When Photography Isn't the First Option
Today I hesitated, and watched the skies. Okay, they don't move - something to do with the Firmament being placed there by God, in His wisdom. But the clouds looked as if they might be getting ready to do something nice.
So I tossed a coin. Then I tossed another one, because I lost the first. This new one decided for me: I SHALL go out and see what photos I can take, even if there's nothing worth while.
The trouble is, I wanted to convince myself that there was nothing worthwhile to take a picture of. I was warm and snug at home and there was lots of coffee on tap and some good programmes on TV.
But that changed dramatically; the sky lightened, the sun peeped through, and a glorious sunset descended over the world - well, my part of it anyway. I waited a little longer, and the sky turned red - so red that it seemed on fire. I posted the pictures on the Shutter forums, and I think they're as good as it gets.
Another time, another place, another coin - and I probably wouldn't have gone outside at all. But the moral of the story is, of course: have faith, await inspiration, follow your judgements and dont forget the coffee will still be there when you get home.
Well, thats more than one moral but Im not counting. Im just musing over some great images.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Gold; What Type of Gold to Buy
Jewelry
The advantages are:
Gold Jewelry is the easiest of the gold to buy and has the enjoyment of being able to be worn.
The disadvantages are:
Retail Jewelry is often marked up by 300% or more in the shops.
The real value of Jewelry is in the stones and the value is higher then of the gold.
Most gold jewelry pieces are different and their values are biased.
Bullion coins and Small Bars
Advantages:
Gold coins and small bars are considered a liquid market, so sellers and buyers can be found when you need them.
They are easier obtained for smaller investors. Gold coins can be purchased smaller amounts of money (a 1 kilo gold bar starts over$10,000)
Genuine gold coins have the endorsement of a government mint which has a degree of guarantee to them.
Disadvantages:
The possibility of fakes that can only be spotted by dealers.
The difference between buying and selling price of gold coin and small bar is significant vs. most types of investments.
Gold coins and small bars can good gold investment method for people with sums from $100 to $10,000 especially for people who view physical possession as important.
Big bars
Advantages:
Big bars are traded as a professional market.
The bars are serial numbered, and usually do not leave the security of industrial strength vaults.
Fakery appears to have been completely eliminated.
Disadvantages:
Big gold bars cost big money, around $160,000 each. Not an easy investment for most individuals. In fact to benefit from a competitive standpoint 1 bar is insufficient.
For the Big gold bars, the smallest trade size the markets will consider exceeds $500,000.
Big Gold bar trading is for the bigger companies and inaccessible to the private investors.
Jewelry
The advantages are:
Gold Jewelry is the easiest of the gold to buy and has the enjoyment of being able to be worn.
The disadvantages are:
Retail Jewelry is often marked up by 300% or more in the shops.
The real value of Jewelry is in the stones and the value is higher then of the gold.
Most gold jewelry pieces are different and their values are biased.
Bullion coins and Small Bars
Advantages:
Gold coins and small bars are considered a liquid market, so sellers and buyers can be found when you need them.
They are easier obtained for smaller investors. Gold coins can be purchased smaller amounts of money (a 1 kilo gold bar starts over$10,000)
Genuine gold coins have the endorsement of a government mint which has a degree of guarantee to them.
Disadvantages:
The possibility of fakes that can only be spotted by dealers.
The difference between buying and selling price of gold coin and small bar is significant vs. most types of investments.
Gold coins and small bars can good gold investment method for people with sums from $100 to $10,000 especially for people who view physical possession as important.
Big bars
Advantages:
Big bars are traded as a professional market.
The bars are serial numbered, and usually do not leave the security of industrial strength vaults.
Fakery appears to have been completely eliminated.
Disadvantages:
Big gold bars cost big money, around $160,000 each. Not an easy investment for most individuals. In fact to benefit from a competitive standpoint 1 bar is insufficient.
For the Big gold bars, the smallest trade size the markets will consider exceeds $500,000.
Big Gold bar trading is for the bigger companies and inaccessible to the private investors.
Saturday, September 15, 2007
E-Currency: If Forest Gump Was Here, This Is What He Would Be Doing
So you want to learn currency exchange huh?
You heard about it and now you decided you want to become the Donald Trump of investing, somehow you know you can pull this off and become the next big thing.
Well it's quite possible to earn a very good living doing exchanges, but you have to know how the system works before you start seeing the money.
One system that is one of the internet's best kept gems is E-Currency Exchange. The money that is being moved through the internet in every single daily purchase needs to be backed up in gold. This is were you come in.
When you invest your money in e currency exchange your money acts as a backup or insurance that the money being exchanged has real physical money. This transactions are happening everyday, and when you provide that backup you earn a percentage proporcional to the amount you are investing.
E-currency exchange has been around for a few years but it hasn't been until recently people are starting to catch up to the beauty of this system. Is actually a very safe way to generate an income once you understand how to work the system to your advantage.
You can actually see how much money you're going to make even before start your transaction. These transactions are also called 24 hour periods. You generate around 1.5% to 4% of daily interests for your money. At first that may not sound that impressive but that is daily compounded interest, so if you were to leave your money working for you and check back in a month an a half, you would find that it has doubled. That is the beauty of currency exchange.
Another great thing about this system is that, like anyone who is generating a nice income doing this can tell you, it requires no more than an hour a day to manage once youre setup. This means more time for lifestyle and living the way it should be lived.
I highly recommend anyone who is serious about investing to learn how to work this system. There are two ways: The easy way and the "do it yourself" way. I recommend to take the first one. Learn how the system works from a e currency exchange professional and you could make some money within two days. There are even some really good programs were everything is through video and all you do is watch and do what you see.
So you want to learn currency exchange huh?
You heard about it and now you decided you want to become the Donald Trump of investing, somehow you know you can pull this off and become the next big thing.
Well it's quite possible to earn a very good living doing exchanges, but you have to know how the system works before you start seeing the money.
One system that is one of the internet's best kept gems is E-Currency Exchange. The money that is being moved through the internet in every single daily purchase needs to be backed up in gold. This is were you come in.
When you invest your money in e currency exchange your money acts as a backup or insurance that the money being exchanged has real physical money. This transactions are happening everyday, and when you provide that backup you earn a percentage proporcional to the amount you are investing.
E-currency exchange has been around for a few years but it hasn't been until recently people are starting to catch up to the beauty of this system. Is actually a very safe way to generate an income once you understand how to work the system to your advantage.
You can actually see how much money you're going to make even before start your transaction. These transactions are also called 24 hour periods. You generate around 1.5% to 4% of daily interests for your money. At first that may not sound that impressive but that is daily compounded interest, so if you were to leave your money working for you and check back in a month an a half, you would find that it has doubled. That is the beauty of currency exchange.
Another great thing about this system is that, like anyone who is generating a nice income doing this can tell you, it requires no more than an hour a day to manage once youre setup. This means more time for lifestyle and living the way it should be lived.
I highly recommend anyone who is serious about investing to learn how to work this system. There are two ways: The easy way and the "do it yourself" way. I recommend to take the first one. Learn how the system works from a e currency exchange professional and you could make some money within two days. There are even some really good programs were everything is through video and all you do is watch and do what you see.
Friday, September 14, 2007
Investing Tips for Beginners
Investing can be confusing, especially for the beginner. Getting some basic tips can help a beginning investor to make informed choices that fit their needs. Each person has a different goal when investing and that plays a big impact on how you invest. The following list explains some things beginners should know before investing.
1. Understand that there are no set rules for investing. There are no guarantees and no perfect way to invest.
2. Make informed choices. Before investing in any way you should completely understand how your investment will work and all of the details of the transaction.
3. Make a simple plan to determine your goals and needs. This will help you to determine what investments to make and how much money to invest.
These three tips are great for general investing, but many people are looking to invest in the fast paced world of the stock market. The above tips are a good beginning, but the following tips will further help those interested in investing in stocks.
1. Look at the value of the stock instead of the price. Low cost stocks may be low for a reason. Look at the whole picture. See why the price is low and if there is a possibility it may rise.
2. Check the companies return on net worth. This is the profit after taxes divided by the net worth. It is important to see a trend of growing return on net worth.
3. Spread out your risk. You should not put all your money in high risk stocks. Try some lower risks and some higher risks. This is the best way to protect your money.
4. Understand the basics of stock prices. Prices move up or down depending on future projections.
These four tips can help a beginning investor start investing in the stock market.
No matter what type of investment you are looking into, knowledge will be the key to success. These short tip lists are just the beginning to understanding investing and how to maximize your return. Keep learning and trying.
Investing can be confusing, especially for the beginner. Getting some basic tips can help a beginning investor to make informed choices that fit their needs. Each person has a different goal when investing and that plays a big impact on how you invest. The following list explains some things beginners should know before investing.
1. Understand that there are no set rules for investing. There are no guarantees and no perfect way to invest.
2. Make informed choices. Before investing in any way you should completely understand how your investment will work and all of the details of the transaction.
3. Make a simple plan to determine your goals and needs. This will help you to determine what investments to make and how much money to invest.
These three tips are great for general investing, but many people are looking to invest in the fast paced world of the stock market. The above tips are a good beginning, but the following tips will further help those interested in investing in stocks.
1. Look at the value of the stock instead of the price. Low cost stocks may be low for a reason. Look at the whole picture. See why the price is low and if there is a possibility it may rise.
2. Check the companies return on net worth. This is the profit after taxes divided by the net worth. It is important to see a trend of growing return on net worth.
3. Spread out your risk. You should not put all your money in high risk stocks. Try some lower risks and some higher risks. This is the best way to protect your money.
4. Understand the basics of stock prices. Prices move up or down depending on future projections.
These four tips can help a beginning investor start investing in the stock market.
No matter what type of investment you are looking into, knowledge will be the key to success. These short tip lists are just the beginning to understanding investing and how to maximize your return. Keep learning and trying.
E Gold Investments: Investing Smartly With E-Currency Exchange
When you make an investment in E gold is a all about a profitable system that allows you to capitalize from the money that is moved through online transactions everyday. The process that is going on when you are trading e-Gold (or e-currencies) is providing the support for online cash. But let me back up the cassette. What am I trying to say by "support for online cash"?
A cash flow exists for all of the cash that is managed all over the internet every day. Nevertheless, all of this cashflow has, for every single cent that goes through a movement, a tangible support of that cent.
I'm providing a superficial explanation about how the dxgold formula operates, but to be more direct about it, to profit from it, it's not neccessary to know entirely how it works to capitalize from it. If I were to explain the dxgold expert Training Videos into other words I could say it's very much like driving a vehicle. It's not a requirement to comprehend how it operates in order to use it right.
The one thing you need to know is the e ecurrency trading process and every step of the way. This may sound complex, but once someone teaches you how to do it (like from a e trading course), it becomes so simple that takes no more than an hour a week total.
Starting your portfolio in e Gold is one thing I will say with all confidence that is a wonderful investment strategy, if you are building an income in the medium run.
It may not be as fast as a wall street stock, it it won't be something that will duplicate the money you invested in a day, but surely it is one of those few opportunities You and I can rely on to generate a real residual income from. And the distinctive message in that earlier phrase would be that you can Be safely assured, because this is a controlled medium term program that is insured to generate you cash.
This is why I personally think it is throwing money away not not learning this dxinone exchanging business. People doing this system even are aware of what percentage over your investment you will produce every day before you begin when you E Gold Invest.
For some people it could not be easy, but taking apart somewhere around $200 bucks and making money in egold must become a super wise decision. As many investors of all types are experiencing already, trading ecurrencies might potentially become a "paws off" 2nd income without the 8 to 5 job.
When you make an investment in E gold it becomes on self discipline. It becomes all around the self discipline of having your cash produce more money for you and allowing it develop, without developing an urge of a shopping spree and taking your money out of your e trading account.
Whenever you know you can hold off for a couple months and are motivated in having a second income, then the e gold investing system may be a perfect fit for you.
When you make an investment in E gold is a all about a profitable system that allows you to capitalize from the money that is moved through online transactions everyday. The process that is going on when you are trading e-Gold (or e-currencies) is providing the support for online cash. But let me back up the cassette. What am I trying to say by "support for online cash"?
A cash flow exists for all of the cash that is managed all over the internet every day. Nevertheless, all of this cashflow has, for every single cent that goes through a movement, a tangible support of that cent.
I'm providing a superficial explanation about how the dxgold formula operates, but to be more direct about it, to profit from it, it's not neccessary to know entirely how it works to capitalize from it. If I were to explain the dxgold expert Training Videos into other words I could say it's very much like driving a vehicle. It's not a requirement to comprehend how it operates in order to use it right.
The one thing you need to know is the e ecurrency trading process and every step of the way. This may sound complex, but once someone teaches you how to do it (like from a e trading course), it becomes so simple that takes no more than an hour a week total.
Starting your portfolio in e Gold is one thing I will say with all confidence that is a wonderful investment strategy, if you are building an income in the medium run.
It may not be as fast as a wall street stock, it it won't be something that will duplicate the money you invested in a day, but surely it is one of those few opportunities You and I can rely on to generate a real residual income from. And the distinctive message in that earlier phrase would be that you can Be safely assured, because this is a controlled medium term program that is insured to generate you cash.
This is why I personally think it is throwing money away not not learning this dxinone exchanging business. People doing this system even are aware of what percentage over your investment you will produce every day before you begin when you E Gold Invest.
For some people it could not be easy, but taking apart somewhere around $200 bucks and making money in egold must become a super wise decision. As many investors of all types are experiencing already, trading ecurrencies might potentially become a "paws off" 2nd income without the 8 to 5 job.
When you make an investment in E gold it becomes on self discipline. It becomes all around the self discipline of having your cash produce more money for you and allowing it develop, without developing an urge of a shopping spree and taking your money out of your e trading account.
Whenever you know you can hold off for a couple months and are motivated in having a second income, then the e gold investing system may be a perfect fit for you.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Tips On Making Money From A Rising Gold Price
Gold is a physical asset that is a store of value which cannot be eroded in the same way currencies can, such as printing of paper currency. As such, gold is a hedge against inflation. The spot price is ultimately driven by supply and demand, including hoarding and dis-hoarding. Of late, gold has been enjoying a 'bull run' and as such, traders are more actively looking to leverage or 'gear' their positions by buying gold equities and trading with other financial instruments.
Here are 5 top tips to make money out of the gold price as it rises over time: -
1) Covered Warrants - Short term you can leverage the profit you can make as the gold price rises by buying covered warrants. This is a risky strategy but you can only lose your initial stake. Remember, the price can also go down ( incidentally you can also buy PUTS which banks on the price going down ). You can also buy 'long dated' covered warrants which gives you until the end of the year to profit from your position.
2) Paper Assets (Producers): Rather than buy physical gold, buy gold stocks already producing ( paper assets ). This will give you leverage as the companies employ gearing. The more gold goes up, the more they make bottom line ( and as such the share price rises too ).
3) Physical Gold: Purists may wish to purchase gold coins such as Kruggerands. There is a large selection available. The first decision is often whether to buy older coins or new bullion coins.
4) Paper Assets (Non-Producers): Some gold companies may not yet be producing but are sitting on potential world class gold resources with a certain amount of proven resource already. One example of this is Centamin Egypt ( CEY ).
5) Gold Futures: This is a professional market, more for a speculator than an investor. If you wish to play this market in gold, you will need to use a commodity broker.
Gold is a physical asset that is a store of value which cannot be eroded in the same way currencies can, such as printing of paper currency. As such, gold is a hedge against inflation. The spot price is ultimately driven by supply and demand, including hoarding and dis-hoarding. Of late, gold has been enjoying a 'bull run' and as such, traders are more actively looking to leverage or 'gear' their positions by buying gold equities and trading with other financial instruments.
Here are 5 top tips to make money out of the gold price as it rises over time: -
1) Covered Warrants - Short term you can leverage the profit you can make as the gold price rises by buying covered warrants. This is a risky strategy but you can only lose your initial stake. Remember, the price can also go down ( incidentally you can also buy PUTS which banks on the price going down ). You can also buy 'long dated' covered warrants which gives you until the end of the year to profit from your position.
2) Paper Assets (Producers): Rather than buy physical gold, buy gold stocks already producing ( paper assets ). This will give you leverage as the companies employ gearing. The more gold goes up, the more they make bottom line ( and as such the share price rises too ).
3) Physical Gold: Purists may wish to purchase gold coins such as Kruggerands. There is a large selection available. The first decision is often whether to buy older coins or new bullion coins.
4) Paper Assets (Non-Producers): Some gold companies may not yet be producing but are sitting on potential world class gold resources with a certain amount of proven resource already. One example of this is Centamin Egypt ( CEY ).
5) Gold Futures: This is a professional market, more for a speculator than an investor. If you wish to play this market in gold, you will need to use a commodity broker.
New U.S. Mint Coins a Golden Opportunity
In April, the U.S. Mint revealed plans to strike in early 2006 new .9999 bullion coins to go after the growing world market for .9999 fine (24-karat) gold coins. Studies show that pure gold coins claim 60% of the worlds gold bullion coin market, which is some $2.4 billion annually. The Royal Canadian Mints Maple Leafs hold the number one spot for pure gold coins. However, problems with Maple Leafs have surfaced.
If the Mint avoids the problems that have developed with Gold Maple Leafs, it has a golden opportunity to grab an even bigger share of the gold bullion coin market. The U.S. Mints American Gold Eagles are the best selling 22-karat gold coins in the world.
Despite being the worlds best-selling 24-karat gold coins, 1-oz Maple Leafs design and packaging leave them susceptible to damage. As a result, Gold Maple Leafs have fallen in disfavor among U.S. gold bullion coin investors. Indications are that gold bullion coin investors worldwide have the same frustrations with 1-oz Gold Maple Leafs.
It is nearly impossible to remove, inspect, and put 1-oz Gold Maple Leafs back in their tubes without scratching them, no matter how carefully done. Gold Maple Leafs have smooth, clear fields around Queen Elizabeths likeness and sharp milled edges. As the coins are put back in their tubes, the edges scratch the fields--and sometimes the Queens raised image.
And, Heaven forbid that a 1-oz Gold Maple Leaf is dropped on a floor or even a hard tabletop. But, most of the damage is done when investors handle the coins. If Gold Maple Leafs are handled roughly, as investors are used to handling Krugerrands and Gold Eagles, Gold Maple Leafs are easily damaged. Consequently, many badly damaged Gold Maple Leafs have come back into the secondary market.
Until a few years ago, Gold Eagles and Maple Leafs sold at the same markups over spot. But, as Maple Leafs, which investors have bought since 1979, started coming into the secondary market, problems surfaced. Now, to keep investors in the U.S. market buying Maple Leafs, the Royal Canadian Mint has to offer new (current year) Gold Maple Leafs at a half-a-percent below Gold Eagle prices.
Damaged 1-oz Gold Maple Leafs are such a problem that one important secondary market maker stopped dealing in the coins for a while. The head trader said he did not have time to discuss with buyers and sellers the conditions of the coins. Further, he said his staff did not have time to inspect each coin and classify it as to the amount of damage. It is commonplace for sellers to say the coins are in perfect condition. Yet when Gold Maple Leafs arrive, they often are badly scratched or rim nicked.
Another major bullion dealer (perhaps the nations largest) currently buys back perfect Gold Maple leafs from established dealers at a little over spot, which means investors receive less than spot if their dealers unload to this firm. For scratched or damaged coins, this firm pays less than spot, which enables the firm to send the coins to a refinery at a profit if the firm has no buyers for Gold Maple Leafs.
The secondary dealer returned to trading Gold Maple Leafs but buys all them only at prices that enable him to profitably melt the coins if they are really beat up. As noted, because of the problem with secondary market Gold Maple Leafs, the Royal Canadian Mint has to price Gold Maple Leafs below Gold Eagles to entice investors to take Gold Maple Leafs in the U.S. market.
Luckily--the free market being what it is--there are dealers who will take the time to evaluate Gold Maple Leafs and pay more for the ones in better condition. Still, the spread (the difference between what an investor can buy and sell for at any moment) on perfect Gold Maple Leafs is about $4 wider than on Gold Eagles. However, the U.S. Mints new 24-karat gold coins need not be problem coins.
For example, the 1-oz Austrian Philharmonics and The Perth Mints 1-oz coins are .9999 fine. Yet, these coins are not easily damaged during normal handling because of their designs and/or their packaging.
Philharmonics come ten to a tube and can be taken out and put back in their tubes without scratching. The Perth Mint coins come individually encapsulated in hard plastic capsules. As long as Perth Mint coins remain in their capsules, they maintain their perfect conditions.
Hopefully, the U.S. Mint knows of the problems with Gold Maple Leafs and will design its new .9999 fine coins and their packaging so that the coins are not easily scratched or damaged. If the Mint opts to go with packaging its new coins in tubes, as it does Gold Eagles and as Philharmonics are packaged, then the Mint needs to avoid milled edges.
Although Gold Eagles have milled edges, old U.S. gold coins ($20 Libs and St. Gaudens) were minted with lettering on the edges. So, lettering is not new to the U.S. Mint. With lettering, the edges can be smooth, making the coins less likely to scratch other coins in handling. Philharmonics, which are not prone to damage, have lettering on their edges.
[Over the centuries, mints learned to design gold coins to guard against shaving, a process by which a small amount of metal is shaved from the edges. Milled edges that have been shaved are clearly detectible. Light lettering on the edges solves the problem as well. If no lettering can be seen on coins that are known to have been minted with lettering, then the coins have been shaved and no longer have their original gold content.]
As do Maple Leafs, Perth Mint .9999 fine gold coins have milled edges and carry a likeness of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse (front). However, to protect its coins from damage, The Perth Mint encapsulates them in plastic capsules. When Perth Mint bullion coins are removed from their capsules and put in tubes, the coins are susceptible to scratching as are Maple Leafs.
In going after a piece of the $2.4 billion .9999 fine gold bullion coin market, the Mint needs to consider the mindset of bullion coin investors. Bullion coin investors seek alternatives to paper money; they are not coin collectors. Bullion coin investors prefer coins packaged so that they can be easily stored and secured.
This means the Mint should package the coins twenty to a tube, which has become--primarily because of Gold Eagles--the preferred method. Five tubes conveniently total one hundred coins. Further, the tubes should be made of the same durable plastic from which Gold Eagle tubes are made. Hard plastic tubes, such as those used for Philharmonics, can and do break when dropped. Gold Eagle tubes, on the other hand, are virtually indestructible.
For protection against shaving, the Mint should design its new coins with lettered edges. Lettered edges would make the coins much less susceptible to scratching.
The Mint is going after the bullion coin market, and bullion investors like to feel and heft their coins. Packaging the coins in tubes enables investors to more easily inspect their coins. Collectors, on the other hand, want their coins in as pristine condition as possible. Although capsules are excellent for protecting collector coins, coins individually packaged in capsules require more space for storage. The other aspect that the Mint has to consider is the coins theme.
The Mint should make the theme something uniquely American, as it did with its American Eagles coins. For the Gold Eagles, the Mint chose a slimmed-down rendition of Augustus Saint-Gaudens famed Standing Liberty, which he created in 1907 to grace a new Double Eagle ($20 gold coin). Nearly one hundred years later, the Saint Gaudens, which the coin is now called, is viewed as the most beautiful coin produced by the U.S. Mint.
For its Silver Eagles, the Mint chose A. A. Weinmans Walking Liberty design, which was used on half-dollars 1916-1947. Walking Liberty halves are among the most popular silver coins ever turned out by the U.S. Mint. Judging by the success of the Silver Eagles program (more than 128 million sold since their inception), putting the Walking Liberty on Silver Eagles was the right move.
Some may argue that the Standing Liberty and the Walking Liberty designs are being used in the American Eagles program, and, therefore, the Mint should go onto another design. However, the Standing Liberty and the Walking Liberty are immediately identified as American by the worlds bullion coin buyers. Besides, is not Miss Liberty as much our nations icon as is the eagle?
If the U.S. Mint avoids the problems that have surfaced with Gold Maple Leafs and offers gold bullion coin investors a strong alternative, then it has a golden opportunity to capture a big share of the .9999 fine gold bullion market. With the right planning, the Mint could shake the Maple Leafs hold on the .9999 bullion coin market.
In April, the U.S. Mint revealed plans to strike in early 2006 new .9999 bullion coins to go after the growing world market for .9999 fine (24-karat) gold coins. Studies show that pure gold coins claim 60% of the worlds gold bullion coin market, which is some $2.4 billion annually. The Royal Canadian Mints Maple Leafs hold the number one spot for pure gold coins. However, problems with Maple Leafs have surfaced.
If the Mint avoids the problems that have developed with Gold Maple Leafs, it has a golden opportunity to grab an even bigger share of the gold bullion coin market. The U.S. Mints American Gold Eagles are the best selling 22-karat gold coins in the world.
Despite being the worlds best-selling 24-karat gold coins, 1-oz Maple Leafs design and packaging leave them susceptible to damage. As a result, Gold Maple Leafs have fallen in disfavor among U.S. gold bullion coin investors. Indications are that gold bullion coin investors worldwide have the same frustrations with 1-oz Gold Maple Leafs.
It is nearly impossible to remove, inspect, and put 1-oz Gold Maple Leafs back in their tubes without scratching them, no matter how carefully done. Gold Maple Leafs have smooth, clear fields around Queen Elizabeths likeness and sharp milled edges. As the coins are put back in their tubes, the edges scratch the fields--and sometimes the Queens raised image.
And, Heaven forbid that a 1-oz Gold Maple Leaf is dropped on a floor or even a hard tabletop. But, most of the damage is done when investors handle the coins. If Gold Maple Leafs are handled roughly, as investors are used to handling Krugerrands and Gold Eagles, Gold Maple Leafs are easily damaged. Consequently, many badly damaged Gold Maple Leafs have come back into the secondary market.
Until a few years ago, Gold Eagles and Maple Leafs sold at the same markups over spot. But, as Maple Leafs, which investors have bought since 1979, started coming into the secondary market, problems surfaced. Now, to keep investors in the U.S. market buying Maple Leafs, the Royal Canadian Mint has to offer new (current year) Gold Maple Leafs at a half-a-percent below Gold Eagle prices.
Damaged 1-oz Gold Maple Leafs are such a problem that one important secondary market maker stopped dealing in the coins for a while. The head trader said he did not have time to discuss with buyers and sellers the conditions of the coins. Further, he said his staff did not have time to inspect each coin and classify it as to the amount of damage. It is commonplace for sellers to say the coins are in perfect condition. Yet when Gold Maple Leafs arrive, they often are badly scratched or rim nicked.
Another major bullion dealer (perhaps the nations largest) currently buys back perfect Gold Maple leafs from established dealers at a little over spot, which means investors receive less than spot if their dealers unload to this firm. For scratched or damaged coins, this firm pays less than spot, which enables the firm to send the coins to a refinery at a profit if the firm has no buyers for Gold Maple Leafs.
The secondary dealer returned to trading Gold Maple Leafs but buys all them only at prices that enable him to profitably melt the coins if they are really beat up. As noted, because of the problem with secondary market Gold Maple Leafs, the Royal Canadian Mint has to price Gold Maple Leafs below Gold Eagles to entice investors to take Gold Maple Leafs in the U.S. market.
Luckily--the free market being what it is--there are dealers who will take the time to evaluate Gold Maple Leafs and pay more for the ones in better condition. Still, the spread (the difference between what an investor can buy and sell for at any moment) on perfect Gold Maple Leafs is about $4 wider than on Gold Eagles. However, the U.S. Mints new 24-karat gold coins need not be problem coins.
For example, the 1-oz Austrian Philharmonics and The Perth Mints 1-oz coins are .9999 fine. Yet, these coins are not easily damaged during normal handling because of their designs and/or their packaging.
Philharmonics come ten to a tube and can be taken out and put back in their tubes without scratching. The Perth Mint coins come individually encapsulated in hard plastic capsules. As long as Perth Mint coins remain in their capsules, they maintain their perfect conditions.
Hopefully, the U.S. Mint knows of the problems with Gold Maple Leafs and will design its new .9999 fine coins and their packaging so that the coins are not easily scratched or damaged. If the Mint opts to go with packaging its new coins in tubes, as it does Gold Eagles and as Philharmonics are packaged, then the Mint needs to avoid milled edges.
Although Gold Eagles have milled edges, old U.S. gold coins ($20 Libs and St. Gaudens) were minted with lettering on the edges. So, lettering is not new to the U.S. Mint. With lettering, the edges can be smooth, making the coins less likely to scratch other coins in handling. Philharmonics, which are not prone to damage, have lettering on their edges.
[Over the centuries, mints learned to design gold coins to guard against shaving, a process by which a small amount of metal is shaved from the edges. Milled edges that have been shaved are clearly detectible. Light lettering on the edges solves the problem as well. If no lettering can be seen on coins that are known to have been minted with lettering, then the coins have been shaved and no longer have their original gold content.]
As do Maple Leafs, Perth Mint .9999 fine gold coins have milled edges and carry a likeness of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse (front). However, to protect its coins from damage, The Perth Mint encapsulates them in plastic capsules. When Perth Mint bullion coins are removed from their capsules and put in tubes, the coins are susceptible to scratching as are Maple Leafs.
In going after a piece of the $2.4 billion .9999 fine gold bullion coin market, the Mint needs to consider the mindset of bullion coin investors. Bullion coin investors seek alternatives to paper money; they are not coin collectors. Bullion coin investors prefer coins packaged so that they can be easily stored and secured.
This means the Mint should package the coins twenty to a tube, which has become--primarily because of Gold Eagles--the preferred method. Five tubes conveniently total one hundred coins. Further, the tubes should be made of the same durable plastic from which Gold Eagle tubes are made. Hard plastic tubes, such as those used for Philharmonics, can and do break when dropped. Gold Eagle tubes, on the other hand, are virtually indestructible.
For protection against shaving, the Mint should design its new coins with lettered edges. Lettered edges would make the coins much less susceptible to scratching.
The Mint is going after the bullion coin market, and bullion investors like to feel and heft their coins. Packaging the coins in tubes enables investors to more easily inspect their coins. Collectors, on the other hand, want their coins in as pristine condition as possible. Although capsules are excellent for protecting collector coins, coins individually packaged in capsules require more space for storage. The other aspect that the Mint has to consider is the coins theme.
The Mint should make the theme something uniquely American, as it did with its American Eagles coins. For the Gold Eagles, the Mint chose a slimmed-down rendition of Augustus Saint-Gaudens famed Standing Liberty, which he created in 1907 to grace a new Double Eagle ($20 gold coin). Nearly one hundred years later, the Saint Gaudens, which the coin is now called, is viewed as the most beautiful coin produced by the U.S. Mint.
For its Silver Eagles, the Mint chose A. A. Weinmans Walking Liberty design, which was used on half-dollars 1916-1947. Walking Liberty halves are among the most popular silver coins ever turned out by the U.S. Mint. Judging by the success of the Silver Eagles program (more than 128 million sold since their inception), putting the Walking Liberty on Silver Eagles was the right move.
Some may argue that the Standing Liberty and the Walking Liberty designs are being used in the American Eagles program, and, therefore, the Mint should go onto another design. However, the Standing Liberty and the Walking Liberty are immediately identified as American by the worlds bullion coin buyers. Besides, is not Miss Liberty as much our nations icon as is the eagle?
If the U.S. Mint avoids the problems that have surfaced with Gold Maple Leafs and offers gold bullion coin investors a strong alternative, then it has a golden opportunity to capture a big share of the .9999 fine gold bullion market. With the right planning, the Mint could shake the Maple Leafs hold on the .9999 bullion coin market.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Real Estate Investing Benefits
There are many reasons why investing in real estate over other investment avenues is a safer and more profitable route to take and we will go over just a few of these factors with you in this article.
First thing to note is that if you look at the real estate market as a time line compared to the stock market you will notice that real estate is a growing line with few major fluxuations. On the other hand the stock market has high points and valleys that range from quick highs to sudden drops through out its history. Its harder to look at the time lines of other forms of investing i.e. currency investing, mutual funds, buying gold and silver etc - but one thing is clear, no other market is as profitable or as safe as the investment real estate market.
Many people ask me Why is investing in real estate such a safe investment? and the answer is as simple as it is complicated, the quick answer is God isnt making any more of it the more complicated answer isnt as poetic. The reason investing in real estate has so many benefits has many factors, I will go over the basics with you now:
1. Government Tax Breaks - The United States government has setup multiple tax breaks for real estate investors including the very popular 1031 exchange. The textbook definition of a 1031 exchange is:
"A 1031 exchange or Like kind exchange is defined by section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code. This code specifies that if an asset, usually some form of real estate such as land or a building, is sold and the proceeds of the sale are then reinvested in a like kind of an asset then no gain or loss is recognized, allowing the deferment of capital gains taxes."
The simple explanation is as long as you reinvest the money you made from your real estate investment into another investment you dont have to pay taxes on said profit. No other form of investing gives you this much freedom with taxes.
2. Anyone Can Invest - Because real estate investing is so profitable and safe it sees a huge amount of amateur investors entering the market everyday. Why else do you think all these infomercials are on late at night talking about the millions theyve made overnight with someones CD set? O.k. Im not saying that buying one of those CD sets will make you a millionaire but they are good to learn the basics of real estate investing from. The big problems with these CD sets is they teach making millions in real estate with bad credit or without spending a dime. This is not the case, 99.9999% of the time you will need excellent credit and a good amount of money for the down payment on an investment property (usually 10-20%).
3. Other Peoples Money - Why invest your money when you can invest someone elses? One of the big rules in real estate investing is If someone is willing to flip the bill - let them. Banks are more then willing to give out a loan to buy houses because unlike other forms of investing they have something tangible they can keep if you dont pay up. Banks are usually not as willing to give loans for stock or gold investing because the stock you invested in maybe worth nothing by the time you sell and the bank has nothing OR you take your gold and run across the border. Real estate is almost always going to be worth something (often increasing in value every year) and their hasnt been a recorded case yet of someone taking a house across the border.
Right now the investment real estate market is booming like never before in history and those investing in it are being rewarded more so then in any other time in. If you want more information on this explosive market feel free to visit my website or give me a call and I will answer any question you may have.
There are many reasons why investing in real estate over other investment avenues is a safer and more profitable route to take and we will go over just a few of these factors with you in this article.
First thing to note is that if you look at the real estate market as a time line compared to the stock market you will notice that real estate is a growing line with few major fluxuations. On the other hand the stock market has high points and valleys that range from quick highs to sudden drops through out its history. Its harder to look at the time lines of other forms of investing i.e. currency investing, mutual funds, buying gold and silver etc - but one thing is clear, no other market is as profitable or as safe as the investment real estate market.
Many people ask me Why is investing in real estate such a safe investment? and the answer is as simple as it is complicated, the quick answer is God isnt making any more of it the more complicated answer isnt as poetic. The reason investing in real estate has so many benefits has many factors, I will go over the basics with you now:
1. Government Tax Breaks - The United States government has setup multiple tax breaks for real estate investors including the very popular 1031 exchange. The textbook definition of a 1031 exchange is:
"A 1031 exchange or Like kind exchange is defined by section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code. This code specifies that if an asset, usually some form of real estate such as land or a building, is sold and the proceeds of the sale are then reinvested in a like kind of an asset then no gain or loss is recognized, allowing the deferment of capital gains taxes."
The simple explanation is as long as you reinvest the money you made from your real estate investment into another investment you dont have to pay taxes on said profit. No other form of investing gives you this much freedom with taxes.
2. Anyone Can Invest - Because real estate investing is so profitable and safe it sees a huge amount of amateur investors entering the market everyday. Why else do you think all these infomercials are on late at night talking about the millions theyve made overnight with someones CD set? O.k. Im not saying that buying one of those CD sets will make you a millionaire but they are good to learn the basics of real estate investing from. The big problems with these CD sets is they teach making millions in real estate with bad credit or without spending a dime. This is not the case, 99.9999% of the time you will need excellent credit and a good amount of money for the down payment on an investment property (usually 10-20%).
3. Other Peoples Money - Why invest your money when you can invest someone elses? One of the big rules in real estate investing is If someone is willing to flip the bill - let them. Banks are more then willing to give out a loan to buy houses because unlike other forms of investing they have something tangible they can keep if you dont pay up. Banks are usually not as willing to give loans for stock or gold investing because the stock you invested in maybe worth nothing by the time you sell and the bank has nothing OR you take your gold and run across the border. Real estate is almost always going to be worth something (often increasing in value every year) and their hasnt been a recorded case yet of someone taking a house across the border.
Right now the investment real estate market is booming like never before in history and those investing in it are being rewarded more so then in any other time in. If you want more information on this explosive market feel free to visit my website or give me a call and I will answer any question you may have.
Man Gold Rings, No Compromises
Man Gold Ring: Until recently it was thought that men were not serious about selecting men's gold rings and other men's jewelry. This has changed now as kaisilver has created the world's best collection of high end custom made man gold rings.
All the man rings at kaisilver have been designed after intense research of the life style and habits of modern men. No efforts have been spared in making every ring more durable and more sturdy. At the same time we have not compromised on craftsmanship and use the services of some of the world's best craftsmnen to create every single ring.
The man gold rings can be ordered with gemstones of your choice. The gemstone mounting ensures that the gemstone does not loosen with friction from pockets and minor impacts.
The gold weight on these high end man rings is at least 50% to 70% more than what other sellers provide. The good gold weight is required to keep the man rings in shape for a long long time. The extra gold weight also allows proper and secure mounting of gemstones.
For the first time in history, it has been proved that strength and durability can be had without compromising on quality of material and craftsmanship. View the top 18 designs for man gold rings from kaisilver at: http://www.kaisilver.com/man-gold-ring.htm
Thank you for your time and hope to hear from you soon.
God Bless.
Ms.Tuk http://www.kaisilver.com
Man Gold Ring: Until recently it was thought that men were not serious about selecting men's gold rings and other men's jewelry. This has changed now as kaisilver has created the world's best collection of high end custom made man gold rings.
All the man rings at kaisilver have been designed after intense research of the life style and habits of modern men. No efforts have been spared in making every ring more durable and more sturdy. At the same time we have not compromised on craftsmanship and use the services of some of the world's best craftsmnen to create every single ring.
The man gold rings can be ordered with gemstones of your choice. The gemstone mounting ensures that the gemstone does not loosen with friction from pockets and minor impacts.
The gold weight on these high end man rings is at least 50% to 70% more than what other sellers provide. The good gold weight is required to keep the man rings in shape for a long long time. The extra gold weight also allows proper and secure mounting of gemstones.
For the first time in history, it has been proved that strength and durability can be had without compromising on quality of material and craftsmanship. View the top 18 designs for man gold rings from kaisilver at: http://www.kaisilver.com/man-gold-ring.htm
Thank you for your time and hope to hear from you soon.
God Bless.
Ms.Tuk http://www.kaisilver.com
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
white gold rings
White Gold Rings
When deciding on wedding rings, or other important rings, the choices you have are limitless. There are thousands of styles and types from which to choose, and there are also many different types of metal you can use. The most common are sterling silver, gold, and titanium, but some people forget they can also find white gold rings for any special occasion or meaning.
Some people simply dont like the look of gold, though it is considered the traditional metal for wedding bands. Gold in its purest form is not very strong either, and can be bend or chipped rather easily. This is not good news for those with active lifestyles or labor-intensive jobs. Quite often, gold rings are destroyed or marred by common day-to-day activities. Though silver is often a popular choice as well, it can tarnish easily, and some people cannot wear it. They may find the skin under their rings turning green, and in some cases, black. When neither option is to your liking, another option is to get white gold rings.
White gold rings can be found anywhere you shop for jewelry. Ask the jeweler to see what they have, and ask them about how to care for white gold before you decide it is something you want. You can also look on eBay or other online outlets to find white gold jewelry. Not only is white gold used for rings, it can be used for necklaces, bracelets, and earrings as well. You may be surprised to find the price for white gold rings is rather inexpensive if you compare it to gold or titanium. For the price, you get durability and the look of silver without having to fear a green ring of skin under your ring. You may also find that you like the look of it as apposed to anything else.
If you are looking for white gold rings, be careful to choose ones that are priced right. If you find something with a price that is half as much as most jewelers, you may not be getting white gold rings, instead, you might be getting a lesser product. This happens with other types of metals as well, and the resulting products never last very long, and often cause skin reactions. If you arent sure what you want, ask to look at white gold rings and compare them with rings made of other metals. You will instinctively know what is appealing and what you want to pass on.
White Gold Rings
When deciding on wedding rings, or other important rings, the choices you have are limitless. There are thousands of styles and types from which to choose, and there are also many different types of metal you can use. The most common are sterling silver, gold, and titanium, but some people forget they can also find white gold rings for any special occasion or meaning.
Some people simply dont like the look of gold, though it is considered the traditional metal for wedding bands. Gold in its purest form is not very strong either, and can be bend or chipped rather easily. This is not good news for those with active lifestyles or labor-intensive jobs. Quite often, gold rings are destroyed or marred by common day-to-day activities. Though silver is often a popular choice as well, it can tarnish easily, and some people cannot wear it. They may find the skin under their rings turning green, and in some cases, black. When neither option is to your liking, another option is to get white gold rings.
White gold rings can be found anywhere you shop for jewelry. Ask the jeweler to see what they have, and ask them about how to care for white gold before you decide it is something you want. You can also look on eBay or other online outlets to find white gold jewelry. Not only is white gold used for rings, it can be used for necklaces, bracelets, and earrings as well. You may be surprised to find the price for white gold rings is rather inexpensive if you compare it to gold or titanium. For the price, you get durability and the look of silver without having to fear a green ring of skin under your ring. You may also find that you like the look of it as apposed to anything else.
If you are looking for white gold rings, be careful to choose ones that are priced right. If you find something with a price that is half as much as most jewelers, you may not be getting white gold rings, instead, you might be getting a lesser product. This happens with other types of metals as well, and the resulting products never last very long, and often cause skin reactions. If you arent sure what you want, ask to look at white gold rings and compare them with rings made of other metals. You will instinctively know what is appealing and what you want to pass on.
Quelling Your Investment Fear
Investing can be dangerous yet profitable endeavor. Many people have been burnt and decide not to ever invest again. This is the primary fear for investing in anything. They may give you excuse such as 'I don't have enough money' or 'I don't know where to invest'. But the number one fear is always the fear of losing money. If a novice investor knows that he won't lose money, he must have used all means necessary (such as loan) to buy as much investment opportunity possible.
Investing here can mean a lot of things from buying gold coin to real estate. However, common stock is the most popular form of investing since more than 50% of the US household invest in it. There are several ways of how to reduce your fear of investing in common stock.
Get Educated. When you know more about something, you are more certain of your outcome. When you know how to calculate the fair value of a common stock, you will know your expected return of investment. Remember that the less uncertainty you have, the less risk you undertake. You will also know more about the downside risk of your investment. If a common stock has $ 3 per share of positive net cash, is profitable and is currently trading at $ 5 per share, then you know that it won't trade at below $ 3 per share for a long period of time. Your maximum possible risk here is 40% of your original investment.
Start Small. When you begin your investing journey, you have a lot of unknowns. Less education means more unknown which means greater risk. How small should you start? As much money that you can afford to lose. If you still have no idea, then how about $ 1 a day? One dollar a day will give you $ 500,000 after fifty years of investing with 10.5 % return. Even if you have $ 500,000 right now, it is better for you to start small if you are a novice investor.
Pay Yourself First. By this, it does not mean that investors use their money to buy unnecessary stuff. Pay Yourself First means that you find investment that can pay you first as investors. What investment can pay you first? One thing that comes to mind is buying a common stock that historically has a steady or increasing dividends. There are one more way to pay yourself first by selling covered call options. For novice investors, however, I suggest we put this subject off until you get really really comfortable with investing in common stock.
Learn From Your Mistake. Once you begin investing, the fear of losing money is always there. The best way to learn is from your own mistake. But to hasten your learning curve, we have compiled a list of 15 common investing pitfalls that is frequently committed by novice investors.
Will you be fear-free after reading this column? The answer is no. Fear is always there because of uncertainty. Successful investing is about predicting the future which is uncertain. Even investing in your money-market account is uncertain. It involves some small risk. The risk might be inflation being higher than the interest rate offered. There is also uncertainty regarding the direction of interest rate. Interest rate used to be in the high single digits during the 1980s. Look where it is now.
We live in uncertain world. Instead of hiding behind the wall, we need to embrace it and educate ourselves to reduce the uncertainty. Doing this will in effect increase our investment return beyond the rate of inflation.
Investing can be dangerous yet profitable endeavor. Many people have been burnt and decide not to ever invest again. This is the primary fear for investing in anything. They may give you excuse such as 'I don't have enough money' or 'I don't know where to invest'. But the number one fear is always the fear of losing money. If a novice investor knows that he won't lose money, he must have used all means necessary (such as loan) to buy as much investment opportunity possible.
Investing here can mean a lot of things from buying gold coin to real estate. However, common stock is the most popular form of investing since more than 50% of the US household invest in it. There are several ways of how to reduce your fear of investing in common stock.
Get Educated. When you know more about something, you are more certain of your outcome. When you know how to calculate the fair value of a common stock, you will know your expected return of investment. Remember that the less uncertainty you have, the less risk you undertake. You will also know more about the downside risk of your investment. If a common stock has $ 3 per share of positive net cash, is profitable and is currently trading at $ 5 per share, then you know that it won't trade at below $ 3 per share for a long period of time. Your maximum possible risk here is 40% of your original investment.
Start Small. When you begin your investing journey, you have a lot of unknowns. Less education means more unknown which means greater risk. How small should you start? As much money that you can afford to lose. If you still have no idea, then how about $ 1 a day? One dollar a day will give you $ 500,000 after fifty years of investing with 10.5 % return. Even if you have $ 500,000 right now, it is better for you to start small if you are a novice investor.
Pay Yourself First. By this, it does not mean that investors use their money to buy unnecessary stuff. Pay Yourself First means that you find investment that can pay you first as investors. What investment can pay you first? One thing that comes to mind is buying a common stock that historically has a steady or increasing dividends. There are one more way to pay yourself first by selling covered call options. For novice investors, however, I suggest we put this subject off until you get really really comfortable with investing in common stock.
Learn From Your Mistake. Once you begin investing, the fear of losing money is always there. The best way to learn is from your own mistake. But to hasten your learning curve, we have compiled a list of 15 common investing pitfalls that is frequently committed by novice investors.
Will you be fear-free after reading this column? The answer is no. Fear is always there because of uncertainty. Successful investing is about predicting the future which is uncertain. Even investing in your money-market account is uncertain. It involves some small risk. The risk might be inflation being higher than the interest rate offered. There is also uncertainty regarding the direction of interest rate. Interest rate used to be in the high single digits during the 1980s. Look where it is now.
We live in uncertain world. Instead of hiding behind the wall, we need to embrace it and educate ourselves to reduce the uncertainty. Doing this will in effect increase our investment return beyond the rate of inflation.
Monday, September 10, 2007
Safety and Style: A Look at Gold Medical Alert Bracelets
Medical ID bracelets are becoming more and more necessary -- and increasingly popular. For many who are tired of dull stainless steel or silver bracelets, you can now buy a fashionable and elegant gold medical alert bracelet.
Whether shoppers are looking for yellow or white gold, they can find a gold medical alert bracelet in 14K gold. Using the Internet is an easy way to shop and compare prices for these bracelets. They cost approximately $250, depending on which online store you buy from. Getting a gold-plated or gold-filled medical identification bracelet can be cheaper and just as nice. Whichever you choose, it just goes to show that the medical alert bracelet and jewelry industry is growing to accommodate people with all styles in jewelry.
If gold jewelry is a persons preference, buying a gold medical alert bracelet is smart because its more likely to stay on. That is why selecting the metal can be just as important -- this is one piece of jewelry you do not want to take off. The fashionable gold will ensure that you want to wear the bracelet.
A company known as Healing Ribbons offers 14K satin and diamond cut medical alert bracelets, as well as medical condition awareness and celebration jewelry. Some of the gold medical alert bracelets also come with an 18K electroplate, and therefore make ideal gifts. They give an element of traditional fine jewelry to the aspect of medical alert bracelets.
Medical alert jewelry is important for all sorts of medical conditions such as diabetes, heart conditions, epilepsy, implants, Alzheimers disease, allergies, and special medications. Because they can easily relay information to paramedics when a person cannot do it themselves, these bracelets are vital. These life-saving bracelets, no matter what metal they come in, are well worth the investment.
Medical ID bracelets are becoming more and more necessary -- and increasingly popular. For many who are tired of dull stainless steel or silver bracelets, you can now buy a fashionable and elegant gold medical alert bracelet.
Whether shoppers are looking for yellow or white gold, they can find a gold medical alert bracelet in 14K gold. Using the Internet is an easy way to shop and compare prices for these bracelets. They cost approximately $250, depending on which online store you buy from. Getting a gold-plated or gold-filled medical identification bracelet can be cheaper and just as nice. Whichever you choose, it just goes to show that the medical alert bracelet and jewelry industry is growing to accommodate people with all styles in jewelry.
If gold jewelry is a persons preference, buying a gold medical alert bracelet is smart because its more likely to stay on. That is why selecting the metal can be just as important -- this is one piece of jewelry you do not want to take off. The fashionable gold will ensure that you want to wear the bracelet.
A company known as Healing Ribbons offers 14K satin and diamond cut medical alert bracelets, as well as medical condition awareness and celebration jewelry. Some of the gold medical alert bracelets also come with an 18K electroplate, and therefore make ideal gifts. They give an element of traditional fine jewelry to the aspect of medical alert bracelets.
Medical alert jewelry is important for all sorts of medical conditions such as diabetes, heart conditions, epilepsy, implants, Alzheimers disease, allergies, and special medications. Because they can easily relay information to paramedics when a person cannot do it themselves, these bracelets are vital. These life-saving bracelets, no matter what metal they come in, are well worth the investment.
investing my money
Investing My Money
In the early part of our relationship my husband and I never had a lot of money. Now that we have more money, and are able to pay our bills on time and save a little on the side, I am beginning to think about investing my money. This is not something that is easy for me. Because I have never had a lot of money, I have a hard time letting go of it. Though I realized that investing is meant to make more money, Im always afraid that Im going to lose my money. I think this is a pretty common fear, but I think I am more fearful than most.
When it comes to investing my money, the only person I trust his myself. I know that in order to retire comfortably Im going to have to let go of this and trust someone else. It scares me to think of someone else investing my money. I know whoever we choose will have my best interests at heart because when I make money they will make money. This thought does not make it any easier for me to go with someone else though. Right now, we have some money invested in a 401(k). My husband doesnt seem to be as uptight about as I am, but I realize that this is our future that Im talking about here.
I know that one of the safest ways to go about investing my money is to leave my money in a savings account. Once the money in a savings account reaches a certain total I can put that money into a money market account for an even higher interest rate. As far as Im concerned this is the best way to go about investing my money because I know these types of accounts are secured by the FDIC. This means that if something goes wrong and the bank loses that money, I will be able to get that money back up to a certain amount. I also know that this is not necessarily going to make me the most money. Im going to have to find a happy medium.
I have been thinking more and more lately about investing my money. It is never been a concern in the past because I never thought we had enough. I have seen enough shows and gotten enough advice to realize that it doesnt matter how much money you have you still have to put something away for your future. This is when investing my money became an important thought to me. I am slowly doing more and more research on the Internet to figure out what I want to do next. If this is a concern for you, you may want to do some research on your own before you talk to somebody else about investing your money.
Investing My Money
In the early part of our relationship my husband and I never had a lot of money. Now that we have more money, and are able to pay our bills on time and save a little on the side, I am beginning to think about investing my money. This is not something that is easy for me. Because I have never had a lot of money, I have a hard time letting go of it. Though I realized that investing is meant to make more money, Im always afraid that Im going to lose my money. I think this is a pretty common fear, but I think I am more fearful than most.
When it comes to investing my money, the only person I trust his myself. I know that in order to retire comfortably Im going to have to let go of this and trust someone else. It scares me to think of someone else investing my money. I know whoever we choose will have my best interests at heart because when I make money they will make money. This thought does not make it any easier for me to go with someone else though. Right now, we have some money invested in a 401(k). My husband doesnt seem to be as uptight about as I am, but I realize that this is our future that Im talking about here.
I know that one of the safest ways to go about investing my money is to leave my money in a savings account. Once the money in a savings account reaches a certain total I can put that money into a money market account for an even higher interest rate. As far as Im concerned this is the best way to go about investing my money because I know these types of accounts are secured by the FDIC. This means that if something goes wrong and the bank loses that money, I will be able to get that money back up to a certain amount. I also know that this is not necessarily going to make me the most money. Im going to have to find a happy medium.
I have been thinking more and more lately about investing my money. It is never been a concern in the past because I never thought we had enough. I have seen enough shows and gotten enough advice to realize that it doesnt matter how much money you have you still have to put something away for your future. This is when investing my money became an important thought to me. I am slowly doing more and more research on the Internet to figure out what I want to do next. If this is a concern for you, you may want to do some research on your own before you talk to somebody else about investing your money.
Sunday, September 9, 2007
Understanding Different Types of Online Slot Machines
We'd be wasting your time if we attempted to categorize all the types of slot machines. Every casino offers a wide range of slots to attract gamblers. Slots come in hundreds of types and variations, from single line and 3 line, to 3 or 5 reel, and from bonus games to progressives, to mention just some.
It makes more sense to look at the typical characteristics of slot machines.
Number of Reels
There are usually 3 or 5 reels in a slot machine. Early slots had only three reels. We remember them as "classic" or "regular" machines.
Today, 5 reel slots are common, and they generally feature more than one payline (see below).
Number of Rows
Slots machines feature one, two or several horizontal rows marking positions on the vertical reels.
Extra rows, usually one above and one below the payout display, tempt players with a view of how narrowly they might have missed a win.
Number of Pay Lines
There can be one or more paylines crossing the reels. It's common to see 3, 5, 9, 15 and more recently even 20 lines. For a winning combination, the designated symbols must fall on a line, often the central horizontal line.
There's only one payline crossing the three reels on a classic machine. You can bet one or more coins per spin but only the center line pays, and increasing your bet doesn't improve your chances of winning.
On a slot with more than one payline, you can bring additional lines into play by upping the number of coins you play. You don't have to bet on every available payline.
Suppose you're on a 3 line slot and you're required to insert one coin to play the center line, a second coin to play the line above center and a third coin to play the line below center. If you now bet only one coin and the reels display a winning combination on the line above or below the center, you don't win anything because you played too few coins.
By offering diagonal matches, slots with 5 reels can have from 5 to 20 paylines.
Denomination of one coin
There are slot machines which accept denominations from as little as 5 cents to $5. High roller slots may accept "coins" with a denomination of as much as $500, although these are few and far between. Some online casinos have special limits set up for their big players to accommodate large bets..
Number of coins that can be played
The maximum bet on classic slots is usually three coins, but there are some slots that accept a 2-coin maximum bet. Again, video slots have changed this characteristic dramatically, with some multi line video slots now accepting up to 10 coins per line.
We'd be wasting your time if we attempted to categorize all the types of slot machines. Every casino offers a wide range of slots to attract gamblers. Slots come in hundreds of types and variations, from single line and 3 line, to 3 or 5 reel, and from bonus games to progressives, to mention just some.
It makes more sense to look at the typical characteristics of slot machines.
Number of Reels
There are usually 3 or 5 reels in a slot machine. Early slots had only three reels. We remember them as "classic" or "regular" machines.
Today, 5 reel slots are common, and they generally feature more than one payline (see below).
Number of Rows
Slots machines feature one, two or several horizontal rows marking positions on the vertical reels.
Extra rows, usually one above and one below the payout display, tempt players with a view of how narrowly they might have missed a win.
Number of Pay Lines
There can be one or more paylines crossing the reels. It's common to see 3, 5, 9, 15 and more recently even 20 lines. For a winning combination, the designated symbols must fall on a line, often the central horizontal line.
There's only one payline crossing the three reels on a classic machine. You can bet one or more coins per spin but only the center line pays, and increasing your bet doesn't improve your chances of winning.
On a slot with more than one payline, you can bring additional lines into play by upping the number of coins you play. You don't have to bet on every available payline.
Suppose you're on a 3 line slot and you're required to insert one coin to play the center line, a second coin to play the line above center and a third coin to play the line below center. If you now bet only one coin and the reels display a winning combination on the line above or below the center, you don't win anything because you played too few coins.
By offering diagonal matches, slots with 5 reels can have from 5 to 20 paylines.
Denomination of one coin
There are slot machines which accept denominations from as little as 5 cents to $5. High roller slots may accept "coins" with a denomination of as much as $500, although these are few and far between. Some online casinos have special limits set up for their big players to accommodate large bets..
Number of coins that can be played
The maximum bet on classic slots is usually three coins, but there are some slots that accept a 2-coin maximum bet. Again, video slots have changed this characteristic dramatically, with some multi line video slots now accepting up to 10 coins per line.
Saturday, September 8, 2007
How To Fill-Up E-gold with Lots of Gold?
E-gold is electronic gold used on ecommerce on the internet. It is used to buy and sell intangible products that can easily be delivered electronically via email, on website, in the form of downloads, serial/access numbers, or userid/password. As such, it is easy to fill-up these kind of "electronic money" as defined by it's founders who first circulated e-gold since 1995. (more details here http://www.nabaza.com/egold.htm )
E-gold is protecting the merchant for every payment made via e-gold is permanent and there's no refund or chargebacks, thus it's preferred by merchants who want to sell intangible or virtual items on internet without paying a merchant account provider.
Filling up e-gold is easy with the use of the sites that pay in e-gold. It's anonymous and buyers/sellers can only identify you by your e-gold account number and a userid. Now before we fill those up, first open a free account at e-gold ( http://www.nabaza.com/egold.htm ). Kindly make your password as secure as possible by combining random lowercase, uppercase, and numerals on a 12 to 16 character password. Remember, even if you see admin@e-gold.com sending you an email requiring you to verify, type in your userid, password, chances are it's not the owners/admins of e-gold but it's the latest phishing techniques of those who want to rob your e-gold. Please read ( http://antihacking.blogspot.com/ ) for more details on different gimmicks of hackers/phishers just for you to give them your userid and password. So reminder, don't give your access to e-gold to anyone.
Here are some e-gold sites that lets you fill up your e-gold account in no time. They are all free to join.
Linkburst http://www.nabaza.com/w/lb.php
Opt-in-pays http://www.nabaza.com/w/op.php
Russian Bride http://www.nabaza.com/w/ru.php
Cashsurf.nabaza.net http://cashsurf.nabaza.net/
Downlines.nabaza.net http://downlines.nabaza.net/
Flyinads.nabaza.net http://flyinads.nabaza.net/
I think with top 6 egold programs, you can't lose, for more please visit this: http://www.nabaza.com/egoldrocks.htm
E-gold is electronic gold used on ecommerce on the internet. It is used to buy and sell intangible products that can easily be delivered electronically via email, on website, in the form of downloads, serial/access numbers, or userid/password. As such, it is easy to fill-up these kind of "electronic money" as defined by it's founders who first circulated e-gold since 1995. (more details here http://www.nabaza.com/egold.htm )
E-gold is protecting the merchant for every payment made via e-gold is permanent and there's no refund or chargebacks, thus it's preferred by merchants who want to sell intangible or virtual items on internet without paying a merchant account provider.
Filling up e-gold is easy with the use of the sites that pay in e-gold. It's anonymous and buyers/sellers can only identify you by your e-gold account number and a userid. Now before we fill those up, first open a free account at e-gold ( http://www.nabaza.com/egold.htm ). Kindly make your password as secure as possible by combining random lowercase, uppercase, and numerals on a 12 to 16 character password. Remember, even if you see admin@e-gold.com sending you an email requiring you to verify, type in your userid, password, chances are it's not the owners/admins of e-gold but it's the latest phishing techniques of those who want to rob your e-gold. Please read ( http://antihacking.blogspot.com/ ) for more details on different gimmicks of hackers/phishers just for you to give them your userid and password. So reminder, don't give your access to e-gold to anyone.
Here are some e-gold sites that lets you fill up your e-gold account in no time. They are all free to join.
Linkburst http://www.nabaza.com/w/lb.php
Opt-in-pays http://www.nabaza.com/w/op.php
Russian Bride http://www.nabaza.com/w/ru.php
Cashsurf.nabaza.net http://cashsurf.nabaza.net/
Downlines.nabaza.net http://downlines.nabaza.net/
Flyinads.nabaza.net http://flyinads.nabaza.net/
I think with top 6 egold programs, you can't lose, for more please visit this: http://www.nabaza.com/egoldrocks.htm
The Basics of Real Estate Investing
Real estate investing may not be everyones cup of tea, but some people who have already tried investing in real estate know that it can be highly profitable and lead to much better quality of life. There are several keys to making significant profits in real estate investing deals. And when the deals are profitable, you will certainly be well on your way to success.
For real estate investing newbies, dont be afraid of the challenges and pitfalls you may encounter along the way. There is definitely a lot to learn, but in the long run after you have gained some experience, youll hopefully become a master at closing profitable real estate deals.
There are 5 core skills that are necessary for building a real estate investing business. These will be the key factors in creating a profitable real estate investment portfolio.
These are the 5 core skills of real estate investing:
1) You must learn when and where to find the right kind of sellers.
2) You must learn the art of being a master negotiator when it comes to closing your real estate investment deals.
3) You must be able to quickly and accurately analyze each real estate investment deal so youll know exactly when to proceed and when to pull the plug.
4) You must become an expert in all areas of real estate investing and understand such terms as lease options, cash sales, wrap mortgages, short sales and other terminology common in the real estate investing trade.
5) You should totally understand the meaning and concept of investing in real estate, including all of the financial risks and benefits.
Now is a great time to consider investing in real estate. There are great potential rewards and the effort you put forth can yield enormous monetary returns on your investment.
Your confidence level will grow when youve gained some experience and closed on your first few real estate deals. But, don't stop there...
Continue to learn about real estate investing and to develop your investment skills. In a short time you may find yourself managing a profitable and growing portfolio of investment properties.
Continue to follow your real estate investing "game plan" and always keep an eye out for the hidden investment opportunities. The opportunities are definitely out there and with a little knowledge and desire can be yours for the taking. So, why not get started in what might be a new and exciting (and profitable) career today?
Real estate investing may not be everyones cup of tea, but some people who have already tried investing in real estate know that it can be highly profitable and lead to much better quality of life. There are several keys to making significant profits in real estate investing deals. And when the deals are profitable, you will certainly be well on your way to success.
For real estate investing newbies, dont be afraid of the challenges and pitfalls you may encounter along the way. There is definitely a lot to learn, but in the long run after you have gained some experience, youll hopefully become a master at closing profitable real estate deals.
There are 5 core skills that are necessary for building a real estate investing business. These will be the key factors in creating a profitable real estate investment portfolio.
These are the 5 core skills of real estate investing:
1) You must learn when and where to find the right kind of sellers.
2) You must learn the art of being a master negotiator when it comes to closing your real estate investment deals.
3) You must be able to quickly and accurately analyze each real estate investment deal so youll know exactly when to proceed and when to pull the plug.
4) You must become an expert in all areas of real estate investing and understand such terms as lease options, cash sales, wrap mortgages, short sales and other terminology common in the real estate investing trade.
5) You should totally understand the meaning and concept of investing in real estate, including all of the financial risks and benefits.
Now is a great time to consider investing in real estate. There are great potential rewards and the effort you put forth can yield enormous monetary returns on your investment.
Your confidence level will grow when youve gained some experience and closed on your first few real estate deals. But, don't stop there...
Continue to learn about real estate investing and to develop your investment skills. In a short time you may find yourself managing a profitable and growing portfolio of investment properties.
Continue to follow your real estate investing "game plan" and always keep an eye out for the hidden investment opportunities. The opportunities are definitely out there and with a little knowledge and desire can be yours for the taking. So, why not get started in what might be a new and exciting (and profitable) career today?
Friday, September 7, 2007
World Coin Collecting
While some collectors look for only coins of value, misprints, and oddities, the resulting collections tend to become an investment hidden away in a safe or an attic.
The world coin collector is more a person who is interesting in building an intriguing collection based more on geography, gathering coins from every country, or from each mint. The focus is more on creating a structured set and can be geared toward many different interests, ie. Animal coins of Europe, Silver coins of the world, North American coins sorted by year, ect The point is to create a show piece collection rather then just for monitary value.
Collecting world coins is a great starting point for children due to many inexpensive currencies. They can be found in penny jars, at banks, coin/jewelry shops, or just walking down the street.
If you do any world traveling, visit a local bank and get a set of local coins at face value. When friends and reletive travel, let them know you are collecting, and that you will buy any coins they bring back, or that they make a great inexpensive souvinier.
Many hobby shops carry display cases to pretect and show off your collection, and specific collector cases such as for the new US quarters, and yearly pennies, nickles and dimes can sometime be found at your local Target or Walmart.
A good way to find more information and meet other collectors is simply searching the net for collecting forums and blogs, try the world coin collecting blog, or stop by Ebay and see whats up for auction--ebay.
While some collectors look for only coins of value, misprints, and oddities, the resulting collections tend to become an investment hidden away in a safe or an attic.
The world coin collector is more a person who is interesting in building an intriguing collection based more on geography, gathering coins from every country, or from each mint. The focus is more on creating a structured set and can be geared toward many different interests, ie. Animal coins of Europe, Silver coins of the world, North American coins sorted by year, ect The point is to create a show piece collection rather then just for monitary value.
Collecting world coins is a great starting point for children due to many inexpensive currencies. They can be found in penny jars, at banks, coin/jewelry shops, or just walking down the street.
If you do any world traveling, visit a local bank and get a set of local coins at face value. When friends and reletive travel, let them know you are collecting, and that you will buy any coins they bring back, or that they make a great inexpensive souvinier.
Many hobby shops carry display cases to pretect and show off your collection, and specific collector cases such as for the new US quarters, and yearly pennies, nickles and dimes can sometime be found at your local Target or Walmart.
A good way to find more information and meet other collectors is simply searching the net for collecting forums and blogs, try the world coin collecting blog, or stop by Ebay and see whats up for auction--ebay.
Determining Coin Values
Factors that Influence the Value of Collectible Coins
If you are interested in collecting coins, its important to be able to have a rough idea of how much coins are worth. Knowing how coin values are determined will enable you to find good deals, and ensure that you dont get cheated into paying too much money for a coin with a low worth.
Supply Influences Coin Values
One major factor in determining coin values is the law of supply and demand. If there are many coins of a particular type available, that coin will not be worth much. On the other hand, if only a very few coins of that type are produced, the coin values will rise. This is why a completely normal-looking copper penny minted in 1943 is worth about $200,000, whereas a 2,000 year old Roman coin may be worth less than $100 because thousands upon thousands of Roman coins were minted, but only 40 pennies produced during war-time 1943 were made out of copper.
Demands Effect on Coin Values
Even among coins with a similar number of copies in existence, some have a higher worth than others. This is because some coins are in higher demand, driving up the coin values. Coins may become popular because they are particularly lovely to look at, because they are part of a topical set that is often chosen by collectors, or because they have a certain historical significance.
Precious Metals and Coin Values
Some coins are made out of precious materials like gold bullion or platinum. These coin values are less volatile because the worth is guaranteed in part by the material. A gold bullion coin, for example, is usually worth more than its melted weight, but it is never going to be worth less.
Coin Values are Tempered by Grade or Classification
The final major factor in determining coin values is the grade or classification of the coin. The more wear and tear that a coin has undergone, the less value it is going to have. This is why uncirculated coins are usually more valuable than coins that have been passed from hand to hand. Uncirculated coins have always been kept in the very best of conditions, making their value much higher. A coin in flawless condition may be worth hundreds of times more than a low-grade version of the exact same coin.
Now that you understand the basic factors that influence coin values, you have a better grasp of which coins may have real value and which will be worthless. In order to get a ballpark estimate of the value of any coins you might have, you will first need to determine its grade or classification. You can do this by comparing your coins condition to a published list of guidelines. Then look up the value of a coin in that condition in a book such as The Standard Catalog of World Coins, which should be available in most public libraries. If you need to know the exact amount that your coin is worth, you should take it to a coin dealer and let him or her evaluate it for you.
Factors that Influence the Value of Collectible Coins
If you are interested in collecting coins, its important to be able to have a rough idea of how much coins are worth. Knowing how coin values are determined will enable you to find good deals, and ensure that you dont get cheated into paying too much money for a coin with a low worth.
Supply Influences Coin Values
One major factor in determining coin values is the law of supply and demand. If there are many coins of a particular type available, that coin will not be worth much. On the other hand, if only a very few coins of that type are produced, the coin values will rise. This is why a completely normal-looking copper penny minted in 1943 is worth about $200,000, whereas a 2,000 year old Roman coin may be worth less than $100 because thousands upon thousands of Roman coins were minted, but only 40 pennies produced during war-time 1943 were made out of copper.
Demands Effect on Coin Values
Even among coins with a similar number of copies in existence, some have a higher worth than others. This is because some coins are in higher demand, driving up the coin values. Coins may become popular because they are particularly lovely to look at, because they are part of a topical set that is often chosen by collectors, or because they have a certain historical significance.
Precious Metals and Coin Values
Some coins are made out of precious materials like gold bullion or platinum. These coin values are less volatile because the worth is guaranteed in part by the material. A gold bullion coin, for example, is usually worth more than its melted weight, but it is never going to be worth less.
Coin Values are Tempered by Grade or Classification
The final major factor in determining coin values is the grade or classification of the coin. The more wear and tear that a coin has undergone, the less value it is going to have. This is why uncirculated coins are usually more valuable than coins that have been passed from hand to hand. Uncirculated coins have always been kept in the very best of conditions, making their value much higher. A coin in flawless condition may be worth hundreds of times more than a low-grade version of the exact same coin.
Now that you understand the basic factors that influence coin values, you have a better grasp of which coins may have real value and which will be worthless. In order to get a ballpark estimate of the value of any coins you might have, you will first need to determine its grade or classification. You can do this by comparing your coins condition to a published list of guidelines. Then look up the value of a coin in that condition in a book such as The Standard Catalog of World Coins, which should be available in most public libraries. If you need to know the exact amount that your coin is worth, you should take it to a coin dealer and let him or her evaluate it for you.
Thursday, September 6, 2007
What Is An Un-circulated Coin?
You may have heard the terms proof coin and un-circulated coin, but what's the difference between these two? To understand the difference between a proof and un-circulated coin, let's first answer the question, "What is an un-circulated coin?"
Un-circulated means a coin has not had any wear, such as the wear a coin might experience when it is used in commerce. Handling a coin, as well as improperly storing a coin, can result in wear on the surface of the coin. This wear, even if very minor, will cause a coin to no longer grade un-circulated.
When coins are minted they often bump into each other and receive small nicks and abrasion marks during the production process. These marks also occur as coins are transported in large canvas bags. These marks, sometimes called "bag marks", are more noticeable on larger coins, such as half dollars and dollars. Typical "bag marks" do not keep a coin from grading un-circulated. However, they can be an indicator of how high of a grade the un-circulated coin might receive.
Current accepted grading standards provide for a range of un-circulated grades, from the grade of MS-60 to MS-70. MS60 would be a lower grade (yet still) un-circulated coin with normal bag marks for that type of coin. Anything below MS-60 would not be considered un-circulated. MS70 would be the perfect "ideal" coin. Some coins are rare in grades MS65 to MS70, and even unheard of in MS70 grade. (The attribute "MS" stands for "mint state".)
A newly minted proof coin is also un-circulated, however it is the way it is made that causes a difference in appearance and qualifies it as a "proof". To understand this, let's look at how coins are made. Coins are produced when two dies strike a blank piece of metal with tremendous force. One die is engraved with the front (obverse) design for the coin. The other die has the back (reverse) coin design on it.
A proof coin is made with a specially polished and treated die! By treating the die in a special way, the coins it produces have a different appearance. Modern technology allows the high points on the coin design to be acid treated (on the die). The background (field) design of the coin die is polished, resulting in a mirror-like look on the coin it strikes. This gives the finished coin a frosted look (frosting) on the raise parts of the design, with a mirror like finish on the background. This contrasting finish is often called "cameo". On some older coins a cameo appearance is quite rare. The attribute "CAM", when added to a coin's description, means cameo appearance. "DCAM" means deep cameo, and indicates the cameo appearance is strong and easy to observe.
You may have heard the terms proof coin and un-circulated coin, but what's the difference between these two? To understand the difference between a proof and un-circulated coin, let's first answer the question, "What is an un-circulated coin?"
Un-circulated means a coin has not had any wear, such as the wear a coin might experience when it is used in commerce. Handling a coin, as well as improperly storing a coin, can result in wear on the surface of the coin. This wear, even if very minor, will cause a coin to no longer grade un-circulated.
When coins are minted they often bump into each other and receive small nicks and abrasion marks during the production process. These marks also occur as coins are transported in large canvas bags. These marks, sometimes called "bag marks", are more noticeable on larger coins, such as half dollars and dollars. Typical "bag marks" do not keep a coin from grading un-circulated. However, they can be an indicator of how high of a grade the un-circulated coin might receive.
Current accepted grading standards provide for a range of un-circulated grades, from the grade of MS-60 to MS-70. MS60 would be a lower grade (yet still) un-circulated coin with normal bag marks for that type of coin. Anything below MS-60 would not be considered un-circulated. MS70 would be the perfect "ideal" coin. Some coins are rare in grades MS65 to MS70, and even unheard of in MS70 grade. (The attribute "MS" stands for "mint state".)
A newly minted proof coin is also un-circulated, however it is the way it is made that causes a difference in appearance and qualifies it as a "proof". To understand this, let's look at how coins are made. Coins are produced when two dies strike a blank piece of metal with tremendous force. One die is engraved with the front (obverse) design for the coin. The other die has the back (reverse) coin design on it.
A proof coin is made with a specially polished and treated die! By treating the die in a special way, the coins it produces have a different appearance. Modern technology allows the high points on the coin design to be acid treated (on the die). The background (field) design of the coin die is polished, resulting in a mirror-like look on the coin it strikes. This gives the finished coin a frosted look (frosting) on the raise parts of the design, with a mirror like finish on the background. This contrasting finish is often called "cameo". On some older coins a cameo appearance is quite rare. The attribute "CAM", when added to a coin's description, means cameo appearance. "DCAM" means deep cameo, and indicates the cameo appearance is strong and easy to observe.
Can You Afford Not To Look After Your Personal Finances?
Investing is a subject a lot of people dont want to think about. And there is good reason for that. Investing seems scary. It either sounds like something only the rich do or something that only a skilled professional can do. But the truth is that investing is something that everyone can and should doas soon as possible.
Why should you start now?
Think about this. There are two ways to make money. You can exchange your time for money or you can make your money work for you. Most of us work 40 hours a week. In this case, you are trading your time for money. But wouldnt you rather earn more than you are making? If you are making $1,000, wouldnt you rather be earning $5,000? Most people think the only way to earn more is to work more. Work overtime is their motto! But there is more to life than working. Investing gives you the chance to let your money work for yousaving you time and earning you money.
But is the purpose of investing to get rich?
Some people dont invest because they think that investing is something you do to get rich. They figure theyll never earn enough to get rich, so why bother. But thats not what investing is for. Investing is a way for you to be able to maintain your current lifestyle.
Think about this: what if the company you worked for suddenly closed down? What are you going to do when you get to retirement? Sometimes working more is not a viable option. Investing gives you another source of savings and earning income. You dont invest to become a multi-millionaire (of course no one would stop you if that happens); you invest so that you can provide for yourself in the way you are accustomed to both before and after retirement.
Many people are convinced that investing is the right thing to do at this point, but, there are some misconceptions people have about investing that prevents them from actually doing it. These misconceptions are that:
Investing is too hard
Investing is too risky
You need a lot of money to invest
Lets look at each one of these misconceptions.
Investing is too hard.
You may think that investing is just too hard. But a lot of that has to do with the terminology of the investment industry. I mean who knows what Fed Fund rates, mutual funds, indexes, or blue chip stocks are? But you dont need to be scared off by a bunch of wordsin the end they are just words. Just like you probably didnt know what PMI was before you bought your first house or what APR was before you got your first credit card, you can learn what these things are. And you will find that they arent so hard to learn. And if you seek the advice of a professional, they can explain it to you.
Investing is too risky.
Some people have the idea that investing is risky. Movies such as Wall Street, no doubt, lead people to think that. But the fact is that investing is only as risky as you want it to be. Do you want to take huge risks? You can invest in international stocks. Want to play it safe? Go with bonds. The risk level is up to you and only you.
I cant afford to invest.
Many people think they cant afford to invest. But when you look at the alternatives (social security may not be there, job security is not 100%), you really have to ask yourself how can you afford not to invest. And the earlier you start, the more money you will earn. Even if its only a small amount, the money you invest today will earn you big in the future.
Investing is a subject a lot of people dont want to think about. And there is good reason for that. Investing seems scary. It either sounds like something only the rich do or something that only a skilled professional can do. But the truth is that investing is something that everyone can and should doas soon as possible.
Why should you start now?
Think about this. There are two ways to make money. You can exchange your time for money or you can make your money work for you. Most of us work 40 hours a week. In this case, you are trading your time for money. But wouldnt you rather earn more than you are making? If you are making $1,000, wouldnt you rather be earning $5,000? Most people think the only way to earn more is to work more. Work overtime is their motto! But there is more to life than working. Investing gives you the chance to let your money work for yousaving you time and earning you money.
But is the purpose of investing to get rich?
Some people dont invest because they think that investing is something you do to get rich. They figure theyll never earn enough to get rich, so why bother. But thats not what investing is for. Investing is a way for you to be able to maintain your current lifestyle.
Think about this: what if the company you worked for suddenly closed down? What are you going to do when you get to retirement? Sometimes working more is not a viable option. Investing gives you another source of savings and earning income. You dont invest to become a multi-millionaire (of course no one would stop you if that happens); you invest so that you can provide for yourself in the way you are accustomed to both before and after retirement.
Many people are convinced that investing is the right thing to do at this point, but, there are some misconceptions people have about investing that prevents them from actually doing it. These misconceptions are that:
Investing is too hard
Investing is too risky
You need a lot of money to invest
Lets look at each one of these misconceptions.
Investing is too hard.
You may think that investing is just too hard. But a lot of that has to do with the terminology of the investment industry. I mean who knows what Fed Fund rates, mutual funds, indexes, or blue chip stocks are? But you dont need to be scared off by a bunch of wordsin the end they are just words. Just like you probably didnt know what PMI was before you bought your first house or what APR was before you got your first credit card, you can learn what these things are. And you will find that they arent so hard to learn. And if you seek the advice of a professional, they can explain it to you.
Investing is too risky.
Some people have the idea that investing is risky. Movies such as Wall Street, no doubt, lead people to think that. But the fact is that investing is only as risky as you want it to be. Do you want to take huge risks? You can invest in international stocks. Want to play it safe? Go with bonds. The risk level is up to you and only you.
I cant afford to invest.
Many people think they cant afford to invest. But when you look at the alternatives (social security may not be there, job security is not 100%), you really have to ask yourself how can you afford not to invest. And the earlier you start, the more money you will earn. Even if its only a small amount, the money you invest today will earn you big in the future.
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Keep 18K White Gold Naked
When is white gold not white gold?
When a consumer walks into a shop to buy an item of gold jewellery, if it is yellow or red then by checking the hallmark (if buying in the UK) they can tell at a glance, with the aid of a loupe, if it is 9K or 18K for example - the colour is fairly obvious. White gold is another story. Yes they can check the caratage just as easily, but what about the colour? Are they looking at the actual gold alloy or is a thin plating of Rhodium disguising the metal beneath?
First a few facts.
24 carat gold is yellow.
White gold is produced by adding a careful selection of white metals that bleach yellow gold. Strong bleaching metals are palladium, nickel and platinum. Moderate bleaching white metals are silver and zinc.
This tends to historically produce two classes of white gold, nickel alloys and palladium alloys.
Because of the price of palladium, the palladium whites are the most expensive and whiter alloys.
Many low grade commercial white gold alloys do not produce an acceptable level of whiteness to the consumer, therefore it has become common practice for manufacturers to rhodium plate items of jewellery to give the nice ice white colour that is associated with white gold.
Rhodium is a member of the Platinum family and a thin electroplated deposit is applied to the surface of the majority of white gold jewellery sold in retail outlets to enhance its appearance.
Many customers are confused by white gold and do not necessarily understand what they are buying when they buy an item of white gold jewellery.
When buying white gold jewellery here are a few questions that it may be advisable to ask:
1. Is it Rhodium plated?
2. How long will it be before the rhodium plating will wear off?
3. How white is the gold underneath the plating compared to the Rhodium and will it reveal yellowy brown patches as it wears?
The term white when applied to gold does not, at the time of writing, although there are plans in progress to change this, have any industry standard guidelines, therefore retailers and manufacturers are placed in a difficult legal position when a customer brings back an item of jewellery that has worn to its natural colour and complains.
A growing number of companies believe that high quality, un-rhodium plated 18K white gold is a naturally beautiful colour metal and are keen to encourage the acceptance of it. It blends in nicely with Titanium products and eliminates the disappointment experienced by people when their white gold ring starts to change colour when worn over a period of time.
Dont hide it - Keep it Naked !!
When is white gold not white gold?
When a consumer walks into a shop to buy an item of gold jewellery, if it is yellow or red then by checking the hallmark (if buying in the UK) they can tell at a glance, with the aid of a loupe, if it is 9K or 18K for example - the colour is fairly obvious. White gold is another story. Yes they can check the caratage just as easily, but what about the colour? Are they looking at the actual gold alloy or is a thin plating of Rhodium disguising the metal beneath?
First a few facts.
24 carat gold is yellow.
White gold is produced by adding a careful selection of white metals that bleach yellow gold. Strong bleaching metals are palladium, nickel and platinum. Moderate bleaching white metals are silver and zinc.
This tends to historically produce two classes of white gold, nickel alloys and palladium alloys.
Because of the price of palladium, the palladium whites are the most expensive and whiter alloys.
Many low grade commercial white gold alloys do not produce an acceptable level of whiteness to the consumer, therefore it has become common practice for manufacturers to rhodium plate items of jewellery to give the nice ice white colour that is associated with white gold.
Rhodium is a member of the Platinum family and a thin electroplated deposit is applied to the surface of the majority of white gold jewellery sold in retail outlets to enhance its appearance.
Many customers are confused by white gold and do not necessarily understand what they are buying when they buy an item of white gold jewellery.
When buying white gold jewellery here are a few questions that it may be advisable to ask:
1. Is it Rhodium plated?
2. How long will it be before the rhodium plating will wear off?
3. How white is the gold underneath the plating compared to the Rhodium and will it reveal yellowy brown patches as it wears?
The term white when applied to gold does not, at the time of writing, although there are plans in progress to change this, have any industry standard guidelines, therefore retailers and manufacturers are placed in a difficult legal position when a customer brings back an item of jewellery that has worn to its natural colour and complains.
A growing number of companies believe that high quality, un-rhodium plated 18K white gold is a naturally beautiful colour metal and are keen to encourage the acceptance of it. It blends in nicely with Titanium products and eliminates the disappointment experienced by people when their white gold ring starts to change colour when worn over a period of time.
Dont hide it - Keep it Naked !!
Collecting Greek, Roman, and Other Old Coins
A Beginners Guide to Collecting Inexpensive Old Coins
Collecting old coins is like holding a piece of history right in your hand. It is common to find affordable ancient Roman coins that are 1600 years old, and many are even 2000 years old or more. Imagine that the ancient Roman denarius in your collection might once have bought admission to the gladiator fights in the Coliseum or chariot races at the Circus Maximum. The best thing about collecting old coins is that, unlike other antiquities, ancient coins are remarkably affordable. Because so many ancient coins have been discovered, and more are being unearthed every day, it is possible to buy millennia-old coins for only a few dollars apiece. For less than the cost of a movie ticket, you could own a link to olden times.
Things You Should Look For While Buying Old Coins
Unless you are looking to spend some serious money on your collection, the old coins that you buy will probably not be extremely valuable as an investment. However, that should not undermine the thrill of being able to own a genuine aged coin on a shoestring budget. There are numerous places, both online and off, that sell inexpensive old coins. The important thing to look for when buying these ancient coins is that the coin is identifiable. It is disappointing to buy an aged coin, only to realize that there is no way of telling what it actually is. The best way to ensure that an ancient coin is identifiable is to be certain that the writing and inscriptions on it are legible.
Buying Uncleaned Lots of Old Coins
Of course, there is another bargain option when buying ancient coins, and that is to buy a lot of uncleaned coins. These are old coins that have been unearthed in archaeologically rich areas like Italy or Greece, but have not had the dirt and buildup of the centuries cleaned from them. Uncleaned lots of elderly coins are exciting because you never know if the coins will be so worn that there is nothing left but a smooth piece of metal, or whether you will uncover a genuine rare coin. You should be aware, however, that the likelihood of finding a high-value gold or silver coin among uncleaned lots is extremely slim. Furthermore, the reason why uncleaned lots are sold to begin with is that cleaning old coins is a difficult endeavor in the best of circumstances. Removing large amounts of dirt and debris from ancient coins carries the risk of spoiling the coin.
How to Store Old Coins
Elderly coins, like elderly people, require tender handling. It is important to remember that one of the vital factors regarding the value of an old-time coin is the patina, or the sheen that builds up on the surface of a coin over time. The last thing you want to do is to polish an ancient silver coin so that it is bright and shining! When dealing with old coins, you should only hold them by the edges, since the oil on your hands can ruin the patina. Do not attempt to clean old coins on your own without learning a lot about the proper techniques. Only a veteran should attempt to clean a potentially valuable aged coin.
When storing old coins, always use acid-free materials; any other kind of storage could damage the coin. Youll need a safe place to keep your ancient coins. Some options include mylar flips, acid-free plastic sheets that go into three-ring binders, and even special collectors cases, if you want a particularly elegant look for your collection.
A Beginners Guide to Collecting Inexpensive Old Coins
Collecting old coins is like holding a piece of history right in your hand. It is common to find affordable ancient Roman coins that are 1600 years old, and many are even 2000 years old or more. Imagine that the ancient Roman denarius in your collection might once have bought admission to the gladiator fights in the Coliseum or chariot races at the Circus Maximum. The best thing about collecting old coins is that, unlike other antiquities, ancient coins are remarkably affordable. Because so many ancient coins have been discovered, and more are being unearthed every day, it is possible to buy millennia-old coins for only a few dollars apiece. For less than the cost of a movie ticket, you could own a link to olden times.
Things You Should Look For While Buying Old Coins
Unless you are looking to spend some serious money on your collection, the old coins that you buy will probably not be extremely valuable as an investment. However, that should not undermine the thrill of being able to own a genuine aged coin on a shoestring budget. There are numerous places, both online and off, that sell inexpensive old coins. The important thing to look for when buying these ancient coins is that the coin is identifiable. It is disappointing to buy an aged coin, only to realize that there is no way of telling what it actually is. The best way to ensure that an ancient coin is identifiable is to be certain that the writing and inscriptions on it are legible.
Buying Uncleaned Lots of Old Coins
Of course, there is another bargain option when buying ancient coins, and that is to buy a lot of uncleaned coins. These are old coins that have been unearthed in archaeologically rich areas like Italy or Greece, but have not had the dirt and buildup of the centuries cleaned from them. Uncleaned lots of elderly coins are exciting because you never know if the coins will be so worn that there is nothing left but a smooth piece of metal, or whether you will uncover a genuine rare coin. You should be aware, however, that the likelihood of finding a high-value gold or silver coin among uncleaned lots is extremely slim. Furthermore, the reason why uncleaned lots are sold to begin with is that cleaning old coins is a difficult endeavor in the best of circumstances. Removing large amounts of dirt and debris from ancient coins carries the risk of spoiling the coin.
How to Store Old Coins
Elderly coins, like elderly people, require tender handling. It is important to remember that one of the vital factors regarding the value of an old-time coin is the patina, or the sheen that builds up on the surface of a coin over time. The last thing you want to do is to polish an ancient silver coin so that it is bright and shining! When dealing with old coins, you should only hold them by the edges, since the oil on your hands can ruin the patina. Do not attempt to clean old coins on your own without learning a lot about the proper techniques. Only a veteran should attempt to clean a potentially valuable aged coin.
When storing old coins, always use acid-free materials; any other kind of storage could damage the coin. Youll need a safe place to keep your ancient coins. Some options include mylar flips, acid-free plastic sheets that go into three-ring binders, and even special collectors cases, if you want a particularly elegant look for your collection.
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
The Difference Between Investing and Trading
Investing and Trading are not the same thing. The returns you seek, the length of time it takes to achieve those returns, the amount of risk one is prepared to take, and the commitment one can make to monitor the investments dictate the strategy of whether to invest or trade.
Investing
Investing is holding an asset for a longer term, expecting it to increase in value. The most common example is investing in equity mutual funds through a retirement plan. Many of these funds are held for years and are expected to show a substantial
appreciation over the long term.
You can also invest in individual stocks and hold them for 6 to 18 months or longer, sometimes much longer. This is referred to as the "buy and hold" strategy.
Real estate would be another example of investing, unless the property is purchased for quick flipping.
Jewelry, art, stamps, and collectibles are still other examples of investing where they are kept for a long time in the hope their value appreciates.
Trading
Trading is also investing but the time frame for a return on that investment is a much shorter period, usually a matter of a few days or weeks.
The most obvious example would be day trading where a trader is in and out of a market the same day.
Still other trading takes place over a period from a few days to a few weeks.
Most trading takes place with individual stocks and commodities, with commodity markets being the most predominant vehicle.
Investing and Trading are not the same thing. The returns you seek, the length of time it takes to achieve those returns, the amount of risk one is prepared to take, and the commitment one can make to monitor the investments dictate the strategy of whether to invest or trade.
Investing
Investing is holding an asset for a longer term, expecting it to increase in value. The most common example is investing in equity mutual funds through a retirement plan. Many of these funds are held for years and are expected to show a substantial
appreciation over the long term.
You can also invest in individual stocks and hold them for 6 to 18 months or longer, sometimes much longer. This is referred to as the "buy and hold" strategy.
Real estate would be another example of investing, unless the property is purchased for quick flipping.
Jewelry, art, stamps, and collectibles are still other examples of investing where they are kept for a long time in the hope their value appreciates.
Trading
Trading is also investing but the time frame for a return on that investment is a much shorter period, usually a matter of a few days or weeks.
The most obvious example would be day trading where a trader is in and out of a market the same day.
Still other trading takes place over a period from a few days to a few weeks.
Most trading takes place with individual stocks and commodities, with commodity markets being the most predominant vehicle.
I Think I See Gold!
I bet you are saying to yourself what in the hell is this person talking about? Now hold on before you judge me, give me a chance to redeem myself and make sense of this whole chapter. Even the title will make sense in just a short while, so just hold on to those opinions and let me have a shot - Thank You!
Let us say your house burned down and all that you were able to get out of it was you and your wife and children. Now do not get me wrong that is the most important thing to get out. At least your family is safe. Yet you are sad because everything you had is gone. All your cloths are gone. You are overwhelmed by the loss you are now suffering. Then a strange thing happens you look down in the ashes and you think you see gold in the fire. Somehow it is different; it is like all your desires.
What this means you are wondering to yourself? It hits you - your house was worth $85000 and they, (the insurance company) are willing to pay you 130,000! This amount staggers you... now you can get a new house and still have enough to get clothes, a TV, and the whole works.
So when things seem bad, look in the ashes and there is surely some gold there. I must let you know, it's from your lowest point that is when you see gold and things turn around for you and this enables you to make it to your greatest heights. Therefore, that is why you should look for gold in the fire. When things look the worst that is when we make it to our greatest heights.
What is another reason to look for the gold? Let us say your marriage is in the dumps. All you do is fight with her, always yelling at one another and all you feel is anger. How do we find gold in the fire? Instead of fueling the fire, you need to look at ways to put the fire out and this will be your gold in the ashes.
Maybe you should work on yourself instead of trying to change her, why not change yourself. Love her for who she is (there is a nugget!) Buy her a rose for no special reason and tell her you love her. You will be surprised at how she will change if you are just willing to kill her with kindness (there is another nugget!)
Therefore, I hope you see how you can see gold in any bad situation. How, with a little effort on your part, you can turn the ashes into whatever you want to. You have the power to turn the gold into anything that you want. Therefore, the next time you see ashes and a fire in a bad situation, know that your greatest triumphs come from your lowest lows.
When you see gold in the fire it may be that little voice inside of you saying hey, it is not so bad here. Is there a way we can get out of this mess and yes that IS a golden nugget - please does not waste it! It truly is a gift from God and you should act on this idea.
Please know if you look in the ashes long enough, you will see the gold! Therefore, hang in there when times get tough as victory is just around the corner. Stop and look for the gold in the ashes and the plan will be given to you before long. You will be saying I think I see gold in the fire!
I bet you are saying to yourself what in the hell is this person talking about? Now hold on before you judge me, give me a chance to redeem myself and make sense of this whole chapter. Even the title will make sense in just a short while, so just hold on to those opinions and let me have a shot - Thank You!
Let us say your house burned down and all that you were able to get out of it was you and your wife and children. Now do not get me wrong that is the most important thing to get out. At least your family is safe. Yet you are sad because everything you had is gone. All your cloths are gone. You are overwhelmed by the loss you are now suffering. Then a strange thing happens you look down in the ashes and you think you see gold in the fire. Somehow it is different; it is like all your desires.
What this means you are wondering to yourself? It hits you - your house was worth $85000 and they, (the insurance company) are willing to pay you 130,000! This amount staggers you... now you can get a new house and still have enough to get clothes, a TV, and the whole works.
So when things seem bad, look in the ashes and there is surely some gold there. I must let you know, it's from your lowest point that is when you see gold and things turn around for you and this enables you to make it to your greatest heights. Therefore, that is why you should look for gold in the fire. When things look the worst that is when we make it to our greatest heights.
What is another reason to look for the gold? Let us say your marriage is in the dumps. All you do is fight with her, always yelling at one another and all you feel is anger. How do we find gold in the fire? Instead of fueling the fire, you need to look at ways to put the fire out and this will be your gold in the ashes.
Maybe you should work on yourself instead of trying to change her, why not change yourself. Love her for who she is (there is a nugget!) Buy her a rose for no special reason and tell her you love her. You will be surprised at how she will change if you are just willing to kill her with kindness (there is another nugget!)
Therefore, I hope you see how you can see gold in any bad situation. How, with a little effort on your part, you can turn the ashes into whatever you want to. You have the power to turn the gold into anything that you want. Therefore, the next time you see ashes and a fire in a bad situation, know that your greatest triumphs come from your lowest lows.
When you see gold in the fire it may be that little voice inside of you saying hey, it is not so bad here. Is there a way we can get out of this mess and yes that IS a golden nugget - please does not waste it! It truly is a gift from God and you should act on this idea.
Please know if you look in the ashes long enough, you will see the gold! Therefore, hang in there when times get tough as victory is just around the corner. Stop and look for the gold in the ashes and the plan will be given to you before long. You will be saying I think I see gold in the fire!
Monday, September 3, 2007
World of Warcraft Gold Guide
Having enough Gold in World of Warcraft is one of the most important aspects of the game. Gold has a major effect on your game play. Gold of course has their common known usage in a mmorpg game which is used to buy and sell items from vendors and other players. In world of Warcraft, gold can be used for training. To learn new skills you are required to pay the trainer a fee. Alot of gold would be required to perfect your character. Here are some tips to help you farm World of Warcraft Gold.
Grabbing a profession early in the game can most definitely have its advantage. You are able to level up your profession easily and gain its benefits. 2 professions we highly suggest starting with is mining and skinning. As you kill animals and other creatures in World of Warcraft you can easily skin the animals and sell them to vendors or other players with a nice load sum of profit. You are also leveling your profession as well. While you're out leveling your character I'm sure you will kill a numerous amount of mobs that you can skin. The mining profession is another great profession. You will oftenly run into caves which may have some very prosperious mineral ores. Some minerals are very popular in the game and are highly demanded.
Questing in World of Warcraft is unlike any other MMORPG released. Quests are one of the biggest advantages you can have in the game. While you're out leveling grab a quest each time you get. Only takes a matter of seconds. Not only will you receive EXP from killing the mobs in the quest but you will also gain additional EXP from completing the quest along with some nice items and money. A great bonus added to help players level faster and get richer of course.
Gears in World of Warcraft can get quite expensive. Alot more expensive than just training. From levels 1-40 I highly suggest not investing any money on buying gears or items. Low level characters are not too gear dependent. The quests should be able to provide you just about everything you need. Save the extra gold you have for higher level gears.
Certain types of mobs tend to have better drops than others. From what we've noticed so far, humanoids tend to drop more gold and items than any other creature in the game. So while you're out leveling away, try to kill as many humanoids as you can.
Having enough Gold in World of Warcraft is one of the most important aspects of the game. Gold has a major effect on your game play. Gold of course has their common known usage in a mmorpg game which is used to buy and sell items from vendors and other players. In world of Warcraft, gold can be used for training. To learn new skills you are required to pay the trainer a fee. Alot of gold would be required to perfect your character. Here are some tips to help you farm World of Warcraft Gold.
Grabbing a profession early in the game can most definitely have its advantage. You are able to level up your profession easily and gain its benefits. 2 professions we highly suggest starting with is mining and skinning. As you kill animals and other creatures in World of Warcraft you can easily skin the animals and sell them to vendors or other players with a nice load sum of profit. You are also leveling your profession as well. While you're out leveling your character I'm sure you will kill a numerous amount of mobs that you can skin. The mining profession is another great profession. You will oftenly run into caves which may have some very prosperious mineral ores. Some minerals are very popular in the game and are highly demanded.
Questing in World of Warcraft is unlike any other MMORPG released. Quests are one of the biggest advantages you can have in the game. While you're out leveling grab a quest each time you get. Only takes a matter of seconds. Not only will you receive EXP from killing the mobs in the quest but you will also gain additional EXP from completing the quest along with some nice items and money. A great bonus added to help players level faster and get richer of course.
Gears in World of Warcraft can get quite expensive. Alot more expensive than just training. From levels 1-40 I highly suggest not investing any money on buying gears or items. Low level characters are not too gear dependent. The quests should be able to provide you just about everything you need. Save the extra gold you have for higher level gears.
Certain types of mobs tend to have better drops than others. From what we've noticed so far, humanoids tend to drop more gold and items than any other creature in the game. So while you're out leveling away, try to kill as many humanoids as you can.
Sunday, September 2, 2007
Coin Collecting: Coin Collecting Q&As
How do I determine if my old coins are worth anything?
Although there are exceptions, most old coins are not particularly valuable unless they are very well preserved. The best starting place for an idea of their worth is to visit the reference section of your local library. There are numerous catalogues, some for specific countries. A good general volume is the Standard Catalogue of World Coins. It offers a complete list of almost everything.
I understand older money is worth more than face value because of the silver content, is that true?
Canadian coins, from those with a face value between 10 cents and $1, and struck before 1968 are between 50 and 92 percent silver, depending on the coin and year. They are worth a bit more than face value, depending on the price of silver. If coins are in good condition, the collector's value may be even higher.
Will I ever find anything valuable in my pocket change?
Possibly. In 1991, only 459,000 25-cent coins were struck (the annual number is usually closer to 100 million). 'Mint State' versions of these coins are worth about $8. The 1973 25-cent coin and the 1969 ten-cent coin were also struck in smaller than normal numbers.
Are coins a good investment?
Yes and no. Some people have made a lot of money buying and selling coins, others have lost fortunes. If you are serious about investing in numismatics, first spend a bit of time learning. Most successful investors were knowledgeable collectors first. Good quality coins purchased at reasonable prices will appreciate, but probably no better or worse than other investments. The difference is that you'll be buying something you love, instead of things like shares in companies you know nothing about or T-Bills. Perhaps one day the coin you bought last year will have gone up in value, but the idea is to buy it so you can enjoy it now, and for as long as you own it.
For more answers to coin collecting questions, and ideas on what to collect, visit the Royal Canadian Mint website at www.mint.ca.
- News Canada
How do I determine if my old coins are worth anything?
Although there are exceptions, most old coins are not particularly valuable unless they are very well preserved. The best starting place for an idea of their worth is to visit the reference section of your local library. There are numerous catalogues, some for specific countries. A good general volume is the Standard Catalogue of World Coins. It offers a complete list of almost everything.
I understand older money is worth more than face value because of the silver content, is that true?
Canadian coins, from those with a face value between 10 cents and $1, and struck before 1968 are between 50 and 92 percent silver, depending on the coin and year. They are worth a bit more than face value, depending on the price of silver. If coins are in good condition, the collector's value may be even higher.
Will I ever find anything valuable in my pocket change?
Possibly. In 1991, only 459,000 25-cent coins were struck (the annual number is usually closer to 100 million). 'Mint State' versions of these coins are worth about $8. The 1973 25-cent coin and the 1969 ten-cent coin were also struck in smaller than normal numbers.
Are coins a good investment?
Yes and no. Some people have made a lot of money buying and selling coins, others have lost fortunes. If you are serious about investing in numismatics, first spend a bit of time learning. Most successful investors were knowledgeable collectors first. Good quality coins purchased at reasonable prices will appreciate, but probably no better or worse than other investments. The difference is that you'll be buying something you love, instead of things like shares in companies you know nothing about or T-Bills. Perhaps one day the coin you bought last year will have gone up in value, but the idea is to buy it so you can enjoy it now, and for as long as you own it.
For more answers to coin collecting questions, and ideas on what to collect, visit the Royal Canadian Mint website at www.mint.ca.
- News Canada
Why Invest Money in Stocks?
Are you considering investing in stocks? Many people have chosen stocks as their primary wealth building vehicle.
There are a ton of reasons for investing in stocks but Ill leave you with the most beneficial reasons.
When you buy a stock you are actually a partial owner of the company and if you do your research you can own a very successful company that will reward you for years to come.
Stocks on average grow over 10% a year and thats a lot more than a certificate of deposit (CD) at your local bank.
Your risk is minimal as long as you dont put all your money in one stock or in companies that are similar. Youll want to diversify some of your money into other companies.
You will be taking part in an American pastime and will be learning more and more about your finances.
You will be helping the economy when a company first sells their stock to the public they have what is called an Initial Public Offering (IPO) which brings money in for the company and helps them grow.
So you see investing your money in stocks is really a good thing and if you have some money you can afford to lose (yes stocks can go down) then you should seriously consider learning more about the stock market and investing some of your money in it.
Are you considering investing in stocks? Many people have chosen stocks as their primary wealth building vehicle.
There are a ton of reasons for investing in stocks but Ill leave you with the most beneficial reasons.
When you buy a stock you are actually a partial owner of the company and if you do your research you can own a very successful company that will reward you for years to come.
Stocks on average grow over 10% a year and thats a lot more than a certificate of deposit (CD) at your local bank.
Your risk is minimal as long as you dont put all your money in one stock or in companies that are similar. Youll want to diversify some of your money into other companies.
You will be taking part in an American pastime and will be learning more and more about your finances.
You will be helping the economy when a company first sells their stock to the public they have what is called an Initial Public Offering (IPO) which brings money in for the company and helps them grow.
So you see investing your money in stocks is really a good thing and if you have some money you can afford to lose (yes stocks can go down) then you should seriously consider learning more about the stock market and investing some of your money in it.
Saturday, September 1, 2007
investing in bonds
Among the numerous investments that a person can make that has had the greatest success and the greatest failure has been investing in bonds. Bonds can make high yields or can offer low yields. It is all based on a series of factors that investing in bonds entails. Here are the most basic ones that a person should consider.
The first factor is who is offering the investment opportunity. Some of the higher risks would be smaller businesses or the ones that are involved in something that is deemed high risk. These are usually quick turnaround bonds as the bonds are the way that the company is attempting to launch itself off the ground. These will either succeed or fail and the bonds will either be worth a lot or nothing. These are risky investments, but are also only one type of investing in bonds. Some of the larger companies use the bonds as a long term investment that will offer a lower yield, but is more stable in the returns.
The second factor that someone must consider is the maturity of the bonds. This means that if the person that is investing in bonds has to wait for ten years, then they have a better chance of reaping the rewards compared to one that is investing in bonds for a maturity of only five years.
You certainly need to have a great amount of patience when you choose this as a financial vehicle. Many people want to see an immediate return on their money and if you are investing in bonds that just isnt likely to happen. It should instead be viewed as a method of a stable income later in life. In fact, investing in bonds when young can garner a very healthy monthly income upon retirement. Therefore its been suggested that if you are an individual who is interested in investing in bonds that you see them as a part of your financial future, not present.
One motivating factor to achieving this is consider that in most cases a monetary penalty will be imposed if the bonds are negotiated before their maturity date. This is something that helps to keep people patient as they wait for their investment to mature. It is considered to be a means of getting your money to work for you.
The key thing is to know what the bonds are about before you commit. Research is essential if you want to yield monetary success when investing in bonds. You shouldnt purchase any bonds without having an in-depth understanding of what the bonds represent and the company that is offering them.
Among the numerous investments that a person can make that has had the greatest success and the greatest failure has been investing in bonds. Bonds can make high yields or can offer low yields. It is all based on a series of factors that investing in bonds entails. Here are the most basic ones that a person should consider.
The first factor is who is offering the investment opportunity. Some of the higher risks would be smaller businesses or the ones that are involved in something that is deemed high risk. These are usually quick turnaround bonds as the bonds are the way that the company is attempting to launch itself off the ground. These will either succeed or fail and the bonds will either be worth a lot or nothing. These are risky investments, but are also only one type of investing in bonds. Some of the larger companies use the bonds as a long term investment that will offer a lower yield, but is more stable in the returns.
The second factor that someone must consider is the maturity of the bonds. This means that if the person that is investing in bonds has to wait for ten years, then they have a better chance of reaping the rewards compared to one that is investing in bonds for a maturity of only five years.
You certainly need to have a great amount of patience when you choose this as a financial vehicle. Many people want to see an immediate return on their money and if you are investing in bonds that just isnt likely to happen. It should instead be viewed as a method of a stable income later in life. In fact, investing in bonds when young can garner a very healthy monthly income upon retirement. Therefore its been suggested that if you are an individual who is interested in investing in bonds that you see them as a part of your financial future, not present.
One motivating factor to achieving this is consider that in most cases a monetary penalty will be imposed if the bonds are negotiated before their maturity date. This is something that helps to keep people patient as they wait for their investment to mature. It is considered to be a means of getting your money to work for you.
The key thing is to know what the bonds are about before you commit. Research is essential if you want to yield monetary success when investing in bonds. You shouldnt purchase any bonds without having an in-depth understanding of what the bonds represent and the company that is offering them.
Can You Afford Not To Look After Your Personal Finances?
Investing is a subject a lot of people dont want to think about. And there is good reason for that. Investing seems scary. It either sounds like something only the rich do or something that only a skilled professional can do. But the truth is that investing is something that everyone can and should doas soon as possible.
Why should you start now?
Think about this. There are two ways to make money. You can exchange your time for money or you can make your money work for you. Most of us work 40 hours a week. In this case, you are trading your time for money. But wouldnt you rather earn more than you are making? If you are making $1,000, wouldnt you rather be earning $5,000? Most people think the only way to earn more is to work more. Work overtime is their motto! But there is more to life than working. Investing gives you the chance to let your money work for yousaving you time and earning you money.
But is the purpose of investing to get rich?
Some people dont invest because they think that investing is something you do to get rich. They figure theyll never earn enough to get rich, so why bother. But thats not what investing is for. Investing is a way for you to be able to maintain your current lifestyle.
Think about this: what if the company you worked for suddenly closed down? What are you going to do when you get to retirement? Sometimes working more is not a viable option. Investing gives you another source of savings and earning income. You dont invest to become a multi-millionaire (of course no one would stop you if that happens); you invest so that you can provide for yourself in the way you are accustomed to both before and after retirement.
Many people are convinced that investing is the right thing to do at this point, but, there are some misconceptions people have about investing that prevents them from actually doing it. These misconceptions are that:
Investing is too hard
Investing is too risky
You need a lot of money to invest
Lets look at each one of these misconceptions.
Investing is too hard.
You may think that investing is just too hard. But a lot of that has to do with the terminology of the investment industry. I mean who knows what Fed Fund rates, mutual funds, indexes, or blue chip stocks are? But you dont need to be scared off by a bunch of wordsin the end they are just words. Just like you probably didnt know what PMI was before you bought your first house or what APR was before you got your first credit card, you can learn what these things are. And you will find that they arent so hard to learn. And if you seek the advice of a professional, they can explain it to you.
Investing is too risky.
Some people have the idea that investing is risky. Movies such as Wall Street, no doubt, lead people to think that. But the fact is that investing is only as risky as you want it to be. Do you want to take huge risks? You can invest in international stocks. Want to play it safe? Go with bonds. The risk level is up to you and only you.
I cant afford to invest.
Many people think they cant afford to invest. But when you look at the alternatives (social security may not be there, job security is not 100%), you really have to ask yourself how can you afford not to invest. And the earlier you start, the more money you will earn. Even if its only a small amount, the money you invest today will earn you big in the future.
Investing is a subject a lot of people dont want to think about. And there is good reason for that. Investing seems scary. It either sounds like something only the rich do or something that only a skilled professional can do. But the truth is that investing is something that everyone can and should doas soon as possible.
Why should you start now?
Think about this. There are two ways to make money. You can exchange your time for money or you can make your money work for you. Most of us work 40 hours a week. In this case, you are trading your time for money. But wouldnt you rather earn more than you are making? If you are making $1,000, wouldnt you rather be earning $5,000? Most people think the only way to earn more is to work more. Work overtime is their motto! But there is more to life than working. Investing gives you the chance to let your money work for yousaving you time and earning you money.
But is the purpose of investing to get rich?
Some people dont invest because they think that investing is something you do to get rich. They figure theyll never earn enough to get rich, so why bother. But thats not what investing is for. Investing is a way for you to be able to maintain your current lifestyle.
Think about this: what if the company you worked for suddenly closed down? What are you going to do when you get to retirement? Sometimes working more is not a viable option. Investing gives you another source of savings and earning income. You dont invest to become a multi-millionaire (of course no one would stop you if that happens); you invest so that you can provide for yourself in the way you are accustomed to both before and after retirement.
Many people are convinced that investing is the right thing to do at this point, but, there are some misconceptions people have about investing that prevents them from actually doing it. These misconceptions are that:
Investing is too hard
Investing is too risky
You need a lot of money to invest
Lets look at each one of these misconceptions.
Investing is too hard.
You may think that investing is just too hard. But a lot of that has to do with the terminology of the investment industry. I mean who knows what Fed Fund rates, mutual funds, indexes, or blue chip stocks are? But you dont need to be scared off by a bunch of wordsin the end they are just words. Just like you probably didnt know what PMI was before you bought your first house or what APR was before you got your first credit card, you can learn what these things are. And you will find that they arent so hard to learn. And if you seek the advice of a professional, they can explain it to you.
Investing is too risky.
Some people have the idea that investing is risky. Movies such as Wall Street, no doubt, lead people to think that. But the fact is that investing is only as risky as you want it to be. Do you want to take huge risks? You can invest in international stocks. Want to play it safe? Go with bonds. The risk level is up to you and only you.
I cant afford to invest.
Many people think they cant afford to invest. But when you look at the alternatives (social security may not be there, job security is not 100%), you really have to ask yourself how can you afford not to invest. And the earlier you start, the more money you will earn. Even if its only a small amount, the money you invest today will earn you big in the future.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Self Serve Car Washes in the United States
In the 2003 Auto Laundry News Survey it was determined that only 10% of the Coin-op Car Washes had a web site. So if you are doing lots of individual research on car washes that are self serve, do not expect to find a lot of data on the Internet. Owners of coin-op car washes say that only 76% have internet access. The average population is 64% in the US. Not much better, so this low tech sector of the Industry seems to remain un Tech. Only 15% of coin-ops surveyed took credit cards for tokens, machines or even concession machines. Of which 17% only claimed to have concession machines, which most feel are 1/3 of their income if they had them. Only 4% had drinking water fountains. 13% had added an in bay automatic in the last five years. 51% had more than one location.
Today I visited 3 car washes that were coin ops owned by the same person. One had seven bays, another had three bays and one automatic, another had a car wash in front with 4 bays and an automatic and another car wash in the back with 4 more coin-op bays. All had attendants and machines. The survey seemed to follow the study of today. 68% said they were in middle-income areas. Only 7-9% had more than 5 car wash sites from 2000-2003 surveys and generally they were not all in only one city. Those with automatic in bay units found that those inbay units generated a gross of $5,435.00 and The average costs including Equipment was nearly $2,000.00, with the average breakdown time 2 weeks per year. 15 days. Best season was winter for the industry. Spring was also considered very good. Noon to 7 pm were the best hours. Busiest day of week was Saturdays. Only 18% have attendants. 43% had part time attendants and mostly on weekends. Average monthly gross income per bay was $1300.
The units we visited today seem to be inline maybe slightly higher than this of the Auto Laundry News Survey. All surveyed said that 2002 they made less money than previous years, which would make sense due to the lesser amount of personal monies, less money flow in this recession and lower employment figures. Also things, which plague the industry, were droughts and water shortages, restrictions and public perception about water. 20% of all owners of coin-ops are thinking of building another one. 27% said they did have other self serves in their car wash area of marketing.
Average coin-op being built cost $226K in equipment and $300K in land and improvements. This is why we are not interested in talking to poor people who think they want to build a car wash and think they will not have to work once built. We have talked to people wishing to build car washes with $30,000 down payment and think that they can build it for $45,000 I have to tell you judging by what we have learned and this survey you would not even be close.
Even with an SBA loan you need 20% down, so you would need $100K to do the deal if everything went right in most cities of any population base worthy of a good volume business. The Survey had some interesting thoughts, which said the average vacuum coin-op made $.20 per minute and each bay made $.38 per minute. We hoped you enjoyed this review of the survey to get the actual survey go to the Auto Laundry News Magazine web site.
In the 2003 Auto Laundry News Survey it was determined that only 10% of the Coin-op Car Washes had a web site. So if you are doing lots of individual research on car washes that are self serve, do not expect to find a lot of data on the Internet. Owners of coin-op car washes say that only 76% have internet access. The average population is 64% in the US. Not much better, so this low tech sector of the Industry seems to remain un Tech. Only 15% of coin-ops surveyed took credit cards for tokens, machines or even concession machines. Of which 17% only claimed to have concession machines, which most feel are 1/3 of their income if they had them. Only 4% had drinking water fountains. 13% had added an in bay automatic in the last five years. 51% had more than one location.
Today I visited 3 car washes that were coin ops owned by the same person. One had seven bays, another had three bays and one automatic, another had a car wash in front with 4 bays and an automatic and another car wash in the back with 4 more coin-op bays. All had attendants and machines. The survey seemed to follow the study of today. 68% said they were in middle-income areas. Only 7-9% had more than 5 car wash sites from 2000-2003 surveys and generally they were not all in only one city. Those with automatic in bay units found that those inbay units generated a gross of $5,435.00 and The average costs including Equipment was nearly $2,000.00, with the average breakdown time 2 weeks per year. 15 days. Best season was winter for the industry. Spring was also considered very good. Noon to 7 pm were the best hours. Busiest day of week was Saturdays. Only 18% have attendants. 43% had part time attendants and mostly on weekends. Average monthly gross income per bay was $1300.
The units we visited today seem to be inline maybe slightly higher than this of the Auto Laundry News Survey. All surveyed said that 2002 they made less money than previous years, which would make sense due to the lesser amount of personal monies, less money flow in this recession and lower employment figures. Also things, which plague the industry, were droughts and water shortages, restrictions and public perception about water. 20% of all owners of coin-ops are thinking of building another one. 27% said they did have other self serves in their car wash area of marketing.
Average coin-op being built cost $226K in equipment and $300K in land and improvements. This is why we are not interested in talking to poor people who think they want to build a car wash and think they will not have to work once built. We have talked to people wishing to build car washes with $30,000 down payment and think that they can build it for $45,000 I have to tell you judging by what we have learned and this survey you would not even be close.
Even with an SBA loan you need 20% down, so you would need $100K to do the deal if everything went right in most cities of any population base worthy of a good volume business. The Survey had some interesting thoughts, which said the average vacuum coin-op made $.20 per minute and each bay made $.38 per minute. We hoped you enjoyed this review of the survey to get the actual survey go to the Auto Laundry News Magazine web site.
When Photography Isn't the First Option
Today I hesitated, and watched the skies. Okay, they don't move - something to do with the Firmament being placed there by God, in His wisdom. But the clouds looked as if they might be getting ready to do something nice.
So I tossed a coin. Then I tossed another one, because I lost the first. This new one decided for me: I SHALL go out and see what photos I can take, even if there's nothing worth while.
The trouble is, I wanted to convince myself that there was nothing worthwhile to take a picture of. I was warm and snug at home and there was lots of coffee on tap and some good programmes on TV.
But that changed dramatically; the sky lightened, the sun peeped through, and a glorious sunset descended over the world - well, my part of it anyway. I waited a little longer, and the sky turned red - so red that it seemed on fire. I posted the pictures on the Shutter forums, and I think they're as good as it gets.
Another time, another place, another coin - and I probably wouldn't have gone outside at all. But the moral of the story is, of course: have faith, await inspiration, follow your judgements and dont forget the coffee will still be there when you get home.
Well, thats more than one moral but Im not counting. Im just musing over some great images.
Today I hesitated, and watched the skies. Okay, they don't move - something to do with the Firmament being placed there by God, in His wisdom. But the clouds looked as if they might be getting ready to do something nice.
So I tossed a coin. Then I tossed another one, because I lost the first. This new one decided for me: I SHALL go out and see what photos I can take, even if there's nothing worth while.
The trouble is, I wanted to convince myself that there was nothing worthwhile to take a picture of. I was warm and snug at home and there was lots of coffee on tap and some good programmes on TV.
But that changed dramatically; the sky lightened, the sun peeped through, and a glorious sunset descended over the world - well, my part of it anyway. I waited a little longer, and the sky turned red - so red that it seemed on fire. I posted the pictures on the Shutter forums, and I think they're as good as it gets.
Another time, another place, another coin - and I probably wouldn't have gone outside at all. But the moral of the story is, of course: have faith, await inspiration, follow your judgements and dont forget the coffee will still be there when you get home.
Well, thats more than one moral but Im not counting. Im just musing over some great images.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Can You Afford Not To Look After Your Personal Finances?
Investing is a subject a lot of people dont want to think about. And there is good reason for that. Investing seems scary. It either sounds like something only the rich do or something that only a skilled professional can do. But the truth is that investing is something that everyone can and should doas soon as possible.
Why should you start now?
Think about this. There are two ways to make money. You can exchange your time for money or you can make your money work for you. Most of us work 40 hours a week. In this case, you are trading your time for money. But wouldnt you rather earn more than you are making? If you are making $1,000, wouldnt you rather be earning $5,000? Most people think the only way to earn more is to work more. Work overtime is their motto! But there is more to life than working. Investing gives you the chance to let your money work for yousaving you time and earning you money.
But is the purpose of investing to get rich?
Some people dont invest because they think that investing is something you do to get rich. They figure theyll never earn enough to get rich, so why bother. But thats not what investing is for. Investing is a way for you to be able to maintain your current lifestyle.
Think about this: what if the company you worked for suddenly closed down? What are you going to do when you get to retirement? Sometimes working more is not a viable option. Investing gives you another source of savings and earning income. You dont invest to become a multi-millionaire (of course no one would stop you if that happens); you invest so that you can provide for yourself in the way you are accustomed to both before and after retirement.
Many people are convinced that investing is the right thing to do at this point, but, there are some misconceptions people have about investing that prevents them from actually doing it. These misconceptions are that:
Investing is too hard
Investing is too risky
You need a lot of money to invest
Lets look at each one of these misconceptions.
Investing is too hard.
You may think that investing is just too hard. But a lot of that has to do with the terminology of the investment industry. I mean who knows what Fed Fund rates, mutual funds, indexes, or blue chip stocks are? But you dont need to be scared off by a bunch of wordsin the end they are just words. Just like you probably didnt know what PMI was before you bought your first house or what APR was before you got your first credit card, you can learn what these things are. And you will find that they arent so hard to learn. And if you seek the advice of a professional, they can explain it to you.
Investing is too risky.
Some people have the idea that investing is risky. Movies such as Wall Street, no doubt, lead people to think that. But the fact is that investing is only as risky as you want it to be. Do you want to take huge risks? You can invest in international stocks. Want to play it safe? Go with bonds. The risk level is up to you and only you.
I cant afford to invest.
Many people think they cant afford to invest. But when you look at the alternatives (social security may not be there, job security is not 100%), you really have to ask yourself how can you afford not to invest. And the earlier you start, the more money you will earn. Even if its only a small amount, the money you invest today will earn you big in the future.
Investing is a subject a lot of people dont want to think about. And there is good reason for that. Investing seems scary. It either sounds like something only the rich do or something that only a skilled professional can do. But the truth is that investing is something that everyone can and should doas soon as possible.
Why should you start now?
Think about this. There are two ways to make money. You can exchange your time for money or you can make your money work for you. Most of us work 40 hours a week. In this case, you are trading your time for money. But wouldnt you rather earn more than you are making? If you are making $1,000, wouldnt you rather be earning $5,000? Most people think the only way to earn more is to work more. Work overtime is their motto! But there is more to life than working. Investing gives you the chance to let your money work for yousaving you time and earning you money.
But is the purpose of investing to get rich?
Some people dont invest because they think that investing is something you do to get rich. They figure theyll never earn enough to get rich, so why bother. But thats not what investing is for. Investing is a way for you to be able to maintain your current lifestyle.
Think about this: what if the company you worked for suddenly closed down? What are you going to do when you get to retirement? Sometimes working more is not a viable option. Investing gives you another source of savings and earning income. You dont invest to become a multi-millionaire (of course no one would stop you if that happens); you invest so that you can provide for yourself in the way you are accustomed to both before and after retirement.
Many people are convinced that investing is the right thing to do at this point, but, there are some misconceptions people have about investing that prevents them from actually doing it. These misconceptions are that:
Investing is too hard
Investing is too risky
You need a lot of money to invest
Lets look at each one of these misconceptions.
Investing is too hard.
You may think that investing is just too hard. But a lot of that has to do with the terminology of the investment industry. I mean who knows what Fed Fund rates, mutual funds, indexes, or blue chip stocks are? But you dont need to be scared off by a bunch of wordsin the end they are just words. Just like you probably didnt know what PMI was before you bought your first house or what APR was before you got your first credit card, you can learn what these things are. And you will find that they arent so hard to learn. And if you seek the advice of a professional, they can explain it to you.
Investing is too risky.
Some people have the idea that investing is risky. Movies such as Wall Street, no doubt, lead people to think that. But the fact is that investing is only as risky as you want it to be. Do you want to take huge risks? You can invest in international stocks. Want to play it safe? Go with bonds. The risk level is up to you and only you.
I cant afford to invest.
Many people think they cant afford to invest. But when you look at the alternatives (social security may not be there, job security is not 100%), you really have to ask yourself how can you afford not to invest. And the earlier you start, the more money you will earn. Even if its only a small amount, the money you invest today will earn you big in the future.
Hardness of Gold: Misconceptions!
The Scottish Heirloom Company, like most jewellery manufacturers, produces our product range in Sterling Silver, 10 kt (karat), 14kt and 18kt gold.
When choosing items in gold, customers are often reluctant to choose the higher karats of gold. This is not due to the higher prices, but they have heard that 18 kt gold is softer and will wear away faster than 10kt.
Is this correct? - The answer is a definite "NO!".
This is usually a surprise to many customers and also to, strangely enough, many jewellery stores sales staff..
This incorrect belief is kind of understandable, as it is fairly well known that pure (24 kt) gold is too soft to be used in most jewellery and has to be alloyed with other metals to make it harder and more durable. It is then believed that the more of the other metals that are added to the gold, the harder it becomes. The sales staffs in some jewellery stores, that mainly sell cheaper 10 kt gold items, also sometime state this idea in order to help sell the 10 kt items.
Here are the approximate maximum "Vickers" hardness values of the various Karats of gold. The higher the number, the harder the alloy.
10 kt ............ 170
14 kt ............ 180
18 kt ............ 230
Sterling silver .. 65.
As you can see, contrary to most people's expectations, 18 kt gold is the hardest of the alloys.
The term 'Karat', also spelled 'Carat' comes from the Greek word for the seed of the Carob tree. These seeds are very uniform in weight and were once used as standard weights when measuring very fine items. The term Karat or Carat is now also used as a measure of the purity of gold, as a number of the parts of gold by weight in every 24 parts of a Gold alloy. The other metals included in most gold alloys are usually copper, silver and zinc.
24 kt is pure gold, with no other metals.
18 kt is 18 parts gold and 6 parts total of silver and copper. (75.0% gold)
14 kt is 14 parts gold and 10 parts total of silver and copper. (58.3%)
10 kt is 10 parts weight of gold to 14 parts of other metals. (41.6%)
Because Gold is so much heavier than the other metals, the actual amount of gold, by volume, in the different alloys is much less.
10 kt = 41% by weight and 24% by volume.
14 kt = 58.55 by weight and 39% by volume.
18 kt = 75% by weight and 61% by volume.
Which is best?
We always produce items, which are designed to be Heirlooms and as such are made to last for many generations. Whether it is 10, 14 or 18 kt, it is certainly not going to wear out. My favourite is, however, 18 kt gold. It is the hardest wearing, looks good and is almost 40% heavier than 10 kt gold, so feels as gold should, - solid, and heavy!
10 kt and 14 kt alloys also make very nice items.
It usually comes down to price, with 10kt gold being around half the price of 18 kt gold.
The choice is yours!!
The Scottish Heirloom Company, like most jewellery manufacturers, produces our product range in Sterling Silver, 10 kt (karat), 14kt and 18kt gold.
When choosing items in gold, customers are often reluctant to choose the higher karats of gold. This is not due to the higher prices, but they have heard that 18 kt gold is softer and will wear away faster than 10kt.
Is this correct? - The answer is a definite "NO!".
This is usually a surprise to many customers and also to, strangely enough, many jewellery stores sales staff..
This incorrect belief is kind of understandable, as it is fairly well known that pure (24 kt) gold is too soft to be used in most jewellery and has to be alloyed with other metals to make it harder and more durable. It is then believed that the more of the other metals that are added to the gold, the harder it becomes. The sales staffs in some jewellery stores, that mainly sell cheaper 10 kt gold items, also sometime state this idea in order to help sell the 10 kt items.
Here are the approximate maximum "Vickers" hardness values of the various Karats of gold. The higher the number, the harder the alloy.
10 kt ............ 170
14 kt ............ 180
18 kt ............ 230
Sterling silver .. 65.
As you can see, contrary to most people's expectations, 18 kt gold is the hardest of the alloys.
The term 'Karat', also spelled 'Carat' comes from the Greek word for the seed of the Carob tree. These seeds are very uniform in weight and were once used as standard weights when measuring very fine items. The term Karat or Carat is now also used as a measure of the purity of gold, as a number of the parts of gold by weight in every 24 parts of a Gold alloy. The other metals included in most gold alloys are usually copper, silver and zinc.
24 kt is pure gold, with no other metals.
18 kt is 18 parts gold and 6 parts total of silver and copper. (75.0% gold)
14 kt is 14 parts gold and 10 parts total of silver and copper. (58.3%)
10 kt is 10 parts weight of gold to 14 parts of other metals. (41.6%)
Because Gold is so much heavier than the other metals, the actual amount of gold, by volume, in the different alloys is much less.
10 kt = 41% by weight and 24% by volume.
14 kt = 58.55 by weight and 39% by volume.
18 kt = 75% by weight and 61% by volume.
Which is best?
We always produce items, which are designed to be Heirlooms and as such are made to last for many generations. Whether it is 10, 14 or 18 kt, it is certainly not going to wear out. My favourite is, however, 18 kt gold. It is the hardest wearing, looks good and is almost 40% heavier than 10 kt gold, so feels as gold should, - solid, and heavy!
10 kt and 14 kt alloys also make very nice items.
It usually comes down to price, with 10kt gold being around half the price of 18 kt gold.
The choice is yours!!
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Gold Investment - 2006 Is Another Year Of Big Rally
Spot Gold price has been keep rising for the past years (2001 - 2005). Will it continue to rise in 2006? Most of the analyst say a definite "yes" this question, now the question has turned to be "How much do you think Gold price can reach?"
Someone mentioned it can reach US00 per ounce. I am reservative on this number but I think 00 is really possible. Today the gold price close at 0. Still another 0 to go !!
1) The Gold market has been bear for about 20 years. The rally has just started and very seldom will finish within a short period of time.
2) China demand for Gold is getting more and more, and supplies are starting to get short. Gold storage is always limited in the world. It will only get harder and harder to mine gold. When supply is short while demand is strong, price will naturally goes up.
3) US dollar will top very soon once the interest rate stops increasing. Weak dollar will benefit Gold price.
4) Gold is always a shelter for capital. If in any case the country becomes unstable, risk of war, or ecomony becomes worse. Investors tends to buy more gold instead of stocks.
5) It is quite clear that Gold is in Bull market cycle. It normally has 3 phases, and it is probably running the 2nd phase. In the 3rd phase, gold price will boost up and everyone will be crazy about buying gold. When this starts to happen, it is a signal the gold bull market is ending very soon.
Spot Gold price has been keep rising for the past years (2001 - 2005). Will it continue to rise in 2006? Most of the analyst say a definite "yes" this question, now the question has turned to be "How much do you think Gold price can reach?"
Someone mentioned it can reach US00 per ounce. I am reservative on this number but I think 00 is really possible. Today the gold price close at 0. Still another 0 to go !!
1) The Gold market has been bear for about 20 years. The rally has just started and very seldom will finish within a short period of time.
2) China demand for Gold is getting more and more, and supplies are starting to get short. Gold storage is always limited in the world. It will only get harder and harder to mine gold. When supply is short while demand is strong, price will naturally goes up.
3) US dollar will top very soon once the interest rate stops increasing. Weak dollar will benefit Gold price.
4) Gold is always a shelter for capital. If in any case the country becomes unstable, risk of war, or ecomony becomes worse. Investors tends to buy more gold instead of stocks.
5) It is quite clear that Gold is in Bull market cycle. It normally has 3 phases, and it is probably running the 2nd phase. In the 3rd phase, gold price will boost up and everyone will be crazy about buying gold. When this starts to happen, it is a signal the gold bull market is ending very soon.
The Basics of Real Estate Investing
Real estate investing may not be everyones cup of tea, but some people who have already tried investing in real estate know that it can be highly profitable and lead to much better quality of life. There are several keys to making significant profits in real estate investing deals. And when the deals are profitable, you will certainly be well on your way to success.
For real estate investing newbies, dont be afraid of the challenges and pitfalls you may encounter along the way. There is definitely a lot to learn, but in the long run after you have gained some experience, youll hopefully become a master at closing profitable real estate deals.
There are 5 core skills that are necessary for building a real estate investing business. These will be the key factors in creating a profitable real estate investment portfolio.
These are the 5 core skills of real estate investing:
1) You must learn when and where to find the right kind of sellers.
2) You must learn the art of being a master negotiator when it comes to closing your real estate investment deals.
3) You must be able to quickly and accurately analyze each real estate investment deal so youll know exactly when to proceed and when to pull the plug.
4) You must become an expert in all areas of real estate investing and understand such terms as lease options, cash sales, wrap mortgages, short sales and other terminology common in the real estate investing trade.
5) You should totally understand the meaning and concept of investing in real estate, including all of the financial risks and benefits.
Now is a great time to consider investing in real estate. There are great potential rewards and the effort you put forth can yield enormous monetary returns on your investment.
Your confidence level will grow when youve gained some experience and closed on your first few real estate deals. But, don't stop there...
Continue to learn about real estate investing and to develop your investment skills. In a short time you may find yourself managing a profitable and growing portfolio of investment properties.
Continue to follow your real estate investing "game plan" and always keep an eye out for the hidden investment opportunities. The opportunities are definitely out there and with a little knowledge and desire can be yours for the taking. So, why not get started in what might be a new and exciting (and profitable) career today?
Real estate investing may not be everyones cup of tea, but some people who have already tried investing in real estate know that it can be highly profitable and lead to much better quality of life. There are several keys to making significant profits in real estate investing deals. And when the deals are profitable, you will certainly be well on your way to success.
For real estate investing newbies, dont be afraid of the challenges and pitfalls you may encounter along the way. There is definitely a lot to learn, but in the long run after you have gained some experience, youll hopefully become a master at closing profitable real estate deals.
There are 5 core skills that are necessary for building a real estate investing business. These will be the key factors in creating a profitable real estate investment portfolio.
These are the 5 core skills of real estate investing:
1) You must learn when and where to find the right kind of sellers.
2) You must learn the art of being a master negotiator when it comes to closing your real estate investment deals.
3) You must be able to quickly and accurately analyze each real estate investment deal so youll know exactly when to proceed and when to pull the plug.
4) You must become an expert in all areas of real estate investing and understand such terms as lease options, cash sales, wrap mortgages, short sales and other terminology common in the real estate investing trade.
5) You should totally understand the meaning and concept of investing in real estate, including all of the financial risks and benefits.
Now is a great time to consider investing in real estate. There are great potential rewards and the effort you put forth can yield enormous monetary returns on your investment.
Your confidence level will grow when youve gained some experience and closed on your first few real estate deals. But, don't stop there...
Continue to learn about real estate investing and to develop your investment skills. In a short time you may find yourself managing a profitable and growing portfolio of investment properties.
Continue to follow your real estate investing "game plan" and always keep an eye out for the hidden investment opportunities. The opportunities are definitely out there and with a little knowledge and desire can be yours for the taking. So, why not get started in what might be a new and exciting (and profitable) career today?
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
better investing
Better Investing
There might be nothing more pleasing that watching your money grow with little effort on your part. There are a number of ways to do this, but the most common way is by investing your money in a variety of stocks, bonds, or ventures. When you dive into the investing world, you may find it is difficult and complicated, and you may not want to handle it on your own at first. You need help and advice to make better investing decisions, and to make more money as you go.
If you arent happy with simply earning interest on your money with a savings account, you need some better investing options. The next step up would be a money market account. These are something like savings accounts, but they earn a higher interest rate. The difference is that you have to have a minimum amount in your account at all times. You are essentially giving your bank permission to use your money for their investments, and they then split some of their profits with you. If you arent willing to take a huge risk with your money, this is one of the better investing options you can take.
For those who are into stocks and bonds, you have to keep a closer eye on your money. If you find you are lost, and keep losing money, you might need better investing advice. You can find any number of consultants to help you, and some will do all the work for you. They charge a commission, so if you have very little money to invest, this might not be your best option. You can also look online to find better investing tips and tricks for those who choose to handle their own investment portfolio.
When planning for retirement, you are always looking for better investing advice. You can use your companies 401K plan to save, or you can open an individual retirement account at your bank. Remember that these are both considered investments, and are not covered by the FDIC if you were to lose money. Talk to your bank representative for more information on IRAs, and call your human resources department if you have questions about your 401K.
You can also find tips for better investing by doing some research online. There are many sites devoted to better investing, and how to get the best return on your money. Dont forget about investing in property. This can mean you become a landlord, or you buy land in hopes to sell it for a profit at a future time. No matter which route you choose, you can find tips online to help you get started, and to help you remain in the black.
Better Investing
There might be nothing more pleasing that watching your money grow with little effort on your part. There are a number of ways to do this, but the most common way is by investing your money in a variety of stocks, bonds, or ventures. When you dive into the investing world, you may find it is difficult and complicated, and you may not want to handle it on your own at first. You need help and advice to make better investing decisions, and to make more money as you go.
If you arent happy with simply earning interest on your money with a savings account, you need some better investing options. The next step up would be a money market account. These are something like savings accounts, but they earn a higher interest rate. The difference is that you have to have a minimum amount in your account at all times. You are essentially giving your bank permission to use your money for their investments, and they then split some of their profits with you. If you arent willing to take a huge risk with your money, this is one of the better investing options you can take.
For those who are into stocks and bonds, you have to keep a closer eye on your money. If you find you are lost, and keep losing money, you might need better investing advice. You can find any number of consultants to help you, and some will do all the work for you. They charge a commission, so if you have very little money to invest, this might not be your best option. You can also look online to find better investing tips and tricks for those who choose to handle their own investment portfolio.
When planning for retirement, you are always looking for better investing advice. You can use your companies 401K plan to save, or you can open an individual retirement account at your bank. Remember that these are both considered investments, and are not covered by the FDIC if you were to lose money. Talk to your bank representative for more information on IRAs, and call your human resources department if you have questions about your 401K.
You can also find tips for better investing by doing some research online. There are many sites devoted to better investing, and how to get the best return on your money. Dont forget about investing in property. This can mean you become a landlord, or you buy land in hopes to sell it for a profit at a future time. No matter which route you choose, you can find tips online to help you get started, and to help you remain in the black.
Monday, August 27, 2007
Rare and Beautiful World Coins
Ideas for Collecting Coins from Around the World
Collecting world coins is a fun hobby that gives you the feeling of travelling the globe vicariously through your coins. A collection of world coins offers a unique insight into the culture and history of other countries, and encourages you to learn at least a few words of a variety of different languages. World coins can also be an interesting step into the world of coin collecting, because it is a relatively inexpensive pastime. Many of the coins are still in circulation, making them easy to find and light on the pocketbook to buy. Oftentimes, children start their coin collections with world coins for this reason.
Ideas for Collections of World Coins
While some people may enjoy collecting world coins haphazardly, simply enjoying whatever coins they happen to come across, others prefer more of a challenge. While it may be impossible to collect every coin from around the world, you can create a lovely coin collection that is challenging and fun to complete by selecting a particular theme to pursue.
The most obvious theme for a collection of world coins is a concentration on a specific country. If that idea seems a little bit stale, you can also broaden your collection by concentrating on a region or aspect of a country. For example, you could start a world coins collection from South American countries, nations where English is a national language, or from island nations.
Another interesting possibility is to combine two interests by concentrating on a favorite thing or hobby outside of coin collecting. For example, a coffee lover might collect world coins from countries that produce coffee beans, or an auto enthusiast might collect coins from countries that produce his or her favorite automobiles.
You dont have to use countries as a central point of your world coins collection, however; you can also build a collection around a specific motif on the coins themselves. Some people have collections of coins featuring a particular animal, such as an eagle or a panda bear. Others concentrate on flowers, trees, or birds. Someone interested in military history might enjoy a world coins collection featuring famous fighters, for example.
Another idea for starting a collection of world coins is to concentrate your efforts on coins from a particular year. Some people really enjoy collecting world coins that were minted in their birth year, or which commemorate another date that is important to them.
If none of those ideas appeal to you, perhaps youd like to concentrate on a specific metal used to make the world coins. While precious metals like gold and platinum are obvious choices, some people enjoy putting together collections of world coins minted from common nickel or copper.
If any of these ideas have inspired you to start a collection of world coins, you might want to pause a moment before you start building a collection, and check out the prices and availability of coins matching your desired theme. It wont be much fun to start a collection of gold bullion coins, only to realize that you cant afford more than one or two pieces. A few minutes with a world coins catalog will help you decide if your ideal theme for a collection is also feasible with your budget.
Ideas for Collecting Coins from Around the World
Collecting world coins is a fun hobby that gives you the feeling of travelling the globe vicariously through your coins. A collection of world coins offers a unique insight into the culture and history of other countries, and encourages you to learn at least a few words of a variety of different languages. World coins can also be an interesting step into the world of coin collecting, because it is a relatively inexpensive pastime. Many of the coins are still in circulation, making them easy to find and light on the pocketbook to buy. Oftentimes, children start their coin collections with world coins for this reason.
Ideas for Collections of World Coins
While some people may enjoy collecting world coins haphazardly, simply enjoying whatever coins they happen to come across, others prefer more of a challenge. While it may be impossible to collect every coin from around the world, you can create a lovely coin collection that is challenging and fun to complete by selecting a particular theme to pursue.
The most obvious theme for a collection of world coins is a concentration on a specific country. If that idea seems a little bit stale, you can also broaden your collection by concentrating on a region or aspect of a country. For example, you could start a world coins collection from South American countries, nations where English is a national language, or from island nations.
Another interesting possibility is to combine two interests by concentrating on a favorite thing or hobby outside of coin collecting. For example, a coffee lover might collect world coins from countries that produce coffee beans, or an auto enthusiast might collect coins from countries that produce his or her favorite automobiles.
You dont have to use countries as a central point of your world coins collection, however; you can also build a collection around a specific motif on the coins themselves. Some people have collections of coins featuring a particular animal, such as an eagle or a panda bear. Others concentrate on flowers, trees, or birds. Someone interested in military history might enjoy a world coins collection featuring famous fighters, for example.
Another idea for starting a collection of world coins is to concentrate your efforts on coins from a particular year. Some people really enjoy collecting world coins that were minted in their birth year, or which commemorate another date that is important to them.
If none of those ideas appeal to you, perhaps youd like to concentrate on a specific metal used to make the world coins. While precious metals like gold and platinum are obvious choices, some people enjoy putting together collections of world coins minted from common nickel or copper.
If any of these ideas have inspired you to start a collection of world coins, you might want to pause a moment before you start building a collection, and check out the prices and availability of coins matching your desired theme. It wont be much fun to start a collection of gold bullion coins, only to realize that you cant afford more than one or two pieces. A few minutes with a world coins catalog will help you decide if your ideal theme for a collection is also feasible with your budget.
What is Stock Investing?
Are you frustrated in your effort to learn about stock investing? Here is a short overview to stock investing.
Stock investing is a popular tool that many use for creating wealth. Anyone from teenagers to retirees can own stock and many of them do. You can never be too old or too young to be an investor but the faster you start the better off you will most likely be.
So what are stocks anyway?
Stocks are just pieces of a company that you can buy or sell. Basically you become part owner in a company and when the company is doing well usually the stock will do quite well since other investors will want to invest in the company so they can profit.
Why invest in stocks?
People invest in stocks for many reasons, the most obvious one is you can make money doing it but there are other reasons such as it is nice to take part in this pastime and can be a fun and rewarding hobby if you work at it.
What do I need do stock investing?
Before you invest in stocks youll need to open up a brokerage account a broker I use is called Scottrade you can find them here: http://www.scottrade.com/ after you setup the account you need to research stocks and then choose which ones you think would do the best and then take action and invest in the companies.
Are you frustrated in your effort to learn about stock investing? Here is a short overview to stock investing.
Stock investing is a popular tool that many use for creating wealth. Anyone from teenagers to retirees can own stock and many of them do. You can never be too old or too young to be an investor but the faster you start the better off you will most likely be.
So what are stocks anyway?
Stocks are just pieces of a company that you can buy or sell. Basically you become part owner in a company and when the company is doing well usually the stock will do quite well since other investors will want to invest in the company so they can profit.
Why invest in stocks?
People invest in stocks for many reasons, the most obvious one is you can make money doing it but there are other reasons such as it is nice to take part in this pastime and can be a fun and rewarding hobby if you work at it.
What do I need do stock investing?
Before you invest in stocks youll need to open up a brokerage account a broker I use is called Scottrade you can find them here: http://www.scottrade.com/ after you setup the account you need to research stocks and then choose which ones you think would do the best and then take action and invest in the companies.
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