Birthday Jewelry Can Be Special Gifts
Birthday gifts are very special when the gift includes a piece of jewelry. Antique, used and new rings, bracelets and necklaces make wonderful presents that will be treasured for many years. Jewelry is in a class by itself; used jewelry is often more desirable than new examples that sell for the same price. Unique birthday gifts can be created at home from used jewelry parts, and inexpensive yard sale jewelry finds are fun options to consider.
Helpful notes about special occasion jewelry:
Antiques: Desirable rings, bracelets and necklaces can be found with colorful birth-month gemstones that will increase in value over the years. Antique jewelry is priced for gem quality and metal desirability. It is possible to find sterling silver or 18k, 14k, and 9k gold fittings in yellow gold, white gold or rose gold in jewelry that was made prior to 1930. The 10k gold is very popular in rings and necklaces made after World War II.
Estate Jewelry: The term ‘estate jewelry’ is a catchall phrase to describe non-antique items made prior to 1990. During the 1950s, presents of birth-gems were popular to give on special occasions. Used gemstone jewelry from the mid-century era is often set in sterling silver or gold-filled settings. Gold-filled jewelry has been available since the Victorian-era; however, this is not a solid gold jewelry marking.
Collectibles: Over the years, themed-jewelry and designer branded accessories have been produced specifically for special occasions. Walt Disney, Tiffany and Coro are among the sought-out names in used jewelry. Glittering rhinestone bracelets, necklaces and hair ornaments are among the used present choices in this category. A fun idea for any special day is to start a themed bangle or charm bracelet that can be added to over time.
Steampunk Creations: A popular new style of jewelry for teens, young adults and computer savvy executives is made from old watch gears or used computer parts. Steampunk jewelry can be made at home from interesting discard items. Keyboard keys can become earrings, a transistor circuit board can be cut into a necklace pendant, and tiny gears can be refashioned into cufflinks or other types of unique birthday gifts.
New Gift Jewelry: Recently, China and India have been producing high-quality gemstone gift items. These types of rings, pins, cufflinks, bracelets and necklaces are pleasing to the eye and sold at very reasonable prices. Gems that are sold for birthday gifts include:
January = Garnet; February = Amethyst; March = Aquamarine; April = Diamond or CZ; May = Emerald; June = Pearl; July = Ruby; August = Peridot; September = Sapphire; October = Opal; November = Topaz; December = Turquoise.
Today, new jewelry can be made from metals, polished bone, colorful ceramics, and all other types of materials. There are many unique birthday gifts available in all price ranges in the jewelry categories this year.
