A Quick Look: Designer Jewellry

By Trevor Weir

Designer jewellery and hand bags are growing in popularity. Designer labels, such as Channel and Tiffany & Co., create some of the most expensive and cherished pieces of jewelry in the world. Many of the designers have their own department stores and Internet sites in which the consumer can purchase these often costly fine and costume jewelry.

With the growing interest in designer jewelry, comes the rise of designer knock offs. One of the ways is to lower the quality of the gemstones in the piece of jewelry. The fakes often have 10k gold or platinum, but they will use cheap and flawed gemstones in place of higher quality gems. There are a few other ways they cheat consumers is by using low grade leathers and threads.

The knock offs are selling in record numbers. The reason for this is that they are often very hard to spot. They mimic the stitching and labeling to look as if it were the original designer piece. Even the slightest imperfection can mean it's a fake and not the real thing. Many times it takes someone very familiar with the designer to indicate if it's a real designer piece.

There are a few things an average consumer should be aware of when looking to purchase a designer brand. There are a few signs that what is being bought is a knock off.

1. Research the designers. Education on the marks and labels of the designer jewelry or handbags can be vital in detecting a fake. Know what to ask the seller when inquiring about the piece that is found interesting. Ask for certifications, if it is available. If it has been appraised, ask for the appraisal slip to verify that it is not a fake.

2. Be very aware when shopping on line. Knowing questions to ask about the piece can help make the decision on whether it is a fake or the real thing. Get photos of the jewelry and ask for any certifications that should be available. Just keep in mind, when shopping on the Internet that a true visual inspection can't be done before purchase.

3. Look at the gemstones for flaws and discolorations. Most precious stones offered in designer jewelry should be clear and free from spots. That's when doing research comes into play. Know what to look for, don't go into it blind.

4. Get on forums of the subject. Many have spent their hard earned money on fakes that they thought were real designer jewelry pieces. Find a forum on line and see what they have to say. It can save a lot of time and hassle purchasing an item that is really not as valuable as originally thought.

Owning designer jewelry is not only a pleasure to own, it can also be viewed as an investment. When buying designer jewelry, it is important to know the trademarks of the company. It is also important to realize, you get what you pay for. - 29959

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