How much do you really know about jewelry? Do you know what makes it valuable, or do you like it just because it looks nice? Do you know the difference between a piece of $50 costume jewelry and a $5,000 ring? Nothing about jewelry is as simple as it appears on the surface. There are many factors to consider when purchasing a piece of jewelry, especially as a gift for someone else.

Here are a few things to consider for your next jewelry purchase:

Diamonds Come in Colors

One of the things you will want to resolve to do is to get out of your rut when it comes to colorless diamonds. Many people associate color with lessor stones. Topaz is a beautiful stone. But it's not a diamond. It is not a girl's best friend. The same goes for stunning black onyx.

Black Diamond Engagement Ring

But did you know that diamonds also come in black? They are not lessor stones reserved for lessor occasions. More and more, they are being used in wedding rings. In pendant Necklaces and bracelets, they pair well with gold and silver settings as the perfect accompaniment to the most elegant evening gown for any occasion.

Diamond Clarity

One of the key factors in determining a diamond's quality is its clarity. Diamond clarity refers to the number, size, and placement of imperfections it has. Diamond clarity is defined in the following terms:

• FL/IF Diamonds: Flawless diamonds
• VVS1/VVS2 Diamonds: Very Very Slightly Included
• VS1/VS1 Diamonds: Very Slightly Included
• SI1/SI2 Diamonds: Slightly Included
• 1/I2 Diamonds: Included

If the imperfection cannot be seen under a 10X jeweler's loupe, the diamond is considered to have no imperfections. The middle three classifications will have very, very slight imperfections as seen under a 10X loupe, very slight, or just slight imperfections. Even the SL1 imperfections usually cannot be seen with the naked eye, and provide excellent quality and value. The last category includes imperfections that can be seen without a loupe.

It is possible to spend several fortunes on flawless diamonds that most people cannot distinguish from the affordable SL1 variety. Buying the most expensive diamond does not mean a person knows anything about diamonds. It often means a person is trying to cover up the fact that they don't.

There Is a Place for Inexpensive Jewelry

Not all jewelry is fine jewelry worn by British royalty. Nor should it be. That is a little like saying that the only women who should wear makeup are those who had it personally applied by pat mcgrath. Feeling beautiful and luxurious is for everyone, not just the rich and famous.

Your jewelry does not have to cost a fortune for it to make you feel like a million bucks. Not every event warrants the $10,000 necklace. Sometimes the look and feel of homemade jewelry with cultural significance is just what you need. Sometimes the Mickey Mouse watch makes more sense than the Rolex. Jewelry can be fun and whimsical, full of vibrance and humor. It does not always have to be elegant and expensive.

Don't be afraid to buy fine jewelry with colors other than silver and gold. Buy the diamond clarity that makes the most sense for your budget and appreciation. And don't forget to have fun with inexpensive jewelry purchases that work well with casual attire. These three tips should ensure you have a much more enjoyable time on your next jewelry shopping trip.