Investing in the jewellery market can be a sparkling opportunity for new investors. Unlike stocks and bonds, jewellery offers both intrinsic value and aesthetic appeal.
But how do you get started? Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make informed decisions and maximise your investment.
Why Invest in Jewellery?
Before diving into the how, let’s look at the why. Some compelling reasons to consider investing in jewellery include:
- Tangible Asset: Unlike digital assets or cash, jewellery is something you can wear. This means you’re getting far more than just long-term monetary value out of it – you’re getting enjoyment from it in the meantime.
- Intrinsic Value: Precious metals like gold, silver, and platinum have intrinsic value that tends to appreciate over time.
- Hedge Against Inflation: Gold in particular can act as a hedge against inflation, maintaining its value even when currencies fluctuate.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The beauty of jewellery adds emotional and cultural value, making it a unique investment.
Types of Jewellery Investments
Different types of jewellery offer varying levels of investment potential. Pieces can typically be categorised into fine jewellery, vintage or antique jewellery, and costume jewellery. Fine jewellery is made from precious metals and gemstones, such as gold, silver, diamonds, and emeralds. This type of jewellery is known for its high quality and craftsmanship, often fetching significant resale value.
Vintage and antique jewellery holds historical value and can appreciate over time due to its rarity and unique design. Plus, with many people now looking to source their gems more ethically, vintage pieces are becoming popular as a sustainable alternative to buying new. Costume jewellery, on the other hand, may not hold as much intrinsic value but can be valuable for its unique designs and collectible appeal.
The right choice for you will depend on whether you prioritise value or want to accommodate your own personal taste and style as well, if you’re planning to wear the pieces.
Steps to Start Investing in Jewellery
In order to invest in the jewellery market, you’ll need to be sure that you’re buying an authentic piece, and one that will actually hold value. Before you buy, it’s incredibly important to do your due diligence to ensure that you get what you’re paying for. To do this, there are several stages to go through:
- Start by understanding the market. Read books, attend seminars, and follow reputable jewellery investment blogs.
- Set a Budget. Determine how much you’re willing to invest. Remember, quality over quantity is key in the jewellery market. Allocate a portion of your portfolio to jewellery, say 5-10%.
- Choose a Reputable Dealer. Work with reputable dealers and jewellers who provide authenticity certificates and guarantees. Look for dealers accredited by organisations like the National Association of Jewellers (NAJ).
- Authenticate and Appraise. Always authenticate and appraise your jewellery. This will not only confirm its value but also make future sales easier. Use independent appraisers to avoid conflicts of interest.
- Storage and Insurance. Proper storage and insurance are crucial to protect your investment. Consider using a bank’s safety deposit box or a specialised jewellery storage service.
- Monitor the Market. Keep an eye on market trends and be prepared to sell when the time is right. Subscribe to market reports and newsletters.
The condition of the jewellery plays a significant role in determining its value. When investing, look for pieces that are in excellent or well-maintained condition. Be cautious of any repairs or alterations that may have been done, as these can significantly impact the value. Pieces with original packaging or documentation also hold more worth in the market.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
New investors often make mistakes that can cost them dearly. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Ignoring Certifications: Always buy certified pieces to ensure authenticity. Whilst the casual buyer might not mind if they’re planning to buy a piece to wear forever, when it comes to investments, your future buyer will likely ask for this paperwork. Authenticity certificates can significantly enhance the resale value of your jewellery pieces.
- Overpaying: Don’t get swayed by brand names; evaluate the actual value by researching other pieces in a similar style from that company.
- Neglecting Storage: Improper storage can damage your jewellery, reducing its value. Make sure to use soft pouches or plastic bags to prevent dirt build-up and tarnish.
- Skipping Research: Lack of research can lead to poor investment choices, based on design preference alone rather than monetary value.
Accessorising your portfolio
Investing in the jewellery market offers a blend of financial returns and aesthetic pleasure. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can build a valuable collection that stands the test of time.