From inexpensive baubles to family heirlooms, jewelry reflects new trends and the cherished moments of a woman's life. Careless treatment of any kind of jewelry, however, shortens its life, value and beauty. Careful cleaning of jewelry extends the wear and value of a collection.
Gemstones
Gemstones are a popular choice for jewelry aficionados because of their beauty. They are also some of the most durable choices for jewelry. Still, care and maintenance are important factors to maintaining their good looks and value. Some gemstones such as sapphires, rubies and other single-crystal gems can be cleaned with a precise mixture of ammonia and water to remove any film that may be present and to restore shine to the stone. Gentle soap and warm water may also provide a safe mixture to clean specific gemstones. If a piece of gemstone jewelry needs extra cleaning, it may be feasible to employ the use of a soft toothbrush to scrub behind the stone.
When it comes to ultrasonic cleaners, be very selective. Not all gemstones can be safely cleaned using this method. Opaque gemstones such as lapis lazuli, turquoise or malachite should never be cleaned with ammonia or an ultrasonic cleaner. These stones can absorb chemicals or soap, resulting in discoloration, due to the porous makeup of these gems. Instead, these gemstones should be wiped with a moist cloth.
To avoid scratching a gemstone or another softer stone near it, keep all jewelry separate from one another. Also, remember that gemstones are often harder than the metal it has been set it. Gems can scratch the finish on gold, silver or platinum.
Diamonds
The hardest substance known to man, diamonds, need special care as they are some of the most often-worn jewelry. Lotions, styling products, and the grime accrued from daily wear can leave a diamond looking dull and lifeless. Avoid waiting too long in between cleanings to decrease the buildup of adverse materials.
Diamonds may be hard but they should not be cleaned with just any cleaner available. For diamonds in need of a really good cleaning, a professional ultrasonic cleaning is often necessary to remove encrusted dirt. However, the method should not be used on fragile settings without having been inspected by your jeweler, as ultrasonic cleaners may shake loose stones from their mounting.
A safe and gentle method for cleaning diamonds starts with soaking the piece in a formula of three parts water to one part ammonia and a tiny drop of mild liquid detergent such as Ivory. Use a soft brush to remove dirt. Do not use a stiff bristled brush as this will scratch the ring's metal setting. Rinse the diamond thoroughly in warm water and follow up with a lint-free cloth to dry the piece.
Store diamonds in a fabric-lined jewelry case or in a box with separate compartments. Diamonds may also be wrapped individually in tissue paper and stored in a box. Do not store diamonds with other jewelry in a drawer or jewelry case. This can result in scratching of other jewelry. Perhaps most importantly, avoid leaving a diamond ring on the rim of a sink where it may slip down the drain.
Pearls
Pearls are more fragile than most other gemstones. They should be handled gently to keep them in the best condition. Most of today's pearls are cultured pearls. That means they have been created by the initiation of humans who place a bead or other object into an oyster. The oyster then coats the bead with nacre, the patina that gives pearls their much-loved appearance. The thickness of nacre dictates the quality and durability of the pearl.
An excellent rule of thumb to maintain the beauty and value of your pearls is: your pearls should always be the last thing you put on and the first thing you take off when dressing. To maintain the luster of a pearl, avoid applying hand creams or lotions while wearing a pearl. Also, put a pearl on after using hairspray, makeup or perfume. When cleaning a pearl, use mild soap mixed in warm water. Solutions such as ammonia or harsh detergents will damage a pearl, as can an ultrasonic cleaner.
Because pearls can scratch easily, store them separately from other pieces of jewelry. Pearls may also be kept in a soft bag made of chamois for safe storage. It's a good idea to have pearl necklaces restrung from time to time to ensure the silk or nylon cord connecting them is in good shape.
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Extend the Life of Jewelry With Careful Cleaning
Dog Jewelry - Perfect For Making Your Dog Look Hip And Cool
There are a number of ways to make sure you have the dressiest dog on the block.
The dog accessories market is massive. There are jewelry pieces of all shapes and forms to make sure your pooch is the best looking when it comes time to take a walk.
If you want to add jewelry to your dog's wardrobe, you need to know a few things about the relationships between dogs and dog jewelry.
First, not all dogs are going to like the idea of wearing dog jewelry. While you will probably be able to get away with a jewel studded collar, if your dog is used to wearing a collar, some of the other pieces, like tiaras, may not be something your pet is open to.
Second, while when it comes to many accessories it is advised to start young with the dog, the same is not true for dog jewelry. Young puppies are curious and may well chew on, and possibly swallow jewelry items. That could mean a lot of stressful times and an expensive vet visit.
Now, when you're ready to delve into the world of dog jewelry here are some of the things to consider, and tips on how to use them.
Dog Hair Jewelry
Hair Bow - If you want your dog to be able to wear hair jewelry, you should start with a hair bow. This will get your dog accustomed to wearing something in their hair. Over time you may want to add a hair bow with a gem or piece of jewelry attached, to put a little more weight on their head.
Hair Clip - A hair clip is a little more substantial than just a hair bow. It has a little more weight and often will move around more when your dog moves its head. These can take a little getting used to for many dogs.
Tiara - Tiara wear is only for the advanced hair jewelry pup. There are a couple of things to know about tiaras. First they have more weight than any of the other hair jewelry pieces and your dog will definitely notice these are in their hair. Second, tiaras generally are restricted to long hair dogs, as the tiara has to be put into the hair with a hair comb.
Other Dog Jewelry
Collar - You can start your dog's jewelry wearing by upgrading their collar to one with gems, crystals or other shiny finishes. This piece won't usually cause any problems with pets, as they are accustomed to wearing collars.
Necklace - The natural progression from a collar is to move your dog into a necklace. A plain dog necklace fits much the same as a collar and should not bother your pooch.
Pendant, collar charm, or ID Tag - Once you are ready to add more to the neckline, you can add on a pendant or jeweled ID tag for your dog. Not all dogs like the idea of something dangling off the bottom of their collar or necklace, so keep an eye on them after you put this on to make sure they aren't trying to chew it off.
Zoppini Jewelry - Italian Charms and Bracelets From Italy
When you see the beautiful Italian charms and bracelets designed by Zoppini Firenze, you will understand why the Fiorentini (residents of Florence, Italy) say "e stato amore a prima vista," meaning, "it was love at first sight." Elegant, dramatic, sensual, bold, glamorous are just a few of the adjectives that come to mind when you see the quality crafted jewelry by one of Florence, Italy's most talented design teams, Manual and Mauro Zoppini, who followed in the footsteps of the jeweler father, Marco Zoppini.
Drawing from the rich tradition of jewelry craft that is legendary in Italy, the magic of the heart of Tuscany permeates Zoppini charms and bracelet designs. Melding the incredible strength of stainless steel with the infinite allure of fluid design and symbols that are timeless, the beauty of Zoppini jewelry has spread across the world.
To wear an original Zoppini charm bracelet puts you in a select category: no other charm manufactured in the world is crafted with the same attention to detail. With over 1,500 designs, Zoppini Italian charms from their introduction to the American market in 1995 have grown to be the most recognized brand in the United States.
What makes the difference between an authentic Zoppini charm and an "Italian style" charm? Materials, link construction and interchangeability. Zoppini uses 18karat gold, resulting in a very elegant finish. These authentic Italian charms are made from the highest grade of nickel-free stainless steel in accordance with European standards. The absence of nickel eliminates allergic reactions to the skin. On the other hand, "Italian style" charms are made of brass or usually gold plated.
The artwork of authentic Zoppini Italian charms is hand painted enamel and the stones that are soldered onto a link providing a bond that is practically indestructible. With "Italian style" charms, the art or stones are glued onto the link. Authentic Zoppini Italian charms are interchangeable with the other major brands; they will slide on and off smoothly, while the links of the "Italian style" charms tend not to fit into the bracelet securely.
The same attention to detail that has led to domination of the market in charm bracelets is given to every piece of Zoppini jewelry. You can choose one of the dramatic and bold contemporary stainless steel designs available in necklaces, bracelets, pendants and rings of the "Dare to Love" collection that is accented with sky blue spinel stones, or the ethereal "Feelings" collection, a spherical design complemented with 18 karat gold, leather and cubic zirconia stones.
If you are in the mood for something whimsical, the design of the "Coffe Collection" elevates the beloved coffee bean to a work of art. Whichever design you choose, you will feel infused with the passion for beauty that Italian jewelry artisans have shared with the entire world.
There is also a practical side to Zoppini jewelry-the "Time" collection is a magnificent assortment of stainless steel watches with features such as a magnifying quartz crystal, stainless steel chronograph buttons, unidirectional rotating bezel, Miyota 2115 movement with calendar and phosphorescent points on the time indicators.
Using the highest grade of stainless steel as its foundation for its jewelry, Zoppini has removed the barrier that has prevented many from wearing jewelry; allergic reactions to certain alloys, such as nickel. In addition, Zoppini Firenze continues the artisan tradition of Italian jewelry craft, surpassing the highest manufacturing standards in Europe and indeed the world.
You will see Zoppini jewelry adorning the models of top fashion magazines and worn by those who love the beauty and quality of finely crafted jewelry all over the world. Wherever you happen to be in the world; Brazil, Europe, Dubai, Canada, Asia or Italy, you will find Zoppini jewelry stores.