When you are buying or selling precious jewelry, doing your homework can have its benefits. However, it can leave you scratching your head as to where to start.
If you are shopping for sterling silver jewelry, you’ll need a magnet and an eye for the real thing. Use the magnet to detect fake jewelry; real silver will not be attracted to the magnet, but the cheaper metals will. Sterling silver should always bear a stamp that says Sterling, Ster. or .925. Silver jewelry that lacks a hallmark may be a fake or composed of other metals.
Know what is trendy before you buy a piece of jewelry. If you look around you may be able to find a great deal!
When purchasing jewelry from a respected jeweler, inquire as to whether they offer an insurance policy. 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.
Test it out by wearing it yourself; you don’t want to give a piece that will be uncomfortable or awkward for the recipient. It will also allow you to see if the item is durable enough.
Pay attention to the quality and type of gemstones in a piece when you’re looking at buying new jewelry. Think about your skin tone, and also think about your personality as you choose your favorite stones. Neutral colors are versatile enough to wear with any outfit in your closet. A piece that is hard to wear is not as useful as one that goes with everything.
You need to learn the best ways to take care of your jewelry. Jewelry is composed of different stones, metals, and settings that all require different care to be properly maintained. Each piece is individual in its needs so don’t assume what works well for one piece will work well for all. Speak with a knowlegeable jeweler if you do not know the best way to take care of your jewels.
If you want to purchase new jewelry, watch for discounts or sales. You can save a lot of money with the right sale. Scope out the sales in every store you can find. If you purchase something on clearance, you might save 50% or more off the original purchase price.
Plastic Wrap
Untangling knotted chains can be easy if you know how to do it. It is tempting to throw in the towel against knotted metal, but plastic wrap should be reached for instead. Apply baby oil or mineral oil to your necklace after placing it on the plastic wrap. Try using needles to start untangling it. Clean with warm, soapy water and gently pat dry.
Before you purchase a new piece of jewelry, consider what situations you will be wearing it in. Having a lot of never worn jewelry is not necessary. Take time to consider the type of clothing styles and outfits you plan on wearing with your jewelry purchase.
As has been outlined in this article, whether you are buying or selling an item of jewelry, it is important to do your homework and then put in the effort towards achieving your end goals. Whether that is to own a new piece, or to sell an old one for profit, the effort put in will equal what you get out. If you use these suggestions you can be a winner!