How to wear your jewellery this summer

summer jewellery

New jewellery trends are fresh and exciting. Designer ideas from the catwalks have been interpreted and found their way to the fashion pages of magazines. This summer it’s all about wearing your jewellery in a slightly unexpected way. The designers want us to try looking at summer jewellery from a different angle. Wear your vintage family trinkets with modern pieces. Mix don’t match is the message!

Statement necklace

The sautoir or long necklace has made a comeback and will make your summer wardrobe look stylishly up to date. Wear chains in any metal, the more unusual pendant the better. Some designers used up-cycled items to create their necklaces: think bicycle chains and lighters.

Superfine choker

Wear a wisp of fabric with a small pendant or thread a single pearl on to a leather thong.

Art school earring

These earrings use materials in an innovative way. They have futuristic lines and sculptural qualities, qualities with graphic shapes.

Statement mono earring

Many celebrities have already been seen wearing these. An interesting large single earring, sometimes even skimming the shoulder. If you prefer, just wear one of an existing pair and a stud in your other ear.

Fantasy ear cuff

These are also statement pieces and blur the line between accessories and jewellery. Some are feather shaped like an angels wing or a take on crystal headphones.

Hybrid earring necklaces

If you are feeling brave, try wearing one of these to do the shopping. Some say creative madness, this is an open-ended necklace, linking up to an earring. Certainly on trend.

Arm cuff

This summer jewellery trends include bracelets which should be worn on the upper arm to show off a tan or to complement short sleeves. Choose to wear one statement piece or layer up several bands to create a different look. Graphic shapes are on trend here too.

The minerals

Raw stone and mineral slices are naturally beautiful and really fashionable now. A modern twist on eco trends: wear energizing stones and embrace crystal therapy.

Necklaces, pendants, earrings

Finally… the crucifix is back. Less the understated gold most recently in favour, but more chunky gothic-style crosses, plastered with pearls and stones. Reminiscent of Madonna in the ‘ 90s. Baroque reserved for summer evenings.

Choose the summer jewellery trend to suit your personality and style and enjoy wearing it this season.

 

7 mistakes people make selling their jewellery

There are several aspects to consider when selling your jewellery. Make sure you aren’t making these common mistakes and that you get the best price possible.

Not understanding its value

Unless you are an expert when it comes to buying and selling jewellery then you may not fully understand the value of your items. Perhaps that ring that has been on your finger for the best part of 20 years is worth a lot more than you know or maybe it isn’t worth as much as you think it is. To understand its true worth you need to take it to a reputable specialist who is qualified to give a proper valuation and accurate market appraisal.

Are the gems genuine or synthetic?

If the piece of jewellery is an heirloom that was handed down from a previous generation then it can be difficult to know whether the gemstones are real or whether they are in fact synthetic. Unless you originally bought the piece from a reputable jeweller and have a diamond or gemstone certification you may not know the difference. It is best to have it valued and certified by a jeweller in the first instance.

Not researching the price of gold or other precious metals

When you walk into a jewellers to sell your gold, silver or platinum do you really know what it is worth? Did you check the day’s spot price of gold and check the weight first? If you want the best price for your jewellery then it is a good idea to research the market price of the precious metal that you are selling first so you are informed.

Taking the first price offered and not shopping around

If you are keen to sell your jewellery to get some cash in your pocket then all too often you may be tempted to take the first price offered. Resist the urge and ask the buyer how long they will hold that price for then put in some leg work and shop around.

Not considering part exchange

To get the best price for your jewellery it is advisable to consider a part exchange. You can often realise a better deal for yourself by part exchanging as opposed to selling for cash. This is also a nice way to acquire those aspirational items (like that Rolex you have had your eye on for a while or that extra special diamond ring) whilst making good use of those pieces that spend their life hidden away in a drawer.

Selling jewellery online

It seems, in this age of digital technology, that we live our lives online. We buy, we transact and we socialise online. We can therefore be tempted to sell online and this can lead to problems. The risk of selling jewellery online is that 1. You may not achieve the correct value and 2. Posting items is often unsecure. Jewellery is something that needs to be touched, felt, weighed and examined closely. Whilst enquiring online is helpful, it is advisable to do the deal in person.

Feeling pressured to sell

If you take your jewellery somewhere and they offer you a price straight away whilst pressurising you to accept that price, remember that it is your prerogative to say no! If you aren’t comfortable with selling your items there and then just walk away and think about it first. A good jeweller will encourage you to go away and consider.

If you are thinking of selling items of jewellery follow the above tips to ensure that you achieve the best price for your valuables. Go prepared having conducted your research and ensure that you take identification with you as many good jewellers will insist on seeing a copy of your passport or driving license. Trust in your reputable, local independent jeweller who are experienced and fully qualified to make the necessary assessment and accurate valuation.