China Government must bite the bullet

Further reductions in administrative costs and improvements in efficiency needed in the face of lower fiscal revenue
China's central fiscal revenue declined 0.8 percent year-on-year in the first four months of this year, and a per capita 11.3 percent monthly growth is needed in the following months if the country wants to achieve the growth target set early this year, according to a report delivered to the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress on June 27 by the Minister of Finance, Lou Jiwei.
Considering lukewarm economic growth in the latter half of this year and a possible fiscal revenue decline, as a result of the widespread implementation of the policy to convert business tax into value added tax, due on August 1, China's full-year central fiscal revenue faces gloomy prospects.
Similarly, there has been lower-than-expected growth in local fiscal revenue. China's local fiscal revenue was 4.89 trillion yuan ($798 billion) in the first five months, a 6.9 percent increase year-on-year, 2.5 percentage points lower than a year earlier. The fiscal revenue grew only 0.1 percent year-on-year in the Inner Mongolia autonomous region in the first five months, much lower than a planned 14 percent full-year growth, while Liaoning province witnessed 5.2 percent growth during the same period, compared with the planned full-year growth of 11 percent, and Shaanxi province witnessed 6.55 percent growth, in sharp contrast with a 16 percent growth planned for the whole year.
Worse, the recent "liquidity crunch" that broke out among some domestic banks makes the outlook for the country's fiscal revenues at both the central and local levels even gloomier in the context of the weak national economic momentum.
It is widely believed that the recent liquidity insufficiency was a temporary and structural monetary problem largely caused by seasonal interest rate fluctuations and panics following the changes in market expectations. However, a series of problems accumulated among domestic banks, such as huge volumes of interbank debts and their maturity mismatch, cannot be resolved within a short period. This, together with increased pressures for performance assessment at the end of every quarter, the expiry of wealth management products, the outflow of hot money and tightening financial supervision from the authorities, means that the funds in China's financial system will tend to be at a tightened balancing level in the latter half of this year.
The new leadership's unambiguous refusal to inject liquidity into the market has sounded an alarm that financial institutions should stop their previous practice of excessively using maturity mismatch for financial expansion. It is expected that domestic financial institutions will strengthen their liquidity management, accelerate deleverage of their wealth management products and optimize their credit structures in a bid to channel more funds into the real economy in the future. Such kind of funds rebalancing and the prioritizing of the real economy will facilitate the transformation of China's economic structure and its long-term growth, but it will also be a drag on its fiscal revenue growth.
The accelerated efforts for funds rebalancing to be expected within the country's banking system will possibly expose its hidden local debt risks at an earlier date. There have been concerns over its accumulated local debt risks since 2009. Due to strengthened efforts from the authorities to tighten bank loans since the start of 2012, many of the country's local financing platforms have begun to turn to trust loans and other financing forms in an attempt to borrow new money to pay off old debts, which has to some extent eased their debt-paying pressures.
However, the tightened flow of credit and trust funds to local financing platforms pushed by commercial banks following the recent liquidity crunch will inevitably aggravate short-term local debt risks. Due to their desire not to default on their debts borrowed via their financing vehicles for the sake of continuous financing in the future, local governments will possibly use some of their fiscal revenues to pay off debts, thus adding to their fiscal crisis.
The assets restructuring pushed by domestic commercial banks will negatively affect credit-driven real estate development and thus indirectly influence local fiscal revenue. A large-scale flow of funds to the property sector in recent years has continuously fueled the rise of property prices, benefiting both banks and developers. At the same time, the ever-bulging revenues from land sales and tax have also made local governments become the largest beneficiary of the real estate-dependent economic model.
The unavoidable deleverage for interbank financial and trust products following the recent liquidity crunch will inevitably reduce the funds for real estate development and thus dampen developers' enthusiasm for buying land, which will result in a decline in local land sales revenues. Money insufficiency will also foil local governments' hopes of utilizing an easy monetary policy to stimulate local economic growth and boost their fiscal revenues.
Compared with its flat purses, the country's fiscal spending has kept rocketing both at the central and local levels. In the first five months, outlays at the expense of public coffers amounted to 4.66 trillion yuan, a 13.2 percent increase from the same period last year, or 7.1 percentage points higher than the country's fiscal revenue growth.
Facing growing fiscal pressures in the context of a "money shortage" and financial and tax reforms, the government should realize that low fiscal revenue growth will be common in the future and that preparations should be made for fiscal austerity.
The government should further reduce its administrative costs and improve its administration efficiency through delegating more power to lower departments and promoting government restructuring to reduce interventions into microeconomic activities. The awareness that it should live within its fiscal capacity should be cultivated to avoid excessive spending.
The author is a professor with the School of Economics and Management, Beijing University of Science and Technology, and Chen Jinbao is an economics PhD at the school.

Xi vows to protect maritime interests

Country will enhance enforcement to match its national strength

China's top leader has vowed to protect the country's maritime interests and be fully preparedfor the complex issues in the region.

President Xi Jinping made the pledge on Wednesday while chairing a group study session ofthe Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee to discuss a roadmapto becoming a maritime power.

Xi stressed China will stick to the principle of "shelving disputes and carrying out jointdevelopment" for areas over which China owns sovereign rights.

"We love peace and will remain on a path of peaceful development, but that doesn't meangiving up our rights, especially involving the nation's core interests," Xi said.

The country will enhance its maritime law enforcement capacity to match its overall nationalstrength, he said.

Li Guoqiang, deputy director of the Center for Chinese Borderland History and Geography atthe Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said Xi's speech showed the country's decision toprotect its maritime interests, an important part of building China into a maritime power.

"The speech also emphasized solving maritime issues through diplomatic and political means,reflecting that China, as a responsible country, will not use force rashly," Li said.

Sea disputes between China and other countries have surged in recent years. In the SouthChina Sea, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei all have competing claims over someChinese islands, while Sino-Japanese relations have been strained since September whenTokyo "illegally purchased" three islands in the East China Sea.

Yang Baoyun, an expert on Southeast Asian Studies at Peking University, said Xi's speech signaled that China will maintain steady development in its neighboring areas and protect its maritime interests.

"It will be tough for China, but we are making all efforts," Yang said.

Xi also stressed the importance of developing the marine economy, protecting the marine environment and strengthening marine science and technology research.

"A developed marine economy is an important part of building maritime power," Xi said, addingthat China will foster and strengthen emerging high-tech marine sectors and optimize thestructure of the marine industry, while completing a general plan for innovative marinetechnology.

The emerging sectors in the marine economy include marine bio-pharmaceuticals, seawaterutilization and renewable energies, and offshore equipment manufacturing.

While boosting the country's marine economy, Xi emphasized the importance of protecting themarine environment, saying efforts will be made to control the worsening marine environment.

He said marine environmental protection will be given the same priority as marine exploration.

A mechanism to enforce compensation for marine ecological damage to protect the ocean willbe created, he said.

Water Heater Buying Guide

Many factors determine which water heater is best for your home. The Home Depot offers a full line of water heaters with the latest technologies, from high-capacity traditional tank units to tankless models that deliver a near endless supply of hot water and save energy. This guide will help you understand the different types of water heaters and the features you should look for. Its easy to feel confident about choosing the perfect hot water heater for your home. 
 

Considerations

The three main factors to consider in choosing your water heater are:
 
          •  Fuel – Gas or electric
          •  Water Storage – Tank or tankless
          •  Function – Whole house or Point of Use
 

Fuel

Most water heaters are fueled by gas or electricity. Refer to the table below to compare the differences between the two.
 

Type	Factors to Consider
Gas	• Requires a slightly larger up-front investment • Must be vented outdoors for safety • Units with sealed combustion or power venting increase safety • Usually cost less to operate • Not affected by power outages (tank-style only)
Electric	• Generally cost less than gas models • Easy to maintain • Requires no combustibles or venting • Heats water quickly • Offer high energy factor ratings

Water Storage 

Conventional tank water heaters store water in an insulated tank until it is needed. Tankless units do not store water but heat it by running it through coils. Each offer their own unique advantages, and you can compare features and benefits in the table below.
 

Type	How it Functions	Factors to Consider
Conventional Tank	Stores constantly heated water	• Economical • Can be positioned in closet, basement or garage • Capacity ranges from 20 to 80 gallons • Efficiency varies between models, brands and    fuel sources
Tankless	Heats cold water with a gas burner or electric element as it passes through the water heater	• Require a larger up-front investment • Hang on wall and frees up floor space • Excellent option for residences occupied part-time • Reduce energy consumption by as much as 30% • Can run out of hot water during heavy usage • Requires ventilation

Whole House and Point of Use Systems

Conventional tank water heaters are whole house systems that send hot water from the tank through the house to the point where you want hot water. Tankless water heaters are typically whole house systems as well, heating water as needed. Whole house systems can provide hot water to more than one fixture at a time. Depending on the size of your home and the number of fixtures, you may need to consider adding additional hot water heating capacity.
 
Point of use systems are individual units that install directly under the sink or in a closet. These systems deliver instant hot water to a specific location. Point of use systems typically augment a whole house system when instant or additional hot water is needed.
 

Other Criteria

Once you’ve determined the fuel, tank type and whether you want a whole house or point of use system, you’ll want to consider capacity, fuel efficiency, and size options.
 

Capacity  

It’s important to select a hot water heater that provides enough hot water for your home. An undersized water heater will work harder and have a shorter lifespan.
 
Conventional Tank: Determining the proper capacity for your household based on the number of bathrooms and bedrooms in your home. If you choose to purchase a unit with a tank, consult the table below for help in determining storage capacity.
 

Determine Water Heater Capacity
Number of Bathrooms	1 − 1.5	2 − 2.5	3 − 3.5
Number of Bedrooms	1    2   3	2   3   4   5	3   4   5    6
Minimum Tank Size	20  30 40	50 50 50 60	50  60 60 80

Tankless: To determine the size of the tankless hot water heater you need, you’ll need to calculate how much hot water you’ll need at one time, which is called the flow rate. Flow rate is measured in gallons per minute (gpm). The table below provides typical flow rates for typical household hot water applications.
 

Fixture/Appliance	Typical Flow Rates
Bathroom Faucet	0.5 - 1.5 gpm
Low Flow Kitchen Faucet	3.0 - 7.0 gpm
Shower	1.0 - 2.0 gpm
Dishwasher	1.0 - 2.5 gpm
Clothes Washer	1.5 - 3.0 gpm

To determine the gpm you need, add the gpms of the major fixtures or appliances you expect to be using simultaneously. As an example, if you typically run the kitchen faucet (1.5 gpm) and the dishwasher (2.5 gpm) at the same time, you’ll need to heat 4.0 gpm of water. Once you have identified the maximum gpm required for your tankless unit, the next factor to consider is the temperature rise it needs to provide.
 

Dimensions

Once you know the capacity for your water heater, remember to take the unit’s dimensions into consideration.
 
          • A new conventional storage replacement unit may be larger than the old one because more insulation is 
            required to meet the latest strict federal energy standards. Keep this in mind where units are installed in 
            closets or other close quarters.

          • If you are upgrading to a larger unit, you may need to have plumbing run to it if it has to be relocated. 
            One way to avoid relocating the unit is to select a model in a non-standard size, such as a unit that 
            is shorter but larger around, known as a “low boy” hot water heater.

          • If you are purchasing a tankless water heater, be sure the location you choose for installation meets 
            ventilation requirements.

          • The ideal location for a tankless unit is on an exterior wall near a gas supply line, water supply line and 
             electrical power source. This is also the easiest and most cost-effective way to run the venting.

          • The unit should have ½” clearance on the sides, 12” on the front and 18” off the floor.
 

Energy Efficiency

Whichever fuel source you use, a water heater can be the third largest energy user in your home, so you’ll want a unit that offers energy and cost savings. Fortunately, almost all water heaters offer increased efficiencies to meet increasingly strict federal energy standards. Look for the Energy Factor (EF) rating on the unit. This rating measures how efficiently a unit converts energy into heat as well as how much heat is lost during storage. The higher the energy factor, the more energy efficient the water heater is. Look for EF ratings as close to 1 as possible. Electric heaters tend to have the highest EF ratings.
 

Features to Consider

Self Cleaning

Water heaters with this feature automatically fight lime and sediment buildup to lengthen tank life and maintain peak efficiency for a longer period of time.
 

Recovery Speed

The amount of time it takes to heat a full tank of water. Look for a model with a fast recovery speed if you have a tendency to use a lot of hot water.
 

Automatic Shutoff Valve

This valve helps prevent fires by shutting off the flow of gas if there’s movement in the ground or the gas flow experiences a sudden, sizeable increase.
 

Wall Ovens Find the Best Wall Oven for Your Kitchen

Wall ovens are a great alternative to a traditional range unit. They are designed to provide an excellent fit in any kitchen, no matter the layout or space restrictions. They offer tremendous placement versatility and can better utilize space in smaller kitchens. Wall ovens also eliminate the need to bend over when removing heavy dishes from the oven, helping to minimize strain on your back and making it easier to keep an eye on what you’re cooking. Paired with a sophisticated cooktop they can provide a stylish, modern look for your kitchen. Consider the following questions to learn more about what types of wall ovens are available and which one might be right for you:
 
        • What are the characteristics of gas ovens?
        • What are the characteristics of electric ovens?
        • What heating mechanisms do wall ovens use?
        • How large of an oven do you need?
        • Are there any special features you’d like to have?
 

Gas vs. Electric, Heating Type, Construction and Maintenance

Before choosing an oven, you’ll want to assess your cooking needs and how frequently you plan to use the unit. Wall ovens are available with a vast array of special features that will help save you time in the kitchen and improve the quality of your cooking, such as a delayed-start mechanism or hidden bake elements. Choosing the right combination of features, oven size and heating type will ensure that you can prepare all of your favorite dishes just the way you like them.
 
Gas vs. Electric: The first decision you’ll need to make when purchasing a wall oven is whether you want a gas- or electric-powered unit. There was a time when electric ovens took a little longer to heat up than gas ovens, but modern machines don’t tend to have that problem. As a result, which one you choose is largely a matter of personal preference and what type of connection you have available. If you don’t have a gas connection handy, you may end up choosing an electric model by default. Consult the chart below to learn more about the characteristics of each type and a few points of consideration.
 

Oven Type	Benefits	Points to Consider
Electric	• Price range tends to start lower • More models to choose from • Have comparatively larger capacity	• Requires a 230/240 V connection • Price of electricity determines operating cost
Gas	• Help food retain moisture • May have electronic controls • May be more efficient	• Food may need to be rotated to ensure even cooking • Fewer units available • Must be vented outside

Heating Type: Many wall ovens use standard, or thermal, heating technology. It is not, however, the only option available. You can also choose from microwave and convection cooking ovens. Some units even combine different cooking technologies for increased versatility. Convection heating involves moving air around with a fan to cook food evenly from all sides, allowing for a nicely browned exterior and a fully cooked inside. Though convection cooking can prepare food more quickly, the fan may take up room within the oven cavity, slightly reducing the amount of usable space, and it can add a significant amount to the total cost.
 
        • Some ovens feature standard cooking power combined with a separate built-in microwave while others 
          combine the two technologies into one unit
        • Some models utilize standard, microwave and convection heating technology at the same time to reduce 
          cooking time
        • Ovens with a convection recipe converter automatically adjust cook times for convection heating to ensure 
          the best results
 
Construction and Maintenance: If you have a big family, your cooking needs will differ greatly from people who only have to cook for one or two people. Wall ovens are available in both single- and double-oven configurations. Double ovens provide twice the cooking space, making it easier to prepare large meals. If you tend to cook several dishes at once, look for units with multiple rack positions for maximum cooking flexibility. Multiple rack positions also allow you to accommodate larger cookware. When it comes time to clean up after a big meal, you’ll appreciate the ease and convenience of a self-cleaning oven. Removable oven bottoms will also make cleaning easier, as you can pop out the bottom, wash it and then slide it back into place. Ovens are often made of tempered glass or stainless steel, so make sure to use appropriate cleaners for each. Avoid using abrasive cleaners on delicate surfaces and make sure to rinse thoroughly.
 
        • Some wall ovens feature a one-and-a-half oven configuration, with the half oven providing room for such 
          functions as warming, grilling and reheating
        • Double ovens may offer convection cooking in one of the units
        • Make sure shelves are level to prevent food from sliding forward
        • Width is generally 24”, 27” or 30”
        • Wall ovens often come in black, white or stainless-steel finishes
        • Removable doors make it easier to get inside ovens to clean them thoroughly
        • Oven knobs can often be removed to make cleaning them easier
 

Features

Accurate Preheat: Many ovens monitor preheating based on a set period of time. Some, however, actually measure the temperature of the oven, indicating that it is fully preheated and ready for use only when it actually reaches the preset temperature.
 
Delayed Start: When you’re leading a busy life, it’s hard enough finding time to eat dinner, let alone prepare it. A delayed-start feature lets you program your oven to begin cooking even when you’re not home, meaning dinner will be hot and ready as soon as you walk in the door.
 
Safety Lock: Safety locks are particularly important if you have little ones who like to help bake their favorite treats. A safety lock feature prevents the oven from being used unless it’s turned off, meaning your children can’t turn the heat on and accidentally burn themselves.
 
Large Window: With a large window, you’ll be able to clearly see food as it cooks without having to open the door repeatedly, helping to prevent overcooking while providing a tantalizing preview of the meal to come.
 
Electronic Controls: For maximum effectiveness, look for wall ovens that feature electronic controls, which make it easy to set precise temperatures and program timers while helping you take advantage of all of your oven’s functions.
 
Hidden Bake Element: Cleaning the oven can be a pain, especially if you have a manual-clean oven. If that’s the case, look for one with a hidden bake element, which makes the bottom of the oven easier to wipe down.
 
Steam Oven: Steam cooking is a newer technology that combines steaming power with standard thermal cooking to heat foods thoroughly all the way through while helping them retain moisture and succulence.

How to Choose the Right Necklace Length

Choosing the right necklace length is an easy and effective way to frame your face, showcase your gemstones, and augment any outfit. This guide will assist you with your next necklace purchase. First, learn how and where different necklace lengths fall on the body for women and men. Second, discover guidelines for selecting the right necklace length for your specific neck, height, face and body type. And third, learn how to find and purchase the perfect necklace length on eBay.

Standard Necklace Lengths for Women

Necklace chains for women typically range from 10 to 48 inches and anywhere in between. Although some necklaces are sold in odd-inch lengths, most women’s necklaces are sold in even-inch lengths. The following are the most commonly sold necklace lengths and where they fall on the average female body:

Necklace Length	Position on the Body
10 to 14 inches	Wraps closely around the neck
16 inches	Wraps loosely around the neck
18 inches	Sits on the collarbone
20 inches	Sits just below the collarbone
22 inches	Lays at or above the top of the bust
24 inches	Lays at or just below the center of the bust
28 to 38 inches	Hangs below the bust
40 inches and above	Hangs below the navel

Factors to Consider Before Buying Short Necklaces

Depending on your neck size, 10- to 14-inch necklaces wrap very closely around the neck. These necklaces may also be referred to as collar necklaces. If you want your necklace to sit at the neck, but with a looser fit, consider purchasing a 16-inch necklace, which typically sits just above the collarbone. Sixteen-inch necklaces are sometimes referred to as chokers, chains, lockets, or strands.

Eighteen-inch necklaces sit at the collarbone. Even though 18-inch necklaces are longer than typical collars or chokers, they will still appear to sit quite close to the neck. Pendants attached to 18-inch necklaces will typically lie above the breastbone. Eighteen inch necklaces are the most common necklace length and are often referred to as princess necklaces. If you want a necklace that sits just below the collarbone, but above the neckline, consider a 20-inch necklace. The 20-inch necklace length is common for many chains, strands, and lockets. Twenty-inch necklaces are also known as a matinee.

Twenty-two-inch necklaces sit at or just above the top of the bust. This necklace length may also be called a matinee. In fact, a matinee necklace may range anywhere from 20 to 24 inches in length. A 24-inch matinee will typically lay at or just below the center of the bust.

Factors to Consider Before Buying Long Necklaces

Twenty-eight to 34-inch necklaces hang at or below the bust. These necklaces may be wrapped around the neck twice to form a double strand. A necklace of 30 inches in length is commonly referred to as an opera necklace, and a necklace of 36 inches in length is commonly referred to as a rope or lariat necklace. A rope necklace is typically a long strand of beads without a clasp, whereas a lariat is simply used to describe a long necklace, beads or otherwise, with a clasp.

Necklaces 40 inches and longer will hang at or below the navel and are often wrapped two or three times around the neck to form a shorter, layered effect. Necklaces measuring more than 48 inches long may be wrapped or knotted around the neck without a clasp.

Necklace Clasps Add Length

Finally, it is important to consider the clasp length when purchasing a necklace. The clasp or connector that holds the necklace together is typically not included in necklace size measurements. A standard clasp size is three-fourths of an inch, although some necklaces may have significantly longer clasps, which will increase the overall length of the necklace.

Standard Necklace Lengths for Men

Necklace chains for men typically range from 18 to 24 inches. Like women’s necklaces, most men’s necklaces are found in even-inch lengths. The following are the most commonly sold male necklace lengths and where they fall on the average male body:

Necklace Length	Position on the Body
18 inches	Sits at the base of the neck
20 inches	Sits at the collarbone
22 inches	Falls a few inches below the collarbone
24 inches	Falls just above the sternum

Factors to Consider Before Buying

The smallest necklace size available for men is typically 18 inches. An 18-inch necklace will sit at the base of the neck on the average male. If you are looking for a slightly longer necklace, consider a 20-inch necklace, which will lie directly on the collarbone of the average male. The 20-inch necklace is the most common necklace length for men.

If you are looking for a necklace that falls below the collarbone, consider a 22-inch necklace. The longest necklace size for men is typically a 24-inch necklace, which will fall just above the sternum of the average man.

Like their female counterparts, men should consider clasp length when purchasing a necklace. A standard clasp size for a man’s necklace is three-fourths of an inch, although some necklaces may have significantly longer clasps, which will increase the overall length of the necklace.

Selecting the Right Necklace Length for the Female Body

A gorgeous necklace is an important focal point on the female body. When selecting and investing in a new necklace - especially an expensive one - you should consider how the length of that necklace will look on your body. The most important body features to consider when selecting a necklace are your neck, your height, your body type, and your face shape.

Choosing the Right Necklace Length for Your Neck

The most important factor to consider when selecting the appropriate necklace for your body type is your neck size. All necks vary, so a standard choker for the average female may be larger or smaller on your actual neck. If possible, measure your neck before purchasing any necklace, but it is especially important to measure your neck before purchasing a collar or choker, as it is designed for a tighter fit.

The easiest and best way to measure your neck is with a soft measuring tape. Simply wrap the tape closely around your neck. To get an accurate measurement, the tape should be snug but not suffocating. Once you know your neck measurement, a good rule of thumb for selecting a collar or a choker is to go up one necklace size from your neck measurement. For example, if you measure your neck circumference at 14 inches, the minimum recommended collar or choker length would be 16 inches.

Choosing the Right Necklace Length for Your Height

It is important to consider your height when selecting necklace length. Too long of a necklace may overwhelm a petite frame, whereas too short of a necklace may be lost on a more statuesque figure. This chart details guidelines for selecting necklace length based on your height:

Height	Recommended Necklace Length
Below 5’4"	16- to 20-inch necklace lengths will look best on your body. Additionally, a V-shaped style will help elongate your neckline and make you appear taller.
5’4" to 5’7"	You can wear necklaces of any length.
5’7" or taller	You can wear necklaces of any length, but you will look particularly good in longer styles, as this accentuates your tall frame.

Choosing the Right Necklace Length for Your Body Type

Varying necklace lengths are an excellent way to accentuate certain body features and minimize others. For example, if you would like to subtly accent the bust, select a necklace that is 20 to 22 inches in length, as it will draw attention just below the collarbone or above the top of the bust. Alternatively, if you are flat-chested, long, thin chains will look graceful and elegant on your body frame.

If you have a full-figured body, do not wear necklaces that sit on or below the breast line, as this length necklace will not hang properly. Instead, try a necklace that sits slightly higher on the body, such as an 18- to 22-inch necklace.

Choosing the Right Necklace Length for Your Face Shape

Necklaces quite literally frame your face. Varying necklace lengths will affect how wide, narrow, long, short, angular or round your face appears. Thus, you can use your necklace length as a powerful tool to alter the way your face is perceived by others and accentuate your strongest facial features. Here are some guidelines for necklace length based on face shape:

Face Shape	Recommended Necklace Length	Explanation
Heart-shaped	10 to 16 inches	Choker-length necklaces will soften and diminish the sharp angle of a heart-faced chin.
Round	26 to 36 inches	Longer necklaces elongate the jawline. Round-faced individuals should avoid collar and choker necklaces, as these necklaces will accentuate the roundness of the face.
Rectangular and oblong	10 to 14-inches	Choker-length necklaces ostensibly shorten the length of the jaw, which smooths the angles on rectangular faces.
Oval	Any	Oval-shaped faces can typically wear any necklace length with graceful ease.

Selecting the Right Necklace Length for the Male Body

Like their female counterparts, the most important factor for men to consider when selecting the appropriate necklace is their neck size. Men should follow the same guidelines for measuring their necks as women: using a soft measuring tape wrapped closely around the neck. To get an accurate measurement, the tape should be snug, but not tight. Once you have determined your neck size, a general rule of thumb for men is to choose the second size up from their neck measurement. For example, if you measure your neck size at 16 inches, the smallest recommended necklace length would be 20 inches.

The most universally flattering chain length for men is 20 inches, or a necklace that sits at the collarbone. Not surprisingly, 20 inches is also the most commonly sold necklace length for men. A slightly longer length (such as a 22-inch or 24-inch necklace) may be selected if the necklace is to be worn with a pendant, cross, medallion, emblem or sports charm. Multiple necklace lengths may be used for a layered look.

Finding The Right Necklace on eBay

Once you have determined which length necklace will work best for you, visit the Jewelry & Watches portal on eBay. Click Necklaces & Pendants to start searching for the right necklace length. The categories list on the left side of each page will help you narrow the listings by item type. You will find categories for Chains, Chokers, Lariats, Pendants, Lockets, Strands/Strings, Tennis, Graduated, and Other Styles. Each of these styles may vary in terms of necklace length, but as a general rule of thumb, chokers will be the shortest necklace length and lariats and ropes will be the longest.

To narrow the search results to the right necklace length, use a keyword search. For example, if you want to find a 16-inch strand of pearls, type 16 pearls into the search box. If you need more information about the length of a necklace you like, click the "Ask a question" link at the bottom of the page to inquire about necklace measurements. Visit eBay’s Tips for better searching page for more guidance on searching with keywords. If you cannot find exactly what you want, try shopping eBay Stores, tell the eBay Community what you want by creating a post on Want It Now, or save a search on My eBay, and eBay will email you when a match becomes available.

Conclusion

Selecting the right necklace length is important for showcasing your jewelry, accentuating your features, and framing your face. Necklace lengths come in a variety of sizes for men and women. Women’s necklaces typically range from 10 inches to 48 inches in length, whereas men’s necklaces typically range from 18 inches to 24 inches in length. When considering which necklace size to purchase, both men and women should consider the size of their neck and the length of the necklace clasp. Women may also want to consider their body shape, height, and face type. eBay has a generous selection of necklace lengths available. Click through the necklace and pendants section or search by necklace length to find the perfect necklace length for you.

Buying Guide: Truck Boxes

If your job requires you to transport tools back and forth from the jobsite, a toolbox that is designed to fit in your truck bed is just what you need. Truck toolboxes provide a convenient solution with a number of different designs that allow for versatile placement. When it comes to selection, there are a number of options to choose from. Consider the following questions to learn more about what is available and what box might be best for your truck:

• What placement options are available?
• How are truck boxes installed?
• What materials are they constructed from?
• Do you prefer a single or double lid?
• What special features are available?

Placement, Materials, Lids and Installation

The type of truck toolbox you choose will depend on a few different factors. The dimensions of the truck bed will determine in part how large of a box you can choose, and the presence of a top or tonneau may prevent some styles from fitting in and being able to open properly. Your personal preferences, how many tools you carry and even the color of your truck will all play a role in your selection as well. Boxes can be placed just behind the cab, along the side of the bed, secured to the tailgate or connected to the hitch, and are available with a few different lid configurations. Some are easier to install than others, but nearly all of them should be manageable for a motivated do-it-yourselfer. Keep in mind that tools aren't the only thing you can store in a truck box. Recreational or emergency equipment, groceries and other useful items fit in just as well.

Placement Options: The placement of your box will depend in part on how the bed of your truck is configured and what other items you need to store in it. One of the most popular designs is the crossover box, which is installed directly behind the cab. Other options include side storage boxes, which are attached to one side of the bed, and trailer boxes, which are installed on the back side of the gate. Consult the chart below to learn more about the placement options and features you can choose from:

Placement Style	Description and Characteristics	Features and Points to Consider
Chest	Fits completely within the truck bed without overlapping the sides	Ideal solution if you have a bed cap or tonneau
Crossover	Installed directly behind cab Often rests on the sides of the bed May feature a single or double lid	May need to be bolted into place Some designs feature drawers and smaller compartments Lid may not open well in trucks with bed caps or tonneaus
Hitch	Installed on a trailer post	Doesn't take up any room in the bed Won't obscure rear-view mirror
Rear / Trailer / Tailgate	Mounted on the tailgate Swings or drops down when tailgate is opened	Maximizes available space Doubles as a work surface Easily accessible May need to be bolted into place
Side	Mounted along a side rail Can be mounted on either side of the bed	Easily accessible Some designs feature drawers and smaller compartments
Sliding	Box is secured to a sliding rail system that allows you to move the box around the bed Sliding platforms may extend out several feet beyond the tailgate	Some designs feature drawers and smaller compartments Conveniently accessible from nearly any angle Sliding platforms can serve as a work station

Materials, Lids, Design and Surface Pattern: Given the nature of their job, it makes sense that truck boxes are constructed only from the most durable materials. Choose from hard plastic, aluminum or steel. Lid designs vary depending upon the placement style, but in many cases you'll be able to choose between a single-lift lid, which is one piece, and a double-lift lid, which is two pieces. A good latching mechanism will keep the lid tightly shut even when the box is completely full. While many truck boxes simply provide a large, open area for storage, some are compartmentalized, featuring shelves, drawers and other features that make it easier to store and organize small tools, fasteners and other useful items. In addition to being installed in trucks, some boxes offer a flexible design that fits into vans as well.

• Diamond patterns provide a rugged look and slip protection
• Smooth surfaces may better complement your truck's appearance
• Units with longer warranties are more likely to hold up to rigorous use
• Double-lift lids may open from the rear or in the middle
• Boxes are available in different lengths and widths to fit different trucks
• Popular and versatile colors include black, white and chrome

Installation Considerations: Installation for a truck box can take place in a matter of minutes or may require more time-intensive work, such as drilling through metal. Make sure that you choose a box that doesn't obscure the view through your rear-view mirror. Mounting a box on the sides of the rail, whether it's a crossover or side box, will allow you to leave a few inches underneath. This space allows you to retain the ability to haul long, flat objects even after your box is installed. Some boxes will need to be drilled into place. If you're leasing your truck or don't want to damage the surface, choose a box that can be secured by other means. It's a good idea to lubricate the latch and hinge mechanisms periodically to keep your toolbox in good working order. Also, avoid storing flammable or explosive materials in the box, since they can combust or explode in the event of an accident.

• Tools and materials needed for installation often include a ratchet wrench, tape measure, masking tape, screwdriver, drill, sealer and grease pencil
• J-hooks are used to mount boxes to side rails
• Use rubberized pads, bed-rail protectors and bed liners to protect your truck's finish
• Make sure there are no gas or brake lines beneath any areas you may have to drill
• Center toolboxes prior to securing
• Installing running boards may make it easier to access truck boxes

Features

One-Piece Bottom: Boxes with one-piece bottom construction are less likely to sag, helping them hold up better over time.

Dual Gas Cylinders: If you choose a crossover box with a pneumatic lid, look for one that has gas cylinders on both sides to make it easier to open and access from each side of the truck.

Gaskets: Heavy-duty, full-lid gaskets help prevent leakage, keeping your tools and anything else you store in your truck box safe and dry.

Push Buttons and Locks: For extra security, look for a truck box that features a set of push buttons that require the proper combination for entry. Heavy-duty keyed locks provide protection as well.

Rubberized Pads: Placing these pads over the side of the truck bed will help prevent a truck box from scratching or otherwise marring the surface, which may be particularly important if you're leasing the truck.

Bed Liner: If you're concerned about the effect a box might have on the surface of your truck bed, simply install a bed liner to protect it from nicks, dents and scratches.