Textiles & Jewellery

JUNE BIRTHSTONE: PEARL

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They say classy girls wear pearls. And how can they not, with the beautifully classic pearl cementing its place in fashion history as a closet staple; an elegant essential; Coco Chanel’s favourite?

June’s birthstone also has a lot of history and has been known to symbolise a number of virtuous qualities, including purity, generosity, integrity and loyalty. Pearls are also believed to symbolise wisdom acquired through experience and are believed to attract luck, wealth and protection.

 

MEANING OF VARIOUS COLOURED PEARL

Different coloured pearls have different meanings attached to them. Speak chapters without saying a word, with the following colours:

BLUE: SYMBOLISES LOVE

BLACK/GOLD: SYMBOLISES WEALTH AND PROSPERITY

WHITE: INNOCENCE, BEAUTY, PURITY AND NEW BEGINNINGS

PINK: SUCCESS, FAME AND FORTUNE

BROWN: PRACTICALITY, HARMONY

 PEARLS FOR A WEDDING DAY

In Afrikaner culture, pearls are wrongly believed to bring bad luck on a wedding day, as they are believed to be created from tears of the gods. However, in most other cultures and religions, pearls have a positive connotation due to exactly this, as they are believed to bring tears of joy and/or to stop the bride from crying on her wedding day.

One of the earliest accounts of pearls and weddings comes from the Hindu story of Krishna, who plucked the first pearl from the depths of the ocean and gave it to his daughter on her wedding day as a symbol of love, union, and purity.

Jewellery for a friend or loved one (or even yourself) can be a very personal and special gift, especially birthstones. If you have someone in your life who has a birthday this month, a garnet ring, pendant, necklace or pair of earrings is a wonderful idea that they will love to show off. Or pick out your favourite and wear it yourself!

ABOUT SWAROVSKI CRYSTAL PEARLS AND CRYSTAL PEARL JWELLERY

The Swarovski pearls that are used in Crystalp jewellery are made with a crystal core. Their unparalleled harmonious and lustrous shimmer is achieved using a unique coating technology developed by Swarovski. It is the first production method in the world to combine the quality of a perfect crystal core with the exquisite beauty of a pearl coating. The innovative technology by Swarovski gives the pearl a mysterious glow, which appears to be radiating from within the pearl itself. The strictest quality controls help ensure the absolute flawlessness of each crystal pearl.

See the beautiful pearl pieces in the latest Crystalp collection on our facebook page or contact lisa@crystalforum.co.za to order.

Please note:Crystal Forum will not be held liable for any damages incurred after the receipt of products. To ensure that your Crystalp product remains in the best possible condition over an extended period of time, please observe the advice below to avoid damage.

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Be my Valentine

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Let CRYSTALP and Simply Manas be your Valentine!

Judging by the pained expression on the face of many a Valentine’s gift shopper, it’s perhaps quite appropriate that St Valentine’s Day is named for a Roman Catholic priest who was martyred in the third century for his faith.

Pity the poor long-serving husband or partner who has to put his wits to finding that something special and thoughtful year after year AND keep it original! Is it any wonder at all he’d feel martyred?

Not that this territory is solely the domain of the masculine gender, of course, however there is unquestionably more pressure (and pain it seems) experienced by our menfolk at this time of year. Perhaps the theory that women have more imagination than men is particularly well-illustrated when it comes to choosing Valentine’s Day gifts.

The traditional Valentine expressions of love and affection, such as greeting cards, chocolates, roses, cuddly toys and so on, can only go so far over the course of a relationship, so what a relief it must be to find that there is a place to go to find that special something original year after year, and without blowing one’s bank account either!

Such a place is the  Simply Manas gift emporium in Sandton City, where the previously hard-pressed husband or suitor may take his pick of exclusive gifts from the wide range of CRYSTALP jewellery and accessories available. Simply Manas is the sole retailer of the exclusive CRYSTALP selection of crystal necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings, charms and broaches, which extends to include crystal accessories as well as many other very desirable trinkets and pieces. The stunning ranges are manufactured using Swarovski Elements, and whilst stylish and of the highest quality and design, they remain affordable.

Naturally Valentine’s Day is not for ladies only, and the CRYSTALP ranges include fabulous gifts for the long-serving man in your life too, in the form of elegant corporate gifts, men’s crystal jewellery, crystal tie pins, key-rings, pens and pencils, memory sticks and much more.

I guess we can’t be sure how the martyred St Valentine came to become the patron saint of lovers, but we certainly do know where lovers may find that perfect St Valentines Day gift!

We invite you to visit Simply Manas gift emporium at Shop L336, Lower Level, Protea Court, Sandton City. Alternatively call them on +27 11 784 0270 or visit the simplymanas.com website.

wordpress_cf_logo1For Corporate and Trade inquiries or if you would like to know more about Crystal Forum and it’s specialized ranges of Crystal Products, please contact Liselotte on +27 11 884 8404 or via the crystalforum.co.za  website – Contact Us

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Miss Earth SA 2014

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Crystal Forum are proud sponsors of Miss Earth SA

Ilze-SaundersCRYSTAL FORUM is proud to have been a sponsor of the Miss Earth SA pageant for several years now, and 2014 was no exception when in September the winner was crowned at a glittering function held at the Palazzo Hotel in Johannesburg.

Ilze Saunders, a 23-year old BA Communications graduate, was chosen from amongst 13 finalists at the event to represent South Africa at the international Miss Earth competition which took place in late November in the Phillippines.

The finalists were all dynamic and inspirational young women who are very active in their communities and in supporting the Miss Earth SA programme built around making a sustainable difference within our environment. Ilze’s passion for the environment and for her community, as well as her dynamism and energy epitomize exactly what the initiative is all about.

In the words of Catherine Constantinides, Executive Director of Miss Earth South Africa, “The finalists demonstrated clear leadership qualities, creative thinking, strength of mind and of character, and most importantly, a passion for making a sustainable difference in their communities.  The programme has been exciting and challenging and whilst ensuring that these young women have made an impact on the communities around them, they have also delivered a service and compassion. The participants made an effort to inspire and educate individuals, schools, communities, corporate South Africa and policymakers to consider the environment and the challenges that we face as a nation and indeed as a continent.”

The event was attended by many dignitaries and the cream of Johannesburg society in addition to several former Miss Earth SA winners. Included in the crop was CRYSTAL FORUM’s own Lisalotte Hager as well as one of its foremost Brand Ambassadors, the ever-stylish Edith Venter. Included amongst Miss Earth SA’s fabulous prizes was dazzling crystal jewellery and accessories from CRYSTAL FORUM’s SWAROVSKI, SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS™ and CRYSTALP fine collections.

Miss Earth South Africa is a programme which seeks to impart to young women the knowledge and forum to make a difference in the constant battle to preserve our country’s natural heritage. Part of its mission is to create an awareness of sustainable development, wildlife, our environment and conservation of our natural legacy, and to extend this philosophy globally.

The event was also attended by the Honourable Minister of Environmental Affairs, Ms Edna Molewa, who quoted “This organisation is nurturing a new generation of environmental activists with a passion for their cause – infused with a sense of empathy that is indeed rare among the young people of today.”

CRYSTAL FORUM supports the spirit and principles of the Miss Earth SA programme, and will continue its sponsorship of the event into 2015.

Please contact Crystal Forum for more information on this article or if you would like to know more about Crystal Forum and it’s specialized ranges of Crystal Products.

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Swarovski World Jewellery Facets 2014

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Crystal Forum and Jenni Gault shine at  Swarovski World Jewellery Facets 2014

Looking back at the end of 2014 on the many events and happenings that CRYSTAL FORUM has been proud to be a part of these past twelve months, it absolutely has to be said that one of the greatest highlights of the year was the SWAROVSKI World Jewellery Facets showcase, which took place in Paris, France.

Hot on the heels of Paris Fashion week, SWAROVSKI kicked off its spectacular exhibition early in October, to splendid reception and reviews from the international fashion and jewellery community, as well as the Who’s Who of society.

The much-feted showcase was held at the world-famous 13th century monastery, Réfectoire des Cordeliers, and the unique location formed a dramatic and fitting backdrop to the magnificent and glittering crystal jewellery and uniquely-crafted pieces on display. The exhibition featured contemporary fashion jewellery showpieces designed by fifty highly regarded international designers from all over the world, each incorporating the beauty and allure of SWAROVSKI crystals at their heart.

Included in this prestigious company was South African designer, Jenni Gault, supported at the event by CRYSTAL FORUM’s own Liselotte Hager. With a set which included a magnificent one-and-a-half storey high ice sculpture at its centre, the scene was ideally primed for Jenni’s stunning showpiece ‘The Circle of Life’, which was beautifully displayed along with pieces by designers such as Oscar de la Rente and Karl Lagerfeld.

CRYSTAL FORUM is very proud to be associated with Jenni Gault and though it has been part of the SWAROVSKI family for many years, still takes immense delight in the close relationship with the brand. Lisalotte shares her personal experience of her trip to Paris and SWAROVSKI World Jewellery Facets 2014 below.

“As the owner of Crystal Forum I have found many joys in my business, but one of them is certainly not only a joy but an absolute reward for me. Working with the world renowned brand that is Swarovski, include traveling and participating in major international events in the most beautiful cities in the world. The latest trip took us to Europe and specifically the city of love – Paris. The perfect place for Swarovski to sparkle in romance.

Thanks to the talented Jenni Gault, a South African Jewellery designer par excellence was chosen by Swarovski, together with 50 other of the world’s best designers, to showcase her jewellery in Paris the night after Paris Fashion Week. Jenni and I have become friends over the years and when she was selected I could not have wanted a better travel companion to travel with.

We started our journey in Wattens/Tyrol in Austria, which the headquarters of Swarovski. In true Swarovski style, we got the royal treatment and some very inspirational presentations of the new Swarovski products. Followed by a special tour of the famous Swarovski Kristallwelten’, which showcases millions and millions of crystals in creations that transcend you into a magical world. Austrians really know how to entertain and after 3 days of scrumptious Austrian meals and a stay in the great Penz Hotel in Innsbruck, we headed off to Munich’s one and only yearly Oktoberfest (more than 7 million visitors in the 2 weeks which is the duration of the event).

Then it was off to Paris for an entire week. One of the highlights being – Paris Fashion Week – coupled with our special event and so much to do in Paris, that we never had a dull moment. In fact, by the end of the week and all the excitement, we found ourselves suffering from lack of sleep, just a little bit, but the memories of the exciting week never dulled. During the day we spent time gazing at all the beautiful and famous sites such as the Louvre, Notre Dame, Montmartre, Centre Pompidou, cruising the Seine and at night we were experiencing the French cuisine. We were very lucky to get tickets to some incredible fashion shows. Some of the great designers showcasing this year were Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Chanel and Jean Paul Gautier who showed his Fare Well Collection. One of the shows we watched was Masha Ma who was assistant to the late Alexander Mc Queen. She showcased her collection in collaboration with Swarovski.

Finally the main highlight and the purpose of our trip, the Swarovski World Jewellery Facets shown at a thirteenths century monastery in the very posh district of St-Germain-des-Pres. Jenni Gault representing South Africa by showcasing her “Circle of Life” Collection amongst world famous designers such as Jean Paul Gautier, Karl Lagerfeld, Oscar de la Rente to name but a few. It was an incredible moment for me to be there representing Swarovski from South Africa and we are so proud of and awed by the talented Jenni Gault being chosen as the only South African designer.                    

…Liselotte Hager – CRYSTAL FORUM

Whilst Jenni has shown her superbly-crafted crystal jewellery for SWAROVSKI previously, this year welcomed a number of new contributing countries, such as Russia, Morocco and Hungary. Adding to their international family in this way is part of the SWAROVSKI culture, as is bringing its expos such as World Jewellery Facets 2014 to diverse cities all over the world, including Hong Kong, Las Vegas and Beijing.

CRYSTAL FORUM with SWAROVSKI looks forward to bringing new concepts and superlative crystal jewellery, crystal giftware, crystal accessories for the home and much more to our valued partners and customers in 2015! In addition to supplying loose crystal beads, stones and many other crystal components, CRYSTAL FORUM is the sole distributor of the exclusive CRYSTALP range in South Africa, incorporating SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS™.

Please contact Crystal Forum for more information on this article or if you would like to know more about Crystal Forum and it’s specialized ranges of Crystal Products.

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Heritage Day

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Happy Heritage Day from Crystal Forum!

Chances are that if you do not actually attend a braai of some sort on the 24th of September, you have probably been invited to one or know of one being hosted either privately or as a public event! The reason this is fairly safe to say is that Heritage day, the public holiday celebrated on that day, has become almost synonymous with the braai and it is even quite widely known now as National Braai Day.

The holiday was historically celebrated as Shaka Day, particularly in KwaZulu Natal, in commemoration of the legendary Zulu King Shaka who was instrumental in uniting many separate Zulu factions into one cohesive nation. It was originally almost omitted from the list of Public Holidays in our 1995 constitution, but was ultimately included as an opportunity for South Africans to celebrate their heritage as one nation.

In much the same way then as King Shaka  brought together the disparate Zulu clans of the time into one cohesive nation, Heritage Day encourages South Africans to  come together to celebrate the wealth of cultural heritage and diversity that makes us South African.

As former South African President Nelson Mandela put it in his own Heritage Day speech “When our first democratically-elected government decided to make Heritage Day one of our national days, we did so because we knew that our rich and varied cultural heritage has a profound power to help build our new nation”.

Over time, and in recognition of the South African culinary tradition of the braai and to extend the reach of Heritage Day to yet more South Africans, media campaigns have successfully managed to almost re-brand the holiday as National Braai Day, and with the support of stalwarts such as “The Arch” himself, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, have been extremely successful in this. In more recent years the National Braai Day initiative was changed to Braai4Heritage, and has since been endorsed by South Africa’s National Heritage Council.

So, whether you toss a few chops or steaks onto a ‘skottel’ or sip on a cold, crisp, glass of Chardonnay at the Country Club whilst your designer spit barbeque is prepared to your exacting taste, you will be in the collective company of a good many South Africans celebrating our culinary and social heritage with a braai on Heritage Day!

5369.PER_.GRE_If you’re at a loose end of course, and feel like celebrating your heritage of good taste and style on the holiday, why not pop into Simply Manas Gift Emporium and see what’s on offer in the stunning crystal collections supplied by Crystal Forum. Choose from the CRYSTALP range of exquisitely-crafted Crystal Jewellery and Crystal Accessories for yourself, or if you’re looking for something unique for your home or office, the IMPLEXIONS selection of stunning décor pieces is sure to turn your eye. Both collections incorporate beautiful SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS items and components of crystal stones, crystal beads, crystal pearls and much more!

Simply Manas Gift Emporium – Shop L336, Lower Level, Protea Court, Sandton City.

You can also call Simply Manas on +27 11 784 0270 or visit the website at simplymanas.com website.

Please contact Crystal Forum for more information on this article or if you would like to know more about Crystal Forum and it’s specialized ranges of Crystal Products.

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Swarovski and Crystal Forum

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Swarovski, a cut above the rest

Mention crystal jewellery in almost any social setting, and I’d be willing to bet that in nine cases out of ten, the name that springs to mind almost immediately is Swarovski. Since Daniel Swarovski first founded the company in Wattens, Austria, way back in 1895, the name has become synonymous with precision cut crystal, exquisite craftsmanship, glamour, beauty and fashion.

Swarovski’s magical appeal has enchanted and delighted womenfolk the world over, whether the belle of the ball attending her matric dance, the starry-eyed bride on her wedding day or the glamorous movie star walking the red carpet on Oscar night! Hollywood and style icons throughout the years have succumbed to the glittering beauty of the jewellery, and included in it’s legions of fans are the likes of Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn, and in contemporary times, Rihanna (who could forget THAT dress worn to the 2014 CFDA Awards), and the current face of Swarovski, the gorgeous Miranda Kerr. Of course, it’s not only the fairer sex who adorn themselves with this celebrated product range, as Swarovski Crystal’s incorporation into men’s jewellery, accessories and also corporate gifts in recent times has attracted a huge following amongst men too. Handsomely-crafted crystal pieces such as tie pins, cufflinks, memory sticks and key rings are now worn or used by captains of industry and regularly feature in the boardrooms and offices of global commerce.

In haute couture, the brand has more than earned its place in the designs of top fashion houses with the innovative SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS™ initiative, and it counts Chanel, Balenciaga, Dior and Versace, to name but a few, amongst those who have integrated it’s beautiful and brilliant crystal mesh, beads, fastenings, trimmings and more, into their ranges.

By making these magnificent crystal elements available as components, Swarovski has succeeded in enhancing the accessibility of the brand, and encouraged that business be created around the concept and products. CRYSTALP Jewellery, also of Austria, is one such inventive company, whose ranges of exceptional jewellery and accessories incorporating SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS™ have become sought-after and extremely successful in their own right, including here in South Africa. Crystal Forum, based in Parkmore, Gauteng, and headed by Austrian go-getter, Liselotte Hager, are the sole distributors of CRYSTALP in this country, and these stunning articles are also available to retail via the exclusive Simply Manas Gift Emporium in Sandton City.

CRY02200_Iconic_candle_holder_large_3Since inception, Swarovski has constantly been on the cutting edge of innovation and whilst most celebrated for its jewellery and place in fashion and design, many are not aware that, again with the SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS™ brand, it has firmly created a footprint for itself in the Lighting, Interior Design and Architecture spaces. The various collections which include components for chandeliers, knobs and handles, soft fittings and furniture will awe and inspire with their aesthetic appeal, technical perfection and innovation. IMPLEXIONS of Austria is another company utilizing Swarovski’s superb products along with Plexiglass and high grade steel to specialize in the manufacture of fine home accessories, lighting and architectural features, and this range is also available in South Africa through Crystal Forum and its retail partners.

Not content to merely decorate and beautify celebrities and feature in film, theatre, opera and ballet productions, Swarovski has itself ventured into full scale movie production with Swarovski Entertainment, and in partnership with Amber Entertainment, released its remake of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet in late 2013. The film brings together a young, talented and star-studded cast and as would be expected includes a lavish wardrobe of sumptuous costumes and period jewellery made with Swarovksi’s marvelous crystal products. This initial successful foray into the film industry will be followed up by further productions and I, for one, eagerly await its next offering – like all things Swarovski, it is certain to be dazzlingly beautiful, elegant, finely-crafted and much sought-after!
Please contact Crystal Forum for more information on this article or if you would like to know more about Crystal Forum and it’s specialized ranges of Crystal Products.

For Corporate and Trade inquiries, please contact Liselotte Hager on +27 11 884 8404 or via the crystalforum.co.za website – Contact Us

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Women’s Day

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Why is there a Women’s Day but not a Men’s Day?

Some cynics and feminists would say that the obvious answer is because the other 364 days of the year are Men’s Days!

The truth of the matter though is that Women’s Day in South Africa is not a celebration of women, per se, but rather commemorates an historic event on the 9th August 1956 when over 20 000 women marched on the Union Buildings in petition against the pass laws of the day. It honours and celebrates the strength and purpose of these women, who rallied against legislation demanding that Black South Africans carry ‘passes’ to justify their presence in any so-called White suburb or area.

The march was organized by the Federation of South African Women (FEDSAW) and led by four remarkable individuals – Helen Joseph, Lilian Ngoyi, Rahima Moosa, and Sophy Williams. The multitude, consisting of women of all races, ages, walks of life and from all over the country, demonstrated quiet defiance in their peaceful march to deliver bundles of petitions, containing some 100 000 signatures, to Prime Minister JG Strijdom’s office at the Union Buildings.

Having dropped the petitions off, the throng then stood in silence for thirty minutes, before starting to sings songs of freedom and solidarity, most famous amongst which was to become one composed specifically in honour of the march, “Wathint’ Abafazi Wathint’ imbokodo!” (Now you have touched the women, you have struck a rock).
FEDSAW’s march was deemed a victory and lauded far and wide, and in recognition of the momentous occasion and the courageous women who risked much in their quiet fortitude, the first Women’s Day was declared in 1994 and has been celebrated annually on the 9th August, since.

This day has come to celebrate much more than a single act of solidarity, however, and now more generally pays homage to the strength and resilience of women, their spirit and accomplishments, as well as highlighting women’s rights issues such as domestic abuse, rape and gender inequality. The day is marked with various activities taking place countrywide, and August is now officially Women’s month to allow for a broader application of the forum.

Come celebrate the fearlessly female in you this Women’s Day with Crystal Forum, Simply Manas Gift Emporium, and the strong and dynamic women who head up these businesses.

You are certain to find something special and uniquely feminine amongst our innovative CRYSTALP selections of well-crafted Crystal Jewellery and Crystal Accessories or in the IMPLEXIONS range of signature home décor and interior design pieces, all incorporating SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS.

View our ranges at Simply Manas gift emporium – Shop L336, Lower Level, Protea Court, Sandton City.
You can also call Simply Manas on +27 11 784 0270 or visit the website at simplymanas.com website.

CrystAlp_logo-150x150Please contact Crystal Forum for more information on this article or if you would like to know more about Crystal Forum and it’s specialized ranges of Crystal Products.

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Soccer World Cup

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A World Cup of Unity

So, you can’t get hold of your father or your brothers, you haven’t seen your best bud in about a month and your significant male other seems decidedly distracted and preoccupied on the odd occasion you are able to draw his attention away from the television.

Is it time to change your deodorant, is there a surprise party in the offing or is there perhaps a conspiracy at play to which you are not privy? Chances are it’s none of these and the simple explanation is that it’s Soccer World Cup time again!

As much as it may seem to be a social disruption on many fronts, the Soccer World Cup has brought people together in interesting ways, and I’m not talking only about it’s global nature and unifying effect from an on-the-field perspective.

Have you noticed how readily fellow diners in restaurants and coffee-shops will strike up a conversation with one about the football, or make an unsolicited comment on a particular game, player, nation or incident? It’s also not unusual that other patrons or the waiting staff are called on to provide scores or an update on a particularly big or exciting match, and even those who would stereotypically not be football fans (much less understand the offside rule), suddenly have all the jargon and inside information on the current happenings. Mums, Grandmothers, society matrons and fellow yogi’s are all atwitter and expert on the sport, and you’ve probably found that ninety percent of your book club have an opinion on this player versus the next too (though quite probably around matters aesthetic and who has the best legs rather than actual playing prowess).

Of a morning in the office, you will quite readily find staff, male and female, young and old, of all races and creeds, gathering around the coffee station or water machine, in the canteen or around someone’s desk, avidly discussing the games of the previous night and eagerly predicting results for the evening ahead. With many fans often bleary-eyed as a result of the late hour at which some of the matches have been played, enthusiasm is not dampened one iota and energy seems to be derived from the very act of watching the games themselves.

Even though South Africa did not qualify this time around, most everyone has a nation they’re supporting, whether originally born or native to that country, having an ancestral affiliation to it, or simply by virtue of adopting a nation or team on whatever criteria (good looks maybe?). One suddenly finds one has a connection with the extremely dour assistant in the local pharmacy, with whom until now one has never shared more than a grunt. A fellow shopper in the local supermarket becomes a veritable comrade-in-arms and the uplifting effect of the World Cup makes even that mundane chore a pleasure!

A festival atmosphere prevails for the entire month of the tournament, and not only due to it being held in Brazil this time around, but just as a result of the infectious positive energy and enormous spirit of goodwill and sharing one generally only experiences around Christmas and festive holidays.

Crystal-CharmsSo, despite the fact that the light bulb that needs replacing will probably  have to wait until after the 13th of July, and the very real possibility that names such as Messi, Neymar and Robben feature more frequently in your other half’s vocabulary than those of your offspring, I think that most of us will miss the exciting, uplifting and unifying effects of this great tournament which warmed our lives a little this winter!

If you’re feeling the need to share a little more of the 2014 Soccer World Cup warmth this winter, be sure to pop into Simply Manas Emporium to view our new range of Crystal products which are certain to brighten a loved one’s day .

We have the CRYSTALP selection of beautifully-crafted Crystal Jewellery and Crystal Accessories for men and women all made using SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS. Our gifts for men include fashionable leather and stainless-steel bracelets, elegant pens, key-rings, crystal cufflinks, stylish ties and tie-pins, and many more. Ladies will not be neglected either with so much variety to choose from, such as necklaces and bracelets made from crystal beads and also delicate crystal earrings, crystal rings, and accessories such as crystal-embellished handbags and clutches.

Visit us at Simply Manas gift emporium – Shop L336, Lower Level, Protea Court, Sandton City.
You can also call Simply Manas on +27 11 784 0270 or visit the website at simplymanas.com website.
CrystAlp_logo-150x150Feel free to get in touch with Crystal Forum for more information on this article or if you would like to know more about Crystal.

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Father’s Day

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A Dad’s Role in today’s family

Crystalp-FootballIn times gone by and until fairly recently in the grand scheme of time, the stereotypical image of a Father was a solemn-faced, serious-minded, individual, often pictured sitting in his armchair, reading the newspaper and perhaps smoking a pipe. Usually seen as a not particularly approachable character, far too busy to be trifling with day-to-day household trivia, and only to be engaged in serious family matters when Mum said so, his role was that of head of the household and bread-winner.

As society has evolved and economic factors dictated that women join their male counterparts in the workplace and share the burden of the household income, the historical gender-based responsibility split has also had to change, resulting in Fathers now playing a far greater role in the home. Dad is now just as likely to be cooking the bacon, (as part of a well-balanced meal, of course), as bringing it home.

Whilst the introduction of the dual-income family may have, by necessity, prompted a shift away from the conventional function a father played in the home, many Dads today simply WANT to play a bigger role in their children’s lives and upbringing, and choose to be as hands-on as any Mum.

In many of today’s modern households, not only is the family income and bill-paying now a joint responsibility, but numerous other functions too.

Whilst cooking is probably an area in which men have dabbled more than in other household tasks, (what with more men than women still being touted as the world’s greatest chefs, and all that), in today’s home, it is not only the cooking that Dad will undertake but the shopping that precedes it too. Venture down any supermarket aisle of a weekday afternoon or evening, and you would not be surprised to bump into little Johnny’s Dad as readily as you would his Mum doing the groceries.

Child-minding, attending parent-teacher meetings, providing support at swimming galas and athletic meets and suchlike are also now areas in which Dads take a very active role, either sharing with Mums or even taking on as their own domain. This is not only the case in the ‘single-Dad, divorced-Dad’ camp, but simply as Dads wanting to play their part in their children’s lives.

Today’s Dad is not embarrassed to say “I love you” or show emotions to his children nor to teach his son that it’s ok to be an emotional being. He wants to have as much input and influence on his children’s upbringing as Mum does, and is willing to put in the work to achieve that.

Much is demanded of Dads in the 2014 family, but most are certainly up for the challenge and meeting it head-on and with dedication and innovation.

For Fathers Day 2014, Crystal Forum and Simply Manas Emporium would like to invite you to come and view our dazzling new range of Crystal products as inspiration in treating the special man in your life.

Our CRYSTALP Men’s selection of beautifully-made Crystal Jewellery and Crystal Accessories includes stylish leather and stainless-steel bracelets, magnificent pens, key-rings, and cufflinks all incorporating SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS, as well as beautifully-made ties and tie-pins, paperweights, and so much more. And with a wide range of prices to choose from, you’re sure to find that one-of-a kind gift for that one-of-a-kind man!

Visit us at Simply Manas gift emporium – Shop L336, Lower Level, Protea Court, Sandton City.
You could also call Simply Manas on +27 11 784 0270 or visit the website at simplymanas.com website.

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Mother’s Day

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Crystal Jewellery by CRYSTALP – as pure and unforgettable as a Mother’s love!

It doesn’t seem to matter what age we are, how many children of our own we’ve borne or brought up, how deeply we love our partners and families, how far apart we may live, or even whether they are still with us, our Mothers will always have a special and present place in our lives!

Mother’s Day is celebrated the world over, in many different ways and on various days, but the fundamental premise of a special day to honour and rejoice in all that mothers and motherhood represent remains essentially the same. It’s a day most often filled with fond memories, nostalgia and, naturally, family.

In most English-speaking countries such as South Africa, America, the United Kingdom, Australia and so on, Mothers Day is traditionally celebrated by showering this special woman in our lives with cards, flowers, chocolates, gifts, meals out, and the like. The day is also quite often seen as synonymous with Mothering Sunday, which was originally a Christian celebration of ‘Mother’ Church. Historically, and in other countries in the world, even in the present day, the occasion is celebrated quite differently, and often goes back to way before the introduction of the modern-day occasion.

In Japan, for example, the day is called “Haha no hi” and was initially celebrated in March on the birthday of the Emperor Nojun (mother of the Emperor Akihito). It evolved to become the equivalent of Mothers Day, however, and is also now celebrated in May. It is somewhat of a commercial holiday, and it is traditional at this time for Japanese children to draw pictures of their mothers and enter the artwork into a drawing competition, the winning entries of which are then included in exhibitions.

The celebration of Mother’s Day in Mexico starts on the eve of the day with the children arriving at the Mother’s home to honour her and thank her. The day itself is celebrated as quite a religious one, with churches around the country hosting special masses, and the traditional morning meal being distributed amongst all mothers. Music also has a big role in the day with orchestras playing special tunes and “las mananitas” for all the Mexican mothers.

The focus of Mother’s Day in India, where many are poor and gifts cannot easily be afforded, is on thanking Mom for all her hard work, sacrifice, love and nurturing by giving her the chance to rest, whilst everyone else takes care of the cooking and chores for the day. Whilst gifts may be given, they would typically be simple and home-grown or home-made rather than purchased.

Leanne_mothers_dayHowever it is these most influential women in our lives are celebrated throughout the world, CRYSTAL FORUM and Simply Manas Gift Emporium would like to invite you to come and view our spectacular new collection of Crystal Products for inspiration and that special gift for your Mom this Mother’s Day.

Our CRYSTALP selection of beautifully-made Crystal Jewellery and Accessories and the IMPLEXIONS range of gift ideas and signature Crystal home décor items, all incorporating SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS, is certain to include something special to appeal to Mothers of all ages and tastes.

Our brand-new collection has just arrived in-store, and is proving as popular as ever, with a wide range of pricing to please most pockets, and superlative quality and style always assured. Feel free to view and download our catalogues from the CRYSTAL FORUM website.

Just like a Mother’s love, the beauty and purity of our Crystal Jewellery and gifts is enduring, unique and unforgettable.

Come visit us at Simply Manas gift emporium – Shop L336, Lower Level, Protea Court, Sandton City.

You can also call Simply Manas on +27 11 784 0270 or visit the website at simplymanas.com website.

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