Your Jewelry

78 asked:


I’m cleaning out my deceased grandmother’s closet, and found tons of old costume jewelry. Some of it is cheap plastic and going to Goodwill, but some of it is actually nice stuff. I saw an Antiques Roadshow once that said a lot of the old broaches were collector’s items and were actually worth money, so the question is, where do I start to try to sell or auction some of it?

Vanessa

Jim Mattson asked:


Jewelry is not only fashion its culture, its history. Jewelry-there is no escape from it. One has to wear it one-way or the other. Jewelry is almost becoming a necessity currently. You can brighten-up your day or make a new friend with a mere piece of ornament. Jewelry has been getting considerable attention at all times. Jewelry of different eras will tell you the stories of that time due to its design and craftsmanship. You can actually trace history with jewelry. The history of jewelry is as old as mankind itself. With the passage of time the art of jewelry has marvelously evolved to the heights of perfection.

With every passing year jewelry has stood for different symbols and reasons. This symbolism changed from time to time. If we take a look, well find the traces of jewelry before the time of Stone Age when people use to bury dead bodies along with their precious assets including jewelry with them. Then in Stone Age when the humans were not civilized but still they were aware and also felt the need of ornaments, their jewelry was fashioned using their primitive tools out of wood, stones bones, animal teeth, pebbles, feathers, shells and leather. Gold and silver made its first appearance with the ancient Egyptians. They liked gold because of its warm, glowing color and its ease to work on it, being relatively soft and pliable. And I believe since then gold never loses its charm actually the craze of gold is getting wilder with every coming year.

Use of precious stones started in Egyptians time. Especially the jewelry using turquoise and lapis lazuli was very much liked by them. Egyptian were shown wearing bracelets, brooches, headdresses, pendants and rings made of gold, silver and precious gemstones in ancient pictures and sculptures. Ornaments took a primary importance in their lives and thats is why jewelry craftsmanship was developed a lot in this age. Elegance and sophistication was a trademark of old Greeks jewelry. They used several designs but mainly their specialty was gold filigree of wire openwork in the naturalistic shapes of flowers, leaves and animals. Whereas for Romans jewelry was a status symbol, middle Ages also followed the same rule though styles and income levels relatively discouraged wearing of most jewelry. But Brooches were an important part of the wardrobe as they were practical in holding up tunics and cloaks. In this period all social classes commonly wore rings. Rings made of iron, copper, and silver or gold with the metal referring to the wearers social standing.

Renaissance period came with the revival of ornaments, fashion of showing more skin gave ample chance for jewelry to become a trend. Jewelry transformed into art in this era, jewelry was equally used by men and women though mens necklaces was more like chains and women tend to wear more complicated designs with twists and bead work. Pearls came in Elizabethan era, in contrast to Renaissance period delicate one droplet pearl earrings with simple matching pearl choker made its appearance in England. Georgians Jewelry was entirely handmade and therefore quite individualistic. Both men and women wore heavy, richly jeweled chains, rings, shoe buckles, and hair ornaments, buttons and brooches. Clothes with gemstones sewn on them were a pretentious flaunt of wealth. Jewelry settings were designed to exhibit the color and sparkle of gemstones, predominantly diamonds. The principal theme of the period was stimulated by nature, including flowers, leafs, insects, birds and feathers.

Art of jewelry making was further refined in Victorian period in Europe, and exquisite lockets and cameos were made. They started stamping out Standard Jewelry to be duplicated, this feature brought quality jewelry to the middle-class as well. Platinum came on the scene in 20th century. Long dangling earrings, long strands of pearls or beads, diamond watches cocktail rings, and multiple bracelets on both upper and lower arms was the gift of 20th century. Platinum and precious stones, particularly diamonds were also in. From 1940s flamboyant curves and bows in large pieces of jewelry became identified as Retro Modern. Yellow gold again regained distinction these years, Semi-precious stones and man-made rubies and sapphires became more popular. Cocktail rings, bracelets, watches and necklaces were enormous.

Todays clients would consider that style quite extravagant and flashy. Early 1990s gave a comeback to platinum and novel pieces like the tennis bracelet and the diamond solitaire pendant made their way this time. Men leaned to wear bracelets, necklaces and even earrings more when the Twentieth century drew towards its end. But now jewelry is fairly used by both sexes. From bracelets and toe rings, to necklaces and tongue studs, jewelry continues to be a popular titivation for the human race and most body parts have been pierced to allow for the wearing of such. Watches also have been an important part of jewelry, as jewelry improved on the whole watches also got better and better and today we have a long list of watches having different designs and functions. Analog, digital, LCD, LED, quartz (which is one of the most famous nowadays), mechanical, jewel, diving watches, all are used according to ones liking. Just like any other jewelry piece in watches too there are several brands you can go for. Watches are not mere necessity anymore they are much more than this.

Todays jewelry is the mirror of wearers soul and personality. Jewelry is the license to stamp your own individuality. Jewelry says a lot more then you can think. It actually talks. You can experience it, if you are going to a new place where anyone hardly knows you then wear an eye catchy piece and people will definitely drew near you to ask you about it. Trust me sometimes an ornament can actually compel someone to talk to you. Youll be thinking this is sheer exaggeration. No, Jewelry affix beauty to your charm, in fact it adds to your body language. It reflects the definitive style and persona of the person wearing it. Zany and colorful wearable art works best, it shows you have a wanton spirit, are playful, light-hearted, and spontaneous. Try experiencing the wonders of jewelry do in your life, make it a point not to leave your home without a piece of jewelry as it is worth it.

For more details about jewellery and watches visit: http://www.bargainvaluedeals.com/jewelry-and-watches.php



Anna

Linda R asked:


I have valuable jewelry I need to sell, but not at hock shop prices (1/4 of the value). Real Simple magazine had an article a few years ago about some online consignment shops that were trustworthy, but I haven’t been able to find that issue. Has anyone used these successfully, and if so, can I get the website information? If there is a better solution, I’m open to all ideas. Thank you.

Bert

question_it_27 asked:


For jewelry designers, if the COGS is 100.00 what would the standard wholesale and retail pricing be?

Philip

Steven Zhao asked:


Men have always been an important part of the jewelry market, but mostly as buyers of expensive women’s jewelry. Yet their role as exclusive purchasers of women’s jewelry is beginning to shift, as the sales of fine jewelry for men virtually doubled from 2004 to 2006 to reach $6 billion, according to a new study of the jewelry and watch market published by Unity Marketing.

“Jewelry designed for men used to be a step-child in the jewelry business, as compared to women’s jewelry,” said Pam Danziger, president of Unity Marketing and author of “Shopping: Why We Love It and How Retailers Can Create the Ultimate Customer Experience.” “But in 2006 the men’s jewelry market reached a 10 percent share of the market, so it can’t be ignored any longer by jewelry marketers and retailers.”

Men’s jewelry sales continue strong in the luxury market

Signs are that sales of men’s jewelry will continue apace in 2007 and beyond. For example, in Unity Marketing’s quarterly surveys of luxury consumer purchases, men’s jewelry purchase incidence rose each quarter this year to a high of 12 percent at the close of the third quarter 2007. This compares with an historic level of 5 percent purchase incidence in 2006. Such strong sales bode well for the health of the men’s jewelry market going into the traditional fourth quarter gifting season.

“Our findings suggest that men are putting their experience as knowledgeable consumers of women’s jewelry to work in making fine jewelry purchases for themselves,” says Danziger. “Now that many men are abandoning business casual for more formal business attire, they are interested in accenting their wardrobes not only with a fine watch, but gold rings and cufflinks, and wholesale costume jewelry,fashion jewelry wholesale,wholesale jewelry,jewelry supply,pearl jewelry, body jewelry as well.”

Jewelry store sales on upswing in 2006

This surge in interest in men’s jewelry coincides with an overall trend in the jewelry market toward specialty retailers who can provide unique designs and individualized service. After losing market share for several years to discounters and mass merchants, specialty jewelers regained a full 50 percent share of the jewelry market in 2006. Says Danziger, “Jewelry shoppers, in their search for higher-quality merchandise and more fashion-forward designs, found that the service and expert advice available in jewelry stores was exactly what they needed. They were willing to trade up for service and experiences that they couldn’t find in discount and warehouse retailers.”

About Unity Marketing’s new study of the jewelry and watch market

Unity Marketing has just published a new study of the jewelry consumer market, entitled “Jewelry & Watch Report, 2007.” It combines the results of in-depth qualitative focus group research and a quantitative research study of 750 recent jewelry buyers’ shopping preferences, behaviors and attitudes.

Included in the new “Jewelry and Watch Report, 2007″ are profiles of the nation’s top ten jewelry retailers, as well as details about where shoppers turned for their last jewelry or watch purchase and what features about the shopping environment influenced their shopping decision.



Jon

Jenn L asked:


I have raw abalone, and I am wondering if anyone out there knows how to safely cut it into different shapes for making jewelry. If you know of a website that talks about it specifically, that would be just as good! Thanks

Kenneth

Krista QQ(www.123giftfactory.com) asked:


How to find a cool jewelry box that fits your style or used as a great gift?



Jewelry boxes come in a variety of sizes and styles, all with the goal of storing, protecting, organizing, and displaying jewelry. Boxes made specifically for jewelry can be made wood, leather, metal, or various types of fabric. Some boxes are intended specifically for protecting and organizing your jewelry while you travel, while others are intended to compliment the decor or your home. Most jewelry boxes made with women in mind, but there are also jewelry boxes for men and jewelry boxes for children.

With so many choices how do you choose the right jewelry box? How do you select the best one? The key is the think about how much and what type of jewelry you have, how you want to use your jewelry box, and then set a budget.

Below are some popular types of jewelry boxes. Each one has its own unique appeal and is designed to keep your jewelry safe and secure. All you have to do is pick the one you like.

* Leather Jewelry Boxes





Boxes for men’s jewelry, often called “valets” are simpler than women’s versions. They’re typically wrapped in leather and may be a single layer tray with compartments or two layers with a lid. They’re designed to hold watches and cuff links.

These boxes make excellent gifts for the man who has everything.

* Wooden Jewelry Boxes



Wooden jewelry boxes are often the largest. Most contain several drawers and possibly one or two cabinets with glass or wood doors. They’re frequently constructed of oak or mahogany, but other woods such as teak or burl wood may be used. Women’s jewelry boxes can range from very small chests designed to tuck into a drawer to large bureaus on legs. Most boxes fall in the middle range and provide ample storage for earrings, necklaces, rings, and bracelets. The drawers may slide out or lift out accordion style. Wooden boxes for jewelry are traditionally have a high gloss lacquer. Some are intricately carved or ornately painted while others are sleek and simple. Drawers are usually lined with velvet and may have necklace hooks or a mirror inside the lid.

Many women receive these boxes as gifts and treasure them for years. Wooden jewelry boxes become family heirlooms that are passed on through generations.

* Fabric Jewelry Boxes



Fabric jewelry boxes are becoming increasingly popular. Usually smaller than wooden boxes, they’re frequently lined with a combination of satin and velvet. They may have decorative beading on the outside and come in a wide range of colors so as to match the room’s decor. These boxes look lovely displayed on a dresser. Fabric boxes also tend to be more inexpensive jewelry boxes than those made of wood.

Fabric boxes are popular gifts for bridesmaids or younger women.

* Children’s Jewelry Boxes



Children have many uses for fine jewelry boxes. Baby necklaces, charm bracelets, and earrings can all be stored in a plush jewelry box. And just because the jewelry box is authentic doesn’t mean the jewelry has to be. Children can store replica and vintage jewelry for when they play dress up like Mom and Dad.

The solution to getting a cool jewelry box for a child is to know what the child likes. If she’s into music, a musical jewelry box will be a better choice over one that has a cartoon character theme. In any case, there are a number of cool jewelry boxes for children to choose from. It all comes down to what the child considers “cool”.

On the other hand, boxes for children’s jewelry are usually more about the box than its contents. They can be cardboard or wood wrapped in a licensed character’s image or fabric. Inexpensive jewelry boxes have a simple latch. When opened, they play a song for a twirling ballerina. Boxes suitable for an older child may be wrapped in brightly-colored leather or fabric. They’re often lined with satin rather than velvet and have one to three compartments and a mirror.

Cool jewelry boxes for children come in a variety of forms. Often they’re made of thinner wood and emblazoned with popular cartoon characters. Others are made of more luxurious woods yet have a simple design. Some even have music boxes built right in.

* Men’s Jewelry Boxes



Do you believe it? Jewelry boxes are not just for women. For men, there are valet boxes, pen boxes, and watch boxes. Dads who enjoy a smoke every now and then may want to invest in a finely crafted box. Such items can make great Father’s Day gifts and provide a suitable storage place for Dad’s treasured gifts or family heirlooms. However, these cool jewelry boxes aren’t always called jewelry boxes. In most cases they are referred to as valet boxes. Valet boxes are designed to hold men’s “everyday” items such as rings, loose change, wallets, keys, watches, etc. A valet box is a more luxurious way for men to keep their items in one place, rather than shoving everything in a dresser drawer or empty ashtray. Other types of cool jewelry boxes for men include watch boxes (designed to store and display your watch collection) and cigar boxes (which can be used to store cigars or as a keep-all for your pocket items). So as you can see, there are such things as cool jewelry boxes for men.

* Women’s Jewelry Boxes



For women, a jewelry box can be a lovely companion piece to an engagement ring or gold necklace. A velvet-lined jewelry box can be a great way store or show off your most precious valuables. Jewelry boxes can also be customized to suit taste or preferred functionality. They can be crafted to be thin or large, 3-drawer or 4-drawer, or with panels, in a variety of woods. Many boxes can be built in teak, cherry, maple, oak, walnut, or quilted maple.

Women have a number of different types of jewelry boxes to choose from. Jewelry boxes are often crafted in luxurious woods such as maple, oak, walnut, etc. A wood jewelry box gives your collection a solid foundation and protects your pieces from the elements. Some jewelry boxes even contain glass inlays and ornate carvings. Glass and even ceramic makes of jewelry boxes are also quite popular among women and provide their own grace and beauty. Some larger jewelry boxes have multiple swinging doors and compartments, and even finely carved legs. Many jewelry boxes are lockable to protect the precious jewels inside from theft or being lost. Women have many different styles to choose from when selecting a jewelry box. However, it’s very important to match your jewelry collection with a box that will display and protect your pieces appropriately.

Cool jewelry boxes are available for children, women, and even men. However, the jewelry box you select depends on the jewelry you have, what your jewelry storage needs are, and what “cool” factors are important to you in a jewelry box.

* Travel Jewelry Boxes



Travel boxes for jewelry need to be specially designed to ensure the jewelry will remain secure and organized. Popular styles include the small locking box with lined compartments and the fabric roll.

Travel boxes usually have compartments that touch the inside of the lid or slide out of the case. The compartments are divided into one large one for necklaces and two or more smaller ones for earrings, rings, and bracelets.

Jewelry rolls have several plastic zippered compartments of varying sizes. They’re then rolled up and fastened with a ribbon to keep it secure.

Both of these styles have advantages and disadvantages. The roll tucks easily into a suitcase but provides less protection while the box takes up more space but provides better protection for expensive pieces.



It’s known to us all, jewelry boxes are not meant to be disposable items. They are meant to be personal, gifts that can be treasured for generations. That’s why it can mean so much to have your jewelry box engraved. Monogramming can be a great way to make a jewelry box your own. A tender message from a loved one can also increase the sentimental value of these wonderful items. So these jewelry boxes make wonderful gifts for family members and other loved ones. They also bring with them a rich, Old World heritage that can be passed from generation to generation. After all, your valuables deserved to be stored in jewelry boxes that are equal to the value they contain.

Last, I’d like to give you some useful terms when shopping for your jewelry box.

- Musical Jewelry Box

This type of jewelry box combines the musical component of your typical music box with the storage space of a jewelry box. Musical jewelry boxes function similar to music boxes - you lift the lid and the music starts. However, these types of jewelry boxes also contain drawers and storage space for jewelry.

- Travel Jewelry Case

Made for transport, travel jewelry cases are jewelry boxes designed to handle the bumps and dings of travel. These types of boxes are fashionable but serve a more protective purpose than display.

- Valet Jewelry Box

Valet boxes are jewelry boxes for men. These boxes serve as a keep-all for everyday items such as rings, keys, loose change, cell phone, etc. Valet boxes are designed specifically for men and are unlike your typical jewelry box.

- Watch Box

This type of box is intended specifically for watch storage. Watch boxes come in single and multiple watch capacity, and are available in many different sizes and styles. Asides from this, you may have noticed a specific type of watch box which also called ‘watch winder’, which rotates the watch in a circular pattern to keep the self-winding mechanism of automatic watches in motion. If left in rest, these types of watches often stop. A watch winder eliminates this problem.

- Jewelry Box Lining

The lining is the interior of a jewelry box. Jewelry box lining is often lush and consists of fine fabrics. The lining is designed to protect your jewelry but also present them in a fashionable way.

- Jewelry Trays

Jewelry trays are open trays with compartments for jewelry storage. Often these trays are stackable and lined with fabric for safe storage of your jewelry pieces.

I’d like to introduce and display an excellent selection of China jewelry boxes, on which you will view various jewelry boxes for different persons, and you might find exactly what you are looking for without further ado..



Lucy

Krista QQ(www.123giftfactory.com) asked:


Jewelry has become a popular seller online in recent years, so you’re bound to see thousands of designs while shopping for jewelry on the Web. How do you choose what type of jewelry and where to buy it? It’s will be more easy with following jewelry online shopping advices.



The jewelry market is one of the most complex markets in the world with literally thousands of types of jewelries from necklaces, earrings, bracelets, finger rings and all fashion accessories that cater for women’s tastes. Online shopping offers the buyer the possibility to choose from hundreds of shops without going from store to store and wasting a lot of time searching for the perfect jewelry.

Sterling sliver jewelries are becoming more and more popular among jewelry buyers because they come at an affordable price and also stand out from all other jewelry due to the purity of the silver which is quite exquisite. These jewelries are the perfect compromise between cheap jewelries and very the very expensive ones which aren’t accessible to the regular buyer due to the fact that they come at a big price.

Lots of online shops offer this kind of jewelry for potential buyers who always have a great alternative to other types of jewelries due to the fact that quality can be found at an affordable price. Whether you are looking for an engagement ring or a necklace, sterling silver jewelries come in all shapes and sizes, satisfying everyone’s tastes, making them an ideal solution for a present.

Fine jewelry is available online for up to 50 percent less than you’d pay retail. For such a large investment, however, you’ll want to be sure you’re buying from a trusted and reliable source - and that you have done enough homework to make a smart decision.

Another advantage of online jewelry shopping is that you don’t have to stand in line when you want to purchase something also online shops are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Besides this, many online shops have special offers from time to time, price cuts and other similar advantages which put them in front of regular shops.



On many online jewelry shops you can find comments from customers which bought products from that shop, this is a great way to find out what other people think about the jewelry they had already received which will help you decide whether to buy or not from that jewelry store.

If you are confident that the site is secure and reputable, browse the categories (”sterling silver”, “freshwater pearl”, “necklaces”, “bracelets” and so on) or do a site search using the special keyword of the item you are looking for, such as “sterling silver bracelet,” “gold earrings,” “jade pendant” and so on.

Also, online jewelry stores have a contact section where you can ask questions about whether the product is available or not, this is a great way to find out more information about a specific product like its availability, shipping, payments and other similar questions.



Well developed jewelry websites present their products in a very professional matter, giving the visitor a clear idea about that specific product. Complete information can be found on the site regarding all of their products making the buyer’s life easier because they can have all the information they need about a certain product so they can easily decide which product to buy.

When you are searching for jewelry on the Web, be sure to narrow your search scope to the types of jewelry you like. Use specific styles, materials and themes to narrow your search. It’s even better if you can find an online mall and search for jewelry all in one place. These online shopping malls often offer categorized jewelry items with photos for easy shopping.

All in all, combining online jewelry shopping with sterling silver jewelries you get the perfect way to make an ideal gift to your love one, at a reasonable price. Just by clicking a few mouse buttons you will make someone’s life way happier with a piece of sterling silver jewelry.



Last Friendly Notice: Once you’ve found what you want, take the online price to your local jeweler and see if he or she will give you a similar item at the same price. This can save you shipping and handling costs and the hassle of returning something that you don’t like through the mail.



Kathy

Tamara H asked:


I plan to sell my jewelry on line and I need a good camera to take good quality pictures. I have a kodak easyshare and the pic’s are not true to the likeness or color of the jewelry.

Leeza

Janey Yang asked:


 

Consumers are cutting back on spending nowadays, but jewelry retailers are looking toward the upcoming summer months, to get consumers back into jewelry stores. Additionally, with the trends of bright colors and bold pieces, consumers can’t help but take notice of and want a piece of fashion item this year.

Fashion magazines are discussing trends in jewelry for the spring in their latest issues, and big pieces are definitely in style. InStyle magazine focused on nature- and tribal-themed pieces and bright colors, while Lucky included a whole spread of classic, yet modern, cocktail rings. In its March issue, Vogue gave brides-to-be some of the magazine’s favorite engagement rings and wedding day jewelry. A lot of this season’s trends are a natural progression from last season. Necks were bare and rings were big, but this season necklaces have made an extremely bold comeback..

For spring and summer 2008, shine is everywhere in terms of fashion accessories. From the purses we carry to the clothes we choose to the shoes we wear, the newest trend is all about shine from head to toe. Jewelry is one accessory that will never go out of style and can last a lifetime with the proper care. So while consumers may be cutting back on a lot of spending, jewelry retailers are hoping that the latest jewelry trends will get consumers into the stores and at least looking at the latest pieces. For upcoming holidays and special occasions, be sure to carry items that are on-trend.

 

Nature-inspired Jewelry Trend

Nature-inspired Jewelry has become one of the hottest trends in Hollywood today! Tons of celebrities are sporting nature jewelry with both elegant formal wear and casual everyday looks. Snake jewelry is one of the most popular styles of nature-inspired jewelry.

 

For centuries, people have crafted nature-inspired jewelry in appreciation of the world around them. In the Victorian period, romantic notions about the natural world caused a flourish of nature-inspired jewelry and art. Flower jewelry and images of animals were very popular styles; Victoria herself loved snake jewelry and believed the serpent motif represented fidelity and love. The more people learned about plants, animals, and the oceans, the more they were moved to create nature style jewelry and nature inspired jewelry.

 

“Enlightenment” Jewelry Trend

 

Sentimental Jewelry is a strong category not only for self-purchase but also for gift giving. 

Engraved jewelry featuring messages of love, poetry or initials will be the most popular.

 

Yoga Inspired Jewelry is becoming abundant, reflecting the growing number of people who are adopting this ritual discipline, which is said to bring physical and spiritual alignment. Yoga talismans are also popular among those who just want an overt and motivational reminder.

 

Green Jewelry and Green Gems are being used in many jewelry collections this season. Jewelers with a green conscience are making a point to incorporate earth friendly methods and materials into their jewelry designs.

 

Jewelry For A Cause is becoming plenteous. As JFC says, the jewelry industry is that with a heart! Designers today are donating proceeds from sales to endless philanthropic causes and people in need. Designers’ passion comes pouring out artistically through the creation, often reflecting the organization benefiting from the proceeds.

 

Big, Bold Jewelry Trend

Wearing less jewelry pieces is more when it comes to the top jewelry trends for 2008, but the key ingredient for trend-setting fashionistas is larger, bolder styles that are gem-intensive.

That advice comes from Jesse Chao of Gems by Chao, a leading Houston fine jeweler. Chao specializes in advising her gala-minded clientele-a mix of socialites and philanthropists-and matching fine jewelry to their personal style. In a statement, Chao said women who are already planning to attend galas will be wearing less fine jewelry but adorning themselves with larger, more impressive pieces, for a classic “Grace Kelly” look.  I’ve actually already seen this trend over the past year, less jewelry but each piece that is worn is big and bold - one big bracelet, no necklace but super long earrings.

While I personally don’t feel comfortable in really large jewelry pieces, for that special occasion - red carpet affair for example, it does make sense because of the dramatic statement a few large jewelry pieces can make.

 

Ethnic inspired jewelry is supposed to be gaining momentum. Due to the increased cost of gold, we’ll see more filigree type designs, which look great but cut down on the gram weight. Now, this sounds interesting!

Bold Pendants Trend

This is no time for a wimpy drop necklace. You need a substantial pendant that really makes a fashion statement, and two of the hottest colors will be yellow and its complementary color, purple.

Yellow

Refreshing gemstones like Citrine, Yellow Topaz, Amber, and Chrysoberyl and simulated Canary Diamond jewelry, topaz glass beads and the Cubic Zirconia substitutes will keep you on top of seasonal jewelry trends! Like this lovely Citrine:

Purple

A great counter point color for yellow is purple, which will also be highlighted this spring. Like this gorgeous pendant.



Rhonda