Resize your favorite ring(s). Did you know that both sterling silver and gold rings are sizable? In most cases, either can be sized up or down by two sizes. The biggest deciding factor is the thickness of the ring and whether or not there is enough metal to make the change. In general, sterling silver is more affordable to size than gold.



Bracelets can be versatile. If you own a bracelet with a large enough clasp, you can use one of your pendants to convert it into a charm bracelet. To make it work, simply hook the clasp into the bail of your pendant. This works particularly well with coin pendants, which gives you the look of a very rich jewelry design.

Necklaces have many uses. You can take a 20" necklace, wrap it twice around your ankle and have the look of a 10" double anklet. If you wear a 9" anklet, you can do the same with an 18" necklace. If you have a longer necklace, you may be able to use it as a delicate belt to adorn your favorite little black dress.

Use your bracelet as an extender. If you have a matching necklace and bracelet set, you can add instant length to your necklace by attaching the matching bracelet to the clasp. For instance, an 18" chain can instantly become a 25" necklace if you attach a 7" bracelet. This would allow you to wear the necklace over a turtleneck sweater in the fall and winter or drape it over your favorite tank-top in the summer.

Make the most of your charms. If you have matching charms, consider adding them to your hoop earrings for an instant dangle. This is a fun look that allows you to spruce up some simple hoops without spending a fortune.

Turn your pin into a pendant. If you love the look of a pin and would enjoy having the same design in a necklace, simply slide your favorite chain underneath the closed pin-back and you have an instant pendant. Be sure to take note of the weight of the pin and consider whether or not your necklace is strong enough to support it properly.

Create your own watch. If you have a bracelet that you absolutely love, why not consider turning it into a watch? Take your bracelet to a jeweler and simply ask him/her to remove a few links and add a watch face in their place. This should be a fairly simple process for a knowledgeable jeweler, and it can save you a bundle. Watches, both silver and gold, are expensive and it can be difficult to find a design that you love. But with you acting as the designer, anything is possible.

Almost Diamonds, a popular online retailer specializing in sterling silver jewelry, has a complete line of items featuring cubic zirconia and genuine gemstones in a variety of styles to choose from. If you are looking to maximize your jewelry collection without minimizing your wallet, consider the affordable option of sterling silver. Not only is this a precious metal that's designed to last forever, but it also is an economical way to get the look of platinum or white gold without spending a fortune.