Are you into jewelry? I only have a few pieces and don’t really know a lot about jewelry other then what I think is pretty and what isn’t. Here are some tips from Jen on how to have a great jewelry collection without paying an arm and a leg.
Jewelry is something that trips a lot of people up. Everybody wants to have great pieces but not everybody can afford to get the original, high end items that they see in the windows of the jewelry store or even draped on the people they pass as they go about their days. Here is the good news: it is possible to have a beautiful jewelry collection without having to take out a second mortgage on your home to get it. Here’s how.
Forget Diamonds
The diamond is the most coveted jewel out there. This is partly because they are genuinely beautiful but it is also because for some reason people want expensive stuff even when there are affordable alternatives that look just as good (and sometimes even better). For example, why would you spend six month’s salary (that could be spent on food, rent, car payments, etc) on just one diamond piece that you’re too afraid to wear out of the house because you’re worried you’ll lose it, when there are beautiful cz bands that look just as good and that you can buy for a fraction of the cost and replace easily if it gets damaged or lost?
Birthstones are Bank
Everybody has a birthstone. Why not focus on jewelry pieces that highlight those stones? Birthstones are beautiful and, typically, affordable (or more affordable than diamonds). There are also gemstones that will work better with your coloring. If your budget is extra tight there are synthetic alternatives to these gemstones that are virtually identical in terms of weight and appearance that you can purchase. The nice thing about birthstones is that it helps the jewelry feel more personal when you choose and wear it.
Gold and Silver Are Still Relevant
You know that, in terms of most jewelry, the simpler the piece the more striking it can be. This is why simple gold and silver thread necklaces are such great additions to every jewelry collection. Gold and silver bangles can dress up any arm. Simple hoop earrings are beautiful. Even better, gold and silver hold their value over time so the investment you make in them today (silver is much more affordable than gold) will hold its worth for years to come. These metals are also, across the board, cheaper than their gemstone counterparts.
Beads are Beautiful
What article on creating an affordable jewelry collection would be complete without the suggestion to learn how to make your own pieces? Beaded jewelry is just as beautiful as gemstone and precious metal based jewelry. Beads come in all shapes, sizes and looks now and creating beautiful designs can be done for a tiny fraction of what it would cost you to buy that piece readymade. Even better, jewelry making is a hobby that you can turn into a profitable business—which will help you make more money to further expand your jewelry collection!
These are just a few of the ways you can build a beautiful jewelry collection that you’ll love to wear and that will make other people green with envy.
I have my beads bought traveling across the USA. Now I only need the time and patience and creativity to do something more with them.