Whether your purchase jewelry for friends, inherit valuable pieces or receive jewelry as a gift, it is important that you are aware of the best buying, selling and cleaning jewelry practices. This article offers some basic guidelines for preserving the appearance and value of your jewelry.
If you are shopping unmarked sterling silver jewelry, then by all means bring a magnet. If an item of jewelry is attracted by a magnet, it is not sterling silver! Only non-precious metals can be drawn to a 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 your silver is not marked, it could be because it is not real!
Knowing what type of jewel you are buying when you purchase jewelry is very important. Gemstones come in three different varieties: natural, imitation and synthetic. Imitation has little value, as it is generally plastic, while synthetic and natural are considered to be real gems. Natural gems are those that are actually from the earth, whereas synthetic ones are made in labs.
When you buy jewelry, it should last the rest of your life. When buying jewelry, only buy from dealers with good reputations, so that you don’t buy a piece that seems durable, but really isn’t. You should be able to notice a quality piece by its craftsmanship. The jeweler should be able to give you a history on the piece, like who crafted it and where the stones came from if there are any. When you are looking for jewelry of the highest quality, it is important to be careful in your choice, as you want something that will last a lifetime.
If you wish to keep a piece of jewelry looking fantastic, preventing it from tarnishing is important. Do not wear jewelery around water. Many types of metal will become dulled, tarnished, or rusty when exposed to it. Clear nail polish can be used to protect your jewelry if you apply a very thin coat of it on your pieces.
Costume Jewelry
You need to pay attention to care and maintenance if you intend to build up a costume jewelry collection. Costume jewelry, while expensive, can be a great investment. However, if a piece shows wear it will lose value. Make sure you have a piece that is in excellent condition, because this will be a lot more fruitful for you down the road.
Take stones into consideration when you go to purchase new jewelry. The right stone will enhance your skin tone and make a statement about your personality. Pieces in neutral tones work well with any item in your wardrobe. Don’t even bother to buy something that doesn’t function properly.
For a gift that is as unique as its recipient, look for handcrafted or customized pieces. This shows that you are both thoughtful and creative, traits that someone who would want a unique piece of jewelry is likely to value.
Apply your makeup before putting on your jewelry. Putting jewelry on prior to applying makeup or hairspray allows gunk and grime from your beauty products to settle on the jewelry, leaving it dull and potentially harming the finish. This tip is especially important when it comes to earrings and necklaces.
Jewelry that is well-cared for is important, both for its monetary worth and its sentimental value. By educating yourself on proper jewelry care and maintenance, you can preserve the money and memories invested in your pieces. This is more information out there, and by continuously education yourself, you can get more from your own jewelry.