Jewelry has different meanings from a token of love to an heirloom. No matter what kind of jewelry you want to buy and give, selecting the best pieces can be tricky. This article is filled with useful advice on purchasing jewelry.

You can keep the jewelry in your collection sparkling by using a special polishing cloth. This is a very easy way to make them shine and not have to use any type of chemicals or solvents. Buff your jewelry with the two-sided cloth, just as if you were cleaning a glass. First, use the polishing side to polish it up, then use the other side to shine it.

Do not use any chemicals on your jewelery stones. This could cause the stone to change color or become dull in appearance, and it may eat away at the enamel on the piece.

Take care when you are storing your jewelry in the same place. It is better to use boxes, compartments, holders, and hooks for keeping pieces separate. Jewelry should not be lumped together in a pile. This can hurt very fragile jewelry, and tangle necklaces or bracelets.

Sterling Silver

If you want to buy sterling silver pieces, use a magnet and examine the jewelry very carefully. Use the magnet to detect fake jewelry; real silver will not be attracted to the magnet, but the cheaper metals will. Sterling silver will always be hallmarked with a stamp such as .925, ster. or sterling. If you don’t see a stamp of any sort on a piece, then be wary of whether it is actually silver or not.

Jewelry should be a purchase that truly lasts a lifetime. Choose reputable jewelry dealers when considering your next jewelry purchase. Any high-quality jewelry will show superior craftsmanship, and will be well-made. Ask the jeweler what the origin of the piece is, like the maker and the origin of the stones. Making sure that it is high-quality will ensure that it lasts forever.

Ask about a jeweler’s insurance policy before buying anything. If your jewelry gets damaged or broken, you can come back to the store and have it repaired or replaced. You might find some jewelers who are willing to insure it against loss and theft.

Costume Jewelry

You need to pay attention to care and maintenance if you intend to build up a costume jewelry collection. Costume jewelry can be very expensive and a great investment, but a piece that shows too much wear and tear will not be worth the money or time. An item in good condition holds its value better in the long run.

When shopping for jewelry, think about the stones in the pieces. Think about your skin tone, and also think about your personality as you choose your favorite stones. Think about how the stones will work with your style, and pick neutral colors that go with everything in your wardrobe. You want to have plenty of opportunities to show off every piece.

Know how to keep your jewelry beautiful. Various settings, types of metals, and gemstones need different types of care to protect them and make sure they get cleaned properly. Not all jewelry should be cared for in the same way. When in doubt about the right way to maintain your jewelry, just ask a professional jeweler.

To keep your jewelry looking clean, only put it on after your make-up is applied and set. Makeup can gravitate dust and grime towards your jewelry leaving it to look dull. This is particularly important in the case of necklaces and earrings.

For most people, jewelry has significant monetary and sentimental value. When you protect your jewelry you help protect both your investment and your memories. There is a wealth of information out there; utilize every resource at your disposal to maximize your investment.