Beyond the Sparkle: What Makes Jewelry Truly Exceptional?
A piece of jewelry may look stunning at first glance, but true quality is found in the details.
Many mass-produced pieces prioritize cost-cutting over craftsmanship, leading to fragile settings, dull finishes, and stones that don’t stay secure. If you're shopping for an heirloom-worthy investment, knowing what to look for ensures you get jewelry that lasts a lifetime.
This guide breaks down the hallmarks of superior craftsmanship—so you can recognize quality when you see (and feel) it.
1. The Hallmarks of Superior Metalwork
Metal Purity & Markings
Fine jewelry should always be stamped with a hallmark indicating metal type. Look for:
✔ 14K or 18K Gold – Indicates solid gold rather than plated or filled.
✔ 950 (Platinum) – Platinum is denser and more durable than gold.
✔ Sterling Silver (925) – Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver.
🚫 Avoid terms like "gold-plated" or "gold-filled" if you're looking for longevity—these wear down over time. While these are great options for cost-effective, occasional wear, you'll want solid materials for long-term investment.
Weight & Density
A well-made piece feels substantial—hollow or overly lightweight designs may indicate cost-cutting.
✔ Heavy pieces shouldn’t feel clunky; delicate pieces shouldn’t feel flimsy. Too heavy and you're wasting money. Too light, and it won't last.
✔ Rings should have a balanced feel, with even weight distribution. A well made design is mindful of wearability, and a piece that is top-heavy will spin on the finger.
Smooth & Even Finishing
✔ No rough edges, visible soldering marks, or uneven metal thickness.
✔ High-polish finishes should be mirror-like; matte finishes should be intentional, not dull.
✔ Inside surfaces of rings should feel smooth and comfortable.
2. Precision in Stone Setting
Tight & Secure Stones
✔ Gently run a fingertip over the stones—if they feel loose or uneven, the setting may not be secure. You can hold jewelry up to your ear and shake gently--if you hear any rattling, it may have a loose stone.
✔ Avoid settings with visible gaps or uneven prongs, which can lead to lost stones.
Prong vs. Bezel vs. Flush Settings
✔ Well-made prongs should grip the stone evenly without excessive metal covering it.
✔ Bezel settings should fit snugly around the stone without gaps.
✔ Pavé-set stones should have uniform, clean beads securing them—not clumsy blobs of metal.
Underside of the Setting Matters Too
✔ Flip the piece over—does the underside look clean and finished, or rough and unfinished?
✔ If they are visible check the insides of settings and prongs. They should have been polished before stones were placed. This helps the stones to sparkle as much as possible, and also keeps the inside of settings from attracting dirt and buildup over time.
✔ High-quality jewelry has as much attention to detail on the back as on the front.
3. The Quality of Gemstones & Diamonds
Clarity & Color Considerations
✔ A high-quality gemstone doesn’t need to be "flawless," but it should be well-cut, vibrant, and free from obvious damage.
✔ Watch out for cloudiness or large inclusions that could affect durability.
Cut Precision & Brilliance
✔ A well-cut diamond or gemstone will reflect light beautifully, creating brilliance and sparkle.
✔ Poorly cut stones may appear dull, even if they have high carat weight.
Ethical & Responsible Sourcing
✔ Thoughtfully sourced stones—whether natural, lab-grown, or heirloom—are a sign of high-quality craftsmanship.
✔ Responsible sourcing ensures ethical labor practices and environmental sustainability.
4. Pearls: A Category of Their Own
Real Pearls Are Rarely “Perfect”
✔ Unlike mass-produced synthetic pearls, genuine pearls often have subtle variations in shape, luster, and texture.
✔ The highest-quality pearls are well-matched, but a few tiny imperfections are expected.
Weight & Feel
✔ Real pearls have a noticeable weight compared to lightweight plastic or glass imitations.
✔ If you gently rub two pearls together, they should feel slightly gritty—not smooth like fakes.
Knotted Strands = Higher Quality
✔ High-quality pearl necklaces have individual knots between each pearl.
✔ This prevents pearls from rubbing against each other and protects against loss if the strand breaks.
Clasps Matter
✔ Look for solid gold or sterling silver clasps—often decorative elements in fine pearl jewelry.
✔ Cheap clasps (base metal or plated options) indicate mass-market pieces, not heirloom-quality pearls.
5. Thoughtful Design & Wearability
✔ Balance & Proportions – A well-designed piece feels balanced—rings shouldn’t spin awkwardly, earrings shouldn’t feel too heavy.
✔ Comfort & Functionality – No rough edges, sharp prongs, or stiff bracelet hinges.
✔ Clasps and earring backs should be sturdy and secure, but not difficult to use.
6. The Difference Between Handcrafted & Mass-Produced Jewelry
Hand-Finished vs. Machine-Made
✔ Even if CAD was used in the design process, high-quality pieces often have hand-finishing touches.
✔ Mass-produced jewelry lacks depth in engraving or intricate metalwork due to casting shortcuts.
Customization & Uniqueness
✔ Many luxury brands and independent jewelers add one-of-a-kind touches that set their pieces apart.
✔ Look for hallmark signs of bespoke work: hand-set stones, hand-engraved details, and custom shanks or finishes.
7. Longevity & Maintenance: What Quality Jewelry Should Look Like Over Time
✔ Well-Crafted Jewelry Ages Gracefully
- Precious metals develop a patina rather than flaking or discoloring.
- Stones remain secure over years of wear.
🚫 Avoid Common Red Flags
- Hollow backs, uneven prongs, or stones that look like they’re “floating.”
- Rough polishing, visible glue, or anything that feels too fragile for regular wear.
8. How Stradley & Daughter Ensures Quality Craftsmanship
Why Our Custom Pieces Are Made to Last
✔ Every ring, necklace, and bracelet is designed for durability and comfort.
✔ Stones are hand-set with precision, ensuring security for daily wear.
✔ Metals are responsibly sourced and solid—not plated or hollowed out.
Our Guarantee & Commitment to Excellence
✔ We stand behind every piece, ensuring it’s not just beautiful but built to last a lifetime.
Invest in Jewelry That’s Worthy of You
Fine jewelry should be more than just beautiful—it should be crafted with care, built to last, and meaningful to wear.
💎 Whether you're investing in a custom piece or seeking a timeless classic, let’s find (or create) something that’s made to last.
💎 Book a consultation today!
