Fine Jewelry Quality Criteria
April 17th, 2025
Fine Jewelry Quality Criteria
When investing in fine jewelry, you want more than just beauty. You want craftsmanship, quality, and lasting value. Whether shopping for the perfect gift or building a personal collection, you should know how to judge the quality of a fine jewelry piece.
At Albert’s Diamond Jewelers, we believe fine jewelry should combine elegance with excellence. Read on to learn about the most important fine jewelry quality criteria.
Precious Metals
The foundation of fine jewelry lies in its materials. Precious metals like gold, platinum, and sterling silver are luxurious and durable enough to last a lifetime.
Pure gold is too soft for everyday wear, which is why it’s alloyed with other metals and measured in karats. You’ll often see 14K (58.3% gold) or 18K (75% gold) stamped on fine gold pieces.
Platinum, on the other hand, is denser and hypoallergenic. It is typically marked as "950" or "PLAT."
Look closely and you'll notice a hallmark on every jewelry piece. A hallmark is a small stamp that verifies a piece’s metal content. These hallmarks are your assurance of authenticity.
Gemstones
Fine jewelry isn't just about the metal. The gemstones matter just as much. Diamonds and other precious stones like sapphires, emeralds, and rubies must meet strict grading standards.
For diamonds, jewelers use the "Four Cs": Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat. A well-cut diamond sparkles brilliantly. The most valuable gemstones are typically high in clarity and low in color.
However, even the most dazzling gemstone needs a reliable source. At Albert’s, we recommend looking for stones certified by reputable labs like GIA or AGS. These certification documents ensure you’re getting exactly what you paid for.
Craftsmanship
High-quality fine jewelry should feel like a work of art. It isn’t mass-produced. Rather, it’s thoughtfully designed and carefully constructed. The quality of a fine jewelry piece is evident in its craftsmanship, from the smoothness of its metal to the symmetry of its stone placement.
Consider the prongs that hold a diamond in place. Are they secure, evenly spaced, and neatly finished? Does the piece feel balanced when you wear it? A beautifully polished surface without sharp edges is a marker of quality in fine jewelry.
Designer Brands
There’s a reason people seek out designer labels in the world of fine jewelry. Brands like David Yurman, Mikimoto, and Roberto Coin have earned their reputations through consistency, creativity, and exceptional standards.
At Albert’s Diamond Jewelers, we’re proud to carry fine jewelry pieces from these renowned designers. Whether you’re looking for a signature piece or something more subtle, we will make sure you receive a quality piece.
Why Choose Albert’s Diamond Jewelers?
With over 100 years of experience, Albert’s Diamond Jewelers has built a reputation on trust, selection, and service. We’re not just here to sell you jewelry. We’re also here to guide you through meaningful purchases. Work with us, and you’ll find:
- A curated collection of certified fine jewelry
- Transparent information about materials and craftsmanship
- Personalized advice from experts
When you're ready to invest in quality, Albert's is ready to help.
Visit Our Schererville Showroom Today
Do you still have questions about fine jewelry quality? Let our team walk you through the details, from hallmarking and grading reports to custom design options and luxury brands. Whether you’re buying your first fine piece or expanding your collection, we’ll help you make a confident, informed choice.
Browse our fine jewelry collection online or visit our Schererville showroom to see our fine jewelry collection for yourself.