Jewelry can be expensive and many people view it as an investment. If you want to make sure that your own collection of pearl and gemstone jewelry is in top shape, here are some suggestions that you can use. You may find that by doing so, you will end up with a great looking set of accessories that can add the perfect touch to any outfit.
One thing that any professional jeweler can tell you is that not all materials are created equal. Learning as much as possible about what you own and what it is made from is key to keeping things looking great. If you do not know how to properly care for your items, you may find that you are actually damaging them instead of helping to maintain their condition.
All metals are not created equal. Jewelry can be made out of gold, silver, platinum or copper. The way that you care for these metals will be different. For example, silver and copper can discolor and will need to be stored in containers that help to reduce tarnishing. They may also need to be polished with a product that will remove tarnish. Before you do, make sure that the product you use is designed for use on items that are set with stones.
Pearls are a natural product of the oyster. They are made up of many layers that form around a central core. They can be damaged by chemicals such as hairspray, cosmetics and cleaning products. Always make sure that you use a soft cloth and wipe down pearls after you have worn them. Then, they can be placed in a productive container.
Any string of beads will need some careful maintenance. Jewelry insiders will tell you that there are a few areas you need to inspect. The first is the clasp. Make sure it is not damaged or likely to come open unexpectedly. Also make sure that you look at the string that the beads are on. Knots between beads will mean that a broken string will still end up with beads staying safely in place.
A professional will be able to help you if you are unsure of a piece's condition. They will often be able to inspect claws and clasps to make sure they are not damaged. Often they will use a machine that uses ultrasonic waves to knock dirt off of a piece. If a white gold piece has become discolored they can correct that as well.
Proper storage is a good thing no matter what size your collection is. A good container will have different compartments that can be used for different items. Look for rollers that hold rings securely and hooks that let chains hang down separately.
By caring for items properly you may be amazed at how good they look no matter how long they have been in your possession. By using a few simple products and techniques you can make sure that they do not get damaged and stay looking beautiful.
One thing that any professional jeweler can tell you is that not all materials are created equal. Learning as much as possible about what you own and what it is made from is key to keeping things looking great. If you do not know how to properly care for your items, you may find that you are actually damaging them instead of helping to maintain their condition.
All metals are not created equal. Jewelry can be made out of gold, silver, platinum or copper. The way that you care for these metals will be different. For example, silver and copper can discolor and will need to be stored in containers that help to reduce tarnishing. They may also need to be polished with a product that will remove tarnish. Before you do, make sure that the product you use is designed for use on items that are set with stones.
Pearls are a natural product of the oyster. They are made up of many layers that form around a central core. They can be damaged by chemicals such as hairspray, cosmetics and cleaning products. Always make sure that you use a soft cloth and wipe down pearls after you have worn them. Then, they can be placed in a productive container.
Any string of beads will need some careful maintenance. Jewelry insiders will tell you that there are a few areas you need to inspect. The first is the clasp. Make sure it is not damaged or likely to come open unexpectedly. Also make sure that you look at the string that the beads are on. Knots between beads will mean that a broken string will still end up with beads staying safely in place.
A professional will be able to help you if you are unsure of a piece's condition. They will often be able to inspect claws and clasps to make sure they are not damaged. Often they will use a machine that uses ultrasonic waves to knock dirt off of a piece. If a white gold piece has become discolored they can correct that as well.
Proper storage is a good thing no matter what size your collection is. A good container will have different compartments that can be used for different items. Look for rollers that hold rings securely and hooks that let chains hang down separately.
By caring for items properly you may be amazed at how good they look no matter how long they have been in your possession. By using a few simple products and techniques you can make sure that they do not get damaged and stay looking beautiful.