Silver and turquoise jewelry is really fashionable right now. These items have been worn by stars on the red carpet, but are also being sold to the everyday shopper at local jewelers and boutiques as well. Jewelry is always a fun gift for special occasions and can be worn as a personal touch to complete a look.
Fashion with a History
Silver has always been considered a valuable metal for art and jewelry making. Today jewelry that is marketed as silver is usually not pure silver. Sterling silver, the most used in jewelry, is actually an alloy of silver with a small amount of copper. Using this alloy actually makes the piece better for the consumer because it is harder, and, therefore, sturdier. Also, most of the jewelry is dipped in fine silver or rhodium to give it a beautiful finish. Like silver, turquoise has been used since the beginning of human history. Humans have always been fascinated with the beautiful color; the most valuable turquoise is a robin’s egg blue. The Western United States has multiple turquoise mines, which is why turquoise jewelry is often associated with the American Indian culture.
Know What You’re Getting
Jewelry is popular among all types of women and men. It is often seen as a great gift, especially the more expensive or elegant pieces for special occasions like anniversaries, promotions, graduations, etc. Sometimes it is better to pay a few more dollars to get a quality product. For example, real silver jewelry causes far less skin irritation than fake knock-offs. Skin discoloration and irritation or other allergic reactions are frequently the result of cheap jewelry. Additionally, turquoise is sometimes altered in controversial ways before it is sold. For example, sometimes turquoise is dyed to make it a deeper or more uniform in color, which can sometimes be rubbed or worn off. Another method is reconstitution or combining small pieces of turquoise with other materials to create a piece large enough to sell, essentially creating an artificial turquoise.
Be Fashion Forward
Silver and turquoise jewelry has become increasingly popular as a fashion choice over the past few decades. Silver matches most colors and most clothing choices. Many young couples are opting for silver for their engagement and wedding bands. Also, it has become increasingly acceptable to wear silver and gold together, making silver a great fashion choice. Turquoise is not just part of American Indian culture, but becoming increasingly popular in fashion. Many eclectic boutiques and stores carry handmade turquoise items. When shopping, it’s important to take your time, and talk to the jeweler, to make sure you know what you are getting, especially if you plan on paying more for a higher quality piece. One important thing to remember is to be yourself, don’t be pressured in to buying something you won’t end up wearing or something you don’t really like. The same advice goes for buying gifts as well. Buying jewelry can be fun, so take the time to enjoy yourself.
Silver and Turquoise Jewelry, a Fashionable Choice
by
Art Gibb, freelance writer on behalf
of Necessities & Accessories Boutique
(
15-Jan-2013
)