Review: NIV Bible Clutch

Lite Weight, Compact, and Stylish

At first glance the NIV Bible Clutch has the appearance of an elegant evening bag combined with the simplicity of black leather. This edition features all of the aspects one looks for in a clutch purse such as: a removable strap that allows the clutch to be carried over the shoulder or warped around the wrist, an exterior pocket, a protective zipper closure, and an enclosed pocket for storing cards and other essentials. Only upon closer inspection does one realize that this clutch is in fact a compact Bible. Unlike many other Bibles this edition is designed to be convenient and easy to carry. The compact size and lite weight makes the NIV Bible Clutch a good choice for traveling, and everyday use.

Binding and Cover:

This edition is bound in black Italian duo-tone, a soft artificial leather that is flexible and somewhat supple to the touch. Italian duo-tone is a quality artificial leather that is close in durability to bonded leather. The cover of this edition features feels more durable and supple then other artificial leathers I have encountered. The NIV Bible Clutch is available in a variety of colors and cover options to match your personal style. Size: 4.8 wide x 8.3 high x 1.5 deep in. | 122 wide x 211 high x deep 38 mm Weight: 0.94 lb | 426 gms

What's Inside:

The text of this Bible is presented in double-column format and includes subject headings that divide each paragraph (aspects which I personally find to be very useful). This edition includes references to similar Bible verses presented within the text. Footnotes are located at the bottom of each page and are not distracting. The text size of this edition is 6pt, with the words of Christ in red. This size text is small for some readers making it difficult for them to read. The paper this edition is printed on is thin paper and has a semi-transparent quality. The use of highlighters is not recommend in this Bible. For those who enjoy highlighting passages crayola color pencils are recommend (through personal experience I have found that they highlight very well on thin paper).

Table of Contents

• Preface to the New International Version
• Books of the Old Testament
• Books of the New Testament
• Table of Weights & Measures
• Perspectives from the Bible

Other Info:

• Page Count: 1152 Paper
• Edge Description: Plain
• ISBN: 0310949610
• ISBN-13: 9780310949619

Translation Info:

The New International Version is one of the most popular and trusted modern translations within the Evangelical Christian Community. This translation speaks to the reader through common language, yet strives to maintain the original meaning of Scripture. The Deuterocanonical books (Also known as the Apocrypha) are not included in this translation.

If you would like to learn more about the New International Version please refer to the following websites.

• http://www.ibsstl.org/niv/index.php
• Preface to the New International Version (NIV) Bible

My Personal Opinion:

Personally I find this edition to be very practical and useful. Unlike other compact Bibles this edition is designed to multitask, featuring internal pockets that are similar to those found in a wallet. I was more than a little surprised to find these pockets next to the front pages (though this is a good surprise). The pockets are designed to easily fit an I.D, credit cards, or money, with a total of seven pocket for these items. I have never seen a Bible that combines multiple uses for both church and everyday use the way the NIV Bible Clutch does. This is a very interesting edition.

Pros:

• Lite weight
• Easy to carry
• Compact size
• Stylish cover
• Durable zipper that also protects the Bible's pages from being damaged
• Removable strap
• Inside compartment that can hold up to six I.D size cards, behind which is a 7^th compartment that is large enough to hold paper, prayer cards or money.
• Cover: The cover has a soft feel that is reminiscent of leather.

Cons:

• Text size: The text is somewhat difficult to read for an extend period of time.
• Clasps: The clasps that attach the strap to the Bible seem fragile, and rather small.

If you are searching for a practical Bible that is the perfect size to fit into your purse – or better yet carry instead of your purse- then I highly recommend considering this edition.

Where to Buy:

The edition feature in this review can be purchased through the following links.

NIV Italian Duo-Tone, Black, Bible Clutch

NIV Italian Duo-Tone, Silver Ice Metallic, Bible Clutch

NIV Italian Duo-Tone, Pink & Chocolate, Bible Clutch

Italian Duo-Tone, Caribbean Blue & Palm Green,   Bible Clutch

New 2011 Editions:

Bible Clutch, BlackBible Clutch, Pink Chocolate KJV Bible Clutch, Italian Duo-Tone, Silver Ice

KJV Bible Clutch, Italian Duo-Tone, Purple Metallic

400 Knitting Stitches by Potter Craft: A Knitter's Review

A Complete Dictionary of Essential Stitch Patterns

400 Knitting Stitches is a good resource to have on hand for beginners and advanced knitters. Inside you will find patterns that cover the basics for beginners, intermediate patterns and advanced patterns for skilled knitters. Beginners will find the “Knitting Basics” section to very helpful. This section offers step by step instructions to teach beginners the basics. The tone is easy is to follow, yet remains informative. Also many of the patterns in the “Knit-Purl” section are designed for beginners to practice their knitting. This section also has many patterns that intermediate beginners will enjoy. The “Cross Stitches and Cables” section contains many lovely patterns ranging in difficulty from intermediate to advanced. Seasoned knitters will find the patterns within the “Slipped Stitches, Lacy Stitches, Double Stitches, Twisted Stitches, and Cast-Off Stitches” sections to be a real treat, as these showcase the knitter's skill. Page Count: 256 Page.  Size: 8.8 x 7 x 0.7 inches

What's Inside?

• Knitting Basics: Abbreviations, Understanding a Pattern, Tension, Diagrams, Casting On, Stitches, Knit, Purl, Casting Off, Patterns and techniques.
• Knit-Purl Stitches: These 86 stitches include: Stockinette stitch, Garter stitch, Moss stitch, 1/1 rib stitch, Caterpillar stitch, 2/2 Garter stitch rib, Furrowed rib, Dot stitch, Seersucker.
• Crossed Stitches and Cables: These 139 stitches include: Simple twist, 10-Stitch cable, Double cable, Stitch plaits, Broken rib, Uneven cable, Chain links, Honeycomb.
• Slipped Stitches: These 60 stitches include: Double stocking stitch, Speckled rid, Partridge eye, Grass stitch, Wisteria stitch, X stitch, Wings, Butterflies, Alternating Arrows, Sycamore, Alternating grass tufts.
• Lacy Stitches: These 85 stitches include: Simple openwork, Eyelet fabric, Openwork squares, Openwork ladders, Matting stitch, Turkish stitch, Patchwork, Tulle stitch, Horizontal eyelets, Tile stitch, Falling leaves.
• Double Stitches: These 12 stitches include: Fisherman’s rib, English rib knit-wise, English rib purl-wise, Fancy Richelieu rib, Ladders, Alternating English rib, Wheatgerm.
• Twisted Stitches: These 6 stitches include: Double twisted stocking stitch, Twisted stocking stitch, and Two-tone double twisted rib.
• Cast-Off Stitches: These 3 Stitches include: Bamboo stitch, and Diamond drops.

My Personal Opinion:

As an intermediate knitter I find this book to be a valuable resource. The patterns can easily be adapted into a variety of projects such; scarves, throws, afghans, or prayer shawls. Unlike other knitting books 400 Knitting Stitches focuses on stitch patterns, rather than project patterns. This format helps you to learn new stitches, practice them, and apply them to your own project patterns. I highly recommend this edition for those who enjoy new stitch patterns as this is the best resource I have encountered.

Where to Buy:

 

Disclosure of Material Connection:
The opinions I have expressed within my review are my own. This review is based on media review copy. I am disclosing this information in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Start! The Bible for New Believers by Greg Laurie: Published by Thomas Nelson

Start! The Bible for New Believers is designed to teach those who are new to the Christian faith to place their trust in Christ, the fundamentals of Christianity, and refresh lifelong believers on the foundations of their faith.  This Bible is designed to take the reader by the hand and lead them deeper into God’s word in an friendly conversational tone that is very understandable. Unlike other Bibles this edition never assumes that the reader knows what wording and passages mean.  The primary focus of this Bible is on basic Christian discipleship with articles and devotions on subjects including; prayer, Bible study, church involvement, sharing one’s faith, and discovering God's will. Core biblical themes are introduced at basic levels of theological sophistication and presented in very simple language.

About The Binding & Cover:
The Bible featured in this review is the paper-backed edition that has a glued binding. Although paper-backed editions will not with stand years of daily use they are the most economical.  This Bible is available in three cover options paperback, jacketed hardcover, and Leathersoft.  A New Testament Edition is also available in paperback.

What’s Inside:

 Features of this edition include:  Grow entries- which focuses on key disciplines of the Christian life.  Know articles- that focus on the core beliefs of the Christian faith. · Live messages- which focuses on various aspects of salvation. · Learn notes- which provide mini-commentaries on key passages for spiritual growth. · Topical Index to articles and Scriptures.  Secrets to Spiritual Success- from the General Editor Greg Laurie – a pastor and author who has impacted over four million people with the Gospel. This edition also has introductions to each book of the Bible.

Table of Contents

•     The Plan of Salvation
•     Secrets to Spiritual Success
•     Preface
•     Books of The Old Testament in  Canonical Order
•     Books of The New Testament in Canonical Order
•     Essentials- What Every Christian Needs to Know About God and Jesus
•     Topic Index- Scriptures and Features
•     Blank Notes for Personal Use

About the General Editor:
Greg Laurie serves as the senior pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship, a Calvary Chapel, in Riverside, California. He is the host of the television program “Knowing God with Greg Laurie” and of the syndicated radio program “A New Beginning.” Laurie has appeared on “ABC World News Tonight,” Fox News, MSNBC, and CNN. He also functions as a guest commentator at Worldnetdaily.com and appears regularly on the Trinity Broadcasting Network. Laurie founded Harvest Crusades which are large-scale evangelistic events attended by more than 4 million people since 1990.

About this Translation:
The New King James Version is a modern translation of the Bible commissioned in 1975 by Thomas Nelson Publishers. One hundred and thirty respected Bible scholars, church leaders, and lay Christians worked for seven years to create this translation. Their goal is a completely new, modern translation of Scripture that retains the purity and stylistic beauty of the original King James Version.

My Personal Opinion:
My thoughts of this Bible are somewhat mixed as I love the translation and page designs but not the editors notes or view points. While I see the value of this edition I also see its short comings. As an edition labeled by its editor as “Christianity 101“  this edition falls short of that title. With that said I feel many will enjoy this edition because of its strait forward approach, and common language. But personally I did not find this edition to be very helpful due to the fact that I expected more in depth notes.  

Pro’s

•     Interesting Page Design
•     Economical

 Con’s

•  The Paper: Personally I hate the paper this edition is printed on... While thin paper is a good thing when the paper is of good quality this edition has economical paper.   
•  Ghosting: This edition (the paper back edition) has a fair amount of ghosting that I personally find distracting. Ghosting is the term used when you can see the writing on the other side of the page (or the next few pages) while reading. After reading the text for a few minutes my eyes begin to ache.
•  Text:  While many readers will find 8 point type very readable, the front and paper used for this edition makes it somewhat hard to read.
•   Notes: Personally I found some of the notes in this edition helpful. But sadly I found more that were not helpful because they seemed geared towards to the editor’s view point. While this can be very helpful to some I find it distracting.   

Just because I did not find this edition to be helpful does not mean that it will not speak to you.  I recommend downloading the free sample of this edition to help you decide for yourself if this it is right Bible for you. 

The Start! Gospel of John can be download for free at
http://www.thestartbible.com./John_Download.pdf

Where to Buy:
The edition featured in this review can be purchased through following links.
Start! The Bible for New Believers - Trade Paper RedStart! The Bible for New Believers - Hardcover RedStart! The Bible for New Believers - LeatherSoft Raven BlackStart! The Bible for New Believers - LeatherSoft Raven Black  Thumb-Indexed

Start: The Bible for New Believers, New Testament Edition

Disclosure of Material Connection:
Review Time is not in any way affiliated with Thomas Nelson Publishing. The opinions I have expressed within my review are my own. This review is based on media review copy. I am disclosing this information in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

America's Modern Charm Bracelet: Chamilia's Sterling Silver Starter Bracelet & Bible Bead

 

Charm bracelets are a wonderful way for women to express our passions, personalities, and treasured memories. But in today's world, many women find traditional charm bracelets to be unpractical, out-dated, or simply aggravating to wear. If you fall into this category know that you are not alone, many women find these aspects to be true myself included. Thankfully jewelry designer Killian Rieder is working to change this by offering practical modern charm bracelets with a broader selection of charms to fit any taste. With over 600 charms to choose from Chamilia charm bracelets can truly be personalized to reflect your personality. Like its predecessor the traditional charm bracelet, Chamilia's charm bracelet is designed to be built overtime, resulting in sentimental bracelet that carries the memories and personal tastes of the wearer.

Starter Bracelet:

Chamilia's “Silver Snap Bracelet” is simple yet stylish with a design that draws attention to the beads making the beads the focal point of your design. The bracelet is hand-crafted from genuine sterling silver and features a snap clasp which blends in with the beads once the bracelet is full, creating a seamless appearance. The bracelet featured in this review is 7 inches in length and is very comfortable to wear. Chamilia offers a broad selection of starter bracelets that includes leather, sterling silver bangles, and standard bracelets in sterling silver or 14k gold with a variety of clasp options that include the traditional lobster claw, toggle, and snap clasps. Each Chamilia bracelet is designed to be practical, and tasteful giving a clean appearance so your beads outshine all other aspects. Prices for starter bracelets begin at $30.00 dollars for leather bracelets, $55.00 for sterling silver and up to $1500 for solid 14k gold bracelets.

Bible Bead:

Chamilia's “Bible Bead” is hand-crafted from genuine sterling silver, and features a simple yet skillfully detailed design. On the front and back of the bead is an oxidized cross. Personally I really like this aspect of the design as it allows the cross to always be visible (the cross is also pointing in the right direction as the bead rotates on the bracelet). Another aspect which I appreciate is the skillfully oxidized pages along the top, side, and bottom of the bead. This aspect really adds a special touch to the design making the bead look like a little Bible. Careful attention to detail and skillfully placed oxidization showcases the designer's skill and attention to detail. Inside each Chamilia bead are internal threads that are threaded onto the bracelet to prevent loss and make putting the bracelet on easier since the threads prevent the beads from falling off the bracelet. Chamilia’s line of beads is an impressive collection that is always growing. Currently the collection offers 600+ beads and includes an exclusive collection of authentic Disney beads that are not available anywhere else. The collection also offers more spiritual designs than other brands with beads that fit a wide range of spiritual backgrounds (which is refreshing to see). Chamilia also supports communities and causes across the globe by introducing limited edition beads and donating a portion of the proceeds to support causes like Breast Cancer, Autism and world peace programs. The price of each bead varies, from $27.00 dollars for simple sterling silver designs, and up to around $399.99 dollars for solid 14k gold charms.

About The Company:

Chamilia was founded in 2002 by Killian Rieder and Jeff Julkowski on the premise of helping women express their personalities through the medium of jewelry. Ms. Rieder, a former designer with fashion icon Polo, designs her line with personalization in mind. Her goal is to allow women to change and customize their jewelry to fit any mood, moment or occasion- the way a chameleon changes its color to match its environment. Chamilia is a privately held, American based company, headquartered in Minneapolis, MN. 

About The Designer:

Killian Rieder co-founder and lead designer at Chamilia graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology and worked as a designer with Ralph Lauren Polo. In 2002 she founded Chamilia on the premise that women have a fundamental need to hold onto special friends, family, memories and experiences as well as to express their sense of style. Her desire was to create a way for women to capture the stories and inspiration of their lives through her creations. She chose beads as the channel for that expression. Today, through her vision, Chamilia’s beads are inspired by the lives of the women who wear them. Ms. Rieder has hand drawn the concepts for over 600 unique beads in five years and with her design team, continues to create hundreds of new beads each year. Her success has helped to make Ms. Rieder the only woman at the helm of a custom jewelry design company.

“The best part of my work at Chamilia is to see other people’s creations,” says Ms. Rieder . “The beauty of the design comes not just from the beads, but from the meaning associated with them. Every bracelet, necklace and earring takes on meaning for the person who is wearing it.”

Jewelry Care:

Chamilia's silver and gold beads are treated to resist tarnishing, but from time to time they will need a quick touch-up. It is highly recommended that you only use a jewelry polishing cloth for cleaning and polishing your Chamilia jewelry. Never use a liquid silver jewelry polish (or tarnish remover) as it will remove the detailed oxidization from the jewelry. It is also important to take off your jewelry before getting into a hot tub or swimming pool to protect against exposure to harsh chemicals, which can alter the appearance of your Chamilia jewelery.

My Personal Opinion:

As many of you know, I have acquired a passion for modern charm bracelets with only those worthy of taking note getting rave reviews. Chamilia is defiantly note worthy, as the quality shown in both the bead and the bracelet are impressive. A variety of design options is also a fresh change, as I have yet to find any other brand offering so many options on both starter bracelets and beads. While other brands do have impressive collections, Chamilia's collection is set apart because of their broad base of designs that fit any taste. For me what really sets Chamilia's collection above other brands is their spiritual themed beads (which even includes a St. Christopher bead) and their exclusive Disney collection. As a side note I have yet to snag this bracelet, despite wearing it for almost a month, which showcases its practical design. Personally I find this bracelet to comfortable with lots of room for adding more beads. If you have a passion for modern charm jewelry this brand is worth checking into.

Where to Buy?:
Check out Chamilia's official website http://www.chamilia.com/ for more information and to find a dealer near you. 

Disclosure of Material Connection:  

Review Time is not in any way affiliated with Chamilia. This review is based upon a media review sample from Chamilia. The opinions I have expressed within my review are my own. I am disclosing this information in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Charms with Southern Flare: Purple Turtle Porium's Sterling Silver Possum Charm

Adorable and skillfully detailed this unique possum charm adds southern flare to any design. This charm is crafted from genuine sterling silver with oxidized details. Underneath the charm is stamped 925 indicating the charm's content of pure silver. As with genuine Pandora charms, internal threads located inside of the charm allows it to be twisted onto a variety of European charm bracelets. Although Pandora did not craft this charm it fits on my Pandora bracelet perfectly. When twisting this charm onto to the bracelet it fits exactly the same as my Pandora charm (which is very impressive given the difference in price between the charms). It should be noted that both charms feel like they are the same weight when held in one's palm. This is important as charms that weight more than Pandora's charms could possibly damage your Pandora bracelet. Keep this in mind when purchasing charms that are not crafted by Pandora. The larger faceted bead is a free gift that Purple Turtle Porium sent along with my purchase. This bead is lightweight, yet very reflective adding a welcomed touched of sparkle to my bracelet.

What's a Possum?:
Opossums (commonly referred to as possums) are nocturnal omnivores commonly found in the United States (especially here in the south). Their name originates from the Algonquian word aposoum, meaning "white beast". This unique creature is the largest marsupial in the Western Hemisphere and has more teeth than any other land mammal. According to Wikipedia "Adult opossums do not hang from trees by their tails, as sometimes depicted, though babies may dangle temporarily. Instead, the opossum uses its tail as a brace and a fifth limb when climbing. The tail is occasionally used as a grip to carry bunches of leaves or bedding materials to the nest. A mother will sometimes carry her young upon her back, where they will cling tightly even when she is climbing or running. When threatened or harmed, they will "play possum", mimicking the appearance and smell of a sick or dead animal. When playing possum, the lips are drawn back, teeth are bared, saliva foams around the mouth, and a foul-smelling fluid is secreted from the animal. This response is involuntary, rather than a conscious act. Their stiff, curled form can be prodded, turned over, and even carried away. The animal will regain consciousness after a period of minutes or hours and escape. Opossums also have a remarkably robust immune system, and show partial or total immunity to the venom of rattlesnakes, cottonmouths, and other pit vipers."

References:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opossum

About Purple Turtle Porium:
Based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada Ms. Joanne (the artist and mastermind behind Purple Turtle Porium) is committed to providing quality beads that will fit all styles of European charm bracelets. As a Pandora bead collector and a proud mother of two she is particular about the quality and safety of the beads she sells. Ms. Joanne states "I am very particular about the beads that I sell, and they must all pass a rigorous inspection." Purple Turtle Porium's policy is complete customer satisfaction. If for any reason a customer is not satisfied with their purchase a full refund of the purchase price is given. Aside from the cute design of the charm, this policy is what sold me on buying it. There are many online retailers making clams that their beads are compatible with Pandora bracelets, but often times they fail to deliver quality charms. Unlike other shops this one has a policy to keep this from happening.

Personal Opinion:
The quality of this charm is impressive for its price. Unless you are a Pandora Collector it is difficult to tell the difference between the genuine Pandora charm and the charm featured in this review. I am very pleased with my order, and highly recommend Purple Turtle Porium to all my friends. This charm is a wonderful gift for any country girl. For me this charm reminds me that no matter how much I have changed since my childhood, I am still deep down the same country girl that once trapped possums (in non-harmful traps) just for fun.

Where to Buy?:
Purple Turtle Porium's charms can be purchased online from http://www.purpleturtleporium.com/ and http://www.etsy.com/shop/Purrpleturtle

Disclosure of Material Connection:
This review is based upon my purchase from Purple Turtle Porium. Review Time is not in any way affiliated with Purple Turtle Porium, I simply appreciate the craftsmanship and design of this charm. The opinions I have expressed within my review are my own. I am disclosing this information in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Pandora the Modern Charm Bracelet: A Review of Pandora's Sterling Sliver Starter Bracelet

Do you love the idea of wearing a charm bracelet, but feel that traditional charm bracelets are unpractical, aggravating to wear (lets face it they get snagged on every thing), or just simply not your style? If you answered yes, don't worry you are not alone many women feel this way my self included. This summer I discovered the solution to my charm bracelet issues in Pandora's line of modern charm bracelets. Pandora's charm bracelet redefines the meaning of the term "charm bracelet", by reinventing the traditional concept with practicality in mind. Unlike its traditional counterpart Pandora's charms are detailed beads, and small free-form dangle charms which screw on to the bracelet its self. This allows you to change beads easily by simple unscrewing the charms. Pandora's design is a welcomed improvement which makes the charms very difficult to loose, and less likely to become snagged on your surroundings. Personally I have always had bad experiences with traditional charm bracelets because I seemed to get them caught or snagged on everything around me (which resulted in the bracelet spending a lot of time in my jewelry box for fear of losing more of the charms). With my Pandora bracelet I have no fear of loosing the charms and have yet to snag the bracelet on my surroundings despite wearing it on a daily bases (which for me is something miraculous).

About Pandora's Starter Bracelet:
Starter bracelets are plain bracelets that are sold with out charms. This allows you to choose the charm you like, and build the bracelet over time. Pandora offers a verity of starter bracelets to choose from including; leather, sterling silver, and 14k gold. Each bracelet is available with either sterling silver or 14k gold clasps. Prices rang from $30.00 dollars for leather bracelets with sterling silver clasps, up to 1499 for a sold 14k gold bracelet. The bracelet featured in this review is solid sterling silver, and features Pandora's signature bead clasp. This bracelet ranges between $45.00 to $65.00 dollars depending on the store it is purchased from. One aspect which sets Pandora's line apart from other modern charm bracelets is that there are four threaded sections along the bracelet. The two threaded sections towards the middle of the bracelet allows you to separate your charms into sections through the use of stationary beads that clasp around the threaded sections preventing movement of the other charms. The other two threaded sections are used to give the bracelet a seamless appearance once the bracelet is full.

Sizing is Important:
When purchasing a starter bracelet from a jewelry store, the jeweler (or well informed staff) will measure your wrist to ensure that the bracelet fits perfectly. As you have probable noticed the bracelet featured in this review fits very snugly on my wrist, the reason for this is that the length of the bracelet will expand slightly over time due to the weight of the charms. According to the staff at Artsy Abode in Fleming Island, Florida "There should only be just enough room between the bracelet and your wrist to place your thumb under the bracelet. This ensures that it will fit properly once the bracelet is full".

Pandora's Charms:
Pandora offers a large selection of charms, ranging from whimsical themes to elegant designs. Each charm is hand-crafted from genuine sterling silver, 14k gold or hand-blown glass. Some charms also have high quality cubic zirconias, as well genuine gems inset into their design. The price of each charm varies, from $25.00 dollars for simple sterling silver designs, up to $800 dollars for solid 14k gold charms. Pandora charm bracelets are designed to be built overtime, resulting in sentimental bracelet that reflects the life of the person wearing it. The charm on the starter bracelet featured in this review is Pandora's "Angel of Hope" charm. Pandora designed this charm in response to hurricane Katrina's tragic effects on Louisiana and Mississippi. Aside from making an initial donation of $100,000.00 to help those affected what Katrina, Pandora pledges to provide continuing support to the relief efforts through the purchase of the Angel of Hope charm. Approximately one third of the proceeds from this charm will be sent directly to the Mississippi Disaster Recovery Foundation. Through this effort Pandora aspires to raise $1,000,000.00 to $2,000,000.00 in additional funds for this cause."

My Personal Opinion:
Since I was a young teen the idea of wearing a charm bracelet has fascinated me. This was largely due to the sentimental concept behind charm bracelets -that each charm represents an aspect of your personality and life. Sadly it did not take long for me to realize that traditional charm bracelets and I are not compatible. When my husband mentioned Pandora's charm bracelets as an alternative my first thought was that this bracelet would have the same issues, well that is until I saw one for myself. The bracelet's design is practical, simple to clean, charms are easy to remove (allowing you to personalize the bracelet with out getting a headache) and most importantly the charms can not fall off or the bracelet while you are wearing it. Another aspect which has made this bracelet one of my favorite pieces is its superb craftsmanship, and superior quality. As someone who appreciates fine jewelry I admire Pandora's skill and craftsmanship.

Where to Buy?:
Check out Pandora's official website for more information and to find a dealer near you http://www.pandora.net/en-US

ReviewTime is not in any way affiliated with Pandora, I simply appreciate the craftsmanship and design of this brand.

Little Devil Designs: Sterling Silver Phoenix Charm

 An Original Design

Elegant and inspiring this lovely phoenix charm is a wonderful reminder of inner strength, transformation, and rebirth. Each charm is hand-crafted from .925 sterling silver, and hangs on a sturdy silver jump ring. Measuring 1.25" tall by .5" wide this charm can be worn on a necklace or charm bracelet. All of Little Devil Designs are nickel and lead free and are shipped in a velvet bag to protect from scratches during shipment.

What Makes this Piece Unique:
The quality of this charm is impressive for many reasons: 1. The charm features sturdy craftsmanship and has a nice heavy weight for its size. 2. Excellent details and shading on both sides of the charm, set off  the wings and body of the phoenix (this design is double sided with both sides showcasing excellent details) 3. The charm hangs from a surprisingly thick jump ring. (Which is something that I always appreciate.) 4. Most importantly this charm was hand-crafted by someone who cares about their craft, and uses the medium of silver to release their imagination and creativity.

Meaning of the Phoenix:
Mythical and sacred the phoenix is found in the mythologies of the Persians, Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, Chinese. The phoenix symbolizes inner strength, courage, transformation,  rebirth, and immortality. To learn more about the mythology and symbolism of the phoenix check out http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phoenix_(mythology)

My Personal Opinion:
Hand-crafted jewelry has always fascinated me, but until recently I never thought of reviewing a piece of jewelry. After some thought I feel that there is a true need for reviews of hand-crafted jewelry in order to help others choose quality pieces wisely, and know which craftsmen live up to their claims. That said I feel that Little Devil Designs is not only worthy of your time, but worthy of recognition among the blogging community. Such quality, craftsmanship and attention to detail is rare. I recommend this shop to anyone searching for quality hand-crafted jewelry.

Where to Buy?:
Little Devil Designs offers a wide variety of hand-crafted charms and pendents to choose from. Check out their shop at http://www.etsy.com/shop/LittleDevilDesigns

ReviewTime is not in any way affiliated with Little Devil Designs, I just appreciate their craftsmanship and lovely phoenix design.