How Can You Tell Good Quality Jewelry? The Ultimate Guide to Spotting the Real Deal

Let's face it—not all that glitters is gold (or diamonds, or sapphires... you get the idea). Whether you're shopping for a stunning engagement ring or treating yourself to a little sparkle, knowing how to spot high-quality jewelry can save you from disappointment (and potentially some serious cash). At Robinson's Jewelers, we've seen it all—the good, the bad, and the "why is this turning my finger green?" So, let's dive into the telltale signs of truly exceptional jewelry.

Quality jewelry isn't just about looking pretty—it's about craftsmanship, materials, and that intangible feeling of luxury when you hold it in your hands. From the weight of a piece to the way it catches the light, there are subtle clues that separate the keepers from the "maybe I'll wear this once" pieces in your collection.

The Weight of the Matter

Ever picked up a piece of jewelry and been surprised by how light it feels? That's often your first clue about quality. Fine metals like gold, platinum, and sterling silver have a satisfying heft to them. For example, a solid gold tennis bracelet from our Hulchi Belluni collection will feel substantially different from a gold-plated version. Same goes for chains—a flimsy, lightweight chain is probably not the real deal.

Hallmarks: The Jewelry's Resume

Quality jewelry comes with credentials—tiny stamps called hallmarks that tell you exactly what you're getting. Look for stamps like "925" for sterling silver, "14K" or "18K" for gold, and "PT" or "Plat" for platinum. Designer pieces like those from David Webb or Bvlgari will also have maker's marks. No hallmark? That's a red flag waving frantically at you.

Stone Settings: No Wobbly Bits Allowed

Examine how stones are set in pieces like cluster earrings or cocktail rings. Quality settings are smooth, with no rough edges or gaps between the metal and stone. Prongs should be evenly spaced and secure—no wiggling allowed! Our Oscar Heyman pieces are perfect examples of impeccable stone setting.

The Sparkle Test

Quality gemstones have life to them—they play with light rather than just sitting there looking pretty. A good diamond (like those in our lab-grown diamond studs) will throw rainbows across the room, while a high-quality sapphire will have depth and vibrancy. If a stone looks dull or glassy, it might be synthetic or of lower quality.

Metal Finishing: The Devil's in the Details

Run your fingers along the edges and backs of pieces. Quality jewelry is finished as beautifully on the back as it is on the front—no rough spots, sharp edges, or uneven plating. Brands like Van Cleef & Arpels and Tiffany & Co. are renowned for their impeccable finishes.

Chain Reactions

When examining chains—whether it's a delicate cable chain or a bold Cuban link—look for consistent link sizes, smooth movement, and secure clasps. A quality chain won't kink easily and will have a substantial feel. Our chain collection showcases this perfectly.

The Clasp Test

Never underestimate the importance of a good clasp. Quality pieces feature sturdy, well-made clasps that operate smoothly and feel secure. Lobster claws should snap crisply, and spring rings should have good tension. A flimsy clasp on an otherwise beautiful piece (like some lariat necklaces) is like a sports car with bicycle brakes—it just doesn't make sense.

Allergy Alert

If your skin turns green or gets irritated, that's not a quality piece (unless you're going for that Shrek-chic look). High-quality metals like those used in our Sofer Jewelry collection won't react with your skin. Nickel is a common culprit in cheap jewelry, so if you're sensitive, stick to pieces marked "nickel-free."

The Price Paradox

While we all love a good deal, if a price seems too good to be true for a supposed luxury item, it probably is. That said, our gifts under $500 collection proves you don't need to break the bank for quality—you just need to know what to look for.

Trust Your Gut (and Your Jeweler)

At the end of the day, quality jewelry just feels different. It has presence. It makes you feel special when you wear it. And most importantly, it stands the test of time—just like our 100+ year reputation at Robinson's Jewelers. Whether you're drawn to the timeless elegance of Mikimoto pearls or the modern edge of Street Jewelry, trust your instincts (and maybe a certified gemologist or two).