The fine jewelry industry is often wrapped in mystery. But it doesn’t need to be. In this blog, I address five of the most common myths I hear as a fine jewelry expert.

MYTH 1: Custom jewelry is too expensive

While some custom jewelry can be expensive, it is not as expensive as you may think.

Unlike retail, custom jewelry is created and sold at a whole sale level. This means you are paying for the metal, gemstones and labor only, and not any additional expenses that come with a storefront.

One of the first questions I ask is: “what is your budget?”

From there, I can design a custom piece that is appropriate and affordable. I’m always fully aware that it is your money, and I am making something for you. My goal is to stay within your budget and create a piece of fine jewelry that you will love.

MYTH 2: Jewelers can switch your diamonds

Throughout my career, I’ve unfortunately heard this myth many times. But in all my experience, I have never seen a fellow jeweler do this.

As small business owners, our reputations are everything. If a jeweler was to switch your diamonds or gemstones, their careers would be over. In addition, many of my connections have been in the industry for decades and would never risk that!

Finally, many jewelers (including myself) are fully insured. That means we are fully accountable for your fine jewelry and gemstones while they are in our possession.

Only work with jewelers you know and trust!

Myth #3: Custom fine jewelry takes too long to make

The process of making custom fine jewelry is actually streamlined and straightforward. Here’s an example of a typical 2.5 week turnaround:

Model making: 1 week
Casting: 1 week
Setting and polishing: 2-3 days

In less than three weeks, you can have a completely custom piece of fine jewelry in your hands!

In reality, often the longest part of the process is the initial discovery phase. This is when I work directly with the client to browse design examples, sort through various gemstones, and select the setting most compatible with their specific lifestyle.

Each of us has our own style, and I always like to cater to my clients design preferences.

Myth #4: Fine Jewelry can only be worn on special occasions

While it’s true you won’t be wearing your large diamonds to the grocery store, you can still wear pieces of fine jewelry on a daily basis.

When you get dressed in the morning, you can pick a favorite pair of pearl or diamond hoop earrings, or even colored stones to coordinate with your outfit.

Men can choose to put on their favorite watch, bracelets or chains.

My suggestion is to keep your fine jewelry in clear boxes or a jewelry case, so you know exactly what you have. That way, it makes it easier to get dressed and coordinate your jewelry with your outfit every morning.

Myth #5: Diamonds are the most valuable

While diamonds are a beloved choice, there are many other stones that are just as beautiful and precious.

Colored gemstones like rubies, sapphires, emeralds, precious tourmalines, and alexandrite are just a few examples.

There are many large colored stones that feature great color, cut and clarity, making them more valuable than some diamonds.

TIP: All your jewelry should be worn and loved. If there is an item in your collection that you’re not fully enjoying, it is time to have it refashioned to fit your taste and lifestyle.

Contact me with any questions.

~ Jane

(212) 923-3328 | jane@jbjewels.com

JB Jewels | Fine Jewelry Redefined