There is no such thing as knowing too much when it comes to jewelry, especially when what you know is useful, practical and extensive. One mistake can cost you a fortune. Here are some safe and reliable tips for jewelry selection and care. You will be able to more easily pick out and keep jewelery pieces looking great if you follow these tips.
Take a polishing cloth to each piece of jewelry in your collection. This method ensures your jewelry stays shiny without having to use any chemical cleansers or solvents. Use a two-sided cloth to simply polish your jewelry as if it were composed of glass. Use one side of the cloth for polishing, and reserve the other side for shining it afterward.
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.
Take a moment to consider how your valuable jewelry is stored and sorted. You should keep the pieces separate in compartments, boxes, holders, and on hooks for better storage. Don’t just toss your jewelry in a pile. This not only harms the fragile pieces, but it can also cause items, such as necklaces, to get badly tangled up with the other pieces of jewelry.
Take care when you are storing your jewelry in the same place. Jewelry should be stored in an organized way in a box, a jewelry holder or hung on hooks. Do not ever just throw them in a pile. Fragile jewelry could easily be damaged by doing this, not to mention the nuisance of having to untangle necklace chains that could get caught together.
Jewelry is best stored in an area with low humidity. To ensure it is protected, keep your jewelry in a drawstring bag or a jewelry box that is closed. Air and humidity can tarnish metals of all types. Precious metals, through some work and polish, can be restored to their original condition. Non-precious metals are coated, which means that polishing will allow copper metal to come through.
Precious Metals
When shopping for diamonds, it’s best to comparison shop. Get up close to inspect the diamond carefully. Make a comparison with other pieces you have looked at. You should be aware that there are many deceptive people trying to sell jewelry; therefore, it is essential to learn and understand what is involved when selecting a new diamond.
Keep your jewelry stored somewhere that is free from humidity or air. It’s best to store it in a closed box, like a jewelry box, or a drawstring bag. Metals will become tarnished when exposed to air and humidity. Precious metals, through some work and polish, can be restored to their original condition. Non-precious metals are coated, which means that polishing will allow copper metal to come through.
Before you buy a new piece of jewelry, look at what the current trends are. If you look around you may be able to find a great deal!
When shopping for sterling silver jewelry, it is a good idea to bring a small magnet along with you. By using the magnet you can quickly determine if the jewelry item is made of a cheaper metal and not sterling silver. In addition, sterling silver pieces are always stamped with silver hallmarks indicating such factors as the degree of purity, the manufacturer’s symbol, and the date of manufacture. Some of the most common hallmarks are “925, “ster,” “sterling,” and “sterling silver.” If you cannot find a stamp, you might be looking at a cheap imitation.
Check to see if your jeweler offers an insurance policy before purchasing an item. Look for a good policy that lets you return damaged items. There are jewelers who offer insurance for misplaced or lost jewelry, too.
Pay attention if they usually wear studs or hoop earrings, white gold or yellow, and any other typical jewelry that they wear. This will help you get started in your search for the perfect item of jewelry for your loved one.
Going through a day wearing the jewelry will let you get familiar with how it hangs and whether or not it will be comfortable. It will also allow you to see if it can withstand every day wear and tear.
Ask about any insurance a jeweler may offer when you are buying jewelry. If your jewelry gets damaged or broken, you can come back to the store and have it repaired or replaced. There are even some jewelers that will cover the replacement if the piece has been lost or stolen.
Take good care of your costume jewelry. Many of the costume type settings are glued-in, rather than set-in. Don’t immerse costume jewelry in water, and never wash costume jewelery pieces with harsh chemicals. Wiping it down with a damp, warm cloth and then drying it with another cloth is the best care for it. This keeps dirt from building up and making your jewelry look dull.
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.
If you are buying jewelry for someone who values her individuality, find a one-of-a-kind piece or commission a piece designed specifically for her. This means you have taken the time to think about the gift and make it as personal as possible. Customized jewelery will also help you convey the right message.