Jewellery has been a part of human history for thousands of years, but with its long legacy come plenty of myths and misconceptions. Some of these myths are harmless fun, while others might actually mislead you when buying or caring for your jewelry.
Since it’s April Fool’s Day, let’s play a little game! I shared a fun challenge with my subscribers earlier today—can you tell which of these common jewelry “facts” is actually false?
💎 Diamonds can’t break.
💛 Pure gold is too soft for jewelry.
🦪 Pearls dissolve in vinegar.
🌙 Silver attracts bad luck.
Think you know the answer? Keep reading to see if you were right!
Jewellery Myths: Truth vs. Fiction
1. Diamonds Can’t Break – FALSE!
✅ Fact: Diamonds are the hardest natural substance, but they are not indestructible.
Many people believe that diamonds are completely unbreakable because they rank 10 on the Mohs hardness scale. While it’s true that diamonds resist scratches better than any other gemstone, they have cleavage planes, meaning they can chip or crack if hit at the right angle.
💡 Tip: Always store your diamond jewellery separately from other pieces to avoid accidental knocks, and have settings checked regularly to keep stones secure.
2. Pure Gold is Too Soft for Jewelry – TRUE!
✅ Fact: 24K gold is beautiful but impractical for everyday wear.
Pure gold (24 karats) is soft and malleable, making it prone to scratches and dents. That’s why most gold jewellery is mixed with other metals to create 14K, 18K, or 22K gold alloys, which are stronger and more durable.
💡 Tip: If you love the warm glow of gold but want something hard-wearing, 18K gold strikes a perfect balance between purity and durability.
3. Pearls Dissolve in Vinegar – TRUE!
✅ Fact: Pearls are made of calcium carbonate, which is highly reactive to acid.
The old tale about Cleopatra dissolving a pearl in vinegar to impress Mark Antony might sound dramatic, but there’s truth to it! Acids can erode pearls over time, which is why it’s important to keep them away from harsh substances like perfume, hairspray, or even sweat.
💡 Tip: Always put your pearl jewellery on after applying makeup and perfume, and wipe them with a soft cloth after wearing to remove any residue.
4. Wearing Silver Attracts Bad Luck – FALSE!
✅ Fact: Silver has been cherished for centuries, and in many cultures, it’s a symbol of protection and good fortune.
The idea that silver is unlucky is a superstition that varies by region, but in reality, silver has antimicrobial properties and was even used in ancient medicine. Many believe that wearing silver jewelry can enhance intuition and energy balance—far from being unlucky!
💡 Tip: To keep your silver jewellery shining, store it in a dry, airtight place and polish it regularly to prevent tarnish.
Final Thoughts
So, did you guess the false myth correctly? If you said “diamonds can’t break,” you got it right! 🎉
Jewellery myths can be fun, but knowing the facts helps you make informed decisions about your treasured pieces. Whether you’re a jewellery lover, collector, or simply curious, it’s always good to separate fact from fiction.
💌 Bonus: If you love learning about jewellery, stay tuned—I regularly have special offers exclusively for my subscribers!
📅 And don’t forget! Every Saturday, I hold a Jewellery Rendez-Vous on my YouTube channel @essemgejewellery where I am sharing insights and content on a topical subject, jewellery related of course. This week we’ll talk about Easter, renewal, and the deeper meaning behind timeless jewelry symbols. You won’t want to miss it!
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