humor
Workplace witticisms, job jokes and career quips; who says work can't be a laughing matter?
Discovering the Myth & Secrets of the Ceylon Blue Sapphires
Discovering the Myths and Secrets of a Timeless Gemstone: The Enchanting Legacy of Ceylon Blue Sapphires Ceylon blue sapphires, also known as Sri Lankan blue sapphires, have a fascinating history that is steeped in myth and legend. These gemstones are renowned for their exceptional quality, deep blue color and unique characteristics that set them apart from other sapphires found around the world. The earliest historical records of Ceylon blue sapphires date back to the 3rd century BC, when the gemstones were highly sought after by the rulers of the ancient kingdoms of India. According to ancient texts, the sapphires were believed to possess magical powers and were worn as talismans for protection and good luck. They were also a symbol of wealth and prestige, and were often given as gifts to seal diplomatic alliances. During the medieval period, the island of Ceylon was controlled by the kings of Kotte who established a powerful trading network that exported gems, spices and other valuable goods to Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. The kings of Kotte also had a strong tradition of adorning themselves with the finest sapphires and other precious stones, many of which were mined in Sri Lanka. The gemstones became a symbol of their wealth, power and prestige. In the early 16th century, the island came under the control of the Portuguese, who established trading posts in key locations around the island and began exporting gems to Europe. The Dutch, who later took control of the island, also exported large quantities of Ceylon blue sapphires to Europe. The sapphires from Sri Lanka were highly prized by the European nobility, who used them to adorn their crowns, rings, and other jewelry. It was during the British colonial era that the mining of Ceylon blue sapphires reached new heights. The British brought in new mining techniques and equipment, and established large-scale commercial mining operations. They also introduced new cutting and polishing techniques that allowed for the creation of even more beautiful and valuable gems. Interestingly, during World War II, the British used the sapphire mines to hide gold and other valuables from the advancing Japanese army. The mines were flooded, and the valuables were hidden in the shafts, which kept them safe from looting. After the war, the mines were drained, and the treasures were recovered, this act of resourcefulness helped the local economy to recover in a very short time. One of the most famous Ceylon blue sapphires is the Star of Adam, a massive blue sapphire weighing 1404 carats, that was discovered in the gem fields of Ratnapura in Sri Lanka in 1926. The sapphire was named after the “Adam’s peak”, a mountain in Sri Lanka that is considered a sacred site by many religions. The sapphire was said to be an offering to the gods and was said to have been found by a farmer in a stream that runs from the peak. Ceylon blue sapphires have also been linked to the British royal family, with several pieces of jewelry in the royal collection featuring these gemstones. The most notable is the sapphire engagement ring that Prince Charles gave to Princess Diana, which later became the engagement ring of Kate Middleton when she became engaged to Prince William. In recent years, the mining of Ceylon blue sapphires has undergone a resurgence, with new deposits of the gemstone being discovered and new mining technologies being developed. The gemstones continue to be highly valued by buyers around the world, and the industry remains an important contributor to the Sri Lankan economy. In summary, the history of Ceylon blue sapphires is one that is both rich and fascinating.
By Shamil Ahamed3 years ago in Journal
The Power of a Positive Attitude
Positive thinking is a mental and emotional attitude that focuses on the good and expects the best in all situations. It is a mindset that is characterized by hope, optimism, and a belief in the power of positive thinking. In this article, we will explore the power of a positive attitude and how it can improve your life.
By YathirajaSampathKumar K R3 years ago in Journal
Services of Digital Marketing Available in Pakistan
Pakistan is home to a sizable and continuously developing market for digital marketing services on account of the country's fast expanding population as well as its rising rate of internet and mobile device use. In the next article, we will take a more in-depth look at the digital marketing services that are the most in-demand in Pakistan, as well as their relevance and the influence that mobile technology and online shopping have had on digital marketing in Pakistan.
By Munnazir zarin3 years ago in Journal
Clowning Around With a Married Man
Crisscrossing Ontario in a G-String The strip club at the Oshawa Hotel, where I had been booked into the Summer of 1976 was the size of a Bingo Hall. The men’s room had no door on it, and the stage was situated right within sight of it. If my eyesight had been better I could have had a nice show. There was no ladies’ room in the club. If a lady accidentally stumbled into the bar, she would have to hold it until she ran out to the restaurant on the other side of the hotel or out to the bushes in the back parking lot.
By Tina D'Angelo3 years ago in Journal
I Refuse to Sell Out With My Writing
One of the most important aspects of my Writer’s Journey is to always be real and authentic with my writing. If my writing doesn’t truly reflect the person I am and it doesn’t reflect my actual voice, then I’ve failed as a writer. I refuse to let that happen.
By The Mouthy Renegade Writer3 years ago in Journal
Going Crawdad Hunting
As I remember the late sunny afternoons on the hill where we lived when we were children, a chuckle pushed its way from deep within my soul and spilled over into my conscious mind. I had to laugh, almost uncontrollably, as I remembered one of many tales of discovery that my brothers and I lived through during that time of our lives. There were 6 houses spread spaciously apart along the dirt road cut into the mountainside. None of the houses would meet the standards of today's affluent more architecturally correct structures. The dirt road that led to the houses was only wide enough for one vehicle. And, when riding in our truck, the times that my dad could afford one, I and my brothers bobbed up and down like popcorn in a popcorn popper as we rode in the seat that didn't have seat belts. Seat belts weren't required, perhaps not even thought of at that time in the late 1950s.
By Dan R Fowler3 years ago in Journal
The hunting animal
1.The African Lion The African lion (Panthera leo) is a large carnivorous mammal native to the grasslands and savannas of Africa. It is the second-largest living cat after the tiger, and male lions are easily distinguished by their mane, a thick fringe of hair around the head and neck.
By Praveen Kumar3 years ago in Journal
Dolls, Wild Things and White Satin
I had been sidelined from my dance career for three months by a dislocated knee and had to move into a women's shelter because my funds had been taken by a dancer I'd been staying with. It was truly one of the lowest points of my life. I hated depending on other people for anything and that was just humiliating. I was at the shelter for exactly one day before getting a job at a newspaper typing classified ads.
By Tina D'Angelo3 years ago in Journal
Instructions for Completing a CIS Tax Return
Low Accountant in London provides advice and assistance to make the process of tax planning and tax returns as simple and stress-free as possible. Certain industries, such as the construction industry, require specific types of tax returns to be completed.
By cheap accountant3 years ago in Journal
A Healthy Mindset!
A healthy mindset is essential for leading a fulfilling and successful life. It is the foundation upon which we build our thoughts, behaviors, and actions. With a positive and resilient mindset, we are better equipped to handle challenges and setbacks, and to pursue our goals with determination and perseverance. On the other hand, a negative and unhealthy mindset can hold us back and prevent us from reaching our full potential. In this article, we will explore what it means to have a healthy mindset, and how you can develop and maintain one.
By YathirajaSampathKumar K R3 years ago in Journal
