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Step 1
"Know thyself" is perhaps one of the first rules in building a jewelry wardrobe. Experts recommend knowing what your likes and dislikes are before making any purchases. What turns your head? What types of styles seem to suit you most? Determine the jewelry styles for which you are most drawn. Choices range from classic to contemporary, romantic to "artsy." Do you love the streamlined look, a sterling silver finish, colored gems or white diamonds? Also, listen to comments from others on your choices to provide clues about the types of jewelry that suits you most. Your lifestyle should also inform your choices. Jewelry that is uncomfortable or gets in the way may indicate the need to re-examine your choices.
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Step 2
Also consider body type before making a jewelry purchase. Jewelry should suit your body type, not work against it. Height and bone structure provide clues as to the type of jewelry which will look best on you. When it comes to necklaces, tall women often choose choker-style necklaces which help to de-emphasize height. On the other hand, a petite woman should choose a length that falls below the breast but above the waist. This gives the impression of a long waist. Full-figured women should avoid small or dainty-sized jewelry.
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Step 3
Before actually making a purchase, take the time to educate yourself on jewelry. Information on topics such as metals, precious or semi-precious gems, pearls, prices and local retailers will make purchasing jewelry all that much more comfortable. Being an educated consumer will also produce greater satisfaction and enjoyment of your jewelry.
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Step 4
Be clear about your budget. After educating yourself on the finer points of jewelry, keep in mind there are many price points. It's easy enough to get in over your head with a beautiful bauble you "just had to have." However, it may be enough to break the bank. Again, that's why it's so important to understand the differences between stone and metal qualities. Bigger is not always better. Establish your budget, do your homework, and make the best purchase you can afford.
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Step 5
When establishing your jewelry wardrobe, start with the basics first. Always buy the best quality you can afford. Matching pieces can then be added later when your budget allows. For instance, consider gold jewelry. Choose a basic gold chain necklace, hoop earrings and a tasteful gold bracelet. When it comes to diamonds, classic stud earrings are a beautiful no-fail choice. They also make a great graduation, birthday or first-job gift. Again, purchase what you can afford and make an upgrade to a larger carat when your finances are more established.
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Step 6
In addition to necklaces and earrings, invest in a classic ring, such as a right-hand ring or another style. Always consider hand type before making a purchase. Wide bands work well with long-fingered women. For those who are short fingered, choose thinner bands and stones in the marquise or pear shape, which give the appearance of elongation.
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Step 7
One of the biggest mistakes women often make in purchasing jewelry is assuming only the very rich can afford fine jewelry. A truly educated consumer understands things like gold karatages and the carat weights of gemstones. For instance, women who have done their homework know that there are plenty semi-precious stones which are just as beautiful as precious gems, but cost much less.
