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Jewellery makes for a perfect gift, regardless of the occasion or the recipient’s age. However, with a wide range of options available and the market being flooded with cheap and low-quality jewellery, buying quality jewellery for someone can be a daunting task. You don’t want to spend a fortune on a piece that ends up breaking or discolouring soon after gifting it. Luckily, with these tips, you can ensure that the jewellery you buy is of high quality and will last for years.
Photo by Marta Branco
Know The 4 Cs Of A Diamond
If you’re buying a diamond as a gift, it’s essential to know the four Cs – carat weight, colour, cut, and clarity. Carat weight is the measure of how much a diamond weighs and is typically used to determine its size. Colour ranges from colourless to yellow or brown and affects the price of the diamond. Cut refers to the angles and proportions of a diamond, which determines its sparkle factor. Clarity grades range from flawless to included and are based on the presence of inclusions.
Familiarize Yourself With Metals
It’s not just about the gemstones; you should also be aware of the metal used in the jewellery piece. Metals can impact the durability and cost of the jewellery piece. For instance, gold comes in different purities, and the higher the purity, the more expensive it tends to be. Additionally, some metals, like silver, tend to tarnish more quickly than others.
Research Online Retailers
Do your homework and research online retailers to find the best quality jewellery pieces. For example, this Blue Nile review illustrates the pros and cons of buying from one of the leading online jewellery retailers. Look for reviews, compare prices, and read up on their return policy before making a purchase. This will give you peace of mind that if something happens to the piece after it’s been gifted, you will be able to exchange or fix it.
Consider The Recipient’s Style
When buying jewellery, it’s essential to consider the recipient’s style. Buying expensive jewellery doesn’t mean it’s the best for the recipient. Some people prefer minimal and elegant jewellery, while others prefer bold and statement jewellery. Observing the recipient’s jewellery collection or paying attention to their style can help in selecting an appropriate piece.
Inspect Before Purchasing
Before making a purchase, scrutinize the jewellery piece. Check for loose prongs, scratches, or any damage on the jewellery piece. If you’re in a physical store, ask to inspect it with a magnifying glass. If you’re shopping online, ensure that the store provides clear pictures of the product and read the description thoroughly. Additionally, make sure the metal type, gemstone size and weight, and any other features mentioned are accurate.
To purchase high-quality jewellery, you need to dedicate time, be patient and conduct research. It’s important to learn about gemstones, metals, and other factors that influence the price and strength of the piece. Carefully examine the item and purchase from reliable sellers with excellent ratings from customers. Additionally, when choosing the ideal piece, keep in mind the style of the recipient. By following these guidelines, you can be assured of buying a present that will endure for a long time.
Sarah x
