The Top 5 Mistakes To Avoid When Buying Jewelry
When you’re out there shopping for jewelry, there is no shortage of options at your fingertips. Whatever style and aesthetic you opt for is your own decision; we’re not going to look at how you shape your look. Instead, we’re going to look at the tips to make sure that you get exactly the quality, the authenticity, and the budget-friendliness that you need, and how to avoid spending a lot more on something that might not meet your standards.
Overpaying For Your Piece
If you haven’t done your homework, it’s very easy to end up overpaying for any jewelry that you buy. Pieces can vary in price between retailers, even if there isn’t much difference in their quality or even their design. If you’re shopping online, especially, there are likely to be coupons and vouchers you can apply, so use voucher apps to find the best deals and, in general, be sure to always compare prices across vendors.
Ignoring Certifications
If you’re buying jewelry incorporates diamonds, gemstones, or other precious metals, then you should opt for sellers who can speak to their quality. Authenticity is one of the main reasons to high-budget, after all, so certificates from labs like GIA, IGI, or AGS can help you ensure their quality. They can give a report on their clarity, color, cut, and carat weight but also things like ethical sourcing.
Overlooking Lab-Grown
If you’re thinking about the ethics of the jewelry you buy, or the eco-friendliness, then you really should start with lab-grown diamonds. As these more affordable and less environmentally demanding diamonds have become more common, gorgeous options like this emerald and trapezoid engagement ring have become a lot more accessible on the market. They are atomically and visually indistinguishable from their mined cousins, so it’s worth taking a look at them if you’re a practical shopper.
Letting The Trends Dictate Your Choices
While we’re not going to look at any specific advice on what styles or aesthetics you should opt for, we are going to highlight that the trends aren’t always the the more sure-fire way to find a piece of jewelry that you will love. Vintage and second-hand shopping is not only less expensive, but can help you find styles that you might not commonly see in other stores, which can help you be even more distinct in your look.
Not Knowing How To Care For It
Even when you’ve bought a beautiful piece, it’s important to make sure that you take good care of it as well. If you don’t protect your fine jewelry, it can not only dull its appearance, it can also shorten its lifespan. For example, diamonds should be cleaned regularly with mild solutions, while softer stones like opals or pearls need more delicate handling. Improper storage, like simply tossing your jewelry into a drawer, can also scratch, tarnish, or otherwise damage it. A well-kept jewelry box is a sound recommendation.
Just like the fast fashion industry, the fast jewelry industry is pumping the market with low-quality pieces that can get in the way of your next favorite accessory. Keep the tips above in mind to avoid wasting your time.