Jewellery as an Investment: Is it Really Worth It?
Jewellery as an investment – a topic that fascinates many but also contains many misconceptions. Can jewellery actually serve as a store of value? Which jewellery is suitable for investment and which is not? And how does "jewellery as an investment" differ from the pure joy of wearing it? This guide provides honest answers to all questions surrounding jewellery as an investment.
Jewellery as an Investment – The Fundamental Truth
First, the honest assessment: jewellery is rarely a classic investment in the financial sense. The resale value of jewellery is almost always below the purchase price because:
- Craftsmanship and design costs are usually not considered when reselling
- Retailer margins are factored into the purchase price
- Wear and tear reduces value
- Fashion and trends influence the market value of designer jewellery
Nevertheless, there are exceptions – and there are good reasons to consider jewellery as part of a wealth strategy.
When Jewellery Can Make Sense as an Investment
High-Quality Diamonds
Certified diamonds of high quality (GIA-certified, D-F colour, FL-VS clarity, excellent cut) can function as an investment – but it is a very specialised market. Rough diamonds without being set in jewellery are better suited as an investment than finished rings, as craftsmanship costs exceed the material value.
Rare Coloured Gemstones
Exceptionally rare stones – Burmese rubies, Colombian emeralds, Kashmir sapphires, Paraíba tourmalines – have historically performed well as investments. But: The market is extremely specialised and difficult for laypeople to access.
High-End Brand Jewellery
Jewellery from luxury brands such as Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Bulgari or Tiffany & Co. often retains its value better than unknown jewellery because the brand itself accounts for part of the value. Certain iconic pieces (Cartier Love Bracelet, Van Cleef Alhambra) are considered "blue-chip" jewellery investments.
Antique and Vintage Jewellery
Genuine antique jewellery (100+ years) of high craftsmanship can increase in value, especially if it comes from important jewellers or showcases rare techniques. Art Deco and Art Nouveau pieces are particularly sought after.
Gold Jewellery as a Gold Investment?
Gold jewellery contains real gold – but as a gold investment, it is inefficient:
- Only part of the purchase price is attributable to the gold value
- The rest are processing costs (often 50–70% of the price)
- For 585 gold (14k), only 58.5% of the weight is actually gold
Anyone looking to buy gold as an investment is much better off with gold bars or gold coins than with gold jewellery.
What Jewellery Is REALLY Worth – Beyond Numbers
This is where the true value of jewellery lies – and it cannot be measured in euros:
- Emotional Value: An heirloom, a gift for a special occasion, a piece saved for – this value exceeds any resale price.
- Intergenerational: High-quality jewellery is passed down and carries stories and memories from generation to generation.
- Daily Joy: A piece of jewellery worn daily and bringing daily joy has a personal "return on investment" that no stock can provide.
Recommendation: Quality Over Quantity
If you buy jewellery with the idea that it should remain valuable long-term – buy less, but better. Genuine materials, quality craftsmanship, and timeless designs retain their value better than fashionable mass-produced goods. And they bring more lasting joy.
Timeless Quality Jewellery at Corelune Jewellery
At Corelune Jewellery, we focus on jewellery that is beautiful beyond trends – high-quality, thoughtful, and durable. Discover our collection and invest in jewellery that brings daily joy!
