There are many different designs, colors, and materials available for jewelry, and it can be overwhelming at times. This article will help you get started in choosing the right jewelry piece which will last you a lifetime.

Take a magnet and a keen eye with you when you head out to purchase any jewelry made from sterling silver. As a precious metal, silver should never be attracted to a magnet. Also, look to make sure that silver is hallmarked and stamped with .925, sterling or ster. Be wary of pieces that lack any silver hallmarks, as this is an indication that they’re not genuine sterling silver.

Make sure you know what kind of gem you are getting when you are buying jewelry. There are different types of gems, including imitation, natural and lab produced. Both synthetic and natural gems are real; however, imitation is simply plastic. A natural stone is …