Caring For Fashion Jewelry
Even if you purchase costume jewelry that is high quality, a general rule of thumb, is that no costume jewelry will be as durable and reliable as fine jewelry. fashion jewelry does, however, allow you to follow the newest trends without having to spend the hundreds of dollars fine jewelry may cost you. It would be unreasonable to expect costume jewelry to last indefinitely; even fine jewelry will not look new forever.
However, with proper usage and care, you can prolong the life of your jewelry. You need to make sure that a cleaner doesn't contain ammonia, vinegar, or any other acids or alcohols. Read the label and make sure you are using a cleaner safe for whatever material your costume jewelry is made from (silver, gold, brass, bronze, copper, chrome, stainless steel, aluminum, pearls, opals, marble and any gems.) Don't use soap and water, because most soaps will leave a residue on the metal and make the stones look dull. Windex can damage delicate stones and finishes. Vinegar is also harmful to the gemstones. Use a very soft cloth to clean the surface of stones and gold or silver, using a bit of water.Do not submerge your jewelry entirely.
I. Keep your jewelry away from the following as much as possible: Water, lotion, perfume, or other harsh chemicals.
II. Perspiration will also shorten the life of your costume jewelry.
III. For Rhodium Plated Silver and Vermeil Jewelry - Do not use soap/water or jewelry cleaner to clean your jewelry as the soap will leave a film clouding your jewelry. This plating is known to prevent tarnishing but can certainly be compromised when exposed to harsh chemicals. Again, a soft jewelry cloth should do just fine!
IV. Most importantly, after you have cleaned your jewelry, you must make sure your jewelry is completely dried before wearing it or storing it.
Storing
How you store your costume jewelry depends upon the space that you have available, your budget, and whether you want to display them, wear them, or simply protect them.
Here are some tips for safely storing your jewelry:
I. Temperature change - Any extreme change in temperature can affect stone settings and glue.
II. Moisture - Moisture is the worst enemy of costume jewelry. Not only can it destroy the foil backing of rhinestones; it can also damage the metals used.
III. Space - Vintage jewelry must never be allowed to rest on top of another piece or be jostled together. This can dislodge or scratch stones.
IV. Oak - Oak cabinets or boxes can release fumes that damage costume jewelry.
V. Cardboard boxes - Even the cute little boxes that jewelry is sold in has been treated with sulpher, which tarnishes gold and silver.
Good storage choices:1. Ziplock bags
2. Metal drawers
3. Plastic boxes
4. Soft cloth
5. Curio cabinets
Fashion Jewelry, sterling silver jewelry and faux gold jewelry or vermeil jewelry can certainly last for years and years with proper care. There are many vintage costume jewelry pieces that have been passed from generation to generation and many stunning pieces can be found in historical museums all over the world!
PortiaJewelry.com Jewelry Information, Care Guide & Jewelry Rulers
By Isabel Nina
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/
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