For thousands of years, people have used jewelry to adorn themselves, express powerful sentiments, and create a strong and memorable image for themselves. From the cheapest baubles to the most expensive and luxurious diamonds, gold, and jewels, a single piece of jewelry can make a major statement that cannot be avoided. These informative tips will leave you with a new appreciation of jewelry.
Do research on your fine stones, especially if you engage in regular activities that may chip or completely cause them to break into pieces. Not all stones are created equal. Some quartz, peridot, amethyst, to name a few, are among the most fragile stones and will require very gentle wear, care and storage.
Stay away from cheap glass jewelry. Borosilicate and lampwork glass jewelry are a new rage. Many styles of this type of jewelry are popping up in malls all over the country. However the products labeled as high quality lampwork glass are nothing more than cheap imported glass goods. Such glass products are usually not kiln annealed which means that there is a high chance that the product can shatter, cutting your skin while you’re wearing it. Purchase glass jewelry from local artisans or reliable vendors that you know are selling quality products. If it’s too cheap, you know it is too good to be true. Good glass costs anywhere from the low forty dollar range up into the hundreds.
To make a patterned outfit really stand out, pair it with a neutral necklace. A neutral piece in a complimentary tone will anchor your ensemble and make you look more coordinated. Try choosing a piece that offsets your outfit in some way. For example, if you’re wearing a vintage floral top, a modern neutral necklace can give your look some balance.
To keep your clothing the focus when wearing jewelry, choose modest gemstone pieces. A simple gemstone ring or necklace will add sparkle and visual interest to your look, but will not overpower the rest of your outfit. It is best to wear at least 2 pieces of jewelry that have a similar visual look.
To keep your jewelry in top condition, never wear it to sleep. When you sleep, your body produces a lot of sweat and gives off a lot of heat, both of which can cause serious damage to jewelry. Sweat can cause it to tarnish or rust, while the heat can cause soft metals to deform.
Deep, rich blue sapphires are commonly known as the birthstone for those born in September. Their dark, mysterious coloring is often thought to have protective powers over anyone who wears the gem in their rings, bracelets, or brooches. Blue sapphire nicely complements purples and deep scarlet accents and looks beautiful with all settings, but especially platinum or silver.
To help you clean and maintain your jewelry in top condition, remember to polish your gold and silver with a jewelry polishing cloth. Alternatives, such as a regular cloth or paper towel, have the potential to damage your gold or silver because they are not gentle enough for these delicate precious metals.
Avoid letting your jewelry come into contact with chemicals, such as those found in hairspray, lotion, perfume and other products. Some chemicals can stain or otherwise damage precious metals and stones. Porous stones like pearls, opal or turquoise should not be submersed in water for long, either, to prevent damage.
If you are purchasing jewelry online, investigate how much experience the seller has in the industry. Pay particular attention to how many years they have been making the items. Look to see that their web site includes a comprehensive description of what they do and search for any reviews or testimonials from clients.
If you wear fashion jewelry, you should take special care when cleaning it. Since jeweler’s cement is often utilized in the manufacturing of fashion jewelry, soaking it in jewelry cleaning products or warm water could result in damaging a piece of this jewelry. The best way to clean fashion jewelry is to wipe it with a damp cloth and then pat dry with a soft, clean cloth.
Avoid buying jewelry while gold and silver prices are high. Shop around and look for bargains when it is necessary to purchase a ring while gold is at an all time high. Shopping at locally owned jewelry stores and staying away from large chain stores, will help you find a quality and reasonably priced piece of jewelry.
When it comes to purchasing jewelry, try to look for pieces that can be worn in multiple ways. This will maximize the usability of your investment. Many jewelry items can be used for different styles, depending on how it is worn or what is used to compliment it.
Remember to contrast finely detailed, ornate jewelry with a simple outfit. Wear a solid color or the “little black dress” to highlight interesting pieces.
If you’re looking for a strand of pearls, consider cultured pearls. They are a beautiful option, and come in many different colors. They are also a fraction of the cost of natural pearls. Natural pearls are extremely rare and so, extremely expensive. Cultured pearls are easier to find and easier to afford too.
As if anyone really needed any more reason to admire and cherish gorgeous rings, necklaces, and bracelets, the tips you have just read are only a tiny sampling of the joys and pleasures associated with wearing, buying, and even making jewelry. With this information, you will find that each piece takes on a whole new meaning.
