From earrings to bangle bracelets, gold rings to silver pendants, jewelry comes in many shapes and sizes. There is more to know about each piece than just what color it is and how it fits. You must also pick an item that is of a quality that will last and then you must care for it. Here are some tips and tricks to help you to have a great jewelry collection.
The best tool for any jewelry hunter, whether searching for personal treasure or for the profit in reclaiming gold or silver, is a jeweler’s loupe. Jeweler’s loupes are small, but powerful magnifying instruments designed specially for use in examining jewelry at very close range. Some jeweler’s loupes also have a built-in, battery-powered light which can be very handy if examining pieces in a dimly lit area. Most jeweler’s loupes are extremely economical in cost and can help you make the most of your jewelry-buying dollar, especially when buying from second-hand sources.
If you are considering a titanium wedding band, remember that it cannot be re-sized and may be a bit more difficult to cut off in an emergency than rings made from precious metals. Titanium rings are less likely to bend or crush under pressure, however, so an accident that would heavily damage a gold or platinum ring may not harm a titanium one.
An simple way to get the most mileage from you jewelry is to invest in a jewelry box. It is easy to get stuck in a rut, wearing the same pieces of jewelry over and over, if your jewelry collection is a jumbled mess. A jewelry box will get you organized and reintroduce you to pieces you forgot you had.
Know what to ask your salesperson. Find out if the gemstone you are interested in is natural, synthetic or imitation. Natural gems cost the most because they have a higher cost to attain them. Synthetic gems are man-made and are easier to get, so they are cheaper. Imitations are the cheapest overall, but, of course, they are not be of the best quality.
Look for jewelry stores that are accredited members of the Gemological Institute of America, or GIA, as well as the Jewelers of America. You are assured the best quality at the lowest price by stores with these certifications. You will find these certifications held by most big chain type outfits.
When giving a piece of jewelry to a significant other, an important tip to keep in mind is to remember that timing is critical. Besides giving the wrong gift for the wrong reason, you also want to avoid giving the right gift at the wrong time. The basic rule is that the more elaborate the gift is, the more extravagant the moment should be.
When buying jewelry, it is important to find out what stone your partner likes best or what your partner’s favorite color is. Many people make the mistake of buying someone their birthstone because they think it is a safe bet. There are many people who simply do not like the color of their birthstone and would prefer not to wear it.
After every time that you wear a piece of pearl jewelry, you should make sure that you wipe the pearl down with a wet cloth. This will help the pearl from getting too dry which can cause it to become brittle. Keep your pearl looking great when you keep it moisturized.
Learning about jewelry is an important part of ownership, so take pride in the fact that you are seeking knowledge to better yourself. It will allow you to have gorgeous pieces, which will stand the test of time, allowing you to adorn yourself with only the best. A diamond IS forever!
