How to Accessorize With Jewellery on a Budget

You really do not need to spend lots of money on expensive jewellery to achieve that ultra chic, classy look. There are plenty of ways you can still look great, even while working on a small budget. From shopping for inexpesive jewelry, to even making your own, being on a budget is not the end.

There are lots of ways you could accessorize your outfits, making you look absolutely fashionable. Look around at your collection at home or even at inexpensive jewellery stores. When you are purchasing new items, review them carefully, making sure they do not look ‘cheap’. Badly chosen jewellery can make any outfit look kitschy. Anything from sloppily made jewellery, bad quality beads, faded gold and silver, scrape marks or even paint bubbles, no matter how small can spell disaster. Be observant, scrutinize each piece carefully before purchasing.

If you have any old brooches lying around, you can use them to make your outfit snazzy. You can use it to tighten a loose shirt by cinching it on the side, on a headband, on your poncho, or wherever it looks great. You can even make your own at home. Here’s how: find an old button pin and cover it with ribbon using some glue very neatly. Then glue on a rhinestone or anything you desire on the front.

You can even make your own belts, bracelets or even bangles. To make your own belt, find a thick piece of ribbon or a long piece of cloth and sew d-rings on it. To give your old bangles some new life, cover them in pretty fabric. A visit to a craft store might help you find interesting beads and rhinestones that you could use to make your own necklaces and earrings.

Safeguarding your Fine Jewellery

Your fine jewellery must be protected against loss, theft and damage. First, visit an independent jewellery appraiser and ask them to provide you with written documentation on the appraisal of your jewellery. This should include accurate listing of your jewellery as well, including details such as carat weight, distinguishing features and their current value.

Next, check if your home insurance policy covers your jewellery as well. If they are completely covered according to the amount appraised, then you have nothing to worry about. However, if it is not, then you must choose an insurance that will completely cover the value of your jewellery. Add-on extra items to your existing insurance policy. This can be a less expensive option than having a separate policy.

Once you’ve insured your jewellery, purchase a fireproof safe to store them. Another option is store unused jewellery in a safe deposit box at your bank. Some pursue other ‘safeguarding’ options such as storing jewellery in less than obvious plans such as tissue-stuffed cans, books and even electrical outlets.

While this might be a lengthy procedure, take photographs of your jewellery and store them in a safe or even a secure location.

The process does not end here. Remember to get your jewellery periodically inspected and reappraised. Jewellers recommend that jewellery be brought in annually for a ‘check-up’. After all, jewellery does have an emotional value to it as well – so you must do everything you can to protect them.

Different Types of Costume Jewellery

Costume jewellery is known by many names. Some of them are: fashion jewellery, junk jewellery and they are also referred to as fake jewellery. The first jewellery manufactured as ornamentation for the masses, costume jewellery like any other type of jewellery complements clothing and even costumes. Used instead of ‘fine’ jewellery, costume jewellery is made using less valuable materials such as glass, plastic and synthetic stones in place of precious metals and gems. Using base metals, costume jewellery is sometimes plated in gold or silver as well.

Some of the different types of costume jewellery are Cloisonné (enamel divided by sections of metal) Diamante (set with rhinestones) and jewellery made from papier-mâché or Bakelite.

- Bakelite jewellery – incredibly rare, Bakelite jewellery belongs to the world of vintage costume jewellery. A high quality piece of Bakelite jewellery in good condition can fetch a price in the thousands.

- Cloisonné – refers to an ancient metalworking technique used to produce jewellery as well as other decorative items. It is used for either enamel or for gemstone inlays. For either, a shape, making the design is surrounded by a thin metal edge which forms a compartment of sorts. Liquid enamel is then poured into it. For gemstones, a pre-cut matching piece of inlay is hammered and then glued into it.

- Diamante – also called a rhinestone, it is a diamond simulant made from rock crystal, glass or acrylic. Used as an imitation of diamonds, they are produced in Austria, Czech Republic and Northern Bohemia. In the US, they are called Austrian Crystal.

Fashion designers team up to tackle breast cancer

While it’s true that buying designer fashion jewelry should make you feel good, it’s rare that it also does good as well. But that’s exactly what happened in September, as the Council of Fashion Designers of America partnered with home shopping network QVC on a special program designed to help the fight against breast cancer.

The QVC Designer Charms for Charity campaign featured CFDA designers developing special charm bracelets to be sold during special programming tied to New York Fashion Week. Top names such as Robert Lee Morris jewelry made limited edition charms available, with all proceeds going to the Fashion Targets Breast Cancer charity.

“The CFDA and its members are proud of the accomplishments made by Fashion Targets Breast Cancer in the past 15 years,” said Steven Kolb, executive director of CFDA. “It is our hope that progress in treating breast cancer will advance so we do not have another landmark anniversary like this one.”

Rilee & Lo features jewelry from distinguished CFDA members such as Robert Lee Morris, as well as pieces from up-and-coming designers such as CC Skye jewelry.

Taking Care of Your Fine Jewellery

Fine jewellery needs extra care. Be it a diamond right, ruby earrings or just a simple silver bracelet. Each piece has its own needs. Just follow a few easy rules and your jewellery should be in good condition.

Cleaning – clean your fine jewellery with a soft, used toothbrush and a mild detergent. If they are very dirty, soak them in detergent and water. Don’t use any harsh cleaners or toothpaste which can be abrasive and cause a dull finish.

Cleaning gold – use a washing powder solution and add 2-3 drops of liquid ammonia

Cleaning silver – same as above but use the solution without active oxygen and chlorine.

Dust – remove dust from your jewellery using cotton buds soaked in cologne or glycerine. Then polish the stone with a flannel. Don’t ever use sharp objects to clean the setting of the stone.

Polishing – polish your fine jewellery to preserve its shine and beauty. Try not to polish your jewellery too often, as it could affect the overall condition of them. Polishing them once in three months is ideal.

Storage – ensure you have proper storage for each of them, preferably their own space. Throwing items of jewellery together is not the best option. Most jewellery pieces simply cannot live together and end up damaging each other. Stones tend to scratch each other and chains get tangled. Do not store your jewellery in the bathroom because all the metals and stones are afraid of the damp.

Jewellery for Pre-Teenage Girls

Preteens are little girls on their way to becoming teenagers. It is a very confusing age to be, as they are either too young or too old for certain things. Fashion also plays a huge part, and while some fashions are too suggestive and inappropriate for preteens, the others are considered too babyish by them. Jewellery also falls into this category.

Interestingly, preteens love colourful looks. Gemstone jewellery is an ideal choice in this department. Semi-precious stones are colourful and set in silver or gold – they could be an absolute hit with your preteen daughter. Another option you have for her is her birthstone. This is ‘cool’ material, as it concerns her birthday, personality, is a great conversation starter and so on and so forth.

Another great idea for jewellery for preteens is a necklace with their name on it. You could get miniature alphabet blocks and string them on a ribbon of choice to spell their name. Some jewellers can even copy their handwriting, so it looks like you have your signature on a necklace.

If giving a gift of jewellery to a preteen, keep it dainty. The bold and dramatic kind of jewellery is not for preteens. Instead, go for flowers, stars, animals, butterflies or even a favourite symbol. Charm bracelets are also an ideal piece of jewellery for preteens. Simple, durable and also inexpensive, their most important feature – it can be personalized to suit any preteen taste. Charm bracelets can be adorned with anything ranging from rainbows, to flamingos, Disney characters or anything that catches their fancy.

Trendy Ideas for Bridesmaids Jewellery

Bridesmaid jewellery is as important as their outfits. They must complement your bridesmaids’ features, complexion and of course, their dress. This doesn’t mean you have to be pricey jewellery. Just make sure it looks good and matches your wedding theme. Don’t underestimate the importance of bridesmaid jewellery. Making that absolutely right choice could create a stylish and fantastically chic look to your wedding, making it an unforgettable one. A few tips to keep in mind:

- The neckline of the dress and jewellery must match. Choose a choker necklace for a higher neckline, while a halter dress doesn’t require a necklace of any sort. With lower necklines go for drop-style earrings for dramatic effect, while bracelets should not be worn with a long sleeved dress.

- If you choose to make the bridesmaid jewellery a gift to them, then consider buying ‘real’ jewellery. It’s your choice, whether you choose to buy 10k or 14k gold or even simple diamond stud earrings. Remember to keep your budget in mind when making decisions like this. You don’t have to buy jewellery for your bridesmaids, its only an option, if your budget allows it.

- The colour of jewellery you choose is important. Don’t go for overly vibrant or shiny jewellery. Keep it simple.

- Vintage jewellery pieces such as brooches, rose pendant chokers, crystal necklaces, bangle bracelets can all be worn if your wedding theme of choice is vintage.

- It might not be possible for all your bridesmaids to wear the same jewellery. Opting for different pieces could be effective, as long as they all have a common ground, such as colour or style. Choose well.

Timeless Jewellery Gifts for your Loved Ones

Jewellery is a gift that will always be treasured by young and old alike. It is a great gift to give, and of course, the possibilities are endless.

For Women: this of course could be an exhausting and rather daunting task. Every woman has her own personal taste, and this must be known beforehand. Otherwise, you risk the chance of buying them a piece of jewellery they might not like and never wear. Take into consideration her favourite colours, and if she prefers white gold over yellow, chunky or dainty, embellished or not.

For Men: before you decide to buy jewellery for a man, make sure he actually wears jewellery. Some wear thick chains, gold and silver, and perhaps a ring or two; even a bracelet and earrings. It would be helpful if you were observant, and noticed what kind of jewellery he prefers wearing before making the purchase.

For Teens: they are very particular with what they wear. It must be fashionable, whatever it is, especially jewellery. Make sure whatever you buy them is unique and has a ‘cool’ factor. Teens like to be individualistic with what they wear, and accessories are hugely important.

Jewellery for Occasions: giving jewellery for special occasions is ideal, especially for milestone birthdays, like a 16th, 18th or 21st birthday. These pieces of jewellery, be it earrings, pendants or necklaces will be special pieces, so choose them with care. Purchasing jewellery for your wife for her birthday or your anniversary is really one of the best gifts to give.

Online: the possibilities are endless. You have hundreds of designs and vendors to choose from.

Appreciation of Jewellery

All things that glitter might not be gold, but all jewellery certainly does. Knowing no social class or boundaries, jewellery is worn by young and old alike. From faux pieces worn by children, to belly rings, engagement and wedding rings and even heirloom pieces passed down through generations. The love for jewellery depends on the person, with some appreciating it as a work of art, and for others as pieces of embellishment.

In fashion right now are chunky pieces of jewellery, while others who don’t agree, opt for dainty gold and silver jewellery with fine detail. For those who love oversized pieces of jewellery, then agate and wood bangles are a perfect choice. Oversized cocktail rings are also in fashion, being the perfect way to set off your outfit. Autumn 2009 jewellery trends call for dark glamour rings and black diamond rings – the mark of a 1940s glamour goddess. Oversized metal necklaces are also on trend for this season. Rose gold is back in fashion, as 2009 trends drive precious metal laden with colour combos of burnished metal and copper. The wide cuff trend has now transformed to complex wrist creations of filigree and chunky pieces. Bows and insect bugs in jewellery are widely becoming fashionable, as more necklaces are becoming more decorative and weightier. Contrasting finer detail chains – Bezel set gems or diamond laden chains are perfect for enhancing necklines.

However, jewellery appreciation is still confined to its price and not its form, design and detail; viewed as a status symbol or investment.

Dog Tag Jewellery is Meaningful and Unique

Dog tags were initially used by army officers as recognition aides. Identical to tags used on dogs, interestingly people opt to wear them as well. Dog tag jewellery is extremely popular amongst pet lovers. It’s not just a classy way of dressing up your pets, but also adds a sense of style.

This kind of jewellery is not merely a statement of style and fashion, but one can have one’s dog tag jewellery to represent one’s faith and ideals. It is a unique piece of jewellery that can be personalized to suit your taste. Available in a vast range of designs and metal, they can be as expensive or inexpensive as so suits your budget. Stainless steel and pewter dog tags are the most affordable on the market.

Matching dog tags are extremely popular amongst couples. Special messages engraved on dog tags, or personalized shapes and colours make the dog tags even more meaningful. Dog tag jewellery is extremely popular amongst the teenaged youth, especially due to its uniqueness.

Boys tend to keep their dog tag jewellery simple, while most girls prefer them embellished with precious or semi-precious stones, adding to the ‘bling’ fad. Known for its vast diversity in design, the tags also come in special themes, such as religious and patriotic, or whatever you fancy.

Dog tag jewellery is also used for providing medical and information and to seek help in case of an emergency. Diabetic patients and others with serious medical conditions wear dog tags to convey their condition to others.