Blog

L.C. Van Houten

How to measure your ring size?

Need help finding the right ring size? Measuring your finger to find the correct ring fit is easy. How to measure your finger for ring size: Use a non-elastic string or paper (6" long and 1/4" wide works best)  Wrap string or paper around the base of your finger. Make sure the fit is snug, but not tight. Mark the place on the string or paper where it forms a circle. Compare the length of the string/paper to a ruler in mm. That is your ring size. If you measure between sizes, we recommend the larger size. Measuring tips: Measure when your finger is at a regular body temperature since fingers can expand or...

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Chicago 1893 Worlds Fair

The 1893 Columbian Exposition, known as the Chicago World's Fair is known as a turning point in American History. Many products and innovations and products ushered in a new era of modernity in the United States.  Among the wonders introduced at the 1893 Chicago Exposition are the ferris wheel, the zipper, Cream of Wheat, Cracker Jacks, electric elevators, and unfortunately the electric chair. The Fair also allowed attendees a first glance at Edison's kinetoscope and a listen to the world's first voice recording.  Check out our 1893 Chicago Worlds Fair Keepsake Necklace made from a souvenir watch case opener.  See our...

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L.C. Van Houten

Celebrating the Post Office

In a world of instantaneous modern correspondence, I think we've forgotten the value of the post. These lines of communication - kept open by letter carriers on foot, horse and later train, plane and automobile - were started in colonial America as far back as 1692. The original logo shows a letter carrier on horseback, doubtless delivering something of vital importance!   The US Mail traces it's roots back to the Second Continental Congress with Postmaster General, Benjamin Franklin. The first postage stamps, which was not introduced until 1847 featured Benjamin Franklin and George Washington.   The invention of parcel post brought...

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L.C. Van Houten

San Francisco Worlds Fair - 1915 Panama Pacific International Exposition

The 1915 Panama Pacific International Exposition in San Francisco celebrated the completion of the Panama Canal and served as a showcase for San Francisco's recovery from the 1906 earthquake and its emergence as a global city. The fair was built on a 635 acre stretch of land that we now know as the Marina. The Palace of Fine Arts, past home of the Exploratorium, is the only remaining building complex.  On display at the fair was the first steam engine purchased by the Southern Pacific Railroad. The Tower of Jewels was covered with 100,000 cut glass gems known as novagems, lit by spotlights at...

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