Jewelry has long been a symbol of beauty, wealth, and status, but along with its appeal comes a fair amount of confusion. Many myths have been passed down through generations, and some of them are still widely believed today. These misconceptions can lead to unnecessary mistakes when purchasing, wearing, or caring for jewelry. Here are 10 of the most common jewelry myths that people still get confused with and the truths behind them.
1. Gold Doesn’t Tarnish
A common belief is that gold is impervious to tarnishing. While it’s true that pure gold (24k) doesn’t tarnish, most gold jewelry is an alloy of gold and other metals. These alloys can tarnish over time, particularly when exposed to air or moisture. So, gold jewelry requires proper care to maintain its shine.
2. Diamonds Are Forever
Diamonds are often said to be “forever,” but in reality, they are not indestructible. While they are the hardest known natural material, diamonds can still be chipped or cracked if hit in just the right way. Proper handling and care are essential to keep them safe.
3. Pearls Need to Be Worn Regularly
Some people believe pearls need to be worn often to keep them lustrous. However, wearing them too frequently can actually damage the delicate surface. It’s best to wear pearls occasionally and store them properly in a cloth pouch to prevent friction and exposure to chemicals that could affect their appearance.
4. Silver Jewelry Can Turn Your Skin Green
Many people think that silver jewelry always causes their skin to turn green. This is a myth that actually applies to sterling silver alloys containing copper. Copper reacts with moisture and oils in the skin, creating a greenish discoloration. Opting for higher-quality silver or using a protective coating can help prevent this.
5. Diamonds Are Always Clear
Not all diamonds are completely clear. Diamonds come in a range of colors, from colorless to light yellow or brown. The color of a diamond affects its value, with colorless diamonds being the most expensive. So, next time you’re shopping for diamonds, know that the perfect one might not be entirely clear!
6. Costume Jewelry Is Low Quality
Many people assume that costume jewelry is made from inferior materials, but this isn’t always the case. While some costume pieces are mass-produced with cheap metals, others are crafted with high-quality materials like brass, glass, or even sterling silver. The key is to assess each piece individually based on the craftsmanship and materials used.
7. You Can’t Clean Jewelry at Home
Contrary to popular belief, cleaning jewelry at home is both simple and safe when done correctly. Mild soap, water, and a soft toothbrush can clean most jewelry pieces effectively. For precious gems or intricate pieces, it’s always best to seek professional cleaning.
8. Jewelry Can Be Worn in the Shower
Many people believe that wearing jewelry in the shower is perfectly fine, but this can be harmful in the long run. Water, soap, and shampoo can cause jewelry to lose its shine, and some materials like pearls, opals, or porous stones may absorb moisture and get damaged.
9. The Bigger the Gemstone, the Better
While larger gemstones often seem more valuable, the quality of the gemstone matters much more than size. Factors such as cut, clarity, and color play a more significant role in determining a gemstone’s value than sheer size alone. Smaller, high-quality stones can be much more valuable than larger, flawed ones.
10. You Can Always Resell Jewelry for Its Full Value
While gold and precious gemstones hold value over time, the resale price of jewelry is often much lower than its original price. Retailers and designers typically mark up prices to cover their overhead, and the value of a piece is also affected by its condition, craftsmanship, and market demand.
