The jewelry you own may include heirlooms, gifts or pieces you have bought. It can be difficult to know the age or provenance of a piece of jewelry. How do you know where to find more information on something like this? This article is the first step to becoming an educated customer.
Jewelry is best stored in an area with low humidity. Store jewelry in a sealed box or drawstring pouch for the best protection. Air and humidity can cause the metals that the jewelry are made of to tarnish. 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.
If you are shopping for sterling silver jewelry, you’ll need a magnet and an eye for the real thing. Use the magnet to detect fake jewelry; real silver will not be attracted to the magnet, but the cheaper metals will. True sterling sliver always has some sort of hallmark stamp on it, such as .925, sterling or ster. If there is no hallmark, watch its authenticity since it may be fake.
Notice what type of earrings they are wearing, including the shape and metal. Paying attention to these aspects of their current wardrobe will help you make a purchase they are more likely to enjoy.
When you purchase jewelry from a jeweler, ask about their insurance policy. Insurance policies allow you to bring a defective or broken piece into the jewelry store for repair. Many jewelers also have insurance for lost or stolen pieces.
Take the steps to inhibit its tarnishing. Remove your jewelry if you plan on spending time in or near water. Some metals will tarnish, dull or rust when exposed to water or perspiration. Applying a very thin covering of clear nail varnish to your jewelry offers an added degree of protection.
Put on the jewelry to see if it hangs correctly, then wear it for a few hours to test the comfort. You will be able to tell if it will hold up to wear and tear.
A brooch will add an interesting aspect to the belt. You can add it anywhere on the belt that you think looks good.
Gems are given chemical treatments in the process of cutting, polishing and setting. When you are thinking of buying, ask what treatment a stone was given. There are several different types of treatment, and each one needs it’s own type of care. For example, you should avoid cleaning a gem that has been treated with a certain solution that could peel off the treatment because this could harm the gem.
Plastic Wrap
If you have tangled necklaces, you can untangle them with ease. It is tempting to throw in the towel against knotted metal, but plastic wrap should be reached for instead. Lay the necklace out on plastic wrap, then apply baby or mineral oil. Untangle it with some needles. Wash any oil residue from the necklace with dishwashing liquid, and gently pat it dry.
That includes dry or steam saunas. The high levels of moisture and heat are very damaging to the jewelry.
If you’re in the market for diamond jewelry, make sure to comparison shop. Every single diamond is unique and has individual flaws. You may not care too much about some flaws if you realize they’re difficult to discern. Additionally, keep in mind that the jeweler will have a unique pricing structure depending on his or her subjectivity. Shop around and find the best diamond you can for the price you can afford.
As you have read, jewelry has a myriad of various aspects. With some research and dedication, you can be sure you are buying some quality pieces and take care of the the right way. Welcome to the exciting world of jewelry! Use these guidelines as soon as possible to ensure that you get off to a good start.