There is no such thing as being too informed about jewelry. A single slip-up could end up costing you big. Here are a few sensible guidelines on the subject. Let this article guide you to the best possible jewelry choices for your needs.

To keep your jewelry looking attractive, polish it regularly using a cloth made especially for this purpose. This will allow your jewelry to shine without using chemicals. Just polish each piece with the special cloth in the same way you would polish a piece of glass. One side is designed to polish, and the other is used to make the piece shine.

Precious Metals

Keep your jewelry stored somewhere that is free from humidity or air. A jewelry box or drawstring bag out of a humid area is ideal. Air and humidity will make the metals in jewelry tarnish. It is possible to polish precious metals, but polishing non-precious metals will damage the coating, which makes the copper that metal was covering show.

Be sure that you understand the kind of gemstone that is in the jewelry that you are purchasing. Jewels come in natural, synthetic and imitation forms. Imitation has little value, as it is generally plastic, while synthetic and natural are considered to be real gems. The difference here, however, is that synthetic is man-made in a laboratory while natural is found buried in the earth.

Keep your jewelry from getting tarnished to preserve its best appearance. Try not to wear jewelry when you are around water. Some metals will tarnish, dull or rust when exposed to water or perspiration. To give jewelry an added layer of protection apply a thin layer of clear nail lacquer.

Pay attention to the quality and type of gemstones in a piece when you’re looking at buying new jewelry. Try to select stones that are an extension of your individuality and that enhance the tone of your skin. If you choose a neutral color it will match anything you wear. Non-functional jewelry is just a waste of money as it will sit unused.

You should always make an effort to properly care for all of your jewelry. Each type of stone, metal, and setting requires different type of care. Each piece is individual in its needs so don’t assume what works well for one piece will work well for all. If you can’t find proper treatment methods, try consulting with a professional jeweler.

Keep your jewelry unsoiled by only putting it on after all of your makeup has been applied. The sparkle of a piece of jewelry is a magnet for loose or wet makeup, which will leave it tarnished and dingy. This is particularly important with necklaces and earrings.

Look for sales when you want to buy some new jewelry. Jewelry sales can save you a significant amount of cash. Watch for sales in the newspaper, on the Internet, and even in the stores themselves. If a particular piece was designed to fit a current trend, and that trend is nearing conclusion, then you could make a saving as big as 50%.

Plastic Wrap

Untangling knotted chains can be easy if you know how to do it. While it can be frustrating untangling metal necklaces, consider using plastic wrap. Apply baby oil or mineral oil to your necklace after placing it on the plastic wrap. After the necklace has loosened, try to untangle it by hand. If this does not work, consider using a sturdy pin or needle. Be sure to use extra caution due to the slippery oil. Use a mild liquid soap to remove the oil and then pat dry with a towel.

Before you purchase a new piece of fine jewelry, think about how you will wear it. There is no need to spend your money on a bauble that you cannot see yourself wearing. Think about what type of clothing you will wear with the jewelry before deciding what to buy.

Well, it’s easy when you know how. This article has just touched on a few of things that you should know about this very rewarding hobby. There is much to learn, but at least you’ve now got a few good ideas to put to work.