Stainless Steel Jewelry –The Timeless Jewelry Trend Which is Still in Vogue

Stainless Steel Jewelry

Stainless steel and delicate jewelry go hand in hand. Not just this, apart from the usage of stainless steel as surgical instruments or knives, or maybe for building bridges, they can be used for jewelry as much as gold or silver. Stainless steel jewelry is appreciated by everybody because of its long-lasting ability. Yes, it does not look old or damaged even after ages of wearing it regularly. Also, since nowadays, people go for more aesthetically pleasing material as jewelry, wholesale stainless steel jewelry come in handy.

Two Types of Stainless Steel

There are two common types of stainless steel which are very popular in and around the world. These two types are nothing but the most popular ones and the most durable ones. They are –

Type 304

Type 304 is one the most common and the most durable type. This is the type which contains chromium and nickel. Though nickel is not suited for many skin types, the nickel used in stainless steel is not of much trouble.

Type 316L

Along with chromium and nickel, type 316L contains a little bit of Molybdenum as well. Molybdenum is used to keep the stainless steel at its best condition. This resists corrosion and helps in keeping the jewelry safe from any bad weather.

Benefits of Stainless Steel Jewelry

Due to wholesale stainless steel jewelry, gold and silver jewelry are getting a tough competition. Having said this, for the ones who buy jewelry often, perhaps regularly, stainless steel jewelry is perfect since that is cheaper than gold or silver jewelry and pleases or satiates the eyes as well. Before jumping to conclusions, you must also be aware of the advantages or benefits of buying stainless steel jewelry –

Perfect Material

The most important benefit of stainless steel, that is, the reason why stainless steel is considered to one of the best materials is that it does not stain at all. As its name suggests, stainless steel is far from getting stained or corroding. But, with gold and silver jewelry, they are not stained free and get stained faster than other substances. Thus, the main advantage and the reason why people watch out for stainless steel material is its stainless nature.

Durability of the Alloy

As mentioned earlier, stainless steel is actually an alloy of iron and chromium. However, it is not a very hard or strong alloy like gold or silver. Therefore, delicate jewelry can be made using stainless steel. But, it is durable in its own way. That is, stainless steel jewelry can be easily worn regularly. It has the capability and ability to resist any wear or tear. Its resistance power is higher than any other alloy and that is why it is believed to be extremely durable. People buy wholesale stainless steel jewelry for this reason as well.

Unique and One-of-its-kind

The versatility of stainless steel attracts folks worldwide. You can wear it with anything and anytime whatsoever. Stainless steel goes well with party looks and for simple usages as well. Also, you don’t need to send it for polishing after some time; therefore, it is quite in demand for regular usage. Needless to mention, stainless steel jewelry makes you look totally grand and refined in public and at home as well.

Retaining its Shape

Stainless steel jewelry retains its shape better than other jewelry. It is not quite bendable but if put into a shape, it would not lose it ever. You can trust stainless steel jewelry with the proper shape. Also, it does not get damaged or is not hard to handle while in a good shape.

Non-Allergic

If you are someone who is sensitive to base metal and your skin cannot endure it, be sure to buy stainless steel jewelry. Your skin needs something which would not react and would definitely not itch or create skin issues. Wholesale stainless steel jewelry does not react or cause allergy. Also, if you are someone who has just pierced any part of the body, especially the ears, stainless steel would be the best one for you to go for. With the help of stainless steel, you can keep your skin safe and free of unnecessary skin problems.

Thus, wholesale stainless steel jewelry is one of the best jewelry varieties. If you are willing to buy some, go for the types mentioned and remember the important benefits.

Source: http://www.sooperarticles.com/shopping-articles/jewelry-articles/stainless-steel-jewelry-timeless-jewelry-trend-still-vogue-1607969.html

How to Avoid Tarnish on Sterling Silver Necklaces?

Silver Necklaces

A rich collection of jewelry is a must-have for every woman. Women always need accessories that go well with their outfits and enhance their beauty. But since pure gold and silver items are expensive and too heavy for daily use, sterling silver is highly favored among a wide range of customers owing to its affordability and glitter.

Let’s discuss how sterling silver is different from pure silver.

Difference between Pure Silver and Sterling Silver

Fine silver contains 99.99% of pure silver and thus is too soft to make jewelry with. It tends to bend or break easily. So, other metals are often added to harden it.

On the other hand, sterling silver is an alloy made of silver and some other metal (mostly copper) where pure silver concentration is 92.5% and copper is 7.5%. This is why the hallmark of all authentic sterling silver items is .925. The inclusion of another metal is to amplify its strength and hardness and check the natural tarnishing of pure silver.

Types of Sterling Silver Necklaces

Sterling silver jewelry items are the perfect blend of glamour and simplicity. The unique designs and styles available in sterling silver necklaces at wholesale prices are perfect to make a great style statement and go well with all kinds of clothing- ethnic to glam to casual. Some of the popular designs include:

• Studded Sterling Silver Chokers: Chokers are very popular with chic fashion these days. Choose a favorite pattern of sterling silver chokers and live up to the ‘uptown image’.
• Shimmery Sterling Silver Chains: If you like to keep it classy and light, this is the best choice for you.
• Sterling Silver Beaded Neckpieces: These could work great with formal wears or casual clothing.
• Sterling Silver Pendant Sets: Attractive sterling silver pendants are the best way to add the glitter touch to your party dress!
• Swarovski Sterling Silver Necklaces: To add some extra ‘bling’ to your ethnic attire, this is your best choice.

Apart from these popular designs, there are many chain styles you can choose from. Snake, box, bead, Figaro, thick rolo and thin rolo chains are some examples. Build your own personalized sterling silver necklace by selecting your preferred pattern and adding a favorite phrase, name or date.

What Causes Tarnishing in Sterling Silver Jewelry?

In most sterling silver, the copper or nickel alloy undergoes oxidative reactions on its own. This corrosion of silver combined with sulfur (Hydrogen Sulfide in the air) creates the darkening called ‘tarnish’.

Thus, make sure your jewelry is dry and clean before storing it since any contact with oils, moisture or dirt will accelerate the tarnishing.

How to Avoid Tarnish on Sterling Silver Necklaces?

Sterling silver though much harder than pure silver, is still quite smooth and soft as compared to other metals. As a result, it is prone to scratches and dents. Consequently, your favorite jewelry tends to lose its initial shine after a while due to factors like corrosion or tarnish. Worry no more here’s a list of to-dos to keep your jewelry long-lasting and dazzling.

Precautionary Care

One of the major reasons behind tarnishing of sterling silver is under usage. Wear them often to preserve their shine. Keep the following things in mind to keep your jewelry in the best condition.

• Avoid wearing silver jewelry while doing household chores since chlorinated water, perspiration, wool, household chemicals or any substances containing sulfur can cause tarnish.
• Cosmetic products, body lotions, perfumes, hair spray, etc. also accelerates corrosion.
• Direct sunlight can cause corrosion too so make sure you take off your jewelry before going for a swim or sunbathe.

Storage:

• Since silver is essentially a soft metal, make sure none of the jewelry items bump into each other to prevent scratches.
• Do not keep jewelry directly on wooden counter tops or any such chemically treated surface, since they can accelerate corrosion when kept in direct contact with sterling silver.
• Ziplock plastic bags with anti-tarnish strips or anti-tarnish cloths are a great measure since they absorb humidity and minimize exposure to air which tarnishes silver.
• Placing a sachet of activated charcoal, silica gel or a piece of chalk in the storage area can also help minimize tarnish by absorbing moisture and chemical deposit in the air.

Polish

Avoid tissues or paper towels. Use a soft non-abrasive cloth (microfiber or 100% cotton) to polish your items in long back-and-forth motions.

Professional and Commercial Care

If your jewelry pieces are heavily tarnished or extremely valuable or fragile, take help of a professional silver cleaner. You can opt for commercial silver cleaners too, although they have more drawbacks than benefits for your pieces in the long run.

Homemade Cleaners

If polishing isn’t enough, opt for eco-friendly and inexpensive homemade cleaners. However, do not use them for oxidized jewelry.

Water and Soap

A mild phosphate and ammonia-free dishwashing soap and some lukewarm water should be enough to clean minor glitches and tarnish.

Water and Baking Soda

Make a paste of water and baking soda. Apply a small amount to a clean cloth and polish the silver. For more detailed items, use a soft and clean toothbrush and add more water to the paste to thin it. Afterwards, run the items under running lukewarm water and dry them with a clean cloth.

Lemon Juice and Olive Oil

Mix 1 tsp. olive oil with half cup lemon juice in a bowl. Dip a small microfiber cloth in the cleaning solution, polish the silver and then rinse and dry.

Baking Soda and White Vinegar

This is very effective in removing heavy tarnish. Mix 2 tsp. baking soda with half cup white vinegar to form a solution. Soak the tarnished item in it for 2-3 hours; rinse and dry.

With these easy steps, preserve your sterling silver necklaces wholesale and give them a fresh start before tarnish makes you forget about their existence!

Source: http://www.sooperarticles.com/shopping-articles/jewelry-articles/how-avoid-tarnish-sterling-silver-necklaces-1609333.html

Sterling Silver Gifts for Mom Perfect for the Festive Season

Sterling Silver Jewelry

 With the holiday season fast approaching, you need to get ready with gifts for almost all family members. Planning ahead for Thanksgiving gifts, Christmas and New Year’s Gifts is already on the mind of every person. Your mom deserves a special treatment too. She needs to be reminded how special she is. She definitely deserves all the happiness and love in the world. So this festival season, pamper her with things that she loves or would make her happy.

You need to know what your mother’s favorite gift could be. If you are not sure about her choices, jewelry is always a safe option for gifting. This time try and be different. Ditch the traditional cliché gold jewelry and try gifting some sterling silver jewelry.

You can contact some online stores that sell retail as well wholesale sterling silver jewelry. Your mom would surely love the jewelry because of its corrosion-free nature, durability and versatile design. Therefore, you do not need to think of whether your jewelry would be appreciated or not. But, you need to be well aware of your collection.

Following are the most preferred sterling silver jewelry options you can think of.

Sterling Silver Rings

One of the best gifts for your mother would definitely be a ring. Now, if the ring is of sterling silver, it would be grand. She would love the gift since sterling silver rings have their own unique appearance. Also, you can customize the ring all by yourself keeping in mind whether you mom prefers intricate designs, minimalistic patterns or loud large jewelry pieces.

Whether you have an artistic choice or wish to follow the popular trends, sterling silver rings offer a great variety. You can even put choose to have a ring with agemstone in the center of the ring or even layers of rose gold along with layers of sterling silver.

To help you, here are some very popular choices as gifts:

• Simple sterling silver ring
• Sterling silver and diamond ring
• Crisscross multi-row ring
• Sterling silver and stone ring, especially white sapphire or ruby
• Swirl ring

Sterling Silver Earrings

Sterling silver earrings help you be in budget. If you do not want to spend lavishly, you can choose small studs which are every woman's must-have. Who knows, you might get some great rates or wholesale sterling silver jewelry deals. Sterling silver earrings look elegant and would definitely go with any look whatsoever be it a party look or a simple, sober and regular look.

The earrings can be a choice from:

• Sterling silver hooped earrings
• Sterling silver stud earrings
• Sterling silver dangle or drop earrings

Sterling Silver Pendant

The silver pendant would be amazing for a mother. Pendants, in general, have a large sale. Sterling silver pendants are available in a variety of designs with and without gemstone. Constellation jewelry is catching rage and so are minimalist patterns preferred. Keep in mind the choice of your mom and consider the kind of clothes she prefers so that the jewelry complements her style and dressing sense.

Sterling Silver Bangles

Be it any festival, or occasion or a simple event, bangles can make anybody’s day. Now, if somebody has to gift something to their own mother, there is nothing better than sterling silver bangles. These bangles can come in varied shapes and sizes. Also, sterling silver anyway looks really attractive, but ifthe bangles arestudded with stones or provided with different designs, it would look more attractive. Sterling silver bangles have a huge demand and mothers love wearing them, especially the ones gifted by their own child.

Sterling Silver Bracelet

Well, bracelets must never be confused with bangles. A bracelet is something that is not heavy and does not demand any party or special occasion to be worn. A mother can wear a bracelet anytime and with any dress. Therefore, the sale of bracelets is definitely higher than the sale of other jewelry. Sterling silver bracelets have their own shine. They can even be customized. The designs that can be put on a sterling silver bracelet are definitely unique. Sometimes, the bracelets can be accompanied with stones, preferably diamond or ruby.

Sterling Silver Necklace

Sterling silver necklaces shine like no other jewelry. They are also compared to gold necklaces sometimes due to its price and attractive look. Wholesale sterling silver jewelry, along with necklaces looks fabulous and extraordinary. Also, if the customer wishes to go for pricey gifts, sterling silver necklaces would be totally fit. They are heavier, grander and perfectly elegant. For mothers in their late 40’s or early 50’s, a sterling silver necklace would be the best choice.

Sterling Silver Chain

There are certain customers who prefer simple over attractive. For them, sterling silver chains would be perfect. They look really sober as well as very attractive. Even so, these sterling silver chains, if worn by the mother, would look brilliant. The chains can definitely be perfect for regular use. These chains also look wonderful if accompanied by some adorable pendant. A small one would work wonders.

Sterling Silver Nose Ring

Some mothers prefer sterling silver nose rings over any other jewelry. For them, sterling silver rings ring has to be it. These nose rings would look fantastic and are cheaper than most other jewelry. That makes it quite appreciated as well. For mothers who love decorating their faces, sterling silver nose rings would be a brilliant choice.

Sterling Silver Anklet

Anklets look really pretty! Also, they are quite in fashion these days. Mothers especially love wearing anklets. Some customers search for anklets more than any other piece of jewelry. Anklets make a really good impression and the mother would be extremely pleased. Anklets can be worn on one leg. As it is in fashion, many customers would prefer gifting anklets to their beloved mothers. If you have to buy wholesale sterling silver jewelry for selling, go for anklets.

Thus, these amazing jewelry pieces would make your mom extremely happy. If your collection of wholesale sterling silver jewelry consists of all these, needless to say, your sale would be brilliant. Also, for the ones who want to make an occasion at home unique for their beloved mothers, go for the ones mentioned above and get your mother’s smile as a return gift.

Source: https://pandkjewelry.wordpress.com/2017/10/13/sterling-silver-gifts-for-mom-perfect-for-the-festive-season/

Cubic Zirconia Jewelry – Buying Guide and Maintenance

cubic zirconia earrings

Cubic Zirconia also called ‘artificial diamond’ is the best alternative for diamonds. It is more affordable and has smoother, rounder cut edges as compared to the sharp facets of diamond cuts.Cubic Zirconia (CZ) crystals are synthetic stones made by heating up melted Zirconium Dioxide and powdered Zirconium to almost 3,000 degrees. They are flawless, refracts minimum white light, and typically colorless.

Types of Cubic Zirconia

Ranging from low quality to high quality, Cubic zirconia jewelry can be graded from ‘A’ to ‘AAAAA’. ‘A’ grade crystals are the cheapest and generally used as fashion accessories or dance costumes. ‘AAA’ grade crystals are mostly used by jewelry brands. ‘AAAAA’ grade crystals are the most expensive and make for the best quality substitute to diamonds.

This grading is based upon the ‘four Cs’, namely, cut, color, clarity, and karat.

• Cut- CZ can be cut in any desired shape. Heart shaped cut, brilliant cut, trilliantcut, and princes' cut are some of the most fashionable cuts for CZ crystals.
• Colour- Though mostly colorless, by adding suitable metal oxides, it can be manufactured in various colors.
• Clarity- It is the ‘degree of transparency’. Since they are manufactured in a laboratory, most crystals are not always clear. The clearer the crystal is, the higher quality it has.
• Carat- Larger crystals are more valuable than small crystals owing to its weight and durability.

Benefits of Cubic Zirconia Jewelry:

Cubic Zirconia crystals, though lacking behind on matters like resilience and sturdiness, come with a lot of advantages as wholesale cubic zirconia jewelry.

• Reasonable Price: Most importantly, it helps you save a lot of money while providing the best quality designs and the typical alluring look associated with diamonds. It costs about one-tenth of a diamond.
• Flawless: Almost all diamonds or natural gemstones have blemishes or small insertions, but cubic zirconia doesn’t.
• Colorless: CZ can be manufactured in an absolutely colorless form. Entirely white diamonds, however, are extremely rare.
• Environment-Friendly: As compared to diamonds, it is a lot environment-friendly in terms of manufacture and usage.
• Ideal Travel Replacement: When traveling, you would not want to take your real diamonds with you. To avoid risks and yet sport the refined look, wholesale cubic zirconia jewelry is the right way to go.

Buying Guide for Cubic Zirconia Jewelry:

Selecting the perfect piece of CZ jewelry might seem like a tough task, but with the following guidelines, you can choose your suitable accessory accordingly.

Setting:

While picking CZ jewelry, the most important thing is to notice the metal it is set in. Cheaper pieces are more likely to be set in plated metals such as rhodium or tungsten carbide which may tarnish in due course. Nickel can also react with the skin and leave behind marks where it had been worn. Since CZ is mostly appreciated for its high reflectivity, it works finest when placed in highly reflective metals such as platinum, sterling silver or even yellow gold for pieces like engagement rings, etc.

Stainless Steel is another great option for people with sensitive skin since it won’t tarnish or cause any allergic reaction.

Design:

CZ comes in various styles to suit various occasions. Classic jewelry such as ‘dainty CZ rings’ or ‘stud earrings’ that are solitaires can be teamed with casual wear.Fashion jewelry like statement neckpieces, chandelier earrings or heavy rings is ideal for CZ crystals because of its bright colors and natural sparkle. CZ is often paired with emerald, opal and other gems and designed with floral patterns, nouveau styles or swirling lines to draw maximum attention.

Colours:

Although mostly preferred as colorless, color is a vital point in wholesale cubic zirconia jewelry because of the unique styles it offers. Various shades of pinks, greens, blues or reds can be scattered in multiple stones or situated in a solitaire setting to enhance the use of colors. Choose the right kind of jewelry to go with your clothing. For instance, select a pop color to go with a neutral colored outfit or coordinate a primary color with other colored CZ for a trendy look.

Quality:

After you’ve decided the type of CZ you want, check for the quality grading by establishing the cut, karat, and clarity factors.

Steps Needed for Maintenance of Cubic Zirconia Jewelry:

Cubic Zirconia is very hard in nature, scoring an 8.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, second only to diamond which is a 10. However, it is still at risk of scratches or rust or chips. Avoiding bumps from hitting against walls or doors is the first step towards maintaining your CZ jewelry.

Additionally, beauty products and household items can also mar its surface when kept in direct contact with the stone. Cleaning solutions, body lotions, hairspray, cologne, etc can form a coat over your ring which makes it look dull and is difficult to remove.Apart from getting your CZ jewelry cleaned by steam cleaners and ultrasonic cleaners by a jeweler every few months, here are a few home maintenance guides for you to follow:

• Polishing Clothes: Soft and spongy cotton polishing clothes work best when cleaning CZ settings. Rubbing the material gently over the dirt and oil is enough to get its previous luster back.
• Warm Water and Liquid Soap: Pour some liquid soap in warm water, use your fingers or use a soft brush to clean the jewelry thoroughly and rinse well to avoid any soap residue. It helps bring back its life and also keeps it new for days on end.For hard to remove dirt, soak the ring in two-thirds of hot water and one-third of detergent. Scrub and rinse after a few minutes.
• Jewelry Cleaners: Cleaning your jewelry after identifying its setting is important. Cheaper metals require more care as compared to expensive metals since they are more prone to scratches and dents. Use superior quality tarnish removers and jewelry cleaners accordingly.
• Storage: Where you’re storing your jewels is as much important as the jewels themselves. Soft pouches and foam settings in the jewelry box are great ways to prevent the pieces from rubbing up against one another.

Just like diamonds, CZ items need to be properly maintained and cleaned to preserve their original luster and shine. Thus, it is essential that you take care of your CZ jewelry for it to last you a good many years.

Source:https://pandkjewelry.wordpress.com/2017/10/06/cubic-zirconia-jewelry-buying-guide-and-maintenance/

Top 10 Sterling Silver Ring Designs for Men

Sterling Silver Rings

Silver is a metal which is used to make a lot of things. This metal has its own uniqueness and style. It is used in coins, plates or spoons and most importantly, in jewelry. Silver jewelry is quite a rage these days amongst the fashion trends and is appreciated by all. Many people love gifting silver rings to each other on special occasions.

There are many designs for rings that a woman would prefer, but it is not very easy to choose a perfect ring for men. If there is an occasion at home and you need to present someone a ring, your husband or father, in this case, you can select some exceptionally brilliant rings as presents. If you are someone who wants to buy sterling silver rings at wholesale rates, keep in mind that online shopping is the best way to aim at great deals.

Fine silver rings attract customers a lot due to their promise of 99.9 percent of pure silver in them. People tend to choose fine silver rings with a mark of 999 on them above any other silver. But, sterling silver jewelry has taken up the place of fine silver largely. Sterling silver is made up of 92.5 percent silver. Apart from this, the reason why sterling silver is gaining popularity is that it can tolerate the regular strain of daily life, unlike fine silver rings. Moreover, the designs look exclusively pretty without stains or corrosion, so sterling silver rings stand as clear winners.

Some of the sterling silver ring designs that you would love to choose have been listed below.

Domed Rings

Domed rings for men are one of the most elegant rings found all over the world. They are good for any occasion. However, it is best to avoid domed rings during weddings or engagements since they are elegant but too simple for tying the knot. The simplicity of these rings attract men and also women who like big yet simple ring designs. If you are someone who would like to get one from online stores that sell sterling silver rings at wholesale prices, be sure of the quality before buying. Refer to the FAQ and delivery policy of the store prior to placing your order.

Flat Rings

Flat rings are sharper than domed rings giving a more polished and edgy look to the fingers. Flat rings are somewhat unique and specifically adhering to mens’ choice, especially if in the glamour industry. They are sometimes ornamented with a single small stone or name initials embossed. Flat rings are one of the most popular types of gold rings all over the world.

Tribal Rings

Tribal rings are unique if made with sterling silver. They are unique for their great designs and extremely well crafted ethnic shapes. Tribal rings have designs that go symbolic with the community customs, rituals and also special signs.Moreover, these rings mostly have the designs of a dragons, animals, and demons that are preferred by men who love designs out of the box. You can, however, personalize the designs all by yourself. The color is mostly blackish silver and the metal is shiny. These silver tribal rings can be gifted or worn on any occasion. This is one of the most popular gifting ornaments since if presented with a meaning, this ring has no match.

Forest Vines Rings

Forest Vines ring is a sterling silver ring which contains silver halos. This is a handcrafted ring which makes all other rings look ordinary in front of this. Also, this ring is appreciated by selected men owing to their unique designs. But, if you have to get sterling silver rings wholesale, do go for forest vines ring. These rings are quite cheaper than gold rings but look as stylish as the latter.

Wrap Rings

Wrap rings look extraordinary because of their unique twirling shape. These sterling silver rings look so graceful that people buy these for people who are creative and artistic in nature. Also, these rings can have different designs and shapes at the edges. They can have floral designs or simple lines leading to small flowers at the end. Wrap rings are often oxidized rings as well, that is, their background is oxidized.

Jade Fortress Rings

This simple yet elegant ring is one of the best sellers in the market if you want to buy sterling silver rings in wholesale. This ring is sometimes more expensive than gold rings due to the central gemstone - Jade. But, with sterling silver on the sides of the ring, this ring looks brilliant and if worn, makes the fingers look sophisticated.

Wood Band Rings

If you ever come across a Brazilian handcrafted ring which contains sterling silver along with a unique Brazilian wood, keep it. These rings are very comfortable to wear. The sterling silver layers on the ring have beautiful designs which can also be customized.

Band Rings

There are many sterling silver band rings to choose from as well. They look like bands but are worn on the fingers. The designs are extraordinary and these rings weigh a little more than normal sterling silver rings. These rings have designs such as braids which make these look quite charming.

Leather Sterling Silver Rings

If you pair black leather with sterling silver, you have a great design in front of you! Sterling silver and black look passionate and extremely stylish. This ring could make a really great gift if gifted on birthdays or other special occasions.

Eagle Themed Sterling Silver Rings

You can also buy sterling silver rings in wholesale which are eagle shaped. They look dashing and simply go with the personality of some men who adore the funky and uncommon styles of fashion.These rings come with different designs of eagles in unique postures and shapes.

Needless to say, all these sterling silver rings are greatly in demand and if you are dealing in selling wholesale rings, try these to reap a good profit. Also, the customers often prefer to wear these rings as per their own choice of designs, which the online stores provide in galore.

If you want to gift these to your man or buy these in order to sell, get these unique sterling silver rings in wholesale for the best price. Be rest assured, these rings are one-of-a-kind and make the best gifts for any occasion whatsoever. 

Original Source:https://pandkjewelry.wordpress.com/2017/10/09/top-10-sterling-silver-ring-designs-for-men/

Cubic Zirconia Jewelry – Buying Guide and Maintenance

Cubic Zirconia also called ‘artificial diamond’ is the best alternative for diamonds. It is more affordableand has smoother, rounder cut edges as compared to the sharp facets of diamond cuts.Cubic Zirconia (CZ) crystals are synthetic stones made by heating up melted Zirconium Dioxide and powdered Zirconium to almost 3,000 degrees. They are flawless, refracts minimum white light, and typically colorless.

Types of Cubic Zirconia

Ranging from low quality to high quality, Cubic Zirconia jewelry can be graded from ‘A’ to ‘AAAAA’. ‘A’ grade crystals are the cheapest and generally used as fashion accessories or dance costumes. ‘AAA’ grade crystals are mostly used by jewelry brands. ‘AAAAA’ grade crystals are the most expensive and make for the best quality substitute to diamonds.

This grading is based upon the ‘four Cs’, namely, cut, color, clarity, and karat.

• Cut- CZ can be cut in any desired shape. Heart shaped cut, brilliant cut, trilliantcut, and princes' cut are some of the most fashionable cuts for CZ crystals.
• Colour- Though mostly colorless, by adding suitable metal oxides, it can be manufactured in various colors.
• Clarity- It is the ‘degree of transparency’. Since they are manufactured in a laboratory, most crystals are not always clear. The clearer the crystal is, the higher quality it has.
• Carat- Larger crystals are more valuable than small crystals owing to its weight and durability.

Benefits of Cubic Zirconia Jewelry:

Cubic Zirconia crystals, though lacking behind on matters like resilience and sturdiness, come with a lot of advantages as wholesale cubic zirconia jewelry.

• Reasonable Price: Most importantly, it helps you save a lot of money while providing the best quality designs and the typical alluring look associated with diamonds. It costs about one-tenth of a diamond.
• Flawless: Almost all diamonds or natural gemstones have blemishes or small insertions, but cubic zirconia doesn’t.
• Colorless: CZ can be manufactured in an absolutely colorless form. Entirely white diamonds, however, are extremely rare.
• Environment-Friendly: As compared to diamonds, it is a lot environment-friendly in terms of manufacture and usage.
• Ideal Travel Replacement: When traveling, you would not want to take your real diamonds with you. To avoid risks and yet sport the refined look, wholesale cubic zirconia jewelry is the right way to go.

Buying Guide for Cubic Zirconia Jewelry:

Selecting the perfect piece of CZ jewelry might seem like a tough task, but with the following guidelines, you can choose your suitable accessory accordingly.

Setting:

While picking CZ jewelry, the most important thing is to notice the metal it is set in. Cheaper pieces are more likely to be set in plated metals such as rhodium or tungsten carbide which may tarnish in due course. Nickel can also react with the skin and leave behind marks where it had been worn. Since CZ is mostly appreciated for its high reflectivity, it works finest when placed in highly reflective metals such as platinum, sterling silver or even yellow gold for pieces like engagement rings, etc.

Stainless Steel is another great option for people with sensitive skin since it won’t tarnish or cause any allergic reaction.

Design:

CZ comes in various styles to suit various occasions. Classic jewelry such as ‘dainty CZ rings’ or ‘stud earrings’ that are solitaires can be teamed with casual wear.Fashion jewelry like statement neckpieces, chandelier earrings or heavy ringsis ideal for CZ crystals because of its bright colors and natural sparkle. CZ is often paired with emerald, opal and other gems and designed with floral patterns, nouveau styles or swirling lines to draw maximum attention.

Colours:

Although mostly preferred as colorless, color is a vital point in wholesale cubic zirconia jewelry because of the unique styles it offers. Various shades of pinks, greens, blues or reds can be scattered in multiple stones or situated in a solitaire setting to enhance the use of colors. Choose the right kind of jewelry to go with your clothing. For instance, select a pop color to go with a neutral colored outfit or coordinate a primary color with other colored CZ for a trendy look.

Quality:

After you’ve decided the type of CZ you want, check for the quality grading by establishing the cut, karat, and clarity factors.

Steps Needed for Maintenance of Cubic Zirconia Jewelry:

Cubic Zirconia is very hard in nature, scoring an 8.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, second only to diamond which is a 10. However, it is still at risk of scratches or rust or chips. Avoiding bumps from hitting against walls or doors is the first step towards maintaining your CZ jewelry.

Additionally, beauty products and household items can also mar its surface when kept in direct contact with the stone. Cleaning solutions, body lotions, hairspray, cologne, etc can form a coat over your ring which makes it look dull and is difficult to remove.Apart from getting your CZ jewelry cleaned by steam cleaners and ultrasonic cleaners by a jeweler every few months, here are a few home maintenance guides for you to follow:

• Polishing Clothes: Soft and spongy cotton polishing clothes work best when cleaning CZ settings. Rubbing the material gently over the dirt and oil is enough to get its previous luster back.
• Warm Water and Liquid Soap: Pour some liquid soap in warm water, use your fingers or use a soft brush to clean the jewelry thoroughly and rinse well to avoid any soap residue. It helps bring back its life and also keeps it new for days on end.For hard to remove dirt, soak the ring in two-thirds of hot water and one-third of detergent. Scrub and rinse after a few minutes.
• Jewelry Cleaners: Cleaning your jewelry after identifying its setting is important. Cheaper metals require more care as compared to expensive metals since they are more prone to scratches and dents. Use superior quality tarnish removers and jewelry cleaners accordingly.
• Storage: Where you’re storing your jewels is as much important as the jewels themselves. Soft pouches and foam settings in the jewelry box are great ways to prevent the pieces from rubbing up against one another.

Just like diamonds, CZ items need to be properly maintained and cleaned to preserve their original luster and shine. Thus, it is essential that you take care of your CZ jewelry for it to last you a good many years.