What better way to celebrate Valentine's Day than to spoil yourself by buying a lovely piece of jewelry? Jewelry is made out of almost every material known and has been made to adorn nearly every body part. While high-quality jewelry is made with gemstones and precious metals, there is also a growing demand for art jewelry where design and creativity is prized above the value of the material. In addition, there is the less-costly costume jewelry, made from less-valuable materials and mass-produced.

Testimonial Hello Michele, I had a fabulous time shopping with you on Tuesday. I am so thrilled with my new items and I owe it all to you!!! Thank you for helping me raise myself to a new level. I really needed to have this wonderful opportunity at this time in my life, Merci. Sincerely, LB Santa Rosa, CA

Fortunately, no matter the depth of your pocket, there is jewelry to suit every budget. Choosing jewelry that enhances your looks is fun and exciting.  But, it can also be confusing and overwhelming, so keep the following in mind to make selections that compliment you!

If warm colors go well with your skin tone, choose jewelry in shades of yellow or gold. If cool colors suit you better, then choose white metals such as silver, platinum or white gold.

Another element to consider when selecting jewelry is your personality. Are you a romantic gal, or is elegance more your style? Are you drawn more to the natural or bohemian look, or more to western or dramatic designs? As a rule, most of us are multifaceted and our wardrobe, and thus our jewelry, too, should reflect this aspect of ourselves.

See the “Jewelry Selection Guidelines” insert to further help you choose jewelry based on the shape of your face and length of your neck.  I recommend that you clip this out of the BAWJ and put it in your wallet for handy reference to help you choose the perfect piece to compliment your features.

If you have lovely, well-manicured hands, wear ONE beautiful ring. If your neck is your best asset, make a necklace the focus, but wear tiny earrings. Do not wear yellow earrings with a white metal necklace unless it includes yellow and white metals (my personal preference!)

Remember, make a statement not a showcase and focus only on one piece of jewelry. More is NOT better!

Just as you take care of your clothes, you need to take care of your jewelry. Polish your silver pieces and check clasps and mountings regularly and carefully to avoid losing precious pieces.

In French, there is a saying, "Dis-moi quels bijoux tu portes et je te dirai qui tu es." "Tell me what type of jewelry you wear and I will tell you who you are!" Thus, it is important to remember the jewelry you wear is an integral part of your image so choose pieces that improve it and that are appropriate to your environment. Remember, your image is your first non-verbal communication and your first business card. So wear and choose your jewelry well and enjoy it!