For most of us, jewellery represents a substantial purchase and potentially even an investment. It’s for this reason that you should get the process right, first time. Whether you intend on buying from a high street retailer or one of numerous online outlets, there are several things you should first consider before taking the plunge.
Here we’ll provide you with an overview to hopefully answer any questions you may have as well as leave you more confident in your buying decision.
- Who Is the Jewellery For?
Buying for yourself is always going to easier than buying for a friend or a member of family. Jewellery is a very personal matter and what some of us like won’t necessarily appease everyone else.
If you’re buying as a gift, we would suggest asking outright what they would prefer, or if a surprise, make a note of the jewellery the person in question usually wears. Something understated will usually go down much better than a loud ostentatious piece.
- What is Your Budget?
Jewellery can be had for as little as £10. What will most heavily influence the price is what the jewellery is made out of as well as the overall level of quality. Even real diamonds can be bought for only a couple hundred pounds, but they will of course be much smaller and lower in quality than more expensive ones.
For designer or fashion jewellery, a budget of £300 is likely to get you something really special and potentially stuffed with crystals if that’s your thing.
- What is the Wearer Profile?
Some pieces of jewellery are more delicate than others. This is perfectly normal but care should be taken if the intended wearer is the active type.
In this case, we would suggest a hard wearing metal such as silver or platinum which can better withstand knocks and scratches than pure gold. Also consider the type of fastener that the piece of jewellery employs as something flimsy as found on cheaper necklaces wont suit everyone.
- Are you Buying for Children?
Many retailers offer a range of jewellery specifically designed for children. These pieces usually incorporate a range of different colours as well as styles which can mimic popular cartoon characters and themes. Children’s jewellery should be much cheaper than adult’s jewellery and will rarely contain precious stones. Make sure that your child is not allergic to any metals before buying.
- Be Mindful of Return Policies
Whichever retailer you choose to buy from should have a comprehensive return policy that allows you to return or exchange unsuitable items. This is even more important when buying as a gift as it will save your loved ones from keeping hold of something they don’t like and will never wear.
Always hang onto the receipt just in case.
With the advice we’ve outlined here, you should now be in a position to buy jewellery with confidence. Jewellery can make a great gift for others as well as for yourself so remember to take your time and enjoy the process.
