Frequently Asked Questions

Short, practical answers to the jewelry questions readers ask us most. Each answer links to a full guide where you can read more.

How do I know my ring size?

Measure at the end of the day, at room temperature, with a strip of paper or string around the base of the finger, three times, and take the average. Measure the knuckle too if it is much larger than the base of the finger. Go up a quarter to a half size for a wide band. Our full ring size guide covers measuring, seasonal change, and resizing.

What is the difference between solid gold, gold-filled, vermeil, and gold-plated?

Solid gold is gold all the way through. Gold-filled is a thick bonded layer of gold over brass, at least 1/20th of the total weight, and it lasts for years. Vermeil is gold over sterling silver, at least 2.5 microns thick, and it typically lasts one to three years of regular wear. Gold-plated is a very thin layer of gold over brass, and it wears through in weeks to months on a ring. Read our guide to gold, vermeil, and plated labels for the full comparison.

Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?

Yes. A lab-grown diamond is pure crystallized carbon, chemically identical to a natural diamond, with the same hardness and brilliance. It typically costs around 60 to 80 percent less than a natural diamond of the same size and quality as of November 2026, but it has almost no resale value. Read our lab-grown versus natural diamonds comparison before you decide.

How much should I spend on an engagement ring?

There is no rule. The old two or three months' salary idea is a marketing invention, not a tradition. Decide a total budget you can afford, then split it: roughly 55 to 70 percent for the centre stone, 15 to 30 percent for the setting, and the rest for side stones, a grading report, an appraisal, and insurance. Our engagement ring budget breakdown works through examples at three price levels.

Why does my silver turn black, and can I fix it?

Silver tarnishes because it reacts with sulphur in the air, forming black silver sulphide on the surface. It is reversible: a silver cloth removes it gently. Store silver in a closed container with an anti-tarnish strip, away from rubber bands and humidity. Never use toothpaste on silver — it scratches. Read our silver tarnish guide.

My ears get red and itchy when I wear earrings. What should I do?

That is usually a nickel allergy. Remove the earrings, let the skin settle, and switch to a safe material all the way through: implant-grade titanium, niobium, 14k yellow gold, or platinum. Do not trust the word hypoallergenic — it has no legal definition in jewelry. Read our guide to earring allergies and sensitive ears.

How can I tell a real pearl from a fake one?

Rub the pearl gently against the edge of a front tooth: a real pearl feels slightly gritty, an imitation feels smooth. Real pearls are cool to the touch and warm slowly, and their drill holes are clean, while an imitation's coating often flakes around the hole. Read our pearl buying guide.

What necklace length should I choose?

A princess length of 17 to 19 inches, just below the collarbone, is the safest default and suits most pendants. A choker of 14 to 16 inches sits at the collarbone. Measure your neck where the necklace will sit and add an inch for drape. Read our guide to choosing a necklace length and chain.

How should I store necklaces so they do not tangle?

Store each necklace separately — hanging, or lying flat with the clasp fastened. Never pull a knot: lay the necklace flat, add a drop of baby oil, and work it loose with two pins. Read our necklace care and storage guide.

Do I need to insure my jewelry?

If a piece is worth more than the unscheduled limit on your homeowner's or renter's policy — typically around $1,000 to $2,000 as of November 2026 — schedule it on the policy, with an independent appraisal and a grading report. Insurance typically costs around 1 to 2 percent of the piece's value per year. Read our guide to jewelry insurance and certificates.

What do the letters on a GIA or IGI certificate mean?

A grading report describes a stone's cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight, and it can be verified online by its report number. It describes the stone, not the ring, and not its value. Read our guide to jewelry insurance and certificates for a step-by-step reading of a report.

How do I clean jewelry safely?

For most jewelry, warm water and mild soap with a soft brush is safe. Never use an ultrasonic cleaner on pearls, opals, emeralds, or turquoise, and never steam-clean an emerald. Read our jewelry care guide for the rules by material.

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