There is really no point in trying to procure jewelry if you have no idea what qualities to look for when you are searching. You should also know what steps you need to take to keep your jewelry in the best condition possible so that it will have a much longer life. The following article is full or helpful ideas for buying and maintaining your beautiful jewelry.
A magnet is a useful tool when shopping for jewelry in sterling silver. You can detect fake sterling silver with the magnet, since non-precious metals are drawn to magnets. If your silver is sterling, you will also notice a mark on the piece. This mark might state .925, sterling, or ster. If there is no marking on the piece, it may not be sterling silver.
Don’t spend a lot of money purchasing cheap costume jewelry. Costume jewelry does sell in more designs and cost significantly less than fine jewelry. Yet, over the course of a few months or years, costume jewelry loses its color which causes the cheap metal to show through underneath. Invest in one or two pieces of fine jewelry that are sure to last a lifetime.
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.
When buying what some people consider to be the most important piece of jewelry in a relationship, the engagement ring, make sure that it is of high quality and has great design. You want a ring with a lot of hand detail which shows fine craftsmanship.
Don’t discard your antique broach from Grandma, re-purpose it. If you put a chain through it, the broach instantly becomes a fashionable necklace. Vintage jewelry is extremely popular these days and finding a way to make it wearable makes it fashionable. Re-using is also a popular concept in our “green” society. That broach can serve you well with just a slight alteration to its use.
The first step to a bridal outfit is the dress, and then everything else, including your jewelry, should be selected afterward. Your jewelry should not only match your dress, but highlight and color that is found in it. If you have sequins that shine opalescent pink, then highlight that with a rose topaz earring, for example.
What style of jewelry you choose for your wedding should be influenced by the style of your dress. If you have a high neckline then you can forgo a necklace and instead have drop earrings with a lot of sparkle. Long sleeves will usually mean you don’t want to wear a bracelet.
To help you make chainmaille jewelry, it is important that you choose your tools wisely. The handle of your pliers should fit comfortably in your hands and the tip should be sturdy. This will help you to manipulate the wire with the most ease and comfort, preventing unnecessary strain and pain.
If you are careful and adhere to many of the tips that you have read here then you should be on your way to obtaining some lovely pieces of jewelry. Now you will know the best buying methods and the best ways to care for these very treasured possessions.
