What to Look for When Selecting the Right Handmade Jewellery Designer

 Is there anything more magical than adding a new piece of handmade jewellery to your collection?

But, when you’re in the market for a new artisanal jewellery designer you want to leave feeling assured that your piece is the real deal. Are those gold stacking rings plated, vermeil or pure? Are the gemstones precious, semi precious, or replica? What happens if your new gold vermeil necklace breaks after a few months, will the store repair it? 

What to Look for When Selecting the Right Handmade Jewellery Designer  

What to Look for When Selecting the Right Handmade Jewellery Designer

When shopping for new jewellery - considering the following questions should bring you peace of mind.
 

1. What can their reputation tell you?

 
When you are seeking new handmade jewellery, you should do some research to check out the designer’s credentials. Source trustworthy reviews from previous clients and find out whether they are affiliated with any jewellery associations. What is the background of the lead designer? Most of the information you need should be available on the designer’s website or social media profiles.
 

2. Are They New Talent

 
Are They New Talent?

Consider how long the designer has been practising their trade, but don’t be put off if they’re brand new to the scene. Spotted some awesome gold stacking rings from an unknown? Then you might be one of the first to discover a rising star! Just make sure you follow the rest of our tips so that you know you’re getting a quality piece.
 

3. How are their pieces made?

 
When you want a handmade gold vermeil necklace, you want to know it’s definitely handmade! Find out how the designer and her team craft their pieces and where they take inspiration from. Such information may be available on the company blog or website. But if not, you can always make an enquiry directly.
 

4. What metals and gemstones do they use?

 
What metals and gemstones do they use?

 
Find out exactly what materials the designer uses. As a guideline, gold vermeil is more affordable than pure gold yet more durable than gold plated pieces. Do they offer a mix of precious and semi precious gemstones to accommodate varying budgets?

5. Are the prices competitive?


If a jewellery boutique is selling a gold vermeil necklace at a price too good to be true, then it probably is. Consider the prices alongside competitors and larger brands. With handmade jewellery, you should expect to pay more for the quality than in a budget store but if a price is sky high then you’ll want to ask why.

6. Do they offer a warranty or repair service?


The top jewellery designers will offer a warranty on their pieces - plus a repairs service. This will vary based on the boutique, many will offer a 12-month warranty and free repairs. Do check the terms before you buy so you know what to expect.

7. Are they available to chat?


If you cannot find any of the answers to the above questions online, you might want to speak to the designer’s knowledgable team. This is one very easy way to establish trust and forge a relationship. If you can access their boutique - pop in and speak to the store assistants. Alternatively, give the store a call or contact them over email. The best handmade jewellery designers love to share the stories behind their products.
 
 


 

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