Even in the stone age, people wore necklaces. Scientists have found rudimentary necklaces with shells, animal bone, and rock on string as far back 30,000 B.C. It was said that Napoleon started a war over the necklace Marie Antoinette purchased. Over the centuries jewelry has greatly evolved, and today you can find many beautiful styles either though using the internet or simply stopping off at your local mall. Prices can range from $1 into the millions for necklaces. There are literally thousands of types of necklace pendants to choose from.
Pendants can be made from stone, precious gems, coral, bone and various types of metals. Pendants made from stone are both lovely and unique. Since no two stones are exactly the same your piece can be very individual to you. A common selection for a gem stone is turquoise. Turquoise dates back to the Egyptian times and was found in many pieces that were buried with the rich or royal dead. It comes in many varieties and color, not just blue but green and white as well with variations in the stone adding value to it. Another beautiful stone is agate. Picture agates are especially looked for since they have their own story to tell. When you look at a picture agate it will sometimes look as though there are horses running in it or perhaps a beautiful landscape. Coral is now becoming a more popular selection for a pendant. Red coral is rich and dark with a very earthy tone to it. However a word of caution red coral is typically very expensive yet dyed black coral is not. If you are purchasing a coral piece be sure to check with the dealer on its origin.
If you are looking for something completely unique it is possible to go to your local lapidary or jeweler and seek a unique stone and then request it to be fitted to your needs. Depending on the size and amount of precocious metal involved such as silver or gold this can be an affordable way to have something unique that no one else has. Many department stores carry pendants made that are gold plated. This is an affordable way for you to get the piece of jewelry you’d like for a lower cost. Often times during the holiday seasons there are themed jewelry pendants for your necklace such as angels, crosses, snow men, or hearts.
On the higher end of the scale you can find necklace pendants with diamonds set into gold, silver or platinum. Diamonds are considered to be one of the most valuable of the gem stones in the market however they are not the most expensive. When selecting a diamond you have to take into consideration the clarity, color, cut and weight in carats. Finding a high quality diamond for a reasonable price can take time and patience. Purchasing a diamond that is of a high standard is an investment typically the value of the diamond will go up over time. Yet if you buy one that is not of good value you will see that investment depreciate as fast as a new car purchase. Knowing what you are looking for is half the battle I suggest taking sometime to do research on diamonds before going to the store to purchase one for your necklace.
Vintage jewelry is also popular. There are many styles depending on the era you choose your piece from. Cameos made from agate or art nouveau styles are vastly different from each other yet both equally charming. Shopping for an antique piece or vintage jewelry is easy and very accessible to the public. There are several places you can go to look for unique pieces for your collection. Flee markets have lots of pendants to choose from again though knowing what you are looking for is half the battle be sure to check for authenticity of the piece before purchasing. Another great way to find antique pieces is at estate sales. These typically are advertised in your local paper and are open to the public. People will bid on lots usually items such as jewelry will be separated or in small lots of a few pieces. Bidding is a lot of fun and it can be rewarding when you get the pendant you were after for so long. Online shopping is another great tool for finding vintage pieces. Many sites offer jewelry from estate sales or from pawn shops.
Finding the right chain for your pendant is just as important as finding the pendant. Again visiting a local jeweler is a great way to find affordable chains and usually with the added help of the owner to help you find the right matching chain for your pendant. You should always take your pendant with you to the store you decide to go to so that you can make sure that the chain is the right size, color, and shape that best suits your needs. Never buy a chain for full price; most department stores will have them on sale or jewelry stores will sometimes give you a deal on purchasing a chain when you purchase your new pendant. And if you are selecting something for someone else be sure to keep in mind their style and what type of clothing they typically wear this will help you in your search for the perfect gift. Consider the size of their neck and the shape of their collar bones if they are a petite frame a medium sized pendant usually will suit. Adding to your jewelry collection can be both exciting and rewarding. By taking your time and selecting pieces that suite your style and needs you can not only look good but that pendant can be passed down for future generations to enjoy.
