What jewelry represents is almost as interesting as actually wearing it. Milestones and major life events are often celebrated with jewelry, creating an unforgettable memory for both the giver and the recipient. When you learn about jewelry, you will be able to make wise choices in purchasing it and in selling or trading it. You will be able to choose jewelry of heirloom quality.
For example, you should never use bleach, turpentine, or ammonia on your jewelry. This can dull your stones and eat away their enamel.
Your jewlery needs to be kept in a place where it is protected from air and humidity. Keep your jewelry in a drawstring bag or in a box that is made for jewelry. Continued exposure to humidity extremes or air causes metals typically used in jewelry to tarnish. While precious metals can be polished back to their original luster, non-precious metals are only coated in which case polishing causes the copper metal underneath to show through.
Sterling Silver
To distinguish between real and fake, bring a magnet when you shop for sterling silver jewelry. You can detect fake sterling silver with the magnet, since non-precious metals are drawn to magnets. True sterling silver will also have a mark on it to indicate its quality, such as “.925” or “ster”. If the item has no markings indicating its authenticity, then be wary.
Know the type of gem you’re buying, when you buy it. Gems are divided into three main categories: imitation, synthetic and natural. You have to know that imitation refers to colored plastic. A natural stone is mined from the earth, and a synthetic is a lab-created gem.
When you buy jewelry, it should last the rest of your life. When selecting jewelry, a reputable jeweler is indispensable to ensuring you get quality items. They should show a lot of craftsmanship, as well as be well-made. Ask the jeweler about the history behind the piece and learn more about who made it, as well as the origin of the materials. If you select high-quality jewelry, it will last you forever.
Have shopping companions when you shop for diamonds. Always see the piece up close, and compare it critically to any others you’re considering. You must be a sharp consumer to avoid tricks that might make a diamond look better than it really is.
If you buy jewelry from a jewelry store, ask if they offer insurance. Look for a good policy that lets you return damaged items. In some instances, you can even insure your jewelry against loss or theft.
It is important to think about the most effective methods of jewelry care. Take into account that different types of material takes different types of care, like stones and metals. Something that may help one piece of jewelry might hurt another one. If you can’t find information about caring for a specific piece of jewelry, consult a trusted jeweler.
Costume Jewelry
Costume jewelry should be treated differently than your other jewelry. Many of the costume type settings are glued-in, rather than set-in. Don’t immerse costume jewelry in water, and never wash costume jewelery pieces with harsh chemicals. Wiping your jewelry off with with a slightly dampened cloth and then wiping it dry is usually sufficient to keep it clean. This will ensure that your costume jewelry looks perfect.
Have a unique piece of jewelry made for the special person on your gift list. Purchasing a unique piece that matches his or her personality demonstrates how thoughtful and creative you are. This is what you should be expressing to someone you love enough to purchase jewelry for.
Having an ornate piece at your waist will naturally draw eyes by adding interest. The best places to pin the brooch for maximum visual impact are the middle of your waist and at hip line.
You should try to find out whether a gemstone was treated prior to purchasing it. If it was treated, you should discover the way it was treated. It is important to understand the varying treatment processes because each one requires a specific care regimen. You want to avoid putting a solution on jewelry that has been treated, particularly if you do not know whether or not it will hurt the piece.
Have definite plans for the jewelry you purchase. There is nothing worse than a box full of unloved jewelry. Consider specific outfits and styles when making your selections.
Whether you are buying or selling or just own jewelry, it is a priceless investment. When an item of jewelry becomes an heirloom, it carries the emotions of it’s wearers from generation to generation – both sad and joyous.