How to Check the Quality of Artificial Jewellery that lasts a lifetime?
Jewellery has always been a significant part of our special moments—whether weddings, festivals, cultural events, or simple gatherings. The way people embrace every aspect of jewellery, from styling and layering to different types, is proof of how popular and cherished a fashion it is.
The beauty of fashion also lies in its affordability for everyone—artificial jewellery is the best example of this. People seeking budget-friendly options can enjoy the luxury and feel of real jewellery without overspending. While this is appreciated, one must also be able to answer a common question: how can one check the quality of artificial jewellery?
To get a deeper understanding of artificial jewellery, read the complete blog to explore what it is, its types, how to assess its quality, and the signs of low-quality imitation jewellery.
A] What is Artificial Jewellery?
Artificial jewellery is an accessory designed to replicate the look of fine jewellery, especially popular in the category of jewellery for women. These pieces are made from semi-precious metals like nickel, aluminium, brass, copper, real silver, and others.
For elaborate designs, this form of jewellery often incorporates glass, crystals, and synthetic gemstones to mimic the appearance of precious stones. Artificial jewellery has become popular, as it allows people to experiment and stay trendy while keeping within budget.
B] Types of Artificial Jewellery
- Fashion Jewellery: These are affordable accessories created from mixed materials such as beads, plastic, base metals, glass, etc. Fashion jewellery, sometimes called “costume jewellery”, offers stylish options and is perfect for everyday wear or special occasions.
- Imitation Diamond and Gemstone Jewellery: This type of jewellery uses synthetic stones, crystals, American diamonds, and synthetic rubies to replicate the elegance of real diamonds and gems. During crafting, the stones are carefully cut and polished to resemble the lustre of genuine gems. Such jewellery is perfect for weddings, festive occasions, and parties.
- Gold and Silver-Plated Jewellery: Gold and silver-plated jewellery is considered an affordable luxury, as it offers the look and shine of real gold at a budget-friendly cost. These pieces are crafted using lower-cost base metals that are electroplated with a thin layer of gold or silver.
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Vintage-Style Jewellery: Vintage-style jewellery is known for its intricate detailing, antique finishes, and classic appeal. Inspired by past eras, they are often crafted using oxidised metals, imitation gemstones, and pearls.
You can add a touch of timeless elegance to any outfit by wearing beautifully designed pieces such as vintage earrings from the vintage-style artificial jewellery category.
C] How to Assess the Quality of Artificial Jewellery
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Material and Metal Quality: Artificial jewellery is made up of solid components and resilient base metals, such as copper, brass, or alloys, and hence is tough and durable. These metals are usually free from rust or discolouration and have a bit of weight. Real jewellery, on the other hand, is more delicate due to intricate craftsmanship.
An important quality of artificial jewellery is its corrosion resistance. One will always notice that high-quality pieces do not react with sweat, water, or perfumes. This quality helps retain their appearance and shine over time.
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Plating and Coating: If you are planning to purchase artificial jewellery, ensure the plating and coatings are of high quality. Gold, silver, or rhodium platings are among the best options, as they reduce the risk of scratches, metal allergies, and environmental damage. These platings are highly resistant to oxidation, which also prevents tarnishing.
To determine whether the quality is poor, performing a rub test can be helpful. Gently rub any artificial jewellery with a soft white cloth. If residue or colour fading appears, it may indicate that the quality is low. Additionally, one can check for e-coating on the surface of the plating; typically, high-quality artificial jewellery includes this feature.
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Craftsmanship and Finishing: When one invests in accessories, it is reasonable to expect them to enhance their overall look. Craftsmanship and finishing of jewellery play a significant role in achieving this. Good quality jewellery has neat detailing and precise designs, while low-quality pieces often display glue marks, rough edges, or overlapping materials.
Checking whether the stones or embellishments are firmly set or not is crucial. In case the stones are loosely set in it, they will fall out eventually. All components, including clasps and hooks, should be securely joined and aligned for smooth functioning. Ensuring the backside of the jewellery is as neat and even as the front is also an essential step in examining quality.
- Stones and Gems: Good-quality artificial stones generally have a clear shine and brilliant colour, for example, glass crystals or cubic zirconia. If you notice cloudy or scratched stones, they can be made of low-grade materials. Uniformity and alignment are key aspects when it comes to stones. High-quality jewellery consists of evenly sized stones and is symmetrically arranged. The colours of gems and stones should be consistent throughout, and the edges should be smooth.
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Durability and Wearability: Durable artificial jewellery strikes a balance; they are neither very sturdy nor overly flexible. The pieces that are too stiff are more at risk of breaking under stress. To test if they are suitable for daily wear, check whether the clasps and joints are strong and can handle movement. For people with sensitive skin, it is important to check the jewellery's wearability aspect. Consider choosing jewellery that is nickel-free or hypoallergenic, as low-quality pieces often end up causing rashes and irritation.
While assessing the quality of artificial jewellery is crucial, properly caring also plays a major role in maintaining its durability. It also helps extend its shelf life and appearance. Always choose a cool, dry place to store it. It is best to store it in separate pouches to avoid scratching. Also, ensure it does not come into contact with chemicals and water.
- Brand Reputation and Review: Established brands generally uphold high-quality standards. Research how long the brand has been in business and what its values are. Many reputable platforms allow you to buy artificial jewellery online with access to online reviews. One can get valuable insights from real customer experiences regarding product quality, delivery, or complaints. Some brands offer certificates of authenticity or quality marks, which can be checked to ensure the product's quality.
D] Common Signs of Low-Quality Imitation Jewellery
Visible glue marks around stones and sharp edges are common signs of low-quality imitation jewellery. Pieces that appear faded or have patchy plating suggest the use of dull base metal. When imitation jewellery discolours or tarnishes after a few wears, it is usually a sign of low-grade materials. Skin irritation, such as itching and rashes, is one of the side effects and an indicator of low-quality materials and poor craftsmanship. Some metals emit a strong and unpleasant metallic smell when reacting with sweat—another clear sign of cheap materials.
Conclusion
Artificial jewellery is the perfect solution for those who seek style, versatility, and affordability—all in one. However, finding the desired piece of the right quality can be a challenge. A few simple techniques can be used to spot the difference between low- and high-quality artificial jewellery.
Are you looking for premium quality artificial jewellery in India? Shop at Itrani—an ideal platform to explore a wide collection and find the perfect pieces for special occasions. You can also browse their range of payal and bangles that complement your overall look, all at a budget-friendly price.
FAQ’s
Q) How to avoid low-quality artificial jewellery?
Ans: To avoid low-quality artificial jewellery, ensure the plating and materials don't feel too flimsy or look faded and have a smooth finish. Prioritise reputable brands with positive reviews.
Q) Where can I buy high-quality artificial jewellery in India?
Ans: Brands like Itrani offer high-quality artificial jewellery in India. You can purchase their products online from their website. Their collection ranges from earrings and bangles to timeless pieces like a traditional necklace, perfect for festive or minimalist looks.
