Does your sense of style need an update with some new jewelry? Perhaps you’re looking to add a splash of color to a drab outfit. Or perhaps you desire purchasing a gift for your friend? Either way, use these tips to get started.
Polish your jewelry regularly with a jeweler’s polishing cloth. These cloths can replace the need for chemicals or solvents during the process. To clean your jewelry, obtain a soft two-sided cloth and gently rub in a circular motion. Use the one side designated for polish, and the other for making it shine.
Don’t use acetone, ammonia, turpentine, bleach, or other harsh chemicals for cleaning them. These chemicals can wreak havoc on your jewelry, from discoloring bands, to dulling stones, to eroding enamel or glue.
Precious Metals
Keep jewelry stored safely and away from both air and humidity. A jewelry box or drawstring bag out of a humid area is ideal. Humid air affects the metals in jewelry and causes tarnishing. While precious metals can be polished back to their original luster, non-precious metals are only coated in which case polishing causes the copper metal underneath to show through.
Ask about insurance from your jeweler before purchasing a new piece. Then, you will have peace of mind knowing it can be fixed or replaced if anything happens. There are jewelers who offer insurance for misplaced or lost jewelry, too.
If you are interested in collecting costume jewelry, be sure to stay conscious of the condition. Costume jewelery pieces can be expensive but they are not worth the investment if they look too old. A piece in good condition will be much more resourceful to you in the future.
When shopping for jewelry, think about the stones in the pieces. Certain stones will do a better job of complementing your skin tone and your personality than others. Neutral colors work better to match all your clothing. A piece that is hard to wear is not as useful as one that goes with everything.
Costume Jewelry
Special care is required for costume jewelry. Costume jewelry is often put together using glue and other adhesives, unlike stoned that are set using metal. Take care not to use chemicals or lots of water in an attempt to clean your costume jewelry. Wiping it down with a damp, warm cloth and then drying it with another cloth is the best care for it. You will be able to maintain its nice appearance with this method.
A brooch will add an interesting aspect to the belt. To add a twist to tradition, place the brooch at your hip.
Buying jewelry is better if you keep watch for sales. If the sale is a good one, you can save a lot of money. Go through magazines and websites to find the best deals. Buying styles that are waning in popularity is often an excellent way to save money on original jewelry.
Have definite plans for the jewelry you purchase. You want to ensure that you purchase a piece of jewelry that you will actually wear. Consider specific outfits and styles when making your selections.
If you will follow the above tips and techniques, you will be able to appraise the value of any jewelry that you are considering buying. Whether you buy it, give it, receive it or inherit it, a fine piece of well-cared-for jewelry is something you can enjoy for many years to come.