While shopping for jewelry can be really fun, it can be difficult if you are not sure how to choose expensive pieces. Depending on the material a piece of jewelry is made of, the price varies greatly for each piece. Buyers who have not educated themselves about jewelry may end up paying too much money for what they get. Find out how to make sure you get your money’s worth with the helpful advice in the article below.
You never want to use bleach, ammonia, or any other cleaning solvents that are not designed specifically for cleaning jewelry. Natural acids won’t erode the enamel on your copper jewelry the way harsh chemicals can.
Use a polishing cloth for all of your jewelry pieces. These cloths can replace the need for chemicals or solvents during the process. Use the dual-sided cloth on your jewelry just as you would clean a glass. First, use the polishing side to polish it up, then use the other side to shine it.
Jewelry should last a life-time. When you are ready to chose your next selection of jewelry, make sure you find a reputable dealer that will make sure that you find a high-quality piece. You should be able to notice a quality piece by its craftsmanship. Ask the jeweler what the origin of the piece is, like the maker and the origin of the stones. Investing in a high-quality jewelry piece ensures that you will have a timeless item that will be just as wearable in 20 years as it is today.
Avoid using things like bleach, acetone, ammonia, turpentine, and other related chemicals to clean them with. This can cause the stones to lose their luster in addition to eating away the enamel on any of the pieces.
Watch to see whether they usually wear necklaces or bracelets, or if they prefer dangly earrings to studs. This will help you get started in your search for the perfect item of jewelry for your loved one.
Sterling Silver
Before you select your newest addition to your jewelry collection, learn the latest styles that are trending. The only thing that beats getting a new piece of jewelry is getting it for a discounted price!
When purchasing sterling silver, take along a good magnifying glass, along with a small magnet. You are able to detect fake pieces of sterling jewelry with a magnet, as non-precious metals are attracted by the magnet. You can recognize sterling silver by stamps that say ‘.925’ or ‘ster’. If the piece is not hallmarked in any way, be leery of its authenticity because oftentimes it is a sign of a fake.
Give the jewelry a test-run by wearing it for a day. Does it feel comfortable and hang properly? You will also find out if your creation is durable enough.
Make sure you know what kind of gem you are getting when you are buying jewelry. Gemstones now come in natural as well as synthetic and imitation types. Imitation gems are made out of glass or plastic; natural and synthetic gems both consist of real gemstone. Natural gemstones are mined, while synthetic gems are artificially grown.
The stone is an important part of a piece of jewelry so should be considered carefully. Purchase stones that are a reflection of you who are, and match your skin tone as well. If you choose a neutral color it will match anything you wear. Having a beautiful piece of jewelry is pretty worthless if you cannot wear it.
Every piece of jewelry should last you a life-time. When you look for a piece of jewelry, always use a dealer with a good reputation, ensuring that the piece you choose is of high-quality. A high-quality piece of jewelry should be well-made and show superior craftsmanship. Ask the jeweler about the history behind the piece and learn more about who made it, as well as the origin of the materials. It is essential to purchase high-quality jewelry if you want it to become a treasured heirloom passed down for generations.
Know how to keep your jewelry beautiful. Different kinds of jewelery will require you take care of them in different ways. What is beneficial to one stone or setting may hurt another. Whenever you buy a new piece of jewelry, ask the jeweler the best way to clean and maintain it.
When you’re considering a diamond purchase, plan on shopping around and making comparisons. Compare the jewelery you like with others that are similar; make sure to examine the pieces closely. Some diamond sellers use misleading practices to try to increase the apparent quality of their merchandise, so you should be wary of these tactics.
The diamond cut and clarity can make the stone more appealing than the size. You also need to think about who is going to receive this ring.
Know what is trendy before you buy a piece of jewelry. Getting a nice piece of jewelry is good, but getting it at a discount is even better.
A good clasp is important for any form of bracelet or necklace. You risk losing an expensive or sentimental chain or gemstone pendant if the clasp is too loose. Anytime you buy an expensive bracelet or necklace it is recommended you request a safety clasp. Some people choose to use additional safety clasps in order to keep their priceless pieces safe while they have them on.
Ask the jeweler what type of insurance is available for your purchase. If your jewelry becomes damaged, you can return it to the source and have it repaired. Some jewelers will offer insurance on jewelry that might have been stolen or lost.
If you are ready to spend a lot of money on a piece of jewelry, make sure it is something that will be with you for years to come. This goes not only for the quality of the piece but also the style of it. Even though a piece of jewelry is the latest trend right now, it might look outlandish in just a few years. Decide on timeless pieces that will stay in fashion.
Preventing tarnish will keep your jewelry look its best. Remove your jewelry if you plan on spending time in or near water. Many of the metals become tarnished, rusty or dull when they get exposed to the elements of water. A very light coating of clear nail varnish can be applied to some jewelry, and this will add an additional line of protection against the elements.
If you really want real gold pieces, high gold prices might be one of the only things to worry about. If you decide you must have real gold jewelry, you may want to save money on the karats instead. Many people believe that 75 percent pure gold is the most ideal ratio of price and quality. This grade is commonly referred to as 18 karats.
Wear the jewelry around for a day or so to be sure that it fits right and is comfortable. It will also allow you to see if it can withstand every day wear and tear.
Alexandrite has a lot of encouraging qualities, but does not get as much press as other stones. This stone will change from a purple color to a green, depending if it is outside or indoors. Alexandrite is commonly used in rings, earrings and pendants.
For a gift that is as unique as its recipient, look for handcrafted or customized pieces. Finding something that shows you put thought and effort into the gift is more important the the gift itself, so whether or not what you choose exactly what they wanted, they are sure to be pleased.
To protect the setting, clean with a damp cloth. Follow this by drying it with a separate soft cloth. Avoid using steam cleaners or harsh chemicals with fashion or costume jewelry.
The diamond cut and clarity can make the stone more appealing than the size. Most important of all, make sure that the piece you choose complements the nature of the intended receiver.
If you want to wear a necklace from your childhood years without looking immature or old-fashioned, layer it with larger, more modern necklaces to create a grouped look. The addition of a small pendant will add a touch of personality to everyday modern pieces.
When buying diamonds, remember to shop around. Each diamond is different and has its different flaws. Some flaws are not as obtrusive as others, but you need to see a diamond in person to discern if a flaw is important or not to you. When it comes to flaws, each jeweler prices diamonds a bit differently. To find a good diamond within your budget, really do your homework and shop around.
Take any fine jewelry you want to sell to a gemologist or a certified appraiser. An appraiser can give you an unbiased, honest opinion as to its worth, to ensure that you get a fair price for your piece of jewelry once it is on the market.
When you are buying jewelry for someone, it may be a good idea to buy a set instead of just one piece. You will find that a great deal of stores offer discounts when you buy sets of jewelry. There is nothing stopping you from splitting a set after buying it; you can use a set for a series of gifts over multiple holidays, for example. This way, you can ensure that you don’t have to worry about getting a gift at the last minute, and you know that it will match what they already own.
While it is not the first choice for cleaning silver jewelry, it can act as a backup if there is nothing else available. Apply a small dollop of toothpaste onto a microfiber cloth. Rub the jewelry with the toothpaste, and then wipe or rinse it off with water. This will make the silver look good enough to wear, but remember to give it a proper cleaning later.
Becoming Tangled
Make sure you have a plug in the drain as you are cleaning jewelery over the sink. It is far too difficult to hang on to your jewelry when you’re working with soap. If you plug the drain, your jewelry will not end up in the drain pipes.
Using robe hooks will help to stop necklaces from becoming tangled. Install a series of hooks on a piece of furniture, a door or a wall and arrange your necklaces artfully. Hanging your necklaces will keep them looking nice, keep them from becoming tangled together and can work as a beautiful display as well.
When choosing jewelry to complement an outfit, consider what your purpose for it will be. Decide whether you want your jewelry to be the center of attention or merely a compliment to a stunning outfit. This is an important decision.
Whether it is a ring, watch or a beautiful new bracelet, you can use the advice in the article above to buy your next piece of jewelry with confidence. If you remember this advice, you can save time and money when purchasing jewelry.
If your personal jewelry style involves piling on multiple rings, you should take excellent care of your hands. Give yourself a manicure and moisturize often. If your hands are in great shape, they will show off your rings better.