ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Thursday, November 21, 1996 TAG: 9611210004
SECTION: HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE PAGE: 12 EDITION: METRO
Jewelry is high on everybody's Christmas wish list.
Finding a little box under the tree or hidden in a big box or tucked in a stocking is a treat.
From trendy to traditional, from sterling silver to platinum, there are choices for everyone. Your jeweler is there to help you make the best selection for the people on your list.
Geoff Jennings, vice president of Frank L. Moose Jeweler and a gemologist certified by the American Gem Society, said the diamond solitaire necklace featured in some De Beers ads is destined to become the next classic. It is already in demand.
If you choose a diamond solitaire, it can be set in platinum or 18-karat gold, with a pronged head, tube set or semi-bezel. Of course, diamonds that are one-half-carat or larger show up well. Be sure to use a jeweler's loop or microscope and check stones for flaws yourself.
Gold jewelry is always a good choice: earrings, bracelets, chains, charms and rings.
To get a piece of history or a retro look, estate jewelry is another idea. "Period" pieces are not necessarily antique. Many people look for art deco and art nouveau pieces. Rings, necklaces and brooches are popular. Scarab jewelry, older watches and enamel jewelry are popular again.
Omega collar necklaces can start a tradition for the gift giver and receiver. Once the necklace is purchased, enhancers and slides may be added. Slides and enhancers range from classics with pearls, hearts with diamonds to modern styles with stones. Your jeweler can help you choose the look you want and to fit your wardrobe. If a customer has a pendant they don't use, it can be remade into a slide or enhancer. Omega necklaces start at 4 mm, although 6 mm and 8 mm are popular.
Trendy pieces such as "Y" necklaces are available for under $100 in most stores. The designs vary. They may be all gold or silver chains or they may have beads, pearls, stones or interchangeable charms, but in all of them, the bottom of the pendant extends to make the "Y" shape. Best Products carries a 14-karat gold "Y" necklace with three interchangeable charms in the shape of a heart, ball and elongated tear drop.
Crosses and lockets are timeless pieces. Lockets are popular because pictures can be put in them, and they can be monogrammed or engraved.o "It's [locket] a piece that can be handed down and worn for generations," Jennings said.
Shop for jewelry like you would shop for a house or car. Compare. Once you buy a piece of jewelry, take good care of it.
"It's a buyer beware market and everyone should shop and compare and buy with discretion," Jennings said. "Have confidence in your jeweler and don't buy on impulse."
Tips on taking good care of your jewelry care
*Keep jewelry away from chlorine, bleach and hot tubs.
*Keep perfume and hair spray away from pearls. They should be cleaned within 24 hours with no lemon or harsh detergents.
*Don't sleep in neck chains. Links may snag, break or stretch.
*Check for loose earring backs.
*Ammonia is safe to clean most faceted gems, but NOT organic stones such as pearls, amber or turquoise.
*Clean diamonds from the back by using a long-bristled tooth brush. Soap and grease adheres to them underneath.
*Always get jewelry checked every six months.
- Geoff Jennings, CGA
LENGTH: Medium: 70 lines ILLUSTRATION: PHOTO: Omega gold and diamond jewlery, available at Frank L.by CNBMoose in Roanoke.