KEYWORD(S): TIPS FOR BUYING SILVER JEWELRY


Find a reputable source 

This may go without saying, but don't confuse commercially manufactured jewelry with handcrafted silver jewelry. The latter is made by artisans that take great pride in their work. It's helpful to look for a company that has been in business for decades, and that has been selling online for at least five years.

Handcrafted jewelry can be customized in any number of ways, from the lengths of chains to the types of gemstones used in pendants and rings. You don't have to settle for 'almost good enough'. Instead, you can get the piece you've always dreamed of, in exactly the right size.

Measure carefully

As customized jewelry generally isn't returnable, it's important to make sure that the handmade silver jewelry you order will fit. It takes less than a few minutes to get a good measurement, and doing so will ensure that the ring or necklace you order will be exactly what you want. For rings, ask a friend to take a piece of string, put it around the knuckle or largest part of your finger, and mark the string. To determine the size, hold the string against a tape measure and compare your measurement to the web site's sizing chart. If you're in between sizes, it's best to go with the larger size. You can also use string to measure for a bracelet, necklace, or anklet lengths.

Do your gemstone research 

The best jewelry websites have a generous amount of information on gemstones. Before you order, read up on the gemstones you are considering. It's important to know, for example, that Quartz can be cleaned with dishwashing detergent, but that ultrasonic and steam cleaning may damage the stone.

Silver jewelry is classic and gorgeous, but only if it's real silver. Make sure that the jewelry you buy is made of solid sterling silver (925 or 92.5 percent silver) or fine silver (99.9 percent pure silver).

When you invest in handcrafted silver jewelry, you're not only buying a piece you will treasure, but one that is likely to become an heirloom for future generations.