Most people love to wear and own fancy jewelry, but not everyone knows how to properly maintain that jewelry. If you don’t want to have to replace your jewelry, it’s important that you learn how to care for it. This article compiles some advice to give you a starting point on maintaining your jewelry.
If you have metal allergies, make sure to purchase nickel free jewelry. Nickel is a common alloy that is mixed in with precious metals such as sterling silver to make them more pliable. Silver itself is very liquid in its original state and therefore not substantial enough to be properly molded into jewelry. Oftentimes, another alloy such as nickel is added. Make sure you check what you are purchasing to make sure it is nickel free.
Some classic and very affordable types of jewelry that are available are pearls. These are very classic staples to any collection. They are also available in three types that include natural, imitation, and cultured. There are many colors and variations available such as classic white, pink, gold, black, etc.
A great source for unique and inexpensive jewelry pieces are local thrift shops. Local thrift stores can be a treasure trove for antique and truly unusual pieces. Often, these establishments do not have the staff, training or time, that is necessary to check for hallmarks or gold and silver content. A few dollar’s investment can often yield, not only some really unique pieces of jewelry, but also some pieces that may be, quite valuable.
Keep your jewelry from getting tarnished to preserve its best appearance. One of the best ways to keep your jewelry looking beautiful is to avoid wearing it in water. Metals can become dull, rusty or tarnished if submerged in it. A very light coating of clear nail varnish can be applied to some jewelry, and this will add an additional line of protection against the elements.
To wear jewelry without feeling uncomfortable, choose looser fitting pieces. While more restricting pieces like tight bracelets or chokers may look great, you won’t be able to look your best if you’re not comfortable. Light, loose necklaces are totally on trend and can be worn all day without causing you to experience discomfort.
Keep your gems sparkling in your jewelry like they are always new. You can keep your beautiful stones looking their best by soaking them in the very same solution used to soak dentures. Denture cleansers are cost effective and widely available. Use for one night, and your jewels will look like new again.
When buying pieces of jewelry that are unique, consider trying to buy as much of a complete set as you can. With unique pieces, it may be hard to find other jewelry that is complementary. Buying a complete set of unique jewelry also makes it easy to give each part of the set as a separate gift over time.
If you plan to make and sell your own jewelry as a quick way of generating extra income on the side, opt to focus on pieces that you can quickly make without sacrificing quality or style. This ensures that you are adequately compensated for your time and efforts used to create the piece.
When purchasing jewelry it is important to keep in mind for whom you are buying it, unless it is for yourself. You may really love a certain piece but the person you are buying it for my loathe it. So carefully consider the person it will be for, and then make your decision.
Congratulations on finishing the article! Now you have a starting point on how to keep your jewelry looking great for years to come. Hopefully you’ve learned something new along the way. If you’re still not sure how to maintain your jewelry properly, there are tons more pieces of advice out there for you to find.
