Jewelry Savvy » Jewelry in General

How To Find Vintage Jewelry At Amazing Prices

Author — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 13:10:38 +0000

Vintage jewelry is something exquisitely beautiful and magnetic. Each one of the existing vintage jewelry pieces has a history and when you wear it on, you become part of that unseen and unheard past. It is like you are handed down a passage in time which you could access only though your imagination.

Shopping Is Not Easy

When you go shopping, you usually have something in mind to start with which makes your search easier. However, with this type of jewelry you would have absolutely no idea what you would find and therefore it is better not to fix any particular image on it or you would find the exercise immensely stressful.

For best results, let your mind free to choose anything from whatever you find. Most people prefer Edwardian or Victorian style jewelry and if you do so too, it would be helpful if you research a little on their most basic characteristics, period of creation and material they are made of. The more you know about it, the better your knowledge will serve you when you are inspecting the vintage jewelry in the shops you visit.

As in most cases, the prices would be prohibitive, you may like to check out reproductions of vintage pieces. Be careful that you are not offered vintage reproductions for the real thing, which is often a great possibility. Ensure that you learn as much as possible about the particular types of jewelry you like so it would be easy for you to protect yourself against fraud.

Another easy way to get some classy vintage jewelry is by reproducing it yourself. For example, you like a certain Victorian necklace; you go ahead and photograph it, or download a picture from the Internet and show it to an accomplished goldsmith. Place your order explaining exactly how you want your replica to be made. Your goldsmith would be able to age it so your piece of jewelry would look as classy and luxuriant as any original vintage jewelry.

Check the Internet for online auctions where such vintage items are sold at amazing prices. However, be very careful when you make payments online as this could be a way to entice you to provide your financial information for identify theft. Ensure that you are interacting only with highly reputed auction houses when you bid in such sale forums. Auctions on the Internet make shopping easy, but always keep in mind that this is a channel that can be used by scammers as well.

How To Make Your Own Unique Handmade Jewelry

Author — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 13:09:16 +0000

Making unique handmade jewelry can be very relaxing and a lot of fun. If you are one of those people who love fashion jewelry, you should try creating your own unique handmade jewelry during your spare time. It is not really difficult to make your own fashion jewelry. You don’t have to be an extremely gifted artist to create some really nice fashion pieces for your own use.

Learning To Make

If you know someone who is into the handmade jewelry business, ask that person if you can watch him or her work on a fashion jewelry piece. You will be surprised as how much you can learn by simply watching a person work on these things. On the other hand, if you do not know anyone who is into the handmade jewelry business, try to find a good instructional video on handmade jewelry making.

Some instruction videos on handmade jewelry making are sold online. Just pick out one or two of these instructional videos and watch them at home. After observing how unique handmade jewelry is made, buy some jewelry making materials and try making your own jewelry pieces. Since you are still going on experiment on different designs, just buy some cheap fashion jewelry materials for you to practice on.

For instance, instead of buying those wires with special clasps for your earrings, buy conventional wires. Conventional wires are a lot cheaper compared to those specialized wires with clasp. Yes, conventional wires may be a little bit more difficult to handle compared to those specialized wires with clasps, but the good news is that once you learn the trick on how to bend and twist these things, everything will become less complicated.

To further save on cost, use beads and plastic materials when experimenting with different jewelry designs instead of semi precious stones. When learning to make unique handmade jewelry, concentrate on simple earrings, bracelets and necklaces. Simple designs are easier to follow and are less time consuming.

Once you have mastered a few simple bracelets, earnings and necklace designs, start experimenting on more complicated designs. You may also start using more expensive materials to go with your intricate design .Your first few pieces of fashion jewelry may not really look good, but that is alright, since you are still learning the art of making unique handmade jewelry. With constant practice, you will soon be able to create some really cool pieces of fashion jewelry. Just take time to learn how to make these things and have some fun.

Unique Handcrafted Jewelry: Custom Made And Personalized

Author — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 13:07:29 +0000

When we talk about unique handcrafted jewelry, we mean custom made jewelry especially for brides, bridesmaids or for some special occasion. We may also mean extra long necklaces or chokers, or a special length which is not easily available off the shelf. Any special request of bead combinations or gemstones could then also be taken into consideration.

Personal Style

Hence, if unique handcrafted jewelry applies to jewelry according to personalized taste, it would also mean a correct fit. For example, when choosing a necklace or a bracelet, you can choose your most comfortable length. For this you may need to measure your neck or your wrist to make sure that the item that you order will fit you perfectly. Many jewelers are generally flexible and are often willing to resize an item to fit the customer’s choice.

Basically, unique handcrafted jewelry is an expression of your personal style with elegance. The items created are one of a kind, and sometimes they could be a blend of vintage and modern components, too. Such jewelry items could include earrings, bracelets, necklaces and even tiaras, hairpins and hair combs.

Materials Used

The customers generally like to revel in the beauty of the jewelry that they are wearing, partially because it is a special choice and it brings forth an inner meaning. These items are generally worn by them because they like to be admired and appreciated for it. Some of these items of unique handcrafted jewelry are rare and unusual either because of the designs or the material that is used. They are often made of vintage beads, crystals and findings, and also artisan glass focal elements, which are again one of a kind.

Buying Online

There are several online sites selling this kind of unique handcrafted jewelry. Since the custom designs are specialized, you can ask the jeweler to make the perfect bracelet for you, if you have a design in mind. Also, if you want earrings to match your grandmother’s heirloom necklace, they can also make it for you.

For A Wedding

Wedding members often opt for unique handcrafted jewelry. Whether you need only a few pieces of jewelry for the bride or matching sets for the bride and the eight bridesmaids, you can get any combination and any design. Most jewelers have a large supply of pearls, crystals and suitable gemstone beads, and with these it is possible for them to create a piece of unique handcrafted jewelry and then send it to you.

Mythical Touch

Many gemstones have their own ’stories’. It is indeed interesting to find the story of each gemstone and then translate it into a piece of jewelry. Customers also like to create their own vision and transform it into a piece of unique handcrafted jewelry.

Tiffany Jewelry: The History Of Tiffany Style

Author — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 13:03:35 +0000

Those that have a love of elegance are already familiar with the name Tiffany. This company was founded in 1837 when Charles Lewis Tiffany and John B. Young opened a store called Tiffany and Young. The store was unique in that items had prices on them that were non-negotiable. Their first day of business brought in a total of $4.98.

That same year, the distinctive shade of blue was selected to represent the Tiffany and Young Company, this color is still used today in their products and boxes, including Tiffany jewelry boxes.

1853 Onwards

In 1853 Charles Tiffany took over complete control of the business and it is renamed Tiffany and Company. The original store is still used, but a nine foot statue of Atlas holding up a clock is placed at the stores opening, giving the building a more luxurious feel.

In 1861 the company is asked to create a presidential pitcher to be given to Abraham Lincoln. A seed pearl set is also made and the president gives it to his wife Mary Todd Lincoln.

The Tiffany Company became well known for their silver flatware in 1871 when they introduced a set with engraved birds called Audubon. This is the most popular set ever introduced.

In 1886 Tiffany jewelry really began to take off, as the company introduced a unique engagement ring setting. The Tiffany jewelry engagement ring setting had six prongs that held the diamond in place, but also lifted it from the ring. This classic setting is still used today.

The company broadened its lines under the original owner’s son, Louis Comfort Tiffany who was well known for creating lamps and other artful pieces.

A Continuing Line

As the company has progressed so has their line of Tiffany jewelry. Tiffany jewelry helped define standards of precious metals used in jewelry that is still in use today. The company was known for introducing designs by talented jewelry designers like Jean Schlumberger in the late 1950’s. His designs were so revered that the Louvre Museum in France had a display dedicated to him after his death.

Another designer, Elsa Peretti, also designed for Tiffany jewelry as well as Paloma Picasso. Both of these designers are well known for their amazing style and trend setting designs.

Tiffany jewelry as well as other products made by the company are well known and appreciated world wide. Having the Tiffany name represents unique design that is always classic.

Welcome to Pandora Jewelry

Author — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 12:47:54 +0000

In the jewelry world there are a few names in particular that really stand out. From Kay Jewelers, Zales, Mondera, Blue Nile, and American Diamonds Forever, to Mayor’s, Ice, Reeds, and of course, Pandora, there are some fantastic jewelry retailers today.

Pandora has been one of the top names in jewelry for some time now, not only because of its vast and gorgeous collection of jewelry but also because of its affordable prices.

Anyone on the hunt for jewelry of any sort should learn about Pandora Jewelry, one of the hottest names in jewelry today. Each item in each of their collections is of handmade Danish design and completely unique. They have more than 600 different charms and matching jewelry that you can choose from, and they have a respected reputation backing them up.

The Company

The Pandora jewelry company has already claimed its place in the US market, and is now gaining popularity around the world. They offer endless variations and opportunities with their jewelry and you can create your own look and style with their bracelets, necklaces, anklets, pendants, rings and more.

Pandora jewelry is of the finest quality, and they even have their own in-house design studio in Denmark where trained and educated jewelry professionals work to create new and innovative designs.

The Selection

There is a comprehensive selection of Pandora jewelry to choose from. In particular they feature a unique collection of charm bracelets and matching jewelry, which celebrities such as Jennifer Garner have been seen sporting on the red carpet. Their designs are most often described using words such as modern, romantic, and timeless.

If you are looking for beautiful but affordable jewelry then Pandora jewelry is a great option, and they offer such a vast selection that you can always find just the piece that you are looking for to finish off an outfit. Whether you are a man, woman, or even a child, there are some timeless and classic pieces to choose from and all at the lowest possible price.

Shopping Online

If you are interested in this jewelry you do have the option of purchasing the jewelry online, but just make sure that you take the proper precautions ahead of time. Never give out your personal information without checking to make sure that the site is fully secure first. You can trust the Pandora name but anything you are buying anything off the Internet you need to proceed with caution and common sense.

The Beauty And Tradition Of Native American Jewelry

Author — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 12:45:43 +0000

There is probably no jewelry made that is more easily identified than the classic designs of Native American jewelry. These well made pieces have an element of style that no other designer can duplicate. These can be found in many areas as often, artists travel a circuit displaying their merchandise.

Native American jewelry is much sought after, and can be found on the internet. Be sure to verify that the artist is Native American to get truly authentic pieces. Native American jewelry can also be found at shows that specialize in Native American jewelry and other products.

Tradition

Native American jewelry was being produced centuries ago. The people had developed ways to create jewelry without the benefit of sophisticated tools. The use of shells, copper, silver, turquoise and other distinctive materials that were indigenous to the area were hammered and bent into shape to make jewelry.

The items that were commonly used in Native American jewelry were ones that were found and that they had easy access too. There was also, however, extensive trading with groups, so materials that were common on the coastal areas were traded to tribes further inland. This allowed for beadwork and jewelry design to continue to grow and advance among different tribes.

Native American jewelry that involved beadwork has always been a tradition. Native Americans take great pride in the intricate bead patterns that can be found on clothing. Beads were made from a variety of materials including porcupine quills, shells, wood and bone. Porcupine quill work was a tradition that isn’t seen much these days. The porcupine quills were sewn onto material in patterns and the work is very fine and difficult.

With the arrival of the Europeans, the artwork changed as materials changed. Glass beads were introduced and finer tools were used to make more intricate and delicate jewelry. Some of the southwestern tribes are well known for their sterling silver and turquoise jewelry that can still be purchased today.

Native American jewelry today takes traditional designs and incorporates modern techniques; the resulting jewelry is often very original and stylish. Many Native Americans are proud of their history and traditions and work at carrying on the legacy of past generations.

Native American jewelry is very collectable and many seek out artists that have the flair for making it. Artists are known to display their pieces on-line and there are specialty stores, especially in the southwest that carry distinctive Native American jewelry.

Jewelry Stores Come In Different Sizes

Author — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 12:41:50 +0000

Jewelry stores are located in malls and other shopping areas. Some of these jewelry stores are family owned and operated while others are parts of large chains with branches around the world. There are jewelry stores that cater to those with less money to spend while others cater to people with millions of dollars to spend. Some of the family owned and operated jewelry stores have been in the family for many years. The children and grandchildren of the original owners often still take care of customers that are the children and grandchildren of older customers.

These jewelry stores often have buyers who know their customers well, and they purchase their stock with an intimate knowledge of the buying habits of their customers. One customer may come into buy a present for their mother, and the person in charge knows the buyer and the mother both. The customers usually feel very comfortable in these jewelry stores because they have been there many times before. Customers often feel very comfortable asking for advice when buying a gift because they have a personal relationship with the people in the jewelry store. These jewelry stores often have only one shop although some have shops in different areas of one city.

Jewelry Stores Have Sparkling Stock

Jewelry stores come in all shapes and sizes, and they often have similar types of jewelry in their showcases. A typical store will usually have a selection of engagement rings for couples who are planning a wedding. The stores will often have a selection of wedding rings that will be exchanged at a special ceremony. Christmas, graduation and other special occasions are often busy times for those in the jewelry business. Most stores will have plenty of choices for those in the market for gifts. The salespeople will often have some great suggestions for those who are not sure what they want.

There are some great jewelry stores that have very expensive stock so only those with a great budget will find something to buy. Jewelry can be worth millions of dollars, and there are stores that stock expensive items for those with plenty of cash. Diamonds and emeralds can be very expensive so the great jewelers will have plenty of these stones available for their customers. A string of natural pearls can be worth millions as well, and those in the market for pearls should look in the fanciest shops for this type of jewelry.

Online Jewelry Exchange Is A Great Way To Buy And Sell Jewelry

Author — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 12:37:01 +0000

Almost everybody has some jewelry that is lying around gathering dust. This is not referring to the family heirlooms that are passed on from generation to generation, but those trinkets that one wears on day-to-day basis. There could be some fancy silver earrings that looked great for the first few months, until you got bored of it; or worse, saw someone else wearing a similar pair. From then on, the earrings would be left untouched in the jewelry box.

What Is It?

There are many people who have different types of jewelry which they no longer want to use. They cannot regift it because it does not feel right to present an old piece of jewelry, and they cannot throw it because it is valuable. What you can do is auction or sell it on online jewelry exchange platforms. Jewelry exchange sites offer you with the opportunity to sell the jewelry you no longer need and use the money to buy new ones, or something else you needed.

Similarly, you could visit such online jewelry exchange virtual shops and check out what is for sale. Very often you will find some extraordinarily beautiful jewelry at amazing prices just waiting for you. If you want value for money, check out these websites before you go jewelry shopping and you will be able to get some remarkable pieces at stunning prices.

Be Smart While Shopping For Jewelry

Online shopping has many advantages over real world shopping, but it has a few disadvantages as well. You need to keep in mind that the jewelry exchange is the sale of used jewelry normally made of silver, though you could find people selling gold as well. Before you enter the details of your credit card, ensure that the purchase you are making is safe.

Ask yourself the following questions to find out whether what you buy is genuine or not. Is the price ridiculously low for the description of the jewelry exchange item? If yes, do not buy it. Is your transaction insured? If not, proceed with great caution. Is there any refund policy? Ideally you should be able to return the item for full refund if you are not satisfied.

Is the piece of jewelry stamped to show the purity of the metal it is made off? Do not buy anything that does not bear a purity stamp as the material might be fake. Does the seller provide you with a genuine address and phone number? Though this is not a water-tight hypothesis, generally if you find the address and phone number to be genuine, there is less chance of fraud.

Jewelry Cleaner: How To Clean And Store Your Jewelry At Home

Author — Thu, 15 May 2008 12:35:29 +0000

If you are one of those people who are fond of collecting different pieces of jewelry, you should learn how to store and clean your jewelry to prolong their lifespan. Always remember that even precious stones tend to become dull and stained over the years. If you do not use the right jewelry cleaner to clean your jewelry, your precious stones and metals will not last long.

Bad Chemicals

You see, some types of jewelry cleaner contain harsh and harmful chemicals that can damage your jewelry. You should be very careful when using jewelry cleaner. When shopping for jewelry cleaners, go for those products that do not contain ammonia or any abrasive substances.

Ammonia and abrasive substances bad news for your jewelry so read the labels of jewelry cleansing products carefully before you buy them. Moreover, you should also avoid that jewelry cleaner that uses citrus based ingredients. Some citrus based products are so acidic that they tend to promote discoloration in some types of precious metals.

Cleaning Your Jewelry Collection

Avoid using any soap based or chemical based jewelry cleaner as much as possible. If your jewelry does not really appear to be very dirty, just use water and a soft cloth to clean it up. Wet the soft cloth and then gently rub it on the surface of the jewelry. If you can remove the dirt by simply using water, try using some toothpaste.

Wet the jewelry and apply some toothpaste on its surface. Rub the surface of the jewelry with a soft cloth to remove the dirt. You may also use a soft brush to gently brush off the dirt from the jewelry. After brush the jewelry, rinse it with warm water. You should be able to remove most if not all of the dirt from your jewelry through this process.

On the other hand, if your jewelry is badly stained and no amount of washing and scrubbing can remove the stain, use water based jewelry cleaner first to clean your jewelry. If does not work, go for those chemical based products.

A word of caution, though — chemical based jewelry cleansing products are more suitable for studier types of materials so if your jewelry is made of less study materials, think twice about using these chemical based products. Chemical based jewelry cleansing products are certainly not designed to clean most types of fashion jewelry, so forget about using this stuff to clean your favorite fashion jewelries.

Jewelry Boxes Hold Memories And Treasures

Author — Wed, 14 May 2008 12:32:35 +0000

Jewelry boxes are very special because they hold valuables that are often filled with memories. People start receiving jewelry when they are children, and they often receive these gifts from special people for special events. Their grandparents often give jewelry for birthdays and graduations so the contents of a jewelry box could have memories of these very special times. The gifts come to the children at special times such as a birthday party. There is often great excitement and people remember some of their birthday celebrations forever. They keep some of these memories with the gifts in their jewelry boxes.

Jewelry boxes often hold memories of other special events. Some people give jewelry for graduation which is a time of great achievement and satisfaction. Watches are traditional pieces of jewelry that are presented to a graduate so these pieces should be secured in jewelry boxes along with the memories of those special days. Opening up a lovely jewelry box with memories of diplomas, degrees and other honors can be very comforting for many years after the special event. Some jewelry boxes are also gifts from special people, and they hold memories of the special gift givers as well as the special times.

Jewelry Boxes Can Be As Big As The Collection

The size of jewelry boxes vary with the size of the jewelry collection. A small box is sufficient for some people who are not enthusiastic about jewels, but the most enthusiastic jewelry fans will want something bigger. A good box will have compartments for different types of jewels. Earrings should have a special place where the owner can look quickly to view the choices for every outfit and occasion. Compartments make organization more efficient, and this can make life easier for busy people trying to assemble the perfect outfit.

Jewelry boxes make excellent gifts. Sometimes it is difficult to choose the perfect gift and jewelry is often a very personal item. Tastes vary considerably so it is sometimes difficult to select the perfect gift. Almost everyone can use a nice jewelry box. There are many different boxes on the market that should suit almost every budget. Those with a large budget will be able to find boxes covered with beautiful fabrics or made from fine woods. Older people will appreciate a gorgeous box for their jewels and many young children love to have a glittering box for the start of their jewelry collection.