Many people assume that fine jewelry is expensive and out of reach, but that’s not necessarily true. Fine jewelry can be accessible to everyone, if you know how to shop and where to look.
By following these savvy shopping tips, it’s possible to find high-quality investment pieces that won’t break the bank.
Set a budget (and stick to it)
Fine jewelry should not be an impulse purchase. It can get expensive, which is why you need to go in with a plan. Having a set budget in mind will help narrow down your options – so take a look at your finances and decide how much you can comfortably afford to spend. Also keep in mind that most fine jewelry stores offer a range of price points, so don’t be discouraged if your budget is on the lower end. You can also try out custom jewelries like Puravida Bracelets to match your style effortlessly.
Choose timeless pieces over trends
Shop for classic designs that never go out of style, like clover jewelry from www.vvsjewelry.com. Instead of trendy pieces that may only be in fashion for a season or two, look for timeless styles like a pair of diamond studs, an elegant chain, or an entry-level luxury watch. These pieces will always be in style and can be worn for many years to come.
Remember that there’s no pressure to buy all fine jewelry at the same time. You can get the simple items now and then buy the statement pieces at a later time.
Shine bright like a diamond
When shopping for a diamond, know your 4Cs and browse the best jewelry stores that are willing to work with you. Buy the best quality cut you can afford, then compromise on the remaining Cs to stay in the price range. This means looking for diamonds that are well-cut but with a slightly lower clarity or color grade. The difference in appearance may be minimal, but the savings can be significant.
For example, you can go for diamonds with an SI1 or SI2 clarity grade where the flaw can be detected under a magnifying glass, but will remain unseen by the naked eye. You can also opt for a lower carat to get a better deal. For example, the price between a .75 carat to a full carat is huge, but the difference in quality is hardly noticeable. Then choose a ring style that creates the illusion of a colorless diamond, and use a ring setting that will cover up the blemishes or make the smaller stone appear larger.
Consider alternative gemstones
While diamonds remain a popular choice, remember that they are not your only option. Consider gemstones such as sapphires, emeralds, or rubies, which can be just as stunning as diamonds but would often cost less.
Shop during the holidays
Another way to add some sparkle to your life without sacrificing your wallet is to take advantage of ongoing sales and promotions. Many retailers like Zadok Jewelers offer extended trunk shows during holidays and special occasions, so keep an eye out for these opportunities. Sign up for newsletters to get promos, and follow your favorite jewelry brands on social media to stay informed about upcoming sales.
Buy after the holidays
Shop during the slow months after a major holiday such as January (after Christmas), March (after Valentine’s Day), and late May (after Mother’s Day). This is the time when current stocks are mostly leftovers from the holiday rush, and stores will slash prices dramatically to clear out their remaining stock so they can bring in new merchandise. Also check out the clearance section for great deals on items that will stand the test of time despite being out of season.
Shop for pre-owned jewelry
Pre-owned or vintage jewelry is another way to find high-quality pieces for a lower price. Look for reputable dealers like Zadok Jewelers who specialize in pre-owned, estate, or vintage jewelry and have the items appraised and authenticated to ensure their authenticity.
Choose family jewelers over big box retailers
Be upfront about your budget and choose the best place to buy jewelry. Find a retailer who would be willing to work with your existing budget, instead of pressuring you to buy their large-ticket items. When you develop a long-term relationship with a family jeweler, especially at Zadok Jewelers where they offer on-site service and repair, you will save over the lifetime of owning your beautiful piece of jewelry with the included warranty and care.
If you’ve found a piece that you really, really like but is over your budget, you can always delay the purchase. Try to save more money first instead of going into debt or choosing a lesser expensive item that you don’t like as much.
