How Local Jewellers Can Provide You with Your Perfect Watch

As is the case with many major purchases, some people are not confident when buying watches. More often than not, a quality watch will be a relatively expensive purchase and nobody wants to spend money on a watch that is not right for them or does not suit their needs or taste.

But there is help at hand, in the form of a professional high street jeweller. By following advice from a reputable local jeweller, shoppers will be able to recognise quality watches, know what to look out for and what to avoid, leaving you with a watch perfect for your needs.

Know What You Want

There are many different types of watches, all of which have different purposes. Knowing what type of watch you prefer will allow you to sift through the inappropriate styles and models and focus solely on a watch that interests you.

Speak to your local jeweller about your specific requirements. If you want a watch for evening wear, a good jeweller will be able to show you a selection of high end quality watches that look classy and stylish. Alternatively, if you want a watch to wear during sports, your jeweller should point you in the direction of custom made tough and durable watches with strong straps.

A quality jeweller will be more than happy to help you find a watch with all the features that you require.

Get to Know the Terminology

When shopping for watches online, there are many technical terms that you will see appearing again and again. But what do these terms mean? Do they matter to the type of watch you are buying? What is the most important term to look out for? By actually speaking to a local jeweller he or she will be able to explain what these terms mean, what to look out for and whether the watch you want needs to have these features.

This type of intimate advice is simply not available online. A high street jeweller is a trained expert who knows the industry inside out. Trust their judgement and take their advice!

Purchasing Gold Jewellery: how to tell the Genuine from the Fake

Gold has been used to make jewellery for thousands of years and it’s easy to see why. This precious yellow metal is soft enough to be worked into the most intricate designs yet it is also durable and never tarnishes. Wearing a piece of beautiful gold jewellery has always been a desirable way of displaying status and wealth.

Unfortunately for purchasers, fake gold jewellery has been around for almost as long as the genuine thing. Although there’s nothing wrong with wearing a piece of imitation jewellery if you know that’s what it is, nobody wants to unwittingly buy fake gold that has been passed off as real, ‘solid gold’ that is only gold-plated, or 9 carat gold sold as 22 carat.

Many professional jewellers and gold dealers develop a sixth sense that alerts them to suspicious items, but even experts can sometimes be fooled. The only certain way of proving something is made of gold, and determining the quality of that gold, is by scientific testing using acids or specialist electronic equipment.

So how can an inexperienced buyer tell the difference between genuine and fake gold jewellery? Here are a few signs you should look out for:

Hallmarks

In the UK all gold items offered for sale, and over 1 gram in weight, are legally required to be tested and hallmarked. This can be done by one of the UK’s four independent assay offices or by an assay office in one of the European countries that are recognised by the UK as having the same high standards.

A hallmark isn’t a guarantee of authenticity as a piece of fake jewellery can have a false hallmark, but if you familiarise yourself with genuine hallmarks you might be able to spot a fake.

To confuse the issue, if you are buying antique or second-hand jewellery the hallmark might have been worn away or removed during repair work. The lack of a hallmark could also indicate gold that was originally bought abroad.

Look and feel

Gold is a heavy metal so be suspicious of a piece that seems light for its size.

On second-hand jewellery small areas of gold plating might be rubbed away to reveal a different metal below.

A piece of jewellery that is attracted to a magnet is definitely not gold, but the magnet test is not 100% accurate as other metals including copper, silver and lead are also non-magnetic.

Workmanship

Good quality gold jewellery is usually made by skilled craftsmen. Rough edges, crude engraving or anything that looks as though it hasn’t been carefully finished could be a fake. Links in gold chains are always soldered shut so they cannot accidentally slip apart, and clasps are firmly attached.

Source

Who is selling the jewellery? With today’s high gold prices there are few genuine bargains around so beware of anyone offering very cheap gold jewellery. Be especially careful about buying at markets or car boot sales where the trader does not display any contact details. If you later find you have been sold a fake your chances of recovering your money are practically nil.

For complete peace of mind buy your gold jewellery from a reputable jeweller, preferably one that is a member of a recognised trade organisation such as the National Association of Goldsmiths. A professional jeweller will be happy to answer your questions and give advice if needed. Take your time to properly examine each piece. Purchasing genuine gold jewellery is not something to rush if you want to be sure of selecting a piece that is exactly right for you or the person you intend giving it to.

How Remodelling Can Give Your Old Jewellery New Life

Do you own some pieces of jewellery that you never wear? Perhaps you have a necklace that was fashionable when you bought it but now looks dated. Or you might have inherited a brooch or bracelet that has great sentimental value but simply isn’t your style. And what about all those bits and pieces: single earrings and cufflinks that have lost their partners, a ring with a missing stone, or a damaged pendant?

Instead of continuing to hide them away, or selling them for their scrap value, why not investigate the possibility of having unworn pieces of jewellery expertly remodelled into attractive new pieces?

A professional jeweller who offers a remodelling service will usually be able to suggest a number of ways in which the precious metals or gemstones in a piece of jewellery could be altered or rearranged. Most will also do their best to incorporate your own ideas into the new design.

Some ways in which old jewellery can be given a new lease of life include:

· taking precious stones from an old-fashioned setting and putting them into a more modern setting

· breaking up a large piece such as an ornate necklace or tiara to create several smaller pieces

· simplifying over fussy designs

· incorporating small ‘odd’ pieces into a new larger piece

· making a new piece from melted down damaged gold, silver or platinum

In today’s economic climate few people can afford to buy new jewellery just because they no longer like their old pieces. Recycling old jewellery by having it remodelled not only allows you to enjoy wearing something that would otherwise be discarded but the new piece will have the added advantage of being unique. For example, a fairly ordinary mass-produced pendant could be remodelled into a stunning one-off brooch or a pair of earrings that you won’t be able to find anywhere else. Or perhaps the new piece of jewellery could feature your initials or a symbol that has a special meaning for you to make it even more personal.

When someone admires your ‘new’ jewellery it will be up to you to decide whether or not to tell them you’ve had it for years!

For the best results look for a jeweller whose work you like and who is experienced in remodelling all types of jewellery. If your jewellery includes diamonds or other precious gems it’s important that you only entrust them to someone qualified to work with them.

How Local Jewellers Can Provide Perfect Gifts for the Whole Family

When it comes to buying presents for birthdays or Christmas, some people are better at it than others. Whereas some may have in mind exactly what they are going to buy, others may spend hours shopping without success.

However, one place which sells a wide range of quality gifts at all range of prices is a local jewellery shop. The variety of jewellery and gifts on offer means it can be your one stop shop for gifts for the whole family.

For Her – Kit Heath Jewellery

Kit Heath jewellery is fast becoming one of the most sought after jewellery ranges. Kit Heath jewellery is well known for sterling silver designs, which are perfect for every day or evening wear. A Kit Heath piece would really win some points with a mother, sister or partner!

A few local jewellers are now stocking Kit Heath jewellery alongside their own ranges so check the location of your nearest stockist.

For Him – Custom made Jewellery

Everyone likes to own an original piece of jewellery unique to themselves. A perfect idea for a dad or husband’s next birthday is to ask your local jeweller to either design a piece based on your own idea, or leave it in their capable hands to create a perfect design. Whether it is a ring, necklace or bracelet, custom made jewellery shows that a lot of thought has gone into the gift and is sure to be very well received.

For the Kids – A first watch and custom strap

Any reputable local jeweller should have an extensive collection of watches and the option of matching it with a strap of the customer’s choice. A great gift idea for children is to give them a quality watch that will withstand knocks and bumps, along with a strong strap that will stand the test of time and the hectic lives kids tend to live.

Whatever the occasion, your local jewellery shop should have an array of stunning, high end gifts for special occasions as well as affordable presents suitable for the whole family. A jeweller with a high level of workmanship should be able to create custom made jewellery as well as provide help and advice on whatever you may be looking for.

How to Spot a Reputable Jeweller

It is important that a customer can have faith in their jeweller, from trusting their judgement on the best item for them, to ideas on custom made designs.

Choosing a reputable jeweller can be tricky. How do you know if a jeweller is trustworthy? What should you demand?

Member of accredited associations

One way of identifying a reputable jeweller is to go by their accreditations. Being full members of associations such as the National Association of Goldsmiths (N.A.G.) means they have to adhere to certain levels of quality and service. Membership of these associations doesn’t come easy and many years of high level service is demanded before becoming a fully fledged member is possible.

Work carried out on site

Many high street jewellery chains do not carry out work on site. This means your precious items have to be sent to sites where the repairs or design can take place. A reputable jeweller usually carries out all work in a fully insured shop, meaning there is no chance of the items being lost in transit or damaged on long journeys.

Knowledgeable staff

A local jeweller should not be a salesman. They should be more like an adviser, someone who uses their expert knowledge and skill to help you choose or create something that suits your needs and your wallet, without force-selling items on you.

There are many jewellers around and so finding a reputable one who has your best interests at heart can be difficult. But if you look for a jeweller with a good local reputation, with membership to associations such as the N.A.G and one that carries out all work on site, the chances are they will be the best option for your jewellery needs.

The National Association of Goldsmiths and Jewellers – A Sign of Quality

Jewellery is more often than not very expensive and considered priceless in terms of sentimental value to many people. Whether buying a new piece of jewellery such as a custom made engagement ring or using a jewellery repair service on an old anniversary present like a necklace or watch, it is important to choose a reputable, high quality jeweller you can trust.

One way to identify a quality jeweller is to check whether they are a member of the National Association of Goldsmiths (N.A.G.).

What is the N.A.G?

The National Association of Goldsmiths is the oldest and most respected organisation that protects and supports the jewellery trade. Established in 1894, there is a Code of Practice to which elected members must agree to adhere and by which applicants for membership are judged.

Maintaining high standards

The N.A.G promotes high professional standards among its membership to inspire consumer confidence and to enhance the reputation of its members. When looking for a reputable jeweller, check to see if they are members of this organisation. It usually means they are high quality jewellers that actively maintain the highest standards.

Access to training

Membership of the N.A.G provides the jeweller with a lot more than just recognition and customer confidence. By being a full member, it allows access to constant training opportunities in all areas of jewellery. A jeweller will also have access to all of the latest developments and news in the jewellery industry.

When choosing a high street jeweller, look out for the National Association of Goldsmiths coat of arms in the shop window or on stationery. Only members are allowed to display this badge of honour as it were, so if it is visible the customer should feel comfortable knowing that the jeweller will provide a quality service using traditional methods combined with the latest equipment.

The membership criteria are strict, meaning standards have to be kept up to a constantly high level. A jeweller without membership may not reach the same standards and it may not be worth the risk trusting them with your precious jewellery.

Kit Heath Jewellery

When you are looking for a special piece of jewellery for yourself or a loved one, check out the Kit Heath collection. For over 25 years, this designer has been making a name for himself with delicate and sophisticated sterling silver pieces. He is now well known and respected around the UK with over 1000 jewellers showcasing his work. And his reputation for offering the perfect jewellery item to match a special occasion, for a special person, has moved beyond the UK and is growing around the world.

Jewellery design has been his passion since he was a teenager taking metalwork classes at college. He made his first pieces of jewellery then using his grandmother’s silver candlesticks melted down. And he has never looked back, priding himself on simple but sophisticated designs that can take the wearer through the day and into the night.

Silver with Colour

To ring the changes in his range of earrings, rings, bangles, bracelets and necklaces, Kit Heath supplements some of the sterling silver with a variety of coloured stones and freshwater pearls. The Kit Heath Turquoise Grasp Drop Earrings were featured in the June issue of Cosmopolitan. Also in June the Kit Heath Sterling Silver Cascade Necklace graced the pages of Cheshire Life. And back in March his Sterling Silver Black Agate Flux Heart Necklace appeared in You and Your Wedding.

Bridal Wear

There is no more special occasion than a wedding. For a bride’s ‘something blue’, choose the Kit Heath Blue Jade Dome Necklace and Drop Earrings, or the pretty Sterling Silver Papilio Necklace, in which a delicate silver butterfly on a chain has a small blue jade stone set in its centre.

In the new Beachcomber range, bracelet and necklace chains are augmented by a choice of pretty beads which can be added as you collect them. And if you are not sure what to choose for your loved one, Kit Heath Gift Certificates are available as well.

Whatever the occasion, Kit Heath jewellery has something exquisite to enhance it. Why not visit your local Kit Heath retailer and take some time to browse the latest collections?

Ten Years of Anniversary Gifts

Most people are familiar with the diamond (60^th), golden (50th) ruby (40^th) and silver (25^th) wedding anniversaries, but fewer know what to associate with other years. Jewellers and gift shop proprietors are frequently asked about them. Here’s a list of the less well known first ten years, along with some gift suggestions, that you could keep for reference and when the time comes, you can ask your local jeweller for advice on making your selection.

The Paper Anniversary (1^st)

Your gift could be a limited edition print with a certificate, presented in a delightful photo frame. Or a special photograph album to record the couple’s early married life.

The Cotton Anniversary (2nd)

A piece of silver jewellery could be accompanied by some silver cleaning gloves in cotton.

The Leather Anniversary (3rd)

Good watches for both sexes come with leather straps, or you can have one fitted to an heirloom watch.

The Linen Anniversary (4th)

By now the couple may be in need of more bed linen, and you can search out something more luxurious than they have already.

The Wooden Anniversary (5th)

Do your recipients like carved ornaments or wooden boxes with marquetry designs? Otherwise, how about a clock with wooden casing? Wooden gifts are keepsake classics.

The Iron Anniversary (6th)

A heavy doorstop or a garden ornament made or partially made from iron could be the solution here.

The Copper Anniversary (7th)

Copper cufflinks and/or earrings may be difficult to come by but your friendly local jeweller is certain to oblige should you have any special requests.

The Bronze Anniversary (8th)

Small bronze sculptures are in plentiful supply. Bronze bookends could be a more creative choice.

The Pottery Anniversary (9th)

All gift retailers have a wide range of pottery and ceramics and the smaller, friendly local shops will stock a specially selected variety and will be happy to help you make your choice.

The Tin Anniversary (10th)

There is plenty of choice for tin anniversary gifts, including the traditional, personalised pewter tankard. More unusual choices could be novelties like paperweights from the Cornish tin mine areas.

Don’t forget that many items can be personalised with names and messages and your local gift and jewellery retailer will be delighted to arrange the personalisation of your special anniversary presents. Happy gift hunting!

Get the Most for your Scrap Gold

Do you have any old coins, watches, broken jewellery or other unwanted items made from gold? These can all be classed as scrap gold and could bring you a cash sum when you really need it. Selling scrap gold is becoming more popular as the recession bites and people are looking for ways to enhance their income.

The value of gold changes all the time in response to world markets, and the London Bullion Market Association publishes a current gold price twice a day. Reputable UK buyers of your scrap gold base the price they will pay on these ‘gold fixings’, adjusting them to take account of the costs of recycling what they buy.

Gold Parties

A relatively new phenomenon is the gold party, which is taking off in the UK. This is where someone holds a get-together for their friends and acquaintances to bring along their scrap gold, and an agent will hand over cash for it.

Unfortunately, because people are naïve about the value of gold, they often accept ridiculously low prices for it. Taking it in person to a local jeweller with a good reputation is much safer than selling it at one of these parties, or sending it off to an internet business.

If you do decide to sell your scrap gold for recycling, you could also be helping to save the planet. Give yourself a pat on the back for reducing the damaging effects on the environment of over-mining gold ore.

EK Jewellers is a friendly, local Essex jewellers serving customers throughout Hainault, Ilford, Redbridge, Havering, Woodford and surrounding areas as well as London. As a family run business established for over 36 years, we have developed a strong reputation for quality of workmanship. For more information visit http://www.ekjewellers.co.uk/ or call us on 020 8500 3191. We pay the best prices for scrap gold in Essex.

Reasons to Use a Local Jewellery Repair Service

These days, not all jewellers carry out repairs on their premises. If you want to have a ring resized, gems reset, missing claws replaced, broken chain links or jewellery catches fixed, it’s well worth seeking one out.

You don’t want to put your cherished pieces at any more risk than is absolutely necessary. If you are not keen to put them in the post and send them away for repair, why would you want someone else to do that? Insurance might cover their financial value, but never the sentimental value we tend to attach to precious gifts or items that remind us of special times in our lives.

Sending items by post or courier inevitably involves extra cost, while the time needed for your jewellery to be repaired and returned to you will be longer. But perhaps the greatest risk to your precious articles lies in the number of different pairs of hands they will have to go through before you, hopefully, get them back.

When you find a local jewellery business that has its own workshop attached, you can bet those jewellers are not just in it for the money. They will be passionate about what they do, and feel privileged to work with your precious gems and metals.

If they are members of the National Association of Goldsmiths, they will be fully trained and up to date in how to use the latest available equipment to supplement traditional methods of jewellery repair. Usually they will offer a free consultation to which you can take your sadly broken pieces and find out just what they can do to restore them to their former glory.

So don’t take chances with your precious jewellery items. Investigate your local jewellers and find the one that will treat them with the care they deserve, with an all-in, on-site service.

EK Jewellers is a friendly, local Essex jewellers serving customers throughout Hainault, Ilford, Redbridge, Havering, Woodford and surrounding areas as well as London. As a family run business established for over 36 years, we have developed a strong reputation for quality of workmanship. For more information visit http://www.ekjewellers.co.uk/ or call us on 020 8500 3191.