How Much Does Amethyst Stone Cost?

Amethyst, a type of quartz found across the world, is a semi-precious stone located inside geodes.

Amethyst. by Holly Leighanne., on Flickr
Amethyst.” (CC BY 2.0) by Holly Leighanne.

How much does amethyst cost?

The cost of amethyst depends on its size and quality, including the faceting, market value, color, clarity, cut, and aesthetic appeal.  Based on these factors, most amethyst, whether polished or in its natural raw form, will cost $2 to $30+ per carat.

On Moonlight Gems AZ, for example, they have a variety of cut base clusters, ranging from 1 to 3+ pounds that cost $20 to $80+.  Of course, the larger it is, the more it will cost.

Most amethyst jewelry can range from as little as $6 for a necklace to about $15 to $50 for a necklace.  Highly rated raw amethyst necklaces on Amazon.com, for instance, retail for about $8 to $40 depending on the size.

This GemVal.com chart notes that the prices can vary from $4 to $35 per carat, and the cost will depend on the color and how common it is.

On this PriceScope.com forum thread, a forum member asked what her stone may be worth.  According to some members, they stated that a rare stone with no flaws can cost $50 to $75 per carat.

eBay had hundreds of active listings, with natural bulk clusters retailing for close to $30 for nine pieces to as little as $5 for a small two-ounce bag.

Amethyst overview

In terms of size, most amethyst can grow quite large unlike other gems in the quartz family.  However, there are few clean examples of amethysts of 100 or more carats.

On the Mohs scale of hardness, an amethyst is a seven meaning its surface can’t be scratched by any stone with a hardness of less than seven.

The gem does vary in color, but the higher the prevalence of iron is in the crystal, the deeper the purple color will be.  The color can also be artificially treated by applying heat to deepen the color.

What are the extra costs?

The estimates above are for the stone itself, not the setting.  The more complex your setting may be, the more expensive the piece of jewelry will be.  A single amethyst in silver may be as cheap as $50 to $100, while an amethyst in gold or platinum that is accompanied by diamonds could cost hundreds of dollars.

Tips to know:

Amethysts of high quality will be clear and should not contain inclusions.  The edges or prongs of the stone’s setting in the ring need to be secure, with no sharp or loose edges and no chips within the stone.  Closely inspect the stone before purchasing it since it may not be able to be returned.

Amethyst has a tendency to fade if exposed to too much sunlight.  In case you will be out in the sunshine for a length of time, you need to remove your Amethyst or turn it to the inside your finger.

Be aware of fakes before making a purchase.  A fake will often have no impurities, it will be clear and will be easy to scratch.  Also, if the price is low, this can be a red flag as well.  Always review the reputation of the jeweler before making a purchase.

Clean your jewelry regularly since soap scum and oils from your skin can cloud the stone.  To clean, the GIA recommends cleaning with warm soapy water.  Ultrasonic cleaners are safe except for instances where the stone is either dyed or treated by a fracture filling.  Steam cleaning isn’t recommended.

Do not wear your amethyst jewelry in the ocean or pool since the salt and chlorine can cause the stone to fade and become discolored.

Amethyst is the birthstone for February.

The greatest quantity is produced in South America, but the finest amethyst currently comes from Africa.

Amethyst is a macro-crystalline purple variety of the mineral Quartz (SiO2).  Quartz is one of the earth’s most abundant single minerals, making up around 12% of the earth’s crust.  The abundance of amethyst explains why it is also one of the cheapest in the quartz family.

Amethyst is an extraordinarily stunning purple gemstone and is the most salient representative of the quartz family.  For thousands of years, Amethyst has been a jewel coveted by princes, kings, and religious leaders since purple is considered the color of royalty.  Designers celebrate amethyst as an ideal choice for jewelry due to its regal color, a variety of shapes, sizes, affordability, and broad tonal range from a light to dark purple.

These gems are often sourced from Brazil, Russia, Australis, Zambia, Nigeria, India, Mexico, Uruguay, Arizona or North Carolina.

Stones that are heat treated will not lose its color as easily as a stone in its natural state.

How to tell if amethyst is real

If you have access to a microscope, see if there are streaks.  If there are streaks, then it’s safe to say it’s real; however, any signs of bubbles could mean it’s a fake.

To the touch, real amethyst will feel cold, even in the warmer months.  A true stone will keep cool, even if you were to hold it against your forehead.

Due to the iron in the stone, as mentioned earlier, the stone can turn a true purple, and the highest quality will often be a deep violet or bright red.  Overall, a real stone should be clean, clear and will have a saturated distribution of color everywhere on the surface.

If you’re still questioning the legitimacy of the stone, consider taking it in for an appraisal so a certified jewelry appraiser can examine it.

With a hardness of seven, scratch the gem with the tip of a knife.  Seeing a knife has a hardness of five, this means it shouldn’t scratch the surface.  If it does, then it will mean it’s a fake gemstone.

How can I save money?

Wholesale prices, such as buying on eBay, can often save you money.

How Much Does AmazonFresh Delivery Cost?

AmazonFresh offers same-day delivery of a wide selection of items, which include fresh grocery and local products.   This service is available only in certain San Francisco zip codes, the Seattle area, New Yorck City, the Philadelphia area, and Southern California.  However, AmazonFresh is working on expanding to other areas throughout the United States.

IMG_4971.JPG by jwalsh, on Flickr
IMG_4971.JPG” (CC BY 2.0) by jwalsh

 How much does an AmazonFresh membership cost?

According to Amazon.com the cost of AmazonFresh is available to Prime members only for an additional $14.99 per month.  If you spend less than $50 on an order, even with an active subscription, you will be charged $9.99 for each delivery.

Also, in addition to the Amazon Fresh Add-on, you will also need an Amazon Prime membership for $99 per year.

According to GoBankingRates.com, the cost of AmazonFresh is $14.99 per month, in addition to the annual $99 Prime membership.  The website says the service may be worth it only if you have a Prime membership and use the service regularly.

AmazonFresh membership overview

AmazonFresh offers two delivery options: Attended Delivery and Doorstep Delivery. Most clients use the Doorstep Delivery option. With the Doorstep Delivery option, one gets to choose a three hour time window which works best for their schedule and one does not even have to be at home.  AmazonFresh leaves the items on the client’s doorstep in temperature-controlled tote bags which it then picks up on the next delivery.  With the Attended Delivery option, one gets to pick a one-hour appointment whenever you will be at your home to receive the deliveries.  Some benefits of Attended Delivery include shorter one-hour delivery windows, no totes or other shipping supplies to store at your home, in-person delivery straight to the kitchen, delivery to buildings with secure entries or limited access, and alcohol orders with your delivery.  Alcohol orders are not allowed for doorstep delivery.

Aside from ordering directly from Amazon, you can browse and order from more than 1,000 items at a local Whole Foods store.

Tips to know

Items ordered through AmazonFresh are available for home delivery either on the same day or next day, depending on the time of the order, as well as the availability of trucks as well as your availability for delivery.

AmazonFresh currently services the greater Seattle, San Francisco, and Southern California areas.  You should check your address to see whether it is within their delivery area.

AmazonFresh will not deliver to dorm rooms.

If you want to see how the service works, Poorer Than You created a nice review of the service.

How can I save money?

Eligible customers who are not Prime members yet can sign up for a 30-day free trial with the Fresh Add-on.

AmazonFresh isn’t the only service in town, so be sure to compare other options like Instacart, Shipt, Google Express or your local grocery store.  All of these service providers, just like AmazonFresh, may not be available in your area.

Be sure to check out the Fresh Deals page for the weekly promotions.

How Much Does an Altium Designer License Cost?

Altium Limited, also known as ASX, manufactures and sells software used by the most renowned global companies to design their electronic products, particularly printed circuit boards.

An Australian multinational software corporation, the company focuses on electronics design, 3D PCB design, and embedded systems development software.

Founded in 1985, they have offices worldwide, with U.S. locations in Boston and San Diego.

How much does an Altium Designer license cost?

Altium Designer, from what we researched, will charge a fixed price, plus the first year of maintenance.  Then each year, after you pay the first, you can choose to continue paying the maintenance fees.  All in all, the prices start at $7,245.  The first year of maintenance, if you continue to pay for updates, is said to be about $1,750 per year.

A press release on the official Altium.com website said Altium Designer 14 starts at $7,245, including a one-year subscription.

According to forum members on this EEVBlog.com forum thread, many members claimed you have to pay $9,000 at first and then you can either choose to pay nothing again or can pay the annual maintenance fee to get updates.  As long as you continue to pay the maintenance fee, you will be entitled to future updates.

PredictableDesigns.com says Altium is considered to be the most popular PCB design package that starts at over $7,000.

San Francisco Circuits compared six of the most popular PCB packages:  DipTrace, Eagle, OrCAD, PADS and Scale.  In their comparison, they noted the price started at $7,000.

Altium Designer license options

There are three major license options available:  14, 14 SE and 14 Viewer.

14 offers a fully customized board design and manufacturing capabilities.  With its native 3D PCB design and editing, this complete front-end engineering designs system is available for both programmable logic and board-level design.

14 SE is an option for the system engineer with a complete front-end schematic designs or both programmable logic and board-level designs.

14 Viewer is a free, quick and secure read-only exploration of the Altium Designer projects.

How can I save money?

Educational prices are available to students and faculty.  Check with your local university and the company for more information.

A 15-day full featured evaluation license is available by filling out this form.

Altium, one of the many PCB design packages, are available on the market.  Popular alternatives include Eagle ($65~ per month) or OrCad ($2,300~).

How Much Does the Altitude Trampoline Park Cost?

The Altitude Trampoline Park is an indoor park and trampoline center.

It offers an indoor playground for teens, kids, and adults with over 15,000 square feet of continuous trampolines, foam pits, and a rock climbing wall.

trampoline by jetheriot, on Flickr
trampoline” (CC BY 2.0) by jetheriot

How much does the Altitude Trampoline Park cost?

On average, the single jumper rate for a one-hour pass is about $12 to $15, while a two-hour pass is $21 and a three-hour pass is $27.  Each additional hour can be about half of this rate.  These are the prices for those older than six.  The cost will greatly depend on the location and the age of the jumper.  Children under two are often free at most locations and children three to six pay closer to $11 for the first hour.

For example, this Arkansas location lists its prices on the official website.  A one-hour pass is $16, while a two-hour pass is $21.  Children two and under are free, and children younger than three are $11 for an hour.

The park also has party packages for up to 20 guests.  Both these packages include pizza and beverages for all guests, including full access to the park for up to 2 hours, as well as a special gift for the birthday child.  Parties with up to 10 guests cost $199.95 for 2 hours of jump time on the weekend and about $169.95 on the weekday.  Parties for 20 people on a weekend can cost up to $330

Altitude Trampoline Park overview

Altitude Trampoline Park is a franchise of trampoline parks offering one of the biggest trampoline parks measuring more than 30,000 square feet with over 200 inter-connected wall to wall trampolines covering about 15,000 square feet as well as other attractions.

This indoor park includes a range of specific activities such as basketball dunking lanes, 3D dodgeball, a kid zone, gymnastics tumble tracks, foam pits and a large main court.

Altitude Trampoline Park also offers a rock climbing wall as well as a battle beam suspended over the foam pits for extra entertainment.  In addition, families can organize special trampoline park birthday parties at Altitude Trampoline Park.  Parties can be customized and include pizza and a private room, as well as access to the entire park for two hours for up to 20 jumpers.

What are the extra costs?

Trampoline socks are required to jump and will cost about $2 per pair.

Altitude Trampoline Park also offers fitness class boot camps for $9.95 for a single class and $89.95 for a 12 class pass.

There are competitive jumping classes and competitions, and most will have an entry fee.

Tips to know

The park is open to those of all ages.

To save time, the park highly recommends you purchase a pass on their official website to save time and secure a spot.

Anyone younger than 19 will need to have a waiver signed by their parent or guardian.

There is an open jump where guests get to jump as high as they would like on one of the numerous trampolines, in addition to fitness classes and Kids Zone for kids that weigh less than 80 pounds.  And in case you are into the team sports, you should join in a fun game of trampoline basketball or even dodgeball on one of the two fully-enclosed dodgeball courts.

You can order tickets online and fill out a waiver.  The park recommends that you print out the waiver before you go to the park to save time in line.  All guests over 18 must fill out and sign the waiver, and children under 18 must have one signed by a parent or legal guardian.

No shoes and any sharp objects are permitted on the trampolines, but socks are required.  Altitude Trampoline Park can provide socks for a small fee to those who do not have any.

How can I save money?

Be sure to check out Groupon.com as the franchise does advertise on this daily deal website from time to time.

Before going to the park, check the official calendar for discount days and special events.  There are certain nights that have discounts for particular groups, for example (toddlers, pre-teens, and teens).  There are also early bird specials and family fun packs that can save you money as well.

Altitude Trampoline Park coupons can often be found on their website or in a local circular in the mail if you live near one.

How Much Does an AARP Membership Cost?

The AARP, a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization, was established in 1958 by Ethel Percy Andrus, a retired high school principal.  This was in response to a need for affordable health insurance plans for retired teachers.  This organization is currently one of the leading and most powerful lobbying groups for the interests of the senior citizens in the United States.  AARP has established coalitions globally to promote the quality of life and well-being for senior citizens.  One of its most essential services is discount offers to seniors on consumer goods, insurance services, and prescription drugs.

Just got an AARP card through direct mai by andinarvaez, on Flickr
Just got an AARP card through direct mai” (CC BY 2.0) by andinarvaez

How much does an AARP membership cost?

The annual membership fees for AARP will depend on how long you commit to a membership.  As of 2017, one year for new members is $12 per year, $14 per year if you commit for three years or $12.60 per year if you commit for five years.  The fee covers both the primary applicant and their spouse.  These are the prices for those who are older than 50 years old.

Those under 50 can sign up for a membership, but in order to get a membership, you have to call AARP.  According to Forbes.com, the cost of an Associate membership for those under 50 would cost $12.50 a year.

MoneyTalkNews.com talked about the membership and if it’s truly worth it.  They stated it costs $16 a year, and members will receive access to discounts on insurance and other products and services.

AARP membership overview

Benefits and discounts include access to healthcare products, auto insurance, homeowners insurance, an auto buying program, roadside assistance and other services.  Members also receive discounts on dining, groceries, phone planes, travel and so much more.  Some discounts, for example, include discounts at rental car agencies, up to 20 percent off at popular hotel chains, including the Hilton, Starwood and Wyndam, and access to the AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia.  Members also receive 15 percent off at Outback Steakhouse, a free doughnut with a purchase of a large drink at Dunkin’ Donuts and 10 percent off at McCormick & Schmick’s.  Refer to our table below for the discounts you can receive as a member:

Insurance- AARP auto insurance program from The Hartford
Travel- Up to 30 percent discount at major car rental companies such as Budget and Avis
- Up to 20 percent discount at hotel chains such as Days Inn, La Quinta, Best Western, Ramada, Wyndham and up to 35 percent off from Endless Vacation Rentals
- Cruise discounts from Norwegian Cruise Line
- Travel insurance options
Food- Carrabba's
- Dunkin' Donuts
- Outback Steakhouse
- Papa John's
- Denny's
- Schwan's Home Service
- Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
- Bonefish Grill
- Chart House
- Claim Jumper
- Landry's
- Rainforest Cafe
Retail- Amazon Kindle
- Michael's
- Reebok
- Rockport
- The UPS Store
- Movie Tickets from Regal Cinemas
- Tanger Outlets
- LensCrafters
- Ticketmaster
- Walgreens
- Target Optical
- Sears Optical
- Pearle Vision
- Glasses.com
Technology- AT&T
- Consumer Cellular
- Cricket Wireless
- MONI Smart Security
- Ancestry

NOTE:  For all discounts, refer to their official discount page here.

Members will receive a subscription to AARP The Magazine, an award-winning publication packed with information about state and national legislation and programs affecting those over 50 years old.

Tips to know

Once the process of application is complete, new AARP members gain immediate access to the products and services offered by the organization.

An AARP member does not have to be retired to be approved for membership.  Applicants under 50 years old can join AAPR as an associate member.  Membership, for this age category, is generally a statement of support, and these associate members do not receive the benefits and services of the membership.  The membership is also not limited to U.S. citizens, nor do they have to reside in the United States.

If signing up for the first time, be on the lookout for a special gift offer.  For instance, at the time of this publishing, they were offering either a free Bluetooth speaker or travel bag.

Is an AARP membership worth it?  As a general consensus, it seems as if it is as long as you use a few discounts throughout the year.  For as little as $12 a year, two trips to a participating restaurant or booking at a discounted hotel chain can easily save you more than your annual fee.

How can I save money?

As you can see above, the longer you commit, the more you will be able to save. If you know you want the membership for longer than a year, then it’s best to sign up for three or five-year plans.

First-time members often receive a discount.  Be sure to check out the official website to see if you can take advantage of any savings.  For example, at the time of this publishing, they were offering new members up to 25 percent their first year when they selected the auto-renew option.

Some members mentioned talking with customer service over the phone to negotiate the rate.  In some scenarios, members were able to cut their rates by more than half by simply asking.

Setting up the auto-renewal option can often bring the annual costs down.

How Much Does a Blue Heeler Cost?

The blue heeler is considered to be a high energy and clever dog that is both active and athletic.  They were initially bred as working dogs and are capable of herding cattle and sheep.

Officially known as the Australian cattle dog, the blue heeler was bred in Australia during the 1800s as a cross between the dingo-blue merle collies, Dalmatians, and black and tan kelpies.  The cross-breeding resulted in the Blue Heeler breed that resembles the build and body type of the wild dingo, having unique markings in hues of red, black, tan, and blue.  The Blue Heeler was bred as a cattle herder dog and continues to perform the duty up to now, in addition to serving as a house pet.

Mollie by Vaya B, on Flickr
Mollie” (CC BY 2.0) by Vaya B

How much does a Blue Heeler cost?

On average, a Blue Heeler puppy range anywhere from $250 for a ranch-bred puppy to over $1,100 for a high-quality ACK trained dog.  The costs will depend on the dog’s age, its history, bloodline, the breeder, geographical location and inclusions.

PuppyFind.com, for example, had 250 listings at the time of this publishing, with prices ranging from $500 to $2,000.

On RanchWorldAds.com, they had close to 30+ listings, with the average price ranging from as little as $300 to $800 for an AKC registered dog.

What is going to be included in the adoption fee?

A reputable breeder should include registration papers, up-to-date vaccinations, deworming sessions and a health guarantee.  If the dog is being shipped via an airline or by ground, then a travel crate will be included as well.  Also, from what we saw on classified ads, many breeders would dock the tails and remove the dewclaws, too.

What are the extra costs?

If being shipped via an airline, most of your major airlines charge $200 to $350.

Regular grooming and brushing is highly recommended.  Hand stripping or clipping is recommended once every six to eight weeks to get rid of dead hairs to prevent matting.  If you were to hire a professional groomer, each session could cost about $60 on average.  However, there are also tools that you can purchase to do this job yourself.  While these tools may be more expensive up front, doing the grooming yourself will save you a lot of money throughout the dog’s life.

Routine/surprise vet care, medication and deworming should also be included in your budget.  A healthy dog can easily cost $600 to $800 per year.

While optional, it is advisable to purchase a pet insurance policy to cover unexpected vet bills.

Neutering or spaying, which the breeder often doesn’t include, is a necessary expense to consider.

Obedience training as a puppy is recommended to teach it the basics of sit, stay and lay down.  These training sessions can also help an owner gain control and keep the dog from being destructive when away.

Tips to know:

Blue heelers are a sturdy, solid, and compact dog breed with an alert, ready-to-work stance.  They are slightly longer than tall with a curved, hanging tail and have strong necks, muscular legs, and broad, fairly rounded heads with pointy ears.  They have a dense, weather-resistant coat that comes either red speckled or blue speckled—both with the possible dark or tan markings.

Its coat compromises of a weather resistant double coat, with the outer coat being flat, hard, straight and close.  The most common colors include blue, blue speckle, blue-mottled or red speckle.  The blue coats will also have markings of either tan, blue or black.  As puppies, they will always be white in color, but if you look at the pads of the paws, this will show off their adult color.

The average height of a blue heeler is 17 to 20 inches and can weigh anywhere from 25 to 50 pounds, with females slightly smaller.

The Blue heeler has a life expectancy of 10 and 13 years.

The dog is suitable for living on a rural farm or in a suburban home with a yard, but it will not fare well with apartment living.  This dog loves to exercise, including herding, playing frisbee and fetch.

This breed is susceptible to deafness, hip dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy, according to Animal-World.com.

How can I save money?

Consider adopting a Blue Heeler as these are very common dogs, and even if you’re not able to find one, there are many mixes with Blue Heeler genetics. Whether it’s via AdoptaPet.com or even visiting your local animal shelter, there could be a good chance you find a dog that needs a forever home.  A Blue Heeler rescue group could be in your area as well.  These groups will only focus on this breed and will work similar to that of an adoption center.

How Much Do Basenji Puppies Cost?

The Basenji is a unique dog breed that was originally developed in Africa for hunting purposes.

Small and elegant, perhaps best known for its lack of barking, this breed will whine and make noises which resemble a yodeling-like sound.

Lhasa alias Lolita delle Caserosse by fugzu, on Flickr
Lhasa alias Lolita delle Caserosse” (CC BY 2.0) by fugzu

How much do Basenji puppies cost?

The cost of Basenji puppies will greatly depend on the breeder, registration, quality and geographical location.  For the most part, the average price can range anywhere from as little as $500 for a puppy with no papers to as much as $1,800+ for a show-quality AKC registered dog with champion line parents.

PuppyFind.com, an online puppy classified website, only had less than 15 active listings at the time of this publishing, with most breeders asking for $1,000 on average.

Burke’s Backyard says the average puppy can start at $500, but since puppies are only born once a year, there will often be a waiting list.

What is going to be included in the adoption fee?

A reputable breeder should always include registration paperwork, up-to-date vaccination, deworming, a health guarantee and a vet examination.  If the dog is being shipped, a shipping crate should be included as well.

What are the extra costs?

Due to the rarity of the breed, there’s a good chance you will have to have the dog shipped via an airline.  Most of your major airlines will charge $200 to $400.

To spay or neuter, if your breeder doesn’t include it, can cost $200 to $300.

Recurring costs, as with any dog, needs to be considered.  This will include food, accessories, obedience classes, dog sitting and routine/surprise vet visits.  A healthy dog can easily cost $600 per year, whereas a surprise vet visit could double or even triple this cost.  On a forum thread at BasenjiForums.com, one member claimed she paid $2,617 in her first year taking care of her dog.  This included the purchase price, neutering operation, AKC registration, microchip and other options.

Most reputable breeders won’t include breeding rights, but some may offer this option for an additional $500~.

Obedience classes, as with most puppies, are encouraged at a young age.  These classes can help teach the puppy the basics of sit, stay and lay down and help it with separation anxiety if it were to suffer from it.  As these dogs can be quite destructive, these classes can hopefully teach them what they should and shouldn’t get themselves into.  Being an independent thinker, this “10 Reasons You Shouldn’t Get a Basenji” guide says they can be very hard to train.

Tips to know:

This breed is muscular but also quite lean and agile that moves with ease and agility.  Their bodies are lightly built and possess a wedge-shaped face with a wrinkled forehead.  Its almond-shaped eyes should be in dark hazel color with black rims that are set obliquely in the face.  The ears are small and erect, slightly hooded and set well forward on the top of the head.

This medium-sized smooth coated dog breed has a distinctive high, tightly curled tail.  Smooth, glossy hair covers its pliant skin.  The coat color can be chestnut red, pure black, brindle, or a tri-color with white markings on the feet, the tip of the tail, chest, and forehead.

The Basenji averages about 15 inches tall from the shoulder and weighs about 18 to 22 pounds.  Females will be slightly smaller on average.

Basenjis can live up to 14 to 16 years with proper nutrition and care.

Basenjis are considered to be a poised, elegant hunting dog breed from Africa, originating from the pariah dogs.  This breed was most likely bred to be companion dogs for the Pharaohs.  This breed is very intelligent, with a fine trait and curious nature.

The Basenji is commonly referred to as the “barkless dog.”  When excited, as mentioned prior, the dog creates a sound that sounds like a yodel.

They are known to be very suspicious around strangers but can warm up to their families.

Loving the outdoors and highly energetic, it’s highly recommended you have a large yard for the dog to roam for at least 30 minutes per day.

Health concerns for the breed include Fanconi Syndrome, a kidney dystrophy, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (an eye disorder) and hip dysplasia.

Is it hypoallergenic? Due to the minimal shedding, it is considered to be hypoallergenic, but while there’s no such thing as an allergy-free dog, the thin coat will produce little dander.

How can I save money?

Consider checking out a local adoption center or rescue group.  While it may be hard to find this breed, there could be a good chance you find a puppy you fall in love with.  Adoption is a great way to support your local organization and help a puppy in need.  Plus, it can save you hundreds, if not a thousand or more dollars.  PetFinder.com can help you find Basenji dogs ready for adoption in your area.

How Much Does a Bernedoodle Cost?

The Bernedoodle is a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle.

2014/365/28 Mickey’s Last Walk by cogdogblog, on Flickr
2014/365/28 Mickey’s Last Walk” (Public Domain) by cogdogblog

How much does a Bernedoodle puppy cost?

The cost of a Bernedoodle will greatly depend on the generation, the color, the size, breeder and geographical location.  There are three common generation options on the market:  an F1, F1b and F2.  An F1, being the first generation cross, will be 50 percent Bernese Mountain dog and 50 percent Poodle.  This generation is considered to be the healthiest generation with the least likely chance of contributing genes for the common inherited diseases.  An F1b generation is a backcross in which a Bernese Mountain dog bred with a Poodle.  This generation is 25 percent Bernese and 75 percent Poodle.  These puppies tend to be non-shedding and allergy friendly.  Lastly, an F2 is a cross between an F1 Bernedoodle and another F1 Bernedoodle.

GenerationAverage Price
F1$3,000 to $4,500, depending on the coat color and size
F1b$2,000 to $3,000
F2$850 to $1,350

NOTE:  These tend to be the price ranges for all sizes and coat colors, but on the higher end, standard and miniature Bernedoodles with a tri-color coat will cost the most.

RockyMTNBernedoodles.com, for example, lists the current prices of their puppies on their official website.  At the time of this publishing, they had puppies ranging anywhere from $3,450 to $4,000.

Molly’s Darling Doodles, another Bernedoodle dog breeder, had prices on her website as well.  According to her pricing list, all F1 and F1b puppies could cost anywhere from $2,000 for a solid black with little markings to more than $4,500 for a tri-colored puppy.  This breeder would include a health exam, vaccinations, a deworming, health warranty, microchip, toy and a starter bag of food.

What is going to be included in the adoption fee?

A good breeder, upon adoption, should offer a health guarantee, a vet exam, up-to-date vaccinations, deworming, OFA tests, CERF tests, and in some cases, a microchip.  Some breeders may also include a small starter kit with a bag of food, toys, collar, leash and coupons.

What are the extra costs?

If the dog has to be shipped via an airline or ground transportation, then this can be an additional cost to budget for.  Most airlines will charge anywhere from $250 to $400 to ship a puppy within the United States.

Depending on the variety, expect the dog to shed moderately throughout the year.  If you don’t have the time to brush to keep it from matting and shedding, then it’s best to budget for monthly professional dog grooming sessions.

Almost all puppies will be sold with a spay/neuter contract, but in the case the breeder does offer breeding rights, you may be able to buy them.

Tips to know:

A Bernedoodle’s most popular coat colors will either be black, black and white, black and brown or a tri-color, which is a mix of black, white and brown.  Tri-color puppies will always be the most expensive option, but overall, it can have any Poodle coat color.

The dog varies in sizes, depending on its parents and the genetics, but for the most part, a full-grown standard Bernedoodle will measure 23 to 30 inches at the shoulder and can weigh close to 70 to 90 pounds, while a mini Bernedoodle, which is a cross between a Minature Poodle and Bernese Mountain dog, can measure 18 to 22 inches at the shoulder and weigh 25 to 50 pounds.  Lastly, a tiny Bernedoodle, which is a cross between a Toy Poodle and Mini Bernedoodle will range anywhere from 12 to 18 inches from the shoulder and weigh 10 to 25 pounds.  Males will always be slightly larger than the females.

A well-bred Bernedoodle’s temperament, as per its owner, has said to be a mix between the Bernese and the Poodle.  Regardless of its genetics, the dog tends to be very friendly, goofy and playful, making it a wonderful companion for both children and the elderly.  They are also known to be extremely intelligent, sociable and very strong-willed.  Every puppy will have its own personality, however, so most breeders will highly recommend you visit the parents of the puppy in person to see how they act in person.

Due to their energy levels, most Bernedoodles require a larger yard to play in to burn off their energy.  They do love to run, play, fetch and hike.

Due to the rarity of this breed, many popular breeders have waiting lists for up to a year long.  If you plan on adopting, it may be best to start your search now.

Even though the parents of the puppies can be registered with the AKC, designer dogs will not be recognized.

The Bernedoodle is prone to hip dysplasia, heart disease, obesity, and cancer, just like other dogs.   These health concerns greatly depend on the dog’s genetics and lifestyle.

While there’s no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog, the Bernedoodle is known to be very allergy friendly.  Due to the dog’s genetics, however, the coat can vary as some can shed a lot more than others.  Common coat types include curly, wavy or straight.  If you are allergic to a dog, it is always best to visit the dog in person to see how you react to the situation.

How can I save money?

As you can see, a Bernedoodle can cost thousands of dollars.  Consider checking out your local animal shelter to see if you can find a puppy or even an older dog that may resemble this dog.  While this breed probably won’t be there,  it doesn’t hurt to check.  While rare, a rescue group may be local as well.

How Much Does an Alphorn Cost?

An alphorn is an instrument that many people recognize visually but know very little about.

Mention traditional Swiss music and a majority of people visualize alphorn players in the mountainous meadows of the Switzerland Alps.

This wind instrument is made of a long tube which widens as it stretches from its wooden mouthpiece to the bell-shaped opening at the end that curves up.  Between the bell and mouthpiece, it has no valves, holes, or buttons.

Swiss alphorn players by kBandara, on Flickr
Swiss alphorn players” (CC BY 2.0) by kBandara

How much does an alphorn cost?

An alphorn in great condition could cost anywhere from as little as $1,500 to as much as $6,500, but alphorns made of an exotic wood could cost up to 40 percent more.  From our research, a student, starter-like alphorn could cost as little as $1,000, whereas a very well tuned alphorn with a brighter sound could easily cost $4,000+.

For example, Alphorn.ca sells a Rocky Mountain Alphorn for $5,250.

According to KrollTravel.com, a good alphorn can cost $5,000.

Alphorn overview

The alphorn is traditionally twice as long as the individual playing it.  More mellow, lingering, and powerful than a bugle, the sound of the alphorn is determined by its pitch.  The alphorns have different pitches as the length of the tube dictates the pitch.  All notes on an alphorn are made using the lips, and the most common note played using an alphorn is G-flat.  The alphorns can also have other pitches, including E, F, and F sharp.

An alphorn is either carved or bored in wood and then over-wound with birch bark.  Some of the instruments are straight, reaching 12 feet in length.  Since the mid-19th century, particularly in Switzerland, its bell may be up-curved.  Others, mainly in the eastern Alps, are trumpet-shaped.  Also, S-shapes are available.

What are the extra costs?

You need to factor in the cost of shipping and handling costs of the alphorn since it can often be hard to find one locally.  Depending on the size, the shipping could reach well into the hundreds of dollars, especially if you were to add insurance.  Since alphorns are most common in Switzerland, you may have to get one from there, meaning that the shipping costs will be quite high.

Carved and customized paint options could add a few hundred dollars, depending on the artist.  You could even get the alphorn personalized.

Also, consider taking a few alphorn lessons.  The average lesson could cost $20 to $40.  This is optional, however.

A travel case is recommended to protect the instrument on the go.  A good case can cost $200 to $400.

Additional mouthpieces can cost $40 to $80.

Tips to know:

Alphorns were made originally from fir trees.  Nowadays, these instruments are usually made with spruce or other wood like maple, and at times covered with wicker.

Some alphorns are works of art with original paintings and wood carvings on the bell.

To make it easier to transport the instruments, they have three to five sections which can be taken apart and then placed in a bag or case, and afterward re-assembled before playing.

A good alphorn musician is able to play the melodies without the horn that acts as an amplifier.  Around the world, one can listen to alphorn music in orchestra and solo performances.

A good quality alphorn is very easy to blow, has excellent intonation, and easy attack.  It also should have a tight bore with well-balanced blowing resistance, as well as being light, easy, and agile to blow.

The alphorn, otherwise known as alpine horn or alpenhorn, is a labrophone.  It is made up of a wooden natural horn of a conical bore, with a wooden cup-shaped mouthpiece and used by the mountain dwellers, alpine herdsmen and villagers in Switzerland.  Similar wooden horns were utilized for communication in a majority of mountainous regions of Europe, from the Carpathians to the French Alps.  It still is sounded for intercommunication and at the daily ceremonies and seasonal festivals.

How can I save money?

Consider buying a slightly used instrument on eBay or Craigslist.

How Much Does an ALLDATA Subscription Cost?

ALLDATA is the industry’s top source of automotive Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) auto repair software for the professional automotive service industry.  It provides diagnostic and repair data.

Tools by Julien_Dumont, on Flickr
Tools” (CC BY 2.0) by Julien_Dumont

How much does an ALLDATA subscription cost per month?

The cost of ALLDATA will greatly depend on the bundle you purchase.  The best selling bundles, according to the official website, range anywhere from as little as $190 to $269 a month.  Refer to our chart to see what you may pay:

InclusionsMonthly Price
Repair - Update + Mobile Repair$190
Repair - Update + Manage Online$249
Repair - Update +Tech-Assist$200
Repair - Update +Mobile Repair + Manage Online$269
Repair - Update +Mobile Repair + Tech Assist$220
Collision - Update + Estimate Integration$259
Repair - Update ONLY$169 for first-time customers
Collision - Update ONLY$209
Estimate Integration ONLY$79
Manage Online ONLY$105
Tech Assist ONLY$40
Mobile Repair ONLY$35
Mobile Collision ONLY$35
Training Garage Enterprise MONTHLY$55

NOTE:  These prices are as of 2017 and are subject to change.  Refer to the official ALLDATA website for more information on pricing.

ALLDATA options

ALLDATA Repair

ALLDATA Repair, the most popular option, delivers online OEM repair information, with factory-direct diagrams, repair procedures, technical service bulletins, diagnostic trouble code, OEM-original wiring diagrams, parts and labor quotes, timing belt interval charts, tire pressure monitor system reset procedures and system descriptions.  All of the OEM data is unaltered, meaning you will receive the information you need directly from each manufacturer.

ALLDATA Mobile

The ALLDATA Mobile app includes all of the features Repair has but also offers OEM repair information and diagrams in an easy-to-read mobile format.

ALLDATA Manage Online

ALLDATA Manage Online allows shops to create estimates, repair orders and order parts online from reputable vendors.  It can also keep in touch with your customers and run essential business management reports.

ALLDATA Training Garage

ALLDATA Training Garage is an extensive training program that covers the technical and business subjects to help supplement courses in tech training programs.  Technical courses include fundamentals, maintenance, engines, steering/suspension, brakes, electrical, transmission, HVAC and diesel.   Business courses include business building and shop management.  You can see the entire list of courses here.

ALLDATA Tech-Assist

ALLDATA Tech-Assist offers advance support from a highly-skilled diagnostic team of ASE Certified Master Technicians.

ALLDATA Collision

For collision shops, the company offers ALLDATA Collision, offering collision shops full access to a database of more than 38,000 engine-specific vehicles.  This service includes OEM procedures, the handling of new materials and panel removal and replacement, for example.

What are the extra costs?

The bundles often include two packages.  If you were to build your own bundle, then each option, as explained above, will add to the costs.  Refer to our table above to see what it would cost.

How can I save money?

For non-shop owners, ALLDATA , which costs as little as $29.95 per year.  This version offers information for one vehicle and includes all service/repair procedures, maintenance schedules, factory part numbers, factory-correct wire diagrams, technical service bulletins and labor time estimates.

The company does offer demonstrations for first time users.

Search for promotion codes before purchasing online.  For first-time buyers, it is not uncommon to find a discounted promo code either on the official website or on a third-party website.

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