Choosing Jewelry That's Right for You!

Precious stone jewelry is universally prized for its beauty. But does that mean a particular piece will look good on you? Certainly not, any more than royal blue, long held to be a gorgeous color, is right for every woman. Because jewelry comes in so many shapes and sizes - and colors! - the fashion-conscious consumer will bear these hints in mind for how to buy jewelry as they search for the right piece, or pieces, of jewelry for them:

1. Match jewelry style to your own lifestyle - Being an outdoor person doesn't mean you have to forgo style and beauty. But it might mean forgoing jewelry on hands, wrists, or around your neck that are delicate or could snag on things, endangering you or your investment. You might want pieces that are a little more rugged, perhaps with semiprecious stones over higher priced precious stones jewelry. But whatever you choose, select items that reflect you and your personality. (And remember, for those nights on the town? Why not select something that sets you apart!)
2. Match your choices to your body type - Your height, weight, and proportions make a big difference in which jewelry will compliment your figure. If you're overweight, small or delicate jewelry will be lost on your; bolder, larger pieces exude confidence and will not overwhelm your look. If you're petite such large pieces would become the focus rather than you, so smaller pieces are appropriate for you. If you're fairly tall, long necklaces will only enhance that; pieces that stay closer to your collarbone are recommended for you (same is true if you are big busted). And if you are angular or physically fit, more feminine pieces might soften your look.
3. Match your jewelry to your facial structure - The shape of your face may be even more important than body type, considering that most jewelry finds itself at the neckline or higher, and that's what everyone sees - even behind a desk! There are four facial types. Below you will find them listed with certain additional recommendations to achieve the most flattering use of jewelry for each:

• Oval: You can pretty much wear anything, from a collar piece to a long necklace that comes to v-shape to a long strand of pearls. The sky's the limit for the woman with this shaped face. Where virtually whatever you want! (Lucky you!)
• Round: Even if you are at your proper weight, your goal will likely be to slim your face. Long necklaces draw the eye downward, actually giving the illusion of a more oval face. Stay away from chokers or thick beads that rest on the collarbone. These actually shorten the appearance of the neck. And earrings that are elongated are a plus as are angular pieces.
• Square/Rectangle: The opposite of the round face, the goal of those with a square or rectangle face is to soften their appearance with chokers and rounder shapes in close proximity. Earrings that are close to the ears are preferable, with button styles being best.
• Heart: This type of face is actually a blend of the round and the square. That is, the jewelries for the neck will aim to soften the lines and angles of the chin. However, the choices in earrings should seek to slim the cheekbone area. Chokers and multiple shorter chains would be good. And tear-shaped or inverted triangle earrings work well for you.