Jewellery has always played an extremely significant role in human culture, representing everything from status and wealth to love and commitment. With such a long history, however, comes a raft of myths and misconceptions.
In this blog post, we will shed some light on some of the common jewellery myths and the amazingly interesting truths behind them.
Join us as we debunk some of the hottest myths about jewellery.
10 Popular Myths About Jewellery Busted
Myth 1: Pure Gold is The Best for Jewellery.
Fact: While pure gold, or 24ct gold, is undoubtedly beautiful, it is also unbelievably soft and malleable. This makes it prone to scratching and bending, so it is often alloyed with other metals like copper or silver to enhance its durability. 18ct and 14ct gold are more practical for everyday wear because they combine strength with beauty since they contain a higher percentage of alloy metals.
Just take a look at this stunner:
Made from 18ct pure yellow gold and stunning G/H colour diamonds, this 18ct Solid Yellow Gold 1.00ctw Dress Diamond Bangle is beautiful, durable, and timeless.
Myth 2: Diamonds Are the Rarest Gemstones
Fact: Diamonds may well be sold, and generally thought of, as being rare and very precious; the truth of the matter is that they really are relatively common, considering other gemstones. It is one of the cases of successful marketing that has brought them such value, and not so much because of their rarity.
Stones like tanzanite, alexandrite, and certain jades are really very rare and can be more valuable depending on their quality and size.
Myth 3: To Be of Value, Pearls Have to Be Perfectly Round.
Fact: While the perfectly round pearl is of higher value, pearls come in all shapes and sizes. These irregularly shaped pearls are called baroque, and with their organic forms, each one unique, they are truly beautiful.
What gives value to a pearl, among other things, includes its lustre, surface quality, size, and colour, but not solely its shape. For instance, take a look at this beautiful pearl necklace:
Crafted with shimmering gold-plated silver, this 18ct 1-micron gold-plated pearl necklace flaunts a unique baroque pearl. This means, no two necklaces are the same, so you will stand out in the crowd.
Myth 4: Costume Jewellery Isn't Worth Buying
Fact: Costume jewellery is made from non-precious materials and can be beautiful as well as inexpensive. Good costume jewellery will last for many years, providing a chance to indulge in stylish designs without the high cost related to precious metals and natural stones. It's ideal to keep up with fashion trends, experiment with your style, or bring some diversity into your collection.
Myth 5: You Should Never Mix Metals
Fact: Do not let the old rule 'you should never mix metals' limit you. Mixing metals like gold and silver is rather modern and trendy, and creates an eclectic look. That can add interest to your jewellery ensemble; thus, it allows a lot of creativity and personal expression.
You can also choose jewellery pieces that flaunt a mix of metals such as yellow and white gold. Take a look at these 9ct Solid Gold Fancy Twisted Drop Earrings which flaunt a mix of yellow and white gold in a unique twisted design.
This makes them a versatile accessory to be worn on multiple occasions and with a variety of outfits.
Myth 6: All Gemstones Are Indestructible
Fact: Most everyone knows diamonds are very hard, but few people realise that not all stones are that hard. Opals, emeralds, and pearls are pretty soft and easily scratched or damaged. Knowing how hard your gemstones are and the special care they may need can help them last for generations.
Myth 7: Cleaning Jewellery at Home is Always Safe
Fact: Cleaning jewellery requires methods suitable for each. For example, some precious stones and settings are too soft or delicate for ultrasonic cleaners, while other harsh chemicals may scratch or damage softer stones.
It is therefore essential to take care of the type of jewellery with specific care instructions and seek professional help from a jeweller in case of hesitation. If cleaning at home, take special precautions for different metals. Read our guide on cleaning silver jewellery to learn some hacks for cleaning your precious pieces and things to avoid.
Myth 8: You Should Not Wear Jewellery Daily Because It Can Wear Out Fast.
Fact: Quality jewellery is made for daily wear. Treat it with a little care and maintenance, and your jewellery can last for many years of everyday wear. That includes the rituals of cleaning, storing safely, and periodic professional eye on settings being tight and stones not pitted or damaged.
While you can’t wear extra sparkly or heavy and bold jewellery on an everyday basis, pieces such as 9ct Solid Yellow Gold 4mm Cultured Pearl Studs can be worn every day.
Myth 9: Only Expensive Jewellery is Worth Collecting
Fact: Jewellery does transcend price tags. It can be the sentimental values, unique design, and personal taste that are huge reasons behind what makes up jewellery that is worth collecting. Though inexpensive, such pieces can mean and be as beautiful as more expensive items, if they reflect your personal style or have a special story you associate with them.
Myth 10: You Can't Resize Rings Without Damaging Them
Fact: Most rings can be resized by professional jewellers without a hitch. Indeed, some designs are more complex to resize than others, such as ones containing various materials.
Rings with very intricate settings or those featuring stones of more than one kind need more care. Consultations should always be sought from your trusted jeweller for an assessment of the best approach toward resizing your ring.
You can also invest in adjustable rings such as this classic masterpiece.
This 925 Sterling Silver Adjustable Fancy Cubic Zirconia Ring receives its shine from cubic zirconia and a skeel rhodium coating. It is adjustable, so it fits perfectly.
Jewellery myths have been passed down through generations, but knowing the facts behind them can help a person in making better decisions and appreciate these timeless pieces of treasure one currently has or intends to buy.
Knowing the truth behind such common myths adds to the fun of the jewellery experience and helps in enjoying the collection to the fullest, be it fine jewellery invested in or the playful charm of costume pieces.
Explore an exquisite collection of the finest jewellery pieces at FJewellery and sparkle forever.