Jewelry is a fabulous way to add some shimmer to both everyday looks and ensembles for special occasions. With advice ranging from how to choose and wear jewelry, to how to clean and store it, these tips can help you to build and maintain your own collection of sparkling jewels.
If you need help purchasing that special piece of jewelry for someone you care about, you should ask someone close to your special person. For instance, maybe a close friend or relative would be willing to help you pick out that special piece of jewelry. They are certainly very familiar with the individuals taste and preference and could help you select the perfect piece.
Nothing tells a woman you care like buying her jewelry with her birthstone. The fact that you took the time to research her birth date, and then her birthstone, will show her that you are willing to take the time to make her happy. No woman can turn that down!
To get use out of an earring after one half of a pair is lost, use it as a brooch. Many earrings can be worn just as a brooch can, and can make a great accent piece. Try pinning the earring to a scarf or attaching it to your top just below the collar bone. A more delicate earring is a great way to accent a purse or a belt.
Never wear any jewelry, especially gold pieces, in a swimming pool. The chlorine and other chemicals used to keep pools clean can cause rapid deterioration of the composition of your jewelry. Make sure you remove all pieces, including earrings or other piercings that you may not remove for any other occasion.
Get everything in writing. If the salesperson tells you that the gem has a warranty, or that it is on sale for a certain price next week, you want to have a record of that. Keeping a detailed written account of whatever information passed between you and the salesperson can help you be on top of any discrepancies that may appear later on.
If you are looking to get more for your money when purchasing a piece of jewelry, consider going to retailers that are not associated with a mega brand name. Typically, those companies carry a huge markup just for the inscription of their company name or logo in the item of jewelry. Be a smart shopper, and find items similar at other stores for a better price.
Keep a silver polishing cloth handy so you can quickly wipe down your jewelry before you put it on. Frequently polishing your jewelry will not only make it look great but it will also keep it from tarnishing as quickly. Keep your jewelry looking pristine when you use a polishing cloth frequently.
When soldering a wedding ring and an engagement ring together, make sure the jeweler polishes the rings. Engagement rings are often worn for some time before the wedding band is and it will look like the rings do not match if they are not polished to look new.
When buying jewelry, make sure that you know the difference between the different types of silver available. Be aware that nickel silver and German silver do not actually contain any silver and they are only called silver because of the color. Sterling silver is the only real silver there is.
To get cheaper rates on your jewelry-making supplies, try to take advantage of discounts and sales. Several chain hobby and craft stores sell basic supplies that you can use when making jewelry (such as thread, pliers, beads, etc), and these frequently can go on sale, sometimes up to 50% off. If you need to purchase items that are not sold in local stores, do research online before settling on a place to purchase from.
Save your cash and forgo the designer pieces, these add an estimated 80% more to the price tag. Local jewelers or chains offer products that are exactly comparable to luxury retailers and are more likely to give you financing offers or seasonal promotions.
When choosing jewelry for a bridesmaid in a wedding, always coordinate with the dress. Especially important is to match necklace length to the neckline of a dress- try to choose necklaces that reach about halfway from chin to the top of the dress for a spectacular and balanced effect.
Educate yourself before purchasing that special engagement ring. Diamonds can be confusing, and understanding the “Four Cs” is important as it will effect the quality and price of your stone. Do a little research before looking at your options. Talk to a trusted jeweler as well. This will help you to get the best value for your money.
Invest in tools to help you stay organized. Jewelery making can involve a lot of small pieces. Investing in containers with smaller compartments inside or using tackle boxes for storing your jewelery is always a good way to stay organized. Your creative ventures will go a lot smoother this way.
One of the most important things you can do while shopping for jewelry is to shop around. Salesman will try and commit you to a purchase before you leave their shop. Be sure and be firm and tell them that you will return if you don’t find a better offer.
Jewelry is a great way to complement your individual sense of style, and with the helpful tips and ideas included in this article, you can choose the earrings, necklaces, bracelets and other pieces that make your look shine, and keep them shimmering and shining for many years to come.