Jewelry styles, gift ideas and care, explained
Plain-English guides to choosing, gifting and looking after jewelry, from gold karats and diamond grades to pearls and silver.
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Gold Karats Explained: 10K, 14K, 18K and 24K
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in StylesWhat gold karat marks mean, how 10K, 14K, 18K and 24K differ, and what gold filled, gold plated and vermeil mean under FTC guidance.
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Everyday Earrings: Studs, Hoops and Drops Compared
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in StylesHow studs, hoops, huggies and drop earrings compare for comfort and everyday wear, which backs stay put, and what to choose for sensitive ears.
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The 4Cs of Diamonds: A Plain-English Guide
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in Gift IdeasWhat cut, color, clarity and carat weight mean on a diamond grading report, how GIA’s scales work, and how to balance the 4Cs within a budget.
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How to Clean Jewelry at Home Safely
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in Jewelry CareA gentle way to clean most jewelry at home, which gemstones should never go in an ultrasonic cleaner, and when to leave cleaning to a jeweler.
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How to Buy Jewelry as a Gift Without Guessing
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in Gift IdeasA checklist for buying jewelry as a gift: working out style and size, checking quality marks and getting the return policy in writing.
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Birthstones by Month: A Gift Guide
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in Gift IdeasThe traditional birthstone for every month, from January’s garnet to December’s tanzanite, turquoise and zircon, with tips on choosing durable stones.