A Woman's Guide to Investing in Fundamental Jewelry Pieces - Part - 3

A good chain, whether a link or flat chain, completes a shirt or dress. A choker length chain displays better when worn with a scoop, tank or open neck shirt. If you choose a longer chain, you have the option of adding a ring to one of the links so you could adjust the length by wearing it at a shorter length. From one chain you can create two different lengths. With a longer chain, you can also add a pendant. If your chain is very long, you can wrap it around your neck once or twice.

If you see a design for a chain that you really like, you may wish to invest in two of the same chains. A shorter one for everyday and a longer one for special occasions. You could also wear the two together for two different looks.

There are so many unique chains on the market. If you you are a traveller, you may see something quite unusual on one of your journeys. As an example, if you travel to the Middle East, the gold is 24kt and has a rich color, the designs for chains are extraordinary. Don't miss out on an opportunity to purchase a chain if do see a spectacular one on one of your travels, you may regret later on not buying it. One of my customers, while she was single travelled a lot. One summer she spent travelling through Europe and discovered the beautiful jewelry of Florence, Italy. She saw a beautiful chain and while it was very affordable, she was undecided about purchasing it since she didn't want to part with all her cash. Fast forward several years and today she REGRETS that she didn't buy it. "I haven't seen a chain like it since, why was I so narrow minded", says Caroline.

You may wish to invest in a simple chain for everyday and a more decorative one for special occasions.

If you are a connoisseur of vintage/antique jewelry you may choose a very unique, handmade piece. There is something to be said about vintage jewelry--you do not see these pieces worn every day on the average person.

Consider your lifestyle, look through your wardrobe and then decide which chain would best suit you.

Any questions, I am e-mail away at: jewelbox57@live.com

Reasons for Investing in a Quality Piece of Diamond Jewelry

You have often heard the expression that you need to spend two months salary for a quality engagement ring. I personally think that two months salary is a bit too much, and that a one month salary is a more reasonable amount for the average person. Taking it one step further, this should not only apply for an engagement ring, but for a QUALITY piece of diamond jewelry.

I've always believed that that quality of a diamond jewelry is more important than the size. As an example, one of our customers, a young woman who has been in the work force for a little over a year, and had a limited budget, wanted to purchase a quality pair of diamond stud earrings. Quality was a priority for her--not the size. She purchased a 5 pt. VVS1 pair of diamond studs. When she wears them, the earrings radiate such sparkle, because they are a quality pair of earrings. This was a wise investment for her and they will only increase in their value.

To put it into a different perspective, let's say your budget is $2-4,000--diamonds are forever and will last you a lifetime. If you spent $25-30,000 on your car, how much is it going to be worth in 10 years? When its time to trade it in, or drive it to the junk yard, you will spend that much, if not more to replace it.

Diamonds retain or increase in their value, they look brand new forever, they will not wear out, break down, get old, be trendy, but will last a lifetime.

Do your research and make sure you educate yourself about the 4 "C's" --carat weight, clarity, color and cut. Before you make your purchase, do look and compare prices and quality. Most importantly purchase from a reputable jeweler.

Any questions, its my pleasure to answer them.

Baya