Welcome to our A-Z Jewelry Buying Guide, your one-stop destination for exploring the enchanting world of jewelry and finding the perfect pieces for yourself and your loved ones.
From A-Z, we've compiled an easy-to-read resource that covers the basics of what you need to know about jewelry, including understanding the material and styles that make each piece unique, and making informed decisions when buying jewelry.
Whether you're a jewelry aficionado seeking knowledge or a gift-giver in search of inspiration, our guide is here to illuminate your path through the bewitching world of jewelry.
A
Anniversary Stones: Gemstones associated with each year of marriage, symbolizing the evolving nature of a couple's relationship and milestones they've reached together.
1. 1st Anniversary - Gold: Signifying the enduring and valuable nature of the marriage.
2. 2nd Anniversary - Garnet: Symbolizing deep and lasting commitment.
3. 3rd Anniversary - Pearl: Representing the beauty and resilience of a marriage.
4. 4th Anniversary - Blue Topaz: Signifying communication and love.
5. 5th Anniversary - Sapphire: Reflecting the strength and depth of a marriage.
6. 6th Anniversary - Amethyst: Symbolizing harmony and balance in a relationship.
7. 7th Anniversary - Onyx: Signifying the strength and stability of a marriage.
8. 8th Anniversary - Tourmaline: Representing understanding and compassion.
9. 9th Anniversary - Lapis Lazuli: Symbolizing love, truth, and fidelity.
10. 10th Anniversary - Diamond: Marking a decade of enduring love and commitment
11. 15th Anniversary - Ruby: Signifying passion and continued devotion.
12. 20th Anniversary - Emerald: Reflecting the strength and growth of a marriage
13. 25th Anniversary - Silver: Celebrating a quarter-century love and unity.
14. 30th Anniversary - Pearl: Symbolizing the beauty and wisdom of a lasting union.
15. 40th Anniversary - Ruby: Reinforcing the enduring love and passion in the relationship.
16. 50th Anniversary - Gold: Honoring the golden years of a marriage, a symbol of lasting love and commitment.
17. 60th Anniversary - Diamond: Often referred to as the "Diamond Jubilee", emphasizing the enduring strength of a long-lasting marriage.
B
Birthstones: Many cultures associate specific gemstones with birth months, making them meaningful for personalized jewelry.
1. January - Garnet: Symbolizing love and protection, available in various colors but commonly associated with deep red.
2. February - Amethyst: Represents peace and courage, featuring a purple hue ranging from pale lavender to deep violet.
3. March - Aquamarine: Signifies serenity and clarity, known for its tranquil blue-green color.
4. April - Diamond: Symbolizes purity and eternal love, the most precious and brilliant gemstone.
5. May - Emerald: Represents rebirth and love, characterized by its lush green hue.
6. June - Pearl: Symbolizes purity and wisdom, available in various colors, with white and cream being the most common.
7. July - Ruby: Signifies passion and protection, known for its vibrant red color.
8. August - Peridot: Representing strength and healing, featuring a vibrant green shade.
9. September - Sapphire: Symbolizes wisdom and royalty, typically found in rich blue hues, but also available in other colors.
10. October - Opal: Signifies creativity and inspiration, featuring a captivating milky brightness and a play of colors, known as "opalescense".
11. November - Citrine: Represents prosperity and positivity, featuring warm yellow and golden tones.
12. December - Turquoise or Blue Topaz: Turquoise symbolizes protection and good fortune, while Blue Topaz represents calm and tranquility, both available in various blue shades.
C
4Cs: The 4Cs is a system used to evaluate and describe the quality of gemstones, primarily diamonds. They stand for Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat weight.
1. Cut: This refers to how well a gemstone has been cut and faceted. The quality of the cut determines the stone's brilliance and how it interacts with light. A well-cut gemstone will exhibit sparkle and fire.
2. Color: Color preference in gemstones is highly subjective. Choose hues that resonate with your personal taste. Some gemstones like opal, exhibit a phenomenon called "play of color", displaying a vivid spectrum of hues under varying lighting conditions, making them an enchanting option.
3. Clarity: Clarity refers to the presence of internal flaws (called "inclusions") and external blemishes in the gemstone. Lab-grown gemstones often have fewer inclusions and blemishes, as they are grown in controlled environments. This can result in lab-grown gems having higher clarity grades on average compared to natural gems.
4. Carat Weight: Carat weight measures the size of the gemstone. Larger gemstones are generally more valuable, assuming the other the Cs (Cut, Color, and Clarity) are of high quality. One carat is equivalent to 200 milligrams, and gemstones can be described as fractions of a carat (e.g., 0.75 carats).
D
Dispersion: Dispersion, often referred to as "fire," is a captivating feature of many gemstones, especially diamonds. For example, when light enters a well-cut diamond, it's refracted and dispersed into a spectrum of colors, creating mesmerizing flashes of red, blue, green, and more. Moissanite, a gem used in fine jewelry that is lab-created because it is very rare in nature, possesses more "fire" and brilliance than diamond because it is double refractive. Understanding dispersion can help you appreciate the play of colors in gemstones and select jewelry pieces that dazzle.
E
Ethical Jewelry: Ethical jewelry allows you to enjoy beautiful pieces with a clear conscience, knowing they were sourced and crafted in a responsible and sustainable manner. Support brands and companies, like BewitchingJewelry that have a strong commitment to ethical sourcing and responsible practices in the jewelry industry. One specific example of ethical jewelry is a solitaire ring featuring a lab-grown gemstone.
F
Famous Iconic Designs: Iconic jewelry designs by famous designers often serve as inspiration for more affordable options. Here are some ways you can draw inspiration from their designs when shopping for budget-friendly jewelry offered by retailers like BewitchingJewelry.
1. Simplicity and Elegance (Tiffany & Co.): Tiffany and Co. is known for its classic and timeless designs. Look for affordable pieces that feature simple and elegant designs, such as solitaire necklaces, stud earrings, or minimalistic bracelets.
2. Mixed Metals and Cable Motif (David Yurman): David Yurman's signature cable motif and mixed metal designs can be replicated in budget-friendly jewelry. Look for pieces that combine silver and gold tones or feature twisted metal elements for a similar aesthetic.
3. Colorful Gemstones (Bulgari): Bulgari is famous for its use of vibrant gemstones. You can find budget-friendly lab-grown gemstones like blue sapphires, rubies, lush green emeralds, and blue-green turquoise combined with the clear brilliance of Moissanite and Zircon.
4. Nature-Inspired Motifs (Van Cleef & Arpels): Van Cleef & Arpels often draws inspiration from nature, with designs featuring flowers, butterflies, and animals. Look for affordable pieces that incorporate nature-inspired motifs, such as floral or leaf-shaped pendants and earrings.
5. Minimalistic Luxury (Cartier): Cartier's designs exudes luxury through simplicity. Seek out budget-friendly jewelry with clean lines and a focus on high-quality materials. A simple gold bangle or a pair of stud earrings can capture this essence.
6. Artistic Elegance (Boucheron): Boucheron's artistic creations can inspire affordable jewelry with unique artistic designs. Look for pieces that feature intricate details or abstract motifs to achieve a similar artistic flair.
7. Scandinavian Modernism with Organic Shapes (Georg Jensen): Georg Jensen's modernist designs often feature sleek lines and organic shapes (i.e., irregular, asymmetrical forms). Opt for minimalist pieces with clean shapes in stainless steel or sterling silver to capture Jensen's modernism.
8. Regal Elegance and Royal Influence (Garrard): Garrad's association with royal jewelry brings a sense of regal elegance. Seek out affordable pieces that evoke the sophistication and timelessness of royal jewels, especially engagement ring designs. Consider lab-created gemstones that offer regal elegance without the royal price tag.
9. Timeless Elegance with Pearls (Coco Chanel): Chanel's classic and elegant designs often feature pearls, monogram motifs, and timeless simplicity. Look for affordable pieces with classic pearl strands, monogram-inspired details, and minimalistic elegance.
10. Edgy Aesthetic with Resin (Alexis Bittar): Alexis Bittar's jewelry is known for its edgy and modern aesthetic, often featuring resin materials. To find affordable jewelry inspired by Bittar's style, look for pieces that incorporate geometric shapes, bold colors, and unique materials like acrylic or resin.
When seeking affordable jewelry inspired by these designers, focus on the key elements that capture their essence and style. Remember to prioritize your personal style and budget. Look for high-quality materials and craftsmanship offered by trusted retailers like BewitchingJewelry.
G
Gemstones: Gemstones are naturally occurring minerals, rocks, organic materials that are prized for their beauty, rarity, and durability. Additionally, there are also lab-grown gemstones that can offer a more sustainable and ethical choice while providing gemstone quality and beauty comparable to their naturally occurring counterparts.
Types: Gemstones can be categorized into precious (e.g., diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds) and semi-precious (e.g., amethyst, topaz, garnet,) based on their rarity and value.
Hardness: The Mohs scale measures the hardness of gemstones on a scale from 1 (softest) to 10 (hardest), with diamonds being the hardest at 10. Moissanite, a popular lab-grown alternative to diamonds is the second hardest at 9.25-9.5.
Conflict-Free: Ethical considerations are crucial; many buyers seek conflict-free or responsibly sourced gemstones. If you have concerns about the source of a particular gemstone, explore alternatives that are known to be conflict-free. For example, lab-grown diamonds and gemstones are typically considered ethically sourced.
H
Hypoallergenic: Hypoallergenic jewelry is designed to minimize the risk of allergic reactions in individuals with sensitive skin. Hypoallergenic jewelry is typically made from materials such as stainless steel, titanium, nickel-free alloys, and precious metals like gold. One of the most common allergens in jewelry is nickel. Hypoallergenic jewelry is often nickel-free to prevent allergic reaction. Opt for high-quality hypoallergenic jewelry like the skin-friendly pieces offered by BewitchingJewelry. Remember that while hypoallergenic jewelry reduces the risk of skin reactions, individual reactions can vary. It's essential to pay attention to how your skin reacts and take appropriate precautions to enjoy your jewelry without discomfort.
I
Intention: Check your intention for purchasing jewelry. Below are examples of the diverse intentions people have. Each intention guides the choice of jewelry and it's significance in one's life.
1. Buying for Investment: Some individuals purchase jewelry with the intention of it being an investment. They select pieces that are expected to appreciate in value over time. Examples include buying rare gemstones like colored diamonds or historic pieces from renowned designers, with the anticipation that their value will increase.
2. Buying to Express Personal Style: Many people buy jewelry as a means of expressing their personal style and enhancing their everyday or special occasion looks.
3. Buying to Celebrate Milestones: Jewelry can be purchased to commemorate significant life events or milestones. Examples include engagement rings and wedding bands to symbolize love and commitment, or gemstone jewelry to mark birthdays and anniversaries.
4. Buying as Sentimental Keepsakes: Jewelry can serve as a sentimental keepsakes. For instance, wearing a family heirloom necklace that holds sentimental value and connection with loved ones.
5. Buying to Gift: Many individuals purchase jewelry as gifts for loved ones. Examples include gifting a friend a charm bracelet with meaningful charms to celebrate a lifelong friendship or giving a partner a piece of jewelry as an anniversary gift.
6. Buying to Support Ethical and Sustainable Practices: Some individuals prioritize ethical and sustainable jewelry brands and make purchases with the intension of supporting responsible sourcing and production practices.
J
Jewelry Care: Every. piece of jewelry, regardless of its type or materials, requires regular maintenance to keep it in excellent condition and preserve its beauty. Always follow the care instructions provided with your pieces, as they are tailored to your jewelry's materials and designs. Store your jewelry in a cool, dry place, preferable in a jewelry box or pouch to prevent scratches and tangles. Inspect regularly for loose stones or clasps. If you notice anything amiss, take it to a jeweler for repair. Proper care ensures that your jewelry remains stunning for years to come.
K
Knowledge: Much like reading this A-Z guide, acquiring knowledge serves as your compass through a world of choices. Knowledge transforms the act of buying jewelry into a journey of discovery, where every piece becomes a chapter in your personal narrative. It also ensures your selections align with your tastes, budget, and values.
L
Lab-Grown Gemstones: High-quality lab-grown gemstones are created using advanced technological processes that mimic the natural conditions under which gemstones form in the earth. The chemical composition of lab-grown gemstones is virtually identical to that of their natural counterparts. This means they consist of the same mineral compounds and possess the same physical and chemical properties. They are often characterized by their exceptional color and clarity. Lab-grown gemstones are a compelling choice for individuals who appreciate their ethical, environmental, and quality attributes while still enjoying the beauty and brilliance of a genuine gemstone. Examples of lab-grown gemstones offered by a particular retailer like BewitchingJewelry are Moissanite, Sapphires, Emeralds, and Zircon.
M
Metal Types: Popular metals used in jewelry, as featured on BewitchingJewelry.com or similar shops, often include:
1. Gold: Gold is used extensively in jewelry and comes in various shades including yellow, white, and rose gold. Rose gold has a warm, pinkish hue and is a trendy choice for modern jewelry, adding a touch of romance and sophistication.
2. Platinum: Platinum is a rare and precious metal, known for its durability and resistance to tarnish. It's a popular choice for engagement rings and high-end jewelry.
3. Palladium: Palladium is a member of the platinum group of metals and is hypoallergenic. It is sometimes used as a more affordable alternative to platinum in jewelry.
4. Sterling Silver: Sterling silver is an alloy of silver that contains 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, typically copper. This alloy is stronger and more durable than fine silver, making it the preferred choice for jewelry.
5. Titanium: Titanium is a lightweight and durable metal, often used for men's jewelry and wedding bands due to its strength and hypoallergenic properties.
6. Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is corrosion-resistant and durable, making it suitable for a variety os jewelry styles, especially for those who prefer a modern look.
7. Brass: Brass is a durable and cost-effective metal used in various jewelry designs, especially in bohemian and ethnic styles.
8. Zinc: Zinc alloys often used as a base metal in costume jewelry, as they are likely to cause allergic reactions compared to certain other metals like nickel. It is generally considered hypoallergenic for most people.
9. Copper: Copper is commonly used as a base metal in jewelry. It serves as a foundation or core for various types of jewelry, especially when it is going to be plated with other metals like silver or gold.
N
Necklace Lengths: Understand the various necklace lengths and their suitable occasions. Consider your outfit, neck size, and personal style when choosing the right necklace length to enhance your overall appearance and comfort.
Here's a guide for necklace length:
1. Choker (14-16 inches): Sits snugly around the neck, perfect for showcasing a pendant or complementing a V-neck or off-shoulder neckline.
2. Princess (18 inches): Falls just below the collarbone, versatile for most necklines and styles, including crew necks and plunging.
3. Matinee (20-24 inches): Hangs gracefully on the chest, ideal for formal occasions and pairing with high-neck or button-up shirts.
4. Opera (28-34 inches): Offers an elegant drape, suitable for long gowns and dramatic styles, and can be worn as a single strand or doubled for versatility. Coco Chanel was known for popularizing this.
O
Occasion: Consider the occasion when purchasing jewelry. Choose understated pieces for everyday wear, elegant classics for formal events, and bold, statement jewelry to express your unique style during special occasions.
Examples of Jewelry Choices for Different Occasions:
1. Everyday Wear: Simple stud earrings and a delicate pendant necklace are versatile choices for daily activities.
2. Formal Events: Consider purchasing a strand of pearl necklace, a pair of elegant drop earrings, and a sophisticated bracelet.
3. Special Celebrations: To express your unique style during special celebrations, opt for statement jewelry such as a bold cocktail ring, dramatic chandelier earrings, or a chunky gemstone necklace.
P
Pearls: Celebrated for their luminous and captivating allure, pearls are timeless symbols of grace and sophistication. Whether natural or cultured, these exquisite gems come in various shades, with classic white pearls as a perennial favorite. Pearl necklaces, earrings, and bracelets are classic jewelry pieces that never go out of style, suitable for both formal and casual occasions; making them a treasured addition to any jewelry collection.
Q
Quality vs Quantity: When it comes to jewelry, it's often wiser to prioritized quality over quantity. While a collection of high-quality pieces may be smaller, each one shines with enduring beauty and significance. These pieces become cherished keepsakes, carrying stories and sentiments. Quality jewelry not only withstands the test of time but also reflects your discerning taste and appreciation for craftsmanship and beauty, ensuring that every piece in your collection is trully remarkeble.
R
Retailers: Find one-stop shop retailers like BewitchingJewelry for your jewelry collection; prioritizing high-quality jewelry, considering skin-friendly materials, upholding ethical practices, and ensuring timely delivery for an enchanting shopping experience.
S
Sizing: Sizing is crucial, especially for items like rings and bracelets, to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. To assist you in selecting the right size, online retailers like BewitchingJewelry provide size references for each product. Please take advantage of this information and carefully measure to ensure the correct fit. As a reminder, online retailers like BewitchingJewelry do not accept returns or exchanges for jewelry due to hygienic reasons, and to maintain the quality of the products. So, it is essential to get the sizing right from the start.
T
Timeless Designs: Including timeless design pieces in your collection is a smart decision. These are enduring classics that maintain their allure over the years, celebrated for their elegant simplicity and universal appeal. Consider the solitaire ring, pearl necklace, tennis bracelet, signet ring, and stud earrings as prime examples.
U
Unique Pieces: Also called "statement pieces" refer to items that are distinctively different from common or traditional designs, often characterized by their exceptional craftsmanship, unusual materials, bold aesthetics, or intricate details. These pieces are typically eye-catching and serve as conversation starters or focal points in an outfit, allowing the wearer to express their individual style.
V
Versatility: Versatile jewelry pieces are those that can be worn in various settings and with different outfits, offering flexibility and value for the buyer. These pieces often adapt well to both casual and formal occasions, making them valuable additions to one's jewelry collection.
W
Workmanship: Refers to the quality of craftsmanship and skill that goes into creating a piece of jewelry. Good workmanship in jewelry is evident through precise detailing, seamless joints, secure settings, and a high level of care and attention to every aspect of the piece's creation.
X
X Represents the 5 Don'ts:
1. Don't Rush: Avoid impulsive purchases; take your time to research and decide.
2. Don't Overspend: Stay within your budget to prevent financial strain.
3. Don't Neglect Care: Properly care for your jewelry to maintain its beauty and longevity.
4. Don't Compromise on Ethics: Ensure your jewelry is ethically sourced, with minimal harm to people and the environment, and supports sustainability (i.e. the responsible use of resources).
5. Don't Buy and Forget; Avoid purchasing jewelry that you won't use and wear. Ensure that each piece you acquire holds value and significance in your life, so it doesn't end up tucked away and forgotten.
Y
Yellow Gold: Refers to the natural color of gold, which is a bright, warm, and rich yellow hue. This type of gold is the most traditional and widely used for jewelry worldwide. Yellow gold comes in various purity, typically measured in karats (e.g., 24K, 18K, 14K). The higher the karat, the purer the gold. However, higher karat gold is softer and more prone to scratches, so consider both purity and durability. Gold-plated jewelry is typically made from a based metal (such as copper or brass) that is coated or "plated" with a thin layer of pure gold, making it more affordable than solid gold jewelry.
Z
Zircon: Zircon is a gemstone known for its brilliance and comes in various colors. This gem deserves more attention for its brilliant fire and rainbow of color options. Designers use zircon because of the incredible intensity, variety of color, dispersion and durability. Lab-created zircons offer the same beauty and quality as the natural ones while being a more sustainable and ethical choice.