How to save money on jewellery without compromising on quality

Whatever the occasion, I love to celebrate every moment no matter how small. When it comes to making someone feel special, you can’t go wrong with jewellery. But it’s easy to go over budget, especially if you’re not sure where to save money and where to spend.

In this article, I’ve compiled my top tips on how you can cut costs on jewellery without compromising on quality. From shopping strategically, to considering more affordable alternatives, you’ll learn everything you need to know for the next moment worth celebrating.

Where to spend

Timeless pieces

Timeless pieces are those which you know will be worn constantly. A good tip is to opt for items that lean into the minimalist style rather than statement pieces because these tend to be easier to wear most days.

Items that are to be worn everyday need to be tarnish-resistant. So, if you’re looking at an item that will be worn frequently, the cost-per-wear justifies spending that little bit more.

I’ve got one pair of gold pearl earrings that I’ve worn every day for the last couple of years, and they’re still good as new because I chose a more luxury brand.

Everyday outfit staples

Look for staples that will elevate everyday outfits. Think small gold hoops or a dainty silver chain. Consider whether they will work with both jeans and a nice top and a beautiful dress.

If the answer is yes, then it’s probably a good idea to spend a bit more so those pieces will stand the test of time. I’ve gone through far too many rings that tarnished quickly. Now, I look for slightly more expensive pieces that make any outfit automatically feel put together.

Solid metal

Solid metal pieces as opposed to plated are known for their longevity and quality finish. They’re a fantastic luxury item to prioritise for those pieces that will be worn constantly - whether that’s in the shower or during exercise classes.

What’s particularly handy with solid metal is that it can be polished, cleaned, and even resized to look good as new. That means even if pieces are looking a little worse for wear, it doesn’t take much to give them a new lease of life.

Lab-grown diamonds

Diamonds are the ultimate way to mark a special moment, but it’s a big investment, so you’ll want to make sure it’s the right one. Picking a lab-grown diamond means you’ll still get the look and feel of a diamond, without the hefty bill.

Do your research and decide whether a cultured diamond or a simulant diamond is more suited to you. Lab-grown diamonds are not only better for your wallet, but they’re a more ethical and environmentally friendly alternative too.

Where to save

Statement pieces

When it comes to statement pieces, they’re typically worn less often. And can sometimes only be worn with certain types of outfits. As a result, your best bet is to opt for more affordable items.

I have some pieces that are adorable specifically for autumn, or even Christmas day. If you’re looking for something seasonal like I was, save your money - these pieces won’t get a ton of wear out of them, but they’re still nice to have in your collection.

Stacking items

Spend the money on your staples and save on your stacking pieces. More often than not, when you pair less expensive items with your more luxury pieces, they’ll look expensive even though they aren’t.

This is a great hack when it comes to building jewellery stacks - be it rings, bracelets, or necklaces, it’s super easy to transform your everyday outfits without spending a fortune.

Big brand names

Although big jewellery companies have beautiful pieces, they’ll likely run up a serious bill as they often have a higher markup on their products. This is something to watch out for, particularly around seasonal periods like Valentine’s Day.

Smart ways to spend better

Plated metal jewellery

When shopping for silver or gold jewellery, cut the cost in half by opting for silver-plated or gold-plated jewellery.

The main difference between solid-metal jewellery and plated-metal jewellery is the percentage of metal in the item. The smaller the percentage of silver or gold, the more affordable the jewellery.

Coloured gemstones

Generally, coloured gemstones tend to be less expensive than colourless gemstones. This is because the price of gemstones depends on the rarity, colour, clarity and cut.

According to Chroma Gems, coloured gemstones such as Amethyst, Peridot, Turquoise, and Opal, are typically less rare which makes them more affordable, but equally as beautiful.

Pre-owned

When shopping for jewellery, don’t forget to check out secondhand shops and online platforms like eBay, Vinted, and Depop. Although you won’t be purchasing from brand new, you never know what you might find in local charity shops.

You might find a few nicks or scratches, but you can easily make secondhand items feel brand new with a polishing cloth or soap and a toothbrush.

Rose gold

Generally, rose gold jewellery tends to be a more affordable option than gold jewellery. With its beautiful, warm, coppery shade, it’s certainly something that will be admired by many.

While rose gold is still typically more expensive than silver because the cost is determined by the amount of gold in the piece, it’s still a stunning alternative if you’re looking at gold.

Use a discount code

Here at MyVoucherCodes, we have an impressive collection of discount codes and offers to help you save. Don’t miss out on our dedicated page where you can shop over 350 live offers on jewellery and watches alone.

How to take care of jewellery

It’s a well-known fact that protecting your jewellery will help it last longer, but if you don’t know the do’s and don’ts of maintaining jewellery, it’s definitely worth reading on to find out:

Do:

• Keep silver jewellery in an airtight container to prevent it from tarnishing.
• Use a polishing cloth to help your jewellery look as good as new.
• Reduce exposure to humidity.
• Store your jewellery in dark, dry locations.
• Prevent contact with lotions, liquids, or aerosols.

Don’t:

• Store your jewellery in direct sunlight.
• Store your jewellery in humid rooms like the bathroom.
• Wear your jewellery in the shower.
• Wear items of jewellery that are more prone to tarnishing every day.