Anyone who has ever had to navigate the endless number of jewelers and retailers, in search of the perfect piece of jewelry, can tell you how difficult it can be. Save yourself the hassle of making an unwise purchase by brushing up on these tips for shopping for jewelry.
Try not to bathe or swim in your fine jewelry. Many times the type of water (hard versus soft) can splash and wear the metal jewelry or stain the stone. There are also chemicals like chlorine found in many swimming pools that can turn stones and badly stain metal jewelry.
A great source for unique and inexpensive jewelry pieces are local thrift shops. Local thrift stores can be a treasure trove for antique and truly unusual pieces. Often, these establishments do not have the staff, training or time, that is necessary to check for hallmarks or gold and silver content. A few dollar’s investment can often yield, not only some really unique pieces of jewelry, but also some pieces that may be, quite valuable.
Enroll in a beading class, if you’re a fan of necklaces and bracelets. If you are buying them all of the time, this can put a dent in your budget. Instead, take a class and make some jewelry yourself. You will save a ton over buying already made products, have something unique to wear, and you can even sell some of your pieces for a profit.
If you’re having a traditional wedding and your family wants you to wear heirloom jewelry, find out what you will be wearing as early as possible! You’ll need to match your other items to what your family will be giving you. So ensure you have enough time to snag a pair of earrings or a bracelet to match.
When making jewelry, beeswax is a wonderful product to use for taming frizzy twine. Just rub a little on to the twine and you’ll have a smooth look in no time. Your beads will go on easier and your piece will have a more elegant, professionally made look.
When you are looking at buying any type of jewelry, be it costume or vintage, it is important to remember that just because a piece may be signed, it does not necessarily mean it is more valuable. Some jewelry creators sign every piece they make, which drops the value of a signed piece dramatically.
You should regularly clean your silver jewelry. You should not let it get black or gray. A cheap, and simple, way to effectively clean your jewelry is to brush your pieces just like you would your own teeth. Just put a bit of toothpaste onto a dry cloth and rub. Clean in no time.
You do not have to spend a mint on your jewelry. Don’t underestimate a classy piece of costume jewelry as a perfect accent for your best outfit. There is a large variety of great stones that are inexpensive. If you keep your eyes open you can acquire gems at crystal prices.
To remove tarnish from your silver jewelry without harsh chemicals, line the inside of a pot with aluminum foil, and add four cups of water and an eighth of a cup each of baking soda, salt and dish soap. Gently place all of your pieces into the liquid, counting them as you go. Bring the mixture up to a simmer for a couple of minutes, then turn off the burner and allow it to soak. Pour everything gently through a colander, then place the pieces on a towel to dry, counting them as you go.
Now that you have learned some of the best and brightest tips for finding the perfect necklace, brooch, or bracelet, you are sure to make more informed decisions regarding your next jewelry purchase. This advice is sure to help you put a smile on someone’s face as you give them the perfect gift, even if it’s a gift for yourself.