Buying Real Jewelry In 2024: Ultimate List Of The Best 11 Online Stores

Welcome To The 2024 Guide to Buying Real Jewelry Online

Welcome to your comprehensive guide to buying real jewelry online in 2024. As we navigate through the digital age, the convenience and variety offered by online shopping have made it a preferred choice for many. This is especially true when it comes to buying jewelry. With many options at your fingertips, you can find pieces perfectly tailored to your taste and budget.

This guide will delve into the world of real jewelry, exploring various types and their unique characteristics. We will uncover the top 11 online stores where you can find exquisite pieces of real gold, silver, diamond, jade, and opal jewelry. We will also explore options for affordable real jewelry and pieces specifically designed for men and women.

For those who love the look of high-end jewelry but are on a budget, we will discuss fake jewelry that looks real, providing tips on what to look for to ensure you’re getting the best quality for your money. Lastly, we will guide you on real jewelry care, ensuring that your precious pieces maintain their sparkle and value for years.

These topics will be explored in detail, giving you a wealth of information to make informed decisions when purchasing real jewelry online this December 2024.

Unveiling the 11 Best Online Stores for Real Jewelry in 2024

1. Tiffany & Co.

Tiffany & Co. is a renowned American heritage jewelry brand. They offer beautifully designed necklaces, pendants, bracelets, and rings. Their real jewelry builds on a legacy of over 180 years of expert craftsmanship.

2. James Allen

James Allen is a leading online jewelry store known for its customizable jewelry. They offer many fine jewelry collection options, including bridal jewelry. Their Build-Your-Own system allows you to customize your diamond pendant or diamond stud earrings.

3. Lefkara Silver

Lefkara Silver is a leading silver jewelry maker and wholesaler since 1979. They specialize in genuine handmade silver filigree, silver marcasite, and silver opal jewelry. Their products are made with authentic 925 Sterling Silver and are 100% handmade by the best filigree artisans. They offer the largest online filigree collection and worldwide reliable delivery.

4. The RealReal

The RealReal offers a unique selection of authenticated designer jewelry. You can find designer rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets from brands like Chopard, Harry Winston, Hermès, Norman Silverman, Tiffany & Co., Van Cleef & Arpels, and more.

5. Mejuri

Mejuri is our top pick for its excellent attention to detail, ethical practices, and stunning designs. They offer sophisticated everyday pieces at affordable prices.

6. Brilliant Earth

Brilliant Earth is known for its environmentally-conscious jewelry. They offer natural stones sourced with integrity.

7. SuperJeweler

SuperJeweler is the best place to get deals on diamonds and gems.

8. Georg Jensen

Georg Jensen is known for its high-end Scandinavian design.

9. Melinda Maria Designs

Melinda Maria Designs is praised for its customer service.

10. Ice Trends

Ice Trends is the best place for affordable diamonds of all kinds.

11. Zales

Zales is known for its good value jewelry.

These online stores offer a wide range of real jewelry options to suit different tastes and budgets. Whether you’re looking for real gold, silver, diamond, jade, or opal jewelry, these stores have got you covered. They also offer options for both men and women and fake jewelry that looks real for those on a tighter budget, which we’ll discuss more in this guide.

The Real Gold Jewelry: What to Look for and Where to Buy

When buying real gold jewelry, the hallmark is the first thing to look for. Authentic gold jewelry is marked with a stamp that contains the words .925. This mark ensures that your jewelry has been made from at least 92.50% pure silver and can be considered real sterling silver.

When looking for real gold jewelry, there are several other key factors to consider:

1. Purity Standards: The value of gold is determined by its purity, also known as ‘fineness.’ This is measured in karats. The karat measurement divides purity into 24ths. For example, 24-karat gold is 100 percent pure, and 12-karat gold is 50 percent pure.
2. Practicality: While gold is generally more valuable at higher levels of purity, you or the person you purchase the jewelry for may prefer less pure gold for practical reasons. 24-karat gold is very soft and highly prone to scratching and damage. If you plan on wearing the jewelry daily, you will probably want it to be no more than 18 karats, i.e., 75 percent pure, to avoid damage.
3. Color: Gold typically comes in yellow, pink, and white. There is also a rarer green variety. Mixing gold with other metals creates the pink, white, and green varieties.
4. Hallmarks: Look for a karat stamp: 10k (also written as 417), 14k (585), 18k (750), 24k (999). If it’s stamped, it could be real. Fake items are generally not stamped at all, or they’ll say things like 925, GP (gold-plated), or GF (gold-filled).
5. Tests for Authenticity: You can perform several tests to check if gold is real. These include the float test, observing for tarnish, vinegar test, the magnet test, discoloration on the skin, number marking, letter marking, and density test.

Now, let’s talk about where to buy real gold jewelry. Here are some top picks:

1. Tiffany & Co.: Known for their master artisans and maximum shine, Tiffany & Co. offers a wide range of 18k gold jewelry perfect for stacking or wearing solo. Their collection includes renowned designs, from gold bracelets to earrings, necklaces, and rings for both men and women.
2. Jared: Jared offers a stylish collection of gold jewelry. Their pieces are versatile, classic, and always in style.
3. Gorjana: Gorjana offers a beautiful solid gold collection for everyone to enjoy. They have many yellow gold chains and pendant options, making your fine jewelry shopping customizable and convenient.
4. Gold Presidents: Gold Presidents proudly offers real gold jewelry online. They have a wide selection of 10k gold pieces, from necklaces to rings, bracelets, and earrings.

Investing in Real Silver Jewelry: Top Picks from Online Stores

Sterling silver is a beautiful and affordable alternative to gold for jewelry. However, many people don’t know what authentic 925 sterling silver jewelry looks like or how to identify it from costume jewelry.

When looking for real silver jewelry, there are several key factors to consider:

1. Hallmarks or Stamps of Authenticity: Real silver jewelry is often stamped with marks such as “STER,” “925,” “800,” or “999,” which indicate the purity of the silver. The number “925” means that the jewelry is made of 92.5% silver, the standard for sterling silver.
2. Magnet Test: Silver is not magnetic. If a piece of jewelry is attracted to a magnet, it is likely not real silver.
3. Ice Cube Test: Silver is one of the best conductors of thermal energy. If you place an ice cube on a silver item, it will begin to melt immediately due to the high thermal conductivity.
4. Smell Test: Real silver doesn’t have a smell. If it smells like metal, it’s likely fake.
5. Color and Appearance: Genuine silver should have a bright, metallic sheen. It should not be very dark. Yellow, dark brown, and blue colors mean materials other than silver.
6. Acid Test: This more advanced test involves applying a drop of nitric acid to the silver item. Real silver will turn creamy, while fake silver will turn green.
7. Weight: Silver is a relatively heavy metal. If the jewelry feels lighter than expected, it might not be real silver.

Here are some online stores where you can invest in real silver jewelry:

1. Tiffany & Co.: Tiffany & Co. set the American standard for sterling silver in 1851. They offer striking silver earrings, rings, necklaces, and bracelets that continue a legacy of premium craftsmanship and style-defining design.
2. Silpada: Silpada offers a range of sterling silver jewelry. Their collection is your destination for stylish sterling silver jewelry.
3. Lefkara Silver: Lefkara Silver is renowned for its genuine handmade silver filigree, marcasite, and opal jewelry. Their sterling silver collection is crafted by the finest artisans of Cyprus, ensuring each piece is made with real 925 Sterling Silver. Their online Silver Jewelry Catalogue showcases diverse jewelry, including the “Virgin Lotus” and “Moon” collections, offering rings, pendants, earrings, and bracelets.

The Sparkle of Real Diamond Jewelry: Buying Tips and Trusted Online Retailers

When buying real diamond jewelry, knowing where the diamonds come from is essential. For instance, Tiffany & Co. proudly traces 100% of their rough diamonds to known mines and sources.

When looking for real diamond jewelry, there are several key factors to consider:

1. The 4Cs: The 4Cs stand for Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat, and they determine the value of the diamond.
   • Cut: The cut of a diamond determines its brilliance and refers to how well the diamond has been cut from its raw form. If a diamond is cut poorly, it will be less brilliant.
   • Color: The best diamonds are colorless, while lower quality diamonds have noticeable color, which manifests as pale yellow in diamonds.
   • Clarity: This refers to internal or external flaws, known as inclusions and blemishes, respectively.
   • Carat: This is simply the weight of the diamond. Larger diamonds are rarer and thus more expensive.
2. Certification: A diamond should have a grading report from a reputable laboratory like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Society (AGS).
3. Shape: Diamonds come in various shapes – round, square, pear, marquise, heart, etc. The choice of shape is primarily a matter of personal preference.
4. Price: Before buying a diamond, review your finances and set a budget. Then, look at diamond prices to see what you can afford.
5. Real or Synthetic: Natural diamonds are created by nature, while synthetic diamonds are created in a lab. Telling the difference between a natural and a synthetic diamond requires a trained professional using highly sophisticated equipment.
6. Tests for Authenticity: You can perform several tests to check if a diamond is real. These include the water test, fog test, heat test, UV light test, and checking the setting & mount.

Here are some trusted online retailers for real diamond jewelry:

1. Tiffany & Co.: Tiffany & Co. offers a range of diamond jewelry, blending unparalleled craftsmanship with considered design. Their collection includes diamond rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets.
2. Blue Nile: Blue Nile is the world’s leading diamond jeweler online for engagement and wedding rings. They offer lower markups and higher-quality fine jewelry.

Here’s a comparison table of the three types of jewelry from the mentioned online stores:

The Mystique of Real Jade Jewelry: A Buyer’s Guide for Online Shopping

Jade jewelry is made from jade, a gemstone used for thousands of years for its beauty and symbolic meaning. Jade comes in various colors: green, lavender, orange, red, yellow, and white. The most valuable and coveted jade is a specific shade of green, also known as imperial jade.

Jade jewelry can include a wide range of items, such as necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, and pendants. It is often carved into intricate designs and can be set in gold, silver, or other precious metals.

Jade is also known for its cultural significance in many societies, particularly in East Asia, where it symbolizes purity, grace, and longevity. It’s not uncommon for jade jewelry to be passed down through generations as heirloom pieces.

When looking for real jade jewelry, there are several factors to consider:

1. Color: Jade comes in various colors, including green, lavender, orange, red, yellow, and white. The most valuable and coveted jade is a specific shade of green, also called imperial jade. When choosing your jade, look for solid and vibrant colors.
2. Transparency and Texture: The best jade is translucent, has vibrant color, and is smooth. Real jade will have a few imperfections, such as a slight variation in color or a small inclusion. If the color is dull or flat, it’s likely a fake stone.
3. Density: Both jadeite and nephrite have high-density levels, meaning that jade is heavier than most other stones. You can check this by tossing the stone and catching it in your palm to see if it’s heavy.
4. Temperature Test: Real jade does not heat up quickly. Hold your stone in your hand and see if it quickly warms up.
5. Scratch Test: Scratch the stone with your fingernail. Check if it leaves a mark.
6. Examination by a Jeweler: Jewelers are trained to recognize real and fake precious gems and stones. They can examine the stone under a magnifier to make sure it has the structure of a true jade and to check for signs of a fake.

Authentic stones are more likely to have minor imperfections, like an uneven shape, dips in the surface, or pitting. These may remain even after the stone has been polished. Check your stone to see if it looks too perfect. If it does, then it’s likely a fake.

Discover the allure of jade at RealJade® Co. and Mason-Kay. RealJade® Co. offers high-quality, untreated jade jewelry, while Mason-Kay, a trusted name in jade since 1976, boasts one of the largest jade collections in the U.S., dealing exclusively in natural, untreated jade. Explore these sites for your perfect jade piece.

The Radiance of Real Opal Jewelry: How to Choose and Where to Purchase Online

Opal jewelry is a type of jewelry that features opals, a unique gemstone known for its stunning play of color. Opals can display a wide range of colors in an iridescent pattern, making each opal unique.

Opal jewelry can include rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and other pieces. The opal is also the birthstone for October, making opal jewelry a popular gift choice for those born in this month.

Opals can be found in various types, including white opal, black opal, fire opal, and boulder opal, each with its unique color patterns and characteristics. The value of opal jewelry can vary greatly depending on the type and quality of the opal, the design of the jewelry, and the materials used in the setting.

When looking for real opal jewelry, there are several key factors to consider:

1. Color Play: The colorful sparkles inside a real opal change when you move the stone around in the light. The more the color changes as you move around, the more valuable the gemstone.
2. Body Color: The body color is the base color of an opal. Generally, the darker the base color, the more valuable the stone because it better showcases the reflective colors. An opal with a black body color (N1) is rare and, as such, the most valuable.
3. Transparency: Opals will be more valuable if they are more transparent. There are three classifications for an opal’s transparency: opaque (least useful), translucent, and transparent (most valuable).
4. Layers: If you can, look at the side of the opal. Real opals, especially high-quality ones, can be pricey. If the opal has layers, it might be synthetic.
5. Price: Assess if the price is too good to be true. Real opals, especially high-quality ones, can be pricey.
6. Examination by a Jeweler: Jewelers are trained to recognize real and fake precious gems and stones. They can examine the stone under a magnifier to make sure it has the structure of a true opal and to check for signs of a fake.

Helzberg Diamonds and Zales sells real opal jewelry. Helzberg offers a mesmerizing array of opal rings, necklaces, and more, while Zales enchants with a stunning collection of opal gemstone jewelry. Explore these sites for your perfect opal piece.

Affordable Luxury: Where to Find Cheap Real Jewelry Online

In the quest for affordable real jewelry, several online stores stand out. Kay Outlet offers discounted jewelry, from affordable engagement rings to trendy gold chains. They often have sales where you can save up to 60% off.

Zales Outlet is another destination for budget-friendly finds. They offer a clearance section to find beautiful and affordable rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.

SuperJeweler also offers a massive selection of jewelry deals in its clearance section. From engagement rings to fashion jewelry, you can find a variety of pieces at discounted prices.

Mejuri offers fine jewelry at low prices for those who prefer minimalist jewelry. Here, you can find relatively affordable pieces made from 14-karat gold, yellow gold, and precious stones.

Etsy is a fantastic platform for finding affordable real jewelry. With a vast array of sellers, Etsy offers a unique marketplace for handmade and vintage jewelry. You can find a wide range of pieces, from minimalist designs to statement pieces, all at varying price points.

Etsy’s platform allows you to communicate directly with sellers, providing an opportunity to ask questions or request custom orders. It’s also a great place to discover emerging designers and one-of-a-kind pieces.

Remember, when shopping for affordable jewelry online, it’s essential to research the seller’s reputation, read customer reviews, and understand the store’s return policy. This will ensure you get a great deal and purchase from a reputable source.

Masculine Elegance: The Best Online Stores for Real Jewelry for Men

Regarding men’s jewelry, several online stores stand out for their quality, variety, and craftsmanship.

Tiffany & Co. is a renowned luxury jewelry brand that offers a wide range of men’s jewelry. Their collection includes everything from necklaces and pendants to rings and bracelets. They are known for their expert craftsmanship and timeless designs. Tiffany & Co. also takes pride in tracing 100% of their rough diamonds to known mines and sources.

Jared is another great destination for men’s jewelry. They offer a variety of styles to suit every unique look, from chains and necklaces to rings and watches. Their collection includes pieces made from yellow gold, white gold, sterling silver, tungsten, stainless steel, and even leather.

Kay Outlet offers stylish men’s jewelry at discounted prices for those looking for more affordable options. Their collection includes gold and sterling silver necklaces, bracelets, rings, and watches with diamonds and gemstones.

Feminine Charm: Top Online Destinations for Real Jewelry for Women

Several online stores offer a wide range of options for women’s jewelry.

Tiffany & Co. is a go-to destination for women’s jewelry. They offer a wide range of beautifully designed necklaces, pendants, bracelets, rings, and more. Their collections feature Tiffany’s most iconic designs and showcase Tiffany’s creativity and unparalleled design at its best.

Nordstrom is another popular destination for women’s jewelry. They offer a wide range of jewelry pieces, from fine to fashion.

The RealReal is a leader in luxury resale and consignment. They offer authenticated designer jewelry on sale, making it a great place to find high-end pieces at a fraction of the original price.

The Art of Deception: How to Spot Fake Jewelry That Looks Real

With the advancement of technology, it has become easier for counterfeiters to replicate high-end jewelry. However, there are several ways to spot fake jewelry:

• Check the metal: Real gold is dense and will not float in water. If the jewelry floats, it is most likely imitation or plated gold.
• Look for markings: Fine jewelry will have a marking somewhere to indicate what it’s made of.
• Check for a certification: If you buy fine jewelry, it should come with a certification of authenticity.
• Spotting fake gemstones: There are several diamond simulants, diamond imitates, and diamond substitutes that look like diamonds to the untrained eye.

Here is a comparison table of some of the best fake engagement rings that look real:

If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always stick with reputable sellers; when in doubt, take the piece to a jeweler for inspection.

Preserving the Shine: Essential Tips for Real Jewelry Care

When preserving the shine and longevity of your precious jewelry, a few key practices can make a world of difference.

First, apply lotion, cosmetics, hairspray, and perfume before wearing jewelry. When undressing, wipe each piece with a clean, soft cloth to remove oils and perspiration. Store your pieces in a fabric-lined box, separately or individually wrapped in tissue to prevent scratches.

Avoid wearing jewelry during physical work such as housekeeping, gardening, or exercise. Never expose jewelry to household cleaning products or chlorine swimming pools.

Most diamond or rose quartz jewelry can be safely cleaned with dish soap and warm water. Allow your jewelry to sit in the mixture for several minutes to cut through oils and grime. Follow up with a gentle scrub using a soft-bristle toothbrush for solid gold jewelry and hard gemstones.

For gold-plated and gold vermeil jewelry, swap out the toothbrush for a nonabrasive cellulose sponge (or skip the scrubbing altogether). Too much abrasion can cause plating to erode, revealing discoloration to the base metal.

Conclusion: Navigating the World of Online Jewelry Shopping in 2024

In 2024, the jewelry market is expected to be influenced by several key trends. The rise of lab-grown diamonds is anticipated, offering a more affordable and sustainable alternative to natural diamonds. Minimalist jewelry designs that emphasize simplicity and sustainability are expected to remain popular.

When shopping for jewelry, consider the reputation and authenticity of the online store. For instance, Tiffany & Co. is a renowned brand offering beautifully designed necklaces, pendants, bracelets, rings, and more. On the other hand, The RealReal offers a unique selection of authenticated designer jewelry, including rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets.

In this December 2024 guide, we’ve covered a range of topics. Remember, buying real jewelry is an investment. Whether you’re looking for real gold, silver, diamond, jade, or opal jewelry, or even cheap real jewelry and fake jewelry that looks real, it’s essential to do your research and choose pieces you love that will last.

Follow our website, LefkaraSilver.com, to stay informed about new jewelry offers, news, and buying guides!

Real Jewelry FAQs

How To Tell If Jewelry Is Real?

To determine if jewelry is real, you can look for specific markings on the piece. For instance, real diamond jewelry always contains specific markings. Check the insides of the ring, look at the clasp to see if it’s a chain or a bracelet, and search for a marking on the post of the earrings. Additionally, you can perform a magnet test. Real sterling silver and gold are not magnetic. Another simple way to tell real vs fake jewelry is to look for a marking. If you find a mark, knowing what they mean is helpful.

Is Pandora Jewelry Real?

Yes, Pandora uses real and authentic materials to make its jewelry. In some cases, it may use fake or man-made materials to make the pieces stronger or more attractive, but most of its pieces are made with authentic materials. Pandora jewelry pieces are made of sterling silver and 14k or 18k solid gold. The brand strives to create unique jewelry designs through skilled craftsmanship, so no two pieces are exactly the same.

How Do You Tell If Jewelry Is Real Silver?

You can perform a magnet test to tell if jewelry is real silver. Real sterling silver is not magnetic. Another method is to scrub the item with a white cloth. If black residue comes off from tarnish, it’s legitimate sterling silver. Additionally, you can check for a stamp or mark on the piece that says “STER,” “925,” “800,” OR “999,” which indicates the type of jewelry metal.

How Do You Tell If Jewelry Is Real Sterling Silver?

To tell if the jewelry is real sterling silver, you can observe the sterling silver stamp markings. One of the most efficient ways to test the genuity of your 92.5 silver is by checking the quality stamp label on the silver jewelry. You can also conduct a magnet test. Real sterling silver should not have any effect on the magnet due to its high amount of silver alloy.

What Are The Benefits Of Buying Real Jewelry?

Investing in real jewelry has several benefits. It’s a real investment as the price of gold and other precious metals constantly rises in the market. Real jewelry is a healthier choice for your skin, as when you buy cheap or fake jewelry, you are more prone to irritation on your skin that can cause rashes and other skin problems. Real jewelry is more sustainable and environmentally friendly as handmade jewelry is not mass-produced, which means that less energy is used to craft such jewelry.

How Do You Tell If Jewelry Is Real Silver Or Gold?

To tell if the jewelry is real silver or gold, you can perform a float test. Gold density is 19.32g/ml, so real gold would usually not float in water. It is likely gold-plated if it floats, but it is real gold if it sinks. For silver, you can perform a magnet test. Genuine sterling silver is not magnetic. You can also scrub the item with a white cloth. If black residue comes off from tarnish, it’s legitimate sterling silver.

What Are The Most Reputable Brands For Real Jewelry?

Based on my research, some of the most reputable brands for real jewelry include Mejuri, Brilliant Earth, Blue Nile, Quince, BaubleBar, Vrai, Jenny Bird, Stone And Strand, Tiffany & Co, and Cartier. These brands are known for their high-quality materials, craftsmanship, and unique designs. They offer a variety of styles to suit every taste, from classic diamond earrings to bold, modern pieces.

How Do You Choose The Right Piece Of Real Jewelry?

Choosing the right piece of real jewelry involves several factors. First, you should understand the materials used to make the jewelry. If the seller doesn’t specify the materials, it’s likely the designs are not made from silver, gold, rose gold, or other precious metals. Second, consider the occasion for which you are buying the jewelry. Different occasions call for different types of jewelry. Third, think about the design that suits your personal style. Lastly, consider the price and make sure it aligns with your budget.

What Are The Factors That Affect The Price Of Real Jewelry?

Several factors influence the price of real jewelry. The quality of the materials, such as gold, diamonds, and other precious stones, is a significant factor. The craftsmanship and time involved in creating a piece of jewelry can significantly influence its cost. The brand reputation also contributes to the high cost of jewelry. Other factors include the cut, clarity, color, and carat weight of the gemstone and the karats of the precious metal used.

What Are The Common Mistakes To Avoid When Buying Real Jewelry?

When buying real jewelry, it’s essential to avoid certain common mistakes. One of the biggest mistakes is not understanding the materials used to make the jewelry. Another mistake is overlooking the importance of quality craftsmanship. Poorly made jewelry can break easily, lose stones, or even cause skin irritation. Also, choosing a trendy over a timeless piece can be a mistake as trends come and go. Lastly, not considering your personal style when buying jewelry is a common mistake.

How To Store Real Jewelry Properly?

Proper storage of real jewelry involves keeping it clean, cool, dry, and preferably dark place without direct exposure to direct sunlight or intense heat. High humidity can easily tarnish your jewels, so keeping them away from bathrooms, attics, basements, and other damp environments is best. Also, it’s recommended to separate jewelry by metal and keep jewelry clean and dry before storing any jewelry.

How To Insure Your Real Jewelry?

You can insure your jewelry in one of two ways: through your property insurance or through a specialized jewelry insurer. If you go through your home, condo, or renters insurance, add a rider to your policy to ensure the piece is covered for its appraised value. A separate jewelry insurance policy typically covers damage, loss, or theft. Real jewelry insurance generally costs 1% or 2% of the item’s value annually.