Now is the time to upgrade your jewelry collection Want to gather the essentials for a timeless look that won't be out of fashion six months from now. Find out how by knowing the difference between commercial and designer jewelry.s.
Jewelry is an accessory that can add great accents to any look or style, but it also says a lot about the person wearing it. Think of it as the finishing touch to your "personal brand". With this idea of personal branding in mind, what does your jewelry say about you??
Whether your personal style involves wearing something bold, understated, or a piece passed down from a family member or friend, a unique jewelry choice is a great way to express your individuality and personality.
Did you know the jewelry market is expected to reach $275 billion worldwide next year?
It's no secret that people like to express themselves through their jewelry!
Whether it's buying jewelry to celebrate a special occasion like a birthday or simply to treat yourself, adorning yourself with jewelry that represents you is a good way to show off.
Are you looking to change or enhance your jewelry collection, but are unsure of the difference between commercial jewelry and designer jewelry??
We are here to help you.
Read on to learn more about commercial jewelry and designer jewelry before you start looking for your next unique piece!
1. Commercial jewelry (mass-produced)
Commercial jewelry is easier to spot than you might think.
It's what you see when you look at most jewelry in department stores, in malls, or on the intern that's just been hired by your company for the summer.
What technically differentiates commercial jewelry from designer jewelry is that they are made with the help of machines during their manufacturing process, so millions of pieces can be made using the same styles as you see flooding the market every day.
In short, machines and molds make it possible to mass-produce jewelry.
Commercial jewelry is also usually made with lesser quality materials.
They can therefore deteriorate or disintegrate more quickly.
If you're looking for affordable everyday jewelry and aren't afraid of wear and tear, commercial jewelry is a good option.
They are versatile and more often than not they are replaceable.
The advantage of buying commercial jewelry from a place such as a department store or mall is that you can usually return and replace the piece if it breaks.
If the piece of jewelry is no longer available or in stock, it is more than likely that you can find another similar piece of jewelry in the store.
Fashions, styles and trends change, and if you can afford to incorporate these styles into your "personal brand" without coming off as a stingy person, then commercial jewelry serves that purpose perfectly.
2. Designer jewelry
A few factors distinguish designer jewelry from commercial jewelry.
First of all, it is unique jewelry designed for a collection by a jewelry artist or a business that specializes in jewelry design.
Designer jewelry generally possesses an aesthetic appearance and quality intended for the collection decided by the designers.
They can be handcrafted, but that's not always the case.
They are made from higher quality materials and manufacturing processes than commercial jewelry and are meant to be more durable and resistant to deterioration.
The types of metals and stones used can affect the price range of designer pieces, but they are generally more expensive than commercial jewelry.
It's not uncommon for a celebrity to be associated with the launch and publicity of a designer jewelry line.
Many people tend to think of "designer jewelry" as generally referring to high quality jewelry, but there are different categories of designer jewelry.
The different levels of designer jewelry include high-end jewelry and custom jewelry.
High-end jewelry typically involves the use of rare materials and is crafted with great attention to design and detail.
These elements make them one-of-a-kind pieces.
For these reasons, it is the most expensive type of designer jewelry on the market.
Personalized jewelry, on the other hand, is requested by a buyer and made to order with the design, details and specifications desired by the customer.
These pieces are handcrafted and, like other types of designer jewelry, use high-quality materials, which also makes them more expensive than commercial pieces.
Personalized jewelry is always unique jewelry because it involves open communication between the client and the jewelry artist, resulting in a truly individual piece of jewelry that is unlike any other.
3. Choosing between commercial jewelry and designer jewelry
How to choose between commercial jewelry and designer jewelry when you want to modify your jewelry collection?
Start by asking yourself a few questions:
For what purpose do you want the jewel?
Where do you want to wear the jewelry?
How long do you want the jewelry to last?
What kind of image (personal brand) and message do you want to convey with your jewelry?
The answers to these questions can help you determine your individual needs for the jewelry you wish to purchase.
Are you looking for an everyday piece of jewelery that you want to be able to wear everywhere??
That you won't be heartbroken if it breaks or you accidentally lose it?
Go commercial.
You are looking for a quality jewel, with a pleasing aesthetic, which has a great meaning for you?
Is it a jewel that you would like to wear on special occasions, or even regularly?
You want a piece of jewelry that you helped design yourself and that you know will stay in your jewelry collection forever?
Choose a designer.
Many factors go into deciding what type of jewelry is best for you, including budget, taste, and size.
The answers to these questions will help you narrow your search before you start shopping for jewelry or interviewing artists and jewelry designers.
4. Make your unique piece of jewelry shine
Whatever type of jewelry you choose - commercial or designer - make sure it reflects you above all else.
A unique piece of jewelry denotes personality and expression, it tells a story and it's a small way for you to display your individuality.
Jewelry choices can help boost your confidence and make your inner self shine.
So go ahead, express yourself!
Conclusion
Jewelry is a personal choice, and your collection of unique jewelry reflects you.
Whether you prefer or desire commercial jewelry or designer jewelry, embrace your individual look and style.
What's the next piece of jewelry you want to add to your collection?