WORDS BY BEANIE MAJOR
PHOTOGRAPHS BY JACK MARGERISON
Buying fine jewellery is an investment for life, not just a season, so how can you make sure you choose pieces that stand the test of time? Beanie Major, jewellery expert and founder of the online jewellery publication In Detail explains what you should consider before you buy…
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Know the basics
The exact definition of fine jewellery varies, but as a general rule, if it is crafted in high quality materials —18 karat gold (or above), platinum and precious gemstones — it is considered fine. ‘Karat’ (not to be confused with ‘carat’ with a ‘c’, which is used to determine the weight of a diamond) refers to the fineness of the gold. The higher the karat, the higher the gold content. 14 and 9 karat jewellery is categorised as ‘demi-fine’. Jewellery sold in the UK is stamped with a ‘hallmark’ which certifies whether it is made from platinum, silver or gold.
Consider your personal style
Jewellery is an extension of your wardrobe and can be used to express your individuality. If your wardrobe is simple, consider letting your jewellery do the talking by going for something statement. If you love colour, invest in enamel or gem-set pieces. Choose a metal that suits your taste and also your skin colour. Ask yourself, what piece of jewellery is going to make your friends say ‘that ring or those earrings are so you’.
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Look beyond the trends
Like fashion, jewellery trends come and go. Just as hues of blues have crept onto the walls of the most stylish of interiors, so too, Instagram is awash with blue gemstones; sapphires, turquoise and lapis lazuli to name a few. But before tapping into the current trends, remember that chosen well fine jewellery will last for a lifetime, so purchase pieces you are going to fall in love with again and again.
Know your size
It is a common misconception that one size fits all with jewellery. Chains come in varying lengths and bracelets often come in small, medium or large. Rings are measured by letters (UK) or numbers (USA). Consider three things when determining the right fit; does it feel comfortable? Will it fall off? Does it suit you? Rings should always have some resistance when pulled over the knuckle — it’s worth visiting a jeweller to measure your finger size.
Invest in some staples
In the same way every wardrobe has a basic white t-shirt and a perfect pair of jeans, there are a few essentials that your jewellery box needs. Choose jewellery that will never go out of style and that you can wear with ease. A pair of stud or hoop earrings, a dainty solitaire diamond pendant or a classic gold bangle are go-to pieces. Once you have the staples, you can add as you please.
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Wear your jewels...
Fine jewellery is made to be worn. And whilst you most certainly will have pieces that you save for special occasions, fine jewellery can also be worn for everyday. Gold and gemstones survived thousands of years underground, so on the whole they are pretty robust. Don't let the precious nature of the materials stop you from throwing them on with your trainers and jeans.
...but treat them with care
Individual items should be stored in different compartments of a jewellery box to stop chains tangling or pieces being scratched. Pearls should be put on after your perfume has dried, to avoid them loosing their lustre. Gem-set jewellery, should be regularly checked for loose stones. Overtime, dirt and grime will build up behind a stone; if you don't have time to visit a jeweller, a soft tooth brush dipped in warm soapy water, will get your jewels sparkling again.
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