Every woman dreams of having that perfect engagement ring, beautiful necklace, or great set of earrings. However, picking the right kind can be confusing especially when you step into a jewelry store and are pressured to make big purchases that may not always be in your best interest. This article provides some great pointers for buying 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.
Be sure to pay attention to details like type of metal and shape. This way, you know where you should start when buying a gift.
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.
Part of selecting your wedding jewelry should be taking into consideration when you’re getting married. Sparkly jewelry, like dangling diamonds, look best when light is coming from all directions, as it would in a night ceremony or reception. Daytime weddings, especially outdoors, tend not to highlight this kind of jewelry as well.
Costume jewelry needs special care. Costume jewelry is often put together using glue and other adhesives, unlike stoned that are set using metal. Keep your costume jewelery away from water or chemicals. Wiping it down with a damp, warm cloth and then drying it with another cloth is the best care for it. This will clean off any residue and make it look like new, without damaging it.
Soak diamonds for twenty minutes in a solution made of four parts water and one part ammonia for a sparkling shine. Scrub them with a soft dampened toothbrush allows cleaning of hard to reach places, such as under the gem or around the prongs. Dry it with a soft cloth to keep it shining and looking new.
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.
Untangle your knotted messes of delicate chains and necklaces. While it can be frustrating untangling metal necklaces, consider using plastic wrap. Lay the necklace out on plastic wrap, then apply baby or mineral oil. Try using needles to start untangling it. Wash with dish soap and pat dry.
When shopping for an excellent deal on a piece of jewelry, you should consider purchasing a piece that was previously owned. Many of them are just as nice as their matching new pieces, but the costs will be lower. Your significant other will likely appreciate the fact that you made an effort to find a high-quality piece of jewelry at an affordable price.
If your pierced ears are sensitive to metal posts, try painting them with clear nail polish. Sensitive ears can be itchy, painful and red. By applying a thin coating of clear nail polish, the metal is covered and no longer presents a problem. You may wear your favorite earrings in comfort!
Jewelry sets are a great gift item to consider. Most jewelers offer special deals on jewelry when it is bought in sets, rather than each piece individually. You could always break the sets up and give them as individual gifts. You will always have presents ready for your loved ones, even if you did not plan in advance.
When purchasing diamond jewelry such as engagement rings, earrings, necklaces and bracelets, knowing the 4 C’s of diamonds are important. The 4 C’s include: Cut, Clarity, Color and Carat. Some jewelers also like to add a fifth C which is Certificate and it is the grading report on the quality of the diamonds in your piece of jewelry. Knowing the C’s of diamonds will make you a more knowledgeable customer.
If you are going to chose to have an engagement ring and wedding ring soldered together, keep in mind that you may have to have the rings sized because there is a significant chance that the rings will fit the finger tighter than they do seperately. Rings that are too tight can cause circulation problems in the finger.
Never rely on brand names to determine the true value of a piece of jewelry. Few people can identify jewelry brands on sight. A jeweler who convinces you that a brand is worth paying more for is probably just out to get as much of your money as possible. You can find fabulous quality from various brands.
When it comes to purchasing jewelry, try to look for pieces that can be worn in multiple ways. This will maximize the usability of your investment. Many jewelry items can be used for different styles, depending on how it is worn or what is used to compliment it.
As you can see, finding that perfect piece of jewelry is not impossible. It just takes time, patience, and knowledge of what you are looking for. Now that you know more about shopping for and selecting the right kind of jewelry, you will make great purchases at the jewelry store instead of just listening to the salesperson!
