5 Mistakes I Made Buying Jewelry (So You Don't Have To)

We've all been there. You spot a stunning piece of jewelry online—maybe a delicate Life Tree Pendant or a unique Tibetan Japamala bracelet. It looks incredible, and the price seems unbelievably low. You feel like you've stumbled upon the perfect deal.

I made those exact choices myself. I've learned from these mistakes so you won't have to. In an attempt to save money on a necklace and bracelet set (like the Bohemia White Beads style), I ended up wasting cash instead.

Here are the five biggest errors I made while shopping for accessories.

Mistake #1: Choosing the Cheapest Option

Everyone loves saving money, but jewelry is one area where rock-bottom prices usually mean terrible quality. I once found a set priced at almost half the cost of similar items. I thought, "They're just beads and a chain—how bad could it be?"

That was a huge mistake. That low price meant the metal chain had the thinnest, poorest-quality plating. After about a week, the silver tone began to wear off. It quickly took on a tarnished, brassy appearance. If the metal touches your skin, it might even leave a green stain.

Example of a Negative Review

"This looked beautiful straight out of the box. I wore it twice, and the chain is already turning a strange copper color. A total waste of money."

The Takeaway: Don't repeat my error. Cheap metal fades fast. If a deal seems too good to be true, it's usually because the quality isn't there.

Mistake #2: Overlooking Material Quality

I was so focused on how the beads looked that I forgot to check what they were actually made of. The product description simply said "Vintage Chain" and "Black Pine." I assumed "Black Pine" referred to real wood or stone.

When the necklace arrived, the so-called 'pine' beads felt like lightweight plastic. They scratched easily and lacked the weight and texture of genuine wood or stone. The chain material wasn't specified either.

Learn from my experience: If the type of metal isn't clearly stated, assume it's low-grade material that could irritate your skin. Always look for higher-quality options.

• Best Metal Choice: Opt for 316L Stainless Steel. It resists tarnishing and is highly durable.
• Beads: Make sure they're described as natural wood, stone, or glass. If the listing just says 'Beads,' they're likely plastic.

The Takeaway: Always look for a detailed material description. If the materials aren't clearly listed, it's best to move on.

Mistake #3: Skipping Customer Reviews and Photos

The product photos looked flawless—perfect lighting, sturdy appearance. But these are professional images designed to minimize any flaws.

I made the mistake of not checking customer photos. I later discovered many buyers complained about the clasps. Mine was flimsy—a tiny hook that bent easily. The chain actually broke when I pulled a shirt over my head.

Example of a Negative Review

"The chain is extremely weak. The clasp broke within 48 hours. I had to take it to a jeweler for repair, which cost more than the necklace itself."

Action Step: Always check customer photos to see details the seller might not highlight:

• The clasp quality (Is it sturdy or thin?).
• How the chain links are joined.
• Actual size compared to a hand or coin for scale.

The Takeaway: Customer photos reveal the real story. Use them to assess the piece's durability.

Mistake #4: Being Fooled by Ads (Misleading Size)

In the product image, the Life Tree Pendant looked substantial—like a solid piece that would hang nicely. When it arrived, the pendant was tiny, smaller than my thumbnail.

Sellers often use close-up shots to make items appear larger than they are. I neglected to check the dimensions listed in millimeters (mm).

Don't trust the photo—trust the specifications.

How to Check the Size Step-by-Step:

1. Find the listed dimensions (e.g., Pendant: 20mm x 20mm).
2. Grab a ruler.
3. Measure 20mm (2 cm) on the ruler to visualize the actual size.

This step is especially important for statement accessories, like those you'd pair with the best wool beanie hats.

The Takeaway: Look past the beautiful images. If the millimeter measurements aren't provided, don't make the purchase.

Mistake #5: Ignoring Necklace Length

I assumed a standard chain length would work fine. The chain was listed as 18 inches, but when I wore it, it sat awkwardly high on my neck—more like a choker than a pendant necklace.

Different chain lengths create completely different looks. An 18-inch chain fits snugly, while a 24-inch chain hangs lower. I should have measured where I wanted the pendant to rest before buying.

Here's a simple way to find your ideal chain length:

• Take a piece of string.
• Hold one end at the base of your neck.
• Drape the string down your front to where you want the pendant to hang.
• Cut the string at that point and measure it with a tape measure.

The Takeaway: Never guess on chain length. Measure your neck before you order.

What I Should Have Done: Picking a Reputable Seller

I focused solely on the product and price, ignoring the seller's reputation. I should have recognized that buying quality jewelry—even simple bead or chain pieces—requires a trustworthy source. You need a company that stands behind its materials and customer service.

I've learned that visiting the seller's main homepage gives you insight into their business ethics and product standards. Vendors who invest in quality and guarantee their materials are worth the extra investment.

Reputable sellers ensure you get what you pay for and provide excellent support if issues arise. High-quality accessory stores often receive positive service feedback, such as:

• "Fantastic customer service! The store associates were very friendly and helped me narrow down my wishlist." (They assist with sizing and selection!)
• "Had a great experience with Arthur. Super helpful and made my day easier by sorting my purchase right away :)" (They resolve problems quickly.)

When shopping for truly top-rated accessories, look for sellers who treat you well and guarantee materials like 316L stainless steel. That level of customer care is invaluable.

Lessons Learned: A Straightforward Buying Guide

Buying accessories online doesn't have to be difficult if you stop chasing the lowest price and start verifying the details. I wasted time and money so you won't have to.

Follow this simple checklist every time you shop for a chain, pendant, or beaded jewelry:

1. Verify Materials: Is it 316L Stainless Steel or natural stone/wood? If it's not specified, don't buy it.
2. Check Sizing: Review the millimeter measurements. Use a ruler to picture the pendant and chain width.
3. Review Customer Photos: Look for any issues with the clasp and overall construction.
4. Confirm Length: Measure your neck with a string to ensure the chain will hang exactly where you want.
5. Choose Quality: Select a vendor known for good customer service and material guarantees.

Stop risking your money on cheap, plated junk. Invest in quality from the start.