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kubrickscube · 2 years

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At the Eleventh Hour

Hi. How's it going?

As you all should know by now, any placements mentioned here, if it doesn't sound like your experience in life, should not be quickly chalked up as incorrect. There may be other aspects ganging up on a certain planet or what not.

► Mars, regardless of the sign, if placed in one of the Earth Houses are usually big spenders.

► Neptune and Uranus, when together in the same House and/or Sign, can cause paranoia over that house as it will be the area where you think you have control but in reality, you do not. I may post more on this, but I am still trying to look at it in every angle (hehe) so... yeah.

► While I agree that Mercury conjunct Mars are the worst ones when it comes to debate, it is only because if there are no other planets backing up Mercury or Mars. Sun conjunct Mercury isn’t good either if you already have the Mercury conjunct Mars, as it will only reinforce that the native has to prove that they are right no matter what. Got a big ego.

► Aside from Venus, you can also look at someone’s Jupiter sign to check if you will both have similar takes on life.

► Venus in a Cardinal sign is what I think of when I see descriptions of how Venus in a Fixed sign acts towards a relationship. It is also one of the Planets where a Cardinal sign's desire of power shows the most, along with Pluto.

► Venus in a Fixed sign is what I think of when someone tells a story of how a Venus in a Mutable sign acts. After all, "Commitment" is one of the many words associated with Fixed signs.

► Venus in a Mutable sign is what I think of when someone says how a Venus in a Cardinal sign acts in a relationship. While they are flighty, Mutable signs almost always sticks to one, even if temporarily.

► Ah yes, Pluto in Virgo. Half of the Baby Boomers and Gen X. Thinking they already figured it out and knows everything there is to know, yet is afraid to be criticized by those younger than them.

► Pluto in Libra and their need to fucking save the world when all they are doing is adjusting their tone of voice to whoever they are talking to.

► Pluto in Scorpio and Sagittarius keeps on clashing. The former only views the world in a black and white frame, while the latter can understand everything that is happening around them but is sometimes too dumb to act.

► In a few years or so, Pluto in Capricorn will join the aforementioned signs in the fight. Spoiler: Pluto in Scorpio generation will be the one who will watch the two clash.

Basically:

I did not bother putting in Pluto in Leo gen bc… I’m too lazy to drag their asses.

► Any water sign ruling the 9th House, from what I've noticed, never hold grudges and is always.... out there.

► Moon conjunct Ascendant people usually has deep set eyes, no matter the ethnicity. Also, can be a mimic if they want to.

► Venus in the 4th House people would rather stay single than marry someone who's mindset is not similar to theirs.

► Mars square Pluto is an aspect that is most likely to explode out of nowhere compared to the others (Opposition, Trine, Sextile, & Conjunction). I did read a post here that Squares are more on the outside while the Opposition is more on internal. I stand corrected, it is Squares that deals more inwardly while characteristics of Oppositions are more shown outwardly. (If you know the post that I'm talking about, please post the link under this post so I can immediately put it on for others to read it as well)

► Moon in the 1st House people are always accused of being/acting childish. Just because they wear their heart on their sleeve doesn't mean they're childish.

► You may be talking to a person and they seem normal then BOOM their Uranus is in the 4th House.

► The King of Horror, Vincent Price, has Venus in his 5th House. Yep. He's an art collector and advocate after all. I'll say this, the most nicest people in Hollywood are the ones that works mainly on horror genre.

Uranus in 4th probably.

Reminder: All placements, signs, and aspects are welcome in this blog.

► Mars in the 5th House people belongs to the "let the wind lead" club. The most go-getter placement. They are like the pokemon in Pokemon Go, you'll find one in the mountains where only 2 people crosses it weekly.

► Leo + Pisces placements saying "I am the fantasy" and everyone agreeing to it. I also agree lmao they're the Universe's favorite.

That's all for this post. Life keeps on throwing hands whenever I try to write this, that's why it's taken this long. And for that, I apologize! I'll try to be more consistent (lol) in the future.

As always, if you want to add something you are free to do so. You spotted something confusing or want to clarify things? You’re also free to do so. Thank you for reading up until this point.

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pinercorporate · 2 years

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Voipraider forum

#Voipraider forum how to

#Voipraider forum free

Regardless I am in europe so it won't matter. If I had a good connection, how is the sound quality? I am noticing when I do a tracert it goes all the way to the UK for the Sip server.

#Voipraider forum free

Hehe, there isn't really any guaranteed free VoIP, but just free offers for the time being, until.Ību_sme wrote: ↑I have a crap connection that won't work with any VOIP providers at the moment (Shaw Extreme!).

#Voipraider forum how to

Well, I did read yesterday, however (constructive criticism), you should edit it with info on how to add phonegnome along with TPAD.Īlso, tpad registered with does not seem to work so far.for me.it says this when I call after registering,or at least what it sounds to me: WEASELS HAVE EATEN OUR PHONE SYSTEMįinally, when using Gtalk2Voip someone calling hears: RING RING RING RING RING(differerent from others) Nothing, it is during this nothing that your phone actually starts ringing (at least for the 4 different numbers I've tried)Īnyways, the guides I've posted now have screenshots of what things should look like, should be easier for people to set up whichever way they go! Now since voxalot is becoming paid, this new alternative method will work well and its FREE. It doesnt matter if you use tpad or nimbuzz or any other provider. Yesterday i posted another workaround to bypass any call forwarding with SIP. You have been a great help to get me started with this Personally I would suggest paying with PayPal, and funding the PayPal payment with a credit card (giving yourself at least two dispute resolution possibilities, PayPal and your CC company, while avoiding having your credit card charged continuously) Note: Please be careful with Betamax services, they are known to have billing issues. (Reported issues with using SIP for calling, SIP calls are charged higher and calls that are supposed to be free may actually be charged when using SIP) (This was their offer to compete with Skype)įreeDays: Unspecified Minutes/week/120 Days (*in order to call a person in one of the free destinations, you have to add this person to your contact list ) Mobile Access Numbers (Country Specific) : Ĭredit Expiry: Never (10 Euro gets you the FreeDays Package and 5 Euro Credit)įreeDays: 300min/week/365 days (3.9 euro cent connection fee applies to all calls) (Reported that SIP Calls are charged 3 euro cents higher than advertised) (This is meant to be used like a calling card) FreeDay Weekly Minute limit/FreeDay Expiry period When considering each service look for the following: Their free calling lists change constantly, and they are different from one service to the next. Keep in mind that transferring credit from one to the other is not possible. Check here for rate comparison: īetamax offers a number of services, that on first appearance look different, yet follow the same model. There are a number of providers providing reasonably priced calls. Once more out of space, so in continuation:Ĭheap Calls/Rate Comparison/The Betamax Servicesġ.

#Voipraider forum

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hualianff · 3 years

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More Than This VI 《V》

It’s no surprise XL gains his own taste of fame after walking the red carpet with one of the most sought-after actors in the country. He doesn’t mind it, going as far as to create a few social media accounts to interact with fans and scroll through their photos and edits of him. He has a few fan sites too, but only for fancy events where he chooses to be recognized in public.

XL and HC agreed before sharing their relationship with the public that they would maintain a strong sense of privacy when it came to their personal lives. They only share what they want to. The paparazzi who manage to take photos without permission are immediately disciplined so it doesn’t happen again.

(“I can’t believe you did it.”

“Hmm, Gege said he was okay with it.”

“I know! But I didn’t expect you to actually....” XL stares at a recent selfie of them HC had posted on his Twitter, taken the night HC won his award. “We look like we just had sex.”

“Nobody’s gonna know.”

XL raises an unimpressed eyebrow at his boyfriend. HC insists again.

“Nobody’s gonna know-”

“They’re gonna know,” XL says with a sigh, pointing to the hickey marks clearly visible on the photo. HC rolls over closer to XL in their bed, scrutinizing the image on XL’s phone.

“Oh, I didn’t see those when I posted the photo.”

“San Laaang!” XL cries, pushing at the taller man’s shoulder before burying his face into his pillow. HC makes XL breakfast in bed as an apology and promises to not drunk-post anything again.)

Eight months after officially dating–which is over two years since they met–HC asks XL to move in with him. XL doesn’t even need to think about his answer, a simple “Yes! Yes please!” escaping his lips. Both HC and XL’s faces light up with overjoyed smiles.

They seem to have had the same idea about where to live, purchasing a home they’ve been eyeing for months! The best aspects include a massive yard (front, side, and back) for XL to tend to, a hot tub, and a spacious living and dining room area to entertain guests. It’s not the grandest or most impressive residence by size or feature. In fact, the first months have them living in a half-finished, rusty house with the prettiest garden you’ve ever seen.

It gradually gets better. HC and XL knew they would have to do a lot of work to improve the shape of their home. Over the next year, they repair and remodel the house themselves, simultaneously adding value to the property and curating the style to fit their dream home. XL makes sure to post progress photos on his social media. His most recent selfie of HC and himself in hardware glasses got over 500k likes! He pinned HC’s comment that said, “Gege is my own very handyman!”

(HC, in a sleeveless tee, shorts that show off his ass, hair pulled back into a high bun: “Gege, you’re the boss now. Tell me what to do.”

XL, struggling not to gawk at HC’s side boobs: “O-okay, first, can you smash those cabinets-”

Cue them making out against the counter when it’s the only part of the kitchen that is fully done.)

***

Having a partner who considers the outdoors as a second home is a special experience. XL often takes HC on dates to national parks and plant nurseries. They go on weekend camping trips where XL teaches HC how to properly filter water, summit long stretches of terrain, and stay warm during cold nights with below-freezing temperatures.

(HC, trying to fit into XL’s sleeping bag: “Hi, gege-”

XL: “San Lang, you have your own sleeping bag that you can actually fit in.”

HC: ‘But I’m cold. Gege helps keep me warm.”

XL: “Fine. But let’s use yours because it’s bigger.”

HC, kissing XL’s forehead: “Thank you, my love.”)

On their hikes, XL points to different plants, explaining their origins and why he finds each one particularly beautiful. At first, HC picks up random flowers on the way home and then he asks XL about what flower fate gave him that day to gift his beloved. (“San Lang, that’s not allowed!”) HC eventually stores all the random facts in his mind, always eager to listen to XL talking about his passion. He also learns to keep his hands from digging up “poor, helpless plants from their home soil.”

However, this unfortunately doesn't prevent HC from accidentally squishing some plants in their yard that he thought were just weeds.

(HC, thinking he’s a good partner: “Get out, stupid weeds. CHOP CHOP!”

XL: “SAN LANG STOP, WHAT ARE YOU DOING!?”

HC: “Gege always works so hard. I just wanted to help you in the yard today because you deserve it.” 🥺

XL: *sigh* “I appreciate the gesture, San Lang. But those particular grasses took months to grow, and you just killed them-“)

***

Countless media outlets try to stir up trouble like they typically do with celebrities. Especially when HC has roles that involve romance, articles claiming HC and XL are on the brink of breaking up receive lots of attention. However, what gains more attention are the videos the couple posts on Youtube or Instagram live of their reactions to their “scandals.”

(XL, reading a headline: “Actor bachelor Hua Cheng and co-star Yushi Huang seem to be cozying up after a late-night shoot.’”

HC: “I’m not a bachelor, the fuck?”

XL, smiling: “You could be. Me as well. We can be bachelors together.”

HC, chuckling: “All right. If gege is, then so am I.”

The comments: “That doesn’t make any sense!?”

HC, reading another headline: “HC’s lover found with a mysterious third party??”

XL, exclaiming: “Oh, that’s Shi Qingxuan! You know, the designer for all our red carpet outfits!” 🥰🥰

HC: *nodding along*

XL, cheekily: “-and my secret second-lover”

HC: *blanches* “What.”

XL: “Kidding!!!! San Lang is the only one for me, hehe.” *kisses HC’s cheek* “Okay, next one!”)

Everyone watching the videos is 50% confused and 50% entertained as HC and XL make light of any drama the media portrays them in. Viewers accept that of course, the rumors aren’t true; HC and XL are still very much in love.

They’re in love with each other and will continue falling for many years to come.

***

HC doesn’t like watching himself on screen. However, he does enjoy previewing his own movies for the first time with his boyfriend.

While XL watches the new movie, HC observes XL’s reactions. It helps that XL is a conversational movie watcher too. XL’s narrations consist of horny comments during the sexual scenes (“Ooh, that’s hot. Nice tongue.” “Thank you?”), side remarks about the plot and characters (“San Lang, your character is very rude.” “...”), and dramatic reactions to the huge reveal scenes where HC becomes a human punch bag. (“Oh my goooosh, San Lang!! It was him all along- AHH!!”)

As a perfectionist, something you have to be in HC’s field of work, HC is incredibly self-critical of his performance. Which is another reason why it’s nice to have XL watch alongside with, who never has a shortage of praises for his boyfriend.

(HC: “Fuck, why did they leave this shot in the final? I’m supposed to be mourning for my dead lover but instead, I look like I’m crying out of daddy issues. Why did no one tell me!? It looks so bad-” *pointing to himself on the screen* “-stop looking so constipated-!”

XL, squeezing HC’s nape and massaging his shoulders: “San Lang, no one thinks that except for you. You did everything perfectly. Please acknowledge your hard work and just enjoy the movie.”

HC: *sigh* “You’re right. Okay. Thanks, gege.”

A beat of silence. HC cuddles closer to XL.

HC: “Love you.”

XL: “Love you too.”)

***

XL now knows HC’s movies well enough to quote HC’s lines in his movies to make him laugh. HC happily indulges him, questioning after breaking character, “Gege, are you sure I’m the actor out of the two of us?”

One time, HC and XL are in their kitchen re-enacting a scene with HC as the investigator going to a bartender for more information on his suspect. HC has XL caged against the counter, asking in a teasing manner, “How can I repay you for your help tonight?”

XL lowers his eyelids, looking up through his lashes, flawlessly depicting his character. “Any restrictions on your offer?”

“No, darling. Name a price, a brand, a desire. Right now, anything is on the table,” HC says huskily. XL slyly bites his lip.

“Anything?”

“Anything.”

XL brings a hand up to cup HC’s jaw, then smooths it down his neck, traveling down his bare chest. XL tilts his head to expose his neck, wanting to build up his boyfriend’s anticipation. But before he can say his next line, HC effortlessly throws XL over his shoulder like a bag of rice.

“San Lang, wait, this is not how it went in the movie!” XL shouts, a little dizzy from the sudden lift turning him upside down. HC takes long strides to their bedroom, plopping XL on their mattress and blanketing him with his larger frame.

HC only utters a husky “we’re improvising” before diving down to devour XL’s lips. XL’s arms hook around HC’s neck, holding him impossibly close.

***

After a filming shoot where HC’s character gets beaten up–HC performing his own stunts–he heads home beyond exhausted. He just wants to take a relaxing shower and cuddle his boyfriend in their warm bed.

HC arrives at their house a little past midnight. He opens the door and finds XL’s back facing him, quietly humming a song as he takes care of the vase in the living room. The sight makes HC smile.

However, as XL turns around, the vase slips from his hands and explodes into pieces on the ground.

“San Lang! What happened to you!?” XL cries out, the panic in his voice only comparable to the day he had confessed. HC stands in the doorway confused. Was something wrong with his appearance?

XL is on him in an instant, his pupils shaking as he frantically asks, “Does it hurt a lot? What happened!?”

HC blinks, expression blank as he still doesn't understand what has freaked XL out. But as the shorter man gently caresses HC’s face, it suddenly hits him.

The make up!

HC urgently starts rubbing the fake bruises off his face. “Gege, I’m okay! It’s just make up, none of this is real. See?” He holds his hands out for XL to see as the pigment stains HC’s palms. “I’m so sorry! San Lang is dumb, he didn’t mean to make you worry,” HC murmurs as he takes XL between his arms. He really loves this man too much.

XL’s teary eyes shine glimmer as HC embraces him. “Y-you’re sure you’re okay?”

HC nods, leaning into the slender hand that cups his cheek.

“Thank goodness,” XL breaths out as he buries his face into HC’s neck. His next words are slightly muffled. “It looks…so realistic.”

“Yeah, the make up artists are all quite talented, aren’t they?”

XL clings tighter to HC.

“Very much so. Let’s shower so we can properly wash it off.”

“All right,” HC says. “Wait, we?”

XL tugs HC toward the master bathroom.

“Hush, let’s go.”

***

They lay in bed together after four long months of separation. Both of them had been in different parts of the country; HC filmed a drama series while XL traveled for several high-profile projects. Their respective busy work schedules limited communication to brief video chats and text messages, which never seemed enough.

Now, with his head resting on HC’s chest, their legs overlapping comfortably, XL finally feels like he’s where he belongs.

“Why did you choose me?”

Tactical fingers massage XL’s scalp, lulling him into a serene state of bliss. XL nuzzles further into his boyfriend-sized pillow.

“It’s not like I can choose who I fall in love with, Gege,” HC states with a light chuckle. “But if you want an answer, it’s because you are everything I’ve ever wanted in a partner.”

XL looks up at his boyfriend, mouth forming a shape of an O.

“That simple? Even when we made a deal to have no strings attached?” XL asks. HC groans at the reminder of their initial agreement.

“Yes, which was a dumb decision on my part.”

“I agreed to it too. We were both dumb.”

They are silent for a moment. It’s not the first time they’ve talked about or referenced their insecurities when it came to confessing their feelings. XL’s luck when it came to dating someone who could love him for every part of him was practically nonexistent. HC’s constant grappling for his self-identity and worth rendered most of his relationships superficial. And temporary.

Always temporary.

“I can’t believe you thought I didn’t like your plants though. They’re so pretty. And fascinating.” HC says, breaking the silence.

“They take up half our living room space.”

“So? You work with plants all day. They’re bound to be a part of your personal life as well.”

XL’s heart bursts with a sudden fondness. It’s a wonderful thing to be appreciated for the little things.

“I’m glad you think so,” he says happily. HC hums in response, sending vibrations to where XL’s cheek lays on his chest. “I can’t believe I didn’t know you were a famous actor for the first three months we…”

“Met up for sex?” HC finishes with an impish grin.

“Yes,” XL laughs.

“It was nice not to be recognized for once. With you, I could just be myself,” HC says with ease he never thought he would be able to do. He’s struggled with letting himself be vulnerable his whole life. It turns out, HC just had to find the right person. And thank god he did. XL is more than HC’s outlet from his career. He’s become HC’s closest friend who knows him the best; he is HC’s number one supporter in any endeavor he pursues; he makes HC feel important. XL sees and loves HC for who he is. No amount of fame or wealth could come close to comparison.

“Gege?”

“Hmm?”

“Does it ever bother you that my life is always everyone else’s business?” HC softly asks.

“Well, the fame can be a bit…uncomfortable,” XL admits. “But you’re an amazing actor. And a remarkable person. I can’t blame your fans for loving you so much, you know? I also got to ride in a limo-“

“Which you rode very well-”

XL flicks his boyfriend’s forehead.

“You’re so predictable.”

“You would’ve said the same thing given the chance. Don’t lie, gege.”

They go back and forth a little longer, never once creating unnecessary distance between each other as they roll around until they’re on their sides. Facing each other in their bed that’s been vacant for months, HC and XL are inseparable.

“As I was saying, fame is something that comes with your job–your passion. You can’t control it, nor does it solely characterize who you are. Besides, I get to be a part of your life! That’s all that really matters,” XL continues. He shifts forward so their bodies are closely pressed together. XL plants a kiss on HC’s chin, then whispers a confession that tilts HC’s entire world on its axis.

“I’ve been waiting my whole life for someone like you.”

HC’s world spins and spins until all that he sees is his beloved, gleaming brighter than all the galaxies without the power to disrupt their orbit. He wraps his arms around XL and kisses the top of his head.

“Me too, Gege.”

Bonus:

HC watches wearily as XL salivates at a showering scene where HC’s bare ass flashes in the frame. XL turns to HC with a serious look in his eyes.

“San Lang! Hiking has done your ass wonders.”

XL sneaks a grope to a meaty cheek. HC chokes.

***

“You can’t be late to your own premiere!” XL cries incredulously.

“Try me,” HC purrs into XL’s ear, delicately kissing the lobe.

XL gasps as teasing hands roam around his torso, one of them slipping down to cup his behind. He vaguely thinks about how SQX is expecting them in the next hour to help with their red carpet outfits. But when hungry lips attach to the sensitive column of his neck, XL is a goner.

“Gege doesn’t have to do any work. Just lay back and look pretty.”

(Brainchild with @no-one-says-hi!)

#tgcf #heavenly official's blessing #hualian #hualian au #cerdrabbles #fluff #Actor HC #Landscaper XL #fine.

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iolitewitchcraft · 7 years

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How to Buy Crystals from Any Source

A few times now, in my Mineral Mondays posts, I’ve mentioned trusting your seller.

But sometimes, sellers can’t give you correct information about your crystal. So in this post, I’ll break it down and discuss what to look for (and what to be cautious of) when you’re buying.

Crystal Shops

Crystal shops are great. I’m guilty of visiting crystal shops in my area almost every weekend (I even work at them sometimes!). My favorite part about them is they often have no idea what they have. This can be both a positive and a negative. See, if a seller has no idea what they’re really selling, you might find things like iolite to be ridiculously overpriced, but mixed in with those iolite crystals there might be a rare bloodshot iolite that would sell for far more somewhere else.

However, crystal shops are often guilty of selling things as more valuable stones, when in reality they’re just quartz, glass, or even plastic. This is not the fault of the seller in almost every case. Because crystal shop owners usually focus on the spiritual and magickal side of crystals, they aren’t able to immediately pick up on their suppliers selling them “fake” stones. Usually, it’s not even directly their supplier that’s getting sneaky - it’s someone way further up the line. However, shops have a responsibility to know what they’re selling - if this happens to you, bring it to the attention of the shop owner. A good shop will listen and resolve the issue, while an untrustworthy shop might try to make excuses.

Here are some things to look out for at crystal shops:

❌ Sellers who push really hard to get you to buy, or generally give you weird vibes while selling you a stone. Trust your gut! ✔️ Sellers who are willing to admit that they don’t know. A seller honest about not knowing is usually also honest with what they do know. ❌ Sellers who try to guilt you into buying a stone you don’t want (”Don’t pick it because of the color, it’s the energy that’s important!” If I want color, let me buy for the color). ✔️ Sellers who also carry small specimens behind the counter. If they’re selling the more rare and valuable stuff, they probably have at least a vague idea of what they have. ❌ Prices that are too good to be true. As much as we’d love to believe they are, no one is selling you a fine ruby for just $40, nor are they selling you that rare phosphophyllite for $12. ✔️ On the other hand, prices that are all over the place can be a good sign if you’ve educated yourself. It indicates a somewhat clueless seller, and if you know more than the seller, you can look for bargain prices.

Online Crystal Shops

I am so sorry to tell you this, guys, but I would almost never buy anything rarer than fluorite from an online crystal shop.

Why? Because, first of all, they usually never carry anything rarer than fluorite, so it’d be hard to find. Secondly, when you combine the lack of knowledge from a brick-and-mortar crystal shop with the inability to see and handle your crystal before purchasing it, you’re way more likely to end up with something you didn’t want. Plus, shipping costs ramp up the prices so much sometimes that it’s just not worth it.

However, I understand that you might be low on spoons, or not have a shop in your area, or something like that. So maybe you’re going to buy online. While there are better sources than crystal shops, sometimes something just calls to you. That’s okay. Here are some pointers to help you make sure your online crystal shop is trustworthy:

❌ High prices for subvarieties of amethyst. I like to use amethyst as an “indicator stone”, because in almost any form, it’s not particularly rare or valuable. A piece of chevron amethyst should be priced the same as a piece of regular amethyst. If the pricing is very different, consider looking elsewhere. ✔️ A clean, intuitive website interface. If they’re upfront about what they sell, and appear trustworthy and customer-oriented, they’re more likely to be trustworthy. ❌ Easily corrected errors and/or trying to make certain information difficult to find. Are they spelling fluorite ‘flourite’? What about selling both green amethyst and praseolite (the exact same stone) for different prices? Those could be mistakes, yeah, but if they repeatedly make errors like that, they probably simply aren’t educated about what they’re selling, so it’s more likely they’ll have been fooled somewhere higher up on the buying chain. ✔️ Providing lots of information on the stones they carry. Where were they mined? While it’s often impossible to answer that question, if they can tell you a probable source, they’ve likely done their research. ❌ Photographs that aren’t of the exact stone you’re buying. I get it, sometimes it’s easier to take a picture of one and say “all the others are similar”. For tumbled stones it’s usually fine. But rough crystals especially are all so unique, and you want to know exactly what you’re getting.

Online Mineral Shops and Auctions

These are one of my favorite sources for rare, unusual, and high-quality stones. Unlike online crystal shops, they’re not only selling to the average person - they’re selling to people who have been in the gem and jewelry industry for years, people who are trained mineralogists and gemologists, and people who have the power and influence to cause a lot of problems for the company if they’re deceived.

This means that most of these places are forced to be trustworthy. Also, they usually carry some really cool stuff, sometimes at incredible prices. However, because these are geared towards a different audience of buyers, the gemstones will generally be higher quality and therefore more expensive. If a quartz crystal or a tumbled apatite is what you’re looking for, it probably isn’t worth it to shop at these places. But if you want a benitoite, a faceted cerussite, or something equally rare and unusual, you’ll have better luck finding it here. Also, check if your auction site has a no reserve section - you might be able to buy a stone for an amazingly low price.

Here are some pointers to help you find a trustworthy online mineral store:

❌ It’s small or not a well-known website. Sometimes these little sites are “diamonds in the rough” (hehe) but for the most part, I prefer to stay away from them. There are exceptions. Good, honest smaller companies are definitely out there, and if you prefer to support these, great! Just be extra-critical when choosing a smaller website to buy from. ✔️ Sellers on the auction site must be verified to sell. This means the auction site has checked that the sellers they’re hosting are legit, and they aren’t ripping people off. ❌ There’s no way to easily contact your seller. If you can’t talk to them, you won’t be able to get a feel for whether they’re honest. This is most important for independently owned online shops (less important for auction sites). ✔️ Lots of information is provided about each and every stone. Unless you’re buying in bulk (in which case they should give averages and approximations), you should be able to access clear pictures, the dimensions of your stone (and/or the carat weight), and a description of its color, clarity, and general appearance. ❌ The seller advertises that there’s been a new deposit of the crystal found, or makes another similar claim - word travels fast in the gem world, and if a quick Google search shows nothing but their site, it’s probably a scam.

My personal favorite online gemstone auction site is Gem Rock Auctions.

Jewelry Stores and Gemstone/Mineral Shops

Despite their reputation, most jewelry stores are trustworthy. It’s just that when one does try to scam their customers, it’s all over the news, so it makes the bad stores seem way more common than they are (like a lot of things these days, actually. But I won’t get into that). Still, it’s good to be educated and prepared.

I know these two kinds of stores are pretty different and I’ve lumped them together, but they’re sort of similar in the “red flags” and “green flags” to look out for. Keep in mind some jewelry stores will have pushier “car salesman” style selling techniques. This is simply due to the value of the items they’re selling, and the need to keep their store running - insurance on those diamonds can get expensive, and they have to pay the bills! Don’t let these selling techniques guilt you into buying, though. Don’t buy unless you’re comfortable and ready.

❌ The seller is too pushy and makes you uncomfortable. A little pushiness is okay, because that’s often how jewelry salespeople are trained, but they should be able to sense if it’s making you uncomfortable and tone it down. ✔️ The seller is open and happy to tell you as much as they can about the gemstone you’re buying. ❌ The seller doesn’t answer your questions. Sometimes, a seller who isn’t knowledgeable will dodge questions, or hesitate and make up an almost-answer. Listen carefully and think critically. Remember that “I don’t know” is a valid answer - a seller who says “I don’t know” is far more trustworthy than one who spews a bunch of information but can’t explain any of it. ✔️ Specimens are labeled clearly with the name of the mineral and the source. Sometimes the source is unknown - if so, the seller should be clear about this as well, and perhaps offer some possibilities. Jewelry store salespeople may be able to tell you the sources for their diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds. If so, great! If not, it normally isn’t a big deal. ❌ Sellers don’t disclose important things about your stone. Disclosure is super important - if they can’t answer “what should I know about caring for this stone?” you might need to think twice about buying from them. ✔️ The seller allows you to speak and voice your opinions. Maybe this isn’t really a deciding factor, but I know that when I shop for stones, if a seller is rude and talks over me, I just won’t buy from them. A seller who is polite and passionate about what they’re selling is much more trustworthy.

Sellers at Gem and Mineral Shows

Gem and mineral shows are my absolute favorite place for buying gems and crystals. 100%, hands down, my favorite. I love them.

Why? You see a mix of people from all of the above backgrounds. You see a huge variety of stones in one place. Prices are usually amazing. Sellers are trustworthy and knowledgeable. Plus, they’re usually crowded with people just like you - geeking out over all these amazing crystals!

So, what to look for?

✔️ Sellers who are happy to answer your questions about their stones. ✔️ Everything is clearly labeled and easy to see (but you might have to ask). ✔️ Sellers only bring out a few stones at a time if they’re in a case. If they throw the whole lot on the counter and turn around to help someone else, I’d raise an eyebrow at the value of their merchandise. ✔️ Sellers who are happy to point you to other sellers at the show if they don’t have what you’re looking for, but the other seller might. ❌ The seller ignores you or is very dismissive of you because you’re young, aren’t wearing expensive-looking clothing, are with a friend, or any other similar reason. Sellers have lost business from me for this, because I am young, and I often dress casually to these events, so I'm often ignored in favor of people who look like they have more money.

Other Sources

Eventually, you may come across a source I didn’t go over here. You may make contact directly with a gem dealer, or you might end up at an estate sale. Museum gift shops are also a great source for crystals. Since I can’t cover literally every possible place you might buy a crystal, the best advice I can give is to always think critically about what the seller tells you, and look at the crystal carefully (learn about that particular crystal first, if you can) before you buy.

In General

Educate yourself as much as you can about the stone before spending any significant amount on it. The internet is a great resource!

If the price is too good to be true, it probably is.

Except no-reserve auctions! Check these for amazingly low prices.

Most sellers are trustworthy, because in such a small industry, reputation is everything.

Ask questions - sellers should be happy to answer.

“I don’t know” is a good answer.

The seller’s top priority should be making you feel comfortable and confident in your purchase.

If something feels off, don’t buy.

#crystals #crystal witch #gemstones #gems #witchy #witchcraft #witch

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tyingluseends-blog · 7 years

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Before we continue the conversation about vendors and thoughtful questions to ask when meeting with different vendors, I wanted to let y'all know how my first experience with wedding dresses went!

My overall thought: LOVED it! It was such a great time getting to play dress up in the most gorgeous gowns. I hadn't really intended on starting the process just yet, as you typically start 9-12 months out from your wedding date to ensure proper ordering/receiving time and time for alterations.

However, my older sister and niece were in town finally so I wanted them to get to come with me at least once. Addi loved all the pretty things she could get her hands on and made an exceptional helper with trains and zippers!

We tried a cute little local shop near my family's house in NOVA and had a wonderful time. This particular shop handles all their alterations in-house, so they pay very close attention to detail and what it is you're looking for. As I determined what I did or did not like, they would bring me new gowns accordingly.

A recommendation when trying dresses on or when searching for shops is to ask what the shop offers. -Do they do just brides' gowns or do they also offer bridesmaid and flower girl options? -Do they offer suits or tuxes for the gents? -Do they handle alterations there or send them out? -Is there any discount offered? -Does bundling (i.e. buying all of the bridal party dresses there) come with a discount? -How long do orders typically take? -Do they offer off-the-rack? -Can you buy sample dresses? (Some do allow this and they come at a big discount, though the dresses are likely to not be perfect.)

With this being my first try-on session, I opted to try on each major style and shape. For reference, here's an awesome chart to check out.

I also tried different fabric types, colors, and embellishments. One thing I did not try was full sleeves, because I know I wouldn't enjoy them.

The best thing about most any wedding dress is that it can be customized. Whether you add a veil, a sash, a belt or ribbon, add sleeves/remove sleeves, add beading, add a train or shorten one, there are a myriad of options.

It's important to go in with an open mind. For instance, I knew what styles I preferred but still tried ones on that I'd mentally eliminated -- it ended up that some I'd prematurely ruled out were the most flattering for my body type. It's a totally conditional experience and I highly recommend trying as many options as you can. This allows you to definitively rule this one or that one out and to ensure that you don't have any future regrets that you didn't give something consideration.

This first trip was with just my two sisters and my mother, so it felt like I had the right amount of opinions and feedback. They were wonderful in giving positive insight rather than being critical or negative. That was highly motivating!

It turned out that the fourth dress I put on ended up being "the one," but I did not actually purchase it right then and there.

While I loved it and felt very sure it would be the one, I wanted to make sure I gave myself time to think on it, and I also have a couple shops locally I'd like to try. I want to bring my (future) mother-in-law one time and also go a time with my 'maids. This will also allow me to price-compare which has been a huge facet of our wedding planning.

And honestly, since we have the time still until our big day, why wouldn't I want to try dresses on multiple times and feel like a princess again and again? {hehe, it really is a ball!}

No photos will be posted from my try-on sesh because I'm trying to keep it a total secret from Jonathan so as to not give anything away! But we did take a ton, and I highly suggest doing the same so you can easily recall which fits and gowns you preferred; also, take shots of tags/dress names if you intend to price-compare.

What has worked for you and the search for your perfect gown? How quickly did you find "the one?"

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