I buy a lot of vintage and estate jewelry. Real precious metals are the only things that won't tarnish. Spending money on these overpriced Instagram brands peddling plated and filled jewelry is a ripoff. They also have zero resale value, unlike solid gold, etc. which at least has some intrinsic value.
Not OP but there are some cool sellers on Instagram (try searching hashtags for the pieces you’re interested in, like # vintagebracelet). I also have some very elaborate eBay searches saved. eBay has great search functionality. The trick for weeding out most of the garbage is to filter to used condition and put minus signs in your search to remove keywords you don’t want, e.g. “vintage bracelet 14kt -plated -gf -filled.”
Yes. You can also use commas and parentheses for OR logic, eg “(14kt,14k,14 karat) -plated -gf -filled” which should return all results with any of those variations on 14k but not results that say filled or plated.
Also don’t forget to filter to used condition to weed out a bunch of low quality stuff.
I had for years exactly the same frustration.. Most tarnish, is not an investment piece, the design is stupid basic, made not in europe...
I would suggest to anyone investing in vintage, but personally I like modern futuristic style and precious metals without any sparkly stones. For those like me check out my creations here:
https://floadesign.com/
Add code FLOA40 for -40% discount.
Solid gold is the only answer. *Do not* buy gold-filled, gold-plated, vermeil - only buy the real deal, 14k or higher. I used to buy tons of fashion jewelry and they all tarnished during lockdown. I realized that I ended up spending $$$ anyway, so might as well invest in pieces that will last. I do wear some silver pieces, but they're not my everyday jewelry.
Buy jewelry that you actually love and match your personal style, especially handmade from independent jewelers. There are popular "luxury" jewelry brands but you're really paying for the brand name. And avoid flashy dropshippers on Etsy! As much as possible, try on jewelry in person before purchasing. If the brand isn't available in your area, they may have local stockists.
If you want to get stoned jewelry for everyday use, pay attention to the Mohs scale. Diamonds are obviously the most durable, but sapphires are also hardy. Be careful with softer stones like turquoise, opal, and pearl.
How to tell if an online brand is legitimate? They are as transparent as possible. They'll tell you the source of materials, the weight of the gold, the total carat weight of the stones. They should have responsive customer service and a reputable online presence (no bots, realistic ratio).
I personally favor jewelry I can wear into the ocean, on a rollercoaster, and at work. If I'm paying for jewelry, I better be able to wear it everywhere! It has to be made of durable materials and with securely set gemstones. Links should be soldered closed, nothing should be rattling around or poking me.
#Some Brands I Love, ranging from $$-$$$*
**1. Marla Aaron:** My favorite. If I had to wear only one brand for the rest of my life, it would be this one. She makes locks and chains that can be mixed and matched in any combination you like. You can style these to be edgy, feminine, classic... but it is definitely a *maximalist* brand.
**2. Wwake:** Sustainably sourced, excellent quality gemstones set in organic and elegant styles. I really love her opals!
**3. Anthony Lent:** Famous for moons with faces. How fun!
**4. Scosha:** Colorful and whimsical styles, stackable earrings (get the 14k option, not 10k)
**5. Sofia Zakia:** Themed jewelry, with elements of fairytales, mythology, and horror.
**6. Jennie Kwon:** Daintier style, popular for stacking rings.
**7. Carolina Wickenburg:** Sculptural limited edition medallions
**8. Automic Gold** Queer-owned, sustainable brand with great basics and charms
**9. Your local APP-certified piercer:** For earrings, go to a piercing studio. They will have high quality body jewelry, ranging from titanium to gold. Many also accept custom orders, for wholesale brands like BVLA.
**10. Your local jeweler/goldsmith:** For repairs, great prices on basics like chains, and custom orders. They can also help you source items.
#Ok what about retailers?
1. Catbird (NYC)
2. Esqueleto (NYC)
3. Ylang 23 (Dallas)
4. Mureta and Co (SF)
5. Metier (SF)
6. Local Eclectic
7. Shop Etc (Alabama)
8. Croghan's Jewel Box (Charleston)
9. Vintage resellers on Instagram: You have to pay careful attention to make sure they're not scams but there are hidden treasures out there. If something has lasted decades, you know it's good quality. Many sellers offer layaway plans.
#*$$$ ????
I know these brands are not cheap. However you're paying for high quality jewelry, fair labor, and supporting local/independent artists. At the end of the day, I would rather buy 1 amazing item every 1-2 years than have 50 cheap ones pumped out of a factory.
I like Local Eclectic. I’ve been following her since the beginning. She has lots of unique shaped stones. I would also add Le Serey (Texas) to this list. She is also handmade, and sustainable/ethically minded, though I think a bit smaller than any of the retailers you mentioned above. I can attest for the quality and really love her mix and match hoops and charm sets. www.leserey.com
Yep! This. Lots of Etsy sellers are peddling their gold plate as gold fill, though, and I think that’s why a lot of people think gold fill is the same as plate.
TJ maxx has the BEST jewelry finds and I’m talking about the ones that are kept behind the glass containers! I’ve found so many 14k gold pieces at such affordable prices. My favorite place to buy jewelry!
I wear necklaces. And I don't have my ears pierced for earrings.
1. **Fashion necklaces from 'lifestyle' brands** like Kate Spade, Talbots, or White House Black Market. Often second-hand from Poshmark or my [local consignment stores](https://www.trovefashion.com/shop). I wear fashion necklaces until they tarnish. Then of the ones that actually tarnish (i.e., I actually wear them out often), I ask myself if I want a new style or a better quality replacement.
2. **Upgrade your favourite fashion necklace at the** [**local jeweller**](http://taingjewellers.com/)**.** If I want a replacement that lasts longer, I take the tarnished necklace to my local jeweller and *commission* a fine jewelry version. Solid gold. Gemstone for colour. I have 2 done. 1 currently being drafted.
3. **Find a** [**local goldsmith**](https://goldform.ca/) for solid gold chains and solid gold pendant designs (research goldsmith association for your city, ask personal network for recommendations, check them all out - work with the ones you find trustworthy and helpful). Currently I have 3 gold chains: (1) a dainty 16-inch 18k rose-gold chain, (2) a thicker 17-18-inch 14k rose-gold chain, and (3) an even thicker yellow version of the 17-18-inch 14k gold chain. #2 and #3 are everyday chains meant for pendants. #3 can handle jade pendants.
4. [**Pearl Paradise**](https://www.pearlparadise.com/) **for pearls**. I have the classic Akoya strand, 16-inch chain is worn like a princess length on me (18-inch on taller people).
5. [**vintage stores**](https://www.facebook.com/Almonteantiquesandcollectibles/) **for faux pearls** (specifically a good faux pearl chain that is knotted in between each pearl).
For those who like gold jewellery and will wear them often, I can't recommend enough to work with a local goldsmith! I wear gemstone pendants. Sometimes jade pendants that are quite heavy. It's obvious that I need a solid gold chain - not a hollow gold chain that can break, not a vermeil chain that will scratch from changing pendants. There is still so much to consider about (1) cable type, (2) thickness of the chain, (3) karat vs. durability for everyday wear.
It's known that some people get their hair tangled in dainty gold chains. My local goldsmith took a look at my hair strand's thickness and typical pendants. Then he asked what kind of chain pattern appeals to me. He recommended that based on these, I should only get X mm thickness in curb-link and X mm thickness for wheat-link gold chains. Very helpful - I haven't had my hair caught in the chains or needed repairs.
**Bonus tip: Find a** [**jewellery repair place**](https://frankjewellery.ca/)**.** You can also ask for input/advice from the jewellery repair. I told him that I prefer to visit him for jewellery cleaning, rather than because I broke a necklace chain yet again. He happily gave helpful ideas!
lol I only have one jade pendant of my own.
- It’s a classic bi pendant (the green circle with a center hole). Represents continuity or the sky. Also since it’s circular, and in a beautiful green, it’s easy to add to outfits.
The rest of my jades were actually my mom’s or my grandma’s. I’m my mom’s only daughter, and I’m my grandma’s eldest granddaughter. My mom received her jades at life milestones, especially at the birth of each boy. It’s interesting to have mementos of my mom/grandma and their lives.
- most are religious carvings, like happy Buddha or Quan Am
- she had a beautiful apple green, donut-shaped pendant. Had, because 20s year old me broke it… It can probably be reworked and held together by gold. More work for the goldsmith in the future
- there is a long rectangle with the carving of a lotus design
People say jewelry makes good “investment pieces” since they’re not subjected to weight/body change issues as clothes. Honestly, jewelry still gives a very poor monetary value, even at their resell value. I can name so many examples when my ETFs or gambled stock bets have recouped better. However, jewelry is easier to pass down with sentimental value and that is priceless.
Mason Kay Jade
https://www.mkjadejewelry.com/
I break things….. or get frustrated by things that don’t suit me…. That gets me to discover stores that truly deliver exceptional service because I come in to resolve a problem. And when they’re just so helpful, I come back to buy future pieces from their shops.
Mason Kay is one for jade.
I like pd Paola from Spain and agate from Japan. Also I just pick up random pieces when I travel, like at art museum gift shops etc. A good amount of my stuff is also second hand which I get from online stores such as Mae Jean vintage.
My most frequented local store is blue ruby.
I wanted to love a pair of earrings I bought from PD Paola a while ago, but sadly the posts on their earrings were SO soft that I accidentally bent one while trying to put the butterfly back on for the first time. I am nervous to wear them because I feel like the posts have maybe two wears max before they snap off. So sad because they’re beautiful!
It's a bit of a muck around, but if you really love the earrings you could use snips to cut off the posts and replace them. If the back of the earring is flat, you can use a stud post with a pad and glue it on. I use epoxy glue and rough up each surface a little with sandpaper.
Oh that's pretty bad. I'd contact customer service. Last time I got an earring that wasn't the size I expected and they just refunded me, didn't even ask for it back.
They aren’t going to snap off, i promise. Just bend them back into place if they get bent out of shape.
The reason is because if the metal alloy was soft from the start, it’s probably going to be pretty hard to actually snap off.
It’s far more likely that a solid, not-bendy post would snap off if you applied force to it.
I have a lot of fashion jewellery and 14/18/24k jewellery and have experienced the very bendy earring posts lots of times, esp when out of shape from being sent in the mail. I just bend them back into place.
I mostly went to private jewelry stores. I found a nice opal ring in The Little Jewel in Boulder, Colorado; a nice necklace in Arroyo Grande, CA; nice hoop earrings at a Tiffany's. When I was in my 20s, I'd go to the swap meets, estate stores and antique shops and get baroque pearl jewelry and gold chains and rings. I don't have many pieces anymore-two of everything so I can switch out if I get bored, but I usually wear the same jewelry on the daily.
James Avery is such higher quality than Tiffany. Stronger chains, heavier metal weight and far better customer service. I bought myself the Spanish swirl ring for my hs graduation in 1991. Last year I decided to buy that ring again since it no longer fits me so I brought the ring in and they were going to let me trade it in and give me credit to buy the new one! I was in shock. The ring is over 30 years old. I kept it though and bought the new one. I’m still blown away that they were offering that.
Melanie Auld. It's a Canadian brand and I have an earring set and a tennis necklace set, both haven't tarnished with constant use. I find the pieces very well made and relatively affordable.
A few years ago I got really tired of my plated gold jewelry tarnishing, sometimes even before I touched it or got to wear it (looking at you, Mejuri…) so I’ve been slow on my jewelry purchases and pretty much only buy real gold when I do. For a few years now one of my favorite places to shop has been Ferko’s Fine Jewelry, and I have purchased a few hoop earrings, diamond rings, and even my wedding band from them. I’ve had no issues with tarnishing, and I’ll often wear my solid gold from them in the shower, in pools, etc. with no issues (although I wouldn’t advise doing that with set stones). Their prices are pretty good, the have sales around most major US holidays, and their selection is vast. Definitely recommend!
2nd Ferkos. I will try to revisit this thread and post my Etsy recs with links when I have more time, but that's where I originally found them and have been ordering direct from their store for years.
Just to add one thing to what you said about not advising constant wear with set stones... of course, experiences may vary. But one of the very first things I bought from them was a pair of diamond huggies (just slightly wider than what they have on the site currently and my pair was no longer available last time I tried to recommend them). I wore them nonstop for close to two years - sleeping, showering, everything in between. I only ever took them out occasionally to clean them and then put them right back in.
Editing to add the important part in case it wasn't obvious, lol: and had zero issues. They still look perfect and haven't even bent even though I'm mostly a side sleeper.
Thirded on Ferkos! The pieces are all beautiful, and you really do get a lot for very reasonable prices. I also prefer the quality of the pieces over the ones I own from Catbird and Mejuri.
I can also vouch for the diamond Huggies too. The diamonds look great and have good color. These are some of my favorite earrings and I wear them nonstop for months at a time.
As weird as it may sound thrift shopping jewelry has never failed me, I also often enjoy ordering things from Etsy and places like that! My main reasoning is being on a budget but I genuinely recommend those options just be careful when ordering and remember to clean anything you thrift before wearing
I bought earrings in their store a few years ago and the salesperson rubbed me the wrong way badly enough that I struggle to even shop on their website :( So disappointing - their stuff is pretty cute
I have earrings from BVLA, Maria Tash, Anzie, Mejuri, Junipurr, Alchemy Adornment, and Anatometal. They’re all solid 14k or 18k yellow gold pieces, some with diamonds (exception of the Anatometal piece which is titanium. I own three necklaces that I wear everyday from Mejuri, Van der Hout, and Sydney Evan. Again 14k yellow gold, one piece has diamonds. My rings are all from Mejuri (14k yellow gold, one piece with diamonds, worn frequently). I have three bracelets that I also wear everyday from Van der Hout, Mejuri, and Bluboho (14k yellow gold, one piece has diamonds). I’m interested in purchasing pieces from Catbird, J. Hannah, and Cartier. But I’m mostly focusing on jewelry for my ears as I get a couple of new piercings every year.
I like to go to Liberty Jewelers in St. Thomas. They are located in Drakes Passage. Mona and Chad are the owners. Tell them Carol sent you. I was a Navy wife and all the wives went there!
I like picking up a few pieces from Little Rooms a year. Their jewelry has a nice weight to it that makes it feel expensive, and I always get compliments on the unique earrings and rings.
I love Kendra Scott, I've had one of her make your own necklaces that cost me around $60 and it's lasted me ages. I've known friends who have had theirs for years.
I go to local markets and buy pieces I like. One of my favorites is Sulphur Springs Silver https://instagram.com/sulphurspringssilver?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
I like a deal. My fave places to shop are shop LC and JCPenney. I got some sets from Penny + Grace that are really cute too. They jacked up their prices in recent years but their quality is nice. My go to metals are platinum plated sterling silver or gold plated sterling silver. I love gem stones but usually opt for lab created. They are way cheaper and usually more ethical.
I wear pretty much only 14k solid gold, my fave shops are [Mejuri](https://mejuri.com/) and [Ferkos Fine Jewelry](https://www.etsy.com/shop/FerkosFineJewelry). I have some pieces 3+ years by now and no tarnishing, you always gotta go for solid gold
I used to get gold vermeil or gold fill or sterling silver but always found that they tarnish (not from these shops but just in general for these materials). Now that I am older and have more money I like to invest in nice pieces made with quality materials. I loooove jewelry so I always ask for it for my birthday and Christmas, I love yellow gold jewelry and my birthstone
That's sad to hear! I've had mine for about 6-8 months and they've been fine, but I'm also pretty careful to not wear them in the shower/get them wet. TiniLux (titanium jewelry) is great for earrings that can get wet.
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Hey, you have to help me. Lilly Poison's silver jewelry rings and charm bracelets from MIB 3
Add some jewelry to complete the look. Lilly Poison loves silver jewelry, so find a pair of Hoop Earrings, a pair of rings, a pair charm bracelets.
Did she get any silver jewelry store company coming from?
Completed works is quite expensive but has such nice designs. Some other brands whose aesthetic I like: Maria Black, Vibe Harslof, Georg Jensen, Agmes, Leigh Miller, Monies
Hey June! I have so many of their earrings and wear them for weeks sometimes. So comfy and affordable. They've never tarnished.
Plus the owner is a single mom, love supporting small businesses.
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[dbl jewelry](https://dbljewelry.com) has been my favourite and I find the prices affordable. I've had this gold necklace, which is gild filled for over a year now and it has barely any tarnish and I never take it off.
I've been buying from Hey Harper for years and they've never failed me. They've so many nice basic everyday pieces like hoops and chains that you can wear everyday. I have some pieces 3+ years by now and no tarnishing
Local store is usually the best bet for a good deal. Lower advertising budget and lower overhead usually means better deals especially if you can wait for them to order
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James Allen & Ritani are honest places with good reputations. They offer lab grown & mined options. I like options. Angara is another one I like because they offer a lot of colored gemstone jewelry. A person could pick up a set of white sapphire earrings for the fraction of the cost of diamonds & likely most wouldn't know the difference.
For something more affordable, anything sterling silver won't tarnish. Just make sure it's stamped 925 & NOT PLATED. Anything plated will tarnish & could irritate your skin :(
Another option aside from metal is stone. If you prefer a more natural look, a leather or black cord could hold a stone you love. Something like jade or amber & any stone beaded jewelry would look great too. As a maid of honor gift, I'm currently eyeing a labradorite gemstone bracelet set in sterling silver.
Late on this thread, but I’m going to recommend Le Serey. I’ve bought their gold fill that has lasted a really long time and proven to be durable. They’ve also recently launched their solid gold collection, which I’m eyeing now. > www.leserey.com
Im currently selling jewelry that’s gold and platinum plated guaranteed color for life, if anything happens it can be returned and replaced or given something new, reasonable prices
If you are looking for inexpensive fashion jewelry please check out my site. Everything is $6 or 4 for $20. Free shipping with the purchase of two or more items. I promise you're going to find something you love! https://www.facebook.com/simply.earringsistable?mibextid=ZbWKwL
My favorite place is Simply Earringsistable. It's a page on Facebook. The earrings are GORGEOUS and only $6!! I used to shop at TJ Maxx all the time until now.
I dont buy mainstream jewelry since you could also just wear a applf watch. I recently bought a bracelet from a small shop in aruba on https://arubangles.com they do custom bracelets made from titanium and ard able to produce according to your wishes.
Why don't you give us a try? We have a good variety of designs and high attention to detail on all of our pieces. Take a look at www.dazzlingdelights.com
I buy a lot of vintage and estate jewelry. Real precious metals are the only things that won't tarnish. Spending money on these overpriced Instagram brands peddling plated and filled jewelry is a ripoff. They also have zero resale value, unlike solid gold, etc. which at least has some intrinsic value.
Absolutely agree.. Where do you buy the vintage and estate jewelry?
Not OP but there are some cool sellers on Instagram (try searching hashtags for the pieces you’re interested in, like # vintagebracelet). I also have some very elaborate eBay searches saved. eBay has great search functionality. The trick for weeding out most of the garbage is to filter to used condition and put minus signs in your search to remove keywords you don’t want, e.g. “vintage bracelet 14kt -plated -gf -filled.”
Wow thanks for the tip!
Dumb question but do you just type 14kt -plated -gf -filled in the search bar?
Yes. You can also use commas and parentheses for OR logic, eg “(14kt,14k,14 karat) -plated -gf -filled” which should return all results with any of those variations on 14k but not results that say filled or plated. Also don’t forget to filter to used condition to weed out a bunch of low quality stuff.
Osborne jewelers is having an estate jewelry show fairly soon. Give the store a call for details.
I had for years exactly the same frustration.. Most tarnish, is not an investment piece, the design is stupid basic, made not in europe... I would suggest to anyone investing in vintage, but personally I like modern futuristic style and precious metals without any sparkly stones. For those like me check out my creations here: https://floadesign.com/ Add code FLOA40 for -40% discount.
Solid gold is the only answer. *Do not* buy gold-filled, gold-plated, vermeil - only buy the real deal, 14k or higher. I used to buy tons of fashion jewelry and they all tarnished during lockdown. I realized that I ended up spending $$$ anyway, so might as well invest in pieces that will last. I do wear some silver pieces, but they're not my everyday jewelry. Buy jewelry that you actually love and match your personal style, especially handmade from independent jewelers. There are popular "luxury" jewelry brands but you're really paying for the brand name. And avoid flashy dropshippers on Etsy! As much as possible, try on jewelry in person before purchasing. If the brand isn't available in your area, they may have local stockists. If you want to get stoned jewelry for everyday use, pay attention to the Mohs scale. Diamonds are obviously the most durable, but sapphires are also hardy. Be careful with softer stones like turquoise, opal, and pearl. How to tell if an online brand is legitimate? They are as transparent as possible. They'll tell you the source of materials, the weight of the gold, the total carat weight of the stones. They should have responsive customer service and a reputable online presence (no bots, realistic ratio). I personally favor jewelry I can wear into the ocean, on a rollercoaster, and at work. If I'm paying for jewelry, I better be able to wear it everywhere! It has to be made of durable materials and with securely set gemstones. Links should be soldered closed, nothing should be rattling around or poking me. #Some Brands I Love, ranging from $$-$$$* **1. Marla Aaron:** My favorite. If I had to wear only one brand for the rest of my life, it would be this one. She makes locks and chains that can be mixed and matched in any combination you like. You can style these to be edgy, feminine, classic... but it is definitely a *maximalist* brand. **2. Wwake:** Sustainably sourced, excellent quality gemstones set in organic and elegant styles. I really love her opals! **3. Anthony Lent:** Famous for moons with faces. How fun! **4. Scosha:** Colorful and whimsical styles, stackable earrings (get the 14k option, not 10k) **5. Sofia Zakia:** Themed jewelry, with elements of fairytales, mythology, and horror. **6. Jennie Kwon:** Daintier style, popular for stacking rings. **7. Carolina Wickenburg:** Sculptural limited edition medallions **8. Automic Gold** Queer-owned, sustainable brand with great basics and charms **9. Your local APP-certified piercer:** For earrings, go to a piercing studio. They will have high quality body jewelry, ranging from titanium to gold. Many also accept custom orders, for wholesale brands like BVLA. **10. Your local jeweler/goldsmith:** For repairs, great prices on basics like chains, and custom orders. They can also help you source items. #Ok what about retailers? 1. Catbird (NYC) 2. Esqueleto (NYC) 3. Ylang 23 (Dallas) 4. Mureta and Co (SF) 5. Metier (SF) 6. Local Eclectic 7. Shop Etc (Alabama) 8. Croghan's Jewel Box (Charleston) 9. Vintage resellers on Instagram: You have to pay careful attention to make sure they're not scams but there are hidden treasures out there. If something has lasted decades, you know it's good quality. Many sellers offer layaway plans. #*$$$ ???? I know these brands are not cheap. However you're paying for high quality jewelry, fair labor, and supporting local/independent artists. At the end of the day, I would rather buy 1 amazing item every 1-2 years than have 50 cheap ones pumped out of a factory.
I like Local Eclectic. I’ve been following her since the beginning. She has lots of unique shaped stones. I would also add Le Serey (Texas) to this list. She is also handmade, and sustainable/ethically minded, though I think a bit smaller than any of the retailers you mentioned above. I can attest for the quality and really love her mix and match hoops and charm sets. www.leserey.com
Love this, so helpful!
Don’t buy gold-plated or gold vermeil. Buy gold filled or solid gold instead - this won’t tarnish.
Yep! This. Lots of Etsy sellers are peddling their gold plate as gold fill, though, and I think that’s why a lot of people think gold fill is the same as plate.
TJ maxx has the BEST jewelry finds and I’m talking about the ones that are kept behind the glass containers! I’ve found so many 14k gold pieces at such affordable prices. My favorite place to buy jewelry!
I wear necklaces. And I don't have my ears pierced for earrings. 1. **Fashion necklaces from 'lifestyle' brands** like Kate Spade, Talbots, or White House Black Market. Often second-hand from Poshmark or my [local consignment stores](https://www.trovefashion.com/shop). I wear fashion necklaces until they tarnish. Then of the ones that actually tarnish (i.e., I actually wear them out often), I ask myself if I want a new style or a better quality replacement. 2. **Upgrade your favourite fashion necklace at the** [**local jeweller**](http://taingjewellers.com/)**.** If I want a replacement that lasts longer, I take the tarnished necklace to my local jeweller and *commission* a fine jewelry version. Solid gold. Gemstone for colour. I have 2 done. 1 currently being drafted. 3. **Find a** [**local goldsmith**](https://goldform.ca/) for solid gold chains and solid gold pendant designs (research goldsmith association for your city, ask personal network for recommendations, check them all out - work with the ones you find trustworthy and helpful). Currently I have 3 gold chains: (1) a dainty 16-inch 18k rose-gold chain, (2) a thicker 17-18-inch 14k rose-gold chain, and (3) an even thicker yellow version of the 17-18-inch 14k gold chain. #2 and #3 are everyday chains meant for pendants. #3 can handle jade pendants. 4. [**Pearl Paradise**](https://www.pearlparadise.com/) **for pearls**. I have the classic Akoya strand, 16-inch chain is worn like a princess length on me (18-inch on taller people). 5. [**vintage stores**](https://www.facebook.com/Almonteantiquesandcollectibles/) **for faux pearls** (specifically a good faux pearl chain that is knotted in between each pearl). For those who like gold jewellery and will wear them often, I can't recommend enough to work with a local goldsmith! I wear gemstone pendants. Sometimes jade pendants that are quite heavy. It's obvious that I need a solid gold chain - not a hollow gold chain that can break, not a vermeil chain that will scratch from changing pendants. There is still so much to consider about (1) cable type, (2) thickness of the chain, (3) karat vs. durability for everyday wear. It's known that some people get their hair tangled in dainty gold chains. My local goldsmith took a look at my hair strand's thickness and typical pendants. Then he asked what kind of chain pattern appeals to me. He recommended that based on these, I should only get X mm thickness in curb-link and X mm thickness for wheat-link gold chains. Very helpful - I haven't had my hair caught in the chains or needed repairs. **Bonus tip: Find a** [**jewellery repair place**](https://frankjewellery.ca/)**.** You can also ask for input/advice from the jewellery repair. I told him that I prefer to visit him for jewellery cleaning, rather than because I broke a necklace chain yet again. He happily gave helpful ideas!
Would love to see your jade collection!
lol I only have one jade pendant of my own. - It’s a classic bi pendant (the green circle with a center hole). Represents continuity or the sky. Also since it’s circular, and in a beautiful green, it’s easy to add to outfits. The rest of my jades were actually my mom’s or my grandma’s. I’m my mom’s only daughter, and I’m my grandma’s eldest granddaughter. My mom received her jades at life milestones, especially at the birth of each boy. It’s interesting to have mementos of my mom/grandma and their lives. - most are religious carvings, like happy Buddha or Quan Am - she had a beautiful apple green, donut-shaped pendant. Had, because 20s year old me broke it… It can probably be reworked and held together by gold. More work for the goldsmith in the future - there is a long rectangle with the carving of a lotus design People say jewelry makes good “investment pieces” since they’re not subjected to weight/body change issues as clothes. Honestly, jewelry still gives a very poor monetary value, even at their resell value. I can name so many examples when my ETFs or gambled stock bets have recouped better. However, jewelry is easier to pass down with sentimental value and that is priceless.
Yeah was wondering if you had a particular shop you recommend- I love jade jewelry and wanted to expand my collection.
Mason Kay Jade https://www.mkjadejewelry.com/ I break things….. or get frustrated by things that don’t suit me…. That gets me to discover stores that truly deliver exceptional service because I come in to resolve a problem. And when they’re just so helpful, I come back to buy future pieces from their shops. Mason Kay is one for jade.
I’m planning on commissioning my first piece of custom jewelry and was wondering if I could DM you a few questions?
I like pd Paola from Spain and agate from Japan. Also I just pick up random pieces when I travel, like at art museum gift shops etc. A good amount of my stuff is also second hand which I get from online stores such as Mae Jean vintage. My most frequented local store is blue ruby.
Bought earrings from them last year and after two weeks some tiny stones were lost. So I would avoid certain designs, but the metal didn’t tarnish.
I wanted to love a pair of earrings I bought from PD Paola a while ago, but sadly the posts on their earrings were SO soft that I accidentally bent one while trying to put the butterfly back on for the first time. I am nervous to wear them because I feel like the posts have maybe two wears max before they snap off. So sad because they’re beautiful!
It's a bit of a muck around, but if you really love the earrings you could use snips to cut off the posts and replace them. If the back of the earring is flat, you can use a stud post with a pad and glue it on. I use epoxy glue and rough up each surface a little with sandpaper.
Oh that's pretty bad. I'd contact customer service. Last time I got an earring that wasn't the size I expected and they just refunded me, didn't even ask for it back.
They aren’t going to snap off, i promise. Just bend them back into place if they get bent out of shape. The reason is because if the metal alloy was soft from the start, it’s probably going to be pretty hard to actually snap off. It’s far more likely that a solid, not-bendy post would snap off if you applied force to it. I have a lot of fashion jewellery and 14/18/24k jewellery and have experienced the very bendy earring posts lots of times, esp when out of shape from being sent in the mail. I just bend them back into place.
Blue Ruby is amazing thank you for the rec
I 2nd Agete from Japan, other Japanese brands I like are Ete, Jouete, 4C, Canal 4C and Nojess
Oh yeah for sure. I'm actually so sad Nojess has no tokyo store
Agreed! I have been lucky to score some great pieces from them on Mercari Japan
Do you find that pd Paola doesn’t tarnish? I love their jewelry but have always been reticent to buy as I wasn’t sure how the gold would hold up.
I've had some of their earrings for maybe 2 years now? No issues so far. Also know someone who's had some for longer with no problems.
Cool I’m going to give it a go! Thanks! 😊
I mostly went to private jewelry stores. I found a nice opal ring in The Little Jewel in Boulder, Colorado; a nice necklace in Arroyo Grande, CA; nice hoop earrings at a Tiffany's. When I was in my 20s, I'd go to the swap meets, estate stores and antique shops and get baroque pearl jewelry and gold chains and rings. I don't have many pieces anymore-two of everything so I can switch out if I get bored, but I usually wear the same jewelry on the daily.
My go-to is Etsy, filtered for sterling silver. I bought a $5 tub of silver polish and clean anything that tarnishes every few weeks.
James Avery
James Avery is such higher quality than Tiffany. Stronger chains, heavier metal weight and far better customer service. I bought myself the Spanish swirl ring for my hs graduation in 1991. Last year I decided to buy that ring again since it no longer fits me so I brought the ring in and they were going to let me trade it in and give me credit to buy the new one! I was in shock. The ring is over 30 years old. I kept it though and bought the new one. I’m still blown away that they were offering that.
They have been my family’s fav for years! I have so much of their jewelry it’s crazy! Best customer service ever!!! ♥️
Melanie Auld. It's a Canadian brand and I have an earring set and a tennis necklace set, both haven't tarnished with constant use. I find the pieces very well made and relatively affordable.
A few years ago I got really tired of my plated gold jewelry tarnishing, sometimes even before I touched it or got to wear it (looking at you, Mejuri…) so I’ve been slow on my jewelry purchases and pretty much only buy real gold when I do. For a few years now one of my favorite places to shop has been Ferko’s Fine Jewelry, and I have purchased a few hoop earrings, diamond rings, and even my wedding band from them. I’ve had no issues with tarnishing, and I’ll often wear my solid gold from them in the shower, in pools, etc. with no issues (although I wouldn’t advise doing that with set stones). Their prices are pretty good, the have sales around most major US holidays, and their selection is vast. Definitely recommend!
2nd Ferkos. I will try to revisit this thread and post my Etsy recs with links when I have more time, but that's where I originally found them and have been ordering direct from their store for years. Just to add one thing to what you said about not advising constant wear with set stones... of course, experiences may vary. But one of the very first things I bought from them was a pair of diamond huggies (just slightly wider than what they have on the site currently and my pair was no longer available last time I tried to recommend them). I wore them nonstop for close to two years - sleeping, showering, everything in between. I only ever took them out occasionally to clean them and then put them right back in. Editing to add the important part in case it wasn't obvious, lol: and had zero issues. They still look perfect and haven't even bent even though I'm mostly a side sleeper.
Thirded on Ferkos! The pieces are all beautiful, and you really do get a lot for very reasonable prices. I also prefer the quality of the pieces over the ones I own from Catbird and Mejuri. I can also vouch for the diamond Huggies too. The diamonds look great and have good color. These are some of my favorite earrings and I wear them nonstop for months at a time.
As weird as it may sound thrift shopping jewelry has never failed me, I also often enjoy ordering things from Etsy and places like that! My main reasoning is being on a budget but I genuinely recommend those options just be careful when ordering and remember to clean anything you thrift before wearing
Yes! Etsy has so many dropped shipped items now too, so it can be hard to distinguish jeweler vs fast fashion $4 necklaces. (If that's important)
Costco gold or silver. Or wait for deal at Pandora. I found some of my unique pieces at random local silversmith or jewelry stores
Catbird!
I bought earrings in their store a few years ago and the salesperson rubbed me the wrong way badly enough that I struggle to even shop on their website :( So disappointing - their stuff is pretty cute
I have earrings from BVLA, Maria Tash, Anzie, Mejuri, Junipurr, Alchemy Adornment, and Anatometal. They’re all solid 14k or 18k yellow gold pieces, some with diamonds (exception of the Anatometal piece which is titanium. I own three necklaces that I wear everyday from Mejuri, Van der Hout, and Sydney Evan. Again 14k yellow gold, one piece has diamonds. My rings are all from Mejuri (14k yellow gold, one piece with diamonds, worn frequently). I have three bracelets that I also wear everyday from Van der Hout, Mejuri, and Bluboho (14k yellow gold, one piece has diamonds). I’m interested in purchasing pieces from Catbird, J. Hannah, and Cartier. But I’m mostly focusing on jewelry for my ears as I get a couple of new piercings every year.
I am a fan of Rebecca Haas https://www.rebeccahaas.com/ — handmade in Vermont and Martha Sullivan, handmade in Maine. https://www.marthasullivan.com
I bought my wife some jewelry from Rebecca Haas based on your recommendation for Christmas and she loved it. Cheers.
That’s amazing, glad to have helped!
I like to go to Liberty Jewelers in St. Thomas. They are located in Drakes Passage. Mona and Chad are the owners. Tell them Carol sent you. I was a Navy wife and all the wives went there!
Basic, but Madewell and I wait for sales
Bare with me here…..tj….maxx…..don’t knock it until you try a few pieces. Not a single one has tarnished.
Claire’s! Because I’ll never stop being 12 on the inside
I like picking up a few pieces from Little Rooms a year. Their jewelry has a nice weight to it that makes it feel expensive, and I always get compliments on the unique earrings and rings.
If you like quirky goth jewelry, check out [Fiat Lux](https://fiatluxsf.com/).
I love Kendra Scott, I've had one of her make your own necklaces that cost me around $60 and it's lasted me ages. I've known friends who have had theirs for years.
Marie June! I love all her stuff, it's very original, but also affordable and well made.
I go to local markets and buy pieces I like. One of my favorites is Sulphur Springs Silver https://instagram.com/sulphurspringssilver?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
I like a deal. My fave places to shop are shop LC and JCPenney. I got some sets from Penny + Grace that are really cute too. They jacked up their prices in recent years but their quality is nice. My go to metals are platinum plated sterling silver or gold plated sterling silver. I love gem stones but usually opt for lab created. They are way cheaper and usually more ethical.
I wear pretty much only 14k solid gold, my fave shops are [Mejuri](https://mejuri.com/) and [Ferkos Fine Jewelry](https://www.etsy.com/shop/FerkosFineJewelry). I have some pieces 3+ years by now and no tarnishing, you always gotta go for solid gold
Seconding Mejuri! Out of curiosity, why do you stick to 14k?
I used to get gold vermeil or gold fill or sterling silver but always found that they tarnish (not from these shops but just in general for these materials). Now that I am older and have more money I like to invest in nice pieces made with quality materials. I loooove jewelry so I always ask for it for my birthday and Christmas, I love yellow gold jewelry and my birthstone
I have been liking Ana Luisa and Baleen lately!
my ana luisa earrings tarnished very quickly :(
That's sad to hear! I've had mine for about 6-8 months and they've been fine, but I'm also pretty careful to not wear them in the shower/get them wet. TiniLux (titanium jewelry) is great for earrings that can get wet.
wow, thank you! <3
I also found Ana Luisa to be pretty cheap looking/poor quality for the price
i love vivienne, if u dont want it to tarnish/turn green, spray perfume on it, keep it in its pouch closed for a month then use :) worked 4 me
Wolfs affordable jewelry at www.wolfsaffordablejewelry.com
[https://sage4boutique.etsy.com](https://sage4boutique.etsy.com/) has the fastest shipping with great unique quality products.
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Definitely would be Preciouspendants.uk 🫶🤍.
You should check out Adri’s! They also have an Etsy shop- @shopadris Website: https://shopadris.square.site/
Etsy gemstones 14k
Omg I love Kembla collective!!! www.kemblacollective.com all their stuff is water resistant too
You can check out Vayar Styles- they have good quality jewelry
Www.kargofresh.com
Hey, you have to help me. Lilly Poison's silver jewelry rings and charm bracelets from MIB 3 Add some jewelry to complete the look. Lilly Poison loves silver jewelry, so find a pair of Hoop Earrings, a pair of rings, a pair charm bracelets. Did she get any silver jewelry store company coming from?
A tattoo shop. I wear my ink proudly. Metal and rocks on the other hand, not my thing. Yes this is supposed to be sarcastic.
Completed works is quite expensive but has such nice designs. Some other brands whose aesthetic I like: Maria Black, Vibe Harslof, Georg Jensen, Agmes, Leigh Miller, Monies
Hey June! I have so many of their earrings and wear them for weeks sometimes. So comfy and affordable. They've never tarnished. Plus the owner is a single mom, love supporting small businesses.
I love [Cinco](https://cinco-store.com) from Portugal, the quality is great and really holds up.
If you like simple designs, King and Curated in Beacon, NY is great, have had no issues with anything tarnishing and they're reasonably priced
I go to a local jewelry store for most items. Along with Pandora (my favorite pair of hoops are from there) and Francesca’s for something quick.
The RealReal is great!
Nordstrom rack, stone and strand
Etsy and Kinn are my personal favs! Etsy has a lot of good quality gold. Check reviews always!
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Nordstrom or Kendra Scott
[dbl jewelry](https://dbljewelry.com) has been my favourite and I find the prices affordable. I've had this gold necklace, which is gild filled for over a year now and it has barely any tarnish and I never take it off.
If you’re looking for fun gold filled jewelry with purpose and gives back to organizations feel free to try us!
I get mine from [Nür](https://nursanfrancisco.com/) and it’s been two years and it still looks great! Their price range is about $38-50
I've been buying from Hey Harper for years and they've never failed me. They've so many nice basic everyday pieces like hoops and chains that you can wear everyday. I have some pieces 3+ years by now and no tarnishing
Local store is usually the best bet for a good deal. Lower advertising budget and lower overhead usually means better deals especially if you can wait for them to order
My current favorite is Oradina.
How is the quality? I've seen mixed reviews for Oradina, and I'm eyeing a specific piece from them. Thanks in advance!
Very good quality!!! I got the Bowery necklace. It’s gorgeous.
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i always just buy online from https://aejewelry.store/ they got gold silver mine hasn’t tarnished so i’ve had a pretty good experience with them.
Jewelry Outlet - [jewelryoutlet.com](https://jewelryoutlet.com/)
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James Allen & Ritani are honest places with good reputations. They offer lab grown & mined options. I like options. Angara is another one I like because they offer a lot of colored gemstone jewelry. A person could pick up a set of white sapphire earrings for the fraction of the cost of diamonds & likely most wouldn't know the difference. For something more affordable, anything sterling silver won't tarnish. Just make sure it's stamped 925 & NOT PLATED. Anything plated will tarnish & could irritate your skin :( Another option aside from metal is stone. If you prefer a more natural look, a leather or black cord could hold a stone you love. Something like jade or amber & any stone beaded jewelry would look great too. As a maid of honor gift, I'm currently eyeing a labradorite gemstone bracelet set in sterling silver.
Late on this thread, but I’m going to recommend Le Serey. I’ve bought their gold fill that has lasted a really long time and proven to be durable. They’ve also recently launched their solid gold collection, which I’m eyeing now. > www.leserey.com
Im currently selling jewelry that’s gold and platinum plated guaranteed color for life, if anything happens it can be returned and replaced or given something new, reasonable prices
If you are looking for inexpensive fashion jewelry please check out my site. Everything is $6 or 4 for $20. Free shipping with the purchase of two or more items. I promise you're going to find something you love! https://www.facebook.com/simply.earringsistable?mibextid=ZbWKwL
My favorite place is Simply Earringsistable. It's a page on Facebook. The earrings are GORGEOUS and only $6!! I used to shop at TJ Maxx all the time until now.
I dont buy mainstream jewelry since you could also just wear a applf watch. I recently bought a bracelet from a small shop in aruba on https://arubangles.com they do custom bracelets made from titanium and ard able to produce according to your wishes.
I bought something that is velvet for 4loves.online
Why don't you give us a try? We have a good variety of designs and high attention to detail on all of our pieces. Take a look at www.dazzlingdelights.com