It can be well worth your while to thoroughly research any jewelry you are planning to buy or sell. This can make you wonder where to begin.
Do not use any chemicals on your jewelery stones. These chemicals can wreak havoc on your jewelry, from discoloring bands, to dulling stones, to eroding enamel or glue.
If you are in the market to buy some silver jewelry, don’t forget to take a magnet along with you. To spot scams, see if the magnet attracts the piece. If it does, then shout “FAKE!” at the top of your lungs and move to the next store. Your sterling silver jewelery should always be imprinted if it is real. The stamp may read “.925” or “ster”. If the piece is not hallmarked in any way, be leery of its authenticity because oftentimes it is a sign of a fake.
Before purchasing a piece of jewelry, be sure to ask the jeweler about insurance policies. You want to know if they will be able to repair or replace the piece if it was to break. Some stores even insure jewelry against loss or theft.
Keep your jewelry from tarnishing as best as you can. Never wear your jewelry when you are going to be near water. Many metals can become tarnished, rusty or dull when exposed to water too often. Apply clear nail polish to your jewelery as an added protection.
You should carefully consider how to best care for your jewelry. The variety of stones, metals and assorted settings will determine the ways in which you care for them. A treatment that polishes one stone may scratch another stone. Consult with a jeweler if you are unsure exactly how to care for your own jewels.
As you can see, selling or buying jewelery requires you do your homework, and some hard work, so you can get the most out of it either way. Keeping the aforementioned tips in mind, you are well on your way to being successful with them.