When it comes to jewelry, it is practically impossible to overload on information. If you lack even one key piece of knowledge, it can cost you dearly. Read on to find a variety of tips about jewelry. The tips in this article will help you to select, maintain, and enjoy your jewelry for many years to come.
When you are shopping for jewelry in sterling silver, be sure to examine the piece closely, and take along a magnet for metal testing. If the piece you are examining is not silver and is made from non-precious metal, it will be attracted to the magnet. In addition, sterling silver pieces are always stamped with silver hallmarks indicating such factors as the degree of purity, the manufacturer’s symbol, and the date of manufacture. Some of the most common hallmarks are “925, “ster,” “sterling,” and “sterling silver.” If the piece is not hallmarked in any way, be leery of its authenticity because oftentimes it is a sign of a fake.
A good piece of jewelery can last you your whole life. When choosing jewelry, you should always buy from a reputable store or dealer, in order to ensure you only get high-quality pieces. A high-quality piece of jewelry should be well-made and show superior craftsmanship. The person selling the piece should know its history, including who made it and the source of the stones. When you choose a piece of jewelry that is high in quality, it can become a heirloom that will last forever.
Do some price comparisons before you commit to buying a piece of diamond jewelry. Find a few reference pieces that you like, and see if other diamonds can do better. There are ways to hide some of a diamond’s imperfections, so be very particular about each one you view.
Prevent your jewelry from tarnishing so that it keeps looking great. Avoid wearing your jewelry near water. Many types of jewelry become dulled or tarnished when they are exposed to water. Clear nail polish, applied in a thin coat, can give jewelry some added protection.
Wear the jewelry around for a day or so to be sure that it fits right and is comfortable. In this way, you will be able to tell if the item will withstand normal wear.
Stones are an important part of jewelry so ensure they factor heavily in your decision. Choose a stone that goes well with your skin tone or the kind of clothes you wear and reflects your personality. Choosing neutral colors can help them match anything you wear. Non-functional jewelry is just a waste of money as it will sit unused.
Well, it’s easy when you know how. This article has just touched on a few of things that you should know about this very rewarding hobby. There is much to learn, but at least you’ve now got a few good ideas to put to work.