A Lady's Jewelry wardrobe
Jewelry and Beauty on a budget
A lady's jewelry is much like her perfume. She chooses pieces that suit her personality and, over time, become part of her signature. Consider how Coco Chanel was known for her long ropes of pearls and her Count Verdura Maltese enamel cuff bracelets. Former First Lady Barbara Bush was rarely seen without her choker-length pearls. Their jewelry became part of who they were.As you develop your classic look, you will gradually build a jewelry wardrobe that complements and flatters you. Determine which metal tone best suits your complexion. You may find that silver or white gold is most flattering, or perhaps yellow gold brings warmth to your coloring. While some women successfully mix metals, it is often easier to choose one primary tone and build your collection around it.Quality is always noticeable, even to the untrained eye. Inferior pieces are equally apparent. The secret is to select versatile, classic pieces of fine quality that will never go out of style. Despite advertising messages, you do not need drawers full of jewelry to be well dressed. A few carefully chosen pieces can complement nearly every garment in a thoughtfully assembled wardrobe.You may wish to begin with a watch, since it should be both functional and attractive. A watch is a purchase that should never be rushed. Take your time (PUN INTENDED) and search until you find one that truly suits you. It may become your companion for many years. A well-made watch can be handed down to the next generation, carrying with it not only style and craftsmanship, but also memories and family stories. Then gradually build your jewelry wardrobe around its style.Your next purchase might be a pair of earrings. Choose a versatile style that can be worn comfortably for almost any occasion. These basic earrings should not dangle excessively or interfere with the use of a telephone or mobile phone.Always purchase fine jewelry from reputable jewelers. A trusted merchant can help you understand quality, durability, and value. Certain stones, such as opals, are breathtakingly beautiful but surprisingly fragile and may not withstand everyday wear. Pearls are a wonderful wardrobe staple, but they require proper care and occasional restringing, a skill that has become increasingly difficult to find.Pearls come in many colors and qualities, and understanding the differences can be challenging. For this reason, it is perfectly acceptable—perhaps even advisable—to purchase high-quality simulated pearls. Many are remarkably beautiful, durable, and vastly less expensive than fine cultured pearls.A lovely strand of simulated pearls with matching earrings and a good watch will carry you through almost any occasion. These simple pieces may serve you well for years as you thoughtfully add to your collection.Should you acquire valuable jewelry, inquire about insurance. Fine pieces are meant to be worn and enjoyed, not hidden away in a safe deposit box.Learn to resist the temptation of trendy jewelry. Fashion comes and goes, but you are building something far more enduring—a look that is uniquely your own. Over time, you may add pieces that allow for variety while remaining true to your personal style.One day, you may overhear someone say, "That looks just like the necklace Deidre always wears." When that happens, you have achieved something special. You have created a signature style.Many people enjoy wearing their birthstone and believe it brings good fortune. While there is little scientific evidence to support such claims, there is certainly no harm in embracing a tradition that brings you joy.Birthstones• January – Garnet• February – Amethyst• March – Aquamarine• April – Diamond• May – Emerald• June – Pearl or Moonstone• July – Ruby• August – Peridot• September – Sapphire• October – Opal• November – Topaz or Citrine• December – Turquoise or Lapis LazuliYou will notice that these lists include both precious and semi-precious stones. These classifications have changed over time and are often influenced by popularity and availability. Traditionally, however, diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds are considered the precious gemstones.When purchasing fine jewelry, always work with reputable, established merchants. In the early 1950s, the Gemological Institute of America developed a grading system that remains helpful in evaluating gemstones. Your jeweler can explain the "Four Cs" of diamonds: color, cut, clarity, and carat weight. Each contributes to the beauty and value of a stone.Synthetic stones can be both beautiful and affordable, and there is certainly a place for them. As a friend once remarked with a smile, "I'd hate to get hit in the head for a fake diamond!" The larger the sparkle, the more attention it may attract.An expert is needed to evaluate a gemstone properly, so the information that follows is intended only to familiarize you with the terminology. Always rely upon a certified and trustworthy jeweler when making an important purchase.