Jewellery can be a worthwhile investment whether you’re shopping for yourself or a loved one. A stunning cocktail ring or an elegant necklace can elevate your look, and these inexpensive jewellery finds can make you feel like a million bucks without draining your bank account. 

Fine jewellery, on the other hand, is in a class by itself. These are the pieces that can commemorate a life-changing event, symbolise your love, or become cherished family heirlooms. In other words, we’re discussing the good stuff, which isn’t cheap. There is, however, the best time to purchase anything and everything. That being said, it is possible to buy quality jewellery without breaking the bank if you know when the best time of year to buy fine jewellery is.

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but money and time are close second’, Maya Brenner, founder and CEO of Maya Brenner, says. So, whether you’re looking for an engagement ring or a new pair of earrings, follow these guidelines to ensure you get the best price possible. Remember that fine jewellery isn’t something you want to leave lying around, so use these jewellery storage ideas to protect your investment.

What Exactly is Fine Jewellery?

Fine jewellery, also known as high-end or luxury jewellery, is made with precious metals such as yellow gold, white gold, and platinum, according to Brenner. Dustin Lemick, a third-generation jeweller and the founder and CEO of BriteCo adds that these pieces may also include diamonds and other precious stones such as emeralds, rubies, and sapphires. Lemick also points out that, while some fine jewellery can be made with semi-precious stones, jewellery made with imitation stones or base metals is not fine jewellery.

What is The Average Price of Jewellery?

The cost of jewellery can range from a few dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. Low-end jewellery, which Brenner defines as pieces made of brass or other alloy metals, should cost less than $100. Mid-priced jewellery, on the other hand, is usually made of sterling silver or vermeil (gold-plated jewellery over sterling silver). “Prices will vary depending on the piece, but a layering chain should cost around $200,” Brenner says.

Finally, there is high-end, or fine jewellery. “It really comes down to current gold prices and the weight of the piece,” Brenner says. A delicate 14k gold jewellery piece should cost between $200 and $500.

What Factors Influence Jewellery Pricing?

When it comes to jewellery pricing, several factors come into play. Gold prices, which fluctuate on a daily basis, materials such as metals and stones, the amount of labour put into each piece, and even where the jewellery is made all contribute to how much you’ll pay for that special addition to your jewellery organiser.

When is The Best Season to Buy Fine Jewellery?

According to Lemick, the best prices on fine jewellery are likely to be found in March, April, and early May. Jewellers will have just finished the holiday season and will be quiet before the engagement ring season begins. “You’re hitting it at a downtime in September and October,” Lemick adds. “Jewellers are gearing up for the holiday season, but it hasn’t started yet.”

When is The Worst Season to Buy Fine Jewellery?

If possible, avoid shopping for fine jewellery during the holidays. Jewellers are well-stocked and move the most product between November and February, but discounts are rare, according to Lemick. Brenner concurs. “Many jewellery companies will have holiday sales, but be wary of brands that frequently offer promotions or large discounts.” “They’re probably overpricing their items just to get rid of them,” she warns. So, if you come across a great holiday sale, chances are it’s too good to be true.

Is it Necessary to Insure Your Fine Jewellery?

We’ve all heard horror stories about jewellery disappearing down the drain, into a dog’s stomach, or simply disappearing. While replacing a $200 bracelet may not seem like a big deal, replacing a $5,000 to $10,000 wedding ring will almost certainly hurt. Lemick recommends purchasing an insurance policy for any fine jewellery worth $1,000 or more. “Don’t rely on your homeowner’s insurance,” he says, “as those policies are limited and typically only cover you up to $1,500.” If you are unsure of the value of your jewellery.

Advice on Purchasing Fine Jewellery

• Make a budget before you go shopping.
• Purchases should be spread out, either before or after the holidays.
• Don’t be fooled by low prices. Brenner warns that some companies will label something as gold, but when you read the fine print, you’ll find it’s actually gold-plated.
• Stick to solid 14k gold or platinum if you want a piece of jewellery that will last.
• Inform your jeweller that you’d like to see their finished products. These are items that a jeweller has in stock that they have already purchased and paid for, as opposed to jewellery that they have on consignment for manufacturers. Because jewellers are more motivated to sell in-stock items, you may be able to get more generous discounts on them.
• Pay attention to the gold market and avoid buying when it is extremely high.

Where Can You Purchase Fine Jewellery?

When it comes to purchasing fine jewellery, high-end retailers such as Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus are excellent places to begin. And, if you’re looking for more affordable options, Macy’s and, yes, even T.J. Maxx have high-quality items. These stores not only sell high-quality jewellery, but they also have great sales throughout the year. If you prefer personalised service and custom pieces, Lemick recommends finding a reputable, family-owned jeweller in your area.

How do you locate a trustworthy jeweller?

You don’t want to walk into any old jewellery store without doing your homework because jewellery can be such a large investment. Lemick suggests looking for a multi-generational jewellery store that has been around for a while, has consistently good reviews, and does custom work and repairs in-house rather than sending them out. What else should you look for? When you walk in, how are you greeted? “Really good jewellers will have the best service,” Lemick says. He goes on to say that if you find the jeweller to be snooty or unwilling to treat you with the utmost respect, you should take your business elsewhere.

Is it ever possible to negotiate the price of jewellery?

Prices, according to Brenner, are frequently non-negotiable. However, there are some changes that can be made to help you save money. She recommends replacing a diamond with a white sapphire or moissanite, both of which are diamond simulants and can also be referred to as lab-grown diamonds. Moissanites are nearly as strong and gleaming as diamonds, but much less expensive. Don’t be afraid to ask your jeweller for additional cost-cutting suggestions.

What factors should you consider when purchasing jewellery insurance?

Lemick recommends finding a reputable insurance company that offers a wide range of coverage options, including loss, theft, and damage. However, there is another coverage option you should think about: mysterious disappearance. What exactly is a mysterious disappearance? It is, in fact, exactly what it sounds like. You put your ring on top of your dresser, and then it’s gone. “About 70% of our claims are for mysterious disappearance,” Lemick says. That is a significant percentage!