There are many legends, historical recounts, beliefs and traditions to Easter from many different societies over the course of numerous centuries and generations. The Europeans that first crossed the Atlantic Ocean and landed on the North American continent brought with them their traditional beliefs. As they built the first colonies, they based their society, their principles and their ethics on the Christian belief.

However, it is interesting to learn that despite this Christian foundation, Easter wasn’t celebrated in the American society as a tradition until after the Civil War, two hundred years later.

Nowadays, besides its religious meaning, Easter is also an occasion for families to come together. Easter candy such as jellybeans and chocolates are typically given as gifts to children, while Spring flowers are a traditional gift for the ladies.

But if you feel you want to surprise one of your family members and give something special for this year’s holiday, Landstroms offers a complete line of Black Hills Gold cross pendants and earrings which make a perfect gift for the occasion. And all Landstroms Black Hills Gold jewelry is made in America, by hand, as it’s been made for over one hundred years.

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Almost one hundred years later, George had to surrender his birthday date to the Uniform Monday Holiday Act which set the federal holiday to be the third Monday in February. Unfortunately, it happens that the 22nd never lands on a Monday. Today, states determine their own designations for this holiday which include “Washington Birthday”, “George Washington Birthday”, “Washington and Jefferson Day”, and of course “Presidents Day”.

On Monday, February 20th, Presidents Day will offer some of us a day off from work, primarily federal, state and banking institutions, but some commercial companies will also keep their doors closed. However, the BlackHillsGoldSource.com website is open 24/7 with doors open on Monday looking forward to your visit and offering you the largest online selection of Landstroms Black Hills Gold jewelry.

With the first day of Spring only four weeks away, many are making wedding or engagement plans. With the BlackHillsGoldSource President’s Day Sale underway, that Black Hills Gold engagement ring you’ve been looking at is right within your reach.

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Valentine’s day is the subject of legends, traditions, medieval plays, rhymes and poems dating back to the early centuries. And today it remains the most popular theme and motif that permeates through our society every February.

What comes to mind to many as Valentines Day approaches is giving a piece of jewelry to your wife, girl friend or fiancée to express your love. Choosing a Valentines gift that shows your love is easier than you may think! Landstroms Black Hills Gold has a wide variety of Valentines jewelry featuring hearts made from the so well-known tri color Black Hills Gold with pink and green leaves. This year, Landstroms also offers an affordable line of sterling silver diamond jewelry.

Add an extra touch to this year’s Valentines gift and share the beauty of Black Hills Gold Jewelry with your loved one.

And don’t forget your flowers! Call FTD at 888-580-8448 for great prices, selection and service

Check out this video of Landstroms Black Hills Gold Valentine jewelry on YouTube:

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HISTORY OF BLUE ZIRCON

Though it is generally accepted that the custom of birthstones originated from the Breastplate of Aaron, a religious article which held twelve gemstones representing the twelve tribes of Israel, over the years different cultures have interpreted the instructions for fabricating the breastplate differently resulting in a variety of birthstone lists. And though it is also probable that these stones were assigned according to astrological sign, in recent times it has become popular to appoint the variety of birthstones to the months of the year. The month of December, the final month of the year, is certainly no different in this respect and has a number of possibilities.

The modern birthstones for December have been Turquoise or Tanzanite, but in recent years Blue Zircon has become very popular. Turquoise is a valuable and ancient mineral which has found strong popularity in jewelry made by Native Americans. In fact, some of the finest turquoise comes from the southwestern United States. Esteemed for thousands of years as a holy stone, its blue and green color is created by its composition of both copper and iron, respectively. But being a soft and sensitive stone, turquoise must be coated and cared for or it will lose it’s color with time.

Another popular choice for December’s birthstone is Tanzanite, the blue variety of the gemstone zoisite. First discovered in Africa in 1967, it is named after the only place in the world where it has ever been found, Tanzania. It has since become one of the most popular and desired gemstones in the world for its deep blue aura, thanks primarily to New York jewelry company Tiffany who soon after its discovery marketed the stone heavily to the general public under the name Tanzanite. Consisting of calcium aluminum silicate and a Mohs’ Hardness of only 6.5 to 7, tanzanite is a delicate stone which also requires much care.

MODERN TIMES

Blue Zircon is one of the true Biblestones in the Breastplate of Aaron, where it appears in the third row under the name “ligure”. But zircons reputation has suffered in modern times because of its names similarity to “cubic zirconia”, a lab-created gem used as a diamond simulant. Occurring worldwide, zircon is also mined for the metal zirconium, which is used for abrasive and insulating purposes.

The name Zircon is most commonly believed to be derived from the Persian word “zargun”, meaning golden-colored, as one of the most common varieties of zircon is yellow.

Zircon can be found naturally in a variety of colors as well as in its colorless state, which resembles the diamond in luster and dispersion. But by far the most popular color of zircon today is blue, which is produced with higher temperatures. And bearing a Mohs’ Hardness rating of 7.5, it is significantly harder than both turquoise and tanzanite, and though it is somewhat susceptible to chipping, it remains an excellent choice for daily wear, and works well as a component of a mothers ring or mothers pendant.

Some historians believe that each birthstone may have originally been worn throughout the year by everyone, in rhythm with the zodiac, since each gemstones powers were heightened during its respective month. If so, why not start your own collection of birthstone jewelry, one for each month of the year?

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APPEARANCE OF CITRINE

Citrine is a variety of quartz that ranges from pale yellow to reddish brown in color. The yellow color, which differentiates Citrine from other quartz varieties such as Amethyst or Smokey Quartz, is due to traces of iron and silicon dioxide within the crystalline structure. Natural Citrine actually is quite rare and is more often created when Amethyst formations near natural heat sources in the Earth’s crust are heated beyond about 900 degrees Fahrenheit. At this point the Amethyst turns yellow or reddish brown becoming Citrine. Interestingly, Citrine may be returned to a purple color by applying beta radiation to it, and sometimes Citrine exhibits both colors, at which point it is referred to as Ametrine. These processes were originally discovered in the middle of the 18th century, but were quickly perfected resulting in a boom on Citrine in Europe. These days only a trained specialist can recognize these “burnt stones”.

HISTORY OF THE CITRINE

Because it is so rarely found in nature, there is very little mythology related to Citrine. However, because of its resemblance to Topaz, it’s alleged miraculous powers very closely match those of Topaz as well. In ancient times, Citrine was worn to protect from snake venom. It was also believed to aid with digestive problems, stomach ailments, and circulation and improve mental focus and physical endurance. Ancient Romans used Citrine in intaglio designs as well as in their jewelry making. And in these times it was also believed that keeping a Citrine crystal in one’s cashbox helped one maintain his wealth.

The name Citrine is derived from the old French word for lemon, “citron”, while darker colored Citrine crystals are named Madeira because of their color’s resemblance to Madeira wine.

MODERN USES OF CITRINE

Nowadays, most Citrine comes from Brazil, Russia, Spain, France and Hungary, and has become very plentiful, and therefore very affordable. As a result, jewelry makers are using bigger cuts of Citrine in their jewelry and budget minded jewelry buyers really can’t do better for their money.

Bearing a Mohs’ Hardness rating of 7, Citrine is quite insensitive to scratches. And with a crystalline structure almost impervious to cleavage, Citrine therefore also makes a good choice for everyday jewelry.

Citrine is the birthstone for the month of November and is also used to celebrate the thirteenth wedding anniversary, and as an alternate for the eleventh wedding anniversary. If your birthday is in the month of November, consider giving your Mom a gold Mother’s ring for Mothers Day with a warm, mellow Citrine stone.

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APPEARANCE OF THE OPAL

APPEARANCE OF SAPPHIRE

The most celebrated Sapphires are a rich, deep blue but Sapphire may be any color except red. Yellow, green, white, purple and even pink-colored corundum is referred to as Sapphire while true red-colored corundum is known as Ruby. While trace amounts of chromium result in the Ruby’s red color, it is other elements, notably iron and chrome that result in the different colored stones referred to as Sapphires.

Like other gemstones, Sapphire crystals are formed by intense heat and pressure beneath the Earth over millions of years. During this process some Sapphires develop tiny needle-like crystals that result in a phenomenon called asterism. This is the optical property which causes a reflective surface in the shape of a “star”. Popular Star Sapphires commonly have six ray stars, though Sapphires with twelve ray stars are possible.

HISTORY OF THE SAPPHIRE

Early use of Sapphires as gem stones dates back to around 800 BC when the ancient Persians believed that the sky was colored blue because of the reflection of Sapphires. Ancient tradition holds that the Ten Commandments were carved on Sapphire tablets, while Kings wore the stone around their necks to ward off evil and protect them from harm. The stone holds numerous associations with the Catholic Church as well, being listed as the second foundation stone in Revelations XXI.

The name Sapphire is commonly believed to come from the Latin and Greek words for blue, “saphirus” and “sapheiros”, respectively. However, some associate the name Sapphire with the planet Saturn because it can be translated as “dear to the planet Saturn” in Vedic and a number of different languages.

MODERN TIMES

Blue is the color most associated with the personal qualities of friendship and loyalty, exuding harmony and wellness through truth and understanding. But it seems that ever since Prince Charles gave Princess Diana a Sapphire engagement ring there’s been an increase in the popularity of Sapphires used to represent fidelity and devotion. More and more couples are choosing this gem stone for their engagement ring or for their eternity ring or journey necklace.

Bearing a Mohs’ Hardness rating of 9, Sapphires are the second hardest substance known to mankind, though the Diamond is nearly four times harder. This makes the Sapphire a very easy to care for gem stone. The Sapphire is also the birthstone for the month of September, and because it symbolizes sincerity and faithfulness, it makes a popular and sensible choice for an engagement ring. The Sapphire is also used to celebrate the fifth, forty-fifth and seventieth wedding anniversaries, and as an alternate for the seventh and tenth wedding anniversaries. If your birthday is in the month of September, consider a Black Hills Gold Sapphire ring or pendant with a beautiful deep blue Sapphire.

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APPEARANCE OF PERIDOT

The Peridot (pronounced: pair•a•doe) is the yellowish to olive green gem variety of the mineral olivine. Olivine itself is comprised of two other minerals, fayalite and forsterite, the main composition of each being iron and magnesium, respectively. Though most Peridot is the magnesium rich forsterite, it’s the amount of iron in olivine which contributes most to the final color of Peridot, with amounts less than 15% resulting in the higher quality gems. Other trace elements that contribute to its color are nickel and chromium.

Like other gemstones, Peridot crystals are formed by intense heat and pressure beneath the Earth over millions of years. And over the years, Peridot has been confused with a number of other gemstones, such as the emerald because of its potential range of green color. Thus many jewelers refer to it as “evening emerald”, a nickname given to Peridot by the Romans.

HISTORY OF PERIDOT

Early use of Peridot dates back to around 1500 BC when it was mined on Saint John’s Island in the Red Sea, off the coast of Egypt. The Egyptians considered it the gem of the sun and used it extensively in their jewelry. In fact, early miners searched for Peridot at night because they believed that moonlight made the crystals easier to find. The finest Peridot is considered to come from Myanmar and Egypt, though a relatively new deposit discovered in 1994 in Kashmir has led to some of the world’s finest stones. Other important sources include China, Africa, Australia and the US where Arizona provides an abundant source, though of somewhat lessor quality.

Peridot was considered by the Egyptians to protect against infections and evil, and clean and heal the heart. It is also mentioned throughout the Bible where it symbolizes purity and morality. Many still consider Peridot a tonic for the whole body, believing that it has a healing effect on the gall bladder and liver, reduces stress and protects the wearer from negativity.

It is unclear where the word Peridot comes from as there are several popular beliefs. Some insist that the name Peridot comes from the Greek word “peridona”, which implies “to give richness”. But other beliefs are that the word comes from the Arabic word “faridat”, which means “gem “ or that it is derived from the word “peritot” which, in Old French, means “unclear”. Further, the stone is mentioned in the Bible under the Hebrew name of “pitdah”. Which of these is correct?

MODERN TIMES

Bearing a Mohs’ Hardness rating of 6.5 to 7, the Peridot is not a particularly hard gemstone. And because it’s many inclusions make it easily prone to cracking during cutting, it’s one of the more difficult gemstones for the cutter to work with. However, once the cutter has removed the major inclusions, the way the light refracts through the stone’s remaining ones give off a very rich glow. Because of its affordability, and since caring for it is fairly easy, the Peridot is becoming quite popular in modern times.

The Peridot is also the birthstone for the month of August, it’s vivid green making the perfect compliment to summer attire. The Peridot is also used to celebrate the first wedding anniversary, and as an alternate for the sixteenth wedding anniversary. If your birthday is in the month of August, consider as a Mother’s Day gift for your Mom a Mothers ring or pendant with your birthstone: a beautiful, vibrant green Peridot.

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APPEARANCE OF THE RUBY

The Ruby is the red variety of corundum, the second hardest natural mineral known to mankind. Although pure corundum is virtually colorless, the inclusion of trace amounts of chromium in it result in the Ruby’s red color. Other elements, such as iron will result in different colors, but all these varieties are referred to as sapphires. Only the red variety qualifies as Ruby.

Like other gemstones, Rubies are formed by intense heat and pressure beneath the Earth over millions of years. Interestingly enough, the chromium within the corundum tends to cause cracks within the crystalline structure. These cracks make it very difficult to find Rubies larger than about 3 carats. Consequently, larger Rubies, as well as those with minimal inclusions bring some of the highest prices paid of any gemstones in the world.

HISTORY OF THE RUBY

Rubies have been prized as rare stones for thousands of years. The finest Rubies are considered to come from Burma, but other important sources include Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Thailand, Madagascar, Brazil, Afghanistan, Ceylon and Vietnam. Rubies of varying quality are found in many other places in the world, including the United States.

Hindus considered the Ruby to be the king of all gemstones, believing that they lit up the homes of the gods. In fact, reference to the Ruby has been found in Indian literature for more than two thousand years. In mythology, the Ruby was the gemstone chosen as an offering to the Hindu deity Krishna. The Ruby is also the most often named gemstone in the Christian Bible. And in the Middle Ages, the stone was thought to darken when you were in danger, warning and guarding against evil, and giving its wearer the ability to then make clear decisions.

The name Ruby was derived from the Latin word ‘rubens’, meaning ‘red’. What better name for a such a vibrant and prized stone who’s fiery, blood-red color represents the embodiment of life for mankind?

MODERN TIMES

The classic Ruby, with its deep, rich red has been treasured through the ages. After all, what other color better embodies the feelings of love, passion and power? It’s no wonder that Dorothy wore Ruby slippers on her way to meet the Wizard in L. Frank Baum ‘s The Wizard of Oz.

Bearing a Mohs’ Hardness rating of 9, the Ruby is the second hardest substance known to mankind, though the Diamond is nearly four times harder. Since the color of the Ruby is its most important characteristic, most inclusions do not affect the quality of the stone, but rather help create the rays which leave us with our mouths open. The Ruby is also the birthstone for the month of July and is used to celebrate the fifteenth, fortieth and eightieth wedding anniversaries. It’s also an alternate for the sixtieth wedding anniversary. If your birthday is in the month of July, consider a Black Hills Gold necklace with a pendant containing a beautiful, deep red Ruby.

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Made by Landstroms in the Black Hills of South Dakota, Black Hills Gold jewelry is a quality made product that is perfect for your Valentine or special someone. Landstroms, the original Black Hills Gold manufacturing company, has been creating beautiful designs for over 130 years in their family-run South Dakota factory. Located in Rapid City, the factory is known for their quality hand-made jewelry that has been cherished and sought after for generations. In addition, since each piece is hand-made, no two pieces are alike, making this jewelry collection a very unique gift idea.

BlackHillsGoldSource.com provides fast, easy on­line shopping for Black Hills Gold jewelry enthusiasts providing you with a quick and convenient way to shop for the perfect Valentines Day gift. You will definitely find something she will fall in love with in the Black Hills Gold Valentines jewelry collection. This collection offers plenty of beautiful and unique gold and silver heart-shaped pieces to choose from.

Based in Boulder, CO, BlackHillsGoldSource.com has maintained a close relationship with the Landstrom’s factory in neighboring South Dakota, and is committed to making the quality of Landstrom’s Black Hills Gold jewelry available to every household in America at very affordable prices. In fact, with our factory-direct pricing you will save over 30% off the suggested retail price that you find at Landstrom’s retail counter.

BlackHillsGoldSource.com is your #1 source for Landstroms Black Hills Gold jewelry for your sweetheart this Valentines Day! We not only offer you a guaranteed low price, but also offer a large selection with no minimum order, fast shipping, fast customer service response and a money-back guarantee. Plus…with us, your online shopping is always safe and secure. You can shop with full confidence, knowing that your personal and purchasing information will remain private and secure.

So, what better way to say “I Love You” this Valentines Day than with a beautiful piece of Black Hills Gold jewelry?

With Landstrom’s Black Hills Gold, love is always in the air!