It is a shame when someone saves money for years in order to buy the perfect jewelry and the pieces that they are sold are not genuine. Use these handy tips to make sure that the jewelry that you intend to buy is the same jewelry that you bring home.
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.
Make sure you know what to look for when buying platinum jewelry. Platinum needs to be at least 95% pure in order for it to be considered real platinum. If it’s lower it is platinum alloy. Also, be aware that platinum can develop a patina, which many people feel gives jewelry a nice antique look. This jewelry also does not wear away and is hypoallergenic.
If you lose the butterfly backing for your post earrings, you can easily replace them. Any local craft stores carry replacement backings for post earrings in the jewelry making aisles. You can find them in different metals such as sterling silver, gold plating, silver plating or silver tone metal. You no longer have to throw your old earrings out, you can replace the backing quite affordably.
When you are buying jewelry as a gift for someone else, be sure to figure out what their preferences are. Many people only like gold or silver, not both. Look at the recipients wardrobe choices and current jewelry to find what jewelry type they would be most likely to enjoy and actually wear.
View the gemstones in correct lighting, with the right background. Diamonds or other gems should never be viewed on a black background. Black backgrounds alter your perception of a gems real shine and color, so you may make a purchase and later realize that the stone is not as clear and perfect as you originally assumed.
One way to prevent damage to jewelry is to always be careful with clothing. The best way to ensure that clothes don’t hurt the jewelry is to always add accent pieces after being fully dressed. In a similar fashion, make sure that jewelry is always removed before any articles of clothes.
Do not be afraid to buy silver jewelry. Gold items are incredibly expensive right now, and silver is “in”. Search for products that are labeled as sterling silver because they have a large amount of the metal in them. Not only will you save money, but you will have the opportunity to buy a nice piece of jewelry that you might have missed otherwise.
If you have old bracelets, necklaces or rings that you like but do not wear, consider revamping them into new pieces. Gemstones can be reset by professional jewelers, and necklaces can be reworked into bracelets or combined with other necklaces to create a modern, multi-chain design. Be creative and look for ideas online for recycling those outdated pieces.
A simple string of pearls makes the most elegant jewelry gift, suitable for all ages and styles. Best of all, pearls come in such a variety of sizes, that they are affordable to anyone. A single strand of pearls, no matter the size, is a stunning addition to any woman’s jewelry wardrobe and can be worn with everything from jeans and a shirt to an evening gown.
If you have trouble with your engagement ring causing your finger to break out, it may be because there is nickel in the stone’s setting. Protect your skin from this less-expensive metal by coating the inside of the setting with clear fingernail polish. Allow it to dry completely before wearing. You will need to touch it up from time-to-time.
When choosing jewelry for bridesmaids, make sure to choose jewelry that compliments each individual woman while maintaining a cohesive overall picture. One woman may look better in dazzling necklaces while another looks great with just some small earrings. However, try to choose all jewelry with the same color scheme and material to create a picture of wholeness.
Pandora beads are a very popular trend at the moment, combining all the fascination of a traditional charm bracelet, with the ease of customization associated with glass beads. While brand name Pandora beads are comparatively expensive, a number of other companies are making compatible beads with more themes and colors, at a cheaper price.
Rich blue lapis lazuli, with its flecks of gold and silver, is a popular gemstone in colorful bracelets, earrings, and necklaces. It should be cleaned only as needed to protect its surface from abrasions and damage. Use cool, not hot, water with a small amount of mild soap; dry the surface thoroughly after cleaning.
Jewelry is best worn on special occasions. When you wear your best jewelry to work everyday you lose the opportunity to show it off. Take the time to think of when it is best to wear you jewelry and you are more likely to stun those around you by its presence.
This is not as tricky as it may seem, and you do not have to be afraid that every jeweler is out there trying to prey on you. Just keep all of this advice in mind while you are searching for your jewelry and you should be absolutely fine.
