Buying branded jewelry has its pros and cons. On the upside, branded jewelry typically consists of ready-to-purchase pieces available in boutiques. These items offer the wearer access to high-quality craftsmanship and the opportunity to enjoy current fashion trends. On the downside, branded jewelry is often easy to imitate. All over the market, there are dupes of designs, some even supposedly patented and trademarked by high-end brands. Manufacturers of counterfeit pieces can succeed at producing convincing fakes that make detection close to impossible, unless you’re an expert.
Given these advantages and disadvantages, is it really worth it to buy branded jewelry?
The answer is a yes—but, choose the brand well. Do your research and be discerning.
Not all branded jewelry is made equal. They may all boast name recall and have beautiful marketing and PR, but it is the handful of brands with decades of experience and reliability that you should invest in. These brands have legacy, excellent craftsmanship, and a commitment to quality. You are assured that what you are paying for is not only aesthetics but also longevity. The price covers expertise, after-sales service, and, of course, authenticity.
Branded jewelry from upscale makers almost always comes with a certificate indicating proof of purchase and authenticity of the product. This is important because it allows you (the buyer) to prove that your pieces are legitimate if you ever want them appraised or if you wish to put them back in the market in the future.
To add, even if the branded jewelry you own is the real deal, without proper documents, it will be challenging to estimate its value. A jeweler will end up appraising pieces based on the metal and gemstones used, not accounting for the work behind the scenes—all because of a lack of paperwork.
Less established jewelry brands won’t always provide you with certificates, making it difficult to resell at a good price. More so, be wary of these brands that don’t give importance to documentation, and in relation, reputation, as they may have cut corners in producing their pieces. Gemstones may be of poor quality and have tiny cracks invisible to the eye that make them prone to damage. The gold or silver may be alloyed with cheap metals that degrade more quickly over time. Finishing and polishing may not have been done properly, leaving jagged corners and curves.
In the end, while it is perfectly fine to purchase branded jewelry, make sure to shop at brands that put a premium on quality, not only presentation. Trust those who have been around the longest, as you can be assured that they have perfected their craft and deliver results every time.
If you’re considering purchasing a piece or would like to have a piece appraised, consult a certified and reputable jewelry appraiser.
