How to Spot Genuine Handmade Jewellery: A Buyer’s Guide

by H&M Pvt Ltd January 23, 2025

Handmade jewellery is a beautiful and unique addition to any collection, but with so many options available in the market, it can be difficult to distinguish between genuine handmade pieces and mass-produced imitations. Whether you're a jewellery enthusiast or someone buying a special gift, understanding how to spot authentic handmade jewellery is crucial. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll help you navigate through the world of handmade jewellery and ensure that you make informed decisions.

1. Understand the Craftsmanship

Genuine handmade jewellery is characterized by skill and craftsmanship. Each piece is meticulously crafted by artisans, with attention to detail and personal touches that make it unique. When assessing a piece of jewellery, pay close attention to the following signs:

Intricate Detailing: Handmade jewellery often features delicate details that you won't find in machine-made pieces. Look for intricate designs, subtle textures, and creative flourishes that showcase the artisan’s skills.
Irregularities: Unlike mass-produced jewellery, which is typically identical, handmade pieces may have slight variations. These subtle differences are a testament to the artist’s hands-on approach and are part of what makes each item special.
Polishing and Finishing: While handmade jewellery may not be as uniformly polished as machine-made pieces, the quality of the finish should still be high. Look for smooth edges, well-rounded shapes, and well-attached components.

2. Look for Authentic Markings

Many genuine handmade jewellery pieces are stamped with marks that indicate the metal type, authenticity, or the artisan's signature. Look for:

Hallmarks: Some handmade jewellery may be stamped with a hallmark indicating the purity of the metal, such as ‘925’ for sterling silver or ‘14k’ for gold. These marks are a sign of the authenticity of the material used.
Artisan Signatures: Some artists include their initials, logo, or a stamp with their signature on the piece. This is a good indicator that the jewellery is handmade by a specific craftsman, not mass-produced.

3. Check the Materials Used

Genuine handmade jewellery often uses high-quality, natural materials like gemstones, metals, and beads, which can add to the overall value and aesthetic appeal of the piece. Consider the following when evaluating the materials:

Precious Metals: Authentic handmade jewellery often incorporates precious metals like gold, silver, and platinum. These metals are durable and have a higher value than base metals or alloys used in machine-made jewellery.
Gemstones and Beads: Many artisans use natural gemstones, pearls, and beads in their creations. Be wary of synthetic or low-quality alternatives that can often be found in mass-produced pieces.
Craftsmanship in Setting Stones: In handmade jewellery, stones are often set by hand. Examine the settings for any signs of care, such as prongs that hold stones securely and tight settings. Loose or poorly set stones can be an indication of poor workmanship.

4. Consider the Price

While handmade jewellery is often more expensive than machine-made items due to the time and effort involved in crafting, the price should still reflect the materials and craftsmanship. A piece priced too low may not be authentic. On the other hand, genuine handmade jewellery may be priced higher because of the uniqueness and skill involved in its creation.

5. Ask About the Artisan or Brand

When buying handmade jewellery, it’s always a good idea to learn more about the artisan or brand behind the pieces. A reputable artisan will typically share their story, the techniques they use, and the inspiration behind their designs. Here are a few questions to ask:

Where is the jewellery made? A piece made locally or by an artisan with a known background in jewellery making is more likely to be authentic.
Can you meet the artisan? Some brands offer the opportunity to meet or learn about the artisans behind their creations, helping you connect with the artistry.
Do they have an online presence or reviews? Authentic handmade jewellery brands often have an established online presence, with customer reviews, product descriptions, and clear policies.

6. Look for Ethical Practices

Many buyers are increasingly concerned about the ethical practices behind the jewellery they purchase. Genuine handmade jewellery often involves ethical sourcing of materials, fair wages for artisans, and environmentally conscious production methods. If this is important to you, inquire about:

Sustainable Materials: Ask if the jewellery is made with sustainable or recycled materials.
Fair Trade: Some artisans or brands adhere to fair trade practices, ensuring the craftsmen receive a fair income for their work.

7. Buy from Trusted Sources

Finally, when in doubt, purchase your handmade jewellery from trusted sources. Look for established jewellery stores or online marketplaces that specialize in handmade pieces. Reading reviews and asking for recommendations can help you find reliable artisans and shops.

Conclusion

Genuine handmade jewellery is a true work of art, offering uniqueness, craftsmanship, and often an ethical story behind each piece. By looking for the signs mentioned above – intricate craftsmanship, hallmarks, high-quality materials, and ethical practices – you can confidently make informed decisions when buying jewellery. At Runway India, we celebrate the artistry of handmade jewellery and encourage you to support talented artisans who bring their visions to life. Happy shopping, and may your next piece be a testament to the beauty of true craftsmanship!