Should You Buy Handmade Jewelry In-Store or Online? Here’s What You Need to Know
Humans have adorned themselves with rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets for centuries. Jewelry connects people to special moments. Our feelings of love, for instance, are cemented with engagement rings and wedding bands. And we especially love handmade jewelry!
Whether you seek a wearable gift to honor an important milestone or a new sparkler for yourself, understanding the basics of handmade jewelry buying — whether you choose an in-store or online shopping experience — allows you to always end up with your perfect piece.
5 Considerations When Shopping for Quality Handmade Jewelry
So many handmade jewelry choices exist. The global jewelry numbers prove that, with sales expected to exceed $332 billion by 2026. With all those treasures, how do you select pieces you’ll enjoy and value for years? And how can you be sure you’re getting a quality piece?
Whether you shop at an online jewelry store or go into a brick and mortar, there are several elements to consider before purchasing handmade jewelry:
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, will stay bright and tarnish-free. Others, such as gold, are durable and resistant to corrosion and rust. Remember to look for quality marks (like 14k or 18k for gold or .925 for sterling silver) stamped into the jewelry so you know what material you are buying and that it’s authentic.
Gems are graded on many factors, and you’ll want to understand the lingo so you know exactly what you’re getting before you click purchase. When it comes to diamonds, learn about the 4Cs (color, clarity, cut, and carat), and have a general idea of what shape and quality stone you’re interested in so you can easily narrow down your search.
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 one-of-a-kind, so if you compare several pieces, they might differ, and that’s just part of its charm.
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.
Tips for Choosing Reputable Jewelers In-Person and Online
Do some homework before setting out on your jewelry-shopping adventures, whether you’re shopping in a local artisan’s gallery or at an online jewelry store. The more informed you are, the better decisions you can make. You’ll want to:
Tip #1. Research retailers by reading reviews of both in-store and online jewelers. What can you find out about their reputation? Are they easy to work with? Do they stand behind their products?
Tip #2. Consider refund policies. You always want an assurance that you’ll be protected if jewelry is damaged or doesn’t meet your expectations. Does the shop have a policy for returns or exchanges?
Tip #3. Look at artisan credentials. Who makes the handmade jewelry? What experience do these individuals have? You want to work with talented artisans and salespeople who embrace a high standard of service, ethics, and artistry. For example, all of our jewelry artists have spent years in the industry and use sustainable or ethically sourced materials in their designs.
The Difference Between Online Jewelry Stores and Other Vendors
There are some 17,600 jewelry stores in the U.S. That means there is no shortage of choices when buying new earrings, rings, bracelets, and more. Whether you opt for an in-store shopping trip or prefer to browse online jewelry stores, both methods have advantages and disadvantages.
The Pros and Cons of In-Store Jewelry Shopping
Brick-and-mortar stores allow you to shop for your next handmade jewelry piece in person. Not only can you enjoy the atmosphere as you stroll through the shop, but you can take advantage of a few other benefits. But with all those positives, there are drawbacks, too.
Pros of In-Person Jewelry Shopping
You can see each piece in person and get the opportunity to try on designs before you buy. How does it fit your body? Does your skin color look good with it?
Sales associates can offer real-time expert advice, answer questions like “What’s the difference between gold-filled and gold-plated metals?” and even make recommendations. A knowledgeable sales person can guide you through customization options to suit your needs.
There is nothing like the instant gratification that comes with identifying something you want, buying it outright, and then enjoying it immediately. A trusted local jewelry store can repurpose your heirloom jewelry (that might be outdated) into a bespoke piece that you will cherish.
Cons of In-Person Jewelry Shopping
- A physical store can have a small inventory, leaving you with a limited selection.
- Things such as rent and utilities often make stores charge higher prices for their handcrafted jewelry to compensate for their overhead.
- Salespeople will sometimes use persuasive strategies to foster impulse buys and upselling. No one likes to feel pressured while making a purchase.
The Pros and Cons of Shopping for Handmade Jewelry Via Online Jewelry Stores
Online jewelry stores offer a convenient way for you to browse and buy handcrafted jewelry from the comfort of your home. Lots of people enjoy the ease of shopping this way, as nearly two-thirds of jewelry customers buy online. However, there are some drawbacks when it comes to online shopping.
Pros of Online Jewelry Shopping
- Online jewelry stores offer a vast range of styles and some unique finds.
- Online platforms have little overhead and can pass the savings on to the consumer. Shopping on the Internet also makes it easier to compare prices.
- Online jewelry stores give detailed descriptions, such as materials used, dimensions, and care instructions, so you get a better overall picture with just a click.
Cons of Online Jewelry Stores
With online jewelry stores, you can see and read about the product, but you cannot examine it. Sometimes an online customer might be disappointed in the appearance or quality of their jewelry since they have never interacted with it in person. What if a ring doesn't fit? Consider the cost of shipping back and forth with the seller for resizing.
While most online jewelry stores are legitimate, occasionally, you might find a scammer that sells counterfeit or low-quality items. Most online stores carry many of the same styles, so finding something truly unique is difficult. Most online jewelry stores invite queries through contact form, email, and phone calls. However, the response is not as immediate as a face-to-face conversation.
Once you understand what traits to look for in an online jewelry store or brick-and-mortar vendor and know the advantages and disadvantages of each, go out and shop with confidence in the way that suits you best. By considering all of these factors, you’ll make better decisions. Very soon, you’ll be getting compliments on your latest handmade jewelry find.