Many people feel intimidated when first investing in jewelry. Various kinds of materials are used for making jewelry. All of them vary in the amount of money they’re worth. An uneducated customer might pay too much. Use this advice to make the most of your next jewelry purchase.

Polishing Cloth

Try using a simple polishing cloth on your jewelery collection. This method ensures your jewelry stays shiny without having to use any chemical cleansers or solvents. Polish your jewelry with a two-sided polishing cloth as you might buff a lovely glass. Use the polishing side first and, then the other side to make your jewelry shine.

When storing your jewelry, be sure that you store it in a place with low humidity and free of open air. Trying putting them in a box with a tight-fitting lid or a bag that has a drawstring closure. Air and humidity can tarnish metals of all types. While precious metals can be polished back to their original luster, non-precious metals are only coated in which case polishing causes the copper metal underneath to show through.

You need to know the type of gem that you are purchasing. There are basically three distinct types: natural gems, synthetic gems and imitation stones. While natural and synthetic stones are the real deal, imitation stones are made to look like a real gemstone, but could be anything from colored glass to plastic. Natural stones are found in the earth and are mined out, while synthetic ones are grown in laboratories.

If you wear the piece for 24 hours, then you can be sure that it has been put together correctly and hangs nicely. You will also have the knowledge that the piece is not going to fall apart the first time the receiver wears it.

The color gemstones are an important consideration when shopping for new jewelry. Try to choose a stone that meshes well with your taste or personality. Also, consider what looks good on you. Neutral colors are very versatile, as they match well with any outfit. Don’t even bother to buy something that doesn’t function properly.

Caring for your jewelry properly is important; you should definitely give it some consideration. Depending on the metals and stones used in your jewelry, along with how they are set, you will need different maintenance methods. Each piece is individual in its needs so don’t assume what works well for one piece will work well for all. Consult with a jeweler if you are unsure exactly how to care for your own jewels.

Costume Jewelry

Special care is required for costume jewelry. Costume jewelry is often put together using glue and other adhesives, unlike stoned that are set using metal. Never immerse your costume jewelry or use harsh chemicals on it. It’s most beneficial to use a damp warm cloth to gently wipe, then use another cloth to dry. This keeps dirt from building up and making your jewelry look dull.

Makeup isn’t for jewelry. Let your makeup dry before you put on a piece of jewelry. The small particles of powdered makeup can easily dull the shine of your jewelry. Earrings and necklaces are especially prone to this kind of contamination.

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. Depending on the type of treatment used, the piece will require varying types of care. Applying the wrong chemical when cleaning a gemstone can cause the protective treatment to dissolve, and damage the appearance of the gem.

The size of the diamond is not as important as its cut and clarity. The personal preferences of the individual who will be wearing the diamond are of paramount consideration.

When you go swimming, take your jewelry off first. Chlorine is damaging to many types of metals that jewelry is made of. Over time, salt water can also cause damage. By taking your jewelry off of your body before swimming, you will be protecting it from the harsh chlorine and salt.

Now that you have finished reading, you should be more knowledgeable about many different aspects of jewelry. Keep these tips in mind when at the jewelers to save both time and money.