| The use of jewelry has varied in different civilizations. Jewelry has served as amulets and body adornments. It has been the object of envy, the cause of numerous assassinations, burglaries and ruthless betrayal. It has been passed down for generations as a family relic.
India is considered to be the country where the first jewelry appeared. In the xxi century exotic handmade jewelry has become a thriving business.
If you have made up your mind to purchase gems, visit a reputable jewelry store. Here are some recommendations on how to purchase jewelry.
1. When you select metal jewelry, consider markings. Different markings are placed on different pieces. For instance, if a piece of jewelry is marked as sterling silver, it denotes that the product contains at least 92,5% of pure silver. If it is labelled with "925", it denotes that it is made of pure silver. The markings "Plat" or "Pt" stand for Platinum - a metal that is still more precious and expensive than gold.
2. If you would like to purchase a gemstone, ask a sales assistant if it is natural or artificial. Lab-created gems look very much alike with natural ones. Precious stones are weighed in carat. 200 milligrams make 1 carat.
3. Make sure that you have got a receipt where the weight and size of a gemstone are written.
Now when you have purchased a piece of jewelry, keep and store it in the appropriate way to avoid any damage.
1. Keep jewelry separately, since rubbing up against each other can bright about damage. Store your jewelry in a jewelry box. Or you may use an organizer box or ice cube trays which are much cheaper. Ziploc plastic bags with anti-tarnish strips inside are ideal to store jewels in. Take into account that earrings should be kept together.
2. Another way to store jewelry is by hanging them up. Do it with necklaces.
3. Beaded jewelry should lay flat.
4. Store jewelry far away from excessive heat. Store it at room temperature. Direct sunrays can also damage jewelry. If you live in a very dry climatic area, store opals near a small container of water, as they require humidity.
5. It is recommended to wipe down jewelry with a wet cotton cloth each time after use.
Follow the above mentioned recommendations on purchasing and storing gems and enjoy wearing them. |
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