Jewellery 101: Here is the brutal truth about Jewellery you are buying!

At Zenlove, we believe jewellery should feel intentional — something you choose with clarity, not confusion. But the jewellery world is filled with marketing terms, rebranded materials, and pricing that doesn’t always reflect real value. So here’s a simple, honest breakdown to help you understand what you’re purchasing, and whether it truly aligns with what you want.

We group jewellery into three main categories: Costume, Fine, and Heirloom.

Costume Jewellery

Costume jewellery is designed for style, variety, and affordability. These pieces use base metals and are often labelled with terms like gold plated, gold vermeil, gold-filled, or demi-fine. Some of these terms are loosely regulated, and brands sometimes stretch their definitions — which is why transparency matters.

What to expect:

  1. Not built for a lifetime; usually lasts 1–2 years, even for vermeil.

  2. Should be affordable — you’re paying for design and trend, not precious metal value.

  3. If you can, choose gold vermeil, gold-filled, or high-grade stainless steel for better durability.

  4. Very low resale value.

Fine Jewellery

Fine jewellery uses solid precious metals like 14K/18K gold, platinum, or palladium, often paired with genuine gemstones. These are pieces meant to accompany you through life — and with proper care, they can.

What to expect:

  1. Made from authentic precious metals.

  2. Designed to last a lifetime with normal maintenance.

  3. Usually starts from around $300+, depending on metal weight and craftsmanship.

  4. Repairs are typically possible as part of normal wear and tear.

  5. Some resale value.

Heirloom Jewellery

Heirloom pieces are the highest tier — jewellery thoughtfully crafted to be passed down. They use rare or collector-grade gemstones, premium precious metals, and construction techniques focused on long-term durability. These are the pieces that tell stories long after we’re gone.

What to expect:

  1. Built to last multiple generations with proper care.

  2. Prices usually start from the thousands.

  3. Strong resale value, especially for rare gemstones.

  4. Craftsmanship prioritises durability, longevity, and timeless design.

  5. Often features gemstones that hold or appreciate in value.

In Closing

Every category has a purpose. Costume jewellery lets you explore style. Fine jewellery is made to live with you. Heirloom jewellery is crafted to outlive you.

What matters most is knowing what you’re paying for — and making sure the piece aligns with your expectations and values.

At Zenlove, we believe the right piece isn’t the most expensive one — it’s the one that holds meaning, intention, and honest value.

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