Buying jewellery is expensive business – or it can be. Luckily, we have a handy guide that ought to save you a few quid and still get you something gorgeous enough to turn a few eyes green… Have a look at our quick tips!
Do your homework!
The more information you have the better you will know where you can afford to cut corners and where you need to insist on quality. For example, if you’re looking at diamond rings, there are a few tips that can save you a bit. Keep it simple – no fancy side stones, but if you’re buying an engagement ring make it as big as you can afford. You can buy one that doesn’t quite have the clarity of a more expensive diamond as long as you make sure it still has plenty of bling. Make sure it sparkles! If you go with the lowest price you will get the lowest quality and you’ll always regret that, so don’t be tempted by the bottom-of-the-range just to save a bit of cash. A good dealer will be able to help you find exactly what you’re looking for within your price range.
Consider Second Hand Jewellery
Second hand doesn’t have to be ugly or outdated. There are loads of shops that buy gold and silver and sell it second hand, and the prices of these pieces will surprise you. Keep your eyes open for bargains – little boutiques are the best for this, so if there’s one in your town check it out. Another great place to look is eBay – both the online retailers and those selling their own stuff have some amazing prices. Another nice thing about second hand is that if it’s old enough, you can have a one-of-a-kind piece on your hands! (Of course, if it’s diamond rings we’re talking then new or as new is probably best, unless it’s an heirloom.)
Look For Jewellery Sales
Most retailers have sales every so often, and jewellery retailers are no different. This is a good tip if you’re not in any hurry, as you can afford to take your time and wait for a nice piece to come up in a sale. If you’re buying a set, make sure to ask about discounts – even if there’s no sale on. This is a great way to save a bit of cash on something you were going to buy anyway.
Voucher Codes
These are brilliant, and will show you sales and deals by many retailers as well as giving you free codes to save money. Just search online for ‘voucher codes jewellery’, sign up – it’s free! – and start shopping. It’s really that easy to save yourself a ton of money.
Buy Your Jewellery Online
Online retailers don’t have the same expenses as mortar-and-bricks places. That means they can pass their savings on to you, so reap the benefits! Some companies with high street stores often do deals on their websites that are only available online, so make sure you don’t miss out. Make sure you’re dealing with a reputable site – check for secure ways to pay, customer reviews, look at their returns and exchange policies – and buying online can be a great, and safe, way to shop. Not to mention that you can save yourself a lot of money!
We hope this little guide has helped give you a few ideas for saving some money – from diamond rings to pearl necklaces, there’s no need to break the bank in order to look good. Get shopping!
Ross Davies, writing for DeBretts Online Jewellery – the UK specialists in second hand jewellery.
