Do your clothes long to be accessorized? Do they cry out for the wonderful accents that jewelry can provide? Whether you are buying, selling or wanting to maintain your investment, these tips can help you get the most out of your jewelry ventures.
Don’t use harsh chemicals like turpentine or bleach to clean jewelry. These can erode both the color and the materials of your jewelry.
If you are shopping for sterling silver jewelry, you’ll need a magnet and an eye for the real thing. If the piece you are examining is not silver and is made from non-precious metal, it will be attracted to the magnet. 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 hallmark, watch its authenticity since it may be fake.
Have shopping companions when you shop for diamonds. Closely examine pieces you like, and compare them with similar items you are interested in. Be alert, since there are various ways to deceive consumers into thinking a diamond is better then it really is.
Think about how best ways to look after your jewelry. Different styles of jewelry affect the way they need to be cared for; one type of metal will need a different treatment than another, for example. Along the same lines, enhancing different stones and settings requires you to take different steps. Your jeweler can give you instructions on proper handling if you are not sure.
You can use a brooch to make your belt stand out, since it is sure to be eye-catching. You can add it anywhere on the belt that you think looks good.
Keep your jewelry unsoiled by only putting it on after all of your makeup has been applied. The small particles of powdered makeup can easily dull the shine of your jewelry. This applies to necklaces and earrings more than anything else.
Untangle a delicate necklace easily. It is tempting to throw in the towel against knotted metal, but plastic wrap should be reached for instead. Place your necklace on the wrap and put baby oil or mineral oil on it. After the necklace has loosened, try to untangle it by hand. If this does not work, consider using a sturdy pin or needle. Be sure to use extra caution due to the slippery oil. Wash any oil residue from the necklace with dishwashing liquid, and gently pat it dry.
The prices for diamonds vary greatly so shop around before making a purchase. Each diamond is unique with its own individual flaws. If you can personally view a flaw, it may become less significant in your eyes. Depending on the number and types of flaws in a diamond, jewelers may be somewhat flexible in pricing the piece. You should always shop around to find the best possible diamond for a price that you can afford.
Now that you have undoubtedly learned some new and interesting facts about jewelry, you can be more confident in your selection and appraisal of lustrous gemstones, sparkling diamonds, colorful beads and gleaming metals like silver, gold and platinum. Any quality jewelry piece will be an investment for the years ahead.
