Gold and silver price has gone down in the international marketing now days. It means this is the good time for you to purchase gold or silver jewelry and it is a slow time for jewelers. If you are wondering to shop for gold or silver, here are a few things you need to know:
What determines price?
The purity of the metal is one of the elements that determines the price. Gold purity is indicated with a stamp of 10K, 14K, 18K, or 24K. And different countries have their own standards. For example, for a piece to be considered gold in the US, it must be at least 10K. In Britain and Canada: 9K; In Italy and France: 18K. Anything over 18K is really too soft for everyday wear. That’s why jewelry stores in the US sell mostly 14K.
How much can you expect to pay?
That depends on the weight of the metal and the gemstone. So keep that in mind, especially when buying online. To keep yourself from getting ripped off, ask yourself the following:
- How long has the company been around?
- What is its return policy?
- Is the jewelry featured on the website visible from all directions?
- Is the company transparent with the gram weights and the size of the gemstones?
- Is the company trusted supplier, must see trust seal.
- Check out the shipping charges.
- Please check with the previous buyers and their experiences with the company. Read Testimonials.
Yellow gold? White? Rose?
Your might have confused to take the decision, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Yes, it’s confusing, and while largely a personal decision, there are a few things to keep in mind. For starters, white or rose gold costs about 10% more than yellow gold. If you want the “look for less,” consider gold-plated jewelry. “Gold plated” and “gold overlay” mean the same thing and guarantee a thicker layer of finish than “vermeil” which is a flash finish that is thinner and less consistent, but more affordable. We would recommend buying vermeil finished pieces for fashionable pieces you want for a season or two. For pieces you want to wear for a lifetime, solid gold is best.
What about sterling silver jewelry?
Sterling silver can be a good alternative of white gold during the difficult economic condition, and while it used to be more popular with just the younger, edgier consumer, these days it has much more in fashion and demand. Retailers and wholesaler like J-beads offering high quality gemstones with 925 sterling silver whether it is in the form of necklace, earrings, bracelets, pendants or rings.
Keep in mind that in the US, the sterling silver standard is 92.5% real silver, the lower price you’re paying for silver means more maintenance. To keep silver jewelry from tarnishing consider keeping a piece of chalk in your jewelry box.
What are some of your tips when it comes to buying gold and silver pieces? We’d love to hear from you! Connect with us on Twitter @gemstonebeads and Facebook .
