The Power of the stone and Wash 'n Wear - English Essays

Essay # 05

 The Power Of the Stone

Gemstones are possibly one of the few objects in the world that have fascinated mankind through the ages. Although finely carved and polished objects have been part of all art forms since time immemorial, since the mid - nineteenth century, the popularity of gemstones has peaked, mostly as objects of adornment.

Gemstones are naturally occurring organic or inorganic elements or compound, having a definite atomic structure and composition, formed by the movements of the earth's crust. Some gemstones are of a biological origin, such as amber, which is fossilized tree sap, or coral, created by a sea creature under water. Other have a mineral composition, like the diamond or quartz. 

Some gemstones are believed to have connections with heavenly bodies and zodiacal signs. For Example, opal is considered to be the lucky stone for libra. Gemstones are believed t ogive off, as well as, draw energy through their negative and positive powers - agate is believed to have a cooling effect on hot tempers.

Gemstones have been used by the ancients as powerful healing tools as well as in medicines as powders or elixirs. For example, Moonstone stimulates the pineal gland to assist in the growth process. Pearl powder has a high calcium content and is used in alternative medicine therapies.

You can judge the quality of a gemstone by its color, durability, rarity and finally, how well it is cut or polished. Thanks to the constant demand for precious stones and science, new techniques in cutting and polishing gemstones have been developed which add value to them. Belgian cut diamonds are considered to be the best cut and the most expensive.

Essay # 06

Wash 'n Wear

Fabrics are about textures, colors and finishes. Understanding the nature of the fabric is the first step towards its care. There are specific ways to store or wash fabrics in order to retain their quality and make them last longer.

Here are some tips on " How to wash various fabrics? "

Wool:

Wool is a natural and delicate fibre, and is colorfast.

• Wash woolens in cold water. They shrink at higher temperatures.
• Hand wash delicate or lighter garments, especially those with embellishments.
• Never hang woolens to dry, as they will lose there shape. Always dry them flat.
• To prevent knit from dropping, keep them folded.

Silk:

Silk, Another natural fibre that needs special care. silks are usually colorfast.

• Non pre - washed silk should be dry - cleaned the first time. Pre - Washed silk should be hand washed in lukewarm water.
• Don't wring after washing. Roll the item in a towel to absorb excess moisture.
• Dry naturally and press with a steam iron, with a cloth covering the garment.

Cotton:

A Natural, but sturdy fibre, that may not be colorfast.

• Wash the whites separately from the colorfast.
• Cottons shrink at high temperature. Do not wash or starch them with hot water.
• Press with warm iron, sprinkled with water for a smooth, crispy finish.

Synthetics:

Synthetics, or manmade fibres, include nylon, lycra and viscose. These are stretchy and should be washed at lower temperatures.

• Most synthetics need not be ironed. If required, iron at a cool setting.