Think about what jewelry means to you. Perhaps you need to question your knowledge about quality pieces and the various types available. While the subject of jewelry can be a little complicated at times, these hints are here to help you understand a little more. You may learn how to give better jewelry gifts, how to wear and care for your own jewelry, and more by reading the tips below.
Before dealing with harsh chemicals, try a polishing cloth to bring back the luster of your jewelry. This is an easy way to get shine without chemicals and solvents. Gently polish your jewelry with the two-sided cloth as if it were a mirror. Use one side for polishing and the other for improving its shine.
Sterling Silver
Arm yourself with a magnet and a magnifying glass when shopping for sterling silver jewelry. Imitations will be attracted to your magnet. This is an easy way to recognize quality. If your silver is sterling, you will also notice a mark on the piece. This mark might state .925, sterling, or ster. If there is no marking on the piece, it may not be sterling silver.
Always look at a number of different places when you are shopping for diamonds. Take a good look at all the pieces that you like, examining them and comparing them to each other. There are ways to hide some of a diamond’s imperfections, so be very particular about each one you view.
Before you think about picking up new jewelry, check into what the latest trends are to get a sense of what’s of value. One of the few things that can enhance the appeal of a lovely piece of jewelry is knowing that it came at a great discount!
Ask about any insurance a jeweler may offer when you are buying jewelry. Look for a good policy that lets you return damaged items. There are some jewelers that will also have insurance plans for pieces that get lost or stolen.
It’s great that you love costume jewelry, but make sure you evaluate the condition of any piece you plan to buy. Costume jewelery pieces can be expensive but they are not worth the investment if they look too old. Make sure you have a piece that is in excellent condition, because this will be a lot more fruitful for you down the road.
One key thing to remember is to only put your jewelry on after you’ve applied your makeup. Dust and grime from makeup gravitates towards jewelry, and putting on your jewelry first can leave it looking dull or dingy. This is particularly important with necklaces and earrings.
Gems are given chemical treatments in the process of cutting, polishing and setting. When you are thinking of buying, ask what treatment a stone was given. The way to care for a stone differs greatly depending on how it was treated. You do not want to try to clean a treated gem with a solution that may strip the treatment and damage the gem in the process.
Use this advice to guide and protect all of your jewelry investments. You might find yourself making more stylish jewelry selections, or even saving big money by recognizing good deals. Having a good taste in jewelry is all about education and exposure to this art.