Would you like to compliment your outfit with a beautiful piece of jewelry? Whether you are buying, selling or wanting to maintain your investment, these tips can help you get the most out of your jewelry ventures.
Polish your jewelry regularly with a jeweler’s polishing cloth. This easy technique can make your jewelry bright and shiny without the use of harsh solvents and chemicals. Buff your jewelry with the two-sided cloth, just as if you were cleaning a glass. Use one side to shine it and the other to polish it.
For example, you should never use bleach, turpentine, or ammonia on your jewelry. Doing so can damage the shine and luster of the stones on your favorite pieces.
Sterling Silver
If you are shopping for sterling silver jewelry, you’ll need a magnet and an eye for the real thing. Magnets attract non-precious metals, and you can use this fact to detect fakes. There should be a stamp hallmarked that says something like .925 sterling or ster, on sterling silver If the piece you’re inspecting doesn’t carry such a mark, be careful, as it is likely a fake.
Know the type of gem you’re buying, when you buy it. Gems are divided into three main categories: imitation, synthetic and natural. “Real” can mean natural or synthetic, and an imitation stone could be glass or plastic. Natural stones are found underground and synthetic gems are created in a lab.
Before you buy a new piece of jewelry, research the latest trends. The only thing better than picking up a gorgeous bauble is getting it on sale!
When you buy a piece of jewelery, inquire about the jeweler’s insurance policy. Then, you will have peace of mind knowing it can be fixed or replaced if anything happens. In some instances, you can even insure your jewelry against loss or theft.
To keep your jewelry looking great, take steps to prevent it from tarnish. Don’t take your jewelry into the water, regardless of whether you are showering or hitting the beach. Lots of jewelry materials are dulled or tarnished by water exposure. If you must take your jewelry somewhere wet, prepare it by adding some clear nail polish on the surface.
Costume Jewelry
If you own costume jewelry, it is important to properly care for it. Costume jewelry can prove to be a good investment, but worn, broken, or otherwise damaged pieces are not worth the expense. Jewelry that’s in good repair can be a much better investment.
When buying jewelry for a one-of-a-kind person, buy them something equally unique. Look for something that fits their personality. Giving a gift that requires thought and creativity will make it even more special.
To maintain the shine and finish on your jewelry, do not put it on until you’ve done your hair and makeup. Putting jewelry on prior to applying makeup or hairspray allows gunk and grime from your beauty products to settle on the jewelry, leaving it dull and potentially harming the finish. This is extra important when you are cleaning necklaces or earrings.
Since you have gained a little bit more understanding about jewelry, you should have more faith in your ability to choose gemstones, diamonds, beads and shiny precious metals. A beautiful jewelry piece is an investment that has proven itself over time to be an excellent choice.