The history and uses of jewelry are as fascinating as the array of styles and materials used in the designs themselves. Jewelry holds on to memories of important and happy occasions and pays respect to the owner and giver’s relationship. Learn more about jewelry and you will be better prepared to choose the perfect pieces to buy and sell for every special occasion.

Harsh chemicals and solvents can damage the finish of your jewelry and should never be used to clean it. This can cause the stones to lose their luster in addition to eating away the enamel on any of the pieces.

Make sure you organize your jewelry properly. It is recommended to separate the items stored by using compartments, boxes, holders and hooks. Resist the temptation to jumble all your pieces into a community box. Not only will your necklaces get all tangled up, you risk damaging all your fragile and fine jewelry pieces.

Precious Metals

Store your jewelry in a place that is not subjected to humidity extremes or open air. It’s best to store it in a closed box, like a jewelry box, or a drawstring bag. Tarnish is a chemical reaction that happens when silver and other metals are exposed to moisture and air. You can restore the precious metals back to their former glory, but plated jewelry is different. Trying to polish those pieces can reveal the non-precious metals underneath, such as copper.

Knowing what type of jewel you are buying when you purchase jewelry is very important. Natural gems and imitation gems have been joined recently by synthetic gems, making three main categories. While both natural and synthetic stones are still real, imitation is just glass or plastic made to look like the natural stone. Natural gemstones are mined, while synthetic gems are artificially grown.

When you buy jewelry, it should last the rest of your life. To ensure you are buying a quality piece, refuse to deal with anybody but the most reputable of jewelers. If a piece of jewelry is of high quality, it should be made well and exhibit top-flight craftsmanship. The jeweler you buy it from should be providing you with a provenance on the piece. Details of where it came from, what it is made from and who made it. Unless you purchase jewelry that is of high-quality, the piece is not likely to last a lifetime.

Always shop around when buying a diamond. Always see the piece up close, and compare it critically to any others you’re considering. Keep an eye out for deceptive tricks to cause you to think a diamond is better than it actually is.

Make careful note of the condition of costume jewelry you wish to collect. A piece that isn’t in very good condition won’t be worth it, and since you may be thinking of an expensive item as an investment, it’s important to watch for wear and tear. A piece that is free of any defects or wear not only looks better, but is also a better investment.

The color gemstones are an important consideration when shopping for new jewelry. The gemstone you choose should work with your skin tone and suit your personality. Your best bet is to choose a natural color to match any outfit. Buying a stone that you will never wear is pointless

Costume Jewelry

Remember that even costume jewelry needs careful attention. These pieces are often put together with glue, which does not last as long as other methods. Don’t submerge costume jewelry in water or clean it with abrasives. The most effective way to safely clean them is wiping with a damp cloth, then drying with a different, soft cloth. This will keep your costume jewelry clean and shiny.

Get the tangles out of a delicate necklace that’s in a knot. It’s easy to get frustrated when trying to get the knots out of a badly tangled necklace, but try using some plastic wrap before you call it quits. Place the knotted necklace on the plastic wrap and coat it with baby oil. Use a sewing needle to untangle the necklace. Next, use dish soap to clean the piece. Finish by using a soft cloth to pat it dry.

To most people, jewelry symbolizes more than just a monetary investment, it symbolizes a memory which is truly priceless. All jewelry carries the weight of human emotions, whether they be a symbol of happy times or hopes for the future.