“Karat or Carat?”

The word Carat should be reserved for gem’s weight like “three carat ruby” and karat reserved as a measure of purity of gold. Long time ago, carob beans were used as a unit of weight, both words karat and carat grew from that root word.

Jewelry Tips 4 of 12

• Although you may have a favorite designer, there's really no need to stick with just one. In fact, there's no need for the pieces to actually be designer. There are plenty of wonderful pieces on the market that are unsigned but certainly make a fashion statement. Mix and match your jewelry to give it character and a little pizzazz!
• Designer pieces tend to cost a little more, last a little longer, and they usually follow more traditional lines so you can wear them for more than one or two seasons.
• Sterling Silver is affordable and very versatile. If you don't want to spend the money for sterling, then purchase some silver plate pieces. Silver is a must have for any wardrobe! You can go from dainty and delicate to large and noticeable. It can be dressed up or down and is acceptable for any event or occasion.
• Have some gold plate or gold tone pieces in your wardrobe basics also. 14-18k gold may be a bit too pricey for many but gold plated jewelry is quite affordable and will give you good value for the cost. Gold, like silver, can be dressed up or dressed down and is perfect for a very classy look.

How to Choose Jewelry

Choosing your jewelry is no different than choosing your wardrobe. Most important is to stick within your comfort zone and your personal fashion style. That said, it never hurts to step out of the box once in awhile.

What's most important is that your jewelry matches up with your outfit. Your jewelry is the finishing touch on your total look. Make your fashion statement count!

Steps:

1. Determine what you want your jewelry to do. Do you want it front and center stage? Do you want it to compliment? Do you want it subtle?
2. Make certain your jewelry is appropriate for the occasion or event you'll be wearing it to. A sexy over sized choker might be perfect for a night on the town but may not be fitting for the boardroom.
3. Determine how long you want it to last and how often you plan to wear it.
4. Know how much money you want to spend.
5. If you can, try on the jewelry or hold it up next to you to determine whether it suits you.

Less is more.

Everyone has heard this phrase before, but try applying it to your daily living/workspace. When you have less, you feel less burdened because there isn't as much to keep track of.

The payoff for having less is that you actually feel like you have more... you are not wasting it looking for items or shuffling through papers. You just feel better about your space and don't feel like your belongings own you, but rather you own them.

To maintenance semiprecious stones in perfect conditions

• Avoid perfumes, colognes; make up powders, cosmetics, hair spray, body oil, heat, and other substances that may cause damage to stones.
• Rub gems with a smooth, soft cloth to remove fingerprints and keep them shiny.
• Store stones away from intense heat and light.
• Try to apply all these products before you wear the jewelry.