The history and uses of jewelry are as fascinating as the array of styles and materials used in the designs themselves. Jewelry can bring back memories of an important event or occasion and provides a way for people to show how much they care about each other. Whether you are buying, selling or just want to enjoy your jewelry more, you need the right tips to help you get the most out of your experience.

Keep your jewelry looking like new by wiping it with a polishing cloth. This will give your jewelry shine and luster without the use of potentially harmful chemicals. Gently polish your jewelry with the two-sided cloth as if it were a mirror. Use the side of the cloth that is designed for polishing to remove fingerprints, dust and other surface imperfections, and then use the opposite side to buff the jewelry and make it gleam.

Don’t clean your jewelry in harsh household chemicals like ammonia, bleach or turpentine. This can cause your stones to turn and dull in color, along with eating away any enamel on the pieces.

You should always store your jewelry very carefully. You can protect your jeweled investments with hooks, boxes and holders that keep each piece intact and prevent tangles. Do not ever just throw them in a pile. Fragile jewelry could easily be damaged by doing this, not to mention the nuisance of having to untangle necklace chains that could get caught together.

When you are shopping, think about the color or type of gem you want to buy. Gems can be natural, imitation or synthetic. Imitation gems are basically plastic that is colored, while synthetic and natural are real. They make synthetic stones in a lab, whereas natural stones come from the ground.

Be sure to pay attention to details like type of metal and shape. Once you are aware of their preferences, you will be in a better position to determine what to buy them.

Before adding a piece of jewelry to your collection, research current trends. You will enjoy your jewelery even more if you can get it on sale.

Costume Jewelry

You need to pay attention to care and maintenance if you intend to build up a costume jewelry collection. Costume jewelry can prove to be a good investment, but also a costly one; keep in mind the pieces you wish to add to your collection don’t show too much wear. Investing in quality means that you can enjoy the jewelry for many years to come.

Going through a day wearing the jewelry will let you get familiar with how it hangs and whether or not it will be comfortable. You will be able to tell if it will hold up to wear and tear.

Consider stones when you are buying jewelry. Choose a stone that reflects both your personality, skin tone and lifestyle. Pieces in neutral tones work well with any item in your wardrobe. Do not buy something that looks nice on the shelf but that you will never use.

When you are ready to buy a piece of jewelry, think about what you are going to be doing with it. There is no need for a box of unused jewelry. When picking jewelry, be sure to keep your clothing in mind.

This goes for any type of sauna, either steam or dry. The high temperatures and damp environment can corrode the surface of your jewelry and cause long-term damage to the piece.

Ensure that the clasps of your jewelry are sturdy and reliable. If a clasp is not solid, you might end up losing your jewelry. Anytime you buy an expensive bracelet or necklace it is recommended you request a safety clasp. There are those who add one or two extra clasps to their expensive jewelry items to be certain of their safety.

When you are making a serious, high-dollar jewelry purchase, make sure that you can get years of use out of it. The more expensive a piece of jewelry is usually means it is higher quality. When selecting a piece, also consider the various styles available. Even if everyone is wearing a piece at the moment, it might look outdated next year. Choose a piece that has classic lines and timeless style.

High gold prices are only one of the drawbacks of having your heart set on gold jewelry. If you simply must have that gold ring, necklace or bracelet, be flexible in terms of karats. 18 karat pieces are made up of at least 75% pure gold. This is considered to be the best combination of price and quality.

Jewelry using crystal or onyx can be great statement pieces. There are many pleasing options that can save you money.

Rubies have long been one of the most popular stones for jewelry and for good reason. Although true rubies are a rich, bright red, many stones are available in color variations that range from rosy pinks to deep maroons. They are a durable stone, able to withstand daily wear and tear and even exposure to some chemicals. Their strength and beauty make them a great jewelry choice.

Proper care of your setting requires you to gently wipe the piece with a damp cloth. Afterwards, dry off the whole piece with a cloth. Avoid exposing your costume jewelry to steam cleaners or chemicals.

Surprise your girlfriend by buying her extravagant jewelry. It’s great to get surprise gifts, especially those as meaningful as jewelry. You will enjoy looking at her eyes sparkle with joy when she opens her box.

Trading in jewelry means trading in something priceless: memories. Jewelry can symbolize a memorable moment or a hope for the future.