Everyone has a preference for what metals you like best for your jewelry. Some people stick with gold, others prefer silver, and some may even choose gold for aesthetic options. What about the finer details? Do you know the difference between 14K gold and 24K gold? What makes sterling silver distinct "sterling"? Here's a guide to some different types of metal for jewelry and which you should select.

Solid Gold Jewelry

Gold, whether yellow, white, or rose, is trendy in the jewelry industry. Historically, there has always been value and emphasis put on gold - however, it's also malleable, making it great for jewelry making. A significant benefit of gold jewelry is that it doesn't tarnish on its own, compared to sterling silver. Gold jewelry can be as old as can be, but you can always bring it back to life with a simple polish. Avoid wearing gold jewelry in swimming pools or hot tubs, as chlorines can discolor gold when it's hot. 

Gold is too delicate to be used undiluted, and this is where karat percentages come in. The lowest that can still legally be called gold is ten karats. You can tell how much gold is present based on the number of karats:

• 24 karat gold = 100 percent gold
• 22 karat gold = 92 percent gold
• 18 karat gold = 75 percent gold
• 14 karat gold = 58 percent gold
• 10 karat gold = 41 percent gold

Gold Jewelry: Plated vs. Filled vs. Vermeil 

These different types of gold jewelry can be easily confused. People often use the terms interchangeably, even though they're different. Gold-plated jewelry is a low-end metal, such as brass or copper, electroplated with a layer of gold. It's typically less expensive than the other options yet more valuable than vermeil. Gold-filled jewelry has a thicker layer of gold over the base and can sometimes be as much as 100% more viscous, making it a good option for longer jewelry. Gold vermeil can be known as a "silver gilt". It's a higher-quality silver that's plated with a thin gold layer. Vermeil can be made with either pure or sterling silver.  

Sterling Silver Jewelry 

 Sterling silver jewelry is one of the most common metal types for jewelry, and you've probably owned a few silver pieces in your life. Pure silver is weak and difficult to shape, and if you wear pure silver as jewelry, it may stain your skin from oxidation due to the reaction of sulfur in the air and ammonia in your sweat. Sterling silver is a common swap for pure silver jewelry as it's an affordable white metal comprising 92.5% pure silver. You'll typically see a "925" on any sterling silver jewelry. 

How Can I Tell What Type of Metal My Jewelry Is?

If you purchase a vintage piece of jewelry or find something lying around and want to know what metal it is, it's pretty easy to look for specific markings. As mentioned above, silver jewelry almost always has a "925" or "sterling" stamp. Real metals, such as gold, silver, or platinum, must be stamped with a quality mark showing the percentage of metal used. For non-precious metals, you can always try using a magnet. If you are having trouble, contact Bostonian Jewelers, and we can help you figure it out. 

Work with Bostonian Jewelers 

At Bostonian Jewelers, we aim to help people find the highest quality jewelry for themselves or a loved one. We create only the finest jewelry featuring precious metals and stones. Start shopping with us today, or plan your restoration project with our experts. 

Ladies love to flaunt their ear accessories and receive compliments for having a good choice or are asked where they bought such a beautiful pair. Believe it or not, complimenting someone on their earrings can make them a whole day. But as much as the earrings lift the look, some ears are sensitive to metals, so you must be careful in selecting the type that doesn't irritate your ears. Allow the blog to guide you through the metals suitable for earrings. 

Types of Metals Best For Earrings 

Attention, all sensitive ears! We understand that you are fond of wearing fashion accessories, but your sensitivity hinders in between. For that, a list of ear-friendly metals has been compiled below for you to feel comfortable:

• Titanium 
• Surgical Stainless Steel
• Gold
• Platinum 
• Niobium 
• Sterling silver

Titanium

Titanium takes the highest score among the best metals for earrings. Why? Because the metal is hypoallergenic. Hypoallergenic metals prevent allergic reactions. Furthermore, Titanium has high levels of durability and is easy to carry, being light in weight, which adds all the more reason to wear it daily. The good part is that Titanium is available in various styles and designs, which doubles the joy of matching the accessory with your dresses. 

Surgical Stainless Steel

Next in line, we have surgical stainless steel on the list. The sensitive ears can wear earrings manufactured out of this material. Are they safe? Yes, they are safe. The same material is also used in the medical field and is acknowledged for its hypoallergenic properties. The content level of the nickel is slightly lesser when compared with the usual regular stainless steel, reducing the chances of allergic reactions. Therefore, when shopping, keep a sharp eye on earrings made of stainless steel.

Gold 

Gold is one of the most commonly used metals that hold immense value when it's turned into jewelry. The metal turns out to be soft if used for earring production purposes. Therefore, it is mixed with other metals to shape alloys. While setting out to purchase gold earrings, picking the 24K or 18K ones is suggested. Why? Since their alloys contain more gold and fewer other metals, the irritation risk decreases. You won't have to take it off in any gathering and enjoy the experience. 

Platinum  

Make way for platinum; this metal is another excellent choice for ladies with sensitive ears. Platinum resists corrosion and tarnishing, so the metal will not become uncomfortable even if you have to wear it longer. Other than that, platinum is recognized for its durability and endless charm. 

Niobium 

If all the metals mentioned earlier are out of your reach, why don't you try niobium? The metal is not as famous but carries hypoallergenic. Due to its anodizing properties, Niobium is available in a wide range of colors. Therefore, use it according to your taste. 

Shop Bostonian Jewelers 

If you are on the hunt for the best metals for earrings, then consider getting in touch with Bostonian Jewelers to help you. 

Jewelry should bring delight rather than pain. Adornment can be tempting, but for people with sensitive skin, the risk of allergies is usually too significant. Discover a world of hypoallergenic jewelry metals that will take your style to the next level without causing any irritation to your skin.

Explore the world of beautiful and safe metals for sensitive skin, from rhodium-plated sterling silver, which protects against tarnish, to nickel-free alternatives, which entice, and platinum, which endures with its timeless elegance.  

What is Hypoallergenic Jewelry

Hypoallergenic jewelry is defined as jewelry made from materials that are less likely to cause allergic responses. These carefully chosen metals relieve those who suffer from skin sensitivities or allergies to metals, enabling them to enjoy the pleasure of jewelry without the pain of skin irritation. Nickel allergies are frequent, so hypoallergenic jewelry is a good option. Wearing jewelry can be less enjoyable if it causes skin sensitivities, redness, or itching. People with sensitive skin or who are allergic to metals can find relief using hypoallergenic metals, which lessen the chances of allergic reactions.

Different Types of Hypoallergenic Jewelry

Rhodium-Plated Sterling Silver

A new favorite among those looking for hypoallergenic jewelry is rhodium-plated sterling silver. Rhodium plating makes sterling silver shinier and more long-lasting and forms a protective layer that keeps skin from coming into touch with the metal. Rhodium plating makes sterling silver hypoallergenic, an excellent quality for sensitive skin.

Nickel-Free Sterling Silver

Nickel is a typical allergen in sterling silver. People looking for a nickel-free alternative to sterling silver but still adore its charm can find it in nickel-free sterling silver. People allergic to nickel can still appreciate the beauty of sterling silver jewelry thanks to this type of silver crafted without nickel.

Platinum

Platinum is a hypoallergenic metal of unmatched quality; it is also famously rare and long-lasting. People with sensitive skin will love it because it is pure and won't tarnish. Platinum jewelry is a hypoallergenic option for those who want timeless appeal without sacrificing comfort or durability, and it also radiates sophistication.

Contact Bostonian Jewelers 

Finding the ideal piece of hypoallergenic jewelry among the many options available can be challenging without the assistance of an expert. Bostonian Jewelers appreciates the importance of sensitivity-free jewelry and provides a carefully selected collection of hypoallergenic pieces made of platinum, nickel-free sterling silver, rhodium-plated sterling silver, and other materials. Bostonian Jewelers is the first stop on the path to hypoallergenic elegance, where fashion and consideration for sensitive skin come together in every item.

Cleaning gold jewelry with extreme care is essential if you want it to retain its luster. These treasured possessions may lose brightness over time due to natural wear and tear. This handy guide will teach you everything you need to know to clean your gold jewelry properly.

Every step, from acquiring the necessary materials to using a delicate bristle brush, is designed to restore the enduring charm of your cherished possessions. Carefully following these methods can restore the brightness of your gold jewelry and keep it shining with the same classic elegance that first drew you to it. Do you own gold jewelry that requires cleaning? The steps below will help you maintain its durability.

Get the Required Material

The first step in cleaning gold jewelry is gathering all the needed materials. You'll have a reliable cleaning crew, a lint-free cloth, a gentle dish soap, some warm water, and a soft brush (like an old toothbrush). The only thing that needs to be added to the set is a dish for the cleaning solution. Failing to get these items ready all in one place can cause distraction if you need to start searching in the middle of cleaning.

Inspect Your Gold Jewelry

Before you start cleaning your gold jewelry:

1. Inspect it thoroughly.
2. Be very careful with any fragile settings or stones that could come away.
3. Remember not to scratch or damage any jewels or other delicate elements while cleaning your item.

Hiring a professional cleaner is the best option for such items.

Make a Mild Cleaning Solution

To restore your gold jewelry, make a mild cleaning solution. You can create a practical yet delicate mixture in a bowl by mixing a tiny quantity of gentle dish soap with warm water. As you soak, this mild solution is a catalyst to dissolve the built-up grime and oils. Here is where the art of cleaning and preservation begins, so your gold pieces can shine again without losing their natural beauty.

Clean and Brush Carefully

After submerging your gold jewelry in the gentle cleaning solution, gently brush it to remove debris. Scrub the parts lightly with a delicate brush or an old toothbrush. Be especially careful around crevices and behind diamonds, where dirt can hide. Avoid scratching the metal with a soft touch, and do not apply undue pressure. Your gold jewelry will retain its luster and shine thanks to this meticulous cleaning method that removes all traces of dirt and grime.

Rinse Under Warm Running Water

After you've scrubbed your gold jewelry, rinse it under warm running water to remove any remaining soap. Use a clean, lint-free cloth to pat your items dry. It would help if you did not use paper towels or tissues on the delicate metal since their fibers could scratch it. Make sure your jewelry is completely dry before putting it away.

Contact Bostonian Jewelers 

Each step in this thorough cleaning procedure is essential to bringing back the enduring luster of your gold jewelry. Using delicate methods and a moderate cleaning solution, you can restore the shine and protect your treasured possessions for years. As you bask in the rekindled glow, think about Bostonian Jewelers' knowledge and carefully chosen products; they help you maintain and even enhance the beauty of your gold jewelry. Bostonian Jewelers is ready to take jewelry care to the next level with their dedication to quality.

Pearls Are Back

Why Choose This Winter Gemstone For Your Wedding

Diamonds may be a girl's best friend, but if you're looking for something different, pearls are also the perfect bridal companion. If you want wedding jewelry that's more subtle yet still luxurious, pearls are an exceptional choice - especially for a winter wedding. Still not sure if pearls are suitable for your wedding day? These five reasons should entice you.

Symbol of Elegance and Grace

Pearls symbolize eternal love and protection, so they fit well at weddings. They may be small gems, but they hold many exceptional meanings. Pearls have a specific regal element to them that's associated with wealth and royalty. They're guaranteed to make brides feel elegant when walking down the aisle. Throughout history, some of the world's most famous women have donned pearls for their wedding day. Queen Elizabeth II wore pearls for her wedding to Prince Philip in 1947, while Jackie Kennedy wore a single-strand pearl necklace when she wed JFK. Grace Kelly and Princess Diana wore pearls on their respective wedding days, too.

Timeless Jewelry Trend

Diamonds and pearls have something in common — they never go out of fashion. While the way they're worn, their settings, and the styles may change, they always remain highly sought after. They exude an elegance that spans decades, and they'll add that to your big day. Pearls are also durable if looked after correctly, so you'll have a piece of jewelry that you can wear for years and possibly pass down to the next generation. It's this timeless quality that makes them such a unique gem and ensures they are always ultra-chic.

Easy to Incorporate into a Bridal Look

Pearls are not only versatile and easy to incorporate into your bridal look, but they can also be customized to suit your style. They go well with classic or contemporary gowns, vintage dresses, or a bohemian look. If you're drawn to the more traditional style of pearls, a pearl necklace and earrings are an excellent choice. Alternatively, you can wear them in your hair, either threaded through or on a comb. Just like diamonds come in a range of impressive hues, pearls don't only come in white. If you want to add a splash of soft pink, gray, or even black, you'll find pearls in these colors.

Classic Gift, Especially for Weddings 

The traditions and customs of a wedding day differ between every family, race, culture, and background. In many cultures, it's customary for the groom to give his wife-to-be a piece of pearl jewelry. This jewelry has special significance as it marks the start of a new life together. Another common custom is for the bride's mother-in-law to gift her pearls. These may be a new set or a restored family heirloom. However they're received and whatever form they take, the sentimentality and meaning behind pearls as a wedding gift make them perfect for wearing on such a special day. 

Infused With Rich Folklore, History & Legend

Folklore says that wearing pearls on your wedding day will lead to happiness. The ancient Greeks were the first to connect pearls and a happy marriage in the legend of Cleopatra and Marc Anthony. Legend has it that Cleopatra wanted to show Marc Anthony how wealthy she was and how much she loved him. To prove her point, she dissolved a rare and priceless pearl in her wine. This story evolved to the belief that any bride wearing pearls on her wedding day would have a healthy and harmonious marriage. In some cultures, they say that by wearing pearls, you ensure a lifetime of joy with your future spouse. This is a tradition that's still practiced by brides who don't want to be overcome with emotion and who want a tear-free marriage.

Pretty in Pearls with Bostonian Jewelers 

As you can see, pearls are an excellent way to make an elegant statement. We love the idea of the luster of pearls adding something special to your big day, and the fact that pearls are so versatile makes them a win in our book, too. If you love the idea and sentimentality behind pearls, work with Bostonian Jewelers to plan the perfect pearl look for your big day. 

Weddings are an occasion where tradition and symbolism are essential. The passing down of family heritage jewelry is one custom that has endured over time. Not only do these classic pieces have exquisite designs, but they also have a rich past and tales from the generations that came before them. 

Ways To Convert Antique Pieces into Contemporary Masterworks

It is challenging to find the distinct charm and character of heirloom jewelry in modern designs. To fit your style, it needs to be adjusted. You can turn these into contemporary masterpieces with the assistance of an expert jeweler. 

A striking fusion of vibrant beauty with modern trends can be achieved by downsizing an antique ring, placing jewels in a more modern setting, or combining ancestral components into a new design.

Combine Modernity and Tradition

The proverb, "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue," captures the notion that including historical details in your wedding can bring prosperity and good fortune. You can respect the "something old" tradition and personalize your wedding jewelry by donning ancestral pieces. 

Turning Into Classic Pieces

You're also laying the groundwork for future generations when you reimagine family heirloom jewelry for your wedding. Making these items the center of attention on your wedding day encourages younger family members to value their history and recognize the value of these classic objects.

The Continued Journey of an Heirloom

Family heirlooms have histories and backstories of their own. You can carry on their journey and add a chapter that is all yours on your wedding day. These items become a part of your narrative, signifying your ties to the past and your dedication to continuing the tradition. By doing this, you enhance the jeweler's history and preserve its sentimental value.

How Bostonian Jewelers Can Help In Repurposing Family Heirlooms

Professional jewelers can assist you in reimagining family heirloom jewelry for your wedding day and beyond. They have the know-how to turn these priceless items into cutting-edge works of art that skillfully combine tradition and innovation. Whether you wish to wear a vintage necklace, a family heirloom brooch, or an ancestral engagement ring, we can help. 

Rings hold a special place in our hearts, symbolizing love, commitment, and cherished memories. However, life's changes may necessitate adjustments to your precious rings. Whether it's the excitement of a proposal or the passage of time, understanding the art of ring resizing is essential to ensure your beloved pieces remain a perfect fit, preserving their timeless elegance.

In this article, we will unravel the intricate process of ring resizing and explore everything you need to know to keep your cherished rings as stunning as ever.

Why is the Ring Resized?

Ring resizing is a common practice to ensure the wearer enjoys a comfortable and secure fit. Several factors drive the need for resizing, including changes in finger size due to weight fluctuations or environmental factors. 

Style preferences may also evolve, as do sentimental or practical considerations, such as inheriting a ring or wanting to wear it on a different finger, which can prompt resizing. Regardless, ring resizing helps individuals continue to enjoy their cherished jewelry.

How Do Rings Get Resized?

When contemplating ring resizing, the ideal approach is to return to the original jewelry store. Their experts intimately know your ring's design and composition, ensuring precise resizing that preserves its integrity and aesthetics. 

This ensures that the resizing process is executed with utmost care, resulting in a perfectly fitted, beautiful piece of jewelry.

Reducing Ring Size: 

Resizing a ring to a smaller size involves an intricate yet manageable process. The metal must be heated to an exact temperature, striking a delicate balance between hot and cold. Extreme temperatures can render the metal challenging to manipulate and alter its chemical composition. 

Relying on the original jeweler is recommended for this task, as their experience guarantees the metal is heated to perfection, retaining its chemical properties while remaining malleable.

Expanding the Ring:

When the goal is to make a ring larger for a perfect fit, jewelers employ various techniques. To avoid subjecting the ring to heat, they may delicately shave off a portion of the inner gold surface, reducing the ring band's width. This adjustment ensures a comfortable fit on the finger without compromising the ring's structural integrity.

How Much Time Does It Take to Resize Rings?

Anticipate a temporary separation from your ring when resizing it at your local jeweler, with an estimated timeframe of up to two weeks. While the resizing itself is relatively swift, ranging from 10 minutes to approximately 5 or 6 hours to achieve the desired size, local jewelry stores often juggle multiple tasks, contributing to the two-week duration for the complete process.

Why Bostonian Jewelers Can Assist With The Process of Ring Resizing:

Choosing Bostonian Jewelers for your ring resizing needs is a wise decision. Their expertise ensures a seamless process, preserving the beauty and sentiment of your cherished rings. Trust them for a perfect fit every time, and experience craftsmanship at its finest.

Gold-plated jewelry shines due to its bright allure, but tarnishing over time can dull it. If this is what's happening to your precious gold-plated jewelry, worry not! Here, we discuss the top easy ways to protect your priceless jewels so they are as shiny as new. 

Understanding the Causes of Tarnishing in Gold-Plated Jewelry

While gold-plated jewelry is known for its affordability and beauty, it can lose its shine over time and tarnish. This is a natural process influenced by various factors. Understanding these causes will help you preserve the allure of your gold-plated jewelry.

However, this base metal might come to the surface with time, discoloring both the metal and gold. To restore its original brightness after this lengthy process, diligent polishing and care are required. Here, we share valuable tips to help you maintain the sparkle and luxurious allure of your gold-plated jewelry even after years.

Invest in a Gentle Cloth

If you use it often, you must clean your gold-plated jewelry at least once a year and more frequently, every three to six months. To keep them shining, use a cotton chamois or soft, non-abrasive, clean cloth when storing. 

Minimize Contact with Water

Gold plating thickness, measured in microns, directly affects tarnishing. Higher microns mean less tarnishing. To protect your jewelry, remove gold-plated items before showering or swimming. Substances like chlorine in tap water can harm precious metals, leading to dullness or erosion.

Exercise Caution with Perfume

Be cautious with perfume around gold-plated jewelry. Avoid spraying perfume directly on gold items, as some chemicals can cause oxidation and lead your jewelry to tarnish. This chemical response can ultimately blacken your gold-plated items, although it is reversible with the appropriate measures

Strategic Jewelry Storage

Storing necklaces and earrings well is as essential as cleaning gold-plated jewelry. Use pouches, cases, or jewelry boxes to protect them from tarnishing and fading. For ultimate jewelry care, consider storing them in a dark, calm, and dry environment, free from humidity and excessive heat, which can accelerate tarnishing.

The Longevity of Gold-Plated Jewelry

With good care, high-quality gold-plated jewelry can stay attractive for up to five years. Please protect it from salt, water, sweat, humidity, and chemicals. If it fades, you can restore it through tarnish-removal sprays or replacing it for a fresh look.