Jewelry 101: Learn Jewelry Knowledge to Be a Pro

Are you shopping for that exquisite piece of jewelry? Jewelry extends beyond gemstones and metals—there are different jewelry types, classifications, and materials that all consumers need to know.

These factors impact different aspects of your jewelry piece, including how to clean them and what happens if you need jewelry repair.

This is why we’re offering our Jewelry 101 section to our readers. This section will cover all jewelry knowledge, from the history of certain jewelry pieces to the different types of jewelry and cleaning best practices. 😉

Want to take the stress away from jewelry shopping? Read some of the articles available in our Jewelry 101 section!

Jewelry 101: Topics you can expect to see

In our Jewelry 101 section, we’ll cover this essential jewelry knowledge:

• The history of different types of jewelry
• Different types of jewelry materials used in jewelry making
• Common metals (pure metals and alloys)
• Diamonds, pearls, colored gemstones, crystals, and beads
• Unconventional jewelry materials, such as wood
• Jewelry making processes and techniques
• Jewelry repairs
• Jewelry cleaning
• And more!

Different types of jewelry

There are many different types of jewelry and they all have their own symbolism and history. Some of the most common types of jewelry worn include:

• Necklaces
• Rings
• Bracelets
• Earrings
• Anklets
• Pins
• Watches

All of these jewelry types have their own unique style and history. Many jewelry pieces, such as engagement rings, offer symbolism while many other jewelry pieces are worn for style.

Different jewelry pieces also have their own style classifications, such as casual and formal wear. We will go over the styles that are suitable for certain occasions and how to revamp your look with the right jewelry.

Materials

Materials and metals are one of the most intricate aspects of jewelry making (both for fine jewelry and fashion jewelry). There are many different jewelry material categories and it’s essential that all buyers understand the different material options.

Here are the common materials you’ll come across.

Metal

There are different types of metal used to make jewelry. Gold and silver are the most popular options. In its natural form, gold is soft and malleable. But more alloys are added to gold to provide durability.

Gold’s natural yellow color is synonymous with luxury. But different alloys can be added to change the color of gold; for example, copper is added to create rose gold.

Silver is also a popular metal. Since silver is also soft and malleable, different alloys are added to create sterling silver.

Other common jewelry metals and alloys include platinum, bronze, brass, nickel, copper, stainless steel, pewter, titanium, tungsten, and wood.

Diamonds

Diamonds are the most exquisite gemstone. But the type of diamond you buy impacts its quality. That’s why we offer comprehensive diamond buying guides.

In this section you’ll find information about:

• Cut
• Clarity
• Diamond color
• Carat weight

You’ll want to use these aspects when buying your diamond.

Colored Gemstones

Like diamonds, gemstones are exquisite and offer a bit of flair to your fashion jewelry piece. Gemstones range in color and quality. Like diamonds, they’re available in different cuts and carats.

There are a variety of gemstones out there. Some of the most famous ones include:

• Aquamarine
• Amethyst
• Emerald
• Citrine
• Alexandrite
• Morganite
• Garnet
• Opal
• Onyx
• Quartz
• Peridot
• Sapphire
• Ruby
• Topaz
• Tanzanite
• Turquoise
• Tourmaline

Pearls

Pearls are one kind of charming gems. They form within the soft tissue of a mollusk. All pearls look different but they offer a hint of glamour to all jewelry pieces.

The most famous types of pearls include:

• Freshwater pearls
• Akoya cultured pearls
• Tahitian pearls
• South sea cultured pearls

Jewelry making

Jewelry making encompasses a wide variety of techniques, jewelry tools, and processes.

Since all jewelry is different, your unique jewelry piece went through multiple steps to reach its final result. In case you’re interested in jewelry design, different jewelry making techniques, or want to make your own DIY jewelry, we’ll offer many resources on this topic.

Making your jewelry last

You’ll want your jewelry to last for years. The key to timeless jewelry is proper maintenance.

Regularly cleaning your jewelry is a must, but different metals and gemstones call for different jewelry cleaning techniques. No matter if you have gold or stainless steel jewelry, we’ll offer cleaning advice for all jewelry pieces.

Jewelry maintenance also encompasses some little-known techniques, such as proper jewelry storage.

There are times when jewelry repair may be necessary. We will describe signs your jewelry needs repaired and how to find the best jewelry repair expert.

Read our Jewelry 101 section

Ready to learn more about jewelry? See what we offer in our Jewelry 101 section! 👇