5 Pro Tips for Selecting Quality Handmade Jewelry

Humans have adorned themselves with jewelry for millennia. These pieces often symbolize love, achievement, or personal expression. At Wear Ever Jewelry, we especially appreciate the artistry of handmade creations.

Whether you're marking a significant milestone or treating yourself to a Mother's Day Gift, selecting jewelry crafted from genuine materials and quality craftsmanship is essential. To assist you in making an informed choice, we've compiled 5 pro shopping tips for choosing quality handmade jewelry:

5 Pro Tips When Shopping for Quality Handmade Jewelry 

With so many choices in the global jewelry market, how do you ensure the piece you buy is one that's truly produced with high quality materials, expert craftsmanship and will stand the test of time. Here are five things to keep in mind:

1. Handmade Jewelry Quality 

Jewelry crafted from high-quality materials can last a lifetime, so keep an eye out for precious metals and gemstones when you shop. Some metals, like platinum and gold will stay bright and tarnish-free, sterling silver will, over time, oxidize as it interacts with the air. Authentic metals are typically stamped with hallmarks indicating their purity:

• Gold: Look for stamps like “14K” or “18K”. (585 or 750 if European).

• Sterling Silver: Typically stamped with “.925” or Ster."

• Platinum: Markings such as “PT950” confirm 95% purity.

For gemstones, reputable certifications from organizations like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the International Gemological Institute (IGI) provide assurance of quality

2. What’s the Level of Craftsmanship?

Everything is in the details. Before buying items from online jewelry stores or in-person vendors, look at the jewelry’s construction.

Make sure to examine each stone’s mounting and setting, the metalwork (is the soldering precise and solid?), the metal used, the tightness of clasps and fasteners, and the piece’s artistry (does it show the artist’s personality and distinctive style?). Remember, handmade jewelry is unique so if you compare several pieces, they might differ, and that’s just part of its charm. Artisan pieces may. not be flawless as they're handmade, but they should still be executed properly.

3. Does It Fit Your Personal Style?

What kind of vibe do you like in jewelry? Are you into more classic styles? Do you want something funky like a Mini Stacked Necklace? Or does full-on bling give you happiness? Choose pieces that reflect the person you are.

4. What Is Your Budget? 

Know what your budget is before you begin browsing. Handmade jewelry is available at a wide range of prices, from affordable earrings crafted from alternative materials like recycled plastics and textiles to fine jewelry in gold and platinum. Concentrate on finding pieces within the parameters of your spending limit to narrow down your search. Your local brick and mortar store has the flexibility to help you find jewelry options that are within reach. 

5. Consider Your Lifestyle Needs 

Some jewelry isn’t made to last, which is just fine if you have that expectation. Brass handmade jewelry, for example, becomes green eventually. Other metals require specialized handmade jewelry care— for instance, sterling silver needs an occasional polish to retain its shine and remain untarnished. Be honest with the expectations you have about your jewelry, and select pieces that match those. 

Ready to Find Your Perfect Piece?

By keeping these five key considerations in mind—quality, craftsmanship, personal style, budget, and lifestyle—you can confidently select a handmade jewelry piece that not only complements your unique taste but also stands the test of time. Whether you're shopping in-store or online, remember that each piece tells a story and carries the essence of its maker. At Wear Ever Jewelry, we're here to help you find that perfect piece that resonates with your personal journey.