From spicing up your look to signifying status, jewelry has always been interesting to humans. Precious metals dug from the earth and even mesmerizing pearls found under the water have been a fascination to humans for a long time. There is jewelry for different occasions and in different price ranges. It can cost from a few dollars to millions of dollars, so there is sure to be some kind of jewelry for everyone out there.
Don’t spend a lot of money purchasing cheap costume jewelry. Costume jewelry does sell in more designs and cost significantly less than fine jewelry. Yet, over the course of a few months or years, costume jewelry loses its color which causes the cheap metal to show through underneath. Invest in one or two pieces of fine jewelry that are sure to last a lifetime.
If you have a light ivory skin tone with darker hair, consider purchasing jewelry in silver, white gold or platinum. The silvery colors look elegant set against an ivory skin tone especially if you have brown or black hair. Make sure to choose darker gemstones such as green, black or deep blue.
When you are deciding what type of jewelry to buy for a loved one, it is important that it is something that they will love passionately and adore for the rest of their lives. This is not something you want to decide hastily. If you do, they may very likely not like your gift.
If you’re new to making wire jewelry, practice with copper wire or craft wire before moving on to sterling silver. There is a learning curve when it comes to making wire jewelry, and it’s likely you will have to try a few times before getting it right. Sterling silver is expensive and starting with that material is not very cost effective.
To create a fashion forward look on a budget, try shopping for vintage jewelry. Jewelry trends are cyclical and stylish jewelry can often be found for cheap at thrift stores. Take the time to sort through the old jewelry at your local thrift stores and flea markets. You’re likely to find some great pieces at a low cost.
Look for jewelry stores that are accredited members of the Gemological Institute of America, or GIA, as well as the Jewelers of America. You are assured the best quality at the lowest price by stores with these certifications. You will find these certifications held by most big chain type outfits.
When you are giving jewelry to a significant other, you should keep in mind to always give a piece of jewelry that is appropriate for the stage of the relationship. This is because jewelry can be misinterpreted as to the real motive of the person giving the jewelry. Therefore, you need to select the piece of jewelry that is appropriate for the relationship.
To avoid a tacky amount of jewelry keep to the rule of two. Two great pieces at a time is the most you should attempt in one outfit. Choose a bracelet and a necklace, a necklace and a ring, or ring and a bracelet. Keep it simple for maximum effect.
When buying pieces of jewelry that are unique, consider trying to buy as much of a complete set as you can. With unique pieces, it may be hard to find other jewelry that is complementary. Buying a complete set of unique jewelry also makes it easy to give each part of the set as a separate gift over time.
You should not wear your jewelry if you plan on going for a swim or if you plan on going in any other body of water that may contain harsh chemicals. These sorts of things can cause your jewelry to age much more quickly. Protect your jewelry and be conscientious.
Keep a silver polishing cloth handy so you can quickly wipe down your jewelry before you put it on. Frequently polishing your jewelry will not only make it look great but it will also keep it from tarnishing as quickly. Keep your jewelry looking pristine when you use a polishing cloth frequently.
If you wear fashion jewelry you have to keep in mind that it cannot be cleaned the same as regular jewelry. You should wipe it with a damp cloth and then dry it. Soaking it in water can lead to damage since most fashion jewelry is made with jeweler’s cement.
Avoid spraying your perfume or hairspray after putting your pearls on. Instead, spray first and then put your jewelry on. Pearls are extremely porous and absorb chemicals found in things like hairspray and perfume very easily. Minimize the contact between your pearls and such chemicals to keep them beautiful.
When it comes to taking care of your jewelry make sure that it is completely dry before storing it. This is extremely important because not only can you cause damage to whatever you are storing it in, but you run the risk of tarnishing or staining your jewelry.
When it comes to jewelry, be sure that you listen for compliments from people that you respect and let that guide you as to the frequency that you wear a particular piece. This is important because there is obviously something about it that compliments your style and who better to listen to than your own peers.
Once you realize the impact jewelry has not only on feeling good about yourself, but on how other people will perceive you, you will understand how important it is to know what jewelry symbolizes. You will find that your status can sometimes be determined by the type of jewelry you wear and that you don’t have to always go all out because you can find affordable jewelry as well.