Perhaps you’ve decided to propose soon and are looking for an engagement ring that will delight your partner. Or maybe you’re shopping for jewellery for yourself and want to get a necklace or earrings that will add flair to your outfits. Either way, you’ll have to find pieces that aren’t only elegant and eye-catching but will give you great value for money. Start the shopping process by taking note of these factors:
Budget
Jewellery is offered in various price points, so you have to decide on a budget before you go shopping. This way, you’ll get to buy pieces that will enhance your wardrobe and allow you to express yourself—without spending too much.
Size
If you’re shopping for jewellery for another person, you must ensure that you’re getting the right size. This is particularly important when purchasing rings, which are a hassle to resize. When buying an engagement ring, for example, ask your partner’s closest friend or family member about their ring size, or bring along a ring they already own and use frequently. This will help you get a ring in the correct size and will sit perfectly on their finger.
Jewellery size isn’t a problem if you’re shopping for yourself. However, you do need to consider the gem size in terms of how it will look when paired with your clothes. Some people opt for subtle pieces that blend with their outfits, while others love to make their jewellery the star of the show.
Metal
Gold is one of the popular options for jewellery. However, if you’re allergic to nickel, you should avoid gold jewellery since it’s alloyed with nickel and can trigger contact dermatitis. If you really want to wear gold despite your allergy, choose 24-karat gold jewellery since it’s made of 99% gold and contains only a small amount of nickel.
Of course, gold isn’t the only choice available. Titanium, for example, is highly resistant to wear and scratches and is recommended for people with active lifestyles. It’s also hypoallergenic, which means you can safely wear it even if you have sensitive skin.
Gems
Aside from choosing the right metal for your jewellery, you also have to decide what type of gem to pair it with. Diamonds, for instance, are the number-one choice for engagement rings and wedding rings. However, many shoppers are now opting for moissanite since it has a similar hardness but is offered at a lower price. For non-wedding related jewellery, people often opt to get their birthstones or simply pick a stone that speaks to their personality.
Regardless of which gems you’d choose, you have to ask where and how they’re sourced. If you’re buying directly from a Thailand jewellery manufacturer, for example, ask them if they adhere to the Kimberley Process, which ensures that improves oversight and transparency in the diamond industry and limits the supply of conflict diamonds.
Style
Jewellery style is an individual choice, so take the time to explore various designs and find out which one best suits your personality and fashion sense. If you’re buying jewellery for another person, look at the jewellery they currently own and wear to determine what their preferred style is. However, you shouldn’t focus only on aesthetics. If you’re shopping for everyday jewellery, choose a piece that’s compatible with your lifestyle and won’t make your daily tasks harder to perform.
Buying jewellery can be daunting especially if you’re a first-time shopper. Use the tips above to successfully purchase the best possible pieces!