Have you ever dressed yourself, then studied your own reflection and realized that something was missing? Your outfit looks wonderful. Your hair is perfect, and your lipstick isn’t smeared. However, something is out of place. The one thing that is missing is your jewelry. Some simple jewelry can complete a look.

When shopping for genuine sterling silver jewelry, you need both a discerning eye and a small magnet. Use the magnet to detect fake jewelry; real silver will not be attracted to the magnet, but the cheaper metals will. Also, look to make sure that silver is hallmarked and stamped with .925, sterling or ster. If you don’t see a stamp of any sort on a piece, then be wary of whether it is actually silver or not.

You should expect good jewelry to last the rest of your life, and possibly beyond. Don’t buy jewelry from less than reputable stockists if you expect your pieces to be of the highest quality. High-quality jewelry can be told by its superior craftsmanship and good manufacture. The jeweler should be able to give you a history on the piece, like who crafted it and where the stones came from if there are any. Unless you purchase jewelry that is of high-quality, the piece is not likely to last a lifetime.

Do they prefer to wear over-sized pieces or more delicate styles? Yellow gold or silver? This should give you a grasp of their tastes, and some ideas about what to buy for them.

It is important to think about the most effective methods of jewelry care. Every metal, setting, and stone has different requirements when it comes to care. What works for one piece of jewelry could dull or damage another. Ask a jeweler when you do not know how to take care of your jewelry.

Plastic Wrap

You can untangle delicate necklaces that have become knotted. If you are about to give up, get some baby oil and plastic wrap. Put the tangled necklace onto the plastic wrap, then pour a little mineral oil or baby oil onto the piece. Using sewing needles, you should be able to separate the knot. Wash it gently with a bit of dish soap and then pat it dry.

Do not settle for the first diamond dealer you visit. Every diamond is unique, and each will have some flaws. Once you see the diamond up close and look it over, some of the flaws may not be as critical as you once thought. Also, jewelers can adjust prices based on a specific diamond’s particular condition. You should always shop around to find the best possible diamond for a price that you can afford.

Buying jewelry in sets is worth considering when you want to give that special someone a gift. Many jewelers offer deals on jewelry sets. You do not have to give your loved one the entire set at once. You can present him or her with one piece as each occasion comes around. You will always have presents ready for your loved ones, even if you did not plan in advance.

Bracelets and necklaces must have a good, secure clasp. Without something that is solid, your chain, pendants and costly stones could be lost. For particularly expensive or sentimental pieces of jewelry, it is recommended you have a safety clasp installed. Adding more than one clasp to a jewelry piece may even be appropriate to provide greater security against loss.

Do not swim while wearing jewelry. Your jewelry’s luster and life can be damaged from the chlorine that is present in the pool water. The cumulative effects of salt water can affect jewelery just as badly. Taking jewelry off before getting in the water will protect it and extend the life of the jewelry.

Jewelry is a great accessory that can go with anything you’re wearing. With all the extensive styles of jewelry that you can choose from, it’s easy to create the look that you want, from casual to elegant and delicate to bold. The next time you are getting ready to go out, throw on some jewelry to ensure you will look your best.