Diamond Creek Candles

We have been in business since 1998, and we pride ourselves on providing customers with the best-quality products and personal service. You can order from us using our online catalog.

We take an enormous pride in creating our products, and hope that you'll find something in our catalog that you like. We also can create custom orders; call or email and let us know what you want.
DiamondCreek Candles is proud to offer our Diamond Chunk Candle line and our Traditional Candle line.

No Wasted Wax
No Tunneling
High Quality Fragrance Oils
Superior Fragrance Throw

WHAT ARE PEOPLE SAYING ABOUT DCC CANDLES CLICK HERE!

We now carry over 100 fragrances with every candle hand poured to perfection in the USA. We use only a Soy/Paraffin blend for all Jar Candles.

100% Customer Satisfaction on all of our products here at DiamondCreek Candles, we are sure you will not be disappointed with our line of products. We look forward to doing business with you!

Alpine Access

Alpine Access is the premier provider of customer service solutions using home-based employees. Alpine Access’ clients are organizations that value their customers and are passionate about their brand. Our Alpine Customer Experience (ACE™) solutions mean access to quality employees, compelling operational efficiency and economic success.

Partnering with Alpine Access means gaining a competitive advantage and realizing the greatest ROI from your customer service operations. Advantage, yours.

Watkins Products

Hello! If you're familiar with Watkins, you probably know of the company's excellent products and its spotless reputation as the very best work-from-home business. People in the U.S. and Canada have been earning solid part-time and full-time incomes as Watkins associates for 140 years... and, you can, too.

You may not realize, however, that:

You can sign up today and start earning income immediately as a Watkins associate.
You can choose to build your business with traditional methods, or with our new technologies that let you develop a large, ongoing income much quicker.
You can work completely from home online and by phone, without focusing on retailing products.
You can get free training, a free website like this one, and other free support when you join Watkins through this site as a member of our Summit Group team.
Great Benefits, No Pressure
Starting your own Watkins business on our Summit Group team offers income and time flexibility. But it won't interfere with your family, your current job, or your already-busy schedule. This is a no-pressure business. You do as much or as little as you're ready for at any point. Our training website provides guidelines for maximum success, but you get to choose the exact business methods that you enjoy and that fit into your life.

Although most of our associates work part-time, some have built their Watkins businesses into full-time, high-paying careers. Either way, they enjoy the unique benefits that only a Watkins business can provide, which can include:

Above-average compensation
Extra, ongoing residual income
Special cash bonuses and prizes
Free, all-expense-paid, luxury vacations
Recognition for reaching milestones
Fun and life-long friendships
A sense of purpose
You're about to learn how a company that has had the strength and integrity to survive since 1868 is ready to help you achieve the lifestyle you want today.


Get Your FREE Entry Link
We'll instantly e-mail you a personalized link to our Main Menu of our website when you complete the form below. From the Main Menu, you'll learn how our Summit Group team can help you reach your dreams as a Watkins associate. Read our online book called "A Better Life for You and Your Family"; review our 9-4-1 scenario that shows how you can quickly create an ongoing income of $941 per month or much more; learn about all the support our team offers; and evaluate whether the basic membership package or some of the optional upgrades make sense for you.

By the way, many people have a hard time focusing on details of the business until they know "what's it going to cost?" So, we'll proudly tell you upfront that you can get started as a full-fledged associate on our team for $39.95 plus tax. And, even if you're not quite ready to get rolling today, request your free entry link anyway, which will qualify you to receive the special enrollment promotions we offer from time to time. For example, if you join this week, you'll get nine free bonuses, including a free website just like this one and access to online versions of seven classic books for personal development and business success.

So, don't put your future on hold... submit the form below, then check your e-mail box and click your personal entry link. It will let you decide if the flexibility, benefits, and fun of Watkins and the Summit Group are right for you.

Sincerely,
Bianca Stone

P.S. Our privacy policy explains that we hold your personal information in strictest confidence, using it only to provide you with details about our business. We do not share your information with any other organization or company.

my power mall

The MPM Motto is simple: Harnessing the Power of EVERYDAY Spending to Change Lives!

The idea for MPM came during a massive 90 mph windstorm in Bellingham, WA in November of 2006. Holed up in a restaurant until the wind died down, Ginny Dye, our Founder & CEO, sketched out a new way to utilize the $500,000 computer system she and a team of 60 dedicated people have been developing and utilizing for almost five years. Her new plan filled the back of 4 paper placemats before she was done!

When she was done writing, she stared down at the sheets of paper and realized she was looking at a way to harness the power of online spending to change the lives of average Americans looking for financial freedom. She knew that 97% of people who try to find financial freedom through a home-based business fail. MY POWER MALL would be different! There were certain “Givens.”

It had to be FREE so every person who wanted to change their lives would have a chance.
It had to be simple.
It had to take away all the “business games” that kept most people from succeeding in a home-based business.
MPM is totally committed to changing the world. 6% of all corporate profits go into the One-Child-At-A-Time program helping needy children all over the country.


But that is just the beginning.

Our program will be used to help raise funds for Non-profit organizations, schools and churches all over America.
We are also proud to be partnered with Together We Can Change The World Day, a company committed to mobilizing millions to work in their communities the first Saturday of every month.
By becoming part of MY POWER MALL you are joining a much larger Family of people committed to making a difference in the world. Your achieving financial freedom excites us because we know we are helping to change your life! We hope that as you gain financial freedom you will find your own ways to give back!

This section introduces you to the Management Team within MY POWER MALL, but there are 50 more amazing people who are responsible for creating and maintaining the leading-edge, $500,000 system that makes MPM possible.



Ginny Dye

CEO/Founder
Our Founder and CEO, Ginny Dye, has long dreamed of creating a business model that would truly allow the average person to find financial freedom by creating a true Win/Win situation for everyone involved. MY POWER MALL is the result of her dream!

Ginny's background includes being the author of 18 books; owning a Publishing Company; 20 years of Sales & Marketing Management; 18 years of involvement with youth; creating Internet Marketing Systems; and the development of corporate training materials for several companies.

She is passionate about her mission - changing the world by empowering people to create financial freedom and then by encouraging and enabling them to make a difference in the world.



Gordon Owens

Executive Director
With over 30 years in the high tech industry, combined with 20 years in retail as the owner/manager of his own chain of stores, Gordon Owens, Executive Director of MY POWER MALL brings with him a unique perspective when it comes to marketing over the Internet.

Prior to coming to MPM, Gordon was a Microsoft Consultant for more than a decade, helping to release products like Windows 95 and Xbox. During his tenure he developed business systems and websites for their vast sales and marketing initiatives.

As Executive Director, Gordon drives technical and business development, calling upon his Accounting and MBA degrees to build MPM responsibly. With passion and zeal, he is committed to our number one goal – empowering others to join us in changing the world!



Marnie Ross

Chief Operations Officer (COO)


Marnie Ross, our Chief Operations Officer (COO) comes from a background in high tech with over 25 years in the corporate world. Most notably, Marnie has served as a chief information officer of a Fortune 200 company, and has published many research and technical papers which have been referenced and quoted in such magazines as CIO Magazine, Computerworld, CFO Asia, CIO Updates and Datamation.

But that's only half of her story. Marnie has been a volunteer in many organizations since her teenage years doing everything from typing and answering phones to fundraising and sitting on boards of directors.

Marnie's background in computers (B.S. degree in Computer Information Systems), plus her expertise in business strategy and administration (M.B.A. degree) empowers her to ensure that the day-to-day administration and operations of MPM run smoothly and that future operations needs are planned for today. Equipped with all of that plus her passion for serving others, a great sense of humor and quick wit, Marnie is committed to making MPM the premiere Internet company on the World Wide Web.



Gary Goodspeed

Director of

Media Production
As Director of Media Production, Gary Goodspeed designs our exclusive flash movies (such as our BE the Difference and Memorial Day movies), recordings of teleconferences, presentation CD/DVDs, and much, much more. He is gifted at creating all the audio/visual media presentations for MY POWER MALL.

Gary is also a talented musician, and brings passion and expertise to all he puts his hand to. His commitment is to complete excellence in all areas, and his passion is to help our company make a powerful difference in the world.



Petrina Lance

Director of Administration
Petrina Lance, as our Director of Administration, brings 28 years of business expertise to MPM. Her experience ranges from owning and managing a small restaurant to being an Executive Assistant in Washington State government with many freelance opportunities in between.

She is the power behind the MPM Shopping Mall; managing a team of people committed to providing the best Shopping Mall on the Internet. Managing 1000+ stores, and 100% of the communication that pours through MPM is a daunting job but she does it all with a smile and cheerful attitude!



Dr. Bob Armstrong

Director of Training
Dr. Robert Armstrong, (aka Dr. Bob) brings many unique talents and abilities to his role as MPM Director of Training. He spent five years in the Army, became a newspaper publisher, and then returned to school to become a Doctor of Chiropractic. He spent 13 years building a very successful practice until an old injury forced him to retire.

He has a passion for helping people achieve their true potential and has taught numerous motivational courses over the years, helping people achieve high levels of success.



Sandi Valentine

Director of

Communication
Sandi Valentine comes from a long line of writers with an ability to reach hearts and create action in her readers. Her experiences and extensive world travel have given Sandi the ability to empathize with others and fuels her writing.

As the Director of Communication, Sandi insists on the highest and most creative standards of writing for MPM. From E-books, weekly newsletters, stories and training emails, to news releases and special projects, she strives to empower and motivate her readers to achieve high success – changing their world along the way.



Owen Ott

Director of
Systems Administration
Owen retired from the U.S. Marine Corps after 20 years of active service at home and abroad.

With over 15 years of web development, several years of SQL Server administration, and programming experience in Visual Basic 6.0, Visual Basic.NET, JavaScript, PHP, and the Macromedia Suite applications, Owen is highly qualified to serve as Systems Administrator, Project Lead, & Webmaster.

Add to that his passion to help change the world, and to see people succeed, and you have an amazing Webmaster!



Carl Zetterberg

Director of

System Design

and Graphics
Carl has spent the last 25 years in the world of high tech, helping a number of companies develop hardware and software systems to meet customer needs. He has extensive experience in project management and managing development teams.

In his roles as project manager, he has worked with all areas of business and understands the roles of finance, sales & marketing, and how they work together with development to produce a finished product.

Just one of his duties includes being in charge of the cutting-edge Product Search Engine within MY POWER MALL. He is also manages the E-card system that gives us such a powerful marketing edge.



Kathie Zetterberg

Director of

Design & Graphics
Kathie brings over 30 years in the graphic and printing industry to her role with MPM. Working in pre-press production for an international printing company has given her an insight of current trends and a keen professionalism. The power of the Internet has given her a new way to express her talents.

Kathie creates all our E-cards, graphics, Invitation cards, flyers, and assists with the layout and graphic artistry of anything else needed to communicate MPM in the most powerful and professional way. She is excited to know her talents will help change the world and create financial freedom for so many.



Marilyn Lindman

Director of

Commissions and Finance
Marilyn has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology/Social Work. She recently retired after 36 years working with young adults in the college environment.

Marilyn began her journey as a corporate officer as the Director of Special Projects which exposed her to the multiple workings of the company. With the explosion of MPM, her accounting background and skills were needed in the area of commissions and sales. After serving four months as Interim Director, she officially became Director of Commissions & Finance in January 2008.

Marilyn's problem-solving abilities, strong organizational skills, editorial and writing skills, and willingness to learn and experiment with new computer and Internet programs has made her invaluable to MPM.



Shawn Dowdy

Director of Shopping Promotions
Shawn Dowdy, as Director of Shopping Promotions, is responsible for the creation and distribution of our shopping contests and incentives. She also changes out the Mall's Hot Deals daily to keep them fresh and current. Shawn and her team scour the Mall constantly for up-to-date specials providing the very best shopping experience for our members.

Shawn's positive attitude, wonderful sense of humor, willingness to think outside the box, and passion for helping equip others who want to make the world a better place are evident in all she does for MPM.



Nita Johnson

Director of

Customer Service
Nita Johnson, our Director of Customer Service has a BA degree in Anthropology and a MA in Liberal Studies. On her way to make a living in California (from South Dakota), she stopped off in Denver, Colorado where she remained. Nita recently retired after 37 years working with the faculty, staff and students at the University of Denver. She now pulls on those years of experience to expertly guide the customer service side of My Power Mall.

Nita's patience, quick sense of humor and compassionate nature serves her well as she strives to answer questions and ferret out information for our MPM members. She does everything with dispatch and excellence. With hundreds of emails pouring into her Inbox every day, Nita is the "eye of the hurricane" as she retains her calm in the midst of urgency.



L.J. Wertalik

Director of

Systems Project Management
L.J. Wertalik, our Director of Systems Project Management, is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and has spent more than 15 years in the Information Technology industry. Before joining us, L.J. worked for Unilever where he managed a number of large design and implementation projects on both a regional (North American) and a global scale. Prior to working for Unilever, L.J. also held technical, sales, and finance positions with AT&T, Bridgeport Hospital, and ERI. L.J. holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and an MBA in Finance.



As the Director of Systems Project Management, L.J. brings us strong analytical and project management expertise to keep TWCCTW’s systems on the leading edge as we grow and add more and more programs and data to our systems.



He has been a member of My Power Mall since the day it launched in March 2007 and loves the positive energy that MPM brings to his life and to the lives of everyone it touches. He looks forward to helping MPM become a successful, dynamic, growth-oriented organization.

Making a Watch That Can't Be Counterfeited

There used to be easy tip-offs when a watch was fake, like light weight, shoddy artisanship -- and the fact that no working Rolex sells for $50. But these days, many fakes are so costly and carefully built that they require an expert to identify.

Now one Swiss watchmaker, Vacheron Constantin, has created a wristwatch that it says is impossible to counterfeit, as well as Men's Wedding Rings and Woman's Wedding Rings. What timing: The watch will be launched on Oct. 22 in New York, just as the luxury-watch industry is facing a possible global recession.

Do you care that many of the expensive-looking watches around us are probably not the real thing? Is the watch on your wrist real?

The watch, called the "Quai de l'Ile" for the watchmaker's historical Geneva address, uses layers of invisible UV marking, laser perforations of some watch parts, special high-security inks, and other measures used to secure passports and currencies like the euro and Swiss franc.

In the world of haute horlogerie, forged watches are as ubiquitous as fake handbags and black-market DVDs. These fakes are sold not only on sidewalk tables but also in stores, catalogs and Internet listings. The Swiss Customs Service has estimated that as many as 40 million counterfeit watches are put into circulation each year. Switzerland last year exported only about 26 million watches, so there's a fairly reasonable chance that the expensive-looking watch on your neighbor's wrist could be a fake.

Watchmakers have long fought counterfeiters by adding special stickers and limiting supply through authorized dealers. Rolex -- probably the most faked watch of all time -- strictly controls the numbers of its watches that can be sold by a dealer and requires that all repairs be made with authorized parts. Rolex also puts a green hologram sticker on the back of its watches -- though counterfeiters forge that, too.
Sophisticated Counterfeiters

But counterfeiters have been improving their technology faster than watchmakers. "Counterfeits have gotten more sophisticated," says David Hendry, chief underwriter for the Jewelry Insurance Brokerage of North America. "The counterfeiters have learned all the things that people didn't know 20 years ago." They add weight, use sapphire crystal for the glass of the watch and incorporate other elements that can confuse even experts -- and they may charge many hundreds of dollars.

Forging was an industry scourge even when the fine-watch market was growing at double-digit rates annually. Now, with growth sure to slow in the current economy, it's even more important for watchmakers to differentiate their products in consumers' minds.

Many luxury retailers -- particularly department stores such as Neiman Marcus -- have seen sales slow markedly this year. A survey released on Monday by Unity Marketing, a Stevens, Pa.-based consultant to the luxury industry, suggests that affluent consumers "are buying luxuries more selectively and more carefully."

The idea of Vacheron's new watch came out of a chance acquaintanceship between Vacheron Constantin Chief Executive Juan Carlos Torres and Roger Pfund. Mr. Pfund is an acclaimed Swiss painter and designer of the Swiss passport and international currencies since the 1970s. The painter met Mr. Torres socially several years ago.
'The Spirit of a Watch'

"To make secure watches was a new thing," Mr. Pfund said this past weekend, as he expounded on some of the artistic challenges involved. "The spirit of a watch is not the same as a bank note."

How does one use invisible ink on a watch, for instance? His answer: Print it on a slip of a paper-like polymer material that is inserted under the watch's crystal.

The Quai de l'Ile can be customized in up to 400 combinations and will sell for between $29,000 and $60,000, depending on which features are chosen. While the starting price for Vacheron Constantin watches is about $12,000, the company recently took an order from a European entrepreneur for a $6.5 million custom watch, says Julien Tornare, president of Vacheron Constantin U.S.

The company, which produces about 18,000 watches annually, expects to make 800 Quai de l'Iles a year.

To set the Quai de l'Ile apart, Mr. Pfund helped the company gain access to highly controlled money-printing materials like the polymer and inks, says Mr. Tornare. The inventory of polymer kept by Vacheron is monitored by the maker of Swiss passports, he said, noting, "We had no idea about security printing."

The watch's security measures involve engraving and printing with special inks. In the first series of watches produced, the words "Swiss Made" and "Automatique" are laser-engraved without using ink on the watch's dial, while some of the numerals, the date and the words "Vacheron Constantin Genève" are engraved with ink.
Miniature Texts on the Dials

Tiny texts on the dials of some models -- illegible without the aid of a magnifying glass -- reproduce parts of letters sent between 19th-century family members of the watchmaker, Jaques-Barthélémy Vacheron and François Constantin.

The Quai de l'Ile was unveiled to the watch industry last spring at the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie in Geneva. That annual convention is sponsored by Cie. Financière Richemont SA, the luxury conglomerate that owns such oft-counterfeited brands as Vacheron Constantin, Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels.

This appears to have given would-be counterfeiters an opportunity to get cracking on Vacheron's come-and-get-me challenge. Mr. Pfund, who is currently designing the 2010 series of the Quai de l'Ile, says, "They already have fakes of this watch. I saw one yesterday on the Internet. Of course, the movement is wrong -- a lot of things are wrong."

Original Article by Christina Binkley
Wall Street Journal Fashion
Oct. 16, 2008

Making a Watch That Can't Be Counterfeited

There used to be easy tip-offs when a watch was fake, like light weight, shoddy artisanship -- and the fact that no working Rolex sells for $50. But these days, many fakes are so costly and carefully built that they require an expert to identify.

Now one Swiss watchmaker, Vacheron Constantin, has created a wristwatch that it says is impossible to counterfeit, as well as Men's Wedding Rings and Woman's Wedding Rings. What timing: The watch will be launched on Oct. 22 in New York, just as the luxury-watch industry is facing a possible global recession.

Do you care that many of the expensive-looking watches around us are probably not the real thing? Is the watch on your wrist real?

The watch, called the "Quai de l'Ile" for the watchmaker's historical Geneva address, uses layers of invisible UV marking, laser perforations of some watch parts, special high-security inks, and other measures used to secure passports and currencies like the euro and Swiss franc.

In the world of haute horlogerie, forged watches are as ubiquitous as fake handbags and black-market DVDs. These fakes are sold not only on sidewalk tables but also in stores, catalogs and Internet listings. The Swiss Customs Service has estimated that as many as 40 million counterfeit watches are put into circulation each year. Switzerland last year exported only about 26 million watches, so there's a fairly reasonable chance that the expensive-looking watch on your neighbor's wrist could be a fake.

Watchmakers have long fought counterfeiters by adding special stickers and limiting supply through authorized dealers. Rolex -- probably the most faked watch of all time -- strictly controls the numbers of its watches that can be sold by a dealer and requires that all repairs be made with authorized parts. Rolex also puts a green hologram sticker on the back of its watches -- though counterfeiters forge that, too.
Sophisticated Counterfeiters

But counterfeiters have been improving their technology faster than watchmakers. "Counterfeits have gotten more sophisticated," says David Hendry, chief underwriter for the Jewelry Insurance Brokerage of North America. "The counterfeiters have learned all the things that people didn't know 20 years ago." They add weight, use sapphire crystal for the glass of the watch and incorporate other elements that can confuse even experts -- and they may charge many hundreds of dollars.

Forging was an industry scourge even when the fine-watch market was growing at double-digit rates annually. Now, with growth sure to slow in the current economy, it's even more important for watchmakers to differentiate their products in consumers' minds.

Many luxury retailers -- particularly department stores such as Neiman Marcus -- have seen sales slow markedly this year. A survey released on Monday by Unity Marketing, a Stevens, Pa.-based consultant to the luxury industry, suggests that affluent consumers "are buying luxuries more selectively and more carefully."

The idea of Vacheron's new watch came out of a chance acquaintanceship between Vacheron Constantin Chief Executive Juan Carlos Torres and Roger Pfund. Mr. Pfund is an acclaimed Swiss painter and designer of the Swiss passport and international currencies since the 1970s. The painter met Mr. Torres socially several years ago.
'The Spirit of a Watch'

"To make secure watches was a new thing," Mr. Pfund said this past weekend, as he expounded on some of the artistic challenges involved. "The spirit of a watch is not the same as a bank note."

How does one use invisible ink on a watch, for instance? His answer: Print it on a slip of a paper-like polymer material that is inserted under the watch's crystal.

The Quai de l'Ile can be customized in up to 400 combinations and will sell for between $29,000 and $60,000, depending on which features are chosen. While the starting price for Vacheron Constantin watches is about $12,000, the company recently took an order from a European entrepreneur for a $6.5 million custom watch, says Julien Tornare, president of Vacheron Constantin U.S.

The company, which produces about 18,000 watches annually, expects to make 800 Quai de l'Iles a year.

To set the Quai de l'Ile apart, Mr. Pfund helped the company gain access to highly controlled money-printing materials like the polymer and inks, says Mr. Tornare. The inventory of polymer kept by Vacheron is monitored by the maker of Swiss passports, he said, noting, "We had no idea about security printing."

The watch's security measures involve engraving and printing with special inks. In the first series of watches produced, the words "Swiss Made" and "Automatique" are laser-engraved without using ink on the watch's dial, while some of the numerals, the date and the words "Vacheron Constantin Genève" are engraved with ink.
Miniature Texts on the Dials

Tiny texts on the dials of some models -- illegible without the aid of a magnifying glass -- reproduce parts of letters sent between 19th-century family members of the watchmaker, Jaques-Barthélémy Vacheron and François Constantin.

The Quai de l'Ile was unveiled to the watch industry last spring at the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie in Geneva. That annual convention is sponsored by Cie. Financière Richemont SA, the luxury conglomerate that owns such oft-counterfeited brands as Vacheron Constantin, Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels.

This appears to have given would-be counterfeiters an opportunity to get cracking on Vacheron's come-and-get-me challenge. Mr. Pfund, who is currently designing the 2010 series of the Quai de l'Ile, says, "They already have fakes of this watch. I saw one yesterday on the Internet. Of course, the movement is wrong -- a lot of things are wrong."

Original Article by Christina Binkley
Wall Street Journal Fashion
Oct. 16, 2008

Making a Watch That Can't Be Counterfeited

There used to be easy tip-offs when a watch was fake, like light weight, shoddy artisanship -- and the fact that no working Rolex sells for $50. But these days, many fakes are so costly and carefully built that they require an expert to identify.

Now one Swiss watchmaker, Vacheron Constantin, has created a wristwatch that it says is impossible to counterfeit, as well as Men's Wedding Rings and Woman's Wedding Rings. What timing: The watch will be launched on Oct. 22 in New York, just as the luxury-watch industry is facing a possible global recession.

Do you care that many of the expensive-looking watches around us are probably not the real thing? Is the watch on your wrist real?

The watch, called the "Quai de l'Ile" for the watchmaker's historical Geneva address, uses layers of invisible UV marking, laser perforations of some watch parts, special high-security inks, and other measures used to secure passports and currencies like the euro and Swiss franc.

In the world of haute horlogerie, forged watches are as ubiquitous as fake handbags and black-market DVDs. These fakes are sold not only on sidewalk tables but also in stores, catalogs and Internet listings. The Swiss Customs Service has estimated that as many as 40 million counterfeit watches are put into circulation each year. Switzerland last year exported only about 26 million watches, so there's a fairly reasonable chance that the expensive-looking watch on your neighbor's wrist could be a fake.

Watchmakers have long fought counterfeiters by adding special stickers and limiting supply through authorized dealers. Rolex -- probably the most faked watch of all time -- strictly controls the numbers of its watches that can be sold by a dealer and requires that all repairs be made with authorized parts. Rolex also puts a green hologram sticker on the back of its watches -- though counterfeiters forge that, too.
Sophisticated Counterfeiters

But counterfeiters have been improving their technology faster than watchmakers. "Counterfeits have gotten more sophisticated," says David Hendry, chief underwriter for the Jewelry Insurance Brokerage of North America. "The counterfeiters have learned all the things that people didn't know 20 years ago." They add weight, use sapphire crystal for the glass of the watch and incorporate other elements that can confuse even experts -- and they may charge many hundreds of dollars.

Forging was an industry scourge even when the fine-watch market was growing at double-digit rates annually. Now, with growth sure to slow in the current economy, it's even more important for watchmakers to differentiate their products in consumers' minds.

Many luxury retailers -- particularly department stores such as Neiman Marcus -- have seen sales slow markedly this year. A survey released on Monday by Unity Marketing, a Stevens, Pa.-based consultant to the luxury industry, suggests that affluent consumers "are buying luxuries more selectively and more carefully."

The idea of Vacheron's new watch came out of a chance acquaintanceship between Vacheron Constantin Chief Executive Juan Carlos Torres and Roger Pfund. Mr. Pfund is an acclaimed Swiss painter and designer of the Swiss passport and international currencies since the 1970s. The painter met Mr. Torres socially several years ago.
'The Spirit of a Watch'

"To make secure watches was a new thing," Mr. Pfund said this past weekend, as he expounded on some of the artistic challenges involved. "The spirit of a watch is not the same as a bank note."

How does one use invisible ink on a watch, for instance? His answer: Print it on a slip of a paper-like polymer material that is inserted under the watch's crystal.

The Quai de l'Ile can be customized in up to 400 combinations and will sell for between $29,000 and $60,000, depending on which features are chosen. While the starting price for Vacheron Constantin watches is about $12,000, the company recently took an order from a European entrepreneur for a $6.5 million custom watch, says Julien Tornare, president of Vacheron Constantin U.S.

The company, which produces about 18,000 watches annually, expects to make 800 Quai de l'Iles a year.

To set the Quai de l'Ile apart, Mr. Pfund helped the company gain access to highly controlled money-printing materials like the polymer and inks, says Mr. Tornare. The inventory of polymer kept by Vacheron is monitored by the maker of Swiss passports, he said, noting, "We had no idea about security printing."

The watch's security measures involve engraving and printing with special inks. In the first series of watches produced, the words "Swiss Made" and "Automatique" are laser-engraved without using ink on the watch's dial, while some of the numerals, the date and the words "Vacheron Constantin Genève" are engraved with ink.
Miniature Texts on the Dials

Tiny texts on the dials of some models -- illegible without the aid of a magnifying glass -- reproduce parts of letters sent between 19th-century family members of the watchmaker, Jaques-Barthélémy Vacheron and François Constantin.

The Quai de l'Ile was unveiled to the watch industry last spring at the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie in Geneva. That annual convention is sponsored by Cie. Financière Richemont SA, the luxury conglomerate that owns such oft-counterfeited brands as Vacheron Constantin, Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels.

This appears to have given would-be counterfeiters an opportunity to get cracking on Vacheron's come-and-get-me challenge. Mr. Pfund, who is currently designing the 2010 series of the Quai de l'Ile, says, "They already have fakes of this watch. I saw one yesterday on the Internet. Of course, the movement is wrong -- a lot of things are wrong."

Original Article by Christina Binkley
Wall Street Journal Fashion
Oct. 16, 2008

Holiday Shoppes

Brides take a break from wedding planning ... gather some family & friends together and have some fun.. Start your holiday shopping in style at "The 13th Annual Holiday shoppes"..

The Holiday Shoppes is the premiere marketplace for unique gifts. Over 100 merchants from across the northeast feature distinct items including gourmet food, handcrafted ornaments, artwork, clothing, jewelry and more. The Holiday Shoppes is the Junior League of Syracuse major fundraiser of the year so your participation helps support its projects and programs for women and children.

Please join us at the Horticulture Building at the New York State Fairgrounds. Holiday Shoppes will be held Friday, November 7 through Sunday, November 9, 2008 at the following times:

Date & Times :

Friday November 7th 10am-7pm

Saturday November 8th 10am-6pm

Sunday November 9th. 12pm- 5pm

Location State Fairgrounds Syracuse, NY in the Horticulture Building.

Copper Diffusion: Is It Gemology's New Worst Nightmare? Part II

An exceptional emerald crystal:This month’s feature on the R. W. Wise website is an exceptional Colombian emerald crystal. It was found at the La Pita Mine, part of a complex of mines of the same name that I visited during my last buying trip to Colombia.Historically gems of this quality were found at the old mines like Muzo and El Chivor. Chivor was appropriated by Spanish conquistadors in 1550;

Santa Letters

Patinka's Painted furniture..Home Decor.. Gifts

As the leaves fall gently from the trees and the air grows colder our

thoughts turn to decorating for the upcoming Holiday season. If you are looking for inspiration to put you in that festive mood or that unique gift may we suggest you take a break from the cool autumn air and visit Patinka's gift shop located at 49 Oswego Street in Baldwinsville , New York. This shop is a must see. Patinka's offers a selection of uniquely decorated hand painted furniture... painted home decor selections ... cleverly decorated flowerpots... pumpkins ... ornaments.. fashionable jewelry and so much more. Patinka's also accepts custom hand painted orders. For further information about custom orders you many contact them 315-635-4717 at or stop by the shop. Shop hours of operation Wednesday - Saturday 11am - 5pm.
Photographs above are just a small sample of the whimsical elegance that awaits you at Patinka's.

2 weeks left to get an Anjolique Wedding Dress from Victoria's Bridal Couture

This is the last chance to get a fantastic deal on Anjolique Wedding Gowns at Victoria's Bridal Couture. This special availability to order your authentic Anjolique Wedding Dresses over the internet will expire on October 31 of 2008. We can only take orders up to that date and any gown ordered before that date will be delivered to you. Absolutly no orders will be taken after October 31, 2008 ever again, so don't delay and miss out.

We are authorized retailers of the following designers: Eve of Milady, Judd Waddell, Marisa, Matthew Christopher, Anjolique (Until October 31 of 2008), Alfred Sung, Demetrios, Allure, Dessy, After Six, Jim Hjelm, Lazaro, Bill Levkoff, Saison Blanche, Rosebud, Fenaroli, Malis Henderson, Debut Bridal, Raylia and Mia Solano.

Let our expert staff help make your wedding unforgettable! We also do all of our own alteration in-house. We do not outsource or use contactors, so you know you wedding dress is safe with us. We will also do alterations on your wedding gown or bridesmaid dresses not purchased with us.

We sell and ship anywhere in the world.*

Victoria's Bridal Couture
1302 East Las Olas Boulevard
Ft. Lauderdale, Florida 33301
954.522.1678
info@victoriasbridalcouture.com
www.victoriasbridalcouture.com

*See our website for details

Platinum Gets Dented in the Auto Industry's Pileup

Slumping Car Demand Crimps Need for Catalytic Converters, a Big User of Metal, but Possible Drop in Mining Output May Buoy Prices,

At Friday's lows, spot-month futures on the New York Mercantile Exchange were down 38% on the year and 59% from the record set in March as the global economic slowdown pinches industrial use.

Platinum could fall further on weakness in the auto sector, but then stabilize or rise modestly as investment liquidation runs its course and due to potential for output cuts as the price approaches the cost of mining, analysts said. This makes it a great time to buy platinum wedding bands.

The impetus for the early year peak was worries about tight supplies exacerbated when South Africa state-owned utility Eskom Holdings Ltd. announced electrical shortages that curtailed mining output.

"Supply was being outpaced by demand," said Bart Melek, global commodity strategist with BMO Capital Markets. "We had a massive rally way above the marginal cost of production."

Since then, the auto industry has slumped. This hurt platinum demand because its main industrial use is for catalytic converters.

Nearby October platinum Friday fell $22.60, or 2.3%, to settle at $957 a troy ounce. Most-active January lost $20.80, or 2.1%, to $965.80.

James Moore, an analyst with TheBullionDesk.com, said platinum's recent move is cyclical, reflecting changed fundamentals. Moreover, he said, the fundamentals perhaps were "overexaggerated" as prices soared at the start of the year. But he doesn't look for the recent slide to continue much longer because a "delicate balance" remains in the market.

"Eskom has already said they can't increase their energy capacity for at least another five years," Mr. Moore said. "The producers are struggling against rising costs and having to excavate metal from much deeper ore bodies. This has a massive impact on their bottom line."

If profitability suffers, downward price corrections such as the current one could prompt producers to shut down some of their operations, he said.

"In my view, it would be naive to think that the market is going to continue lower," Mr. Moore said. "We may see some further downside initially, but then look for it to possibly stabilize around $1,000 to $1,300 for the latter part of the year and heading toward next year."

BMO's Mr. Melek estimated that the cash costs of production for platinum-mining operations are between $700 and $1,000 an ounce.

"They might still go lower," he said of platinum prices on things like platinum wedding rings. "But they ultimately will have to rebound because we're hitting the marginal cost of production for many producers."

CPM Group analyst Carlos Sanchez also said there could be more selling pressure, but prices may soon stabilize.

Not only has platinum been hurt by concerns about reduced motor-vehicle production, but expectations are for a shift toward smaller vehicles at a time of high fuel prices. Smaller engines require less platinum group metals for auto catalysts, Mr. Sanchez said. Meanwhile, no further supply disruptions have occurred in South Africa lately, he said.

But at the same time, he said, many investors already may have sold some positions.

"You may go to $900," Mr. Sanchez said. "But they're already low compared to what they have been the last couple of years. So you may not have further selling."

In other commodity markets:

SUGAR: Prices dropped to a four-month low on ICE Futures U.S. as speculators exited from bullish positions, but the market pared losses before a vote by the House of Representatives approving the $700 billion financial-rescue package. ICE March world sugar fell 0.47 cent, or 3.6%, to 12.61 cents a pound.

CRUDE OIL: Futures zigzagged before ending slightly lower as traders mulled whether the passage of the rescue bill would stabilize demand. Demand concerns were reinforced after the Labor Department reported that nonfarm payrolls fell more than expected in September, the steepest decline since March 2003. Light, sweet crude fell nine cents, or 0.1%, to $93.88 a barrel, on the New York Mercantile Exchange.

By: Allen Sykora
Wall Street Journal; October 5, 2008

Platinum Gets Dented in the Auto Industry's Pileup

Slumping Car Demand Crimps Need for Catalytic Converters, a Big User of Metal, but Possible Drop in Mining Output May Buoy Prices,

At Friday's lows, spot-month futures on the New York Mercantile Exchange were down 38% on the year and 59% from the record set in March as the global economic slowdown pinches industrial use.

Platinum could fall further on weakness in the auto sector, but then stabilize or rise modestly as investment liquidation runs its course and due to potential for output cuts as the price approaches the cost of mining, analysts said. This makes it a great time to buy platinum wedding bands.

The impetus for the early year peak was worries about tight supplies exacerbated when South Africa state-owned utility Eskom Holdings Ltd. announced electrical shortages that curtailed mining output.

"Supply was being outpaced by demand," said Bart Melek, global commodity strategist with BMO Capital Markets. "We had a massive rally way above the marginal cost of production."

Since then, the auto industry has slumped. This hurt platinum demand because its main industrial use is for catalytic converters.

Nearby October platinum Friday fell $22.60, or 2.3%, to settle at $957 a troy ounce. Most-active January lost $20.80, or 2.1%, to $965.80.

James Moore, an analyst with TheBullionDesk.com, said platinum's recent move is cyclical, reflecting changed fundamentals. Moreover, he said, the fundamentals perhaps were "overexaggerated" as prices soared at the start of the year. But he doesn't look for the recent slide to continue much longer because a "delicate balance" remains in the market.

"Eskom has already said they can't increase their energy capacity for at least another five years," Mr. Moore said. "The producers are struggling against rising costs and having to excavate metal from much deeper ore bodies. This has a massive impact on their bottom line."

If profitability suffers, downward price corrections such as the current one could prompt producers to shut down some of their operations, he said.

"In my view, it would be naive to think that the market is going to continue lower," Mr. Moore said. "We may see some further downside initially, but then look for it to possibly stabilize around $1,000 to $1,300 for the latter part of the year and heading toward next year."

BMO's Mr. Melek estimated that the cash costs of production for platinum-mining operations are between $700 and $1,000 an ounce.

"They might still go lower," he said of platinum prices on things like platinum wedding rings. "But they ultimately will have to rebound because we're hitting the marginal cost of production for many producers."

CPM Group analyst Carlos Sanchez also said there could be more selling pressure, but prices may soon stabilize.

Not only has platinum been hurt by concerns about reduced motor-vehicle production, but expectations are for a shift toward smaller vehicles at a time of high fuel prices. Smaller engines require less platinum group metals for auto catalysts, Mr. Sanchez said. Meanwhile, no further supply disruptions have occurred in South Africa lately, he said.

But at the same time, he said, many investors already may have sold some positions.

"You may go to $900," Mr. Sanchez said. "But they're already low compared to what they have been the last couple of years. So you may not have further selling."

In other commodity markets:

SUGAR: Prices dropped to a four-month low on ICE Futures U.S. as speculators exited from bullish positions, but the market pared losses before a vote by the House of Representatives approving the $700 billion financial-rescue package. ICE March world sugar fell 0.47 cent, or 3.6%, to 12.61 cents a pound.

CRUDE OIL: Futures zigzagged before ending slightly lower as traders mulled whether the passage of the rescue bill would stabilize demand. Demand concerns were reinforced after the Labor Department reported that nonfarm payrolls fell more than expected in September, the steepest decline since March 2003. Light, sweet crude fell nine cents, or 0.1%, to $93.88 a barrel, on the New York Mercantile Exchange.

By: Allen Sykora
Wall Street Journal; October 5, 2008

Platinum Gets Dented in the Auto Industry's Pileup

Slumping Car Demand Crimps Need for Catalytic Converters, a Big User of Metal, but Possible Drop in Mining Output May Buoy Prices,

At Friday's lows, spot-month futures on the New York Mercantile Exchange were down 38% on the year and 59% from the record set in March as the global economic slowdown pinches industrial use.

Platinum could fall further on weakness in the auto sector, but then stabilize or rise modestly as investment liquidation runs its course and due to potential for output cuts as the price approaches the cost of mining, analysts said. This makes it a great time to buy platinum wedding bands.

The impetus for the early year peak was worries about tight supplies exacerbated when South Africa state-owned utility Eskom Holdings Ltd. announced electrical shortages that curtailed mining output.

"Supply was being outpaced by demand," said Bart Melek, global commodity strategist with BMO Capital Markets. "We had a massive rally way above the marginal cost of production."

Since then, the auto industry has slumped. This hurt platinum demand because its main industrial use is for catalytic converters.

Nearby October platinum Friday fell $22.60, or 2.3%, to settle at $957 a troy ounce. Most-active January lost $20.80, or 2.1%, to $965.80.

James Moore, an analyst with TheBullionDesk.com, said platinum's recent move is cyclical, reflecting changed fundamentals. Moreover, he said, the fundamentals perhaps were "overexaggerated" as prices soared at the start of the year. But he doesn't look for the recent slide to continue much longer because a "delicate balance" remains in the market.

"Eskom has already said they can't increase their energy capacity for at least another five years," Mr. Moore said. "The producers are struggling against rising costs and having to excavate metal from much deeper ore bodies. This has a massive impact on their bottom line."

If profitability suffers, downward price corrections such as the current one could prompt producers to shut down some of their operations, he said.

"In my view, it would be naive to think that the market is going to continue lower," Mr. Moore said. "We may see some further downside initially, but then look for it to possibly stabilize around $1,000 to $1,300 for the latter part of the year and heading toward next year."

BMO's Mr. Melek estimated that the cash costs of production for platinum-mining operations are between $700 and $1,000 an ounce.

"They might still go lower," he said of platinum prices on things like platinum wedding rings. "But they ultimately will have to rebound because we're hitting the marginal cost of production for many producers."

CPM Group analyst Carlos Sanchez also said there could be more selling pressure, but prices may soon stabilize.

Not only has platinum been hurt by concerns about reduced motor-vehicle production, but expectations are for a shift toward smaller vehicles at a time of high fuel prices. Smaller engines require less platinum group metals for auto catalysts, Mr. Sanchez said. Meanwhile, no further supply disruptions have occurred in South Africa lately, he said.

But at the same time, he said, many investors already may have sold some positions.

"You may go to $900," Mr. Sanchez said. "But they're already low compared to what they have been the last couple of years. So you may not have further selling."

In other commodity markets:

SUGAR: Prices dropped to a four-month low on ICE Futures U.S. as speculators exited from bullish positions, but the market pared losses before a vote by the House of Representatives approving the $700 billion financial-rescue package. ICE March world sugar fell 0.47 cent, or 3.6%, to 12.61 cents a pound.

CRUDE OIL: Futures zigzagged before ending slightly lower as traders mulled whether the passage of the rescue bill would stabilize demand. Demand concerns were reinforced after the Labor Department reported that nonfarm payrolls fell more than expected in September, the steepest decline since March 2003. Light, sweet crude fell nine cents, or 0.1%, to $93.88 a barrel, on the New York Mercantile Exchange.

By: Allen Sykora
Wall Street Journal; October 5, 2008

Cottage Designs Gift Shop & Olives Eatery located in Baldwinsville New York

Anyone who knows me knows that I like to visit quaint, cozy and unique gift shops. I just love the adventure of not knowing what treasures I will find. Years ago there were quite a few different shops from Syracuse to Utica but in recent years they have been slowly fading away. So when I come across a new gift shop I want to share my find with everyone. One such find is "Cottage Designs" located at 25 Syracuse Street in Baldwinsville, New York. The owner of the shop is just brilliant because she has combined the two things women all around the world love which is dining and shopping. When you step inside the doors you will find "Olives Eatery" located on the first floor within the "Cottage Designs" shop. Entering "Olives" gives you the feeling as if you have just entered a lovely French bistro sidewalk cafe. Ladies if you love decor color and details this place is for you. "Olives Eatery" offers diverse menu choices of panini sandwiches served either hot or cold , soup (which changes daily) , salads and more. The cafe's flavor style can be best described as a fusion of both italian & french cuisine. When you are finished with your lunch be sure to save room for dessert. We recommend the chocolate mousse cake direct from Biscotti's Cafe. This cake is out of this world and to describe it in one word .... Yum! When you are finished dining be sure to check out "Cottage Designs" beautiful selection of jewelry , purses ,scarfs (which make wonderful table runners) and home decor scattered throughout the first floor. But wait , do not forget to venture upstairs to the second floor for even more shopping. The shops (or rooms) on the 2nd floor have items such as clothing by a shop called " The Little Black Dress Boutique" to home decor items by a shop located at the end of the hallway called "Dolce" just to name a few. In my opinion this combination of a cafe & shop is a great place to meet up with friends, shop and of course have fun. I have been informed by the staff that the cafe can be rented out for showers(both baby and bridal), private gatherings and corporate luncheons. For more information on renting please contact "Cottage Designs " at 315- 638-1955. I tried my best to capture "Cottage Designs" in the photos above and I just could not. So you will just have to come and visit the shop for yourself. Hours of operation for the Eatery are Tuesday - Saturday 11- 3:30 pm. Hours of operation for shop are Tuesday - Saturday 11-6pm.

For me this shop scores a perfect10!

Bye Bye Old Blog!

My new Diary (my blog) is finally live! I am so excited! This blog will still be here, but all new posts, sneak peeks, and Andi chatter will be on the new blog from now on. I might experience some "bugs" along the way (OK- so I know I will! ha!), but just hang with me. The new blog has HUGE images and all sorts of fun links. Check it out at www.andidiamond.com/blog. See you on the other side!!

The Red Elephant! YUMMY!

Hi there my beloved blog stalkers! I have a great new restaurant for you to try out....The Red Elephant Pizza and Grill! We went last night for their open house/training event. We were welcomed in to an evening of complimentary food and drinks to try out the menu and see how the staff is doing before their official opening. All I can say is WOW! It was fabulous! The Red Elephant is a fun, comfortable atmosphere that is perfect for families or a date! Everything was fresh and so good! The staff could not be nicer! So if you are looking for a new restaurant, give The Red Elephant a try! It is located at 14391 N Dale Mabry in Tampa or call 813-908-PIZA (7492). And yes, it is north of Kennedy (all you South Tampaians...ha!)- but it is totally worth the 15 minute drive! Bon appetite!

Festival of Lights: Celebrate Diwali in Traditional Indian Style in an Erstwhile Palace, Jaipur

Nights of tireless grace and intense colors are round the corner. Preparations and enthusiasm have reached a point of no return and it is keeping these festivities in mind that for the first time ever- an erstwhile 18th Century Palace opens its gates, for a select few to enjoy an evening of ‘Diwali celebration’, in Royal Splendor.

Diwali is the biggest and the grandest festival of India. It’s the festival of lights, firecrackers, joy and good food! It is with this festive spirit in Mind that ‘The Festival of Lights’ is being held in Jaipur. The event is being sold by a select group of travel agents and the passes queries can be also sent to: anuroopa@theroyalshaadi.com. Only 150 passes available.

Event Format:

1. Arrival

2. Guests get down near main Palace entrance

3.Guests will be given a A ROYAL WELCOME, which will include 2 Elephants and live folk musicians giving a welcome performance

4.Men in rajasthani costumes garland the guests.

5.Guests are offered Buttermilk/Jaljeera as a welcome drink in The Palace Promenade .

6.Followed by a Traditional Lakshmi –Ganesh Pooja. Pandit will perform chants and conduct the pooja. Pooja prasaad (traditional indian Sweets will be served)

7.This is followed by a 60 minutes Folk Performance at a Village themed courtyard .

8.Followed by a Round of firecrackers. All guests will be given sparkles (Phuljhari), Anaar, Etc to enjoy diwali

9.Finally Elaborate Dinner will be served at the Palace lawns. Dinner includes sumptuous, lip smacking- rajasthani and continental food

Event Date: 25^th Oct 2008

Venue: 18^th Century Palace, Moti Doongri, Jaipur

Timings: 7:00 PM Onwards

For queries mail: anuroopa@theroyalshaadi.com

Holiday Mini Sessions

Quick update on holiday mini sessions...I still have 2 time slots left for tomorrow (Saturday, October 4) for the mini session and only 1 time slot left for the location session at the University of Tampa on Saturday, October 18. Mini session are 20 minutes and include the session, an online gallery for viewing and sharing your 10-12 proofs, 50 custom 5x7 folded holiday cards, 1 mounted 8x10, and 2 mounted 5x7's for $350. Call me ASAP if you would like to participate at 813-503-5056 or e-mail me at andi@andidiamond.com. And burrr- it's cold outside today! Ha! I do love the little chill in the air!

Update on the Chinese Gymnasts..

Well, it came out today that the Chinese gymnasts really were old enough to compete in the Olympics. Do I beleive it? Not too sure. After all, the information was received from the Chinese government (who takes gymnasts away from their families as young children to train them to represent their country). I mean..I am just saying....