Saturday, June 26, 2010

Exotic Gift Ideas for Friends and Family by

A lot of the time when people hear the word ‘exotic’, they think of expensive things. Granted, there are many exotic items that are expensive but the opposite is true as well. There are many exotic items that are inexpensive. Inexpensive, exotic items make up some incredibly beautiful and unique gifting options for nearly any occasion. People love exotic gifts because they make them feel like they are on a vacation. It’s also something that someone doesn’t get every day.


So what types of exotic gifts are good ideas? Bali Jewelry is a distinctive type of jewelry that will stand out and appear incredibly unique. It has an earthy feel to it with its natural tones and natural components. Many of the bracelets and earrings are made of carved wood or earth-toned beads. Their necklaces stand out with their chunky designs and flawless carving technique. Indeed, there are several beautiful pieces of jewelry that are both inexpensive and exotic that would make a great gift for a friend or family member.



Perhaps the recipient in question is not much of a jewelry lover. In that case, there are exotic decorative pieces for the home or office that might just be perfect. Bali candles and candle holders are both unique and interesting while providing a natural feel for the area they are placed in. Candles can be bought to fit the style of décor for any home and they are a reasonably priced item as well. Practicality should also be considered since they can be used when the electricity goes out at night.



Other exotic gift ideas that may be good options might include tea cups from various countries. Many people collect tea cups as well as spoons. Finding dishes of any sort that bare the theme of an exotic place would greatly appeal to a grandmother, mother or aunt. Picture frames are another great idea as well. Of course, for those who have a little more pocket change to spare, including an exotic picture is a great idea to go along with the picture frame. Clothing is another great choice as it is relatively easy to find exotic pieces that are inexpensive. Indeed, it is a great idea to look into items that are from exotic areas to give to friends and family. It will be a gift unlike any other they’ve been given and will also serve your pocket book well.

Sunday, June 20, 2010

History of candle making

In Rome, around the first century, candles were made out of tallow and the pith of rushes. The Latin word "candere" means to flicker. The Egyptians and Cretans made the candle from beeswax, as early as 3000 BC. The early candle was made from various forms of natural fat, tallow, and wax. In the 18th century, spermaceti, oil produced by the sperm whale, was used to produce a superior candle.

Late in the 18th century, colza oil and rapeseed oil came into use as much cheaper substitutes. Paraffin was first distilled in 1830, and revolutionized candle-making, as it was an inexpensive material which produced a high-quality, odorless candle that burned reasonably cleanly. The industry was devastated soon after, however, by the distillation of kerosene (confusingly also called paraffin oil or just paraffin). Recently resin based candles that are freestanding and transparent have been developed, with the claim that they burn longer than traditional paraffin candles. They are usually scented and oil based.