It doesn’t matter whether you are purchasing jewelry for loved ones or yourself. It’s important that you know the proper methods of purchasing, selling, and caring for your jewelry. This article will provide you with some key tips on how to best shop for jewelry.

To keep your jewelry looking attractive, polish it regularly using a cloth made especially for this purpose. This is an easy way to get shine without chemicals and solvents. Simply use the two-sided polishing cloth to polish your jewelry the same way you would polish a glass. Polish jewelry with one side of the cloth, then flip it over and shine jewelry with the other side.

For example, you should never use bleach, turpentine, or ammonia on your jewelry. This could cause the stone to change color or become dull in appearance, and it may eat away at the enamel on the piece.

When you are shopping for diamonds, there are ways to compare the stones. Start by finding what you like, and then begin comparing it with other pieces. There are deceptive tricks that can be used to enhance a diamond, so you need to be on the lookout.

Inquire about insurance for your jewelry when you purchase it from a jeweler. If something happens to your piece, you’ll know you can take it to the jeweler you bought it from, who will repair it or replace the piece. There are jewelers who offer insurance for misplaced or lost jewelry, too.

Apply your makeup before putting on your jewelry. All the grime and dust from your makeup attracts jewelry. Therefore, putting on jewelry beforehand can make the piece look dingy. In particular, this hint is aimed towards your necklaces and earrings.

Make sure you look into the history of your gemstone, especially if it was treated at all. Depending on the type of treatment used, the piece will require varying types of care. If you use the wrong cleanser because you are uneducated about the gem, you could strip off the treatment and even damage the stone.

Before you buy any item of jewelry, have a think about what your long term plans are for it. You want to ensure that you purchase a piece of jewelry that you will actually wear. When you are picking the jewelry out, think about the clothes you will be wearing.

Take your jewelry off before you go swimming. The chlorine in pool water is very harsh and may cause your fine jewelry to appear dull. Over time, saltwater can be as bad. It is advisable to remove all jewelry prior to participating in any water sports to protect and extend the life of your jewelry.

When you set out to buy jewelry, buy a piece because you love it, not because of who makes it. Many designer pieces are of the same quality than other, more affordable baubles. For example, if you opt for a ring from Cartier, you are actually paying more for the name than you are for the piece itself. Remember that there is top-quality jewelry available under any number of different brands.

Long chains can be shortened and the excess metal can be sold for a profit. Merely cut a few extra inches off the piece, and sell the excess; you can still own and wear the rest. If you have a number of real gold pieces, you can earn a couple hundred dollars with this method.

Onyx and crystal can be wonderful jewelry options. Find ways to economize and you might be pleased with the results.

Displaying your jewelry can be a little confusing if you are trying to sell your goods locally. When on the look out for material involved in the creation of your piece, don’t forget about creative displays. All types of things, such as baskets, cigar boxes and racks can turn into incredible jewelry display cases by adding some creativity.

Properly-maintained jewelry is very valuable, not just financially but also sentimentally. By learning how to treat your jewelry right, you are protecting the memories and dollars invested in it. There is a lot more information out there, so keep educating yourself so that you will know how to get the most out of your jewelry.