A beloved luxury jewelry brand, it is known for its fanciful pieces and transformable designs. Sadly, this also means that there are a lot of fakes out there.
Knowing how to spot high-quality charms and pendants is essential to avoid getting ripped off. Here are some tips for doing so:
Look at the Metal
Regarding pendants, you will usually want something made of a high-quality precious metal. To ensure that you get real gold or silver, you can put your piece to the test with a magnet. It is likely plated or made of an alloy mixture if it sticks to the magnet.
Alternatively, look for a stamp on the backside of your pendant or inside the clasp of a necklace, bracelet, or ring. These markings, called hallmarks, will indicate your piece’s percentage of precious metal. They will also have a letter designation, such as “AU” for gold or “AG” for silver.
For example, wrought iron light fixtures are usually higher quality than aluminum or steel ones because they are more malleable. They can be crafted into eye-catching designs with curves and flourishes, and they are less prone to rust than other metals. For this reason, wrought iron is often used to create chandeliers and other high-end pendant lights.
Look at the Setting
When examining a pendant, please consider how it is constructed. Avoid pieces with loose prongs or that are uneven or have visible seams. A well-made piece will have smooth edges and appear solid when held to the light.
Another important aspect is whether a pendant comes with a warranty or guarantee. This is an essential sign of quality and shows that a company stands behind its product.
If you are an eco-conscious shopper, look for charms and pendants made of sustainable materials such as recycled silver or gold. These are less damaging to the environment and will last longer than cheaper, low-quality jewelry.
Lastly, be sure to take high-quality images of all your pieces. Consumers heavily rely on the quality of product images when shopping online. They will be more likely to purchase a pendant if they see how it looks in different lighting and other angles and when worn.
Look at the Stones
When examining gemstones, look for their clarity and color saturation. A well-cut, polished gem will be clear and mirror-like, while pits or dull areas indicate a less-than-ideal polish. You can also look for windowing, where light passes through the center of the stone rather than reflecting off it. This can cause the gem to appear lifeless and dingy.
You can examine the faces or flat surfaces that reflect light with a jeweler’s loupe or magnifying glass. Check for smooth, consistent thickness, and avoid stones with sharp edges. Look at the point where facets meet to see if they are crisp and come together at a single point. This is a sign of a well-cut cabochon (gem cut with a domed top and flat bottom, sometimes used in cat’s eye stones to show chatoyancy).
Lastly, consider the carat weight when choosing a stone. A larger, higher-quality gem will be more valuable than a smaller, lower-quality one.
