The Most Helpful Jewelry Advice Out There

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.

If you are looking to purchase fashion jewelry, make sure to invest a few dollars. While fashion jewelry is available in almost every design and price range under the sun, purchase something in the mid-price range. If you go too cheap, you may end up purchasing something with unhealthy metal alloys or inferior quality workmanship.

Purchase meaningful jewelry for any occasion. Giving jewelry as a gift leaves a long lasting impression on the intended recipient. However, you can always add a personal touch by having the jewelry piece engraved with a personal message or add a charm of great importance. Personalized jewelry given as a gift always makes a loving gesture.

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.

When you're choosing a piece of jewelry to wear, think about what you like on other people, and what they like on you. Think about particular pieces that you've received compliments on, especially from strangers. It also helps to think about what you've complimented on others. If you find yourself telling others how much you like certain pieces, remember what those are when you're out shopping for jewelry for yourself.

If you'd like to wear jewelry while wearing a turtleneck, be sure to only wear long necklaces. Shorter necklaces compete with the neckline of your top and can leave your neck looking stumpy. Look for necklaces with a pendant that falls below breast length. When wearing a turtleneck it's best not to layer your necklaces.

Water is typically enough to clean most types of jewelry and precious stones. Simply use a damp cloth and wipe off any kind of residue or dirt that is on the jewelry. If there are any more stubborn problems, you can use a very light cleaning detergent to remove these issues.

If you are looking to get more for your money when purchasing a piece of jewelry, consider going to retailers that are not associated with a mega brand name. Typically, those companies carry a huge markup just for the inscription of their company name or logo in the item of jewelry. Be a smart shopper, and find items similar at other stores for a better price.

Don't wash your hands while wearing inexpensive or costume jewelry, this can damage the finish. Even though these pieces may not have much monetary value, they can be highly sentimental and should be cared for with the same respect as precious jewelry. Place it in a pocket or in your purse before you wash your hands, so that you don't leave them behind.

If you really want real gold pieces, high gold prices might be one of the only things to worry about. It is possible to save extra money when you compromise on karats, if gold necklaces or rings are what your heart truly desires. The best deal you will usually find is a piece of 18 karat gold, which is at least 75% pure gold.

When considering jewelry for your wedding be sure that you shop for it in plenty of time for your wedding date. This is important so that you not only get the best prices for it but also to ensure that it is available for you with plenty of time to spare.

If you have trouble with your engagement ring causing your finger to break out, it may be because there is nickel in the stone's setting. Protect your skin from this less-expensive metal by coating the inside of the setting with clear fingernail polish. Allow it to dry completely before wearing. You will need to touch it up from time-to-time.

If you want to save money when buying jewelry, avoid the big names. These jewelers pay big bucks to market their names and pass that cost on to the consumer. You can often find high quality jewelry that does not have the "big name" attached to it for a fraction of the cost.

Charm bracelets are popular items of jewelry among women because it allows for large amounts of customization and allows them to showcase their interests as well as their tastes. Charms come in all forms, from horses and shoes to professional markers, and even age milestone markers. These are particularly popular among young women.

One of the most important things you can do while shopping for jewelry is to shop around. Salesman will try and commit you to a purchase before you leave their shop. Be sure and be firm and tell them that you will return if you don't find a better offer.

Make sure that you understand what is meant by carat, cut, color, and clarity when it comes to diamonds. There is a grading system assigned to each and to understand the language that the jeweler will be using, you should at least understand what each of these means and the grading level that would be assigned.

When searching for antique jewelry to invest in, make sure you know what defines a piece as being an "antique." Generally, an item is deemed to be an antique if it is 100 years or older. This can be difficult to ascertain, so you will need to either shop at a reputable antique store or do extensive research on your own. Details to look for include clasps, hooks, engravings and hinges.

Now that you have gold value
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.