You need to have some knowledge of what to look for and expect from purchasing or selling jewelry. You need to know what resources are available to you and who can provide you answers as to what you need for your jewelry needs. The tips below can help you with how to start.
Do not purchase any jewelry from retailers in China. This country is notorious for selling fake gemstone and metal jewelry. Oftentimes, the jewelry advertised as sterling silver with real turquoise is just a piece of metal sprayed in silver and the turquoise is a fake piece of plastic. Such vendors may accept returns, but the hassle of shipping it back at your own cost, is usually not worth it. Be aware of scams like this.
If you see a ring that claims to be diamond and has a sterling silver setting, be very wary. Diamonds are only professionally set in white gold, yellow gold or platinum. Very rarely and mostly never will you see a diamond ring set in sterling silver. There are a few infrequent cases with a few low grade diamond chips set in silver, but usually this will not happen. If you see a jewelry store with this practice, they are usually selling zirconia and claiming them as diamonds.
If you have a large collection of fashion jewelry, make sure to only clean them with a damp cloth. Using polishing cloths or jewelry cleaning liquids will only eat away at the top layer causing the base metal to show through. After you are finished cleaning, keep your jewelry stored away to prevent any damage or tarnish.
There are two types of categories that jewelry falls under. Fine jewelry is jewelry made from silver, gold or platinum and is combined with any precious or semi- precious gemstones. Jewelry classified as costume is any form of jewelry made from low cost metals that contain only a silver or gold surface finish as well as synthetic or plastic “gemstones”. Both categories have their pros and cons, and it really depends on personal taste and budget that helps determine which to buy.
When trying to shop for diamonds, make sure to take your time. Diamonds, unlike things like computers and cars, will not go bad on you. They should last a lifetime. Also, for the price ranges that these stones run, you should not buy them on impulse. Take your time and create the special piece for you or someone you care about.
Combine your gold and silver jewelry. What used to be “so not in fashion” is now considered modern and sleek. Gold earrings can be worn with a silver necklace, or you can even pair gold and silver rings on one hand. The color combination goes great with any outfit as well.
Question any piece of jewelry that is so cheap it’s too good to be true. Look at any gemstones to ensure they don’t have large inclusions in them. Look for stamps on the metal to prove that it is what it’s claiming to be. If someone takes offense to your double checking authenticity, they’re probably lying.
Before purchasing earrings that have diamonds or other stones in them, make sure that the stones can be replaced. You do not want to be put in a situation where the stones have fallen out of your earrings and they cannot be replaced. If you are unsure, you can always ask a jeweler before you buy them.
As you have seen in the above tips, there is a lot of knowledge, you can acquire before purchasing or selling jewelry, and it is this knowledge that can help you with your future jewelry needs. Do everything you must to get the pieces you need or to sell more of your pieces.