Jewelry Education 101: How to Become an Informed Buyer

er you are a seasoned jewelry collector oras possible, it may be a good idea to learn various
someone who is just beginning to build hermeasurements in terms of both millimeters and
collection, it's important to be an informed buyer.inches. While some online retailers offer
When you shop for jewelry, whether it bemeasurements in terms of inches, others will give
precious metals, gemstones or by gram weight,millimeter measurements when speaking of
it's always a good idea to know what to look forgemstones. When shopping online, it is a good idea
and how to identify a bargain.to understand these differences so that you can
If you ask anyone in the business, they will tellaccurately identify the size of a particular piece of
you that one of the first things to look for in ajewelry or a gemstone before you buy it. The
piece of jewelry is the metal hallmark, which willsimplest and quickest way to familiarize yourself
identify the jewelry as either gold or silver. Awith these measurements is to purchase a ruler
genuine gold piece of jewelry will typically bethat displays both inches and millimeters.
stamped as either 'K' or 'KT.' For instance, a 10ktIf you are like most women, you're always on
gold accessory will likely be hallmarked as 10k orthe go. Whether it's to school, work or taking
10kt. A sterling silver accessory, however, willcare of the kids, life can be hectic. This doesn't
commonly feature a .925 stamp somewhere onmean, however, that your jewelry has to suffer.
the piece. Common placements include clasps, theFor minor repairs, you can purchase and use a
inside of a ring band, earring backs and pendantjewelry repair kit. If your jewelry needs a major
bails.fix, however, it's best to consult a professional
Now that you know what type of hallmark tojeweler.
look for in your precious metals, it's a good ideaWith the proper knowledge and a few tools to
to know just how much your jewelry weighs.help along the way, you will become an informed
The weight of precious metal, such as sterlingbuyer who knows how to spot a real deal in
silver, gold and platinum is measured by grams.more ways than one. From proper identification to
Believe it or not, there are jewelry scales availablelearning how to spot a terrific price, you will soon
that will allow you to conveniently weigh yourfind that your knowledge of jewelry is so much
jewelry at home. Depending on your preferencemore than it once was. Shopping for anything,
and budget, you can often find these portableespecially that which involves a substantial
jewelry scales for under $100.00 at somepurchase, requires more than just an eye for
retailers. In addition to gram weight, a jewelrysomething pretty. Instead, a little knowhow will
scale can typically weigh any loose gemstone(s)get you the best look at the best price as you
that you may have in terms of their carat weight.become one smart shopper.
Speaking of learning as much about your jewelry