Diamonds are a girl's best friend, and also an excellent investment opportunity for anybody. Fine jewelry investment requires intimate knowledge, strategy, and even storytelling in order to know the value of each stone and maximize profitability. 

People often ask, is jewelry a good investment? In short, the answer is yes. Fine jewelry may become more financially valuable as the years go by, but more importantly, it becomes a personal emblem with unquantifiable emotional value. When you begin to pass it down from generation to generation, each new owner contributes to the story that it holds.

Here at Marrow Fine, we know that the emotional and economic value of jewelry are intricately tied together. If you are interested in fine jewelry investment, then we have an ample amount of information to share with you.

Related: Marrow Fine Ring

Fine Jewelry vs Fashion Jewelry

Before diving into fine jewelry investment, let’s take a look at some of the basic terminology. In order to walk the walk, you have to talk the talk.

What is Fine Jewelry?

Fine jewelry may be ornate or minimalist, but it is always made from top quality metals and precious stones. With durability and elegance, well-cared-for jewelry remains lustrous even when you wear it every day.

It’s an excellent choice for women who want to keep their jewelry on 24/7 since higher-end jewelry is typically more durable and designed to withstand the fluctuation of style trends.

Fine jewelry is usually solid gold with a genuine stone that rarely tarnishes or becomes worn down. The rings are flexible and can be repaired and resized by a skilled jeweler. Over time, they can become heirloom pieces that hold special emotional value for your family.

What is Fashion Jewelry?

Fashion jewelry usually consists of metals such as brass, copper, and bronze. They often contain non-precious stones and other versatile designs. These are traditionally earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and rings made with crystals, leather, acrylic material, or beads. 

For example, a friendship bracelet or leather choker falls in the fashion jewelry category. Keep in mind that fashion jewelry can include gold-plated gems, but the base metal is usually bronze or brass.

What is Semi-Fine Jewelry?

Semi-fine jewelry combines the qualities of fine jewelry and fashion jewelry. Usually characterized as gold vermeil, gold filled jewelry, or gold plated, these accessories usually feature genuine center stones such as opals, morganite, aquamarine, and much more. 

The main difference between semi-fine jewelry and fashion jewelry is that the base metal for semi-fine is often sterling silver. This material is more luxurious and highly durable, with the ability to withstand pressure for an extended period of time. 

Some semi-fine jewelry features enhanced stones. These have similar properties to genuine precious stones but are typically lower in price. Keep in mind that it’s essential to avoid the swimming pool, shower, or gym while wearing semi-fine or gold-plated jewelry. This is mainly because oil and lotion can wear out the gold plating. 

Any jewelry that falls into this category should be thought of as a fashion trend. It may be pretty now, but its value might not last forever.

Jewelry Investment: What You Need to Know

Jewelry is a significant investment, and there are several factors you should keep in mind when selecting a piece for your collection. Purchasing jewelry should always be a carefully-considered process.

Related: Marrow Fine Necklaces 

Value

Trendy, fashionable gems may be the hot commodity right now, but remember that flashy pieces may not withstand the test of time. Look for materials that are durable and/or easy to clean. Versatility is another factor that contributes to the value of a piece of jewelry. While those are the more easily quantifiable elements of value, it’s also important to pay attention to how you feel about a piece. Sometimes, a gut reaction may indicate its potential to accumulate emotional value as you wear it to special events or simply on a daily basis. A piece of jewelry that reminds you of a family heirloom is made from you and your loved one’s favorite metal, or has a shape that speaks to you on an aesthetic level might be worth considering.

At Marrow, we believe in finding and wearing jewelry that tells a story. Here are some qualities you can look for.

 

Classic Design with One Unique Feature

The Posey East/West Engagement Ring features a classic gold band and diamond with one design change. Instead of running from north to south, the horizontal diamond runs from east to west. The 14K gold and GIA-certified diamond puts the ring on par with other high-end pieces, but the unique design feature sets it apart with simple elegance.

Asymmetry

This diamond ring makes a great investment because it’s not too flashy, but still has features that dazzle just a touch more than your average ring. The asymmetry puts an architectural design twist on the typical symmetrical ring, and the muted side stones add a subtle color.

 

Vintage Vibes

Instead of going classic, go ULTRA-classic with a ring that feels like an heirloom. Vintage pieces are popular jewelry investments, but old jewelry can have a dated feel. Older jewelry also is more likely to be scratched and worn. Pieces like this Art Deco ring allude to a vintage style while also containing some modern elements. Plus, they’re completely new. Just wait several years and you’re ready to profit.

Research

It’s important to do your research and find out the process behind your desired fine jewelry piece and the materials from which it is made. Confirming that there is a high level of craftsmanship and care that went into your ring or accessory reassures you that your investment was worth it.

If you find yourself attracted to fine jewelry, and are tempted to make a purchase, then here are some factors to consider:

Quality

When it comes to diamonds, quality matters. Make sure to take a look at the color, cut, and clarity. 

Gold has a higher value 

Gold tends to have a higher value than precious metal. You want to consider any piece with 14 karat gold or higher.

Vintage versus contemporary

Vintage jewelry with excellent designs are a significant investment, but it’s essential to confirm that the diamonds are genuine and authentic. Again, you can choose a contemporary piece that has vintage elements. Make sure that all the stones come with the proper documentation stating their quality and authenticity.

Do you like it?

Some people take investment too seriously where they lock up the jewelry. If you are madly in love with the design, then wear it during any occasion. 

A reputable jewelry designer holds certain certifications that verify the authenticity and protect the buyer. GIA certification provides natural diamond grading services, including a full 4Cs assessment for carat weight, color, cut, and clarity, as well as an origin report. In addition to providing GIA certification for our diamonds, we make each piece of jewelry to order. That means our rings are not mass-produced, but tailor-made for you.

Consider your emotions

The way you feel about a piece can help or hurt you when making a purchase. Sometimes, a piece can be so beautiful that it tempts you into making an irrational purchase. Make sure to take the time to do some research and homework to ensure that you are making the proper investment.

On the other hand, you can use emotion to your advantage. The way you feel about a piece is just as important as its specifications, if not more. If looking at a piece of fine jewelry delights you or wearing it on your finger just feels right, that might indicate that you’ve found a match.

Knowledge is Power

Before investing in a gemstone, it’s essential to learn more about the market and its value. Basically, educate yourself on which stone is precious, valuable, and worth the most. You should also take the time to find out ways to determine its value.

Is jewelry a good investment?

If you love sparkling gems, then you are probably wondering if jewelry is a good investment. Here’s what you need to know.

Long-term

Silver, diamond, and gold increases in value over time. Any jewelry items that contain this material are long-lasting and durable and can acquire the status of family heirloom without becoming scratched or rusty. If you are interested in jewelry investment, then research the durability of different types of metals to see how they fare as the years go by. If you’re planning on passing down a treasured item eventually, high-quality metal is key.

Versatile

There is a wide range of jewelry to choose from when it comes to investment. You can buy genuine items from anywhere in the world, ranging from contemporary to vintage pieces that can give you an excellent profit of return. 

Like other types of investment, the sky's the limit when it comes to fine jewelry such as anklets, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, and much more. Fine jewelry that you can wear daily is often considered more valuable than special pieces that you save for occasions since you get more use out of it and continue to develop a close connection with the piece each time you wear it.

Portable

Jewelry is portable, so you can take it anywhere you go. It's an excellent choice for individuals who loves traveling around the world. Fine jewelry gives you a way to add a touch of glamour while you’re abroad while still packing light.

Sentimental value

One of the main reasons that families hold onto precious items or heirlooms is because of emotional attachment. These jewelry are often passed down from generation to generation that increases in value with age. 

When you buy a sparkling diamond ring today, it could be the best investment that you will ever make for your family. These sentimental items are incredibly precious when compared to other investment options.

Is it worth it?

The more you wear it, precious fine jewelry acquires sentimental value and memories.

Before making a purchase, it’s vital to do some research to understand the value of the item. Make sure to ask for a certificate of authenticity to ensure that the stones and materials are real.

 Once you make a purchase, you can rest assured that you have something valuable that you can pass on from generation to generation.

At Marrow Fine, view our selection of fine jewelry, including made-to-order pieces, one of a kinds, and more.

Related: Marrow Fine Engagement Ring