You must know what you’re doing or do the research prior to shopping for jewelry in order to make a good purchase. Perhaps you are not sure where to begin.

Use a polishing cloth for all of your jewelry pieces. This helps keep your jewelry shiny without the need for chemical cleansers, which can damage the pieces. All you do is polish it like you would a glass with the two-sided cloth. Use one side of the cloth for polishing, and reserve the other side for shining it afterward.

Sterling Silver

A magnet is a useful tool when shopping for jewelry in sterling silver. Magnets attract non-precious metals, and you can use this fact to detect fakes. Sterling silver should always bear a stamp that says Sterling, Ster. or .925. If there is no hallmark, the piece is probably not authentic and may, indeed, be counterfeit.

Before adding a piece of jewelry to your collection, research current trends. If you look around you may be able to find a great deal!

Prevent your jewelry from tarnishing so that it keeps looking great. One of the best ways to keep your jewelry looking beautiful is to avoid wearing it in water. Exposure can result in tarnishing, rusting or dulling of different metals. Painting a thin layer of clear-colored nail polish on your metal jewelry can add a protective barrier to it.

Taking proper care of your jewelry requires careful consideration. Different metals, stones, and settings have different needs to ensure proper maintenance. What works for one piece of jewelry could dull or damage another. Ask a jeweler to make sure you know how to maintain your items.

If you are buying jewelry for someone who values her individuality, find a one-of-a-kind piece or commission a piece designed specifically for her. A unique piece to match their personality shows thoughtfulness and creativity, which is exactly what you want to express to a person you care enough about to buy jewelry for.

Plastic Wrap

If there are knots in your necklaces, you can easily untangle them. While it can be frustrating untangling metal necklaces, consider using plastic wrap. Put the tangled necklace onto the plastic wrap, then pour a little mineral oil or baby oil onto the piece. Use some needles to untangle. Rinse the necklace off as best you can and gently pat it dry with a soft cloth. Use soap only if it has been approved to not damage your jewelry.

A clasp that will hold up is a very important part of any necklace or bracelet. It is very easy for jewelry to be accidentally lost due to a cheap clasp collapsing and giving way. If you have expensive or heirloom items, invest in a safety clasp. You might even want to add an extra clasp on your jewelery for added protection.

When you go swimming, take your jewelry off first. The chlorine in swimming pools can ruin a piece of jewelry. Ocean salt water can similarly cause damage to any jewelry exposed to it. Removing pieces before heading into the water will extend their life and protect their beauty.

As this article helped point out, to get the pieces of jewelry that are profitable and fit your needs, it can take research and patience in order to enjoy success. If you remember the tips listed above, you are sure to be successful.