Gracie Jewellery

2012-02-09T21:05:00.000-05:00

Queen Elizabeth's - 60th Anniversary of Accession

2012-02-06T19:27:00.005-05:00

Queen Elizabeth has marked the 60th anniversary of her accession to the throne by spending a low-key day with school children.

Official Diamond Jubilee portrait of Queen Elizabeth II photographed in the Centre Room of Buckingham Palace, overlooking The Victoria Memorial Statue

Today, as I mark 60 years as your Queen, I am writing to thank you for the wonderful support and encouragement that you have given to me and Prince Philip over these years and to tell you how deeply moved we have been to receive so many kind messages about the Diamond Jubilee.

In this special year, as I dedicate myself anew to your service, I hope we will all be reminded of the power of togetherness and the convening strength of family, friendship and good neighbourliness, examples of which I have been fortunate to see throughout my reign and which my family and I look forward to seeing in many forms as we travel throughout the United Kingdom and the wider Commonwealth.

I hope also that this Jubilee year will be a time to give thanks for the great advances that have been made since 1952 and to look forward to the future with clear head and warm heart as we join together in our celebrations.

I send my sincere good wishes to you all.

ELIZABETH R.

God Save the Queen!

Long May You Reign!

King George VI died 60 years ago today

2012-02-06T00:01:00.000-05:00

It has long been known that the Queen found out about the death of her father King George VI during a visit to Kenya.

But the true story of what happened on 6th of February 1952 has only just come to light, nearly 60 years after it happened.

King George VI seeing of Princess Elizabeth

The story begins with Her Majesty leaving England on 31st January to undertake the visit to the country in place of her sick father.

Princess Elizabeth waving goodbye to her dad, King George VI

The visit was part of an international tour that was also to take in Australia and New Zealand.

Six days later, on February 6, 1952, the then Princess Elizabeth visited the Treetops hotel to stay in one of the famous cabins that sit high up in the trees.

The Princess and her husband had travelled there to relax and enjoy a short respite from their duties, while also intending to take in the variety of wildlife on offer.

The Princess enjoyed herself so much that she asked for tea to be served outside to avoid missing any of the wildlife.

Keen to capture more on her camera, the Queen awoke early the following day and saw two rhino fighting at a nearby waterhole.

She soon had to leave but happily promised 'I will come again' as she left for a fishing lodge known as Sagana, around 20 miles away.

As the Queen departed, several thousand miles away servants at Sandringham were preparing to wake the King for his morning bath.

His Majesty had seemed in good spirits the previous evening when he returned from a shooting party with his friend Lord Fermoy.

He spent time playing with his two grandchildren, Charles and Anne, and had dinner with his younger daughter Margaret, before retiring to bed.

The King's valet James McDonald had prepared the bath, with the running water usually enough to wake him.

However that morning it did not, and McDonald, alongside page Maurice Watts, knew something was seriously wrong.

A doctor was called, and he confirmed that the King had passed away in his sleep.

'Hyde Park Corner' the codeword used in event of King George's death was enacted and Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill was informed at once.

However, with the site the Queen and her husband were visiting being almost cut off from the outside world, it would be four hours before the news reached her.

The source of the news from Sandringham came from a journalist called Granville Roberts, who worked on the East African Standard and was covering the royal visit.

He received the news from his office, who said that Reuters had run a flash simply saying: 'The King is dead'.

Roberts immediately asked a receptionist to fetch Lieutenant Colonel Martin Charteris, who was Elizabeth's private secretary, to inform him of the news.

Asked if the message was correct, he simply replied: 'Quite sure.'

Roberts then telephoned Commander Michael Parker, Philip's private secretary to deliver the news, which was later confirmed by radio when Parker tuned to the BBC.

Commander Parker awoke the Duke of Edinburgh from an afternoon nap to tell him of the death. He is said to have reacted like he had been hit by a thunderbolt.

Philip decided to take his wife for a walk in the grounds where he told her of her father's death and that she was now Queen.

Her Majesty is said to have reacted with a sense of duty in discussing the practicalities of returning to England, but also spent an hour alone in her room.

Arrangements were quickly made for the Royal party to return to London, with a plane flying them from Nanyuki, a nearby town, to Entebbe where a plane was waiting.

The party was delayed by several hours after a storm broke in Entebbe but they left at around midnight.

During the flight, another problem arose in that the Queen's mourning outfit had already gone ahead and she only had a floral dress to wear.

The aircraft decided to land in North Africa where a message was sent ahead and a second black outfit was taken to London airport.

Upon the flight's arrival, the dress was taken aboard after it stopped in the remote area of the airport.

The Queen changed quickly before emerging, meeting a line-up including her uncle the Duke of Gloucester and Churchill.

It was the start of a reign that has lasted until this day.

Pink Saturday - 4 February

2012-02-03T20:26:00.005-05:00

Happy Pink Saturday! Beverly at How Sweet the Sound is hosting our weekly Pink Meeting

If I were a real life Princess (instead of just the imaginary one in my head) I would be known as the Pink Princess. These would definitely be in my spring wardrobe.

From the Elie Saab 2012 Spring Couture Collection

Being the modest princess that I am, I would have a pink slip added to all

I'd even go for this pink wedding gown

Would go quite nicely with a certain red hair prince, don't you think?

Last week, Nancy from Linens and Laurel suggested Etsy shop owners get together and make treasuries to highlight our specialties. I can't get the widget to embed here but you can see my treasury here

Thanks for visiting!

Pink Saturday - 28 January

2012-01-27T20:49:00.013-05:00

Happy Pink Saturday!
Thank you Beverly of How Sweet the Sound
for inviting Pink Ladies from around the world for the Pink event of the week.

Found on my imaginary shopping trip today

from BarkingSandsVintage

from TessieMay

from babylonsisters

from Olivasdreams

from 4theloveofvintage (I'd really like this!)

Thanks for visiting!

27 January - Holocaust Remembrance Day

2012-01-27T00:01:00.000-05:00

On 1 November 2005, in a resolution co-sponsored by 104 Member States, the General Assembly designated 27 January as Holocaust Remembrance Day.

January 27, 1945 is officially recognized as a day of remembrance for Holocaust victims in several countries, including the United Kingdom, Italy and Germany, because it marks the day when an advancing Soviet army liberated the largest Nazi death camp, Auschwitz-Birkenau, in Poland.

From 27 January 2011:

UN marks Holocaust memorial day with exhibitions and pledges of 'never again'

27 January 2011 – The United Nations today honoured the memory of the estimated six million Jews and countless others who perished in the Nazi death camps of the Second World War with ceremonies around the world and pledges to wipe genocide off the face of the Earth.

The General Assembly in 2005 designated 27 January, the date of the 1945 liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest and most notorious of all of the camps, as the International Day in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust, and this year's theme pays special tribute to the suffering of women.

“Mothers and daughters, grandmothers, sisters and aunts, they saw their lives irrevocably changed, their families separated and their traditions shattered,” Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said. “Yet, despite appalling acts of discrimination, deprivation and cruelty, they consistently found ways to fight back against their persecutors.

“They joined the resistance, rescued those in peril, smuggled food into ghettos and made wrenching sacrifices to keep their children alive. Their courage continues to inspire. On this Holocaust Remembrance Day, let us honour these women and their legacy.

“Let us pledge to create a world where such atrocities can never be repeated. We are all aware that such a future has yet to arrive,” said the Secretary-General.

Paying homage to the millions of Jews and thousands of other victims, including Roma, Slavs, disabled people, homosexuals, Jehovah's witnesses, communists and other political dissidents “whose lives were brutally cut short by the ideology of hatred of the Nazis and their allies,” UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay stressed that the Holocaust should serve as a reminder of the dangers of marginalization of particular groups and the need for urgent action at the first signs that a climate conducive to genocide is emerging.

“It should remind us that hateful words have the ability to translate into hateful actions. The threat of genocide still remains,” she said.

“While we can never compensate for the Holocaust, or do justice to its millions of victims and their descendants, we can at least ensure that by remembering their suffering, and acting on what we have learned, we can mitigate the suffering of others today and in the future,” she added, stressing the importance of bringing perpetrators to justice.

UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Robert Serry led a delegation of senior UN staff to Yad Vashem, the Holocaust memorial in Jerusalem, to commemorate the International Day. As part of their visit, Mr. Serry and Deputy Special Coordinator Maxwell Gaylard laid a wreath in the Hall of Remembrance to remember the six million Jews, and others, killed by the Nazis.

Exhibitions on the Holocaust are being held at various UN offices, including New York, Vienna and Paris, with a travelling exhibit due to visit other centres, including in Africa, all stressing the categorical imperative of never allowing such a catastrophe to be perpetrated again.

The educational-preventive significance of the Day is a major focus of the UN Outreach Programme set up by the General Assembly in 2005 with the UN Department of Public Information (DPI) this year producing a Study Guide – Women and the Holocaust: Courage and Compassion – to help high school students better understand the experiences of Jewish, Roma and Sinti women during the terror brought on them by the Nazis and their collaborators.

“Faced with discrimination, impossible living conditions, and the prospect of death at every turn, these women were determined to meet their families' needs and protect their children to the best of their ability,” UN Under-Secretary-General for Communications and Public Information Kiyo Akasaka says in a foreword to the Guide.

“As their husbands, sons and fathers were arrested and deported, traditional gender roles changed, placing greater responsibilities upon women in the family and community in the ghettos, and often making the difference between life and death in the camps... Once homemakers and caregivers, women had to work outside the home and adapt to stay alive in the worst of circumstances, even when their children were killed before their eyes.”

UN News

2012 Wish List

2012-01-25T19:40:00.004-05:00

The first item on my 2012 Wish List.

coat from Calvin Klein Collection

worn by Drew Barrymore in the February issue of InStyle magazine

Yikes!!

2012-01-22T00:01:00.001-05:00

Pink Saturday - January 21

2012-01-20T20:14:00.005-05:00

Happy Pink Saturday! The day Pinkers from all over the world meet at Beverly's How Sweet the Sound to show off our Pink.

You may have heard the "hat code" at Royal Ascot has been changed this year.

You can read all about it here

So today we say au revoir

(that's good bye in French)

to the wonderful creative

Pink Hats!

Thanks for visiting!

If you plan on going to the Royal Ascot in June, better take note of the new dress code!

2012-01-18T20:12:00.007-05:00

Off with their fascinators! Ascot's new dress code bans fancy head wear from royal enclosure

LONDON - They're good enough for the former Kate Middleton, but apparently not good enough for her husband's grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II.

Fascinators — the delicate, whimsical pieces of head wear favoured by the young and posh in Britain and beyond — have been banned from the royal enclosure at Royal Ascot, one of the most exclusive events in Britain's social calendar.

Organizers said Wednesday that those hoping to rub shoulders with the queen at the horse racing meet would have to stick to hats, no fascinators.

It's the latest in a series of rules aimed at tightening the dress code at Ascot, where organizers have tried to push back against the proliferation of provocative outfits, outrageous accessories and revealing tops.

Other rules introduced or reinforced Wednesday include the requirement that women at the royal enclosure wear dresses that fall below the knee and that the men accompanying them must wear a top hat (grey or black).

The queen can wear whatever she wants, but the guidelines affect the royal enclosure, which usually includes a few hundred invited guests, not just the royal family.

Some of the rules — no bare midriffs or strapless dresses for example — fall in line with organizers' attempts to roll back the nouveau-riche nightclub look, but fascinators are favoured by the highest reaches of the upper-crust.

Kate Middleton, now known as the Duchess of Cambridge, is a fan. So, too, are princesses Beatrice and Eugenie and other fashion-forward royals.

Nick Smith, Ascot's head of communication, acknowledged that "there is an argument that some fascinators are formal."

"But the very fact that there is that argument" was reason enough to ban them from the royal enclosure — where the queen gathers with the cream of British aristocracy to watch the races.

"Some fascinators have become so small that they're nothing more than a hairband and a feather," he added.

So did Elizabeth call up to say: "Off with their fascinators!"

Smith laughed. "No, that doesn't happen," he said. "We set the rules."

Still, he noted that organizers were in touch with the queen's staff and he said it would be "unlikely that we'd put something in place that she'd be uncomfortable with."

The next Ascot takes place in June.

By Raphael Satter, The Associated Press | The Canadian Press

Ladies are kindly reminded that formal day wear is a requirement in the Royal Enclosure, defined as follows:

Dresses and skirts should be of modest length defined as falling just above the knee or longer;
Dresses and tops should have straps of one inch or greater;
Jackets and pashminas may be worn but dresses and tops underneath should still comply with the Royal Enclosure dress code;
Trouser suits are welcome. They should be of full length and of matching material and colour;
Hats should be worn; a headpiece which has a base of 4 inches (10cm) or more in diameter is acceptable as an alternative to a hat.
Ladies are kindly asked to note the following:
Strapless, off the shoulder, halter neck, spaghetti straps and dresses with a strap of less than one inch (2.5cm) are not permitted;
Midriffs must be covered;
Fascinators are no longer permitted in the Royal Enclosure; neither are headpieces which do not have a base covering a sufficient area of the head (4 inches / 10cm).

Gentlemen are kindly reminded that it is a requirement to wear either black or gray morning dress which must include:

A waistcoat and tie (no cravats); and
A black or grey top hat; and
Black shoes.
A gentleman may remove his top hat within a restaurant, a private box, a private club or that facility's terrace, balcony or garden. Hats may also be removed within any enclosed external seating area within the Royal Enclosure Garden.
The customisation of top hats (with, for example, coloured ribbons or bands) is not permitted in the Royal Enclosure.

New for 2012

2012-01-14T21:46:00.004-05:00

♥*¨)
¸.·´¸.·*´¨) ¸.·*´¨)
(¸.·´ (¸*´¨(♥
(¸.·´ (¸.·´♥ Special of the month

One item discounted for the entire month

Handstamped Initial Necklace $20.00

This month's item is regularly priced at $25.00.
Price will be valid until January 31 2012 and is available here.

Christmas 2011

2011-12-23T19:30:00.000-05:00

Ah! Dearest Jesus, Holy Child
Make thee a bed
soft, undefiled
within my heart,
that it may be
a quiet chamber.

Martin Luther King Jr.

The Elizabeth Taylor Jewellery Auction

2011-12-14T14:22:00.000-05:00

And it continues....

The Richard Burton "Red is for Wales" Ruby and Diamond Ring

Estimate $1,000,000 - $1,500,000 Sold $4,226,500

The Mike Todd Diamond and Ruby Necklace and Earrings

The Earrings Estimate $80,000 - $120,000 Sold $782,500

The Necklace Estimate $200,000 - $300,000 Sold $3,778,500

The Taj Mahal Diamond Necklace

Estimate $300,000 - $500,000 Sold $8,818,500

The Mike Todd Tiara

Estimate $60,000 - $80,000 Sold $4,226,500

The Sapphire Sautoir

Estimate $600,000 - $800,000 Sold $5,906,500

The Prince of Wales Feather Brooch

Estimate $400,000 - $600,000 Sold $1,314,500

The Engagement Ring from Richard Burton

Estimate $2,500,000 - $3,500,000 Sold $8,818,500

purchased by a private buyer in Asia

The La Peregrina Pearl Necklace

Estimate $2,000,000 - $3,000,000 Sold for $11,842,500

Elizabeth Taylor Jewellery Auction

2011-12-13T20:46:00.008-05:00

So far.....

Estimate $100,000-$150,000 Sold $782,500

Estimate $300,000 - $500,000 Sold $4,002,500

Estimate $500,000 - $700,000 Sold $6,578,500

Estimate $1,000,000 - $1,500,000 Sold $6,130,500

Estimate $20,000 - $30,000 Sold $194,500

Estimate $150,000 - $200,00 Sold $3,218,500

Estimate $10,000 -$15,000 Sold $122,500

The Earrings Estimate $25,000- $35,000 Sold $374,500
The Necklace Estimate $25,000 - $35,000 Sold $386,500

Estimate $2,000,000 - $3,000,000

Sold for $746,500

Elizabeth Taylor Jewellery Auction

2011-12-12T00:01:00.000-05:00

December 13 is the day the impressive collection of jewellery owned by Elizabeth Taylor will be auctioned by Christie's.

Starting with number 5, these are my favourites.

The Taj Mahal Diamond

Set with an inscribed heart-shaped table-cut diamond, within a red stone and jade mount set with table-cut diamonds, the reverse decorated with an enamel latticework motif, hanging from a gold neck chain set with cabochon rubies and old mine-cut diamonds mounted in gold. The heart shape diamond is engraved with the Islamic date 1037 (1627-1628). The gold chain circa 1972.
Estimate $300,000 - $500,000

Sapphire and Diamond Sautoir

A necklace of pave-set diamond and calibre-cut sapphire set in platinum. The pendant is set with a cabochon sapphire of approx 52.72 carats surrounded with calibre cut sapphire and diamonds. The pendant is detachable. Made by Bulgari in 1969.

Estimate $600,000 - $800,000

The Mike Todd Diamond Tiara

Old mine-cut diamonds set in platinum and gold. Circa 1880. Because every girl needs to wear a tiara while cleaning the house.

Estimate $60,000 - $80,000

The Elizabeth Taylor Diamond Ring

A rectangular diamond weighing approx 33.19 with tapered baguette diamonds on the shoulders mounted in platinum. The ring was given to Elizabeth by Richard Burton.

The Prince of Wales Brooch

Designed as a plume of three circular-cut diamond feathers signifying the Prince of Wales, with baguette-cut diamond spines, gathered by a circular and single-cut diamond crown, mounted in platinum and gold, circa 1935

Originally given to the Duchess of Windsor by King Edward VIII while still the Prince of Wales. Among the jewellery auctioned after the Duchess' death, Elizabeth outbid Prince Charles. I wonder if he will be bidding again.

Estimate $400,000 - $600,000

La Peregrina

The natural pearl weighs approx 202.24 grains or 50.56 carats measuring approx 17.35-17.90 x 25.50mm. This pearl dates from the late 16th century. The bail is set with mine and rose cut diamonds in silver. The bail dates from the early 19th century. The necklace consists of 56 natural pearls, 4 cultured pearls and diamond and ruby stations made of platinum and gold. Elizabeth had Cartier make the necklace in 1972. Personally I prefer the seed pearl and platinum chain that accompanied the pearl drop when Richard Burton purchased it in 1969.

Estimate $2,000,000 - $3,000,000

Check back later in the week when I will update the actual selling prices.

Pink Saturday - December 10

2011-12-09T20:41:00.017-05:00

How about a handmade Christmas this year?

CountryCraftHeavenSt

ckirkseyblue

AvolieGlass

WireArtInk

slvilov

adrisboltja

YourVinylAnswer

Happy Pink Saturday! Thank you Beverly of How Sweet the Sound for hosting our Christmas pink parties.

Thanks for visiting.

Pink Saturday - December 3

2011-12-02T19:52:00.005-05:00

Every year I say I want new Christmas ornaments for the tree. So today while browsing my favourite handmade site, I came across a lovely shop called Ornament Boutique

Handmade Quilted Christmas Ornaments in Pink!!!

This one is perfect for the brand new princess in your life

My favourite

Oh there are so many to choose from! Be sure to check out the selection for yourself.

Happy Pink Saturday! Thank you Beverly of How Sweet The Sound for hosting these pink weekly meetings.

Thanks for visiting!

Elizabeth Taylor Jewellery Auction - Part 9

2011-11-29T19:49:00.005-05:00

The Daisy Parure

Necklace, Earrings and Brooch of diamond, colour diamond and chrysoprase mounted in 18kt gold. Made by Van Cleef & Arpels

The necklace was made in 1990 and is 14½" in length. The earrings made in 1992 and the brooch in 1993.

Estimate $200,000 - $300,000 for the set

I don't pretend to be an ordinary housewife.

Elizabeth Taylor

Elizabeth Taylor Jewellery Auction - Part 8

2011-11-28T00:01:00.002-05:00

Some of my best leading men have been dogs and horses.
Elizabeth Taylor

Ruby and Diamond Horse Brooch

An 18k yellow gold horse with round diamonds, square cut rubies and cabochon ruby eye

Estimate $2,000 - $4,000

Diamond, Enamel and Multi Gem Dragonfly Brooch

Opals, rubies, sapphires, opals and diamonds - the 5 main gem groups!

Estimate $6,000 - $8,000

Made by Boucheron this Art Nouveau enamel and multi gem butterfly brooch has an aquamarine and opal body. The enamel wings have cabochon rubies and calebre cut emeralds. Oh and I can't forget to mention the diamond head. Circa 1900

Estimate $10,000 - $15,000

Elizabeth Taylor Jewellery Auction - Part 7

2011-11-27T00:01:00.002-05:00

It's not the having, it's the getting.
Elizabeth Taylor

Made by the House of Taylor

Baguette and circular cut diamonds and cultured pearls set in 18kt white gold.
The necklace is 14 3/4 inches and the bracelet is 7¼ inches

Estimate $100,000 - $150,000

Pink Saturday - November 26

2011-11-26T00:01:00.006-05:00

Happy Pink Saturday! Thank you Beverly of How Sweet the Sound for hosting this day of celebrating Pink I hope you are feeling better.

This week, more of Elizabeth Taylor's pink jewellery.

Designed as a heavy link chain made of 18k white gold and pink sapphires. Total length 24 inches, this can also be worn as a necklace of 16½ inches and a bracelet of 7½ inches.

Estimate $10,000 - $15,000

I fell off my pink cloud with a thud.
Elizabeth Taylor

Not my favourite piece, but hey it's pink!

Have you noticed the new look to my blog?
A little tweaking so that it could be connected to my new website
www.graciejewellery.com

Please take a look - and if per chance you find something you like
use coupon code PINK20 for 20% off. (expires Dec 1, 2011)
A special pink coupon for my Pink Saturday Friends.

Thank you for visiting. Have a great weekend.

Elizabeth Taylor Jewellery Auction - Part 5

2011-11-25T00:01:00.001-05:00

Diamonds and Pearls, one of my favourites

Cultured Pearl and Diamond Ring

The cultured pearl is 14.50 mm (that means "big"). The diamonds surrounding it are pear shaped. The shoulders of the ring are set with circular cut diamonds. The mount is platinum. Engraved inside is "something old, something new"

A wedding gift perhaps? You pick the husband.

I am a very committed wife. And I should be committed too - for being married so many times. Elizabeth Taylor

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T00:01:00.000-05:00

To my American Friends

Happy Thanksgiving!

eat some turkey for me (I like the dark meat, just sayin')

Elizabeth Taylor Jewellery Auction - Part 4

2011-11-23T00:01:00.001-05:00

Continuing our look of Elizabeth Taylor's jewellery

A Belle Epoque Diamond Necklace

Old mine-cut diamonds set in platinum circa 1900. Total length is 16½ inches.
Estimate $25,000-$35,000

*Bell Epoque - French for Beautiful Era. This was a period in European social history tht began during the lat 19th century lasting until WW1. The Belle Epoque was named in retrospect when it was considered a golden age when compared to the horrors of WW1. A comparable epoch in the US was dubbed the Gilded Age.

The Mike Todd Diamond Ear Pendants

Round cut diamonds set in platinum. The original pair of these earrings were purchased on the Place Vendome-the famous Paris jewellery street. They were actually "paste" but Elizabeth loved them. A few months later Mike Todd surprised Elizabeth by having the pair made up with real diamonds.

Estimate $25,000 - $35,000

I sweat real sweat and I shake real shakes.
Elizabeth Taylor

Elizabeth Taylor Jewellery Auction - Part 3

2011-11-22T00:01:00.000-05:00

Diamond and Cultured Pearl Earrings

Round diamonds set in 18kt white gold in a spiral shape. A cultured pearl measuring approx 12.95 mm is suspended in the center. The pearls were added by Elizabeth.

Estimate $5000-$7000

Elizabeth Taylor's Jewellery Auction - Part 2

2011-11-21T00:01:00.002-05:00

Part 2 of our look at the Elizabeth Taylor jewellery to be auctioned by Christie's

The Cartier ruby and diamond necklace Elizabeth received from Mike Todd while expecting their daughter, Liza.

Made by Cartier, this necklace has baguette cut diamonds with 7 oval cushion cut rubies. All are mounted in platinum and 18k gold. At just 14 inches in length, it is meant to sit at the base of your throat.

Estimated at $200,000 - $300.000The matching earrings are set with 3 oval cushion cut rubies and baguette cut diamonds in platinum and 18k settings.

Estimated $80,000-$120,000

To complete the set - a ruby and diamond bracelet. Ten oval cushion cut rubies and round cut diamonds in platinum and 18k gold. The bracelet is 6½ inches in length.

Estimated $150,000-$200,000

Not belonging to this set but would be a nice addition

A Christmas gift from Richard Burton, this oval cut ruby is approximately 8.24 carats set in a circle of round cut diamonds. The shoulders are set with small round diamonds. The unusual part of this ring is that the diamonds are actually set with yellow gold claws. Usually the claws are tipped with white gold or platinum so that the diamonds don't pick up the yellow colour.

Estimated $1,000,000-$1,500,000

Success is a great deodorant.
Elizabeth Taylor

The Taylor-Burton Diamond

2011-11-20T00:01:00.000-05:00

The Taylor-Burton diamond

This is the best known of Richard Burton's jewellery purchases for Elizabeth Taylor. This is a 69.42-carat pear-shape diamond. It was cut from a rough stone weighing 240.80 carats found in the Premier Mine in 1966 and purchased by Harry Winston. Here there is a coincidence: Eight years before, another cleavage of almost identical weight (240.74 carats) had been found in the Premier. Harry Winston bought this stone too, commenting at the time, "I don't think there have been half a dozen stones in the world of this quality." This wouldn't be the first time the Premier Mine would have the last word because the 69.42-carat gem cut from the later discovery is a D-color Flawless stone.

After the rough piece of 240.80 carats arrived in New York, Harry Winston and his cleaver, Pastor Colon Jr. studied it for six months. Markings were made, erased and redrawn to show where the stone could be cleaved. There came the day appointed for the cleaving, and in this instance the usual tension that surrounds such an operation was increased by the heat and glare of the television lights that had been allowed into the workroom. After he had cleaved the stone, the 50-year-old cleaver said nothing -- he reached across the workbench for the piece of diamond that had separated from it and looked at it through his horn-rimmed glasses for a fraction of a second before exclaiming "Beautiful!" This piece of rough weighed 78 carats was expected to yield a stone of about 24 carats, while the large piece, weighing 162 carats, was destined to produce a pear shape whose weight had originally been expected to be about 75 carats.

The stone's first owner after Harry Winston wasn't Elizabeth Taylor. In 1967 Winston sold the pear shape to Mrs. Harriet Annenberg Ames, the sister of Walter Annenberg, the American ambassador in London during the Richard Nixon administration. Two years later, she sent the diamond to Parke-Bernet Galleries in New York to be auctioned explaining her decision with this statement: "I found myself positively cringing and keeping my gloves on for fear it would have been seen, I have always been an extremely gregarious person and I did not enjoy that feeling. It sat in a bank vault for years. It seemed foolish to keep it if one could not use it. As things are in New York one could not possibly wear it publicly." One might argue the stone was too large to be worn in a ring, let alone in public.

Elizabeth Taylor wearing the Taylor-Burton Diamond in a necklace
by Cartier featuring a number of smaller pear-shaped diamonds.

The diamond was put up for auction on October 23rd, 1969, with the understanding that it could be named by the buyer. Before the sale speculation was prevailing as to who was going to bid for the gem, with the usual international names being kicked around by the columnists. Elizabeth Taylor was one name among them and she did indeed have a preview of the diamond when it was flown to Switzerland for her to have a look at, then back to NYC under precautions described as "unusual". The auctioneer began the bidding by asking if anyone would offer $200,000, at which the crowded room erupted with a simultaneous "Yes". Bidding began to climb, and with nine bidders active, rushed to $500,000. At $500,000 the individual bids increased in $10,000 increments. At $650,000 only two bidders remained. When the bidding reached $1,000,000, Al Yugler of Frank Pollack, who was representing Richard Burton, dropped out. Pandemonium broke out when the hammer fell and everyone in the room stood up, resulting in the auctioneer not being able to identify who won, and he had to call for order. The winner was Robert Kenmore, the Chairman of the Board of Kenmore Corporation, the owners of Cartier Inc., who paid the record price of $1,050,000 for the gem, which he promptly named the 'Cartier'. The previous record for a jewel had been $305,000 for a diamond necklace from the Rovensky estate in 1957. A diamond, known as the Rovensky (actually thought to possibly be the Excelsior III Diamond), attached to the necklace weighed approximately 46.50 carats. It appeared in an article about diamonds in the April 1958 issue of National Geographic magazine, along with the Niarchos, Nepal, and Tiffany Yellow. As well as Richard Burton, Harry Winston had also been an under-bidder at the sale. But Burton was not finished yet and was determined to acquire the diamond. So, speaking from a pay-phone of a well-known hotel in southern England, he spoke to Mr. Kenmore's agent. Sandwiched between the lounge bar and the saloon, Burton negotiated for the gem while continually dropping coins into the phone. Patrons quietly sipping their drinks would have heard the actor's loud tones exclaiming "I don't care how much it is; go and buy it." In the end Robert Kenmore agreed to sell it, but on the condition that Cartier was able to display it, by now named the Taylor-Burton, in New York and Chicago. He did not deny that Cartier made a profit, stating "We're businessmen and we're happy that Miss Taylor is happy." Shortly afterwards on November 12th, Miss Taylor wore the Taylor-Burton in public for the first time when she attended Princess Grace's 40th birthday party in Monaco. It was flown from New York to Nice, Italy in the company of two armed guards hired by Burton and Cartier.

In 1978, following her divorce from Richard Burton, Miss Taylor announced that she was putting the diamond up for sale and was planning to use part of the proceeds to build a hospital in Botswana. In June of 1979 Henry Lambert, the New York jeweller, stated that he had bought the Taylor-Burton Diamond for $5,000,000.

By December he had sold the stone to its present owner, Robert Mouawad. Soon after, Mr. Mouawad had the stone slightly recut and it now weighs 68.09 carats. Before the recutting, the curved half of the stone's girdle had a very round outline, it is now a little more straight at that end. It also had a small culet, which was made even smaller after the recut.

Sources: Famous Diamonds by Ian Balfour and My Love Affair With Jewelry by Elizabeth Taylor.

Pink Saturday - November 19

2011-11-18T21:13:00.006-05:00

Happy Pink Saturday. Thank you to Beverly from How Sweet the Sound for hosting our weekly pink meetings.

The epic jewellery collection that belonged to Elizabeth Taylor will be auctioned in December.

Because of my magpie obsession with all things sparkly, I will be featuring several pieces of the jewellery over the next couple weeks.

My Pink Saturday offering is

The "Triphanes" Sautoir was made by Van Cleef & Arpels.

A detachable pendant with an oval cut kunzite sits within a circular cut diamond setting. This sits in an amethyst bead frame with kunzite and diamond detail. Mounted in 18kt gold it is 27 inches. The necklace can be shortened to 19 inches or 16 inches and a detachable segment can be worn as a bracelet.

It is estimated it will sell for $70,000 to $100,000.

Can't afford that? How about a matching pair of earrings?

These are estimated to fetch $15,000 -$20,000.

Come back on Monday for another spectacular piece from Elizabeth Taylor's collection.

Almost Friday Giggle

2011-11-16T19:32:00.000-05:00

Please share this butterfly with all your friends!
If You Do Not Forward Him
He Will Be Waiting For You On Your Pillow - Every Night!

I Had To Move Him On‚
It Just Wouldn't Be Fair To Keep Him.

Sunday November 13

2011-11-12T20:58:00.001-05:00

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge

2011-11-12T19:49:00.003-05:00

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge attended a reception and dinner in aid of the National Memorial Arboretum Appeal at St. James' Palace Thursday evening.

Pictures: Reuters

Remembrance Day - 11-11-11

2011-11-10T19:50:00.005-05:00

In Flanders Fields

By: Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, MD (1872-1918)
Canadian Army

In Flanders Fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

Wear your poppy today in honour of all the bygone soldiers who gave their lives so that we may enjoy our freedom today.

Wear your poppy today in honour of all the soldiers that are still fighting to keep our freedom.

The Cenotaph in Ottawa, Ontario

The cenotaph in my hometown

The cenotaph at Flanders Field, Belgium

My Family's Honour Role

Leslie Thwaites
86th Machine Gun Battalion
Canadian Overseas Expeditionary Force
World War 1

William Ashdown
First Sergeant U.S. Army
89th Field Artillery Battalion, 25th Infantry Division
Killed Pearl Harbor 1942

Ronald K. Thwaites
Private - Army
Royal Regiment of Canada
World War 2

Charles Thwaites

HMCS
Royal Canadian Navy
World War 2

Armistice Day in England today

A Week of Remembrance

2011-11-10T15:10:00.005-05:00

Remembrance Day (also know as Poppy Day, Armistice Day or Veterans Day is a memorial day observed in British Commonwealth including Canada to remember the members of their armed forces who have died in the line of duty since World War 1.

Remembrance Day is observed on 11 November to recall the official end of World War I on that date in 1918; hostilities formally ended "at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month" of 1918 with the German signing of the Armistice

("at the 11th hour" refers to the passing of the 11th hour, or 11:00 a.m.)

The day was specifically dedicated by King George V on 7 November 1919 as a day of remembrance of members of the armed forces who were killed during World War I.

The red remembrance poppy has become a familiar emblem of Remembrance Day due to the poem "In Flanders Fields". These poppies bloomed across some of the worst battlefields of Flanders in World War I, their brilliant red colour an appropriate symbol for the blood spilled in the war.

The common British and Canadian tradition includes either one or two minutes of silence at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month (11:00 a.m., 11 November), as that marks the time (in the United Kingdom) when the armistice became effective.

In Canada, Remembrance Day is a public holiday in all provinces and territories except Ontario and Quebec. Veterans Affairs Canada, a federal entity, states that the date is of "remembrance for the men and women who have served, and continue to serve our country during times of war, conflict and peace"; specifically, the First and Second World Wars, the Korean War, and all conflicts since then in which members of the Canadian Forces have participated. The department runs a program called Canada Remembers with the mission of helping young and new Canadians, most of whom have never known war, "come to understand and appreciate what those who have served Canada in times of war, armed conflict and peace stand for and what they have sacrificed for their country."

Poppies are laid on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on Remembrance Day in Ottawa

The official national ceremonies are held at the National War Memorial in Ottawa, presided over by the Governor General of Canada (the Queen's official representative), any members of the Royal Family, the Prime Minister, and other dignitaries and is observed by the public. Typically, these events begin with the tolling of the Carillon in the Peace Tower, during which serving members of the Canadian Forces arrive at Confederation Square followed by the Ottawa diplomatic corps, ministers of the Crown, special guests, the Royal Canadian Legion, the royal party (if present), and the viceregal party. Before the start of the ceremony, four armed sentries and three sentinels (two flag sentinels and one nursing sister) are posted at the foot of the cenotaph.

The Guard of Honour (a member of the Royal Canadian Navy at left, and the Royal Canadian Air Force (at right) at the National War Memorial in Ottawa, Remembrance Day, 2010

The arrival of the governor general is announced by a trumpeter sounding the "Alert", whereupon the viceroy is met by the Dominion President of the Royal Canadian Leagion and escorted to a dais to receive the Viceregal Salute, after which the national anthem, " O Canada", is played. The moment of remembrance begins with the bugling of " Last Post" immediately before 11:00 a.m., at which time the gun salute fires and the bells of the Peace Tower toll the hour. Another gun salute signals the end of the two minutes of silence, and cues the playing of a lament, the bugling of " The Rouse"," and the reading of the Act of Remembrance. A flypast of Royal Canadian Air Force occurs at the start of a 21 gun salute, upon the completion of which a choir sings "In Flanders Fields". The various parties then lay their wreaths at the base of the memorial; one wreath is set by the Silver Cross Mother, a recent recipient of the Memorial Cross, on behalf of all mothers who lost children in any of Canada's armed conflicts. The viceregal and/or royal group return to the dais to receive the playing of the Royal Anthem of Canada, "God Save the Queen", prior to the assembled Armed Forces personnel and veterans performing a march past in front of the viceroy, bringing about the end of the official ceremonies. A tradition of paying more personal tribute to the sacrifice of those who have served and lost their lives in defence of the country has emerged since erection of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the War Memorial in 2000: after the official ceremony the general public place their poppies atop the tomb.

Similar ceremonies take place in provincial capitals across the country, officiated by the relevant lieutenant governor, as well as in other cities, towns, and even hotels or corporate headquarters. Schools will usually hold special assemblies for the first half of the day, or on the school day prior, with various presentations concerning the remembrance of the war dead. The largest indoor ceremony in Canada is usually held in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, with over 9,000 gathering in Credit Union Centre in 2010; the ceremony participants include old guard (veterans), new guard (currently serving members of the CF), and sea, army, and air cadet units.

A Week of Rememberance

2011-11-09T13:12:00.012-05:00

I was asked to keep this going and I am gladly doing so

WHEN A SOLDIER COMES HOME

When a soldier comes home, he finds it hard....

...to listen to his son whine about being bored.

....to keep a straight face when people complain about potholes.

...to be tolerant of people who complain about the hassle of getting ready for work.

...to be understanding when a co-worker complains about a bad night's sleep.

...to be silent when people pray to God for a new car.

...to control his panic when his wife tells him he needs to drive slower.

...to be compassionate when a businessman expresses a fear of flying.

....to keep from laughing when anxious parents say they're afraid to send their kids off to summer camp.

....to keep from ridiculing someone who complains about hot weather.

....to control his frustration when a colleague gripes about his coffee being cold.

...to remain calm when his daughter complains about having to walk the dog.

....to be civil to people who complain about their jobs.

....to just walk away when someone says they only get two weeks of vacation a year.

....to be forgiving when someone says how hard it is to have a new baby in the house.

The only thing harder than being a Soldier...

Is loving one.

Prince William & The Duchess of Cambridge in Denmark

2011-11-07T00:01:00.000-05:00

Crown Prince Frederick and Crown Princess Mary of Denmark greet Prince William and Catherine the Duchess of Cambridge in Copenhagen Denmark November 2.

The trip was planned to bring attention to the famine in East Africa.

The Duchess looked lovely in a LK Bennett coat with a gorgeous red belt by Vicceli Italy, knee-high brown suede boots by Stuart Weitzman and a coordinating clutch.

The Royal couples were greeted by a UNICEF official. I don't know who made the official's coat, but I'm lovin' it too.

They helped pack boxes at an emergency supply center where food and medical supplies are distributed to east Africa.

The trip worked, as donations picked up.

Getty photos

Prince Albert and Princess Charlene of Monaco in Toronto

2011-11-06T00:01:00.001-04:00

Prince Albert and Princess Charlène of Monaco attended the Toronto opening Wednesday evening of an exhibit about the prince's mother, Grace Kelly.

“She would have been deeply touched, I think, by the tribute that is paid to her,” Prince Albert said, adding audiences will be able “to discover my mother beyond Princess Grace’s legendary image.”

The exhibit, Grace Kelly: From Movie Star to Princess, documents the life of the Oscar-winning Hollywood star who gave up her acting career to become Her Serene Highness, the Princess of Monaco, in 1956.

Pink Saturday - November 5

2011-11-04T19:46:00.008-04:00

Happy Pink Saturday. Thank you to Beverly of How Sweet the Sound for inviting all of us to link up and share the pink.

Queen Elizabeth recently spent 11 days in Australia. This day she was looking lovely in pink.

Love how the nursing staff choose the same colour!

Thanks for visiting. Have a great weekend.

Pink Saturday - September 24

2011-09-23T20:22:00.003-04:00

Red Dresses from the 2011 Emmy Awards

And a fabulous Pink Dress!

Thank you Beverly of How Sweet the Sound for hosting our Pink Saturday Meetings

Have a great weekend. Thanks for visiting.

Toronto Film Festival - Part 3

2011-09-12T20:42:00.003-04:00

Oh this is such a cute story!

James Franco collage by Macy Armstrong (Image: Macy Armstrong)

James Franco was in town yesterday to promote Memories of Idaho, an art installation presented in collaboration with Gus Van Sant at the TIFF Bell Lightbox. The installation is a meditation on Van Sant’s My Private Idaho, featuring a reassemblage of excised scenes and alternate takes from the 1991 film. But while Franco was playing artist at TIFF, it was a 13-year-old fan, Macy Armstrong, who stole the show, with three of her own artistic pieces created in tribute to Franco. Franco spotted the pieces in the crowd at the Memories of Idaho exhibition and proceeded to purchase them from Armstrong. No, we aren’t kidding: Franco asked to purchase a portrait of himself made out of yarn, a collage made from newspaper clippings and a canvas inspired by the poster for 127 Hours created by Armstrong. Franco insisted, “I saw that one on the Internet, someone sent it to me. I wanna buy those.” Armstrong, a mega Franco fan, happily obliged, immediately taking to her Tumblr account to exclaim, “Ohmygod I don’t know what just happened but I can’t breath! I gave James my art! And he has my email! And he’s seen my 127 Hours painting!! AHHHH He looked at me, he spoke to me, and I’m pretty sure we mentally got married! Everyone on the street thinks I’m crazy because Im freaking out! Its like a dream!"

from Toronto Life Magazine

Toronto Film Festival 2011 - part 2

2011-09-12T00:01:00.000-04:00

So who did the little black dress the best?

Angelina Jolie at the "Moneyball" premiere that stars her other half, what's his name. Angelina is in Vivienne Westwood. Her Louis Vuitton clutch is handcuffed to her wrist. Must have her allowance in there.

Anna Faris also at the "Moneyball premiere". She is wearing a textured halter gown that tied at the waist. Large earrings, a bracelet and a black clutch completes her look.

Yvonne Strahovski at the "Killer Elite" premiere. Yvonne is wearing a scooped neck gown with a side slit. Check out the shoes. Very nice.

I'm liking Yvonne's dress the best. I must confess though, I have no idea who Anna or Yvonne are.

Which dress do you like best?

pictures: WireImage; Getty Images

Toronto Film Festival 2011

2011-09-11T19:25:00.004-04:00

Hollywood has moved north this week. The Toronto Film Festival is happening now.

George Clooney is here promoting his movie "Ides of March"

A journalist dared to ask what it's like to date in the spotlight.

George asked for the reporter's name and then said: "Everyone here is a little ashamed of you right now."

"I knew someone would do it, I'm a little disappointed it's you," a smirking Clooney said to laughter from the media.

"I mean, everyone here is a little ashamed of you right now.

"Listen, I think it's tremendous that you asked that question. Go back and tell your editor you asked the question."

Good answer George!

Picture: Darren Calabrese / THE CANADIAN PRESS
From an article from THE CANADIAN PRESS

Pink Saturday - September 10

2011-09-09T21:00:00.003-04:00

I hope you don't mind my doing a repeat this week.

Where were you September 11, 2001?

I think everyone remembers exactly what they were doing that morning when they heard THE news. I had just shut off my hairdryer when I heard on the radio that a plane had hit the first tower. I quickly turned on CNN just in time to see the second plane coming in. I sat there thinking "What is that pilot thinking?" And then couldn't believe what I saw.

Later on I went outside to sit on my patio. I remember thinking how quiet it was. No traffic noise. No planes in the sky - where I live we see jets starting to descend for landing at the Buffalo Airport. The sun was shining, the sky was a beautiful blue with white fluffy clouds. And it was so quiet. It seemed so surreal.

September 11, 2001 - the day that changed the world.

Canada and the United States share the world's longest continuous border. We could "jump the ditch" without needing a passport. Not anymore. Now we need passports and security passes.

I pray that there is never another "September 11th".

I'd like to teach the world to sing in perfect harmony.

Thank you to Beverly from How Sweet the Sound" for hosting Pink Saturdays.

Please take a minute to say a prayer for those who died, those who responded and now are sick, for their families and yes, even for the people who did this. And a prayer that something like this never happens again, anywhere.

Thank you for visiting. Have a great week.

September 6 - School started today

2011-09-06T19:59:00.003-04:00

Out of the mouth of babes

from the local newspaper - Curious-The Tourist Guide

Pink Saturday - August 27

2011-08-26T20:28:00.007-04:00

Happy Pink Saturday! Once again Miss Beverly of How Sweet the Sound put out the call and the pinketts are meeting.

Hurricane Irene is on her way! Time to pull out the

And if you live on the East Coast, get rowing outta town!

Thanks for visiting!

Pink Saturday - August 20

2011-08-19T21:38:00.007-04:00

For years, 31 years 10 months and 3 weeks to be exact, I have been looking for a big comfy arm chair.

You know the kind.

Overstuffed.
Soft.
The kind that feel like a warm hug when you sink into it.
A great place to read or maybe nap.

Today I found my chair!

And for only $13517.00 it can be mine!!!!
Yes you read that right, there are 5 numbers BEFORE the decimal point!
Guess I'll be looking for a while yet.

Happy Pink Saturday! Thank you to Beverly of How Sweet the Sound for hosting our Pink Saturday meetings.

Thanks for visiting!

Pink Saturday - August 13

2011-08-12T21:48:00.007-04:00

Yabba Dabba Do!

Today's the day!

Big Reveal!

Charlie's gets his new room!

Watch the video.

Then visit each of the Miracle Makeover host blogs. Be sure to leave a comment. Each comment earns one dollar towards another Miracle Makeover. The goal is 5000 comments. Make your voice count!

There has never been an easier way to give back. To make someone happy. To make yourself feel good.

Now off with you to visit the money blogs!

How Sweet the Sound @ How Sweet the Sound/Beverly

Design Gives Back @Design Gives Back/Kelee

Country Wings in Phoenix @Country Wings in Phoenix/Sherry

Spiritual Sunday @Spiritual Sunday/Charlotte & Ginger

Metamorphosis Monday @Between Naps On The Porch/Susan -
comments on Monday only

Isn't it a miracle that we can do this? We can sit in the comfort of our homes, doing something that we love to do and raise money for someone less fortunate. We are all truly blessed.

PS Happy Pink Saturday

Pink Saturday - August 6

2011-08-05T21:11:00.005-04:00

By now you've heard that

she
and

he
got

last weekend.

But did you see what the best man wore?

PINK!

and a shiner from a moped accident

Happy Pink Saturday! Don't forget to pop on over to Miss Beverly's from How Sweet the Sound to see who else is in the PINK this week!

Thanks for visiting!

The Wedding of Zara Phillips and Mike Tindall

2011-07-31T00:01:00.001-04:00

Another Royal Wedding Today

Zara Phillips and Mike Tindall

Zara is the daughter of Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips. Mike is a rugby player. Kinda looks like a boxer, doesn't he?

Before "the dress" lets look at the famous relatives

Sophie, Countess of Wessex

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge

The Duchess of Cornwall

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth

The bride's mom Princess Anne with the groom's father. I love the skirt but the jacket looks like a sofa cushion cover.

The bride with her dad, Captain Mark Phillips

"The Kiss"

"C'mon honey, there's food waiting!"

photos: reuters; mirror.co.uk

Pink Saturday - July 30

2011-07-29T21:43:00.010-04:00

You've probably heard that Elizabeth Taylor's home sold for $8 million a couple weeks ago.

Please join me for the tour courtesy of Architectural Digest

The living room. Imagine a white carpet!

A wall in the trophy room where she kept family photos, humanitarian awards and her Oscars. So much better than displaying the Oscars in the bathroom like some actors claim they do

The dining room

The dressing room. The wallpaper is embroidered-silk!

The dressing room

The master bath

The bedroom. Her parents pictures are on the shelf

Elizabeth at her desk

A little bit of paradise

Elizabeth's nephew, Christopher Taylor tiled the pool and designed the shell-shaped fountain at the far end.

Happy Pink Saturday! Thank you Beverly of How Sweet the Sound for hosting our weekly meeting.

The Mystery of the Earrings - Part 2

2011-07-26T20:48:00.005-04:00

Way back on June 14 I published the post below

Why does everyone make a big deal when a Royal wears the same item of clothing twice?

The Duchess of Cambridge circa 2009 at a friends wedding

Here she wears the same beautiful blue brocade coat with a blue dress and blue fascinator to the service celebrating Prince Philip's 90th birthday. Personally, I like this look the best. But the whole point of this post is to point out the earrings.

Sapphire surrounded with diamonds hanging off of what looks like a diamond stud. Could these be Diana's earrings?

The drops are removable. Maybe Harry got the stud part (no pun intended!) And William got the drops.

A prize for whoever solves the mystery!

Tamara Cohen in an article on Mail on Line, states that yes Prince William did give his Duchess his mother's earrings.

Tamara states that Kate had them remodelled into drops. Nope, I still think Prince Harry got the stud part!

Guess I get the prize! (Even though Kate got the real prize!)

Summer Wear

2011-07-24T21:33:00.005-04:00

What all the well dressed ears are wearing this summer

These and more are showing off on the earring page

Pink Saturday - July 23

2011-07-22T21:33:00.003-04:00

Isn't it wonderful how women around the world love pink?

Danish Crown Princess Mary looking lovely in Pink while attending the wedding of Prince Albert and Princess Charlene of Monaco. Hard to believe she had a set of twins in January. (Do you think there is a pair of Spanx under that dress?)

Thank you Beverly of How Sweet the Sound for hosting this wonderful weekly meeting of Pinkettes.

Thanks for visiting.

Pink Saturday - July 9

2011-07-08T18:54:00.009-04:00

I would like you to meet Diamond Marshall.

Diamond is 6 years old and lives in Calgary, Canada. In December she was diagnosed with Stage 4 Sarcoma. Since then Diamond has had two life-saving surgeries and has spent nearly a month in intensive care.

Diamond watched the Royal Wedding from her hospital bed. She said her biggest wish was to meet a real princess one day. She wrote the Duchess of Cambridge a note. That's when the

went to work.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge arrived in Calgary on Thursday.

Diamond ran up to the Duchess and thrust a handmade gift and flowers at her.

And then Diamond ran back to the safety of her stepmother's arms.

The Duchess coaxed her back and after a small chat

they gave each other a hug.

(pass the kleenex please)

Thank you Beverly from How Sweet the Sound for hosting Pink Saturdays.

Have a great week. Thank you for visiting.

Pink Saturday - July 2

2011-07-01T21:28:00.007-04:00

It's Pink Saturday and I have looked everywhere for some PINK!

Didn't find it on Kate.

But the Duchess of Cambridge looks smashing in her red hat with the Maple Leaves in celebration of Canada Day.

I checked out the civil ceremony of the wedding of Prince Albert of Monaco to Charlene Wittstock. No pink on Charlotte Casiraghi, the daughter of Princess Caroline.

No pink on Princess Caroline

No pink on Princess Stephanie

And no pink on the bride or groom. Now back up a minute. This was a wedding, why all the glum faces? I'll tell you why.....they forgot the PINK!

Thank you Beverly of How Sweet the Sound for hosting Pink Saturday.

Thanks for visiting!

Happy Canada Day! July 1

2011-07-01T09:51:00.003-04:00

Happy 144th Birthday, Canada!
1867-2011

Happy you are spending Canada Day with us!

Officially beginning on July 1, 1867, the Federal Dominion of Canada was formed with the new provinces of Ontario and Quebec (until then together comprising the Province of Canada) along with two other British colonies, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, which also became provinces.

This motley group are the guys responsible - known as the Fathers of Confederation. The guy sitting on the step was John A MacDonald, Canada's first prime minister.

Being a British Colony, Canada flew the Union Jack.

Every morning school started with singing God Save the Queen (see she does smile!)

Then the pledge of allegiance:

We pledge allegiance to the flag
And to the Queen and Commonwealth
For Which it Stands

Then we sang the Nation Anthem

O Canada!
Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all thy sons command.
With glowing hearts we see thee rise,
The True North strong and free!
From far and wide,
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

And then the Lord's Prayer

That was before any of the above started to offend people

Then in 1965 Canada got her own flag!

It was a controverisal issue. Some did not want the Union Jack to go. Some did not like the look of the new flag. The maple leaf was designed by George F. G. Stanley and John Matheson based on the flag of the Royal Military College of Canada. The flag made its first appearance on February 15, 1965. This date is now celebrated annually as National Flag of Canada Day.

Below is a picture of Canadian flags decorating the Veteran graves at the local cemetery. Because of their selfless actions

along with these men (Canadian armed forces in Afghanistan)

I am free to write this post. Godspeed guys!

"The Maple Leaf Forever" is a Canadian song written by Alexander Muir (1830–1906) in 1867

The Maple Leaf, our emblem dear,
The Maple Leaf forever!
God save our Queen and Heaven bless
The Maple Leaf forever!

Proud to be Canadian, eh!!!!!

The British Are Coming! The British Are Coming!

2011-06-28T20:49:00.005-04:00

On June 30th The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will arrive in Canada for their first official tour together

In the official statement, William said, "Catherine and I are very much looking forward to our Tour of Canada. We hope to be able to meet as many people as possible and to see as much of the extraordinary and diverse country as we can. I have wonderful memories from my last times in Canada, and as such we consider it a great privilege to have been invited to Canada for our first joint Tour."

We are excited to see you too!

Will the lovely Duchess wear red and white on Canada Day - July 1

like her granny-in-law, Queen Elizabeth did when she visited Canada in 2010?

or like her late mother-in-law Princess Diana did?

Speaking of Princess Diana, July 1st would have been her 50th birthday

The cover of this week's Newsweek. Does this creep out anyone else?

Oh Bother

2011-06-26T13:05:00.004-04:00

Sounds much better than What the ....?

Pink Saturday - June 24

2011-06-24T19:22:00.007-04:00

Welcome to Pink Saturday. A huge thank you to Beverly of How Sweet The Sound for hosting our weekly meeting to salute PINK!

Royal Ascot took place in London England the week of June 13-15. The horse races have become secondary to the parade of wacky hats. You can see more here.

"If it doesn't fart or eat hay, she isn't interested." -- Prince Philip speaking of his daughter, Princess Anne. The best I have seen her look in a long time. Kinda looks like she knows it, too!

Sophie, Countess of Wessex looking like her hat is giving her a headache.

Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth looking lovely in dark pink or light red?

My favourite, this lovely shade of pink makes her glow

Oops, how did this get here?

Thanks for visiting

The Crazy Hats of Royal Ascot 2011

2011-06-20T20:44:00.003-04:00

Pink Saturday - June 18

2011-06-17T15:10:00.001-04:00

Hey it's the best day of the week - it's Pink Saturday! Thanks to Beverly at How Sweet the Sound for inviting us to join her in celebrating the Pink.

Last Saturday it was Trooping the Colour in England to celebrate Queen Elizabeth's birthday. You can read more about it here.

This adorable young lady is Lady Louise Wessex, the 7 year old daughter of the Earl and Countess of Wessex- Prince Edward and Sophie. Love her hair.

The Countess of Wessex looking like she just realized she should have taken the Metamucil AFTER the parade!

Darn pigeons!!!

Thanks for visiting.

The Mystery of the Earrings!

2011-06-14T20:21:00.009-04:00

Why does everyone make a big deal when a Royal wears the same item of clothing twice?

The Duchess of Cambridge circa 2009 at a friends wedding

Sapphire surrounded with diamonds hanging off of what looks like a diamond stud. Could these be Diana's earrings?

The drops are removable. Maybe Harry got the stud part (no pun intended!) And William got the drops.

A prize for whoever solves the mystery!

Trooping the Colour

2011-06-12T20:35:00.010-04:00

The Trooping of Colour took place Saturday in London

The Sovereign's birthday is officially celebrated by the ceremony of Trooping the Colour on a Saturday in June.

This year Trooping the Colour took place on 11 June 2011. The Queen's Colour of the 1st Battalion Scots Guards was trooped.

The tradition of Trooping the Colour:

Although The Queen was born on 21 April, it has long been the tradition to celebrate the Sovereign's birthday publicly on a day in the summer, when good weather is more likely.

Trooping the Colour is carried out by fully trained and operational troops from the Household Division (Foot Guards and Household Cavalry) on Horse Guards Parade in Whitehall, watched by members of the Royal Family, invited guests and members of the public.

This military ceremony dates back to the early eighteenth century or earlier, when the colours (flags) of the battalion were carried (or 'trooped') down the ranks so that they could be seen and recognised by the soldiers.

This is the first time Prince William took part

The obligatory balcony appearance

Royal duty done, the Duchess of Cambridge goes off to a friend's wedding with sister Pippa

Trooping the Colour is on my bucket list. What's on yours?

Pink Saturday - June 11

2011-06-10T21:10:00.010-04:00

Once again, Miss Beverly of How Sweet the Sound is hosting Pink Saturday for all pinkets everywhere.

And she has a special guest! Miss LaVoice from Thoughts from Meme's Corner. Please stop by and visit all the pinkets this week.

I was at a loss trying to think of something pink to share.

The lovely Duchess of Cambridge came to my rescue

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge attended the ARK Anniversay Gala last night in London.

The Duchess wore a beautiful pink sequined Jenny Packham gown
The dress is embellished with Swarovski crystals and she finishes off the look with a dark pink
satin clutch and peep-toe LK Bennett shoes. The dress reportedly cost $5000.

Thanks for stopping by. Have a wonderful week!

Isn't she lovely?

2011-06-06T20:53:00.007-04:00

In their first public outing since returning from their honeymoon, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were seen at the Epsom Derby, a prestigious horse race in which the Queen had a horse running.

Pink Saturday - June 4

2011-06-03T21:45:00.000-04:00

Happy Pink Saturday!

The day all lovers of Pink meet at Miss Beverly's How Sweet the Sound

This week I am showing off a bit. I recently started doing hand stamped jewellery and I love it. Something so satisfying about using a hammer in a forceful way :>)

Being the girlie girl I am I just had to do something with pearls and pink swarovski crystal

And I only use sterling silver

And I know every girl, big or small would love her own tiara

I've added a new page Say it in Silver and I will be adding a lot of fun pieces in the next couple days.

And just a note - last weekend I visited everyone for our Pink Saturday Birthday celebrations. Unfortunately Blogger muted me! I would click the Post a Comment line and nothing happened. So frustrating! Did anyone else experience this?

Have a wonderful weekend and thanks for visiting.

Happy Birthday Pink Saturday - May 28

2011-05-27T20:57:00.003-04:00

I've been invited to a

But not just any party

So much to do!

Cupcakes to bake

A pink dress to wear

Pinks shoes too...No not those!

Much Better!

Finishing touches

Party favours for all of the Pinkers

Pink flowers for our hostess Miss Beverly of How Sweet the Sound

And Birthday wishes with heartfelt thanks for bringing all of the best pink lovers together in one place. God Bless!

The French Open - Maria Sharapova

2011-05-24T21:36:00.010-04:00

Maria Sharapova eased into the French Open second round with a 6-3, 6-0 win over Croatia's Mirjana Lucic on Tuesday. And doing it in style wearing Tiffany earrings.

The earrings feature rose-cut diamonds set in platinum and are worth $3,200. They are on loan from Tiffany's so she has to give them back. Of course if she really likes them she can afford to buy them. Probably at a discount since they are now "used".

Maria is engaged to Sasha Vujacic a guard with the New Jersey Nets (basketball)

Her engagement ring is reportedly worth a quarter million dollars. The center stone appears to be a cushion-cut diamond of approximately 7 to 8 carats on a thick, split-shank platinum band.

What do you think he'll give her on their first wedding anniversary?