL of your toothpaste/shampoo/conditioner/liquid soap
Literally, squeeze for all it's worth. Leaving that behind leftover toothpaste (or shampoo, or conditioner, soap, etc.) is actually a lot more than just a bit. I'm sure you know this if you've shared my frustration in trying to get the last of the shampoo out--there's still so much in there, why won't it come out!

Since squeezing, in this case, won't do the trick, water will. So will storing the bottle upside down.

Why is it such a big deal?
Because the amount of plastic in our landfills is a big deal. 10% of the nation's toothpaste goes unused, can you imagine how much less plastic we can use by using all of our toothpaste?? Or shampoo, conditioner, soap, etc. You get the idea.

After all, going green more about changing the small things in life, than simply thinking big and doing nothing at all.

Share your tips with us--leave comments or email us at info@wishgiving.com.

Sunday, May 20, 2007

Sharing Our Thoughts With You: Copyright & Design

The issue of copyright is something that cannot be ignored in any creative line of business. As designers, we hope that others will follow the "designer's code of ethics" and develop their own original work and respect others', but we know this is wishful thinking.

As we've mentioned before, Wishgiving has a great deal of respect for art in all forms, and because of this, we work hard to develop original work as well as protect our artists. Our artists' work, including designs, names of designs, site design, site copy, graphics and photography, are all preserved under copyright and receive our firm protection.

I'm mentioning this not only because I've found Wishgiving's designs/designs' names being duplicated, but also to make a statement regarding respect for original art. Copyright protection for art is more than business legalities; it is to acknowledge the profound respect for an artist. It is often taken for granted, or forgotten, that an artist's work is not simply the result of the hours put into creating a specific design. Rather, we should acknowledge the artist's devotion in developing that artistic eye, creativity and skill during his or her lifetime. An artist is never developed overnight, and each piece created is a result of the artist's devotion to art.

By taking another's designs to sell as their own, one offends the very idea of art and original design, detracting from the artistry of a piece by turning it into a means of profit. The artist in me finds it demeaning.

Aside from taking time to create our own designs, we also enjoy showcasing other works of art on both our main site, and on our blogs. All work we showcase is duly credited to the original artist/designer. We also contact individual artists to acknowledge their work and our mentions of their work.

Please join us in preserving original work, and look forward to introductions of artists that have inspired us.

Thursday, May 17, 2007

May's Birthstone: Agate

AGATE: a background & history
Agate is by far one of the nature's most creative gemstone creations. It is formed by filling the cavities of host rocks, creating beautiful colored bands that resemble the rings of a tree trunk. I am constantly amazed at the different varieties of agate, and their colors are always sparking new inspirations in the studio.

In ancient times, agate was valued as a talisman or amulet--said to quench thirst, protect against fever, and divert storms. European royalty enthusiastically collected bowls carved of agate. They are currently found in museums (such as the Louvre) in Europe.

Agate is found in a variety of places, including Idar-Oberstein, Germany, India, China, Italy, Scotland, Uruguay, Brazil, Madagascar, to name a few.

Information from the International Colored Gemstone Association.

AGATE: metaphysical healing properties
Agates are known to attract strength, and are considered as the main protection gemstone. Used in jewelry since the Biblical times, agates were used to ward off nightmares, stress, and to bring the sleeper good dreams.

Nowadays, Agate is said to be ideal for emotional and physical balancing, building healthy energy patterns and self confidence, self-honesty, reducing stress, help with blood circulation, longevity and protection. Also, it is a good gemstone to help one with their emotions--allowing one to accept their emotions, giving one strength to carry on. It is said that agate should be worn to when one is in need of making important decisions. It is physically used to aid stomach upsets.

Where can I find Agate?

We're very proud of our collection of agate pieces, and have them all neatly sorted here. For the visual reader, here's a sampling of our agate pieces:

LinkLinked Moss Agate Silver Necklace

Large Agate Leather Key Chain


What is the meaning behind birthstones?
For centuries, gemstones powers are believed to be enhanced at certain times of the year. Each birthstone has a period of time in which their healing powers are heightened.

Ideally, everyone would have a set of twelve birthstones to wear (one for each month), which is not a bad idea at all, considering the idea of empowering your accessories wardrobe--with style AND natural healing powers.

Birthstone gifts are awesome because they are both thoughtful to the recipient and easy for you. Of course, if you're having a hard time deciding which one to purchase, gift certificates are your best friend.