The history and uses of jewelry are as fascinating as the array of styles and materials used in the designs themselves. Jewelry can signify an important relationship or make a joyous and important event more memorable. Learning about jewelry can aid you in preserving it for a longer time.
Try to avoid cleaning it with harsh chemicals like ammonia or turpentine. These can erode both the color and the materials of your jewelry.
Sterling Silver
When shopping for sterling silver jewelry, it is a good idea to bring a small magnet along with you. Precious metals, like sterling silver, will not be attracted to the magnet. Sterling silver always has some sort of stamp to indicate it is sterling. If you cannot find a stamp, you might be looking at a cheap imitation.
Jewelry is an investment that should last forever. It is important to invest in a quality piece of jewelry, so only work with respected and reputable jewelers. A truly high-quality piece is one that is well-constructed and of superior workmanship. A credible jeweler should offer a complete history of the piece, including information about the creator and the source of the gemstones. You need to buy quality jewelry so that you can pass it down as an heirloom.
Ask about any insurance a jeweler may offer when you are buying jewelry. If something happens to your piece, you’ll know you can take it to the jeweler you bought it from, who will repair it or replace the piece. Some jewelers will offer insurance on jewelry that might have been stolen or lost.
If you want costume jewelery, you will have to take care of it. Well-done costume jewelry is often worth the price, but if it’s worn out or visibly damaged, it won’t be worth the effort it takes to restore it. Make sure you have a piece that is in excellent condition, because this will be a lot more fruitful for you down the road.
Try on a few different stones when you are shopping for jewelry. Choose stones that have a reflection on your personality and that also complement the color of your skin. Colors should be neutral so that they go with most of your outfits. As long as you’re spending money, it makes more sense to purchase something that is functional as well as beautiful.
You should always make an effort to properly care for all of your jewelry. Different styles of jewelry affect the way they need to be cared for; one type of metal will need a different treatment than another, for example. What can be beneficial to one type of stone can actually cause harm to another. Speak with a knowlegeable jeweler if you do not know the best way to take care of your jewels.
Putting on jewelry only after you have put on makeup and fixed your hair will keep it from being exposed to chemicals that could tarnish it. All the grime and dust from your makeup attracts jewelry. Therefore, putting on jewelry beforehand can make the piece look dingy. It is especially important to follow this tip for necklaces and earrings.
Ask your jeweler before you make a purchse about what kinds of treatments were used on the gemstones in the piece. You will need to know what type of care it might require as a result of the treatment. You do not want to try to clean a treated gem with a solution that may strip the treatment and damage the gem in the process.
If you are looking to sell jewelry online, ensure that the photos you use make the piece look attractive. Handling jewelry often helps the customer make up his mind but this is not possible with online transactions. Make sure you take a photo of the jewelery in a place that will focus on it and not the background.
If you are looking for jewelry as a gift, consider a set rather than an individual piece. It is not uncommon for jewelers to offer special discounts on matched sets. You can split up the set and give the loved one a piece of jewelry as each holiday comes around. This is a surefire way to ensure that you are never without a gift for that special someone.
Have gold bracelets and necklaces? Make some money with your jewelry without giving it away. Cut off a bit of excess chain to sell, while keeping enough to wear. For an item that is made of actual gold, clipping off several chains can bring in over a hundred dollars simply by reducing the length of the jewelry.
Crystal or onyx jewelry can really stand out well and make a statement. It’s possible to save money, and be happy with your results.
It may be tough to figure out how to best present jewelry that you are selling at informal events like craft fairs and flea markets. Whenever you are buying materials for your jewelry, also be on the lookout of a good display as well. Use your imagination. Many types of craft boxes make excellent display pieces.
It’s a real challenge to pick out a natural ruby or sapphire from an artificial one. These beautiful stones are chemically and physically identical, but the artificial ones can be supplied for a fraction of the cost of natural flawless ones. If you are considering purchasing real sapphire jewelery, have an independent jeweler check out the natural content.
To most people, jewelry symbolizes more than just a monetary investment, it symbolizes a memory which is truly priceless. Every piece of jewelry has its own story, whether it reminds you of a special time in your life, or represents an important part of your personality.