I once believed these misconceptions myself. I purchased inexpensive chains that quickly lost their luster and ended up looking terrible. It wasn't until I discovered the real principles of jewelry shopping that I stopped throwing away hundreds of dollars.
Here's what you need to know about acquiring a durable, meaningful chain:
This is perhaps the most common falsehood in the jewelry industry. Retailers display a gleaming, substantial-looking chain online for just $80, making you feel like you've found a steal. But after wearing it for a couple of weeks, the gold coating begins to wear away. Before you know it, you're left with a lackluster, copper-toned necklace that might even leave green marks on your skin.
If the color appears accurate in the picture, the quality must be acceptable.
Extremely low prices usually mean thin plating, which can fade within a week. You're paying for appearance rather than longevity. When considering plated stainless steel jewelry, always verify the quality of the base metal.
Look for materials such as 316L Stainless Steel if solid gold isn't within your budget. If the product description omits details about the base metal or plating thickness, it's safest to assume the item is of inferior quality.
Verdict: Extremely cheap = thin plating = quick fading. Always verify the metal stamp or base material (316L is a reliable choice).
Many men assume jewelry shopping is straightforward. They select a chain length—say, 20 inches—and complete the purchase, treating a luxury item like any ordinary online transaction.
A chain is just a chain; I can determine the proper size on my own.