gemological institute of america http://www.artwoo.com Returned search results for gemological institute of america Copyright 2008 Sun, 23 Nov 2008 05:49:31 +0000 http://www.artwoo.com/rss/gemological+institute+of+america Diamond Certificates http://www.artwoo.com/article/diamond-certificates http://www.artwoo.com/article/diamond-certificates#comments Sat, 12 Aug 2006 02:27:12 +0000 diamond diamonddiamond certificatesdiamond gradingdiamond salesgemological institute of americasell diamondsjeweler http://www.artwoo.com/article/diamond-certificates Diamond certificates from independent organizations such as the (GIA) provide a report, that gives you valuable information about the 4 C's that were taken into consideration when the diamond was priced. It's important that you use an outside source for diamond certificates, instead of the who is selling the diamond you are interested in, because the jeweler wants to make money on the sale of the diamonds, the certificates may be slightly biased and you could be paying more than the market value of the diamond.

Reasons to have Diamond Certificates

When you go to a jewelry store, or consider making a purchase from an online retailer, the jewelry that has diamond certificates tends to sell for several hundred dollars more than diamonds that are graded the same that are without certificates. This is because the jeweler recognizes that they typically grade their diamonds one level better than an independent grading organization, like the Gemological Institute of America. The GIA is more conservative when grading diamonds because they do not gain anything from .

Pay the Right Price for your Diamond

Diamonds are valued according to their quality based on a grading system that makes use of the 4 C's. You should receive diamond certificates (also called grading reports) from independent companies rather than a jeweler, to insure that your getting an unbiased reporting of the value of the diamond. Otherwise, you could be paying much more for your diamond than what the diamond is actually worth.

Protecting Your Investment

Diamonds are not the same kind of investment as buying stocks and bonds, but having diamond certificates gives you a better investment than just having the diamond. Diamond certificates make it easier to sell a diamond in the future, because you have documentation of how much the diamond is worth and why it was valued that amount. In fact, if you attempt to without having diamond certificates, most dealers will not buy from you and you would end up having a certificate drawn up anyway, so you may as well have a certificate grading report created at the time of purchase, for your current protection as well as future possibilities for selling.

Increased Security during Cleanings and Repairs

Many people hesitate to bring their jewelry into the jeweler's when they're in need of repair services or cleaning. It makes people wonder how they'll know for sure that they've received the same diamond back that they brought in. It is an extremely rare occurrence for a jeweler to purposely switch diamonds, however it could happen unintentionally. Diamond certificates act as an additional security measure in this case. They are like fingerprints stored in police databases; they contain all the data needed to match the person to the fingerprints, and diamond certificates have enough information on the diamond to match the diamond with the certificate and the owner. Burt Cotton http://www.about-diamonds.com ]]> Diamond Grading Report http://www.artwoo.com/article/diamond-grading-report http://www.artwoo.com/article/diamond-grading-report#comments Tue, 02 Jan 2007 10:27:07 +0000 gemological institute of americadiamond gradingdiamond with a diamonddiamond certificatecarat weightdiamond insurancediamond certificates http://www.artwoo.com/article/diamond-grading-report Diamond Grading Report is more commonly called a . This report, which any buyer should require before purchasing a diamond, comes from the (GIA).

A diamond certificate allows a prospective buyer to verify the color, cut, carat, weight, and clarity of a diamond. It relieves the worry of a diamond dealer saying anything less than the truth because the certificate comes from the GIA rather than the dealer. Some sellers require the buyer to absorb the cost of the certificate, but the cost is usually low. In many cases the certificate helps the buyer to negotiate a better price on the diamond or prevent them from purchasing an undesirable diamond, making the certificate well worth the expense.

come in especially handy for people who buy a high quality diamond, and then later decide to sell the diamond. Not only will it help them be sure to get a good deal when buying, but it can make selling easier as well, since most buyers will expect a diamond certificate. Furthermore, the Diamond Grading Report can be used to look up the current wholesale value of the diamond in question. The guide used by the diamond cutting industry should be used as a reference.

There won't be any doubts when trying to purchase a certificate. It makes it easy to find out what the diamond is worth. This prevents the buyer from overpaying, and can prevent a seller from undercharging as well.

When insuring a diamond a copy of the Diamond Grading Report should be given to the insurance company. If it ever becomes necessary to file a claim over the theft of the diamond, having the diamond certificate on file with the insurance agency provides absolute, unquestionable proof of the value of the diamond. Insurance companies cannot argue with the report itself.

Any diamond dealers that seems reluctant to provide a certificate should be avoided. Also avoid sellers that claim a certificate diamond will cost more--the only additional cost should be the relatively small cost of the certificate. If a dealer doesn't want to provide a certificate, then doing business with that dealer is extremely hazardous.

The GIA is the only gemological laboratory that certificates should be accepted from. There are many gemological labs these days, but many are disreputable and may issue inaccurate or blatantly false certificates. The GIA is not only the oldest lab, it has been established as the most respectable and trustworthy as well. Dealers that don't want to use GIA for certification purposes are not likely to be honest dealers.

The extra cost of the certificate should be expected when buying an expensive diamond. If a dealer tries to push the sale without the certificate, or if they want to use a company other than GIA, the buyer should assume the dealer has something that they are trying to hide and refuse to conduct business with that dealer. John Miller enjoys writing for several online magazines, including http://products-tips.com and http://cheap-product.com ]]> Assessments Set In Stone http://www.artwoo.com/article/assessments-set-in-stone http://www.artwoo.com/article/assessments-set-in-stone#comments Wed, 05 Dec 2007 15:35:01 +0000 loose diamondsgemological institute of americamost highly respectedhave been evaluateddiamond cutterdiamond valuediamond group http://www.artwoo.com/article/assessments-set-in-stone loose diamonds online you'll find much help. Most of the loose diamonds sold on the Internet will have been certified. This certification indicates that the loose diamonds by a professional gemology laboratory that is independent of the merchant selling the loose diamonds.

This gemology lab will use a device called a Sarin. This machine is designed to measure the diamonds precisely, looking at specific characteristics that help determine . These characteristics are its length, its width, the size of its girdle and table as well as every angle created by the . The second step is for the loose diamonds to be examined by trained gemologists, whose job it is to assign grades of both clarity and color. The grading system requires a highly competent diamond professional as the process has not tool or machine that offers any precision on the grading itself.

The color of loose diamonds is determined through a comparison of a control with a known color against the diamond being evaluated. The gemologist then assigns the color of the studied diamond based on its matching one of the loose diamonds in the control group more closely than the others. This process relies heavily on gemologist judgment and experience.

The gemologist then determines the clarity of the loose diamonds through examination for inclusions. Once the inclusions are found they are then counted, and their size and location noted =96 all of which affect the grading of the loose diamonds.

There are numerous noteworthy and highly regarded gemology labs in the loose diamonds business, but the best known and perhaps is that of the (GIA.) The International Gemology Institute (IGI) is highly regarded as well.

Once the gemology lab has finished grading the loose diamonds, each is issued a certificate. This certification describes each loose diamond's weight, measurement, clarity and color. Most gemology labs don't give written appraisals for loose diamonds, to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest.

Source: http://www.diamondse.info/diamonds-grading.asp Karen Baron http://www.diamondsonweb.com/ DoW carefully inspects and selects only the finest diamonds for our exclusive collection. ]]> Polish As A Perk http://www.artwoo.com/article/polish-as-a-perk http://www.artwoo.com/article/polish-as-a-perk#comments Fri, 07 Dec 2007 02:25:01 +0000 gemological institute of americagemological institute of america giapolish linesflawless diamondloose diamondsdiamond marketdiamondsonweb http://www.artwoo.com/article/polish-as-a-perk loose diamonds. The grading system for polis is set by the (GIA.) The system is fairly simplistic. Loose diamonds have polish that is either excellent, or very good, or good, or fair or poor. If the loose diamond has a poor rating for its polish that means that it could reduce the intensity of any light that is reflected into or out of, or from, that loose diamond. The way gemology labs assess the polish of loose diamonds is to examine the diamonds minutely, looking at each facet separately. They do this by studying the reflected light the loose diamonds create when placed under a microscope.

Polish, just like the symmetry of loose diamonds, has become quite important in the because it appears on the gemologist's report and also because there is no standard for grade of cut by GIA. The most common defect of the polish of loose diamonds consists of grain lines on its surface. Even highly skilled cutters can come across variations in how hard or grainy the surfaces of the loose diamonds are as they are polishing the diamond's facet. This is similar to what happens when working with wood. The result of this is a miniscule polish line that runs across a facet of a diamond. These lines of grain happen often in diamonds that are fancy and pink, although it's seldom possible to even see them except when they are in reflected light.

If a buyer chooses loose diamonds that have inclusions rated SI or VS it probably won't matter that they have a few microscopic size . If one is seeking a , however, excellent polish is going to be of paramount importance. Any loose diamonds that have polish ratings of fair or poor will have visual performances that are noticeably less attractive than those with the higher ratings for polish.



Source: http://www.diamondse.info/diamonds-polish.asp Karen Baron .com/" >http://www.diamondsonweb.com/ DoW carefully inspects and selects only the finest diamonds for our exclusive collection. ]]> The Four C's You Need To Know When Purchasing Your Diamond http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-four-cs-you-need-to-know-when-purchasing-your-diamond http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-four-cs-you-need-to-know-when-purchasing-your-diamond#comments Thu, 21 Sep 2006 22:27:06 +0000 diamond cutsdiamond cutflawless diamondsyellow diamondsquality diamondstrillioncarat http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-four-cs-you-need-to-know-when-purchasing-your-diamond carat of the diamond.

A diamond with no color allows maximum light to pass through it, therefore this type of diamond is usually preferred for its sparkle. On the color grading scale, diamonds graded D, E, and F mean they have no color. G, H, and I diamonds have very little color. J, K, and L mean that the diamond is a slight yellow color. P, Q, R, S, T, U, V, W, and X diamonds have a darker shade of yellow. Diamonds graded Z has a color other than yellow or white and are the rarest and most expensive diamonds in the world. Generally, D-graded diamonds are the most valuable, and X the least.

The cut of the diamond refers to the shape it is cut into and also its reflective quality.

Diamonds are generally cut with 58 facets. The sparkle and brilliance of the diamond generally depends on its cut, its angles, its finish and its ability to reflect light. The most popular s are heart, oval, marquise, princess, pear, , round, and emerald. Common cutting problems include a diamond cut too thin that causes it to lose some of its sparkle, or a missing or off center culet.

The clarity refers to the diamond's internal and surface imperfections and blemishes. Diamonds that are clear are more brilliant; they are also quite rare and thus highly priced. These have no internal or external imperfections or blemishes

The perfect diamond carries a grade of FL or IF, that is, Flawless or Internally Flawless. A diamond with a grade of I-1, I-2 or I-3 means that it is imperfect, with I-3 being the worst grade. VVS1 and VVS2 means that the diamond is very very slightly imperfect; VS1 and VS2 diamond is very slightly imperfect; and SI-1 and SI-2 means that the diamond is slightly imperfect.

The unit by which the weight of the diamond is measured by is called the carat. One carat is equal to 200 milligrams. A carat is divided into 100 segments called points, with 150 points equal to one and a half carats.

When you purchase a diamond, you must purchase a diamond certificate also known as the Diamond Grading Report. This report is issued by the Gemological Institute of America otherwise known as GIA. With this diamond certificate, you can verify the diamond's color, cut, clarity and carat. You can buy a diamond with confidence from the diamond dealer as long as the certificate is GIA-issued and not from the dealer. Do not accept certificates from any other institute other than GIA, as GIA has been established as the most trustworthy and respectable. For more tips on purchasing Diamonds, visit Susan's site at http://www.lovely-diamonds.info and http://www.exquisite-diamonds.info. Susan also enjoys writing on a wide range of topics at http://www.home-and-family-hub.info. ]]> Getting Married? A Step-By-Step Guide To Picking The Perfect Diamond http://www.artwoo.com/article/getting-married-a-step-by-step-guide-to-picking-the-perfect-diamond http://www.artwoo.com/article/getting-married-a-step-by-step-guide-to-picking-the-perfect-diamond#comments Wed, 11 Oct 2006 18:27:10 +0000 diamond caratcarat weighteducate yourselfwhiteflashjewelry storediamondsswoon http://www.artwoo.com/article/getting-married-a-step-by-step-guide-to-picking-the-perfect-diamond Whiteflash.com, an online diamond and jewelry boutique specializing in Hearts and Arrows .

. Start the education process by learning about the four Cs. "Understand how diamonds are evaluated and categorized," says Brian Gavin, an internationally known diamond expert and co-founder of Whiteflash.com. The four Cs refer to clarity, cut, color and carat, and by understanding each, Gavin says, you can determine which is most important to you and then start shopping. "This will also help you determine how much you're willing to spend," he adds.

Because education is important when engagement ring shopping, Whiteflash.com offers an interactive DVD, which features an in-depth look at each of the four Cs.

Get input. Find out what she wants. Gavin says, "It's better to be safe than sorry." Take her to a -- that is, if marriage has been a topic of conversation and a surprise engagement is not on your agenda. "Have her try on as many rings as possible," suggests Gavin. "Make her look at every shape of diamond and type of setting." Another way to gauge whether she prefers pear-shaped over princess cut is have her look at bridal magazines like "The Knot" or "Brides" or at an online diamond expert's site like Whiteflash.com. "Either way, you'll know exactly what will make her when you pop the question," says Gavin.

If you're being discreet, look at the jewelry she wears on a day-to-day basis; is it classic or vintage in style? Is she prone to wear larger pieces or dainty? The other option is to ask someone close to her, like a sister or a best friend, for insight.

Let's talk carats. According to Gavin, as soon as you've decided shape, you need to look at the carat or weight of the diamond; carat is how diamonds and other precious gemstones are measured...in "carat" weight. One carat, for example, equals 1/5 of a gram. "We also refer to carat in points," says Gavin. "There are 100 points in a carat and as points or carats increase, so does the price of the diamond." For example, the price per carat will be less for a .90 diamond than the price per carat for a 1.00 diamond even if the color and clarity are the same. "Determining the size of the diamond, and then the cut and color is really going to help establish your budget parameters," he says.

Pick a color. "Color is the third most important decision in the diamond selection process," says Bob Hoskins, senior gemologist for Whiteflash.com. Diamond color is graded according to the Gemological Institute of America or GIA Color Grading Scale -- D being the whitest, and N and below color ratings showing noticeable yellow tones. "E and F have no detectable color tones to the naked eye," says Hoskins, who graded diamonds for the Gemology Institute of America (GIA) and taught several courses on colored stones. "And from G to J range, diamonds remain near colorless," says Hoskins, "however, from J to M, you do begin to see a faint trace of yellow."

A Cut Above diamonds or ACA, an exclusive brand of Hearts and Arrows diamonds available only through Whiteflash.com, range in color from D to I. Because of their superior cut, ACA even 'face-up' appear whiter than their lab-assigned grade. "A great cut improves the apparent color of any diamond," says Hoskins.

The cut and sparkle. Cut is the most important and perhaps the most misunderstood and controversial of the four Cs. "It's about more than the shape of a diamond," explains Gavin. "When we talk cut, we're talking about the exact angles, proportions, symmetry and polish that affect the way the diamond reflects light and sparkles." Diamond dealers also refer to cut as "make" -- as it is the only feature of a diamond that can be controlled by man, and it must be precise. Each facet -- or small plane surface on the diamond -- must be cut to align perfectly with the facet opposite it. "There's not much room for error," says Gavin, "because this affects the diamond's ability to sparkle, or what we call in the industry...brilliance."

How important is clarity? Gemologists use a grading scale set forth by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) to determine a diamond's clarity -- how clean the gem appears when viewed through a magnifier. Most diamonds contain some "inclusions" -- crystalline fractures or irregular crystal growth. The Gemological Institute of America GIA Clarity Grading Scale ranges from Internally Flawless (IF) through included (I3). Flawless (F) and Internally Flawless (IF) being the highest, with the next best grade being VVS1 and 2 or very slight inclusions followed by VS1 and 2, referring to very slight inclusions, which according to Hoskins, "are difficult to see even with magnification."

SI1 and 2 diamonds will have slight inclusions, which are easily seen through magnification, but may remain clean to the naked eye, depending on the specific diamond. Hoskins says grades I1, I2 and I3 indicate inclusions that are visible under magnification and also to the naked eye. "The clarity of the stone you purchase will depend on your level of comfort and budget," he says. His advice: Inclusions are more difficult to see in ideal cut and super ideal cut diamonds, because of the exactness in the cut.

Establish a budget. After determining the four Cs, you should be able to set a budget or at least have a figure in mind. The general rule of thumb is to set aside two months worth of salary. "If you're hesitant to set a dollar amount, look at your options in diamonds and settings to get a general idea of what you'd like to spend," advises Gavin.

Select a jeweler. You have more options than the local jeweler around the corner. There are independently owned boutiques, national chains and now with the Internet revolution ... online diamond boutiques like Whiteflash.com. No matter whom you buy from, make sure the jeweler is reputable and affiliated with the American Gem Society (AGS). "If you're unsure of the jeweler's credibility, check with the local Better Business Bureau," suggests Gavin. "You can also test how knowledgeable the staff is about diamonds, look into customer reviews and look over the company's return and repair policies ... this is important."

Time to shop! Before you place the order, make sure that you will receive a grading report with your purchase. "If a grading report will not accompany your diamond, make sure the sale is contingent upon an independent appraiser's opinion," advises Gavin. Another option is to ask for a fingerprint of the diamond. This is a three-dimensional drawing of the diamond indicating the four Cs, along with the stone's overall dimensions and enhancements. Inclusions and blemishes should be noted. "As soon as you receive the diamond, double-check all of the information, including the bill of sale and drawing to make sure that it is, in fact, the diamond you purchased," finishes Gavin.

When purchasing from an ACA diamond from Whiteflash.com, customers receive the gem's certification and a signed letter of verification from an independent graduate gemologist appraiser for insurance purposes.

Set the diamond. If you purchased a loose diamond, you're now faced with the setting. And, like diamonds, the options are endless. Consider three stone settings, a solitaire or a custom design. Both Gavin and Hoskins suggest allowing four to six weeks before popping the question if you go the handcrafted route. If you're simply lost in the decision making process -- propose with diamond in-hand and pick out the setting later -- together! John Pollard is Director of Consumer Education at Whiteflash.com - a company specializing in http://whiteflash.com/Engagement-Rings/Styles/Solitaire/2.htm and http://whiteflash.com/golden-wardrobe/whiteflash-design.aspx ]]> Jewelry Jobs - How To Start Your Dream Career http://www.artwoo.com/article/jewelry-jobs-how-to-start-your-dream-career http://www.artwoo.com/article/jewelry-jobs-how-to-start-your-dream-career#comments Thu, 24 Jan 2008 00:30:01 +0000 hand eye coordinationbusiness management experiencemanagement integritycustomer service relationsself prideproper guidancebridal products http://www.artwoo.com/article/jewelry-jobs-how-to-start-your-dream-career proper guidance and hard word work you can achieve any amount of success that you set your mind to. First, you must understand that there are many product types and you can spend a lifetime becoming an expert in one. Some of these product types include timepieces, polished diamonds, fashion jewelry, colored gemstones, , luxury items and many more. I recommend deciding which product intrigues you most and pursue a career in that product category. Choose the field that is most needed in that particular product category and then maintain a passion for what you are selling or creating, this is an important ingredient in a successful career.

Determine your Niche Field

As I said, each field has its benefits and you've got to determine which is going to be most beneficial to you and provide you with the lifestyle that you are looking for. Assess your skill sets and then try to match them up with the field that requires the most of what you possess. Read the chart below to identify the required skills for each career field:

Designer - Creativity, computer skills, basic jewelry making knowledge, fashion sense, math skills.

Goldsmith - Mechanical skills, hand-eye coordination, patience, detailed oriented, integrity, self-pride.

Gemologist - Math skills, organizational skills, integrity, quick learner, investigative, interest in gems.

Buyer - Eye for fashion, organizational skills, accounting skills, forecasting, management skills.

Store Manager - Sales skills, organizational skills, previous experience, effective at time management, integrity, customer service and relations, .

Watchmaker/horologist - Mechanical skills, hand-eye coordination, patience, detailed oriented, integrity, self-pride.

Salesperson - Sales skills, people skills, organizational skills, motivated, willingness to learn, knowledge of gems and goldsmithing.

Store Owner - Basic knowledge all of the above, investment capital.

Training and Education

As with any career choice, education and training is crucial to achieving success. The industry has several educational institutions that will prepare you by providing the proper knowledge of the business. I've always been a huge advocate of continuing education and even though I have 20 years experience in the jewelry business I'm still learning every day. I recommend a life-long effort in learning that not only includes industry specific information but also any business training and self-help that you can apply in your daily work. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is a great resource for gemological training and is a must if you want to pursue the gemologist field. As a salesperson, the Accredited Jewelry Professional degree from GIA is a great start, especially if you don't have experience. People trying to pursue a career in store management or ownership can take jewelry business management courses. Other training institutions worth mentioning are the American Gemological Society and Jewelers of America. Goldsmiths can also take jewelry making courses at GIA however there are much better schools for goldsmiths that you can attend. The most renowned jewelry making schools are The New Approach School for Jewelers and the Revere Academy of Jewelry Arts. These schools have specialized training for people that want to become benchmen, diamond setters, and designers.

Designers can attend GIA or the Fashion Institute of Technology to receive an in-depth education on creating jewelry designs using traditional methods or new technology like CAD-CAM. You can get examples of how custom design is performed using CAD-CAM at design your engagement ring Watch makers are one the fastest growing opportunities in the luxury products field. Mechanical Swiss watch sales in the US have grown considerably over the last 5 years and a need for qualified people that can repair them has also grown. A great resource to learn the craft of watch making is the American Watchmakers-Clockmakers Institute.

Getting Your Foot in the Door

If you've had prior sales experience then you probably have a good chance at landing a sales position however, an AJP from GIA is a shoe in. As previously mentioned, integrity is of the utmost importance in the industry especially when considering the security issues surrounding high value items. When interviewing with potential employers you should be able to demonstrate a high level of integrity and honesty to the interviewer.

Completion of jewelry educational training is certainly a good way to find a job in the jewelry business however; you don't necessarily need it to be guaranteed a job. Sometimes showing a sincere interest in a job and a willingness to start at the bottom and spend time learning can capture the interest of an employer. As a jeweler you'll definitely need experience or training, however even with training you'll still have to start at the bottom and work your way up. The best advice that I can give the goldsmith candidates is to never stop learning and always seek additional training. Additional training will make you invaluable and will help you earn higher pay scales.

Promote Your Craft

Once you've established yourself in the industry you should act as a responsible steward to the business. Treat your position and responsibilities with the utmost respect and integrity. A jewelry purchase can be an intimidating process for the average consumer and it is our responsibility as professionals to honor the customer's needs and educated them in the best way we know how. You should also promote the business and encourage others to become involved in the industry. Finally, take the time to share your knowledge with others as this will further promote professionalism in our business. Andy Moquin has spent 20 years in the jewelry business buying and selling over $20,000,000 in diamonds, engagement rings and custom designed jewelry. He can be reached at http://www.rokstok.com and http://www.therealscooponbuyingdiamonds.blogspot.com ]]> Selecting A Good Place For Cisco Certification For International Students http://www.artwoo.com/article/selecting-a-good-place-for-cisco-certification-for-international-students http://www.artwoo.com/article/selecting-a-good-place-for-cisco-certification-for-international-students#comments Wed, 27 Jun 2007 12:15:00 +0000 cisco certification trainingcisco catalyst switchescisco coursesrouters ciscocisco routersindiahesitate http://www.artwoo.com/article/selecting-a-good-place-for-cisco-certification-for-international-students India and are on the look out for a good place for Cisco Certification in India, here are some important pointers that you need to keep in mind before you select an institution:



1. Look for a Cisco authorized institute that has a track record of hiring only experienced and qualified trainers who are experts on the subject matter of the courses you intend to study. Do not to ask to be introduced to the course faculty or or even for a trial class before you join the institute. It will help you know important factors like whether the staff is trained and if the batch size is small enough to give you personalized attention.

2. Select an institute that offers good infrastructure for . The institute should have an ample number of , etc.

The institute should be able to adequately replicate a lab scenario from a reference workbook.

3. Some institutes take advantage and hike their regular rates for international students. Make sure that the institute you select offers you the same pricing as they offer their students in India.

4. Look for institutes that will help you arrange for accommodation at reasonable costs and close to where they are situated.



5. Look for an institute that has an ample number of classrooms

and adequate internetworking infrastructure. This will help you to easily find plenty of available slots for self-practice even after your course ends.

6. Also, try and talk with present and past students of the institute. They will be able to guide you correctly and also tell you whether the institute really is value for money and whether they keep the promises they make at the time of admission.

Join the institute only when you are completely satisfied that they are giving you a good deal. Cisco Certification Training at Gates Training - Gates training offers Cisco certification training in various like CCIE, CCNP, CCSP and many more.... For more info visit http://www.gatestraining.com ]]> Diamond Clarity http://www.artwoo.com/article/diamond-clarity http://www.artwoo.com/article/diamond-clarity#comments Sat, 12 Aug 2006 22:27:13 +0000 diamond claritygemological institute of americaflawless diamondsmagnificationgemstonedotsclouds http://www.artwoo.com/article/diamond-clarity Diamond Clarity?

Diamond clarity is the measure of flaws found in and on the outside of a diamond. The less flawed a diamond is, the more value it has and the higher the price tag. There are very few diamonds which can be categorized as having no flaws at all, however, most diamond flaws cannot be seen without of at least 10 times. Because issues with diamond clarity are often undetected when looking at a diamond, some people consider this to be one of the least of their concerns when selecting a diamond to purchase.

How is Diamond Clarity Determined?

The most well known measurement of diamond clarity is done by the (GIA). It ranks diamonds based on a grading system it created that ranges from , to imperfect diamonds, with many different grade ranges in between. The better the clarity ranking, the more expensive a diamond will sell for as it has more value.

Types of Inclusions that Effect Diamond Clarity

Inclusions are flaws that effect diamond clarity. They make it so that the diamond is not "perfect", and there are visual imperfections within the . Most flaws however, are un-noticeable to the naked eye and can only be seen under high levels of magnification.

There are names for many of the most common inclusions. Carbons effect diamond clarity because they are very small black found on the surface of a diamond, which may or may not be visible in regular lighting. Some may be so small that you need magnification to view them. Pinpoints effect diamond clarity because they are white dots along the surface of a diamond. Pinpoints are the most common of all diamond flaws. effect diamond clarity because they cause what look to be cloudy areas within the gemstone. The clouds are actually made up of many growths of crystals that are positioned very close together within the diamond, and their proximity to one another is what causes the cloudiness to appear. Feathers effect diamond clarity by causing cracks to form within the diamond, that look similar to that of broken glass.

Clarity Enhancements

Diamond clarity flaws can often be fixed or reduced by using a variety of clarity enhancement treatments. Some diamonds are painted, some get lasered in order to remove pinpoints and carbons, and some diamonds undergo a process by which tiny holes are drilled into the diamond in order to reach areas of inclusions within the gemstone, and then the cracks are later filled with molten glass. Having enhancements done to improve diamond clarity decreases the overall value of the diamond, but can improve it's appearance. Diamond certificates should indicate that enhancements were done on the diamond, so ask to see documentation before making a purchase. While most enhancements just cause the diamond to look nicer, some may actually cause the diamond to be weaker, and more prone to breakage than a diamond that has not had any treatments. Burt Cotton http://www.about-diamonds.com ]]> Determining the Value and Beauty of Gemstones http://www.artwoo.com/article/determining-the-value-and-beauty-of-gemstones http://www.artwoo.com/article/determining-the-value-and-beauty-of-gemstones#comments Tue, 19 Aug 2008 10:57:34 +0000 gemological institute of americaworlds foremost authoritysapphire gemstonesgem varietiessemi precious stonesnonprofit institutechemical composition http://www.artwoo.com/article/determining-the-value-and-beauty-of-gemstones
The world's foremost authority in gemology, the was established in 1931, and is the world's largest and most respected of gemological research and learning. They, along with other gemological organizations, have created gemstone classifications to aide in understanding and appreciating the characteristics of gemstones.

The first characteristic gemologists employ is . For example, many gems are crystals, classified by a crystal system such as cubic or trigonal or monoclinic. Gemstones are classified into groups, species and varieties. For instance, ruby is the red variety of the species corundum, while any other color of corundum is considered a sapphire. Gemstones are also identified according to their hardness, luster, and refractive index.

While there is no set standard for grading gemstones, other than the diamond's 4 Cs, the GIA has created a system for choosing and purchasing gemstones. This system may help those interested in purchasing gemstones and understanding what makes one gem more valuable than another.

Gems and Color

Gems come in virtually every color of the spectrum. What may surprise some is that gems come in varying hues as well. The sapphire, for example, comes in blue, yellow and pink. such as tourmaline and garnet are available in almost every color. Prices for different gem varieties are affected by rarity, durability and popularity. Lesser-known gems are sometimes surprisingly beautiful and affordable.

For every gem, color is the most important value factor. Hue, tone and saturation are also important factors when considering a gem's value. Brighter, more vivid colors with a medium tone are the most sought after. A "grass" green gem is typically most valued, followed by pale celadon, lime or dark hunter green, which is less expensive. Very pale, very dark or brownish-hued gems are less valuable.

Gems and Light

Light is an important factor when considering the value of a gem. The color of most gems is affected by light sources. Blue sapphires often look best illuminated by a fluorescent light, while rubies look better under incandescent lighting. When choosing a gem, always examine it under different lights, especially the light it will be worn in most.

Gems and Clarity

The way gemstones form in the earth often creates inclusions, or in laymen's terms, a birthmark. The fewer inclusions in a gem, the rarer and more valuable it is. But inclusions are also responsible for the optical phenomena observed in many gemstones. For example, cat's-eye chrysoberyl and star sapphires, created by inclusions, actually increase the gem's value. In gemstones such as emerald and red tourmaline, the presence of inclusions and their lack of clarity does not detract from their value. Clarity has the most impact on value for gems with pastel colors because the inclusions are more visible to the naked eye.

Gems and Weight

Gems are sold by weight -- measured in a carat, which is one-fifth of a gram. Therefore, buyers can expect to pay more per carat for a large stone than for a small one. Emeralds, rubies, sapphires, and alexandrite, for example, rarely occur in large sizes. Amethyst, citrine, blue topaz, and amber are more widely available in large sizes, so these gems have similar price per carat as smaller stones. To clarify, a one-carat emerald and one-carat ruby are the same weight but not the same size. Each is a different mineral with a different density. This difference in density also helps gemologists indentify gems.

Gems and Cut

While Mother Nature creates her gem masterpieces, it is the skilled gem cutter that releases a gem's brilliance and beauty. As gems handle light differently, their cut helps to create the unique optical properties of its crystal structure. The cut of a gem refers to the three-dimensional shape of the gemstone and the quality of the cutting, or how well the gem's shape delivers brilliance and beauty.

When judging the cut of a gemstone, examine how the stone returns light to the eye. Preferred cuts are symmetrical and return light across the entire surface of the gem.

Synthetic and artificial gemstones

Gemstones can be manufactured to imitate other gemstones. For instance, cubic zirconia is a synthetic diamond simulant. However, gemstones created in a lab are not imitations. Diamonds, ruby, sapphires, and emeralds are all manufactured in labs and can possess identical chemical and physical characteristics to the naturally occurring variety. These synthetic stones cost only a fraction of the natural stones. Natural gemstones are still considered more valuable because of their relative scarcity.Lewis Jewelers is proud to carry the full line of Pandora Jewelry. Pandora bracelets, Pandora charms and Pandora beads are only a part of the collection. For more information, Lewis Jewelers, 2000 West Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48103, 877-88-LEWIS or visit the website.]]> What A Gem! http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-a-gem http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-a-gem#comments Thu, 06 Sep 2007 04:15:01 +0000 clarity of diamondsdiamond caratgemological institute of americainclusionsgemstonetiny cracksprice increase http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-a-gem
Clarity is the measure of , which are internal defects in diamonds. These inclusions may be crystals of a different diamond or some foreign materials. They could also be or other structural imperfections that look cloudy or white. The is determined by the size, color, number, location, visibility and orientation of these inclusions. Clarity grading has become systematic through organizations such as the GIA, or . The systems based the ratings on the inclusions as viewed by a diamond professional less than 10x magnification.

The ratings start at a low imperfect, with the best rating referred to as flawless. Only 20 percent of all diamonds in existence at any one time actually have a clarity grading high enough for it to be used as a . The rest are used industrially. A large percentage of the diamonds with gemstone clarity still have inclusions that are visible, though some of these are hidden under jewelry settings.

Seldom do inclusions affect the structural integrity or performance of diamonds of gem quality. About the only things that can affect the ability of a diamond to scatter and transmit light is a large could. A diamond may be less resistant to fracture if it has a large crack close to the surface or breaking the surface.

Carat is another important characteristic of diamonds. It is the weight measure that determines the diamond's mass. One carat is 200 milligrams. The price for each increases with the weight of the carat. This is because larger diamonds are comparably higher rated and more desirable for gemstones.

While there really is no smooth for diamonds based on size, there is a sharp price jump when the diamond reaches milestone weight. Because of demand for these larger, heavier diamonds, you might find a considerably lower price for a .95 carat diamond than you would for one that is 1.05 carat weight.

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diamond Karen Baron http://www.diamondsonweb.com/ DoW carefully inspects and selects only the finest diamonds for our exclusive collection. ]]> What You Should Know In Buying An Antique Diamond Ring http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-you-should-know-in-buying-an-antique-diamond-ring http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-you-should-know-in-buying-an-antique-diamond-ring#comments Sun, 08 Oct 2006 12:27:05 +0000 antique diamond ringdiamond ringsdiamond cutwedding ringsopen mindedpricelesshallmark http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-you-should-know-in-buying-an-antique-diamond-ring antique diamond ring--whether as an engagement ring, a wedding ring, or for personal satisfaction--is always an investment. Considered as "nature's perfect gemstones," antique can be and rare especially if they contain high-quality and high-grade diamonds.

If you are looking forward to buying an antique diamond ring, the first thing to consider is the 4Cs of a diamond. Knowing the elements that reveal the true value and rarity of a diamond is the first step to know if you're likely to possess an antique diamond ring for keeps.

The 4Cs comprise of Carat, which refers to a diamond's weight; Clarity, which measures the purity of a diamond; Cut, which determines the diamond's brilliance and Color, which gauges a diamond's whiteness.

An antique diamond ring for wedding

Since it signifies romance, innocence, and reverence, antique diamond rings are becoming one of the most popular choices in today.

For a ring to be antique, it should be over than 100 years and originates from the Georgian, Victorian, Art Nouveau, Edwardian, and Art Deco. Typically ornate and detailed, antique diamond rings are usually authentic pieces or a reproductions inlaid in gold, platinum, titanium and silver.

Remember that antique diamond ring personifies character and history, which sets it apart from other modern designs. Before you purchase an antique diamond ring as a wedding or engagement ring, here are some of things you might want to consider:

1. Make sure that the antique diamond ring is professionally appraised before your pay for it. By doing this, you can be sure that all of its gems are authentic. You can also determine if the ring has been repaired or if it need repairs in case there are stone chips or cracks.

2. Look for a photograph with a or written and signed interpretation to know when was the ring authenticated. 3. In case the antique diamond ring needs a repair, get an estimated cost of before proceeding.

4. Be open-minded. There are gemstones and designs other people consider as unlucky. If you're not into these myths, you might want to consider these antique diamond rings because they might be less expensive than others.

5. Make sure that you inspect and examine closely the condition of the antique engagement ring. Take note of the prongs holding the center diamond and the shank of the ring.

6. Do some research on 10X jeweler's loupe.

7. Buy the antique diamond ring from a reputable jeweler or jewelry store.

8. Make sure that everything about the antique wedding ring is written on receipts, appraisals, and certifications.

9. Know if the stone is a genuine diamond or if it is a cubic zirconia, moissanite or other synthetic substance.

10. If possible, get a certificate from Gemological Institute of America (GIA) to ensure the authenticity of your antique diamond ring. This content is provided by Low Jeremy. It may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more information on Diamond Rings and other useful information, please visit http://diamond-ring.articlekeep.com ]]> A Review of the Success Motivation Institute Income Opportunity http://www.artwoo.com/article/a-review-of-the-success-motivation-institute-income-opportunity http://www.artwoo.com/article/a-review-of-the-success-motivation-institute-income-opportunity#comments Thu, 02 Oct 2008 11:43:28 +0000 success motivation institutemotivation programnegative attitudepositive attitudelittle at a timecompetitive worldprofessional skills http://www.artwoo.com/article/a-review-of-the-success-motivation-institute-income-opportunity Success Motivation Institute they believe that everyone is capable of being successful, using their God-given talents. The potential that every person has is not always challenged enough. In fact, most people do not challenge themselves enough. They find a comfort zone and stay within that limit or they challenge themselves enough to succeed a in order to avoid disappointment.

Success Motivation Institute allows people to seek their goals in a certain amount of time so they don't spend their entire lives looking and searching for something that they are unsure of. Next, the Success Motivation Institute helps to instill a . Finally, they help to place emphasis on the development of personal and that will help to succeed in the future as far as money is concerned. All of these are important as far as Success Motivation Institute is concerned.

In order to succeed and achieve all that you need and deserve, Success Motivation Institute helps a person to reach their goals, help to develop new skills that have never been discovered, create a positive attitude and image about themselves, take advantage of all the opportunities that life has to offer, define their goals by writing them down on paper. That will create a work plan for success. Success Motivation Institute declares that they have a proven method to motivate individuals for a permanent result.

At Success Motivation Institute they have a high success rate and more businesses are using the Success Motivation Institute to motivate themselves, co workers, employees and more. The Success Motivation Institute can foresee this type of necessary in the future due to the challenging and .

Without motivation, people would develop a , uncertainty for themselves and for those around them. The lack of giving all they have to improve their quality of life would be something that is altered, regardless of how hard they try. People respond to positive thinking and attitudes.

They thrive on a pat on the back or simple words of encouragement. Without them people would soon lose confidence in themselves as well as others and everyone would live in fear; fear of themselves, fear of mistakes and fear of becoming something that they hoped they would not become. At Success Motivation Institute there is also a belief that they can increase motivation on a personal level.

Why would this be necessary? According to Success Motivation Institute, to be more motivated would decrease stress, would increase one's ability to deal with stress in a positive attitude, they would desire a better life for themselves and their family, and spend more time becoming what they hoped they would be when they became older. They won't be caught up in the hurried "rat race" way of life and instead become easy on themselves and everyone around them.

Success stories are found on the website. It advertises that they have been changing lives for 44 years and still going. To become a distributor, a person needs to be motivated and have realistic dreams that will help build your sales. A person must have a positive self image and become enthusiastic in order to inspire others.You can read our Unbiased, expert review of Success Motivation Institute from Brian Garvin and Jeff West at MLM Review Kings. This article may be used royalty free provided bio and links remain intact.]]> Watch Out For The Salt! http://www.artwoo.com/article/watch-out-for-the-salt http://www.artwoo.com/article/watch-out-for-the-salt#comments Wed, 27 Sep 2006 14:27:02 +0000 food and drug administrationamerican medical associationfood additiveprocessed foodfast foodsodium intakecfsan http://www.artwoo.com/article/watch-out-for-the-salt sodium intake should be no more 2,300 mg. For those who suffer from high blood pressure and hypertension, the sodium intake should not go over 1,500 mg.

On average, we Americans eat 3,300 mg of sodium a day because salt is in everything we eat: bread, cheese, , soup, and even cereal. No more than 10% of salt comes from the salt shaker, and only 10% of salt comes naturally in foods. That means that the other 80% is just from processing.

The (AMA) has decided to approach the government as well as the food industry to reduce levels of salt in -- which is pretty much any packaged food. The American Medical Association recommended that the (FDA) should limit the amount of salt allowed in food. Also, the AMA asked the FDA to remove the status of salt as a substance that is considered to be safe and deem salt as a . If the FDA were to listen to the AMA, they would have to quickly find a replacement for the additive and flavor enhancer.

The FDA has never solicited commentary but the organization has mentioned that they are open for a hearing on the health issues of high sodium intake. There have also been discussions between the Salt Institute (didn't think there was such a thing, did you?) and the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). The Salt Institute has pushed for the DHHS to finance a comprehensive study about the health effects of salt. But here is no word as to whether that study will be conducted or not. Funding is really an overall deciding factor. The Center for Food and Safety and Applied Nutrition () has had their budget cut from 47.6 million to 25 million in four years. And the CFSAN is an organization where most food regulations take place.

Many thousands of Americans die each year because of gradual health effects that were caused by high sodium diets. The FDA also says that they have paid attention to the sodium issue by placing sodium on the nutritional value label and by defining low salt products. So some are a bit weary of believing that the FDA is interested in a hearing, especially since the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) has mention a sodium problem in processed food more than 23 years ago.

In addition to the AMA, other groups like the National Academy of Science's Institute of Medicine (NASIM) and the governments National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) have know for at least 20 years that a high salt consumption can lead to high blood pressure, hypertension, and contributes to heart disease (the No.1 cause of death in America) and stroke (the No. 3 cause of death America). The NHLBI conducted a study in 2004 that concluded that 150,000 lives could be saved on a yearly basis if sodium levels were decreased by half. http://www.CarlHampton.com http://www.fcdtcm.com ]]> The Lasik Vision Institute http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-lasik-vision-institute http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-lasik-vision-institute#comments Tue, 01 May 2007 16:30:01 +0000 lasik vision institutecontact lenseslasik surgerylasik laseklaser vision correctionwear glasseswavefront technology http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-lasik-vision-institute wear glasses or . Why are more and more people every year choosing to have their vision corrected by the ?

There are a few very important reasons why people like the Lasik Vision Institute. They advertise that they have:

* Extremely qualified surgeons - they employ leading medical professionals from around the country and they are personally responsible for your eye care.

* Secure technology - they use FDA approved laser technology during each procedure.

* Confidence - their medical professionals have performed over 500,000 procedures.

* Personalized care and treatment - the medical professionals are extremely qualified and they work with you to offer you a choice of based on your individual needs (whether you want LASIK, LASEK, PRK and Custom ).

* Affordable - they offer reasonably priced procedures and easy financing so that everyone can have their vision corrected.

It is reasonable to be anxious about any surgery in or around your eyes. The Lasik Visition Institute understands your concerns and wants their patients to know about the pros and cons of having laser surgery.

You may feel some anxiety about laser vision correction. The laser eye surgery procedure is fast and reliable, and most people will be able see better than they did with their glasses or contact lenses. But, there is no guarantee that you will never need glasses or contact lenses again. Lasik is a great procedure, but it is not perfect and everyone's eyes are different. You may find that you still need glasses to drive at night.

If everything is okay, you will have your and go through your recovery period. The Lasik Vision Institute staff will answer your questions and provide you with suggestions on what to do after the surgery. It will take a few weeks during your recovery, but your eyes should get stronger and your vision clearer. Most people can return to work the day after their surgery with little or no discomfort.

Take your time, think about your options and then make an informed decision about your lasik surgery. You may end up with 20/20 vision and never have to wear glasses or contact lenses again. Or, you may find out that you do not qualify for this surgery. Either way, you took the time to learn about the procedure and know your options.

If you still want to use the Lasik Vision Institute perform your surgery you can be sure that they will provide you with all of the information you need up front. This includes the costs involves and monthly affordable payments. Their procedures can be as low as $299 per eye and up depending upon the type of surgery performed.

What are you waiting for? You have always wanted to get rid of your glasses and now you know about the Lasik Vision Institute. Contact them and see if they are the right medical group to perform your surgery. They are just a phone call away. http://www.TheLasikZone.com brings you the latest on Lasik. Lasik is very popular, and we want to bring you the most up to date information online! Be sure to check out our latest information page on Lasik Vision Institute. ]]> Gemstones -- Girl's New Best Friend? http://www.artwoo.com/article/gemstones-girls-new-best-friend http://www.artwoo.com/article/gemstones-girls-new-best-friend#comments Sat, 08 Jul 2006 00:27:13 +0000 gemstonesgoshenitebirth stonesus geological surveyfashionable dressesbirthstonesalbeit http://www.artwoo.com/article/gemstones-girls-new-best-friend gemstones are just anybody's dream to have. Their natural colors more than match your very . Their sheer range could strike you spell bound. Gemstones are precious or semiprecious mineral stones which when cut and faceted can be used as jewels.

There is more to gemstones than just being jewelry items. They are regarded as lucky when worn specific to an individual's birth month. Before we deal with this aspect in detail lets see the classification of gemstones.

Classification and Characteristics of Gemstones There is a tri-level classification of gemstones namely, groups, species and varieties. Simply put, rubies which are red in color belong to conundrum species which in turn belong to hematite group. Others like emerald, aquamarine, , heliodor and morganite, all of them belong to that variety known as beryl. There are over 150 different species available.

Gemstones display all characteristics of crystals like dispersion, refractive indices, hardness, and specific gravity etc. They also possess characters like inclusions, fractures and cleavage which play upon their quality and values. However gemologists include all gems into the precious list.

Hardness is another important characteristic of gemstones. Simply put, hardness means resistance to scratch which is measured in Mohs, a system developed by an Austrian mineralogist F. Mohs. The scale of hardness reads from 1-10 with higher number indicating the hardest. If talc is at the bottom with just 1Moh, diamond has 10Mohs. Other popular gemstones like feldspar, topaz and sapphire having Mohs of 6, 8 and 9 respectively.

lists gemstones classified as birth stones. It is believed by most people that wearing brings luck to their lives. It is not surprising that all societies have this kind of faith with regards to gemstones, with differences here and there, looking at the romancing tryst every society had with these 'stones'. The list is in the order of calendar months with each month having at least one gemstone specific to that month. One can find a list of birth stones on official website of USGS.

Buying Gemstones USGS cautions buyers against unscrupulous sellers as more and more of them are trying to push through synthetic gemstones as genuine pieces to unsuspecting, inexperienced buyers. Gemstones are measured by size and carats. (1carat=1/5th of a gram.)

When buying gemstones, watch out for:

1.Heating alters the color sometimes improving clarity 2.Irradiation darkens colors 3.Impregnation with wax, resins etc fills cracks, flaws 4.Fractures filled by injecting plastic 5.Differential colors in center and surface indicates diffusion treatment

Always buy from reputed sellers who produce certificates by Gemological Institute of America to prevent a lucky stone turn unlucky. Alan Ross is a regular article contributor on many topics. Be sure to visit his other websites, http://www.gemstones-foryou.info and http://www.diamondforyou.info ]]> Many Patients Choose The Lasik Vision Institute For Their Lasik Procedure http://www.artwoo.com/article/many-patients-choose-the-lasik-vision-institute-for-their-lasik-procedure http://www.artwoo.com/article/many-patients-choose-the-lasik-vision-institute-for-their-lasik-procedure#comments Fri, 27 Apr 2007 04:10:01 +0000 lasik vision correctionlasik vision institutelasik surgerylasik eye surgeonslasik patientslasik proceduresastigmatism http://www.artwoo.com/article/many-patients-choose-the-lasik-vision-institute-for-their-lasik-procedure Lasik vision correction has become one of the most popular elective surgical procedures performed in the United States. With over one million people having undergone the procedure in the U.S. alone, laser eye surgery centers continue to crop up in order to keep pace with the demand. Patients who opt to have Lasik most often have very successful outcomes =96 with only 3-6% reporting mild to moderate complications following surgery.

But savvy patients know that in order to maximize their chance for success it is imperative to choose a center that has experience and a stellar reputation in the industry. One such center that has parlayed its experience in Lasik surgery into a nationwide chain of quality centers is the .

With surgery centers in 30 states nationwide, the Lasik Vision Institute was founded in 1999 with a commitment to providing a consistent level of service to every patient who walked through their doors. This continuum of care is evidenced in every center throughout the country; what you experience in Florida will be what you experience in Pennsylvania and so forth.

The company prides itself on utilizing the most state-of-the-art technology available on the market, along with a stable of professional and experienced , medical support staff, and office staff. The company has continued to gain popularity over the years as recognize the consistent service provided by the centers around the country. To date, the Lasik Vision Institute has performed over half a million .

Refractive procedures =96 such as Lasik =96 work to correct refractive conditions such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and . These conditions =96 and others like them =96 affect how the lens of our eye refracts light to the retina. The retina =96 whose job it is to convert the light it receives to messages that can be seen by the optic nerve in the brain =96 is most affected by refractive conditions.

If the light is not refracted properly the message that the retina sends to the brain is seen as a blurry image. The Lasik procedure works to correct this problem by resurfacing the cornea =96 the transparent layer that covers the lens of the eye =96 allowing it to refract light properly. This resurfacing is done with the use of a laser.

The surgeons of the Lasik Vision Institute are required to be enormously experienced in laser refractive procedures. The fact that the Institute focuses solely on Lasik brings its patients significant comfort in knowing that they are dealing with a surgical center that is so committed to providing comprehensive care and quality procedures. It is for this reason that the Lasik Vision Institute has become a reputable authority in the world of Lasik procedures.

In addition to superlative patient care, the Lasik Vision Institute is able to perform procedures in a way that is affordable for its patients. Because the Institute has centers across the country, it is able to buy its equipment as a whole thus reducing overhead and passing these savings on to their patients. http://www.TheLasikZone.com brings you the latest on Lasik. Lasik is very popular, and we want to bring you the most up to date information online! Be sure to check out our latest information page on Lasik Vision Institute. ]]> Many Patients Choose The Lasik Vision Institute For Their Lasik Procedure http://www.artwoo.com/article/many-patients-choose-the-lasik-vision-institute-for-their-lasik-procedure http://www.artwoo.com/article/many-patients-choose-the-lasik-vision-institute-for-their-lasik-procedure#comments Fri, 23 Mar 2007 11:52:01 +0000 lasik vision correctionlasik vision institutelasik surgerylasik eye surgeonslasik patientslasik procedureslasik work http://www.artwoo.com/article/many-patients-choose-the-lasik-vision-institute-for-their-lasik-procedure Lasik vision correction has become one of the most popular elective surgical procedures performed in the United States. With over one million people having undergone the procedure in the U.S. alone, laser eye surgery centers continue to crop up in order to keep pace with the demand. Patients who opt to have Lasik most often have very successful outcomes -- with only 3-6% reporting mild to moderate complications following surgery.

But savvy patients know that in order to maximize their chance for success it is imperative to choose a center that has experience and a stellar reputation in the industry. One such center that has parlayed its experience in Lasik surgery into a nationwide chain of quality centers is the .

With surgery centers in 30 states nationwide, the Lasik Vision Institute was founded in 1999 with a commitment to providing a consistent level of service to every patient who walked through their doors. This continuum of care is evidenced in every center throughout the country; what you experience in Florida will be what you experience in Pennsylvania and so forth.

The company prides itself on utilizing the most state-of-the-art technology available on the market, along with a stable of professional and experienced , medical support staff, and office staff. The company has continued to gain popularity over the years as recognize the consistent service provided by the centers around the country. To date, the Lasik Vision Institute has performed over half a million .

Refractive procedures -- such as Lasik -- work to correct refractive conditions such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. These conditions -- and others like them -- affect how the lens of our eye refracts light to the retina. The retina -- whose job it is to convert the light it receives to messages that can be seen by the optic nerve in the brain -- is most affected by refractive conditions.

If the light is not refracted properly the message that the retina sends to the brain is seen as a blurry image. The Lasik procedure works to correct this problem by resurfacing the cornea -- the transparent layer that covers the lens of the eye -- allowing it to refract light properly. This resurfacing is done with the use of a laser.

The surgeons of the Lasik Vision Institute are required to be enormously experienced in laser refractive procedures. The fact that the Institute focuses solely on Lasik brings its patients significant comfort in knowing that they are dealing with a surgical center that is so committed to providing comprehensive care and quality procedures. It is for this reason that the Lasik Vision Institute has become a reputable authority in the world of Lasik procedures.

In addition to superlative patient care, the Lasik Vision Institute is able to perform procedures in a way that is affordable for its patients. Because the Institute has centers across the country, it is able to buy its equipment as a whole thus reducing overhead and passing these savings on to their patients. http://www.TheLasikZone.com brings you the latest on Lasik. Lasik is very popular, and we want to bring you the most up to date information online! Be sure to check out our latest information page on Lasik Vision Institute. ]]> Acffac Accreditation Is Complex For Culinary Institutes http://www.artwoo.com/article/acffac-accreditation-is-complex-for-culinary-institutes http://www.artwoo.com/article/acffac-accreditation-is-complex-for-culinary-institutes#comments Wed, 13 Jun 2007 01:19:57 +0000 american culinary instituteamerican culinary federationaccredited collegeaccreditationculinary instituteseducational disciplinesacf http://www.artwoo.com/article/acffac-accreditation-is-complex-for-culinary-institutes accredited college or university for most disciplines is largely a matter of finding a school accredited by a recognized agency. are a bit different. Because many culinary schools today are associated with or a part of a larger university system, they may be accredited by the licensing agency that approves the school as a whole as an institution issuing bachelor or associate degrees.



However, this type of general doesn't necessarily guarantee that the particular division of the culinary institute within that university meets the highest standards for fine chefs and restaurant managers in the United States and around the world. The reason is obvious: no agency focusing on standard fully understands what is essential to a fine culinary learning experience. For that very reason, the developed its own accrediting system years ago. This accreditation is given specifically to culinary institutes to designate that they have met or exceeded the additional standards of the for providing a high quality learning experience.



How Accreditation Works for Culinary Institutes

The Federation Foundation Accrediting Commission (ACFFAC) judges each culinary institute on several criteria, including:

Curriculum Faculty and staff Resources Organizational structure

Every culinary school wishing to be accredited must go through a process that evaluates all of these things before being approved to carry the ACFFAC seal.



To begin the process, a culinary institute must be recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as an institute of higher education. When this has been achieved, the next step is a self-evaluation following the guidelines provided by the ACF. When this is submitted to the American Culinary Institute's commission for accreditation, they will send a fact-finding team to carefully evaluate the institute to verify compliance to all of the requirements put forth. Any input from the public and graduates is also welcome. The school receives the ACFFAC seal of accreditation only when it has passed successfully through all of these phases.

It is important for culinary institutes to receive accreditation from the ACF. The ACF is the largest not-for-profit organization for chefs and restaurateurs in the United States. It was established as a way to set and maintain professional standards in the food preparation industry over seventy-five years ago. Only an organization of this type can accurately evaluate the quality and value of a culinary institute. Judging and evaluation by a group of peers is simply the only way to truly know that a culinary school is giving each student the best possible training, from pastries and desserts to kitchen management.

If you decide that a culinary institute is how you want to prepare for your future, be sure that you apply to ACFFAC accredited schools. Whether the school is a stand-alone culinary institution or is part of a larger college or university is not as important as knowing that it is approved not only by the U.S. Department of Education as a post-secondary school, but by the American Culinary Federation Foundation Accrediting Commission as well. If the school holds both of these certifications, you can be sure that you will be receiving an outstanding education at one of the best culinary institutes in the country. Andy West is a freelance writer for The Culinary Institute of Virginia College. Culinard offers two outstanding culinary programs. For more information on one of the most prestigious culinary arts institutes in the U.S., please visit http://www.culinard.com . ]]> My Spy Cam | Ample Opportunities at Our Aid for the Safety of Our Business http://www.artwoo.com/article/my-spy-cam-ample-opportunities-at-our-aid-for-the-safety-of-our-business http://www.artwoo.com/article/my-spy-cam-ample-opportunities-at-our-aid-for-the-safety-of-our-business#comments Sun, 03 Aug 2008 21:50:24 +0000 eminent individualsspy camshidden camerasspy camtop prioritieshidden camerainventors http://www.artwoo.com/article/my-spy-cam-ample-opportunities-at-our-aid-for-the-safety-of-our-business s, s and many more different types of cameras. Fortunately life is made easier with the utilization of the hidden cameras and the security of the people is taken good care of. If you are the one those who want the security of your business, house or children, then you can undoubtedly go any buy a spy cam for our selves. Nowadays buying online is not only easy but it is a fun too. Once you log on to any of the leading websites, you will find much information about more new things and appliances which can be useful to you in many ways. To make the real progress in perfection in any field, you need to evaluate the best equipments at your aid and put together a list of your . You will have to make some changes in your office or house to simplify the flow of your life style. I have experienced that after installing the spy cam or the hidden camera in your house or at the work place; you will feel energetic and be able to get a lot of things done easily.

We have to get introduced to better and hassle free anytime, anywhere use of the spy cams. They are very easy to install and use. The importance of the right equipment and maintaining it is now high among the most . Eventually the equipments with improved conveniences, technology and features are the most important preference of many people. of these new cameras are always working towards making life more comfortable for the people. Exceptional consideration is given to bring out the best. They have taken an initiative for the future of tomorrow.

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