My dear friend Andy Yu coined the phrase, Recycle Chic. Meaning that what was once old is new again. In the effort of sustainability, I have really been trying to shop vintage, esp for accessories. Don’t get me wrong I love a chic handbag more than the next person but due to crazy price increases and all the waste fast fashion has brought to our landfills and environment, I have given Vintage a really serious consideration and I almost never want to go back. One of my absolute go-to’s is The Real Real. Shopping online is my guilty pleasure but I do love stopping in the store as well. There are some great locations on Greenwich Ave, Worth Ave, and Madison Ave though I have to admit the best deals are online and they usually give you a great discount on most items. Plus loyal readers, if you visit the Greenwich store ask for Mariella and tell her I sent you. I think you will be pleased!!!!! Here are some of my top picks from the newest arrivals at the Real Real….

From left to right starting at the top

I love the look of a single pearl drop necklace. The silk cord is so chic.

This necklace is fab. It’s a diamond strand on a cord and the price is beyond amazing.

You can never go wrong with Hermes bangles.

And another enamel Hermes bangle

How cool is this Hermes straw hat?

Love a YSL clutch and esp in Silver

How can you resist this LV locket bangle set?

The new trend is a slim card case to replace a bulky wallet…This Chanel number is perfection.

A LV weekender is such a dream piece.

I’m obsessed with these Carolina Herrera earrings.

Tom Ford sunglasses are still the most coveted

Who doesn’t have a cool Marni summer bag on their wish list?

These Todd’s are giving me Hermes vibes.

Nothing cooler and more classic than a top flap Fendi bag

I just fell in love with this chic necklace

Traveling is beneficial to your health and a terrific opportunity to see the globe and discover new things. It helps you stay healthy by promoting physical activity and can even help you reduce stress. You can also receive guidance on navigating unfamiliar cultures and lifestyles through the insights provided. It can boost your happiness and life satisfaction while bringing humility and understanding.

It Refreshes Your Mind

Traveling allows you to escape the stress of everyday life and unplug for a while. Exploring new things is a fantastic way to broaden your horizons and gain new experiences. It also helps you learn about other cultures and ways of living. It can aid in your horizon expanding and make you more accepting of different people. In addition, traveling can help you develop your personality and character. It will make you deal with difficulties like being in an unfamiliar setting, meeting strangers, and speaking in a foreign language. You will therefore develop more self-assurance. You will also become more accepting of other people’speople’s differences, such as their religion, morals, diet, languages, and culture. You’ll become more empathetic and understanding of other people as a result.

In addition, traveling can improve your creativity. It is because you will be exposed to new stimuli that will entice your brain to come up with original thoughts and ideas. It will thus enable you to resolve issues in your personal and professional life. According to research, people who travel regularly are more creative than those who do not.

It Helps You Relax

Escape your everyday routine and explore a new environment for a great way to relax and replenish. Traveling may be exciting and entertaining as well. Many people are rejuvenated and energized after their trip, ready to tackle life again. Being in a new place, immersed in a different culture, and speaking a new language can help expand one’sone’s worldview. Additionally, it teaches people how to interact more effectively with others from various backgrounds and experiences. It can be beneficial in personal relationships as well as at work.

Traveling can also be physically challenging, such as navigating a new city or country, but it can allow you to test yourself. These small challenges can build confidence and trust in oneself, whether learning how to use chopsticks, bargaining at the local market, or finding your way on an unfamiliar train system. Traveling is healthy for the body and mind and might be excellent for the heart. It can help you avoid burnout and stress and maintain a healthy lifestyle when done correctly. Planning and being mindful of your travels and environment is essential. It’s also helpful to exercise while traveling, such as walking, hiking, or scuba diving in top-rated resorts in the Cayman Islands.

It Gives You Peace of Mind

Traveling helps you break away from your daily routine, which is a great way to reset your mind. Additionally, it challenges you to think creatively, which might enhance your capacity for problem-solving. It is why many people feel more productive after taking a vacation. In addition, traveling gives you a chance to experience new things. Whether exploring a city or hiking on a mountain trail, traveling helps you stay active and keep your body healthy. It also helps you stay mentally sharp and boosts your creativity. When traveling, it can be challenging to focus on your problems. It is because you’re surrounded by so much beauty and wonder. It may also help you see that your issues might be resolved.

Traveling also helps you become more tolerant of different cultures and people. How much you pick up from the individuals you encounter while traveling can surprise you. It can teach much about their beliefs, values, and traditions. It may enable you to connect with them and comprehend them better. Additionally, it may alter your viewpoint on life and make you more compassionate. It will also help you realize many different ways to live and enjoy life. It’sIt’s a beautiful feeling that can change your whole outlook on life.

It Helps You Relieve Stress

Traveling helps you relieve stress. It is because you are away from your regular worries and responsibilities on vacation. As a result, you’ll feel refreshed and rejuvenated once you return home. Traveling also lets you put your difficulties into perspective, which is another benefit. Seeing how beautiful and diverse the world is can make your problems seem small and insignificant. Plus, traveling can also help you learn and experience new things. It can improve your creativity and cultural awareness, which in turn can reduce stress. Plus, it can even boost your confidence and happiness. So if you’re you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider booking a trip. It may be what you need to reset your mind and get back on track. Even if you can afford an extravagant vacation, a weekend getaway can do the trick. Remember to plan your trip with a trusted travel company to avoid stress. And before you know it, you’ll relax on your next big adventure!

Understanding the advantages is crucial if you’re looking to purchase a lab-grown diamond.  Ethically sourced lab-grown diamonds are certified and graded under the same standards as mined diamonds. They also cost 30% to 50% less than traditional mined diamonds.

What are Lab-Grown Diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds are also known as manufactured, synthetic or laboratory created. Regardless of what they’re called, these stones are real diamonds sourced responsibly and offer many benefits compared to mined diamonds. From a chemical and physical standpoint, lab-created diamonds are identical to natural ones, and they’re even harder than those found in the ground, with a Mohs hardness rating of 10. It makes them so popular among those who want to avoid mining or prefer the sparkle of a real diamond over alternatives like Moissanites and Cubic Zirconia. 

Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Forever?

Unlike diamond simulants, often sold at lower prices, lab diamonds are real and chemically identical to mined diamonds. They also boast the same sparkle and durability as natural diamonds. The technology behind the creation of lab diamonds allows gem experts to mimic the environmental conditions that create natural diamonds without harming any ecosystems. Additionally, lab diamonds are cheaper to produce than natural diamonds; savings are passed on in pricing. However, there is a risk that lab diamonds will only hold value once supply increases and demand decreases. It is a major consideration for anyone considering buying a lab-created diamond for investment purposes.

How are Lab-Grown Diamonds Created?

Diamonds are formed in a combination of heat and pressure deep inside the Earth. Modern technology allows experts to recreate these conditions in a lab without endangering ecosystems. Experts create lab-grown diamonds through either High Pressure, High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) processes. These processes can generate gem-quality diamonds that look and behave just like natural diamonds. They can even be graded using the same four ‘Cs’ as naturally occurring diamonds!

The CVD method is currently the preferred approach for creating lab-grown diamonds for jewelry. This method uses less energy than HPHT and produces only about half the carbon footprint of mining a natural diamond. It makes it an environmentally conscious choice for couples seeking sustainable style. MiaDonna is proud to carry certified Lab Grown diamonds from reputable jewelers that use this advanced technology.

Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Real?

Some may believe diamonds are only real if they come from the ground. Still, many retailers offer lab-created diamonds because of their lower environmental and social impact. These stones use the same chemical properties as naturally occurring diamonds and go through the same grading processes as natural diamonds. They’re also more affordable than mined diamonds and are less likely to chip like other diamond lookalikes, such as cubic zirconia or moissanite. Whether you want to purchase a ring for yourself or an engagement ring for your significant other, the options are endless! In addition, some diamonds—including the lab-created version—come in various colors. It is a key selling feature for individuals who desire the appearance of a fancy-colored diamond.

How Am I Able to Tell a Lab-Grown Diamond From a Natural Diamond?

Gemological lab analysis is the only technique to distinguish between a lab-created diamond and a natural one. The stones will look identical and have the same chemical composition, but a trained gemologist can use special equipment to distinguish them. The first lab-created diamonds were made in the 1950s using either the Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) or High-Pressure, High Temperature (HPHT) methods. They were used for industrial purposes until the mid-1980s, when manufacturers started to produce gem-quality laboratory-created diamonds in large quantities. The big plus for lab diamonds is that they are available in various colors. Fancy-colored diamonds are especially rare and expensive, so lab diamonds can be a more affordable option for some couples looking to get that perfect engagement ring.

Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Ethical?

The same certification process and criteria are used to certify lab-grown diamonds, which may also be graded for color, clarity, and carat weight. It is fantastic news for people who desire a fancy-colored diamond ring but need more funds to purchase a real stone at the top price. Many companies that sell lab-created diamonds market them as ethical and environmentally conscious, and some have proven track records regarding fair labor practices. However, it’s important to note that lab-grown diamonds are not carbon-free and use much energy to produce. It’s up to each manufacturer to carefully monitor their energy usage and ensure they aren’t contributing to negative environmental impacts.

Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Affordable?

Like any new technology, lab diamonds started to become expensive. But over time, prices dropped as demand rose and production costs fell. You can now find beautiful 1-carat, investment-grade lab diamonds for around the same price as a natural diamond. However, it’s important to remember that lab-created diamonds don’t have the same resale value as mined diamonds. So, if you’re concerned about making an ethical and financial decision, a traditionally mined diamond may be your better choice.

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If you aren’t sure if now is the time to buy a new car, then you have come to the right place. This guide will highlight the top signs that you need a new vehicle, as well as show you if there is anything you can do to make things easier on yourself. Take a look below to find out more.

Breakdowns Happen Far too Often

The occasional breakdown is understandable, and it is to be expected as well. Paying for needed repairs once and a while is not a problem, but if you find that your car is breaking down all the time and you just can’t afford to make the repairs anymore, this is a major sign that something must be done. As a general rule, you should not be experiencing more than two breakdowns every single year. If you get to the point where your car is breaking down every three or even every four months, then you have a problem on your hands. If you have been in an accident, then this is another sign you need to get your vehicle looked at by a mechanic. Contact car accident lawyers to get some support here.

When it comes to solar panel installation, a lot of paperwork is involved. This includes applying for the proper federal and local solar rebates and incentives. It also requires a local inspection by your town government and a utility interconnection with the grid.

As with other big-ticket purchases, it’s a good idea to comparison shop. Compare up to 3 quotes from local suppliers for free by filling in the form below.

Reputation

It is essential to evaluate the reputation of your potential solar panel installation supplier. This includes the solar equipment they use and how it performs in real life versus the performance that it is tested under lab conditions. The best way to do this is by looking at unbiased third-party solar reviews validated as authentic such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

In the relatively young solar industry, many new companies come and go. Finding a solar panel installation in New Jersey that has been around for at least ten years and has a proven track record of manufacturing and installing PV systems is vital. They should also have an established history of being financially stable. This is important because your PV system will last 25-30 years, and you need to ensure that the company will still be around to honor the warranties on their panels.

You also need to ensure they have a reputation for using the most advanced and practical equipment, including a robust warranty program, high-quality inverters, and batteries. This will help your PV system to deliver on its full power potential. Finally, you want to be sure that the solar panels they manufacture will meet the needs of your specific project location. This can include things like durability, water resistance, and temperature tolerance.

Certifications

When shopping for solar panels, it’s essential to consider whether the equipment you’re looking at has passed relevant testing and certification standards. These tests evaluate the solar panels’ safety, durability, and compliance with their intended use. State and local codes require some tests, while others are optional but useful for specific applications. For example, if you’re interested in installing solar panels near livestock or farms, you can check to ensure the board passes a test for resistance to ammonia corrosion.

Another essential factor to look for is the quality inspection conducted on each solar panel at its factory of origin. These inspections typically involve a visual assessment and a flash test. The visual evaluation looks for scratches, glue marks, and the montage frame. The flash test involves exposing the panel to an intense light source and assessing for a “flash” effect.

Ideally, the manufacturer should also have documented proof that they regularly audit their production facility and products to ensure compliance with ongoing safety and performance standards. This is a crucial step to help protect against defective solar modules, which can cause significant financial losses for homeowners, installers, and the energy companies they install for. Additionally, many local utility companies now require that any grid-tied solar systems are installed with certified solar panels to qualify for their rebates and incentives.

Experience

As solar adoption has surged worldwide, ensuring installation equipment meets specific quality standards has become increasingly important. Questions arise regarding the durability of solar components such as panels, inverters, and batteries. Choosing a solar installer with experience will ensure that your energy system is built to last and backed by solid warranty coverage.

A good solar company will be able to answer your questions about the performance of the equipment they use and will be able to explain why they chose the specific brand of equipment they did. They will also be able to tell you about their company’s history, including any solar projects they have done. It is also great to ask for testimonials from past clients, as they can share their experiences with the installer.

In addition, you should understand how your solar quote is calculated. Make sure that the rate of utility increases is accurately represented. This will give you a better sense of how quickly your savings are expected to add up and will help you with your decision-making process. You should also ensure that your quotes account for any differences in power output due to temperature changes, as this will influence your energy production estimates.

Warranty

Many potential issues can arise in a solar installation. These problems can reduce your system’s energy production and cost you money. The best way to protect yourself against future costs is to look for a warranty that covers your investment.

A good quality installer will offer a warranty on their work. This can cover damage that occurs during the installation process, as well as any problems that arise after it is complete. This warranty is essential because it can save you much money in the long run.

Similarly, you should ensure that your solar panel manufacturer offers a product warranty. These warranties typically last anywhere between 10-25 years. The most common type of warranty is a power and performance warranty. The power warranty guarantees that the panels will continue to produce a certain amount of electricity throughout their lifespan. The performance warranty will guarantee that the panels will not degrade by more than 5% in the first 25 years of operation.

Other types of warranties include product, installation, and artistry warranties. You should find out how long these warranties last and what they cover. A good contract should give you peace of mind that your investment is protected for as long as you own your home.