Investing in luxury jewellery can be exciting, but also overwhelming if you don’t know what to look for. High-end pieces use quality materials and expert craftsmanship that make them stand out. When shopping for luxury jewellery, keep these key things in mind.
Focus on Metals and Stones
The metals and gemstones used impact the overall look, durability, and value of a piece.
- Metals: Gold, platinum, and silver are typically used. Opt for 18-carat gold or higher to ensure hardy wear and shine. Platinum is also extremely durable, while sterling silver gives an affordable luxury look.
- Gemstones: Precious gems like diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires are common in fine jewellery. Check that stones are genuine, naturally sourced, and ethically obtained. The quality metrics used – like the 4Cs for diamonds – also affect the value.
Additionally, the settings that hold the stones in place should use prongs and structural supports to keep gems securely fastened.
Seek Out Craftsmanship
Expert jewellers have the skills to create one-of-a-kind, hand-finished pieces. Markings like a jeweller’s hallmark or engraving denote authenticity and artisan production.
Construction should incorporate metalworking techniques like casting, hand engraving, and stone setting. Filigree details, inspired design styles, ergonomic shapes, and structural reinforcements also showcase quality craftwork.
When possible, buy directly from jewellers to understand the full backstory of how a piece was conceptualised and made.
Verify Authenticity
To confirm genuineness, inspect any signatures, markings, or certificates that come with the jewellery. Brand logos etched on pieces help verify authentic luxury. Engraved serial numbers, hallmarks, or gem certificates also validate quality. For example, if you buy fine jewellery brands with Bitcoin or Crypto from a reputable site, the jewellery is validated and comes in the original box, with original documents. So, there is no risk whatsoever.
Additionally, the price tag itself reflects real luxury. Higher costs stem from precious materials and intensive labour needed to produce each piece. If a price seems too good to be true, it often is.
Opt for Timelessness
While fashion trends come and go, classic styles will retain value. Opt for timeless over trendy to maximise cost per wear. Diamonds and gold form the foundation of most heirloom jewellery for their enduring look.
Vintage and antique pieces also have lasting appeal across generations. Iconic brands like Cartier and Harry Winston create recognisable, iconic designs that maintain their worth over decades. Ultimately, find luxury jewellery that appeals to your taste so you can cherish and wear it for years to come.
Is Jewellery a Good Investment?
When it comes to jewellery as an investment, the answer is complex. Factors like metals, gemstones, personal taste, and economic conditions determine resale value. Gold and diamonds retain intrinsic value well over time. Platinum and rubies are also safer options. More customisable or trend-centric pieces usually don’t appreciate. Ultimately, jewellery enjoys more sentimental than monetary value in most cases.
However, signature luxury brands and one-of-a-kind antique pieces can gain value and make strategic additions to an investment portfolio. Do your homework to understand metals, gems, and market trends. While not totally recession-proof, fine jewellery does provide an alternative asset class for diversification.
When investing in fine jewellery, focusing on these markers of quality ensures you select enduring, authentic pieces. Take time to inspect materials, craftsmanship details, authenticity markers, and design aesthetics when shopping high-end. Your jewellery box will shimmer with items that keep their brilliance and stand the test of time.
