How much do you really know about jewelry? Can you tell the difference between costume jewelry and more valuable pieces? The ideas presented here will aid in make you a more informed jewelry purchaser. Read the following tips for the guidance you need to understand how to buy, care, and enjoy your jewelry.
Don’t use acetone, ammonia, turpentine, bleach, or other harsh chemicals for cleaning them. This can cause your stones to turn and dull in color, along with eating away any enamel on the pieces.
Be cautious of storing all of your pieces of jewelry together. A better idea is to keep the pieces separate by using boxes, hooks, compartments or holders. Do not just throw them into piles in a box. This can harm fragile and fine pieces, along with severely tangling necklaces with other pieces.
Sterling Silver
When you are shopping for jewelry in sterling silver, be sure to examine the piece closely, and take along a magnet for metal testing. You are able to detect fake pieces of sterling jewelry with a magnet, as non-precious metals are attracted by the magnet. Sterling silver always has some sort of stamp to indicate it is sterling. If there is no marking on the piece, it may not be sterling silver.
Look at what they are wearing now. Do they like hoops or studs? Does the person prefer chokers or loose fitting necklaces? Noticing these things lets you choose jewelry more suited to their tastes.
Before you buy anything new, found out about the latest trend. The one thing that makes a great purchase an outstanding one is getting a bargain on it.
Ask about a jeweler’s insurance policy before buying anything. If your jewelry becomes damaged, you can return it to the source and have it repaired. Some stores even insure jewelry against loss or theft.
Preventing tarnish will keep your jewelry look its best. Exposure to water can affect the finish, so avoid it. Many pieces can become rusty, tarnished or dull when they are exposed to water. A single coat of transparent nail polish may help protect certain types of metal.
Wear the jewelry around for a day or so to be sure that it fits right and is comfortable. In this way, you will be able to tell if the item will withstand normal wear.
To maintain the shine and finish on your jewelry, do not put it on until you’ve done your hair and makeup. The grime and dust in makeup are attracted to the jewelry, and if you put on the jewelry before the cosmetics, it can cause the pieces to look dull. This is especially true when earrings and necklaces are concerned.
Plastic Wrap
Be careful when untangling your delicate necklaces. Instead of giving up a knotted chain as hopeless, try using plastic wrap and some clear oil. Put your knotted chains on the plastic wrap and cover with a little baby oil. Try using needles to start untangling it. Rinse the necklace off as best you can and gently pat it dry with a soft cloth. Use soap only if it has been approved to not damage your jewelry.
Make sure you follow these tips the next time you want to buy jewelry for yourelf or for someone else. Make the most of every jewelry purchase by knowing how to identify a great piece and a great deal. Educating yourself on tasteful jewelry and being exposed to this art, is helpful in picking the right item.
