Last year when we exhibited at the Royal Show in Pietermaritzburg I was touched by the scene of a mother and father buying charm bracelets for each of their two little girls (about 8 and 10 years old). It was heart warming to witness the special family moment of the parents and their daughters picking out the perfect little charms to put on their bracelets. Each charm meant something special to them and I know that those bracelets will still be in their jewellery boxes when they one day have children.

Click here to see our range of charms

The charm bracelet is such a wonderfully invidual piece. People collect charms on special occasions — birthdays, weddings, anniversaries and graduations. Charms can also be a reminder of a memorable holiday or destination.  Friends and relatives will never be at a loss as to what to buy the owner of a charm bracelet as they know that each charm will find a special place.

Sterling silver charms are a wonderful choice as they are still fairly affordable — costing between R50 and R300 each — but at the same time the value of silver is always increasing.  Unlike many of the items we buy these days, sterling silver jewellery lasts more than a lifetime and can always be polished and repaired.

We have recently added some lovely new charms to our range.

If you do not have a charm bracelet – why not start your story today? They also make a lovely gift for daughters, granddaughters and friends.

If you have a special charm bracelet story to share with us — please email us at info@thedaisychain.co.za — we will publish it in our blog for others to enjoy.

Here are some more exciting bits and pieces:

Corrie Britten is so passionate about jewellery she sent us all these photos, a poem and a story:

ONLY AN EARRING

An earring is a thing

That my cling

To your ear, or hang,

or even weigh down your earlobe

to match your wardrobe

But pain I will endure For a ring that dangles

Because I love the ting-ting Of beads and bangles

Baubles bright,

silver, gold and Tanzanite,

bead and button or shell

my beady eyes compel

to take a second glance

as I seek my ears to enhance

I can no longer do shopping In an ordinary way,

My eye is always searching And going astray,

Seeking those earrings

The elusive pair, my collection complete, so I can LEAVE MY EARS and start on my feet!

And here is her story:

I have always been on the look-out for unusual, bold and dangly earrings, even when they were NOT fashionable. I would go to flea markets etc hunting for these, because they were in fashion in the 1950s, when I remember my older sisters wearing them and I would secretly try them on when they had gone to work and I was home from school!

I wasn’t allowed to get my ears pierced until I was married and by then these large earrings had made a come-back for a short while with the Mary Quant/mini-skirt revolution in the mid-1966s. As soon as I got my ears pierced I ardently started searching for the ultimate pair of dangly earrings.

 I became a COMPULSIVE SHOPPER as far as earrings were concerned, just couldn’t resist when I found a shape or a colour I fancied and I didn’t already possess! Soon I had about 50 pairs of earrings, and storing them so that I could find them easily, became a problem.

I had to devise all sorts of novel ways to store them: first in Ice cube trays, then later in wooden printers trays, then I got a bright idea and folded a scarf double over a clothes hanger, used brooches to secure the top of the scarf to the hanger, and proceeded to hang those, that could hang, even those with butterflies could be displayed in that way.

 In January 1996 my eldest grandchild, Daniel, was born. From the moment he was old enough (which I think was about 2 months), he would reach out to my earrings when I bent over him to change a nappy or dress him etc. I would then swing my head from side to side and dangle my earrings just above his hands and sing him a little ditty, which went like this:

“Diggy-diggy-dai-dai, Diggy-diggy-dai-dai, da da de dum de dum…..” which was a popular song on the music scene a couple of years earlier. It became a habit of mine to sing this ditty to him. I could really see the expression in his eyes change to one of joy when I did this!

A few months later when he learnt to talk, his mom and dad was very excited when they came to visit one day and said to Daniel, pointing at me: “Who is that?” His response was “Dai-Dai”! And from then until he was able to understand better, his name for me remained “Dai-Dai”. My Volkswagen Beetle, was a favourite place to play in when I had to baby-sit him and he would ask me: to go to “Dai-Dai-car”; at Christmas I decorated a small Christmas tree with some of my biggest and brightest earrings and that became a “Dai-Dai Christmas Tree”.

His favourite pair of earrings was a pair that had brass bits and beads dangling from a central flower on my ear, and a very soft “tinkle” sounded when I shook my head gently. I still have those, even though some bits are missing. (They are also in one of the photos, in the printers’ tray).

I recently found the ultimate hanging space for my jewellery: an ornamental “dressmaker’s dummy” made from wrought iron wire bought from a popular home decorator’s store. (By the way, I have about a THOUSAND pairs of earrings now!) I am sending a picture of how I decorated the dressmakers dummy to look like a lady with a hat on and a blue bikini top, complete with cell phone holder. I am also sendng a couple of other pics of how I have kept my earrings over the years (just to give you an idea!)

My latest “storage find” is a wire cup-cake tray, which has lots of hanging space! I haven’t finished unpacking after moving and will be redecorating soon, and cannot wait to unpack and hang up my earrings again! If I a am not the Ultimate Daisy Chain Fan, I am probably one of the ultimate possessors (amongst “ordinary” folk!) of the biggest collections of earrings, which are not only for decorative purposes, as I looooooooooooooooove to hunt (in my own collection!) for the pair which will look best with the outfit I am wearing. I hope you enjoy the pics and the story as much as I enjoyed doing the collecting and decorating over the years!

We have a “Daisy  Chain” Anthem from Noldy Lennox:

Daisy, Daisy, Show me some jewels, do!

I’m half crazy For what you have on view..

You know I love the glitter

I can’t resist a flutter

On rings and earrings, bracelets too,

 And some necklaces, all from you!!!

And a fairytale from Tanya Holtzhausen:

Once upon a time, there was a princess that lived in Daisy Land. She had tried so long to meet the perfect prince and had just about kissed all the frogs in Daisy Land. Her hopes were running low that she would ever be able to move out of the palace and start a life of her own. The King saw that his daughter was not very happy, so suggested she take some of the wonderful jewellery they had and start a business. This is how “The Daisy Chain Online Jewellery Store” was formed. The princess was so excited. She knew that everyone would love the beautiful, affordable jewellery that she would be able to sell. From the “Gold Rush 9ct gold” to “925 on main Sterling Silver” and not forgetting “Opera freshwater Pearls” and “Bullet Proof Titanium”….. there was something for everyone. The idea took off and she started doing so well – the easy ordering process and efficient processing of orders, soon made everyone want to own a piece of Daisy Chain Jewellery. There is no happy ending to this fairytale, as it is a fairytale in the making…….and everyone can be a part of it by visiting the website and placing an order. http://store.thedaisychain.co.za/ Happy travels to The Daisy Chain.

Thanks for the super entries We have extended the deadline to the 4 May …

From Fiona Cameron:

Daisy Chain, Daisy Chain, we love you! Jewelery of Silver, precious Stones and Sapphires too, All you need when you say “I DO” Or for any day wearing – you need a few. Thank you Daisy Chain for your superb catalog Easy to use and great with ideas!

From Ola C (Thanks for the pics Ola):

I have been an ultimate jewellery fan since probably the age of 6 – that’s 30 years of jewellery collecting! I get jewellery as gifts, buy jewellery as souvenirs on overseas trips, I string my own beads and I even took a crack as jewellery design and silver smithing, to some acclaim, may I add! Off course, having discovered The Daisy Chain, the collection just keeps on growing! So how does one store 30 years of jewellery collection without losing pieces in the sheer volume of silver, pewter, gems and beads? In a self-designed, hand-made, red velvet lined, mirror-mosaic’ed jewellery cabinet, off course! (see pictures attached) I have since made 3 more, for friends as birthday presents, in different sizes and finishes, and they are all fabulous for a dedicated jewellery addict! Here’s to all the other jewellery fanatics out

And a short and sweet line from Tasmeena: i love you guys sooooooo much

And from Nadia:

There is a soft fire of ruby,a brilliant purple of amethyst,a sea green of emerald – all shining together in one union THE DAISY CHAIN ONLINE STORE! This online jewellery store allows me to dream about wearing the sapphire blue lake on my finger,the emerald green leaves around my neck and take the warm gemed sunset wherever I go with a full pearl moon and a diamond lit sky. I absolutely love all the gem stones that u have instore,u are so affordable and have such good customer standards,I look forward to reading ur updates everytime I go on fb!thank u for ur beautiful jewellery and excellent services,I hope I can own a few of ur pieces!

And something poetic from Candice Penn:

Dear Daisy Chain, You are, in fact, to blame. The reason why my empty pockets shall forever remain the same. From Topaz to Peridot, Silver to Gold, My owner whips me out Then yells from the PC, “SOLD!” The credit cards are running, while coins are making haste, trying to escape from their owners expensive taste. And so here ends my story, with emptiness a curse, a letter sent sincerely from an owner’s faithful purse.

And from me … such talent is truly hard to find … it shows strength of character and mind. You do not cease to amaze me again – the super-awesome fans of the Daisy Chain!

More entries to follow tomorrow 

 From Gerna Fraser:

Just to say that the service I received from The Daisy Chain during late January / February 2011 was exceptional. I ordered two rings as it was me and my husband’s 28th wedding anniversary the 5th of February 2011 during the last two weeks of January and Angela made sure that it was send via Express Mail to my Postal Address and it was received well within time to make the renewing of our vows and exchanging of rings so much more special.

 Thanks to The Daisy Chain and Angela for making this year 2011 and 28 years such a memorable occasion.

 And from Carolynn Reid:

Awesome competition!! It’s always a bit risky buying personal items such as jewelry online, but since my first purchase for Christmas pressies to my most recent purchases, for my daughters 21st, I haven’t been disappointed. Your prices are really competitive and the quality is fantastic. Whenever I need jewelry, I know where to go

Something a bit different from Jacqui Bignoux:

To prove I’m Daisy Chains’ BIGGEST FAN, I’m gna do the East Coast Radio’s Big Walk with a big daisy chain sign on with the Daisy Chain Logo and website address As the walk is only on the 23 May, I can only send the photies in after that   

 And a fun poem from Tarin Bennett:

The Daisy Chain is the best,

Prices cannot be beaten by the rest.

Service and friendliness to match as a set,

You can hardly believe it, more than you will ever get!

Angela goes out of her way,

To help you and guide you and get what you may!

The beauty, the quality, the range oh, so much more,

You will always find what you are looking for.

A special gift, something just for you,

With the Daisy Chain, every day you can have something new!

I am no poet,

But Oh, just so you know it,

The Daisy chain has gorgeous things,

and so much that blings,

and they are why I have so many rings!!

Thanks to all the fans   Remember the competition closes on the 29 May.

Here is a poem from Haylay Penn:

The Daisy Chain, an online store,

from which you can order items with ease.

With chains, pendants and so much more,

owner Angela always aims to please.

The prices and beauty have us all in awe.

The website is as efficient as can be.

Was never this easy to order before,

and soon after you have your delivery.

From gold to silver and pearl too,

even watches, beads and charms.

It’s no wonder all you want to do,

is beautify your ears, neck and arms.

So thank you for your brilliant service.

You’ve even made Superman sing,

now as he fights crime and brings justice,

he can use his Bullet-proof ring!

We have another poem from Gersuad Griffin:

Clear crystal bright
shining and warm
You helped me through
my long dark night
and wore off the emotional storm.

When it is storming with rain

I feel blessed with protection by Daisy Chain

With shining arms around my neck

Nothing can come near me spelling wreck

And than there’s crystal circles around my wrist and finger

As long as it is from Daisy Chain, it feels like a bird is my daily singer

Here is an entry from Michelle Maré:

From Dawn Wallenkamp:

Within you is a world of style,
A world that takes you places,
A world that shows you fine things,
beautiful things, jewellery that
enhances your senses, makes
you feel special, lifts your spirits
and shows your sophistication.
THAT is the Daisy Chain!!!!!!!!

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From Natasja Jackson:

To be honest – minimal is beautiful….especially if you have something that can make a statement – like Daisy Chain jewellery.

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From Kerry Heathfield: (Kerry sent us a picture and a story):

My description of jewellery: One of few things that can turn an angry woman’s frown into an ecstatic smile.  The one birthday/Christmas/valentines gift that you can always be sure of.  There is not a lady on earth who wouldn’t like jewellery as a gift.  It is like the hand in handbag, the Dolce in Dolce and Gabana and the sun in sunshine.  It can brighten the worst of days; it can turn a somewhat boring, plain outfit into the hottest one of the season.  Yes that’s right, it does have some sort of power and hold on us woman.  But who are we to complain? It is such a blessing. 

 The cliché goes, diamonds are a girls best friend, whoever said that was way behind on the bandwagon because its more like any jewellery is a girls best friend and her boyfriend and the siblings she never had but wishes she did, it’s the chocolate we crave but don’t eat because of our hips.  Often what you find in a jewellery box is more than just what the eye sees, to the owner it is memories of special times and special people, it holds some of the owners life.  When you actually sit down and look past the beauty of what it contains, you remember that there is so much more.  Its a special, safe place for a ladies most valuable.

 So thinking back to my 21^st (which was last year) I can remember thinking of what to put on my present wish list.  Then figured, jewellery was my best option, some of it is reasonable priced, it lasts forever and it definitely has sentimental value, no matter what the occasion or what type of jewellery it is.  So on my list I put, a watch, a charm bracelet and a ring.  A couple months later on the day that I was finally given the key (the one id had for years) I was the happiest girl alive, I got the most stunning charm bracelet, a beautiful watch and a gorgeous ring.  Yes I use many adjectives because you have to understand my face when I opened my presents.  My charm bracelet was so perfect; it had a shoe charm – one of my many favourite girly things, a cross – for my religion, a key which suited the occasion obviously, a palm tree – that of course makes me think of a relaxing holiday which is always a nice thought, a handbag – another one of my favorites.  I received the bracelet from my mother in law (not officially YET) and she just summed me up in a bracelet, is there anything else in the world that can sum someone up like that?  I think not.  Anyway to cut out the details of the night that followed we’ll just say of what I can remember it was very fun, and my mom held onto all my jewellery because I was suddenly spilling and visiting the ladies often. 

 I, of course wanted more charms, so I asked where it was bought from and the answer was THE DAISY CHAIN- this is a super cool name because it makes you think of flowers and jewellery, of which both can turn a blue day into the shiniest of shiny days.  After visiting the website I was hooked.  So of course I hope my soon to be mother in law leads her son to the right place for my um engagement ring

I attached a little something i made with the computers help the pictures are from my 21st

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Hope you enjoyed are first three entries as much as I did. We will be putting some more up soon

While silver, gold and platinum jewellery can last a lifetime, it is very important to care for the pieces correctly. You would not throw your hand knitted angora jersey into the tumble drier and you would not want to ask your five your old son to wash your brand new Porsche with dish liquid and a pot scourer! In the same way, fine jewellery needs to be treated with love and care.

 Here are some interesting bits of info to help you care for your valued pieces:

 * Diamonds may be the hardest natural substance known to man, but they can still be damaged, chipped or scratched. It is therefore, a good idea to keep each item of jewellery in its own separate container (even a tiny Ziploc bags work well).

*After removing your jewellery wipe it with a soft cloth to remove any sweat or residue and store it immediately it a pouch or box. (or Ziploc bag)

*Use jewellery cleaner to clean your jewellery regularly. You can buy jewellery cleaner from most jewellers (we can also get it for our customers on request). Be sure to follow the instruction on the bottle for the best results.

* Remove your jewellery before doing chores or activities such as swimming. Do not let your jewellery and diamonds can into contact with chlorine, bleach or other chemicals.  These harsh chemicals will not only pit or discolour the metal but may also damage the stones.

*Put your jewellery AFTER you have apply makeup and perfume or cologne.

*Tanzanite and some other gemstones should not be cleaned with a sonic cleaner or steam cleaner. It is best to use warm soapy water if cleaning if required.

*Remove all jewellery before showering or bathing as soap can form a film on the metal – making it appeal dull

*Signs of wear, such as scratches will appear on jewellery over time. Consult your jeweller to determine if the scratches can be professionally polished.

*See your jeweller once a year to have your jewellery checked for loose stones and worn mountings.

*Do not rub sterling silver with anything only than a silver polishing cloth. Anything else will scratch and damage the metal

* Store silver in a cool, dry place. Make sure your silver is not exposed to light and air during storage as this can cause silver to tarnish. (if the silver does tarnish it can be cleaned with jewellery dip)

*Remember each person’s skin is different. Some people naturally have more acidic skin than others. Acidity in the skin can cause jewellery to tarnish more quickly on some people than others.

* White gold and other rhodium plated jewellery may have to be re-plated every few years by a jeweller.

*High shine titanium rings can be polished once a year to remove scratches.

 Hopefully these tips will help you to keep your jewellery looking sparkling. If you have any other jewellery care tips please feel free to share them with us

Ultimate Fan Competition

This first post is an exciting one as I would like to use it to announce what (I think) will be an interesting competition. We are looking for the “ultimate” daisy chain fan and it is up to you to use your imagination as to how you will prove “your undying devotion” to our jewellery. (Well, even if you just like buying stuff from us, that’s fine too).

Basically we are asking you to email your entry to info@thedaisychain.co.za – you can really do anything – one line, a short story, a poem, a photo, a painting or whatever other brilliant idea you may have. We will publish the entries on this blog and facebook for the other fans to enjoy. To make it fair we will choose the entry entirely based on merit. So even if you have NO friends (on facebook or anywhere else) – you could still be a winner as we will not be asking people to vote on this one. The only way you can win this one is to be original, funny, clever or talented (which I know all of you are – so it will be really easy – right?)

The winner will be able to spend R1000 at our online store (which — with our super prices – adds up to some nice jewellery). We will award two runners up each a R500 voucher too. The competition runs from the 15^th April to the 29th  April. Hopefully that will give you all time to get your creative juices flowing.

Thanks for reading, hope you have a super week.  Looking forward to receiving your entry.

Warm regards

Angela