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Education - Diamond Guide
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Before you start diamond shopping, you need to have in-depth understanding of what you're buying. This guide expands your knowledge on diamonds, so you can select your diamonds based on the same criteria that jewelers use to grade them. |
Diamond Guide
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jewelry Guide - jewelry Education |
| This Jewelry Education Section describes the various types of jewelry as well as different types of findings used in jewelry. It also covers tips for jewelry care. This information should help you to shop with confidence. |
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| Jewelry items are available for each body part. For this guide, we will segment our information into three major categories: Body Piercing Jewelry, Non-Body Piercing Jewelry and Jewelry Accessories. See detail below: |
| Body Piercing jewelry |
| Jewelry specifically manufactured and used for body piercing is known as body piercing jewelry. Various types of jewelry items are available in this category, which are described below: |
- Earring
A jewelry item that is worn on the ear, often in both ears, is known as an earring. It can be attached in a variety of ways, including with clips or screw backs that grip the ear lobe or with wires that pass through it. Earrings have historically been worn more by women but in today's society, it is common to see men wearing them, also. Earrings are one of the oldest known types of jewelry and it is a very popular jewelry item, which is worn around the world in most cultures. In some cultures, ears of young girls are pierced soon after their birth.
There are countless styles and types of earrings available for pierced as well as non-pierced ears. To wear pierced earrings, piercing is done either in the earlobe or some other external part of an ear. Usually, an earlobe piercing is referred as ear piercing whereas piercing in the upper part of the external ear is referred as cartilage piercing. Cartilage piercing is more difficult to perform than earlobe piercing, and it also takes a longer time to heal. Continuous wearing of heavy earrings may cause stretching of the piercing and earlobes. Non-pierced earrings can be worn by anyone, with or without pierced ears. The main categories of non-pierced earrings are clip-on earrings, ear cuffs, and magnetic earrings.
Earrings and their components can be made of metal, plastic, glass, stones, bead, etc. Design and size of this jewelry item can range from small loops to large hanging items.
Types of Earrings
Earrings are available in various designs and shapes. A few major types of earrings are described below:
- Stud Earrings - A small, usually round earring with a single stone or metal ball on a straight post worn on pierced ears.
- Hoop Earrings - A circular-shaped earring for pierced ears, which look like a ring, goes in a loop from the front to back of the earlobe. It is usually made of metal tubing and this hollow tubing is permanently attached to the wire at the front of the ear, which slips into the tube at the back. These earrings are available in many variations that include hoops with charms and with other jewelry items to be hung from the hoop.
- J-Hoop Earrings - A half hoop earring that resembles the English language letter 'J' and does not completely encircle the earlobe.
- Dangle Earrings - A dangle earring, which is available in various lengths from a centimeter or two to shoulder length, is designed to flow from the bottom of the earlobes. It is generally attached to the ear using thin wire, which goes through the earlobe and connects to it in a small hook at the back.
- Sticks - A type of earring, fashioned in long straight lines resembling sticks.
- Earring Jacket - A separate fashionable piece of jewelry that can be added to an earring by the wearer to create unique and different looks.
- Nose Ring
A nose ring is a type of jewelry item that is worn through a piercing in the nostril. Nose rings are usually made of metal and their shape is like a finger ring. Nose rings were very common in the Middle East since ancient times, but they were introduced after 1960 into Western culture, and is now gaining popularity as a trendy fashion item.
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| Non-Body Piercing Jewelry |
| Non-body piercing jewelry is a type of jewelry that does not require piercing on the body. Various types of jewelry items are available in this category, which are described below: |
- Ring
A ring is a circular band worn on the finger. Rings are the most popular and widely used jewelry item in the world. Rings are worn by both men and women often to display emotions like love, friendship etc. and for various other purposes. In most cultures, rings are worn as an emblem of engagement or wedding. In some cultures, they are worn for religious purposes also. Rings are available in a wide range of styles and designs, which can be worn on any finger. Rings can be made of precious or non-precious metal, often with gemstones attached to them but they can also be made of other material like plastic, wood, bone, glass etc. Diamond rings are beautiful and exceptional which keep them in high demand, but rings with other colored stones are also very popular and fashionable. Although rings are worn on other body parts are popular, rings are worn mainly on the finger (hand). For rings worn on other body parts, the name of the body part is added before the word ring; for example, toe ring, belly ring etc.
Types of Rings Based on Design and Usage
Rings are very popular with both men and women and are available in countless styles and designs. Some well-known types of rings, based on their design and usage, are described below:
- Anniversary Band - An anniversary band is a popular type of ring usually given as a gift by husband to wife on their wedding anniversary. An anniversary band contains a continuous row of diamonds or other gems of the same size and cut. These diamonds or gems can extend all the way or only part way around the band.
- Band - A band is a type of ring that is the same width all the way round. This style is mainly used for wedding rings.
- Betrothal Ring - A plain ring, without any stones, that is usually presented by a man to his fiancée, which shows his intention to marry her. This ring was mainly used in ancient Rome and other old cultures.
- Bridal Set - A bridal set is a combination of an engagement ring and wedding ring that often match or complement each other.
- Charm Ring - A charm ring is a ring in which a charm is also attached to its ring band.
- Championship Ring - A championship ring is a ring that is presented to members of winning teams in professional or non-professional, like college, sports leagues.
- Cigar Band - A cigar band is a very wide band-style ring.
- Claddagh Ring - A claddagh ring was first crafted by Master Goldsmith Richard Joyce in 1689, and is named after the fishing village Claddagh, where he lived at the time of his craftsmanship. This ring has two hands clasping a heart, symbolizing love and surmounted by a crown, symbolizing loyalty. This ring is traditionally used to indicate the heart of the wearer is yet unoccupied.
- Class Ring - A class ring, also known as graduate ring, is a ring worn by students and alumni in commemoration of their graduation. This ring generally contains a gemstone featuring one of the school's colors along with the engraved name of the school and the year of graduation.
- Cluster Ring - A cluster ring is a ring that contains a central gemstone, which is surrounded by several smaller stones.
- Comfort Fit - A ring that features a more comfortable fit for its wearer is known as a comfort fit ring. This ring is curved from the inside of the shank.
- Compass Ring - A compass ring is a ring that rotates and can be used to determine compass direction based on the position of the sun and the time of day.
- Dinner Ring - A dinner ring can be a large oversized ring, set with precious or semiprecious stones. This ring is also known as cocktail ring.
- Engagement Ring - An engagement ring is a ring worn by a person on the left hand's ring finger, which indicates engagement to be married. In some cultures, this ring is worn on the right hand's ring finger. This represents a formal agreement to future marriage.
- Eternity Ring - An eternity ring is a ring which generally contains a continuous circle of gemstones, symbolizing eternity with a partner.
- Fede Ring - A fede ring, also known as faith ring, has two clasped hands, symbolizing faith and trust.
- Friendship Ring - A friendship ring is a ring usually worn by young adults to display friendship with one another.
- Mother's Ring - A ring worn by a mother showing the birthstones of her children is known as a mother's ring. Sometimes this ring includes birthstones of the mother and father also.
- Multi-Finger Ring - A multi finger ring is a conjoined ring of two or more rings, designed to be worn across two, three, or four fingers.
- Poesy Ring - A poesy ring is a ring with a short inscription, usually a love poem, on its outer surface.
- Poison Ring - A poison ring contains a small-hinged box, which is made to resemble a normal setting. This box can be opened easily, and its small space can be used to hold poison.
- Prayer Ring - A prayer ring is like a poison ring in shape, but the small space of its box is used to keep a small piece of paper with a prayer written on it.
- Promise Ring - A promise ring is given to a romantic partner to indicate a promise of commitment in a relationship. These rings are generally small and inexpensive.
- Purity Ring - A purity ring is a ring that symbolizes the virginity of the wearer.
- Regard Ring - A regard ring is a type of acrostic jewelry, which consists of all or any of the precious stones named Ruby, Emerald, Garnet, Amethyst, Ruby, and a Diamond. The name 'Regard' is taken from first letter of each gemstone.
- Ring Guard - A ring guard is a closely fitted ring worn above another ring to keep it from slipping off the finger.
- Rosary Ring - A rosary ring is a ring worn around the finger with 10 indentations and a cross on its surface, which represents one decade of a rosary.
- Signet Ring - A signet ring often contains a carved design like an intaglio. This ring is pressed into soft wax to authenticate or seal a document. The designs were usually a family crest, coat of arms or some other type of monogram or insignia.
- Split Ring - A split ring is most commonly used for key rings. It has an opening to the side of the ring at each end to allow a key or other small ring to slide into the slit and be pulled around the circumference of the ring until it reaches opening at the other end of the split.
- Wedding Ring - A wedding ring is a ring presented to spouse at the marriage ceremony to exhibit marital commitment. This ring is generally made of precious metals like gold, platinum and precious stones, primarily diamonds. Originally this ring was worn only by a woman on her marriage ceremony, but now it is common for both spouses to wear a wedding ring. A wedding ring is one of the most popular and traditional jewelry items and these days, is used in most cultures of the world. A wedding ring is often matched with an engagement solitaire ring and a set of matching engagement ring and wedding band is called a 'Bridal Set' or 'Duo', whereas a set of matching engagement ring, wedding band and man's wedding band is called a 'Trio'.
Types of Rings Based on Gemstone
Rings are also described based on number of stones added in them. A few of well-known types of rings, based on their number of gemstones, are described below:
- Semi-Mount Ring - A semi-mount ring is a finished ring without a center stone. Side stones and all other stones are placed and metal finishing, stone finishing, engraving etc. of the ring is completed. The purpose of a semi-mount ring is to allow a buyer to put a center stone of his/her own choice into the mounting. This gives the buyer a great deal of flexibility in the look of the ring. Semi-mount rings are generally used for diamond rings.
- Solitaire - A solitaire ring is a ring with a single gemstone, often a diamond, and does not contain side stones or any other gem embellishment. This ring looks exceptional with a high quality and larger sized diamond. Sometimes in a solitaire, colored stones and cultured pearls are also used in place of a diamond. Solitaire rings are usually made of precious metals like gold and platinum, and can feature a variety of stone shapes, with the round brilliant being the most popular. Prong setting is the most popular setting type, but the size and number of the prongs can vary to highlight the look and features of the stone. A solitaire ring is mainly used as an engagement ring and exhibits beauty and elegance through its single quality gemstone.
- Three Stone Diamond Ring - A three stone diamond ring holds three diamonds of the same quality and shape representing the past, present and future of a relationship. Usually the center stone is slightly larger than the other two side stones.
- Bracelet
A bracelet is an item of jewelry which is worn around the wrist. Bracelets contain gemstones, rocks, wood and other precious material and are usually made of a variety of material, including metal, leather, cloth etc. Bracelets can either slip on or open and close by means of a clasp and hinge mechanisms.
Types of Bracelets
Bracelets are available in a range of shapes and designs. A few major types of bracelets are described below:
- Tennis Bracelet - A bracelet which contains a symmetrical pattern of diamonds in a thin line is referred to as tennis bracelet. The name, tennis bracelet, comes from an incident that took place in 1987 in a tennis match at the US Open with tennis star Chris Evert. In that match, she was wearing an elegant and stylish, light in-line diamond bracelet which accidentally broke during the match. The match was interrupted as she could recover her precious diamonds. As a result, this type of bracelet got a new name and a huge demand was created. The tennis bracelet has remained one of the most popular bracelet styles.
- Charm Bracelet - A charm bracelet is a jewelry item which contains personal charms like pendants or lockets and worn around the wrist.
- Bangles - A bangle is circular in shape and comes in a solid form. Bangles are generally made of metals, glass, wood, plastic etc.
- Cuff Bracelets - A cuff is a wide or narrow C shaped band that comes in a solid form and fits over the wrist.
- Armlet
An armlet, also known as armband or arm ring, is a band usually of precious metal worn as a jewelry ornament around the bicep of the upper arm. An armlet is like a bracelet or bangle, but it fits tightly on the upper arm. This jewelry item is not very common in the modern world, but it was widely used in the past and worn mainly by men in many cultures.
- Chain
A chain is a flexible series of links, beads or rings, generally made of metal, connected or attached into one another. A chain is a widely used jewelry item and many necklaces and bracelets are made from small chains. Chains are usually made of precious metals like gold and silver and worn by men and women both.
Types of Chains
Chains are available in many styles and designs and a few of these are described below:
- Box Chain - A type of chain, which has wide and square links where each link resembles a box.
- Byzantine Chain - A type of chain, which has close-fitting links that create an intricate design.
- Book Chain - A style of chain with rectangular metal links where each link resembles a book.
- Rope Chain - A style of chain with a series of small oval shaped links that are arranged in such a manner that they resemble a rope.
- Other Chains - Chain styles like Bead, Snake, Rolo, Mesh, Muff, Wheat etc. are also popular.
- Necklace
A necklace is a jewelry item which is worn around the neck. Necklaces may consist of more than one string and this type of jewelry item is usually made of a variety of materials, including metal chains, beads, leather etc. Necklaces are available in a wide range of colors and can be ornamented with pendants or lockets. Necklaces have been worn for thousands of years and are some of the most popular jewelry items of the modern world. Necklaces come in numerous forms and styles. Necklaces are mainly categorized by size, as well as design and material, which include pearl necklace, choker, collar, princess necklace, matinee necklace, opera necklace, rope necklace etc.
- Pendant
A pendant is a decorative ornament that hangs from jewelry items like necklaces or earrings. Pendants are generally made of precious stones and precious metals and often used to enhance the beauty of a necklace or an earring.
- Locket
A locket is a small box or hinged case which can be opened and closed and generally contains a small photograph or other small item. Lockets are usually attached to chains and worn around the neck. Lockets are often made of precious metals and available in various shapes like heart, oval, circle etc. Normal lockets hold only one or two photographs, but some specially made lockets can hold up to eight to ten photographs.
- Amulet
An amulet, also known as talisman, is a pendant or charm worn as a protection from evil, illness or to bring good luck. The name amulet comes from the Latin word 'Amuletum' which means an object that protects a person from trouble. Amulets are usually made of metal and precious stones but other materials like wood, shell, herb, seed etc. can also be used.
- Charm
A charm is a decorative jewelry item, similar to a pendant or trinket, usually worn on a bracelet, necklace or earring. Some believe charms possess magical powers to protect the wearer from harm or illness.
- Hairpin
A hairpin is a tool that is used to hold a person's hair in place or to decorate hair in a particular style. Hairpins are made of various metals, are often used as ornaments and are available in various shapes and designs. Hairpins are a functional ornament and quite popular with modern women. Hairpins have a long history and were used by many ancient cultures.
- Barrette
A barrette is a pin or clasp that is used to hold hair in place. Barrettes are both functional & fashionable.
- Tiara
A tiara, also known as diadem, is a type of ancient jewelry item that is like a crown, another ancient jewelry item. A tiara is a semi-circular or sometimes circular piece of jewelry item worn on the head, mainly by women. A tiara is usually made of precious metals and gemstones and worn on special occasions like marriage ceremonies, pageants etc.
- Anklet
An anklet, also known as an ankle bracelet, is a jewelry ornament worn around the ankle. Anklets are like bracelets or bangles in shape, but these are worn around the ankle instead of the wrist. Anklets are slightly larger than bracelets or bangles. Anklets are more popular with women and used as a fashion ornament.
- Toe Ring
A toe ring is a kind of body ornament that is worn around one or more toes. Toe rings are very similar to finger rings except a that in toe rings, there can be a small gap on the ring shank, which allows the wearer to wear these rings easily. Toe rings are generally made of precious metals and worn mainly by women. In western countries, this jewelry item is relatively new, whereas in India, wearing a toe ring is an old practice.
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| jewelry Accessories |
| Jewelry accessories include jewelry items that are worn either as a functional item or as a fashion item. Various types of jewelry accessories are available in this category, which are described below: |
- Brooch
A brooch, also known as fibula, is an ornamental pin with a clasp to attach it to a garment or clothing. It is often made with precious metal but sometimes with bronze or other material, along with gemstones. A brooch with a large central gemstone that is surrounded by a cluster of smaller gemstones is known as cluster brooch. In ancient time, men and women both wore brooches for fastening their clothes whereas in the modern world, mainly women wear brooches either as a fashionable item or as a functional item.
- Cufflink
A cufflink is an attractive fastener or clasp, to fasten the two sides of the cuff on a shirt, worn by men and women both. Cufflinks are used to link cuffs that have buttonholes on both sides. Cufflinks come in various shapes and designs. The simplest design of cufflink contains two buttons or button-like parts connected with a chain or post that passes through these buttonholes. The most visible button or button-like part of a cufflink is often larger and decorated in some manner. There are two ways to join the cuff through cufflinks; either both sides pinched together or with one side overlapping the other.
- Tiepin
A tiepin, also known as tie clip, is a type of ornament that uses spring tension to attach the mid-portion of the tie to the shirt. A tiepin is usually made of precious metals with its front portion containing diamonds or other gems. Tiepins are generally worn by men on occasions like business meetings, marriage ceremonies, parties etc.
- Button
A button is a small object, often round in shape, attached to a garment to fasten two parts of the garment. In expensive and valuable garments, a button can be used as a jewelry item and such buttons are usually made of precious metals and gemstones.
- Chatelaine
A chatelaine, an ancient jewelry item, is a set of short chains attached on a belt and worn at the waist mainly by women for carrying small items like keys, scissors, trinkets, purse etc. It is said that the word 'Chatelaine' comes from the French word meaning 'Lady of the House'.
- Fob
A fob is a short chain, ribbon or leather strap attached to a pocket watch at one end and a decorative medallion or some other ornament at the other end. The fob is used to locate and pull the watch out of the pocket. Fobs were popular when men’s watches were predominantly carried in the pocket and they are still used by some people as a fashionable item.
- Buckle
A buckle is a clasp or hook, which is used to fasten two objects together such as a belt or strap.
- Bauble
A bauble is a small decorative piece of jewelry, which is of little value. It is also known as trinket.
- Bead
A bead is a small, often round, piece of material such as stone, shell, metal, glass, plastic, seed, wood, etc. that is pierced for threading or stringing.
- Cameo
A cameo is a type of gemstone or shell which is carved in relief against a contrast background. The word 'Cameo' comes from the Latin word, 'Cammaeus' meaning 'Engraved Gem'. Cameo and intaglio both exhibit carving but cameo features a raised relief image whereas intaglio features a carved down image.
- Trinket
A trinket is a small decorative piece of jewelry, which is of little value or worth. It is also known as bauble.
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| Jewelry findings are basically components, materials and elements like clasps, pins, hooks, tabs, etc. that can be used in making or assembling a piece of jewelry. |
| Categories of jewelry Findings |
| Jewelry findings can be classified based on their usage into three main categories: |
- Functional jewelry Findings
Functional jewelry findings are used in making a piece of jewelry that facilitates some sort of mechanical function such as attaching, linking or joining. These findings are primarily required to provide a specific mechanical function and appearance is often unimportant. Functional jewelry findings include catches, pin backs, posts, screw backs etc.
- Decorative jewelry Findings
Decorative jewelry findings are used in a piece of jewelry that provide beauty or to that piece of jewelry. These are primarily included in a piece of jewelry to enhance the beauty or vogue and do not serve any mechanical function. Decorative jewelry findings can be Charms, Pendants, Festoons, Filigrees etc.
- Hybrid jewelry Findings
Hybrid jewelry findings serve the purposes of both mechanical findings as well as decorative findings. These findings are used in making a piece of jewelry to link or attach whereas due to their beauty and looks, these are considered decorative also. Hybrid jewelry findings include bracelet links, bead caps, locket bails etc.
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| Types of jewelry Findings |
| Some of the most frequently used jewelry findings are described below in alphabetical order: |
- Bail
A bail is an oval or teardrop or D shaped metal element that is attached at the top of a pendant. It allows a pendant to hang from a chain in a free form.
- Bead
A bead is a small rounded element, made from a variety of materials, with a hole through it.
- Bead Cap
Bead caps are metal findings that are placed on one or both ends of a stone bead to cover any roughness or damage around the drilled hole.
- Bead Cone
A bead cone is a metal cone shape which is used to secure and cover the ends of multiple strands of beading.
- Bead Tip
A bead tip is a concave metal piece, attached to a metal loop, used to add thread to a clasp. It is used between the clasp and the beading thread to hide the beading thread knot which is covered inside the concave piece.
- Bracelet Link
A bracelet link, a type of decorative jewelry finding, contains rings or loops on each end for linking with jump rings or connectors.
- Bullet Clutch
A barrel-shaped clutch with a rubber or mechanical insert that grips an earring post.
- Butterfly Clutch
A butterfly clutch, also known as a grip fastener, grips a grooved post. It has two wings that are squeezed to release it from the post.
- Catch
A catch is a fastening device used to attach one end of a piece of jewelry to another by accepting and locking a top wire or a pin-stem.
- Figure 8 Safety Catch
A type of safety catch in which a figure eight shaped hinged wire snaps over a pin. The wide end of the eight connects at the bottom to the hinge whereas the smaller end slips over the pin to hold the clasp closed.
- Safety catch
A type of catch which contains a tongue or pin that can be operated to close the opening in the catch, which prevents the loss of jewelry.
- Chandelier Finding
A type of decorative finding, often used on an earring, with a drop or drops that hangs down from the earlobe and dangles like a chandelier.
- Charm / Pendant / Locket
Although charms / pendants / lockets are considered jewelry items, some people also consider these decorative jewelry findings which are mainly used in necklaces and bracelets.
- Charm Hanger
A charm hanger, also known as charm holder, is a jewelry finding which can be attached to a necklace or cord with a jump ring or bail. The bottom part of the holder can be opened to add single or multiple charms.
- Clamp
A clamp, also known as a cramp, is a metal prong or claw used for gemstone settings.
- Clasp
A clasp is a fastener, such as a hook or buckle, which is used to hold two or more jewelry objects or parts together. It usually contains a hook or buckle on one piece and a slot to hold that hook or buckle on the other piece. Clasps are mainly used in bracelets, necklaces, watchstraps, etc. Some of the popular clasps are described below:
- Barrel Clasps
A barrel clasp is a round or oval shaped jewelry fastener that resembles a barrel. The clasp pieces contain ridges around the barrel for easier grasping and these pieces screw together by rotating one piece into the other. Barrel clasps are frequently used in necklaces and bracelets as they provide greater security than magnetic or hook type clasps
- Bead Clasp
A bead clasp is a type of clasp mechanism that is hidden in a bead or pearl.
- Box Clasp
A box clasp is a type of fastener that contains a box with an opening, which is notched on the top of the box on one end and a flat piece of metal, which is folded over to form a spring with a knob at the other end. The folded metal spring slips into the hole in the box with the knob sticking out through the notch in the top. The compressed spring holds the two ends in place and it is released by pressing the knob.
- Hidden Screw Clasp
A hidden screw clasp is similar to a screw clasp where the clasp is partially covered in the bead or pearl, giving the necklace a clasp-less look when screwed together.
- Lobster Claw Clasp
A lobster claw clasp is a jewelry fastener that resembles the claw of a lobster. A tiny spring keeps the arm of this clasp closed, which can be opened by a lever on its side.
- Safety Clasp
A safety clasp is a protective type of fastener that uses more than one method to secure the closure on a piece of jewelry such as a necklace or bracelet. Safety clasps are frequently used for fine or more expensive jewelry items.
- Screw Clasp
A screw clasp is a type of fastener consisting of two short barrels with screws, which are used to connect a necklace.
- Spring Ring Clasp
A spring ring clasp is a circular shaped tube, which is just short of a complete circle. Inside this tube, a wire exists that works on spring mechanism and projects from the tube to complete the circle. A lever exists on the edge of that incomplete circle and on pressing the lever, the wire can be pushed back into the tube, allows the ends of necklace or bracelet to be attached.
- Toggle Clasp
A toggle clasp is a type of fastener that contains a ring on one end and a short metal bar on the other end. This bar is inserted through the ring and sits across that ring in such a manner that it does not slide.
- Clip
A clip is a fastening device used to hold a piece of jewelry in its place. Generally a clip is used in non-pierced earrings where its two pieces are closed around the earlobe, using mechanical pressure to hold the earring in place.
- Comfort Disc
A comfort disc is a plastic disc that fits over the post of a pierced earring to provide greater comfort to the wearer.
- Ear Nut
An ear nut is a type of clutch which contains a hole through which an earring post is attached to secure the earring to the earlobe. The friction version has two curved wings that grasp a grooved post.
- Ear Thread
An ear thread is a small earring element that contains a thin pin and a small chain, which is threaded through holes in the ears. They usually have a small cup or ball or loop on the opposite end of the pin. Beads can be included to the chains before threading or can be fastened to the cup or loop on the end.
- Eye
An eye is a loop or ring, made of wire or any other material, used as a connector for necklaces, pendants, etc.
- Ferrule
A ferrule is a metal band or cap that is fitted to the end of wire, thread, cord or any other material to prevent fraying or to add decoration.
- Festoon
A festoon is a type of pendant that contains rings on both sides through which a chain or string can be attached. It generally functions as the centerpiece of the necklace.
- Filigree
Filigree, a type of decorative jewelry finding, is formed of bent wire that is soldered or stamped into delicate and complex designs similar to lace patterns.
- Fishhook
A fishhook shaped finding often used to make pierced earrings. The hook end passes through the pierced ear, while an ornament hangs from the other end. It is also known as French ear wire.
- Hinge
A hinge is an assembled unit of a joint, top wire and catch, which permits movement to a piece of jewelry.
- Spring Hinge
A type of hinge that integrates a spring into its assembly to always keep a jewelry piece, such as a bracelet made of two halves, in closed position.
- Hoop
A hoop is a metal wire or tube that has been formed into individual rings. Hoops are often used for earrings, bracelets and necklaces.
- Jump Ring
A jump ring is a round or oval shaped plain wire ring available in various sizes and used for attaching jewelry parts. Normally, the ends of the wire are bent together instead of soldering.
- Pad Insert
A molded rubber insert that usually fits into or over the clip portion of a clip earring for greater comfort of the wearer.
- Pearl drop
A metal ring is attached to a real or imitation pearl which hangs from a piece of jewelry.
- Pin
A pin is a type of fastener that contains a small metal rod with a sharp point and is generally used to attach a jewelry item on clothing.
- Pin Back
A pin back is an assembled unit of a joint, catch and pin-stem that is pre-assembled on a metal plate. This entire unit is attached to a piece of jewelry by soldering or gluing.
- Post
A post is a pin-like component attached to an earring that passes through the pierced earlobe and is usually secured by a clutch.
- Adhesive Ear Post
An ear post with a flat surface, which is used with a 2 sided adhesive dot instead of solder or fusion for attaching an ornament part of the earring.
- Prong
A prong is a claw or wire used to fasten and hold a stone in a setting.
- Ring Guard
A ring guard is a type of jewelry finding which is made and used to temporarily reduce the inside diameter of a ring.
- Screw Back
A screw back, a type of fastener, consists of a nut or clutch that actually screws onto a threaded post for tightening an earring against a non-pierced earlobe through tension adjustment.
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Jewelry which is made of gemstones and metal is extremely durable and tough in nature. But due to our lifestyles and day-to-day activities, it is expected that our jewelry will get dirty and scratched. Gemstones and metal can be scratched or dulled if not handled correctly. Therefore, our jewelry requires proper care and treatment for its longevity, so that it may be handed down as heirlooms to future generations without losing shine and sparkle.
Here are some tips that will help you to preserve the life and beauty of your jewelry: |
| Cleaning of jewelry |
Jewelry cleaning is the practice of removing dirt and soil from jewelry to improve its appearance. Regular cleaning of Jewelry is essential to maintain the shine and brilliance of jewelry’s gemstones and metal. Jewelry will get dirty as you use various skin and body care solutions such as soaps and lotions and it can become oily from your skin's own natural oils. Even when you are not wearing your jewelry, it will collect dust.
If you are cleaning your jewelry on your own, it will take a few minutes to clean. Before cleaning, you should be aware of facts about professional jewelry cleaning. Certain types of cleaning can damage some jewelry. For example, some jewelry items are coated with colors to reduce or improve their shininess and some gemstones, such as white topaz, have an overlay to produce certain colors. Ultrasonic cleaning can remove this coating and harm that overlay. Jewelry must always be examined for color coatings and loose stones prior to cleaning with ultrasonic cleaners or a steam cleaner: |
- You can use a small soft brush such as an eyebrow or lipstick brush, with soap and water to clean your jewelry. Simply make a bowl of warm sudsy water with a mild detergent and gently place your jewelry pieces in the mixture. Brush the gemstones with the soft bristles of the brush while they are in the suds. You will need to make certain that you rinse the jewelry clear of the suds after cleaning it. After this process, use a soft cloth or a jewelry polish cloth to pat it dry. This treatment should not be done on jewelry items containing gemstones like amber, coral, emerald, jade, kunzite, lapis lazuli, opal, or turquoise. You should avoid cleaning by toothpaste, as it can harm metal and some gemstones.
- Jewelry containing diamonds can be cleaned by a stronger cleansing solution that is one-part ammonia and six parts water. Once it has soaked for 30 minutes, remove it and gently brush the mountings with a small soft brush. Use the mixture of soap and water to wash it and then use a soft cloth to pat it dry. This ammonia treatment should not be done on jewelry items containing pearls or porous stones such as emeralds, rubies, lazuli, coral or turquoise.
- You can also use liquid jewelry cleaner products available in a kit form that are sold by many department or jewelry stores. You should follow all the written precautions and instructions of cleaning. You must choose cleaner that is suitable for your jewelry, as an inappropriate cleaner may damage stones or settings. Avoid cleaners which are older than 3 months.
- Ultrasonic cleaners are also available in many department stores. An ultrasonic cleaner is a type of small machine that cleans jewelry in a matter of minutes using high-frequency sound. Although it is safe for hard stones, it can damage settings and porous gems such as pearls and opals.
- In the cleaning process, treat metal settings gently, as metal can be scratched.
- It is also a good idea to have jewelry cleaned once a year by a professional jeweler, where he/she will check the security of the settings. He/she will also advise you if you need repair of loose or bent prongs, which hold your gemstones in place. This will prevent the gemstones from falling out of their settings and becoming lost.
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| Storing of jewelry |
| The storing of jewelry is also an important aspect of jewelry care. If the jewelry is improperly stored, a piece of jewelry can scratch other jewelry pieces, as well as settings, and the luster of the jewelry can be affected. The storage of jewelry requires the following precautions: |
- Jewelry should be stored individually in a soft cloth pouch or plastic zip-lock bags to ensure that a piece of jewelry or gemstone cannot scratch other jewelry or gemstones. Bead necklaces such as pearls, lapis, etc. should be stored flat and pearls should not be stored in plastic bags.
- Jewelry pieces are best stored in a fabric-lined jewel case or in a box with compartments or dividers.
- Jewelry should be stored in a dry and dark place to avoid extremes of temperature and humidity. Exposure to air and light may create tarnish on some metals.
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| Precautions for Jewelry Wear |
| It is necessary to follow certain precautions when wearing jewelry: |
- You should not wear jewelry while doing heavy work, housework or gardening, as it can be scratched.
- You should try to protect all jewelry from sharp blows, harsh chemicals, sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- You should avoid a situation where your jewelry comes in contact with chlorine bleach, hair spray or other chemicals because they can severely discolor and damage your jewelry as well as the settings.
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If you follow the above-mentioned care tips, you will keep your jewelry shiny and sparkling like new.
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