I have always found it interesting that women, usually squeamish when it comes to all things creepy and crawly, find pleasure in wearing bejeweled snakes, frogs, lizards, flies, beetles, spiders and other types of reptiles, bugs, insects, amphibians and such. I know that it started with the ancient Egyptians and their love affair with the dung beetle, also known as the scarab.

Selling on Ruby Lane and being a collector of vintage jewelry I have found a great deal of Avon Jewelry. I never actually thought much about Avon Jewelry being worth much. I grew up thinking Avon was all about make up and perfumes. What could they know about jewelry? As time went on I thought that the pieces of Avon jewelry were very beautiful and showed very good quality.

The back of a piece of jewelry is very important. It will tell you many things about the piece. I never realized until I started collecting jewelry that the back side tells a story or gives you clues to a great story.

Are you a fan of the Hollywood legend, Elizabeth Taylor? If so, you will soon get a closer look into the private life of the famous movie star who passed away recently. On December 13, 2011, Christie's Auction house will be holding the first of several days of auctions of her jewelry, clothing and other prized possessions.

Anyone who surfs online for genuine gemstone jewelry, whether they are looking at antique, vintage or contemporary pieces, will more than likely come across jewelry titles with very descriptive add on words which ends up, sadly, often being a gemstone impostor.

Reflecting on the years since initiating my jewelry collectible career, I must admit to some blunders!  Certainly now, I'm more equipped with knowledge as well as experience and during treasure forays, it is easier to recognize the difference between a great profitable purchases versus acquisitions more difficult to sell.

I often receive emails from browsers that come across my shop while searching for Cameos... (my specialty!) Much interest comes from never having the immense pleasure of seeing such interesting and unique depictions :) Many pieces in my shop "Ain't your grandma's cameo" that's for sure ;)