Before accessorizing, decide if you want your jewelry to be a simple accessory or the main focus of your outfit. Are you familiar with different styles and metals? Can you differentiate between fine jewelry and costume jewelry? These tips are the first step in understanding the world of jewelery. Peruse through these tips so you can be ready for anything that you may encounter in the world of jewelry.
Don’t use acetone, bleach, ammonia or turpentine to clean copper. You can turn your stones this way and it will eat away the enamel on the pieces.
Ensure you are certain how to keep your jewelery in one place so it is not damaged. The right jewelry box that has separate compartments, hooks and holders to keep the pieces apart is the best choice. You should never simply throw your jewelry into a box in a messy pile. This does damage to jewelry pieces, which are often fragile. Necklaces lumped together can get tangled up into a knotted ball.
Sterling Silver
A magnet is a useful tool when shopping for jewelry in sterling silver. You can detect fake sterling silver with the magnet, since non-precious metals are drawn to magnets. You can identify sterling silver by its markings, for example “sterling,” “ster,” or “.925.” If the piece is not hallmarked in any way, be leery of its authenticity because oftentimes it is a sign of a fake.
Be sure that you understand the kind of gemstone that is in the jewelry that you are purchasing. Gems are divided into three main categories: imitation, synthetic and natural. Imitation gems are basically plastic that is colored, while synthetic and natural are real. They make synthetic stones in a lab, whereas natural stones come from the ground.
Have shopping companions when you shop for diamonds. Start by finding what you like, and then begin comparing it with other pieces. Don’t fall for any of the tricks used by shady dealers. They employ these tactics to make a diamond look better than it really is.
For jewelry to stay shiny and new-looking, it is important to keep it from tarnishing. Keep your jewelry away from water. Exposure can result in tarnishing, rusting or dulling of different metals. Clear nail polish, applied in a thin coat, can give jewelry some added protection.
When you are looking for jewelry to purchase, give careful thought to the stones you prefer. Purchase stones that are a reflection of you who are, and match your skin tone as well. Choose neutral colors that will easily match any outfit you decide to wear. Having a beautiful piece of jewelry is pretty worthless if you cannot wear it.
Taking good care of your jewelry is important if you want it to last. There’s an ideal way to clean every different type of setting and stone. What works for a certain kind of stone may not work for another. When in doubt about the right way to maintain your jewelry, just ask a professional jeweler.
As you just read, there are lots of helpful tips which can make it easier for you during your next jewelry shopping trip. You can save money and get a beautiful piece at the same time. All you have to do is educate yourself about the art of jewelery to make a good decision.