When I first started Linkouture, I wanted to make one-of-a-kind pieces that were beautiful and affordable.
Because I didn’t have much capital, and because I was stuck on this idea of affordability, I initially made my chains using silver-plated rings. It had the look of sterling silver, but at a much lower cost.
However, I noticed that over time the plating started to come off some of my pieces, particularly the necklace that wore pretty much every day for six months straight after spending almost as long making. The necklace that I had poured so much time, love, and energy into making soon started to look worn and beat.
And in the end, the less expensive materials didn’t end up saving me or my business that much money.
I knew it was time for a change, especially as I wanted to make jewelry that was eco-friendly and build a brand that fit with my personal values.
While affordability is nice in theory, the truth is that comes at another price.
That price could be the quality of the work, the conditions of the people who make your jewelry, or the ability of a crafter to make a living.
This has impacted my own habits when it comes to buying and making jewelry for myself and others, and how I ensure that I purchase and make jewelry that is made to last.
Buy jewelry made from quality materials
Over the year, numerous people have commented at shows that they have nickel allergies. This made me realize it is so important to know from what materials the jewelry you buy is made, particularly if you have a sensitivity or an allergy.
If something is plated or filled, ask what the metal underneath is, such as brass or copper. Just because something says it’s silver or gold it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s sterling silver or pure gold.
People like to buy cheap jewelry, and I totally get that — I used to be the same way before making my own jewelry. It’s easier to stomach spending $20 on a necklace than $200.
Just keep in mind a cheaper price tag often means cheaper materials, not to mention a cheaper quality. There is nothing wrong with having some cute, inexpensive baubles, but pieces made from higher-quality metals like sterling silver and gold are meant to last over time.
That’s part of the reason I switched from silver plated materials to making all sterling silver jewelry a couple years ago. I realized the silver plating would eventually come off of the jewelry I was spending so much time to make, and I wanted something that was designed to last.
While it did raise the price-tag of my jewelry, I feel more confident that I am selling jewelry that will last.
That’s not to say jewelry made from less-expensive materials such as brass or aluminum can’t be beautiful be well-made. What’s most important is that the jewelry is made with quality over quantity in mind.
Know that certain metals, such as sterling silver, will tarnish over time. That doesn’t ruin the jewelry, but it does make it look less pretty. If you know the materials are prone to tarnish, take extra care to store and clean them properly. For sterling silver jewelry, I always recommend storing it in a small anti-tarnish ziplock style bag to prevent tarnish.
Choose jewelry with meaning
Instead of just grabbing something that catches your attention, pause for a moment and think: Does it have any deeper meaning for me? Does it tell a story, either because of how it was made, who made it, or why I purchased it? Does this jewelry reflect my values?
A piece of jewelry can be so much more than an accessory.
It can mark an important milestone in our life, such as a graduation, a birth or a passing of a loved one, or a new step in a career.
It can reflect not just our tastes, but our values. For example, for the last few years, I have only purchased handmade jewelry because supporting other makers is important to me. I am also more inclined to purchase jewelry when I am traveling because wearing it brings back memories of that time.
When we take the time to reflect, we’re less likely to make an impulse purchase and more likely to put our money toward jewelry that we will cherish.
Invest in timeless pieces
It’s fun to go with the trends, but also incorporate pieces into your jewelry repertoire that will never go out of style. I recommend jewelry that is elegant and understated in a precious metal.
These are the pieces that you will spend more money on because they are made well and from high-quality materials and that you will find you will wear for years to come. (And maybe even pass along to someone else one day!)
What tips do you have for buying jewelry?
Jewelry photos by Lorna Stell
Great advice and agree with all of the above, especially knowing what material the jewelry is made from, because you never know what you could be allergic from and also for making sure to have a few timeless pieces in your jewelry pieces, as well.
Thanks, Janine! Definitely important to know what materials it is made from.
Hi Bev, These tips are great & on point. It’s an investment if you want quality. One of my daughters has skin sensitivities & has to be very specific with metals.That bracelet is gorgeous!
Thanks! Yeah, you definitely want to be careful with those skin sensitivities.
I just recently started buying jewelry again. I had gone quite some time without wearing anything…even my wedding ring! I now wear my staple pieces and I am always looking for cute, sterling silver necklaces now days! 🙂 Great tips! As with many things, quality over quantity! 🙂
Yes, staple pieces are great! I basically wear the same pieces of jewelry everyday. Every year or so it switches, but I like having pieces that are meant to last.
As far as I’m concerned, I won’t buy any jewelry unless it’s from artists like you! You never know about the quality materials, or lack of quality.
I can’t wear earring or bracelets.. at all.. but I do favor necklaces and rings!
I like that! Not all types of jewelry are for everyone. I don’t wear necklaces all that often, but I have become quite accustomed to my wedding & engagement ring on one hand and a ring on my middle finger on my right hand. My fingers feel naked without them!
I have allergies and hate buying cheap jewelry. Every time I’m at a craft show, I look for quality crafters and am getting some gorgeous pieces.
Oh good, I’m so glad to hear that! I’m sure the people you are buying from appreciate that 🙂
I hate when I buy something that seems to be higher end costume jewelry, but then turns all yellow on me. 🙁 That’s no bueno. I should stop being so cheap, huh? But honestly for 30 bucks, I think you shouldn’t turn on me… right?
XOXO
Yes, that’s always such a bummer! Who wants their skin turning yellow?
My wife’s birthday is coming up fast, and I really wanted to surprise her with something special this year! One thing that I love about your article is that you mention that a piece of jewelry can actually reflect your tastes and values. It would be nice to get her something that will match anything she decides to wear.
I hope you were able to find her something special!
It’s my parents anniversary soon and dad wants to give my mom something special. It was mentioned here that price could be the quality of work. Moreover, it’s better to buy jewelry to trusted stores and shops to make sure its quality and value.
I could not agree more, Joy! Thank you for sharing 🙂
I love that you talked about how it will be more practical to spend more money on a piece of jewelry that will last and might even be passed on to the next generation. I think that is really true because it is not just the jewelry that you will be passing, but you will also be able to share the stories or the memories that come with it. This just convinced me to choose the jewelry gift for my daughter without having to bother about the price. Thanks!
Thanks for sharing, Arya! And I love what you said about passing on the stories and the memories.
I love that you mentioned to choose jewelry with meaning. I really want to buy some new jewelry for my sister’s birthday. I will try and make sure that the jewelry I buy for her will have some sort of special meaning to make the present even more meaningful and loving; because she only deserves the best.
OH, I love this! What a special sentiment for your sister 🙂