More and more brides are choosing their wedding jewelry online. This is not surprising: the selection is vast, and you can easily compare different styles. However, it's wise not to just look at pretty pictures. As a goldsmith of handmade wedding jewelry, I regularly see how small details make the difference between a piece of jewelry you wear for one day and one you happily wear for years to come.
With these 10 tips, you'll know what to look for.
1. Don't just look at product photos, but also lifestyle photos
A pair of 5-centimeter earrings often appears smaller against a white background than when someone is wearing them. Lifestyle photos provide a much more realistic view of size, proportions, and appearance.
2. Check if the dimensions are clearly stated
Words like 'small', 'subtle', or 'long' mean different things to everyone. Therefore, pay attention to dimensions in millimeters or centimeters. This way, you avoid surprises when you open the package.
3. Read carefully which materials have been used
Not every silver-colored piece of jewelry is made of sterling silver, and not every pearl is a freshwater pearl. Check whether the materials used are clearly stated. This often also says something about the quality and durability of the jewelry.
4. Choose jewelry that matches your wedding dress and yourself
Your wedding day lasts one day, but many silver or gold wedding jewelry pieces can still be worn afterward. Therefore, choose something that not only looks good with your dress but also matches your personal style.
5. Pay attention to the delivery time
Handmade wedding jewelry often has a longer delivery time than mass-produced items. Therefore, order well in advance, so there's enough time if something unexpectedly needs to be adjusted.
6. Check the return policy
Read beforehand how a webshop handles returns. Especially when buying online, a clear return policy provides extra certainty.
7. Check reviews from other customers
Reviews often tell more than product descriptions. Pay particular attention to experiences regarding quality, communication, and delivery.
8. See if you can get personal advice
Are you torn between two pairs of bridal earrings or unsure which necklace length suits you best? Then it's nice if you can contact the maker or seller.
9. Account for handmade work
With handmade jewelry, each piece is unique. Small differences in texture, pearls, or gemstones are part of this. It's precisely this that makes a handmade piece of jewelry personal.
10. Choose something that will still make you happy in ten years
Trends change, but a carefully chosen piece of jewelry remains special. Many brides regularly wear their earrings or pendant even after their wedding day. This makes wedding jewelry not just an accessory for one day, but a lasting memory.
Finally
Buying bridal jewelry online doesn't have to be complicated at all. By paying attention to a few important points beforehand, you increase the chance of choosing a piece of jewelry that you will enjoy for years to come.
At A Trace of Blue, all wedding jewelry is handmade in my studio in Enkhuizen. Do you have questions about a design, a combination with your wedding dress, or are you unsure between different pieces of jewelry? Then I'd be happy to help you think it through, so you can make a choice that truly suits you.
