Fine Jewellery

Beautiful Metals

When comparing fine jewellery, one of the most important things to look at is the metal that was used to create it. While this will obviously affect the value of the piece, it also affects how the wearer will feel about it. If the piece of jewellery is to be a gift, then this is probably the most important factor of all. Some women wear nothing but yellow gold, while other women simply love sterling silver. Some women adore the hints of pink in rose gold, while others prefer the pristine look of white gold. To ensure the jewellery will be loved and cherished by its new owner, it’s important to pick the right metal.   From fine bracelets to fine rings, from fine earrings to fine necklaces and pendants, there is a gorgeous array of beautiful fine jewellery to choose from on eBay. Start off by comparing the metals on offer, or refine the search by jewellery type. If the type of metal is important, take some time to look at the purity of that metal. Jewellery that is yellow gold plated features a layer of gold over another type of metal. This can offer a gold look, and is much cheaper than solid gold. Prefer solid gold? Check out the number of karats on offer to find out the purity of the gold. A lower karat value – such as 9k and 14k – has a higher mix of other metals, making it stronger and less expensive. A higher karat value – such as 18k and 22k – has a higher gold ratio, while 24k gold is pure gold, making it softer and more expensive.

Dazzling Stones

Beautiful stones can transform a piece of jewellery into something that is truly spectacular. Stones range in value, usually according to their rarity, clarity and how in-demand they are. With glorious depths of red, garnets and rubies look fairly similar. However, a garnet is much more affordable than a ruby. Choosing the right set of stones will usually depend on the owner’s preference. Just as some women prefer gold over silver, some will prefer a diamond over a sapphire. Take some time to discover all the exquisite stones on offer, from the pretty oranges or blues of topaz, to the delightful purples of amethyst, to the darkest blacks of onyx. Still in need of some inspiration? Browse the shelves of well-known jewellery brands such as PANDORA, Thomas Sabo and Tiffany & Co. to find all the inspiration required to find the perfect gift.  

Fine Jewellery For Sale

Fine jewellery includes pieces like necklaces, earrings, bracelets, anklets, and rings made of solid gold, sterling silver, platinum, or other precious metals. It often incorporates precious gemstones, such as diamonds, sapphires, rubies, pearls, emeralds, and other precious stones. 

Learn more about some of the beautiful stones and metals that you can add to your personal collection:

• Pearls - Pearls are made by oysters, mussels, or clams when an irritant, usually a piece of sand or a small rock, gets inside of the shell. As a defense mechanism, a fluid is used to coat the irritant. Layer upon layer of this coating is referred to as “nacre.” It is deposited until a lustrous pearl is formed. Formed naturally, real pearls are rare and often used for fine jewellery. 
• Gold - The four common types of gold deposits are lode, intrusive, placer, and laterite. Gold is commonly used in necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings. Whichever piece you decide on, it’s sure to add a touch of class to your collection.  
• Silver - Silver is a shiny gray-white color and is extremely soft, ductile, and malleable. Often used in fine jewellery as a more affordable option to platinum or white gold, it is often mixed with other metals (like platinum, titanium or rhodium) to increase its sturdiness. 
• Diamond - A diamond is crystallized carbon. Being formed under extreme pressure, it is the hardest known mineral – but that doesn’t detract from its desirability. Diamonds are commonly seen in wedding rings, bracelets, and earrings. While most are clear, yellow diamonds, pink diamonds, and other colorful variations of the precious stone are currently in vogue.
• Sapphire – While traditionally blue, sapphires can also be found in shades of green, purple, yellow and orange. Regardless of their colour, they’re a highly desirable gemstone, and are currently popular for use in necklaces, earrings and even engagement rings. They are the third-hardest natural substance – behind only diamond and moissanite.
• Ruby – While these stones are typically red in colour, shades can vary from pale rose to purple, or even dark crimson. Rubies are gaining popularity as an alternative to the diamond engagement ring and are also commonly featured in earrings and bracelets.
• Emerald – Emeralds are composed of the mineral beryl. Often representing healing and fertility, these gemstones can be commonly found in rings, earrings and necklaces and are characterized by a strong green colour.

What You Should Know When Shopping for Fine Jewellery

If you don’t have experience buying fine jewellery, the process can be a little overwhelming! Perhaps start with the reliable 4Cs of determining diamond quality – cut, colour, clarity and carat. 

• Cut – refers to the symmetry, proportioning and polish      of a diamond. Greatly affects a diamond’s brilliance and overall shine.
• Colour – refers to the diamond’s lack of colour. The lower      the colour of the diamond, the higher its quality.
• Clarity – refers to the amount of imperfections in the      diamond. These imperfections are often microscopic, though do impact the      quality and price of a diamond.
• Carat – refers to the weight of the diamond. The heavier      the stone, the higher its quality. 

When you’re looking for fine jewellery on eBay, you’ll have lots of choices not just in the stone and piece of jewellery, but in buying new, used, or vintage pieces. Here are some tips to help you ensure you have the best possible experience:

• Buying new - Make sure the seller is trustworthy. Read the reviews as well as the item description. This is one of the most important things you can do to ensure the seller is reliable. Also, be sure to read their return policy. Is it easy to understand? If not, it may be best to consider another seller. Carefully review the images of the jewellery and make sure that the description of the jewellery in the text matches the images. If you’re buying from an eBay seller who states they are a jeweler, look for jeweler authentication and certification, and make sure that their certification is up to date. 
• Buying used – Buying used fine jewellery is a great way to get a nice piece without breaking the bank. However, it is important to remain diligent and ensure that you’re receiving an authentic product. Read seller reviews – these can help you determine whether you should do business with them. Because the jewellery is used, the seller may or may not have a return policy. Make sure to read the description carefully and take this policy into account. If they do have a return policy, read it carefully and make sure it is easy for you to follow. Look closely at the photos for any scratches, signs of wear, and examine the clasps and prongs to make sure you are not paying full price for something that is going to need to be repaired.
• Buying vintage - Make sure to look at the seller’s profile and read their reviews and don’t hesitate to ask questions. There are a lot of vintage-appearing fine Jewellery pieces available for sale, but they may not actually be vintage. Enquire about the origin of the piece, as well as keeping an eye out for the  “maker’s mark”. If the piece was made before the 1950s, it most likely has a mark with the initials of the maker. Look for patina or signs of wear on the piece and of course, make sure the price is not too good to be true. If it is too cheap, it might not actually be vintage! 

How  Should You Store Your Fine Jewellery?

To help jewellery maintain its luster and fine appearance, proper care is essential. Invest in a high quality fabric-lined jewellery case that has separate compartments to prevent the pieces from rubbing together and scratching. Alternatively, you may opt to store jewellery in their original boxes, or small boxes lined with soft tissue. Never store jewellery in damp conditions or temperature extremes, and regularly check for loose stones and worn mountings.

How Should You Clean Fine Diamond Jewellery?

Over time, diamonds develop a fine film, which is a combination of natural skin oils, lotions, soap, and dust. This can reduce the brilliance of the diamonds, as it prevents light from passing through the stones. To restore the jewellery to its original sheen, clean it regularly with a good quality commercial cleaner or mild detergent. Simply dip the jewellery into the solution, and then rub with a soft brush to remove the dirt and dust. Day-to-day, handle the jewellery by the edges to prevent getting fingerprints on the diamonds, and remember to remove rings and bracelets before washing the dishes or gardening!