A Beginner’s Guide to Jewelry

A Beginner’s Guide to Jewelry - Janine Jewels

Are you searching for the perfect piece of jewelry but have no idea of where to begin? Or do you struggle when it comes to keeping your jewelry in good condition? You’re not alone, as many people are unfamiliar with popular jewelry terms and how to look after their jewelry pieces.


If you’re a jewelry novice, you must learn the basics about jewelry; this includes terms such as carat and clarity and the differences between popular metals.


To help you navigate your way through the world of fine jewelry and ensure that your rings, necklaces, and bracelets remain in the finest condition, we’ve compiled a guide on the most important things to know about jewelry.


How Do I Care for My Fine Jewelry?


Like anything valuable, fine jewelry needs proper care. If you fail to look after your jewelry, it may appear lackluster or tarnish over time. Fortunately, there are some simple things you can do to keep your jewelry looking great:


  • Regular cleaning is essential. Wipe down your jewelry pieces with a soft cloth often to remove any dirt or debris. 
  • Properly store all of your jewelry, ensuring that pieces are not touching one another and are kept in a cool place.
  • Don’t wear jewelry when working out or in the shower. Sweat and hot water can affect the quality of the jewelry and diminish its appearance.

What are the 4 C’s?


The 4 C’s are clarity, cut, colour, and carat. These terms are used when describing diamonds and it is important to understand their meaning if you plan on buying a piece of diamond jewelry. Here’s a brief breakdown of what each word means:


  • Clarity refers to how clear the diamond is. Low clarity can often result in a murky-looking stone.
  • Cut indicates the dimensions of the diamond, including its facets and shape. The cut significantly affects how light reflects off the stone.
  • Colour refers to the lack of colour in a diamond. The higher the content of yellow, the less valuable the stone is.
  • Carat is the weight of the diamond and this factor impacts the cost of diamond rings

What is the Difference Between White Gold and Yellow Gold?


White gold has a silver appearance, whereas yellow gold has a more traditional yellow hue. These colours are achieved as a result of the different alloys in each metal. White gold is made by mixing gold with nickel, and yellow gold is typically created by adding a copper alloy.


What is an Appraisal?


If you own a piece of fine jewelry, you can get an appraisal by having the piece examined by a professional jeweler who can assess it and determine its monetary value. Appraisals are often carried out on inherited jewelry pieces to determine how much they are worth.


What is the Difference Between Having Your Rings Polished and Cleaned?


Professional jewelers offer a range of services, including jewelry repair, polishing, and cleaning. There is a difference between polishing and cleaning, with jewelry experts often opting for cleaning since this process is the gentler option.


While polishing is also effective in helping jewelry look great, it isn’t recommended to have jewelry polished often. Polishing machines are rough and can remove the outer layers of metal on jewelry pieces, damaging them over time.


What is Rhodium Plating?


Many rings are plated with rhodium. Rhodium is a strong metal that helps jewelry pieces, such as rings, remain in good condition. Jewelry that is rhodium-plated is protected from rust and tarnishing, and tends to look new for a longer period of time.


Find or Create the Perfect Piece of Fine Jewelry


Now that you’ve learned the basics, take some time to browse the beautiful selection of fine jewelry available at Janine de Dorigny in Toronto. From engagement rings to earrings and necklaces, the unique and stunning pieces are created with the highest-quality craftsmanship.


Interested in designing your own custom jewelry pieces? Connect with Janine de Dorigny at 416-459-2515 or through the online contact form to begin your fine jewelry journey.