Color Doesn't Have to Be Costume: The Beauty of Gemstones

Posted by ricky26 on February 11th, 2014

From amethyst to zircon, there are stones for every occasion, every setting, and every style. Costume jewelry often uses glass or plastic parts to add color to their designs and people wear them because they are under the impression that gemstones are expensive. They can get lost or damaged during every day wear and then all that money spent on them is wasted. There are many different types of stones, though and some are inexpensive as well as wonderfully artistic. They'll add beauty and flair to any outfit.

What kind of jewelry contains gemstones? Gemstones can be added to anything. They're most often found on rings and earrings but can be set into bracelets, necklaces, hair pieces and other types of body jewelry. Gemstone pendants are popular with wire wrapped jewelry and some charms even incorporate gemstones. Sometimes, the stones are incorporated into jewelry designs for mystical or religious reasons with the wearer believing that the stone has a special meaning or power that is bestowed upon them for wearing it.

Birthstones These are stones whose names and colors correspond to the month that the wearer was born. They are popular gifts usually set into rings or pendants. The stones can also correspond to the day of the week that a person is born or their zodiac sign. In 1870, Tiffany & Co published poems about each birthstone from the Gregorian calendar and the National Association of Jewelers published an official list of birthstones and the months that they match up with in 1912.

Add gemstones to your wardrobe without breaking the bank You can see the benefits and versatility of jewelry with gemstones but you still may not be sure about how to obtain this type of womens gemstone jewelry without spending every cent of your savings.
• Look for deals. Every savvy shopper knows how to surf for coupons and scour circulars but there's more to it than that when it comes to jewelry. There are many independent designers and some more corporate sellers that are just starting out. There are also many websites that offer discounts and deals (majestic.com) as well as message boards and chat rooms that have other bargain hunters who can help you find the best.
• Go antiquing. Some gemstones have been around as long as the earth has! Most of them are natural and they have been used in jewelry for hundreds of years, perhaps longer. Antique stores have a lot of interesting finds and some jewelry isn't as expensive as what you'd find at a regular handmade gemstone jewelry store. Also, antiques have a story. Their designs and materials could be pieces of history, making your jewelry extremely unique.
• Thrift stores and garage sales. These little shops and sales are often overlooked when in search of jewelry. Check the front of your favorite thrift store and you might notice that there is a jewelry counter with some very interesting pieces waiting for you.
• Take a hike! It's a long shot but there are sometimes raw gemstones hidden in stones on your favorite hiking trail or on a nature walk in an unfamiliar place. If you find one, ask a jeweler for help in cutting and setting it into a piece that is designed especially for you.

Whether you contract an independent designer, hunt the bargains online, or take a journey through your local thrift and antique stores, there is a way to introduce gemstone jewelry to your wardrobe. Add a little color to your life!