Costume jewelry is defined by Answers.com as "Jewelry made from inexpensive metals and imitation or semiprecious stones." Hmm, this would include quite a few things that I would not normally put in that category. And what, exactly is an "inexpensive metal?" Silver is still reasonably priced, although that could change.

Semiprecious stones can include such beauties as opals, onyx, amethyst,  turquoise and even diamonds and rubies, depending on the grade of the gemstone. The term precious or semi-precious may change according to the fashion of the day.

The key to  jewelry shopping and wearing is "What makes you happy?" Choose those gemstones, precious or not, that seem to lift your spirit. What seems "precious" to one person may be ho-hum to another. For instance, I have known women who wouldn’t be interested in owning a diamond ring, but would go gah-gah over a topaz birthstone.

I prefer my unique gemstone rings to be, well, unique! If you have followed my blog for a while, you will understand that I am someone who prefers to march to the beat of a different drummer. And what that means in the area of jewelry is this; handcrafted designs over jewelry spewed forth from a factory.

Now what I consider tasteful may not match your idea of same. But when a design has been “touched by an artist”, there is an almost mystical quality that is like no other. Of course, one might argue, it depends on the artist. Of course. But when I say artist, I am talking about someone who has that magical gift. A beautifully designed ring which has been set with a perfectly cut ruby might or might not have that special touch. All art is like that. When you see it, you know it.

And if you are honest with yourself, and can reach into the deepest reality you have as a spiritual being, I think you will recognize true art as well. It may take many forms, only some of which might be unique gemstone rings.