Jewelry's Real Value

On February 16, 2025  By newsroom   Topic: Saving And Investing Money

1. Jewelry Is Not a Financial Asset

  • Jewelry rarely retains its purchase value:
  • Resale Value: Typically only 25%-35% of what you paid.
  • Reason: Jewelers price for retail markups, overhead, and profit.

2. Diamonds, Pearls, and Precious Metals

  • Diamonds: High markup, low resale value.
  • Synthetic diamonds can be made cheaply but are marketed as inferior.
  • The diamond industry's artificial scarcity inflates prices.
  • Precious Metals: Gold and silver are better investments.
  • Indian families often buy solid gold close to the market price.
  • Gold and silver maintain value based on the current market rate.

3. Buy for Love, Not Investment

  • Jewelry is better viewed as a social and emotional asset, not a financial one.
  • Enjoyment, sentimentality, and aesthetics justify the price, not resale.
  • Compare to hobbies like collecting cards or toys, which rarely return their monetary value.

4. Smart Jewelry Buying Tips

  • Costco: Known for a maximum 15% markup, offering closer-to-wholesale prices.
  • Tiffany: Some branded pieces retain higher value due to reputation and demand.
  • Appraisal Reality: "Above appraised value" is often marketing fluff.

5. Alternatives to Jewelry

  • Memorable Experiences: Spend on trips, adventures, or other meaningful experiences.
  • Investments: Allocate funds toward appreciating assets like property, stocks, or gold.

Final Thoughts

Jewelry is beautiful and meaningful but rarely a sound financial investment. If you're buying it, do so with the intent of enjoyment rather than future resale value. For wealth-building, focus on assets that grow over time.


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