There is no such thing as knowing too much when it comes to jewelry, especially when what you know is useful, practical and extensive. If you make a mistake it can cost you a lot of money. This article will help you avoid needless mistakes. Here’s where you can learn about how to choose and take care of jewelry, and avoid making costly mistakes.
The metals in jewelry can tarnish if exposed to humid air, so you will want to store them in a way that protects them. Store them in a closed jewelry box or small drawstring bag for maximum protection. Both air and humidity can lead to tarnished metal. While precious metals can be polished back to their original luster, non-precious metals are only coated in which case polishing causes the copper metal underneath to show through.
Do some research on the gem in your new piece of jewelry before you buy. Jewels come in natural, synthetic and imitation forms. Synthetic and natural are real stones, while the imitation ones are plastic that is colored. Natural stones are dug up out of the ground and synthetic ones are grown in a lab.
When purchasing jewelry from a respected jeweler, inquire as to whether they offer an insurance policy. Then, if something actually happens to the jewelry, you can return it or have it repaired. You should also think about getting additional insurance in cause of theft or loss.
Test it out by wearing it yourself; you don’t want to give a piece that will be uncomfortable or awkward for the recipient. Doing this also helps you see if the jewelery is long lasting or likely to break easily.
If you are presenting a gift to someone who has their own unusual style, look for an item of jewelry that is in line with their clothing and lifestyle choices. Giving a gift that requires thought and creativity will make it even more special.
A brooch will add an interesting aspect to the belt. Place the brooch close to your hip or in the middle of your waist.
Makeup isn’t for jewelry. Let your makeup dry before you put on a piece of jewelry. The dust, oils and particles from makeup rub off on jewelry; putting on jewels first means they will get dingy and dull with a film of makeup over them. This is particularly important with necklaces and earrings.
Before buying jewelry or a fine stone, find out if it was treated in any way. If it was, find out how. Different treatments require different types of care. Knowing the proper care techniques for your gemstone will prevent you from accidentally damaging it by stripping it of its protective treatment.
When making a jewelry purchase, be aware of what you plan to do with it. You don’t need a box full of unused jewelry. When making a selection, remember your outfits, clothing and accessories.
Ensure that the clasps of your jewelry are sturdy and reliable. You risk losing an expensive or sentimental chain or gemstone pendant if the clasp is too loose. Anytime you buy an expensive bracelet or necklace it is recommended you request a safety clasp. It isn’t unusual for people to protect their most cherished jewelry with a second or even a third clasp.
Don’t swim wearing your jewelry. Jewelry can be damaged by strong chemicals like chlorine, making your pieces less shiny and durable. Saltwater is equally damaging to your precious jewels. Your jewelry will last longer and stay more lustrous if you remember to take it off before getting into the water.
When you are making a serious, high-dollar jewelry purchase, make sure that you can get years of use out of it. Quality of the design is not the only thing you should analyze when purchasing expensive items. You also need to determine if you are going still going to want to wear the item in the future. Although something may be in style now, it may seem tacky after a few years. Decide on timeless pieces that will stay in fashion.
You can make money from any gold bracelets and necklaces you have, without having to sell your entire pieces. Just cut off any excess. If you have enough of these pieces, you can clip off so little that people won’t even notice the difference. With real gold and several chains, you could shorten the pieces to get hundreds of dollars.
Statement stones like crystal or black onyx are striking and distinctive. It is certainly possible to spend less and come out with a piece of jewelry that is absolutely remarkable.
It may be tough to figure out how to best present jewelry that you are selling at informal events like craft fairs and flea markets. While shopping for beads, stones and other jewelry findings, try to visualize a creative display fixture. You can use items like cigar boxes, baskets and other unusual items to display your jewelry in an interesting way.
When considering a nice piece of jewelry, consider the popular beauty of rubies. Although true rubies are a rich, bright red, many stones are available in color variations that range from rosy pinks to deep maroons. Rubies are a durable stone. They can take abuse as well as any fine jewelry. Both their appearance and their toughness make them perfect to use in jewelry.
A stone that people do not often think of is Alexandrite. This stone will change from a purple color to a green, depending if it is outside or indoors. Alexandrite is most often used in earrings, pendants and rings.
Well, it’s easy when you know how. This article has just touched on a few of things that you should know about this very rewarding hobby. There is much to learn, but at least you’ve now got a few good ideas to put to work.
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