Below is the list of gemstones associated for that month.  They are considered lucky for their particular months and for those who believe in such things their healing powers are heightened during their months.  The different birthstones per month are listed as such:

* January – Garnet

* February – Amethyst

* March – Aquamarine or Bloodstone

* April – Diamond

* May – Emerald

* June – Pearl, Moonstone or Alexandrite

* July – Ruby

* August – Peridot or Sardonyx

* September – Sapphire

* October – Opal or Tourmaline

* November – Topaz

* December – Turquoise, Zircon or Blue Topaz

Experts in psychic phenomena believe that each gemstone stands for something.  Certain gemstone jewellery performs certain functions and is said to have healing powers.  For example, Amethyst is said to hold great healing powers and is used for problems in the blood and in breathing problems.  Agate is used for stomach upsets and can be placed on the abdomen.  Lepidolite is a lithium-mica stone and it is useful for mood swings, treating the master gland and immune system.  This stone is good for creating calm sleep, relieving exhaustion and soothes the body through detoxification.  Jasper clears toxins, soothes the nerve and balances the mineral ratio for the body. Helps the body to stabilize itself during dietary changes and improves the assimilations of trace minerals.  .  These are only a few examples.

Gemstones can be worn as gemstone earrings, gemstone bracelets and gemstone necklaces.  Sometimes, there may be matching sets and may be perfect for that new outfit.  Gemstone earrings have been particularly popular as they are simple, elegant and timeless.  They are also affordable especially on Sterling Silver so you can purchase a few pieces of gemstone earrings to match different outfits.  It would be even better when a matching set is available to complete the wardrobe.

Whatever gemstone colour is your colour, they are all beautiful and make beautiful gemstone jewellery.

There are many reasons for the growing interest in fashion jewelry.  Firstly, they make an affordable imitation to a diamond or gold piece.  With the growing price in high end jewellery, wearing fashion jewellery has grown enormously.

It is easy to search for fashion jewellery online.  With the internet and retail shops around, the variety is endless.  It is extremely easy to familiarise yourself with it.  When shopping for that special event, typically the outfit is picked, then the shoes.  The best bit is left to last which is picking out jewellery to match the outfit and shoes.  Fashion jewellery is so affordable, a whole set can be purchased!

The internet is one the easiest ways of familiarisng yourself with the latest in fashion jewellery.  There is a never ending list of online fashion jewelry websites that offer useful fashion tips.  It is also convenient because you can use keywords in the search engines if you’re looking for something specific.  Fashion magazines are also a good way of searching for fashion jewellery and can also be found on the internet.

Shopping is also an easy way of familiarizing yourself with fashion jewelry.  It is also easier because of the longer shopping hours and more boutique shops opening every day.

Some people prefer to actually see and feel the product before they decide to purchase it.  Some also like to make sure it will match their new outfit and bring it with them when shopping for fashion jewellery.  The choices are endless.

When it comes to familiarising yourself with the latest trends in fashion jewelry, you can see you have a number of different options.  No matter what you trying to match or you are just trying to compliment your new wardrobe, you have a number of fashion jewelry research methods at your fingertips.

Fashion jewellery needs to be looked after even more than gold.  Gold can be cleaned and polished but fashion jewellery is made from base metal and plated, therefore, should not be used as you would with a gold piece of jewellery.  Silver jewellery also needs to be looked after as it is a soft metal and should not be treated in a rough manor.

When it comes to looking after fashion jewelry, there are certain rules in keeping it safe.  First of all do not spray any perfume or deodorant on yourself while you are wearing fashion jewellery or spray directly onto it.  Do not wear fashion jewelry in the shower, the beach and in the swimming pool.  There is a high chance it will permanently discolour the metal.  When removing your fashion jewelry, it is best to store them in a cool dry spot such as a jewellery box.  It will last longer this way.

If there is a mark, it should be cleaned with a mild soft cloth or a jewellery cleaning cloth.  Do not use heavy chemicals as it is not needed.  The same care should also be taken with Sterling Silver jewellery.  Silver jewellery is a valuable metal and should be handled with care.

It’s not difficult to look after your jewellery.  These simple tips will ensure the integrity of your jewellery for many years to come.

There is a wide range of antique jewellery pieces available such as antique engagement rings, studded necklaces, bracelets, brooches, crosses, pendants, lockets and earrings.  Some of the jewellers also specify the age of the antique jewellery on display.  Typical antique piece would be the cameo that is still popular today and is worn by the young and old.

Silver has been around for thousands of years and silver jewellery developed along the way because of its value and beauty.  This is why it is easy to obtain a timeless piece of antique silver jewellery.  As shopping has become easier with longer opening hours at the shopping centres and internet shopping, variety of antique jewellery has increased.  As the popularity for silver jewellery has increased so has the demand for antique silver jewellery.  These pieces also come to you through antique jewellery auctions, fairs and sales that are frequented by the jewellers.

Shopping for antique jewellery is a little more special because there is a history behind each one.  An antique piece resembles quality as the big production lines did not exist 100 years ago.  Shopping for antique jewellery is also a cultural experience.  One will experience many beautiful and different types and designs of jewellery that will keep for generations to come and memories that will remain.

Cleaning Different Types Of Jewellery

Below are the different methods to clean certain types of jewellery.

Costume Jewellery

These require careful attention since quite a few are made with a special cement that can get damaged by harsh cleaners. Wiping away the dirt with a soft, clean and moist cloth can clean these. Next, they must be thoroughly dried. Hot water and other forms of heat must never be applied.

Oxidized Jewellery

Never brush oxidized jewellery. Some types of oxidized jewellery can lose their beauty, when cleaned with a tarnish remover. Also, please avoid hot water.

Shells and Cultured Pearls

This must be carefully wiped with a moist cloth to get rid of sweat, dirt and oil build up from its contact with the skin. There are cleaners available particularly for pearls. The main thing to watch for is to ensure that the piece is completely dry after cleaning. Steam and hot water must never be used. Pearls are never soaked in chemical products or water.

Genuine Pearls

Never keep your favourite pearl strand soaked in water. Pearls must be worn as often as possible so that they can maintain their lustre. Cleaning them is easy – just wipe them with a muslin cloth moistened with gentle diluted dishwashing liquid.

Closed-Back Settings

Extreme care must be taken to avoid cleaning agents from lodging themselves in the setting as it makes it difficult to dry them. These pieces must never be soaked in water. The best way to clean them is to wipe them with a moist cloth and dry.

Gold Jewellery

Regular dishwashing liquid can be used to clean gold pieces, after which they can be cleaned with plain warm water and dried. It is not a good idea to wear gold while swimming as the chlorine can make it look dull.

Diamonds

Everyone is aware that diamonds are the hardest stones. However, it needs careful cleaning when set with platinum or other metals. Household cleaners and  even swimming pool chlorine and other household cleaners can harm diamond pieces. The best thing to use is a mild solution of ammonia and a gentle toothbrush to get into the nooks.

Silver Jewellery:

There are plenty of silver polishes available in the market. These can be in solution or paste form. Do avoid toothpaste, though as it is likely to damage the surface. Remove your silver before swimming.

Other Quick Tips

1. It is not advisable to wear jewellery while gardening.
2. It is not advisable to wear jewellery while doing housework that involves contact with dust and cleaning materials.
3. Try not to place too many pieces in the same box as apart from being tangled, they can develop scratches which will be almost impossible to remove.
4. Take time to inspect your jewellery from time to time to watch for stones coming loose so that they can be repaired without delay.
5. Be very cautious when using chemical based cleaners.

Using the above tips, I wish you all the best in using your favourite jewellery for years to come.