Jewelry is an ancient form of decoration and can serve a number of purposes. It can be functional (as in the case of earrings or watches) artistic/decorative, a mark of social status or a symbol of personal meaning. The wearing of jewellery is sometimes regulated by cultural norms or rules, such as the wearing of a headscarf in Muslim societies or displaying body piercings in some cultures. The jewelry trade has a rich history in the art, craft and business worlds and continues to be an important economic sector.
Online sales have been growing quickly for the last decade and offer a new avenue for jewelers to sell their products. Setting up a shop on an online marketplace like Etsy or Amazon Handmade is relatively easy and inexpensive. Online retailers can also use web-based tools to manage inventory and process orders. The jewelry business is a competitive industry, so it is crucial to research and understand how to maximize profits.
A jewelry store can focus on a specific market niche or a broad range of jewelry styles. A niche approach can make the business more profitable, but it also requires a significant amount of time to establish a reputation and customer base. A wide-ranging jewelry store can compete effectively in most markets, but it may need to invest more in advertising and marketing.
In addition to offering a wide selection of items, a jeweler should be knowledgeable about the market and the latest trends. This will allow them to provide advice and guidance for customers. A jeweler should also be able to evaluate the quality of a piece by sight, touch and feel. They should be able to tell whether or not a diamond has been treated, for example, and should know how much gold is in an item.
The art nouveau movement in the late 19th century led to a resurgence of interest in jewellery, as designers such as Rene Lalique and the Wiener Werkstatte introduced simplified forms and new materials. In the 1920s and 1930s, the Bauhaus design philosophy of Walter Gropius and his followers led to further stylized forms and new jewelry materials such as aluminium and plastic.
Many people choose to sell their jewelry through consignment in local retail stores. This can be a convenient option for those who are unable to store their pieces safely at home, but it is vital to understand the terms of the contract and how much the store will keep when the jewelry sells. It is also important to find out who will be liable for loss or theft.
If you plan to sell your jewelry in an online marketplace, you will need to create a high-quality photo of each piece. This should be taken from several angles and in good light. You can also include a short written description and a video. This will help you stand out from your competitors and convince potential buyers that they are making a wise investment.
