First Jewelry for Kids – What to Buy and How to Maintain It
Choosing the perfect first jewelry for a child can be a special and memorable experience. It serves as a beautiful keepsake and also introduces them to the world of accessories and personal style. However, with so many options to choose from, selecting the perfect jewelry can be overwhelming.
This guide offers practical tips on age-appropriate choices, materials, and care.
Contents
Age-Appropriate Jewelry
Durability and comfort are essential for children’s jewelry. Select strong materials like solid metals or high-quality synthetics to withstand daily wear and tear. Avoid delicate pieces that are prone to breakage.
Comfort is also essential for the child to enjoy wearing their jewelry. The jewelry should fit well and not feel too tight or loose. Choose designs that are comfortable for long-term wear and avoid materials like nickel that can irritate the skin.
Choosing the Right Metals
Choose metals that are both safe and comfortable. Hypoallergenic options like sterling silver or stainless steel are ideal for sensitive skin. They’re durable, affordable, and less likely to cause allergies.
For a more luxurious look, consider gold or platinum. Gold is a classic choice, available in various colors, and known for its durability. However, it can be softer than other metals and may require occasional repairs or polishing.
Platinum, on the other hand, is an exceptionally durable and hypoallergenic metal. According to Geology Science, platinum is a prized material in jewelry-making due to their timeless elegance, exceptional durability, and malleability. This makes the metal a great choice for children’s jewelry that will last for years to come.
Suitable Gemstones for Children’s Jewelry
When selecting gemstones for children’s jewelry, it’s essential to choose options that are durable and appropriate for their age. Birthstones are a popular option for children’s jewelry. Each month has its corresponding birthstone, allowing for personalized and meaningful pieces. However, some birthstones may be more delicate or require special care, so you need to research the properties of each stone before selecting it.
In recent years, lab-grown diamonds have gained popularity as a sustainable and ethical alternative to natural diamonds. According to Fortune, lab-grown diamond sales in the U.S. jumped 16% in 2023, driven by younger generations who value sustainability and ethical sourcing. These lab-grown diamonds offer the same brilliance and hardness as natural diamonds but at a fraction of the cost. This makes them a viable option for children’s jewelry.
Celebrity Children and the Diamond Trend
Celebrity children have become fashion icons in their own right, and their style choices often influence trends among their young fans. A-list parents like Cardi B, Kylie Jenner, and Kim Kardashian have been known to spoil their little ones with extravagant diamond pieces.
Only Natural Diamonds notes that Cardi B’s daughter, Kulture Kiari Cephus, has amassed an impressive collection of diamonds at a young age. From diamond stud earrings to tennis bracelets, Kulture’s jewelry collection would be the envy of many adults. Kylie Jenner’s daughter, Stormi Webster, has also been showered with diamond gifts, including a stunning open ring with two enormous diamonds.
Even the children of music royalty, Beyoncé and Jay-Z, have been treated to their fair share of diamond jewelry. Blue Ivy Carter, their eldest daughter, has attended events sporting custom-made diamond tiaras and other luxurious pieces.
As the demand for children’s diamond jewelry continues to grow, we’ll likely see even more extravagant and unique designs emerging in the future.
Keeping Your Child’s Jewelry Looking Its Best
Regular cleaning is essential to maintain the beauty and luster of your child’s jewelry. A gentle homemade jewelry cleaner can be effective and safe.
According to Leibish, a simple solution of warm water and dishwashing liquid can clean most types of metal jewelry. Soak the jewelry for 20-40 minutes, depending on the level of dirt, and then use a soft toothbrush to remove any stubborn residue.
Proper storage is also crucial to prevent scratches and damage. Avoid storing jewelry in a pile, as this can lead to scratches and other damage. Instead, store each piece individually in a soft pouch or jewelry box. Consider using a jewelry organizer to keep necklaces and bracelets tangle-free.
If your child’s jewelry becomes damaged, address the issue promptly. Minor repairs, such as tightening a clasp or fixing a broken chain, can often be done at home with simple tools. However, for more extensive repairs, it’s best to consult a professional jeweler.
FAQ’s
When Should Babies Start Wearing Jewelry?
Babies can start wearing jewelry after the initial healing period post-piercing. However, for children under three years, supervision is essential due to choking hazards from small parts. It’s best to ensure any jewelry worn is safe and appropriate for their age and development.
What Age is Appropriate for a Child to Safely Wear a Necklace?
Children around age 12 can typically wear necklaces safely with less supervision, but this isn’t a strict rule. Baby necklaces pose choking or strangulation hazards, so it’s best to wait until the child is older and capable of wearing jewelry responsibly.
Should Babies Wear Gold or Silver?
For babies, gold is the safest choice due to its durability and hypoallergenic properties. Silver is a budget-friendly alternative. Ultimately, choose jewelry that you love and feel will look beautiful on your baby, ensuring it’s safe and comfortable for their delicate skin.
Selecting the perfect first jewelry can be a meaningful milestone. Consider factors like safety, durability, comfort, and style to choose pieces that will be treasured for years.
Remember to prioritize hypoallergenic materials, age-appropriate designs, and proper care and maintenance. By following these guidelines, you can help your child develop a lifelong appreciation for jewelry and create lasting memories.
