How to tell if jewellery is good quality
Nowadays, we are all becoming more conscious with our purchasing.
From our food to the clothes we buy, we are striving for better quality.
If you're like us, you'll long for the days when you could buy an item and keep it for many, many years.
Jewellery is a very personal expression of yourself- and it's something you want to keep forever.
I've put together a few tips on what we look out for when inspecting jewellery, to help un-cover what separates the good from the bad.
1- How much does the piece weigh?
Weight in jewellery is extremely important. Hold an item in your hand and feel if it is heavy. Also, look out for rings which are hollowed out inside the shank. Lightweight items may generally be cheaper, however in the long run this will result in you having to repair/strengthen the item far sooner than you should.
2-What chain has been used?
Lightweight chains have a high chance of breaking, and can't always be repaired. Ask questions about chains, and if it feels too light, ask if a stronger one can be supplied as an alternative.
3-Ask about repair policies
To promote longevity, ensure your piece can be repaired easily in the future to allow you to enjoy it for years to come.
If it's not worth repairing, it's not worth buying.
4. Mass production vs. small production
Small batch jewellery or one-off’s will have more time spent perfecting the finer details, ensuring a longer lifespan. While some mass produced items are well made, look out for small makers as they will spend more time working on one piece, and this will mean you can enjoy your item long into the future.
5. Hallmarking
A hallmark means an item has been independently tested by an Assay Office and will guarantee the item has been made in the metal stated- this is a legal requirement for all jewellery made in the UK.